Ready To Be Strong
In each episode we explore timely topics, fostering knowledge, skills, and empowerment. Together, we'll broaden our minds, open our hearts, and strengthen connections to face the challenges of living in a divided world. Tania Israel is a psychologist, professor, and award-winning author of two books about navigating political division. Elizabeth Scharpf is a social entrepreneur, leader in global innovation and impact, and urgent optimist.
Episodes
In this conversation, Tania and Elizabeth discusses Elizabeth's effective altruism and the need for more thoughtful philanthropy, emphasizing the value of direct community involvement and the connections formed through shared experiences. Through Elizabeth's transition from global work in Eastern Africa to focusing on local community engagement in California, she reflects on her experiences in international development, th...
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the intersection of sports and political division, discussing how sports can foster community, connection, and a sense of belonging among diverse individuals. They delve into the tribalism inherent in fandom, the cultural shifts in youth sports, and the importance of real-life engagement in overcoming societal divides.
Summary
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth discuss the concept of capacity building, emphasizing its importance in community engagement and individual empowerment. They explore the shift from traditional charitable approaches to empowering communities to solve their own problems. The conversation highlights the significance of self-care, collective action, and the need for positive community engagement in the face of political pol...
Summary
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the evolving concepts of safety, harm, and trauma in today’s society. They discuss how feelings of being “unsafe” have become more common, even when there is no immediate physical threat, due in part to what psychologists call “concept creep”—the broadening of definitions for trauma and harm. They examine how generational differences, cultural shifts, and increased awareness of mi...
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth discuss the importance of activism and community engagement, particularly in the context of the recent Hands Off protests. They explore the effectiveness of protests, the need for ongoing activism beyond the initial demonstration, and the significance of local versus national efforts. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of building skills for effective advocacy, navigating political con...
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth explore the decline of civic engagement in society, referencing Robert Putnam's work 'Bowling Alone' and the film 'Join or Die'. They discuss the importance of social capital, the differences between online and in-person connections, and the generational perspectives on community involvement. The conversation highlights the role of civic organizations in fostering community ties, the significanc...
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth delve into the pervasive issue of misinformation, exploring its roots in cognitive bias, the importance of reliable sources, and the narratives that shape public perception. They discuss how misinformation can exacerbate divisions in society and the role of media in framing these narratives. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and bridging divides through genuine curiosity and...
In this episode, Tania and Elizabeth navigate through overwhelm in the wake of recent political activities targeting USAID, DEI, and LGBTQ people. They share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed by the rapid changes and the emotional toll it takes. The conversation explores coping mechanisms, the importance of human connection, and the potential for rebuilding and improving systems in the future.
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In this episode, Tania chats with Pema Rocker about the significance of oaths, commitments, and aspirations in the context of democracy and community engagement. They explore the presidential oath, the Constitution, and the importance of individual and collective commitments to strengthen democracy. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, listening, and personal growth as essential components of active citizenship a...
Welcome to the new year and a jew journey with Ready to Be Strong. In our first episode in 2025, we introduce you to our new co-host to the show as we embark upon a new Administration on this inauguration day.
On the cusp of a new chapter in U.S. history, Tania and Elizabeth explore the concept of fresh starts, discussing how to embrace new beginnings in various aspects of life. They delve into the importance of releasing the past...
What Tania find most frustrating when it comes to talking politics, and so much more!
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
Pema Rocker ...
Tania and Pema unpack what they’re thinking and feeling about the 2024 election, not as authors and experts, but as dear friends just trying to figure it out.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books ab...
In this solo episode, Tania shares stories from her time canvassing in Pennsylvania just before the 2024 election.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing with political division.
https:...
Are you struggling with anger after the 2024 election? Tania is joined by her friend, a Buddhist lama, to talk strategies for making sense of our big feelings about politics.
Tania’s latest book is Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about deali...
Tania and Pema unpack their feelings around the 2024 election results, and how understanding grief can help us cope and move forward — in our own time.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about deal...
Did you know there are over 500 organizations who are already working together to strengthen social cohesion and democracy in the US? Tania and Pema dig into some inspiring examples, figure out ways to get involved, and unpack why it can feel so daunting to take baby steps towards a less divided future — and share their insight for how to get around that.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to ...
Feeling anxious or unsure about the election? There’s a ton you can do to get involved. Tania and Pema break down what it’s really like to knock doors, write postcards, and more.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and aut...
Tania and Pema talk tips, tricks, and some surprising research behind how to have an effective conversation with someone who disagrees with you.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dealing wi...
Tania and Pema explore what's so hard about practicing compassion — seriously. Plus why it's worth it, and one of Tania's preferred methods of cultivating it.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books ...
Pema and Tania talk about the emotional toll of broadening our minds, and why it’s important to do some of this work on our own, instead of in dialogue.
Find more on this topic in Tania’s latest book, Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation.
https://taniaisrael.com/writing-books/facing-the-fracture-book/
Tania Israel is a professor of counseling psychology and author of two books about dea...
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