In this thoughtful episode, Monica Neubauer and Mark Neubauer dive into the timely and often loaded concept of "enemy" in today's culture. With personal stories and perspectives, they reflect on how social media and politics have shifted the meaning and frequency of the word enemy, both in public discourse and personal relationships.

The conversation unpacks the roots of tribalism, how beliefs form "tribes," and why it's become so easy to label others as enemies—even when true harm might not be present. The hosts consider the definition of "enemy," question whether the term is being used too loosely, and discuss the impact this has on families, friendships, and society at large.

This episode also introduces their upcoming "It's Complicated" series, promising open, nuanced discussions about the toughest topics facing us today.

Major Talking Points

• The increasing use of "enemy" in social and political conversations
• Personal experiences of feeling targeted or labeled
• Tribalism and the human need for "the other"
• How beliefs and group identity drive division
• The shift from competitor to enemy in political environments
• The dangers of viewing fellow citizens as enemies rather than people with differing views
• Practical reflections: questioning who our real enemies are, and encouraging empathy

Teaser: Introduction of the "It's Complicated" series, which will tackle challenging and divisive topics

Memorable Quotes

Monica Neubauer

"Who is my enemy? I mean, when I meet people, if they had a different opinion of me... we either talked about it and just changed perspective or we... moved on.'"

Mark Neubauer

"To be human is to be tribal... But I'm kind of holding 'enemy' loosely in that context of we perceive people, we put them into the enemy camp, but they're not really enemies. They're just people that are not in our tribe.'"

Monica Neubauer

"Are you calling someone an enemy? Who is your enemy? Do they really wish you harm?'"

Resources Mentioned

Heineken "Worlds Apart" Ad https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKggA9k8DKw

Email for topic suggestions: anopenconversation@gmail.com

Call to Action

Monica and Mark invite listeners to reconsider how they use and interpret the word "enemy" and to send in suggestions for complicated topics they'd like discussed in future episodes.

Thanks for listening to An Open Conversation with Mark and Monica! If you have feedback or want to suggest a future topic, reach out via the contact in the show notes. Watch for the upcoming "It's Complicated" series for more open, challenging dialogues.

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• Community: Join here and receive 10 conversation starters to spark deeper discussions.
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About the Hosts

• Monica Neubauer – Speaker, Author, and Emcee | www.MonicaNeubauer.com
• Mark Neubauer – Artist, Creator, and Innovator | www.TheLaughingArtist.com

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🎙️ Welcome to "An Open Conversation with Mark and Monica"! 🎙️

Mark and Monica dive deep into the complexities of truth, challenging traditional ideas and exploring the layers that shape everyone's perspective. The discussion begins with their thoughts on the phrase "my truth," contrasting objective facts ("is that true?") with the emotions and experiences behind personal truths. Monica suggests replacing "my truth" with "my experience" to foster more meaningful dialogue and understanding.

The conversation covers how our backgrounds, cultural, religious, or otherwise, influence what we believe to be true, and how stepping outside our comfort zones can help us appreciate the multiplicity of perspectives. They also tackle the reliability of science, emphasizing that even scientific "truths" are shaped by human bias and limitations in data collection.

From marriage anecdotes to reflections on economic realities, Mark and Monica invite listeners to loosen their grip on dogmatic ideas of truth. They encourage curiosity, asking questions, and seeking out new experiences, whether through travel, trying new foods, or simply engaging with different communities. The episode closes with a call to embrace paradox and allow room for growth in our understanding of what's "true" for others and ourselves.

Key Topics Covered:

• The shifting meaning of "truth" and the impact of words
• "My truth" vs. "the truth": Experience as perspective
• The difference between facts (objective) and beliefs (subjective)
• Influence of culture, religion, and science on truth
• Bias in science and the importance of transparency
• Approaching economic statistics and data critically
• The necessity of holding truth loosely and living with paradox

Main Points:

• Words like "truth" change meaning and can create confusion
• Reframing conversations from "my truth" to "my experience"
• Cultural, religious, and scientific filters influence perception
• Scientific methods aim for objectivity, but human bias remains
• Engaging in curiosity and dialogue opens space for diverse perspectives
• Many people struggle to hold contradictory truths, but doing so leads to growth

Resources Mentioned:

• Article: Those unsure of own ideas more resistant to views of others

Takeaway Quote:
"Ask more questions. Get into people's stories." – Mark

Tips for Listeners:

• Practice curiosity about others' experiences and beliefs
• Experiment with holding your own truths a little more loosely
• Seek out new experiences, whether cultural, culinary, or conversational
• Remember: Your way isn't the only way. Expand your definition of truth.

If today's episode resonated with you, we'd love to hear your feedback! Join the conversation and share your thoughts with our community.

Stay connected:

• Community: Join here and receive 10 conversation starters to spark deeper discussions.
• Facebook: Follow us for updates and new episodes.

About the Hosts

• Monica Neubauer – Speaker, Author, and Everything DiSC Consultant | www.MonicaNeubauer.com
• Mark Neubauer – Artist, Creator, and Innovator | www.TheLaughingArtist.com

Mark and Monica dive into personality profiles and their impact on relationships, particularly marriage. They discuss various personality assessment tools including DISC, Myers-Briggs, and the Enneagram, sharing their personal experiences with each.

Key Topics Covered:
- Overview of DISC personality profiles
- Myers-Briggs personality types
- The Enneagram system
- The importance of personality awareness in marriage
- Common misconceptions about personality types
- Growth and adaptation in relationships

Main Points:
- DISC profiles explained (D-dominant, I-influencer, S-steady, C-cautious)
- Mark and Monica's personal profiles:
- Monica: ENTJ (Myers-Briggs), Enneagram 8
- Mark: INFP (Myers-Briggs), Enneagram 4
- The importance of understanding personality differences in relationships
- Warning against using personality types as excuses ("I am what I am" mindset)
- The value of continuous personal growth and adaptation

Resources Mentioned:
- 16personalities.com for Myers-Briggs testing
- Previous episode with Sue Moore about Enneagram and families

Takeaway Quote:
"Just realize that the rest of the world doesn't think like you." - Mark

Tips for Listeners:
- Explore different personality assessment tools
- Be curious about others' perspectives
- Use personality insights as tools for growth, not limitations
- Consider doing personality assessments as a family

Monica is at www.MonicaNeubauer.com and Mark can be found at www.TheLaughingArtist.com