Be Freaking Awesome Podcast

EP156 Talking Politics Without Losing Friends: Strategies for Difficult Conversations

Angela Belford & Sami Kinnison Season 1 Episode 156

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In today’s episode of Be Freaking Awesome, we dive into one of the most challenging topics of our time—political conversations. Whether at work, with family, or on social media, it’s easy to feel stuck between avoiding tough conversations or getting into heated debates. But what if there was a better way?

Join Angela Belford as she interviews Sami Kinnison, a communication expert, about how to navigate difficult conversations with curiosity, clarity, and connection. Sami shares why she believes you can be friends with people across the political spectrum, the biggest mistake people make when discussing divisive topics, and how shifting your approach can turn arguments into meaningful, productive discussions.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The #1 communication mistake keeping people divided—and how to avoid it
✅ Why understanding someone’s story is more important than debating their stance
✅ The power of curiosity and how asking the right questions can change the game
✅ How to talk politics without losing friends (or your sanity!)
✅ Why leading with connection, not confrontation, is the key to real conversations
✅ The long game of persuasion—why meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight

Related Episodes to Explore:
🎧 [EP143] How to Keep Going in Divided Times
🎧 [EP142] From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Simple Ways to Build a Better World
🎧 [EP141] How to Stay True to Yourself When Life Gets Messy
🎧 [EP129] Navigating Adult Friendships: Challenges, Intentionality, and Connection
🎧 [EP121] Embracing the Roller Coaster: Encouragement for Every Season

Recommended Resources & Books:
📖 Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High – Learn essential skills for handling high-stakes discussions with confidence.
📖 Supercommunicators: Unlock the Secret Language of Connection – Discover how the best communicators build deep connections and navigate difficult conversations.

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