07/08/2026
One of the best parts about being the videographer at the Braver Angels 2026 National Convention in Philadelphia was meeting some of my heroes and thought leaders driving the bridge building movement. The first I need to mention, is none other than Mónica Guzmán (Monica Guzman).
While working on The Space Between (which is still in progress!) I somehow came across Mónica‘s TEDxSeattle talk, How Curiosity Will Save Us. (Copy/paste that on YouTube and it’s super easy to find.)
While watching this video, something shifted in my mind and soul. From then on, I became less and less interested in figuring out who’s “right” in American politics. It’s not that any one person or party is right. It’s that conditions are “right” and the best ideas will come when all our perspectives are brought to the SAME table. It’s being genuinely curious about someone else’s personal experiences to help understand, not necessarily agree with, their uniquely shaped perspectives.
3 years after watching Mónica‘s TED Talks talk encouraging curiosity, I’m so thankful to be working professionally in the bridge building space after years of living and breathing polarized politics. The way we’re communicating—or not communicating—with each other is unproductive at best, and harmful and dangerous at worst. We can start communicating in a new way that restores the true ideals of America.
There are hundreds of organizations and group chapters located around the country that are creating safe spaces for dialogue between those with political differences. Go to listenfirstproject.org (Listen First Project) and find something happening near you or online.
Join the movement. We need YOU!
