In this episode, we speak with Dr. Shanae Thomas, a leading advocate for inclusive and equitable education. Dr. Thomas shares insights from their two-decade journey, addressing challenges faced by marginalized communities post-pandemic. We explore the significance of authentic listening and emotional connectivity in education, alongside their "legacy framework" that integrates diversity into curricula. Dr. Thomas discusses strategies to engage students in meaningful dialogue around trauma and social justice, emphasizing the vital role of community support. This conversation may inspire you to foster inclusive environments that empower all voices.

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0:02 Introduction to Dr. Shania Thomas

15:32 The Challenge of Invalidation

17:16 The Legacy Framework

20:30 Building Community Connections

24:21 Advice for the LGBTQ+ Community

27:05 The Role of Curriculum in Inclusion

32:45 Empowering Students in Learning

40:14 Secrets to Effective Curriculum Design

47:11 Defining a Curriculum Architect

52:44 Closing Thoughts on Happiness

Who is Dr. Shanéa Thomas?

Dr. Shanéa Thomas, LICSW, CSE (he/she/Dr.) is a bold lecturer, seasoned scholar–practitioner, TEDx Speaker, and AASECT’s (American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists) 2024 Sexuality Educator of the Year, has more than 20 years of professional clinical social work experience in the Washington, D.C. metro area. As a proud Howard University School of Social Work graduate, Dr. Thomas’ main commitment in the field is training and strategizing with social workers, educators, and service providers around building safer therapeutic, educational and workplace spaces for all people. He has facilitated over 120 workshops centering needs around diversity, equity and inclusion, grief and loss, mental health, sex and gender, and LGBTQIA+ populations.

Dr. Thomas ended his 10-year position at the University of Southern California School of Social Work as a Senior Lecturer in 2022 to further the commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity through the University of Maryland School of Public Health as their LGBTQ+ Training Specialist and Assistant Clinical Research Professor. She has assisted the Prevention Research Center in launching their national training program using evidence-based tools to build LGBTQIA+ competency in practice amongst mental health professionals.  After witnessing a deep disconnect between decision-makers, direct service professionals, and the community, and recognizing the urgent need for educators and practitioners to thrive, not just survive, Dr. Thomas shifted from her appointed role as Executive Director of Accreditation at the Council for Social Work Education to invest more intently into Thomas Consulting and Therapeutic Services. Today, she partners with clinicians, educators, and healthcare leaders highlighting what she calls as "The Thomas Standard" to build strategies and cultures rooted in empathy, accountability, and transformative growth through the lens of grief, legacy and equitable strategy.
My current book in pre-production, “Accountable Care and Identity Camaraderie for Transgender and Queer Service Providers: Preventing Burnout” (Bloomsbury Academic, release date July 9, 2025) centers the experiences of those who hold marginalized identities within community work, with recommendations to organizations on how to uplift their work environments to prevent burnout and encourage longevity.

0:02 It's a heartbreaking mess.0:04 The Power of Targeted Approaches0:26 Introducing Dr. Bruce Perry5:27 The Impact of Intergenerational Trauma9:54 The Role of Technology in Development13:32 Effects of COVID-19 on Children16:46 Mindfulness in Education20:24 Self-Regulation Techniques23:29 Patterns of Stress Explained29:57 Wisdom from Adversity35:33 The Challenges in Psychiatry37:56 Rethinking Therapeutic Approaches45:02 The Importance of Community48:05 Healing Without Financial Resources58:23 The Overuse of Trauma Terminology1:02:36 Future Directions in Trauma Treatment

In this episode, we engage with Dr. Bruce Perry, a renowned neuroscientist and child psychiatrist, to explore the profound effects of adverse experiences on human development. We discuss the importance of human connection in healing and resilience, particularly in the context of intergenerational trauma among marginalized communities. Our conversation touches on the transformative power of overcoming adversity and the necessity of nurturing environments for children. We reflect on the societal shift towards instant information access, which can detract from relational richness and emotional intelligence. We also examine the impact of COVID-19 on youth mental health and advocate for a community-focused approach to psychiatric practices that emphasize collective healing. Throughout our discussion, we highlight the critical importance of precise language in discussing trauma, advocating for an integrated approach that combines neuroscience, psychology, and community insights to enhance overall well-being.Dr. Perry is the Principal of the Neurosequential Network and a Professor (Adjunct) at theSchool of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia. Over the last thirty years, Dr. Perry has been an active teacher, clinician and researcher in children’s mental health and the neurosciences holding a variety of academic positions. His work on the impact of abuse, neglect and trauma on the developing brain has impacted clinical practice, programs and policy across the world. Dr. Perry is the author, with Maia Szalavitz, of The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog, a bestselling book based on his work with maltreated children and Born For Love: Why Empathy is Essential and Endangered. Dr. Perry's most recent book, What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing (2021), co-authored with Oprah Winfrey, has been translated into 26 languages and has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over 100 weeks after becoming #1 on the list in April of 2021.

0:04 Introduction to Communication

12:05 The Role of AI in Communication

31:40 The Importance of Preparation

42:28 Engaging Your Audience

46:13 Where to Find Dr. Churchill

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Andrew Churchill, a communication expert, about effective speaking in academia. We explore his journey from a challenging graduate instructor experience to developing a passion for transformative communication. Dr. Churchill emphasizes the impact of technology and AI on our communication skills and discusses his audience-centric approach to presentations, focusing on crafting a core message and employing innovative visual aids. We also touch on building confidence through practice and the importance of engaging the public for academic support. Listeners are encouraged to visit presentbetter.org for more resources on effective communication.

Since 2014, Dr. Churchill’s work has been focused on helping academics present and entrepreneurs present and pitch more effectively. This work has included running workshops and coaching both researchers and research-based start-ups. He helps presenters identify the most important aspects of their message, figure out how to wrap that message in a story that will connect, and learn to deliver it with a credibility-inspiring clarity. His formal education includes a PhD in curriculum development from McGill University, an MBA from the University of New Hampshire and a BA in psychology from Cornell University. He has been the speaker coach for over 200 events, delivered over 1,000 workshops, and worked with over 10,000 researchers.

0:07 Journey to Purpose

0:11 Finding Direction in Life

0:59 Introduction

3:14 Embracing Continuous Learning

4:03 Navigating Toxicity in Academia

5:23 The Power of Compassion

7:23 Understanding the 'Why'

8:07 The Theme of Light

9:33 Evolving Aspirations

10:43 Inspiring Greatness in Others

12:20 Challenging Authority in Academia

16:21 Balancing Science and Self-Care

18:34 The Price of Ambition

22:55 Quality Over Quantity in Relationships

24:22 The Art of Focus

27:30 Meditation as a Tool for Success

31:05 Overcoming Fear and Imposter Syndrome

34:11 The Power of Recognition

36:56 Breaking the Chains of Perfectionism

38:27 Upskilling for the Future

40:36 Bridging Academia and Industry

41:12 Inspiring the Next Generation

43:31 Questions as the New Answers

46:36 Following Your Passion

49:14 Text Mining Insights

51:12 Connection Opportunities

Join us for a powerful conversation with Prof. Samira Hosseini, a leader in modern science, educator, and mentor whose journey through physics, biomedical engineering, and the social sciences has shaped a unique and inspiring perspective on purpose, growth, and life in academia and beyond.

In this episode, we explore:✨ The power of utilizing the strategy of a “theme” instead of a dream✨ How to stay aligned with your purpose in competitive academic environments✨ The importance of emotional well-being and mentorship in research✨ Why humility and openness fuel true collaboration and innovation✨ The evolving landscape of education—and why asking better questions matters more than ever✨ How adaptability, financial literacy, and cross-sector collaboration can empower the next generation of researchers, thinkers, and overall humans.

Prof. Hosseini’s honesty and insight make this episode a must-listen for students, academics, and anyone seeking a more intentional approach to personal and professional growth. Her story is a reminder that pursuing a meaningful life is within reach for anyone willing to embrace curiosity, uncertainty, and purpose.

🎧 Tune in and let yourself be inspired.Prof. Samira Hosseini holds a BSc in Applied Physics, an MSc in Polymer Chemistry, and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. She completed her postdoctoral training at the Research Laboratory of Electronics (RLE) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States.Prof. Hosseini served as Director of the Writing Lab at the Institute for the Future of Education at Tecnológico de Monterrey, where she led initiatives in educational research, faculty development, and publication strategy. She also held a Research Professor appointment at the School of Engineering and Sciences at Tecnológico de Monterrey. She is currently a Visiting Professor at Universidad de Huelva in Spain.She is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and a member of the IEEE Education Society. Her research team has received multiple recognitions, including the Best Invention of the Year award from the Convocatoria Programa Jalisciense de Fomento a la Propiedad Intelectual, granted by the government of Guadalajara, Mexico. She was also the recipient of the Hero of the Year award for her outstanding contributions to scientific production and faculty training.

FIND PROF. SAMIRA HOSSEINI TODAY:

Life-changing Program: https://samirahosseini.com/home/Meet In-Person: https://samyrad.com/

0:06 A Journey of Hope and Resilience

7:20 Embracing the Struggle

13:59 Finding Peace Amidst Chaos

15:19 Overcoming Fear

18:26 The Weight of Friendship

22:53 Letting Go of Toxicity

28:29 Living and Dying

33:25 Advice for Future Generations

35:51 Cultivating Compassion

In this powerful episode, we delve into a poignant conversation with Maria Kelley, a resilient mother and cancer survivor, reflecting on her journey since being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer eight years ago. Maria shares the profound impact of her experience, expressing that despite the challenges, she found a renewed appreciation for life—embracing small moments and everyday beauty that often go unnoticed. She highlights how this journey has shifted her perspective, guiding her to focus on self-awareness, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

Maria discusses the role of purpose in her healing process, emphasizing that finding and nurturing one’s purpose can be a significant part of coping with chronic illness. She recalls her initial rebellious phase post-diagnosis, where she grappled with her identity and purpose beyond being a mother. Ultimately, she made the courageous decision to pursue graduate school, a choice that reignited her passion and gave her the motivation to keep moving forward despite her struggles.

Addressing the loneliness that often accompanies terminal illnesses, Maria sheds light on the importance of spreading hope and awareness about the realities of living with late-stage cancer. She candidly acknowledges the common misconception that people with chronic illnesses are always visibly sick, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Maria reflects on the need for connection and support, particularly in a society that can often overlook the emotional toll of long-term illness. Maria discusses the significance of solitude in her life, recognizing it as an influential teacher that has prepared her for the emotional landscapes shaped by her diagnosis.

Maria shares her insights on how to confront fear, asserting that acknowledging and accepting life’s uncertainties can lead to a deeper understanding of joy and living authentically.Through her narrative, Maria delivers a heartfelt message about living life without regrets, urging you to embrace your time here fully, and to approach each day as a chance to create meaningful experiences. She emphasizes the wisdom found in acknowledging both the beauty and fragility of life, concluding with a reminder to prioritize connection, presence, and kindness as we navigate our human experiences.

This conversation serves as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and the importance of living each moment intentionally.

Who is Maria?

Maria Kelley was born in France before moving to California, where she lives today. The West Coast's energetic atmosphere and French cultural heritage have shaped Maria Kelley into a woman who embodies both strength, elegance, and warmth.Maria has fought stage 4 lung cancer for the past eight years.

She meets each day with unyielding bravery and complete commitment to experience life to its fullest, despite the overwhelming challenges she faces. Her courageous spirit continues to motivate those who know her while she proves the odds wrong through her remarkable journey of strength and determination.

Maria Kelley holds the belief that people should focus on the present moment. She welcomes life with complete acceptance through her activities, which include spending time with family and friends, discovering new interests, and watching sunsets at the ocean. Her life story demonstrates how people can overcome challenges through their inner strength and maintain hope, proving the remarkable capabilities of human beings.

0:02 How to Practice Well

1:00 The Core of Buddha's Teaching

4:57 Five Domains of Practice

7:34 The Dangers of Diverse Practices

11:04 Understanding Siddhis and Power

13:13 Ethical Conduct in Practice

15:24 Balancing Compassion and Joy

17:52 Finding Hope in Action

23:28 Maintaining a Beginner's Mind

25:24 The Importance of the Ordained Sangha

30:16 Reflections on Old Age and Death

40:18 Advice for Monastics on the Path

In this episode, we engage with the Most Venerable Bhikkhu Bodhi, who offers deep insights into Buddhist practice within today's complex spiritual climate. He highlights that true practice transcends mere meditation, focusing instead on five essential domains: faith, ethical conduct, generosity, learning, and wisdom. Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi emphasizes the need for devotion towards the Triple Gem and the importance of ethical living through precepts. He discusses how generosity and the pursuit of knowledge contribute to rigorous practice, while cautioning against the pitfalls of mixing multiple meditation styles. Addressing the challenge of maintaining compassion in a chaotic world, he offers strategies for cultivating loving-kindness and shares ways to engage meaningfully with efforts like Buddhist Global Relief (https://buddhistglobalrelief.org). This conversation illustrates a holistic approach to Buddhism that encourages continuous growth rooted in community and humility.

0:07 What are some other stories that aren't being told?

5:19 What's an exceptional experience?

8:59 How did you get into parapsychology?

11:04 Can parapsychology promote healing?

12:53 Science and ideology in parapsychology.

16:32 Rethinking disciplinary boundaries.

26:10 The power of mindfulness practice.

30:49 Dealing with academic pushback.

In this episode, Professor Jacob Glazier, an expert in psychology and parapsychology, discusses the concept of PSI and the importance of recognizing exceptional human experiences as valid phenomena. He shares his journey into parapsychology and emphasizes the need for an inclusive approach within the discipline, integrating various psychological paradigms. We explore mindfulness in education, its potential for personal growth, and the challenges faced by researchers in fringe fields. Ultimately, Professor Glazier advocates for a reevaluation of how we understand exceptional experiences, encouraging a more holistic and compassionate perspective on human well-being.

Who is Dr. Jacob W. Glazier?

In addition to being a research faculty member here at Chung Huong Institute's Mind-Brain Contemplative Lab, let's learn about Dr. Glazier. Dr. Jacob W. Glazier, PhD, LPC, NCC, has a doctoral degree in Psychology: Consciousness and Society from the University of West Georgia. He has his Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Western Illinois University and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Psychology degree from Augustana College. Dr. Glazier is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in the School of Social Sciences at the University of West Georgia.His research revolves around critical theory, subjectivity, and exceptional experiences. He also practices psychotherapy. Dr. Glazier’s work has been published in academic journals that include Psychoanalysis, Culture & Society, Subjectivity, Mortality, Critical Horizons, Rhizomes, Journal for Cultural Research, and others. He is the author of Arts of Subjectivity (2020) and editor of the PA Book Award-winning Paranormal Ruptures (2023). He is currently working on his next book for the series, Concepts for Critical Psychology: Disciplinary Boundaries Re-thought for Routledge. In addition, Dr. Glazier is the Lead Editor of Mindfield: The Bulletin of the Parapsychological Association. He is also the co-coordinator of the annual Bill Roll Lecture at the University of West Georgia.

00:07 Expertise in Emotion and Compassion

2:59 Career Path to Facial Expression

5:24 Blending Science with Mindfulness

7:23 Defining Mindfulness

8:32 Personal Impact of Emotional Study

17:03 Navigating Emotional Reactivity

20:43 The Importance of Common Humanity

25:49 The Role of Community in Connection

25:57 Understanding Feelings vs. Emotions

35:04 The Value of Emotional Intelligence

41:07 Parenting Through Disturbing Emotions

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Erica Rosenberg about the interplay between facial expressions, emotions, and compassionate communication. Drawing on insights from my poker background, we explore how emotional awareness enhances interpersonal connections. Dr. Rosenberg shares her journey in health psychology and neuroscience, emphasizing common humanity and the importance of mindfulness in today's polarized society. We discuss the impact of social media on emotional intelligence, particularly among younger generations, and she offers practical guidance for navigating difficult emotions with kindness and compassion.

Erika Rosenberg, Ph.D. is a scientist, author, and educator who seeks to help people understand themselves and one another better, connect with one another, find peace and joy in life, and suffer less. Erika is a co-creator of the Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) program at Stanford University, with lead author Thupten Jinpa, Founding Faculty at The Compassion Institute, and faculty at The Nyingma

Institute, Berkeley. Erika has taught at places as diverse as Google, Inc., Lerab Ling

Monastery, LucasFilm, Upaya Zen Center, Esalen Institute, and Burning Man. Erika

is also experienced in psychedelic harm reduction and psychedelic integration

through such programs as the Zendo Project and the Psychedelic Sangha, NYC.

Dr. Rosenberg’s academic work focuses on the study of emotion, emotion

expression and contemplative science. At the Center for Mind and Brain at UC Davis, Erika Rosenberg is a member of the Saron Lab, which conducts multi-

disciplinary, pathbreaking research in contemplative science. Erika is an expert in human facial expressions and the Facial Action Coding System, with clients in academia, industry, and the arts, worldwide. Her books include What the Face

Reveals (with Paul Ekman, now in its 3rd edition) and the widely used Introductory

Psychology text, Psychology: Perspectives & Connections, now in its 6th edition). Dr.

Rosenberg’s published scientific work on facial expression span basic affective

science on research on emotional processes, social psychological research on

facial expression recognition, studies of the effects of meditation on emotional

behavior, and health psychological risk factors for heart disease.