ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode, former naval officer and Republican candidate Aaron Dimmock talks about what it really takes to stay honest; in politics, in community, and with ourselves. He reflects on polarization, party identity, and the cultural forces that make admitting mistakes feel risky. Through stories from military life, his congressional run, and everyday human moments, Aaron explores why transparency is so hard and why it matters.
The conversation weaves through psychology themes like threat perception, group identity, and the silent-majority effect—ending with a hopeful look at how love, listening, and shared humanity can shift the tone of our national conversation.
00:00 — Calling out America’s “Bad Breath”
02:00 — Aaron’s journey: Navy officer to candidate
03:20 — The Ted Lasso metaphor for honesty
08:15 — Why politicians won’t admit mistakes
14:30 — The Stockdale Paradox & facing reality
19:30 — Aaron's take on how to mend the divide
23:40 — Losing friends for running Republican
34:00 — Fear, pain & why people get loud
55:50 — Improv game: the halftime speech to save America
A production of The Second City and the Argosy Foundation
