

SuperPsyched with Dr. Adam Dorsay
SuperPsyched ©
SuperPsyched is an award-winning podcast dedicated to improving your life with tools gained from interviewing world-class experts inside and outside the field of psychology. SuperPsyched will help get you more of what you want as well as gentle warnings to help you avoid things you don’t. See you there!
The content on SuperPsyched is for informational use only and not intended to diagnose or provide any type of healthcare treatment.
The content on SuperPsyched is for informational use only and not intended to diagnose or provide any type of healthcare treatment.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 19, 2025 • 32min
#278 Remembering Raffi: A Dog Who Helped Many People in Therapy
Dr. Adam Dorsay, host of the SuperPsyched podcast, reflects on the life and loss of his family and therapy dog, Raffi. He recounts Raffi's contributions to therapy, his impact on patients' well-being, and the profound grief experienced after his passing. This episode explores the benefits of therapy dogs, shares memories of Raffi, and discusses coping strategies for pet loss, emphasizing the importance of mourning and honoring the bond with pets.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched00:31 Remembering Raffi: A Therapy Dog's Legacy02:17 The Benefits of Therapy Dogs03:38 Raffi's Impact on Patients and Family06:01 Raffi's Life and Personality10:47 Challenges and Health Issues13:21 Grieving the Loss of a Pet18:44 Honoring and Remembering Pets27:03 Navigating Pet Euthanasia28:54 Coping with Pet Loss at Work31:02 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Aug 12, 2025 • 42min
#277 The Memoir of a Daughter of a Jewish Mom & a Christian Palestinian Dad | Sonia Daccarett
n this episode of SuperPsyched, Dr. Adam Dorsay talks to Sonia Daccarett, an accomplished writer with a multicultural background. Sonia, the daughter of a Jewish mother and a Christian Palestinian father, grew up in Cali, Colombia. She shares insights from her memoir, The Roots of the Guava Tree, discussing her experiences of feeling 'othered,' navigating her identity, and the healing power of writing. Sonia recounts her challenges and the influence of her diverse heritage on her worldview. The conversation delves into the subjective nature of memory, the importance of understanding one's story, and the broader implications these have on empathy and connection within society.00:00 Introduction to SuperPsyched00:30 Challenges of Growing Up00:57 Meet Sonia Daccarett01:48 The Power of Writing a Memoir02:36 Sonia's Childhood Memories05:11 Cultural Identity and Belonging19:10 The Healing Process of Writing23:09 Reflections and Final Thoughts42:02 Conclusion and FarewellHelpful Links:Sonia DaccarettThe Roots of the Guava Tree Book

Aug 5, 2025 • 40min
#276 Loving Bravely Every Day | Alexandra Solomon, PhD
In this episode of 'SuperPsyched,' Dr. Adam Dorsay, a psychologist in Silicon Valley, engages in an enriching conversation with Dr. Alexandra Solomon. As a psychologist, author, and professor, Dr. Solomon delves into the multi-faceted nuances of relationships, emphasizing the importance of quality connections in our lives. They discuss her influential books, 'Loving Bravely' and 'Love Every Day,' which provide practical relationship tips and insights. The conversation explores why love and relationships are crucial to our well-being, the stigma around couples therapy, and the importance of mutual understanding and vulnerability in partnerships. They also touch on the impact of societal expectations and the necessity for growth and adaptability within relationships. The episode offers valuable takeaways on how individuals can better relate to themselves and others, underscoring that there are no failures in relationships, only completions.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched01:03 Introducing Dr. Alexandra Solomon02:10 The Importance of Relationships05:39 The Role of Couples Therapy10:03 Commitment and Sacrifice in Relationships12:40 Personal Growth Through Relationships18:44 Mutuality and Synergy in Partnerships20:42 Understanding Emotional Expression in Relationships20:50 The Importance of Mutual Support23:19 Interdependence vs. Codependence23:58 Navigating Shame and Rejection25:06 Effective Communication Strategies26:49 The Power of Pausing and Walking27:17 Handling Grievances and Misunderstandings31:44 The Role of Timing and Attunement34:29 Reframing Relationship Endings38:44 The Gift of Taking Ourselves LightlyHelpful Links:Dr. Alexandra SolomonNorthwestern University BioReimagining Love Podcast

Jul 29, 2025 • 51min
#275 The World of an Acclaimed Winemaker | Austin Hope
In this episode of SuperPsyched, host Dr. Adam Dorsay interviews Austin Hope, the president and winemaker at Hope Family Wines in Paso Robles, California. They discuss the intricacies of winemaking, the history and unique terroir of Paso Robles, and the personal journey and passions that drive Austin's success. Austin shares insights into the wine community, the challenges he faced, and his commitment to quality and community. The conversation highlights the meaningful aspects of wine, from its production to its role in bringing people together, and underscores the importance of love and open-mindedness in both life and winemaking.00:00 Introduction to SuperPsyched00:28 The Mystique of Wine01:00 Interview with Austin Hope03:37 Austin's Journey into Winemaking05:36 Challenges and Triumphs07:03 Lessons from Mentors14:50 The Joys of Winemaking22:34 Family and Legacy26:41 Family Influence in Winemaking27:35 Promoting Paso Robles29:34 Terroir and Microclimates35:41 Community and Collaboration39:22 Innovative Wine Marketing43:08 The Importance of Overdelivering48:01 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsHelpful Links:Hope Family WinesAustin Hope WikiDr. Rachel Herz’s research cited from the excellent book Why You Eat What You Eat https://a.co/d/aXvmRB9

Jul 22, 2025 • 31min
#274 Parenting Teens: Your Compass | Cynthia Muchnick, MA
In this episode of SuperPsyched, host Dr. Adam Dorsay interviews Cynthia Muchnick, co-author of 'The Parent Compass: Navigating Your Teen's Wellness and Academic Journey in Today's Competitive World.' They discuss the various parenting styles like helicopter, snowplow, and tiger parenting, focusing on empowering teens by stepping back and allowing them to experience agency and make their own mistakes. Cynthia shares insights on the negative impacts of over-parenting and emphasizes the importance of asking good questions, listening, and supporting children in a balanced way. The episode also highlights the significance of understanding alternative paths after high school and appreciating children for who they are.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched with Dr. Adam Dorsay00:28 The Challenges of Parenting Teens00:54 Introducing Cynthia Muchnik and The Parent Compass02:13 The Impact of Helicopter and Snowplow Parenting02:45 The College Admission Scandal and Parenting Etiquette05:19 Empowering Teens: Letting Them Make Mistakes06:51 Understanding Different Parenting Styles11:02 The Importance of Listening and Asking Questions19:29 Connecting with Your Teen Through Their Interests27:48 Celebrating Alternative Paths for Teens30:12 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsHelpful Links:'The Parent Compass: Navigating Your Teen's Wellness and Academic Journey in Today's Competitive World’ BookCynthia Muchnik, MA

Jul 15, 2025 • 8min
#273 5 Things to Watch | A Summer Short with Adam Dorsay, PsyD
In this episode, Dr. Adam Dorsay, a psychologist in Silicon Valley and host of the SuperPsyched podcast, shares his top five television show recommendations for the summer. He discusses the psychological value and entertainment offered by each show. The curated list includes 'The Pit,' a realistic medical drama; 'Dying for Sex,' a poignant story about a woman's quest for intimacy; 'The Four Seasons,' a fun and relational Netflix series; 'Last Flight Home,' a life-affirming documentary about medically assisted suicide; and 'Hacks,' a masterclass in comedic acting. Listeners are encouraged to enjoy these shows and share their thoughts.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched00:29 Summertime Show Recommendations00:49 The Pit: Ultimate Medical Drama02:46 Dying for Sex: A Deep Dive03:38 The Four Seasons: Real Relationships04:39 Last Flight Home: A Life-Affirming Journey05:59 Hacks: A Masterclass in Acting07:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Jul 8, 2025 • 13min
#272 An Ode to Grandpa Ben & Video Biography | A Summer Short with Adam Dorsay, PsyD
Dr. Adam Dorsay, psychologist and host of the SuperPsyched podcast, shares heartfelt stories about his beloved Grandpa Ben. Dr. Dorsay recounts the joy and life lessons his grandfather imparted, from playful advice to treasured moments. He emphasizes the importance of capturing the stories of elderly family members, which can provide invaluable wisdom and preserve their legacy. The episode includes a humorous voicemail from Grandpa Ben, reflecting his endearing personality. Through these anecdotes, Dr. Dorsay underscores the timeless impact of his grandfather on his life and work.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched00:28 Introducing Grandpa Ben01:25 Grandpa Ben's Early Life02:56 Life in New York and Retirement03:44 Grandpa Ben's Wisdom and Humor05:34 A Hilarious Voicemail09:10 The Importance of Capturing Memories10:34 Grandpa Ben's Legacy12:45 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Jul 1, 2025 • 53min
#271 The Art of Charm | AJ Harbinger & John Dzubak
In this episode of SuperPsyched, Dr. Adam Dorsay interviews AJ Harbinger and John Dzubak, hosts of the popular podcast The Art of Charm. They discuss their journey from diverse backgrounds to creating a hugely successful show with over 850 episodes and 250 million downloads. Key topics include the importance of overcoming the fear of rejection, building confidence, and crafting a personal brand. The discussion also highlights the valuable lessons from their personal experiences and how they translate these into tools for personal development. This insightful conversation provides listeners with actionable advice on how to better navigate social dynamics and enhance their personal and professional lives.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched00:33 Introducing The Art of Charm03:51 The Genesis of a Partnership10:54 Building Confidence from Within15:01 Overcoming Introversion18:49 Embracing the Suck24:34 Harnessing Fear and Motivation26:43 Exploring AJ and Johnny's Dynamic Partnership27:45 The Role of Personal Growth in Business29:48 Communication Strategies in Co-Facilitation30:32 The Importance of First Impressions and Charisma37:25 Building a Personal Brand50:20 The Power of Rejection and Reframing52:11 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsHelpful Links:Art of Charm PodcastArt of Charm WebsiteAJ Harbinger LinkedInJohn Dzubak LinkedIn

Jun 24, 2025 • 39min
#270 Self-Compassionate Children | Louise Shanagher, MSc & Wendy O'Leary, MEd
In this episode of SuperPsyched, Dr. Adam Dorsay converses with authors Wendy O'Leary and Louise Shanagher about their book, 'Growing Self-Compassionate Children.' The discussion dives into the importance of self-compassion for children and how it can positively impact their resilience and kindness. They define self-compassion as incorporating mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness, distinguishing it from self-esteem. They also address misconceptions about self-compassion and its association with productivity and motivation. Strategies for parents to support their children's self-compassion, including practical tips and activities, are shared. The episode underscores the broader societal benefits of fostering self-compassion from an early age.00:00 Introduction to SuperPsyched00:28 The Importance of Self-Compassion for Children01:39 Meet the Authors: Wendy O'Leary and Louise Shanagher02:32 Understanding Self-Compassion05:24 Self-Compassion vs. Self-Esteem08:06 The Misconceptions About Self-Compassion15:56 Practical Tips for Cultivating Self-Compassion19:50 Empowering Children with Self-Compassion32:40 Final Thoughts and Takeaways38:43 Conclusion and FarewellHelpful Links:Wendy O’Leary, M.Ed.Louise Shanagher MSc"Growing Self-Compassionate Children-A Family Guide for Nurturing Resiliency and Kindness” Book

Jun 17, 2025 • 34min
#269 The Connection Cure | Julia Hotz
Julia Hotz, a seasoned journalist and author of 'The Connection Cure,' dives into the transformative power of social prescribing—recommending activities that enhance well-being. She shares fascinating insights on how fishing, farming, and nature immersion can boost mental health. Hotz emphasizes the importance of belonging and micro connections in our daily lives, illustrating how these seemingly simple interactions can profoundly impact our joy and purpose. Tune in for enlightening perspectives on nurturing our emotional needs through community engagement.