Episode 7: The Power of Bravery

Send us Fan MailIn the final episode of Living in 3D Power's Black History Month celebration, Emma and I explore bravery—what it means, why it matters, and how we can embody it in a world that often challenges our courage.Together, Emma and I reflect on:* What it truly means to be brave—beyond physical acts, bravery is about standing firm in your truth, even when it’s hard.* The power of community, authenticity, and intergenerational knowledge sharing—and why culturally responsive education is essential in confronting the uncomfortable truths about racism and history.* How Paula Young Shelton marched for justice as a child, showing that bravery has no age limit.* How Shirley Chisholm’s “Unbought and Unbossed” legacy reminds us to create our own paths and resist systems that try to limit us.* How Nikole Hannah-Jones’ creation of The 1619 Project teaches us that telling the truth about history is an act of courage, even when people try to silence it.Emma offers fresh perspectives on what bravery looks like in everyday life, from standing up for what’s right to challenging narratives that erase Black history. As we close out this special series, we challenge listeners to embody bravery in action—whether by speaking up, standing firm in truth, or creating spaces for learning and growth. She shares her thoughts on how young people can embrace courage, use their voices for change, and foster a sense of justice that extends beyond themselves to uplift their entire community.Chapters:01:44 – Current Climate & Values Alignment03:42 – Who Gives You Permission?06:15 – Generational Perspectives on Racism13:38 – Emma's Insights on Bravery15:49 – Paula Young Shelton's Story23:14 – Shirley Chisholm: Unbought and Unbossed26:20 – Nikole Hannah-Jones and the 1619 Project33:35 – Cultural Responsiveness in Schools43:28 – Embracing Authenticity47:31 – The Power of Truth Telling55:57 – Final Reflections and Call to ActionCuriosity Card Prompts for Reflection:* If I had to describe what it means to be brave in just one sentence, what would I say?* Would I have been brave enough to march for justice as a kid like Paula Young Shelton did? Why or why not?* What does it mean to be “Unbought and Unbossed” in my own life?* Why do some people resist talking about racism and Black history?  Why do people challenge Nikole Hannah-Jones for just speaking the truth and telling the true story of African-American people?References* Children of the Civil Rights Movement by Paula Young Shelton; Illustrated by Raul Colón* Shirley on Netflix* The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story, Created by Nikole Hannah-Jones; EditConnect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!