In this episode of And We Feel Fine, Katie Smith and Beth Rudden navigate the deeply personal and radically political terrain of emotional intelligence, moral imagination, and the soul of our systems. Through vulnerable reflection and philosophical exploration, they ask: What does it mean to be a good person in a society built for profit, not people?

They discuss how capitalism distorts our values, why education must evolve to prioritize virtues, and how community shapes identity—especially for those living at the margins. As AI reshapes power and possibility, this conversation calls for a new kind of literacy—one rooted in empathy, integrity, and the courage to reimagine everything.

If the world we knew is ending, what do we want to begin?

🔑 Topics Covered:

• Emotional intelligence and the processing of pain
• The role of moral imagination in a capitalist society
• Education as a vessel for values, not just knowledge
• Queer identity, community, and cultural belonging
• AI’s potential to support justice—or perpetuate harm
• Redefining wealth, success, and personal agency
• Healing through human connection
• Rewriting the story of society, together

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Emotional intelligence helps us hold pain without passing it on.
• We must re-center morality and values in education and tech.
• Community is foundational to identity, safety, and resilience.
• AI is powerful—so we must guide it with purpose and care.
• Capitalism without conscience erodes our humanity.
• The world is changing—and we have a say in what comes next.

⏱️ Chapters (Timestamps):

• 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
• 02:08 Emotional Intelligence and Pain
• 08:03 The Balance Between Capitalism and Morality
• 20:01 Personal Experiences with Education and Community
• 31:46 Exploring Identity in the Queer Scene
• 38:21 The Promise and Perils of AI
• 49:14 The Moral Dilemma of Wealth and Success
• 57:32 Transitioning to a New World