Author and podcast host Kristen Meinzer discusses the challenges of following self-help books, gender disparities in the industry, the deceptive facets of self-help and life coaching, and the transformative power of self-improvement. The conversation explores the impact of poorly written self-help books, biases in medical treatment, and the importance of healthy coping strategies.

Self-help is a multibillion dollar genre of books, and Kristen Meinzer and Jolenta Greenberg of By the Book podcast have lived by the advice of more than eighty of them. They discuss the ways these books use language to get into your brain, the negging and the euphemisms, what can actually be helpful, and why we should be more like dog. Content note: we discuss dieting and sizeism, and there are fleeting mentions of rape and abuse. There are also category A and B swears. Find out more about this episode and get extra information about the topics therein at theallusionist.org/self-help, where there's also a transcript. The Allusionist's online home is theallusionist.org. Stay in touch at twitter.com/allusionistshow, facebook.com/allusionistshow and instagram.com/allusionistshow. The Allusionist is produced by me, Helen Zaltzman. The music is by Martin Austwick. Hear Martin’s own songs via palebirdmusic.com.Support the show: http://patreon.com/allusionistSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Kristen Meinzer, a podcast host and audio expert, alongside comedian Jolenta Greenberg as they explore the intricacies of adult friendships. They discuss overcoming loneliness with actionable strategies that encourage open communication and self-reflection. The duo shares their journey through self-help literature, debunking the one-size-fits-all advice that often fails us. Get insights on maintaining long-distance friendships, navigating breakups, and the impact of the pandemic on social connections. Tune in for laughter, wisdom, and heartfelt stories!

Royal expert Kristen Meinzer joins the hosts to discuss recent royal family events and controversies. They also dive into Oscars, Jlo's documentary, and speculations on a public figure's absence. Chaos within the royal family and potential children's book collaboration are also explored.

Experts in self-help book critiques, Jolenta and Kristen, discuss their experiences living by self-help advice, debunking myths and sharing what worked. They explore forgiveness, challenges in the self-help industry, and navigating overwhelming advice. The hosts bond over shared interests, explore solutions beyond the self, and dissect the impact of self-talk on mental well-being.