You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist

On this podcast we often explore the gender crisis affecting today’s young and vulnerable people. Today we bring on a different perspective from Phil Illy, a man who self-identifies as autogynephilic, meaning that he experiences a sexual attraction to the idea of himself as a woman. Originally described by sexologist Ray Blanchard, autogynephilia is a common contributor to gender dysphoria in young men. Yet the sexual component of “gender identity” is rarely addressed in the process of diagnosing and reviewing “treatment options” for gender dysphoria. Why is this?Phil considers autogynephilia, as well as its counterpart in women, autoandrophilia, to belong to a broader category he calls autoheterosexuality. While many in the gender critical community consider these to be sexual fetishes, Phil refers to them instead as sexual orientations. Within that framework, he researched the issue extensively and wrote a book on the subject, Autoheterosexual: Attracted to Being the Other Sex.Phil makes several further assertions in this interview, while I play devil’s advocate and push back, all in an attempt to bring understanding to listeners who are concerned for loved ones and expose both sides of the debate over this taboo topic. What does femininity mean to him? Is autoheterosexuality just another form of narcissism? What is its connection with autism?  How influenced is it by fetish pornography and niche online microcultures? Would it occur in a cultural vacuum? Is it heritable? How can it be a sexual orientation if it doesn’t involve another person; isn’t it just a fetish? Are “autohet” people capable of sustaining meaningful romantic relationships with others? How are their platonic relationships and quality of life? Are self-aware autogynephilic men threats to women, and under what conditions can we peacefully coexist?UPDATE: this episode was recorded prior to Phil's appearance at the Genspect conference in Denver, which became the subject of much heated debate on X. I was not at the conference, but have weighed in online to some degree. Things got so heated around this issue I have temporarily locked my account. The best commentary I have found on the debacle comes from the ever-admirable Heather Heying on her blog, Natural Selections: The Public Fetish.Phil Illy is a self described autogynephile and the author of Autoheterosexual: Attracted to Being the Other Sex. Phil received degrees in physics and mechanical engineering before retiring to Portland, Oregon, where he became best known for his skill at handstand twerking and juggling hula hoops. His Substack blog, Understanding Trans, can be found at https://phililly.substack.com/. Follow him on X @autogynephilic.Other resources mentioned:Landon & Robby Starbuck’s interview with detransitioner Chris Beck00:00 Start[00:01:52] Autogynephilia and sexual orientation.[00:05:17] Auto-sexual orientations.[00:10:08] Dynamic competition in relationships.[00:14:32] Autogynephilic men and attraction.[00:19:45] Body and identity.[00:22:12] Embracing cross-sex identity.[00:27:13] Attaining an excellent male physique.[00:31:18] Celebrity crushes and real relationships.[00:37:37] Sexual orientation and self-love.[00:41:09] Neurological studies on AGP.[00:47:09] Porn addiction and sissy hypnoporn.[00:50:03] Autogynephilia as an inborn predisposition.[00:55:46] Autogynephilia in the trans community.[01:00:29] Overlap between autism and autogynephilia.[01:04:45] Autogynephilia and Transgender Identities.[01:07:23] Autoandrophilia and female-to-male transgenderism.[01:11:28] Autoandrophilia in transsexuals.[01:19:08] Autogynephilic males seeking identity.[01:19:23] Autogynephilia and Medical Transition.[01:24:31] Ignorance in therapist education.[01:28:32] The complexity of bisexuality.[01:34:08] Relations with women and envy.[01:38:38] Men getting in touch with feminine side.[01:43:18] The desire to be the other sex.[01:46:16] Autosexuality as the culprit. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Former Washington University Transgender Center intake coordinator Jamie Reed entered the spotlight in February when she blew the whistle on the harmful practices she witnessed during her time there. A “left of Bernie Sanders” lesbian mom of 5, she reached across the political aisle to work with the Missouri Attorney General, recognizing the need to put children’s welfare above politics. Since then, Jamie has become a prominent voice in the gender critical movement. Today, we discuss her journey from initially supporting gender-affirming care to becoming a whistleblower, and the courage it took for her to speak out.Jamie shares her concerns about the lack of transparency and informed consent in the gender-affirming care model, highlighting the importance of asking critical questions and digging deeper when it comes to diagnosing and treating gender dysphoria. We discuss concerns about the long-term physical and psychological impacts of medical interventions on young people.We then delve into a detailed analysis of a patient's medical records, provided by a detransitioner named Bugs. Jamie points out the vague and imprecise language used in the records, as well as the lack of thorough assessment. We discuss the potential impact of the hospital’s approach on family dynamics, particularly the triangulation that ensues when one parent is unaware of the child's gender transition. We also examine the informed consent process for hormone therapy, as outlined in Bugs' records. Jamie highlights the omission of important risks and side effects, and the need for more comprehensive and accurate information to be provided to patients. We discuss the importance of considering alternative options and the potential long-term risks associated with hormone therapy.Jamie Reed, BA, MS Clinical Research is a whistleblower from the Washington University School of Medicine at St Louis Children's Hospital pediatric transgender center. Her explosive first person story from inside a gender center was released in February of 2023. She has been on Triggernometry, Gender: a Wider Lens, and Transparency podcasts. She is co-founder of the LGBT Courage Coalition and continues to speak out regarding the care provided in pediatric gender centers. A mom of five and a gay woman. On X, follow Jamie @JamieWhistle & the LGBT Courage Coalition @LGBT_Courage.Resources mentioned: Free Press article: "I Thought I Was Saving Trans Kids, Now I'm Blowing the Whistle" by Jamie Reid LGBT Courage Coalition substackDo No Harm00:00 Start[00:01:17] Rising concerns in transgender medicine.[00:05:21] Whistleblowing within the medical profession.[00:10:57] Concern for detransitioners.[00:14:09] Trusting experts blindly.[00:19:14] Fallout and unexpected support.[00:23:06] Detransitioner shares medical records.[00:27:30] Gender identity and diagnostic criteria.[00:32:04] An organ inventory.[00:35:07] Family dynamics and gender dysphoria.[00:39:23] Testosterone and emotional numbness.[00:44:38] Changes in sexual attraction.[00:48:58] Side effects of testosterone.[00:51:06] Challenging options and unhelpful statements.[00:55:19] Lack of true informed consent.[01:01:20] Unrealistic goals and gender dysphoria.[01:05:05] The world is still binary.[01:08:19] Lack of closeness for transgender individuals.[01:11:30] Social contagion and teenage girls.[01:16:39] Opting into marginalized groups.[01:22:00] Identifying out of toxic masculinity.[01:26:07] Pediatric gender medicine concerns.[01:29:57] The gender crisis. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy practitioner and clinical supervisor Karen King joined me to discuss the use of ketamine and MDMA in psychotherapy, as well as the infiltration of ideology into the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy.Karen explains the proper set, setting, use, and administration of ketamine in psychotherapy. We delved into the dissociative effects of ketamine and its potential benefits and contraindications for patients. We also discussed the research conducted by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) on the use of MDMA for PTSD, the upcoming FDA approval of MDMA as a therapeutic treatment, and the potential for insurance coverage.The conversation then shifted to the infiltration of ideology, specifically critical social justice or "woke" ideology, into the psychedelic community. Karen expressed concerns about the impact of ideological influences on therapy and the need for a balanced and open-minded approach. We explored the distinction between personal and professional ideologies and the potential challenges they may pose in the therapeutic setting.Karen King, LMHC has been a licensed psychotherapist for 17 years. In 2015 she founded Emerge Clinic, an integrative wellness clinic offering individual, family, and group counseling as well as traditional psychiatric evaluations and med management. Karen has also been a practicing Ketamine Assisted Therapist since adding Ketamine treatments to the clinic in 2020. She is a trainee in MAPS MDMA Assisted Therapy and also completed the year-long MAPS Psychedelic Assisted Therapy training through Naropa. Karen currently supervises KAP therapists in her clinic, and in 2024, will be offering a five part certification course in Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy. Karen hopes to provide one of the first clinics in the Pacific Northwest to legally offer MDMA Assisted Therapy once approved by the FDA.Karen King website Clarify Consultation GroupInstagram @thepsychedeliccounselorBooks mentioned in this episode: Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife by Eben AlexanderOther resources mentioned in this episode: Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) American Society of Ketamine Practitioners Mindbloom Near Death Experience Research Michael Persinger - Researcher known for the "God Helmet" Naropa University00:00 Start[00:02:01] Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.[00:06:03] Ketamine and near-death experiences.[00:08:00] Oral surgery and sedation.[00:12:02] Discovery of ketamine-assisted therapy.[00:18:26] The mystical experience.[00:22:44] Near-death experiences and psychedelics.[00:24:05] Therapeutic benefit of gaining perspective.[00:29:47] MDMA for PTSD trials.[00:34:09] A five to six hour CPT code.[00:36:33] MDMA-assisted therapy efficacy.[00:39:44] Stimulating the amygdala.[00:44:38] Intrusion of woke into psychedelics.[00:48:23] Impact of therapist assumptions.[00:54:09] Psychedelic community cancel culture.[00:57:20] Machine elves and racism.[01:00:56] Interpretation of disempowerment.[01:06:18] Over-victimizing therapy clients.[01:09:47] Impact of pandemic on psychology.[01:13:32] Join my community for dialogue. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Kim O, coach and founder of HeartWorkU, joins me today to share wisdom on compassion, healing, parts work, spirituality, resilience, and the Enneagram. We discuss her journey from 30 years as a hairstylist to becoming a coach and her decision to leave her Master's program in Counseling Psychology due to ideological differences.Kim presents her research on detransitioners and the lack of acknowledgement from the American Psychological Association (APA) on this topic. She emphasizes the importance of belief and resilience in her coaching practice, and how she helps clients separate their higher self from their wounded ego or inner child.Kim explains her approach to coaching, which focuses on helping clients witness their feelings and hold space for them. She believes in the power of self-love and teaches clients to understand that they are resilient and have the answers within themselves. We also explore the differences between counseling and coaching, highlighting the importance of ethics in counseling and the relational aspect of both roles, as well as how Internal Family Systems and the Enneagram help us in our work with clients.Kim shares her personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and the impact it had on her identity. She shares how she overcame shame and self-judgment by living in the present and recognizing that she is not defined by her past experiences.Kim O is a Relational Soul Coach, Author, & Resilience Cheerleader. “When you recognize the power and beauty within your Soul, you are unafraid, confident, and able to face all of your challenges with LOVE!” Contact, workbooks, journals, free course of the month: https://linktr.ee/heartworku These books mentioned in this episode can be found via the Amazon affiliate links below or in my bookshop. Either way, a portion of proceeds help support the show. Thank you!What is Ego, by Kim O: https://amzn.to/46FoGE2Living in the Power of Your Energetic Signature, by Kim O: https://amzn.to/3S83GkZ Love Cures Anxiety, by Kim O: https://amzn.to/3tFWnXD  Kim’s children’s book series is coming out soon. More information at https://www.heartworku.com/resilientkidsThe Sacred Enneagram by Christopher Heuertz: https://amzn.to/3S8Ek6vOther resources mentioned in this episode:HeartWorkU YouTube channelHeartWorkU.comSleeping at Last PodcastBy the way, during the episode, I couldn't remember the exact wording of Chris Heuertz's summation of Type One. Here is the phrase: Type One strives for principled excellence as moral duty.00:00 Start[00:02:48] Detransitioners and societal perceptions.[00:05:20] Understanding detransitioners' experiences.[00:08:35] Overcoming personal challenges.[00:13:27] Resilience and overcoming challenges.[00:16:09] Opportunity cost of microaggressions.[00:21:23] APA's support of gender affirming care.[00:24:00] Counseling versus coaching.[00:27:14] Higher self and ego distinction.[00:31:57] Therapy vs coaching distinction.[00:35:03] Coaching and exploring the past.[00:41:03] Trauma and stolen identity.[00:43:56] Understanding Your Main Drive.[00:48:49] Wounded ego defense mechanism.[00:51:41] Children's book series.[00:58:34] Anton's realization about prickles.[01:01:13] I Saw No Way Back.[01:03:53] Words of wisdom and compassion.[01:07:28] Core fears and human condition. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Samantha Green, a mother of two and Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in perinatal mental health, joins me to discuss the challenges and issues affecting women during pregnancy and postpartum. She shares her insights on maternal burnout, “mom rage,” postpartum depression, the impact of hormones on mood, and the difficulties faced by modern families in a politically polarized environment.Samantha highlights the pressures that women face in today's society, particularly due to unrealistic expectations perpetuated by social media. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and the need for women to prioritize their own well-being, especially during the early weeks of motherhood. Samantha also addresses the dynamics between mothers and fathers, acknowledging the differences in parenting styles and the potential for resentment and communication challenges.Our conversation delves into the hormonal shifts that occur during pregnancy, postpartum, and weaning. Samantha explains how these hormonal changes can affect a woman's mood and lead to symptoms such as intrusive thoughts and anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these shifts and seeking appropriate support and treatment when necessary.Samantha explains how Polyvagal Theory helps in understanding the different states of the nervous system and how they relate to anxiety, depression, and stress. She provides practical strategies for managing these states and promoting overall well-being.Throughout the episode, Samantha emphasizes the need for open communication, self-compassion, and seeking help when needed. She encourages women to let go of unrealistic expectations and prioritize their own mental and physical health. By addressing these issues and seeking support, women can navigate the challenges of motherhood and find balance in their lives.Samantha Green is a wife, mother to two, and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in in New York who specializes in Perinatal Mental Health. After working in a community clinic for several years and experiencing first hand how difficult it was to find resources for mothers she opened her own Private Practice and is currently working on a book to help mothers manage the stress, and decrease burnout. Find Samantha’s practice at https://www.samanthagreenlmhc.com/ or follow her on X @samgreenlmhc.Books mentioned in this episode: "The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation" by Stephen W. Porges00:00 Start[00:01:39] Mom rage and maternal burnout.[00:04:10] Shifting priorities after having kids.[00:07:12] Men and women differences.[00:11:39] Dad's experience with baby.[00:13:26] Impact of birth control on the brain.[00:18:43] Hormonal treatment alternatives.[00:21:29] Mom rage and guilt.[00:25:35] Intrusive thoughts and OCD.[00:28:27] Intrusive thoughts and mindfulness.[00:31:41] Mother-baby units for postpartum depression.[00:34:35] The freeze state.[00:37:09] Chronic stress and its effects.[00:41:22] Early life experiences and coping mechanisms.[00:45:08] Postpartum PTSD and trauma.[00:48:09] Helping women through pregnancy[00:52:35] Trauma resurfacing in motherhood.[00:54:13] Complex family dynamics.[00:58:09] Co-sleeping and its taboo.[01:00:40] Balancing career and motherhood. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Survivor-turned-advocate Andrea Heinz joins me to discuss her work in the Edmonton Sex Trade Offender Program, where she helps rehabilitate men who have purchased sex, and her reasons for supporting the Nordic model, which criminalizes the buying but not the selling of sex. Andrea opens up about her own journey in the sex industry, highlighting the combination of poverty and brainwashing that led her into it. She shares the challenges she faced, including the dissociation required to maintain the illusion for customers and the toll it took on her sense of self. Andrea emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation for men and the need to educate them about the harm they cause through their actions.The conversation delves into the legal status of prostitution in Canada, with Andrea explaining the changes that have occurred over the years, as well as the obstacles to law enforcement.Andrea shares her personal insights on the impact of the sex industry on both women and men. She discusses the distorted thinking and delusion that can occur for both parties, as well as the trauma and self-doubt that can linger long after leaving the industry. Andrea also highlights the importance of somatic therapy in recovering from traumatic dissociation.Andrea Heinz is a Socialist Feminist from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada who writes and speaks about commercialized sex. After spending 7 years in licensed and regulated brothels from 2006-2013, she is now a sex trade abolitionist and Equality Model proponent. Andrea shares her journey and insights with students, professionals and the general public. She is happily married with three young children. Email: 2020heinzsight@gmail.comX: @heinzsight2020Articles mentioned:"On Exiting from Commercial Sexual Exploitation, Insights from Sex Trade Experienced Persons" by Andrea Heinz"A Mule for the Patriarchy, Waking Up to the Harms of Prostitution on Wives and Families" by Andrea HeinzPrevious episodes mentioned:Episode 71: Sex Work or Slavery? Myths vs. Facts of Modern Prostitution with Michelle KellyResources mentioned:The Centre to End All Sexual ExploitationThe Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons ActThe Canadian Alliance for Sex Work Law Reform00:00 Start[00:00:15] The typical sex buyer.[00:04:21] Men's misconceptions about sex work.[00:07:30] Sex trade offender program.[00:13:08] Harms of the prostitution system.[00:18:20] Younger men's violent behavior.[00:19:18] Drug habits and dating struggles.[00:25:49] The Nordic model style law.[00:28:40] Challenging Sex Work Laws.[00:32:12] The harm of prostitution.[00:35:06] Trauma and self-damaging experiences.[00:39:09] Identity and self-esteem after trauma.[00:42:37] Insights on therapy for sex workers.[00:46:03] Somatic therapy and emotional healing.[00:50:07] Morality and the law.[00:54:29] Therapy in the sex industry.[00:57:22] Challenging patient expectations.[01:02:26] Interventions in the commercial sex industry.[01:05:42] Toxicity of the commercial sex industry.[01:10:31] Women's journey in the sex industry.[01:12:10] Entry phase and judgment dynamics.[01:16:28] FRIES acronym and sexual consent.[01:19:10] Prostitution as bribery.[01:22:38] Sitting in difficult emotions.[01:27:14] Media Content and Social Change. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Peter Boghossian, an expert in facilitating constructive dialogue, discusses Street Epistemology, the Socratic method, and applying hostage negotiation techniques in difficult conversations, including those involving parents and children with ROGD. He emphasizes the importance of calibrated questions, evidence in belief formation, perspective taking, and open-ended questions to challenge deeply held beliefs. The podcast also touches on preference falsification, setting boundaries, and removing toxic individuals from one's life.

Is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder underdiagnosed or overdiagnosed? Should we think of it as a product of nature, nurture, or a combination of the two? Is it best treated as a developmental condition children will grow out of, or a lifelong neurological difference? Should it be approached differently in boys versus girls? Should society accommodate it like a disability, or should those who have this diagnosis adapt themselves to fit the world? Can it best be remedied by lifestyle, therapy, coaching, or medication? And, if left untreated, are young people at risk of failure-to-launch?In this episode, I had a conversation with Ryan Wexelblatt, also known as the ADHD Dude, about the topic of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and how it is perceived in our society. We delved into the nature versus nurture debate and explored the role of lifestyle factors in ADHD. Ryan argues that while environmental factors can exacerbate symptoms, ADHD itself is not caused by these factors. Ryan highlights the need to differentiate between normal developmental processes and the underlying executive functioning challenges associated with ADHD. Ryan emphasizes the importance of following scientific evidence and understanding that ADHD is a genetic condition with biological markers.We also discussed the concept of time blindness, which refers to the difficulty individuals with ADHD have in perceiving the passage of time, and how this may be influenced by our modern world, with its constant access to technology and lack of natural time markers.Moving on to the specific challenges faced by boys with ADHD, we explored the importance of understanding the differences in how boys develop social skills compared to girls. Ryan highlights the need for a male perspective in the field of ADHD and social skills training, as many existing approaches tend to teach overly formal etiquette that may not resonate with boys. We also address the issue of self-diagnosis and the influence of social media, cautioning against the misinformation and oversimplification that can occur in online discussions about ADHD.Ryan Wexelblatt is a licensed clinical social worker, former school social worker, and father to a son.  Ryan founded ADHD Dude, an evidence-informed resource for parents of children diagnosed with ADHD that provides practical strategies to address ADHD-related challenges. He has worked in the field for two decades and is a contributor to ADDitude Magazine. Ryan creates content for the ADHD Dude YouTube channel and the ADHD Dude Membership Site. Ryan is about to launch "Raising Boys On the Spectrum", the first male-specific resource for parents of boys diagnosed with higher-verbal autism. Originally from Philadelphia, Ryan and his son live in Tucson, Arizona.Books mentioned in this episode:"Feminism Against Progress" by Mary HarringtonAll books mentioned on this podcast can be found at sometherapist.com/bookshop or by following the embedded Amazon links. Affiliate commissions from these purchases help support the show. Thank you!Other resources mentioned in this episode:ADHD Dude YouTube channelADDitude Magazine[00:00:00] Failure to launch.[00:05:42] Minimal Brain Dysfunction.[00:07:45] Environmental factors and ADHD.[00:12:46] Cognitive inflexibility and ADHD.[00:16:30] Difficulty with executive functioning.[00:18:40] Time perception and ADHD.[00:23:08] Time and nature's rhythm.[00:25:11] Sensing the passage of time.[00:28:32] Mother's risk-taking in daycare.[00:32:51] Autism diagnosis and social media.[00:36:13] Social skills for boys.[00:39:16] Teaching organic connection skills.[00:43:24] Lack of empathy for others.[00:48:48] Video game addiction.[00:51:29] Parent-child relationship dynamics.[00:54:08] Reducing parental accommodation.[00:56:32] Giving and being flexible.[01:00:27] Developing executive functioning skills.[01:03:03] Shifting to declarative language.[01:06:41] The Socratic method.[01:11:05] Emasculated males with autism.[01:15:28] Lopsided dynamics in parenting.[01:19:44] Your courage is appreciated.[01:23:41] The End of Gender.[01:25:21] Intolerance in diversity training.[01:28:14] Gender critical therapy.[01:33:39] Discrimination in healthcare. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode I connected with fellow step-parent, Jeremiah Wallace, host of the podcast "Blended: Navigating the Blended Family Experience." Jeremiah shares his insights and wisdom on the challenges and principles of being a step-parent in a blended family.Jeremiah introduces his concept of "humble authority," emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between being humble and authoritative in order to create a functional and healthy blended family dynamic.We discuss the concept of creating a culture in the home. Jeremiah highlights the significance of prioritizing the well-being of the children and taking the time to understand their unique needs and experiences. He also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the marital relationship, as the family's well-being is interconnected with the strength of the marriage.We also delve into the challenges faced by step-parents. Jeremiah shares his personal experiences and offers advice on how to approach these challenges with patience, understanding, and open communication.Jeremiah emphasizes the importance of recognizing the individuality of each child and the need to create a sense of ownership and belonging for step-children. He encourages step-parents to build meaningful connections with their step-children by creating rituals, inside jokes, and shared experiences.This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for step-parents and anyone navigating the blended family experience. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the principles that can help create a harmonious and loving blended family, as well as strategies for building strong relationships with step-children.Jeremiah Wallace is a health coach and founder of RenewYou Health & Fitness. As a coach he serves his clients to bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be in their health and mentality. He is also host of the podcast Blended - Navigating The Blended Family Experience. As a step-parent himself, Jeremiah supports step-families and those that are facing the complexities that exist within the blended family unit. His desire is for parents to have the clarity, competence and conviction necessary to lead well and walk in purpose for their families. Follow him on Instagram @navigatingtheblend.Resources mentioned in this episode:Jeremiah’s podcast: BlendedJeremiah’s wellness coaching practice: Renew YouJeremiah Wallace's Instagram account: @navigatingtheblend00:00 Start[00:00:10] Having grace for our children.[00:04:33] Humble authority in parenting.[00:07:15] Balancing selflessness and authority.[00:11:10] Being an effective step parent.[00:18:08] Step parenting dynamics.[00:19:44] Introducing new partner to child.[00:24:03] Generational struggles and parenting.[00:28:11] Triangulation in step-parenting.[00:31:33] Step-parenting dynamics.[00:35:10] Step-parenting and navigating different perspectives.[00:39:30] Collective ownership in blended families.[00:43:26] Step-parenting challenges.[00:46:09] Challenging dynamics with co-parenting.[00:51:39] Compensating for parental shortcomings.[00:56:25] Creating family unity.[00:58:04] Unity and accountability in parenting.[01:02:40] Kids' ability to make sense.[01:07:57] The child's experience of shifting between homes.[01:09:17] The importance of unity.[01:14:26] Managing kids' expectations.[01:20:08] Adjusting to different environments.[01:22:21] The importance of settling.[01:28:26] Creating healthy relationship examples.[01:29:40] Mindfulness in building healthy communities.If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate & review it on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Share this episode with a friend, or on social media. You can also head over to my YouTube channel, subscribe, like, comment, & share there as well.To get $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover visit EightSleep.com & enter promo code SOMETHERAPIST.Take 20% off your entire purchase of nourishing superfood beverages at Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Be sure to check out my shop. In addition to wellness products, you can now find my favorite books!MUSIC: Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. www.joeypecoraro.comPRODUCTION: Thanks to Eric and Amber Beels at DifMix.comYou can now watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use promo code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. nowaybackfilm.com Follow us on Twitter @2022affirmation or on Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, plus other perks TBD.Get your first month free with promo code GRANDFATHER; after that, it's only $8/month. Check it out at somekindoftherapist.locals.com.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Stephanie Winn interviews Samantha Stephenson, the host of the podcast "Brave New Us: Bioethics in the Light of Faith." Samantha shares her unique perspective on the intersection of faith and bioethics from a Catholic standpoint.Stephanie and Samantha discuss the concept of sanctity and the loss of the sense of the sacred in today's society. They explore the ethical dilemmas presented by emerging technologies, such as synthetic embryos and artificial wombs. Samantha emphasizes the importance of understanding the sanctity of life and the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with manipulating human life in such ways.They delve into the Catholic understanding of sin as "missing the mark" and how it relates to these bioethical issues. Samantha highlights the need for thoughtful exploration and questioning, even within a religious framework, to truly understand and grapple with these complex topics.The conversation also touches on the role of attachment and the significance of the mother-child bond in human development. Samantha raises concerns about the potential psychological and emotional effects on children who are gestated outside of a human womb and the importance of respecting their autonomy and well-being.Throughout the episode, Samantha draws on her background in theology and bioethics to provide insights into the moral implications of these technologies and the need for a deeper understanding of our purpose as human beings. She encourages listeners to consider the long-term consequences and potential risks associated with playing with life in ways that defy our natural design.This episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of faith and bioethics, shedding light on the ethical dilemmas posed by emerging technologies and the importance of maintaining a sense of sanctity and respect for human life.Samantha Stephenson is host of the Brave New Us podcast (coming to YouTube Sept. 22!) and author of Reclaiming Motherhood from a Culture Gone Mad. She is a Paul Ramsey Fellow at the Center for Bioethics and Culture and holds master's degrees in theology and bioethics. Her writing has been featured at Public Discourse, Crisis Magazine, The Federalist, FemCatholic, Natural Womanhood, Notre Dame’s Grotto Network, Our Sunday Visitor, and Word on Fire. Sign up for her Faith + Bioethics newsletter to receive the latest updates on medical research, technology, and culture, or stay connected via Instagram and Twitter.Books mentioned in this episode:"Reclaiming Motherhood from a Culture Gone Mad" by Samantha StephensonAll books mentioned on this podcast can be found at sometherapist.com/bookshop or by following these Amazon affiliate links. Thank you for your support!Previous episodes mentioned:60. Informed Consent & Maternity Care with Kallie Fell52. Surrogacy: Liberation or Exploitation? with Jennifer LahlOther resources mentioned in this episode:Brave New Us PodcastEcto Life concept videoThe National Catholic Bioethics Center - Free Ethical Consults00:00 Start[00:04:13] Resurgence of interest in Catholicism.[00:08:32] Sunset conversations and philosophical debate.[00:11:33] Understanding the symbolism of rituals.[00:17:28] Being rooted in a particular faith.[00:19:05] Questioning and exploring beliefs.[00:23:13] Revolt against our subsistence.[00:29:06] Navigating 21st century problems.[00:30:37] Synthetic embryos and ethical concerns.[00:35:08] What is sin?[00:39:03] Artificial creation of human beings.[00:42:26] Effects of prenatal bonding.[00:46:43] Sociopathy and attachment wounds.[00:51:32] Control and consequences of technology.[00:53:45] Material wealth vs spiritual poverty.[00:57:26] Natural disasters and human role.[01:01:52] Abortion and maternal well-being.[01:06:41] Catholicism and detransitioners.[01:09:28] Virtues and their importance.[01:15:39] The value of sins and virtues.[01:18:11] The language of humility.[01:21:26] Courage and humility.[01:25:11] Recognizing strengths and weaknesses.[01:29:40] Mary, the mother of God; Samantha’s favorite Catholic saints.If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate & review it on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Share this episode with a friend, or on social media. You can also head over to my YouTube channel, subscribe, like, comment, & share there as well.To get $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover visit EightSleep.com & enter promo code SOMETHERAPIST.Take 20% off your entire purchase of nourishing superfood beverages at Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Be sure to check out my shop. In addition to wellness products, you can now find my favorite books!MUSIC: Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. www.joeypecoraro.comPRODUCTION: Thanks to Eric and Amber Beels at DifMix.comYou can now watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use promo code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. nowaybackfilm.com Follow us on Twitter @2022affirmation or on Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, memb...