Get Uncomfortable

Adam Smith

Do you let out an audible sigh of frustration every time someone says, “We’ve never been more divided” and wish you had a space to engage in dialogue that shows this is simply not true? Or maybe you have a gut feeling that your lived experience isn’t the only one out there but you’ve never known anyone that was significantly different from yourself. The Get Uncomfortable Podcast is for anyone wanting to build community by and through making the uncomfortable conversations about politics, religion, and race common-place. Get started here twice a month and see where this journey can take you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 06/16/2024

    REBROADCAST: Don't Make Juneteenth Uncomfortable Too

    In this conversation on the podcast "Get Uncomfortable," Adam Smith and Ersaleen Hope discuss the significance of Juneteenth, America's "real Freedom Day," and its recent adoption and commercialization. Ersaleen Hope shares her experience of how Juneteenth was acknowledged but not truly celebrated or commemorated in her family prior to 2021. She attributes this to a lack of awareness and the tendency to water down the history of racism and oppression in the United States, both in personal upbringing and the education system. The guest also highlights how her husband, being from the Caribbean, wasn't exposed to Juneteenth until he entered the workforce. However, she expresses optimism and pride in the growing recognition of Juneteenth post-2021, including attending Juneteenth festivals and engaging in community work. The host reflects on the complexities of racism and the need for people to have their eyes opened to its pervasive effects. They draw parallels to a scene from the miniseries Roots, where the celebration of Independence Day contrasts sharply with the experience of enslaved individuals. The conversation touches on the challenges of reconciling military service and patriotism with the awareness that freedom and equality were not extended to all on historical American holidays like July 4th. The importance of questioning and being critical of one's country in the pursuit of true patriotism is emphasized, echoing James Baldwin's perspective. Reparations are an important part of the conversation as well. Reparations can take various forms, such as financial compensation, investments in community development, and targeted policies that address the specific needs of marginalized communities. It's about recognizing the generational impact of slavery, segregation, and discrimination and taking concrete steps to rectify those injustices. But repair goes beyond just policies and financial compensation. It requires a fundamental shift in the culture and mindset of the country. It means actively dismantling systemic racism and white supremacy, challenging implicit biases, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all. It requires individuals, institutions, and the government to commit to long-term, sustained efforts to address and rectify the deep-seated inequities that exist. It won't be an easy or quick process, but it's necessary if we truly want to achieve a just and equitable society. It requires an ongoing commitment to self-reflection, education, and action at all levels of society. And most importantly, it requires listening to the voices and experiences of those who have been marginalized and centering their needs and perspectives in the process of repair. Get Uncomfortable with Adam A. Smith is produced in partnership between Adam A. Smith and Rachel Hanson. If you're interested in sponsoring Get Uncomfortable please feel free to reach out to Adam (adam@hearadamspeak.com) or Rachel (rachelhanson10@gmail.com). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  2. 05/12/2024

    The Unseen Path: Embracing Divine Callings

    💬 Show Notes In this profound episode, we explore the intersection of faith, calling, and the pursuit of peace with Doctor Aaron Kelson. Tune in as we discuss the challenges of following a divinely inspired path, the true meaning of peace, and how embracing one's calling can lead to a life of purpose despite the absence of worldly peace. Dr. Kelson's journey from a non-traditional student to a PhD in forestry economics and beyond exemplifies the courage and faith required to navigate life's storms. Don't miss this insightful conversation that delves into the essence of spiritual peace and the power of divine guidance. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (00:15) Doctor Aaron Kelson's Background (00:30) The Concept of Worldly Peace (00:45) Finding Peace Through Nature and Faith (01:00) The Role of Divine Inspiration in Life's Journey (01:15) Embracing One's Calling and Overcoming Doubt (01:30) The Importance of Trusting in Divine Guidance (01:45) Distinguishing Divine Inspiration from Personal Desires (02:00) The Promise of Romans 8:28 and Following God's Purpose (02:15) Conclusion Show notes created by https://headliner.app --- 🎙️ Thanks for podcasting with Headliner! Join the Conversation: We value your feedback and welcome your questions or suggestions for future topics. Reach out to us via email at rachelhanson10@gmail.com or adam@hearadamspeak.com, or leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don't forget to share this episode with friends and family to help spread the conversation and encourage others to "Get Uncomfortable." V0V6zcbtTjNl1boyRosV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  3. 05/05/2024

    The Grit Myth: Exploring Passion and Privilege

    Explore the complexities of 'grit' in today's episode, where we unravel its psychological underpinnings with Dr. Laurie Scheiner. We dissect how grit has been measured in education, its ties to privilege, and the potential pitfalls of overemphasizing this trait. Dr. Scheiner, with her extensive background in higher education, offers a nuanced perspective on the intersection of grit, success, and systemic barriers. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and invites us to consider the true drivers of achievement. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (04:22) Defining Grit and Its Misconceptions (08:15) The Origin and Application of Grit in Education (12:45) Grit vs. Growth Mindset (17:30) The Privilege of Grit and its Implications (23:10) Grit in Higher Education and Access (28:50) The Role of Support and Community in Developing Grit (34:25) Systemic Barriers and the Misuse of Grit (40:00) The Impact of Grit on Faculty and Staff (45:15) Creating Thriving Educational Environments (50:30) Conclusion Join the Conversation: We value your feedback and welcome your questions or suggestions for future topics. Reach out to us via email at rachelhanson10@gmail.com or adam@hearadamspeak.com, or leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don't forget to share this episode with friends and family to help spread the conversation and encourage others to "Get Uncomfortable." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Do you let out an audible sigh of frustration every time someone says, “We’ve never been more divided” and wish you had a space to engage in dialogue that shows this is simply not true? Or maybe you have a gut feeling that your lived experience isn’t the only one out there but you’ve never known anyone that was significantly different from yourself. The Get Uncomfortable Podcast is for anyone wanting to build community by and through making the uncomfortable conversations about politics, religion, and race common-place. Get started here twice a month and see where this journey can take you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.