Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast | Breaking Silence Around the Secrets We All Carry

On this episode of Life’s Dirty Little Secrets, we dive deep into the taboo of sex with our special guest Kristen Campbell. We explore the importance of pleasure and the varied ways in which it can be expressed and experienced. We discuss the challenges that arise from the societal taboo around discussing pleasure and how having open conversations is necessary for our understanding and exploration of it. We debunk myths and misconceptions about what is considered normal or healthy in terms of pleasure, and emphasize the importance of communication and understanding individual needs in relationships. We also examine the roots of the taboo of sex in religion, societal structures, and fear, and the impact it has on individuals and communities. Our guest shares their insights as a sex therapist, and highlights the importance of knowledge and education in empowering individuals to have healthier and more fulfilling sexual experiences. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we challenge the silence and stigma surrounding sex and delve into the complexities of human sexuality.Highlights: Taboo on sex: cultural, religious, and individual factors Normal sexual responses and societal influences Pleasure, taboo, myths, desire, arousal, intimacy Taboos around healthy sexual relationships, diverse expressionsResources discussed in this episode: Emily Nagoski: Book and podcast. Both titled, “Come as you are”.   www.emilynagoski.com Research on the impact of porn on our brains, especially males.  www.yourbrainonporn.com.au Sex education resource for adults. www.beducated.com Talking to children about sexual development. www.healthywa.wa.gove.au/Articles/S-T/Talk-soon-Talk-often Sex education for teens, www.bishuk.com An education resource for femaStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Being a working parent is a balancing act that requires juggling numerous roles and responsibilities. It's a challenging situation, marked by the constant tension between work commitments and parental responsibilities. However, this tension can also offer opportunities for personal growth, learning, and skill development. With the right perspective, our experiences as working parents can positively influence our parenting style and enrich our ability to navigate conflicts and challenges with grace. Chris McCurry and Emma Waddington bring this topic to life during their conversation with Dr. Yael Schonbrun. Dr. Schonbrun points out how dealing with the role tension of being a working parent has helped her develop valuable skills such as multitasking, perspective-taking, and flexibility.Highlights: Unravel effective strategies for creating harmony between parenting responsibilities and career aspirations. Tap into the healing power of storytelling as an integral part of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Imbibe the art of cherishing minimal yet profound moments of joy and resilience within parenthood.About Dr. Yael SchonbrunPurchase Work Parent Drive by Dr. Yael Schonbrun on Amazon or at your local bookstore to gain valuable insights and strategies for navigating the tension between being a parent and working. https://www.amazon.com/Work-Parent-Thrive-Science-Backed-Strategies/dp/1611809657Yael Schonbrun, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist, assistant professor at Brown University, co-host of Psychologists Off the Clock: A podcast about the science and practice of living well, and mother of three. Yael’s academic research explores the interaction between relationship problems and mental health conditions.Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Join Emma and Chris as they delve into the often overlooked topic of grief. In this episode, they are joined by Mahima Gupta, a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. Mahima shares her personal experiences of grief, including the loss of her best friend to suicide and a devastating family tragedy. Through her story, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the complex emotions and challenges that come with grief. This episode provides valuable insights and offers support for those who may be experiencing their own grief or seeking to better understand the grieving process.Highlights: Understanding Grief and the Need for Support Mahima Gupta's Personal Experience with Grief The Complexity of Grief and Trauma The Importance of Allowing Grief to Be Felt and ExpressedAbout Mahima:Lean more about Mahima hereMahima is a Clinical Psychologist, Integrated Clinical Hypnotherapist, Regression Therapist and Advanced EFT (Tapping) Practitioner educated in India, with training from the U.K., U.S., Holland and Australia. She is registered with the Singapore Register of Psychologists (SRP), is a member of Singapore Psychological Society (SPS), Singapore Association of Counsellors (SAC) and American Psychological Association (APA).Mahima is trained in schema therapy, Gottman’s couples therapy, clinical hypnotherapy, regression, emotional freedom techniques (EFT tapping), matrix re-imprinting, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), coaching, play therapy, REBT for children, reiki and disaster counselling. Mahima has nine years of clinical experience in psychological assessment, counselling and therapy.She has a client-centred, action-oriented, psycho-spiritual therapeutic style, with a special interest in inner child work and positive psychology.Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecretsRStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

On this episode of Life’s Dirty Little Secrets Podcast, we dive into the topic of body shame with guest Emily Sandoz. Our bodies are intimately tied to our experiences and can greatly affect our adaptability and flexibility. We discuss how chronic negative experiences can lead to rigidity and inflexibility when it comes to our body image. We explore the impact of social media on body awareness and how to cultivate mindfulness to focus on meaningful experiences rather than our appearance. Additionally, we touch upon striking a balance between body acceptance and the desire to change our appearance. Our relationship with our bodies requires intentionality and starting small, just like building a relationship with a friend. Tune in to learn more about body image flexibility and moving through life with freedom, dignity, and pleasure.Dr. Sandoz is the Emma Louise LeBlanc Burguieres/BORSF Endowed Professor of Social Sciences in the Psychology Department at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Emily is the Director of the Louisiana Contextual Science Research Group and the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science. She has co-authored three books on acceptance and commitment therapy for struggles with eating and body image, along with chapters and journal articles on ACT, Relational Frame Theory, values, the therapeutic relationship, and psychological flexibility.Highlights: The Effects of Negative and Positive Body Experiences Challenges and Pressures of Body Experience Social Media and Body Image Building a Healthy Relationship with Our BodiesMore about Emily Sandoz:Emily has led more than 70 professional training workshops around the world, and serves as a peer-reviewed ACT trainer. She also practices as a Clinical Psychologist, focusing on clinical behavior analysiStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

On this episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets, hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCury are joined by Jim Lucas. The topic of discussion: self-doubt.  Despite years of experience and professional development, all three still struggle with feelings of insecurity and uncertainty. hey discuss how self-doubt can hold us back, but also how it can be a useful tool for growth and exploration. From parenting to professional development, they explore the importance of being open and honest about what we don't know, and how it can actually help us become better at what we do.Highlights: Understanding Self-Doubt in Clinical Work The Importance of Acknowledging Self-Doubt Facing Therapeutic Mistakes and Self-Doubt The Problem with Striving for Constant ConfidenceMore about Jim Lucas:I’m Jim Lucas, and I live and work in Birmingham, UK.I am a man in midlife who loves to learn and go on new adventures with fellow travellers.I love helping people develop as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and ACT Trainer.My career started young, so I’ve developed the expertise to help many people.Using the skills I learned as a therapist, I’ve improved my life significantly (after thinking, “it will never work for me”).I’ve helped 1000s of people transform their lives (after thinking, “I’ll never be able to help them”).I’ve taught 1000s of therapists how to effectively do Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (after thinking, “I’ll never be as good as my teachers”).More recently, I’ve decided to do less therapy and more teaching. I decided to grow my team and give them my trust to care for people who want our help. Our therapists have knowledge, qualifications and skills in evidence-based therapiesWhere to find Jim:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVMvl8_IFLV8oX1fjSazazQLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimlucasopenforwards/Struggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode, psychologist Martin Wilkes challenges the prevailing idea of individualism in Western culture and highlights the neglected, yet vital connection we have with our planet and one another. As part of the Association of Contextual Behavioral Science, Wilkes explains how the concept of the self as context can help us move beyond our ego and embrace our shared interdependence. This thought-provoking discussion offers insights into how rediscovering this connection can not only heal ourselves, but our world as well.Highlights: How industrial development has further separated humans from their interconnectivity with the environment and each other Why the rise of individualism in Western culture has alienated people from their sense of community and belongingness Why separating the scientist from the subject created a divide that led to the loss of the idea of interbeing How rediscovering our interconnectivity is essential for healing our personal selves and the planet as a wholeMore about Martin Wilks:Martin Wilks is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Associate fellow of the British Psychological Society (AFBPsS), a Senior Practitioner member of the register of Psychologists specialising in Psychotherapy (ROPSIP) and is a registered applied psychology practice supervisor (RAPPS).He has 3 decades experience of helping clients in a variety of contexts, from a wide range of ages, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. Having accumulated 16 years experience in the development, management and supervision of counselling services in a frontline London, public-sector institution he now works independently offering counselling, psychotherapy, coaching, mediation, supervision, training and mentoring.To learn more about Martin:Visit MartinWilks.comFollow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecretsReach out and let us kStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Many of the secrets we carry are so common and we’re really all sharing the same shame and regret, but the hope is to have more compassion for each other but mostly for ourselvesIn this episode, Emma and Chris talk with Dr. Diana Hill about her disordered eating recovery and how she applies the lessons she learned from this challenge to her therapy practice and daily living.Diana Hill, PhD is a clinical psychologist, international trainer and sought-out speaker on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and compassion. Host of the podcast Your Life in Process and co-author of ACT Daily Journal, Diana works with organizations, high-achievers, and health professionals who are committed to becoming psychologically flexible so that they can move from striving to thriving at work, home, and around the globe. Diana blogs for Psychology Today, is a guest teacher at InsightLA, Blue Spirit Costa Rica, PESI, Praxis Continuing Education and Insight Timer Meditation. A specialist in Acceptance and Commitment Training, Diana guides high achievers, leaders, and organizations to develop psychological flexibility so that they can take wise action toward more fulfilling and meaningful lives.Diana practices what she preaches in her daily life as a mom of two, bee guardian, and yoga practitioner.Highlights: Explicit vs. Implicit reasons for becoming a therapist Why Diana became a therapist How our institutions are set up to suppress any human vulnerability Navigating life openly with our exposed secrets Taking leaps of faith and trusting the process An apprenticeship to uncertainty Why our clients secrets are not repelling to us The origin of our secrets What to do with the gift of our secretsResourcesStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Struggling to feel like a full-fledged adult? Emma Waddington and Chris McCury discuss the topic of adulting and how it has become a modern phenomenon.  They discuss the struggles of adulthood, how it has changed between generations and why people feel anxious about adulthood and its associated responsibilities.Highlights: The idea of adulting Why adulting is discussed more now than in previous decades Why people feel uncertainty and doubts when it comes to being an adult Why people feel like they haven’t become adults Resources for making the leap into adulthoodResourcesHow to Be a Person: 65 Hugely Useful, Super-Important Skills to Learn before You're Grown UpFollow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecretsReach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast@gmail.comStruggling with your child’s big feelings? Our new children’s workbooks are here to help kids and parents handle worry, disappointment, and anger using practical, compassionate tools. Follow the journeys of Justin Case, the Glumm Twins, and Max Cross as they learn that tough emotions are normal and manageable. Find all three workbooks at bookstores everywhere and give your family the support they deserve. ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this bonus track of Life's Dirty Little Secrets podcast, psychologist Martin Wilkes shares the inspiring story of a shaman tree's transformation after a devastating storm. The tree, once a mere runt among a group of elder oaks, was uprooted and nearly destroyed during the infamous 1988 UK gale. However, one of its roots seemingly transformed into a bow and brought balance back to the tree. Martin shares how this special tree has become his sanctuary and a source of natural wisdom, as well as a reminder of the healing power of nature. Tune in to hear his poignant message about the resilience of life and the ways in which nature can help us find our own balance after the storm.More about Martin Wilks:Martin Wilks is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, Associate fellow of the British Psychological Society (AFBPsS), a Senior Practitioner member of the register of Psychologists specialising in Psychotherapy (ROPSIP) and is a registered applied psychology practice supervisor (RAPPS).He has 3 decades experience of helping clients in a variety of contexts, from a wide range of ages, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. Having accumulated 16 years experience in the development, management and supervision of counselling services in a frontline London, public-sector institution he now works independently offering counselling, psychotherapy, coaching, mediation, supervision, training and mentoring.To learn more about Martin:Visit MartinWilks.comFollow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecretsReach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast@gmail.com ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

We're all very human and fallible, and yet we live in a society that rewards pretending we're not fallible, or the range of acceptable fallibility is narrow. We are constantly comparing our insides to other people's outsides and feeling inadequate and guilty, even ashamed. Trying to blend in means parts of ourselves must disappear, and we must then live in fear that we will be found out.Here, together, we will create a space where we can laugh, cry, and carry our suffering and hurts lightly,  in the service of being deeply human.  This is Life's Dirty Little Secrets.  ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids) ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids) ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)