Episode 1: May 3, 2012

Today was the premiere of “Vox Populi: The Voice of the Occasionally Interested People,” a new two-hour radio/podcast on the Toadhop network that extolls the virtues of civil discourse in the political arena. Hosted by well-known actor Sean Astin, the show kicked off with a discussion and orientation of special features the listeners can expect in future episodes, including an anger meter, micro-debates, interviews with notables, and the use of appropriate and respectful language. This orientation was capped by a faux interview with the host’s wife, Christine, as a demonstration.

Additional pre-recorded interviews followed, with NY Congressman Steve Israel discussing the effect of partisanship in politics; Fox News commentator Frank Lutz on the state of language in politics; and the first part of an interview with the legendary Patty Duke, the host’s mother.