The Gently Used Human with Dr. Scott Lyons

What if you were to play a game of hide-and-seek with yourself or pin the tail on the authentic you? What if, in the adventure of discovering who you are, you must get completely lost in the process? All the while dancing with the inevitable existential truths of death, isolation, and meaninglessness- while just trying to get to work on time!Today's guest is Dr. Sara Kuburic, also known as The Millennial Therapist, an existential psychotherapist whose life narrative is as compelling and intricate as the topics she explores. Dr. Sara brings to the table not just her extensive professional expertise, including her new book, "It's on Me: Accept Hard Truths, Discover Your Self, and Change Your Life," but also a rich tapestry of personal experiences. Having lived through wars and navigated complex relationships, she offers a unique perspective on the existential threads that weave through our lives.In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Scott and Dr. Sara delve into the tension between living life authentically and merely performing it. They discuss the balancing act of taking responsibility while finding freedom and examine the interplay of truth, resistance, and the enigma of self-discovery. This episode invites listeners to reflect on authenticity: What does it truly mean? Whose authenticity are we considering? Is it a process of peeling back layers of self-preservation, or is it an unrestrained, bold revelation through the streets of existence?If you've ever pondered the nature of authenticity and how to embrace it, this episode promises to offer insightful perspectives and guide you on your path to self-understanding.Topics We Break Down:The cost of working against yourself. What authenticity is not. Grasping the suffering that accompanies being human.People’s difficult relationship with the truth. Why safety is required for truth and turning inward.

Ever stared down the barrel of a kale smoothie straw and thought, "Is this it – the elixir of life?" Or swallowed up the latest superfood while wondering if the real fountain of youth was something more... substantial? In today's enlightening episode, Dr. Scott delves into these questions with Dan Buettner, the National Geographic Fellow and New York Times bestselling author who uncovered the world's Blue Zones—regions where people live extraordinarily long and healthful lives. With the zest of an explorer and the insight of a researcher, Dan pulls back the curtain on how environment, lifestyle, and community weave together to create the widespread vitality found in these remarkable areas.Together, they'll decode the lifestyle of super-agers and share the surprising ingredients for longevity that exist, not in some magic supplement, but in the collective recipes of purpose, faith, and connectivity. Dan will share his experiences and learnings from the Blue Zones and illuminate how we can cultivate these principles within our own neighborhoods, transforming them into our very own hubs of health and happiness. Whether you're seeking to add more candles to your birthday cake or simply aiming to enhance the quality of your days, this episode is an essential listen.Topics We Break Down:The role of the environment in willpower.How happiness affects longevity. The power of an intentional social circle. Simple changes that make a huge difference in wellbeing. Why purpose matters.

Have you ever found yourself lost in the enchanting world of a fairy-tale romance, losing sight of your own identity? Have you ever brushed off a heartfelt compliment, doubting its authenticity, or deflected it as a means to avoid accepting it? In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Vanessa Bennett, a licensed holistic psychotherapist, facilitator, codependency expert, podcaster, and Mama to help uncover how our past shapes the way we see and experience the world. Vanessa is the author of the best-selling relationship book It's Not Me, It's You, which offers readers profound insights into the essential elements of enduring and healthy relationships. Vanessa is renowned for her holistic approach which incorporates her years of experience and a deep understanding of Buddhist and psychological principles. She is also the co-host of the Cheaper Than Therapy Podcast, which explores the depths of human experience, combining psychology of the soul, yogic psychology, and mindfulness to help others live authentically and connect with their inner selves. Throughout their conversation, Vanessa skillfully peels back the narratives we write to protect ourselves, revealing those glistening “golden shadows” - the strengths and virtues we often overlook. Together, they navigate the intricate landscape of codependency, those delicate relationship dynamics that can leave us feeling adrift. They unearth the reasons behind our relentless quest for acceptance in others, the ebb, and flow of relationships, the hurdles that often obstruct genuine opportunities for validation, and much more. If you are seeking embodiment and the path to self-acceptance, then this episode is for you.Topics We Break Down:Societal values and how they influence self-acceptance.Weaponizing positive attributes.Consequences of seeking outside validation.Codependence and interdependence in relationships.Friction as a path to well-being and self-acceptance.Therapeutic role-playing techniques.

Ever glanced at the food pyramid and thought, 'How am I supposed to climb that?' Everywhere you turn on social media, another food guru is dishing out bold, sometimes confusing advice about what we should and shouldn't eat. You might've wondered: whose food rules am I supposed to follow? And those oh so tempting carbs — are they our culinary friends or foes?In this delicious episode, Dr. Scott Lyons chats with Jenna Werner — a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and owner Happy, Strong, Healthy. Explore the age-old love affair with the perfect body, how it's changed over time, and its influence on our meal choices. From the pull of trending diets to the empowering message of anti-diet culture, from the secrets of the "blue zones" where folks live the longest to the exciting world of intuitive eating — this episode promises a tasty journey for both your mind and soul.Together, they tap into the whispers of our digital age — the double-edged sword of social media, where hyper-connectivity often masks isolation and where extremes scream loudest in the echo chambers. Unearth the magic (and mystery) buried in nutrition; you’ll find your own delectable 'foodgasm.' Whether you're seeking a sprinkle of wisdom, a dash of laughter, or a full course of introspection, this episode is a feast not to be missed.Topics We Break DownWeight stigma, skinny privilege, and the nuances of external validation.The indispensable role of community in a holistic healthy lifestyle.Empowering personal expertise in understanding our own bodies.The fluctuating landscape of nutrition: from diet fads to food pyramids.Balancing physical health with mental well-being.

Have you ever gazed up into the vast expanse of the night sky, and defiantly murmured, 'Hey, you're not the boss of me,' but deep down felt an inkling of doubt? Are those twinkling constellations just  glittering lights, or do they possess an ancient wisdom that molds our personas, sways our relationships, and even nudges us when we stand at life's crossroads? Or is it possible that we are just searching the heavens for a reflection of our own hopes and fears, desperate for a narrative that makes meaning out of life’s chaos.In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons invites you to a hilarious, insightful, and playful fireside chat with astrologer Colin Bedell. Together, they navigate the connections between astrology and psychological archetypes, unraveling the kaleidoscope of human nature. With his infectious charm, Colin paints a vibrant picture of how the cosmos might serve as a guide without dictating our path. But they also navigate the trickier waters, asking: At what point might we risk giving up our power, letting stars or spiritual guides dictate our identity and decisions? And when might these very forces help us rediscover our authentic selves?This isn't just any chat about the cosmos; it's a lively dance between skepticism and belief, science and wonder. So whether you're in the mood for some hearty laughter or a starlit introspection, this episode promises a delightful, flirtatious romp through the universe.Topics We CoverMoving beyond single truths and prophecies.The role of archetypes in decoding human behavior patterns.The intersections of astrology and psychologyUniversal truths, confirmation bias, and the Barnum effect.The healing potential of astrology in relationships

Do you ever feel like the dramas of life are following you around? Or someone you know always seems to be spiraling into crisis, overscheduling themselves to the point of overwhelm, or trying to rope people into their tornado of chaos?In this special episode, we're unlocking the vault to share a previously recorded conversation from our archives that's going to shed some light on why many of us might feel trapped in a loop of drama. In it, Dr. Scott delves into his transformative book, Addicted to Drama, joined by the insightful Dr. Nicole LePera. Together, they get to the heart of why some of us might feel drawn to chaotic situations, highlighting the role of past experiences and hidden emotional triggers.It isn't just about identifying the problem; it's about finding ways out. They'll discuss the habits that keep us stuck in drama and offer insights on breaking free. If you've ever felt like you or someone you know is always at the center of some emotional storm, don't miss this enlightening discussion. It might just be the guide you need to find calm amidst the chaos.Topics We Break DownRecognizing drama addiction.Drama's impact on intimacy.Phases in healing and the role of forgiveness.Stress in the attention economy.The phenomenon of stress contagion.Supporting drama-addicted loved ones.

What if I could reveal the secret life of animals and their explicit affairs - would you shyly turn away, or would you unabashedly lean in for all the hot-hot animal gossip?Have you ever caught yourself blushing while watching nature documentaries, questioning if you should be this intrigued by the risqué rhythms of the wild? Us too -you're in good company!Are you ready to uncover the saucy secrets of the animal kingdom? Well, saddle up because in this episode, Dr. Scott joins forces with Perrin Ireland, an enthralling animal storyteller, to navigate the intoxicating spectrum of beastly bedroom behaviors. Dive deep into post-coital cuddles that overstay their welcome, and the jaw-dropping phenomenon of lovers turning into... well, lunch. This isn't just about critter kinks; it's a journey replete with scientific revelations and the challenge of reframing age-old paradigms. Peek behind the natural curtains as Perrin explores the dynamic dance of animal communication through their... intimate escapades. Prepare for a rollercoaster ride that uncovers the acrobatics of animal amour, the provocative peculiarity of nature, and, let's just say, some boundary-pushing behaviors. Heads up, brave listeners: we touch upon some intense themes, like non-consensual engagements in the animal world, which might ruffle some feathers. Dive in for a riveting exploration with nature's spicy storyteller, Perrin Ireland!Topics We Break Down:Animal hierarchy and communication.The media's influence on scientific narratives.Unmasking biases within science.The spectrum of animal intimacy: foreplay to aerial feats.Challenging traditional Darwinian views.Drama queens of the animal kingdom.

Do you ever feel like you get caught up in the whirlwind of other people's excitement? Finding yourself pumped up, motivated, ready to go, only to then feel like the moment they leave, you're left in the dust with no fuel in the car? Some of us are reliant on other people's motivation as a driving force of our own lives.  So, have you ever outsourced your own inner drive to motivational speakers, self help books, podcasts? Do their lofty promises and electrifying speeches still leave you stuck in the same rut, idling in place? Could it be that we're missing something vital about motivation?In this episode, Dr. Scott hosts the remarkable Craig Harper, a respected educator, coach, TV presenter, author, and business owner. Prepare to explore the intriguing topics of meta-cognition, motivation, transcending mediocrity, and learning to waltz with failure and setbacks. Along the way, Craig shares deeply personal stories of transformation, the silver lining of crises, and why solitude deserves a seat at the head of the table.If you’re ready to rethink the motivational mantras you’ve been chanting, question the value of some of the thought leaders you’ve been following and nudge yourself out of your comfort zone to create your own motivation, this episode is for you.  Topics we break down: The power of mediocracyThe link between embodiment and confidenceThe dangers of externalizing self-worthControversial cliches of motivational speakingHow to hear your own voice

You've seen it, you've judged it, heck, you might've even worn it – the infamous Resting Bitch Face. But it's more than just a 'stop-approaching-me' shield; it's a complex mask often crafted by the skilled hands of neglect and trauma. Let's face it, emotions are a messy business. We might use our physiology to unwittingly push people away, even while our hearts are screaming for connection and understanding.In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Dr. Shirley Impellizzeri, an acclaimed clinical psychologist, and the brain behind 'Why Can't I Change?' and 'Scared Speechless’ to uncover the relationship between neuroscience, attachment theory, and primal emotional regulation. Using her own life as a case study, Shirley unflinchingly explores how childhood ghosts whisper into the ears of our adult selves, influencing our stress responses, attachment styles, and even body functions.Topics we break down: Physical manifestations of neglectPrimal instincts, survival skills and compartmentalizationThe power of facial expressionsRewiring the brain to unwind ‘resting bitch face’Allowing space for emotions in challenging times

It's Dr. Scott's birthday week and we've got a surprise! Instead of his usual expert interviews, he's the one in the hot seat this time, with his big sister Nikki leading the interrogation. She's got a copy of his recent book, "Addicted to Drama," (okay, she hasn't cracked the spine yet, but who's counting?) and she's ready to dish the dirt.Expect a roller-coaster of reminiscing as Nikki nudges Scott to spill the beans on personal and often blush-inducing stories. Told with the unfettered candor only siblings can muster, this special birthday episode offers a sneak peek into the world of our favorite host.