How might criticism be enabling rather than shaming? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 12, 2026 · 55 MIN

How might criticism be enabling rather than shaming?

from Two Inconvenient Women

Why is criticism often so hard to take? What is it inside us that shrinks when someone points out something we've missed, we lack or we've done 'wrong'? Who sets the parameters for 'right and wrong' and what does it actually mean to 'critique' someone?In this week's episode we explore the qualities of criticism and why - all too often - it can elicit feelings of shame and worthlessness in the recipient. We explore some of the nuances of shame; explore the different qualities of 'lack' that are sometimes apparent in the giver and receiver of criticism and discuss at length the value and strength of criticism that allows both parties to grow together - something that is perhaps hard to do but so generative when it happens.In the conversation we reference the following:Listening to Shame - Brené Brown (TED talk video)'How Not to Be Defensive in Relationships' - The School of Life (video)The support/challenge matrix (PDF)Peonies opening (video)Being Nice vs Being Kind - Trevor Noah (video)There's an inconvenient movement growing...It's not rebellion, exactly. More of a quiet refusal to look away. We're inconvenient. And if you feel it, then maybe you are too. Join us.Join The Inconvenient Club from £5 a month. Find out more at www.thoughtboxeducation.com/the-inconvenient-club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is criticism often so hard to take? What is it inside us that shrinks when someone points out something we've missed, we lack or we've done 'wrong'? Who sets the parameters for 'right and wrong' and what does it actually mean to 'critique' someone?In this week's episode we explore the qualities of criticism and why - all too often - it can elicit feelings of shame and worthlessness in the recipient. We explore some of the nuances of shame; explore the different qualities of 'lack' that are sometimes apparent in the giver and receiver of criticism and discuss at length the value and strength of criticism that allows both parties to grow together - something that is perhaps hard to do but so generative when it happens.In the conversation we reference the following:Listening to Shame - Brené Brown (TED talk video)'How Not to Be Defensive in Relationships' - The School of Life (video)The support/challenge matrix (PDF)Peonies opening (video)Being Nice vs Being Kind - Trevor Noah (video)There's an inconvenient movement growing...It's not rebellion, exactly. More of a quiet refusal to look away. We're inconvenient. And if you feel it, then maybe you are too. Join us.Join The Inconvenient Club from £5 a month. Find out more at www.thoughtboxeducation.com/the-inconvenient-club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NOW PLAYING

How might criticism be enabling rather than shaming?

0:00 55:32

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

The Small Business Startup School – Business Notes | Financial Literacy | Retail Psychology – For Professionals & Entrepreneurs The Small Business Startup School Inc. Starting or buying a small business? While personal circumstances may vary, business patterns remain timeless. On The Small Business Startup School, we explore strategies, insights, and practical solutions to help entrepreneurs confidently navigate their journey.Hosted by Ola Williams—a retail entrepreneur, fintech founder, and financial coach with over two decades of experience—this podcast marries financial awareness and retail psychology with optimism to deliver actionable takeaways.Join us to learn, grow, and connect as we uncover the keys to business success.Let’s continue to learn together and be encouraged to keep on connecting! 2 Old Ladies Walking Rozee 2 Old Ladies Walking features the journeys, insights, and light conversation between Liz and Rosie, two women of a certain age who live in the Hudson Valley of New York. From pelvic floor challenges and life with young adult children to food, bird calls, fear of “mad lamb” disease, and myriad topics in between, we cover it all while walking on the scenic trails of the northeast, or wherever our travels take us. Join us and have a listen! Two Recruiters: Zero Filter Two Recruiters At Two Recruiters: Zero Filter, we're on a mission to demystify the hiring process, share insider tips, and empower you to maneuver through the professional world with confidence. With more than 30 years of combined experience navigating the intricate web of job markets, talent acquisition, and career development, we're here to spill the tea on everything career related. But wait, there’s more! We will dive into many life topics that are interesting to us as well.  Get ready for a rollercoaster of insights, stories, and no-holds-barred advice!Join us for conversations that matter – where work, life, and authenticity collide in the most unexpected and rewarding ways. The Hannah McGuire Podcast Hannah McGuire For women seeking encouragement on their mission of living a life of wild faith.www.hannahmcguire.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Two Inconvenient Women?

This episode is 55 minutes long.

When was this Two Inconvenient Women episode published?

This episode was published on June 12, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Why is criticism often so hard to take? What is it inside us that shrinks when someone points out something we've missed, we lack or we've done 'wrong'? Who sets the parameters for 'right and wrong' and what does it actually mean to 'critique'...

Can I download this Two Inconvenient Women episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!