In this episode, co-hosts Courthney and Emily welcome educator, martial artist, and systems thinker Ian Sanderson (Mohawk Nation, Turtle Clan) for a wide-ranging conversation about authenticity, Indigenous worldviews, and what it means to stay in relationship during deeply polarized times.

Ian draws from more than 25 years of work integrating Indigenous, Eastern, and Western traditions to explore why many of today's social challenges can't be solved through more certainty or better answers. Instead, he invites us toward curiosity, humility, and a more relational way of understanding ourselves and one another.

Together, they explore:

• Why relationship, not individuality, has always been at the heart of healthy communities.
• How white supremacy and colonial thinking disconnect us from one another and from the natural world.
• The difference between authenticity rooted in ego and authenticity rooted in honest self-inquiry.
• Why saying "I don't know" may be one of the most courageous acts of leadership.
• How communities can hold people accountable while still making restoration possible.
• Why fear, certainty, and the need to be right often prevent genuine connection.
• What Indigenous perspectives on systems, complexity, and reciprocity can teach us about navigating today's cultural tensions.

Rather than offering simple answers, this conversation encourages listeners to ask deeper questions: Who is the "self" we're trying to be authentic to? What happens when we choose relationship over certainty? And how might a little more humility help us humanize one another?

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In our first full video episode, Courtney and Emily reflect on the journey of The Humanize Podcast—how an unlikely partnership that began during the pandemic has grown into over 100 conversations centered on race, humanity, and courageous dialogue.

The conversation then turns to a deeply personal parenting question:

Should white parents teach their children about the N-word?

Emily shares why she's wrestling with the question as her children become more exposed to history, music, and conversations about race. Courtney offers a thoughtful perspective on why avoiding the topic gives the word more power, emphasizing that children should understand its historical weight, why it has been used to dehumanize Black people, and why it is not a word for white people to use.

Together, they explore:

• Why difficult conversations shouldn't be avoided simply because they're uncomfortable.
• How parents can introduce complex topics based on a child's curiosity and readiness—not a specific age.
• The importance of teaching historical context instead of creating taboo.
• The difference between criticizing white supremacy culture and criticizing white people.
• How systems—not individuals alone—shape inequality, using medicine as one example of how bias becomes normalized.
• Why raising compassionate, informed children requires honest conversations rather than silence.

As always, the episode isn't about having all the answers—it's about creating space for curiosity, vulnerability, and the kinds of conversations that help us humanize one another.

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How do student-athletes balance speaking out with staying in the game? In this episode, we explore the delicate tension between advocacy and career security for college athletes—where using your voice can come with both purpose and risk.

DaWon Baker joins us for our final live audience podcast at the Museum of Boulder for a powerful conversation about the role of sports in social change. From the 2015 Mizzou football strike to the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, we look at how athletes and institutions can challenge white supremacy culture and amplify marginalized voices.

Shaped by the uprisings in Ferguson following the death of Michael Brown, DaWon brings a deeply personal lens to this work. He shares the behind-the-scenes strategies and support systems that help athletes navigate issues like police brutality, racial injustice, and the ongoing tension between visibility and vulnerability.

Guided and informed by great audience engagment, the conversation connects past to present—from the legacy of Tommy Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics to the enduring influence of Dr. Harry Edwards. DaWon also reflects on how institutions like CU Boulder can engage with their own Black histories and reimagine what inclusion looks like on and off the field.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about sports as a platform for protest—and the courageous leadership required to make change from within.

(0:00:05) - Exploring Diversity and Activism in Sports

DeJuan Baker shares his journey in fostering inclusive team cultures and the impact of neglected conversations on race and social justice.

(0:11:29) - Empowering Athletes Beyond Sports

Passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports, using it as a platform for social change and encouraging student-athletes to do the same.

(0:22:13) - Empowering Athletes to Speak Out

Empowering athletes to speak out on social issues while providing resources and strategic planning to protect their positions.

(0:26:28) - Navigating Athlete Activism and Title IX

Athletes' role in societal issues, navigating involvement effectively, providing resources and platforms for expression, potential for significant protests, Title IX and gender equality in sports.

(0:31:02) - Navigating Diversity and Critical Thinking

Trans rights in sports and societal inclusion, parallels with immigration and historical narratives, and the role of sports in fostering understanding and unity.

(0:45:05) - Recognizing Color While Treating Equally

Recognizing and respecting racial identity, engaging in productive conversations about race, and promoting education for growth.

(0:48:02) - Athlete Activism and Influence

Sports and social activism intersect, with historical examples and modern implications, highlighting athletes' roles in advocacy.

(0:56:01) - Athlete Choices in HBCUs

Hiring high-profile coaches at HBCUs can elevate these institutions, but sustained commitment is needed to create lasting change.

(0:59:41) - Connecting History and Athlete Empowerment

CU's efforts to connect with Black history, preserve stories, and improve alumni relationships for young students and athletes.

(1:11:31) - Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Sports

CU's shifting dynamics support Black community through new faculty and staff, voting engagement, athletics, and affinity groups.