Épisodes

  • Political Violence - A true American tradition
    Sep 19 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Gerren Taylor and Keith Richardson engage in a deep conversation about the prevalence of political violence in America, exploring its historical context, societal implications, and the need for honest dialogue. They draw parallels between political violence and addiction, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the problem to initiate change. The discussion highlights the complexities of political discourse and the necessity for reflection and intervention to address the underlying issues fueling violence in society.

    Takeaways

    Political violence has a historical presence in America.

    Honest conversations are essential for societal progress.

    Acknowledging our issues is the first step to resolution.

    Political violence is often a reaction to power struggles.

    The addiction analogy helps frame our relationship with violence.

    We must confront the uncomfortable truths about our society.

    Gun culture plays a significant role in political violence.

    Generalizations in political discourse can be dangerous.

    The need for intervention is critical in addressing violence.

    We must recognize our collective responsibility to change.

    Sound bites

    "This is our addiction."

    "We need to start saying, stop it."

    "We need to get sober."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Context Setting

    01:32 Political Violence in America

    09:59 The Nature of Political Discourse

    18:14 Understanding the Roots of Violence

    25:41 The Need for Reflection and Change More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    30 min
  • It’s Not What You Think: Bias, Emotion, and Reality
    Sep 12 2025

    Summary

    In this episode of the More In Common Podcast, hosts Keith Richardson and Gerren Taylor explore the themes of transformation, bias, and the importance of understanding logical fallacies in conversations. They discuss the journey of individuals who have faced incarceration and the societal perceptions that often lead to hasty generalizations. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional awareness and the role of rehabilitation in fostering a safer society. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their biases and the conclusions they draw from limited information, advocating for a more nuanced approach to discussions.

    Keywords

    podcast, conversation, bias, emotional awareness, rehabilitation, logical fallacies, hasty generalization, societal issues, transformation, understanding

    Takeaways

    The importance of emotional awareness in conversations.

    Transformation is a long and difficult journey.

    Hasty generalizations can lead to harmful stereotypes.

    Understanding bias is crucial for meaningful dialogue.

    Rehabilitation should be the goal of incarceration.

    Context matters in how we perceive individuals.

    We often rush to conclusions without sufficient evidence.

    Logical fallacies hinder productive discussions.

    It's okay to not have an opinion on everything.

    Engaging in conversations requires self-reflection.

    Sound bites

    "We do say whatever we want."

    "We talk a lot about bias."

    "We create consensus on ideas."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Energy Boost

    03:55 Reflecting on Past Conversations

    06:29 Understanding Bias and Emotional Awareness

    09:40 The Journey of Transformation

    12:16 Exploring Logical Fallacies

    14:59 Hasty Generalizations and Their Impact

    20:04 The Role of Society in Rehabilitation

    22:46 Navigating Conversations with Nuance

    28:43 Conclusion and Call to Action

    More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    31 min
  • Healing With Authenticity
    Sep 5 2025
    Summary In this episode of the More In Common Podcast, Jesse Rodriguez shares his transformative journey of healing and self-discovery. He emphasizes the importance of emotional expression, particularly for men, and the need to embrace one's authentic self. Jesse discusses the role of community support and mentorship in personal growth, as well as his commitment to giving back through various initiatives. He also highlights the significance of nurturing the inner child and the life lessons learned through experiences like playing chess.

    Takeaways

    It's a very lonely walk because not a lot of people are doing it. Crying has been very healing. My mission in life is to be that one person. There's no more freedom than being your authentic self. Self-love, it's a drug for me. You have to think three moves ahead before you move one piece. The best way to get around this lifestyle is to heal the inner child. I can show you shortcuts. Don't give up on your inner child. You are going to have those days where you don't want to do nothing.

    Keywords

    emotional intelligence, authenticity, inner child, community support, self-love, mentorship, healing, Jesse Rodriguez, podcast, personal growth

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jesse Rodriguez's Journey 03:24 The Importance of Emotional Healing 07:12 Creating Safe Spaces for Authenticity 11:53 The Role of Inner Child Healing 13:10 Community Engagement and Support 16:24 Raw Truths About Life Choices

    More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    19 min
  • “Wherever you go, there you are”
    Aug 29 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Jesse shares his transformative journey from incarceration to redemption, emphasizing the importance of accountability, empathy, and education in the healing process. He discusses the impact of solitary confinement, the role of mentors, and the creation of programs aimed at helping others understand their actions and make positive changes. Jesse's story highlights the challenges of reintegration into society and the ongoing journey of healing and self-discovery.

    Keywords

    healing, accountability, solitary confinement, empathy, remorse, transformation, education, mentorship, criminal justice, redemption

    Takeaways

    Healing requires accountability for one's actions. Empathy must be developed, not inherent. Understanding remorse is crucial for change. Solitary confinement can lead to profound realizations. Mentorship plays a vital role in personal growth. Education can empower individuals to change their lives. Creating programs can help others heal and grow. Transformation is a continuous journey, not a destination. The impact of one's actions can ripple through lives. Redemption is possible, even after a long incarceration.

    Sound bites

    "Regret is about me, remorse is about others." "Wherever you go, there you are." "I was deported, but I'm going to be okay."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Healing Journeys 02:05 Accountability and the Path to Healing 06:56 The Impact of Solitary Confinement 13:06 Transformative Conversations and Self-Realization 19:03 Creating Change Through Education 24:48 The Journey to Freedom and Beyond

    More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    39 min
  • Healing and Hope with Guest Jesse Rodriguez
    Aug 22 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Jesse Rodriguez shares his transformative journey from a life of trauma, violence, and incarceration to one of healing, art, and service. He discusses the impact of childhood abandonment, the role of gangs in his life, and how solitary confinement became a pivotal moment for his personal growth. Through art and storytelling, Jesse aims to inspire hope and resilience in others, emphasizing the importance of accountability and self-reflection in the healing process.

    Keywords

    transformation, accountability, resilience, redemption, trauma, healing, art, incarceration, mental health, personal growth

    Takeaways

    Jesse's journey highlights the power of art in healing. Childhood trauma can have lasting effects on self-esteem. Hope is essential for personal transformation. Understanding trauma helps in healing and recovery. Accountability is crucial in the process of change. Sharing stories can foster connection and understanding. The importance of community support in healing. Learning the difference between discipline and abuse is vital. Self-esteem can be nurtured and rebuilt over time.

    Sound bites

    "Art is what saved my life." "Hope is an amazing thing." "I want to know more."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jesse Rodriguez's Journey 10:09 The Impact of Trauma and Abandonment 19:31 Transformation Through Solitary Confinement 31:10 The Power of Self-Discovery and Healing

    More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    33 min
  • Clips Worth Replaying: Our Favorite Moments
    Aug 15 2025

    Summary

    This “More In Common” clip show episode, hosted by Gerren Taylor, features three standout conversations from past episodes that explore the art of listening, the courage to change minds, and the power of music in fostering mindfulness. Gerren weaves these moments together, offering context and personal reflection between each segment. The first clip, with Allison O’Brien, dives into listening intelligence and how understanding our listening habits can transform communication. The second, with co-host Keith Richardson, examines how to engage in difficult conversations, move past bias, and build bridges across differences. The third, with musician and mindfulness advocate Shye Harrell, highlights the intersection of music, emotional expression, and community support, particularly in helping children develop mindfulness skills.

    Keywords

    listening intelligence, communication, empathy, bias, changing minds, political conversations, mindfulness, music, emotional expression, parenting, children’s education, community support, vulnerability

    Takeaways • Understanding listening habits can improve connection and trust. • Self-awareness is key to better communication. • Changing minds requires curiosity, empathy, and a willingness to concede points. • Bias can be reduced by listening with openness. • Music is a powerful tool for emotional expression and mindfulness. • Teaching mindfulness to children fosters emotional intelligence. • Community support is crucial in navigating mental health challenges.

    Chapter Markers

    00:00 – Introduction Gerren sets up the episode as a collection of impactful clips around connection, curiosity, and emotional intelligence.

    02:14 – Listening Intelligence with Allison O’Brien Exploring listening styles—connective, reflective—and how awareness changes interactions.

    09:20 – Changing Minds in a Polarized World The challenges and rewards of engaging across divides, with tips for staying curious and open.

    16:35 – Music & Mindfulness with Shye Harrell Using music to teach children emotional awareness, Shye’s personal story with the violin, and the role of community in mental health

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    33 min
  • The Illusion of Community
    Aug 1 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Gerren Taylor and Keith Richardson explore the complexities of human connections in the age of social media. They discuss the illusion of community that social media creates, the importance of building deeper relationships through intentionality, and the role of emotional check-ins in fostering trust. The hosts emphasize the need for patience in developing meaningful connections and the power of communication in navigating the challenges of modern relationships.

    Takeaways

    Social media creates a false sense of community. Real connections require intentional effort and rituals. Emotional check-ins help navigate complex feelings. Conflict can strengthen relationships if handled well. Building trust takes time and patience. Choosing your community is essential for well-being. Presence in relationships is more important than perfection. Intentional conversations can deepen connections. Dopamine hits from social media are fleeting. Shared experiences build lasting bonds.

    Sound bites

    "We need each other to survive." "Presence over perfection." "Emotional risk as a bridge."

    Chapters

    00:00 The Illusion of Community in Social Media 04:09 Navigating Social Isolation and Connection 06:57 The Science of Connection and Emotional Health 10:03 Building Deeper Connections Through Rituals 12:41 Intentionality in Relationships 15:44 The Role of Conflict in Connection 18:38 Choosing Your Community Wisely 21:45 The Importance of Familial Bonds 24:38 Using Conversations to Build Relationships 27:37 The Power of Intentional Communication 30:31 Surviving in a Complex Social Landscape

    More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod

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    33 min
  • What is real influence?
    Jul 25 2025
    Summary In this episode, Gerren Taylor and Keith Richardson delve into the complexities of identity, influence, and the nature of social media. They discuss the difference between real connections and online followers, the importance of community, and the concept of the Dunbar number in understanding social relationships. The conversation highlights the crisis of friendship in modern society and emphasizes the need for meaningful connections over superficial ones. Ultimately, they advocate for a deeper approach to influence, focusing on resonance and authentic relationships rather than mere numbers. Takeaways
    • Identity is a complex exploration, especially when living abroad.
    • Social media followers do not equate to real influence.
    • The quality of connections matters more than quantity.
    • The Dunbar number suggests we can only maintain a limited number of close relationships.
    • Real influencers are those who can challenge and support you personally.
    • The crisis of friendship is a growing concern in modern society.
    • Meaningful connections are built on trust and reciprocity.
    • Navigating conflict is essential for healthy relationships.
    • Influence should be about depth, not breadth.
    • Going outside and engaging with your community fosters real connections.

    Keywords: identity, influence, social media, connections, community, Dunbar number, friendship, meaningful relationships, online followers, authenticity

    Chapters 00:00 Exploring Identity and Influence 04:12 The Nature of Social Media Influence 07:21 Understanding Real Connections vs. Online Followers 13:16 The Dunbar Number and Its Implications 18:56 Navigating Validation and Real Influence 24:49 Building Meaningful Connections in a Digital Age More In Common Website | https://www.moreincommonent.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/moreincommonent Twitter | https://twitter.com/MoreInCommonent Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/moreincommonpod
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    34 min