Connie is feeling compelled to get involved in her local community, but she's never even attended a PTA meeting. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin enlists Eric Liu of Citizen University to explain how busy parents, introverts, and first-timers like Connie can test the waters of civic engagement in the Trump 2.0 era—without getting sucked under.

Eric is the author of You're More Powerful Than You Think: A Citizen's Guide to Making Change Happen.

If you liked this episode, check out our companion episode, How To Become an Expat, or this recent conversation: How To Lead Your Local Nonprofit.

For an upcoming episode, we want to hear from listeners affected by the disastrous wildfires in the Los Angeles area. If you're able to do so during this stressful time, tell us about the questions and challenges you're facing as you rebuild your home and your life. Send us a note at [email protected] or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001.

How To's executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis.