Purposeful Empathy with Anita Nowak

In the final episode of this special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to discover how SEL (social and emotional learning) can transform classrooms into spaces of co-regulation, belonging, and joy—especially for students who need it most.Aija Simmons, Program Director at 21st Century California School Leadership Academy, shares how raising a neurodivergent child, teaching in inner-city schools, and leading California’s Universal Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Initiative have shaped her understanding of education. She also advocates for play-based learning and joy in the classroom, as well as at home.00:00 Preview01:12 Introduction 01:47 About Aija Simmons03:35 Aija’s backstory06:39 Aija’s understanding of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)10:15 How teachers can help students navigate their emotions through co-regulation14:17 Bringing more joy into classrooms—and why that’s important18:33 Talking about SEL with skeptics20:35 What folks misunderstand about SEL24:32 SEL for parents 29:11 What growing up with an incarcerated parent taught Aija?36:28 The power of play in early childhood education39:40 Why teachers need to learn more about their students43:05 The role of empathy in education45:02 Aija Simmons’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH AIJA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/aijeron-simmons/SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/✩ Artesian Wellness Coaching  http://www.artesianwellcoaching.com ✩ Universal Transitional Kindergarten https://www.csba.org/en/GovernanceAndPolicyResources/ResearchAndPolicyBriefs/Universal-Transitional-Kindergarten#gsc.tab=0Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn why SEL (social emotional learning) practices are key to humanizing classrooms.Dr. Al Rabanera, an award-winning high school math educator in California, reflects on his mission to support At-Promise Students through identity-affirming teaching and advocacy. He also shares how his personal journey as the son of Filipino immigrants informs his commitment to fostering greater equity and a sense of belonging in schools.00:00 Preview00:46 Introduction 01:21 About Dr. Al Rabanera03:29 Al’s backstory06:18 How does a lack of belonging impact learning and self-perception?08:51 Addressing the growing resistance to DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) 13:57 What does “At-Promise” mean and why does it matter in education?16:33 Ways in which leadership roles impact “At-Promise” students21:06 Humanizing the classroom experience27:23 Math as a tool to develop identity33:08 Navigating marginalization in education leadership38:25 The role of empathy in education41:27 What is Al’s go-to self-empathy practice? 43:04 Al Rabanera’s Purposeful Empathy StoryCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH AL✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-rabanera-ed-d-ab855910/overlay/contact-info/✩ X https://x.com/arabaneraSHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/✩ Math in SEL https://mathissel.com/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn how restorative justice and trauma-informed somatic practices lead to collective healing.Sima Savdharia, founder of Square Root Mediation & Facilitation, reflects on their work bridging conflict resolution, spirituality, and education. They also share how their journey from studying abroad in Honduras to supporting youth in Oakland has shaped their commitment to Dr. King’s vision of Beloved Community—grounded in empathy, dialogue, and love.00:00 Preview01:11 Introduction 01:46 About Sima Savdharia04:08 Sima’s backstory07:05 Sima’s understanding of a “Beloved Community”10:51 Understanding conflict and why it’s not inherently bad14:51 Generational trauma and emotional triggers18:40 Why does “Psychological Safety” matter?20:12 Restorative practices in corporate world28:11 Why social media detoxing is a radical act of self-care30:22 The power “Restorative Circles”— and how to do them34:43 Why grounding the nervous system matters in conflict resolution37:31 What is “non-violence” in conflict resolution?41:12 Why is self-awareness the first step to restorative justice?45:35 Lessons from restorative practices and why schools need to slow down?50:01 The role of empathy in education53:34 Sima Savdharia’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH SIMA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sima-savdharia-976151246/✩ Website http://simasavdharia.com SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education, watch this episode to learn why SEL (social emotional learning) starts with the 10% minority; not the 90% majority. Lex Rodriguez, an educator and PhD candidate at the University of Colorado, reflects on how culturally sustaining (not culturally sensitive) practices better support BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth. She also shares insights from her teaching and research on identity, access needs, and the power of empathy to create classrooms in which every student feels seen and safe.00:00 Preview01:00 Introduction 01:34 About Lex Rodriguez03:36 Lex’s backstory04:47 Why is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) so Important?09:31 How does SEL create a safe space for students and teachers?14:22 Empathy starts by asking questions; not making assumptions16:16 Why empathy and curiosity are essential for systemic change19:51 What happens to education when we erase empathy from community?23:35 Culturally sustaining vs. culturally sensitive: what’s the difference?28:27 What SEL educators need beyond curriculum?32:58 How expanding the frame of SEL creates true inclusion35:11 Why does inclusive SEL start with the 10% minority; not the 90% majority?37:45 Discussing the resistance to inclusive education39:50 Decentering whiteness in education43:20 The role of empathy in education50:24 Lex Rodriguez’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH LEX✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-rodriguez-b7799046/✩ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lunar.visual.design/SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational Leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Substack https://lunarvisualdesign.substack.com/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn how to help students “feel more to heal more.”Mychal Mills, co-founder of K.Y.D.S (Kids Conscious Youth Development and Service), shares how his personal journey of loss led him to founding a nonprofit that has impacted over 40,000 youth and educators across New Jersey. He also reflects on the power of mindfulness, sound healing, and Beloved Community as pathways to resilience and collective care.00:00 Preview00:59 Introduction 00:34 About Mychal Mills05:38 Mychal’s understanding of a “Beloved Community”08:25 Mychal’s backstory13:37 The origin story of K.Y.D.S.21:13 Inviting youth into healing: What parents and educators need to know27:31 How educators can practice non-violence every day35:32 Inviting kids to feel in a world that teaches them to be numb41:43 What is sound healing?46:30 Why sound is a universal language of healing49:41 The role of empathy in education54:37 Empathy as a spiritual practice01:06:30     The importance of holding space for grief, grace and gratitude01:09:12     Mychal Mills’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH MYCHAL✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mychalmills/✩ Website www.mychalmills.com ✩ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/journey_inn/?hl=enSHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational Leadership https://www.teleadership.org/✩ KYDS https://www.konscious.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn how vulnerability and love can transform classrooms into spaces of belonging, healing, and hope.Kandace Stallings, a faith leader and SEL (social emotional learning) Specialist in Chicago, reflects on the power of mentorship and unconditional support to help students thrive. She also shares how her own lived experiences now guide her commitment to empathic leadership—in classrooms and beyond.00:00 Preview01:04 Introduction 01:39 About Kandace Stallings03:18 Kandace’s backstory06:48 The role of empathy in education12:04 Why kids can’t learn in school if they don’t feel loved16:04 How are Black women educators holding each other up in 2025?19:11 Kandace’s self-empathy strategies22:54 Finding strength in vulnerability: The power of safe relationships26:40 Why Kandace’s faith deepened after a conversation with her mother29:58 The cycle of empathic leadership: From being mentored to mentoring others33:01 How to overcome imposter syndrome and lead with confidence36:24 Kandace’s natural hair journey40:47 How Kandace overcome self-doubt46:40 Kandace Stallings’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH KANDACE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kandace-stallings-859aa977/✩ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tdl_kanday/SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn why mindfulness practices—especially breathwork—are transformational, especially within educational settings.Nichole Fuller, an art educator in New York who curates and facilitates wellness experiences for students, educators, families and communities, shares how she discovered the healing power of breathwork through her own personal healing journey. She also explains why somatic work offers a gateway to greater health and well-being.00:00 Preview01:03 Introduction 01:37 About Nichole Fuller03:44 Nichole’s backstory06:40 The power of breathwork12:48 How does breathwork regulate our nervous system?17:05 How breathwork builds self-awareness and deepens empathy24:55 Why did breathwork save Nichole’s life?28:54 Nichole’s art: a reflection of healing and growth31:24 Bringing trauma-informed teaching and breathwork into the classroom33:55 Supporting teachers through group breathwork and self-care sessions36:04 How can schools better support teachers’ well-being?40:18 The role of empathy in education43:13 Nichole Fuller’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH NICHOLE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/fuller-nichole-3b861580/✩ FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/nichole.fuller.12SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to hear how a queer, Cuban-born educator’s decision to come out at school has informed his pedagogy, leadership philosophy, and doctoral research. José Jiménez, Deputy Superintendent of District 24 in Queens, NYC, shares how he moved from Miami to NYC to pursue a career in filmmaking and discovered his love for teaching. As a registered Yoga teacher and Vipassana meditator, he also explains why he’s a staunch advocate for student wellness and describes his doctoral research in Urban Education, Policy Studies and Leadership at CUNY.00:00 Preview01:00 Introduction 01:35 About José Jiménez04:18 José’s backstory08:04 What role do educators play in welcoming newcomers to school?14:11 Why SEL (social emotional learning) is essential to inclusive education20:01 Bridging the gap between teachers and administrators through empathy25:11 What parents need to know about the complexity of teaching29:34 José’s self-care practices for managing stress and burnout33:44 How authenticity transforms classrooms and school culture37:40 José’s PhD research in Urban Education46:32 The role of empathy in education53:06 José Jiménez’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH JOSE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-jimenez/SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn how to foster human flourishing in a variety of academic and organizational contexts.YooNa Kim, Director of Well-being and Culture for citiesRISE—a global platform focused on transforming mental health policy and practice—reflects on how academic and workplace pressures shape mental health outcomes. She also describes the co-creation work she is doing in India, Kenya, South Africa, and Sweden.00:00 Preview00:53 Introduction 01:29 About YooNa Kim03:37 YooNa’s backstory09:37 How does academic pressure impact kids’ mental health?14:26 If YooNa could reinvent education, what would she do?17:18 About citiesRISE22:47 Classroom interventions for gratitude, kindness and hope across cultures28:04 The power of self-affirmations34:08 How is empathy defined within different cultural contexts?40:16 The difference between being nice and being kind43:13 What role does empathy play in education?48:50 YooNa Kim’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH YOONA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoonakimcareer/SHOW NOTES✩ citiesRISEVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn why connection and belonging are game-changers for schools and classrooms.Marquin Parks, Academic Engagement and Social Emotional Learning Officer, shares how small acts of kindness like fist bumps, humor, and calming spaces can make or break a student’s experience at school. He also reflects on “Positive Breathing Journeys”, self-empathy practices for educators, and why every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and safe at school. If you care about kids, this is a must-see.00:00 Preview00:59 Introduction 01:34 About Marquin Parks03:12 Marquin’s backstory08:16 Empathy in action: How Marquin build trust with students11:24 Message to parents on behalf of teachers15:45 How to make kids feel safe at school?20:45 The upsides to teaching kids about emotional regulation24:02 The role of mindfulness in transforming school culture29:57 Why do kids need more than discipline in schools?35:22 Practices for educators to manage stress and cultivate self-empathy38:12 About “Wrinkles Wallace,” a book by Marquin Parks43:14 What is the “Pause and Breath Journey”?45:00 The role of empathy in education48:03 Marquin Parks’ Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH MARQUIN✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquin-parks-3518a552/SHOW NOTES✩ Wrinkles Wallace https://wrinkleswallace.blogspot.com/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn more about the power of tenderness.Meena Srinivasan, Director of TEL, explores how tenderness fosters prosocial behavior, psychological safety, mental health, and gratitude. She also reflects on many of the challenges that educators face today, and why true transformation happens within a beloved community. 00:00 Preview00:41 Introduction 01:15 About Meena Srinivasan03:45 Meena’s backstory05:58 Meena’s mission11:40 How did a meditation lead Meena to the science of tenderness?15:23 About Meena’s TEDx talk: Unlocking the Secret Powers of Tenderness20:24 What are the hidden barriers to tenderness?27:52 The somatic nature of tenderness and how it deepens empathy & compassion31:00 What is Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL)?36:12 The role of empathy in education41:05 How deep transformation always happens in beloved community44:45 Meena Srinivasan’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH MEENA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/meenasrinivasan/✩ Website https://www.meenasrinivasan.com/SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational Leadership✩ TED TalkVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn why “racial literacy” is key to fostering belonging and connection in schools.Jasmine Locke, a School Support Specialist at West View High School in Oregon, shares insights from her doctoral research about educational liberation and putting strategies into practice to center student’s voices. She also describes effective student advocacy, and uplifts self-carer practices to nurture resilience in students.00:00 Preview00:56 Introduction 01:30 About Jasmine Locke02:56 Jasmine’s backstory08:05 Jasmine’s reflections on the DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) backlash 10:57 Grounding practices for nurturing emotional resilience15:06 What biomimicry teaches us about diversity and collective thriving?21:33 What is “Educational Liberation”?25:50 What is “Racial Literacy”?28:21 Why SEL (social-emotional learning) is more important than ever31:36 Knowing our history: the first step to collective liberation34:13 The role of empathy in education39:21 Has empathy become a buzzword?43:51 How experiencing empathy at school prepares students to change the world49:44 Challenges of teaching empathy in a world of ubiquitous media54:49 Jasmine Locke’s Purposeful Empathy StoryCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialSHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Caroline Stiernstedt Sahlborn, Chair of the Inner Development Goals, to learn how you can get involved with the IDG movement.In this heartfelt conversation, Caroline discusses the significance of “Bridging Polarities” – this year’s IDG Summit theme, and underscores the importance of reflection and humility, especially as the IDG movement continues to grow rapidly. She also describes why inner development is crucial to mental health, especially for emerging adults.00:00 Preview00:41 Introduction01:19 About Caroline Stiernstedt Sahlborn03:31 Caroline’s backstory05:09 Why Caroline is passionate about youth mental health08:06 The impact of loneliness15:10 What is the origin story of the Inner Development Goals?21:33 Why are the IDGs relevant to emerging adults?26:33 The importance of slowing down–even for the IDG movement31:35 Why movements need humility, not perfection37:11 About the IDG Summit 2025 and how you can participate40:26 Caroline Stiernstedt Sahlborn’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH CAROLINE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-stiernstedt-sahlborn-94412012/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ Inner Development Goals Framework✩ Next in Mind✩ Eskaret FoundationVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Dr. Clementine Msengi, author of Spared, to learn how the IDG skill “Perseverance” helped her overcome unimaginable adversity and loss.In this deeply moving conversation, Clementine shares her harrowing — and miraculous — journey of survival during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. She also explores how faith and inner strength can lead to profound personal growth and inspire compassion, even in the face of grief.00:00 Preview00:40 Introduction 01:18 About Dr. Clementine Msengi03:47 History of the Rwandan genocide06:50 How the IDG definition of “Perseverance” resonates with Clementine09:40 About Clementine’s book, Spared14:47 How Clementine survived an assassination attempt in her final year of high school19:51 How did Clementine escape the prison checkpoint?25:43 Choosing compassion in the face of unspeakable horror26:38 How faith underpinned Clementine’s journey of loss and survival32:02 Finding purpose in a refugee camp39:02 How one small act of kindness helped to restore her faith in humanity 43:43 The significance of attending a “fish funeral”44:28 The power of “Perseverance” through trauma54:38 Dr. Clementine Msengi’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH CLEMENTINE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/clemmsengi/✩ Website http://www.drclem.comSHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ SparedVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Dr. Asta Raami, a leading expert on the role of  intuition in creative processes, to learn how the IDG skill “Creativity” can fuel innovation.In this fascinating conversation, Asta shares insights from her book Intuition Unleashed and offers practical tools like the "archery" technique and the "traffic light" metaphor to help harness our innate capacity for intuition. Asta also highlights stories of visionary inventors like Nikola Tesla and Barbara McClintock, who used intuition and empathy to make groundbreaking discoveries.00:00 Preview00:45 Introduction 01:22 About Dr. Asta Raami03:40 How the IDG definition of “Creativity” resonates with Asta07:04 The overlooked power of intuition in solving complex problems12:12 Practices for developing intuition16:08 How do inventors leverage intuition?20:44 How to add an extra cognitive layer to thinking23:37 How can we make intuition accessible to everyone?28:49 The three B’s of “Creativity”33:19 Empathy as a bridge to intuition37:38 Why being open makes you more creative?42:01 How to use intuition to expand our capacity for “Creativity”?47:02 Dr. Asta Raami’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH ASTA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/asta-raami/✩ Website https://www.innerversity.org/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ Intuition UnleashedVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Dr. Margie Warrell, author of The Courage Gap, to explore why the IDG skill "Courage" is essential for leading with integrity, making values-driven decisions, and taking action despite fear and uncertainty.In this compelling conversation, Margie shares her journey from rural Australia to global leadership, and offers strategies to overcome imposter syndrome. She also emphasizes that courage is not the absence of fear —it’s taking action in spite of it. 00:00 Preview00:42 Introduction 01:19 About Dr. Margie Warrell02:32 Margie’s backstory04:01 How the IDG definition of “Courage” resonates with Margie06:19 Margie’s story of “Courage”10:10 How does “Courage” fuel values, alignment and well-being?15:15 Strategies for overcoming self-doubt and anxiety19:12 The inner work behind impactful leadership23:42 Ways to practice “Courage” and take courageous decisions29:11 How does stress impact decision-making?32:24 Dr. Margie Warrell’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH MARGIE✩ Website https://margiewarrell.com/✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/margiewarrell/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ The Courage Gap✩ TED TalkVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Nipun Mehta, Founder of ServiceSpace, to discover why the IDG skill "Mobilisation" is not just about organizing—it's a key to creating meaningful, transformational change rooted in kindness.In this engaging conversation, Nipun shares his journey from Silicon Valley to founding a global community focused on small acts of generosity. He also highlights the importance of shifting from transactional to relational approaches in social movements.00:00 Preview00:43 Introduction01:20 About Nipun Mehta04:02 Nipun and Anita’s Karma Kitchen experience10:04 Nipun’s big career shift: From tech to service16:17 What Nipun learned on a 1,000 miles walking pilgrimage in India with his wife19:53 The transformative power of compassion23:07 How inner transformation can redefine personal goals and larger systems30:25 How the IDG definition of “Mobilisation” resonates with Nipun34:20 How Nipun’s spontaneous act of kindness sparked a street movement in India38:01 Different forms of wealth40:16 What is “Deep Casting”?43:16 Why we need laddership, not leadership47:51 Why the best leaders don’t always lead53:22 n integrating social change in a society58:17 Nipun Mehta’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH NIPUN✩ Website https://nipun.servicespace.org/✩ Company https://www.servicespace.org/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ TED TalkVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Rose LeMay, CEO of the Indigenous Reconciliation Group and author of Ally Is a Verb, to learn how the IDG skill of “Trust” is essential to anti-racism work and how it can be repaired (when broken) through a process of reconciliation.In this engaging conversation, Rose describes the historical significance of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and outlines five key principles of allyship. She also explains why gaining cultural competence is mostly the responsibility of non-Indigenous and non-racialized people.00:00 Preview01:13 Introduction 01:50 About Rose LeMay05:42 Rose’s backstory10:02 Why anti-racism work matters beyond DEI12:22 How the IDG definition of “Trust” resonates with Rose14:07 What is “Pause Theory”?19:41 What role does “Trust” play in Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission?25:46 Rose’s five key principles of Allyship27:13 Why revisionist history harms society31:02 Why is reconciliation the responsibility of non-Indigenous people?36:24 The inner journey of allyship40:45 How to be an active team player within the context of community44:18 How to re-establish “Trust” after it has been broken49:28 Rose LeMay’s Purposeful Empathy StoryCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH ROSE✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rose-lemay-90a20251/✩ Website https://the-irg.ca/about/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ Ally Is a Verb✩ Canada’s Truth & Reconciliation ReportVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Paul Forbes, a Bias Awareness and Educational Equity Consultant, to discover why the IDG skill “Inclusive Mindset & Intercultural Competence” is not just about awareness—it’s a daily practice of bridging across differences with humility, empathy, and intention.In this deeply personal conversation, Paul shares his journey from the NYC Department of Education to leading national conversations on equity and unconscious bias. He also emphasizes the necessity of connecting across lines of difference, recognizing our shared humanity, and transforming systems by starting within ourselves.00:00 Preview00:49 Introduction 01:26 About Paul Forbes03:41 Paul’s backstory07:12 Paul’s lived experience of discrimination10:03 What happens when you confront your own biases and decide to take action?14:33 What is implicit bias?18:24 How the IDG definition of “Inclusive Mindset & Intercultural Competence” resonates with Paul21:39 The role of empathy, self-awareness and proximity in leadership26:38 Recognizing implicit bias in everyday actions30:16 How does empathy help us build connection and belonging?35:04 Why self-reflection is the missing piece in DEI (diversity, equity & inclusion) work40:12 Why should empathy be included as a must-have skill in every job description?44:04 Why adaptive skills matter more than technical skills in leadership46:32 Paul Forbes’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH PAUL✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulforbes718/✩ Website https://leadingwithheartsandminds.com/✩ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/paulforbesnyc/✩ X https://x.com/PaulForbesNYC/status/1775648691874926844SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development GoalsVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio

Watch this episode featuring Alia Whitney-Johnson, Founder of Emerge, to discover why the IDG skill “Co-Creation” is not just a strategy—it’s a transformative practice when rooted in trust, equity, and our shared humanity.In this insightful conversation, Alia shares how her social impact journey—which began in Sri Lanka at the age of 19 —has been guided by a commitment to trauma-informed restorative practices and justice. She also emphasises how genuine co-creation requires psychological safety, inclusive language, and a radical reimagining of power dynamics. 00:00 Preview00:28 Introduction 01:05 About Alia Whitney-Johnson03:15 Alia’s backstory07:24 What is the mission of Emerge?10:16 How the IDG definition of “Co-Creation” resonates with Alia12:55 How do we create spaces for true “Co-Creation”?16:17 Inner work as the first step in “Co-Creation”19:51 How did Alia learn to hold space for and uplift other voices?22:38 The importance of shared leadership in “Co-Creation”24:16 How can “Co-Creation” transform youth partnerships?32:16 The humility required for “Co-Creation”- especially when being called out35:01 A story that shifted Alia’s perspective38:44 How does language influence “Co-Creation”?44:26 Supporting mental health in challenging contexts47:37 Alia Whitney-Johnson’s Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH ALIA✩ Website https://www.aliawhitneyjohnson.com/✩ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aliawj/✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliawhitneyjohnson/SHOW NOTES✩ Inner Development Goals✩ Emerge✩ Freedom ForwardVideo edited by Green Horizon Studio