Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

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.

Topics discussed include supporting loved ones with depression, managing different levels of capacity in relationships, body image insecurities, navigating partner's past relationships, and anxieties about parenting. The hosts also share personal anecdotes on repairing relationships, acknowledging mistakes, and setting boundaries for healthy connections.

In this podcast, Forrest and Dr. Rick delve into the complexities of developing discipline. They discuss the importance of finding reward in necessary tasks, understanding your self-concept, breaking tasks into smaller parts, and staying motivated. The podcast offers valuable insights on embracing discipline, self-regulation, and finding fulfillment in everyday tasks.

Dive into psychological defenses with Dr. Rick and Forrest, exploring how they shape behavior and relationships. Learn about defense mechanisms like repression and projection, and how to navigate shame and guilt. Discover practical strategies for handling defenses and helping others. Explore the importance of distress tolerance and integrating repressed emotions for personal growth.