What does real empathy actually look like in a world that feels more divided, reactive, and disconnected than ever? In this episode, Shola Richards is addressing the empathy recession we're facing and why our inability to truly understand one another is quietly tearing at the fabric of our relationships, workplaces, and communities.

 

In the episode, Shola shares three powerful empathy practices that will help you move from judgment to understanding, even when dealing with difficult people, emotional triggers, or high-conflict situations. 

 

This week's Kindness Strategies:

👂 Practice active listening

🪞 Use the "Just Like Me" practice

⁉️ Make curiosity your default response to behavior you don't understand

 

This is not a feel-good conversation about being “nice.” It is a grounded, research-backed exploration of empathy as a practical skill that can be strengthened with intention and practice. If you are tired of feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or constantly on edge, this episode will change how you see people and how you show up in the world.

 

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Empathy

00:48 Welcome to the Kindest Extremist Podcast

01:13 The Empathy Recession

01:37 The Power of Empathy

02:09 Active Listening: A Key to Empathy

08:26 The "Just Like Me" Practice

15:03 Understanding Unmet Needs

17:37 Curiosity Over Judgment

20:52 Conclusion: The Journey to a Kinder World

🔗 Connect with Shola:
Instagram – @sholarichards
Website – sholarichards.com
For speaking requests or collaborations: [email protected]

This podcast is produced by MicMoguls.