Friendship IRL: Real Talk About Friendship, Community, and What It Actually Takes

Taking Political Action and Being a Connector Instead of an “Online Warrior”


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During the pandemic, like many others, I felt politically charged, and I channeled this energy into being an online warrior.

On social media, I reposted it all, making it clear where I stood – only to realize this wasn’t my highest use. I wasn’t actually reading the books or taking the actions. I wondered: what could I do instead? That’s how I ended up here. 

Real community requires something most Americans are terrified of, which is compromise. It requires letting go of the “all-or-nothing” mindset and finding common ground. It means being willing to give up some of our freedoms for real security and support. 

Today I share some of my political beliefs and what I’ve been doing instead of being an “online warrior.” I’m not saying this is how you should show up. It’s just how I do. At the core of it all, my fundamental belief is this: as humans, we need to care more about each other. 


In this episode you’ll hear about:

  • My own political beliefs regarding religion, gun reform, human rights, climate change, marriage equality, church-state separation, human services programs, etc.
  • Pitfalls of simply reposting political content without taking action and the importance of having meaningful conversations
  • The danger of polarization and the “all-or-nothing” mindset and the importance of finding common ground to foster understanding and connection
  • The power of small shifts, plus three things I’m doing in my everyday life instead of being the online warrior


Resources & Links

Read the book I quote in this episode, Democracy in Retrograde by Sami Sage and Emily Amick.

Like what you hear? Visit my website, leave me a voicemail, and follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

Want to take this conversation a step further? Send this episode to a friend. Tell them you found it interesting and use what we just talked about as a conversation starter the next time you and your friend hang out!

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Friendship IRL: Real Talk About Friendship, Community, and What It Actually TakesBy Alex Alexander

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