Inclusion, Normalizing, and the Backfire Effect

I think that, if anything, we as a nation and as individuals have not mourned or eulogized our pandemic dead enough.  I don't think we've processed the great numbers of loss, or the compound sadnesses of not only the deaths of family members, but being unable to be with them to say goodbye.  In this episode, in between the 2-year anniversary of her passing and the 1-year anniversary of her burial, I share the eulogy I gave my mother.

I talk about the Masking performed by many Neurodivergent individuals.  But this masking is occurring in a society where general personality masking - i.e. 'hiding' your 'bad feelings' (sadness, frustration, anger) is taught from early youth as correct behavior.  Meanwhile, those of us who have deconstructed from previous faiths are familiar with a practice of "church masking" - where we try to display feelings and beliefs we do not feel.  

How have religious views towards self-harm affected our greater societal views - and in some places, even the laws? Isn't it better to offer support and comfort to someone who is struggling? This episode covers painful topics - please be advised of TW's and take care of yourself. 

My alma mater, Benet Academy, cannot stay out of the news lately.  I share my thoughts regarding the hypocritical and harmful actions towards their highly qualified Coach, as well as a couple stories regarding what it is like - what it is really like - to be a young person in that school's environment. [TW: this episode discusses sensitive topics including self-harm & inappropriate conduct]

Happy winter holidays!  Did you know that many different cultures celebrate the winter solstice? There are so many holidays this time of year - but Christmas is one of the most popular, with holiday shopping significantly impacting multiple economies.  This episode provides a few talking points to push against the silly idea that there is any "fight" whatsoever against Xmas.  Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season and fantastic New Year!

Special interview!!! The Humanity Pages (thehumanitypages.net) is a new blog that is "dedicated to helping ourselves grow, learn, and evolve through the sharing of stories, thoughts, ideas, or inspirations."  I'm fortunate to speak with the creator, my dear friend Chris LeBrun, regarding his intentions for the site.  We also discuss his ongoing efforts to try and make the world more inclusive.  

A more inclusive world is a better world for all, yes?  But how, exactly, can we be “more inclusive”? This episode discusses normalizing and positive consequences, and what the backfire effect is and methods to counteract it.   We wrap up by recommending several different social media sites that might help expand knowledge through exposure to various topics.

DonorsChoose.org is an organization that allows you to give directly to classrooms in need.  This special, short episode gives you all the information you need to know about how to make a teacher's dream come true for their students.  

1 in 5 American adults will experience mental health challenges, yet more than half will not seek treatment.  This is partially due to stigma affecting how we collectively view mental health.   This episode discusses causes of mental health challenges (it is NOT weakness or lack of faith!) and simple steps that ANY of us can take to lessen the stigma on this highly important topic.

Sexism is wrong.  It's pervasive, but it's wrong.  Call it out with me, won't you?  Whether it's using humor to reframe old, nonsensical stories about a made-up woman, or telling a child that the length of her shorts has nothing to do with an adult's disrespect - there are steps that any and all of us can take to make the world safer.