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 Empathy 06:19 Understanding Deconstruction 10:11 The Rise of Deconstruction in the Western Church 11:11 Dave Capozzi's Personal Journey of Deconstruction 13:45 The Role of Whiteness in Christianity 19:29 Different Perspectives on Jesus 26:34 The Importance of Empathy in Christian Faith 30:02 Challenges in Missionary Work and Church Planting 30:30 The Need for Perspective Shift in the Church 31:04 Expanding Topics on TikTok 32:27 Encouraging Empathy in the Classroom 42:05 Faith and Activism 48:33 Exploring Empathy, Faith, and Social Justice on the Dig New Streams Podcast 51:53 Advice for Personal Deconstruction 54:32 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.

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 Mekdes 09:45 The Lack of Empathy in Traditional Western Mission Practices 30:17 Listening and Understanding: A New Approach to Mission Work 46:48 Women in Mission: Leading a New Wave of Initiatives 53:40 Guidance from the Holy Spirit: Embracing a Unique Path in Mission Work

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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.

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 Empathy 01:11 Influence of Musical Theater on Teaching Empathy 07:48 Trauma-Informed Mindfulness Practices 10:48 Somatic Practices and Cultivating Self-Empathy 14:28 Empathy-Focused Practices with Awaken Pittsburgh 21:27 Integrative Community Therapy Model and Empathy 25:20 Challenges and Rewards of Teaching Empathy 32:23 Strategies for Empathizing with Oneself 35:39 Misconceptions about Empathy 38:26 Personal Story of Profound Empathy 44:26 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.