In this episode of The Connection Effect, host Bill Groner sits down with journalist, author, and bridge-builder Mónica Guzmán to explore a deceptively simple idea with profound implications: that the secret to enhanced inter-personal connection, curiosity, is not a personality trait. It's a practice.

Drawing from her work on depolarization and her lived experience navigating political difference within her own family, Mónica unpacks why judgment grows when engagement shrinks, and how misinformation about what's in other people's hearts quietly erodes connection.

Together, Bill and Mónica explore why certainty can feel soothing, why curiosity often feels risky, and why staying connected across difference matters not just for our relationships, but for the health of society.

This episode moves beyond abstract ideals to offer concrete invitations listeners can try in real life (in their own families, friendships, workplaces, and communities), and reminds us that connection begins with how we show up to ourselves before we meet one another.

00:00 A Message from Bill

00:57 Introduction: The Drive to Depolarize Society

02:21 Meet Mónica Guzmán

03:26 Monica's Motivation and Challenges

06:27 The Vicious Cycle of Judgment

08:24 The Perception Gap and Misinformation

10:32 The Importance of Engaging with Opposing Views

13:52 The Role of Activists in Bridging Divides

21:12 Curiosity takes Courage

25:25 Binary Thinking and the Need for Nuance

27:23 The Importance of Nuance in Personal Growth

28:22 Curiosity: Nature or Nurture?

28:53 Curiosity as a Practice, Not a Trait

31:57 The Power of Asking Questions

35:21 Navigating Political Differences with Friends

46:47 Hope for the Future

48:28 Final Thoughts on Anger and Self-Conversation

• Website: https://www.moniguzman.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reclaimcuriosity
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniguzman/?hl=en
• Book (I Never Thought of It That Way): https://www.moniguzman.com/book

• Join the community and conversation on The Connection Effect Substack connection.net/substack
• Questions? Guest inquiries? Email: podcast@connection.net