In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we’re doing two things: breaking down how to take meaningful local action, even if politics feels like too much, and finding the good news that helps balance out the doom-scroll.
Aaron kicks things off with a challenge: If you’re someone with the privilege and comfort to be politically visible, get out there. Join a protest. Write to your representatives. But if politics feels too risky or heavy right now … there are still so many ways to “do something.”
We talk about volunteering at food banks, helping out at local events, supporting small businesses, and even joining community organizations like Rotary or your local Chamber of Commerce. These non-political acts of service build community resilience and personal connection.
Lisa shares a few ways to dig deeper into community support systems, from Mutual Aid networks to city-led volunteer opportunities.
In the second half of the episode, we talk about finding balance. Lisa shares some of her favorite places for positive news—from “Under the Desk News” to the Good News Network—and her commitment to a media diet that includes plenty to celebrate, not just outrage.
In our Joyful Moments segment, we celebrate the small wins—from window screen repairs to backyard s’mores. We both rhapsodize about the power of the s’more to bring joy (even the extra-gooey, messy kind). Aaron shares the power of crossword puzzles and finding satisfaction in something as tactile as a sharp pencil and a clever clue.
Links mentioned in this episode:
* Under the Desk News on Instagram Under the Desk News (on Substack)
* Heather Cox Richardson Letters from an American (on Substack)
* Joyce Vance Civil Discourse (on Substack)
* Preet Bharara: Stay Tuned Podcast and Stay Tuned with Preet (on Substack)
* Tim Miller: The Bulwark Podcast and Tim Miller (on Substack)
* Democracy Docket Democracy Docket (on Substack)
* Mobilize for No Kings Day - June 14
🎧 Listen now—and let us know what you're doing in your own community.
