The Unbroken Place with Eddy Paul Thomas

Episode 11: Trauma and Grief in the C-Suite Pt 2

Summary
In this conversation, Sabrina Gilchrist and Tayuanee Dewberry discuss the topic of trauma and grief in the C-suite. They explore the challenges faced by leaders in maintaining a facade of strength, the importance of peer support, and the warning signs of burnout. They also delve into the unique stressors and mental health challenges that high-level leaders face in the nonprofit sector. The conversation highlights the need for systemic change and advocacy to support leaders in the C-suite and emphasizes the importance of collaboration and community in overcoming isolation and promoting mental well-being.
Takeaways
Maintaining a facade of strength can be challenging for leaders in the C-suite, and it is important for them to find peer support and create safe spaces for vulnerability.
Warning signs of burnout in leaders include disengagement, chronic feelings of disengagement, and breaks in relationships with staff.
High-level leaders in the nonprofit sector face unique stressors, such as doing more with less, fundraising challenges, and the perception of their occupation as lesser.
Isolation and feelings of silence are common among leaders in the C-suite, and it is crucial to promote collaboration and community to overcome these challenges.
Systemic change and advocacy are needed to support leaders in the C-suite and address the mental health challenges they face.
Mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and finding healthy outlets for stress can help leaders manage their mental well-being in the C-suite.
Chapters
00:00 Peer Support and Vulnerability in the C-Suite
05:02 Warning Signs of Burnout and Mental Health Challenges08:19 Unique Stressors in the Nonprofit Sector15:00 Creating a Healthy Work Culture26:55 Introduction26:58 The Impact of Trauma on Leadership
Resources
Register for the Trauma in the C-Suite Virtual Series: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trauma-in-the-c-suite-the-virtual-series-tickets-926547858587?aff=oddtdtcreator
Uncharitable Movie: https://uncharitablemovie.com/
Uncharitable Book: https://a.co/d/i7j2dqN
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 10: Trauma and Grief in the C-Suite Pt 1

Summary
The conversation explores the topic of trauma and grief in the C-suite, highlighting the expectations and factors that prevent executives from displaying vulnerability. The guests discuss the societal pressure to be invincible and the fear of being seen as weak or incompetent. They also touch on the role of company culture in contributing to C-suite burnout and trauma. The importance of executive coaching is emphasized, as it provides a neutral and objective perspective to help leaders navigate the complexities of their roles and address internal struggles.
Takeaways
Executives in the C-suite often face pressure to be invincible and are discouraged from displaying vulnerability.
Company culture plays a significant role in contributing to C-suite burnout and trauma.Executive coaching is crucial in supporting leaders at the top, providing an objective perspective and helping them navigate the complexities of their roles.
Cultural competency and awareness are essential when seeking an executive coach or therapist to ensure they can provide the necessary support.
The intersectionality of race, gender, and other identities adds additional layers of complexity to the experiences of C-suite leaders.
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 9: Self-Awareness and Servant Leadership

Summary
The conversation explores the concepts of self-awareness and servant leadership, drawing from personal experiences and observations. It delves into the intersection of individualism, humility, and the impact of leadership on organizational culture. The discussion highlights the importance of self-awareness, community, and the balance between individual success and collective well-being. The conversation delves into the themes of self-awareness, servant leadership, and conscious leadership, emphasizing the importance of trust, empowerment, and community in the workplace. It also explores the impact of self-awareness on personal and professional relationships, as well as the role of therapy and mental health in achieving conscious leadership.
Takeaways
Self-awareness and servant leadership are rooted in the understanding of one's own values, motivations, and impact on others.
The balance between individual success and collective well-being is crucial for effective leadership and organizational culture.
The intersection of individualism, humility, and servant leadership reveals the complexities of leadership in different cultural contexts.
Transparency, honesty, and empowerment are key elements in fostering a culture of servant leadership and conscious leadership.
The impact of leadership on mental health, employee satisfaction, and organizational growth underscores the significance of servant leadership in modern work environments. Self-awareness is essential for conscious leadership and servant leadership in the workplace.
Trust and empowerment are key components of successful organizations, leading to lower turnover rates and higher employee satisfaction.
The impact of self-awareness extends beyond the workplace, influencing personal relationships and community dynamics.
Therapy and mental health play a crucial role in achieving self-awareness and conscious leadership, contributing to personal growth and professional success.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Self-Awareness and Servant Leadership
11:38 The Intersection of Individualism and Humility in Leadership
28:50 The Power of Self-Awareness and Servant Leadership
36:35 Building Trust and Empowerment in the Workplace
42:34 The Impact of Self-Awareness on Personal and Professional Relationships
51:42 The Role of Therapy and Mental Health in Conscious Leadership

Episode 8: Conscious Leadership and Active Listening

Summary
Conscious leadership is an approach to leadership that emphasizes self-awareness, ethical practices, and personal and professional growth. It is practiced by organizations like Patagonia, Ben and Jerry's, and Google. The tenets of conscious leadership include self-awareness, authenticity, emotional intelligence, empathy, mindfulness, purpose-driven leadership, servant leadership, systems thinking, continuous learning and growth, and ethical and values-driven leadership. Active listening is a crucial aspect of conscious leadership, as it involves fully engaging and understanding the perspectives and concerns of others. Active listening can improve communication, empathy, and connection in both professional and personal relationships.
Takeaways
Conscious leadership emphasizes self-awareness, ethical practices, and personal and professional growth.
Organizations like Patagonia, Ben and Jerry's, and Google practice conscious leadership.
The tenets of conscious leadership include self-awareness, authenticity, emotional intelligence, empathy, mindfulness, purpose-driven leadership, servant leadership, systems thinking, continuous learning and growth, and ethical and values-driven leadership.
Active listening is a crucial aspect of conscious leadership and can improve communication, empathy, and connection in both professional and personal relationships.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Conscious Leadership and Active Listening03:24 Notable Organizations Practicing Conscious Leadership32:24 Applying Active Listening in Personal and Professional Relationships35:20 Resources for Practicing Active Listening36:46 Conclusion

Episode 7: Deconstructing an Inherited Identity and Faith With Dave Capozzi

Summary
In this conversation, Eddy and Dave discuss the concept of deconstruction and its impact on faith and belief systems. They explore the themes of empathy, truth-seeking, and the role of white evangelicalism in perpetuating oppressive systems. Dave shares his personal journey of deconstruction and how it led him to question the foundations of his faith. They also discuss the difference between how Black people and white people perceive Jesus and the importance of empathy in understanding different perspectives.
The conversation highlights the need for the church to dismantle harmful practices and prioritize relational connection and understanding. In this conversation, Dave Capozzi and Eddy discuss the importance of empathy in addressing biases, promoting understanding, and fostering meaningful conversations. They explore the role of empathy in various contexts, including social media platforms like TikTok and the classroom. Dave emphasizes the need for self-reflection and healing as a starting point for individuals engaging in personal deconstruction. They also discuss the intersections of faith and activism, particularly in the context of deconstructing whiteness. Dave's podcast, Dig New Streams, is highlighted as a valuable resource for exploring themes of empathy, faith, and social justice.
Takeaways
Deconstruction is a process that every human being goes through in their lifetime, where they question and reevaluate their beliefs and values.
White evangelicalism is rooted in imperial Christianity, which has perpetuated oppressive systems and marginalized certain groups of people.
Empathy is crucial in understanding different perspectives and dismantling harmful practices within the church.
The concept of Black Jesus versus white Jesus highlights the different experiences and interpretations of Jesus based on race and lived experiences.
The church should prioritize relational connection and understanding, rather than imposing beliefs and practices on others. Empathy is essential in addressing biases and promoting understanding.
Meaningful conversations require listening empathically and creating safe spaces.
Self-reflection and healing are crucial for personal deconstruction.
Faith and activism are interconnected, and individuals can be allies by healing themselves and walking alongside marginalized communities.
Dave Capozzi's podcast, Dig New Streams, explores themes of empathy, faith, and social justice.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Empathy06:19 Understanding Deconstruction10:11 The Rise of Deconstruction in the Western Church11:11 Dave Capozzi's Personal Journey of Deconstruction13:45 The Role of Whiteness in Christianity19:29 Different Perspectives on Jesus26:34 The Importance of Empathy in Christian Faith30:02 Challenges in Missionary Work and Church Planting30:30 The Need for Perspective Shift in the Church31:04 Expanding Topics on TikTok32:27 Encouraging Empathy in the Classroom42:05 Faith and Activism48:33 Exploring Empathy, Faith, and Social Justice on the Dig New Streams Podcast51:53 Advice for Personal Deconstruction54:32 The Power of Empathy
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Dave Capozzi's recommended deconstruction follows on TikTok:
Kokayi Nosakhere - @rsadefiant2
Evan Mingo - @blacademics
Portia- @portia.noir
Amy Chen - @circusfaery33
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 6: The Journey Towards Mutuality with Mekdes Haddis

Summary
In this conversation, Eddy and Mekdes Haddis discuss the importance of empathy in the missions community and the impact of the white savior complex. They explore the need for understanding different perspectives, taking collaborative action, and addressing the lack of empathy in traditional Western mission practices. Mekdes shares her experiences as an Ethiopian immigrant and challenges the narrative of the hunter in mission work. They also discuss the shame experienced by minority missionaries and the disparities in wealth that affect their ability to serve.
The conversation highlights the need for a shift towards a more empathetic approach that uplifts local leadership. The conversation explores the need for a deeper understanding of mission work and challenges the traditional approach of Western missionaries. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting the dignity of the people being served, rather than imposing Western ideals and culture.
The conversation also highlights the need for a shift in the mission movement, with a focus on the next generation and a more collaborative and decentralized approach. It acknowledges the role of women, particularly from the global south, in leading a new wave of mission initiatives. The conversation concludes with advice for young missionaries to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and to be open to the unique path that God has for them.
Takeaways
Empathy in the missions community involves understanding different perspectives and taking collaborative action.
Traditional Western mission practices often lack empathy and perpetuate the white savior complex.
Minority missionaries often face shame and financial challenges due to disparities in wealth.
There is a need for a shift towards a more empathetic approach that uplifts local leadership. Start mission work by listening and understanding the culture and dignity of the people being served.
Challenge the traditional approach of Western missionaries and avoid imposing Western ideals and culture.
Focus on the next generation and invest in their training and development for mission work.
Embrace a collaborative and decentralized approach to mission work.
Recognize the important role of women, particularly from the global south, in leading a new wave of mission initiatives.
Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and be open to the unique path that God has for each individual in mission work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Admiration for Mekdes09:45 The Lack of Empathy in Traditional Western Mission Practices30:17 Listening and Understanding: A New Approach to Mission Work46:48 Women in Mission: Leading a New Wave of Initiatives53:40 Guidance from the Holy Spirit: Embracing a Unique Path in Mission Work
...
Discover more about Mekdes Haddis' ministry at: mekdeshaddis.com
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 5: Balancing Concern for Others with Self-Care with Britt Dorazio

In this conversation, Britt Dorazio discusses the meaning of empathy and its importance in her work. She explains how her background in musical theater influences her approach to teaching empathy through the arts. Britt also explores the role of trauma-informed mindfulness practices in facilitating empathy and understanding. She emphasizes the significance of somatic practices in cultivating self-empathy and recognizing the needs of the body.
Britt shares her experiences with integrating empathy into curriculum development and program delivery, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for diverse communities. She addresses misconceptions about empathy and offers strategies for individuals struggling to empathize with themselves. Finally, Britt shares a personal story that highlights the profound impact of empathy in her work.
Takeaways
Empathy means creating space to remain connected to each other's humanity.
Storytelling and the arts can be powerful tools for teaching empathy.
Trauma-informed mindfulness practices facilitate deeper understanding and empathy towards others' experiences.
Somatic practices help cultivate self-empathy and recognize the needs of the body.
Empathy-focused practices should be inclusive and accessible to diverse communities.
Empathy requires active participation and self-care.
Empathy is not about abandoning oneself, but about finding a balance between giving and receiving.
Empathy can be challenging to teach in a culture that prioritizes individual success over collective well-being.
Strategies for empathizing with oneself include investigating the origins of narratives and tending to the nervous system.
Misconceptions about empathy include the belief that one must abandon oneself to serve others.
Personal stories can have a profound impact on empathy.
Online offerings provide accessible opportunities for learning and practicing empathy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Definition of Empathy01:11 Influence of Musical Theater on Teaching Empathy07:48 Trauma-Informed Mindfulness Practices10:48 Somatic Practices and Cultivating Self-Empathy14:28 Empathy-Focused Practices with Awaken Pittsburgh21:27 Integrative Community Therapy Model and Empathy25:20 Challenges and Rewards of Teaching Empathy32:23 Strategies for Empathizing with Oneself35:39 Misconceptions about Empathy38:26 Personal Story of Profound Empathy44:26 Online Offerings and Conclusion
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Discover more about Britt Dorazio's Services at: https://www.brittanydorazio.com/
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 4: Unpacking the Difference Between Empathy and Sympathy

In this episode, Eddy Paul Thomas explores the difference between empathy and sympathy and their impact on human connection. He delves into the essence of empathy and sympathy, highlighting their distinct meanings and roles in our interactions. Eddy then discusses the practical application of empathy in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting colleagues while maintaining professional boundaries. He concludes by emphasizing the need to create a workplace culture that thrives on empathy and understanding.
Takeaways
Empathy and sympathy have distinct meanings and play crucial roles in our interactions.
Empathy involves truly understanding and sharing the feelings of another, while sympathy is feeling compassion and acknowledging someone's distress from a certain detachment.
In the workplace, empathy can enhance communication, collaboration, and employee well-being.
Creating a workplace culture of empathy and understanding requires active listening, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering psychological safety.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:02 The Difference Between Empathy and Sympathy
10:58 Practical Application of Empathy in the Workplace
.....
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 3: The Impact of Historical Trauma on Family Dynamics with Dr. Jackie Montgomery

Dr. Jackie Montgomery developed Healing Horizons to help the community understand and talk about trauma. She emphasizes that trauma is not just about violence, but it occurs when something tough happens and our bodies react in a way that goes beyond our usual coping mechanisms. Historical trauma refers to the collective experience of traumatic events that have lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities. It includes intergenerational trauma, cultural trouble, and social and economic disparities. Historical trauma can lead to identity struggles, power struggles, and barriers to effective communication within families. Empathy plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing historical trauma, as it involves acknowledging the pain, suffering, and resilience of individuals. It is important to know and understand one's own history and identity in order to identify and address trauma. Forgiveness is a key aspect of the healing process, and it involves releasing the desire for revenge and letting go of bitterness, resentment, and anger. The process of forgiveness is personal and requires emotional processing and release. It is essential to address historical trauma and promote empathy and forgiveness in order to heal and move forward. The conversation with Dr. Jackie Montgomery focused on the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing historical trauma. She emphasized the need to acknowledge and address trauma rather than trying to erase it. Dr. Montgomery shared a personal story about her own experience with historical trauma in her family and how open communication and empathy helped in healing and reconciliation. She highlighted the significance of counseling and taking a holistic approach to healing, including addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of trauma. Dr. Montgomery also discussed the importance of self-care and being aware of secondary trauma when helping others with historical trauma.
 
Takeaways
 
Trauma occurs when something tough happens and our bodies react in a way that goes beyond our usual coping mechanisms.
Historical trauma refers to the collective experience of traumatic events that have lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities.
Empathy plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing historical trauma, as it involves acknowledging the pain, suffering, and resilience of individuals.
It is important to know and understand one's own history and identity in order to identify and address trauma.
Forgiveness is a key aspect of the healing process, and it involves releasing the desire for revenge and letting go of bitterness, resentment, and anger. Empathy is an action word and plays a crucial role in addressing historical trauma.
Open communication and empathy can help in healing and reconciliation.
Counseling and a holistic approach are important for healing from historical trauma.
Self-care and awareness of secondary trauma are essential when helping others with historical trauma.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Organization Overview
01:04 Understanding Trauma and Historical Trauma
05:33 Challenges in Healing from Historical Trauma
06:37 The Importance of Communication in Healing
08:04 Identifying and Addressing Historical Trauma in Families
09:12 Healthy Ways to Look at Identity
11:01 The Influence of Media on Identity
13:48 The Role of Forgiveness in Healing
22:11 Trauma and Empathy in Current Events
23:23 Overcoming Historical Trauma through Empathy and Understanding
32:07 Supporting Families Affected by Historical Trauma
40:23 Resources and Readings
42:46 Cultivating Empathetic Understanding
...
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 2: Addressing Burnout and Compassion Fatigue Among Leaders with Dr. Stephanie Romero

Summary
Dr. Stephanie Romero of Awaken Pittsburgh (awakenpittsburgh.org) discusses the importance of mindfulness and addressing burnout and compassion fatigue among leaders. She shares her personal experience as a teacher and the realization that anger can be a symptom of burnout and compassion fatigue. Stephanie explains the concept of mindfulness and its correlation with meditation. She emphasizes the role of empathy in cultivating a culture of mindfulness and empathy in organizations. Stephanie also highlights the benefits of mindfulness and empathy in preventing burnout and compassion fatigue. She encourages leaders to prioritize connection, awareness, and self-care.
Takeaways
Anger can be a symptom of burnout and compassion fatigue.
Mindfulness is a quality of non-judgmental attention in the present moment.
Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help manage stressors that lead to burnout.
Cultivating a culture of mindfulness and empathy in organizations can prevent burnout and improve employee satisfaction.
Connection, empathy, and awareness are key in preventing burnout and compassion fatigue.
If you want to support the work of Dr. Stephanie Romero please go to: awakenpittsburgh.org/support/
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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.