Empathy isn’t the problem—but lately, some voices claim that it is, arguing that empathy leads to irrational decisions or even “civilizational suicide.” If you’re someone who cares deeply, you probably reject the idea that empathy is a threat to society. In fact, you likely believe we need more empathy in the world, not less. Yet at the same time, you might find yourself struggling with empathy exhaustion and wondering how to stay engaged without burning out. This episode is to help you unpack how this flawed argument is connected to your exhaustion and how you can stay engaged in meaningful social change while caring for yourself as a compassionate person.
In this episode of Mindset Unlimited, I explore why empathy isn't the problem or the solution but a complex human capacity that we need to understand to avoid manipulation and prevent burnout.
Some of what I explore in this episode includes:
- Unmasking the manipulation of empathy in political and media narratives
- Breaking the cycle of empathy and self-erasure
- Understanding compassion fatigue
- Engaging practical tools for emotional resilience
EPISODES REFERENCED:
How to Avoid Overwhelm and Access Joy
How to Prioritize Your Needs (Beyond Maslow)
How to Navigate Societal Gaslighting and Stay Empowered
LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE:
Are Billionaires Good For Society?
From Compassion Fatigue to Resilience
Why a Lack of Empathy Is the Root of All Evil
Social Change Now by Deepa Iyer
CONNECT WITH VALERIE:
Sign up for Valerie’s newsletter
This podcast was produced by Valerie Friedlander Coaching
Proud member of the Feminist Podcasters Collectiv
Popular Podcasts
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.
The Charlie Kirk Show
Charlie is America's hardest working grassroots activist who has your inside scoop on the biggest news of the day and what's really going on behind the headlines. The founder of Turning Point USA and one of social media's most engaged personalities, Charlie is on the front lines of America’s culture war, mobilizing hundreds of thousands of students on over 3,500 college and high school campuses across the country, bringing you your daily dose of clarity in a sea of chaos all from his signature no-holds-barred, unapologetically conservative, freedom-loving point of view. You can also watch Charlie Kirk on Salem News Channel