Outrage Overload: Rethinking politics, division, and media – Details, episodes & analysis

Digital Overwhelm: Talking Across Generations

In a world that never stops pinging, how do we stay human—and stay connected across generations?

Host David Beckemeyer talks with communication scholar Craig Mattson, author of Digital Overwhelm, about what happens when Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z all try to navigate the same flood of digital noise.

From “data vs story” to “sender vs listener,” this conversation explores why we’re all drowning in information, why younger workers seem more pragmatic than passionate, and how switching our modes of communication can build real understanding.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

Why People Stop Trusting Science

Why do so many people reject science—even when the facts are clear?
We are joined by Hillary Shulman, a communication scholar at Ohio State University, to learn about science populism—the growing belief that science is an elite enterprise disconnected from everyday life.

They explore how distrust of experts, polarization and science, and skepticism and belief shape public understanding. Shulman explains why facts alone don’t persuade, how both liberals and conservatives can fall into science populism, and what it takes to rebuild trust in scientific institutions.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

We sit down with with Dr. June Klees, a historian and educator at Bay College, about the Waging Dialogue initiative — a unique civics program designed to help students develop the confidence and skills to engage in dialogue across generational and ideological divides. Students are paired with older conversation partners in what’s called an “intergenerational dyad,” encouraging sustained, intentional conversations that challenge assumptions, stretch comfort zones, and build common ground.

You’ll also hear directly from students reflecting on their personal experiences, growth, and takeaways from the program.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

Yevgeny Simkin discusses the damaging effects of social media and the need for structural changes in the media landscape. He argues that while social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be harmful, there are other social media platforms like Stack Overflow and LinkedIn that are beneficial because they incentivize positive behavior and focus on reputation. Simkin suggests that social media platforms can be modified to encourage civil discourse and kindness by changing their incentive structures. He also emphasizes the importance of finding alternative monetization schemes for news media that do not rely on clickbait and sensationalism. Simkin believes that the media's focus on outrage and division is misleading and that people are not as divided as they seem. He calls for more compassionate and tolerant conversations to bridge the minor differences that are blown out of proportion. Simkin also discusses the need for a unifying external threat to bring people together and the importance of hope and kindness in society.

About The Guest:
Yevgeny Simkin is a journalist, technologist, and media expert. He has written extensively about the detrimental effects of sensationalism, clickbait, and divisive content in modern media. Simkin is also the founder of Samizdat Online, an anti-censorship platform that defies autocratic regimes and gives voice to the silenced.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

In this episode, David interviews Chris Chabris about his book "Nobody's Fool: Why We Get Taken In and What to Do About It." They discuss the cognitive habits that make us susceptible to scams and outrage, and how to avoid falling for misinformation and manipulation. They explore the concept of focus and what's missing, the limitations of memory, the power of precision and repetition, and the truth bias that influences our beliefs. Chris emphasizes the importance of seeking diverse perspectives, questioning information, and being aware of our cognitive limitations.

Key Takeaways:

1. Our focus and attention can make us susceptible to scams and manipulation.
2. Memory is fallible and doesn't work like a video camera or hard drive.
3. Precision and repetition can make false information seem more believable.
4. Worst-case predictions and illusory truth can stoke fear and outrage.
5. Truth bias leads us to automatically tag information as true, making us vulnerable to misinformation.

Quotes:

• "The failure to notice people in gorilla suits is a natural byproduct of our ability to focus our attention." - Dan Simons
• "Looking isn't the same as seeing; we have to focus attention to become aware of something." - Dan Simons
• "Manipulating focus and relying on people not to ask what's missing is a prime tool of those trying to get us outraged." - Chris Chabris
• "Precision and repetition increase our belief in information, even if it's false." - Chris Chabris
• "Our tendency is to tag incoming information as true, making it easier to believe false claims." - Chris Chabris

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

Ben Hamilton is the author of "Sorry Guys, We Stormed the Capitol: Eyewitness Accounts of January 6th." He is the founder of the Chasing History Project, which aims to document controversial events and provide firsthand accounts. Hamilton has a background in history and has conducted extensive interviews with individuals who witnessed the events of January 6th.

Summary: Ben Hamilton discusses his book and the events of January 6th, providing firsthand accounts from individuals who were present. He highlights the difference between a regular Trump event and the atmosphere on that day, noting that the crowd seemed to lose interest in Trump's speech and became focused on the certification of the presidential election. Hamilton emphasizes that the crowd was not an organized insurrection but rather a random group of people with a shared belief that they could stop the certification. He also discusses the shifting narratives and emotions throughout the day, from a sense of victory to defensiveness and blame-shifting.

Key Takeaways:

• The crowd at the Capitol on January 6th was not an organized insurrection but a random group of people with a shared belief that they could stop the certification of the presidential election.
• Trump's speech did not have the same impact on the crowd as previous events, and many attendees left before the march to the Capitol began.
• The lack of leadership and organization within the crowd contributed to the chaotic nature of the events.
• The police response was varied, with some officers appearing sympathetic to the crowd and others attempting to maintain order.
• The narrative among the crowd shifted throughout the day, from a sense of victory to defensiveness and blame-shifting.

Quotes:

• "We need to push our way into the Capitol building and relieve everybody of command." - Interviewee
• "I think a lot of the police were like, 'Okay, sure. We're friends now.' Because that was a way to have some level of control over the people who just trespassed in the fricking Capitol build

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

Dave Troy discusses the importance of addressing the underlying cultural factors that perpetuate disinformation and polarization in society. He emphasizes the need to go beyond surface-level analysis and focus on building social connections and trust between people of different backgrounds. Dave suggests that the current political climate in the United States is unsustainable and calls for a reinvention of culture to support a functional democracy. He also highlights the destructive power of disinformation and the challenges of combating it. Dave concludes by urging individuals to humanize their adversaries and engage in meaningful in-person interactions to bridge the divide.

Key Takeaways:

1. Building social capital and fostering connections between people of different backgrounds is crucial for a functional democracy.
2. Disinformation is not just about the information itself, but the effects it has on social division and radicalization.
3. The current political climate in the United States is unsustainable and requires a reinvention of culture to support democracy.
4. Disinformation is easier to spread than real journalism, making it essential to prioritize accurate information and critical thinking.
5. In-person interactions and humanizing adversaries can help bridge the divide and promote understanding.

Quotes:

• "We have to decide what we care about as a country and where we're gonna take this." - Dave Troy
• "It's so much easier to destroy stuff and tear things apart than it is to create or repair things." - Dave Troy
• "Dehumanizing people is easier when you haven't spent time with them." - Dave Troy

About The Guest(s): Dave Troy is a serial entrepreneur turned investigative journalist. He is a visionary thinker who examines complex issues through a unique lens. Dave offers a big picture perspective, employing a systems and network approach to understanding the roots and consequences of disinformation, polarization, and other threats to democracy.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

In this episode, we are joined by esteemed guest Jon Marshall, a renowned historian, who provides invaluable insight into the historical significance of this indictment. Together, we examine the profound implications for our democracy and the delicate balance between national security and accountability.

However, the story takes an unexpected turn as the indictment becomes highly politicized. We explore the divisive debates and contrasting viewpoints that have emerged, with some perceiving it as a politically motivated attack while others emphasize the importance of upholding the rule of law. Amidst the polarization, we encourage listeners to look beyond political lines and focus on the national security consequences of such actions.

Ultimately, this episode aims to foster thoughtful reflection and encourage open dialogue about the intersection of power, secrecy, and accountability. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of this landmark case, unraveling the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface and shining a light on the path forward.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

Tobias Rose-Stockwell is our guest for this episode. His brand new book is 

OUTRAGE MACHINE
How Tech Amplifies Discontent and Disrupts Democracy—And What We Can Do About It

Together, we’ll examine the historical context of societal stability and the shifts that have led us to this current climate of anger and polarization. We’ll explore the role of media, including social media platforms, in fueling outrage and examine the consequences it has on our mental health and social fabric.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the constant stream of outrage, or if you’re simply curious about the impact it has on our society, this episode is for you. 

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Michael Serazio, a former journalist, who interviewed political consultants to uncover the nuanced methods that fuel the era of outrage politics. He helps us understand the hidden tactics employed by savvy political consultants.

In a world consumed by outrage and polarizing narratives, this thought-provoking conversation lifts the curtain on the strategies used by political consultants to shape public opinion. 

Prepare to be captivated as we peel back the layers of authenticity, decode the power of branding, and expose the impact of manipulation on our political discourse.

Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, David

Support the show

Show Notes:
https://outrageoverload.net/

Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.com

HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

Also check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.

Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.

Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...