Misunderstood, Mislabeled, and Still Thinking About It: What to Do About Rumination
Misunderstood, Mislabeled, and Still Thinking About It: What to Do About Rumination  
Podcast: Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other
Published On: Wed Jul 30 2025
Description: Ever get stuck in those mental loops after heated conversations around politics and religion? Let's talk about it! In this episode, host Corey Nathan opens up about the all-too-common habit of rumination—going over those difficult conversations or moments of conflict again and again. Drawing from a powerful personal story, Corey explores what rumination is, how it differs from healthy reflection, and what we can do about it. What Is Discussed: The difference between obsessive rumination and productive reflection Practical strategies for self-awareness and emotional regulation How mindfulness and meditation can help manage intrusive thoughts Why labeling others (or being labeled) damages relationships How to shift from argument to connection using curiosity and empathy Episode Highlights: 00:00:50 – Introducing the topic of rumination and why it matters 00:02:00 – A personal story about a triggering interaction 00:06:00 – “My brain broke”—Corey reflects on emotional fallout 00:10:00 – Inward vs. outward strategies for interrupting rumination 00:13:00 – Self-awareness, triggers, and managing the moment 00:15:00 – Meditation and the practice of “noting” 00:18:00 – Relationship management: choose connection over being right 00:27:00 – Labeling vs. seeing someone in their full humanity Featured Quotes: “My brain broke. That’s how I describe it—because in that moment, something really triggered me.” “The thought is not my identity. It’s just a thought—and I can allow it to pass.” “If someone insists on labeling me, that’s not a relationship I want. Or at least, I’ll love them from far away.” Resources Mentioned: BUDDHA'S BRAIN by Rick Hanson - rickhanson.com/writings/books/buddhas-brain Tara Brach’s resources – www.tarabrach.com 📣 Calls to Action: ✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation. ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics ✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion 🔗 Connect on Social Media: Corey is @coreysnathan on... Bluesky LinkedIn Instagram Threads Facebook Substack TikTok Our Sponsor: Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨