Overcoming the Divide: Nonpartisan Politics - podcast cover

Overcoming the Divide: Nonpartisan Politics

Fostering insightful political discourse and debate. 

Episodes published bi-weekly on Tuesdays. 

To receive updates, participate in polls and promotions follow 'overcoming_the_divide' on Instagram. Rate and subscribe if you enjoy the content!

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Episodes

Censorship and Misinformation in Society with Parnian Soheili

Today's episode, with Parnian, we provide our initial thoughts on the controversy regarding Joe Rogan. Shortly after, we discuss how the media and other actors play a part in an orchestrated political hit job. Parnian and I analyze the hypocritical labels of "misinformation" and others being applied arbitrarily across broader society. We then look at the government's opinion on the matter and how influential big tech is in our daily lives. We finally do a deep dive on how censorship hurts us all...

Feb 10, 202254 minSeason 3Ep. 3

Minisode: Joe Rogan and Censorship

On today's minisode, the hypocrisy of labeling content misinformation is put forward regarding the recent controversy of Joe Rogan. I hope you enjoy! Rate and subscribe if you enjoyed the content and follow 'overcoming_the_divide' on Instagram! Music: Coma-Media (intro) WinkingFoxMusic (outro) Recorded: 2/3/22

Feb 06, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 2

Ukrainian-Russian Tensions with David Andelman

In this season opener, the episode begins by David explaining how an optimal outcome for all parties would look. Soon after, we discuss Putin and the possible strategic moves he may make in the upcoming week(s). The conversation then takes a look at how the United States and Western Europe are conducting themselves on the international stage. I hope you enjoy the episode! Rate and subscribe if you enjoyed the content and follow 'overcoming_the_divide' on Instagram! David Andelman most recently r...

Feb 02, 202238 minSeason 3Ep. 1

Overcoming the Divide Trailer

This three minute segment encapsulates several episodes that feature dynamic conversations and experiences shared with a variety of guests. I hope you enjoy! Rate and subscribe if you enjoyed the content! Follow 'overcoming_the_divide' and 'dan_corcoran_28' on instagram to receive updates, participate in polls, and questions. Music By : Michael Korbin First Clip: Foreign Relations with Israel and Religious Freedom with Rachel Serfaty Second Clip : The Insurrection at the Capitol Building with Av...

Jan 22, 20223 min

Chaos in Afghanistan with Parnian Soheili

On today's episode, we begin by briefly discussing the roots of the Taliban; touching on Russia and the United States as well. We then look at how the ISI (Pakistan's military intelligence agency) facilitated the creation of the Taliban and how it is often overlooked. This played as a catalyst into our next segment, how foreign countries such as China will potentially capitalize off of the crisis. Soon after, Parnian voices her utter disappointment in the current administration and what went wro...

Aug 20, 202139 minSeason 2Ep. 10

The Vaccine and Health with Anthony Diandrea

Today's episode begins by Ant providing his thoughts on the politicization of the Covid-19 vaccine and how it came to be. We then express our stances on the vaccine and Ant dives into the feedback he has received from peers when stating his opinion. Soon after, we discuss overall health and what was missing from our response, as a society, to the global pandemic. We wrap up the episode with an emphasis on the vitality of holistic health. I hope you enjoy! Ant is a Health Coach as well as a Menta...

Aug 17, 202154 minSeason 2Ep. 9

Domestic Terrorism and Extremism with Professor James Piazza

On today's episode, I first ask to hear the Professor's thoughts on the current political polarization of the country and how other factors such as mainstream media play a role. We then give our theories as to why the rise of extremism (particularly on the right) is occurring. Shortly after, we discuss how crucial politicians are to shaping their political audiences as well as the lack unity that is missing from their rhetoric over recent years. To wrap everything up, I ask for the Professor's t...

Aug 09, 202146 minSeason 2Ep. 8

The Political and Cultural Disconnect within America

On today's episode the main focus is on the what has deepened the divide in this country as well as possible minor solutions to the issue. Twitter is discussed first, looking at how the disconnect is perpetuated through the platform. After that, an interesting anecdote of different perspectives is presented and how one could learn from them. The episode wraps up with the biggest grievances that each political affiliate exhibit. I hope you enjoy!

Jul 28, 202117 minSeason 2Ep. 7

The Protests in Cuba with Stephanie Reyes

On today's episode, with Stephanie, it begins by Stephanie giving a brief background of herself and her family ties to Cuba. Shortly after, Stephanie goes into her experience when visiting the island nation and how Cuban society is no where near close to what people are lead to believe it is. We then discuss how American politics are tied to the situation as well as how biases play a role in the matter. Stephanie also speaks on the oppression Cubans face every day under the current regime. Throu...

Jul 18, 202143 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Expanding the Role of the Federal Government with Mike Brewer

On today's episode, with Mike, we discuss certain issues with the current healthcare system in the United States. The conversation then explores the pros and cons of alternative systems such as the Single Payer plan. After that concludes, we discuss how should the federal be involved regarding gun control, there are quite a few disagreements here which lead to interesting points being raised. Lastly, we briefly discuss the possible expansion of the Supreme Court and if it should be done. I hope ...

Jul 06, 202157 minSeason 2Ep. 5

World Events & International Affairs with Pat Carolan, Ant Diandrea and Zander Cojocariu

On today's episode, with Zander, Pat and Ant, we begin by discussing the poll results and replies that were asked throughout the previous week. Each one being focused on the international stage. We then proceed to discuss China, the threats they present and how people and the United States government should respond. This takes up a large portion of the episode but we conclude with going over the French President Emmanuel Macron being slapped while touring around southeastern France. I hope you e...

Jun 14, 20211 hr 14 minSeason 2Ep. 4

The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict with Parnian Soheili

On today's episode, with Parnian, I begin by asking about her general thoughts on the issue at hand. However, we quickly dive into the long history of the conflict and the factors at play. The history of the issue takes up a large portion of the episode but it concludes with possible solutions to the on-going conflict. I hope you enjoy! Parnian is a recent graduate of Penn State University where she majored in Political Science and Journalism. She is now studying to become a paralegal with the a...

Jun 01, 202144 minSeason 2Ep. 3

The District Attorney Race with Carlos Vega

Today's episode, with Carlos, begins by me asking him what pushed him to throw his hat in the ring as well as what campaign policies he is promising. We then take a look at his only opponent in the Democratic primary race, Larry Krasner. We discuss how the years have been since he was sworn as District Attorney. I eventually switch the focus of the conversation to the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) in Philadelphia and their relationship with the DA's office. Lastly, Carlos gives his opinion on ...

Apr 26, 202136 minSeason 2Ep. 2

The State College Ordinance with Councilmen Deanna Behring and Jesse Barlow

On today's episode, with Deanna and Jesse, we immediately start off the conversation with the State College Ordinance that prohibits any gathering over ten people and prohibits any guests at residents with over ten people residing there. This takes up the overwhelmingly majority of the episode as we seem to disagree on a number of things. Having said that, the conversation was productive and we reached common ground in a few areas. I hope you enjoy the episode! Deanna Behring is currently a coun...

Apr 06, 202143 minSeason 2Ep. 1

The Insurrection at the Capitol Building with Avi Bakshi and Pat Carolan

On today's episode, with Avi and Pat, we go right into the violent events that took place at the Capitol building last Wednesday (1/6). We state why we believe it happened and what should have went differently. The conversation then goes into what people should do in the future regarding political disagreements. I hope you enjoy! Pat Carolan attends Widener University and is majoring in secondary education with the plan of becoming a history teacher. Avi recently graduated from Penn State Univer...

Jan 10, 202141 minSeason 1Ep. 14

The Upcoming Biden Administration with Jacob Klipstein

On today's episode, with Jacob, we briefly discuss student debt which soon turns into a conversations regarding Biden's ability to unify the country. Secondly, we discuss possible gun reform and what measures would be taken there. Lastly, we look at foreign policy and the issues the Biden administration will have to address. I hope you enjoy! Jacob in a senior who attends Penn State University and is currently the president of Penn State College Democrats. He is also majoring in Political Scienc...

Jan 06, 202154 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Foreign Relations with Israel and Religious Freedom with Rachel Serfaty

On today's episode, with Rachel, we begin by discussing the current relations with Israel and United States as well as the other countries in the region. We then go into how anti-semitism is a wide-spread issue that oftentimes goes overlooked by activists, media, and politicians. Lastly, we discuss religious freedom in the United States, specifically New York City. Hope you enjoy! Rachel is from Washington, D.C. but attends Tulane University and is majoring in Marketing with a minor in Psycholog...

Dec 22, 202044 minSeason 1Ep. 12

The Effects of Online Learning in the Classroom with Kevin MacFarland

On today's episode, Kev discusses the difficulties of the online learning process. Kev and I discuss the transition, the grievances of the parents, and the daily challenges. Kev provides insights to the different issues at hand. Kev discusses how more technology in a classroom can benefit students and what he would like to see when his students return to the classroom. Lastly, Kev brings up the hardships that two of his students have faced through the lost of a loved one. However, the fundraiser...

Dec 14, 202041 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Current State of Affairs in Pennsylvania

This quick segment dives into what is currently happening in the state and how earlier, proactive measures could have avoided where the state is now. Hope you enjoy!

Dec 11, 202010 min

Philadelphia Coronavirus Restrictions with Matt Cruz

On today's episode, with Matt, we first discuss the recent restrictions mandated by the Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. We quickly come to the agreement that these restrictions mirror a lock down. We then each present arguments of the pros and cons of a lockdown. We dive into why these restrictions have been mandated as well as the lack of transparency there is regarding where the virus spreads. I hope you enjoy! Matt Cruz is from Philadelphia, PA who is attending Marquette University in Wisconsi...

Nov 25, 20201 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 10

The Philadelphia Police Shooting Incident with Tom Quarry and Alex Chokas

On today's episode, with Alex and Tom, we discuss the Philadelphia Police shooting of Walter Wallace. We go into what could have happened differently to avoid that outcome and how to avoid incidents like this in the future. We then discuss the actions that followed in the nights after which consisted of looting, rioting, and protests. We give our thoughts on the situation and what needs to change. Lastly, we finish the episode with addressing the rising political tensions in our country. I hope ...

Nov 09, 20201 hr 14 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Penn State Spring Wellness Days, The UPUA and MHS with the UPUA President Zach McKay

On today's episode, with Zach, we first discuss how the UPUA helps the students here at Penn State. We then specifically examine Spring Wellness Days which are supposed to replace Spring Break this upcoming semester. Zach then goes into CAPs, a mental health service located in University Park. Lastly, we give our thoughts on how Penn State has handled the virus. I hope you enjoy! Zach is currently serving as the President for the University Park Undergraduate Association. Zach is a senior who is...

Nov 03, 202051 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Mental Health, Lockdowns, and Political Figures with Greg Milnes

On today's episode, Greg and I decided to discuss the importance of mental health, a topic that we both believe is often overlooked. We then talked about the corona virus lockdowns and how mental health was affected. Lastly, we mentioned quite a few political figures and gave our opinions on them. Hope you enjoy! Greg Milnes is a Penn State student currently majoring in supply chain with a minor in economics. Greg is also from Northampton, Pa.

Oct 26, 202049 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Political Stereotypes and The Upcoming Election with John Villella

On today's episode, with John, we address political stereotypes that exist on both sides of the spectrum we then dive into the upcoming election. Specifically looking at mail-in-voting, Kamala Harris and the mental fitness of the candidates. Hope you enjoy! John is currently a Senior at Penn State University majoring in Political Science with two minors; one in Sociology and the other in History. John is originally from Ellicott City, Maryland but now lives in Wexford, PA!

Sep 07, 202052 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Returning to Penn State this Fall with the Mayor of State College Ron Filippelli

On today's episode, with the Mayor, we first discuss State College's response to the virus. We then look at the restrictions placed on businesses and the new borough ordinance. Lastly, we give our thoughts on the cancellation of the fall football season. Ron Filippelli has been the Mayor of State College since 2019. He was a professor and associate Dean of the Liberal Arts College at Penn State where he also received his PhD from!

Aug 23, 202035 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Antifa, Police Reform and Cancel Culture with Alex Chokas

On today's episode, with Alex, we start out with the organization Antifa as well as touch on the Portland situation. We then take a look at police reform and how it could be approached. Lastly, we discuss some of the implications with cancel culture, hope you enjoy! Alex Chokas is currently attending the University of the Sciences where he is studying Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Business. Alex is also from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!

Aug 10, 20201 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Gun Control, The Current Movement and Living in a Pandemic with Hallel Cheskis

On today's episode we begin with gun control and how to ensure gun safety. We then discuss police reform, the current movement and the organization BLM. Lastly, we talk about schools going back in the fall as well as how businesses should operate during the pandemic. Hallel Cheskis is Penn State student who is majoring in Marketing. Hallel is also from Harrisburg, PA.

Aug 02, 20201 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 3

Racism on College Campuses, Removal of Statues and The Uyghur Genocide with Marinique Rolle

On today's episode with Marinique we discuss racist stereotypes and micro-aggressions across college campuses; we then dive into the removal of statues specifically the John C. Calhoun one in Charleston, South Carolina. Lastly, but most importantly, we go into the Uyghur Genocide currently taking place in China. Hope you enjoy! Marinique Rolle is a Penn State Student from Charleston, South Carolina who is currently studying History with a minor in Political Science.

Jul 27, 202043 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Healthcare, UBI, Prison Reform and the election with Kamron Sarmadi

On today's episode, featuring Kam, we discuss what healthcare in the future should possibly look like which ties into our second subject which is the practicality of Universal Basic Income. We also discuss how prisons should be reformed and safe injection sites briefly. Lastly, we give our thoughts on the upcoming election. We hope you enjoy! Kamron Sarmadi is currently studying Biology with a Smeal fundamental business certificate at Penn State University and he is also from Vienna Virginia....

Jul 16, 202054 minSeason 1Ep. 1
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