Episode 1: The Power of the Pause: Rediscovering Wonder and Curiosity with Our Youth
Content Notice: This podcast discusses sensitive topics. If you or someone you know is struggling with pregnancy or infant loss, please visit nationalshare.org to find support in your area. For international support, visit postpartum.net.
In this debut episode of Living in 3D Power, Dr. Amber Sessoms explores the Power of the Pause. Discover how slowing down to connect with wonder, curiosity, and the wisdom of our youth can ground us and inspire alignment with our values, strengths, and needs. Joined by her 10-year-old daughter, Emma, Amber reflects on the lessons we can learn from children and how these insights connect to her 3D Power Tools Framework: Discovery, Discernment, and Determination.
Amber and Emma share heartfelt conversations on joy, grief, and the communities that uplift us, offering actionable reflections for building a more intentional life.
Takeaways
Asking questions about your year can support your future intentions
Encouraging youth to embrace their identity is crucial
Creating a supportive community helps combat feelings of isolation
Self-acceptance is a journey that can be reclaimed
There is enough space for everyone to shine
Self-love comes from recognizing and valuing one's gifts
Sisterhood can create a constellation of support
Listening to the youth can provide valuable insights
The 3D Power Collective aims to disrupt scarcity mindsets
Engagement in community initiatives fosters growth
Cultural pride is essential for personal development
Sound Bites
"Knowing the truth of who I am.”
“More capacity for being fully human, meaning that I can experience the full breadth of my emotions.”
“I don’t have to live this way anymore.”
“As I continue on my journey and walk in my truth, it gives others license and permission to do the same.”
“Disrupt this narrative about a scarcity mindset that if I am the only Black woman in this space, it has to be mine…there is enough room for all of us."
“My Sis over here, she has her own gifts and talents and in no way does her shine outshine my shine.”
“When we are really in alignment and shining in our own innate right, it creates a constellation of stars.” [paraphrased from adrienne maree brown]
“Creating this constellation of stars in a sisterhood.”
"It's Me" the song.
“[Emma] will give you the permission to really be expansive in how you show up in the world.”
“There's nothing more healing and grounding than for [your kids] to see you in the fullness of your humanity.”
“Continue to build a legacy and make sure that we're speaking life into those that come after us".”
“And how are the children?” —Masai greeting
“Going back and telling little Amber, ‘You are beautiful. You have beautiful brown skin and beautiful hair.’”
Chapters
[01:30] Introduction to Living in 3D Power and the Power of the Pause.
[04:58] Amber introduces the 3D Power Tools Framework: Discovery, Discernment, and Determination.
[06:36] Reflecting on joy, pain, and alignment through Curiosity Card prompts.
[19:41] Emma’s segment: Her take on what brings joy, navigating grief, and celebrating milestones.
[31:50] Reflections on Emma’s insights and the importance of nurturing our youth.
[42:27] Call to Action: Engage with your own reflections and connect with our community.
Curiosity Card Prompts for Reflection
Discovery
Adult Question: What moments brought you the most joy or pain this past year, and what do they reveal about your values?
Kid Question: What was the happiest or saddest moment you had this past year, and what did it teach you about yourself?
Discernment
Adult Question: What moments made you feel most alive and aligned with your true self?
Kid Question: What moments this past year made you feel really excited or like your best self?
Determination
Adult Question: Who supports your growth and well-being, and how can you nurture those connections?
Kid Question: Who are the people or groups that help you feel good about yourself, and how can you spend more time with them?
Resources Mentioned
Integrity Inquiry: Inspired by the work of James Clear, this practice focuses on regular (quarterly or monthly) check-ins to ensure alignment with your Values, Strengths, and Needs (VSNs). Learn more here.
Support for Infant and Pregnancy Loss:
3D Power Collective Interest Survey: Learn more and take the survey here to join a community for women of the African diaspora.
Keepsake Book Ideas: Explore Snapfish for personalized photo books: Shutterfly. (Costco members can receive upwards of 51% off photobooks!)
Subscribe to the Living in 3D Power Substack: Get weekly reflections, live video footage of podcast conversations, and more exclusive content. Subscribe for free here.
Connect with Amber
Instagram: @natural_inclination
Fanbase: @natural_inclination
LinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSP
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. Drop your questions and feedback in the comments and connect with me on social media. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation where Emma will be interviewing me!