Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Dr. Rick, an anxiety management expert, and Forrest, a self-improvement enthusiast, tackle listener questions about social anxiety and self-advocacy. They discuss the potential pitfalls of excessive self-help and the quest for validation. Rick shares strategies for cultivating self-acceptance while Forrest reflects on finding balance in personal growth. They also explore collaborative decision-making in relationships and the fine line between self-awareness and self-consciousness, sharing valuable insights for improving emotional intelligence and communication.

Simone Saunders, a trauma therapist specializing in cognitive bypassing, joins the conversation to explore the intricate dance between emotions and cognition. They delve into the concept of cognitive bypassing and its ties to trauma, discussing how somatic tools can break the cycle of overthinking. Topics such as the freeze and fawn stress responses, managing triggers, and the challenges of unhealthy relationships are tackled. The duo emphasizes the importance of emotional authenticity, agency, and the transformative power of navigating grief.

In a heartfelt discussion, Dr. Rick Hanson, a clinical psychologist, shares profound insights on fatherhood with his son Forrest. They explore the mental health challenges new parents face, especially in maintaining strong partnerships. Rick offers practical advice for resetting with your partner and emphasizes the importance of emotional support and communication. They also discuss the balance of authority and nurturance in parenting, and the need for recognizing children's individuality. This conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom for any dad.

In this insightful discussion, hosts delve into the collective anxiety stemming from today's global events. They explore how to manage overwhelming emotions and develop resilience. Topics include navigating the complexities of uncertainty, the importance of personal agency, and embracing the idea of impermanence. The conversation highlights grief as a profound form of love and connection, and emphasizes communal support in processing loss. Listeners are encouraged to take proactive steps to foster deeper connections while managing anxiety.

Katherine Morgan Schafler, a therapist and ex-Google mental health expert, dives into the double-edged sword of perfectionism. She unpacks how it can be both a superpower and a stumbling block, emphasizing the need for a positive shift in our self-criticism language. Katherine discusses the five types of perfectionists and challenges the notion that perfectionism is merely a defense against criticism. She advocates for self-compassion over self-punishment and explores how to keep perfectionism in check while pursuing meaningful goals.

Delve into Carl Jung's intriguing concept of the shadow, those uncomfortable parts of ourselves we often deny. Discover how embracing these hidden aspects fosters personal wholeness and authenticity. The discussion highlights the importance of self-awareness and individuation, showcasing how integrating both positive and negative traits enhances our identity. Explore fascinating examples of shadow material and understand the impact of suppressed emotions on personal growth. This journey encourages curiosity and compassion as we confront our inner complexities.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Rick, an expert in psychological and communication skills, sheds light on the complexities of dealing with others' psychological defenses. He explains how these defenses can obscure self-awareness and interpersonal understanding. Listeners will learn about recognizing their own biases, fostering empathy, and setting a productive conversational tone. Dr. Rick emphasizes breaking the cycle of defensiveness and balancing needs for closeness and distance, along with practical strategies for encouraging open dialogue.

Feeling overwhelmed by self-awareness? Dive into how too much introspection can lead to anxiety and self-consciousness. The conversation highlights the importance of developing ego strength for authentic living. Engage in role-plays that tackle social anxiety and self-expression. Discover strategies to shift focus from self-interest to genuine connection with others, while embracing all parts of your identity. Finally, learn to balance self-awareness with self-compassion to foster personal growth.

Exploring various interventions for dealing with depression, distinguishing between normal sadness and major depressive disorder, importance of social support, benefits of sunlight on mood, mindfulness practices to counteract rumination, techniques for transitioning to a more positive self-concept, and the significance of self-compassion in navigating through a depressed mood.

Explore why you're stuck and how to fix it with insights on self-acceptance, motivation, fear of the unknown, and breaking through plateaus. Discover tips for personal growth and overcoming obstacles in a candid discussion between the hosts and a clinical psychologist.