Episode 3: The Power of Strength: How Our Strengths Shape Us, Even When the World Tries to Erase Us
In this episode of Living in 3D Power, Emma and I dive into The Power of Strength—not just the kind we carry individually, but the collective strength of our history, our communities, and our truths.
As we prepare to navigate Black History Month in a time where DEI is being stripped away—as if erasing policies could erase us—we’re reminded that our power has never been rooted in external validation. We are not defined by the limitations others place on us. We exist, we persist, and we thrive.
This isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about creating spaces where we can fully exist. So, let’s reclaim our strengths, honor our histories, and step into our power unapologetically.
Chapters
[02:04] Understanding Our Strengths
[03:44] The Importance of Self-Assessment
[05:15] Personal Reflections on Strengths
[06:19] Emma's Strengths and Confidence
[09:06] Exploring Various Assessment Tools
[11:12] The Power of Vulnerability
[16:12] Creating Liberatory Spaces
[24:57] Emma's Perspective on Strengths
[35:31] The Importance of Bravery and Support
[35:58] Aligning Career with Personal Strengths
[36:40] Understanding and Showcasing Strengths
[37:50] The Role of Environment in Utilizing Strengths
[39:08] Admiring Strong Black Women Athletes
[43:33] Overcoming Personal Fears
[48:49] Making a Positive Impact on the Community
[51:36] Embracing Strengths and Building Community
Curiosity Card Prompts for Reflection
Discovery
Kid Question: Which of my VIA Character Strengths makes me proud, and why?
Adult Question: Which of my VIA Character Strengths am I most proud of, and how has it shaped my journey?
Kid Question: Who is a Black woman/man or girl/boy I admire, and what makes her/him/them strong?
Adult Question: Who is a Black woman or man I admire, and how does her/his/their strength inspire the way I show up in the world?
Discernment
Kid Question: What’s something hard I’ve done before, and how did I make it through?
Adult Question: What is a challenge I’ve overcome, and what inner strengths or support systems helped me navigate it?
Determination
Kid Question: If I could do one thing today to make my community better, what would it be?
Adult Question: What is one intentional action I can take today to contribute to the well-being and liberation of my community?
Resources Mentioned:
Amber's Favorites (free download of my favorite books, podcasts, and personality assessments)
Chichi Agorom book, The Enneagram for Black Liberation: Return to Who You Are Beneath the Armor You Carry
Toni Morrison book, The Origin of Others
Cohen, G. L., Garcia, J., Apfel, N., & Master, A. (2006). "Reducing the racial achievement gap: A social-psychological intervention." Science, 313(5791), 1307-1310.
Connect with Amber
Instagram: @natural_inclination
LinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSP
Bluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.social
Fanbase: @natural_inclination
Facebook: Natural Inclination
TikTok: @naturalinclination
Like, Comment, Share, Engage
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences—you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe to my Substack to get the full video delivered straight to your email. Stay tuned for next week’s conversation!
