Episode 32: Reimagining Nature and Belonging with Carolyn Finney, PhD
In this episode of Fierce Compassion, cultural geographer and storyteller Carolyn Finney illuminates the intricate relationship between race, nature, and belonging. Drawing from her journey from actor to environmental justice advocate, Finney explores how storytelling can bridge divides and create more inclusive understandings of nature. She challenges conventional narratives about outdoor spaces, emphasizing that nature exists beyond recreation and resource extraction. Through personal insights and scholarly wisdom, Finney demonstrates how vulnerability and authentic dialogue can transform our approach to environmental justice. Join us as we explore what it means to build Beloved Community—one that embraces all people and the natural world that surrounds us.
Also, we will be offering a limited number of live, one-on-one coaching sessions which will be shared on a special episode of the podcast. Follow this link to find out more and apply: https://forms.gle/4PqSPcJ74rLjzsUX8
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Episode 32: Reimagining Nature and Belonging with Carolyn Finney
About Carolyn
Carolyn Finney, PhD, is a cultural geographer, storyteller, and author focused on identity, difference, and environmental issues. Her work challenges representation in media and environmental organizations, exploring how privilege shapes environmental discourse. With a background in acting and extensive travel, Finney’s unique perspective blends artistic and academic approaches. She’s a Fulbright Scholar, former U.S. National Parks Advisory Board member, and author of “Black Faces, White Spaces: Reimagining the Relationship between African Americans and the Great Outdoors.” Finney’s expertise spans media appearances, writing for major publications, and teaching at prestigious institutions – she is currently a scholar/artist-in-residence at Middlebury College. Currently working on a new book and performance piece, she continues to bridge gaps between race, land, and belonging in the United States.
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Episode Mentions
Alice Randall and “The Wind Done Gone”
Anna Deavere Smith and “Twilight Los Angeles“
Bryan Stevenson
Cornel West
Carl Sagan
James Baldwin and Margaret Mead and “Rap on Race“
John Muir
