The Internet is rife with misinformation and despair. One of the bright shining beacons of hope online is Sharon McMahon and her @SharonSaysSo Instagram account that offers fact-based information from the former history and government teacher. And now Sharon has a new book, The Small and the Mighty, which celebrates some of the unsung heroes of American history. Sharon brings us happiness and hope and facts every single day. She's a national treasure and today we are going to talk about how to try to change people's minds with respect and empathy.

Order Sharon's book The Small and the Mighty here.

The RFK Jr. affair scandal is not just gossip; it has serious implications for journalism. It's also so juicy and just plain WEIRD. In this episode, hosts Emily Amick and Jo Piazza delve into the RFK Jr. affair, exploring its implications on journalism, media ethics, and gender dynamics. They discuss the salacious details of the affair, the role of media in shaping narratives, and the impact on journalist Olivia Nuzzi's career. The conversation also touches on RFK Jr.'s political aspirations and the broader implications for journalism in today's digital age.

Some key takeaways:

• Media ethics are increasingly blurred in the digital age.
• Gender dynamics play a significant role in how media covers scandals.
• RFK Jr.'s behavior raises questions about his suitability for political office.
• The media often vilifies women while excusing men's behavior.
• The curiosity gap drives public interest in political scandals.
• Digital journalism prioritizes speed over accuracy, leading to misinformation.
• The conversation around this affair reflects broader societal issues regarding power and consent.

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What does it mean to Americans when a woman dies during pregnancy? Do we actually care? Do we engage in law making and political decision making with a default posture of … not wanting women to die?

Because women are dying right now under circumstances where doctors should be able to save their lives.

Are we going to allow this? This is reality, not some political spin and we are the ones who have to keep the conversations going. This is something we have to be talking about every single day.

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Find Jo on Instagram @JopiazzaAuthor.

We cannot be fooled by any rhetoric from the Trump campaign about supporting IVF. It is all double speak and smoke and mirrors. Republicans are already on the path to blocking IVF. 46 Republicans in the Senate voted against the Right to IVF Act this week. We need to be armed with the facts. Here are the receipts and the realities.

For more political commentary and news that actually soothes your soul and gives you hope subscribe to the @Emilyinyourphone substack here.

You can follow Jo at Over the Influence.

From Taylor Swift's surprise endorsement to Kamala hitting Trump where it hurts (his crowd size and wallet) we've got thoughts and all the feelings about the first debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

For more political commentary and news that actually soothes your soul and gives you hope subscribe to the @Emilyinyourphone substack here.

You can follow Jo at Over the Influence.