Compassionate Speech with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim

Compassionate Speech with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim

In this episode of 'A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment', Scott Snibby sits down with Dr. Suzanne Wertheim, author of 'The Inclusive Language Field Guide'. Dr. Wertheim, who has a rich background in academia and currently works with major companies like Google and Reddit, discusses the importance of inclusive language in fostering connection and understanding. The conversation kicks off with both Scott and Suzanne sharing their own embarrassing language mistakes, which sets a relatable and humorous tone for the episode.

They dive into the parallels between Suzanne's work and the Buddhist concept of 'right speech', exploring how to confront harmful speech both forcefully and compassionately. Suzanne shares her journey of recognising bias in her own language and provides practical advice on how to speak more inclusively. They also touch on the impact of language on marginalised communities, offering insights into avoiding erasure and promoting fairness.

This episode is packed with real-life examples and actionable tips, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in improving their communication skills. Tune in to hear how you can use your words to create a more inclusive and connected world.