Brené with Elizabeth Lesser on the Power of Women’s Stories
Oct 28, 2020
58:42
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Elizabeth Lesser, bestselling author and co-founder of the Omega Institute, discusses her book 'Cassandra Speaks,' focusing on the transformative power of women's stories. The conversation highlights the historical narratives surrounding women and the need for personal accountability in activism. Lesser examines Eve's quest for knowledge, the impact of misogyny, and the unique perspectives women bring to power. Ultimately, they champion storytelling as a means of healing and empowerment, urging women to reclaim their narratives.
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Quick takeaways
Elizabeth Lesser argues that acknowledging women's stories can reshape societal values towards compassion and caregiving, challenging traditional narratives focused on violence.
The concept of 'innervism' emphasizes the need for personal reflection alongside activism, fostering a more compassionate approach to societal change.
Deep dives
Empowering Women's Voices Through Storytelling
The discussion highlights the transformative power of women's voices in shaping human narratives. Elizabeth Lesser emphasizes that if women's perspectives had been equally acknowledged throughout history, the stories we tell and the values we uphold would differ significantly, focusing more on compassion and caregiving rather than violence and dominance. Her book, 'Cassandra Speaks', explores these themes, urging a reassessment of traditional narratives that often diminish women's experiences. The shift in storytelling can lead to a new era where women's insights are recognized as vital to societal progress.
Cassandra: The Original Voice of Dismissed Truth
Cassandra's myth is utilized as a powerful metaphor for women's struggles to be heard in a society that often invalidates their experiences. As the daughter of King Priam of Troy, Cassandra possessed the gift of prophecy, yet her warnings were disregarded, labeling her as 'hysterical'. This narrative parallels the experiences of many modern women, especially those who have faced disbelief when sharing their truths, such as the gymnasts involved in the Larry Nassar case. By reclaiming and redefining Cassandra's story, Lesser encourages women to speak out and assert their truths without fear of denial.
The Dual Nature of Activism and Innervism
The conversation delves into the interdependence of inner work and activism, a concept Lesser describes as 'innervism.' She highlights that true change requires both addressing external injustices and reflecting inwardly to confront one's own biases and motivations. This balance ensures that activists do not become the very thing they oppose; rather, they engage in a more compassionate activism that includes self-awareness. Lesser advocates for understanding personal shortcomings as part of the healing process, allowing for a richer and more inclusive approach to activism.
Redefining Power Dynamics
Lesser critiques traditional notions of power, which often emphasize dominance and control, and instead promotes an approach focused on empowerment and collaboration. She references the emerging concept of 'tend and befriend' as an alternative response to stress, particularly among women, contrasting it with the aggressive 'fight or flight' mentality. By advocating for a leadership style rooted in empathy and connection, she presents a vision for a new kind of power that prioritizes community well-being over individual gain. This shift is vital for creating a future where everyone can thrive collectively.
I speak with Elizabeth Lesser, bestselling author and co-founder of Omega Institute, about her newest book, Cassandra Speaks: When Women Are the Storytellers, the Human Story Changes.