In this episode, Tusk & Quill’s Content Director Nimayi Dixit speaks with David Beckemeyer, host of Outrage Overload, about the work he’s been doing since the last U.S. election. The conversation begins with a look at how the bridge-building movement is shifting. What began as a focus on dialogue and listening across divides is now expanding into more tangible local action. Together, they explore some of the grassroots initiatives leading this transition.

The episode also dives into several key themes Beckemeyer has explored over the past year, including the importance of understanding democratic institutions and cultivating what he calls “democratic resilience”—the idea that, in a democracy, people won’t always get their way, and how they respond to losses is as important as how they respond to wins. Along the way, the two discuss forces driving political polarization and reflect on what’s needed to build a more resilient civic culture.

This is the second time Dixit and Beckemeyer have spoken on the podcast. Their first conversation, titled Outrage and Empathy, was recorded in September of 2024. Excerpts from that episode are featured in Tusk & Quill’s inaugural print and digital collection, Life in the Scroll Age.

We will be separately publishing a discussion with David about his reflections on building Outrage Overload, his way of working, and his vision for the future. Stay tuned, and please subscribe to the newsletter for updates on new releases.

Recorded November 06, 2025