
Psychologists Off the Clock
We are five experts in psychology, bringing you science-backed ideas that can help you flourish in your work, relationships, and health.
Latest episodes

Jul 17, 2024 • 1h 5min
364. The Brain-Gut Connection with Megan Riehl
Megan Riehl, co-author of Mind Your Gut, discusses the brain-gut connection, stress's impact on GI symptoms, and the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy for gut health. Learn about the Dream Team in GI care, hypnotherapy for IBS, and the risks of gut pseudoscience. Discover how a gentle diet cleanup can transform gut health and the potential of the gut microbiome in precision medicine.

Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 4min
363. Worrying Is Optional with Ben Eckstein
In this conversation, Ben Eckstein, a therapist specializing in anxiety and OCD, dives into the human experience of worry. He clarifies the difference between helpful worry and harmful rumination. Ben explains how anxiety can become ingrained in our thought processes, making effective problem-solving difficult. He uses surprising analogies, like those from 'Legend of Zelda,' to illustrate managing anxiety. Listeners will learn strategies for incorporating self-compassion and patience in their lives, helping them break free from the anxiety cycle and navigate uncertainties.

Jul 3, 2024 • 1h 15min
362. Adult Bullies and High Conflict People with Bill Eddy
Ever had to deal with someone who just seems impossible to reason with? You know, the kind of person who always blames others and seems to turn every minor disagreement into a conflict? If you've been there, you’ll want to check out this episode with Bill Eddy, Chief Innovation Officer of the High Conflict Institute and an expert in understanding high-conflict personalities and dealing with adult bullies. We talk about the characteristics of high-conflict individuals, the psychological impact on their victims, and effective strategies from his book Our New World of Adult Bullies: How to Spot Them -- How to Stop Them to navigate these relationships. Tune in and empower yourself with concrete tools and expert advice to diffuse high-conflict behavior effectively and change how you handle bullies in your life!Listen and Learn:
Identifying the four main traits of high-conflict personalities
Do all individuals with personality disorders fit the high conflict profile?
How to identify if you have a relationship with someone with a high-conflict personality
The differences between adult bullies and child bullies
What is the primary motivation for bullying behavior?
The surprise attack tactic bullies often use and how you can be less vulnerable to them
What is a negative advocate, and how do people end up in that role?
Using the BIFF method in communication to avoid blame cycles and maintain constructive dialogue
Why you should never label the behavior of a high-conflict person or bully?
Combating bullying in political and online realms and why this demands societal action through education and setting boundaries
Resources:
highconflictinstitute.com
Connect with Bill @highconflictinstitute on socials:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-conflict-institute
https://twitter.com/highconflict?lang=en
https://www.instagram.com/highconflictinstitute/
It's All Your Fault! The High Conflict Institute Podcast
Psychology Today Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/5-types-people-who-can-ruin-your-life
Bill’s books:
Our New World of Adult Bullies: How to Spot Them -- How to Stop Them
5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your Life: Identifying and Dealing with Narcissists, Sociopaths, and Other High-Conflict Personalities
Biff: Quick Responses to High-Conflict People, Their Personal Attacks, Hostile Email and Social Media Meltdowns
Splitting: Protecting Yourself While Divorcing Someone with Borderline or Narcissistic Personality Disorder
About Bill Eddy: Bill Eddy is Chief Innovation Officer of the High Conflict Institute based in San Diego, California. He trains lawyers, judges, mediators, and therapists throughout the United States and a dozen other countries in managing high-conflict family, workplace and legal disputes. He is the author of over 20 books and manuals and has a popular blog on PsychologyToday.com.Related episodes:
98. Narcissism with Avigail Lev and Robyn Walser
308. Identifying and Surviving Gaslighting with Robin Stern
292. Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers with Stephanie Kriesberg
263. Relationships with Emotionally Immature People with Lindsay Gibson
186. Set Boundaries Find Peace with Nedra Tawwab
298. Drama Free with Nedra Tawwab
276. Assertive Communication Skills with Randy Paterson
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Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 1min
361. Dudes and Dads: Men's Mental Health with Danny Singley
We know how demanding fatherhood can be and how often your mental well-being takes a backseat. For this episode, we bring you the practical advice and encouraging perspectives of Dr. Danny Singley, an award-winning psychologist, to discuss the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health and fatherhood. Danny, who is the director of the Center for Men's Excellence, helps us understand the unique mental health challenges men face, especially during the transition to fatherhood. Expect valuable insights into men's help-seeking behaviors, the importance of addressing emotional needs, and strategies for fostering deeper male friendships. Whether you are a man, a father, or simply want to learn how to support the men in your life better, tune in to learn how we can all take steps toward promoting mental well-being in men.Listen and Learn:
Why discussing men's mental health, challenging stereotypes, breaking through societal expectations, and promoting a more inclusive understanding are crucial in today's cultural climate
How men's mental health presents differently
The balance between independence and interdependence for adult males and the challenge of seeking emotional connection beyond their partners
How societal expectations influence men’s reluctance to seek help until prompted by others
How today's fathers are pioneering new ways to be engaged parents despite lacking role models and battling societal standards and cultural norms to be more present and engaged parents
The surprising hormonal changes in new fathers, the realities of postpartum depression and anxiety, and why paternal mental health deserves much more attention
Resources:
The Center for Men's Excellence
APA Division 51
Chat with an Expert | Postpartum Support International (PSI)
https://twitter.com/menexcel
https://www.facebook.com/menexcel
https://www.instagram.com/men.excel/
The Postpartum Game Plan
Man Park SNL
About Daniel B. Singley, Ph.D., ABPP Bio:Danny Singley is a San Diego-based board certified psychologist and Director of The Center for Men’s Excellence. His research and practice focus on men’s mental health with a particular emphasis on reproductive psychology and the transition to fatherhood. Dr. Singley won the American Psychological Association’s 2017 Practitioner of the Year Award from the Division on Men & Masculinities. He is Past President of the APA’s Section on Positive Psychology and is currently the President of the APA’s Society for the Psychological Study of Men and Masculinities and the President’s Advisory Council for Postpartum Support International. He conducts trainings and presentations around the country to assist individuals and organizations to enhance their level of father inclusiveness and founded the grant-funded Basic Training for New Dads, Inc nonprofit and Padre Cadre social networking application just for dads in order to give new fathers the tools they need to be highly engaged with their infants as well as their partners. In his free time, Dr. Singley likes to cook, surf, read, and trick his two teenage sons into activities so they can’t escape his annoying shrinky questions. Related Episodes:
306. Screaming on the Inside: The Challenges of American Motherhood with Jessica Grose
275. Work, Parent, Thrive with Yael Schonbrun
267. You are Not a Horrible Parent with Carla Naumburg
206. Fair Play Part 2 with Eve Rodsky
183. Permission to Feel: Emotional Intelligence with Marc Brackett
176. Fair Play with Eve Rodsky
166. How to Manage Multiple Life Roles Skillfully with Sarah Argenal
143. Happier Parenting KJ Dell’Antonia
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7 snips
Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 11min
360. The Laws of Connection with David Robson
Author David Robson discusses the scientific secrets behind building strong social bonds, emphasizing the concepts of shared reality, defocusing in conversations, and the dynamics of requesting help for genuine altruism. Tune in for practical tips on forming authentic connections and overcoming social fears.

6 snips
Jun 12, 2024 • 1h 8min
359. Evolution and Human Nature with Sam Wilkinson
What is the meaning of life? And what role does evolution play in our search for purpose? Join us in a conversation with Dr. Samuel Wilkinson, author of "Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence." We cover some big, philosophical questions that don't have clear answers but are so important to ponder. Our modern fears, our overactive stress responses, and the age-old struggle between good and evil—all these layers make up the complex human experience. Sam’s take on how our evolutionary history impacts our present-day lives is fascinating. So, wonderful listeners, tune in and reflect on these big ideas, and as always, we invite you to share your thoughts and takeaways. Listen and Learn:
How Sam’s personal struggle with the meaning of life intersected with scientific inquiry and ultimately led to him writing Purpose
Can you believe in evolution while maintaining religious or spiritual faith?
The importance of understanding genetics in the context of evolution
Exploring multi-level selection by redefining "survival of the fittest" across genes, individuals, kin, or groups, and discussing the implications for social traits and human nature
The tension between altruism and selfishness
How much of human aggression is rooted in biology versus culture?
Do environmental factors and expectations influence testosterone levels?
Compelling evidence from psychology that our thoughts influence our behaviors
The significance of family relationships in shaping our sense of meaning and purpose
Resources:
SamuelTWilkinson.com
Samuel Wilkinson, MD - Yale School of Medicine
Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-wilkinson-1863875a
About Samuel T. Wilkinson, MDSamuel T. Wilkinson, MD, is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Yale University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Yale Depression Research Program. He received his MD from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. His articles have been featured in the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the Wall Street Journal. He has been the recipient of many awards, including Top Advancements & Breakthroughs from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation; Top Ten Psychiatry Papers by the New England Journal of Medicine, the Samuel Novey Writing Prize in Psychological Medicine (Johns Hopkins); the Thomas Detre Award (Yale University); and the Seymour Lustman Award (Yale University). He is the author of Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply about the Meaning of Our Existence (Pegasus; March 5, 2024).Related Episodes:
234. The Power of Us with Dominic Packer
138. Exploring Existence and Purpose: Existentialism with Robyn Walser
63. The Ape That Understood The Universe With Steve Stewart-Williams
57. Evolution and Behavioral Science with Steven Hayes and David Sloan Wilson
32. Social Connection: Exploring Loneliness and Building Intimacy with Debbie and Diana
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Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 2min
358. How to Keep House While Drowning with KC Davis
Burnout from endless household chores? Meet KC Davis, the brilliant author behind How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing who we had to get on the podcast to share her wisdom with you!Most of us constantly juggle house cleaning, personal grooming, and what can feel like a million other responsibilities. It can feel like a relentless backdrop to our lives. But KC, who you may have seen making waves on social media, gives us a whole new way of looking at domestic labor. Her insights are transformative and so much more than just chores—they're about life-changing perspectives and even touch on social justice issues.If you’re overwhelmed by endless household to-do lists, this episode and KC’s book are invaluable. Tune in and revolutionize your approach to household tasks. Trust us, your future self will thank you!Listen and Learn:
Balancing a normal daily life with the unexpected recognition and success of her new book, How to Keep House While Drowning
Why did KC make her book so accessible and simple to read?
Why basic self-care like doing the dishes or taking a shower is often overlooked
KC recalls her daily struggles as a new mom facing postpartum depression during the pandemic, with escalating exhaustion and an unmanageable household
The common feeling of failure when overwhelmed by basic care tasks and why these challenges don’t reflect one's character
How mainstream self-help often leads to initial motivation but ultimately causes shame when people can't sustain the impractical systems
Navigating domestic work and fairness in shared living spaces and making sure that everyone gets time to rest and recharge
Resources:
https://www.strugglecare.com/
How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing
Listen to KC’s Podcast: https://www.strugglecare.com/podcast-rss
Follow KC on social media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strugglecare
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StruggleCare/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@domesticblisters
Article on scruffy hospitality referenced by Debbie: https://www.treehugger.com/in-priase-scruffy-hospitality-4868485
About KC Davis:KC Davis is a licensed professional counselor, author, speaker, and the person behind the mental health platform Struggle Care. KC’s compassionate and practical approach to self and home care for those dealing with mental health, physical illness, and hard seasons of life has drawn over a million followers on social media in less than a year. Her book, How to Keep House While Drowning, has sold over 300,000 copies and is currently an Amazon bestseller.https://www.treehugger.com/in-priase-scruffy-hospitality-4868485KC Davis began her therapy journey at 16 when she entered treatment for drug addiction and mental health issues. After getting sober she became a speaker and advocate for mental health and recovery. Professionally, KC has worked most of her career in the field of addiction in roles such a therapist, consultant, and executive director. She lives in Houston with her husband and two daughters. Learn more about the radical philosophy of Struggle Care that’s changing lives here.Related episodes:
176. Fair Play with Eve Rodsky176. Fair Play with Eve Rodsky
206. Fair Play Part 2 with Eve Rodsky
306. Screaming on the Inside: The Challenges of American Motherhood with Jessica Grose
215. How to Change with Katy Milkman
318. Your Path to Personal Change with Michelle Drapkin
348. Sustainable Exercise with Michelle Segar
346. Self-compassion Daily Journal with Diana Hill
33. Couples with Young Children: Relationship Challenges and Strategies with Yael Schonbrun
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13 snips
May 29, 2024 • 1h 13min
357. Is Your Work Worth It? How to Think About Meaningful Work with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and Christopher Wong Michaelson
Explore meaningful work with authors Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and Christopher Wong Michaelson. They discuss work-life balance, COVID-19 impact on work, traits of work, downsides of a calling, and the concept of fairness in work.

May 22, 2024 • 1h 5min
356. Navigating the Challenges of Caregiving with Allison Applebaum
In this episode, we talk about a topic that touches so many of our lives: caregiving. Whether it’s something we’ve already experienced or might face in the future, caring for a loved one with an disease or illness is a profound journey.Allison Applebaum, who is the founder of the Caregivers Clinic and Author of the beautifully titled, Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving comes on board to enlighten us about the realities of caregiving—the stress, the work, the emotional burden—but also the unexpected rewards. She talks about discovering strengths you didn’t know you had and finding deeper connections with those you care for. Allison’s perspective is holistic and empathetic, offering a well-rounded view of caregiving. We cover everything from the emotional impact to practical tips and the broader societal issues like ageism and bias against those with neurocognitive challenges. It’s a conversation full of perspectives that you may not have even considered before. Let’s dive in!Listen and Learn:
The Allison Applebaum definition of family Caregiving
How Allison founded a clinic to support caregivers, cared for her father, coped with her mother's unexpected death, and dealt with the challenges of illness and loss in the healthcare system
The moving tale behind the title of Allison’s book, Stand by Me
Recognizing the significance of a person's identity and dignity in healthcare
Combating ageism and elder speak in the health system
Tips for beginning the caregiving journey for a loved one facing a health decline
Navigating through conflicts and disagreements within families regarding care for a loved one
What is caregiver burden? How can we prevent or address it? And, is it the same as caregiver burnout?
The challenge of uncertainty for caregivers and helpful strategies for dealing with this
Can meaning and suffering coexist?
Resources:
Allison’s website
Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving
Connect with Allison on Instagram and X
About Allison ApplebaumDr. Allison Applebaum is an Associate Attending Psychologist in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), and an Associate Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. She is the Founding Director of the Caregivers Clinic at MSK, the first program of its kind in the United States to provide comprehensive psychosocial care to family members and friends of patients who are in the caregiving role. Dr. Applebaum is also the author of the recently published narrative nonfiction book, Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving.Related Episodes:
354. A Family Guide to Dementia with Brent Forester
241. Emotion Coaching Skills for Families with Mindy Solomon (EFFT Part 2 of 2)
327. Thriving on Overload with Ross Dawson
310. The Expectation Effect with David Robson
351. You Only Die Once with Jodi Wellman
338. ACT for Burnout with Debbie!
116. Building a Meaningful, Values-based Life with Jenna LeJeune
138. Exploring Existence and Purpose: Existentialism with Robyn Walser
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May 15, 2024 • 1h 5min
355. What is EMDR with Jamie Marich
You may have heard whispers about EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, which has gained popularity for treating symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression. Although the eye movement component of EMDR is still not fully understood, it involves stimulating the brain through bilateral eye movements, sounds, or taps. Despite several studies finding no evidence that bilateral stimulation improves therapy, anecdotal evidence suggests that EMDR can be very effective in certain cases, and has been a real game changer for some. Here to chat with us and shed some light on this form of therapy, we are excited to have Jamie Marich, a leader in trauma recovery. Curious about EMDR therapy's transformative potential for healing trauma and mental health challenges? Tune in!Listen and Learn:
The origin story of EMDR
The skepticism around EMDR
Are trauma and PTSD related?
Distinguishing between "big T" traumas and "small t" traumas
Why might talk therapy not work well for treating trauma and/or PTSD?
What are the phases of an EMDR session?
Can EMDR be done through video therapy?
Resources:
Jamie’s website: https://jamiemarich.com/
Visit Redefine Therapy https://redefinetherapy.com/
EMDR Made Simple: 4 Approaches for Using EMDR with Every Client
EMDR Therapy & Mindfulness for Trauma-Focused Care
Connect with Jamie on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/drjamiem/
https://www.facebook.com/drjamiemarich
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiemarich/
About Jamie MarchDr. Jamie Marich (she/they) inspires people and systems to heal the wounds that keep them stuck, allowing for authentic transformation free of shame and stigma. A TEDx speaker, clinical trauma specialist, expressive artist, lay spiritual director, short filmmaker, Reiki master, yoga teacher, and recovery advocate, she unites all of these elements in her mission to redefine therapy. She is a woman in long-term recovery from an addictive disorder and lives with dissociative identities. As a queer woman who survived multiple spiritually abusive experiences in childhood and adulthood, Jamie is passionate about helping people to recognize where religion and spirituality may be causing harm in their lives so that they can chart a course for personalized healing.Marich is the author of EMDR Made Simple: 4 Approaches for Using EMDR with Every Client (2011), Trauma and the 12 Steps: A Complete Guide for Recovery Enhancement (2012/2020), Creative Mindfulness (2013), Trauma Made Simple: Competencies in Assessment, Treatment, and Working with Survivors, Dancing Mindfulness: A Creative Path to Healing and Transformation (2015), EMDR Therapy & Mindfulness for Trauma-Focused Care (with Stephen Dansiger, 2018), Process Not Perfection: Expressive Arts Solutions for Trauma Recovery (2019), Healing Addiction with EMDR Therapy: A Trauma-Focused Guide (with Stephen Dansiger, 2022), The Healing Power of Jiu-Jitsu: A Guide to Transforming Trauma and Facilitating Recovery (with Anna Pirkl, 2022), Dissociation Made Simple: A Stigma-Free Guide to Embracing Your Dissociative Mind and Navigating Life (2023), and Trauma and the 12 Steps: The Workbook (with Stephen Dansiger, 2023). Her long-time publisher, North Atlantic Books, is releasing her memoir of spiritual abuse and recovery, You Lied to Me About God, in October 2024.Related Episodes
210. Strategies for Becoming Safely Embodied with Deirdre Fay
37. Post-Traumatic Growth with Diana and Debbie
25. Resilience: Bouncing Back After Difficulty with Debbie and Rae
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