Danté Stewart: Faith, Identity, and Finding Your Voice
I want to find those things that would allow me to embody the best of what we can become and, hopefully over time, like a sculpture, an artist that, over time, every single hit would turn that sculpture into something beautiful, so that when people years and years and years from now will look back on this sculpture, they will not only hear about the journey that got us here, but they will also be able to see the product that we have actually created.
Ever felt like you’re trying to find your place in the world? Danté Stewart knows that feeling all too well. In this episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer chats with Danté, a speaker and writer whose work spans race, religion, and politics. Danté’s book, *Shoutin’ in the Fire: An American Epistle*, serves as a backdrop for their conversation.
They dive into how faith and identity shape our lives and the tricky path of finding one's voice in a noisy world. Danté shares his experiences of navigating predominantly white spaces and the challenges of seeking affirmation in environments that often don’t reflect his own identity. He opens up about the struggle of balancing personal authenticity with societal expectations. The episode touches on the impact of white supremacy on human relationships and the importance of amplifying diverse voices.
One of the most powerful parts of their discussion is about the role of literature in fostering empathy. Danté believes that stories have the power to heal and connect us. He talks about how reading fiction can help us understand different perspectives and make sense of our past, which is crucial for personal growth and wholeness. Eric and Danté also explore the idea of caring for ourselves as whole people, not just fragmented parts.
This holistic approach to self-care is essential for anyone looking to lead a fulfilling life. The episode wraps up with Danté reflecting on the importance of gratitude and embodying the best versions of ourselves. Whether you’re grappling with your own identity or just curious about how literature can change lives, this episode offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking listen.