BONUS - From Outrage to Reflection Artwork

Outrage Overload: Rethinking politics, division, and media

If politics and media leave you feeling angry, overwhelmed, or exhausted, Outrage Overload is for you.

In about 30 minutes every few weeks, we explore how outrage spreads, how polarization distorts perception, and how media and technology amplify emotional extremes.

Through conversations with leading scientists, researchers, and authors, we unpack the psychology, incentives, and systems shaping today’s political climate — and offer practical tools to think clearly, stay grounded, and respond constructively.

Outrage Overload helps listeners with critical questions about outrage culture, political polarization, misinformation, and media manipulation—offering science-based insight, expert interviews, and practical tools to stay grounded in a divided world.

If you’ve ever asked yourself…

• How can I stay politically informed without feeling outraged or exhausted all the time?

• Why is political polarization getting worse, and what can we do about it?

• What exactly is outrage culture, and how does it manipulate us?

• How do I talk about politics without it turning into a fight?

• Am I being misled by the media? How can I tell?

• What’s the psychological toll of living in an outrage-driven media environment?

• How can I build critical thinking skills to make sense of today’s news?

• What role does social media play in fueling outrage and misinformation?

• Is it possible to care about politics without losing your mind?

• What practical tools or insights can help me deal with toxic politics and media?

…then this is the politics show you didn’t know you needed.

Join host David Beckemeyer—science communicator and founding CTO of EarthLink—as he explores the mechanics of outrage, speaks with experts in psychology, media, and political science, and equips listeners with strategies for navigating today’s high-conflict culture with emotional resilience, critical thinking, and civil discourse.

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Outrage Overload: Rethinking politics, division, and media

BONUS - From Outrage to Reflection

March 26, 2025 • David Beckemeyer

0:00 | 11:18

A Ritual for Intentional Living

In this special bonus episode of Outrage Overload, I share a personal ritual that keeps me grounded and mindful of the ripples we create in our daily lives. Originally recorded for What’s Your Ripple?, this conversation explores the power of small, intentional actions and how they shape the world around us.

I sit down with JJ Holley, a retired Air Force Major and founder of Ripple Retreat, an alcohol-free event space dedicated to fostering connection and giving back to the community. Together, we discuss the importance of self-reflection, values, and the impact of stillness in a chaotic world.

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

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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

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