Podcasting Against Extremism

At one point, I considered naming the podcast “Extremely Normal” instead of “Extremely Non-Extreme.” Sadly, as we see yet again, the new normal in politics actually is extremism. In this sad reality, referring to something positive, principled, and peaceful as “normal” really is not accurate. What has become most common is for politicians, their supporters, and their detractors to spout extreme rhetoric, to take extreme positions, and to act in extreme ways.

It is for these reasons I am launching the podcast as a second vehicle by which to spread the messages this blog has stressed for more than four years.

The podcast will rotate among the following formats:

• One guest from the left or right, either of which I will challenge from the center
• Two guests (a strong left and a strong right speaker), with me moderating – literally – from the center, using my experience as a mediator in legal disputes
• One or more “middle” people as guests; these centrists seek better, less divisive political leadership
• Interviews of political figures, including office holders, candidates, and party leaders, all of whom I will challenge from the middle
• Sometimes just me speaking, if I believe something really needs to be said

My first guest on July 7 will be Gary Russell, a deep-thinking engineer in Southern California. After a career in the business world that ranged from owning a small company to being a Fortune 500 executive, Mr. Russell is a frequent commenter on the Principle Based Politics blog. He will set a high standard for future episodes of Extremely Non-Extreme.

Topics of discussion on the various episodes will include major news developments, including wars, controversies, economic changes, political scandals, court decisions, and even political accomplishments in Washington, D.C. (if any). Some episodes will focus on pending issues of the day, such as proposed legislation, cases to be decided by the United States Supreme Court, and policy initiatives proposed by the Trump Administration.

At all times, my guests and I will have an eye on the 2026 and 2028 elections, as well.

The podcasts will be available on YouTube for viewing or listening at any time. With audio and video both available, you can watch and listen, or just listen. (I suppose you also could just watch and not listen, but that seems a bit extreme in its own way.)

If you have suggested questions, guests, or topic ideas for these discussions, please let me know.