Episode 40: Bridging Worlds | Dr. Lesther Papa on Microaggressions and Multicultural Healing

The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast

In a new episode of The Critical Social Worker: A Revolutionary Storytelling Podcast, our host Christian Ace Stettler welcomes Dr. Lesther Papa, an assistant professor of psychology at San José State University. Their conversation traverses Dr. Papa's multicultural background, his journey through academia, and his commitment to addressing microaggressions and fostering multicultural healing. Microaggressions and Multicultural Insights: Dr. Papa takes us into the nuanced world of microaggressions, explaining their impact on marginalized communities. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, he underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing these subtle forms of discrimination. Dr. Papa emphasizes the role of storytelling in building empathy and understanding across diverse groups. A Personal Journey to Psychology: From his roots in Kauai and experiences as the child of Filipino immigrants, Dr. Papa shares his path to psychology. His story highlights the challenges and triumphs he encountered, reflecting on the importance of education instilled by his parents and the pivotal moments that guided him toward his passion for psychology and mental health counseling. Educational Aspirations and Professional Pathways: The conversation also touches on Dr. Papa's academic journey, from overcoming obstacles in higher education to pursuing his PhD. He discusses the significance of research, mentorship, and hands-on experience in shaping his career, offering advice to listeners on navigating their educational and professional endeavors. Fostering Empathy and Connection: Dr. Papa's teaching philosophy and his approach to connecting with students are explored, showcasing his commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. He shares strategies for engaging students and encouraging them to embrace their identities and experiences as strengths. Reflections on Identity, Culture, and Social Work: Christian and Lesther reflect on the broader implications of their discussion for social work and multicultural understanding. They emphasize the importance of acknowledging and valuing individual differences while working towards collective solidarity and support. Honoring Memories and Moving Forward: The episode concludes with a tribute to shared experiences and the individuals who have influenced their journeys. Lesther and Christian highlight the importance of carrying forward the lessons learned and the memories cherished, as they continue to advocate for change and understanding in their respective fields.