The rise of affective polarization, a potent force driving Americans to antagonize those who hold opposing political views, has become a defining feature of 21st century politics. From abortion to gun control to immigration, the political discourse concerning our nation’s core issues has become plagued with cross-party intolerance, antipathy, and sometimes even violence.

My enthusiasm to explore the causes and consequences of this divisive tendency inspired Let’s Talk Polarization, my podcast featuring monthly dialogues with global scholars as they unravel the complex interplay between polarization and vital issues such as economic uncertainty, vaccine hesitancy, and campaign strategy as well as large groups of partisans to seek common ground on contentious issues, with the hope of inspiring young people to engage with contentious issues across political divides.

In episode nine, for example, the Tata Chancellor’s Chair and Associate Dean of Social Sciences at the University of San Diego, Dr. John H. Evans, examines the origins of religious divides, the effects of the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, voting behaviors across various sects of Christianity, and ways individuals and the United States government can fight extremism and uphold our pluralist society. By contrast, episode eleven of Let’s Talk Polarization features five religious leaders from diverse backgrounds across the United States, Swami, Lauren, Jeana, Chander, and Claire, as they engage in a respectful exploration of their unique political and social worldviews, while embracing their religious differences.

I learn best through hearing the perspectives of others. I hope that you, too, can listen first, using the precious knowledge that others share to grow.