Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other

Misunderstood, Mislabeled, and Still Thinking About It: What to Do About Rumination

2025-07-29

Ever get stuck in those mental loops after heated conversations around politics and religion? Let's talk about it! In this episode, host Corey Nathan opens up about the all-too-common habit of rumination—going over those difficult conversations or moments of conflict again and again. Drawing from a powerful personal story, Corey explores what rumination is, how it differs from healthy reflection, and what we can do about it. What Is Discussed: The difference between obsessive rumination and productive reflection Practical strategies f...

Ever get stuck in those mental loops after heated conversations around politics and religion? Let's talk about it!

In this episode, host Corey Nathan opens up about the all-too-common habit of rumination—going over those difficult conversations or moments of conflict again and again. Drawing from a powerful personal story, Corey explores what rumination is, how it differs from healthy reflection, and what we can do about it.

What Is Discussed:

The difference between obsessive rumination and productive reflection
Practical strategies for self-awareness and emotional regulation
How mindfulness and meditation can help manage intrusive thoughts
Why labeling others (or being labeled) damages relationships
How to shift from argument to connection using curiosity and empathy

Episode Highlights:

00:00:50 – Introducing the topic of rumination and why it matters
00:02:00 – A personal story about a triggering interaction
00:06:00 – “My brain broke”—Corey reflects on emotional fallout
00:10:00 – Inward vs. outward strategies for interrupting rumination
00:13:00 – Self-awareness, triggers, and managing the moment
00:15:00 – Meditation and the practice of “noting”
00:18:00 – Relationship management: choose connection over being right
00:27:00 – Labeling vs. seeing someone in their full humanity

Featured Quotes:

“My brain broke. That’s how I describe it—because in that moment, something really triggered me.”
“The thought is not my identity. It’s just a thought—and I can allow it to pass.”
“If someone insists on labeling me, that’s not a relationship I want. Or at least, I’ll love them from far away.”

Resources Mentioned: