
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

9 snips
Apr 20, 2022 • 34min
Brené with Father Richard Rohr on Spirituality, Certitude, and Infinite Love, Part 1 of 2
Father Richard Rohr, a renowned Franciscan friar and spiritual leader known for his teachings on mysticism and non-dual consciousness, shares profound insights that have transformed lives. He discusses the misconceptions of God as a dictator, the challenge of embracing uncertainty, and the importance of love and acceptance in the face of societal challenges, especially for vulnerable populations. The conversation highlights how genuine spirituality can lead us through life's mysteries and the necessity of forgiveness in a loveless society.

25 snips
Apr 6, 2022 • 1h 5min
Brené with Emmanuel Acho on Being Illogical
Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL linebacker and bestselling author, brings vibrant energy and thought-provoking insights discussing his book, "Illogical." He challenges conventional goal-setting and emphasizes embracing illogical thoughts for personal growth. The conversation navigates handling criticism while maintaining self-acceptance, underscoring how vulnerability can enhance leadership. Acho shares anecdotes from his NFL journey that highlight courage and the importance of authenticity in living a fulfilling life. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on success and emotional connection!

Mar 30, 2022 • 41min
Brené with Susan Cain on How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole, Part 2 of 2
Explore the societal shift towards toxic positivity and fear of failure, the transformative power of writing down emotional experiences, the alchemy of storytelling and self-expression, embracing vulnerability in feeling joy amidst sorrow, the communal connection through music at a Leonard Cohen memorial concert, and the intertwined themes of joy and sorrow in music and gratitude.

Mar 23, 2022 • 50min
Brené with Susan Cain on How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole, Part 1 of 2
Brené and Susan discuss the power of embracing bittersweet feelings, acknowledging the strength in melancholy. They explore the duality of joy and sorrow, reflecting on how pain can lead to creativity and healing. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing introversion and quietness, while also delving into the active force of longing for personal growth. They navigate the complexities of gratitude, sorrow, and toxic positivity, emphasizing the value of acknowledging life's struggles.

17 snips
Mar 9, 2022 • 38min
Brené with Karen Walrond on Accessing Joy and Finding Connection in the Midst of Struggle
Karen Walrond, a dynamic lawyer, leadership coach, and author of The Lightmaker’s Manifesto, joins in a heartfelt discussion about accessing joy during turbulent times. They tackle the struggle of finding happiness amid global chaos and emphasize the significance of self-care and gratitude. Conversations delve into coping with trauma and the paradox of celebrating small moments of joy while fighting for change. Karen shares personal insights and encourages journaling to foster connection and resilience, making for an uplifting and thought-provoking dialogue.

Mar 2, 2022 • 1h 13min
Brené with Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway on Pivot, Reverence, and What’s Behind Big Tech
Kara Swisher, a leading tech journalist and co-host of the Pivot podcast, teams up with Scott Galloway, a marketing professor and author, for an engaging discussion. They dive into the profound impact of Big Tech on our lives and democracies, exploring ethical responsibilities and the societal harm of lack of accountability. The duo reflects on the origins of their partnership and examines systemic issues like race and economic disparities in the tech world. Their witty banter offers a blend of serious insights and personal reflections, making it an entertaining listen.

Feb 23, 2022 • 1h 8min
Brené with Dr. Shawn Ginwright on The Four Pivots: Reimagining Justice, Reimagining Ourselves
Explore the connection between societal healing and personal growth with Dr. Shawn Ginwright. From transformative relationships to embracing imagination for justice and healing, this conversation challenges societal norms and encourages introspection for a better future.

19 snips
Feb 16, 2022 • 1h 21min
Brené with Jason Reynolds on Masterpieces and Messes
Join bestselling author Jason Reynolds as he shares his journey in young people's literature and his role as the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. He delves into his emotional book 'Ain’t Burned All the Bright,' highlighting creativity's connection with anxiety and the power of storytelling. The conversation touches on formative influences from educators and the importance of vulnerability during adolescence. Through personal anecdotes, Jason inspires listeners with themes of acceptance, connection, и the transformative power of literature.

Feb 14, 2022 • 41min
Brené on Places We Go When the Heart Is Open from Atlas of the Heart
This delightful bonus segment dives into the emotional landscape of love, heartbreak, and personal reconnections. It reveals the complexities of love and betrayal, highlighting the pivotal role of trust in relationships. The discussion also addresses how defensiveness and flooding can hinder effective communication. Additionally, it sheds light on the nuances of emotional hurt, emphasizing the courage required to confront pain and the importance of expressing emotional experiences authentically. A heartfelt exploration to inspire self-discovery and deeper connections!

6 snips
Feb 9, 2022 • 1h 15min
Brené with Ben Wizner on Free Speech, Misinformation, and the Case for Nuance
Brené sits down with Ben Wizner, an ACLU attorney and director of its Speech, Privacy, and Technology Project, who has defended crucial cases like Edward Snowden's. They dive into the complexities of free speech and the pitfalls of misinformation. The conversation explores the balance between protecting free expression and the harms that come with it. They also discuss the role of tech companies in regulating content and the importance of tone in public discourse. It's a nuanced look at how to engage in debates without losing sight of the truth.