Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Joe Hudson, an executive coach and founder of the Art of Accomplishment, shares insights on reducing self-punishment and embracing emotional clarity. He discusses 'The Golden Algorithm,' revealing how we often recreate avoided emotions. Joe emphasizes the importance of emotional fluidity, cognitive clarity, and nervous system awareness in achieving real growth. They explore the dismantling of limiting thoughts and the role of shame in stifling joy, while celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the necessity of understanding our desires through emotion.

Dr. Rick Hanson, a clinical psychologist and author, dives deep into emotional regulation, sharing practical tools to help us feel without being overwhelmed. He discusses common misconceptions about emotions and introduces key steps: feeling, managing, and processing our feelings. Topics like cognitive defusion, opposite action, and the importance of interoception are explored. Rick emphasizes the balance between acceptance and agency as crucial for healthy emotional regulation, making it a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to understand their emotions better.

Dr. Rick and Forrest delve into the complex interplay between trauma and personality, providing insights on distinguishing learned behaviors from one’s authentic self. They tackle the challenge of establishing boundaries with loved ones facing depression, balancing duty with personal needs. Explosive anger is addressed through emotional processing techniques that encourage joining with the feeling. Finally, they discuss transitioning from empathic distress to compassion to combat caregiver burnout, offering practical strategies for self-care.

Unpacking the hidden threat of resentment in relationships, the discussion outlines how perceived injustice and helplessness fuse into a toxic cocktail. Strategies for navigating resentment include effective communication and claiming personal agency. Distinguishing between legitimate grievances and harmful rumination, the conversation emphasizes clarity and negotiation as key tools. When repair isn't an option, a five-step plan for managing unresolvable resentment offers practical guidance. Ultimately, the insights aim to transform resentment into understanding and proactive steps forward.

Dive into the world of humanistic psychology, a movement that champions the inherent goodness of people. Explore Carl Rogers' groundbreaking ideas on self-actualization, unconditional positive regard, and the importance of authenticity in therapy. The discussion also highlights the historical context of humanism and its influence on modern therapeutic practices. With practical takeaways, listeners are encouraged to embrace self-acceptance and agency, fostering personal growth and deeper connections.

Dr. Nick Jacobson, associate professor at Dartmouth and developer of the AI therapy chatbot Therabot, joins the discussion on the rise of AI in mental health. He delves into whether AI can replace human therapists and outlines the risks of using general chatbots. They explore concerns about AI bias, oversight, and accountability, along with the benefits of expanded access to therapy. The conversation raises questions about empathy, the potential pitfalls of attributing human-like qualities to AI, and the implications for the future of mental health treatment.

Life crises can spark powerful personal growth. The hosts delve into existential philosophy, exploring how anxieties around death and choice shape our experiences. They discuss the distinction between healthy and unhealthy discontent, stressing the importance of aligning daily actions with personal values. Practical guidelines for navigating transitions and cultivating authenticity are shared, encouraging listeners to live true to themselves. The conversation inspires taking immediate action toward meaningful change, emphasizing the transformative potential of life's challenges.

Meg Josephson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and author of 'Are You Mad at Me?', dives into the fawn response—a survival strategy rooted in people-pleasing. She shares how this behavior can transform from childhood self-protection into adult challenges like hypervigilance and self-abandonment. The discussion spans recognizing unconscious habits, the emotional fallout from silencing one's needs, and the journey to authenticity. Meg emphasizes the importance of setting healthy boundaries and cultivating self-compassion for better relationships.

Explore the complexities of rekindling relationships with an ex and the impact of anxious-avoidant attachment styles. Discover the challenges of loving someone with addiction. Learn the difference between narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. The hosts discuss the importance of communication and self-reflection in therapy, while addressing fears of being misunderstood. Plus, tips on safe meditation practices for those with mental health vulnerabilities. It's a thoughtful dive into love, growth, and emotional health.

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.