A Description of episode 132 of Outside The Studio with Tessa:

This month on Outside the Studio, we welcome David Benedicktus RN/BSN (retired). David has a 40-year career as a mental health professional working in a variety of mental health settings and focusing on system integration, and patient education projects.

In retirement he became a founding member of Complementary Medicine Practitioners of PNW. He organized wellness health promotion talks for the City of Vancouver WA, the local library system and patient support groups. He also became an instructor at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington, for ten years lecturing on the neuroscience of trauma and the relationship between trauma and adaptive lifestyle choices which can lead to chronic disease and addictions. He teaches courses on the Neuroscience of Healing and Resiliency, Preventing Cognitive Decline as You Age, Cannabis and Your Health and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.

Leaning on David's life experience and subject matter expertise, today's conversation explores the theme of inequality and the divide between the haves and the have-nots. It begins with Tessa sharing her childhood realization of the difference between those who have safety and those who are in danger due to war, poverty, and mental health issues. Her father, David Benedicktus, discusses his involvement in the civil rights movement and his work with marginalized communities, particularly the homeless. They discuss the importance of empathy and taking action to address social issues. The conversation also touches on the impact of poverty, and the role of neuroscience in understanding human behavior.

Key Takeaways:

1.The divide between the haves and the have-nots is a significant issue that affects society. Empathy and understanding are crucial in addressing social issues and helping marginalized communities.

2. Poverty and homelessness are complex problems that require structural support and resources. Neuroscience can help us understand the factors that contribute to human behavior and the need for compassion. Cultivating compassion and empathy is essential for addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

3. Trauma plays a significant role in shaping individuals and communities, and trauma-informed approaches are crucial for providing effective support. Providing resources such as mental health services and affordable housing can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

Timestamps

(00:00:00) Introduction: Childhood Realization of Inequality

(00:05:00) David's Work with Marginalized Communities

(00:07:50) Apathy in Current Culture

(00:19:23) The Importance of Caring for the Poor and Marginalized

(00:24:31) The Impact of Poverty and the Need for Sensible Tax Reform

(00:29:42) Understanding Human Behavior through Neuroscience

(00:33:25) Cultivating Compassion and Empathy

(00:37:35) The Sacred Pause: Creating Space for Reflection

(00:45:46) Understanding the Impact of Trauma

(00:59:40) Taking Action: Asking 'What Happened to Them?'

(01:04:41) Getting Involved: Making a Difference

Resources:

Council for the Homeless: https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/prevention/celebrating-community-and-compassion-through-music/

Podcast with Tara Brach and Father Gregory Boyle: https://www.youtube.com/live/4XYCD_Z8kSY?si=_kMuI-TDqISgI9Ma

Podcast What Now with Trevor Noah and Mayor Karen Bass: https://podcasts.apple.com/hr/podcast/mayor-karen-bass-predicts-los-angeles-future/id1710609544?i=1000639292695

Adverse Childhood Experiences Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/aces/index.html

https://acestoohigh.com/

Connect with Tessa Tovar:

Website: https://tessatovar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessamarietovar/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMYm-7kNZfulgaiCi2w8Cw

Outside the Studio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/outside-the-studio-with-tessa-tovar/id1483077110

Book of Poetry for Savasana: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Book-Poetry-Savasana/dp/1731243588