Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Brandy Wyant, a licensed clinical social worker and expert in limerence, joins the discussion on the intense, often one-sided obsession that accompanies this state. She shares insights on how limerence differs from love and casual crushes, and the role of uncertainty in fueling such feelings. The conversation delves into cognitive behavioral strategies for managing obsessive thoughts and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness. They also address the impact of limerence on relationships and the challenges in research and treatment.

Join renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher Mingyur Rinpoche as he dives into transforming anxiety through awareness. Hear about his near-death experience that reshaped his approach to fear and life. Rinpoche shares insights on seeing anxiety as passing clouds and fostering inner goodness amidst self-doubt. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing our innate qualities of love and compassion, plus practical tips for 'anytime, anywhere' meditation to cultivate peace. It's all about embracing change, understanding emptiness, and the journey of personal transformation.

Dive into the evolution of psychoanalysis and discover insights from figures like Adler, Klein, and Winnicott. Explore how feelings of inferiority shape identities and the importance of healthy relationships in emotional development. Learn about the significance of a 'true self' and the nuances of ego defenses. Delve into existential themes, confronting concepts like death and meaning to find personal growth. The discussion offers practical lessons that resonate with our everyday lives, making complex ideas accessible and relatable.

Elizabeth Ferreira, an associate therapist with personal experience in CPTSD, uncovers the often misunderstood nature of anger. She discusses how trauma shapes our connection to this powerful emotion and the dangers of repressing it. Elizabeth offers insights on healthy expressions of anger as a means of protest and self-advocacy. The conversation also touches on the importance of boundaries in relationships and how understanding our desires can lead to emotional healing through playful exploration.

Dive into the intriguing world of psychoanalysis as its historical roots and key concepts are explored. Delve into Freud’s major insights on the unconscious mind, repression, and transference, while also confronting the murky ethics and colonial ties entwined in its legacy. The podcast navigates the evolution of these theories, highlighting their impact and relevance in modern therapy. Ultimately, it offers both appreciation and critique of psychoanalysis, presenting it as a rich yet flawed foundation for understanding mental health.

The hosts dive into the pitfalls of the self-help industry, highlighting the dangers of excessive striving and performative growth. They explore how social media and capitalism fuel narcissism and the never-ending pursuit of self-improvement. Acknowledging personal anecdotes, they stress finding balance between agency and acceptance. The conversation addresses the commodification of self-worth and the shift from hustle culture to a more laid-back approach to well-being. Ultimately, they champion authenticity and community over the pressure of individual success.

Explore how early labels of being 'gifted' can lead to fear of failure and hinder personal growth. Discover ways to shift focus from perfectionism to enjoying the journey. Learn about the freeze response and the importance of rebuilding agency and resilience. Delve into the distinctions between borderline personality disorder and bipolar disorder, and how they affect relationships. Finally, rethink modern friendship dynamics and the role of mutual support in nurturing fulfilling connections.

Join Forrest Hanson and his fiancée, Elizabeth Ferreira, an associate therapist, as they delve into the transformative power of inner child work in relationships. Elizabeth shares her insights on how small changes can spark meaningful growth, often revealing the hidden barriers to emotional connection. The couple explores the dynamics of love avoidance, attachment styles, and the challenges of deep emotional vulnerability. Discover why insight isn't enough for real change and how confronting past experiences can empower couples to nurture healthy relationships.

Dr. William von Hippel, an evolutionary psychologist and author, explores why modern comforts haven't translated to happiness. He argues that our focus on autonomy has decreased vital social connections, leading to feelings of loneliness. They discuss the evolutionary roots of this tension, emphasizing the need for warmth over mere competence in relationships. Gender differences in social needs and the impact of societal structures are also examined, providing insights on how to create more balanced and fulfilling lives today.

In a candid discussion, renowned therapist Terry Real, founder of Relational Life Therapy, and his son, Justin Real, a startup founder, tackle the challenges modern men face. They explore how traditional masculinity can lead to emotional disconnection and the appeal of red pill cultures. Highlighting the importance of vulnerability and emotional intelligence, they advocate for redefining strength as relational power. Their insights delve into how men can build healthier relationships and navigate societal pressures while embracing a new model of masculinity.