In this episode Ken continues the conversation on polarization. Intense polarization is the result of low levels of emotional maturity, he says, and according to Ronald Richardson, progress in society depends on people achieving a higher level of self-differentiation [another way of saying "emotional maturity"]." "If we want to change the world," he states, "we have to grow in our self-differentiation." Also, to be clear as to the objective, "we differentiate to change ourselves, not others."

We all function as part of emotional systems. Self-differentiation, Ken explains, "is having beliefs and values we have thought through deeply on our own." It's "the ability to function as a separate, autonomous self and to be less impacted by other people in the emotional system."

This episode was recorded on June 5th, 2026.