Ep. 14– Humanity, Humility, and a History of Lessons with Dr. Michelle Pledger

Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, we welcome Dr.Michelle Pledger, an educator, speaker, and advocate whose work centers on culturally responsive living and teaching. Michelle shares how integrating mindfulness into daily life and classroom practice can deepen cultural awareness, foster genuine connections, and create spaces where all identities are honored.

 As the Founder of Living for Liberation and Director of Liberation at the High Tech High Graduate School of Education, Dr. Pledger shares what it means to truly center liberation in education. From disrupting systemic inequities to designing culturally responsive learning environments, her insights challenge us all to rethink the purpose of education.

We also discuss her new book, LIBERATE! Pocket-Sized Paradigms for Liberatory Learning, and how educators can take practical steps toward creating affirming, justice-centered classrooms.

What We Cover

00:00 – Welcome + introduction to Dr. Pledger

02:26 – Turning pain into purpose

03:23 – The healing power of dancing and movement

10:26 – “Sometimes I just do things just to see if I can”

30.23 – How to partner with Michelle

30:48– Highlights from LIBERATE! and how educators can use it

31:05 – Subscribe to Liberation Love Letter31:17 – Anchor, Breathe, Check-in, Do It

Resources & Links

Dr. Michelle Pledger’s Book: LIBERATE! Pocket-Sized Paradigms for Liberatory Learning → https://michellepledger.com/books-%26-resources

Listen to Dr. Pledger’s Podcast: The U&U Podcast: Unearthing & Uplifting
 → https://michellepledger.com/the-u%26u-podcast

Learn More About Living for Liberation:
 → https://michellepledger.comStay Connected

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Website: https://www.joymeetspain.com/

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