
Politics and Religion. We’re not supposed to talk about that, right? Wrong! We only say that nowadays because the loudest, most extreme voices have taken over the whole conversation. Well, we‘re taking some of that space back! If you’re dying for some dialogue instead of all the yelling; if you know it’s okay to have differences without having to hate each other; if you believe politics and religion are too important to let ”the screamers” drown out the rest of us and would love some engaging, provocative and fun conversations about this stuff, then ”Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other” is for you!
Episodes

Saturday Jan 18, 2025
The L.A. Wildfires Brought Out the Best of Us and Worst of Us
Saturday Jan 18, 2025
Saturday Jan 18, 2025
What has our response been to the wildfires in Los Angeles? Frankly, it's brought out some of the worst of us. But thankfully, there have also been many heroes from LA's firefighters and firefighters who came here from neighboring counties and states, to other countries including Mexico and Canada who lent manpower, vehicles and equipment, to everyday people who've offered up their homes, food and time to help in any way they can.
In this special edition of TP&R, we take a look at the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Corey shares personal experiences living near the affected areas in Santa Clarita and reflects on the dual nature of humanity's response—highlighting both acts of compassion and the spread of harmful misinformation. Corey calls attention to how political leaders and media figures handle disasters, the role of conspiracy theories, and how communities can unite in the face of adversity.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:01:00] Corey shares his firsthand experience with the high winds and proximity to the Hearst Fire in Sylmar.
- [00:03:00] Personal stories of friends and neighbors who lost homes or were displaced by the fires.
- [00:05:00] Discussion on Yair Rosenberg's article about conspiracy theories surrounding the wildfires.
- [00:07:00] Critique of political leaders exploiting the disaster for political gain, specifically Donald Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson.
- [00:10:00] Praise for Congressman Chuck Edwards’ efforts to combat misinformation following Hurricane Helene.
- [00:12:00] The role of media figures like Tucker Carlson, Matt Walsh and Dan Bongino in spreading divisive rhetoric.
- [00:17:00] Practical ways to support wildfire victims, including offering shelter, donations, and volunteering.
- [00:20:00] Encouragement to be part of "the best of us" through compassionate actions.
Featured Quotes:
- "Healthy communities ask themselves, what did we do wrong? Unhealthy ones ask, who did this to us?" – Yair Rosenberg
- "When did capitalizing on devastating natural disasters to score political points become a thing?" – Corey Nathan
- "Most people have done the right thing—neighbors looking out for neighbors, friends checking in with friends." – Corey Nathan
- "The ministry of 'that sucks'—sometimes the best thing you can do is just listen and be there." – Corey Nathan
Resources Mentioned:
- American Red Cross
- California Fire Foundation
- Charity Navigator
- Support on Patreon
- Watch on YouTube
- Leave a Review for TP&R
- Yair Rosenberg's Atlantic Piece
- Rep. Chuck Edwards - Debunking Helene Response Myths
- Scott Galloway's No Mercy / No Malice
Call to Action:
If you appreciate the thoughtful conversations we’re fostering here, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with friends. Your support helps us continue discussing important topics with gentleness and respect. Check us out on YouTube and support us on Patreon.
Social Media Links:
Corey Nathan (@coreysnathan):
Our Sponsors
- Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com
Comments (0)
To leave or reply to comments, please download free Podbean or
No Comments
To leave or reply to comments,
please download free Podbean App.