Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People Simma Lieberman

The Modern Elder Academy, is a space for healing, self-reflection, and personal transformation for the “Modern Elder.” It helps people redefine what it means to be a modern elder and make choices about the next phase of their lives. So, if this need is true for everyone, why is there a need for a week just for Black people? In this conversation on race, my guests and the founder, Chip Conley answer this question. My guests are Wanda Whitaker, Dr. Diane Johnson and Cassius Johnson.
Hear about the significance of listening to intuition and paying attention to physical sensations in personal growth and decision-making. Wanda, Diane and Cassius talk about  the wisdom found in the head, heart, and body, beyond mere intellect, and share experiences where following intuition led to profound transformations.
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Dr. Diane Johnson stresses the importance of recognizing intuitive wisdom manifested through physical sensations, guiding individuals through significant moments and decisions. Personal stories shared by guests underscore the transformative power of listening to intuition and physical cues, leading to healing, self-discovery, and profound insights.
Wanda Whitaker emphasizes the healing potential of spaces like the Modern Elder Academy, where individuals can share stories, engage in rituals, and connect deeply with others. The episode underscores the value of honoring intuition and physical sensations as guides for personal growth and decision-making, leading to transformative experiences and insights.
Cassius Johnson shares his personal experiences, what brought him to the Modern Elder Academy and why he wants more Black people to attend the Black Modern Elder Academy Week.
Time Stamps
[00:01:16] The Modern Elder Academy- a new way to be an elder
[00:06:29] The need for a Black Modern Elder Academy.
[00:14:07] Modern Elder Academy for Black Folks.
[00:20:29] Black Modern Elder Academy Origins.
[00:26:41] Diversity and scholarship impact.
[00:29:00] Ancestral connection through transformational experiences.
[00:32:46] Creating Courageous Spaces.
[00:37:13] Feeling safe in Black spaces.
[00:44:13] Re-commitment to purpose.
[00:47:09] Healing and transformation.
[00:52:41] Celebrating identity and diversity.
[00:54:23] Trusting intuition for safety.
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Dr. Diane J. Johnson has almost 30 years experience in the business, public and social sectors in a multitude of roles. They include change management consultant, trainer and executive coach, program director, evaluator and researcher, fundraiser, communications/pr lead, and organizational culture specialist. Extraordinarily skilled, purpose-driven, highly intuitive and analytical, Dr. Johnson, Ph.D. is CEO and Founder of Mmapeu Organizational Consulting. Mmapeu is a South African name that means “woman who carries ideas.” Mmapeu Organizational Consulting, a national consulting firm has trained, consulted and worked with more than 12,500 mission-driven individuals, businesses and organizations.


Wanda is CEO of Anchored In Spirit, a California based business, helping individuals and groups to transform, transcend and transmute through the arts and sciences. As an author, certified hypnotherapist, visionary artist and Spiritual teacher, educating and advocating for the betterment of society.
Cassius Johnson is co-founder of Perceptist, a social impact consulting firm that supports non- and for-profit social impact leaders on strategy, innovative operational systems, and change management.  Cassius is a purpose-driven strategic leader who finds great joy and meaning in developing strategies that advance solutions that improve life outcomes for the most vulnerable people and communities in our society. He has developed his diverse skills through a career that includes leadership roles in government, philanthropy, and nonprofit and for-pro

 
Are you ready for a conversation on race, power, and Harvard in this Conversation on Race. Why are Black women leaders at Harvard and other institutions being targeted? Simma The Inclusionist, and Deborah Ashton dive deep into the controversial world of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Harvard, shedding light on the power struggles and systemic racism that still plague our society. Find out what is real, and what is witch-hunting in this scandalous attack on Black female leaders.

Discover the shocking truth behind the attacks on DEI initiatives at Harvard, orchestrated by fear-driven individuals like Christopher Rufo. Uncover the hidden agendas and deliberate efforts to dismantle progress in racial equality, as revealed by Deborah Ashton, co-chair of the DEI committee of Harvard Black Alumni.

Hear Deborah Ashton's story of living in the projects of Chicago, while attending Harvard, and being told to prove she belonged at academic events.

Explore the dark underbelly of systemic racism, where power and privilege dictate who belongs and who doesn't. From the struggles of Black women at Harvard to the global impact of racial stereotypes, this episode will challenge your perceptions and ignite a fire for change.
Join the conversation as Simma and Deborah unravel the complexities of race, power, and fear at one of the world's most prestigious institutions.

Tune in now to Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, for an electrifying discussion that will challenge your beliefs and inspire you to take action. Let's break down barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Listen now and be part of the change!
 
Time Stamps:
[00:03:22] The importance of discussing race.
[00:06:43] Overcoming adversity and education.
[00:09:03] Understanding poverty in the US.
[00:14:48] Assumptions based on appearance.
[00:19:21] Perpetuation of welfare stereotypes.
[00:23:55] Harvard and racism at play.
[00:27:24] DEI and hiring practices.
[00:32:02] Systemic racism against Chinese people.
[00:36:05] White entitlement in education.
[00:41:40] The power of propaganda.
[00:44:21] Diversity and inclusion impact on sales.
[00:47:48] White power movement for change.
[00:53:27] Race conversation advice.
[00:59:02] Impactful theater experiences.
[01:03:41] Personal experiences on race.
 
Dr. Deborah Ashton is a licensed psychologist, has 30+ years of cross-industry experience. Dr. Ashton is a diversity, equity and inclusion strategist. She received her doctorate from Harvard University and studied with Dr. Chester ‘Chet’ Pierce, who coined the term “microaggression”. She headed diversity and inclusion for Medtronic, Darden Restaurants, Harley-Davidson, Novant Health and Argonne National Laboratory. She is the former Chief of Test Development and Validation for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Dr. Ashton specializes in organizational psychology and developing an inclusive workplace. She provides guidance and coaching on how to mitigate unconscious bias in the workplace and in talent management. She has published in the Harvard Business Review, Diversity MBA, Diversity Executive, etc. Her Harvard Business Review articles are Does Race or Gender Matter More to Your Paycheck? and What HR Can Do to Fix the Gender Pay Gap. She chaired the peer review board for the Diversity Business Review, a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) journal written by DEI practitioners for DEI practitioners, Human Resources and line management. In addition, Dr. Ashton serves as the Chief Psychologist & Learning Officer for Diversity Learning Solutions, part of A P & L Group Brand, along with Diversity MBA.
Email: drdashton@planetperspective.com
LinkedIn
 
Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Ever

In this episode, Simma Lieberman The Inclusionist, interviews Ed Aymar, an award-winning author known for his multicultural crime thrillers. Ed, originally from Panama, shares insights
into his background, military upbringing, and how he got into writing. The conversation
explores the intersection of race, culture, and storytelling in the context of crime fiction.
They discuss Ed Aymar's acclaimed works, such as No Home for Killers and When She
Left," highlighting his unique perspective as a multicultural crime thriller writer. Tune in
for a thought-provoking discussion on inclusivity and diverse perspectives in literature.
The increase in multicultural crime thrillers from authors outside the US and also Black, Latino,
Asian and Native American in the US continue to make the genre more diverse and exciting.

Join Simma Lieberman and author Ed Aymar, a Panamanian author of crime thrillers in a
captivating conversation about multicultural crime thrillers and the importance of diversity in
literature.

Key Points:
• Ed Aymar, an award-winning author of crime thrillers, shares insights into his writing
journey and the impact of multiculturalism in crime thrillers. Ed’s most recent book,
“When She Left,” is a must-read for any lover of crime fiction, and especially if you love
learning about different cultures.
•The discussion in this between Ed Aymar and Simma Lieberman The Inclusionist delves
into the representation of diverse characters in literature and the evolving landscape of
publishing.
• Explore the significance of identity, allyship, and speaking up in today's society through
the lens of literature and storytelling.
Questions to Consider:
• How does literature, play a role in shaping our understanding of diversity and culture?
• What impact do diverse characters in books have on readers' perspectives and empathy?
• How can we support and amplify voices from underrepresented communities in the
literary world?

Takeaways:
• Discover the power of multicultural crime thrillers in fostering inclusivity and
representation.
• Gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of writers of color in the publishing
industry.
• Explore the evolving dynamics of identity, allyship, and advocacy in literature and
beyond.

Action steps to take in the conversation on race:
• Listen to the episode to delve deeper into the conversation on multicultural crime thrillers
and diversity in literature.
•Share the podcast with friends and family to spark meaningful discussions on race,
identity, and representation.
• Consider supporting diverse authors and amplifying marginalized voices in the literary
world.
Don't  miss out on this engaging episode that sheds light on the importance of multicultural
storytelling and the impact of diverse voices in literature. Tune in to gain valuable insights and
perspectives on race, identity, and allyship in the world of crime thrillers.
Key Moments 
00:02:05 - Ed Aymar's Background and Writing Journey
00:03:02 - Multiculturalism in Crime Thrillers
00:04:27 - Accountability in Cultural Representation
00:05:47 - Misidentification and Sensitivity Reading
00:06:10 - The Importance of Belonging and Support Groups
00:07:43 - The Impact of Stereotypes and Publishing Challenges
00:10:27 - Diversity Panels at Writing Conferences and Tokenizing
00:11:09 - Historical Context of Multicultural Crime Writing
00:17:09 - The Debate on Updating Older Books with Racist Content
00:20:27 - The Current State of Diversity and Identity in Literature
00:21:03 - The Controversy Over White Authors Writing Diverse Characters
00:30:05 - The Shift in Publishing Towards Diverse Voices
00:31:10 - The Importance of Diversity in Storytelling
00:36:06 - The Authenticity of Cultural Representation in Fiction
00:37:38 - The Responsibility of Allies in Promoting Diversity
00:38:07 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Guest bio:
 Multiple Anthon

In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People," Simma sits down with Tony Franklin, also known as Tony Tidbit, the Vice President of Advertising, Sales, and Client Partnerships at DirecTV. Tony shares his personal experiences as a Black executive in corporate America and discusses the importance of open and honest conversations about race.
Simma and Tony discuss the challenges faced by people of color in corporate America, including the pressure to assimilate and the fear of being labeled as "too aggressive." Tony shares a personal story about trying to fit in by dressing and speaking like his white colleagues, only to realize that being himself was the key to his success.
They also delve into the issues surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Tony highlights the resistance some organizations have towards implementing DEI initiatives, often due to unfounded fears of losing something. He emphasizes the need for companies to diversify their ranks and create a safe environment for all employees to thrive.
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The conversation touches on the importance of building emotional connections and breaking down barriers between people of different races. Tony shares his own experience of starting an open conversation on race at work, where employees could share their perspectives and learn from one another. He emphasizes the power of active listening and creating a safe space for dialogue.
Throughout the episode, Tony and Simma stress the need for individuals to take action and speak up about racial issues. They encourage listeners to step out of their comfort zones, engage in conversations about race, and challenge their own unconscious biases. By doing so, they believe that real change can happen in both corporate America and society as a whole.
Check out another great podcast on race hosted by my friend and colleague “Tony Franklin aka Tony Tidbit,” A Black Executive Perspective
To listen to more episodes of "Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People," visit www.raceconvo.com. And don't forget to share the show with others who are interested in having open and honest conversations about race.
 
Takeaways from this episode:
·         Be yourself and embrace your unique talents and personality in the workplace.
·         Managers play a crucial role in creating an inclusive environment and empowering their employees.
·         Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are essential for the success of organizations.
·         Building emotional connections and engaging in open conversations about race can break down barriers and foster understanding.
·         Individuals should take action by speaking up, challenging unconscious biases, and actively listening to others.
 
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Tony Franklin (Tony Tidbit) Bio
Tony currently serves as Vice President of Advertising Sales and Client Partnerships at
DIRECTV, where he brings a wealth of experience to the role, boasting over 27 years in
the media industry.
Motivated by the events surrounding George Floyd, Tony initiated a workplace series
titled "An Open Conversation on Race" This initiative provides a safe environment for open and honest discussions, aiming to raise awareness and educate individuals on
various aspects of race, particularly within the context of Corporate America.
Tony is the founder and host (Tony Tidbit) of “A Black Executive Perspective
Podcast.” A podcast that sheds light on intersectionality, systemic racism, and other
challenging issues shrouding the experiences of Black professionals in America's
corporate environment. Beyond his professional endeavors, Tony channels his passion
for motivation into Tony's Tidbits, a daily inspirational email reaching thousands of
recipients nationwide.

Outside of work, Tony prioritizes qu

 In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Simma, the Inclusionist, engages in a candid conversation with Patricia Mushim Ikeda, a Japanese-American Buddhist and mindfulness teacher, and Joel Davis Brown, an African-American man who is an author, an organizational development consultant and spoken word artist. Together, they delve into the controversial topic of cancel culture, exploring its impact on society and the importance of fostering dialogue across racial and ideological divides.
 The episode begins by addressing the viral nature of outrage and disgust on social media, which fuels cancel culture. The guests emphasize the need for critical thinking skills and the ability to engage in respectful discourse, rather than resorting to attacking and silencing others. They highlight the importance of recognizing nuance, understanding power dynamics, and promoting empathy in conversations about race and other sensitive topics.
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The conversation also touches on the complexities of cancel culture, including the challenges of determining what is offensive and who gets to decide. The Joel and Mushim share personal anecdotes and examples, highlighting the potential for growth and change when people are open to dialogue and willing to learn from one another. They emphasize the value of embracing diversity, practicing grace, and creating spaces for genuine connection.
Overall, this episode encourages listeners to challenge the polarizing nature of cancel culture and instead foster a conversational culture that promotes understanding, empathy, and personal growth. It serves as a reminder that by engaging in meaningful dialogue, we can break down barriers, challenge assumptions, and build bridges across differences.
 
Key Points:
●        What is cancel culture? Cancel culture is the act of attacking and ostracizing individuals for their beliefs, actions, or statements, often on social media platforms.
●        It is characterized by a lack of dialogue, understanding, and empathy, as people quickly dismiss and "cancel" others without giving them a chance to learn, grow, or change.
●        Cancel culture relies on outrage and disgust, hijacking our brain chemistry and preventing critical thinking and open-mindedness.
●        Joel Davis Brown and Mushim Ikeda emphasize the need for critical thinking skills, empathy, and open dialogue to combat cancel culture and promote inclusivity.
●        There is a difference between unintentional errors, mistakes and lack of knowledge, and people who consciously espouse hate in their language, actions, and writing.
●        Mushim, Joel, and Simma see and have experienced the potential for growth and change in individuals.
●        Cancel culture can hinder progress toward a more inclusive society by shutting down conversations and alienating individuals who may have the potential to become allies or advocates.
●        There needs to be allowance for grace, resilience, and empowerment in navigating difficult conversations and promoting understanding across different perspectives.
●        Simma Lieberman, Joel Davis Brown, and Mushim Ikeda share their own personal stories of saying the "wrong thing," because they didn't have the right information.
●        They caution against the dangers of focusing on mistakes in specific terminology, instead of addressing the broader issues of systemic inequality and discrimination.
●        Canceling someone who has made an unintentional error, rather than engaging with that person, asking what they meant, and sharing the impact is lazy. It's an indication of a certain kind of privilege.
●        Cancel culture can hinder the development of genuine connections and hinder the opportunity for personal growth and learning.
●        Ultimately we want p

In this powerful podcast episode, Simma Lieberman interviews three faith leaders from the Faith Trio - Pastor Ben Daniel, Ali Sheikhaslani, and Rabbi David Cooper. Each of these leaders brings a unique perspective and experience to the conversation, making it even more impactful.
The Faith Trio is a group that aims to foster understanding and empathy among different faith communities. They recognize the increase in Islamophobia and antisemitism in today's world and believe that now, more than ever, it is crucial to come together and combat these prejudices.
Throughout the episode, the faith leaders share their personal experiences and perspectives on the Israel-Gaza war and other conflicts. They emphasize the importance of compassion and empathy during these challenging times. Rabbi David Cooper highlights the need to know each other on a personal level, stating, "When you know the other, all of a sudden, you're not dealing with some abstract collectivity, you're actually dealing with real human beings."
Rabbi David talks about his Palestinian and Israeli friends that he has had for years and is concerned for their safety.
Ali Sheikhaslani discusses the dehumanization that occurs during conflicts and the impact it has on both sides. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the humanity of all individuals involved and treating them with dignity and respect. Ali also mentions the need for equal rights and understanding, stating, "Unless dignity is given to Palestinians... any foreign solution... will not bring peace." Seeing so many Jewish people speak out in support of a ceasefire is inspiring to Ali and others.
Pastor Ben Daniel shares his experiences with right-wing Christians who believe in supporting Israel no matter what. He acknowledges the dangers of Christian Zionism and the underlying anti-Semitism that can be present in this ideology. He emphasizes the importance of making peace and letting go of revenge, stating, "You can't fight your way to peace. You have to make peace."
The speakers also discuss the need for individuals to genuinely feel and understand the pain of both sides involved in a conflict. They argue that it is not enough to simply pay lip service to the suffering of one side. Instead, individuals must truly feel and comprehend the pain to strategically act in a way that supports both sides. This understanding is seen as crucial in bridging the gap of identity and working towards a more inclusive society.
The faith leaders also provide solutions and action steps for listeners to promote empathy and understanding. They encourage education about different faiths and cultures, engaging in meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds, and actively challenging stereotypes and prejudices.
Overall, this episode highlights the importance of compassion and empathy during times of conflict. It sheds light on the experiences and perspectives of these faith leaders and their commitment to promoting understanding and peace. It serves as a reminder that by knowing and empathizing with one another, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.
If you want to see a peaceful, lasting solution it’s essential to understand the pain of both Israelis and Palestinians.
 
Guests Bio
Ben Daniel has served as pastor and head of staff at Montclair Presbyterian Church since March of 2014.
Born in Palo Alto and raised in Mendocino, Ben earned his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Religious Studies at Westmont College with an emphasis in urban ministry.  He received his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and was ordained in 1993.  Before moving to Oakland, he he served as Pastor/Head of Staff at Foothill Presbyterian Church in San Jose for sixteen years.  Prior to that, he spent four years as Pastor of the  Community Presbyterian Church in Gonzales, CA.


David J. Cooper is a co-founder of Kehilla Community Synagogue and