46. Empowered Humanity Theory with Jason Littlefield

Once upon a time, Jason loved his job facilitating social and emotional learning in public schools. Then, in 2017, a new ideological framework began to take root in school SEL programs that eroded the foundation of goodwill that his work was based upon. But instead of giving into nihilism or despair, Jason forged a new path. He developed a new philosophy rooted in his values of dignity, integrity, and humor. From that, Empowered Humanity Theory was born. In this episode, Jason and I explore values-based, ideologically and politically neutral alternatives to such contentious topics as Social and Emotional Learning, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion curriculums. Jason Littlefield is a lifelong learner and longtime educator. In 2021 he left public education after 21 years because his job (SEL Specialist) evolved to advance an ideology rather enhance the human experience and condition. He now promotes Empowered Humanity Theory to schools, workplaces & communities that seek to build empowering and dignified communities. He is a co-founder and board member of Free Black Thought; a Director and board member of The Institute For Liberal Values; and host of the Reformation Radio podcast. In this episode, I mentioned several other episodes: my conversations with Leslie Elliott, Jessie Mannisto, Mike Belcher, and Deb Fillman. I also mentioned books by Leonard Sax and Donna Hicks, which you can find in my bookshop. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★