

Savvy Psychologist
QuickAndDirtyTips.com
Seeking a healthier emotional life? It’s time to bring a trained psychologist and mental health expert along for the ride. Dr. Monica Johnson explains the why behind complex emotions, helps you form better relationships, and guides you down the path of self-understanding.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 12min
Navigating the grief of job loss: How to restructure and thrive
Losing a job can unleash a wave of unexpected emotions, from shock to self-blame. The importance of recognizing this grief is highlighted, along with strategies to navigate it effectively. Listeners are encouraged to reclaim their narrative and find time for healing while pursuing new opportunities. Practical rituals and community-building steps are discussed to foster resilience. Ultimately, the podcast emphasizes maintaining a positive outlook and the significance of social connections during this transformative period.

Aug 20, 2025 • 9min
The transformative power of small talk
Do you struggle with small talk? This episode looks at why this everyday interaction is more important than you might think for mental health and relationships. We look at the benefits of small talk, including building social bonds and practicing communication skills, and offer actionable tips like the FORD framework and reflective listening to make it easier.Find a full transcript here. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Aug 13, 2025 • 11min
How do you heal your body image?
Dive into the complexities of body image as it intertwines with self-worth and identity. Discover how media and cultural norms shape our perceptions for everyone, including non-binary individuals. Learn the gradual journey to healing through self-compassion and evidence-based strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy. Uncover actionable tips for cultivating a positive body image, focusing on challenging negativity and embracing practices like yoga to enhance your relationship with your body.

Aug 6, 2025 • 13min
How to discuss politics without damaging your relationships
Political differences can strain even the closest relationships. This episode looks at why political issues now feel so personal, often tying into core values and identity. We look at how to navigate these tough conversations with family and friends, focusing on setting boundaries and maintaining connection without compromising your truth.Find a full transcript here. Savvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 30, 2025 • 12min
Understanding premature ejaculation: causes, symptoms, and treatment
In this episode, we discuss premature ejaculation (PE). Dr. Johnson breaks down the DSM-5-TR definition, explores common causes and types, and offers mental health tips and treatment options for individuals navigating this experience.Transcript for this episodeSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 23, 2025 • 11min
What to do (and not do) when a relationship ends
Breakups are tough, but you don't have to navigate them alone. Join Dr. Monica Johnson as she shares psychological insights on why relationships end, what pitfalls to avoid, and how to authentically heal and rebuild your life after heartbreak. This episode will give you practical strategies for emotional well-being and reclaiming your identity post-relationship.Other episodes mentioned in this episode: 408 - 4 communication assassins that end relationships409 - How to fight back against communication assassinsTranscript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/what-to-do-and-not-do-when-a-relationship-ends/transcriptSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 16, 2025 • 9min
How to start (and stick with!) hobbies for better mental health
Dr. Monica Johnson reveals the powerful psychology behind hobbies and how they are essential for boosting mental health, reducing stress, and fostering joy. Discover why engaging in leisure activities can improve brain function, build social connections, and aid in trauma recovery, even when life feels overwhelming.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/how-to-start-and-stick-with-hobbies-for-better-mental-health/transcriptSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 9, 2025 • 10min
How 'Buy Now, Pay Later' companies use psychology to hook you
"Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) can feel like a "treat yourself" pass, but it's not magic; it's psychology. This episode looks at why BNPL systems are so seductive, especially for those with financial instability or emotional trauma. We also look at actionable steps to manage BNPL use, such as identifying the emotions behind spending and addressing financial shame.Transcript: https://savvy-psychologist.simplecast.com/episodes/how-buy-now-pay-later-companies-use-psychology-to-hook-you/transcriptSavvy Psychologist is hosted by Dr. Monica Johnson. Have a mental health question? Email us at psychologist@quickanddirtytips.com. Find Savvy Psychologist on Facebook and Twitter, or subscribe to the newsletter for more psychology tips.Savvy Psychologist is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.Links: https://quickanddirtytips.com/savvy-psychologisthttps://www.facebook.com/savvypsychologisthttps://twitter.com/qdtsavvypsychhttps://www.kindmindpsych.com/

Jul 2, 2025 • 13min
Why making friends as an adult is so hard (and how to fix it)
Feeling lonely? This discussion uncovers why adult friendships are trickier to navigate than ever. It highlights the emotional barriers we face in a world focused on productivity. Discover practical, evidence-based strategies to forge and maintain meaningful connections. Learn to prioritize relationships, even in our fast-paced lives, and explore how to embrace the vital human experience of friendship.

Jun 25, 2025 • 44min
Understanding narcissism in relationships, with Dr. Khadijah Cyril
Dr. Khadijah Cyril, an expert in narcissistic personality disorder, joins Dr. Monica Johnson to delve into the complexities of NPD and its impact on relationships. They discuss how modern dating apps contribute to unhealthy patterns like love bombing and ghosting. Dr. Cyril highlights the emotional rollercoaster of being in a relationship with narcissists, emphasizing the allure and the ensuing chaos. With practical strategies, she empowers listeners to recognize toxic cycles and set personal boundaries for healthier connections.