In this conversation, Tania and Elizabeth discusses Elizabeth's effective altruism and the need for more thoughtful philanthropy, emphasizing the value of direct community involvement and the connections formed through shared experiences. Through Elizabeth's transition from global work in Eastern Africa to focusing on local community engagement in California, she reflects on her experiences in international development, the importance of local ownership in community initiatives, and the role of vulnerability in leadership.
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the intersection of sports and political division, discussing how sports can foster community, connection, and a sense of belonging among diverse individuals. They delve into the tribalism inherent in fandom, the cultural shifts in youth sports, and the importance of real-life engagement in overcoming societal divides.
Summary
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth discuss the concept of capacity building, emphasizing its importance in community engagement and individual empowerment. They explore the shift from traditional charitable approaches to empowering communities to solve their own problems. The conversation highlights the significance of self-care, collective action, and the need for positive community engagement in the face of political polarization. They also discuss the importance of understanding different perspectives and building connections to foster a healthier democracy.
Show Links
Capacity-building is defined as the process of developing and strengthening the skills, instincts, abilities, processes and resources that organizations and communities need to survive, adapt, and thrive in a fast-changing world. (United Nations)
B Well Conference: B+ Well Conference
https://taniaisrael.com/podcast-ready-to-be-strong/
Summary
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the evolving concepts of safety, harm, and trauma in today’s society. They discuss how feelings of being “unsafe” have become more common, even when there is no immediate physical threat, due in part to what psychologists call “concept creep”—the broadening of definitions for trauma and harm. They examine how generational differences, cultural shifts, and increased awareness of microaggressions contribute to this change. Drawing on research (including work by Kurt Gray), they reflect on how perceptions shape mental health, workplace expectations, and campus life. They emphasize the importance of nuanced conversations about harm—balancing individual needs and environmental support—to foster understanding and connection in a divided world.
Show Links
Outraged by Kurt Gray: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/714327/outraged-by-kurt-gray/
Concept creep: “The Creeping Concept of Trauma”
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth discuss the importance of activism and community engagement, particularly in the context of the recent Hands Off protests. They explore the effectiveness of protests, the need for ongoing activism beyond the initial demonstration, and the significance of local versus national efforts. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of building skills for effective advocacy, navigating political conversations, and understanding different perspectives to foster connection and dialogue. Ultimately, they highlight the necessity of building bridges across divides to strengthen democracy and create meaningful change.
Show Links
Hands Off Toolkit: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-Eh5ulVjWt1psjm-HwwLyJ1EAHYJHFdO4MBgq3lp4HY/edit?tab=t.0
Join or Die: https://www.joinordiefilm.com/
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the decline of civic engagement in society, referencing Robert Putnam's work 'Bowling Alone' and the film 'Join or Die'. They discuss the importance of social capital, the differences between online and in-person connections, and the generational perspectives on community involvement. The conversation highlights the role of civic organizations in fostering community ties, the significance of affinity groups, and the personal experiences of the speakers in engaging with their communities. They emphasize the benefits of civic participation for both individuals and society, advocating for a shift towards more active community involvement.
Show Links
Join or Die: https://www.joinordiefilm.com/
Robert Putnam, Bowling Alone: http://bowlingalone.com/
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth delve into the pervasive issue of misinformation, exploring its roots in cognitive bias, the importance of reliable sources, and the narratives that shape public perception. They discuss how misinformation can exacerbate divisions in society and the role of media in framing these narratives. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and bridging divides through genuine curiosity and connection, ultimately highlighting the common values that can unite us despite differing perspectives.
Show Links
Outraged by Kurt Gray: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/714327/outraged-by-kurt-gray/
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth navigate through overwhelm in the wake of recent political activities targeting USAID, DEI, and LGBTQ people. They share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed by the rapid changes and the emotional toll it takes. The conversation explores coping mechanisms, the importance of human connection, and the potential for rebuilding and improving systems in the future.
Show Links
Outraged by Kurt Grayhttps://outragedbook.com/
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwinhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Team_of_Rivals
Key Takeaways
Overwhelm is a common response to rapid political changes.
Executive orders can have significant ripple effects on national and global policies.
Human connection is vital in navigating feelings of overwhelm.
Coping mechanisms can include deferring emotions and selective information intake.
The importance of organizations like USAID in maintaining global goodwill.
Personal experiences of overwhelm can vary based on professional roles and responsibilities.
Building back better is a hopeful perspective amidst challenges.
Recognizing the limitations of current systems can lead to constructive change.
Engaging in conversations about difficult topics can foster understanding.
Finding joy in small things, like music and literature, can help alleviate stress.
In this episode, Tania chats with Pema Rocker about the significance of oaths, commitments, and aspirations in the context of democracy and community engagement. They explore the presidential oath, the Constitution, and the importance of individual and collective commitments to strengthen democracy. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, listening, and personal growth as essential components of active citizenship and getting unstuck from our perspectives.
Links:
Schoolhouse Rock Preamble to the Constitution
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Welcome to the new year and a jew journey with Ready to Be Strong. In our first episode in 2025, we introduce you to our new co-host to the show as we embark upon a new Administration on this inauguration day.
On the cusp of a new chapter in U.S. history, Tania and Elizabeth explore the concept of fresh starts, discussing how to embrace new beginnings in various aspects of life. They delve into the importance of releasing the past, creating new habits, and the role of rituals in facilitating transitions. The conversation also highlights the significance of relationships and how to deepen connections with others as part of personal growth.
What Tania find most frustrating when it comes to talking politics, and so much more!
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Tania and Pema unpack what they’re thinking and feeling about the 2024 election, not as authors and experts, but as dear friends just trying to figure it out.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
In this solo episode, Tania shares stories from her time canvassing in Pennsylvania just before the 2024 election.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Photos to accompany this episode can be found on Tania's blog: Reflecting on Hazleton
Are you struggling with anger after the 2024 election? Tania is joined by her friend, a Buddhist lama, to talk strategies for making sense of our big feelings about politics.
Tania’s latest book is Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
Karma Yeshe Chödrön is a lama in the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Learn more about her here:
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Tania and Pema unpack their feelings around the 2024 election results, and how understanding grief can help us cope and move forward — in our own time.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Did you know there are over 500 organizations who are already working together to strengthen social cohesion and democracy in the US? Tania and Pema dig into some inspiring examples, figure out ways to get involved, and unpack why it can feel so daunting to take baby steps towards a less divided future — and share their insight for how to get around that.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Mentioned resources:
Listen First Project https://www.listenfirstproject.org/pledge
R.A.F.T. for America https://www.raftforamerica.org/
Braver Angelst https://braverangels.org/
Election Violence Prevention Toolkit https://www.usmayors.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ElectionViolencePreventionToolkit16JBP.pdf
Feeling anxious or unsure about the election? There’s a ton you can do to get involved. Tania and Pema break down what it’s really like to knock doors, write postcards, and more.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Tania and Pema talk tips, tricks, and some surprising research behind how to have an effective conversation with someone who disagrees with you.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Tania and Pema explore what's so hard about practicing compassion — seriously. Plus why it's worth it, and one of Tania's preferred methods of cultivating it.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Mentioned resource:
https://taniaisrael.com/cultivating-compassion/
Pema and Tania talk about the emotional toll of broadening our minds, and why it’s important to do some of this work on our own, instead of in dialogue.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https://taniaisrael.com/
Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who writes about connection and collective healing.
Mentioned Resource: A Braver Way podcast: https://braverangels.org/a-braver-way-episode-15/