Bear Psychology Podcast
Dr. Anna Baranowsky is a Canadian Clinical Psychologist, CEO of the Traumatology Institute, Founder and President of the Board at Trauma Practice. She is the author of two books on trauma, numerous courses to help train professionals in trauma mental health and the developer of the Trauma Recovery Program for Self-Guided trauma care. She works with trauma survivors and those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on post-traumatic growth and recovery. Through her work she believes that when we share, dialogue and feel supported, it provides a powerful foundation for forward movement in our understanding and the care needed. In her own words "I have found that the most profound changes occur when a person truly feels heard and understood - I like to think of it as deeply BEARING WITNESS to life evolving. We can feel incredibly stuck when we live with our fears, stressors and troubles in isolation." Dr.Baranowsky is the host of the Bear Psychology Show, focusing on bearing witness to Evolving Mood, Mind, Health. Her talks revolve around recovery, relationships, work and life adventures. She is dedicated to assisting organizations and health professionals who help trauma survivors to ensure a trauma informed lens of care can grow in community health networks. With that vision in 1998, the Traumatology Institute Canada (TIC) was established. TIC has trained thousands of individuals nationally and internationally. Dr. Baranowsky serves on the board of directors of the Academy of Traumatology and is a Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress through the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and is recognized by The National Center for Crisis Management. She has published in the area of Post-Traumatic Stress, Compassion Fatigue, and therapeutic relationships (the Silencing Response). Copyright: Dr. Anna Baranowsky, 2020
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Overcoming Depression with Activation Strategies
11/29/2024
Overcoming Depression with Activation Strategies
Depression is a type of mood disorder that often results in chronic feelings of profound sadness and disinterest. Referred to as both clinical depression and major depressive disorder, it affects one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and can result in a range of psychological and medical issues. Sufferers often report difficulty navigating their day-to-day life and thinking life is not worth living. However, it is critical to understand that recovery is possible and that you are not alone in these struggles. Dr. Nina Josefowitz’s book “The Behavioral Activation Workbook for Depression: Powerful Strategies to Boost Your Mood and Build a Better Life” has been created for this very purpose and is made to assist you in breaking free from the vicious cycle of dejection, low mood, and lack of motivation that is depression. Listen to our conversation with clinical psychologist & author Dr. Nina Josefowitz as we discuss how to boost your motivation, elevate your attitude, and create a better existence, “one page at a time”. Dr. Nina Josefowitz is an author and Registered Psychologist. She has worked in private practice, University Counselling Centres and as an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto over her many years in the field. Dr. Josefowitz’s primary focus is in the area of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) but she has a passion for other modalities (e.g., mindfulness, emotion focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). She is also the author of “CBT Made Simple”, a comprehensive manual to help professionals learn CBT. Dr. Nina Josefowitz’s book provides a variety of easy to learn techniques with the goal of boosting motivation, reconnecting with what matters to you; controlling troublesome thoughts and emotions; and living life to the fullest. The cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) exercises in this book are considered to be the gold standard for treating mental health conditions like depression and will assist readers in creating and adhering to a mood-boosting activity plan. The book offers strategies and resources centered on gratitude, self-compassion, and mindfulness to increase optimism and hope. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Nina Josefowitz as she shares her expertise in how to engage in the activities that you enjoy once again, giving you a sense of meaning and purpose in life. Links & Resources: Learn more about Dr. Nina Josefowitz: To purchase the Behavioural Activation Workbook for Depression visit: For more information about Dr. Nina Josefowitz’s other books visit: Materials to Reference: Dr. Nina Josefowitz’s Blog: Dr. Nina Josefowitz’s Relaxation Tapes:
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Healing Emotional Dysregulation
10/31/2024
Healing Emotional Dysregulation
In this healing exploration author and therapist Dr. Tamra Sattler reflects on the “Enneagram 4” also referred to as “Borderline-style personality”. These personality styles have a reputation of being difficult for therapists to work with, families to tolerate, and importantly for those struggling to love and accept themselves. In her book, “Too Much and Not Enough: Healing for the Enneagram Four or Borderline-Style Personality”, Sattler describes how people achieve self-discovery and a path forward to belonging, for those with strong emotions. Listen to our conversation with therapist & author Tamra Sattler as we talk about her intimate experience living with this personality type and working with this complicated population. Tamra Sattler, PhD, is a registered Marriage and Family therapist, professor, and author with a private practice based out of Colorado. Dr. Sattler has almost 20 years of experience as a clinician and specializes in the areas of psychological and spiritual development. Her approaches focus heavily on bridging technology and psycho-spirituality and she has an educational background in psychology that is informed by both Western and Eastern philosophies. Tamra Sattler’s book is a therapeutic memoir and an observational tale about borderline traits and emotional dysregulation of the Enneagram 4 (a personality structure). Utilizing an emotionally driven personal narrative and scholarly research, Sattler walks us through the ecstasy and agony that “Fours” experience daily. She details her journey of understanding and recovering from the destructive elements of this Enneagram’s psychological tendencies while sharing her discovery of the beautiful aspects of these orientations as well. It is also full of Dr. Sattler’s numerous examples of clients working through their particular borderline issues over the years of her career, as well as tools for growth and transformation. Listen to our conversation with Mitchell Consky as we discuss Dr. Sattler’s insights and suggestions for those living and working with complicated individuals If you are interested in Dr. Sattler’s knowledge and the realities of healing with a Borderline-Style personality, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: More information about Dr. Sattler: Book link: Learn more about Dr. Sattler’s services: Materials to Reference: Take the Enneagram Test yourself here: Learn more about Borderline Personality Disorder:
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Medical Assistance in Dying – loving someone through the process
10/03/2024
Medical Assistance in Dying – loving someone through the process
Upon receiving a brain tumor diagnosis in 2018, Cynthia Clark’s husband expressed his desire to prioritize the quality of his remaining years over the quantity. His desire was to relish his time with his wife and kids, which ultimately led to his decision to utilize MAID when treatment failed eight months later. After starting a blog to update friends and family about the process, Cynthia began to notice that those going through this same process with a loved one often reported feeling alone and unsupported. This led her to write “The Many Faces of MAID: What to Expect When Someone You Know Chooses Medical Assistance in Dying” with co-author Carol Cram to provide those going through this experience some comfort and support. The proceeds of the book go towards MAID FAMILY SUPPORT SOCIETY. The book is a compilation of 17 stories from those that have experienced the loss of a loved one through a medically assisted death. These stories show the raw and uncensored experiences of the storytellers, express a wide range of emotions, and offer glimpses into some of the intimate moments of their journey. Listen our conversation with author and advocate Cynthia Clark as we take an intimate look into the experiences of people who have supported loved ones through MAID in Canada. Cynthia Clark is an author and graduate of the University of Western Ontario. She is a trained executive coach, has spent time working as a management consultant and continues to advocate for many causes that she is passionate about. She currently is the vice chair of MAID family support, a not-for-profit corporation and charity that focuses on helping individuals who have been through MAID with a loved one. Cynthia herself guided her family through MAID in 2019 when her husband was diagnosed with brain cancer and again when her father chose MAID in 2023. She also volunteers her time at Dying with Dignity Canada and Bridge C-14. Cynthia Clark’s book offers readers solace, camaraderie, and acceptance of their own feelings through this tremendously difficult process. The book provides the opportunity to explore the range of emotions you may experience leading up to, during, and following their loved one's MAID. It is made to be read at any time along the MAID journey to help those suffering realize they are not alone. If you are interested in learning about what the MAID experience in Canada, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: To purchase the book: For more information about the MAID Family Support Society: Access 1 on 1 peer support people supporting someone choosing MAID or grieving a MAID loss: An interview with Cynthia Clark discussing death and children. Materials to Reference: Learn more about Dying with Dignity Canada: Read more MAID stories here:
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Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) impacts your life today
08/01/2024
Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) impacts your life today
After 20 years in practice, Dr. Jonice Webb noticed the painful struggle of people who grew up in homes where they were emotionally neglected. She identified this neglect as an "invisible factor" that continued to affect adults often leaving them feeling depleted and dissatisfied or what she described as “Running on Empty”. In Dr. Webb’s books “Running on Empty: Overcome Your Childhood Emotional Neglect” and “Running On Empty No More: Transform Your Relationships” she shines a light on this invisible force of CEN. She discusses how to bring new tools, strategies and self-awareness to grow beyond this limiting life experience and encourages you to grow beyond CEN. Listen to our conversation with psychologist & author Dr. Jonice Webb as we learn about the concept of Emotional Neglect and her tools for helping fix it. Dr. Jonice Webb, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and “psychologist expert” according to the Chicago Tribune and CNBC. Dr. Webb has over two decades of experience in the field of psychology with a particular interest in how childhood factors influence us as adults and the effect of Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN).™ Dr. Webb currently has a private psychotherapy practice where she focuses on the treatment of families and couples. Dr. Webb’s books educate readers about the twelve types of parents who inadvertently emotionally neglect their children; ten issues that emotionally neglected children often struggle with as adults; six strategies for overcoming Emotional Neglect, and how to apply all these tools to different types of relationships including marriages, relationships with emotionally neglectful parents, and their even own children. If you are interested in Dr. Webb’s insights on recognizing Emotional Neglect and beginning the journey in overcoming the impact of CEN, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For more information about Dr. Webb’s books visit: To purchase the books visit: For more about Dr. Jonice Webb: Webb’s CEN Training Programs: Therapist Resources for CEN: Materials to Reference: Take the Childhood Emotional Neglect Questionnaire: 5 Roadblocks to Dating Caused By Childhood Emotional Neglect: How Old Feelings From Your Childhood Could Be Controlling You Now: 4 Ways You May Be Keeping Yourself Running On Empty:
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Meditation after Injury and Loss
07/03/2024
Meditation after Injury and Loss
After years of excellent health as an ultra-marathon runner and athlete and a good life in a stable marriage Katie Arnold’s life flipped from stable to unrecognizable. Arnold experienced a significant injury while on a rafting trip that left her with a broken leg and big life changes. She takes us through her life as an ultra-runner and a “seething but adequate” married woman before the accident. The things she relied on before her accident were ripped away from her leaving her wondering who she really is. After her accident, she sought solace through a Zen meditation practice she experimented with earlier in life. She immersed herself in a Zen meditation practice in an effort to find healing. This is the journey she shares in her memoir “Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World”. Katie Arnold shares her story of exploring wilderness a quest for quiet. Over the course of 2 years, from before her injury, to the uncertain recovery of both her leg and her marriage, it is a personal account of a turbulent period nestled among Zen meditations. Listen to our conversation with Katie Arnold as we unpack her powerful personal narrative of this tumultuous time in her life and how Zen meditations helped guide her through. Katie Arnold is an author, contributing editor at Outside magazine, journalist and athlete. She published her first critically-acclaimed memoir, Running Home, in 2019 and has worked for Outside magazine for the past 12 years creating popular columns about bringing up adventurous children. She has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Travel + Leisure, Runner’s World, ESPN: The Magazine, Elle, and many others. Arnold is also an ultra-runner having won the 2018 women's Leadville Trail 100 Run. She holds multiple course records and victories at every distance from 5K to 100 miles. Over the course of a decade, Katie went from being a reluctant spiritualist to a Zen meditation practitioner. In her new book, Arnold offers unique company for those seeking nature's exquisite highs, as well as for creatives, spiritualists, and sensualists who want to slow down and explore the possibilities of a well-lived life. Arnold takes readers on a journey of both destruction and healing as she details her struggles to make it to the other side of a life-shattering injury with her body, sanity, and her marriage, intact. If you are interested in learning how to experience these brief moments of enlightenment when they come, and what they mean for our lives, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: To purchase Arnold’s book “Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World”: To learn more about Katie Arnold: For more information about Arnold’s other books: Materials to Reference: Arnold’s other writing pieces: How to Know if Zen Meditation Is Right for You: What is Zen Meditation?:
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Untangle from Toxic People
05/31/2024
Untangle from Toxic People
Growing up with emotionally immature or self-centered parents can mean that your emotional needs were either disregarded or unmet. As a result, you may struggle with feelings of betrayal, abandonment, rage, or loneliness. Although you may work hard to become the person you want to be, your old wounds might re-ignite at any time, especially if your are reminded of vulnerable childhood feelings. Dr. Gibson, is an CEN expert and the author of “Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People: Avoid Emotional Traps, Stand Up for Your Self, and Transform Your Relationships as an Adult Child of Emotionally Immature Parents”. Dr. Lindsay Gibson explains that adult children of an emotionally immature parents may be particularly vulnerable to other emotionally immature people (EIP) in life. She uses her years of experience to teach us how avoid common EIP traps, build confidence, and stand strong in the face of emotional immaturity. Listen to the conversation with Dr. Lindsay Gibson as we explore how to change your perspective on complex relationships, comprehend how EIPs work, and defend your own rights without feeling guilty, ashamed, or afraid. Dr. Lindsay Gibson is clinical psychologist, author, and assistant professor with a passion for human conflict and helping others develop long-lasting, meaningful relationships. Dr. Gibson has wrote a number of books including the best-selling “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting or Self-Involved Parents”. It has sold over 100,000 copies, been translated into 14 languages, and has helped thousands of people reverse their toxic psychological legacy and reclaim their lives. In her new book, Dr. Gibson offers practical advice to help readers handle interactions with anyone who struggles with emotional immaturity in their lives (whether dealing with others or working through one’s own behaviors). This hands-on guide includes helpful analyses and insights into the most typical problems that children of emotionally immature individuals encounter, as well as helpful advice on how to create boundaries and build stronger bonds with others. Dr. Gibson explains that establishing a happy life means learning how to manage challenging conversations with EIPs, comprehend their reactions, and improve your connections in the process. If you are interested in more information about how to stop compensating for others’ behavior and put your needs first, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: To purchase Dr. Gibson’s book “Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People”: For more information about Dr. Gibson: Materials to Reference: 4 signs that a parent is emotionally immature: Characteristics of the Emotionally Immature: How to Spot Emotional Immaturity:
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Creating Better Relationship Boundaries
05/10/2024
Creating Better Relationship Boundaries
If you are interested in learning how to assert yourself in the workplace, navigate tumultuous family dynamics, or establish boundaries in romantic relationships, this show is for you. Boundaries are the invisible lines that define the limits of our emotional and physical space, safeguarding our well-being and preserving our sense of self. Yet, for many, setting and maintaining boundaries can be a daunting task, fraught with uncertainty and discomfort. In her book, "Setting Boundaries That Stick" Juliane Taylor Shore offers a beacon of hope for those seeking to cultivate healthier relationships and reclaim their personal power. Through the lens of neurobiology, Shore illuminates the intricacies of boundary-setting, providing readers with practical tools to rewire their brains and foster a profound sense of safety, connection, and empowerment. Listen to our conversation with therapist & author Juliane Taylor Shore as we discuss how to embark on our own transformative journeys towards greater self-compassion, authenticity, and empowerment. Juliane Taylor Shore is a renowned expert in the fields of psychology and neuroscience, with a passion for empowering individuals to lead fulfilling and authentic lives. As a licensed therapist and educator, Shore brings a wealth of clinical experience and academic insight to her work. With a focus on integrating cutting-edge research with practical strategies, she has become a trusted voice in the realm of mental health and personal development. Juliane Shore’s book focuses on guiding readers to rewire brains to establish and maintain healthy boundaries using the latest findings in neuroscience. From understanding the physiological mechanisms underlying boundary violations to implementing effective communication techniques, Shore offers a comprehensive roadmap for transforming relationships and reclaiming agency over one's life. The book contains engaging anecdotes, practical exercises, and even action based advice to empower readers to cultivate greater self-awareness, assertiveness, and emotional resilience. Listen to our conversation with Juliane Taylor Shore as we discuss the importance of honoring our own needs and values in a world where boundaries are often overlooked. Links & Resources: For more information about Shore’s book visit: Learn more about Juliane Taylor Shore: To purchase the book visit: Materials to Reference: Juliane Shore’s Workshops: Learn more about Shore’s training for therapists:
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How your past hurts you today
03/28/2024
How your past hurts you today
Relationships rule our inner world. Understanding how you feel and think about your relationships helps you become more accepting and then more peaceful. You can develop an appreciation for other people's perspectives and stop assigning blame on others. Dr. Jacqueline Heller’s book “Yesterday Never Sleeps: How Integrating Life's Current and Past Connections Improves Our Well-Being” draws upon decades of clinical experience to create a powerful and more positive inner narrative. Her unique combination of neuroscience, memoirs of her life as a child of Holocaust survivors, and patient histories involving a range of psychological ills and trauma help readers to make sense of their own histories and forge a better future. Listen to our conversation with physician & author Dr. Jacqueline Heller as we discuss how to befriend and understand our inner mind, open a pathway to curiosity, improve relationships, empathy, and intimacy. Dr. Jacqueline Heller is a physician, board certified in psychiatry and neurology, psychoanalyst, and bestselling author. She brings a wealth of knowledge of over 40 years of psychiatry practice, assistant clinical professor at the UCLA Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences within the David Geffen School of Medicine. Having recently retired from her medical practice, she now focuses on passing down her knowledge to psychiatrists in training and the general public alike. Dr. Heller’s book focuses on the learnable skill of self-reflection and how it helps you link emotions to past events and patterns of behaviour. Her book emphasizes how knowing and understanding the story behind our feelings can help soothe and regulate emotions before you react. She also explains how your miraculous brain – creates new neural connections when you take the time to reflect and this helps you improve emotional health and your thought processes. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Jackie Heller as we discuss lifelong inner talk (i.e., good, bad, and ugly). We will focus on strategies for gaining wisdom, love, and kindness, and helping to break cycle of old trauma in driving your life. If you are interested in learning about how integrate your past to better your future, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For more information about Dr. Heller’s book visit: Learn more about Dr. Jacqueline Heller: To purchase the book visit: Materials to Reference: Heller’s other interviews and talks: Heller’s Articles:
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Dangerous People in Powerful places
03/28/2024
Dangerous People in Powerful places
Disconnected People in positions of power make the world more dangerous for everyone – Bear Psychology Radio hosted by Dr. Anna Baranowsky with guest Dr. Steve Taylor. Disconnected people have the tendency to gravitate toward power. When Disconnected people rule in positions of power societies trend toward patriarchal, hierarchical and warlike. In contrast, societies with connected leaders trend toward egalitarian, democracy and peace. Although most people have a deep need to be connected, life events/upbringing and trauma exposure can interfere in this profound human characteristic. A person’s “goodness” and capacity for compassion often results from connection, whereas cruelty often originates from a feeling of being cut off from others. Dr. Steve Taylor, author of “DisConnected: The Roots of Human Cruelty and How Connection Can Heal the World”, teaches us about the consequences of disconnection, how connection ultimately shapes us as a society, and how it can even change us as people. Listen to the conversation with Dr. Steve Taylor as we explore the benefits of being interconnected unpack how valuable human connection is to us all in this complex world. Links & Resources: Dr. Taylor’s book review: Purchase Dr. Taylor’s book: Information about Dr. Taylor’s Books: Materials to Reference: More of Dr. Taylor’s Radio Appearances and videos: Information about Dr. Steve Taylor: Events with Steve Taylor: Online programs with Steve Taylor:
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Why your coping skills stop working
01/25/2024
Why your coping skills stop working
Experiencing stressful or traumatic experiences during childhood leads us to develop certain coping mechanisms to get us through. While these strategies might have helped us feel secure when younger, they often fail us in adulthood. Richard Brouillette’s book “Your Coping Skills Aren't Working: How to Break Free from the Habits that Once Helped You But Now Hold You Back” offers an evidence-based guide using multiple therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), schema therapy, and attachment theory to help readers leave behind unhelpful coping strategies that keep us stuck in self-sabotaging cycles. Listen to our conversation with social worker & author Richard Brouillette as we discuss how to break free from habits that keep you from realizing your full potential. Also, learn to leave behind damaging childhood experiences and dysfunctional coping mechanisms. Brouillette is a Social Worker and a schema therapist. He focuses on helping creatives, professionals, and business owners who have reached a performance plateau and want to reduce anxiety, find fulfillment, and strengthen bonds with others. He is also a trauma therapist with experience treating survivors of war. Brouillette was involved in a program in New York City aimed at supporting individuals' creativity and motivation while engaged in achieving exciting community goals. “Your Coping Skills Aren’t Working” focuses on identifying your unhealthy coping mechanisms acquired earlier in life; understand the reasons behind them; discover how to break negative behavior patterns that prevent you from leading a happy life. Along with learning how to develop clarity, stability, and confidence in oneself, it also teaches the reader effective techniques for giving voice to your unfulfilled preferences, vision and desires. If you are interested in learning about how to not let your past need determine your future, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For more information about Brouillette’s book visit: Learn more about Richard Brouillette: Read book reviews on good reads: Materials to Reference: Richard Brouillette’s Blog: Learn more about Schema therapy:
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Muslim Loving Peace and looking to a better future
12/20/2023
Muslim Loving Peace and looking to a better future
Raheel Raza, a Muslim Canadian born in Pakistan, migrated to Canada in 1988, has a unique perspective on what is happening right now in the Israel-Hamas war and her reflections on misinformation and what Peace would take. She has visited Israel 13 times in the 16 years. In her National Post Article “I'm a Muslim and I love Israel. Here's why” published in February 2023, Raza details what she has learned about hate and antisemitism, it’s prevalence in Arab Muslim countries, her hope for Peace and the struggles of supporting Israel at this time. Listen to our conversation with journalist & author Raheel Raza as we talk about her unique understanding of the current Israel-Hamas conflict, with the perspective as a Muslim Canadian Journalist in Canada. Raheel Raza has publications in major newspapers in Canada and appearances on International media outlets like CNN, BBC, Fox News and CBC. She is considered an activist for human rights, a prolific author, supporter of women’s issues and an International public speaker. She also sits on the board of directors for Muslims facing Tomorrow and The Council of Muslims against Antisemitism (CMAA). Raheel Raza has published numerous books including “Their Jihad...Not My Jihad!: A Muslim Canadian Woman Speaks Out” which offers Raza’s insight, opinions and solutions to restoring dignity and respect to Muslims living in the West and “How Can You Possibly be a Muslim Feminist?” where Raza utilizes common sense, a dash of humor and the Qur’an itself to combat against the misogynic barbarism in so many Islamic cultures. Listen to our conversation with Raheel Raza as we discuss her opinions on extremism, radicalization, and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. If you are interested in learning more about Raheel Raza’s story, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: Review Raza’s National Post article: For more information on Raheel Raza: Links to Raza’s other publications: Raheel Raza’s Book “Their Jihad, Not My Jihad!”: Materials to Reference: Hamas Ideology Explained: The Decolonization Narrative:
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Collective & Personal Trauma: one family’s graceful end-of-life story
12/01/2023
Collective & Personal Trauma: one family’s graceful end-of-life story
What does it mean to lose someone so close to you that your world will never be the same? What if this happens when the whole world is locked down during a global Pandemic, a collective trauma? How do we navigate terrible loss with great compassion and love? Journalist Mitchell Consky has something important to share with us about this based on personal experience. During the worst of the COVID pandemic, Consky received distressing news. His father had been given less than two months to live after being diagnosed with a rare terminal cancer. In his book, “Home Safe: A Memoir of End-of-Life Care During Covid-19”, he describes the challenges he and his family faced with balancing a family-centered approach to end-of-life care with the social distancing demands of the Covid-19 pandemic. Listen our conversation with journalist & author Mitchell Consky as we talk about his family’s journey supporting his beloved father die with dignity during a pandemic lockdown. Consky walks us through the experience of home hospice during a lockdown filled with dance parties; episodes of Tiger King, and his father's deadpan humour. Mitchell Consky is an Toronto based author and journalist with works published in the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, the Walrus, BNN Bloomberg and CTV News. Consky specializes in long-form feature writing and essays about loss, travel, and adventure. He also holds a Masters degree in Journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University, and a bachelor’s degree in English and Film from Wilfrid Laurier University. Mitchell Consky’s book utilized his journalistic talents to interview his father daily, documenting the last conversations, heartfelt farewells, and the spontaneous hilarity that marked his father's final days. These interviews provided a platform for fatherly affection, a chance for emotional disclosure during the slowed down of a locked down world, and an illustration of how far a family would go to ensure a dying loved one felt comfortable at home. Listen to our conversation with Mitchell Consky as we discuss his experience with end of life care during a global pandemic and saying goodbye to someone you love. If you are interested in Consky’s story and the heartbreaking reality of terminal illness, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: Mitchell Consky’s Instagram: For more information about the book visit: To purchase the book visit: Links to Consky’s Articles: Camp Erin - a camp to help kids who have lost a parent:
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Childhood Emotional Neglect impacts your life today
11/01/2023
Childhood Emotional Neglect impacts your life today
After 20 years in practice, Dr. Jonice Webb noticed the painful struggle of people who grew up in homes where they were emotionally neglected. She identified this neglect as an "invisible factor" that continued to affect adults often leaving them feeling depleted and dissatisfied or what she described as “Running on Empty”. In Dr. Webb’s books “Running on Empty: Overcome Your Childhood Emotional Neglect” and “Running On Empty No More: Transform Your Relationships” she shines a light on this invisible force of CEN. She discusses how to bring new tools, strategies and self-awareness to grow beyond this limiting life experience and encourages you to grow beyond CEN. Listen to our conversation with psychologist & author Dr. Jonice Webb as we learn about the concept of Emotional Neglect and her tools for helping fix it. Dr. Jonice Webb, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and “psychologist expert” according to the Chicago Tribune and CNBC. Dr. Webb has over two decades of experience in the field of psychology with a particular interest in how childhood factors influence us as adults and the effect of Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN).™ Dr. Webb currently has a private psychotherapy practice where she focuses on the treatment of families and couples. Dr. Webb’s books educate readers about the twelve types of parents who inadvertently emotionally neglect their children; ten issues that emotionally neglected children often struggle with as adults; six strategies for overcoming Emotional Neglect, and how to apply all these tools to different types of relationships including marriages, relationships with emotionally neglectful parents, and their even own children. If you are interested in Dr. Webb’s insights on recognizing Emotional Neglect and beginning the journey in overcoming the impact of CEN, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For more information about Dr. Webb’s books visit: To purchase the books visit: For more about Dr. Jonice Webb: Webb’s CEN Training Programs: Therapist Resources for CEN: Materials to Reference: Take the Childhood Emotional Neglect Questionnaire: 5 Roadblocks to Dating Caused By Childhood Emotional Neglect: How Old Feelings From Your Childhood Could Be Controlling You Now: 4 Ways You May Be Keeping Yourself Running On Empty:
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Mind, Body and Yoga for Healing Trauma
10/30/2023
Mind, Body and Yoga for Healing Trauma
Recovery from trauma is not simply about healing the mind but about healing the body as well. Often the approach when treating trauma is solely focused on the mental and emotional effects and fails to address the physiological imbalances that trauma leaves behind on our bodies. In Dr. Arielle Schwartz’s newest book “Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Applying the Principles of Polyvagal Theory for Self-Discovery, Embodied Healing, and Meaningful Change”, she guides the reader using yoga practices to help release the burdens of trauma and begin the journey of healing the psyche and the body. The book utilizes a variety of principles to provide a deeper understanding of how our bodies and brains react to stress and trauma leaving the reader feeling informed and empowered. Listen to our conversation with psychologist & author Dr. Arielle Schwartz as we learn about the importance of embodied healing in treating and recovering from trauma. Dr. Arielle Schwartz, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist, prolific author, wife and mother with a passion for treating individuals with trauma. Dr. Schwartz runs a private clinic where she treats clients as well as trains other therapists in her Resilience-Informed Therapy approach for helping people recover after experiencing trauma. She has also been teaching therapeutic yoga since 2008 with a specific focus on nervous systems recovery after trauma. Dr. Schwartz’s is also the author of “The Complex PTSD Treatment Manual: An Integrative, Mind-Body Approach to Trauma Recovery” which guides clinicians through successfully treating patients who have had prolonged exposure to traumatic situations. The manual focuses on utilizing mindful body awareness to build distress tolerance, cultivate self-compassion, and facilitate trauma recovery drawing from Dr. Schwartz’s own years of experience in the field. She is also the author of “Therapeutic Yoga for Trauma Recovery: Applying the Principles of Polyvagel Theory for Self-Discovery, Embodied Healing and Meaningful Change”. If you are interested in Dr. Schwartz’s insights on healing from trauma using both the mind and body, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For more information about Dr. Schwartz’s books visit: To purchase the books visit: For more about Dr. Arielle Schwartz: Find Dr. Arielle Schwartz’s Blog here: Dr. Schwartz’s Trainings and Presentations: Materials to Reference: Therapeutic Yoga: Learn about Resilience Informed Therapy: Somatic Therapy for PTSD: EMDR as a Treatment for PTSD: Play Therapy Principles:
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Healing from Emotional Eating
09/01/2023
Healing from Emotional Eating
Every wonder why you make poor food choices? Have you ever tried a new diet just to end up miserable and eating even more than before? Kim Shapira will help us understand how to put an end to disordered eating habits and improving your health and happiness in the process. Shapira recognizes that unhealthy food habits can occur as a result of life stressors and old patterns of self-soothing. Her work focuses on getting back on track and using food for health. Kim Shapira, author of “This Is What You’re Really Hungry For”, teaches us how to develop a healthy relationship with our food free of restriction and the need to constantly eat “healthy”. Her method allows you to lose or maintain your current weight, alleviate blood pressure issues, increase your energy level, reframe any unhelpful beliefs about food, identify foods that are not for you, and manage your emotions in healthy ways. Listen to the conversation with Kim Shapira as we explore Shapira’s six simple rules to changing your relationship with food. Shapira is a celebrity dietitian, nutritional therapist, and author who has spent the last 25 years transforming people’s relationship with food and helping them lose weight the right way. Shapira has a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Tulane University and a Master’s degree in Human Metabolism and Clinical Nutrition from Boston University. She has practiced her unique approach to keeping weight off in private practice, hospitals, sports clinics, addiction centers and even universities. In her book, Shapira breaks down the science behind getting both your brain and body on board with being healthy; explains why fad diets do not last, and empowers you to be the boss of your own body. If you are interested in learning more about how to start and stay on your health journey, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: Kim Shapira’s Book: Information about Kim Shapira’s Methodology: Information about Kim: Materials to Reference: More of Kim Shapira’s Products: Kim Shapira’s Blog: Contact Kim Shapira:
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Cultivating Core Creativity
08/04/2023
Cultivating Core Creativity
I know you are creative and innovative at your core. However, most of us just don’t know how to access the deep wealth of creativity that sits inside. Dr. Ronald Alexander’s book “Core Creativity: The Mindful Way to Unlock Your Creative Self” guides you through using mindfulness practices to train your mind so that it more easily opens the portal to core creativity: the unconscious mind. I am really excited about this show as it focuses on opening up to a powerful element of our true nature. Listen to our conversation with psychotherapist & author Dr. Ronald Alexander as we learn ways to go beyond ordinary creativity and unlock your creativity. Dr. Ronald Alexander, PhD, is a psychotherapist and international trainer who has spent more than 5 decades guiding and advising both renowned artists and the rest of us regular folks in his effective strategies for opening the portal to core creativity. Dr. Alexander’s book uses a number of effective tools including powerful guided visualizations, meditation, insights from highly creative artists, stories of ordinary people who achieved clarity and profound transformation, and more to provide those interested with a practical guide through the creative process. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Ronald Alexander as we move through areas we feel stuck in and grow our confidence in their creative abilities using the mind states of Absorbing Mind, Open Mind, and Generating Mind to access our core creativity. If you are interested in Dr. Alexander’s insights on cultivating core creativity and unlocking genuine creative breakthroughs, this show is for you. Links & Resources: Ronald Alexander’s Open Mind Training Program: For more information about the book visit: To purchase the book visit: For more about Dr. Ronald Alexander: Alexander’s Audio Programs: Materials to Reference: More of Dr. Alexander’s books: Ronald Alexander’s Blog: Learn more about the ingredients for creativity:
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Healing the World through Human Connection
06/30/2023
Healing the World through Human Connection
Disconnected people have the tendency to gravitate toward power. When Disconnected people rule in positions of power societies trend toward patriarchal, hierarchical and warlike. In contrast, societies with connected leaders trend toward egalitarian, democracy and peace. Although most people have a deep need to be connected, life events/upbringing and trauma exposure can interfere in this profound human characteristic. A person’s “goodness” and capacity for compassion often results from connection, whereas cruelty often originates from a feeling of being cut off from others. Dr. Steve Taylor, author of “DisConnected: The Roots of Human Cruelty and How Connection Can Heal the World”, teaches us about the consequences of disconnection, how connection ultimately shapes us as a society, and how it can even change us as people. Listen to the conversation with Dr. Steve Taylor as we explore the benefits of being interconnected unpack how valuable human connection is to us all in this complex world. Dr. Taylor is a senior lecturer in psychology at Leeds Beckett University, and the chair of the Transpersonal Psychology section at the British Psychological Society. He is also the bestselling author of The Calm Center, The Leap and the Clear Light. His work has been described by Eckhart Tolle as “an important contribution to the shift in consciousness which is happening on our planet at present.” In his book, Dr. Taylor provides us with unique knowledge of human behaviour, social issues and a new perspective on human nature. If you are interested in learning more about how rediscovering the consciousness of our connection to each other is the only way we can live in harmony with ourselves, with each other, and with the world itself, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: Dr. Taylor’s book review: Purchase Dr. Taylor’s book: Information about Dr. Taylor’s Books: Materials to Reference: More of Dr. Taylor’s Radio Appearances and videos: Information about Dr. Steve Taylor: Events with Steve Taylor: Online programs with Steve Taylor:
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Finding the courage to truly be yourself
05/25/2023
Finding the courage to truly be yourself
We all want to feel free to be our true selves and live in a way that feel authentic. I want to live my life to the fullest and I imagine you do as well. Despite this, we can get sidetracked by demands and expectations that throw us off our true gifts and passions. Instead we might follow the preferences and aspirations that society, family, and friends have for us, rather than what we truly want for ourselves. Breaking free from self-doubt and discovering what it is that you truly want from life, demands that you grow beyond the obstacles that undermine personal goals, hopes and dreams. Dr. Lyndsay Gibson, Psychologist and author of “Who You Were Meant to Be: A Guide to Finding or Recovering Your Life's Purpose”. Dr. Gibson utilizes her years of clinical knowledge to show us what gets in the way of our true unfolding. We will reflect on how to free ourselves from misguided guilt and misplaced loyalty that confuses loving others with sacrificing ourselves and betraying our true life path. Listen to the conversation with Dr. Lindsay Gibson as we explore ways to reclaim your true path, especially if you have suffered from the effects of emotionally immature parents. We discuss how to uncover your life’s purpose and who you were truly meant to be. Dr. Lindsay Gibson is a clinical psychologist, author, and assistant professor with a passion for human conflict and helping others develop long-lasting, meaningful relationships. Dr. Gibson has written several books including her best-selling novel “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting or Self-Involved Parents”. It has sold over 100,000 copies, been translated into 14 languages, and has helped thousands of people reverse their toxic psychological legacy and reclaim their lives. In her book, Dr. Gibson provides real life examples from her therapy practice and a variety of methods to get you thinking about what constitutes individual happiness and how to chart a course to get there. Dr. Gibson helps her readers to free themselves from doubt and defeat and find out what you really want to do with your life, utilizing inner guidance to find personal and energizing life purpose. Her book helps address feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and the common fears that often bring self-actualization to a hault while offering practical advice for those who are reluctant to put themselves first in their own lives. If you are interested in more information about how you can recover from emotionally immature parents, break out of old habits, forge a new path to discover or recover our true purpose in life and become the people we want to be, this talk is for you. Links & Resources: To purchase Dr. Gibson’s book “Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents: To purchase Dr. Gibson’s book “Who You Were Meant to Be: A Guide to Finding or Recovering Your Life's Purpose”: For more information about Dr. Gibson: Materials to Reference: 4 signs that a parent is emotionally immature: Accessing Emotional Immaturity (questionnaires and resources): Tips for finding your life’s purpose: Accessing Emotional Immaturity (questionnaires and resources):
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The Dangerous Relationship… loving a Narcissistic, Sociopath or Psychopathic
05/01/2023
The Dangerous Relationship… loving a Narcissistic, Sociopath or Psychopathic
There are times when someone describes in detail a relationship that seems unkind, unhealthy and even dangerous. Or maybe we have experienced this personally in a relationship with a person we thought would be a wonderful partner to begin with only to realize after falling deeply in love that this person is self-centered, arrogant, attention seeking and lacks basic empathy and consideration for other people. An expert on NPD and psychopaths and the author of “Women Who Love Psychopaths: Inside the Relationships of Inevitable Harm with Psychopaths, Sociopaths & Narcissists”, Sandra L. Brown (author and former psychotherapist) shares her knowledge of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and Psychopathy, the complicated nature of Pathological and/or abusive relationships, and how to heal when the relationship ends. Listen to our conversation with Sandra L. Brown as we delve into personality disorders (Borderline, Narcissism, Anti-Social, and Psychopathy), Pathological Love Relationships, and the care of those who have suffered through the ordeal of dangerous relationships. Sandra L. Brown, M.A., is the founder of the Association for NDP/Psychopathy Survivor Treatment and The Institute for Relational Harm Reduction & Public Pathology Education. She is a former psychotherapist in the field of psychopathology and “survivor trauma”. She is a respected community educator on the intersections of mental illness, personality disorders, violence, and recidivism. She is also a clinical lecturer, TV and radio guest, and author. Brown has written a number of books including How to Spot a Dangerous Man Before You Get Involved; Women Who Love Psychopaths: Inside the Relationships of Inevitable Harm with Psychopaths, Sociopaths & Narcissists, and Counseling Victims of Violence: A Handbook for Helping Professionals. Brown illustrates a novel model of clinical treatment she has brought to this population as well as research and insight into the impact of the survivors’ experiences. Her unique treatment approach integrates relational dynamics, personality traits, and trauma/aftermath symptomatology of survivors of NPD/Psychopath partners with the goal of providing professionals with effective tools for treating survivors of NPD/Psychopaths. If you are interested in Sandra Brown’s knowledge on Pathological Love Relationships, how to free yourself from them, and healing your trauma caused by psychopathic abuse, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: Sandra Brown’s Books: Association for NPD/Psychopathy Survivor Treatment: To purchase her award winning book: For more about Sandra Brown: Contact Sandra Brown: Materials to Reference: Relevant Research on Psychopathy: New Science that has emerged: Brown’s Workshop’s for Professionals: Relevant Articles on NPD and Psychopathy:
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Untangling your Marriage
03/31/2023
Untangling your Marriage
Across North America, almost half of all marriages will end in divorce or separation. Even though divorce is a complex process that requires legal, psychological and financial considerations, there may be ways to make it just a bit less painful. Nanci Smith’s book “Untangling Your Marriage: A Guide to Collaborative Divorce” attempts to dispel some negative messaging about divorce and show us that divorce can be achieved with dignity, mutual respect, integrity, and compassion. Listen to our conversation with lawyer & author Nanci Smith as we get an introduction to both the mindset and the process of Collaborative Divorce, an interdisciplinary, non-adversarial divorce model. In Collaborative Divorce, Smith how the process provides a guide through emotional issues such as anger, sadness, rage, betrayal, etc. with everyone in the family unit. And, how a neutral financial expert helps to collect, organize, and clearly presents the financial resources of the couple so that there is an even playing field to negotiate the final settlement terms. The lawyers provide legal advice throughout the process without being adversarial, and making a difficult situation, worse. Nanci Smith is a lawyer and author who began her career in litigation firms focusing on Criminal Litigation and Family Law. She also worked representing victims of domestic violence and people with psychiatric diagnoses in mental health civil proceedings. She is a member of the Vermont Bar Association, is the Chair of the Vermont Bar Association Collaborative Section, and a member of the Collaborative Practice Vermont, an Interdisciplinary Practice Group. Smith has received advanced training in and practices Collaborative Divorce and Collaborative Mediation at her solo practice. Smith’s book presents a candid and open view of divorce from the viewpoint of an experienced divorce lawyer who has also through a divorce herself. Smith unlocks a collaborative approach to any divorce advising deep listening, invention, flexibility, and the capacity to pivot away from shame and blame and towards acceptance. She identifies these practices to counteract the volatile and complex issues related to divorce. Listen to our conversation with Nanci Smith as she shows us how to emerge from a divorce, sound and sincere, working through bitterness and resentment. The heart of her approach is to reframe divorce from an act full of shame and blame to a place where divorce is seen as a type of mourning. Links & Resources: For more information about the book visit: To purchase the book visit: For more about Nanci Smith: Nanci Smith’s Media Appearances: Nanci Smith’s Youtube Channel: Materials to Reference: To contact Nanci Smith: Nanci Smith’s Blog: Learn more about potential indicators of divorce:
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Forced psychiatric confinement – Who is at risk?
02/24/2023
Forced psychiatric confinement – Who is at risk?
We may believe that asylums are a thing of the past but practices of enforced psychiatric confinement continue today, much to our surprise. Author Wipond, argues that, now more than ever, North Americans are being forced into treatment and involuntarily committed supposedly "for their own benefit." Rob Wipond’s book “Your Consent Is Not Required” gives us a look into the psychiatric practices of forced interventions still in place today in some private and public mental health facilities. Wipond describes mental health institutions using psychiatric confinement to manage school children; disoriented elderly; quell family conflicts; police the streets; control people in shelters and prisons; “resolve” workplace disagreements; detain protesters; discredit whistleblowers; and shockingly fraudulently increase hospital profits, plus more. Wipond’s book details coercive use of mental health interventions used today in some public and private hospitals, group and long-term care facilities, troubled-teen and residential treatment centers, and even individual’s own homes under outpatient commitment orders. He found that these interventions often include surveillance against will, indefinite detention, and powerful tranquilizing drugs, restraints, seclusion, and even electroshock. Listen to our conversation with investigative journalist & author Rob Wipond as we unpack the common misconception that only “dangerous” individuals get committed and dive into some of the traumatic practices supposedly used to “help” those struggling with mental health complexities. We explore Rob Wipond findings and research full of alarming true stories and hard data from both the US and Canada’s mental health systems. Links & Resources: For more information about the book visit: To purchase the book visit: For more about Rob Wipond: Rob Wipond’s Articles: Materials to Reference: Rob Wipond’s Blog: Contact Rob Wipond:
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Healing Family Connections
01/26/2023
Healing Family Connections
In a house full of turmoil, sometimes the person who you hope has your back may become your enemy. Sisters Ronni Tichenor and Jennie Weaver know this better than most. In their book “Healing Begins with Us” they share their journey in overcoming childhood abuse that pitted the two against one another. In the book they discuss how they healed and strengthened their sibling bond after a tumultuous upbringing. Listen to our conversation with Ronni and Jennie as we navigate their traumatic childhoods, learn how they broke the cycle of intergenerational abuse, and learn how to begin a family healing process. Ronni Tichenor has a Ph.D. in Sociology with a specialization in family dynamics and Jennie Weaver is a board-certified family nurse practitioner with experience in mental health. Their book details the abuse that occurred in their childhood, how they managed to repair their relationship with each other and move forward in life to create their own healthy families. Listen our conversation with Ronni and Jennie as we discuss how toxic environments can change sibling connections, helpful insight and advice on how to heal from your own painful upbringing, and how to heal tumultuous sibling relationships. If you are interested in more information about healing family connections after trauma, this podcast is for you. Links & Resources: For information about the book or authors visit: To purchase a book visit: For more about Ronni Tichenor: Breaking the Cycles of Trauma and Abuse, Silence and Shame (Ronni Tichenor & Jennie Weaver’s Podcast): Materials to Reference: Trauma Resources and Support: More of Ronni Tichenor’s Content: Book a session with Ronni: Childhood Trauma and Adult Life Relational Issues:
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New Year’s Stress Reset
01/09/2023
New Year’s Stress Reset
Most of us are stressed these days and don’t know how to manage it. While stress is an inevitable part of life, it doesn’t have to take over our lives. Dr. Doni Wilson’s book “Master Your Stress, Reset Your Health” walks us through identifying our unique type of stress and the best ways to manage it to make stress actually work for us. Listen to our conversation with naturopath & author Dr. Doni Wilson as we learn how to support our body’s needs and chart a path to become resistant to the negative effects of stress. Dr. Doni Wilson is a naturopathic doctor, certified professional midwife, and certified nutrition specialist. After suffering from migraines herself for over 20 years, she has developed a stress recovery protocol that has helped thousands of patients to overcome their health challenges and achieve wellness. Dr. Wilson’s book details five unique types of stress. She shares with us: how to identify them and create a personalized stress management plan; what happens in our bodies when we're stressed; her trademark three-part stress recovery protocol; how to truly disconnect and take care of yourself; and how to give your body the support it needs to heal from a number of different stress induced ailments (i.e., anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, headaches, chronic pain, weight gain, and digestive issues). Dr. Doni Wilson explores her customizable C.A.R.E. program including Clean eating, Adequate sleep, Recovery, and Exercise and how they can help you resolve underlying causes of stress and free the body from its harmful effects. Dr. Wilson shares with us lessons and strategies from her own personal journey of recovering from the effects of stress and effective ways she has found to get more energy, feel refreshed, recover from over-indulging during the holidays and generally feel better and more balanced. If you are interested in Dr. Wilson’s tips and tricks on overcoming stress, beating burnout, and getting back to a healthier you, this is for you. Links & Resources: Dr. Doni Wilson’s – 7 Day STRESS RESET (For free with this link!) Dr. Don’s - Stress Type Quiz For more information about the book visit: To purchase the book visit: For more about Dr. Wilson: How Humans Heal (Dr. Wilson’s Podcast): Materials to Reference: More of Dr. Wilson’s books: Dr. Wilson’s Blog: Stress Management Tools:
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Wellness through Mindfulness Practices
11/30/2022
Wellness through Mindfulness Practices
Are you interested in adding mindfulness, meditation or contemplative exercises into your life to help you manage the demands of daily living or better manage stress and anxiety? If your answer is yes, then this show will prove to be a perfect fit. I am excited myself. I have been a bit lazy with my meditation practice lately and looking forward to getting some guidance myself! Carla is a lawyer by training but she made a big pivot to wellness and mindfulness teaching. In her mindfulness work, she brings her focused and precise mind to a creative and healing modality using a trauma-informed lens. In her teaching she integrates an awareness of science and neurobiology to help explain why what she is doing works so well. Listen to our conversation with the remarkable Carla Weinstein (meditation and contemplative practice guide) as we explore with her meaningful work in delivering Trauma Informed Mindfulness practices. Building on Carla’s extensive training in yoga, meditation and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, she has been offering programs through the charity for community-based groups since 2020. Her group programs are the most highly ranked and attended among the charity’s participants. We follow up with her today to ask, what has made her approach to trauma informed meditation so useful for those attending her programs? Carla will broadly cover some of the topics addressed in her course, to help us better understand her approach: The Power of Mindfulness: Awareness The Impact of Trauma and the Brain and Body + Meditation Through the Trauma Lens The Neuroscience of Meditation + The Power of Attention Emotional Awareness + Turning Toward Aversion, Avoidance, Resistance + The Suffering Equation Developing a Healing Attention Cognitive Hindrances, Mental Chatter, and Values Self Compassion, Resilience and Equanimity Weinstein shares lessons on how we can each enrich our lives by building a meditation/contemplative practice and what she has learned herself from the work she provides through TraumaPractice.org Links & Resources: For information about Carla Weinstein and her mindfulness work visit: What is mindfulness: Offerings from Carla: Materials to Reference: Trauma Informed Meditation practices explained. Brother Phap Linh shares how to recognize trauma in ourselves and those around us (plum village): Dr. Jeff Terrant, psychologist discusses trauma informed meditation practices and what it means to be trauma informed: Yoga with Adrienne provides a yoga practice for PTSD: Dr. Bessel van der Kolk discusses 6 approaches to heal from trauma without medication:
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Adult Children of Immature Parents
10/28/2022
Adult Children of Immature Parents
Not everyone has a picture-perfect childhood. In fact, some of us grow up in homes where our parents need parenting or we have to parent ourselves. Dr. Lindsay Gibson’s book “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents” helps you overcome the crushing role of catering to parents who were (for whatever reasons) not up to the job of parenting. Dr. Lindsay Gibson is clinical psychologist, author, and assistant professor with a passion for human conflict and helping others develop long-lasting, meaningful relationships. Dr. Gibson’s book helps you to understand how "immature parents" function; learn to resolve guilt or shame when you stop over-helping them; and start to listen to your own needs so you avoid being emotionally drained in the future. Listen our conversation with Dr. Lindsay Gibson as we explore the effects of emotionally immature parents and how you can recover from the devastating impact of growing up in a neglectful and/or toxic home environment. Dr. Gibson explains the effect these relationships can have on your emotional autonomy in future relationships including: your ability to identify and express your thoughts and feelings; struggles with setting limits and boundaries with others; as well as the ability to establish rewarding relationships as an adult. She also explains ways to combat these effects so you can develop enhanced connections and relationships with others. If you are interested in more information about emotionally immature parents, combating the effects of their toxicity, and how to grow meaningful relationships, this show is for you. For information about the book visit: Links & Resources: To purchase a book visit: For more about Dr. Gibson: Freeing Yourself (Dr. Lindsay Gibson’s Online Blog): Materials to Reference: 4 signs that a parent is emotionally immature: More of Dr. Gibson’s books: Gibson answers your questions: Accessing Emotional Immaturity (questionnaires and resources):
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Be Less Dickish – self-help for men
10/03/2022
Be Less Dickish – self-help for men
If you have ever fallen into negative patterns of action or thoughts that fail you often AND you identify as male (or know a man you want to better understand) then this self-help guide provides humorous and relevant instruction. David and Corey write this book together as a patient & therapist duo with insight into the pitfalls and possible strategies to deal with 4 primary destructive patterns that might be getting you or someone you know into trouble. Listen to our conversation with therapist & co-authors David Coates & Corey Kilpack as we travel with them on their adventure to "Be less Dickish". Coates is a therapist on a mission to help men figure things out so they are more successful in their relational and life endeavours. Kilpack is a client who sought therapy to better understand his pitfalls and figure out a roadmap for a way out. Together this duo have identified the following "douchebag" quadrants (their descriptor not mine!) that undermine one's best act in life. I have used their subtitles which provide more information to help the listener recognize the struggle: Aggression / Assertiveness (A-Hole) Imitation / Service (Douchebag) Victimization / Self-Care (Dick) Submission / Surrender ("Pussy) And in special cases "Piece of S..t" Adding a touch of humor to each story, the authors describe crass, destructive and non-productive strategies that change overtime to reveal that growth can happen with insight, understanding and new behaviour approaches. We all have something to learn from their reflection on how these 4 (or is it really 5) characters who become triggered and learn to use the TRACE approach (Trigger, Reaction, Awareness, Curiosity and Experimentation) to increase self-awareness and behave more effectively, as a result. Links & Resources: To purchase your copy visit: Be less Dickish - audiobook: The meaning behind the insulting language in Be Less Dickish: Materials to Reference: Tips for men who want to improve: What men really want: & Man's search for Meaning (1946) Viktor Frankl:
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Surviving a Bad Relationship
08/26/2022
Surviving a Bad Relationship
Surviving a violent or abusive relationship can leave us broken hearted and in need of healing. Dr. Amelia Kelley & Kendall Ann Combs’ book “What I Wish I Knew: Surviving and Thriving after an Abusive Relationship” offers strength, guidance and clarity on this difficult life experience. The book covers how a dangerous relationship can look like a fairy tale at the beginning only to unravel into an abusive and devastating situation that is difficult to leave and hard to rebuild from in the aftermath. Kelley and Combs provide a deep dive into how you got there and how to get out and trust again. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Amelia Kelley and Kendall Ann Combs as we explore the dangers of an abusive personal relationship and how to free ourselves and heal from this dangerous life path. Dr. Kelley and Ms. Combs identify various forms of relationship abuse (i.e., physical, emotional, sexual, verbal) and identify strategies for leaving an abusive relationship (i.e., asking for help, seeking support, pre-planning; creating a safety strategy and exiting). They also unpack how to deal with the aftermath of an abusive relationship and learn to thrive after the pain. Kendall Ann Combs is an author, activist and podcaster. She is a survivor of Intimate Partner Violence herself and recognizes what it takes to get to safety. Dr. Amelia Kelley, Ph.D. is a Trauma and Crisis Counseling Professor, a trauma-informed therapist, Yoga instructor and author, with a focus on helping others leave unhealthy relationships. If you are interested in more information about domestic violence, escaping a relationship with intimidation, gaslighting, or control, this talk is for you. For information about the book visit: Links & Resources: More about Dr. Kelley: More about Kendall Ann Combs: High Heels and Heartache (Kendall Ann Combs Podcast about relationship issues):
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Psychedelic Assisted Therapy – for resistant mental health symptoms
07/28/2022
Psychedelic Assisted Therapy – for resistant mental health symptoms
If you have struggled with a serious depression or PTSD that does not resolve, even after trying everything, then you might have considered Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy. This might involve a plant medicine like Ayahuasca, Psilocybin or maybe MDMA or Ketamine therapy. Whichever approach you might have investigated you probably have noticed that there are huge costs, very little professional oversight, and possibly the requirement of travelling long distances to remote locations to acquire these treatments. In other words, it is a treatment path that is not easily accessible, and for some, too scary to consider. Yet, there is gathering evidence that these approaches can be remarkably beneficial for those with treatment resistant mental health symptoms. Jonathan Sabbagh is the founder and CEO of Journey Clinical. The company was founded with his wife Myriam Barthes to address the needs of mental health consumers seeking unique treatments like Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy within a safe and supervised environment, even with your own mental health practitioners. Journey Clinical makes it possible for your practitioner to provide care before, during and after a KAP intervention. So what is Ketamine/Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, what are the benefits and what can you expect if you chose this approach? We will cover this and more in this radio show. If you are interested in more information about psychedelic assisted psychotherapy or want to find a trained therapist who is able to help, this show is for you. For more information about Journey Clinical: Journey Clinical is a turnkey platform that makes it possible for licensed mental health professionals in private practice to deliver Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) safely and effectively. They act as the therapist's in-house doctor, treatment partner and one-stop-shop for all KAP needs, providing KAP education, new patient referrals, peer consultation groups, marketing support, a robust library of resources and more. Links & Resources: More about Journey Clinical: The Psychedelics Podcast: How Psychedelics Changed my Life – Jonathan Sabbagh:
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Dopamine Nation – Freeing ourselves from overconsumption and instant gratification
07/06/2022
Dopamine Nation – Freeing ourselves from overconsumption and instant gratification
It seems clear to me, that if we are constantly striving to experience only pleasure we will certainly land in a hurting world of pain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter (or chemical messenger, which the brain produces) that plays a big role in the experience of pleasure. Instant hits of pleasure can keep us hooked into a cycle of gratification that results in an escalating need for reward, but instead leads to anxiety and a thirst for satisfaction that is never fulfilled. Our brains produce chemical jolts that can be evoked by emoji text messages; Facebook “likes”; shopping excursions we cannot afford; as well as drugs, alcohol and sex. Many of these reward pathways are more accessible than ever, often keeping us constantly seeking more, without a lasting satiety. Listen to our conversation with Dr. Anna Lembke, M.D., Psychiatrist, Professor, Author. She is Chief of the Stanford Addiction Medicine Dual Diagnosis Clinic. She is also the author of bestseller “Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence” as well as “Drug Dealer, MD, How Doctors were Duped, Patients Got Hooked, and Why It’s So Hard to Stop”. Dr. Lembke’s books help us to understand that brain chemicals are involved in a potentially dangerous reward pathway, especially where there is ease of access to ever intensifying stimulants/drugs and other activities that reinforce the pleasure cycle. She explores meaningful strategies for withdrawing from pleasure, bringing balance through pain, or the capacity to tolerate discomfort. In her book “Dopamine Nation” she shares her own experience of getting hooked into reading paranormal vampire novels which took her down a pathway of ever intensifying reading content. She is a beacon of hope in understanding the complicated and deep struggles of those ensnared in the path of addiction, whatever the brand. In her Ted Talk on the opioid epidemic and the connection to pain management, she is able to expose some of the drivers to over prescribing opioids, and the dangers related to this. She also goes over some socio-medico alternatives to more opioid prescribing. She offers insight into the pleasure-pain mechanism and how it is wired into our brains. She also brings recognition towards the fact that in an overabundant world, where we are encouraged to incessantly seek pleasures; we reduce our capacity to remain quiet, content or peaceful within ourselves. She explains that the richest countries in the world have the highest rates of addiction, suicide, and pain. Her book covers many examples of those struggling with addictions of various kinds and the dangers of avoiding pain of any kind. She describes dopamine fasting and how profoundly beneficial this can be in resetting an overstimulated system to a greater place of balance. Links & Resources: Anna Lembke, MD: Ted Stanford University – Dr. Anna Lembke: The Psychology of An Addict Explained by Dr. Anna Lembke: The Social Dilabout:blankemma: Rich Roll: The Neuroscience of Addiction: Anna Lembke – Wiki: Daily Motivation – The richest countries have the most misery: Materials to Reference: Resetting pleasure/pain balance through Dopamine Fasting Dr. Lembke: The Social Dilemma – Reclaim your screen time: Andrew Huberman interviews Dr. Lembke:
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Extraordinary Awakening – Trauma and Transformation
06/02/2022
Extraordinary Awakening – Trauma and Transformation
Dr. Taylor is a senior lecturer in psychology at Leeds Beckett University, and the chair of the Transpersonal Psychology section at the British Psychological Society. He is also the bestselling author of The Calm Center, The Leap and the Clear Light. His work has been described by Eckhart Tolle as “an important contribution to the shift in consciousness which is happening on our planet at present.” His new book “Extraordinary Awakenings: When Trauma Leads to Transformation” is perfectly timed for the entrance into a new year with all the potential for hope, growth and self-reflection. The stories in this book explore how the worst experiences in life can open a person up to their most profound growth and life transformation. If you have pain symptoms that do not resolve easily and are not explained by a recent injury, accident or illness, listen to this conversation. If you have ever experienced an extreme or life-shattering event you may have also experienced what Steve Taylor describes as “transformation through turmoil”, or “shifters”, who evolve in their lives in remarkable ways following terrible events. Links & Resources: Extraordinary Awakenings: Events with Steve Taylor: Online programs with Steve Taylor: Spiritual Growth after Trauma: . Wikipedia on Post-Traumatic Growth:
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