The Unbroken Place with Eddy Paul Thomas

Episode 26: It's Time to Remember Your Why

In this episode, Eddy Paul Thomas emphasizes the significance of self-empathy and understanding one's personal motivations, or 'why', especially in the context of post-election stress. He discusses how reconnecting with our individual reasons for action can empower us to navigate emotional turmoil and engage meaningfully with our communities. The conversation highlights the importance of local involvement and collective action in creating positive change, reminding listeners that their contributions matter, regardless of the political landscape.
Takeaways
Self-empathy is crucial in navigating post-election emotions.
Your 'why' is a powerful motivator for action.
Resilience is necessary for progress and change.
Local engagement can mitigate feelings of powerlessness.
Taking time to process emotions is essential for healing.
Remembering your why can help you stay grounded and inspired.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Self-Empathy08:09 Navigating Emotional Turmoil11:53 Leading with Intention and Purpose12:33 UP Transition Media.mp412:35 2024 Episode Cover The Unbroken Place Outro Cover for Youtube with Music Final.mp413:35 Say Some Thing Studios Closing.mp413:42 twitchy_logo_170059_original.mp413:48 2024 Eddy Paul Thomas Logo Outro.mp4
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Give to The Black Missions Museum: https://givebutter.com/blackmissionsmuseum
Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace
Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:
Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.
Ok...On Second Thought articles.
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Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.
Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.
Music: "Open Door" & "I Dare You" by Little Glass Men from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.
 

Episode 25: Building Bridges in a Post-Election World

In this conversation, Dr. Tiffany Thompson discusses the critical role of empathy in bridging political divides, especially after elections. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity and understanding in fostering open dialogue, while also addressing the challenges posed by differing morals and values. The discussion highlights the need for vulnerability and the creation of no judgment spaces to facilitate compassionate conversations. Additionally, the impact of social media on public discourse is examined, with practical strategies offered for engaging in meaningful discussions. In this conversation, the speakers explore the complexities of navigating difficult conversations, particularly in the context of political discourse and bullying. They emphasize the importance of empathy, vulnerability, and understanding the underlying issues that drive people's beliefs and behaviors. The discussion highlights strategies for building bridges while also standing firm against bullying, the necessity of clarity and structure in conversations, and the role of vulnerability in fostering genuine connections. The speakers also address the challenges of de-escalating political discussions and the need for curiosity and critical thinking in an age of misinformation.
Takeaways
Curiosity can help build connections and understanding.
Acknowledging differing morals and values is crucial.
Vulnerability is necessary for open conversations.
Social media can hinder compassionate dialogue.
It's important to recognize that multiple truths can coexist.
Clarity and structure help in navigating complex discussions.
Misinformation complicates political discussions.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Empathy in Political Conversations03:04 Curiosity as a Bridge to Understanding05:59 Navigating Morality and Values in Discussions08:59 The Role of Vulnerability in Conversations12:05 Creating No Judgment Spaces14:57 The Impact of Social Media on Dialogue17:59 Practical Strategies for Compassionate Conversations23:19 Navigating Conversations with Care24:42 Building Bridges vs. Standing Up to Bullies26:55 Understanding the Roots of Bullying29:08 The Importance of Clarity and Structure30:43 Vulnerability as a Bridge to Understanding39:41 De-escalating Political Conversations
Connect with Dr. Tiffany Thompson
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tiffany-thompson-70918258/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cre8tive_tyfanie
 
Give to The Black Missions Museum: https://givebutter.com/blackmissionsmuseum
Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace
Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:
Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.
Ok...On Second Thought articles.
Ok...On Second Thought Resources for the Workplace.
Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.
Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.
Music: "Open Door" & "I Dare You" by Little Glass Men from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.
 

Episode 24: Can AI Help Bridge the Equity Gap?

In this enlightening conversation, Christian Ortiz, the founder of Justice AI, discusses the inspiration behind his revolutionary software aimed at dismantling social biases and promoting fairness in digital spaces. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in technology, the need to address biases in AI systems, and the real-world applications of Justice AI. Ortiz shares insights on navigating corporate spaces, the significance of language, and the importance of transparency and accountability in AI. He concludes with a powerful message about the journey of unlearning and relearning, encouraging listeners to embrace empathy for themselves and others.
Takeaways
Empathy is the foundation of Justice AI's knowledge base.
Bias in AI systems can vary significantly across cultures.
Justice AI provides tools to analyze and address biases in language.
The software aims to create a safe space for users to learn and grow.
Christian Ortiz emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own biases.
The journey of unlearning and relearning is essential for personal growth. 
Chapters
03:33 The Inspiration Behind Justice AI08:42 Understanding Bias in AI Systems14:58 Empathy as a Core Component of Justice AI21:44 Real-World Applications and Success Stories of Justice AI28:51 The Challenges of AI and Bias in Art34:12 The Future of Justice AI and Its Impact38:08 Breaking the Mold: Representation in Leadership40:56 Coded Language and Its Impact on Society44:47 Justice AI: A Tool for Accountability47:41 Navigating White Spaces: Challenges in DEI52:33 The Financial Imperative of DEI57:29 Transforming Corporate Culture with Justice AI
Connect with Christian Ortiz
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/modatlasmedia/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealchristianortiz/
Email: christianortiz@modatlasmedia.com
Give to The Black Missions Museum: https://givebutter.com/blackmissionsmuseum
Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace
Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:
Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.
Ok...On Second Thought articles.
Ok...On Second Thought Resources for the Workplace.
Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.
Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.
Music: "Open Door" & "I Dare You" by Little Glass Men from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

Episode 23: When Lies Spread Faster Than Truth

Summary
In this episode, host Eddy Paul Thomas discusses the critical difference between seeing and observing, particularly in the context of recent hurricanes affecting the Carolinas and Florida. He emphasizes the importance of observation in understanding our surroundings and making informed decisions. The conversation then shifts to the pervasive issue of misinformation on social media, exploring how false information spreads faster than truth and its detrimental effects on society, including emotional manipulation, desensitization, and polarization. Finally, Thomas offers strategies to combat misinformation and foster empathy in our digital interactions.
Takeaways
Observing requires deeper engagement than merely seeing.
Misinformation spreads faster due to emotional engagement.
False information often exploits confirmation bias.
Digital literacy is crucial in combating misinformation.
Desensitization can lead to emotional burnout.
Taking breaks from social media can improve mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Gratitude04:08 The Importance of Observation08:44 The Spread of Misinformation18:00 Impacts of Misinformation on Society24:34 Combating Misinformation and Fostering Empathy

Episode 22: How Empathy Fuels Cross-Cultural Connections

Summary
In this conversation, the host Eddy Paul Thomas discusses the urgent case of Marcellus Williams, who is facing execution despite maintaining his innocence. The discussion highlights the importance of empathy in understanding the complexities of justice and the immigrant experience. The host shares insights from his teaching experience in cross-cultural communications, emphasizing the need for curiosity, active listening, and avoiding assumptions to foster better understanding among diverse cultural groups.
Takeaways
Experiencing different cultures can challenge preconceived notions.
Active listening is essential in cross-cultural communications.
Avoiding assumptions helps in understanding individuals better.
Cultural biases can hinder empathy and understanding.
Researching unfamiliar cultures can enhance empathy.
Patience is necessary when navigating cultural differences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Empathy and Immigration Issues06:02 The Impact of Media on Perceptions of Immigrants08:54 Understanding Personal Experiences with Immigration11:52 The Role of Empathy in Cross-Cultural Communication14:45 Practical Steps for Enhancing Empathy19:27 Conclusion: Slowing Down for Human Connection
A Call To Action for Marcellus Williams
Call Gov. Parson at 417-373-3400
Email and Tweet Gov Parson (On X: @GovParsonMO, On Instagram: @govparsonmo)
Sign the petition (On X: @innocence, On Instagram: @innocenceproject): https://innocenceproject.org
Give to The Black Missions Museum: https://givebutter.com/blackmissionsmuseum
Learn more about the Unbroken Place Podcast at: www.eddypaulthomas.com/unbrokenplace
Discover the transformative power of empathy in both our personal lives and the workplace with the following resources:
Ok...On Second Thought newsletter on Linkedin.
Ok...On Second Thought articles.
Ok...On Second Thought Resources for the Workplace.
Brought to you by Elevate 1 Consulting.
Produced by Say Some Thing Studios.
Music: "Open Door" & "I Dare You" by Little Glass Men from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.
 

Episode 21 - Giving Back to your Community in 2024

Summary
In this special Unbroken Streams Crossover episode, Eddy Paul Thomas and Dave Capozzi discuss the topic of giving back to your community in 2024. They explore the challenges of philanthropy in the current landscape, including the decline in charitable donations, the rise of crowdfunding, and the decline in organized religion. They also discuss the lack of trust in big organizations and the difficulty in choosing where to donate. They highlight the importance of connecting with local communities, forming partnerships with existing organizations, and using individual talents to make a difference. The conversation explores the importance of giving back and ways to get involved in the community. It emphasizes that giving back doesn't have to be limited to traditional settings like schools or churches, but can also be done in one's own neighborhood. The conversation highlights the need for people to connect with their self-interest and understand how their resources can align with their personal motivations. It also discusses the challenges faced by nonprofits and the importance of understanding their limitations and the impact they have on communities. The conversation encourages individuals to reflect on their own relationship with money and their community, and to find ways to contribute their time, skills, and passion to causes they care about. It emphasizes the need for empathy, curiosity, and understanding when evaluating and supporting nonprofits.
Takeaways
Charitable donations in 2024 are at a 30-year low, with Americans giving only 1.7% of their disposable income to charity.
There is a decline in trust in big organizations, including churches and nonprofits, leading to a desire for more grassroots and crowd-sourced approaches to giving.
People are overwhelmed by the number of worthy causes and struggle to choose where to donate.
Forming partnerships with existing organizations and connecting with local communities are effective ways to make a difference.
Using individual talents and skills can also contribute to giving back to the community. Giving back can be done in various settings, including one's own neighborhood.
Connecting with one's self-interest and understanding personal motivations can lead to more meaningful and impactful giving.
Nonprofits face challenges and limitations, and it is important to understand their work and impact on communities.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background04:22 The Changing Landscape of Philanthropy07:15 The Decline in Charitable Donations and Trust09:02 The Rise of Crowdfunding and Individualized Giving11:51 Forming Partnerships and Connecting with Local Communities14:31 Using Individual Talents to Make a Difference26:40 Giving Back in Your Own Neighborhood29:35 Aligning Resources with Self-Interest34:52 Understanding the Work of Nonprofits42:31 Curiosity and Solutions for Community Needs
Give to The Black Missions Museum: https://givebutter.com/blackmissionsmuseum

Episode 20: Building an Excellent Team Culture

Summary
Jason Kae discusses building and maintaining excellent team culture using the metaphor of a rainforest. He emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, autonomy, and shared purpose as foundational elements. He also highlights the significance of conscious leadership and being aware of stakeholders. Jason shares strategies for leaders facing toxic team cultures, including listening, observing, and setting new expectations. He emphasizes the need for genuine communication, accountability for results, and fostering joy, enthusiasm, and purpose at work. Jason also discusses mentorship, coaching, and maintaining a positive team culture during times of change and disruption.
Takeaways
Trust, communication, autonomy, and shared purpose are foundational elements of building an excellent team culture.
Conscious leadership involves being aware of stakeholders and creating a business that benefits all parties involved.
In toxic team cultures, leaders should listen, observe, and set new expectations.
Maintaining a positive team culture requires genuine communication, accountability for results, and fostering joy, enthusiasm, and purpose at work.
Mentorship involves learning from someone who knows how to do the job, while coaching involves asking questions to guide individuals to find their own solutions.
During times of change and disruption, leaders should empathize, communicate transparently, and provide support and space for employees.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Rainforest Metaphor03:04 Building an Excellent Team Culture08:23 Dealing with Toxic Team Cultures14:57 Fostering Joy, Enthusiasm, and Purpose at Work18:08 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching23:56 Maintaining a Positive Team Culture During Change and Disruption

Episode 19: Building Nonprofit Community

Summary
In this conversation, Eddy Paul Thomas interviews Kathy Rogers, an expert in building nonprofit communities. They discuss the importance of community and collaboration in nonprofit work. Kathy shares her experiences in successfully managing Mental Health America of Central Carolinas and highlights the significance of building partnerships and engaging with the community. She also talks about the challenges and rewards of opening a free counseling center and the importance of trust and cultural representation in mental health care. Kathy emphasizes the need for nonprofits to be adaptable, focused on outcomes, and to foster a culture of collaboration within their organizations. She also discusses the role of government and the private sector in community building. In this conversation, Kathy Rogers and Building Community discuss the importance of collaboration and building strong community relationships in the nonprofit sector. They highlight the positive outcomes that can be achieved through partnerships and share examples of successful collaborations. They emphasize the need for empathy and understanding when working with diverse communities and the importance of treating individuals with dignity. They also discuss future trends in nonprofit work, including the increasing need for collaboration and the importance of storytelling and marketing in attracting support. Kathy Rogers shares her expertise and offers advice for nonprofit leaders looking to build strong community relationships.
Takeaways
Building community and collaboration are essential in nonprofit work.
Partnerships and engagement with the community are key to success.
Trust and cultural representation are crucial in providing effective mental health care.
Nonprofits need to be adaptable and focused on outcomes.
Government and the private sector play important roles in community building. Collaboration and partnerships are essential in the nonprofit sector to achieve positive outcomes and address community needs.
Treating individuals with empathy and dignity is crucial in building strong community relationships.
Nonprofit leaders should invest in marketing and storytelling to attract support and raise awareness about their work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:40 Kathy's Background and Inspiration for Nonprofit Work05:41 The Importance of Building Community and Collaboration10:30 Addressing Mental Health Care and Stigma15:34 Collaborating with Government and Other Organizations20:41 Fostering a Culture of Collaboration in Nonprofits28:34 Fostering Collaboration within Organizations34:07 The Need for Increased Donations and Collaboration36:50 The Power of Collaboration and Partnerships40:02 Lifting Communities: Examples of Successful Collaborations40:11 Empathy and Dignity in Nonprofit Work45:47 Future Trends in Nonprofit Work51:49 Proactive Partnership Building

Episode 18: Self-Empathy

Summary
In this conversation, Eddy Paul Thomas and Dani Sumner discuss the importance of empathy for oneself. They explore how empathy allows for a deeper understanding of oneself and others, and how it can lead to more compassionate and meaningful relationships. They also touch on the role of spirituality in maintaining empathy and the importance of being honest and vulnerable in relationships. In this conversation, Dani and Eddy Paul Thomas emphasize the role of vulnerability, accountability, and community in developing empathy. They also explore how empathy can be nurtured in relationships, including marriage and parenting. Dani shares insights from her work as a spiritual director and life transformation coach, highlighting the need to unlearn unhealthy rules and embrace self-compassion. They discuss the challenges of navigating overwhelming emotions and offer advice for cultivating self-empathy. The conversation concludes with a call for employers to embrace empathy in the workplace and for individuals to embark on a journey of self-empathy.
Takeaways
Empathy for oneself is essential in order to have empathy for others.
Understanding and accepting one's own flaws and struggles is a key part of developing self-empathy.
Empathy allows for a deeper understanding of oneself and others, leading to more compassionate and meaningful relationships.
Spirituality can play a role in maintaining empathy and providing a sense of grace and compassion for oneself.
Being honest and vulnerable in relationships allows for open communication and the ability to support and empathize with one another. Empathy is essential for developing deep and meaningful connections with others.
Cultivating self-empathy is a lifelong journey that requires patience and self-reflection.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background02:40 The Power of Empathy08:17 Understanding and Accepting Your Flaws13:46 Empathy as a Path to Deeper Relationships18:17 The Role of Spirituality in Maintaining Empathy21:08 Honesty and Vulnerability in Relationships36:07 The Power of Empathy and Vulnerability39:07 Teaching Empathy to Children46:26 Unlearning Unhealthy Rules and Embracing Self-Compassion53:54 Navigating Overwhelming Emotions with Curiosity and Self-Compassion58:14 Embracing Empathy in the Workplace01:02:11 Embarking on a Journey of Self-Empathy

Episode 17: The Deep Work of Spiritual Reclamation

Summary
David Bryant, a missionary, shares his experience as a Black missionary and the challenges he faced in the missions field. He discusses the lack of representation and recognition for Black missionaries and the impact of white supremacy within the mission field and church. He highlights the importance of including all cultures and ethnicities in missions history and training to prevent self-hatred and enable support for minority missionaries. He also emphasizes the need for open and honest conversations about racism and white supremacy to bring healing and change. The conversation explores the challenges and experiences of racial justice and equality within the church, particularly in the context of missions work. It highlights the importance of understanding and addressing racial adversity and the need for healing and biblical perspectives in missions. The discussion also touches on the harmful effects of a consumer mindset in missions and the pressure to show tangible results. The speakers emphasize the significance of doing missions in a way that aligns with biblical principles and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of this podcast is empathy, and the conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing issues. It is not about criticism or comparison, but about caring for and respecting each other. The conversation highlights the need to master empathy before jumping into compassion, as empathy helps us truly understand the problem at hand. Mentorship plays a crucial role in the journey of both mentors and mentees, and it is important to be authentic disciples ourselves before leading others. The church can better support minority missionaries by changing structures, embracing relationships, and redefining missions as a calling rather than a box to check. Missions work is not limited to overseas, but can be done in our own communities. It is about serving the unserved and healing those who have been broken by the church. Missionaries can start by praying faithfully and responding in obedience to God's call.
Takeaways
Black missionaries often face unique challenges and lack representation in the missions field.
White supremacy and racism exist within the missions field and church, leading to self-hatred and discomfort for minority missionaries.
Including all cultures and ethnicities in missions history and training is crucial to prevent exclusion and promote support for minority missionaries.
Open and honest conversations about racism and white supremacy are necessary for healing and bringing about change in the missions field and church. Understanding and addressing racial adversity is crucial for achieving racial justice and equality within the church.
Healing and biblical perspectives are necessary for effective missions work and maintaining spiritual health in the face of racial challenges.
A consumer mindset in missions can be harmful and hinder the true purpose of missions.
The focus should be on doing missions in a way that aligns with biblical principles and the leading of the Holy Spirit, rather than seeking tangible results.
The pressure to show results and the reliance on financial support can distort the true purpose and impact of missions. The purpose of this podcast is empathy, and empathy is crucial in addressing issues and understanding each other.
Mastering empathy before jumping into compassion helps us truly understand the problem at hand.
Mentorship is important for both mentors and mentees, and being authentic disciples ourselves is essential before leading others.
The church can better support minority missionaries by changing structures, embracing relationships, and redefining missions as a calling.
Missions work is not limited to overseas but can be done in our own communities, serving the unserved and healing those who have been broken by the church.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:41 Encountering God's Love and Calling to Missionary Work
04:26 The Challenges Faced by Black Missionaries
07:36 Representation and Diversity in Missions
12:07 Ministering to Marginalized Communities
14:47 Challenges Faced by Black Missionaries in the Field
15:55 The Importance of Diversity and Equity in Missions
21:19 Addressing Racism and White Supremacy in the Church
35:43 The Problematic Financial Aspects of Missions
39:30 Maintaining Spiritual Health in the Face of Racial Adversity
41:05 Healing and Deepening: The Foundation for Effective Missions
47:35 Addressing Historical and Cultural Dynamics in Missions
52:27 Authenticity and Genuine Discipleship in the Missionary Field
57:41 Empathy and Compassion: The Key to Effective Missions
01:01:10 The Destructive Impact of Traditional Missions
01:01:11 The Need for Relational Discipleship
01:04:17 Supporting Minority Missionaries
01:09:58 Missions Work: Not Limited to Overseas