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The Ben & Jamesa Podcast
Welcome to The Ben & Jamesa Podcast, where we explore the shift from control to connection. In each episode, we share personal stories, dive into current events, and examine the oppressive systems that shape our lives and work. We challenge you to unlearn old patterns and build more compassionate, authentic connections in every area of life.
If you're new here, start with episode #137, “Start Here,” for an overview of our work and podcast. After that, dive into any episode that resonates with you as we break down how to move from control to genuine connection.
The Ben & Jamesa Podcast
Ep. 113: Is Resilience a Racist Myth?
In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with bestselling author Soraya Chemaly to dive into the complexities surrounding the concept of resilience, especially as it relates to race. We explore the idea of resilience as a cultural expectation—asking whether it truly empowers or instead serves to uphold systemic inequalities. Soraya shares insights from her book, The Resilience Myth: New Thinking on Grit, Strength, challenging the narrative that communities of color must be endlessly resilient in the face of oppression. Together, we discuss the impact of this narrative on marginalized communities, how it intersects with race and gender, and what it means for our understanding of healing and justice. As we transition to the next season of our podcast, focused on our own journey of racial awareness and healing, we consider whether it's time to redefine what true strength and support look like.