All Episodes

October 10, 2025 28 mins

Keywords

Bridge the Gap, #storytelling , #compassion , #workplacedynamics , emotional healing, #writing, curiosity, #identity, #humanconnection , personal growth

Summary

In this episode of the More In Common Podcast, hosts Gerren Taylor and Keith Richardson welcome Katie McCleary, author of 'Bridge the Gap' and founder of a youth writing nonprofit. The conversation explores the importance of storytelling, the role of writing in healing, and how curiosity can bridge divides in the workplace. Katie shares her personal journey, the impact of her background on her work, and the significance of understanding different perspectives. The discussion also delves into the challenges of judgment and the need for compassion in human interactions.

Takeaways

Katie McCleary emphasizes the power of storytelling in understanding human dynamics. 'Bridge the Gap' aims to address political polarization in workplaces. Curiosity is essential for bridging differences between individuals. Katie's background in poverty shapes her compassion for others. Writing serves as a therapeutic tool for healing and connection. The human ache to be seen and known is universal. Different environments influence how stories are told and experienced. Judgment is tied to our nervous system and affects our interactions. The mind and brain are distinct, impacting our emotional responses. Compassion and curiosity are vital for navigating tough conversations.

Sound bites

"We have personified the amygdala as Amy." "I want to live in the limbic system." "This conversation has always lived in therapy."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:24 Katie's Origin Story and Passion for Storytelling 03:34 Bridging the Gap: Understanding Differences 05:52 The Journey of Collaboration: Katie and Jennifer's Story 08:29 Compassion and Curiosity in Challenging Environments 10:48 The Role of Writing in Healing and Connection 12:30 Writing as a Tool for Self-Discovery 16:41 The Impact of Environment on Storytelling 19:58 Judgment and the Human Experience 23:30 Navigating the Mind: Amy and the Lizard Brain 27:33 Conclusion and Future Conversations

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