The PoliticsGirl Podcast The PoliticsGirl Podcast

I Disagree: A conversation with Jessica Tarlov

Sep 15, 2026 · 58m

Summary

Leigh McGowan interviews Jessica Tarlov, co-host of The Five and author of the new book I Disagree, to discuss strategies for winning arguments without losing friends. They explore how to maintain calm and human connection while engaging with opposing political views, emphasizing long-term relationship building over immediate viral victories. Tarlov shares personal anecdotes, including a difficult on-air moment with co-host Greg Gutfeld, to illustrate the importance of listening, preparation, and using data to navigate heated political discourse effectively.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Culligan Purity workplace water Sponsor: California Closets and intro Introducing Jessica Tarlov and her book The philosophy of 'I Disagree' and winning arguments Long-term strategy vs. viral clips in debate Building relationships with co-hosts and viewers The psychology of threat reflexes in conversation Challenges of the second Trump administration Using conservative voices to validate criticism Sponsor: Tide Pods and Jones Road Beauty Using data and preparation to communicate effectively Sponsor: Jones Road Beauty and 3 Day Blinds Defining bravery and engaging in political discourse Handling the Charlie Kirk murder on air Humanizing the debate: connecting beyond politics Preparation tactics and managing criticism of style Vulnerability and processing personal attacks Sponsors: 3 Day Blinds, Noble Luggage, Quince Navigating disrespect and representing the left Communicating effectively on reproductive rights Avoiding ideological purity tests on the left Delegating work and focusing on core issues Strategic communication for the general public Learning from effective political communicators Book tour details and final thoughts Outro and sponsors: Substack, AutoTrader, Mercury
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