Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

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.

Dive into the intriguing world of self-sabotage as the hosts dissect why we make choices that undermine our goals. Discover how these behaviors often act as psychological self-protection, driven by fears of success and identity threats. Their discussion unveils the conflict between our ambitions and ingrained limitations, offering practical strategies for overcoming self-destructive habits. Real-life examples illuminate the struggle, while insights into understanding our inner dynamics pave the way for embracing change with compassion.

Terry Real, a renowned family therapist and author known for his work on masculinity and relationships, dives into the factors that sabotage intimacy. He discusses the shift from 'me' to 'us' and emphasizes the importance of relational mindfulness in overcoming conflicts. Real introduces concepts like the Adaptive Child and Wise Adult, shedding light on how childhood experiences shape adult relationships. A standout moment includes an engaging inner child exercise that invites deeper emotional connection. Prepare to rethink your approach to nurturing relationships!

Join Kimberley Quinlan, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of CBTschool.com, as she unpacks the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She distinguishes between obsessions and compulsions, revealing how trauma can link to OCD. Kimberley shares insights on effective treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) and the significance of self-compassion in recovery. She also addresses common stigmas that hinder treatment, and emphasizes the importance of personalized care and support for those battling OCD.

The hosts tackle the nuances of people-pleasing and how it affects personal relationships. They dive into the pros and cons of using AI as a therapist, including concerns about privacy and the need for human connection. They explore the emotional complexities of developing feelings for one’s therapist, discussing the phenomenon of sexual transference. Wrapping up, they reflect on the importance of communication in nurturing long-lasting relationships and ponder whether Gandalf would have made a good therapist.

Disorganized attachment can make emotional intimacy feel daunting. The hosts discuss how past experiences shape these complex styles and the internal struggles they create. Embracing and expressing needs is highlighted as essential for healing. They touch on topics like hypersensitivity, self-regulation, and the surprising benefits of 'boring' relationships. With a focus on self-awareness and emotional validation, they outline pathways to transform sensitivity into strength, ultimately fostering healthier connections.

Forrest chats with Dr. Scott Eilers, a licensed psychologist and author specializing in treatment-resistant mood disorders. They dive deep into Dr. Eilers’ personal journey with chronic depression and discuss anhedonia, the challenge of treatment resistance, and the importance of emotional budgeting. The conversation explores creating new practices even when motivation is low and the healing power of acceptance. They also touch on the intertwining of humor and mental health, along with strategies to foster resilience and self-discovery.