Humanize
It’s easy to say you believe in social justice, but engaging in honest conversations about race can be deeply uncomfortable, vulnerable, messy, and complex. Join co-hosts Courthney Russell (social entrepreneur, activist and doctor) and Emily Braucher (keynote speaker and mom) as they take on the kind of interracial dialogue needed to disrupt the current social order and create equity.
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Divided We Scroll: Election Results, Generational Divides and What Comes Next
11/08/2024
Divided We Scroll: Election Results, Generational Divides and What Comes Next
In this episode, hosts Courthney and Emily reflect on the emotional impact of recent election results, examining the role of misogyny and white supremacy in shaping political representation. They critically analyze the Harris-Waltz campaign’s approach to engaging Black and Brown communities, while exploring Trump’s appeal across generations and the broader cultural shifts since the Obama era. Courthney and Emily discuss social media as both a unifier and divider, considering its potential impact if wielded by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. They also touch on the Supreme Court's influence on justice and advocate for love, action, and open dialogue as essential tools for addressing systemic injustice and building a stronger future. hapters (00:02) - Reactions to Recent Election Results (06:03) - Intersectionality and Political Campaign Strategies (20:50) - Implications of Recent Election Results (31:35) - Reflections on Systemic Injustice
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Kalama Rising
07/30/2024
Kalama Rising
Can America handle its first female President of color? The unexpected exit of Joe Biden from the presidential race has catapulted Kamala Harris into the spotlight as the presumptive Democratic nominee, and we’re here to unpack this seismic political shift. On this episode of Humanize, we confront the narrative and challenges Harris is bound to face, particularly around race and gender. We dissect the fear-based tactics that often cloud critical issues and discuss the hopes that Harris will tackle pressing concerns like women's reproductive rights and broader social justice issues. This moment is especially significant as it's the first time since 1976 that no Bush, Clinton, or Biden will be on the presidential ticket.
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So you got called out. Now what?
07/23/2024
So you got called out. Now what?
Can confronting our own biases truly lead to a more inclusive society? Join us as we unpack the complexities of race, culture, and power dynamics within professional settings through Emily's eye-opening experience in a DEI book group focused on climate justice. When a disruptive participant challenges the discussion, Emily steps up, sparking an insightful exchange that underlines the persistent blind spots white people often have regarding the struggles faced by marginalized communities. This episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these blind spots and the emotional labor involved in confronting our limited perspectives. The journey doesn't end there. We delve into the transformative power of friendship in challenging ingrained homophobic beliefs. Through a heartfelt personal story, we explore how a meaningful connection can serve as a catalyst for re-evaluating deeply-rooted prejudices against LGBTQ+ individuals. This internal struggle between ignorance and understanding highlights the significant role of openness in expanding our perspectives and aligning our actions with our values. Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth and advocacy, and we share our experiences and insights to inspire you on your path towards becoming a more inclusive and compassionate individual. 0:00:03) - Unpacking Blind Spots and Empathy DEI book group discusses race, culture, and power, highlighting blind spots and emotional impact in climate justice work. (0:13:20) - Challenging Perspectives Transformative journey of challenging ingrained homophobic beliefs, learning from others' experiences, aligning actions with integrity and discomfort in personal growth. If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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Unpacking DEI: From Political Battleground to Business Innovation
07/16/2024
Unpacking DEI: From Political Battleground to Business Innovation
DEI is not just a buzzword—it's a battleground. Discover how initiatives meant to ensure equal opportunities are being twisted for profit, and the backlash they face from political factions that misuse terms like "DEI president." In this episode, we scrutinize how DEI has become politicized, drawing parallels to historical efforts like affirmative action. We will unpack the tension between DEI's noble intentions and its potential exploitation within a capitalist framework. But DEI's value in business can't be overstated. We explore how true diversity involves more than just skin color, encompassing diversity of thought that fuels innovation. You'll hear why equity is crucial for meeting the unique needs of all employees and how inclusion makes everyone feel acknowledged and appreciated, from cultural celebrations to workplace support systems. Join us as we highlight the transformative power of DEI in building successful, committed, and profitable organizations, emphasizing smart hiring practices that can open doors to diverse markets and elevate your business. Links: Recommended Reading: DEI Deconstructed If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected] (0:00:05) - DEI Misuse in Social Justice DEI initiatives have been co-opted by capitalism, politicized, and face backlash from right-wing factions. (0:16:27) - The Power of DEI in Business Diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial for a successful organization, leading to innovation, employee satisfaction, and access to diverse markets.
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"Black Jobs" [Mini]
07/08/2024
"Black Jobs" [Mini]
Trump's comment about immigrants "taking black jobs" isn't just misguided—it's harmful. Join us as we, Courtney Russell Jr. and Emily Braucher, unpack the damaging implications of such statements on marginalized communities. From the recent presidential debate to the deeper complexities of racially charged language, we express our frustrations and explore how these divisive comments perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce social hierarchies. Our conversation delves into the problematic nature of labeling activities or opportunities as racially exclusive, and how these labels further marginalize already vulnerable groups. In this episode, we don't just stop at critiquing political rhetoric. We dive into the core issues of systemic racism versus individual prejudice, highlighting the distinction and why it's crucial to understand in today's sociopolitical climate. We examine whether within the current societal structures in the US, black and brown people cannot be racist due to their positionality within the system. Tune in for a nuanced and thought-provoking discussion as we challenge conventional narratives and reflect on the broader disappointments with both presidential candidates. Join us for this critical conversation and get a glimpse of our evolving podcast format that promises more frequent, candid dialogues alongside guest episodes. (00:02:33) "Racial Dynamics in Political Discourse" (00:04:58) Avoiding Racial Labels in Job Titles (00:10:23) Racism: Systemic Oppression Over Personal Biases (00:13:39) Racial Job Labeling Impacts on Stereotypes
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S5E7: From Conflict Zones to Colorado: A Candidate's Journey w/Rep Junie Joseph
06/17/2024
S5E7: From Conflict Zones to Colorado: A Candidate's Journey w/Rep Junie Joseph
Junie Joseph is a dedicated advocate for human rights, particularly addressing racial inequality and systemic challenges through her work in law. Her perspective on these issues is deeply influenced by her personal experiences of facing danger and adversity, including life-threatening situations that have reinforced her resilience and commitment to justice. In this episode, Junie emphasizes the interconnectedness of issues like diversity, equity, inclusion, and economic disparity, arguing that they must be tackled holistically. Her legislative work, heavily informed by her time as a human rights officer in the Central African Republic, focuses on tenant rights, criminal justice reform, and environmental conservation, advocating for systemic changes that uplift marginalized communities. (00:00:04) Equitable Society Advocacy for Environmental Sustainability (00:15:15) Advocacy for Marginalized Communities in Conflict (00:20:12) Advocating for Marginalized Communities Through Community Engagement (00:23:31) Advocating for Tenant Rights and Environmental Sustainability (00:36:04) Navigating Legislative Challenges for Social Change (00:37:57) Equity and Inclusion in Policy making Governance (00:44:19) Legislators and Activists Collaborating for Change (00:51:22) Systemic Change vs. Accountability in Policing (00:54:33) Equitable Systems: Addressing Racial Disparities (00:54:33) Striving for Equity and Transparency in Justice Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1. **Advocacy and Accountability**: Junie Joseph underlines the significance of advocacy and holding perpetrators accountable for crimes against vulnerable populations. She shares her experiences working in challenging environments and highlights the need for collective action to address systemic challenges. 2. **Inclusive Decision-Making**: Junie Joseph stresses the importance of having everyone at the table to find equitable solutions. She emphasizes the need for diverse voices to actively participate in policymaking processes rather than being mere observers. 3. **Balanced Approach to Reform**: Courthney Russell Jr and Junie Joseph discuss the need for accountability and transparency in the justice system, advocating for a balanced approach to reform that ensures equity for black and brown individuals. Junie Joseph's pragmatic approach to navigating challenges is evident in her quote: "An activist wants to go to full 100%, and if I go for 100%, the bill is going to die." Learn more about Junie: https://www.junie4colorado.com If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Just $5/month makes a huge difference! Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E6: Inside Incarceration: A Story of Resilience with Leon Kennedy III
02/19/2024
S5E6: Inside Incarceration: A Story of Resilience with Leon Kennedy III
“I have made mistakes and I have paid the ultimate cost for them and I am still here.” - Leon Kennedy III We are absolutely floored by our conversation with Leon. Here is a man who, through the darkest times imaginable, has reached into the depths of his being to find strength, perseverance and hope. Since his first incarceration at the age of 19 in Virginia, Leon has spent decades of his life behind bars in some of the U.S.’s most violent and corrupt prisons, while also battling a chronic neural disease. He was granted parole 3 years ago and lives with his wife in their home in Alabama, where he continues to fight for justice in America’s corrupted incarceration system. Listen to hear us talk about Leon’s life-story from incarceration to freedom Mental & emotional fortitude Lessons learned and chances given The violence and injustice of Alabama’s prison system “Reaching back” to help those behind you U.S. incarceration system as modern day slavery — —--- Connect with Leon: [email protected] [email protected] Facebook: Get Involved: If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E5: Ibram X. Kendi’s “Stamped” on Netflix
12/21/2023
S5E5: Ibram X. Kendi’s “Stamped” on Netflix
What would it look like if every person in the U.S. was well versed in the history of racism? Today we are unpacking the Netflix adaptation of Ibram X. Kendi’s “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America”. This documentary is a must watch if you haven’t already, and check out more of our recommended resources below. Listen to hear us talk about: How denial operates White supremacy fails everyone Community and tribalism Historical opportunities for progress How do the problems of racism we are facing now compare to historical problems? Resources mentioned: Stamped From The Beginning (Netflix) Rustin (Netflix) ‘Fugitive Pedagogy’ by Jarvis R. Givens The 1619 Project ‘Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents’ by Isabel Wilkerson ‘Pedagogy of the Oppressed’ by Paulo Freire —----------- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E4: Our Responsibility to Community, with Nana Boakye.
12/07/2023
S5E4: Our Responsibility to Community, with Nana Boakye.
“We need to build community like our life depends on it.” We are joined today by awe-inspiring Nana Boakye; local philantropist and community builder from Ghana to Boulder. Nana chanelled his passion for soccer into “Kick2Build” community organization, and in this episode we hear how and why he created this inclusive community, and how diversity is celebrated using sports and cultural arts. Listen to hear us talk about: Community building as a long term responsibility Race and intersectionality Capitalism & white supremacy culture ‘Black’ v. ‘African American’ identity Community is the answer ------ Connect with Nana and Kick2Build: Instagram - Justboakye Facebook - Nana K. Boakye If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E3: Curiosity vs. Complacency
11/24/2023
S5E3: Curiosity vs. Complacency
Today we are unpacking some big themes from last week’s episode with Dr. Roberto Montoya: “CRT is Race Consciousness”. Join us as we push into edgy territory; asking ‘scary’ questions about race, expanding our comfort zones and as always, leading with love. Listen to hear us talk about: The blindness privilege The discomfort of cultural change Allowing complex feelings Cancel culture vs. curiosity culture Where we’ve come from, bringing in lineage ------------- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E2: CRT is Race Consciousness w/ Dr Roberto Montoya
11/09/2023
S5E2: CRT is Race Consciousness w/ Dr Roberto Montoya
This is such a special episode, we’ve been waiting 2 years to release it! Today we are talking all things CRT (Critical Race Theory) with Dr. Roberto Montoya, Associate VP of Partner Success for Hispanic Serving Institutions. Weaving poetry, personal experiences and academia, Dr. Montoya gives us an insightful framework to understand CRT, race consciousness and why having race explicit conversations are necessary for every single one of us to make sense of this world. Listen to hear us talk about: How is race consciousness developed How CRT is weaponized The importance of knowing our own story Centering dignity How to call people into this work, through curiosity Understanding academic roots Critical race parenting Measuring institutional support —----------- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S5E1: Barbie Failed?
10/20/2023
S5E1: Barbie Failed?
Annnnnd we’re back! Hitting the ground running. Today we’re talking all things Barbie, human supremacy, and audacious love. This season is fresh, engaging and jam-packed with vulnerability - jump on in everyone, let’s do this. Listen to hear us talk about: Why are we still giving Trump attention? Patriarchy, capitalism & white supremacy Going against the stream of societal conditioning Activism, sacrifice and obligation THESE exciting sneak peaks of the upcoming season! --- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: Facebook: Email:
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[Encore] Radical Inclusivity & CRT w/Dr. Reiland Rabaka (2022)
04/26/2023
[Encore] Radical Inclusivity & CRT w/Dr. Reiland Rabaka (2022)
Originally released Jan 24, 2022: [Update, The CAAAS in now open!] What exactly IS radical inclusivity and what does it have to do with Critical Race Theory? On today’s episode we’re excited to be joined by Dr. Reiland Rabaka to dive into this with us and explain how radical inclusivity goes beyond race. Dr. Rabaka is a professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and the founder of the groundbreaking Center for African and African American Studies (The CAAAS) at CU. In this interview, we get a sneak peek as to how Dr. Rabaka's vision for radical inclusion is coming to life in the fall of 2022 with the opening of The CAAAS in Boulder. We’re exploring: The wide range of expressions of what it means to be African and what it means to be Black When education in school around race SHOULD be started The most difficult conversation Dr. Rabaka’s mother had with him as a child Why he teaches critical white studies in his classes The Black Tax and how it affects us Dr. Rabaka's vision for The CAAAS and the role it will play in the Boulder community How he is teaching differently and in doing so all his classes end up full and waitlisted Hip hop feminism and how Dr. Rabaka teaches it in his classes And so much more! Contact info for Dr. Rabaka: https://www.colorado.edu/center/caaas/ https://www.colorado.edu/ethnicstudies/ https://www.colorado.edu/asmagazine/2021/10/27/du-bois-scholarly-legacy If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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[Encore] When Schools Fear ‘Noise’ w/ Nikole Hannah-Jones (2022)
04/12/2023
[Encore] When Schools Fear ‘Noise’ w/ Nikole Hannah-Jones (2022)
Originally released July 11, 2022: How do we distinguish between sadness and remorse and individual guilt? How do we teach the youth that you can feel shame for something your country did, without feeling responsible? We have all heard about the controversy surrounding Nikole Hannah-Jones and The 1619 Project. Now you can hear directly from Nikole herself. As an award winning investigative reporter for the New York Times and a Pulitzer Prize winner, she has a lot to bring to the table. Join us as we sit down together and discuss The 1619 Project, the social construct of racism in our country, and pushing boundaries. We’re exploring: Nikole’s theory on shoe culture in Black communities and why it matters Learning to study culture from the inside, as well as the outside, to really understand where we are coming from What it means when we say race is a social construct The theory that Blackness was created to define whiteness and how it doesn’t exist in a place where no one is white Nikole’s experience of being disinvited from speaking at Middlesex School and how that has created the “noise” they were afraid her visit would create How we can all work together to dismantle the system, so that we ALL can rise What “hope” means and how it relates to action, and why both are important And so much more! Learn more about Nikole Hannah-Jones: If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: Cover art by: Kevin Soltau (Middlesex ‘97) Production by Kim Difillippo
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[Encore] Our stories (2020)
03/29/2023
[Encore] Our stories (2020)
Originally Released Dec 22, 2021: Are you wondering how a prep school-raised white girl from Boston and a Black man from Atlanta like us teamed up to collaborate on a mission to work towards progression to help dismantle systems of oppression? On today’s episode, we’re bringing you a “getting to know us” episode and diving into the yin and yang that is us, our stories, how we met, and what brought us together on this journey. We’re exploring: The most important thing each of us learned from our families growing up that helped shape who we are today Courthney’s biggest lessons from growing up in Atlanta that still serve him today The hardest time in his life and how he got through it Courthney’s experience with homelessness as a medical student (and why he feels it was exactly what he needed) The pivot point for him as a doctor that led him to leave medicine and become an entrepreneur passionate about helping people escape poverty What led to Emily’s awakening about her own privilege and how she became interested in social dynamics and working in and with poverty Why pushing past the fear of being wrong is so important in anti-racism work How we actually keep each other safe while doing this work And more! Resources: Courthney’s businesses: Emily’s Business:
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Our Biggest Lessons From Season 4
03/19/2023
Our Biggest Lessons From Season 4
We can’t believe it, we’ve made it to the end of Season 4. What a year of absolutely mind-blowing conversations and guests. With gratitude and excitement, we leave you with these final reflections on dismantling white supremacy, sitting in discomfort, and doing the work. Season 5 is coming to you soon in full force, we can’t wait to see you there. Listen to hear us talk about: What gives us the right to be having these conversations? The role of discomfort Our favorite moments & guests from Season 4 Humility and gratitude, owning our mistakes Having a growth mindset ----------------------- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E20: Radical Education w/ Jocelyn Rodriguez
03/02/2023
S4E20: Radical Education w/ Jocelyn Rodriguez
“I’m not here to reform. I’m here to abolish, I’m here to dismantle.” - Jocelyn Rodriguez What does it mean to have a radical approach? For Joceyln Rodriguez, it’s about pushing the norm, and often being the only one doing it. Today we’re talking (surprize!) about dismantling white supremacy, this time with a focus on education & our value systems that surround it. We didn’t want this conversation to end! Joceyln is an educator, entrepreneur, community advocate, and all-round powerhouse. Hope you enjoy this one as much as we did. Listen to hear us talk about: Intersection of international education and social justice, identity What does it mean to be radical? The whole picture of education (housing, income, poverty) Dismantling systems that uphold characteristics of white supremacy Being able to hold the greater picture in focus to sustain your activism Radical self-acceptance, self-love, and rest Activist burnout Being aware of our egos in activism; people’s activism will look different to ours “Reaching back”: not leaving our communities behind, recognizing and using privilege RESOURCES MENTIONED Bettina Love: - Abolitionist Education Harriet Tubman ---- ---- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E19: White Supremacy: Let's Call It What It Is
02/15/2023
S4E19: White Supremacy: Let's Call It What It Is
“Whoa whoa whoa - I’m not a white supremacist…” White supremacy is a pretty hard thing to talk about without all the defenses coming up and the conversation quickly ending. In this episode we talk about the difference between ‘being a white supremacist’ and living in ‘white supremacy culture’, what that means for our society, workplace, and how it holds us all back. Listen to hear us talk about: Self-acceptance as a first step to recognizing our interconnectedness Worst case scenario if nothing changes in this country The dangers of not addressing the past What’s the difference between ‘being a white supremacist’ and ‘white supremacy culture’? Cancel culture and perfectionism Wanting a diverse workplace, in theory vs. in practice If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email:
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S4E18: Tyre Nichols: Is This A Race Thing?
02/03/2023
S4E18: Tyre Nichols: Is This A Race Thing?
We’re weighing in on the heated debate erupting across our country in the wake of Tyre Nichols murder. Tyre, a black man, was pulled over and subsequently killed by black police officers. Is this racist? Let’s ask better questions. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Tyre's family and community. Listen to hear us talk about: - Was this interaction racist? Embracing nuance. - White supremacy is a cultural rather than enacted by a specific group - Law enforcement system reform (unchecked power) - Police were created to catch slaves - Media & the decisions made around what is worthy of our nation’s attention (economy of attention) - That’s not ‘my’ problem - I can’t relate’ - Reclaiming our humanity RESOURCES MENTIONED (History of Policing) —- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email:
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S4E17: The Dangers of the Hyper Woke w/Dr. Melissa Bird
01/18/2023
S4E17: The Dangers of the Hyper Woke w/Dr. Melissa Bird
How does perfectionism undermine our activism? This conversation today is so important. We’re with Dr. Melissa Bird, discussing how our fears of messing up and being judged impedes our activism, and how our shame and guilt are leading us to action instead of our intuition. Dr. Melissa Bird has spent her major professional life creating events, workshops, and retreats that bring people together to create community and reconnect to themselves. She works to help people tear down the walls that are keeping them stuck through spiritual regeneration and facilitation of healing from within. Her unique life purpose is to use her talents as a healer to help others tap into their intuition so that they can harness their magic. Listen to hear us talk about: Melissa’s work with white female Christians How perfectionism and hypervigilance perpetuate white supremacy Raising kids to notice how racism and privilege operate in their lives Being taught what to feel and not in touch with our intuition The dangers of being led by shame and guilt THESE tips for regrounding when you’re feeling disconnected from yourself and your emotions. Links: Melissa and James created The Mermaid’s Garden to provide people a place based on the rule of radical welcome, where everyone is invited to sit at their table. Website https://www.naturalbornrebel.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5zJU-CK82JUTcwIDf6RSAQ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/birdgirl1001 Twitter https://twitter.com/birdgirl1001 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/birdgirl1001/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@birdgirl1001 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-bird-016640199/ —- If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E16: Activation & Allyship w/Brenda Herrera Moreno
12/27/2022
S4E16: Activation & Allyship w/Brenda Herrera Moreno
Anti-oppression work requires great introspection and learning of self and habits. According to Brenda Herrera Moreno, the role that we have to play in combating oppression is equivalent to the life journey of getting to know ourselves better. In our conversation today, Brenda explains how white supremacy invisibilizes and intentionally creates distance from the systems it exploits and extracts. The journey is for people to see the paradigms that shape language, humor, and interpersonal relationships. As we look deeper, we can see that these are the same paradigms that inform policies, institutions and regulations. Once we see them, then we have the opportunity to find alternatives or antidotes. Brenda is the founder of ‘In.Visible Paradigms’, an anti-oppression organization committed to informing and transforming white allies in order to deepen their commitment to the ‘work’, community and movement of anti-oppression. Listen to hear us talk about The ‘Great Unlearnings’ that white participants experience when they start down this path What do we mean when we say ‘the work’ Inherited ideologies that show up in everyday language The importance of spaces where white people can be held accountable Safety, comfort zones, reactivity Events that make white people jump into this work, without necessarily understanding the context of the movement they’re apart of Analyzing power and privilege in comfort zones Windows of tolerance (how much we can handle before nervous system is activated) How ‘love’ and ‘hate’ are shaped systematically and historically. THESE activities from Brenda’s ‘In.Visible Paradigm’ program website: | Facebook and Instagram: @in.visibleparadigms Company: Personal: RESOURCES Social Change Wheel 2.0: Breakup Letter Dear ________, When you show up, I notice you ________. I _______________. Thank you for what you’ve shown me and committed to instead feel __________________________. I know we will cross paths and that’s okay. Best, Your name Brenda’s Example from podcast: Dear perfectionism, When you show up, I notice you override my body, I get caught up in self doubt and rigid thinking, you displace my ability to be present, and instead push me to set my value with my self worth. I want to practice lowering your voice and voice of urgency. Thank you for what you’ve shown me, I committed to instead feel detachment both in thinking and self healing. I know we make some cross paths and that’s okay. Best, Brenda. Crush Letter Prompt: Dear _________, I’ve been putting this off for weeks now. I noticed I feel ______________writing to you. You have inspired me to_______________, your __[qualities]________ and __[ability]________ has taught me _________________. I look forward to getting to know you better. See you soon, Your name About In.Visible Paradigms In.Visible Paradigms is an anti-oppression organization that is committed to informing and transforming white community members to better integrate themselves into the anti-oppression community, work, and movement. About Brenda: Brenda identifies as an anti-oppression practitioner. Born in Mexico City, but partially raised in India, traveled the world, middle school in South Carolina, high school in Wales, and college in Massachusetts. After Hampshire College, Brenda experienced diverse roles in advocacy as a youth program coordinator at a refugee resettlement organization, later as a bilingual counselor for survivors and victims of intimate partner violence, and finally as a peer recovery coach.
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S4E15: Injustice Isn't Elsewhere, It's Here w/ Sirad Zahra
12/14/2022
S4E15: Injustice Isn't Elsewhere, It's Here w/ Sirad Zahra
The world is an intense place. We are bombarded with news of tragedies and injustices and many of us wonder, “what can I do?”, before we are swept back into our busy lives. Sirad Zahra joins us today to talk about the injustices that land on our own doorstep, and what we choose to do with them. Sirad Zahra, a founding member of MAAPB Mass Action Against Police Brutality. Sirad describes herself as “First generation American of African & South American-West Indian descent, labeled and experiencing life as an African-American woman in the Black experience of the United States. Living on the edge of the new generations of Peace after generations of terror, born on an echo of Revolution.” Listen to hear us talk about: Police brutality in the United States What we absorb as children from our parents’ activism. Reflecting on Emily and Sirad’s elementary school years together, their early roots of humanitarianism What are the events or experiences that cut through to us enough to make us act? How the ‘othering’ of groups is used to perpetuate power structures What would it look like if community activism was expected and built into our professional lives? Why support and encouragement go a long way in this work To support Sirad’s work, donate to MAAPB here: Find out more at FB/IG/Twitter/YouTube: @Maapb617 - If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: Facebook: Email:
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S4E14: Do Our Stories Do Us Justice? w/ Adriana Ortiz
11/29/2022
S4E14: Do Our Stories Do Us Justice? w/ Adriana Ortiz
How do you tell your own story? Often when we think about our lives we focus on our shortcomings and struggle to see how all the parts of our story are weaved together. Adriana Ortiz believes that understanding our own story is critical to living a successful life, and she is dedicated to helping others do this. Adri has been passionate about storytelling since she was a kid, finding that the literature she grew up with fell short in representing her layered life experiences. Join us for a fascinating conversation about storytelling, education & understanding the complex lives we live. Listen to hear us talk about: What is storytelling and why do we do it The problems with education; who benefits from our current curriculums & ways of teaching? Why is curiosity so important and how to cultivate it What is the difference between survival mode and thriving mode THIS one question that Adri opens with when she’s interviewing people Outside vs inside life - norms with your friends vs your family norms How does Adri define success? Connect with Adri: IG: @catchmesaying LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/adrimaria If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: Facebook: Email:
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S4E13: Being Influential In Conversation (A Deeper Dive)
11/17/2022
S4E13: Being Influential In Conversation (A Deeper Dive)
Each of us have different strategies when it comes to shifting people’s perspectives. For last week’s guest, Awa Diaw, it can be choosing to end the conversation when it no longer feels productive. For Humanize co-host, Courthney Russell Jr, it’s diving even deeper into the heat. Join us as we deconstruct last week’s episode with Awa about creating influence. We’re diving deeper into how we do this in our daily conversations, and what we do with discomfort when it arises. We’re talking about: When is a conversation no longer productive? Stopping a conversation in its tracks because someone might say something they regret. Courthney’s strategies for creating maximum influence & shifting people’s perspectives. People having different thresholds for withstanding disrespect A question that Courthney has always wanted to ask a white person, but never has before THESE biological cues in social situations that something is off, and it’s time to step in DEI efforts in the business world, increasing productivity in workplaces How the U.S. economy is based on slavery & skin color And much more! Follow Awa on LinkedIn: If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: Facebook: Email:
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S4E12: Race, Culture, and Beyond w/Erica Howard and Sage Hobbs
10/28/2022
S4E12: Race, Culture, and Beyond w/Erica Howard and Sage Hobbs
We’ve got a fun role swap for you today: in this episode, we’re bringing you an interview where we had the opportunity to be the guests! We were interviewed by the amazing Sage Hobbs and Erica Howard for their podcast Race, Culture, and Beyond: A Naked Conversation Series to explore friendship across race (which they share with us!) Sage and Erica share our passion for doing antiracism work through real, honest—and even sometimes messy!—conversations. Join us as we explore together the lessons we’ve learned about ourselves and each other on this journey, our relationship “secret sauce,” and how the 4 of us feel about making a difference one conversation at a time. We’re sharing: What we’re listening to, reading, and binge watching lately (and a surprising sitcom favorite of Courthney’s!) The concert from Emily’s past that made Courthney want to work with her How we met and the birth of Humanize Courthney’s legacy that he hopes to leave The powerful tool white folks can use (but often take for granted) to create change in DEI and antiracism Connect with Sage and Erica at: https://sagebhobbs.com/ https://www.flyingcolorsllc.com/ @sagebhobbs on LinkedIn and Instagram @racecultureandbeyondpodcast on Instagram https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericayhoward/ for Erica's company on LinkedIn Children’s Book: Ordinary people change the world Podcast: Race Culture and Beyond If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E11: Creating Influence Around the Globe w/Awa Diaw
10/18/2022
S4E11: Creating Influence Around the Globe w/Awa Diaw
We know very well what change still needs to happen around race in the US, but what about abroad? Today we’re bringing you a fascinating and unique perspective on this from Awa Diaw who is not only the Global Diversity and Inclusion Project Manager for Microsoft, but a Black woman born in Senegal, raised in the US, and now living in France. Join us for this powerful episode as we break down Awa’s experiences and observations as a Black American in Paris, how those compare to the treatment of non-American BIPOC in France, and some of her top tips for sparking change around DEI in white-led organizations. We’re exploring: Some of the most fascinating lessons and bizarre observations from her journey A comparison of the education system in the United States vs France Why she loves doing this work in a tech company—like Microsoft—in particular THIS one approach Awa’s seen work really well in influencing change in a white-led company that didn’t involve focusing on the financial impact of improving their diversity Privilege and how she has experienced this very differently in France vs the US White supremacy in other countries and how it manifests And so much more! Follow Awa on LinkedIn: If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email:
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S4E10: The Code Switch [A Deeper Dive]
10/12/2022
S4E10: The Code Switch [A Deeper Dive]
What’s code switching? If you’ve ever found yourself changing who you are as a person in a given situation in order to gain acceptance, you’ve code switched. That need to shift how you show up in the world in order to adhere to a standard set by others is unfortunately a reality we live with and something our last guest, Imran Rehman, so poignantly brought up in episode 8. In today’s episode we’re taking a deeper dive into this topic from our interview with Imran and breaking down what it means to code switch, why we’ve all been trained to do this (regardless of color), and the ways in which it actually dehumanizes us. We’re exploring: THIS common saying that Imran feels is “complete and utter rubbish” Several ways in which women are often expected to code switch as well as those for people of color What it means to “talk white” and where professionalism standards need to be reset The powerful pep talk Emily got from Courthney lately that really helped her to realize where she’d been code shifting British colonialism and the fuss over Queen Elizabeth’s death (and the reminders that this event should really be invoking) How the dynamic we have collaborating as a Black man and white woman doing this work together is so powerful S4E8: The Wisdom of Community w/Imran RehmanS4E6: When Schools Fear ‘Noise’: Learning From the Controversial Speech Cancellation at Middlesex School w/ Nikole Hannah-Jones Get in touch with Imran: https://bekokoro.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/imranrehman/ https://twitter.com/ImsRehman https://www.instagram.com/bekokoronow/ If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E9: Why Do We Dehumanize Others?
10/04/2022
S4E9: Why Do We Dehumanize Others?
Sometimes you read or hear about a situation that breaks your heart and you think, “How can those people DO that?! How do they live with themselves? I could never do that!” But could you? As humans, we’re exploring this idea that we all have the capacity to disconnect from other people so much that we treat them inhumanely. So in this episode, we’re exploring why and how humans do this and how we can shift to humanizing others instead. We’re discussing: The inhumane separation of families at the US border during the Trump administration and the border agents involved The perspective shift Courthney embodies in order to hold a sense of humanization for all Reforming our current immigration system in the United States - what might that look like if it existed without dehumanizing immigrants? Why the border agents or the police officers, etc. aren’t the ones to be demonizing for being involved in the inhumane treatment of others (and who to take the fight to instead) An update from each of us on the last couple of months during the break from the podcast And more! If you’d like to support us in continuing this work and get access to exclusive content, become a Patron here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E8: The Wisdom of Community w/Imran Rehman
07/26/2022
S4E8: The Wisdom of Community w/Imran Rehman
How do we create dialogue when there are such huge power differences in the room? How do we make sure we have different voices at the table and still work together? Today we sit down with Imran Rehman, CEO of Kokoro, a web based company striving to effect change by building better environments for teams to thrive in. Imran reaches to his childhood in London’s East End and his upbringing of many communities joining together to inform his work. We’re Exploring The aspect of Imran’s childhood that helped form who he is now Recognizing what is the other side of praise and how it is detrimental to progress Using language of encouragement and learning to ask questions in place of praise What education really is The differences between a challenge, a problem, and a crisis, and how belonging is the key to all three Imran’s simple starting point for psychological safety in the workplace The importance of community and holding space Why temporal comparison is best way to help humans grow and improve The “Great Man Theory” and why we need to turn away from individual greatness Learn more about Imran Rehman: , , , If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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S4E7: Defining Hope [A Deeper Dive]
07/19/2022
S4E7: Defining Hope [A Deeper Dive]
We know the important place The 1619 Project takes in DEI work. Nikole Hannah-Jones’ speech at a prominent elite school was canceled, but her message is definitely not. Join us as we break down our previous episode with Nikole and talk about the importance of using our platforms to enact change. We are digging deep into how we can use our past to change our future, what hope really means, and what it looks like to act. We’re exploring: Why Nikole is prioritizing access to her platform for some The importance of learning to sit with others’ uncomfortable emotions How feeling shame can be overwhelming but still be healing The ways that trauma can be passed from generation to generation, and what we need to do to heal Balancing a love of our country with the shame of its past What DEI work and parenting have in common Understanding the harm of inaction and what action really looks like And so much more! Learn more about Nikole Hannah-Jones: If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation: Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast Email: [email protected]
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