back from the borderline

In this transformative episode, we go beyond understanding the mother and father wounds to explore how we can actually heal from them. With insights from Eastern spirituality and grounded practices, this episode provides a blueprint for addressing the lingering impact of parental wounds, empowering you to cultivate a deeply rooted sense of self, peace, and inner resilience. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly heal from the past and reclaim the parts of yourself that felt lost, this episode is a powerful place to start. We begin with an exploration of "family constellations therapy," unearthing the hidden patterns we inherit and untangling what Eastern philosophy calls samskaras—the karmic knots that keep us bound to past wounds. Episode Highlights:00:00 – 12:00 | Intro + reflections on mother and father wounds: listener insights and the groundwork for self-healing14:17 – 21:00 | Family Constellations Therapy: Seeing how ancestral and family patterns influence us in subtle, powerful ways21:07 – 32:36 | Karmic knots and samskaras: How our emotional pain can transcend generations, and how to begin releasing it32:26 – 42:55 | Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness as tools for healing parental wounds: slowing down, observing, and finding freedom42:55 – 50:48 | Making healing a yogic practice: turning inner work into a sacred journey of integration and self-compassion50:48 – 55:17 | Hidden roadblocks: Misunderstandings that may be keeping you stuck in cycles of self-blame or resentment55:17 – 59:24 | The Four Core Functions of Parenting: Nurturing, Protection, Empowerment, and Initiation59:15 – 01:02:07 | Mother and Father as Nurturer: Learning to nurture yourself and provide what was once missing01:02:07 – 01:07:24 | Mother and Father as Protector: Cultivating a safe, strong inner space where you can truly rest and trust yourself01:07:24 – 01:17:22 | Mother and Father as Empowerer: Finding strength to claim your voice, pursue your goals, and live authentically01:17:22 – 01:28:11 | Mother and Father as Initiator: Awakening your sense of purpose and meaning, and moving into a life of self-leadershipRECOMMENDED RESOURCES- Connected Fates, Separate Destinies: Using Family Constellations Therapy to Recover from Inherited Stories and Trauma by Marine Sélénée- The Wounded Woman: Healing the Father-Daughter Relationship by Linda Schierse LeonardCraving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deep-dive episode, we unravel the complex and often misunderstood concept of "daddy issues"—a term that has been trivialized and sensationalized in popular culture. But beneath the stereotypes lies a significant psychological impact that can shape a person’s life in profound ways. Whether we label it as the "father wound" or simply recognize it as the lingering effects of a strained or absent father figure, these unresolved issues can ripple into our adult relationships, self-worth, and emotional resilience.Together, we explore the father wound beyond the clichés, examining how it manifests in both men and women, its roots in societal expectations, and its distinct differences from the mother wound. From "father hunger" and feelings of abandonment to the ways cultural stereotypes keep men and women alike stuck in cycles of pain, this episode offers both insight and practical guidance on how to start the healing journey. Through storytelling, poetry, and guided introspection, this episode provides tools to understand and begin addressing the father wound—an important step towards self-compassion, healthier relationships, and emotional freedom.  TIME STAMPS00:00 – 04:05: Intro + reflections (why explore the father wound?)04:00 – 17:54: What is the father wound?17:58 – 21:25: How it feels to struggle with an unhealed father complex (poem snippet by Marcus Lee)21:25 – 24:10: High-level description of the father wound and how it presents24:10 – 31:20: Father hunger, father absence, father deficit31:20 – 43:19: The impact the unhealed father wound has on well-being and relationships and how it contributes to the cycle of abuse43:19 – 01:00:44: How the father wound manifests in our daily lives as adult children01:00:44 – 01:08:30: What is the difference between the mother and father wounds?01:08:30 – 01:11:32: How societal expectations and cultural stereotypes keep men stuck in the father wound01:11:42 – 01:20:09: Masculine expressions of an unhealed father wound01:20:09 – 01:34:54: Feminine expressions of an unhealed father wound01:34:55 – 01:42:47: Is the Industrial Revolution to blame for the father wound? (spoiler alert: it’s complicated)01:42:47 – 01:48:30: Psychology of the Father Archetype01:48:30 – 01:55:44: Fathers in mythology and symbolism (exploring our need for heroes and villains)01:55:44 – Practical suggestions and techniques for father wound healing02:08:46 –02:17:48: HEALING SEGMENT - Getting into the meditative state02:17:48 – 02:37:18: Father wound healing visualization exercise (inspired by the work of Virginia Satir)02:37:18 – 02:52:48: Final reflections, where Mollie is at in her current healing journey, additional thoughts + recommendations regarding the father wound Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey into the raw and often hidden layers of the "Mother Wound." This is more than a psychological concept; it’s an emotional inheritance of unresolved pain, abandonment, and unfulfilled needs that many of us carry from our childhood into adulthood, shaping our relationships, self-worth, and the way we view the world. If you've ever felt that lingering ache from unmet maternal love, or if you’ve struggled to break free from self-sabotaging patterns rooted in early wounds, this episode is for you.Starting with a grounded exploration of the Mother Wound, we look at how these core wounds can manifest, ways to recognize their impact on your daily life, and how to begin the healing journey. We draw on insights from Bethany Webster, philosopher Alan Watts, and ancient myth to illuminate how generational pain influences us and, most importantly, how we can reclaim our wholeness. From guided visualizations and re-parenting exercises to the archetypal power of the Divine Mother, this episode is a space to start releasing what no longer serves you and to reconnect with your authentic self.Time-Stamps and Episode Highlights:Part 1 - What is the Mother Wound?02:00 – 10:17: Introduction to the Mother Wound10:23 – 54:49: In-depth exploration of how the Mother Wound manifests in our lives and relationshipsPart 2 - Healing Through Age Regression and Re-Parenting Tasks54:51 – 58:40: Preparing for guided healing exercises and visualizations59:00 – 1:09:20: Meditative connection to the Mother Wound, inspired by the words of Alan Watts1:09:21 – 1:13:40: Re-parenting practices to nurture your inner child1:13:45 – 1:29:07: Inner infant age regression: reconnecting to early unmet needsPart 3 - Embracing the Divine Mother in Myth and Mysticism01:29:13 – 01:33:03: The story of Demeter and Persephone and the archetype of the nurturing mother01:33:05 – 1:58:08: Healing the Mother Wound through myth, archetypes, and the subconscious: reframing the hero’s journey as a path to self-acceptance and wholenessRESOURCES MENTIONED:★ https://www.bethanywebster.com/ [download her free mother wound healing pdf]★Article: “You are more myth than science” by Dr. Mia Hetenyi★ Book: Homecoming: Reclaiming and Championing Your Inner Child by john bradshaw Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode, we dive into a vision of education that could reshape how future generations learn, connect, and thrive. At just 15, Zelda Poem felt the weight of a system that wasn’t designed to nurture individuality or emotional well-being. She took a courageous step and left school at 16, setting out to revolutionize education. Since then, she’s become a published author, trained in art therapy, empathic communication, and psychology, and advised various EdTech initiatives. Her current project, “Tomorrow’s School,” is a collective art gallery dedicated to reimagining education as a supportive, holistic, and personalized experience.Zelda and I explore the deep-rooted issues within today’s public school systems in both the U.S. and Europe, and discuss the kind of paradigm shift needed to create schools that focus on emotional regulation, creative exploration, and individual growth. We touch on how AI might play a role in this transformation, offering tailored learning experiences and enhanced support for students, while also weighing its potential risks.Key Topics and Questions Explored in This Episode:Systemic Issues in Public Education: Analyzing the negative effects of current educational structures on student well-being and learning potential.The Future of Education: Zelda’s insights on creating schools that prioritize community, individualized learning, and emotional support over rote memorization and testing.AI in the Classroom: Discussing how AI can enhance personalized learning, its benefits for educational outcomes, and the limitations of relying solely on technology for teaching.Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking: Practical strategies for parents and teachers to nurture a child’s natural curiosity, creativity, and resilience in a world that often prioritizes conformity.Supporting Sensitive Students: Guidance on how to help highly sensitive or neurodivergent children navigate traditional school settings and manage the emotional challenges they may face.Zelda’s story is a reminder that true change often begins with a willingness to challenge the status quo. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or lifelong learner, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating educational spaces where every child can feel seen, supported, and inspired to follow their passions.Listen in for a glimpse into what education could look like when we dare to imagine something better.Connect with Zelda: Visit Zelda’s website, where you can read about her work and connect with her on her various social media platforms (click here)Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this listener Q&A episode, we explore profound and complex themes around self-identity, relationships, forgiveness, and the search for emotional stability. Each listener brings a unique perspective and challenge, from grappling with the Buddhist concept of “no-self” to navigating the difficult terrain of forgiveness and dependency in relationships. Join us as we delve deep into these topics, offering insights that could reshape how you approach your mental health and interpersonal connections.Episode Highlights:Priyasha’s Journey with “No-Self” and Identity (03:34): In Dubai, Priyasha reflects on her struggle to “find a sense of self” as she works through the symptoms of her BPD diagnosis. We explore how Buddhist principles, especially the concept of “anatta” or “no-self,” can provide a path to self-understanding, particularly in the realm of emotion dysregulation and how these ideas have been adapted into DBT.Allison’s Experience of Isolation after Suicide Attempts (25:08): Allison feels like her friends and family are pulling away after her recent suicide attempts, leading her to question the roots of her distress and the concept of emotional boundaries. We dive into topics like emotional vampirism, trauma-dumping, and ways to express vulnerability without overwhelming loved ones.Gia’s Struggle with Forgiveness and Past Trauma (52:17): Gia wrestles with forgiving her childhood caregivers while still feeling triggered by their presence as an adult. We touch on the nature of “magical thinking” in trauma recovery, the pitfalls of “going back to the empty well,” and how to approach forgiveness as a self-healing tool rather than an obligation.Fae’s Conflicted Feelings in Relationships (01:13:26): Fae finds herself developing crushes on friends while in a committed relationship, stirring up feelings of guilt and confusion. We examine the “Favorite Person” phenomenon often discussed in the BPD recovery community, the risks of objectifying others for emotional regulation, and strategies for creating emotional independence and balance in relationships.This episode invites you to rethink how you relate to yourself and others, offering both practical guidance and deep reflection on managing emotional triggers, identity, and the pursuit of genuine self-acceptance. Tune in for an intimate, empathetic exploration of recovery and personal growth.Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we tackle the complexities of emotion dysregulation and its deep-rooted ties to childhood emotional neglect and abuse. Many of us who grew up in chaotic or neglectful environments find ourselves craving love and connection yet struggling to maintain healthy, secure relationships. Through a Q&A format, I respond to listener questions and explore common patterns like overthinking, rumination, and drama addiction that often sabotage our chances for stability and connection. If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a cycle of self-sabotaging behavior, toxic relationships, or unresolved anger, this episode sheds light on why these patterns emerge and offers guidance on how to break free from them.Episode Breakdown and Key Topics:Sophie’s Struggle with Rumination (08:11): We discuss why overthinking can make relationships feel doomed from the start, and how to break the cycle of anxious rumination.Anna’s Question about Leaving an Abusive Partner (16:50): Navigating the emotional turmoil of leaving an abusive relationship, and finding clarity on whether it was the right choice.Lauren’s Awkward Work Relationship Fallout (25:24): Tips for managing the discomfort and emotional fallout when a workplace romance doesn’t go as planned.Marina’s Reflection on “Abandonholics” and Drama Addiction (36:08): An exploration of the addictive nature of chaotic relationships, and why some of us are drawn to emotional highs and lows.Elinor’s Battle with Explosive Rage (01:11:27): Understanding the roots of uncontrollable anger and practical strategies to self-regulate in moments of intense emotion.This episode offers a compassionate look at why we often feel drawn to self-destructive patterns and gives listeners actionable insights to foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Tune in to uncover the underlying forces at play and start building a life centered around true connection, rather than chaos. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this soul-stirring episode, we dive into the raw, resonant prose of Amanda Palmer’s article, What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023. This piece, originally shared on her Substack, captured my heart so profoundly that I wanted to read it aloud and share it with you, creating a moment of reflection for anyone struggling with life’s most complicated emotions. So brew a warm cup of tea, settle into your coziest spot, and let me read you some words that might help you feel a little less alone.Through Palmer’s words, we explore themes of heartbreak, transformation, and resilience. She grapples with the disorienting aftermath of her divorce, the weight of parenting through tumultuous times, and the surreal experience of navigating these emotions against the backdrop of a TED conference. Palmer’s reflections on love, loss, identity, and belonging are both intimate and universal—giving voice to the raw edges of human experience.Episode Highlights and Topics Discussed:Divorce and Reinvention: Palmer’s reflections on ending a marriage and the bittersweet hope of starting anewThe Crisis of Belonging: Exploring humanity’s collective need for connection in a world increasingly defined by isolationThe Power of Pain as a Teacher: Why embracing emotional pain, rather than numbing it, can foster growth and healingMental Health in a Chaotic World: How Palmer’s honesty about grief, anxiety, and the complexities of parenting offers comfort to those facing similar battlesThe Fragility and Resilience of the Human Spirit: From ancient wisdom to modern struggles, how the desire for connection and self-acceptance remains timeless TIME STAMPS 00:00 – 01:53: Intro01:53 – 04:37: Why I chose to read the article on today’s episode / intro of Amanda Palmer and her work04:37 – 50:06: Storytime reading of “What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023” by Amanda Palmer50:06 – 51:26: Article reflections51:45: Preview of SWSMH 19 BFTB BONUS: SWSMH #19 (preview): seeing the synchronicities: This week’s Stupid Walk is all about listening, but not in the way you’d expect. We’re diving into the concept of synchronicities. In psychology, synchronicity is defined as the occurrence of meaningful coincidences that seem to have no cause. During our walk, I’ll discuss examples of synchronicities in my own life and how they’ve shaped my recovery journey.  RESOURCES·     “What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023,” full article by Amanda Palmer·     Amanda Palmer’s SubstackCraving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into the lasting emotional impact of childhood abandonment and neglect, a wound that can leave us feeling unworthy and disconnected well into adulthood. Set to calming medieval soundscapes, we explore how myths, fairy tales, and timeless stories hold profound insights for healing these deeply rooted scars. From the iconic tales of Cinderella and Vasilisa the Beautiful to the transformative journeys of heroes and heroines, we’ll examine how fairy tales reveal paths to resilience and self-discovery, even in the face of great loss.The episode also features an excerpt from a powerful book that reframed my own perspectives on resentment and the weight of emotional burdens I’ve carried since childhood. Through these stories, we uncover how feelings of abandonment are universal—and how tales of magical godmothers, brave girls with enchanted dolls, and creatures from nature offer guidance for embracing our inner strength. Together, we’ll unravel how the themes of missing mothers, unfulfilled bonds, and wicked stepmothers symbolize the complex realities of human relationships, teaching us to confront our fears and embrace the parts of ourselves we often neglect.Topics Covered in This Episode:How childhood abandonment impacts emotional well-being across a lifetimeThe symbolism of missing or absent mothers in folklore and fairy talesThe mythological roots of resilience and how stories offer paths to self-worthAn exploration of Carl Jung’s “shadow” concept and what fairy tale villains representTIME STAMPS: 00:00 - 3:56: Intro3:56 - 50:13: Fear of Abandonment - Mothers in Fairy Tales50:18: Preview of this week’s Premium Submarine Episode, “SWSMH 18: smash the peace button”RESOURCES: ·     The Fear of Abandonment: Missing Mothers and Fairy Tales (article by Dale M. Kushner)·     The Interpretation of Fairy Tales (C.G. Jung Foundation Books) by Marie Louise Von Frantz·     The O Manuscript: The Seer, The Magdalene, The Grail by Lars MuhlCraving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why am I here? What is my true purpose? If you’re feeling lost, stuck in a cycle of unfulfilling work, or questioning if there’s more to life than the 9-to-5 grind and occasional vacation, you’re not alone. Many of us are living on autopilot—choosing careers based on survival rather than passion, trapped by societal expectations, and rarely considering what a life of true purpose might look like.In this episode, we’ll explore the ancient Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, a concept that translates to “reason for being”. Ikigai encourages us to look inward and discover what brings us joy, aligns with our strengths, and allows us to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. This isn’t about quick fixes or surface-level career advice; it’s about peeling back the layers to uncover the unique calling that only you can fulfill.Through this exploration, you’ll discover:How Ikigai can help you define a life purpose that goes beyond the day-to-day grindThe core elements of Ikigai and how they interconnect: passion, mission, profession, and vocationPractical steps for aligning your talents, passions, and work with a purpose that resonates on a soul levelWays to break free from society’s expectations and live intentionallyHow Ikigai bridges personal growth and spiritual meaning, transforming your life from mere survival to deep fulfillmentImagine a life where your actions feel aligned with your values, where your work feels like an extension of your true self, and where every day brings a sense of contribution and joy. Discovering your Ikigai could be the key to that life. Dive in and take the first step toward a deeper, more meaningful existence.Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deepfakes have become an unsettling phenomenon in recent years, rising from niche technology to a widespread cultural issue that affects millions. While deepfakes hold potential for media and innovation, the darker side of this technology is alarming. AI-powered deepfake porn, specifically targeting women, threatens their sense of self-control, consent, and safety in the digital world. Victims are forced to see their likeness in explicit content they never agreed to, leaving lasting emotional trauma.In January 2023, this issue gained global attention when popular Twitch streamer Brandon “Atrioc” Ewing accidentally revealed that he had viewed and paid for deepfake porn of fellow female creators without their consent. One of those creators, QTCinderella, responded publicly, shedding light on the devastating impact non-consensual deepfake porn can have on victims. This incident triggered national conversations around consent, safety, and the urgent need for legal protections.In this episode, we explore the troubling implications of deepfake technology on privacy and autonomy, using the Atrioc controversy as a case study. From the legal loopholes that make deepfake porn hard to combat to the emotional toll on victims, we’ll delve into how this technology magnifies the sexualization of women, often with no legal recourse or protection. By the end of the episode, you’ll have insight into the evolving digital landscape, the necessity of safeguards, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones in the face of AI’s rapid advancements.Topics discussed in this episode:The Atrioc deepfake controversy: how it unfolded and its implicationsWhat is a deepfake, and how is AI used to create it?Legal and ethical issues surrounding non-consensual deepfake contentHow deepfake porn escalates the objectification and sexualization of women in disturbing waysEmotional and psychological effects of deepfake revenge porn on victimsUNFPA’s “bodyright” campaign and other movements fighting backCraving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.