Empathy By Design

Universal Design in Breathwork

In this episode of 'Empathy by Design,' Julie Johnson, co-founder of Integrate Trauma-Informed Network, interviews Robin Mandel, a trauma-informed yoga teacher and disability rights activist. They discuss the importance of intentional design in both physical and digital spaces to create safe environments. Robin shares insights on her work integrating disability justice with trauma-informed breath work, emphasizing the nuanced approach needed for individuals with diverse lived experiences. She explains the concept of allowing the breath rather than controlling it, and the importance of personalized breath work practices.
The conversation also highlights the challenges and adaptations required for various physical abilities and stresses the significance of self-awareness in breath practices. Robin promotes her upcoming classes on Songbird Yoga, which will feature gentle, self-empowering approaches to breath work.
Episode Transcript
Check out Robin's Work
Download the App

Empathy and the Power of Pausing with Sally Miller

In this episode of Empathy By Design, host Julie talks with Sally Miller, a yin yoga teacher, about her journey from Vinyasa to yin yoga, the principles and practices of yin, and the importance of pausing to feel. Sally shares insights into how yin yoga cultivates stillness, empathy, and self-awareness. They delve into the benefits of somatic practices, the role of pausing in everyday life, and techniques like the yin breath for grounding. The conversation highlights the potential of yin yoga to foster resilience and emotional intelligence, especially in dealing with anger and trauma.
00:00 Introduction to Empathy By Design
00:25 Meet Sally Miller: Yin Yoga Teacher
02:59 The Yin Experiment and Empathy
03:47 Practicing Empathy and Stillness
05:41 Navigating Discomfort in Yin Yoga
08:10 The Benefits of Online Yin Yoga
09:58 Grounding Practices for Yoga Teachers
14:22 Understanding the Yin Breath
18:11 Integrating Pausing to Feel in Daily Life
20:28 The Importance of Pausing in Conversations
21:21 Personal Experiences with Pausing
22:49 Challenges and Discomfort in Pausing
23:47 Teaching and Practicing Pausing
28:08 The Therapeutic Benefits of Pausing
32:34 Empathy and the Role of Anger
38:07 Final Thoughts and Resources
 

Exploring Empathy and Conflict Resilience in the Digital Age

In this episode of Empathy By Design, we welcome Dr. Diaz, a distinguished social scientist with a background in clinical psychology and virtual reality. Dr. Diaz discusses her innovative approach to conflict through her self-constructed DOT model. She emphasizes the importance of conflict resiliency rather than conflict resolution, arguing that conflict is a natural part of human interaction that should be approached with a constructive mindset. Tune in to explore how empathic design can bridge dissonances and foster meaningful human connections in the digital age.
 
00:00 Introduction to Empathy By Design
00:47 Meet Dr. Diaz: A Social Scientist's Journey
02:58 Redefining Conflict: From Resolution to Resiliency
04:34 The Art of Conflict Resiliency
05:47 The Role of Harmony in Conflict
 
Follow Dr. Diaz on Substack
 
Go deeper and learn some empathic skills in our App or on our Teachable Portal

Unpacking Empathy by Design: A Guide Into Embodied Boundaries

Welcome back to Empathy by Design! This episode dives deep into a topic that touches every facet of our lives: Embodied Boundaries. We’re exploring what it means to honor your emotional, mental, and physical limits and how this practice creates healthier, more empathetic connections—with others and yourself in our wellness routines and in design and business world.  
Join us as we unpack the messy, beautiful process of learning to say “no” without guilt, recognizing your needs, and creating balance in relationships. Special guest Sarah O’Brien, a licensed clinical social worker, shares her insights on boundaries as acts of care and how they’re not about keeping people out but protecting your peace.  
You’ll also hear reflections  from our Community Manager Fihmiya Hamdan on how trauma and nervous system awareness play a role in setting boundaries, plus stories of finding safety in the middle ground between “letting everything in” and “shutting everything out.”  
If you’re ready to reclaim your energy and lean into empathy—not just for others but for yourself too—this episode is for you. 🎧  
Take a moment today to listen in, reflect, and reconnect. You’re worth it. 🌟 Don’t forget to sign up for our Embodied Boundaries workshop on 5/10 from 2-4 CST (VIRTUAL) to get anexperience and professional guidance on setting Embodied Boundaries
You can find the episode transcript at the link below:
https://share.descript.com/view/xvDBQtjwgZO

Quality Meets Empathy: Innovating with Tristan Keelan

In this episode of 'Empathy by Design' from Integrate Trauma-Informed Network, host Julie welcomes Tristan Kelan, founder of Qi Folio and Director of Growth and Development at Informed. They discuss how empathy, trauma-informed care, and technology intersect to improve behavioral and mental health. Tristan shares insights from his background in behavioral health and data analytics, emphasizing the importance of integrating trauma-informed principles into quality improvement processes without compromising trust and safety. The conversation includes practical strategies for leveraging technology and data to enhance client-centered care, the importance of trust and collaboration in quality improvement, and how to effectively use data to track the impact of trauma-informed care. Whether you're a clinician, tech professional, or UX designer, this episode offers valuable insights on balancing data-driven solutions with compassionate care. For a transcript o this video please email integratenetwork@gmail.com
00:00 Introduction to Empathy By Design
01:08 Meet Tristan Kelan: Founder of Qi Folio
02:29 Exploring Trauma-Informed Care Principles
03:19 Quality Improvement in Behavioral Health
06:11 Engaging Process Owners for Effective Change
08:17 Building Trust Through Data and Collaboration
19:52 Handling Client Feedback and Reviews
24:36 Tech Support and Trauma-Informed Customer Service
28:01 Scaling and Supporting Users
29:18 Data Analytics and Trauma-Informed Care
30:55 User Experience and Technology
38:28 Data Automation and Reporting
45:31 Tracking Effectiveness in Trauma-Informed Care
53:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Empathy by Design Promo

Discover how empathy transforms design with Julie Johnson in Empathy By Design. From technology that prioritizes people to fostering inclusive communities, explore conversations with innovators reshaping wellness, tech, and care. Learn how empathetic, trauma-informed approaches can inspire connection and meaningful change. Subscribe now to join this compassionate design movement. Listen on your favorite podcast platform!