A Podcast episode with Dr. Tim Muehlhoff
Welcome back, dear readers and listeners, to another enriching installment of God-sized Stories.
I am thrilled to share with you a profoundly timely and relevant episode featuring Dr. Tim Muehlhoff, a professor at Biola University and co-director of the Winsome Conviction Project.
In our latest episode, we dive deep into the murky waters of social and political polarization, an issue that seems to touch every corner of our lives today. Dr. Muehlhoff, along with his co-author Sean McDonnell, addresses this critical topic in their thought-provoking book, “End a Stalemate.”
As many of you know the United States is experiencing unprecedented levels of incivility and division. A staggering 98% of Americans acknowledge that incivility is a problem, and 67% believe it has reached crisis proportions.
During our conversation, we tackle various layers of this pervasive issue, from political transitions, to the intimate struggles families face when grappling with polarized views. Dr. Muehlhoff’s insights into the distinctions between anger and contempt are particularly enlightening. While anger can be managed and resolved, contempt leads to cutting off relationships entirely, a scenario all too familiar to many of us.
End The Stalemate
We also explore the “latent conflict” concept, where unaddressed issues simmer beneath the surface, poisoning our relationships and communities. Dr. Muehlhoff and I emphasize the importance of tackling these underlying emotions before they escalate into open conflict. This episode is rich with practical wisdom for anyone struggling to hold meaningful conversations regarding divisive topics.
One particularly heartwarming moment during our discussion was when I shared a story about my daughter Adriana. As a Zumba instructor, she has had the opportunity to engage with a diverse community, sharing her love and belief in Jesus in a respectful and loving manner. Witnessing a positive emotional response from someone who had never interacted with a Christian in such a way before serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of graceful dialogue.
For those who hesitate to discuss your beliefs openly due to fear of offending others or compromising your convictions, Dr. Muehlhoff offers invaluable advice. He encourages a strategic approach to difficult conversations, emphasizing relational connections before diving into content discussions.
Additionally, Dr. Muehlhoff’s website, endthestalemate.com, offers free interactive exercises designed to foster empathy and understanding in our conversations.
Tune in to this episode filled with insights and practical tips for nurturing respectful and meaningful dialogue. As always, I am incredibly grateful for your continued support and engagement. Together, let’s strive to build bridges, not walls, in our communities and beyond.
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Listen to the Interview below or on your preferred podcast Platform: God-sized Stories – Dr. Tim Muehlhoff
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Watch the Interview below or on YouTube: God-sized Stories – Dr. Tim Muehlhoff
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