The Joe Martino Show

In this episode of The Joe Martino Show, we dive deep into the misconception that money is the key to happiness. Many of us chase financial success, believing it will bring fulfillment, only to find that something is still missing. The truth is, what we truly crave isn't money—it's meaning. Join me as we explore how to shift our focus from accumulating wealth to creating purpose in our lives. Whether you're feeling unfulfilled in your career, overwhelmed by responsibilities, or simply searching for something deeper, this episode will inspire you to start living with intention. Tune in now to discover how to build a life that's rich in meaning.

In today's episode of The Joe Martino Show, we dive into how to slow down and savor time — especially during summer. As the school year wraps up, life speeds up. Days slip by. But what if you could press pause? What if you could truly be present and enjoy summer without rushing? This episode shares simple and practical ways to slow the pace, embrace stillness, and make space for meaningful moments. Plus, I'll read the introduction to my next book, Hiding Behind God. Don't miss this chance to learn how to enjoy summer, be present, and create lasting memories. Listen to episode 308 now.

What do our kids really need from us? In this episode, I break down three powerful, research-backed essentials every child needs for healthy emotional development. And here's the thing—we never outgrow them. We all need to know who we are (identity), that we're truly loved, and that we're genuinely liked—not just for what we do, but for who we are. This is practical, real-world parenting advice with impact. Whether you're raising kids, working with students, or just trying to build stronger relationships and better emotional health, this episode is for you.

Today, we seem to spend so much time, energy, and effort chasing insight. Almost anytime that you engage in psychotherapy or counseling, someone will inevitably bring up the idea of having to look into your childhood to figure out why you do what you do. The idea seems to be that we need insight to facilitate change. We seem to think that we can figure out why we do what we do, and then we will be better able to change it. And sometimes, we have light bulb moments. We all love those light bulb moments—but what if they don't lead to change? In this episode of The Joe Martino Show, Joe unpacks why insight without behavior change is worthless. He challenges the idea that understanding alone is enough, and instead, explores how real transformation happens when we start doing things differently. If you've ever wondered why you stay stuck despite knowing better, this episode is for you. Expect practical questions to help you shift from insight to action, and finally move forward.

305. 8 Surprising Benefits of Conflict in Relationships (Yes, Really!) by Joe Martino

Welcome to Episode 304 of The Joe Martino Show. Today, we're going to continue a topic that doesn't get enough attention—men grieving. Grief is hard enough, but for men, it's often complicated by cultural expectations and personal struggles. Too many guys hear, “Man up” instead of, “How are you holding up?” When called out, one wife responded to say that those calling her out were wrong. Let's be honest, our world is messy. People are hurting, but instead of listening, we often get caught in cognitive distortions—filtering reality through our pain and assumptions. Some folks even get mad that this podcast isn't just their perspective on the world. That's not how growth works. We need honest, messy conversations to navigate life, and that's what we're doing today. Let's talk about it.

Empathy matters—but it's not a magic fix. In this follow-up episode of The Joe Martino Show, we explore what it really takes to use empathy well. I break down five practical steps to move from good intentions to meaningful action—and why just “feeling with someone” isn't always helpful. Plus, I read and respond to some honest emails from listeners who pushed back on Part 1.

We've been told that empathy is the key to a better world—but what if that's only half the truth? In this episode of The Joe Martino Show, we dive into the hidden downside of empathy and why, on its own, it can do more harm than good. When unchecked, empathy can cloud judgment, fuel burnout, and even enable toxic behavior. So, what's the solution? Tune in as we unpack the critical balance between empathy, wisdom, and action—and why true compassion is about more than just feeling someone's pain.

We don't talk about it much, but many men silently grieve how fast life moves—especially regarding aging. One day, you're young and full of possibilities; the next, you look in the mirror, wondering where the time went. And the truth is, a lot of people get uncomfortable when men open up about this kind of grief. In this episode of The Joe Martino Show, we're diving into men's hidden struggles as they age, why our culture tends to dismiss it, and how we can healthily handle this season of life. If you've ever felt like life is moving too fast and no one understands what you're going through, this episode is for you. Let's talk about it. Episode number 301 is live.

Most people avoid conflict, seeing it as a threat to their relationships. But what if conflict is actually the key to deeper intimacy? In this milestone episode of The Joe Martino Show, we explore how healthy conflict can strengthen your connection, build trust, and create lasting love. Joe breaks down practical strategies for handling disagreements with intention, setting goals for constructive conversations, and turning tension into deeper understanding. Whether you're navigating conflict in marriage, friendships, or family, this episode will help you shift your mindset and embrace conflict as a path to stronger love.

Your voice is more powerful than you think—it shapes your confidence, influences others, and plays a crucial role in personal and professional growth. In episode 299 of the Joe Martino Show, we explore how using your voice effectively can help develop essential character skills like leadership, empathy, and resilience—and how you can use them to help shape your children, if you have them. Whether you're speaking up in meetings, sharing your story, or simply expressing yourself more authentically, mastering your voice can be life-changing. Tune in as we uncover the key strategies to harness your voice for personal transformation and success!

When we face disagreements on important issues, strong emotions often rise within us. In these moments, it's easy to become consumed by anger and, in turn, dehumanize those who hold opposing views. This tendency can emerge in debates over something as simple as dietary choices or as complex as today's pressing political issues. However, this reaction carries significant risks. Let's explore the potential dangers of this behavior and consider how we can cultivate more respectful, constructive conversations—ones that promote healing and a healthier society.

Life isn't fair—but the sooner we accept that, the more empowered we become. Years ago, a friend shared four simple yet profound life rules with me, and they completely transformed my perspective. Over time, I added one more and have made it my mission to share them with anyone willing to listen. In today's episode, I want to pass them on to you. I truly believe these five principles have the power to be life-changing for those who embrace them. Episode 297 is live—let's dive in and explore them together!

In today's world, it's easy to cut ties with people we disagree with—but is that really the healthiest approach? In this episode, we explore how emotionally strong and mentally healthy people navigate relationships with those who hold different opinions, beliefs, or values. Instead of villainizing or pushing them away, they practice empathy, curiosity, and respect, maintaining meaningful connections even in the face of disagreement. We'll dive into the habits and mindsets that allow people to stay open, engaged, and grounded in their values without resorting to division. To have healing we need to have curiosity and look at the grassroots, local area for change. Change is found in relationships. Unity is the way forward to health and healing.

The truth has a way of demanding to be seen. Anything we refuse to face—our fears, pain, regrets, or even our deepest desires—will find a way to control us. It lingers in the background, shaping our choices, limiting our freedom, and keeping us stuck in patterns we don't understand. But here's the good news: we are not powerless. In this episode, we're breaking down four steps to help you face anything head-on. Because when you confront the truth, you reclaim your power. Let's get into it. Episode 295 is live now.

We're almost through January, and for many, this is when those well-intentioned New Year's resolutions have died a fast, quick death (look up quitting Friday). If you're feeling like your goals have hit a dead end, don't throw in the towel just yet! In this episode, I'll share a proven strategy I've used with countless clients to help them reignite their motivation, stay on track, and accomplish the very goals they thought were out of reach. Whether you're tackling fitness, finances, or personal growth, this practical approach could make all the difference. Let's turn the page on those early setbacks and set the tone for an incredible spring season in 2025. Join me as we kick off the 2025 spring season of The Joe Martino Show—because it's never too late to make this your best year yet!

This marks our final episode of the year as we take a well-deserved pause to reflect, recharge, and prepare for an exciting and successful launch into 2025. We're deeply grateful for each and every one of you who has joined us on this journey and listened along the way. Thank you for your support, your time, and your energy—see you in the new year, ready to tackle what's ahead together!

In a recent episode, I casually mentioned feeling tired and weary, almost in passing. The response was overwhelming—many of you reached out with kind words, concern, and a recurring sentiment: "It's nice to know you're human." This struck a chord and got me thinking. As counselors, we're often seen as the ones with the answers, but the truth is, we're human too. We have bad days, tough weeks, and even challenging years. So what happens when we feel overwhelmed? What do we do when sadness feels unshakable, or when life weighs heavier than usual? In this episode, I explore these questions and share a candid take on navigating the tough times. It's a basic, honest look at an age-old struggle—and a reminder that being human is something we all share. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that blends vulnerability, self-compassion, and practical insight.

In today's fast-paced world, many parents feel exhausted and worn thin by the endless demands of daily life. If you're one of those parents, this episode is for you. Today, I want to give you permission to say no to overscheduling. We'll explore the incredible benefits of learning how to protect your time and energy by reclaiming your schedule. Remember, one of our greatest strengths is the ability to control how we spend our time. But that's not all—we'll also touch on the power of consequences for kids. Believe it or not, it's okay if they sometimes feel uncomfortable or even bad about themselves. We'll explore why certain tough moments can actually help build character and resilience in our children. So, let's get into it! You'll walk away with practical tips on setting boundaries, finding balance, and creating a healthier dynamic for you and your family.

In this episode, I dive into a topic that's been on my mind lately—parenting. I've been having conversations with many parents who feel like they're constantly second-guessing themselves, unsure if they're doing things right. But from an outside perspective, it looks like they're actually succeeding. Maybe it's because the pressure to be perfect is so high that we overcomplicate parenting. But what if it doesn't have to be that way? In this episode, I share the one thing I believe can truly give us the best chance to "win" at parenting. Tune in and let me know your thoughts!

In this episode, we look at what we might be able to learn from Bridezilla and a Groomzilla. I often hear people complain about the next generation almost regardless of their generation, and I often stop and ask myself, who raised this generation? Maybe it's time to step back and take a look at what we're doing, and if we don't like the results, make necessary adjustments.

Lately, a growing number of people argue that therapy is nothing more than endless conversation. The word "ruminating" is being thrown around like it's a curse. But is that really what therapy boils down to? Is counseling just rehashing our problems? Is good therapy simply sitting and dwelling on what's wrong? I strongly believe it's much more than that—otherwise, I wouldn't be in this field. In this episode, let's explore what therapy truly is and why it goes far beyond just talking. Tune in to Episode 288 now!

Our words have the remarkable ability to shape our reality. An ancient writer once proclaimed that the power of life and death resides in our words. In this episode, we delve into the profound truth that if we wish to manage our emotions and navigate life's challenges effectively, we must closely examine the narratives we tell ourselves. Can framing our experiences as tales of bravery and triumph foster real courage? Do stories of overcoming adversity have the potential to propel us through our struggles? I firmly believe they do. Join me as we explore how our stories can transform our mindset and empower us to face life's trials with renewed strength and resilience. Discover how harnessing the power of positive self-talk and affirmations can lead to genuine personal growth and emotional well-being. Please tune in to uncover the transformative potential of the words we choose to live by.

Banned Book Week is approaching, offering a valuable opportunity to discuss what we mean by the term "banned" and to consider whether there are more accurate alternatives. I hope we can use this occasion to spark meaningful conversations, using books as a catalyst for more productive discussions on the various issues that divide our society and communities, ultimately benefiting everyone.

Welcome to episode 285 of The Joe Martino Show. In today's episode, we're exploring the powerful stories we tell ourselves—those of comfort, commitment, and capability. These narratives hold more influence over our lives than we might realize. Often, we lean on tales of comfort to shield ourselves from responsibility and the challenges that lie ahead. But what if we flipped the script? By embracing stories of commitment and capability, we can actively shape the world and life we desire. Join me as we delve into how these self-told tales can limit or propel us toward the life we truly want.

When Cindy Clemishire was twelve years old, a family friend and church pastor began sexually assaulting her. Five years later, she told her family. Roughly three decades later, the story went public. In those intervening years, her abuser expressed remorse over “having an inappropriate relationship” with a woman other than his wife. He never mentioned that the other “woman” was a child. His wife offered forgiveness to the child for “seducing her husband.” Today's episode is an interview with a woman whose most of her adult life has been shaped by prolonged sexual abuse and the subsequent coverup. If you think you don't know anyone who has been abused, please listen to this episode. Hearing some of the things she has to share will be hard, but this message is essential to get out. Listen to hear about how childhood trauma affects almost everything we do as adults.

In this week's episode, we explore the two essential truths that happy people embrace, especially during challenging times. These foundational insights offer a pathway to greater happiness, even when life gets tough. By harmonizing our mental and physical worlds, we can continue to grow and cultivate lasting happiness. Tune in to discover how these truths can transform your approach to life. Don't miss out—listen now and start your journey towards a happier you!

How can we walk alongside those who grieve while also tending to our own sorrow? My community has recently faced a wave of profound loss, and in today's episode, I share my reflections on navigating this grief in real time.

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into an essential aspect of parenting: allowing our kids to experience failure. While it may be instinctual to shield our children from disappointment and setbacks, embracing failure as a natural part of life can yield profound benefits. One significant advantage is that it helps children learn to self-regulate. When kids face challenges and don't immediately succeed, they develop resilience and emotional intelligence. They learn to manage their emotions, set realistic goals, and devise strategies to overcome obstacles. This process of self-regulation is crucial for their long-term success and well-being, fostering a growth mindset that will serve them throughout their lives. By allowing our kids to fail, we're not setting them up for disappointment but rather equipping them with the tools to navigate life's ups and downs with confidence and grace.

In today's episode, we examine two critical habits of people who live fulfilling and meaningful lives. These keys can enhance emotional resilience and provide a strong foundation for navigating life's challenges. Whether you face everyday stressors or significant life changes, this episode offers valuable tools and inspiration to help you thrive. Learn how to harness the power of intentional living to create a life filled with meaning, purpose, and resilience. Tune in and discover the strength within you to tolerate distress and emerge stronger on the other side.

In this episode, we dive into the enchanting world of the Inside Out movie franchise, a groundbreaking series that brilliantly brings the conversation about emotions to the forefront of society. Through its imaginative storytelling and relatable characters, Inside Out has opened up a dialogue about the complexity of our emotional lives. However, while celebrating its success, we also explore a critical truth the franchise overlooks: our cognitive power over emotions. Join us as we discuss how cognition is crucial in managing our feelings and why recognizing this can lead to a more holistic understanding of our emotional experiences. This episode is a must-listen for franchise fans and anyone interested in the intersection of emotions and cognitive science. Let's talk about how our emotions don't have to control us. We can live with our hands firmly on the control panel inside our brains and body.

In this episode, we're diving into the art of communication and the magic of intimacy. Join us as we uncover 10 transformative points that will improve how you connect with others and deepen the bonds of intimacy in your relationships. From practical tips on expectations to the importance of vulnerability and emotional posture, each point is designed to help you foster a more open, honest, and loving connection with those around you. Whether you want to strengthen your romantic relationship, build better friendships, or improve family dynamics, these insights will provide the tools to communicate more effectively and create lasting, meaningful connections. Tune in and take the first step towards a more connected and intimate life!

Welcome to today's episode, where we delve into the hopeful ideas behind making wise decisions. By exploring four essential questions, we can make better, wiser choices that guide us toward the life we long to live. Let's be honest: life and decision-making can be complicated. However, these four questions can serve as invaluable guideposts as we navigate the journey of living a meaningful and purposeful life.

Today's episode is one I wish we never had to record. It's on a deeply troubling topic: sexual assault and church leadership. Recently, Robert Morris, a pastor of a mega-church in Texas, resigned, citing an “inappropriate relationship with a young lady.” In reality, he groomed and assaulted a twelve-year-old girl. The response has been disheartening, with euphemisms obscuring the severity of his actions and little concern shown for his victim. Let us not become so busy focusing on the church's business that we fail to focus on the church's ministry. We need to confront this issue head-on. How can we support past victims and protect those who might be harmed? It's crucial to call this behavior what it is and take action to safeguard those at risk. Tune in for a rant and a clarion call to action.

In this thought-provoking episode this week, we delve into the profound relationship between contentment and relinquishing control over others. Join us as we explore how true peace of mind often comes at the cost of surrendering the desire to dictate or influence the lives of those around us. We explain that the key to personal happiness lies in embracing acceptance and letting go of the need to control others. Tune in to discover how this essential shift in perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate and often uncomfortable process of challenging our own beliefs. Join me as I explore the psychological and social mechanisms that make it so difficult to question the ideas we hold dear. We'll delve into new research on screen time, touch on the ever-controversial topic of politics, and discuss the dangers of clinging to outdated beliefs. By examining the benefits of being open to new information, we'll highlight how this willingness can foster personal growth and enhance overall well-being. Too often, we are tempted to "cancel" those who challenge our views, stalling our growth and happiness. Together, let's embark on a journey of intellectual humility and discover the profound transformation that comes from reassessing and understanding our beliefs. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that encourages critical thinking and self-reflection.

Welcome to today's episode, where we delve into the empowering choice of embracing happiness and contentment. As we navigate through the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in pursuing more—more success, more possessions, more accolades. But what if the key to a truly fulfilling and joyful summer lies not in the relentless chase but in appreciating the present moment and finding peace within ourselves? Join us as we explore how to cultivate a mindset of contentment and happiness, enabling you to savor the season's beauty and enrich your overall well-being. Get ready to unlock the secrets to a summer that's not just great but genuinely transformative.

In today's episode, we delve into the impact of unregulated behavior when we're angry and the repercussions of letting hurtful words escape our mouths. Additionally, we explore strategies to nurture and safeguard our relationships. And strategies to build and protect our relationships.

In this insightful episode, we dive into one of the most challenging and nuanced aspects of family dynamics: loving your elderly toxic parents while maintaining healthy boundaries. Many of us struggle with the complex emotions that arise from dealing with toxic behaviors in those who raised us, especially as they age and become more dependent. Join us as we explore practical strategies and compassionate approaches to navigate this delicate balance. We'll discuss: Admitting and discussing what's happening Set Boundaries Enforce those boundaries Prepare for bad feelings to come Expect it to be hard Remember that you can do this Whether you're currently dealing with these issues or preparing for the future, this episode offers valuable insights and tools to help you foster a healthier and more balanced relationship with your elderly parents. Tune in and learn how to care for them without losing yourself. **Note:** This episode is designed to provide general advice and support. If you are experiencing severe emotional distress or abusive behavior, please seek professional help

Ever felt like you're paddling through life in a one-sided canoe, going in circles without progress? In this episode, we delve into the analogy of canoeing to explore how embracing tension and distress can actually propel us forward. Just like navigating the currents, acknowledging the challenges in our lives and actively seeking solutions can lead to growth and advancement. Join us in episode 270 as we dive into the deep waters of resilience and progress.

Welcome to episode 269, where we delve into the complexities of faith, community, and authenticity in the modern church and our non-religious friends.  Have you ever felt like you didn't quite fit in at church? You're not alone. Many churches promote "Come as you are," but often, there's an unspoken expectation to conform to a specific mold once you're there. It's like being invited to a party with a strict dress code—sure, you can show up in whatever attire you please, but if it doesn't align with the crowd, you might feel out of place. Maybe you'd prefer to wear a suit but feel like the lingering stare of the more casual crowd. Indeed, we've all seen our fair share of memes disparaging our dressed-up friends. Maybe we are still fighting the dress code issue, but we've mostly swung to the other side of the argument. In this podcast episode, our mission is to challenge the status quo, to question assumptions, and to promote a more genuine expression of faith. We'll explore the phenomenon of 'hiding behind God in clothes' and unpack the tension between the church's inclusive message and the subtle pressure to conform. Whether you're a jeans-and-t-shirt kind of person in a sea of suits or vice versa, we'll navigate the nuances of authenticity and belonging in religious communities. Join us as we challenge the status quo, question assumptions, and seek to create spaces where everyone truly feels welcome, regardless of their outward appearance or background. It's time to peel back the layers of the facade and embrace a more profound, more genuine expression of faith. Welcome to The Joe Martino Show.

In this enlightening episode, join us as we dive into the dynamic interplay between conflict, expectations, and personal growth. Conflict often carries a negative connotation, but what if we reframe it as a catalyst for transformation? Let's explore how embracing conflict can lead to unexpected opportunities for learning and development. Conflict is one price we pay for intimacy and growth. Let's explore the idea that setting high expectations for ourselves and others can be a powerful force for positive change, challenging us to reach new heights and exceed our limitations. From navigating disagreements in relationships to facing adversity in pursuing our goals, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical strategies for harnessing the transformative power of conflict and reasonable expectations in our lives. Tune in and discover how embracing the complexities of human interaction can ultimately lead to greater fulfillment and growth.

Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we delve into the intricate world of constructs. Constructs serve as the scaffolding of our understanding, akin to mental models, guiding us through the complexities of our existence. They aid us in deciphering the world's intricacies, offering both clarity and confusion. However, to ensure our mental landscapes remain healthy and unbiased, we must periodically scrutinize our constructs for accuracy and impartiality. Join us in this episode as we explore the profound impact of constructs on our perception of the world and emotional well-being, uncovering the delicate balance between their benefits and pitfalls.

In this episode of [Podcast Name], we dive into the crucial topic of discussing drugs with your children. It's a conversation that many parents find daunting, yet it's one of the most important ones to have. Host [Host Name] shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the significance of regular and open dialogues about drugs within families. Through expert interviews and real-life stories, we explore effective strategies for initiating these conversations, maintaining their relevance as children grow older, and fostering an environment of trust and understanding. We delve into age-appropriate approaches, emphasizing the importance of ongoing communication and active listening. From understanding the risks associated with substance abuse to equipping children with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions, this episode offers practical tips and resources for parents navigating these conversations. Join us as we empower families to address this critical aspect of parenting with confidence and compassion.

Good books should bring us all to the table for conversation. They should do an honest survey of the research, which will almost always show some research that contradicts the author's thesis. Therapy is one of the topics that should invite such a book. It is a topic that should be held accountable for its outcomes. In a world where more resources, time, energy, and knowledge are devoted to therapy, it would seem that we are due for a real and honest conversation about the outcomes. We should be forcing therapists to have some difficult and hard conversations about therapeutic outcomes. The book Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier seems like it might start a conversation about these very topics. But, I found the book to be very frustrating. It did not have a conversation. Instead, it seemed to one to make its point, and there really wasn't a point to be bothered with the breath of research. I wanted to like this book, because I have some strong thoughts about therapy and bad therapy. I have strong thoughts about education and its intersection with therapeutic practices. Beyond this episode, I wrote an in-depth (and long) review on my blog, which was published on March 25th Be sure to check it out there.

Do you have a college student or a loved one in their early twenties? Better yet, are you a college student or a young adult navigating the complexities of managing finances? If so, you won't want to miss our latest podcast episode, where we delve into practical tips and strategies tailored specifically for you. In this episode, we have a special guest – my daughter, Kendra, a college student mastering financial management as a young adult. Kendra shares her firsthand experiences, offering invaluable insights into budgeting, saving, and making smart financial decisions as a young adult. Whether you're facing student loans, struggling with credit card debt, or simply striving to build a solid financial foundation for your future, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can start implementing today. Tune in to gain the knowledge and confidence you need to take control of your finances and set yourself up for long-term success. Don't miss out - join us for this enlightening conversation on managing finances for college students and young adults.

Someone wrote in and wanted to know why I spent "so much time talking about men's mental health." This episode is my answer to her. The stakes are so high! Men are literally losing their lives.

In this episode, we delve into the profound importance of showing up for friends and exploring the myriad ways in which our presence can be the greatest gift we offer. From celebrating their successes to holding space during their struggles, being there for our friends transcends mere convenience—it's a cornerstone of meaningful connection. It is especially important when tragedy pierces their world. When life is hard, we may not have answers or be unable to solve all of the problems, but we can show up and just be present. We can admit we don't have answers and commiserate with our loved ones and friends.

Accommodating people who need help seems like a no-brainer. And often it is exactly that; wheelchair access for people, seat accommodations for people with sight needs, readers for people with dyslexia all seem like solutions that are nearly moral obligations.  And yet, are aspects of accommodation culture hurting the people we are trying to help?  Accommodation culture, while often well-intentioned, carries inherent risks. Excessive accommodation can lead to a culture of dependency, where individuals expect special treatment rather than advocating for growth and health.  Additionally, there's a concern that excessive accommodation may stifle constructive dialogue and debate, as individuals may fear expressing dissenting viewpoints for fear of being labeled intolerant or insensitive. Ultimately, a balanced approach that respects diversity while upholding core societal principles is necessary to mitigate the potential negative consequences of accommodation culture. My daughter Kaidance stopped by, and we discussed her thoughts on this topic and the response that she received when she presented her thoughts at school. Let's discuss accommodation culture.

In life's journey, we often face various challenges and obstacles, each demanding our attention and resolution. Yet, amidst this myriad of issues, one fundamental truth remains: we possess the power to choose our response to these problems. While we may not always have control over the circumstances that befall us, we have agency over how we navigate and address them. Whether it's through proactive problem-solving, seeking support from others, or simply reframing our perspective, the choices we make ultimately shape our path forward. By recognizing and embracing this power of choice, we empower ourselves to confront challenges with resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to personal growth and fulfillment. Welcome to what might be part one in a new series called “Triggering Questions.” Today's episode deals with one of the most powerful questions we can ask ourselves, “What are you going to do about it.”

We all have emotions and feelings. For a long time, it seemed like our society tried hard to downplay emotions, and we've done a lot of work as a society to incorporate our feelings and emotions into our collective consciousness, but have we overcorrected? Allowing our feelings to steer the course of our lives can often lead to impulsive decisions and irrational actions. While emotions are a natural part of the human experience, relying solely on them as a compass can cloud judgment and hinder rational thinking. It's crucial to recognize that feelings are transient and can fluctuate based on various factors. Instead of letting our emotions dictate our path, it's wiser to cultivate a balance between our emotional responses and logical reasoning. By acknowledging our feelings without letting them dominate our decision-making process, we gain better control over our lives, making choices that align with our long-term goals and values rather than succumbing to fleeting impulses.