With Compassion

In this enlightening conversation, David Sloan Wilson, a leading evolutionary biologist, challenges the traditional view of evolution as driven solely by selfishness. He introduces the concept of group selection, emphasizing that altruism and cooperation can thrive at the group level. Wilson discusses the qualities that make groups successful, the importance of compassion in societal structures, and how these principles can be applied to politics and global cooperation. He advocates for a mindful approach to cultural evolution, urging listeners to recognize the interconnectedness of all groups and the need for a compassionate framework to foster cooperation.

Marina Cantacuzino, award-winning journalist and founder of The Forgiveness Project, joins Jennifer Nadel for a deeply honest conversation about the courage it takes to share stories of trauma, loss, and ultimately, compassion. From collecting testimonies that challenge our assumptions about justice and healing to cultivating pathways out of cycles of hurt, Marina’s work reminds us that forgiveness isn’t a quick fix — it’s a complex human process rooted in empathy, curiosity, and resilience. In this episode we explore how storytelling can transform individuals and communities, deepen our shared humanity, and expand the way we think about peace in a fragmented world.

In this enlightening episode of the With Compassion podcast, host Jennifer Nadel engages in a profound conversation with Professor Paul Gilbert, a leading evolutionary psychologist and the founder of Compassion Focused Therapy. Together, they explore the true essence of compassion, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting its role as a courageous and wise motivation. Discover how compassion can transform societies, influence political systems, and foster a more equitable world. Tune in to learn about the science behind compassion and its potential to create positive change in our lives and communities.

In this episode of the With Compassion podcast, Jennifer Nadel speaks with Joan Blades, an accidental activist and co-founder of MoveOn.org. They discuss Joan’s journey from a simple petition during the Clinton impeachment scandal to leading significant movements like Moms Rising and Living Room Conversations. Joan emphasizes the importance of compassion, community, and collaboration in activism, especially in the face of polarization and systemic bias against mothers. The conversation explores the challenges of opposing the Iraq War, the need for supportive workplace environments, and the role of healthy conflict in political discussions. Joan shares her vision for a future where diverse viewpoints can coexist and work towards common goals, highlighting the power of human connection and understanding.

Takeaways

* Joan Blades describes herself as an accidental activist.

* The first petition for MoveOn.org went viral, gathering 100,000 signatures in a week.

* Polarization has been a persistent issue in American politics.

* Moms Rising was created to address systemic bias against mothers.

* Compassion in the workplace leads to better organizational health.

* Living Room Conversations aim to bridge divides through structured dialogue.

* Healthy conflict can lead to better understanding and solutions.

* The media often amplifies divisive narratives, impacting public perception.

* Restoring trust in communities is essential for progress.

* Activism requires collaboration and a focus on shared goals.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of With Compassion, a new podcast hosted by Jennifer Nadel, founder of Compassion in Politics – UK and proudly sponsored by the Charter for Compassion. In our debut episode, Jennifer sits down with Greg Fischer, former Mayor of Louisville, Kentucky, for a deeply insightful conversation on compassion, civic responsibility, and compassionate leadership in politics.

Greg Fischer is not your typical politician — under his 12-year tenure as mayor, he made compassion one of Louisville’s three core city values, alongside health and lifelong learning. Here’s a glimpse of the powerful themes explored in the episode:

* Compassionate City Movement: Fischer led Louisville’s commitment to the International Charter for Compassion, turning it into one of the world’s model Compassionate Cities.

* Give A Day Week: His signature civic initiative, an annual week of service, volunteerism, and acts of kindness, inspired citizens across the city — and broke its own world record for number of compassionate acts.

* Institutionalizing Compassion: In 2019, Fischer helped launch Compassionate Louisville as a 501(c)(3) organization — ensuring that the city’s compassion work would outlast any single mayoral administration.

* Leading in Crisis: Even in moments of tension and tragedy — like the vandalism of a mosque — Fischer called on the community to respond with unity and generosity. Within days, hundreds rallied to repaint and restore, turning an act of hate into an outpouring of solidarity.

* Global Compassion Leadership: Louisville, under Fischer, wasn’t just locally minded — he led delegations of mayors to meet his Holiness the Dalai Lama, and nurtured a network of other cities exploring the Charter for Compassion.

In their conversation, Jennifer and Greg dive into the power of compassion in public life: How do you make “compassion” more than a slogan — building it into the fabric of a community? And how can civic responsibility thrive in turbulent times?