In this episode of The Collective Perspective, Jeff and Travis break down one of the most misunderstood human skills: empathy. Most people think empathy is simply “feeling what someone else feels,” but is that actually helping them? Or can it sometimes make things worse? We explore what empathy really is (and isn’t), how sympathy, empathy, and compassion differ, the dangers of always trying to relate, how compassion turns care into action, and why understanding this changes how we show up in relationships.

We also announce our new series: Get Over Yourself. A consistent dive into the behaviors, habits, and emotions that hold us back from becoming healthier people. The first episode focuses on Envy... boy oh boy most people might need to check their dictionary.

If you want better connection, better communication, and better support for those you care about, this episode matters. New conversations every week. Thanks for being part of the perspective.

• (00:00:00) - Introduction: What Makes America Stronger
• (00:00:38) - Diving into Empathy and Compassion
• (00:02:03) - Understanding Sympathy vs. Empathy
• (00:06:24) - The Role of Compassion
• (00:08:01) - Balancing Empathy and Professional Boundaries
• (00:13:20) - Intent and Patterns in Human Behavior
• (00:18:21) - Conclusion and Upcoming Series

Reclaiming Your Mind in the Age of Distraction

in Episode 68 of The Collective Perspective, Jeff Aldrich and Travis Eadens dive into the hidden world of algorithms not just the ones on your phone, but the ones shaping your thoughts, habits, and daily decisions.

We talk about how to retrain your digital feed, protect your attention, and take back ownership of what influences you. From social media to streaming platforms, your algorithm learns from you but it’s time to teach it what really matters.

This conversation challenges the idea that we’re just passive consumers. Instead, we explore practical ways to become intentional curators of our digital lives, aligning what we see and hear with who we want to become.

Topics Covered:
• The psychology behind digital algorithms
• How social media shapes emotion and focus
• Why your attention is a form of currency
• Practical steps to reset your feed
• The connection between what you watch and who you are

The Collective Perspective Podcast where faith, logic, and community meet.
Helping Americans rise above division and distraction, one honest conversation at a time.

Subscribe for new episodes every week
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• (00:00:00) - Introduction: The Power of Real People
• (00:00:37) - How to Train Your Algorithm
• (00:01:41) - The Intricacies of Algorithms
• (00:05:33) - Practical Tips for Controlling Your Algorithm
• (00:09:09) - The Social Media Experiment
• (00:09:56) - The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• (00:16:04) - Strategies for a Healthier Algorithm
• (00:27:20) - Conclusion: Finding Common Ground

Welcome to The Collective Perspective Podcast, where we’re introducing a new chapter called The Contributor Series — conversations with people who build, serve, and contribute to society instead of simply consuming. This is technically the fourth interview of this Chapter.

In this interview, hosts Jeff Aldrich and Travis Eadens sit down with John Green, CEO of Operation Barnabas, a grassroots organization dedicated to offering relentless help for America’s veterans.

John shares how Operation Barnabas began, how faith and community drive their mission, and the real challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life. From navigating healthcare and finding purpose to building a brotherhood that lasts beyond service, this discussion is both eye-opening and inspiring.

We talk about:
• The origin and mission of Operation Barnabas
• Overcoming invisible battles veterans face
• How faith and community bring healing
• Stories of transformation and relentless service
• How everyday people can contribute to the mission

The Contributor Series highlights those who make America stronger through action, compassion, and purpose.

Subscribe for more conversations that challenge division, celebrate contribution, and strengthen community.

The Collective Perspective Podcast
Hosted by Jeff Aldrich & Travis Eadens

• (00:00:00) - Introduction to the Collective Perspective Podcast
• (00:00:34) - Welcoming John Green from Operation Barnabas
• (00:00:59) - Overview of Operation Barnabas
• (00:02:33) - Expansion and Jail Programs
• (00:04:47) - The Philosophy Behind Operation Barnabas
• (00:06:19) - Core Programs and Community Initiatives
• (00:10:10) - Success Stories and Transformations
• (00:13:08) - The Secret Recipe for Change
• (00:16:07) - Continuing Care for Veterans
• (00:19:07) - Organizational Changes
• (00:25:46) - Future Goals for Operation Barnabas
• (00:28:57) - Final Thoughts and Encouragement