Curiosity Is a Practice (with Mónica Guzmán)

Описание: In this episode of The Connection Effect, host Bill Groner sits down with journalist, author, and bridge-builder Mónica Guzmán to explore a deceptively simple idea with profound implications: that the secret to enhanced inter-personal connection, curiosity, is not a personality trait. It's a practice.


Drawing from her work on depolarization and her lived experience navigating political difference within her own family, Mónica unpacks why judgment grows when engagement shrinks, and how misinformation about what's in other people's hearts quietly erodes connection.


Together, Bill and Mónica explore why certainty can feel soothing, why curiosity often feels risky, and why staying connected across difference matters not just for our relationships, but for the health of society.


This episode moves beyond abstract ideals to offer concrete invitations listeners can try in real life (in their own families, friendships, workplaces, and communities), and reminds us that connection begins with how we show up to ourselves before we meet one another.
Topics of discussion:

00:00 A Message from Bill


00:57 Introduction: The Drive to Depolarize Society


02:21 Meet Mónica Guzmán


03:26 Monica's Motivation and Challenges


06:27 The Vicious Cycle of Judgment


08:24 The Perception Gap and Misinformation


10:32 The Importance of Engaging with Opposing Views


13:52 The Role of Activists in Bridging Divides


21:12 Curiosity takes Courage


25:25 Binary Thinking and the Need for Nuance


27:23 The Importance of Nuance in Personal Growth


28:22 Curiosity: Nature or Nurture?


28:53 Curiosity as a Practice, Not a Trait


31:57 The Power of Asking Questions


35:21 Navigating Political Differences with Friends


46:47 Hope for the Future


48:28 Final Thoughts on Anger and Self-Conversation


Transcripts are available at connection.net/substack (https://open.substack.com/pub/theconn...)
Connect with Mónica Guzmán

• Website: https://www.moniguzman.com/

• Facebook:   / reclaimcuriosity  

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniguzman/...

• Book (I Never Thought of It That Way): https://www.moniguzman.com/book
Connect with The Connection Effect

• Join the community and conversation on The Connection Effect Substack connection.net/substack (http://connection.net/substack)

• Questions? Guest inquiries? Email: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])