
Unlocking Us with Brené Brown
I’ve spent over 20 years studying the emotions and experiences that bring meaning and purpose to our lives, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s this: we are hardwired for connection, and connecting requires courage, vulnerability, and conversation. I want this to be a podcast that’s real, unpolished, honest, and reflects both the magic and the messiness of what it means to be human. Episodes will include conversations with the people who are teaching me, challenging me, confusing me, or maybe even ticking me off a little. I'll also have direct conversations with you about what I’m learning from new research, and we'll do some episodes dedicated to answering your questions. We don’t have to do life alone. We were never meant to.Part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Latest episodes

Oct 17, 2022 • 57min
Brené with Beto O’Rourke on Brave Leadership
Brené Brown chats with Beto O'Rourke about brave leadership, his vision for Texas, the importance of authentic leaders, and the impact of gun control and reproductive rights in the US.

Oct 12, 2022 • 30min
Brené, Ashley, and Barrett on The Love Prescription, Part 3 of 3
The podcast discusses the Love Prescription book and the sisters' reactions to it. They commit to taking action to improve intimacy and connection. Topics include vulnerability, relationship dynamics, friendship, intimacy, and prioritizing connection over conflict resolution. They explore infusing relationships with excitement and fun to strengthen connections.

18 snips
Oct 5, 2022 • 51min
Brené with Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman on The Love Prescription, Part 2 of 3
Dr. John and Dr. Julie Gottman discuss the importance of understanding deeper meanings in relationships. They explore conflict resolution, expressions of love, physical touch, and vulnerability in relationships. The podcast delves into the key elements of great love lives and the impact of communication and gratitude on nurturing intimacy.

Sep 28, 2022 • 54min
Brené with Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman on The Love Prescription, Part 1 of 3
Drs. John and Julie Gottman share their insights on relationship improvement, focusing on intimacy and joy. They discuss the power of turning towards in relationships, missed opportunities, fostering connection through appreciation, and recognizing bids for connection. Their new book offers actionable advice for enhancing relationships in just seven days.

Sep 21, 2022 • 29min
Reflection From My Summer Sabbatical
The speaker shares profound reflections from a recent sabbatical, emphasizing that struggles are universal and often shared. Personal challenges, including a family health crisis and the impact of COVID-19, serve as a backdrop for discussions on vulnerability and recovery. The importance of community is spotlighted, particularly in fostering respectful dialogue amidst differing views. Ultimately, the transformative power of renewal and reconnection with relationships shines through, reminding everyone they're not alone in their journey.

May 25, 2022 • 34min
Brené, Ashley, and Barrett on Atlas of the Heart, Audience Q&A, Part 2 of 2
In this engaging conversation, guests Ashley Brown-Ruiz, a clinician leading the Daring Way community, and Barrett Guillen, Co-CEO of Brené Brown Education and Research Group, dive deep into themes from 'Atlas of the Heart.' They discuss the intersection of spirituality and nostalgia, tackle the nuances of neurodiversity in emotional conversations, and share humorous takes on road rage. Their reflections on connection and kindness inspire listeners to embrace vulnerability and foster deeper relationships.

May 18, 2022 • 46min
Brené, Ashley, and Barrett on Atlas of the Heart, Audience Q&A, Part 1 of 2
In this engaging discussion, therapist Ashley Lundgren and co-CEO Barrett Brown quiz their sister, Brené Brown, about her book, Atlas of the Heart. They explore childhood superpowers, mixed emotions, and the importance of emotional language in therapy. The trio tackles the challenges of translating the book into other languages, while highlighting the impact of disenfranchised grief, especially during the pandemic. The conversation also covers the necessity of setting emotional boundaries amidst empathy fatigue, making for a powerful exchange about human connection.

5 snips
May 11, 2022 • 59min
Brené with Viola Davis on Being Brave, Speaking Truth, and Finding Me
Viola Davis, an Academy Award-winning actress and author of 'Finding Me,' joins for a profound conversation. She reflects on her turbulent childhood and the power of overcoming trauma in the entertainment industry. Viola emphasizes the significance of authenticity and the struggle against societal pressures. She discusses the role of therapy in healing and the courage it takes to own one’s story. With moments of joy and musical flair, this dialogue is a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability and personal growth.

May 4, 2022 • 52min
Brené with Domee Shi on Creativity, Curiosity, and Turning Red
Domee Shi, an Academy Award-winning animator from Pixar, shares her groundbreaking journey in animation. She discusses the creative process behind her films 'Bao' and 'Turning Red,' shedding light on themes of adolescence and cultural identity. Domee emphasizes the importance of curiosity and community in the arts, recounting her personal triumphs and challenges. Their candid conversation explores how vulnerability and collaboration spark creativity, turning childhood dreams into professional success, while inspiring insights into navigating life's messy moments.

Apr 27, 2022 • 29min
Brené with Father Richard Rohr on Spirituality, Certitude, and Infinite Love, Part 2 of 2
Father Richard Rohr, a Franciscan friar celebrated for his insights into Christian mysticism, joins for a captivating dialogue. They tackle the challenges of certainty and ego, and explore a cosmic God that transcends traditional Christianity. Rohr delves into the 'father wound' and its ties to toxic masculinity, while emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to faith and identity. Together, they highlight the spiritual yearnings of younger generations and the importance of finding nurturing communities that embrace both chaos and wisdom.