This week on The Ben and Jamesa Podcast, we’re talking about what happens when some of America’s brightest minds decide they’ve had enough—and leave. We’re exploring the growing wave of academics and thinkers moving abroad, why it’s happening, and what it says about connection, control, and culture.We also share a few updates from our lives in Portugal, a new mushroom fact, and our recent brushes with stardom—from thoughtful conversations to unexpected spotlights.Let’s get into it.Support the show
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Ep. 144: Red, Whiteness & Blue: The Freedom Paradox
This Fourth of July, we’re unpacking the irony of a holiday built on freedom—while whiteness continues to rely on control. We explore how white people can move from control to connection using our CACTI model: Compassion, Accountability, Curiosity, Transparency, and Insight. Real freedom doesn’t come from dominance—it comes from unlearning.We’re also talking about tree shyness—yes, it’s a real thing—and the wild experience of watching airplanes land at Madeira’s famously intense airport. Come for the reflection, stay for the turbulence.Support the show
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Ep. 143: Why Do White People Love Violence?
This week, we explore how violence—whether in relationships, policing, or foreign policy—is normalized and often celebrated in white American culture. Drawing from our experience in domestic violence work, we unpack how control, blame, and force show up not just interpersonally but systemically. We also respond to a listener’s discomfort with the idea of Black joy, revealing how even joy can be seen as a threat within a culture built on control. Plus: a São João festival story and a sleepy fungi fact.Support the show
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Ep. 142 Why Do White People Hate Black Joy?
In this episode, we dig into the discomfort, resentment, and backlash that often show up when Black joy takes center stage—especially around holidays like Juneteenth. We explore why white supremacy depends on Black suffering, how joy becomes an act of resistance, and what it reveals about white identity when that joy is met with hostility. Jamesa shares personal stories, we unpack current headlines, and yes—there’s even a mushroom fact. Support the show
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Ep. 141: Shit I Have A Problem With (Ft. Eckoes)
This week, we’re joined by the brilliant Eckoes, creator behind one of our favorite social media accounts, Shit I Have a Problem With. We get into what it actually means to have a problem with something — and how to do it in a way that doesn’t just center your ego or shut the whole thing down. We talk about why discomfort isn’t the enemy, how calling something out can still leave room for connection, and why the goal isn’t to always be agreeable — it’s to be real.We also reflect on Portugal’s quiet commitment to celebration, even (and especially) when there’s nothing “big” to celebrate. And we take a look at the recycled, racist narratives around immigration in both the U.S. and the U.K. — and why it’s not just the policies that are harmful, but the stories we keep telling to justify them.Support the show
About The Ben & Jamesa Podcast: Conversations About Connection
Welcome to The Ben & Jamesa Podcast, where we explore conversations about connection. In each episode, we share personal stories, dive into current events, and examine the oppressive systems that shape our lives and work. We challenge you to unlearn old patterns and build more compassionate, authentic connections in every area of life.If you're new here, start with episode #137, “Start Here,” for an overview of our work and podcast. After that, dive into any episode that resonates with you as we break down how to move from control to genuine connection.
Listen to The Ben & Jamesa Podcast: Conversations About Connection, Good Life Project and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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