Mission Forward with Carrie Fox

In a world increasingly fractured, whispers of civil unrest grow louder. Dr. John Paul Lederach, a veteran peacebuilder with decades of experience in global conflict zones, offers a stark yet hopeful message: the antidote to escalating tensions lies not in grand pronouncements but in the quiet power of human connection. This week on Mission Forward, Lederach shares insights from his new book, Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War, a timely and urgent call to action for a nation teetering on the edge.

Lederach's work isn't about predicting the future; it's about recognizing the patterns of the past. He draws parallels between the volatile political climate in the US and the conflicts he's witnessed around the world, highlighting the insidious nature of dehumanization and the urgent need for rehumanization. He argues that we must move beyond "listening with our eyes," judging individuals based on their affiliations, and instead engage in deep, radical listening that acknowledges the shared humanity beneath the surface of disagreement.

Lederach introduces the concept of "watching our pockets," a metaphor for cultivating local, grassroots movements for peace. He argues that lasting change emerges not from top-down decrees but from the interconnected web of relationships within our communities. He challenges listeners to consider: who do we know? How can we connect with those just outside our comfort zones? How can we build alliances around shared values and goals?

The conversation isn't about finding easy answers or quick fixes. It's about cultivating the courage to start, the willingness to listen deeply, and the perseverance to stay engaged, even when the path forward seems uncertain. Lederach’s message is a potent reminder that the future of our democracy rests not in the hands of politicians or pundits, but in our own capacity for empathy, connection, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of a more peaceful future. In a world where division seems inevitable, Lederach offers a powerful alternative: the possibility of building peace, one conversation, one relationship, one pocket at a time.

Don’t forget, you can download Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War free on his site, or pick it up on Amazon right here. 
  • (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward

What is Mission Forward with Carrie Fox?

Mission Forward: An award-winning podcast for communicators on a mission.

Hosted by social impact expert and B Corp leader Carrie Fox, each episode of Mission Forward explores the power of communications. With just the right mix of practical and thought-provoking content, we take on the issues that matter to you, and that support your work as a communicator for change.

Together, we talk through topics that you’re likely experiencing right now: from how to tackle tough conversations; to how to best challenge stereotypes; to how we can build bridges across the issues that divide us. If you’re working to become a more inclusive and thoughtful communicator, there’s nothing holding you back—except you.

About Season 9

Communication is essential to moving missions forward. Whether you’re trying to advance a strategic goal, drive change in an organization or raise funds to increase your impact, how you communicate matters. And with the noise of today’s world, it matters even more that your message be delivered, heard, remembered, AND acted upon. Getting there requires more than words.

We’ve entered a consequential year. Every decision will matter. Care, courage, and civility will matter too.

On season 9 of the Mission Forward podcast, host and social impact communications expert Carrie Fox will be with you through it all. With episodes dropping every Thursday, this season will feature a host of thought leaders who will share their take on this critical year and how they navigate the issues ahead. We’ll dig into key issues you’re facing, we’ll inspire you with fresh ideas and practical insights, and we’ll show you how to apply the key practices of courageous leadership to your work. Come along as we practice a more-than-words approach to communications and leadership.

* About the Host (https://www.missionforward.us/about-carrie)
* Listen to Past Episodes (https://www.missionforward.us/episodes)