Summary of "I Feel That Way Too!: A Conversation with Michelle MiJung Kim"
The PoliticsGirl Podcast hosted by Leigh McGowan features a profound and thought-provoking conversation with Michelle MiJung Kim, a Korean American writer, speaker, and activist. Released on August 5, 2025, this episode delves deep into the challenges facing American democracy, the rise of fascism, and the imperative for collective action and humanity in turbulent times.
Introduction: Recognizing the Reality of Fascism
Leigh McGowan sets the stage by introducing Michelle MiJung Kim, highlighting her impactful work, including her award-winning book The Wake Up and her podcast I Feel That Way Too. Leigh emphasizes Michelle's role in calling out performative corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, steering the conversation towards genuine liberation through discomfort and accountability.
Understanding Collective Fear and Loss of Humanity
Michelle opens the discussion by addressing the paralyzing fear that comes from acknowledging that "no one is coming to save us, that we have to be the ones taking it upon ourselves to change ourselves and the world around us" [00:00]. She critiques the tendency to outsource responsibility, whether through donations or reliance on organizations, advocating instead for personal and collective engagement.
Key Quote:
"What people are being asked to wake up to is the reality that, no, it's us. We have to do it. We have to care for one another."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [00:00]
The Disconnect Between Online Persona and Reality
Leigh shares her observations of societal disconnect, noting how social media often presents a sanitized version of reality. Michelle agrees, pointing out that platforms like LinkedIn celebrate personal achievements without acknowledging prevailing injustices, which leads to a "collective severing" from the truth.
Key Quote:
"When we look on LinkedIn... it is dystopian, right?... that cognitive dissonance does something to our collective humanity."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [03:33]
The Importance of Acknowledging Fear Before Embracing Courage
Michelle challenges the conventional push for immediate courage, suggesting that recognizing and admitting fear is a crucial first step. She argues that acknowledging collective fear can pave the way for genuine courage and sustained activism.
Key Quote:
"Rather than move straight into courage, why don't we start by acknowledging that we're scared?"
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [03:33]
The Perils of Platforming Extremist Voices
The conversation shifts to media practices that inadvertently amplify extremist voices, creating the illusion of widespread support for harmful ideologies. Michelle warns against giving undue legitimacy to fascist perspectives, emphasizing the need to center marginalized voices instead.
Key Quote:
"When we platform these people, we somehow make those arguments and perspectives just as legitimate as the ones that are opposing it."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [15:10]
Interconnected Struggles and Collective Liberation
Michelle underscores the interconnectedness of various social justice movements. She argues that fighting against oppression benefits all, including those who might not initially see the personal benefits. By dismantling patriarchal, racist, and capitalist structures, everyone gains the freedom and humanity they deserve.
Key Quote:
"All of our liberation is bound up with one another... we cannot heal any of us, not me, not you."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [23:20]
The Complexity of Identity and National Consciousness
Leigh and Michelle discuss the challenges of reconciling American identity with its often-ugly historical truths. Michelle advocates for a collective awakening that embraces the nation's flawed history as a foundation for genuine change, rather than clinging to a one-dimensional "good guy" narrative.
Key Quote:
"We have to build the collective consciousness... to spot the right enemies. And those enemies are always going to be the structural oppressive systems."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [46:14]
Building Courage Through Community and Shared Humanity
Michelle shares a personal anecdote about participating in a direct action for Palestine, illustrating how communal support and shared vulnerability can foster courage. She emphasizes that true bravery emerges from recognizing shared fears and reinforcing each other's humanity.
Key Quote:
"Underneath the fear is deep, deep love that we have for one another."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [57:22]
Conclusion: Practicing Hope and Collective Action
The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to engage in collective healing and activism. Michelle urges the cultivation of hope as a disciplined practice, stressing that genuine change requires persistent effort and unwavering community support.
Key Quote:
"We're going to have hope because we're practicing it. It requires us to look at what is actually happening in the world."
— Michelle Mi Jung Kim [58:34]
Final Thoughts
This episode of The PoliticsGirl Podcast offers a compelling exploration of the current socio-political climate, urging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in meaningful action. Michelle Mi Jung Kim's insights provide a roadmap for reclaiming humanity and fostering a unified front against systemic oppression.
For more insights and ongoing discussions, listeners are encouraged to follow Michelle's work through her podcast I Feel That Way Too and her book The Wake Up.
Note: Timestamps correspond to the transcript provided and are intended to highlight approximate locations of key quotes and themes within the episode.