Therapist Uncensored Podcast Bonus: Don’t Cancel – Connect: Loretta J. Ross on Activism with Heart (276)
Aug 19, 2025
Loretta J. Ross, an esteemed activist and professor with a rich history in the human rights movement, joins the discussion to advocate for compassion in activism. She delves into her new book, emphasizing the balance between 'calling in' versus 'calling out' and the vital role of empathy in social justice. The conversation highlights the power of constructive dialogue in a polarized environment, the challenges posed by media distortion, and the significance of community engagement in fostering understanding and growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Empathy Is A Strength, Not A Weakness
- Loretta J. Ross argues that prevailing cultural praise for ruthless self-interest undermines humanity's long-term survival.
- She frames empathy and caring for the common good as essential, not weak.
Publish Boldly Despite Vulnerability
- Ross recommends sharing your work publicly despite vulnerability because it's necessary to influence change.
- She compares releasing a book to walking naked down the street to illustrate unavoidable exposure.
A Decade To One Standalone Book
- Ross recounts that Calling In was published in February 2025 and that she continues book engagements.
- She says it took ten years to decide what to say and this is her first solo-authored book.
Loretta J. Ross is an activist, professor, and public intellectual. In her five decades in the human rights movement, she’s deprogramed white supremacists, taught convicted rapists the principles of feminism, and, as National Co-Director, organized the second-largest march on Washington (in April 25, 2004, March for Women’s Lives in Washington D.C., surpassed in size only by the 2017 Women’s March). A cofounder of the National Center for Human Rights Education and the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective, her many accolades and honors include a 
who you are and how you connect with others.