KSQD 90.7FM “Be Bold America!
“A Democrat and Republican Talk” Ground Rules
7-19-20
These ground rules were cooperatively drafted between Kristen Collishaw, Santa Cruz County Republican Central Committee Chair, Andrew Hanauer, One America Movement President and CEO and Jill Cody,
- Be positive, non-judgmental, and open to new ideas. Treat everything you hear as an opportunity to learn and grow.
- Expect to be surprised.
- Listen. We are not debating. Listen to understand how someone got to where they are and how they see the world, not to change their mind.
- You do not need to know everything. OK to say “I don’t know.” Or to say, “Get back to you next time.”
- Ask questions that can deepen your understanding rather than questions that can increase your capacity to argue.
- Not ready to answer a question? Just “pass.” There is no pressure to answer every question perfectly. If needed, the next talk can have a “wish I said” time.
- Assume good intentions. Seek clarification by asking “tell me more” or “could you say more about what you mean,” if you find yourself offended by what they say.
- Be brief and meaningful when voicing your opinion. Be intrigued by the difference you hear. OK to disagree; without being disagreeable.
- Respect thinking and value contributions. Be self-aware. Some things that people say will be hard for to hear. Keep an awareness of your own reaction – physiological, emotional, mental, and try to understand what’s going on for you in the conversation.
- Bring your humor and have fun! (This is what makes great radio!)
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