The One You Feed

Dr. Sue Johnson, an acclaimed clinical psychologist and author of "Hold Me Tight," dives deep into the intricacies of romantic relationships. She explores how attachment needs evolve from childhood to adulthood, emphasizing our biological drive for connection. Dr. Johnson discusses the 'protest polka' dance of demands and withdrawals that often leads to disconnection. She highlights the power of vulnerability and meaningful conversations to strengthen emotional bonds, ultimately fostering healthier, more resilient partnerships.

Gabe Howard, an award-winning writer and speaker living with bipolar and anxiety disorders, shares his compelling journey in mental health. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder and personalizes recovery as a journey of living beyond the illness. Gabe emphasizes the importance of compassionate societal attitudes towards mental health, offering insights into the stigma of psychiatric treatment and the significance of supportive relationships. His candid anecdotes reveal the urgent need for understanding and connection in mental illness.

This mini episode blends heartfelt gratitude with creative expression, showcasing the power of community support. It emphasizes growth and change, drawing inspiration from the cyclical beauty of trees in nature. Uplifting themes are explored through a charming Philip Larkin poem and the motivating song 'Tomorrow' by James, encouraging listeners to take small steps toward transformation. A humorous story about a parrot adds a lighthearted touch, reminding us to embrace the present and let go of our worries.

Lauren Zander, a life coach and author of Maybe It's You, shares her insights on the hidden power of inner dialogue. She discusses how over 80% of our thoughts can be negative and repetitive, impacting our lives significantly. Lauren introduces three internal voices— the cautious chicken, the rebellious brat, and the observant weather reporter—each influencing our decisions and self-perception. She emphasizes the importance of personal accountability, integrity, and the necessity of rewriting our narratives to foster positive change.

Father Richard Rohr, a globally recognized Franciscan priest and founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation, discusses his book, The Universal Christ. He shares insights on seeing Christ in everything and everyone, emphasizing the idea that God becomes one with all creation. Rohr also addresses the differences between spiritual darkness and depression, encouraging a deep, connected faith during challenges. He inspires listeners to nurture the 'good wolf' within, transforming lives through love and recognizing the divine in everyday moments.

Maia Szalavitz, a prominent neuroscience journalist and author of the groundbreaking book 'Unbroken Brain,' delves into the complexities of addiction. She argues that addiction is a developmental learning disorder rather than a disease, urging a paradigm shift in understanding this issue. Throughout the conversation, she critiques moralistic views and calls for a compassionate approach to treatment, emphasizing the necessity of personalized care and evidence-based methods. Szalavitz also discusses the importance of insights and harm reduction strategies in recovery.

Hal Gregersen, Executive Director at MIT's Leadership Center, dives into the transformative power of questions. He discusses his book, emphasizing how the right questions can lead to personal and professional growth. Hal shares his life-changing health crisis, which ignited his quest for deeper self-approval. He explores keystone vs. shadow questions and how they shape our realities. Highlighting techniques like the 'question burst,' he advocates for a curious mindset to overcome stagnation and innovate problem-solving.

In this enlightening conversation, Eric Tivers, a licensed clinical social worker and ADHD expert, dives deep into the experience of adults living with ADHD. He discusses the distinction between 'mind' and 'brain', dispelling myths about laziness in ADHD through brain scan insights. Tivers shares strategies for managing time wisely and highlights the critical role of routines and self-regulation. Personal anecdotes reveal how medication and behavioral tactics can transform lives, making the journey with ADHD more navigable.

Cindy Stulberg, an internationally respected psychologist and Director of The Institute of Interpersonal Psychotherapy, shares her profound insights on the connection between relationships and mental health. She discusses her book, highlighting how understanding our emotions can transform interpersonal dynamics. Cindy emphasizes the importance of building a supportive social circle and provides practical strategies to mitigate loneliness. She also distinguishes between feelings and moods, advocating for emotional awareness to strengthen connections.

Claire Booth, an entrepreneur and author of "The Achiever Fever Cure," shares her journey to overcome anxiety and insomnia linked to relentless achievement. She explores the difference between healthy ambition and 'Achiever Fever,' emphasizing the importance of inner reflection. Booth discusses the significance of coaching in personal growth and challenges listeners to question their inner critic. The conversation highlights techniques to transform negative thoughts, encouraging a more balanced approach to success and fulfillment.