Advocating for Unity & Personal Well-BeingJason Littlefield is an impassioned educator and founder of EmpowerED Pathways. With over two decades of experience, he has influenced students and families globally, from Taiwan to Benin, Africa. Jason co-created the Empowered Humanity Theory, a dynamic framework for life, leadership, and learning. Through initiatives like EmpowerED Pathways and Free Black Thought, he advocates for unity and personal well-being, challenging prevailing ideologies and shaping a brighter future.In this conversation, Jason joins me to discuss Empowered Pathways and the development of Empowered Humanity Theory. He explains the problems with collectivist political philosophy and the negative impact it has on social-emotional well-being. He introduces the three attitudes of Empowered Humanity Theory: valued-centered identity, dignity lens, and mindsets of inquiry and compassion. We also discuss the pathways to practice, including building awareness and equanimity, kindness and compassion for ourselves and others, and celebrating our common humanity. Our conversation concludes with Jason sharing information about his book, 'Empowered Humanity Theory: A Framework for an Empowered and Dignified Life.'TakeawaysEmpowered Humanity Theory promotes three attitudes: valued-centered identity, a dignity lens, and mindsets of inquiry and compassion.Practices that build awareness and equanimity, kindness and compassion, and celebrate our common humanity are essential for personal growth and improved relationships.Negative self-talk can be harmful and should be replaced with self-compassion and positive thinking.Focusing on individual values and shared humanity can help overcome the divisiveness caused by identity politics.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:09 Introduction to Empowered Pathways09:48 Empowered Humanity Theory24:40 Pathways to Practice35:29 Conclusion and Book InformationWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

The Soul of Civility; Book discussion with Alexandra HudsonIn this episode, guest host Julian Adorney is joined by guest Alexandra Hudson to discuss her book, The Soul of Civility. They explore the difference between politeness and civility, the harm of incivility, and the importance of heroes and mentors in inspiring better behavior. The conversation flows into the importance of courage, balancing compassion and self-protection,  and the importance of being fully present and engaged in our interactions. A truly inspirational discussion on the timeless principles to heal society and ourselves.  Takeaways  Civility is a disposition, a way of seeing others as moral equals and worthy of respect. Incivility not only hurts others, but it also harms ourselves and deforms our souls.Heroes and mentors can inspire us to act with greater courage, integrity, and compassion.Treating others with compassion and kindness is good for its own sake and mutually ennobling.Being fully present and engaged in our interactions is a profound gift that nourishes our souls and honors the dignity of others.Who is Alexandra Hudson? ALEXANDRA O. HUDSON is a writer, popular speaker, and the founder of Civic Renaissance, a publication and intellectual community dedicated to beauty, goodness and truth. She was named the 2020 Novak Journalism Fellow, and contributes to Fox News, CBS News, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, TIME Magazine, POLITICO Magazine, and Newsweek. She earned a master’s degree in public policy at the London School of Economics as a Rotary Scholar, and is an adjunct professor at the Indiana University Lilly School of Philanthropy. She is also the creator of a series for The Teaching Company called Storytelling and The Human Condition. Guest host, Julian Adorney:Julian Adorney is an author and speaker focused on preserving and rebuilding the West against the threats of illiberalism and affective polarization. He's written for Quillette, Queer Majority, National Review, the Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism (FAIR) and a few other sites; and is on the Braver Angels media team. He's the founder of Heal the West, a substack movement.What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Bridging Divides Through Faith, Loving as Jesus Loved In a world marked by increasing divisions, embracing faith becomes a powerful incentive for unity and understanding. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified boundless love and compassion, we find a profound guide on how to navigate societal divides. It is not merely about what we believe but how we embody those beliefs in our actions. Loving as Jesus loved involves recognizing the inherent humanity in every individual, fostering empathy, and transcending differences. Moreover, the art of effective communication plays a pivotal role; it's not just about expressing our thoughts but doing so with kindness and respect. Not every thought needs to be voiced publicly, and the gentle, thoughtful delivery of our words can contribute significantly to bridging gaps and fostering a more harmonious society. Who is Daniel Darling?Daniel Darling is an author, pastor, and Christian leader. He currently serves as the Director of The Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Assistant Professor of Faith and Culture at Texas Baptist College.Dan is a bestselling author of several books, including The Original Jesus, The Dignity Revolution, The Characters of Christmas, The Characters of Easter,  A Way With Words. and his latest, Agents of Grace: How to Bridge Divides and Love as Jesus Loves. He is the general editor, along with Trillia Newbell, of a small group study on racial reconciliation, The Church and the Racial Divide and is a contributor to The Worldview Study Bible. What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Reviving a sense of community and reflecting on his time working with Martin Luther King Jr.Martin Luther King Jr.'s message was rooted in uplifting the people and organizing Americans for a better sense of community. He passionately advocated for equality, justice, and unity, envisioning a society where individuals transcended racial and social divides to stand together in solidarity. King's powerful speeches, such as his iconic "I Have a Dream" address, emphasized the importance of love, understanding, and nonviolent resistance in pursuing a more harmonious society. His vision was about civil rights and fostering a collective spirit that could bring about positive change and create a stronger, more inclusive community where all people could excel and thrive no matter their background.In this fascinating conversation, Harry joins Wilk to discuss:      How his father’s time with the Red Cross resulted in both Harry and his father working with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the S.C.L.C.      Run-ins with the KKK and other white supremacists.      The difference between the philosophies of pacifism and non-violence.       “Operation Dialogue” and the Citizenship Schools programs of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference      Finding the divine and humanity in all people.      Book: “If Your Back’s Not Bent” by Dorothy Cotton      Movie “Best of Enemies”      Our Christian faith & of course the common cause work we do with the organization Braver AngelsWho are  Harry Boyte?Harry C. Boyte is a co-founder of the Institute for Public Life and Work and Senior Scholar of Public Work Philosophy at the Institute and also at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, MN.  He founded and for 20 years directed and co-directed the Center for Democracy and Citizenship (CDC) at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs. As a young man he worked in the citizenship schools sponsored by SCLC, Martin Luther King Jr.’s organization. Learn more about and connect with Harry Boyte online:website: https://www.iplw.org/(X) formerly know as Twitter: @HarryBoyteWhat have What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

 In the bustling marketplace of ideas, distinguishing truth from misinformation requires a nuanced approach that combines critical thinking, evidence-based analysis, and an openness to diverse perspectives. Engaging in conversations with individuals holding differing mindsets is crucial in this process. Interacting with a variety of opinions fosters a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues and challenges one's assumptions. Constructive dialogue not only exposes individuals to alternative viewpoints but also encourages the scrutiny of arguments, enabling a more informed evaluation of the information presented. By actively participating fully & fearlessly in curious conversations with diverse perspectives, we enhance our ability to sift through the noise and better navigate the complex landscape of our internet ecosystem. Acquiring knowledge, weeding through misinformation & outrage bait, and being able to work through, by way of conversation, complex and controversial topics with people of differing mindsets than our own are just a few the the many things I discussed this week with my friend Jonathan Rauch.Who is Jonathan Rauch? JONATHAN RAUCH, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington, is the author of eight books and many articles on public policy, culture, and government. He is a contributing writer for The Atlantic and recipient of the 2005 National Magazine Award, the magazine industry’s equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize. His latest book, published in 2021 by the Brookings Press, is The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth, a spirited and deep-diving account of how to push back against disinformation, canceling, and other new threats to our fact-based epistemic order. Connect with Jonathan on (X): @jon_rauchWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us leading a better life. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Time For A Depolarization "Manhattan Project"?In a conversation I was having with friend John Wood Jr.  of Braver Angels, he said and I often quote, "Polarization is the one problem that ensures all other problems won't be solved". Many, me being one of them, have said that polarization could realistically be a true existential threat to our great country. Why then do more politicians not take more seriously this threat and work toward solutions? I have my thoughts on that and speak of them often. One solution friends of mine have tossed around is a depolarization "Manhattan Project" of sorts. If not familiar,  the Manhattan Project was a research and development project during World War II in which the United States, along with its allies, developed the first nuclear weapons.  The project involved the work of many scientists, engineers, and support staff, and its success lead to the end of the war with Japan and marked the beginning of the nuclear age. What if such a collaboration could be done to fix polarization? Is it time for a Depolarization Manhattan Project?Who is Daniel F. Stone?You may remember Dan from his first DTH appearance in Episode 161.Dan Stone is an Associate Professor of Economics that has been teaching in the Economics department at Bowdoin since 2012 and prior to that he was an assistant professor at Oregon State University from 2008-2012. Dan’s research is on belief formation, political media, polarization, and inter-personal hostility (a.k.a. affective polarization).  Dan’s book, “Undue Hate” dives in to “How to understand the mistakes we make about those on the other side of the political spectrum—and how they drive the affective polarization that is tearing us apart.”  Contact Dan on (X):  @d_f_stoneAbout our guest host, Julian Adorney:Julian Adorney is an author and speaker focused on preserving and rebuilding the West against the threats of illiberalism and affective polarization. He's written for Quillette, Queer Majority, National Review, the Foundation Against Intolerance and RaWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Wilk provides a DTH 2023 Year in ReviewFrom me to all of you who have provided so much support, I want to wish you all a very blessed and happy new year!During this holiday week episode, I'm providing a quick recap of just a few of the many great guests we had on this past year. Please check out all of this past year's episodes and let me know who you think would be a great returning guest. Stay well my friends and keep doing all you can to better yourselves and the world in which we live!What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us leading a better life. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter , TruthSocial, Parler, Rumble, YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio. Please leave us a rating and feedback. Send me a message on any media platform or subscribe directly from our sites. Let us know about someone you think should be on our podcast. If we book them for a conversation, I’ll send you a free gift! Not on social media? You can share your thoughts directly with me at [email protected] look forward to hearing from you!What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Can Christians and Atheists Get Along?Christians and Atheists often face roadblocks in understanding and accepting each other due to deeply ingrained differences in belief systems. One major obstacle is the perception of morality and purpose. Christians may view their faith as the ultimate source of moral guidance and purpose, while Atheists often derive their morality from secular humanism and find purpose in life without relying on religious frameworks. This is among many fundamental differences that can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of empathy, as each group may struggle to comprehend the basis for the other's ethical principles. So, can Christians and atheists get along?To foster better understanding and recognize the shared humanity between Christians and Atheists, it is essential to engage in open and respectful dialogue. Both parties can benefit from actively listening to each other's perspectives without judgment, seeking common ground in shared values such as compassion, kindness, and the pursuit of a just society. Emphasizing the shared human experience, focusing on similarities rather than differences, and acknowledging the diversity within both belief systems can help bridge the gap and foster a more inclusive and tolerant environment where individuals from different backgrounds can coexist harmoniously. Listen as guest host Julian Adorney and our mutual friend Angel Eduardo model such a conversation. What some may refer to as a difficult conversation, done with fearless curiosity, the way it should be done.Guest Host Julian Adorney and Angel Eduardo Julian Adorney is an author and speaker focused on preserving and rebuilding the West against the threats of illiberalism and affective polarization. He's written for Quillette, Queer Majority, National Review, the Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism (FAIR) and a few other sites; and is on the Braver Angels media team. He's the founder of Heal the West, a substack movement.  Angel Eduardo is a writer, musician, photographer, and designer based in New York City, best-known for coining and promoting the rhetorical concept of star-manning. He works as Senior Writer & Editor for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), and serves on the Board of Directors for the Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism (FAIR). Learn more and connect with Julian & Angel by checking outWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

Getting Below The Surface of Toxic PolarizationHuman evolution in perspectives is a dynamic process shaped by experiences, education, and self-reflection. Individuals often display a tendency to forgive themselves swiftly for past views and mistakes, while adopting a less forgiving stance towards others. This discrepancy in standards suggests a complex interplay of ego, empathy, and self-awareness. It underscores the challenge of extending the same compassion to others that one grants oneself. Responsibility for emotions and life experiences lies with individuals, highlighting the power of personal choices in shaping one's reactions to circumstances. Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" serves as a compelling example of how one can choose their response in the face of adversity and even horrific circumstance, emphasizing the profound impact of mindset on the human experience. The advice to avoid defining one's identity by fleeting thoughts underscores the importance of self-awareness and the recognition that personal growth involves transcending temporary perspectives.Despite this potential for growth, individuals remain deeply influenced by their un-evolved brains, acknowledging the ongoing impact of instinctual and ingrained behaviors. The journey toward understanding and empathy requires a continual commitment to self-reflection, challenging ingrained biases, and embracing the capacity for personal evolution. Listen as my good friend and fellow Braver Angel Julian Adorney guest hosts, discussing these topics and more with Mark Johnson, getting below the surface of toxic polarization.Who is Mark Johnson? Mark is a men’s coach, business and relationship coach, facilitator, and wilderness guide with more than 20 years of experience helping people and companies grow. He has been part of The Undaunted Man since 2014, and its CFO since 2016. What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us leading a better life. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!

DEI vs. Diversity of ThoughtI recently read an article in the Free Black Thought substack written by my friend Dr. Tabia Lee entitled: DEI COLLEAGUES: YOUR ANTI-SEMITISM IS SHOWING. With recent events being what they are in the middle east, and the ensuing hate mongering that is taking place world-wide, the article stood out instantly.  You might remember Dr. Tabia Lee from our DTH conversation back in March of this year soon after she was stripped of her position as Faculty Director for the office of Equity, Social-Justice, and Multicultural Education at De Anza College, a California community college. I'll be looking to have Dr. Lee back on the podcast in early 2024, but for now, please enjoy this replay of our conversation back in March of 2023, and check out this article in Free Black Thought.Who is Dr. Tabia Lee? Dr. Tabia Lee, EdD, a founding member of Free Black Thought,  has contributed to the design, implementation, and evaluation of numerous educational and professional development programs.  Her commitment to teacher education and pedagogical design is grounded in her experience as a lifelong educator and a National Board Certified English, Civics, and Social Studies teacher in urban American public middle schools.  Dr. Lee prepares K-12 and higher education faculty to work with diverse students by focusing on better understanding the pedagogical and curricular implications of ideology-in-practice. Learn more about Dr. Lee by getting the full show notes at www.DerateTheHate.comWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us leading a better life. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate TWhat have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I look forward to hearing from you!