Season 6, Episode 2: Fumbling Forward as a Helper: Using Your Strengths When the World Feels Heavy
February 4, 2026
Season 6, Episode 2: Fumbling Forward as a Helper: Using Your Strengths When the World Feels Heavy
When the world feels heavy, many of us feel the pull to help — and the paralysis of not knowing how. In this episode of The Imperfect Advocate Podcast, Karen Auld speaks honestly about feeling powerless, naming the emotional weight many are carrying right now, and reframing what it means to “be a helper.”
Drawing on positive psychology research from Martin Seligman, Karen explores how action — even small, imperfect action — restores agency and reduces helplessness when it’s aligned with our values and strengths. She shares a personal story about her husband and father-in-law designing dozens of homes for Habitat for Humanity, not by becoming different people, but by offering what they already do best.
The episode also weaves in insights from Ben Zander and The Art of Possibility, including the idea of contribution as expression (not sacrifice) and the power of “shining eyes” — a sign you’re working in alignment.
If you’ve ever thought “I want to help, but I don’t know what to do,” this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a practical next step — including a free character strengths assessment to help you fumble forward as the helper only you can be.
Call to Action:
Check out Ben Zander talking about possibility here.
Take the VIA Institute Strengths Assessment. Let Karen know what you thought about the assessment. Was it spot on for you too?
Links:
Click here to find Karen’s Socials
About Karen auld
Karen Auld is an environmentalist, writer, and podcast host who helps people move from overwhelm to action — imperfectly and with heart. On The Imperfect Advocate Podcast, she blends positive psychology, mindfulness, and environmental advocacy to show listeners how to lead with love, use their strengths, and fumble forward when the world feels heavy.
Karen is the co-author of Color Love and Kindness, a metta-inspired coloring book, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Happiness and Overall Wellbeing.
Off-mic, she loves time in nature, trying new things, and watching Stranger Things with a cat on her lap.
