We've Got To Talk

Why do people say that Gen X was the very last generation to have a real childhood? In this episode, we take a look at what it was like growing up Gen X and what it really means to belong to the smallest age grouping in modern history. We examine how our unique position between the analog and digital eras completely shaped our worldview, creating a cohort of people who are uniquely resilient and private.We look at the hilarious and slightly heartbreaking reality of being the original latchkey kids. From dodging broken bones in unsupervised neighborhoods to sitting with constructive boredom before smartphones existed, we look at the exact moments that taught us how to solve our own problems. We also take an honest look at the flaws of our upbringing, unpacking the deep emotional weight behind why so many of us stopped expecting people to save us.We also take an honest and vulnerable look at ways our generation has overcorrected as parents. We look at how our desire to protect our children has led to an era of hyper-scheduling, tracking apps, and anxiety, leaving younger people afraid of basic face-to-face discomfort. From the monetization of youth sports to the mental toll of carrying around a continuous stream of social media comparison in your pocket, we dissect why modern life feels so fragile.Finally, we confront the heavy reality of the sandwich generation. We talk about the intense, everyday stress of balancing our lives while managing aging parents who failed to make a plan for the future.CHAPTER MARKERS:00 Intro.00:40 The reality of being a Gen Xer.00:02:39 Adapting from analog childhoods to digital realities.00:04:50 Latchkey kids and unsupervised after-school culture.00:06:57 How Gen X parents aggressively overcorrected.00:07:37 Hyper-surveillance, cell phones, and college campus protests.00:12:41 Recording radio music onto physical mixed tapes.00:14:24 Developing a strong, lifelong bullshit monitor.00:16:10 Passing paper notes versus permanent digital records.00:18:52 Hyper-specialized youth sports and intense childhood stress.00:22:48 Talk radio, cable news, and Walter Cronkite.00:24:07 Balancing news reporting before political echo chambers.00:26:08 Living through childhood parental divorce dynamics.00:32:08 Grateful for real-world play on our streets.00:33:51 Watching younger generations battle smartphone anxieties.00:35:34 Surviving the stressful modern sandwich generation trap.00:37:12 Gen X operates as society's quiet fixers.RESOURCES MENTIONED:https://youtu.be/GVxSREVTFTA?si=xS6MPooh7mEGDc1F https://youtu.be/GVxSREVTFTA?si=xS6MPooh7mEGDc1F https://youtu.be/7Ul5CHvgRRw?si=aFh_x9UbXY_rUvQt The Coddling of the American Mind Book: https://www.thecoddling.com/ Brad Porteus Book “Roll With It”: https://book-shelfie.com/roll-with-it/MAPS!!!! Thomas Guide: https://thomasmaps.com/la-org-thomas-guide-2025-57th-edition-in-stock-now/ The Paper Fortune Teller!!!https://youtu.be/tOcRq1fRypo?si=cD3TKSC_IrQJt658 Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Why does celebrating the 4th of July suddenly feel like a political statement? In this episode, Jolene and Nicole tackle the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States to explore a question dividing the country: can you be liberal and patriotic? We look back at our shared childhood memories of the 200th Bicentennial parade, contrasting that early innocence with the deep anxieties and partisan divisions shaping our modern public square.We examine the staggering data behind recent Reuters and Ipsos polling that reveals a massive patriotic split between Democrats and Republicans. Nicole shares the raw conflict liberals face regarding how the flag has been weaponized, leading to an honest conversation about why loving your country shouldn't mean endorsing a specific politician. Jolene counters with a powerful reminder on why America remains the greatest nation on earth and why everyday citizens hold the real power.We also share some beautiful, real-world proof of American unity that the mainstream media completely ignores. From a peaceful, million-person celebration parade in the heart of New York City to international World Cup tourists discovering how incredibly kind and welcoming everyday Americans are, we look at the reality outside of our toxic phone screens. We talk about the dangerous ways political parties use constant labeling to keep us fighting, and why the global "American Dream" is still very much alive.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Intro.00:23 Celebrating America's upcoming 250th birthday.01:08 Remembering the 200th Bicentennial childhood.01:45 Democracy as a fragile experiment.03:36 America is the greatest nation earth.04:24 Facing historical amnesia and tyranny.05:22 Reclaiming patriotism from modern politicians.05:59 Analyzing the Reuters patriotic poll.07:00 Weaponizing the flag to divide us.09:57 Neighborhood flags and cultural anxiety.12:41 Does patriotism empower Donald Trump?17:23 What makes us proud Americans.18:36 Low voter turnout in primaries.22:14 Encouraging the left to celebrate.23:56 World Cup tourists discovering America.30:22 Bizarre combat events at White House.32:22 Discovering hope under devastating circumstances.35:36 Sports analogies entering modern politics.38:19 Decency will turn society around.39:41 Would You RatherRESOURCES MENTIONED:Graham Platner:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/09/graham-platner-maine-senate-primaryGallup Polling - Americans Divided:https://www.ap.org/news-highlights/spotlights/2025/national-pride-is-declining-in-america-and-its-splitting-by-party-lines-new-gallup-polling-showsStephen Hawkins Episode: https://youtu.be/GpcXMoW2vcg?si=HKs9cacFP8Y1ndei David French Episode: https://youtu.be/MKss8IcOB-QPro Hamas Protest in NYC? Episode: https://youtu.be/N1ay0AQcT7A?si=CWIPZdVwxYX0dKA3 Stacy Blakeley of Builders Episode: https://youtu.be/DyKi_sy9pko?si=HrbiNvVfUwrb1aT4 Artemis II Crew Flies Around the Moon: https://www.nasa.gov/podcasts/curious-universe/artemis-ii-circles-moon/ Let’s Make a Deal with Monte Hall: https://youtu.be/2UESBk2H62g?si=1CxM67Ig5NuTR3uL Happy Days Dance Marathon: https://youtu.be/MHA-odJh2Wk?si=Z2mgojJUCLSlpKcN Lee Greenwood’s God Bless The USA: https://youtu.be/-KoXt9pZLGM?si=mVkUsWggXm--Fb5u Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/ LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Why are modern political movements suddenly reviving ideas that the world discredited decades ago? In this episode, we sit down with New York Times columnist and constitutional lawyer David French to discuss the deep psychological and cultural shifts breaking our societal guardrails. David shares his unique journey from growing up in the conservative South to serving as an JAG officer in the Army Reserve in Iraq, providing a grounded framework for why our current public discourse feels so dangerous.We focus on David's striking concept to answer the question: why we are in the great forgetting. We look at how the passing of the generations who personally survived world wars, fascism, and communism has left a vacuum in our collective memory. We talk about the terrifying ways history is currently being weaponized as a tool for ideological victory rather than studied as a pursuit of wisdom and truth.We also pull back the curtain on the dangerous rise of transactional politics on both the left and the right. Using the controversial candidacies of Graham Platner and Ken Paxton, we examine how the angriest wings of the major parties capture the primary system, leaving the "exhausted majority" to passively follow. David issues a profound warning to voters on how supporting a corrupt or cruel politician ultimately corrupts the character of the voter more than it changes the leader.Finally, we look at the vital difference between ideological moderation and temperamental moderation. We talk about why the ability to hold robust convictions while maintaining cross-political friendships is the single most important skill Americans must relearn.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Intro.00:26 Introduction of columnist David French.01:08 From Southern fundamentalism to constitutional law.04:39 Serving as an Army Reserve JAG officer.05:29 Choosing a journalism career over law.08:52 Unpacking the Great Forgetting concept.13:19 How educational gaps fuel historical amnesia.14:42 Weaponizing history in the culture wars.18:06 Losing our direct contact with history.19:29 Ideological moderation versus temperamental moderation.23:40 The reality of the exhausted majority.27:44 Primary turnouts shaping general election options.31:55 Facing decade-long pushback as Never-Trump.33:42 How corrupt leaders change their voters.35:37 The thermostatic nature of American politics.37:31 Finding electoral hope in independent behavior.45:39 Pastor Tim Keller on broken friendships.49:33 Will MAGA survive without Donald Trump?52:05 The cultural obsession with fake authenticity.RESOURCES MENTIONED:David’s Podcast: https://thedispatch.com/podcast/advisoryopinions/More In Common: https://moreincommonus.com/Brad Porteus: https://www.bridgegrades.org/ David’s Good For The Soul: The Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkienhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61215384-the-return-of-the-king Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Why does it feel like modern politics has shifted from simple disagreements to an all-out war for team loyalty? In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Hawkins, the director of research for More in Common, an international organization tracking the deep psychology, values, and hidden tribes behind our fractured global landscape. Stephen breaks down his journey from an evangelical College Republican to a cosmopolitan progressive activist, revealing why the simplistic categories used by the media fail to explain our real inner lives.We examine More in Common’s massive new study to answer the question: who actually votes for Donald Trump? We unpack the shocking data showing that the modern Republican voter base is the youngest and most racially diverse it has been in half a century. Jolene and Nicole share their own unexpected results from taking the coalition quiz, and we look at the real economic and border anxieties driving the "Reluctant Right" versus the deeply personal identity anchoring "MAGA Hardliners."We also pull back the curtain on the completely broken incentive structures keeping Washington D.C. locked in conflict. From social media algorithms that monetize rage to a political system that forces members of Congress to spend up to 70% of their time fundraising, we look at how combativeness has become a highly profitable business model. CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Intro.00:26 Meet research director Stephen Hawkins.01:08 Stephen’s journey across both political tribes.03:01 The tragic origins of More in Common.07:08 Moving beyond simplistic demographics in polling.11:46 Understanding America's exhausted majority.12:42 Breaking down the modern Trump coalition.14:21 Host results from the coalition quiz.18:43 The myth of shy Trump voters.20:23 MAGA hardliners and personal identity.22:00 The Democratic perception gap on economics.25:19 How media models monetize political rage.27:55 The exhausting reality of congressional fundraising.30:15 How D.C. camaraderie completely died.34:42 Solidarity during major American crises.38:00 Political lessons from the Gilded Age.44:38 Why public institutional trust eroded.47:09 Gen Z as political kingmakers.50:56 AI as a shared societal threat.53:52 Good for the soul book recommendation.55:22 Would You Rather: Banning anonymous accounts.57:32 Would You Rather: Hometown versus cruise.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Stephen Hawkins Organization: https://moreincommonus.com/Stephen Hawkins Report: https://beyondmaga.us/ Brad Porteus: https://www.bridgegrades.org/ Stephen's Good for the Soul: https://rutgerbregman.com/books/moral-ambition Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/ LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Tipping culture in the USA is out of control right now. In this episode, we dig into the history of tipping in America, why it became normal for customers to subsidize wages, and how the USA minimum wage rules for tipped workers still shape what you pay every time you eat out. We talk about the tipped minimum wage, the “tip credit”, and why the $2.13 an hour figure still comes up when people search “why do we tip in America” and “why is tipping expected”.We also get into the real question people argue about online: should the US get rid of tipping and switch to a no tipping model like parts of Europe and Japan? Would raising the minimum wage for servers fix tipping culture, or would it just make restaurant prices even higher? We break down what “fair pay” could look like without turning every meal into a luxury, and why so many people feel stuck between wanting to tip well and feeling pressured to tip everywhere.Then we shift into the other thing that is quietly making everyone uncomfortable: ratings culture. From Yelp and Google reviews to the constant “rate your experience” texts, we talk about why rating everything has become normal, and how online reviews can hurt small businesses when people are angry, unfair, or just trying to get free stuff. If you have ever searched “are Google reviews reliable” or “fake reviews problem”, you are going to feel very seen.Finally, we talk about Uber and Lyft ratings and why they are so problematic. When both the driver and the passenger are rating each other, it can make people afraid to be honest, even when a ride feels unsafe.Here is where we land. $2.13 an hour is bananas. Tipping has become a wage subsidy, and customers are being guilted into carrying it. And if we are going to keep rating everything, we should at least remember there are real humans on the other side of that screen. Take a breath. Contact the owner first. Give people a chance to fix it before you light them up in public.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Intro.00:00:53 Tipping and rating culture. Why this topic hits a nerve.00:01:35 History of tipping culture in the USA. Where “tip” comes from.00:02:32 Why tipping spread in America. Post slavery and the railways.00:04:53 Tipped minimum wage. Why $2.13 an hour still exists.00:05:28 Conservative view on tipping. Rewarding good service.00:06:36 Tip pooling. Who gets tipped and who gets left out.00:08:27 Point of sale tipping prompts. Why tip pressure feels gross.00:11:32 No tipping restaurants. Higher prices and better experience.00:12:31 Restaurant tipping percentages. What is normal now.00:14:22 Tipping guide. Counter service, salons, Uber, hotels, delivery.00:17:03 Hotel tipping debate. When to tip housekeeping.00:18:16 Delivery tipping. Who gets blamed when food is late.00:22:16 Minimum wage plus tips. Republican vs Democrat framing.00:30:07 Ratings culture. Yelp, Google reviews, and why it is everywhere.00:32:10 Uber and Lyft ratings. Unsafe rides and fear of honesty.00:35:30 Why ratings matter. Trust, authenticity, and buying reviews.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/ LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

In this episode, we tackle the shocking details behind Donald Trump’s latest legal maneuver. Nicole and Jolene break down why Trump suddenly dropped his massive $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS and immediately replaced it with the "$1.776 Billion Anti-Weaponization Fund."We take a look past the patriotic branding to reveal why this massive proposal has absolutely no legal safeguards. We break down the glaring conflict of interest at the center of the fund, including a quiet provision drafted by Trump's personal attorney and acting Attorney General, Todd Blanche, that effectively excuses Trump and his family businesses from federal tax investigations.We look at the actual numbers, including the family’s massive, active trading in stocks and cryptocurrency and ask a question that should bother voters on both sides of the aisle: where is the accountability?We also get into a broader, heavy reality that goes way beyond the headlines: political exhaustion. We look at how low primary voter turnouts allow extreme voices to take control, and how the media keeps us distracted with petty arguments while regular people face massive global and economic whiplash from skyrocketed grocery bills to merchant marine sailors stranded without power in a war zone.Finally, we talk about escaping the constant tribalism, breaking out of the "bubble of shame," and what it actually takes to start talking to each other like grown-ups again.Questions Covered in This Episode:What is the $1.776 Billion Anti-Weaponization Fund?Why did Donald Trump drop his IRS lawsuit?What does Todd Blanche's tax letter mean for the Trump family businesses?Why are GOP Senators pushing back on Trump's new settlement announcement?How does low primary voter turnout impact local elections?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 - Introduction00:39 - The $1.776 Billion Anti-Weaponization Fund explained03:14 - Settling a $10B lawsuit: Typical Trump negotiations?04:27 - 3,700 stocks, crypto millions, and the family tax exemption05:15 - Todd Blanche and the total lack of independent accountability05:40 - Nicole's theory: Is this a private army fund?07:03 - GOP Senators say no mas: Ted Cruz’s podcast leak08:13 - The 8% voter turnout reality in local primaries11:35 - Legal perspective and dropping cases he can't win14:00 - Decompiling immigration bills: Senate Republicans are furious17:00 - Global whiplash: Iran war, high gas prices, and stranded sailors18:39 - Are people just completely fed up with Trump?21:37 - Why Democrats and Gen Z are also losing trust in government24:02 - Fighting fire with fire: Nicole’s frustration with the Democrats25:07 - Popping the "bubble of shame" and looking at Texas politics26:24 - The State Fair turkey leg: Dissecting dumb political distraction tactics29:26 - Would You RatherJoin the Conversation: Are you feeling the same political exhaustion and whiplash from modern news cycles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and remember to pause and connect with the human on the other side of the screen.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Ted Cruz Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chaos-in-dc-on-reconciliation-doj-judgment-fund-plus/id1495601614?i=1000769050505https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/29/us/politics/federal-judge-trump-fund.html?unlocked_article_code=1.mlA.Nhlk.t-wPONIlelQi&smid=url-share https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/trump-republican-congress-control-98a13bd9?mod=article_inline Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

What happens when you try to tell the truth in a world that only wants team loyalty? In this episode, we talk with Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle, the independent, non-partisan politics newsletter that summarises the best arguments from the left and the right. Isaac wrote a “plea for help” email after conservatives accused Tangle of bashing Trump while liberals accused it of sanewashing Trump, often in response to the exact same newsletter.We take a look at why the current political division feels different now, and how the media ecosystem rewards outrage, certainty, and tribalism. Isaac breaks down why “picking a side” is often the most profitable model in modern media, and what it costs the rest of us, our relationships, our mental health, and our ability to talk to family and friends who disagree with us.We also get into something surprisingly powerful: language. Isaac explains how tiny word choices can trigger instant assumptions of political bias, and how Tangle created its own editorial standards to keep readers from rage-quitting before they even reach the arguments.Finally, we talk about whether we’ve hit “peak indecency,” and what might actually bring a decency comeback in politics and culture. CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:21 Meet Isaac Saul (Tangle News Founder)02:15 Why Political Polarisation Feels Worse Right Now05:21 Media Incentives: Why Outrage and “Pick a Side” Content Wins07:09 Toxic Comment Sections and Cancel Culture12:24 Did COVID Accelerate Division? Doomscrolling, Isolation, and Social Media19:16 Neutral Language in Journalism: Tangle’s Editorial Standards Explained22:39 Why Polls Skew Left: Conservatives Less Likely to Answer Surveys24:02 NPR / Public Radio Surge26:54 Writing With Integrity: Staying Honest Without Feeding Tribalism30:57 AI, Misinformation, and the Hope for a “Decency Comeback” in Politics36:02 Would You RatherRESOURCES MENTIONED:This American Life Tangle Episode: https://www.thisamericanlife.org/845/a-small-thing?ref=readtangle.comIssac Saul with David French:https://youtu.be/fxAKXuvMXcw?si=FpOYfAVa2IdIMkaAIssac Saul TED Talk:https://youtu.be/543mYKKh1EE?si=-wUgGLuSZ1LK5ygI GOOD FOR THE SOUL:https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45031831-one-long-river-of-songOur Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/ LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Fourteen Wisconsinites from opposite sides of the abortion debate sat down together for a three-day Builders Movement Citizen Solutions session on abortion and family wellbeing. This wasn’t a panel or a debate for show. It was a practical, structured process with trained facilitators and a clear framework, designed to help people hear each other properly and figure out what could actually change in real life, not just online.What they landed on was surprisingly concrete: extending Medicaid postpartum coverage in Wisconsin from 60 days to a full year. In March 2026, the policy passed almost unanimously, and Governor Tony Evers signed it into law. This means more moms getting treatment for postpartum depression, more women getting care when something goes wrong after birth, and more families supported during the months when everything is raw, expensive, and exhausting.But the story behind that win is not tidy. One participant, Ali (a progressive Democrat and elected official in Madison), admitted she walked in suspicious, worried it would be conflict-as-entertainment. Kai, an independent who describes herself as a “world citizen,” trusted the referral and believed the process could work. Kateri, a Catholic who prefers “consistent life ethic,” feared being flattened into a stereotype, and she didn’t sugar-coat how hard it was to feel understood in a room full of strangers on a topic this loaded.This is the part we don’t talk about enough: real dialogue is uncomfortable, and “common ground” doesn’t magically appear because everyone’s being polite. It takes time, relationship, and a willingness to stay in the room when it gets tense. Still, this group proved something important, that even when people can’t agree on everything, they can sometimes agree on what families need, and push through the politics to get a real policy solution across the line.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:31 Builders Movement Intro01:30 Meet The Participants03:52 Ali Joins With Skepticism05:47 Kai On Trust And Dialogue07:21 Three Day Solution Session11:12 Trauma And Finding Empathy13:58 Relationship Building Debate24:37 Men In The Room25:59 Choosing Medicaid Extension27:22 Wraparound Support Systems30:12 Partisan Pushback and Perseverance33:25 Backlash and Unfinished Work36:08 Good for the Soul PicksRESOURCES MENTIONED:Builders Movement: https://buildersmovement.org/Citizen Solutions Wisconsin: http://citizensolutions.us/citizensolutions/wiGOOD FOR THE SOUL:Ali’s: My Friends by Friedrich Bachmanhttps://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/217163697-my-friendsKateri’s - East of Eden by John Steinbeck https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4406.East_of_EdenKai’s - Hammersmith Odeon Concerts https://www.concertarchives.org/venues/hammersmith-odeonOur Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

In a world that rewards outrage, it can feel safer to avoid politics, religion, and money altogether. But the silence doesn’t fix anything, it just pushes the tension into Facebook fights, family dinners, and comment sections where people forget there’s a real human on the other side. In this conversation with Stacy Blakeley, Executive Director of the Builders Movement, we talk about how “us vs them” thinking became normal, and why it’s keeping the thoughtful majority stuck on the sidelines.The Builders Movement is a citizen-first movement built to push back on the outrage industrial complex and rebuild civil dialogue in real life. Stacy explains why Builders isn’t a think tank with an agenda, it’s a movement that starts by listening, polling, and meeting people where they are, then creating guardrails so conversations don’t spiral into “everything is broken.” The goal is practical: get citizens back in the driver’s seat, and build solutions from common ground without pretending differences don’t exist.We also dig into Citizen Solutions, the Builders program that brings a carefully selected group of everyday people across race, income, and politics into a two-day, facilitated process to practice good conflict and find actionable policy solutions. Stacy shares what this looked like in Tennessee (including the documentary Tennessee 11) and in Wisconsin, where citizens helped drive legislation to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage, proof that the system can move when regular people stay in it long enough.Finally, we talk about the Builders mindset and the four C’s: curiosity, creativity, courage, and compassion. We unpack why people are often kinder in person than online, how algorithms fuel tribalism, and why the real problem isn’t “the other side,” it’s an incentive system that rewards extremes. If you’re tired of the circus and wondering what you can actually do, this is your reminder: small groups change the world, and it starts with staying human.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Friends Across Politics: Liberal vs Conservative civil discourse01:08 What Is the Builders Movement? Ending “us vs them” political division02:53 Fighting Outrage Culture: social media algorithms and the outrage economy04:20 Citizen Solutions Explained: bipartisan dialogue that leads to real policy05:26 Tennessee 11: guns, polarization, and finding common ground08:11 Wisconsin Win: postpartum Medicaid extension (citizen-led legislation)10:50 Texas Healthcare Solutions: affordability, access, and practical reform13:29 Local vs National Impact: civic engagement that scales from communities19:38 Builders Mindset: the Four C’s (curiosity, creativity, courage, compassion)23:27 Rewarding Builders in Politics: voting for character over party29:37 Builders Index + C4: rating candidates as Builder vs Divider32:51 Voting Beyond Party: independents, open-minded voters, and reform35:11 Broken Incentives: donors, PACs, lobbying power, and extremism36:01 Citizen Solutions Hope: why everyday citizens can still change the systemRESOURCES MENTIONED:Builders Movement: https://buildersmovement.org/Tennessee 11 Documentary Trailer: https://youtu.be/p-drQKzz2q0?si=ulCjPJeR5xHXtXLlBridge Grades: https://www.bridgegrades.org/Builders Texas Primary Campaign- Turn out or rollover: https://youtu.be/va4dmwxtqXE?si=JqNGa5KdokVFV9yhBen Sasse 60 Minutes: https://youtu.be/dDveT8OesWA?si=-gfjZB6j7RHA-kn0Political Integrity Substack: https://politicalintegrity.us/Good for the Soul: Raye “Joy”: https://youtu.be/taHYtEGxLnw?si=NpLgzbEJTMapPfMU and the live performance: https://youtu.be/2scS3s_I050?si=bkp9PLF9Mz6AilmROur Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Politics has started to feel like a loyalty test, not a conversation. Say one thing that is not perfectly on script for your “side” and people act like you have betrayed the whole team. The problem is not that we disagree. The problem is that we have built a culture where curiosity looks weak, changing your mind feels dangerous, and being loud gets rewarded.A lot of the nastiness is being fuelled by the “our side versus their side” mindset. Headlines get treated like weapons. People post for points, not understanding. Social media makes it easy to react to a clip, assume the worst, and decide you already know what kind of person someone is. In real life, when you are face to face, it is harder to hate someone you actually know.Labels do not help either. “Liberal.” “Conservative.” “Christian.” “Atheist.” They can help you find community, but they can also trap you there. Once you pick a label, you are expected to perform it perfectly. And if you leave room for nuance, you risk being shamed, bullied, or written off. That is how we end up with more certainty and less thinking.So where do we go from here? Smaller than people want. It starts with the next comment you almost leave, the next assumption you almost make, the next time you feel that rush of righteousness. Pause. Ask a question instead of throwing a punch. And if you can, get to know someone in real life who thinks differently from you, not to convert them, just to remember what it feels like to talk to a person instead of a stereotype.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Welcome + “Where Do We Go From Here?” in American Politics00:48 The Rage Economy: Why Politics Feels Mean and Exhausting01:33 Changing Your Mind: Why Admitting You’re Wrong Feels Risky02:18 “Our Side Has to Win”: The Us vs Them Mindset03:28 Trump Voters, Regret, and the Two-Choices Reality04:56 The Exhausted Middle: Extremes on Both Sides and Political Fatigue05:05 Social Media Algorithms: Why Outrage Gets Rewarded08:04 Comment Sections vs Real Life10:16 Belonging and Identity15:33 Media Trust + Isaac Saul (Tangle) and the Cost of Being Fair17:38 Staying Curious When It’s Uncomfortable19:00 Accountability: Me Too, Complicity, and Protecting the Tribe24:16 Menopause for President26:16 The Enemies Project: Seeing Each Other’s Humanity Again31:59 Wrap Up + Subscribe and ShareRESOURCES MENTIONED:Eric Swallwell video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXKWBRbFH76/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Good for the Soul:The Enemies Project https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXKWBRbFH76/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Sanctuary cities are one of those topics that instantly makes people get their haunches up ready to “defend their side.” It’s either a lawless open border or a necessary humanitarian shield. But the truth is far more nuanced (and historical) than a political soundbite. Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) look past the headlines to figure out what "sanctuary" actually means in practice and how a religious movement from the 1980s became the flashpoint for today’s culture wars.We get into the history that most people have forgotten, starting with the 1980s sanctuary movement in Arizona churches. We talk about how immigration policy shifted from a labor issue to a criminal justice issue in the 90s, and why the "Deporter-in-Chief" title belongs to a president that might surprise you. Is the current system built for safety, or is it just a bureaucratic maze that leaves everyone on both sides of the aisle feeling frustrated?Then there’s the practical reality of local policing. We talk about why some police departments actually prefer sanctuary policies to build community trust, and the tension that creates when violent offenders fall through the cracks. If the goal is community safety, how do we balance federal law with local needs without turning every city into a political battlefield?Finally, we zoom out to the human side of the American dream. We talk about quotas, the "lottery" of citizenship, and why "common sense" is so hard to find in Washington. These are the conversations we have to have if we ever want to move past the shouting and find some common ground.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction02:07 Hot Takes from Liberal and Conservative on Sanctuary Cities04:10 The 1980s Sanctuary Movement: It Started in the Church09:00 The 1996 IIRAIRA Act: Moving from Labor to Criminal Justice12:00 Secure Communities & The Obama Era Deportations14:50 How Fingerprinting and ICE Holds Actually Work17:30 Why Cities Choose Sanctuary Status22:50 The Republican Perspective on Repeat Offenders27:30 The American Dream vs. Political Quotas31:00 Can We Fix the Path to Citizenship?RESOURCES MENTIONED:Historical Origins of the Sanctuary MovementThe Sanctuary Movement: 1980s Origins: https://carleton.ca/news/story/sanctuary-cities-history-1980s-origins/Boston’s Sanctuary History: https://globalboston.bc.edu/index.php/home/eras-of-migration/global-era/sanctuary-cities/The Past and Present of Sanctuary Cities (Video): https://youtu.be/XaR5kR8h4es?si=sc5n1ZobUVm6w_UyLegal Framework & Policy DefinitionsWhat is Sanctuary? (ALA): https://www.ala.org/advocacy/what-sanctuaryNational Map of Local Entanglement with ICE: https://www.ilrc.org/resources/national-map-local-entanglement-iceJustice Department List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-publishes-list-sanctuary-jurisdictionsSecure Communities Explained:https://forumtogether.org/article/secure-communities/The Obama Era & Enforcement LegacyExecutive Action Fact Sheet (White House Archives) https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2014/11/20/fact-sheet-immigration-accountability-executive-actionThe Mixed Legacy of Obama’s Immigration Policy (Cato Institute): https://www.cato.org/publications/commentary/obamas-mixed-legacy-immigrationThe Shift to the Priority Enforcement Program (American Immigration Council: https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/blog/president-obamas-legacy-immigration/Comparing Border Security: Obama vs. Biden (CIS): https://cis.org/Arthur/Obama-Secured-Border-Why-Cant-Bidenhttps://www.costplusdrugs.com/Multimedia & Visual ExplanersUnderstanding Sanctuary Policies (Video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKHl__BEsD0The Immigration Debate Explained (Video)” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJHgmQc-FogSanctuary Cities: A Closer Look (Video): https://youtu.be/o2uFpuQQQ5Q?si=iWDv8Zz0Uuj6iPMDOur Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

AI is one of those topics that makes people speak in absolutes: it’s either going to save us or destroy us. But the truth is simpler (and scarier): AI is already everywhere. It’s in your phone, your inbox, your car… it’s everywhere. In this episode, Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) talk about what happens when artificial intelligence stops being a future headline and starts becoming a daily habit without clear guardrails, shared rules, or conversations about the trade-offs.We get into the part that no one seems fully ready for: people forming emotional attachments to AI. From AI companions to chatbots that “listen” and affirm, it’s not hard to see how vulnerable people, especially teenagers, could start relying on AI for companionship, validation, or advice. Is that harmless? Helpful? Or a quiet mental health risk we’re sleepwalking into? We don’t pretend to have all the answers, but we do think this is one of the biggest human questions hiding inside the tech story.Then there’s the global AI arms race; competition, power, and the pressure to “win” at all costs. We talk about AI regulation, privacy, labor, safety, and the environmental impact of scaling AI fast. If speed becomes the only goal, what gets sacrificed along the way? And how do politics shape this conversation when AI doesn’t fit neatly into the usual left vs right boxes?We also talk about real-world AI you can’t ignore anymore, like self-driving cars like Waymo. The promise is obvious: fewer accidents and fewer human errors. But when machines make strange decisions, it hits a nerve, because we expect technology to be flawless.Finally, we zoom out to the bigger question: what happens to creativity and art in the age of AI-generated music, stories, and “AI slop”? Will “human-made” become a premium label? Watch, listen, and tell us where you land—because the future is being built whether we participate or not.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:23 Why Talk AI Now01:26 Home Robots Are Coming04:21 Defining AI And Limits05:27 Emotional Intimacy Risks07:14 ChatGPT In Real Life11:37 When AI Gets It Wrong13:46 AI Race And Environment23:31 Innovation And Fear24:45 Artists Versus AI25:28 AI Podcast Irony27:13 AI Music Without Breath28:21 Human Made Comeback29:33 Waymo Safety Stories34:33 Regulation And Incentives39:29 Human Partnership Mindset40:54 Would You Rather AI Edition44:28 Wrap Up And FarewellRESOURCES MENTIONED:White House Response: https://www.whitehouse.gov/priorities/tech-innovation/Waymo: https://waymo.com/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/dec/02/sam-altman-issues-code-red-at-openai-as-chatgpt-contends-with-rivalshttps://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy7vrd8k4eohttps://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/ai-has-environmental-problem-heres-what-world-can-do-aboutClaude: https://claude.aiNeo Robot: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1346749566932432https://www.1x.tech/neoyoutube.com/watch?si=_5IHpQWBO0vxGS9T&v=j31dmodZ-5c&feature=youtu.beImpact of AI data centres on the environment:https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/ai-has-environmental-problem-heres-what-world-can-do-aboutLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

In this episode, we dig into the “Beyond MAGA” report from More in Common and why it matters heading into the November midterms. If you spend any time online, you would think Trump voters are one giant, identical block of people. Angry, extreme, predictable. But that is not what the data shows. This report breaks the Trump coalition into more nuanced groups like MAGA Hardliners, Anti-Woke Conservatives, Mainstream Republicans, and the Reluctant Right, and that alone changes the conversation.We talk about what actually shapes political identity inside the Republican coalition, including faith, distrust in institutions, community identity, and the feeling that traditional beliefs are often dismissed or mocked. Instead of flattening Trump supporters into one stereotype, we look at the deeper emotional and cultural forces behind why people vote the way they do, and why the liberal view of Trump voters often misses that complexity.Immigration and “wokeness” are two of the biggest themes we unpack. The report shows that many Trump supporters are not anti-immigrant in the simplistic way they are often portrayed. Many hold positive views toward legal immigration while also feeling frustrated by disorder and a system they no longer trust. We also talk about how cultural messaging, tone, and performative politics have shaped the Republican vs liberal divide around Trump, especially when people feel talked down to rather than understood.At the heart of this episode is a bigger question about political stereotypes, media narratives, and what happens to democracy when we stop being curious about each other. We do not all agree, but we do share more underlying frustrations than people want to admit. If we want a healthier political culture before the November midterms, we need less screaming, less certainty, and a lot more honesty about what is really driving voters on both sides.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction: Beyond MAGA, Trump Voters, and the November Midterms00:28 Beyond MAGA Report Breakdown01:41 Why Nuance Matters in Republican vs Liberal Conversations03:23 Trump Voter Types Quiz: MAGA Hardliners, Mainstream Republicans and More04:50 Beyond MAGA Methodology: Can This Trump Voter Research Be Trusted?07:49 Immigration and Trump Voters: Perception vs Reality11:07 Legal vs Illegal Immigration Debate in the Republican Coalition16:12 What Drove the Trump Vote? Faith, Distrust, and Cultural Frustration18:30 Trump Coalition of Frustrations: Why Voters Feel Let Down20:11 Single-Issue Voting and the 2026 Midterms21:36 Religion, Identity, and Why Faith Feels Countercultural22:33 Loneliness, Belonging, and Political Identity in America23:16 Democrats, the Working Class, and Why Voters Feel Abandoned24:40 Wokeness Debate: Media, Culture, and Anti-Woke Conservatives27:23 Why Americans Hate Their Political Opponents28:24 Cancel Culture, Political Nuance, and the Liberal vs Conservative Divide30:34 New Media, Political Change, and Hope for 202833:00 Would You Rather: Final Thoughts on MAGA, Midterms, and Political IdentityRESOURCES MENTIONED:https://www.moreincommon.com/https://moreincommonus.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/More-in-Common-Beyond-MAGA-A-Profile-of-the-Trump-Coalition-Jan-2026-Wave-6.pdfhttps://san.com/https://www.mo.news/ https://www.readtangle.com/Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/, How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We’re taking on one of the hardest questions in public life right now: where is the line between free speech, hate speech, and political extremism? What started as a reaction to protest footage from Washington Square Park turned into a much bigger conversation about modern activism, public outrage, and the way protest movements can shift from justice and grief into something more tribal, performative, and deeply unsettling.We talk about how quickly fear and ignorance can turn into hatred, and how anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim sentiment, and political dehumanization keep gaining ground when people stop seeing each other as human beings. This episode looks at the emotional climate behind extremism, the danger of treating entire groups as symbols, and why hate grows so easily in environments driven by anger, misinformation, and identity politics. It is not just about what people are saying at protests. It is about what happens when outrage becomes a culture.We also explore the conservative and liberal views of protest culture in America. Jolene shares why many conservatives see large-scale street protest as more closely tied to the political left, while I (Nicole) reflect on how the internet, media amplification, and organised messaging have changed the nature of activism altogether. We get into political funding, online radicalization, protest movements, groupthink, and the way social media can turn legitimate causes into ideological theatre almost overnight.At the center of this episode is a deeper concern about free speech in America and whether public debate is still possible when every disagreement feels morally loaded. We do not pretend to have neat answers, but we do ask the questions that matter: when does protest stop helping, when does rhetoric become dangerous, and how do we push back against extremism without losing the values that make open societies worth protecting?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:25 Political Extremism, Protests, and Free Speech in America00:49 Washington Square Park Protest Reaction02:03 Hate Speech, Extremism, and Public Outrage04:56 How Protest Movements Gain Power and Momentum10:30 Who Funds Activism and Political Protest Movements13:30 Hate Speech vs Free Speech: Where Is the Line?17:10 Do Protests Actually Change Anything?20:34 Dark Money, Political Funding, and Protest Strategy22:56 How Republicans Mobilise Without Protest Culture23:22 Protest as Community, Belonging, and Identity23:53 The Money Behind Activism and Organised Movements25:57 Trad Wife Media, Online Messaging, and Cultural Influence28:47 Confusion, Radicalisation, and How People Get Pulled In33:18 Dehumanisation, Hate, and the Rise of Extremism35:09 Podcast Recommendation and 544 Days of Perspective37:26 The Personal Toll of Political Division38:41 Would You Rather: Free Speech, Hate, and Moral Trade-Offs41:07 Final Thoughts on Protest Culture, Extremism, and Free SpeechRESOURCES MENTIONED:Washington Square Park Protest: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DV5CHOADH2J/?igsh=YXhiMjJ0bHVuYmhlMo News - Americans Morally Bad:https://www.instagram.com/p/DWCnC0wicdw/Nate Friedman Show:https://www.instagram.com/p/DVxOUD_jJbj/544 Days Podcast:https://crooked.com/podcast-series/544-days/Our Website:https://www.wevegottotalk.comLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/, How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Two big stories have been sitting with us. Australia moving to ban social media for kids under 16, and U.S. schools rolling out “bell to bell” phone bans. Australia’s move is bold, and we don’t think anyone believes it will be perfect. Enforcement will be messy, there will be loopholes, and kids will try to get around it. But we still respect the statement it makes. It forces the conversation into the open and signals that constant, unsupervised access to algorithm-driven platforms is not a harmless childhood right. It is a risk, and adults need to stop pretending otherwise.Then there’s the U.S. “bell to bell” ban conversation, and it feels like another version of the same awakening. Not “put it on silent” or “keep it in your bag,” but actual phone-free school days. The point isn’t that adults hate technology. It’s that teachers are watching attention, learning, and social skills take a hit in real time. And when phones are removed from the classroom equation, something simple but powerful happens. Kids talk, play, make eye contact, and teachers report fewer distractions and more present students.In this episode, Jolene and I also talk about what these bans can and cannot do. A school ban can change the day, but kids still go home to devices. A social media ban can shift norms, but it won’t teach digital judgement on its own. That’s why we keep coming back to the bigger question: what does a healthier relationship with tech actually look like, and how do we build it on purpose? We would love to hear your take in the comments. Do you think Australia’s under-16 social media ban will help, or backfire? And should more U.S. schools go “bell to bell”?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Intro02:02 Australia ban: covered platforms and expectation of glitches/workarounds03:38 Early workaround example and Meta removing underage accounts in Australia04:12 Online Safety Act timeline; no accounts under 16; can still browse without accounts05:22 Rationale: limiting algorithm-driven targeting and mental health harms07:10 Verification and enforcement: “reasonable steps,” accountability, and potential $30M fines10:16 Shift to US: 35 states + DC adopting bell-to-bell school phone bans12:02 Bipartisan dynamics, safety/shooting concerns, and workarounds15:25 Alternatives: flip phones, pagers/payphones; key stats on depression/sleep and public support17:52 Tech leaders restricting their own kids’ phone/social media use23:00 Broader reflection: problem-solving skills and attention in an always-online world26:20 Parenting boundaries: phones in rooms, supervised computer use, and saying no28:24 Nuance on school bans: concern about teaching responsible use vs. total prohibition30:13 Proposal: “digital citizenship” education alongside restrictions31:27 Discipline burden on teachers; varied state/school rules; request for educator feedback34:14 Surgeon General warning-label idea; debate over shame vs. action; multi-pronged solutions36:12 Safety concerns: predators and kids’ platforms like Roblox37:19 Social media design as addiction40:22 Modeling behavior: adults on phones and kids seeking attention42:04 Partisanship hypothetical: potential backlash if Trump pushed a phone-ban policy44:07 Closing takeaways: learn from Australia47:10 Would-you-rather questions; choosing YouTube as the one appRESOURCES MENTIONED:https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-04/when-is-the-teen-social-media-ban-what-apps-are-banned/106086152https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-19/roblox-brings-in-age-checks-ahead-of-australian-ban/106025742https://ministers.education.gov.au/clare/school-behaviour-improving-after-mobile-phone-ban-and-vaping-reformsGood for the Soul: https://www.instagram.com/weatheradam/?hl=enLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

The Epstein files are not just a scandal or a “true crime” story. They are a mirror held up to power, privilege, and the way exploitation can hide in plain sight when the right people are involved.We take a look at why this story is bigger than Jeffrey Epstein as an individual. The most disturbing part is not only what he did, but how long he operated, how many doors opened for him, and how an entire ecosystem of access, money, and silence helped protect him. This is where the conversation turns into something deeper about class, credibility, and why the hyper-elite often seem to live by different rules than everyone else.We also talk about the darker details that keep resurfacing, including the New Mexico “Zorro Ranch,” the eugenics angle, and the broader network of enablers that made Epstein’s world possible. And we ask the question that hangs over all of it. Will we ever know the full truth, the kind that maps the networks clearly and holds people accountable, not just the version that gets turned into gossip and outrage?Most importantly, we refuse to let this become a partisan weapon. This is not a left issue or a right issue. It is a human issue about whether justice is selective, whether accountability is optional for the wealthy and connected, and whether victims are treated as disposable. We want to hear your thoughts. What should accountability look like here, and do you believe we will ever get the full truth?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Welcome00:23 Epstein Files Intro00:52 Three Hot Takes on Epstein Files04:51 Bipartisan Outrage07:21 How He Got Away08:58 Epstein Origin Story09:51 Wexner And Teen Culture14:25 Elite Money Blindness17:07 Plea Deal And Death19:04 New Mexico Eugenics20:02 Why No One Talks21:59 Philanthropy And Complicity23:15 Bill Gates Example24:29 Power Sex And Access25:08 Peter Attia Email Scandal26:34 Power Over Sex27:39 Hypersexualization Debate29:56 Epstein Files Politics35:32 Evidence And Accountability38:11 Would You Rather40:52 Final ThanksRESOURCES MENTIONED:The Epstein Files (Politics, subpoenas, and the current fallout)NYT (Feb 12, 2026): Epstein files overview / political anglehttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/12/us/politics/epstein-files.html?unlocked_article_code=1.RFA.Ks_d.pTEwL-KfzLEH&smid=url-shareNYT (Mar 4, 2026): Pam Bondi subpoena related to the Epstein fileshttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/04/us/politics/pam-bondi-subpoena-epstein-files.html?unlocked_article_code=1.RFA.ev5r.I-KWB7-Gs8oP&smid=url-shareNew Mexico / Zorro Ranch (location + operations)NYT (Mar 1, 2026): Epstein’s New Mexico “Zorro Ranch”https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/01/us/jeffrey-epstein-new-mexico-zorro-ranch.html?unlocked_article_code=1.RFA.taQs.mfGbZ_Gv_DZe&smid=url-shareMedical network / enablers (doctors)NYT (Feb 28, 2026): Epstein and doctorshttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/28/us/jeffrey-epstein-doctors.html?unlocked_article_code=1.RFA.DT50.a3Mt3jihkdRH&smid=url-shareEugenics angle (historical reporting)NYT (Jul 31, 2019): Epstein and eugenicshttps://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/31/business/jeffrey-epstein-eugenics.html?unlocked_article_code=1.RFA.kPt3.sqD4Xrz4SYqG&smid=url-shareLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Trump’s SAVE Act is being sold as a straightforward push for election integrity, but in this episode, we take a look at why it is not nearly that simple. On the surface, secure elections sound like an easy thing to support. But once you get into the details, the conversation becomes much more complicated. Is this really about protecting the vote, or is it about raising suspicion and adding new barriers just before the midterms?Nicole shares why her instinct is that the SAVE Act feels like a pre-midterm power move wrapped in the language of fairness. Jolene sees the appeal of a more standardized voting system, and both agree that public trust in elections matters. They also agree that handing too much control to the federal government comes with real risks, especially when centralised voter systems can create new vulnerabilities and new opportunities for overreach.The episode also digs into the practical impact of laws like this. What happens to people in rural areas, people without easy access to updated documents, women whose names do not match old paperwork, or communities that already face barriers to voting? Nicole argues that access is part of election integrity too, and that a system is not truly secure if it quietly pushes legitimate voters out of the process.At the heart of the conversation is a bigger question about democracy itself. If the goal is a better voting system, why are reforms so often introduced in the most politically explosive way possible? Why not build trust slowly, with time, support, and real buy-in from both sides? Nicole and Jolene ask what meaningful voter reform should actually look like, and how we protect both security and access without turning every election conversation into a loyalty test.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Welcome00:26 What Is the SAVE Act00:58 Liberal Hot Takes03:47 Conservative Breakdown05:18 ID Requirements Debate07:20 Real ID Rollout Idea14:21 How Registration Would Work17:21 Immigration Fraud Claims21:20 Bipartisanship and Funding25:09 Midterms and Loopholes26:54 Voter Rolls and Turnout29:32 Bipartisan Wins Ignored30:47 Name Changes and IDs32:50 Registration Versus Voting35:46 Politics and Fraud ClaimsRESOURCES MENTIONED: https://campaignlegal.org/update/what-you-need-know-about-save-act LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Iran is one of the most loaded topics on the planet right now, and in this episode, Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) try to talk about it without pretending it’s simple. We recorded on Thursday, March 5th, fully aware that modern conflict moves fast and anything we say could age in a week. So this isn’t a “perfect take.” It’s us slowing the conversation down and naming what we know, what we don’t, and what we’re tempted to assume.Jolene opens with three hot takes, starting with the language. Five days in, she hesitates to call it a “war” and frames it as a conflict, not to minimise it, but because words shape expectations. “War” implies a timeline, a scale, and a level of commitment Americans are deeply wary of after Iraq and Afghanistan. She also wrestles with the tension between short-term necessity and long-term fallout, including what it signals to allies and adversaries if the U.S. hesitates, and what it costs if the U.S. gets pulled into something with no clear end.Nicole also gets stuck on the war versus conflict question, because labels shape what people tolerate and demand. We talk about the strategic side too, including the role of allies, technology, and how modern warfare has shifted toward precision, drones, cyber, intelligence, and targeted strikes. But underneath all of it is the question that never goes away: what is the plan? “Winning” is not clean, and moral certainty can become a shortcut that avoids the hard questions while real people pay the price.We also centre the part that can’t be treated like a chessboard: the Iranian people. We talk about the human cost already paid by protestors and ordinary citizens under an oppressive regime, and the uncomfortable questions about intervention, democracy, and what happens after a regime is weakened.Finally, we dig into the media layer and why “stay curious” matters more than ever. What are you watching? What are you worried about? What do you think the U.S. responsibility is here, if any? Drop your thoughts in the comments and keep it respectful.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Welcome00:25 Iran Conflict01:10 Jolene Three Hot Takes03:31 Allies And Drones04:16 No Long Term Plan05:16 Human Cost And Protest07:09 How We Got Here10:25 Be Curious Learn History12:38 Kurds And Civil War Risk14:58 War Powers And Congress18:22 Moral Cost Of Strikes21:10 What Happens After23:35 Succession and Assassination23:54 Intel Infiltration Strategy25:40 Iran Threats and Trump26:27 Israel Discourse and Antisemitism27:15 Hamas and Campus Protests29:15 Iran Voices on Instagram31:05 Media Fear and Polling33:38 Who Builds a New Middle East35:48 Would You Rather War Outcomes37:50 Noem Jet and Lewandowski41:36 Podcast WrapRESOURCES MENTIONED: Instagram: @hemdad.nazari https://youtu.be/e9dljIL4rBk?si=q0Jjj5oN2uDcJPPgLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Politics lately feels less like governing and more like bad behavior. In this episode, we ask a simple question: where did basic political decorum go, and why does it feel like the whole country is running on outrage and adrenaline?We talk about congressional hearings that feel more like theatre than truth-seeking, including the Pam Bondi exchange during the Epstein hearings. Tough questions are part of the job, but the posturing, rehearsed lines, and made-for-camera moments leave us wondering who the real audience is. When oversight becomes performance, it doesn’t just waste time. It teaches the public that politics is about winning the clip, not solving problems.We also unpack how modern media and social platforms amplify the worst incentives. Sensational headlines, rage-bait framing, and constant “gotcha” coverage keep everyone stressed, divided, and exhausted. We ask whether changes like removing cameras from hearings or tightening rules could reduce the made-for-TV drama, while still protecting transparency.Finally, we look at what “adult discourse” could sound like again, including our reaction to Marco Rubio’s Munich speech, and the bigger tension between relatability and responsibility in leadership. We also talk about the double standard women face in public life, where forcefulness is praised in men and punished in women. If you’re exhausted too, tell us in the comments. What would you reward in a leader if the algorithm wasn’t in the room?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:25 Decorum In Politics in Disappearing02:07 Hearings As Theater02:26 Tabloid Media Machine06:08 Fixing The Congressional Hearing Format07:41 Pam Bondi Performing For Trump09:59 Rubio Munich Adult In Room12:34 JD Vance Speech Comparison13:17 Rubio Then And Now14:46 What Calm Leadership Feels Like16:10 Outrage Gets Attention16:42 Trump Reads The Room19:22 Authentic Not Rude21:09 Women And Double Standards26:13 Rage Bait And Civility26:59 Modeling Respectful Debate28:16 Would You Rather Segment30:56 Closing ThoughtsRESOURCES MENTIONED: https://www.foxnews.com/media/how-pam-bondi-democrats-turned-hearing-hysteria-right-front-jeffrey-epsteins-victims LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We’re sitting down with Brad Porteus, the creator of Bridge Grades, to talk about the one thing American politics is starving for right now: real collaboration. If you are exhausted by tribal “pick a side” thinking, this conversation is a breath of fresh air, because it is not about who is right. It is about who can actually work with people they disagree with.Brad explains what Bridge Grades is and why he built it. Think of it as a report card for Congress, or like Rotten Tomatoes for politicians. Using objective third-party data, Bridge Grades scores members of Congress from 0 to 100 based on how collaboratively or divisively they govern. The big idea is simple but powerful: ideology and collaboration are independent variables. You can be conservative and still be a bridge-builder. You can be progressive and still be a divider.We also get into the uncomfortable part. Are citizens rewarding the behaviour they claim they want? Brad talks about how American politics has become identity warfare, and how incentives now favour viral moments, party loyalty, and public dunking over the slow, unglamorous work of governing.If you are looking for a better way to evaluate politicians beyond red vs blue, this episode will give you a new lens.Check out Bridge Grades here: https://www.bridgegrades.org/ and tell us what you think. Who are the real bridgers in Congress, and what would it take for voters to start rewarding collaboration at the ballot box?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction01:08 Explaining Bridge Grades02:44 Brad's Background and Inspiration06:09 Challenges in Political Engagement08:46 The Role of Media and Algorithms19:21 Grading System and Data Sources of Bridge Grades26:12 Encouraging Bipartisanship32:09 Exploring Alternatives to the Two-Party System32:52 The Dream of Normalizing Bridging Politics33:27 Challenges in Changing Voting Behavior34:03 The Role of Bridge Grades in Political Campaigns34:35 Reinviting Disengaged Voters36:23 The Two-Punch Strategy for Political Change37:32 Building a Public Utility for Political Transparency38:16 The Builders Movement and Bridging Efforts39:00 Evaluating Politicians' Actions and Rhetoric41:27 Encouraging Bipartisanship in Congress47:25 Hope for a Collaborative Future in Politics49:52 Good for the Soul: Live Music and Gen X Memoirs51:58 Would You RatherRESOURCES MENTIONED:Bridge Grades:https://www.bridgegrades.org/Good For The Soul:Remember to go and see live music!https://book-shelfie.com/roll-with-it/https://liberationbway.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We just watched “The Last Republican,” Steve Pink’s new documentary about Adam Kinzinger - the Illinois Congressman who broke ranks with his party after the January 6th hearings, and let’s just say, it sparked a conversation. Actually, several. We’re Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative), friends for nearly 40 years and living proof that you can tackle politics, religion, and money without ending up in a shouting match. In this episode, we give you our take on the film, the politics, and the very human messiness at the heart of it all.Despite our different political leanings, we came away agreeing on something important: accountability matters, and so does honest conversation about our history. No matter how uncomfortable it is. If we want a better future, we have to be willing to look back, learn, and talk it out, even when it’s messy.“The Last Republican” isn’t just a documentary about one man or one party, it’s a mirror held up to the state of American politics and an invitation to have the kinds of conversations most people avoid. We hope you’ll watch it, and then talk about it with people who agree with you, and especially with those who don’t. That’s where real understanding starts.RESOURCES MENTIONED:The Last Republican Buy Or Rent:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksFrcUdEa9AGood For the Soul: Instagram: @vhsdates @top.music.songs www.bridgegrades.org LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We’re sharing our take on Ezra Klein’s interview with Yuval Levin and the question it raises about Trump’s presidency: has he achieved as much as it feels like he has, or are we confusing constant motion with durable progress? We talk about why this administration can feel like nonstop action, even when much of that action is not coming through Congress.A big idea from the Ezra Klein Show conversation is Levin’s framing that Trump governs “retail rather than wholesale.” In other words, prioritizing visible, immediate wins through executive power, pressure, and deal-making, instead of building long-lasting policy through legislation. We unpack why that approach appeals to many voters who wanted a non-politician who would bypass gridlock, and why it also raises concerns about stability when executive orders can be reversed by the next administration.We also dig into the political reality that Trump’s brand can make bipartisan cooperation in Congress even harder, pushing everyone toward obstruction and performance, and pushing the White House toward even more executive action. The bigger question we leave you with is simple: is Trump adapting to a broken legislative branch, or is this style of leadership making it harder for Congress to function at all?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:45 Discussing Listener's Suggestion: Ezra Klein and Yuval Levin01:58 Trump's First Year: Accomplishments and Controversies04:00 Debating Congressional vs. Executive Power05:57 Trump's Approach to Governance07:59 Media Perception and Legal Battles18:24 Young Conservatives and Political Extremism20:51 US Dependency and Federal Funding22:56 Trump as a Disruptor23:25 Checks and Balances Concerns25:58 Media Manipulation and Public Perception27:01 Trump's Spending and Defense Policies29:07 Hopes for Congressional Bravery30:07 America's 250th Birthday33:28 Good for the Soul: Snowfall and Peace35:24 TV Show Recommendation: The West Wing38:31 Would You RatherRESOURCES MENTIONED:Ezra Klein and Yuval Levin Interview:https://youtu.be/WJHPaCaMAq4?si=9jnNnea6mPoGj0hfSenate website/Presidential Nominations Withdrawn: https://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/one_item_and_teasers/nom_wdr.htmLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Some weeks, the news doesn’t just feel heavy, it feels combustible. In this episode, Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) talk through the latest ICE shooting in Minneapolis and why stories like this instantly become a loyalty test: pick your team, pick your narrative, pick your villain… and move on.We slow the conversation down on purpose. We talk about what we know, what we don’t know yet, and how quickly public reactions harden into certainty before investigations have a chance to breathe. Because once a tragedy becomes a symbol, people stop caring about details. They care about the win.We also unpack the deeper reality beneath the headlines: immigration is debated as a concept, but lived as a constant stress response. Paperwork, deadlines, fear, and the feeling that one wrong turn could unravel a life. At the same time, communities are trying to make sense of real safety concerns without turning those fears into blanket suspicion of anyone who looks or sounds “foreign.”This isn’t about choosing between compassion and accountability. It’s about holding both and refusing to let grief, anger, or fear turn into dehumanisation. If the country feels brittle right now, it’s because we’ve stopped talking like humans. Where do we go from here?CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:30 Discussing Minneapolis ICE Shooting00:47 Moral Certainty and Conversation03:02 Details of the Minneapolis Shooting04:30 Reactions and Political Commentary05:17 Tom Holman's Press Conference07:51 Complexities of Immigration Enforcement27:33 Sanctuary Cities and Legal Implications35:07 Sanctuary Cities and Trump's Immigration Policy35:44 Criminal Records Among Undocumented Migrants36:40 Concerns About Steven Miller's Influence40:33 Polarization and Lack of Dialogue45:43 The Immigrant Experience56:15 Moral Absolutism and Democracy01:04:29 Concluding ThoughtsRESOURCES MENTIONED:Tom Homan News Conference,https://www.youtube.com/live/f0uZKCwGwtA?si=1GT03P1elneERpOL Good for the Soul: https://www.instagram.com/basicoptimism/reels/ https://tapcancerout.org/

Some headlines don’t feel real and yet here we are. In this episode, we unpack Trump floating the idea of America buying Greenland (yes, Greenland) and why a story that sounds like satire is actually tied to serious geopolitics, Arctic security, and America’s relationship with allies like Denmark.We take a look at why Greenland matters: its strategic location between North America and Europe, growing importance in the Arctic, and the military and economic interests that come with it. Even if the delivery sounds unserious, the underlying interest isn’t automatically crazy and that’s what makes this headline worth talking about.But we also talk about how leadership shows up on the world stage. Trump’s off-the-cuff style and public pressure tactics can turn diplomacy into a spectacle, and diplomacy doesn’t work when allies feel humiliated or treated like they’re negotiating a property sale. The result isn’t just awkward headlines, it’s distrust.And honestly, this isn’t only about Greenland. It’s about political fatigue: the constant “wait, is this real?” whiplash and what it does to public trust. Is strong leadership boldness, restraint, diplomacy, transparency, or some mix of all four? Drop your thoughts in the comments (keep it respectful).CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:32 Discussing Greenland02:02 Trump's Controversial Actions05:33 Global Reactions and Media Frenzy06:54 Strategic Importance of Greenland07:49 Rare Earth Minerals and Geopolitical Moves08:40 Trump's Negotiation Tactics13:26 Debating US Foreign Policy25:41 Historical Context and World Order27:59 European Union's Reaction to Trump's Greenland Comments28:26 Global Reactions and Military Posturing29:28 Embarrassment on the World Stage29:53 The Future of Diplomacy30:22 The Role of Media and Public Perception30:30 Standing Up to Bullies32:16 Greenland's Importance and Reactions34:34 Media Coverage and Public Fatigue44:58 Final ThoughtsRESOURCES MENTIONED:AP News (Greenland, U.S., Denmark, Trump, Vance, Rubio meeting): https://apnews.com/article/greenland-united-states-denmark-trump-vance-rubio-meeting-b10f5151008f1f18a788dc0751473c0eGood for the SoulMatter Neuroscience (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/matterneuroscience/“The Emperor’s New Clothes” (Hans Christian Andersen): https://americanliterature.com/author/hans-christian-andersen/short-story/the-emperors-new-clothesLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Surrogacy can be a deeply meaningful path to parenthood and it can also be a billion-dollar industry. In this episode, we unpack what happens when “building a family” starts looking like a marketplace, and who actually gets protected when money, contracts, and power enter something as serious as pregnancy and birth.We talk about why the U.S. has become a major global destination for surrogacy, and how inconsistent, state-by-state rules can create a system where the wealthy get options and the vulnerable take on the risk. When an industry grows faster than the guardrails, it’s not just messy, it can become exploitative.We also dig into the 14th Amendment and birthright citizenship, and the uncomfortable question it raises: what happens when a right designed to protect the vulnerable becomes a tool the powerful can leverage? This isn’t about demonising parents or children - it’s about whether citizenship and reproduction are being treated like commodities.Finally, we ask what regulation could look like without being “anti-family”: stronger protections for surrogates, clearer standards that prioritise the well-being of the child, and real accountability when things go wrong. If you’re pro-surrogacy, anti-surrogacy, or somewhere in the middle, we hope this episode helps you ask better questions and keeps the conversation honest.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:29 Billionaires and US Surrogacy00:49 The MO News Podcast and Initial Reactions02:47 Understanding the 14th Amendment and Birthright Citizenship04:40 The Surrogacy Industry: Agencies and Regulations05:20 International Billionaires and Surrogacy06:40 Ethical and Social Implications08:17 Legal and Regulatory Challenges10:16 Personal Stories and Opinions11:34 The Role of Money and Power12:59 Conservative and Liberal Perspectives21:36 Potential Solutions and Legislation26:07 Peter Thiel's IVF Agencies in Southeast Asia26:24 Religious Views and Surrogacy Ethics27:20 Surrogacy Laws and the 14th Amendment28:11 Protecting Surrogates and Babies30:47 Bipartisan Efforts for Surrogacy Regulation33:52 Global Surrogacy Practices and US Regulations36:47 The Future of Surrogacy and Legal Recourse41:22 Call to Action: Advocating for Surrogacy Laws45:10 Good for the Soul: Kindness Army46:31 Would You Rather: Surrogacy and CitizenshipRESOURCES MENTIONED:Instagram Reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSWnB_xjRZc/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheetChinese Billionaires, Surrogacy, Pregnancy: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/chinese-billionaires-surrogacy-pregnancy-7fdfc0c3?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkWhat to Know: Surrogacy + China + Billionaires: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/what-to-know-surrogacy-china-billionaires-3734339e?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkSurrogacy Unregulated: Debts + Profits: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/surrogacy-unregulated-debts-profits-b9fdd987?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkFortune (Xu Bo + children + video game empire): https://fortune.com/2025/12/25/xu-bo-children-video-game-empire-guangzhou-duoyi-network/WSJ (Pavel Durov + children + fertility/sperm donation): https://www.wsj.com/world/pavel-durov-children-fertility-sperm-donation-3d6d5231?reflink=desktopwebshare_permalinkGood for the SoulItsSozer (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/itssozer/?hl=enLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

2026 didn’t ease in gently — it kicked the door in. In this episode, Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) unpack three headlines that are already shaping the year: the Trump administration’s high-stakes move in Venezuela, the immigration firestorm at home (including ICE shootings and the Minnesota fraud scandal), and the uprising in Iran unfolding through a media blackout.We talk about Venezuela as a foreign policy flashpoint; is this decisive strategy, reckless escalation, or something in between? And we keep coming back to the same question: what’s the plan after the headline? Because “shock and awe” isn’t a foreign policy, and the people who pay first are rarely the ones making the decisions.Back in the U.S., we dig into how immigration debates get weaponised; how real events become political symbols, and how quickly entire communities get judged by the actions of a few. We wrestle with the tension between law enforcement and social justice, and what it looks like to enforce laws without losing your humanity.And then there’s Iran. Courage in the dark, and the world’s silence. We explore the moral weight of “intervention” vs “do nothing,” and why everything now feels like a loyalty test. If you’re overwhelmed by 2026 already… same. Drop your thoughts in the comments — especially if you disagree — and keep it respectful.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Good for the Soul:Yes Theory (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/yestheory/?hl=enYouTube Video: https://youtu.be/Zw0c2fmv1RM?si=1aVkJiD8q0zYHjhGLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

⚠️ CONTENT WARNING ⚠️This episode contains discussion of suicide and grief related to suicide loss. We share personal stories about losing loved ones to suicide, which may be difficult or triggering for some listeners.If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help:988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741International Association for Suicide Prevention: https://www.iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres/You are not alone, and there is always help available. Your life matters.We approach this topic with care and respect, but we understand it may not be appropriate for everyone at this time. Please prioritize your mental health and well-being.—--We're talking about death today - not in a morbid way, but in the honest, vulnerable way most people avoid their entire lives. Despite being friends for nearly 40 years, Jolene and I (Nicole) realized we'd never actually discussed death, dying, and what we believe comes after. So we decided to have that conversation. The one that makes most people uncomfortable but that everyone needs to have at some point.Jolene's first confrontation with death came at 16 when her friend Stacy died by suicide - a traumatic event that shattered her worldview and taught her about grief's unexpected manifestations. My wake-up call was losing a college boyfriend, which propelled me to cherish life more acutely and ignited my awareness of life's fragility. Later, watching my mother disappear to dementia taught me that you can grieve someone long before their actual death. These experiences shaped how we each understand mortality and what matters most.Our beliefs about what happens after death are different but lead to similar conclusions. Jolene, as a Catholic Christian, believes in heaven and eternal life - finding comfort in the idea that death is a transition, not an ending, and that even tragedy is part of God's plan. I don't subscribe to traditional heaven or hell, but I'm fascinated by the energy and signs that seem to accompany those who've passed. Whether those signs are real or just comfort my brain creates doesn't matter, they connect me to people I've lost and remind me that love endures.Despite our different frameworks, we agree on what's fundamental: death is both universal and deeply personal. Talking about it openly diminishes fear's hold and brings us closer. We're urging you to have these conversations with people you love - discuss what you believe, what you fear, what you hope. Don't wait for the "right time" because there isn't one. The right time is now, before you're forced to have the conversation in a crisis.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Good for the SoulMo News https://www.youtube.com/moshehnews https://www.instagram.com/mosheh/?hl=en LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We can’t believe it’s been a year! In this special episode, Nicole (liberal) and Jolene (conservative) reflect on what it’s really like to launch a podcast across the political divide—sharing honest behind-the-scenes moments, favourite interviews, and the biggest surprises of our journey so far.From tackling tough topics like gun policy and abortion to finding unexpected common ground, we’ve learned that real conversation rooted in curiosity and respect, matters more than ever. Highlights include our powerful interview with Monica Guzman and the joy (and chaos) of producing nearly 50 episodes.Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited about our dream guest list, more listener-requested topics, and even more in-person episodes. Most of all, we’re grateful for our growing community. Your questions, feedback, and willingness to engage keep us inspired.What should we talk about next? Who do you want to hear from? Drop your ideas in the comments or reach out on social media. Here’s to another year of bold conversations, big laughs, and maybe a little less drama. Thanks for being part of our journey!RESOURCES MENTIONED:https://youtu.be/NO-JBTsLaJQ?si=CJXW8kgAWB0rrqPr https://youtu.be/DqoLxk0-Yqk?si=DM8D1SI0bm3LW_UD https://youtu.be/A7YWXtWFmUY?si=Fm46ebPKwhvS-t_k https://youtu.be/80c6RbRn6uY?si=oiHHbdEkfqpDlIpU https://youtu.be/CCX1dN1nmvQ?si=4mASIe3l1dHMwfUQ https://youtu.be/5wtPeP8XwAk?si=ARDCTXaE1IebUvJ2 https://youtu.be/AbH8U7m5kos?si=kKFQIsybFSbhB1Zu https://youtu.be/qydEt3wbPXQ?si=UNyUEa_LO-qpE4r6 https://youtu.be/f8uozb6VN9k?si=mDg9qxQCucuKB_fH https://youtu.be/xkXscmE9l_s?si=uRXBula4h5qBgljI https://youtu.be/V7Wyw5uZegc?si=qpUQ227NwkVwyB4T https://youtu.be/qS2O1rgf2YM?si=FUcxIQ48ig-2YWW_ https://youtu.be/pBmP42Mmamw?si=qqCFona0O8B1d5N6 https://youtu.be/E-gH6CVSFGk?si=JkS2XMpUeK_BOS_Y Independent News Sources:https://www.mo.news/ https://www.readtangle.com/ https://san.com/ Good for the Soul: https://www.instagram.com/love_animalsgram/https://www.instagram.com/maxinem_x/ LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

The holiday season is here, and we're talking about what Christmas and Hanukkah mean to us, how we navigate the pressure and expectations, and why the spirit of the season matters more than perfect decorations or expensive gifts.Jolene celebrates a traditional Christmas with stockings, a beautifully decorated tree, and all the festive cheer. I (Nicole) grew up celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah, experiencing the magic of Christmas morning and the ritual of lighting the menorah for eight nights. We both agree on the beauty of holiday decorations - whether it's stars or angels, menorahs or nativity scenes, there's something universally warming about homes lit up with festive spirit.But let's be honest about the pressure. This is when people feel enormous expectations. Perfect decorations, elaborate meals, mountains of gifts. For families already struggling, the holidays can amplify stress instead of bringing joy. The pressure to buy, buy, buy can overshadow the actual spirit of giving from the heart. The most meaningful gifts often cost nothing; time, attention, presence, acts of service.The holidays are what you make of them. It's okay if your decorations aren't Pinterest-perfect or you can't afford elaborate gifts. What matters is showing up for people you love, extending compassion to those struggling, and finding moments of genuine joy and connection. That's the real spirit of the season.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Jolene’s Sweater:https://www.samsclub.com/ Sweets:https://www.lifeloveandsugar.com/easy-lemon-bars-recipe/https://www.loveandlemons.com/mexican-wedding-cookies/https://onehotoven.com/pecan-tassies/ https://www.food.com/recipe/easy-homemade-almond-roca-106641 https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62334590/holiday-haystacks-recipe/ https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/best-sugar-cookies/ Christmas Movies:https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0356680/?ref_=fn_t_1https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110527/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0319343/?ref_=fn_i_1 Good For The Soul:https://www.instagram.com/rockyroaddoodles/?hl=enLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkOn Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2Our Website: https://www.wevegottotalk.com/How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/, How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

After spending months dissecting politics, gun control, and the collapse of American democracy, we desperately needed a break. So today we're talking about the stuff that occupies more of our mental space than we’d care to admit: our pet peeves from everyday life and the tiny moments of joy that remind us life isn’t all bad. Because honestly, sometimes the person who won't get out of the left lane feels more urgent than foreign policy.The mix of irritation and joy is what makes life entertaining. If everything was perfect, we'd have nothing to laugh about over coffee. If everything was terrible, we'd never get out of bed. The combination of the annoying drivers and the unexpected smiles, the language crimes and the perfect hugs - that's the whole human experience right there.So here's our very official challenge: notice both. Notice what makes you irrationally annoyed, because those irritations are valid and often hilarious in hindsight. But also notice what brings you joy, because those moments are everywhere if you're paying attention. And maybe try to be someone else's "simple joy" today instead of their "why are people like this" story.RESOURCES MENTIONED:News and Media: Tangle Newsletter: https://www.readtangle.com/Podcast Content: Heavyweight Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heavyweight/id1150800298Good for the Soul: Kaizen (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/thatskaizen/?hl=enProduct Reference: BrassCraft Hair Snake (Home Depot): https://www.homedepot.com/p/BrassCraft-20-in-Plastic-Hair-Snake-BC00112/305468409LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

What if the advice to avoid talking about politics is actually making everything worse? In our first-ever guest interview, we sit down with Monica Guzman - author of "I Never Thought of It That Way," and advisor at Braver Angels to talk about how to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times.Monica doesn't sugarcoat it: America is fraying. Social media has made it easy to be incurious while feeling righteous, and "conflict entrepreneurs" are profiting off our division. But she believes the only way forward is to keep talking to each other, especially across disagreement.Her advice for navigating political conversations - especially during the holidays: • Know what you're after: connection or persuasion? • Step away from social media and have tough conversations face-to-face • Ask "how" instead of "why" - invite people to share their story, not defend their position • Remember that curiosity and grace are contagiousMonica shares a powerful story about bringing liberal Seattleites to meet conservative Oregon farmers. What they discovered: we're all terrible at estimating what the "other side" really thinks. Studies show both liberals and conservatives wildly overestimate support for extreme positions like political violence. The best intervention? Talking to real people, not caricatures.Some argue America should split into "Divided States." Monica pushes back hard: that's a lie pushed by extremes for political gain. The truth? The more time we spend only with people who agree with us, the dumber we get. We need each other to make wise decisions for a healthy society.Is there hope? Absolutely. The revolution isn't happening in halls of power - it's happening in living rooms, coffee shops, and podcasts. People choosing dialogue over dismissal are the real counterculture.Monica leaves us with "sonder" - the realization that every person has a life as vivid and complex as your own. When we remember that, everything changes.Read Monica's book "I Never Thought of It That Way" and join the movement toward fearless curiosity.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 - Introduction: Why We Talk Across Political Divides00:21 - Meet Monica Guzman: Author of "I Never Thought of It That Way"01:36 - Is America More Divided Than Ever?03:14 - Social Media, Outrage, and the Curiosity Crisis05:27 - How to Have Difficult Conversations With Family08:09 - The Power of Curiosity and Grace in Bridge Building09:49 - Why "How" Questions Work Better Than "Why"11:57 - Breaking Down Misconceptions About the Other Side14:16 - Monica’s Sherman County Project: Liberals Meet Conservatives18:30 - What Urban and Rural America Can Learn From Each Other21:58 - Are We Really Hopelessly Divided?24:16 - Why We Need Each Other: The Beating Heart of Democracy27:00 - Signs of Hope: The Revolution of Conversation29:10 - Sonder: Seeing the Humanity in Everyone30:53 - Would You Rather: Monica’s Game on Difference33:44 - Final Thoughts and Thank You to Monica GuzmanRESOURCES MENTIONED:Connect with Monica:https://www.moniguzman.com/bookhttps://braverangels.org/author/moniguzmangmail-com/LINKSOn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/, How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

There's a massive group of Americans we don’t talk enough about; people who work full-time, pay their taxes, and still can't afford basic necessities. They earn too much to qualify for government assistance but too little to actually survive. They're called ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. And they represent 38 million households  (29% of America). Combined with those below the federal poverty line, that's 55 million households, or 42% of the entire country, struggling to make ends meet. I (Jolene) learned about ALICE through a friend who works for United Way, and honestly, it changed how I think about poverty in America. As a conservative, I've always believed in personal responsibility and hard work. But ALICE represents people who are doing everything right - working full-time jobs, showing up every day, contributing to society, and yet they still can't make ends meet. That's not a character failure. That's a system failure.Nicole's perspective as a liberal aligns with mine on this more than you'd expect. She sees ALICE as proof that the social safety net has massive gaps. You can work full-time and still not afford childcare, housing, transportation, and healthcare. The federal poverty line is outdated and doesn't reflect the actual cost of living, which is exactly why United for ALICE created the Household Survival Budget. This is a metric that reflects the real minimum costs of necessities like housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology, plus taxes, adjusted for every county in the United States.You can get involved with United for ALICE through their website at unitedforalice.org or through United Way in your state. You can donate, volunteer, or advocate for policies that support working families. You can also just start talking about this issue, because the first step to solving a problem is acknowledging it exists.RESOURCES MENTIONED:United for ALICE: https://www.unitedforalice.org/ United Way: https://www.unitedway.org/ United Way National Overview (Interactive Map): https://unitedforalice.org/national-overview#4.5/36.316/-95.842Books: Abundance by Ezra Klein: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Abundance/Ezra-Klein/9781668023488Good for the Soul: Ezra Klein & Spencer Cox: https://youtu.be/WJB87niNCk0?si=o7alUusFQMsS1I-6Social Media/Inspiration: James Talarico (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/jamestalarico/?hl=en Plumes Officiel (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/plumesofficiel/Business Resources: Mark Cuban MasterClass - Win Big in Business: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/win-big-in-business/chapters/win-big-in-business Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company: https://www.costplusdrugs.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Thanksgiving is supposed to be about gratitude, family, and great food - but with tensions running high in America, the holidays might feel more charged than usual. In this episode, we share how to actually enjoy Thanksgiving without avoiding meaningful conversation or ending up in a screaming match.Growing up, our Thanksgivings looked different but felt the same: togetherness, gratitude, and way too much food. Now as adults with our own traditions and chosen families, we've learned something crucial: curiosity beats judgment every single time.When someone says something you disagree with at the dinner table, what if you asked a genuine question instead of arguing? Questions that start with "how" instead of "why" invite conversation instead of confrontation. How did you come to that conclusion? How does that affect you personally? These questions create understanding instead of arguments.Everyone is the protagonist in their own story, operating from their own experiences and values. When you approach conversations from that perspective, it's easier to listen without immediately judging.This doesn't mean agreeing with everything or abandoning your boundaries. It means approaching disagreement with curiosity about how someone arrived at their position, rather than dismissing them.We're proof that people with completely different political views can genuinely enjoy each other's company. The secret isn't agreeing on everything; it's respecting each other enough to listen, ask questions, and assume good faith.This Thanksgiving, approach your gathering with an open heart and genuine curiosity. Set boundaries if needed, but don't avoid all meaningful conversations just because they might be uncomfortable. Some of the best memories come from real conversations where vulnerability and honesty create connection instead of conflict.Happy Thanksgiving from two friends who prove that liberals and conservatives can break bread together without breaking each other.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Luby's: https://www.lubys.com/Kerrygold USA: https://www.kerrygoldusa.com/Good for the Soul:People Choosing Kindness (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/peoplechoosingkindness/Tangle: https://youtu.be/_ys-UNz5U24?si=sNsUCJ3LVAreVQWNLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

We're about to talk about religion, which means a good portion of you just got a little uncomfortable. But here's something wild that might make this conversation easier: science shows that prayer and meditation do essentially the same thing to your brain. Whether you're a Christian praying in a church or an atheist meditating in your living room, your brain is having a remarkably similar experience. Today we're taking a look at why these practices work, how they're more alike than different, and why maybe we should all stop arguing about whose version is "right."Whether you pray to God, meditate on your breath, or find peace in nature, you're tapping into something fundamental about human consciousness. You're creating space for stillness in a noisy world. You're cultivating compassion in a culture that often rewards cruelty. You're choosing presence over distraction.We're not here to convert anyone to prayer or meditation. We're here to share what works for us and invite you to explore what might work for you. Maybe it's the practice you grew up with. Maybe it's something completely new. Maybe it's a combination of traditions that speaks to your specific experience.The invitation is simple: get curious. Explore. Try things. Notice what creates peace, connection, and clarity in your life. And then do more of that, regardless of what it's called or where it comes from.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Dr. Andrew Newberg Content: The Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. Andrew Newberg: https://youtu.be/zVXOyp0q9pA?si=EH_9NfllFj48v1jJ Dr. Andrew Newberg TED Talk: https://youtu.be/7SJCDLHyeqk?si=Jq3ncdR6w4Pv0WdD Additional Video: https://youtu.be/JdVmBH7HYoY?si=Adw5nPkLyL7ifJHMPrayer and Meditation Resources: Jesus Calling: https://www.jesuscalling.com/Good for the Soul: Ohhthatsrich (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/ohhthatsrich/?hl=en 60 Minutes with Spencer Cox: https://youtu.be/sk8Ct961EMc?si=KVWxThdZXA9rVFQeBooks and Educational Resources: TA for Tots: https://archive.org/details/tafortotsandothe0000freeScience and Nature: James Webb Telescope - Space Telescope Science Institute: https://youtu.be/xID7xvIYmEk?si=1U06VfpZ-gR3nDUwMiscellaneous: The Protest Rats (NYC Reddit): https://www.reddit.com/r/nyc/comments/1iayxo5/has_any_one_ever_seen_this_many_rats_before/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

Menopause is a natural life transition that half the population will experience, yet somehow it remains medicine's best-kept secret. I (Nicole) spent months getting shuffled between specialists, each one treating individual symptoms without connecting the obvious dots. Itchy skin? See a dermatologist. Mood changes? Try therapy. Bone loss? Take calcium supplements.Each doctor had a different diagnosis. None of them mentioned menopause.Then came the osteoporosis diagnosis, and suddenly everything clicked. But it shouldn't have taken a bone density scan to get answers about something as predictable as menopause. Today we're talking about why women's health care is broken, how hormone replacement therapy changed everything, and why the medical establishment would rather prescribe antidepressants than admit they don't understand women's bodies.DISCLAIMER:While we make every effort to make sure the information in this podcast/article is accurate and informative, the information does not take the place of professional or medical advice.Do not use our information:to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseasefor therapeutic purposesas a substitute for the advice of a health professional.We do not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage caused by use of the information provided in our podcast.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Dr. Mary Claire Haver (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/drmaryclaire/?hl=en Dr. Mary Claire Haver on Armchair Expert: https://armchairexpertpod.com/pods/mary-claire-haver The Dr. Hyman Show Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-hyman-show/id1382804627 North American Menopause Society: https://menopause.org/ Dr. Adrienne Simone: https://dradriennesimone.com/ Dr. Amy Grace (Tulane): https://medicine.tulane.edu/departments/obstetrics-gynecology/faculty/amy-grace-md Dr. Vonda Wright (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/drvondawright/?hl=en Dr. Kelly Casperson (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmd/?hl=en Midlife Private Parts: https://www.midlifeprivateparts.com/Video Content: YouTube Live Stream: https://www.youtube.com/live/_2ZRlOivC5M?si=FtyFdcBwX2eoPeQl Dr Mary Claire on Katie Couric: https://youtu.be/lkDNlXHzD2M?si=BWNBIamLD0d1NJ_n Dr Mary Claire on Mel Robbins: https://youtu.be/ReFZ__ZeSEQ?si=YNrZHvY6b8CXh03t Dr Mary Claire on Diary of A CEO: https://youtu.be/oQqcnYcKx68?si=piv1uHAb4WxAEdhJLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

California Governor Gavin Newsom is everywhere right now - doing podcasts, engaging with conservative voices, and very obviously positioning himself for a 2028 presidential run. He's got the hair, the charisma, and the baggage that comes with governing California. Today we're talking about whether Newsom could actually win a national election, and whether the kid I (Nicole) knew from afar in high school, wearing blazers and slicked-back hair, could actually become president.I (Nicole) went to high school with Gavin Newsom. Even back then, he had this air of sophistication that set him apart. While the rest of us were in jeans and t-shirts, Gavin showed up in blazers looking like he was already running for something. It's surreal to think that the same person I knew as a teenager might shape America's political future. But what's actually beneath that perfectly coiffed exterior?Jolene's been watching Newsom with curiosity. As a conservative, she sees him as the political shapeshifter of our time. Someone with Bill Clinton-level charisma who can connect across party lines, but who also carries the weight of California's very visible problems. Homelessness, crime, cost of living, people fleeing the state - these aren't just Republican talking points; they're real issues that Newsom would have to answer for on a national stage.What's interesting to both of us is how Newsom forces a conversation about what we actually want in leaders. Do we want perfectly polished politicians who never make mistakes, or do we want flawed humans who own their failures and try to do better? Do we want leaders who only talk to people who agree with them, or do we want someone willing to engage across ideological lines?Jolene's watching to see if Newsom can address California's problems convincingly. I'm watching to see if his authenticity and communication skills can translate to a national campaign. We're both curious about whether someone who's willing to talk to Steve Bannon and Charlie Kirk can actually bridge America's political divide, or if that's just good PR.The real test will be whether Newsom can turn his podcast conversations and long-form interviews into actual policy solutions that resonate with voters outside of California. Charisma is great, vulnerability is appealing, but ultimately people want leaders who can improve their lives. Can Newsom make that case? We'll find out.CHAPTER MARKERS:00:00 Introduction00:22 Community Building and Sponsorship01:21 Diving into Gavin Newsom02:54 High School Memories and Personal Anecdotes04:37 Gavin Newsom's Political Journey08:14 Reflections on Newsom's Public Image16:34 Newsom's COVID Controversy19:38 Challenges and Criticisms of Newsom's Governance21:37 Homelessness and Housing Policies22:15 Election Integrity Concerns22:46 Gavin Newsom's Public Perception24:33 Podcast Discussions and Public Reactions26:55 Transgender Athletes in Sports27:28 Gavin Newsom's Political Journey33:38 Personal Reflections and Vulnerability35:41 Social Media and Political Image39:17 Would You Rather42:32 Concluding Thoughts and Future SpeculationsRESOURCES MENTIONED:Gavin Newsom Content: Gavin Newsom TikTok (Specific Video): https://www.tiktok.com/@gavinnewsom/video/7557082684074315039 Gavin Newsom TikTok Profile: https://www.tiktok.com/@gavinnewsom?lang=enInterview and Media Appearances: Steven Colbert Interview 1: https://youtu.be/xixWODj3-UE?si=xDpHZO2S1X0HVh-F Steven Colbert Interview 2: https://youtu.be/OC71635to-I?si=mZN9Penj0BujZpbr Additional Video: https://youtu.be/1NLoTuRR3hE?si=pgTP37jZJkgkNTOGGaming/Streaming Content: Connor Eats Pants (Twitch): https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2582490833?_bhlid=b8eb6d1a74c7924b7a3be6e3447580fa7b99716bGood for the Soul: https://youtu.be/yEX1xJcvRqI?si=ks7RBEUDEYt16AZaLINKSOn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weve-got-to-talk/id1797423701On Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/0qJVgTvjciUffRmoUienx2How to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/, How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

President Trump is building a new ballroom at the White House, and predictably, everyone has lost their minds. Some people see it as a practical addition for official events. Others see it as an extravagant monument to Trump's ego being permanently installed in the people's house. Today, we're talking about why a ballroom has become yet another flashpoint in American politics, and whether maybe we're all just exhausted and looking for things to be angry about.I (Jolene) get why people are upset about this, but honestly, the ballroom doesn't bother me. Here's why: it's being funded by private donations, not taxpayer money. Every president leaves their mark on the White House - renovations, updates, changes that reflect their time in office. Trump sees this ballroom as his legacy project, and since he's not using public funds, I don't see the problem. Having a dedicated space for official events instead of constantly setting up temporary solutions is actually practical.Nicole's reaction wasn’t too dissimilar as far as understanding the need for a larger space for events, but from a Liberal’s perspective, the ballroom feels like Trump literally building a monument to himself in the White House. It's not just about the money; it's about what it represents. At a time when Americans are struggling financially, when budgets are tight and people are worried about making ends meet, building an opulent ballroom feels tone-deaf and dismissive. The ballroom will get built and Trump will leave office eventually. But the way we treat each other, the way we engage with people who disagree with us, the way we choose dialogue over dismissal - that's what will determine whether we can actually function as a country.RESOURCES MENTIONED:White House Information: White House Official History: https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/the-white-house/News and Analysis: Jessica Yellin (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQK8_hUEluJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link The Hill - 5 Takeaways from East Wing Construction: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5570860-trump-white-house-ballroom-east-wing-takeaways/ The Hill - White House Releases Donor List: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5569197-major-companies-fund-whitehouse/Good for the Soul: Monica Lewinsky's Reclaiming Podcast: https://wondery.com/shows/reclaiming-with-monica-lewinsky/ Ken Colman (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOOLHvZhzxX/?igsh=MXBiaHA1ZGpjM3MzaA==LINKSOn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

President Trump did something remarkable in the Middle East. I (Nicole) can barely believe I'm typing this, but credit where it's due - he got hostages home and negotiated a ceasefire in a conflict that's been bleeding for decades. Whether you love Trump or hate him, what happened this week deserves acknowledgment. And that's exactly what we're talking about today.We're not declaring Trump a hero or pretending this solves the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We're also not ignoring what he accomplished because we disagree with his politics. We're doing what we should all do more often: recognizing when someone does something significant, even if we didn't think they could.Every step toward peace matters, even if it's small, even if it's imperfect, even if it comes from someone you didn't expect. The hostages are home. People who were separated from their families are together again. That's real. That's worth celebrating. And that's also just the beginning of a much longer, messier process that will require sustained effort from everyone involved.RESOURCES MENTIONED:BBC News Article: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgr71z0jp4o Good for ths Soul: https://youtu.be/RP8Oxe6OxJc?si=sP7k_V4g9R-CYCLs LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

We recorded this episode seven days into the government shutdown, and honestly, we were both furious. Not the performative outrage you see on cable news, though. Actual, bone-deep frustration at watching our government play chicken with people's livelihoods while collecting their own paychecks without interruption. TSA workers are showing up to keep us safe without knowing when they'll get paid. FAA controllers are managing air traffic on empty stomachs and maxed-out credit cards. And Congress? They're posting memes.The government shutdown isn't just about budget negotiations or policy disagreements. It's a symptom of a political system that's fundamentally broken, where the people making decisions face none of the consequences while the people suffering the consequences have no power to make decisions. RESOURCES MENTIONED:News and Media: Straight Arrow News: https://san.com/ Straight Arrow News Podcast: UCuL3xV8AqD3sekKOhhyZqOAGovernment Resources: HUD Website: https://www.hud.gov/#close US Senate Phone List: https://www.senate.gov/general/resources/pdf/senators_phone_list.pdf Contacting Congress: https://www.coausphs.org/COA/COA/Advocacy/Contact-Congress.aspxGood for the Soul: Honestly with Bari Weiss: https://youtu.be/sqZ7E_Mx-K4?si=H-VNxG2twZPVnNB1Film Reference: The Post (Movie): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6294822/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

When was the last time you had a real conversation about what government is actually supposed to do? Not a screaming match about specific policies, but a genuine discussion about the fundamental role of government in America? I (Nicole) and Jolene have been friends for almost 40 years despite living on opposite sides of the political spectrum, and recently we realized we'd never actually tackled this most basic question: What should our government be doing, and how much should it be involved in our daily lives?The answer, it turns out, is a lot more complicated than either of us expected. And surprisingly, we found more common ground than we thought possible.The role of government in America has been debated since the country's founding, and it will continue being debated long after we're gone. The tension between federal power and states' rights, between individual liberty and collective responsibility, between free markets and social safety nets - these tensions are what keep our democracy dynamic and responsive.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Founding Documents: The U.S. Constitution: https://constitutioncenter.org/the-constitution/drafting-table/item/drafting-the-united-states-constitutionThe Declaration of Independence: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcriptPolitical Reference: Mamdani Reference: https://x.com/jimfornyc/status/1972443061021233220?s=46Good for the Soul Content: Bill Maher: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPFyqBOjhij/?igsh=Z2k4MG96aW1pMm96LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Jimmy Kimmel got pulled off ABC after making comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination, and honestly, it's left us both feeling unsettled about where America is heading. Whether you thought his jokes were inappropriate or not, the speed at which he disappeared from television should concern everyone. Today we're talking about what this means for free speech, why comedy matters in a democracy, and whether we're crossing lines we can't uncross.The Kimmel situation isn't really about one comedian or one set of jokes. It's about whether we still believe in the principles that made America different from everywhere else. It's about whether we trust citizens to make their own decisions about what to watch and hear, or whether we think government officials should make those decisions for us.We don't have to agree with everything comedians say to defend their right to say it. We don't have to find their jokes funny to recognize that their freedom to make those jokes is essential to our democracy. And we don't have to like their politics to understand that silencing them makes all of us less free.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Primary Content: Jimmy Kimmel Full Monologue: https://youtu.be/c1tjh_ZO_tY?si=PE5hOO6xlCo-IuBONews and Analysis: The Guardian - Pentagon Journalist Restrictions: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/20/pentagon-journalists-restrictions-pledge?CMP=share_btn_urlTed Cruz The Verdict: https://youtu.be/l6KYixCBTJc?si=YUdU5Lp0R2QqwTLtFOX News 9 Minneapolis/St Paul - Amy Hockert: https://youtu.be/8-koyY2Zoxc?si=i5vhmKdE4ui0f931Podcast Content: The Katie Miller Podcast with Pam Bondi: https://youtu.be/4LRPHxSrLTE?si=4rb_p3k1YzU9z7bfArticles and Opinion: Builders Movement - Free Speech Double Standard: https://buildersmovement.org/2025/09/24/free-speech-double-standard/The Progress Network: https://theprogressnetwork.org/electrotech-child-poverty-mobile-money/Good For The Soul:Good for the Soul - AOC and Chip Roy Restore Trust In Congress Act: https://youtu.be/ag2N9QpioWg?si=NpQQA7ZSBavtHlyTRep Chip Roy on Congressional Stock Trading Ban and US Gov't stake in Intel: https://youtu.be/tHrSNy7YklI?si=h4kLr0EWkoUkuiBwLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Gun control debates usually end with people screaming past each other about the Second Amendment and dead children. But what happens when you actually sit down and try to understand why people feel so strongly on both sides? Today we're tackling America's most polarizing issue, and honestly, neither of us walked away feeling like we had all the answers. Maybe that's the point.The conversation about guns in America isn't going to end anytime soon. But maybe it could get more productive if we stopped assuming the worst about people who disagree with us and started looking for solutions that address everyone's legitimate concerns.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Gun Control Organizations: Brady United: https://www.bradyunited.org/ Giffords: https://giffords.org/ Everytown for Gun Safety: https://www.everytown.org/Data and News Sources: USA Facts: https://usafacts.org/ Fox News: https://www.foxnews.com/ Time Magazine Gun Control History: https://newsfeed.time.com/2013/01/16/a-history-of-violence-gun-control-in-the-pages-of-time/slide/july-1989-death-by-gun/Video and Podcast Content: YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/DeRSMgFCmUE?si=kkB7nG6FXFozCbHl The Daily Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736?i=1000722487869Products and Services: Byrna (Non-lethal Defense): https://byrna.com/?pb=0&srsltid=AfmBOorHhS0lPW63kYakRXDPm5uEmUPy_MgnJPHDpJyYp7D-baQ6UkUeSocial Media/Commentary: Diaper Diplomacy: https://www.instagram.com/diaperdiplomacy/?hl=en America the Possible: https://www.instagram.com/americathepossible/?hl=enHistorical Reference: Chicago History Museum - Tylenol Murders: https://www.chicagohistory.org/tylenol-murders/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

When Charlie Kirk was assassinated in Utah, the immediate response from both political parties revealed something deeply broken about American discourse. Instead of mourning a human life, social media exploded with celebrations, blame, and calls for revenge.We’re processing this tragedy as friends from opposite sides of the political spectrum, sharing their heartbreak over how quickly Americans turned a murder into political ammunition. This episode examines the cruel responses that followed, the systemic issues creating isolated and radicalized young people, and why political violence should terrify everyone regardless of party affiliation.A deeply personal conversation about what we've lost as a country and what we need to find our way back to each other before it's too late.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Polls and Data: YouGov Poll on Political Violence: https://today.yougov.com/politics/articles/52960-charlie-kirk-americans-political-violence-pollPolitical Responses: Governor Spencer Cox: https://youtu.be/PVYqYCHDqHA?si=74Eo3-Uh1uyu9ySySenator Bernie Sanders Statement: https://youtu.be/EUPgz8Q05o4?si=9IUVwsRoMAzo-WK5Media Coverage: The Free Press: https://www.youtube.com/live/Nzachq_DqmQ?si=lDbYBpNkH1TXTF5KTangle Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tangle/id1538788132?i=1000726756203Social Media/Commentary: James Talarico: https://www.instagram.com/jamestalarico/?hl=enDan Lanning: https://x.com/albertbreer/status/1967214250449047912?s=42LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Everyone's noticed it, but nobody wants to say it out loud: Americans have gotten meaner. Or at least, that’s what David Brooks believes. Today we're discussing an article that David wrote for The Atlantic, “How America Got Mean”. His explanation for our national cruelty crisis left Nicole feeling defeated, and Jolene a little more optimistic.Regardless of whether the article was perhaps a little over dramatic, both Nicole and Jolene agreed there is something very wrong with the way Americans are treating each other. And it seems to have gotten worse over the last 20 years. So how did we get here?In this episode, we take a look at what we’re doing wrong and what might help us get back to a kinder America.RESOURCES MENTIONED:How America Got MeanGround NewsThe Progress NetworkWe Haven’t Given Up On Gen ZThe Music BarLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

When Trump and Putin meet in Alaska, followed by Zelensky and European leaders rushing to D.C. to meet Trump 3 days later, you know something big is happening. But what exactly? The headlines give us locations and handshakes, but the real story is what we're not being told. Today we're diving into the kitchen-table conversations everyone's having but nobody wants to say out loud: What's really going on with this war, and who's actually calling the shots?I (Jolene) watched this Alaska meeting unfold with fascination. Here's Trump getting two of the world's most complicated leaders to sit down on American soil. That's not accidental. As a conservative, I'm curious about the power dynamics at play and what this could mean for America's position globally.Nicole's reaction was pure skepticism. She's wondering if this was all performative theater, especially given how the media has painted Putin as the ultimate villain and a war criminal, and we both agree he’s bad news. But here's what we both agreed on: these aren't casual coffee meetings. When world leaders drop everything to fly to remote locations, something significant is happening.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Straight Arrow News https://san.com/

What does it mean to be a woman in 2025? We talked to women across generations - from 20-somethings navigating career ambitions to 80-year-olds who've watched the Republican party evolve around them. The answers surprised us. Despite decades of progress, some battles feel eerily familiar. We were given the task of interviewing some of the women in our social circles, to get their take on what it means to be a woman, and how they feel things have changed over time.I (Nicole) interviewed friends who've climbed corporate ladders while dealing with dress codes that still treat women like decoration rather than decision-makers. Jolene's conversations revealed a different tension: maintaining Christian and Republican values while navigating modern feminism. The assumption that Republican women can't be feminists sparked passionate responses from her circle. Turns out, political identity and gender advocacy don't fit into neat boxes.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Socialist Video: https://youtu.be/QkO63lMyAhE?si=_bvsA8TtVo06LV39 LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

Making friends as an adult is hard. While teenagers effortlessly form bonds over shared cafeteria tables, adults need to be more intentional about creating and maintaining connections. Recently, I (Nicole) and my husband Josh traveled to visit Jolene and her husband Jeff in the Ozarks for our very first in-person podcast recording. This was a rare treat that got us thinking about how friendship actually works and why it's worth the extra effort it takes as adults.Recording by the lake in the Ozarks with Jolene, our husbands Jeff and Josh joining us for parts of the conversation, I realized something beautiful: this friendship has thrived because we've never tried to force it into a perfect box. We've let it be real, sometimes inconsistent, and always genuine. We've accepted that life gets busy, and that's part of the journey.The friendships that last aren't the ones that never face challenges - they're the ones where both people decide the connection is worth navigating those challenges together. Not because it's always easy, but because the reward of deep, authentic friendship makes the effort worthwhile.RESOURCES MENTIONED:https://hudsonandcharles.com/https://www.harterhouse.com/index.phpLINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

Climate change discussions usually end in shouting matches about melting glaciers and coal jobs. But what happens when a liberal and a conservative actually sit down to talk through the science, the solutions, and the politics without trying to win? Today we're tackling the topic that's supposedly dividing America, and discovering we might have more common ground than cable news wants you to believe.Climate change doesn't care about your political party. Neither do rising energy costs, extreme weather events or global economic competition in clean technology sectors.Maybe we need to stop treating climate policy like a zero-sum game between environmentalists and economists. The countries that figure out clean, affordable, reliable energy will have massive advantages in the coming decades. That could be us, if we can get past the political theater.We don't have to agree on every detail of climate science to agree that America should lead in energy innovation. We don't have to choose between environmental protection and economic growth if we're smart about how we pursue both.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Climate Feedback: https://climatefeedback.org/evaluation/wall-street-journal-article-repeats-multiple-incorrect-and-misleading-claims-made-in-steven-koonins-new-book-unsettled-steven-koonin/Scientific American: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/that-obama-scientist-climate-skeptic-youve-been-hearing-about/Landman scene: https://youtu.be/fmbZwxEnAFc?si=ULiyV_j9JaPVWLW1The Climate Deniers Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-climate-deniers-playbook/id1694759084?i=1000706646820Conservative on Climate Change: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bobeccles/2023/12/31/what-ive-learned-from-conservatives-who-are-addressing-the-challenge-of-climate-change/NOAA Report March 2025: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global/202503Solar South Article: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pmbnpqZK2ucmgqg1vwvnCFC3r8k_dRuXMTCUZuGcHik/edit?pli=1&gid=1975818729#gid=1975818729Trump post: https://nypost.com/2025/06/01/us-news/trump-shares-wild-conspiracy-theory-that-joe-biden-was-replaced-by-soulless-mindless-clones/Drama Club NYC: https://www.dramaclub.org/Water: https://water.org/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/ 

What happens when a liberal starts watching Fox News and a conservative dives into The New York Times? We decided to find out. For 10 days, we deliberately consumed each other's preferred media sources to see if we'd been living in completely different realities. I (Nicole) typically get my news from The New York Times, The Daily podcast, and Ezra Klein. Jolene gravitates toward Fox News, America's Newsroom, and The Free Press. For 10 days, we switched sides to see what we'd been missing - or avoiding.In a time when we're told that Americans have never been more divided, maybe the real problem isn't our differences - it's that we've stopped trying to understand each other.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Straight Arrow News: https://san.com/Ezra Klein Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-ezra-klein-show/id1548604447The Daily: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736The Headlines: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-headlines/id1758855019America’s Newsroom: https://www.foxnews.com/shows/americas-newsroomWorld News Tonight: https://abcnews.go.com/world-news-tonight-with-david-muirThe Free Press: https://www.thefp.com/Tangle: https://www.readtangle.com/1440: https://join1440.com/ Gavin Newsom/Frank Luntz podcast episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-is-gavin-newsom/id1798358255?i=1000708420132LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/

Some conversations are too important to avoid just because they're uncomfortable. Toda, Jolene brought questions to the table that she's been wrestling with and wanted my (Nicole's) take on as a liberal Democrat: Can you love America without being racist? Should we forgive student loans or is that unfair to people who already paid? And what's really in those Epstein files? These are the discussions happening in your head that you're afraid to say out loud - so we're saying them for you.RESOURCES MENTIONED:The Joe Rogan Experience: James Talerico https://youtu.be/_jOGPvMftb8?si=WUkWVuwG0uT9peD9 Hunter Biden Full Interview: https://youtu.be/XBbkt2vYC4M?si=LkJZdrMmoq1e7lEy Lee Greenwood Song Jolene loves: https://youtu.be/-KoXt9pZLGM?si=WE-xwaDreSR81nic Ember Coffee Cup: https://ember.com/LINKS:On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wevegottotalk/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeveGotToTalkHow to find Nicole https://nicolefonarow.com/How to find Jolene https://dibledough.com/