Navigating Civility: A Deep Dive with Shola Richards

Join me and special guest Shola Richards as we discuss the importance of civility in today's world. Shola shares insights from his latest book, 'Civil Unity,' and reflects on its relevance to relationships, workplace environments, and social media conduct. We touch on Shola's testimony before Congress, the impact of the LA fires, and the nuances of maintaining civility amidst disagreements. Shola also delves into the concept of intellectual humility, the dangers of radicalization, and shares personal anecdotes that highlight the power of kindness and understanding in transforming lives. Don't miss this profound conversation on how civility can change the world.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:15 Discussing the Book 'Civil Unity'
01:33 Survivor's Guilt and Helpers
02:22 Uncivil Narratives on Social Media
03:55 Cognitive Biases and Confirmation Bias
07:00 The Importance of Intellectual Humility
08:04 Personal Anecdotes on Bias
11:40 The Pie of Knowledge
13:59 Engaging in Civil Discourse
27:04 The Role of Local Politics
32:11 Emotional Intelligence and Inner Work
33:05 The Power of Civil Discourse
33:50 Navigating Hard Lines in Civility
38:01 Social Media and Civility
46:52 Radicalization and Substance Abuse

Website: Sholarichards.com
Civil Unity (Book):

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About Evan Meyer

Evan is the Founder of BeautifyEarth.com, a tech platform and marketplace that speed tracks the urban beautification process through art, as well as the original 501(c)3 sister organization and public charity that beautifies schools in the communities that need it most. Beautify has now facilitated thousands of murals around the planet, working with hundreds of communities, community organizations, cities and national brands.

He is also the Founder of RideAmigos.com, a tech platform that optimizes commuter travel and behavior through intelligent programs and analytics for governments, large enterprises, and universities, serving many regions across the US.

As a civic leader in the City of Santa Monica, he is the past Chairman of his neighborhood (Ocean Park), giving residents a voice in the public process, as well as helping the City of Santa Monica with innovative, actionable ways of civic engagement. He gives seminars on building corporate cultures and the importance of community and civic engagement.

He loves the outdoors, is a master of creative projects, is an avid muralist and musician, and finds the world fascinating in every regard.

Join me as I sit down with visionary artist and activist Ruben Rojas to explore how we can bridge divides, embrace new perspectives, and bring a spirit of civility into our polarized world. In this candid conversation, we discuss the power of reframing narratives, fostering empathy, and focusing on actionable ways to create meaningful change in our communities and beyond.

From the challenges of navigating political toxicity to the importance of grassroots involvement, Ruben shares insights from his mission to inspire positive transformation through his work. Together, we unpack themes of unity, understanding, and the role each of us plays in shaping a better future.

🔹 Topics Covered:

• How to foster open dialogue despite differences.
• The value of starting change at the local level.
• Why reframing perspectives leads to better outcomes.
• Practical steps for building bridges in divided times.

🎨 Ruben Rojas is a celebrated artist and advocate whose work has empowered countless individuals to see the world through a lens of possibility. His unique approach to creativity and activism has inspired partnerships with global brands and a movement for change.

👉 Watch now and be inspired to take action, create connections, and rethink what’s possible!

✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations about creating a positive impact!

#Unity #Empathy #BridgingDivides #CommunityLeadership #PositiveChange

Meyerside Chats seeks to eliminate the “us and them” narrative and toxic polarization by striving to create virtuous community leadership and authentic conversation. We showcase the humanity in those who take on the often thankless work through public/civic service, civil discourse, differing points of view, and how we can improve our politics and society as a whole.

About Ruben Rojas

Ruben Rojas is a visionary artist and advocate for positive change through his mission, Live Through Love. This lifestyle brand inspires creativity and optimism and is channeled into various mediums such as streetwear, art prints, and public art, including sculptures and murals in cities around the world, and uniting communities with beauty and hope.

His work empowers individuals to dream big, live with possibility, and create lasting impact. He collaborates with major brands like NFL, BMW, and Google to promote social responsibility and inspire innovation.

He’s a sought-after speaker and TE

Support the show

About Evan Meyer

Evan is the Founder of BeautifyEarth.com, a tech platform and marketplace that speed tracks the urban beautification process through art, as well as the original 501(c)3 sister organization and public charity that beautifies schools in the communities that need it most. Beautify has now facilitated thousands of murals around the planet, working with hundreds of communities, community organizations, cities and national brands.

He is also the Founder of RideAmigos.com, a tech platform that optimizes commuter travel and behavior through intelligent programs and analytics for governments, large enterprises, and universities, serving many regions across the US.

As a civic leader in the City of Santa Monica, he is the past Chairman of his neighborhood (Ocean Park), giving residents a voice in the public process, as well as helping the City of Santa Monica with innovative, actionable ways of civic engagement. He gives seminars on building corporate cultures and the importance of community and civic engagement.

He loves the outdoors, is a master of creative projects, is an avid muralist and musician, and finds the world fascinating in every regard.

The Journey of Rocky Rhodes - From Tech to Coffee and Public Service

Join us for an engaging conversation with Mayor Pro Tem Rocky Rhodes of Simi Valley, California, as we explore his unique journey from the high-tech industry to founding a coffee business and eventually delving into public service. This episode dives into the principles of compassionate capitalism, the challenges of urban vs. rural governance, and the importance of maintaining a high quality of life in Simi Valley. Rocky shares insights from his global travels, the economic challenges of housing development, and the fundamental issue of balancing government control and local autonomy. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on sustainable development, the intricacies of city planning, and the ever-evolving political landscape.

00:00 Intro to Rocky Rhodes
00:53 Rocky's Journey to Public Service
01:11 Entrepreneurial Ventures in Coffee Industry
02:56 Compassionate Capitalism Explained
05:47 Global Impact and Cultural Insights
09:31 Challenges in Local Governance
11:22 Housing Projects: Successes and Failures
18:33 Political Philosophy and Government Critique
30:34 The Single Issue Voter Mentality
31:20 The Complexity of the Presidency
32:42 Thanos and Historical Villains
34:16 China's Surveillance and Capitalism
36:56 Cultural Differences and Privacy
40:22 Diversity of Religion
46:46 The Middle Ground in Politics
54:50 Challenges of Bureaucracy and Government Efficiency
58:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Support the show

About Evan Meyer

Evan is the Founder of BeautifyEarth.com, a tech platform and marketplace that speed tracks the urban beautification process through art, as well as the original 501(c)3 sister organization and public charity that beautifies schools in the communities that need it most. Beautify has now facilitated thousands of murals around the planet, working with hundreds of communities, community organizations, cities and national brands.

He is also the Founder of RideAmigos.com, a tech platform that optimizes commuter travel and behavior through intelligent programs and analytics for governments, large enterprises, and universities, serving many regions across the US.

As a civic leader in the City of Santa Monica, he is the past Chairman of his neighborhood (Ocean Park), giving residents a voice in the public process, as well as helping the City of Santa Monica with innovative, actionable ways of civic engagement. He gives seminars on building corporate cultures and the importance of community and civic engagement.

He loves the outdoors, is a master of creative projects, is an avid muralist and musician, and finds the world fascinating in every regard.