Episode 34: Finding Joy in Liberation: A Rebel Writes Conversation
Filmed the day before my brother Avery transitioned. Released now as I recover my voice from illness. Still timely. Still necessary.
In this week’s episode, Emma and I curl up in our pajamas with our “special guests” Kibou and Hiro to explore liberation through the lens of Week One of Dr. Dani Martin’s Rebel Writes journal, a 90-day invitation into liberation, critical consciousness, and joyful resistance.
From pajamas and therapy dogs to hard truths about inequity, mutual aid, and the then-current government shutdown, this episode reveals what liberation looks like through the eyes of a 10-year-old who feels deeply, loves fiercely, and believes wholeheartedly in a world where everyone gets to thrive.
It is tender, unfiltered, and full of the kind of clarity that only children can give.
Chapters
00:51 — Meet the Special Guests: Kibou and Hiro
Emma introduces the dogs who bring emotional support and comic relief.
01:51 — Introducing Dr. Dani Martin & Her Work
A look into Rebel Writes, liberation-focused journaling, and the power of critical consciousness.
03:54 — Exploring the Concept of Liberation
We unpack Week One of Dr. Dani’s journal and begin reflecting on freedom as a daily, embodied practice.
13:46 — Emma’s Thoughts on Liberation
Emma shares what liberation feels like for her — expressed through art, joy, and emotional honesty.
15:39 — Personal and Collective Liberation
The link between being whole individually and shaping a more just collective.
21:02 — Barriers to Liberation in School & Community
Emma names racism, inequity, housing insecurity, and the realities children witness more than adults admit.
28:42 — Understanding Privilege & Empathy
A conversation about disparities, compassion, and the simple power of noticing.
30:22 — Impact of the Government Shutdown
Emma reflects on her class field trip cancellation — and we talk about the larger costs for families across the country.
33:09 — Community Support & Mutual Aid
Examples of people stepping in where systems fail, and how everyday folks become lifelines.
35:32 — Baptism & Personal Reflections
Emma shares her joy and anticipation around her upcoming baptism.
41:43 — Addressing Inequality in Schools
Dress codes, segregation, access, and what liberation looks like in education.
48:20 — Chicken Nugget Wisdom: Finding Joy & Purpose
Emma’s wisdom: “Find something you like and do it.”
A reflection on Howard Thurman, coming alive, and collective action.
52:33 — Closing Thoughts & Call to Action
Your liberation unlocks someone else’s. Find your people. Do the work together.
Call to Action
Find what makes you come alive — and then find someone to do it with.
Collective liberation is built in community, in curiosity, and in the small acts of courage we choose each day.
If this episode resonated — made you laugh, think, feel, or whisper “that’s deep, bro…” — share it with someone who needs it.
Connect with Me:
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Like, Comment, Share, Engage
If 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!
