Episode #28 - Examining Our Connection to Racism with Dr. Maidenberg

Episode #28 - Examining Our Connection to Racism with Dr. Maidenberg

Welcome to “The Elements of Being” podcast, where I dissect and explore the minds and habits of psychologists, filmmakers, writers, and industry icons. Essentially, we examine the mental and emotional narratives and processes that steer the social stream of consciousness….Truly a chance to geek out over the psychology behind human behavior. Each episode is a glimpse into the trends and patterns of human behavior and the underlying influences that navigate us into different directions. Whether we primarily focus on nutrition or the unconscious, guests share insights, thought-provoking lessons, the nuances of creativity, and the elements of being….us.

Today, we explore our connection to racism with Dr. Michelle Maidenberg. We examine how cultural perspectives and experiences shape much of the racist rhetoric and perspectives in our lives, and how we might perceive and manage the guilt and shame we feel. We also dive into how we might approach situations in which friends, family, or colleagues consciously or unconsciously share racist rhetoric. And finally....besides breaking down the role of biases, sitting in discomfort, and facing social fears in relation to racism, we break down the importance of mindfulness in our daily approach.

I’m excited to share my genuine and thought-provoking conversation with you. Dr. Maidenberg is the president and clinical director of Westchester Group Works, a center for group therapy in Harrison, NY, where she maintains a private practice.

She is an adjunct graduate professor of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Human Behavior at the Silver School of Social Work at New York University.


Dr. Maidenberg has also published in varied professional journals, the New York Times, the Daily News, Fitness, Woman’s Day, Parents, and many other publications. Her book Free Your Child from Overeating guides parents through mind-body strategies that help kids and teens develop life-long healthful behaviors.

Actively engaged in promoting the health of her community, Michelle is the co-founder and clinical director of the Thru My Eyes Foundation, which helps parents with life-threatening illnesses create a video legacy for their families. She is a Certified Group Therapist through the American Group Psychotherapy Association. Michelle has advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and much more.

To learn more about Dr. Michelle Maidenberg, visit https://michellemaidenberg.com/!


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