Sticks & Stones - Roots & Bones: Exploring the Power of Words in a Polarized World

Don Shafer
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Sticks & Stones, Roots & Bones is the name of this podcast series and part of my Ph.D. dissertation work at the University of British Columbia. I explore the power of words in a polarized world by looking at the psychological, cultural, and emotional components of these conversational ecosystems to gain insight and improve on existing knowledge of how we engage with each other. I invite activists, academics, and change-makers around the world to join us and share how they engage in difficult conversations.

  1. Jean Watson

    08/29/2025

    Jean Watson

    Two years ago, I underwent open-heart surgery at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver. What stayed with me, beyond the procedure itself, was the extraordinary level of care I received—from the cardiac team, nurses, and support staff. It felt deeply human, attentive, and intentional. When I later circled back to thank them, many of those I spoke with credited their approach to the teachings of Jean Watson. I was curious who this person was, shaping how care is felt in a clinical setting. Jean is a nurse, scholar, and founder of the Watson Caring Science Institute. Her work has transformed how we think about healing—not just as a physical process, but as something deeply relational and grounded in compassion. So, I reached out to her. I wanted to understand more about what it means to truly care, and what lessons her work might offer not just to those in healthcare, but to all of us, especially in these divided and uncertain times.

    26 min
  2. Liz Stewart - Neighbours United & Deep Canvassing

    07/06/2025

    Liz Stewart - Neighbours United & Deep Canvassing

    In this episode of Sticks & Stones, Roots & Bones, we sit down with Liz Stewart, a Defend Our Homes organizer with Neighbours United in British Columbia. Liz shares how deep canvassing, a powerful tool rooted in empathy and storytelling, is helping bridge divides in forestry towns where proposed biodiversity legislation is sparking debate. With curiosity and care, Liz opens up about what it means to meet people where they’re, the emotional weight of conversations across difference, and the quiet power of asking why. From growing up in resource-rich Manitoba to confronting her own assumptions, Liz’s journey reveals how vulnerability and respect can shift hearts and minds, one door and one conversation at a time. This isn’t just a conversation about forests. It’s a conversation about how we talk to each other and what’s possible when we truly listen.

    32 min
  3. David Whyte - Beautiful Questions

    02/22/2025

    David Whyte - Beautiful Questions

    This is one of my favorite conversations with David Whyte, renowned poet, philosopher, and speaker. It was one of my greatest on air learning moments as we dove into the transformative power of dialogue—from how vulnerability and authenticity can redefine our personal narratives to the role of creative thinking in sparking growth and connection. I had to get rid of my notes and hang on! Whether you’re seeking inspiration for personal transformation or looking to enrich your professional relationships, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical takeaways. And he is a wonderful story teller.

    40 min
  4. Ian Williams - What I Mean to Say: Remaking Conversation in Our Time

    12/26/2024

    Ian Williams - What I Mean to Say: Remaking Conversation in Our Time

    Ian Williams is a poet, novelist, and essayist whose work explores themes of race, identity, and social complexity. Born in Trinidad and raised in Canada, Williams has developed a distinctive voice that combines lyrical sensitivity with sharp cultural insight. His debut novel, Reproduction, won the 2019 Giller Prize and was celebrated for its inventive structure and moving exploration of familial bonds across race and class.  I was particularly looking forward to our discussion to talk about his work, his latest book and his PhD research which focused on the nuanced dimensions of tone and voice in print, examining how people’s identities and intentions are subtly encoded in their written words, particularly through everyday typing and texting. We talked about the transformative power of open, authentic conversations in fostering trust and understanding amid societal polarization. I hope you can join us.

    52 min
  5. barbara findlay - How Language Shapes our Perceptions

    07/25/2024

    barbara findlay - How Language Shapes our Perceptions

    barbara findlay is an old white cisgender queer lawyer with disabilities who was raised working-class and christian on the prairies. In this episode, we explore barbara's extensive career and contributions to social justice, her involvement in fighting against oppression, and her continuous advocacy work. The conversation touches on significant topics such as the challenges of navigating difficult conversations, the current wave of transphobia, and the profound impact of language on perception and interaction. barbara shares her experiences and strategies in dealing with these issues, offering valuable insights into the complexities of social justice advocacy.

    43 min
  6. Corey Nathan - Talkin' Politics and Religion without Killing Each Other

    02/12/2024

    Corey Nathan - Talkin' Politics and Religion without Killing Each Other

    Corey Nathan is the Executive Producer and Host of the Talkin Politics & Religion Without Killing Each Other podcast. In this podcast, we discuss the importance of words and conversations in various aspects of life. Corey Nathan shares his background as a stockbroker and theatre conservatory student, as well as his experiences as an entrepreneur and podcast producer. We emphasize the need to build bridges and have meaningful conversations with people who have different beliefs and perspectives. The conversation delves into the topics of cancel culture and identity politics, with Corey Nathan highlighting the problem of forming judgments based on limited information. They discuss the academic and sociological work being done to understand these phenomena and encourage a more intelligent and inclusive approach. Note: Corey quotes his grandfather and mentions horses behind.

    55 min
  7. Nick Enfield - How We Talk

    01/26/2024

    Nick Enfield - How We Talk

    Nick Enfield is a Professor of Linguistics at the University of Sydney and a co-director of the Sydney Centre for Language Research. His recent books include Language vs. Reality, Consequences of Language, and How We Talk. In this podcast, we discuss the importance of language. Nick emphasizes the need to understand language in its broader context, including its cultural and societal implications. He challenges the idea that language is simply a tool for describing reality, arguing that it is a choice individuals make to frame their experiences and perspectives. Enfield also highlights the role of language in shaping our understanding of the world and the importance of recognizing linguistic diversity.

    1 hr
  8. Vanessa Faloye - Holding space for liberation!

    12/17/2023

    Vanessa Faloye - Holding space for liberation!

    Held is a partnership of facilitators, culture creators, and practitioners building a world liberated from oppressive systems, dynamics, and relationships. In this episode, one of their founders, Vanessa Faloye explains how with the help of co-founders, Alex and Pria, how they hold people, organizations and movements to build relational skills and cultural practices rooted in collective liberation. Our conversation highlights the need for improved communication and understanding about important social issues. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, challenging oppressive systems, and creating spaces for dialogue and growth. The work of the Held Collective aims to foster collective liberation and create a world where everyone can experience freedom, safety, and dignity.

    1h 17m
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About

Sticks & Stones, Roots & Bones is the name of this podcast series and part of my Ph.D. dissertation work at the University of British Columbia. I explore the power of words in a polarized world by looking at the psychological, cultural, and emotional components of these conversational ecosystems to gain insight and improve on existing knowledge of how we engage with each other. I invite activists, academics, and change-makers around the world to join us and share how they engage in difficult conversations.

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