Podcasts about Validation

Order my newest book Make Money Easy! https://lewishowes.com/moneyyouCheck out the full episode: greatness.lnk.to/1774"Validation does not require agreement. I'm a vegetarian, but I could validate why somebody would choose to eat meat. That doesn't mean I agree with them. I just see the validity in their argument and I can focus on that instead of the part that I disagree with." - Caroline FleckCaroline Fleck transforms how we understand human connection through her groundbreaking validation ladder technique, revealing why most people feel unheard despite endless conversations. Drawing from her expertise in therapeutic intervention and behavioral psychology, she exposes the critical difference between simply listening and truly making someone feel seen. Her revolutionary approach helps everyone from suicidal clients to elite executives break through emotional barriers by focusing on one powerful principle: finding the kernel of truth in every perspective, even when you fundamentally disagree.The conversation unveils fascinating insights into mirror neurons and the science of mimicry, demonstrating how subtle body language copying can create profound emotional attunement between people. Caroline shares the exact mental game therapists use during sessions - a two-part riddle that transforms how you listen and respond to others. Her methods reveal why validation must come before persuasion, and how projecting genuine curiosity rather than judgment opens doors to meaningful influence and lasting behavioral change in any relationship or professional setting.Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter

They complain of suffering from "fatigue" from hearing about Black grievences, but yet crave Black validation. Shoutout to Jason Wallace of ⁨@wasitgoodthoughpodcast5456⁩ for joining us in trying to make it make sense.Become a Habitual Ish Talker and follow us on The App Formally Known As Twitter: twitter.com/TalkinIsh_PodJoin in on the conversation! E-Mail us at ⁠talkinishpod@gmail.com⁠Listen to the audio version: https://linktr.ee/TalkinIshPod00:00​​​ - Intro/Idle Chit Chat09:12 - Eightball and MJG Biopic16:31 - What Artist Biopic Would You Like to See? 29:56 - Viewer Comments48:26 - This Week in Black (Graduation Edition) 1:07:19 - Diddy Trial Recap1:39:51 - Roundtable Discussion: Black Validation 2:21:35 - Her-Tep Corner2:27:55 - Question of the Pod2:31:18 - Wrap It Up, YO!!! (Closing)

We need to talk about the belief that's quietly running the show in so many of our financial lives: the idea that your bank account determines your value as a person. In Part 1 of this two-part solo episode, we're digging deep into the emotional roots of this toxic money narrative—and why it's costing you far more than just dollars. If you've ever avoided checking your bank balance out of shame, felt behind because of debt, or judged your worth by your income—this episode is for you. You'll walk away with: A clear understanding of how our culture ties money to identity—and why that's so damaging Examples of how financial shame sabotages your decisions, relationships, and confidence Validation that your money story is not your fault—but it is something you can rewrite The first powerful mindset shift you need before making any lasting financial change This episode is the foundation—the truth-telling, soul-stirring conversation that sets the stage for healing. In Part 2, we'll dive into the actionable tools and practices to reclaim your worth and start making empowered money choices. Follow us on Instagram: @everyonestalkinmoney Share your thoughts using the hashtag #WorthBeyondWealth Want to start separating your worth from your finances? Make your non-financial value list and tag us in it! Don't miss Part 2 where we walk through the full Separation Process—subscribe now so it drops right into your feed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when creative power, marketing wisdom, and startup energy collide? In this episode, Jay sits down with Julie Matzen to explore the journey from agency leadership to startup empowerment. With honesty, laughter, and depth, they unpack the emotional architecture of business: the fear of becoming irrelevant, the power of validation, and the truth that failure isn't a wall—it's a lens.The conversation moves from the dangers of letting AI write your ad copy to the Gen X struggle of feeling unseen, all the way to the radical idea that access to wisdom should be affordable. Through shared metaphors, unapologetic insights, and unexpected childhood stories, Julie and Jay remind us that the real power in business—and in life—comes not from polish, but from presence."Don't let AI be your art. The paintbrush doesn't get the credit."Bio: Julie Matzen is the co-founder of Boarderline and founder of the MayDay Agency. With over 25 years in branding and digital strategy for top-tier brands, Julie now focuses on democratizing access to expert advisors for startups and mid-sized businesses. Through Boarderline, she's building a platform that empowers emerging entrepreneurs to gain real insights from the minds that helped build the world's biggest brands.

venmo.   Dharmapunxnyc patreon. www.patreon.com/dharmapunxnyc

Lit AF Relationships podcast is your resource for creating healthy relationships full of love, trust, safety, and respect. Want to fight less and connect more in your relationship? This episode dives into the secret sauce of better communication: validation.It's the #1 skill I teach couples, and for good reason—most of us skip it completely. When your partner feels seen and heard, defensiveness drops and connection rises.I'm sharing why validation is so hard (hello, nervous system), how to do it without faking it, and a few simple tips you can try today to shift the dynamic.Spoiler: fighting better isn't about avoiding conflict—it's about showing up like you're on the same team.Discover your attachment style to break free from old relationship patterns. Take the free quiz here: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/6329f75e6dd9410016a64043Follow Lit AF Relationships on Instagram: @itsmesarahcohan.comVisit the Lit AF Relationships Website: https://www.sarahcohan.com/If you're interested in one-on-one or couples coaching I'd love to help you heal old patterns to create healthy relationships where you feel like you're on the same team. Get started by applying for a free 60-minute healthy relationships call here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSddL3tie849uvgD1m31l4MAH3AzH0FlWgnsG0gPEBEzeDyPyg/viewform

We're continuing our series: Your Biggest Course Creation Questions, Answered, and this week we're digging into a BIG one:   “Do I have the right content to turn this into a course?”   Spoiler: You probably do! (But let's break it down to be sure.)   In this episode, I walk you through: ✔️ How to know if your process is deep enough for a full course—or better suited for a mini offer ✔️ Why your course promise helps filter the fluff (and keeps students from getting overwhelmed) ✔️ The Post-It method I swear by for mapping out modules ✔️ Plus: How to validate your content with a live training or workshop   Whether you're sitting on a few slides or packed full of ideas, this episode will help you figure out what to teach, how much to include, and what your students really need to get results.  

Do you find yourself waiting for an apology, a compliment, or even a sign that your healing is being witnessed? In this raw and tender episode, we explore the often invisible — yet incredibly powerful — force of validation and how it can quietly keep us stuck in pain. From the early childhood roots of needing to be seen and soothed, to the ego's endless loop of craving approval (especially after heartbreak), Elisabeth opens the door to a deeper conversation around truth, worthiness, and radical self-honesty. If you've ever felt unseen, dismissed, or like your pain didn't “count” unless someone else acknowledged it, this episode is for you. You'll learn: Why we crave external validation (and how it's not your fault) How the ego uses validation to protect us — but also sabotage us The subtle ways validation-seeking keeps us stuck in our healing journey What it means to self-validate and reclaim your inner authority Practices to start validating yourself every single day LINKS MENTIONED AND MORE The brand new healing app is LIVE - download the Rising Sisterhood app today and take some positive steps for your healing starting now: https://www.theseparationclub.com/risingsisterhoodapp Take a bigger step towards healing and growth and join my 3 night / 4 day Lake House Retreat, June 12-15th. All the details can be found here: https://theseparationclub.com/lake-retreat Kickstart your healing with the brand new JOY JOURNAL: https://www.theseparationclub.com/the-joy-journal I would love to work with you towards your healing, self-discovery and in creating your new life. Working with a coach is a great way to discover your purpose, your path forward while gaining clarity on your beliefs and core values. I have openings in my calendar for some new clients. https://www.theseparationclub.com/coaching You can also set up a discovery call with me. It's free and an opportunity for us to get to know each other. Here is a link to my Calendar so you can book something that is convenient for you: https://calendly.com/elisabethparsons/discovery-call Also make sure to download the Free Separation Checklist: https://theseparationclub.com/separation-checklist FREE MASTERCLASS: Register for our next free Masterclass: https://www.theseparationclub.com/masterclass Join the private and free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theseparationclub/ You can also find me on Instagram @elisabethjoy444 where I share daily inspirations and tips as you navigate your divorce. And the brand new Instagram account for The Joy Journal: @thejoyjournal444

Are you drowning in customs documentation? Today we welcome Jack Moberger and Ned Cartmell from DocUnlock—two tech innovators transforming how global trade professionals handle mind-numbing paperwork. Key Insights for Importers, Exporters, and Logistics Professionals: - How AI is revolutionizing customs entry writing - Reducing manual errors in international shipping documentation - Turning tedious data entry into strategic customer relationships

Send us a textBrett knows firsthand what it means to be addicted—not to substances, but to approval. As someone who spent years chasing validation to fill an inner emptiness, Brett's story sheds light on a lesser-known but deeply relatable struggle: the addiction to being liked, needed, and praised. Growing up without a strong sense of emotional fulfillment, Brett learned to shape-shift, perform, and people-please in order to feel worthy. But no amount of applause could quiet the inner voice that whispered, you're not enough.Brett's Website Support the show

this week's episode is a very special one — i'm (leo) joined by my high school bestie Alexa for a nostalgic and pretty vulnerable conversation about who we used to be, who we've become & what we'd tell our younger selves. from crying over boys to learning how to stop craving male validation, from incessantly comparing ourselves to finding self-worth in our twenties — this one's for the girls who like us are still healing (from) their teenage selves. so grab a drink, get cosy & join us for a little trip down memory lane.

About Today's Guest, Lisa CummingsLisa has delivered events to over 24,000 participants, in-person in 14 countries. She's an MBA and a Gallup Certified Strengths coach. You can see her featured in places like Harvard Business Publishing, Training Magazine, and Forbes. She's the founder of Lead Through Strengths, and hosts a podcast by the same name.She helps independent coaches, trainers, and speakers build business skills like email marketing and selling confidently. Check out her mastermind membership program called Tools for Coaches. When she's not podcasting or working with coaches, you'll find her learning Spanish on Duolingo, hiking in Colorado, or playing drums in a rock band called Spiral Mischief.   ______________________________________________________________________ The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education BusinessYou've spent years in the classroom, leading PD, designing curriculum, and transforming how students learn. Now, it's time to leverage that experience and build something for yourself. The Edupreneur isn't just another book—it's the playbook for educators who want to take their knowledge beyond the school walls and into a thriving business.I wrote this book because I've been where you are. I know what it's like to have the skills, the passion, and the drive but not know where to start. I break it all down—the mindset shifts, the business models, the pricing strategies, and the branding moves that will help you position yourself as a leader in this space.Inside, you'll learn how to:✅ Turn your expertise into income streams—without feeling like a sellout✅ Build a personal brand that commands respect (and top dollar)✅ Market your work in a way that feels natural and impactful✅ Navigate the business side of edupreneurship, from pricing to partnershipsWhether you want to consult, create courses, write books, or launch a podcast, this book will help you get there. Stop waiting for permission. Start building your own table.

Welcome to today's episode, where we're diving into something we all wrestle with—imperfection. Here's the truth: it's perfectly okay to be imperfect—perfectly imperfect, in fact! There's such freedom in that phrase. While we absolutely aim to show up prepared, polished, and doing our best, life has a way of tossing in surprises, missteps, and messy moments. And guess what? That's not failure—it's just real life. No matter how many planners you buy or how many inspirational quotes you tape to your mirror, something's always just slightly off—and that's okay. So today, let's laugh a little, learn a lot, and celebrate the freedom that comes with embracing the messy middle. See full article: https://goalsforyourlife.com/perfectly-imperfect Make sure you're getting all our podcast updates and articles! Get them here: https://goalsforyourlife.com/newsletter  Resources with tools and guidance for mid-career individuals, professionals & those at the halftime of life seeking growth and fulfillment: http://HalftimeSuccess.com  #leadershipauthenticity #midlifeawakening #joycemeyer #perfectionism #giftsofimperfection CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 04:15 - Why Imperfections Shine: Embracing Flaws 05:49 - Embracing the Imperfect Mole: Celebrating Uniqueness 08:37 - The Myth of Having It All Together: Challenging Perfectionism 11:17 - Performance is Overrated: Authenticity Over Achievement 13:43 - Embrace Your Scars: Strength in Vulnerability 14:15 - Perfection is Not a Prerequisite for Impact: Making a Difference 14:27 - Drop the Act and Breathe: Finding Inner Peace 14:50 - Living for Applause is Exhausting: The Cost of Validation 15:11 - Sign Up for Our Newsletter: Stay Connected 15:47 - Own Who You Are: Self-Acceptance Journey 16:05 - See You Next Time: Closing Thoughts 16:12 - Share and Follow Us: Join Our Community   Summary: Embracing Imperfection for Authentic Wholeness In the meeting, Deborah Johnson discussed the importance of embracing imperfection, particularly for those at mid-career or halftime of life. She highlighted how social media often presents a curated, perfect image, which can be misleading and unrealistic. Deborah emphasized that it's okay to be imperfect and that imperfections can tell a story, as seen in the unique characteristics of opals and salt and pepper diamonds. She also shared personal experiences and referenced famous individuals like Marilyn Monroe, who embraced their imperfections. Deborah encouraged listeners to let go of the illusion of having it all together and to focus on wholeness and authenticity, rather than constant performance. She concluded by urging listeners to embrace their unique beauty and to take their next chapter of life seriously.

I've never highlighted a book as much as They're Not Gaslighting You: Ditch the Therapy Speak and Stop Hunting for Red Flags in Every Relationship.  It's my favorite book in 2025! Watch the Video Interview Author Dr. Isabelle Morley gives us a timely book that rejects the reckless proliferation of the following terms:  Sociopath Psychopath Love bomb Narcissist Boundaries Borderline Toxic Gaslighting Who is Dr. Isabelle Morley? Dr. Morley is not a chronic gaslighter trying to convince the world that she doesn't gaslight by writing a book about it. Here's her resume: Author of Navigating Intimacy and They're Not Gaslighting You Co-host of the podcast Romcom Rescue Contributor to Psychology Today Advisory Board Member of the Keepler app Founding Board Member of UCAN Member of the American Psychological Association Certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) The Gottman Method – Completed Levels 1 and 2 Relational Life Therapy – Completed Level 1 PsyD in Clinical Psychology from William James College, 2015 Doctoral project researching hookup culture's impact on relationship formation, 2015 Master's in Professional Psychology from William James College, 2013 Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University, 2011 My Fatima Story I dated a woman for two years. Let's call her Fatima. In the second half of our relationship, Fatima bombarded me with many of the highly charged and often misused words listed above. After she dumped me the fifth and final time, I finally pushed back on her barrage of accusations. I said to her, “So, you truly believe I'm a narcissist? Let's look up the clinical definition of a narcissist and see how I stack up.” She agreed. Perplexity wrote: To be clinically considered as having Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) according to the DSM-5, an individual must exhibit at least five out of nine specific characteristics. These characteristics, as summarized by the acronym “SPECIAL ME,” include: Sense of self-importance Exaggerating achievements and expecting to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements. Preoccupation Being preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love Entitled Having unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with their expectations. Can only be around people who are important or special Believing that they are “special” and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions). Interpersonally exploitative Taking advantage of others to achieve their own ends. Arrogant Showing arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes. Lack empathy Being unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others. Must be admired Requiring excessive admiration. Envious Often being envious of others or believing that others are envious of them. These symptoms must be pervasive, apparent in various social situations, and consistently rigid over time. A qualified healthcare professional typically diagnoses NPD through a clinical interview. The traits should also substantially differ from social norms. I asked her how many of these nine characteristics I exhibited consistently, pervasively, and in many social situations. She agreed that I was nowhere near five of the nine. Admittedly, I sometimes exhibited some of these nine characteristics in my intimate relationship with Fatima. I'm certainly guilty of that. However, to qualify as a true narcissist, you must display at least five of these nine characteristics often and with most people, not just your partner. To her credit, my ex-girlfriend sheepishly backed down from that accusation, saying, “You're right, Francis, you're not a narcissist.” Later, I would educate her (or, as she would say, “mansplain”) about another of her favorite words: gaslighting. I mansplained by sending her a video clip of renowned couples therapist Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman, who explained why standard disagreements and having different perspectives aren't gaslighting. Soon after explaining that, Mrs. Gottman explains why, in some ways, “everybody is narcissistic.” Watch 6 minutes from 1:35:30 to 1:41:30: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9kPmiV0B34&t=5730s After listening to an expert define gaslighting, Fatima apologized for incorrectly using the term. This is what I loved about Fatima: she wouldn't stubbornly cling to her position when presented with compelling evidence to the contrary. This is a rare trait I cherish. Narcissists and sociopaths are about 1% of the population, so it's highly unlikely that all your exes are narcissists and sociopaths. Still, Fatima flung other popular, misused terms at me. She loved talking about “boundaries” and “red flags.” According to Dr. Morley, my ex “weaponized therapy speak.”   Dr. Morley writes, “It's not a new phenomenon for people to use therapy terms casually, even flippantly, to describe themselves or other people. How long have we referred to someone as a ‘psycho' when they're acting irrationally or being mean?” Although weaponized therapy speak isn't new, it's ubiquitous nowadays. Dr. Morley's book sounds the alarm that it's out of control and dangerous. Three types of people would benefit from Dr. Morley's book: People like Fatima: Does someone you know tend to denigrate people using therapy speak? Are they intelligent, rational, and open-minded like Fatima? If so, they must read this book to recalibrate how they use these powerful words. People like me: Are you (or someone you know) accused of being a psychopath, a gaslighter, or a person with OCD? Actual victims: The explosion of use of these powerful words has diluted their meaning. As a result, the real victims of narcissists and sociopaths are now belittled. Their true suffering is minimized when every other person has a sociopath in their life. Their grievances are severe. Let's not equate our relationship problems with their terror. I'll list some of my favorite chapter titles, which will give you a flavor of the book's message: Chapter 4: Are They Gaslighting You, or Do They Just Disagree? Chapter 5: Do They Have OCD, or Are They Just Particular? Chapter 6: Is It a Red Flag, or Are They Just Imperfect? Chapter 7: Are They a Narcissist, or Did They Just Hurt Your Feelings? Chapter 9: Are They a Sociopath, or Do They Just Like You Less Than you Like Them? Chapter 11: Did They Violate Your Boundaries, or Did They Just Not Know How You Felt? I will quote extensively to encourage everyone to buy Dr. Mosley's book. Most quotations are self-explanatory, but sometimes I will offer personal commentary. Excerpts The trend of weaponized therapy speak marks something very different. These days, clinical words are wielded, sincerely and self-righteously, to lay unilateral blame on one person in a relationship while excusing the other from any wrongdoing. ========== Many times, we use these words as protective measures to help us avoid abusive partners and reduce our risk of “wasting” time or emotional energy on family or friends who don't deserve it. But using these terms can also absolve people from taking responsibility for their actions in their relationships. They can say, “I had to do that because of my obsessive-compulsive disorder” or “We didn't work out because she's a narcissist,” instead of doing the hard work of seeing their part in the problem and addressing the issues behind it. As a couples therapist, I'm particularly concerned with how the enthusiastic but inaccurate embrace of clinical terminology has made it harder to sustain healthy romantic attachments. With Fatima, our relationship woes were always my fault because I crossed her “boundaries” and I was a “narcissist.” If I disagreed, I was “gaslighting” her. Or I was being “defensive” instead of apologizing. And when I apologized, I did so incorrectly because I offered excuses after saying I'm sorry (she was right about that). The point is that she used weaponized therapy speak to demonize me, alleviating herself from the burden of considering that perhaps she shared some of the responsibility for our woes. ========== Their friend doesn't agree with their warped view of an event or their disproportionate reaction? The friend is an empathy-lacking narcissist who is actively gaslighting them. ========== In one memorable session of mine, a client managed to accuse their partner of narcissism, gaslighting, love bombing, blaming the victim, lacking accountability, having no empathy, and being generally abusive, manipulative, and toxic . . . all within twenty minutes. Although Fatima and I went to couples therapy, I don't remember Dr. Mosley being our facilitator, but that sure sounds like Fatima! LOL! ========== I'm certified in emotionally focused couples therapy (EFCT), which is a type of couples therapy based on attachment theory. ========== For example, if you feel like a failure for letting your partner down, you might immediately minimize your partner's feelings and tell them they shouldn't react so strongly to such a small issue. (For anyone wondering, this isn't gaslighting.) That makes them feel unheard and unimportant, so they get even more upset, which makes you dismiss their reaction as dramatic, and round and round it goes. Welcome to my world with Fatima! ========== You could claim your partner is toxic and borderline because they're emotionally volatile and unforgiving. You could say their feelings are disproportionate to the problem, and their verbal assault is bordering on abusive. But your partner could say that you are a narcissist who is gaslighting them by refusing to acknowledge their feelings, showing no empathy for the distress your tardiness caused, and shifting the blame to them (just like a narcissist would!). You'd both be wrong, of course, but you can see how these conclusions could happen. ========== Weaponized therapy speak is our attempt to understand people and situations in our lives, yes, but it is also a strategy to avoid responsibility. It puts the blame solely on the other person and allows us to ignore our part. ========== However, the vast majority of partners and friends are not sociopaths, narcissists, or abusers. They're just flawed. They're insecure, demanding, controlling, emotional, or any number of adjectives, but these traits alone aren't pathological. ========== But doing such things now and then in our relational histories, or doing them often in just one relationship, doesn't mean we have a personality disorder. These diagnoses are reserved for people who exhibit a persistent pattern of maladaptive behaviors in most or all of their close relationships. ========== I wasn't an abusive partner. I was a messy newcomer to relationships, as we usually are in our teens and twenties, trying my best to navigate my feelings while following bad examples from television and making plenty of other blunders along the way. Stonewalling was immature and an unhelpful way of coping, but it wasn't abuse. ========== If we're looking for a partner who will always do the right thing, even in the hardest moments, we're only setting ourselves up for disappointment. As I mentioned before, really good people can behave really badly. ========== If we don't know the difference between abusive behavior and normal problematic behavior, we're at risk for either accepting abuse (thinking that it's just a hard time) or, alternatively, throwing away a perfectly good relationship because we can't accept any flaws or mistakes. Alas, Fatima threw away a perfectly good relationship. I was her second boyfriend. Her lack of experience made her underappreciate what we had. She'll figure it out with the next guy. ========== Disagreeing with someone, thinking your loved one is objectively wrong, arguing about what really happened and what was actually said, trying to find your way to the one and only “truth”—these are things that most people do. They are not helpful or effective, but they also are not gaslighting. ========== “What? I didn't say yes to seeing it, Cece. I said yes to finding houses we both liked and visiting them. Sometimes you just hear what you want to and then get mad at me when you realize it's not what I actually said,” Meg answers. “Stop gaslighting me! Don't tell me what happened. I remember exactly what you said! You told me yes to this open house and then changed your mind, and I'm upset about it. I'm allowed to be upset about it; don't invalidate my feelings!” Cece says, her frustration growing. Meg feels surprised and nervous. She didn't think she was gaslighting Cece, which is exactly what she says. “I didn't mean to gaslight you. I just remember this differently. I don't remember saying I would go to this open house, so that's why I don't understand why you're this upset.” “Yes, you are gaslighting me because you're trying to convince me that what I clearly remember happening didn't happen. But you can't gaslight me because I'm positive I'm right.” ========== Cece's accusation of gaslighting quickly shut down the conversation, labeling Meg as a terrible partner and allowing Cece to exit the conversation as the victor. ========== I find gaslighting to be one of the harder labels to deal with in my clinical work for three reasons: 1. Accusations of gaslighting are incredibly common. I hear accusations of gaslighting at least once a week, and yet it's only been accurate about five times in my entire clinical career. Boyfriend didn't agree with what time you were meeting for dinner? Gaslighting. Spouse said you didn't tell them to pick up milk on the way home, but you swear you did? Gaslighting. ========== You could say, “I want you to know that I really understand your perspective on this. I see things differently, but your experience is valid, and it makes sense. I'm not trying to convince you that you're wrong and I'm right, and I'm sorry if I came across that way.” WHAT IS VALIDATION? Validation is another word that suffers from frequent misuse. People demand validation, but what they're really asking for is agreement. And if someone doesn't agree, they call it toxic. Here's the thing, though: Validation is not the same as agreement. ========== You can disagree in your head but still validate how they feel: “Hey, you're not crazy. I see why you'd feel that way. It makes sense to me. I'd probably feel that way too if I were in your shoes, experiencing our interaction the way you did. I care about your feelings.” ========== “I bet it felt really awful to have me challenge your experience and make you feel like it wasn't right or valid.” I regret I learned this lesson too late with Fatima. I was too slow to validate her feelings. We learn something in every relationship. Ideally, our partner is patient with us as we stumble through the learning process, often repeating the same error until we form a new habit. However, Fatima ran out of patience with me. I couldn't change fast enough for her, even though I was eager to learn and dying to please her. By the time I began to learn about proper validation and apologies, she had given up on me. ========== My husband, Lucas, hates it when lids aren't properly put on jars. You know, when a lid is half on and still loose or haphazardly tightened and askew? I, on the other hand, could not care less. I am the only perpetrator of putting lids on wrong in our house. I barely screw on the top to the pickles, peanut butter, medications, water bottles, or food storage containers. I don't even realize that I do it because I care so little about it. This drives Lucas absolutely crazy. I love this example because it's what I would repeatedly tell Fatima: some habits are hard to break. Dr. Mosley knows her husband hates half-closed jars, but she struggles to comply with his wishes. We're imperfect creatures. ========== Is your partner always leaving a wet towel on the floor after showering? Red flag—they're irresponsible and will expect you to clean up after them. Is your friend bad at texting to let you know when they're behind schedule? Red flag—they're selfish, inconsiderate, and don't value your time. It's all too easy to weaponize this term in a relationship, in hopes that it will shame the other person into changing. ========== People aren't perfect. Individually, we're messy, and in relationships, we're much messier. We all make mistakes, sometimes repeatedly for our entire lives. Instead of labeling all unwanted behaviors as red flags and expecting change or running away altogether, try a new approach: Identify why those behaviors hurt you and share that with your loved one instead. ========== When confronted with the knowledge that we've hurt someone, many of us become defensive. We hate the idea of hurting the person we love and since we usually didn't intend to hurt them, we start explaining why our actions weren't that bad and why they shouldn't feel upset. It comes from a place of inadequacy, self-criticism, and remorse. If the other person responds like this but you can tell they care about your pain, this may be a good time to give them some grace in the form of empathy and time. Wait a few hours or even a few days, then try the conversation again. For every criticism I had about Fatima's behavior, she had 20 criticisms about my behavior. As a result, I had many more opportunities to fall into the trap of becoming defensive. It's so hard to resist. I'm still working on that front. ========== We all have a touch of narcissism, which can get bigger at certain points in life, ========== Conflicts are upsetting, and we've all developed ways of protecting ourselves, whether it's getting loud to be heard or emotionally withdrawing to prevent a panic attack. Underneath these less-than-ideal responses, though, we feel awful. We feel scared, insecure, inadequate, unimportant, and alone. We hate fighting with our loved ones, and we really hate that we've hurt them, especially unknowingly. We're not being defensive because we have a narcissistic belief in our own superiority; we're doing it because we're terrified that the person won't understand us and will see us negatively, so we need to show them our side and explain to them why we aren't to blame. ========== But whether it's an inflated ego, vanity, self-absorption, or just unusually healthy confidence, these traits do not make a narcissist. To have NPD, the person must also require external validation and admiration, and to be seen as superior to others. This is the difference between a big ego and grandiosity. Grandiosity goes several steps beyond confidence—it's a near-delusional sense of importance, where someone exaggerates their achievements and expects others to see them as superior. ========== Some people suck. They're immature, mean, selfish, and unremorseful. Some people don't respect other people in their lives. They lie and they cheat, and they don't care that it hurts others. But they can be all these things and still not be a narcissist. There's a lot of room for people to be awful without meeting the criteria for a personality disorder, and that's because (you guessed it!) people are flawed. Some people feel justified in behaving badly, while others just don't know any better yet. Our growth is messy and not linear. ========== The reality is that anyone who genuinely worries that they are a narcissist, probably isn't. That level of openness and willingness to self-reflect is not typical of a narcissist. Plus, narcissists don't tend to believe or care that they've hurt others, whereas my clients are deeply distressed by the possibility that they've unknowingly caused others pain. ========== As with gaslighting, I have rarely seen people accurately diagnose narcissism. To put it bluntly, I have never seen a client in a couples therapy session call their partner a narcissist and be right. In fact, the person misusing the label usually tends to be more narcissistic and have more therapy work to do than their partner. ========== person involved with a narcissist to accurately identify the disorder because people with NPD are great at making other people think they are the problem. It's an insidious process, and rarely do people realize what's happening until others point it out to them or the narcissist harshly devalues or leaves them. Now, you might be in a relationship with someone who has NPD, but instead of jumping to “narcissist!” it's helpful to use other adjectives and be more specific about your concerns. Saying that a certain behavior was selfish or that a person seems unremorseful is more exact than calling them a narcissist. ========== Love bombing can happen at any point in a relationship, but it's most often seen at the start. ========== Love bombing is also a typical follow-up to fights. ========== Humans are a complicated species. Despite our amazing cognitive capacities and our innate desire to be good (well, most of us anyway), we often cause harm. People act in ways that can damage their relationships, both intentionally and unknowingly, but that doesn't make them sociopaths. In fact, anyone in a close and meaningful relationship will end up hurting the other person and will also end up getting hurt at some point because close relationships inevitably involve a degree of pain, be it disappointment, sadness, anger, or frustration. Even when we're doing our best, we hurt each other. We can't equate normal missteps and hurt with sociopathy. ========== People love to call their exes sociopaths, just like they love calling them narcissists. Dr. Mosley focuses on the term sociopath because it's more popular nowadays than the term psychopath, but they both suffer from misuse and overuse, she says. If your partner (or you) use the term psychopath often, then in the following excerpts, replace the word “sociopath” with “psychopath.” ========== calling someone a sociopath is extreme. You're calling them out as a human who has an underdeveloped (or nonexistent) capacity to be a law-abiding, respectful, moral member of society. And in doing so, you're saying they were the entire problem in your relationship. Unless you were with a person who displayed a variety of extreme behaviors that qualify as ASPD, that conclusion isn't fair, accurate, or serving you. Again, you're missing out on the opportunity to reflect on your part in the problem, examine how you could have been more effective in the relationship, and identify how you can change for the better in your next relationship. If you label your ex a sociopath and call it a day, you're cutting yourself short. ========== Let the record show that I have never seen someone use the term sociopath correctly in their relationship. ========== some boundaries are universal and uncrossable, but the majority are personal preferences that need to be expressed and, at times, negotiated. Claiming a boundary violation is a quick and easy way to control someone's behavior, and that's why it's important to clarify what this phrase means and how to healthily navigate boundaries in a relationship. Fatima loved to remind me of and enforce her “boundaries.” It was a long list, so I inevitably crossed them, which led to drama. ========== There are some boundaries we all agree are important and should be uncrossable—I call these universal boundaries. Violating universal boundaries, especially when done repeatedly without remorse or regard for the impact it has on the other person, amounts to abuse. ========== The main [universal boundaries] are emotional, physical, sexual, and financial boundaries ========== Outside of these universal, uncrossable boundaries, there are also individual boundaries. Rather than applying to all people, these boundaries are specific to the person and defined by their own preferences and needs. As such, they are flexible, fluid over time, and full of nuance. If they are crossed, it can be uncomfortable, but it isn't necessarily abuse. ========== boundary is a line drawn to ensure safety and autonomy, whereas a preference is something that would make you feel happy but is not integral to your sense of relational security or independence. ========== While a well-adjusted person might start a dialogue about how to negotiate an individual boundary in a way that honors both partners' needs, an abusive person will never consider if their boundary can be shifted or why it might be damaging or significantly limiting to the other person. Instead, they will accuse, blame, and manipulate their partner as their way of keeping that person within their controlling limits. ========== The point is that as we go through life, our boundaries shift. As you can see, this is part of what makes it difficult for people to anticipate or assess boundary violations. If you expect and demand that the people close to you honor your specific boundaries on certain topics, but you're not telling them what the boundaries are or when and how they've changed, you're setting your loved ones up for failure. ========== And again, people unknowingly cross each other's individual boundaries all the time. It's simply inevitable. ========== It will create an unnecessary and unproductive rift. 3. We Mistake Preferences for Boundaries Boundaries protect our needs for safety and security. Preferences promote feelings of happiness, pleasure, or calm. When someone crosses a boundary, it compromises our physical or mental health. When someone disregards a preference, we may feel annoyed, but it doesn't pose a risk to our well-being. ========== You've Been Accused of Violating a Boundary If you're in a close relationship, chances are you're going to violate the other person's boundaries at some point. This is especially likely if the person has not told you what boundaries are important to them. However, you might also be unjustly accused of violating a boundary, perhaps a boundary you didn't know about or a preference masquerading as a boundary, and you'll need to know what to do. ========== I never thought of telling Fatima that she was “borderline.” It helps that I didn't know what the term meant. Dr. Mosley says that a person must have several of the “borderline” characteristics to have borderline personality disorder (BPD). Fatima only had one of them, so she did not have BPD. Here's the only BPD trait she exhibited: Stormy, intense, and chaotic relationships: Have relationships that tend to be characterized by extremes of idealization and devaluation in which the person with BPD idolizes someone one moment and then vilifies them the next. Because they struggle to see others in a consistent and nuanced way, their relationships go through tumultuous ups and downs, where they desire intense closeness one minute and then reject the person the next. Fatima promised me, “I will love you forever,” “I want to marry you,” “I will be with you until death,” “I'll never leave you,” and other similar extreme promises. Three days later, she would dump me and tell me she never wanted to get back together. Two days later, she apologized and wanted to reunite. Soon, she would be making her over-the-top romantic declarations again. She'd write them and say them repeatedly, not just while making love. Eventually, I'd fuck up again. Instead of collaborating to prevent further fuck ups, Fatima would simply break up with me with little to no discussion. This would naturally make me question her sincerity when she repeatedly made her I-will-be-with-you-forever promises. You might wonder why I was so fucking stupid to reunite with her after she did that a couple of times. Why did I always beg her to reconsider and reunite with me even after we repeated the pattern four times? (The fifth time she dumped me was the last time.) Humans are messy. I expect imperfection. I know my loved one will repeatedly do stupid shit because I sure will. So, I forgave her knee-jerk breakup reaction because I knew she didn't do it out of malice. She did it to protect herself. She was in pain. She thought that pulling the plug would halt the pain. That's reasonable but wrong. That doesn't matter. She's learning, I figured. I need to be patient. I was hopeful we'd break the pattern and learn how to deal with conflict maturely. We didn't. I'm confident she'll figure it out soon, just like I learned from my mistakes with her. ========== If I had to pick one word to describe people with BPD, it would be unstable. Fatima was unstable in a narrow situation: only with one person (me) and only when the shit hit the fan with me. Aside from that, she was highly stable. Hence, it would have been ludicrous if I accused her of having Borderline Personality Disorder. Luckily, I never knew the overused borderline term; even if I did, I wouldn't be tempted to use it on her. ========== Just as with red flags, we all exhibit some toxic behaviors at times. I don't know anyone who has lived a toxic-free existence. Sometimes we go through tough phases where our communication and coping skills are down, and we'll act more toxically than we might normally; this doesn't make us a toxic person. Indeed, many romantic relationships go through toxic episodes, if you will (should we make “toxic episode” a thing?), where people aren't communicating well, are escalating conflicts, and are generally behaving badly. We need to normalize a certain level of temporary or situational toxicity while also specifying what we mean by saying “toxic.” This is the only way we can determine whether the relationship needs help or needs ending. ========== trauma is itself a heavy, often misunderstood word. Its original meaning referenced what we now call “big T” trauma: life-threatening events such as going to war or surviving a car crash. Nowadays, we also talk about “little t” trauma: events that cause significant distress but aren't truly life-threatening, like being bullied in school or having an emotionally inconsistent parent. ========== Avoiding relationships with anyone who triggers hard feelings will mean a very lonely existence. ========== a trauma bond is the connection that survivors feel with their abuser. ========== A captured soldier who defends his captors? That person is, in fact, trauma bonded. ========== soldiers aren't trauma bonded after going to war together; they're socially bonded, albeit in an unusually deep way. A captured soldier who defends his captors? That person is, in fact, trauma bonded. ========== None of us get to have a happy relationship without hard times and hard work. It's normal and okay to sometimes struggle with the person you're close to or love. When the struggle happens, don't despair. Within the struggle are opportunities to invest in the relationship and grow, individually and together. ========== If you determine your relationship is in a tough spot but not abusive, now's the time for some hard relational work. A good cocktail for working on your relationship is specificity, vulnerability, and commitment. ========== Making a relationship work requires you and your loved ones to self-reflect, take responsibility, and change. This process won't just happen once; it's a constant cycle you'll go through repeatedly over the course of the relationship. You'll both need to look at yourselves, own what you've done wrong or could do better, and work to improve. Nobody is ever finished learning and growing, not individually and certainly not in a relationship. But that's what can be so great about being in a relationship: It's a never-ending opportunity to become a better person. And when you mess up (because trust me, you will), be kind to yourself. As I keep saying, humans are wonderfully imperfect. Even when we know what to do, sometimes we just don't or can't do it. ========== In this world of messy humans, how do you know who will be a good person for you to be with? My answer: Choose someone who wants to keep doing the work with you. There is no perfect person or partner for you, no magical human that won't ever hurt, irritate, enrage, or overwhelm you. Being in close relationships inevitably leads to big, scary feelings at times, so pick someone who wants to get through the dark times with you. Remember that when people are behaving badly in a desperate attempt to connect—not control—they'll be able to look at themselves, recognize the bad behavior, and change. Pick someone who has the willingness to self-reflect and grow, even if it's hard. Someone who will hang in there, even during your worst fights, and ultimately say, “Listen, this is awful, and I don't want to keep arguing like this, but I love you and I want to figure this out with you.” Wow. So well said. And this, in a paragraph, explains where Fatima and I failed. I dislike pointing fingers at my ex when explaining why we broke up. I made 90% of the mistakes in my relationship with Fatima, so I bear most of the responsibility. However, Fatima was the weaker one on one metric: having someone who wants to collaborate to make a beautiful relationship despite the hardships. The evident proof is that she dumped me five times, whereas I never dumped her or even threatened to dump her. I always wanted to use our problems as a chance to learn and improve. Fatima used them as an excuse to quit. She tried. She really did. However, she lacked the commitment Dr. Mosley discussed in that paragraph. Perhaps another man will inspire Fatima to find the strength and courage to bounce back and not throw in the towel. Or maybe she will mature and evolve to a point where she can be with someone less compatible than I was for her. She would often declare, “Francis, we're incompatible.” I'd say, “No, we are compatible; we have incompatibilities. Everyone has incompatibilities. We just need to work through them. If there is a willingness to collaborate, we can solve any incompatibility. The only couples who are truly incompatible are the ones where one or both individuals refuse to budge or learn. We can overcome countless incompatibilities as long as we both want to be together.” ========== We have wounds and scars and bad habits. We rely on ineffective but protective coping mechanisms. We push others away when we're hurt or scared. ========== Everyone behaves badly sometimes. But even then, odds are they're not gaslighting you. Conclusion I'll repeat: They're Not Gaslighting You: Ditch the Therapy Speak and Stop Hunting for Red Flags in Every Relationship is my favorite book in 2025! Buy it! Feedback Leave anonymous audio feedback at SpeakPipe More info You can post comments, ask questions, and sign up for my newsletter at http://wanderlearn.com. If you like this podcast, subscribe and share!  On social media, my username is always FTapon. Connect with me on: Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr My Patrons sponsored this show! Claim your monthly reward by becoming a patron at http://Patreon.com/FTapon Rewards start at just $2/month! Affiliate links Get 25% off when you sign up to Trusted Housesitters, a site that helps you find sitters or homes to sit in. Start your podcast with my company, Podbean, and get one month free! In the USA, I recommend trading crypto with Kraken.  Outside the USA, trade crypto with Binance and get 5% off your trading fees! For backpacking gear, buy from Gossamer Gear.

Judith Joseph: High Functioning Judith Joseph is a Columbia-trained psychiatrist and the founder of and chief investigator at Manhattan Behavioral Medicine, New York City's premier clinical research site. She's also a clinical assistant professor in child and adolescent psychiatry at NYU Langone Medical Center in Manhattan, and chairwoman of the Women in Medicine Board at Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She is the author of High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy*. When we think about successful leaders, we often admire those who are loving towards others, can tolerate painful times, and know how to delay gratification. Those are all such important traits – and when we overindex on them, can become counter-productive. In this conversation, (Judith and I explore) when it's no longer working and how to find the joy again. Key Points Many people who are experiencing high-functioning depression don't realize it. High-functioning depression is often triggering by trauma. That can can be major trauma, but it can also be more common forms of trauma like divorce, workplace conflict, legal issues, and many more. Anhedonia is one of the most common ways high-functioning depression reveals itself. It looks like not seeking out joyful activities and also not experiencing joy in activities that used to bring joy. Masochism is the other common way high-functioning depression shows up. It manifests as a pattern of self-defeating, people-pleasing behavior. The “superpowers” that come with high-functioning depression are viewed by others and society as strengths. However, over-indexing on being loving, tolerating pain, and delayed gratification are counter-productive over time. Validation is a starting point for healing. Each person is unique and sometimes it's helpful to begin with movies or other creative works that help you recognize yourself. Resources Mentioned High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy* by Judith Joseph Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes What to Do With Your Feelings, with Lori Gottlieb (episode 438) The Mindset Leaders Need to Address Burnout, with Christina Maslach (episode 608) Transcend Leadership Struggles Through Your Strengths, with Lisa Cummings (episode 692) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.

My friend and fellow professional organizer Missi McKown sent me a voice message with an idea on how to start this podcast.  " So this is a cautionary tale. Please do the opposite of everything we do unless you'd like to burnout and stress yourself out, and also start dropping balls left and right, including family, friends, and relationships that are important to you. Okay, let's dive into it!" We are talking about some things we do in our business--and the why behind it--but also how we're working on better ways to make sure we're servicing our organizing clients but also not losing ourselves in the process.  LINKS FOR LISTENERS: Get in touch with Melissa: www.proorganizerstudio.com or hello@proorganizerstudio.com Learn more about Missi and her business, Clear Spaces Organizing in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota: www.creatingclearspaces.com _____________________________________________________________________ Balancing Boundaries in the Professional Organizing Business   In this episode of the Pro Organizer Studio Podcast, host Melissa Klug, joined by her friend Missi, explores the challenges and solutions surrounding boundaries in the professional organizing industry.  They discuss the importance of setting boundaries with clients, recognizing burnout, and the personal experiences that influence their professional lives. The episode also covers topics like the Enneagram personality test, the significance of establishing values, and practical strategies for managing work-life balance as professional organizers.   01:52 How Not to Be Like Us: A Cautionary Tale 03:08 Enneagram 2 issues when Organizing 06:24 Client Boundaries and Burnout 13:06 Melissa's Hypocritical Moment 21:58 Balancing Flexibility and Boundaries 27:48 Personal Reflections on Boundaries 29:48 Childhood Influences and People-Pleasing Tendencies 30:29 Validation and Love Language 31:55 Setting Boundaries with Clients 34:24 Blurring the Lines in Professional Services 37:07 Recognizing and Managing Burnout 42:39 Balancing Work and Personal Life 50:08 Under-Promise and Over-Deliver 58:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Reconnection Club Members can use the player on our Podcast Player page to play episodes continuously. Follow us on Instagram.    *   *   * Many estranged adult children report feeling invalidated in their interactions with their parents. These feelings -- of being dismissed, misunderstood, or emotionally unseen -- often contribute to ongoing disconnection. But what exactly does invalidation sound like in everyday conversation? And how can parents begin to recognize these pitfalls, to make sure they're being as supportive as they want to be? In this compassionate and informative episode, host Tina Gilbertson begins a vital exploration of validation -- what it means, why it matters, and how it often plays a pivotal role in the dynamics between parents and adult children. The first of a four-part series, this episode focuses on three common types of invalidating responses. Tina breaks down each type with clarity and care, offering real-life examples to help listeners recognize them in context. Future episodes in this series will explore validation in greater depth, offering tools and insights to support parents on their journey through estrangement with empathy and clarity. For much more on relationships between parents and adult children, including what goes wrong and how parents can respond effectively, read Tina's book, Reconnecting With Your Estranged Adult Child. Reconnection Club members can discuss this and every episode in the General Discussion forum inside the Reconnection Club. Not a member yet? Learn more and join. EPISODE LINKS: How to Validate Someone Validation and Estrangement Words of Validation for Parents of No-Contact Adult Children Validation Workshop (Reconnection Club member login required)

s3e6: kristen and emon reveal the shocking reason why payton can't make it this episode, dissect the powerful effects of male validation and also describe moments that give them 2nd hand embarrassment. video available on apple podcasts ! check back every monday for a new episode :)follow 3 way on instagram: @3waypodfollow 3 way on tiktok: @3waypodapple podcasts: watch herespotify: listen herequestions/comments/concerns/advice? talk to us here: https://forms.gle/G7vqT8xMWAM42Qsw9

What if the very tools we rely on to detect breast cancer were putting us at risk? In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. John Klock, a visionary physician and medical imaging innovator, to expose the truth behind traditional screening methods and reveal a safer, more effective alternative: QT Ultrasound.Dr. Klock shares his incredible journey—from personal diagnosis to pioneering a breakthrough technology that's transforming breast imaging. Together, they unpack the challenges of disrupting an entrenched system, the common misconceptions around FDA clearance vs. approval, and the critical role of metabolic health in breast cancer risk.This episode is packed with life-changing insights about QT technology, the future of screening, and why informed decision-making is every woman's right. If you've ever questioned the safety or necessity of mammography, this conversation is a must-listen.Dr. John Klock is a physician, scientist, and the founder of QT Imaging. With a decades-long career in medical innovation, Dr. Klock is leading the charge to bring safer, radiation-free, high-resolution breast imaging to women across the world. His mission: to change the standard of care in breast health. In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why current imaging methods may be doing more harm than goodHow QT Ultrasound works—and why it's a game changerWhat it means that mammography was never formally FDA-clearedWhy metabolic health is at the center of breast cancer preventionWho qualifies for QT Imaging and how often you actually need to screen✨ This episode is an invitation to reclaim your health with confidence and clarity.If this episode resonated with you, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. And most importantly—share it with a woman you love. This information could change, or even save, her life.

Guess what!? The things that light you up are no mistake - that's life force moving through you! And your essence and passion for life are your greatest possible gifts to give.

If you're a mom of teens and you've ever found yourself feeling anxious, overthinking, or just wondering why doesn't anyone notice everything I do?—this episode is for you. In this next part of the Mindset Traps of the Empty Nest series, I'm talking about validation seeking—how it shows up, why it's so normal, and what it costs us when we don't see it clearly. This isn't about trying to let go of your kid—it's about letting go of the belief that their behavior defines your worth. If you've been stuck in self-doubt, resentment, or constantly waiting for a thank-you that never comes, I hope this episode brings you some peace—and a little more power. Curious about coaching with Small Jar? Check out our Mom 2.0 coaching program: www.thesmalljar.com/Mom-2-0 This empowering podcast offers life coaching and parenting support for midlife moms navigating empty nest transitions with their teenagers. The podcast teaches moms how to let go of control and stop overthinking while cultivating a healthier mindset, building better communication with their teenagers, and learning to set boundaries. Moms will also be able to reduce anxiety, feel empowered, and find purpose.

You're not crazy, clingy, or broken—you've just been conditioned to believe your worth is tied to someone else choosing you. In this episode of Hot and Unbothered, your host, Brianna Gomez, dives deep into the self-worth shift that changes everything. We'll unpack why we lose ourselves in situationships, how to break the cycle of obsessing over men, and what it really means to choose YOU—first and fully. You'll learn how to recognize when your attention is leaking, how to detach and how to turn your emotional energy inward—into self-respect, peace, and power. If you've ever felt like you're giving too much and losing yourself in the process, this is your reminder: you are the prize. And the glow-up begins the moment you stop chasing and start remembering who you are. Your worth was never up for debate. Your peace is not a negotiation. And your obsession belongs back on your healing, your habits, and your highest self.Remember to rate the pod 5 stars & leave a review to be featured in next week's episode! Subscribe to my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more!Join our Hot & Unbothered besties⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ groupchat to hold each other accountable! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here for my SUMMER PLAYLIST!⁠⁠Tune in to learn how to unlock your highest, hottest, & HAPPIEST self and truly GLOW UP from the inside and out.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop my sustainable made to order clothing line! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stream Hot & Unbothered on ANY PLATFORM.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LET'S BE FRIENDS ♡:Hot & Unbothered is now on TikTok!:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hotunbothered⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hot & Unbothered Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hotunbothered⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Keep up with me on Snapchat:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bbriannagomez  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop all my favorite things on my⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Storefront⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bri's Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bbriannagomez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Bri's TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bbriannagomez  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pinterest:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bbriannagomez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Spotify:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bbriannagomez⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop my Closet on Depop:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@xobbrianna ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠See you next Bri-day!xo, Bri

Want to be more attractive instantly? In this episode of Bandwidth, Dr. Gabe shares practical tips on how to be more attractive, from mastering the art of silence and body language to building confidence and personal growth.Need relationship advice? Text Dr. Gabe. Text bandwidth to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Bandwidth.Gabriel Powell MerchUse the code BAND10 for 10% off.WebsiteSupport the Bandwidth PodcastCash App $bandwidthpodcastConnect with Bandwidth Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Connect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | WebsiteIf you are interested in advertising on this podcast or having Dr. Gabe as a guest on your Podcast, Radio Show, or TV Show, reach out to info@gabrielpowell.co

Mysti is back! She shares a little about her trip along with chats on who gets places early or late. Also, are we looking for validation from the world or Jesus?

George Noory and psychologist Caroline Fleck explore her research into validation and influence in relationships, the struggles in feeling truly understood by others, and the importance of parents validating and celebrating their children to ensure future success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into a drama-free life with the latest episode of the DYL Podcast! In Episode 151, you will be challenged to cut the chaos and reclaim your power in how to stay out of the drama. Discover the hidden ways drama sneaks into your daily life—from subtle gossip at work to family triangulation—and learn Adam's three powerful keys to breaking free.Unlock insight into how drama holds you back from your goals, drains your energy, and distracts you from real growth. Adam shares actionable strategies that empower you to lead with confidence, set healthy boundaries, and build relationships rooted in self-respect. Whether you're tired of office drama, family conflicts, or internal turmoil, this episode offers practical tools to help you rise above the noise.Timestamps00:00 Overcoming Personal Drama04:35 Family Triangulation Dynamics09:14 Handling Unwarranted Accusations Calmly12:20 Embracing Criticism with Dignity15:13 Choose Your Battles Wisely17:12 Intuitive Decisions Over Cancel Culture20:43 Avoiding Drama in RelationshipsResourcesShatterproof Yourself Course3 Foolproof Ways To Motivate Your Team: 3 Areas to Focus on as a Leader7 Benefits of Being Courageous4 Ways You're Demotivating Your Team: And What You Can Do About Each One10 Ways to Encourage People: How to Break The Invalidation TendencyHow to Make Good Decisions: 14 Tools for Making Tough Life ChoicesReady to stop taking the bait and start living boldly? Listen now and transform how you handle conflict, protect your peace, and step into your best self. Make your legacy one of dignity, strength, and purpose—starting today!Subscribe to the DYL Podcast and join a community eager to leave drama behind and move toward lasting mental health and fulfillment.Get free content to start your legacy journeyDecide Your Legacy Corporate & Group WorkshopsThanks for listening, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review!Be sure to follow me on Instagram @adamgragg Connect with Decide Your Legacy! Adam Gragg is a Legacy Coach, Blogger, Podcaster, Speaker, & Mental Health Professional for nearly 25 years. Adam's life purpose is helping people & organizations find transformational clarity that propels them forward to face their biggest fears to LIVE & leave their chosen legacy. He's ultra-practical in his approach, convinced that engaging in self-reflective ACTION & practical tools, practiced consistently, WILL transform your life. He specializes in life transitions, career issues, and helping clients overcome anxiety, depression & trauma. Contact Adam HERE. If you're interested in getting started on deciding YOUR legacy.This show contains content, including information provided by guests, that is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to replace or substitute for any professional medical, counseling, therapeutic, financial, legal or other advice.  Decide Your Legacy LLC as well as its affiliates and subsidiaries (including their respective employees, agents, and representatives) make no representations or warranties concerning the content and expressly disclaim any and all liability concerning the content including any treatment or action taken by any person following the information offered or provided within or through this show. Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you! Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you!

SummaryIn this conversation, Maribel Lopez and Jeetu Patel discuss the transformative potential of AI in business, the challenges organizations face in adopting AI, and the importance of security in AI applications. They explore the need for visibility, validation, and guardrails in securing AI, the rise of specialized AI models, and the future of AI agents in automating workflows. Patel emphasizes Cisco's commitment to innovation and the urgency for companies to embrace AI to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape.TakeawaysAI is transforming business strategies across industries.CEOs are optimistic about AI but feel unprepared.Security practitioners face significant staffing shortages.AI can both complicate and simplify security challenges.Organizations must secure AI models and use AI for defense.Visibility, validation, and guardrails are essential for AI security.Specialized AI models can be more effective and cost-efficient.AI agents will enhance productivity and workflow automation.Cisco is innovating rapidly and operating like a startup.Companies must embrace AI to thrive in the future.Chapters00:00The Exciting Intersection of AI and Business02:47Challenges in AI Adoption and Security06:34Securing AI: Visibility, Validation, and Guardrails12:47The Rise of Specialized AI Models18:00The Future of AI Agents and Automation25:31Cisco's Transformation and Innovation31:10Embracing AI: A Call to ActionFollow us at: Jeetu Patel  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeetupatel/Maribel Lopez https://www.linkedin.com/in/maribellopez/

In this transformative episode of the Journal Party Podcast, we explore our relationship with approval seeking and the powerful practice of giving ourselves the validation we often seek from others. Host Alex Gallner guides listeners through five thought-provoking journal prompts designed to help identify patterns of external validation, reconnect with inner wisdom, and develop a stronger sense of self-approval.Many of us have been conditioned to look outside ourselves for validation, whether from social media, colleagues, family, or friends. This episode invites listeners to examine how this pattern might be showing up in their own lives and offers practical journaling exercises to shift toward a healthier relationship with self-approval.Through guided reflection, listeners will explore instances where they may have compromised their authentic desires to please others, identify areas where they're waiting for permission they can actually give themselves, practice self-encouragement, acknowledge personal achievements, and envision a life built on self-trust rather than external validation.The journaling prompts in this episode support personal growth by encouraging listeners to:- Recognize patterns of approval-seeking behavior- Practice giving themselves permission and validation- Cultivate a more supportive internal dialogue- Celebrate personal achievements without external recognition- Imagine and plan for a life guided by self-trustPerfect for anyone struggling with people-pleasing tendencies, difficulty making decisions, imposter syndrome, or those simply wanting to build a stronger relationship with themselves, this episode provides both insight and practical tools for moving toward greater authenticity and self-approval.Whether you're new to journaling or have an established practice, these prompts offer valuable reflection opportunities that can lead to meaningful personal breakthroughs about how you relate to yourself and others.Join us for this insightful journaling session and take the first steps toward breaking free from the need for external validation and embracing the power of self-approval. Get A FREE JOURNAL (Just cover s+h) Get The Journal Party App Join our Facebook Group Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel To Join Us For Journal Party LIVE

In this solo episode, I dive deep into a question I get asked all the time: “How do I stop seeking validation from others?” If you're stuck in a loop of people-pleasing, indecision, or fear of judgment — this one's for you. I expose the real reasons we crave approval, how it kills our confidence, delays success, and attracts toxic relationships. Plus, I share the hard truth about being misunderstood and why letting go of that fear will change your life. Watch until the end for the two mindset shifts that finally set me free.SHOP NEW CATAMANIA MERCH:https://mbhtv.com/collections/catamaniaSubscribe here: https://youtube.com/@catamaniashow?feature=sharedCATAMANIA SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/catamania/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@catamaniashow?utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=socialCRISTINA SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristinacataman/Follow MBHTV:https://www.instagram.com/mbhtv/AUDIO VersionsApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catamania/id1609694116?utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=socialSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/47s5K3sixX7PzqQUlk8SbZ?si=53017589d00f40a5&utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=social&nd=1&dlsi=ac5ab91cd41a416a

Will chased validation for years, until one moment made him realize he had to change.Level: Upper IntermediateAccent: CanadaGet More

Validation is something we all crave, but most of us look for it externally, through others' approval or recognition. In today's episode, Kris Krohn explores the true source of validation: yourself. He delves into the importance of feeling significant from within and explains how to stop seeking validation from the outside world. Learn how to cultivate internal confidence and worth, and stop waiting for others' validation to feel complete.

i hate the audio on this one, i'll do better next time duh:)In this honest and powerful episode of Mind bully Podcast, host Norense Odiase explores the hidden pressures of high-performance anxiety, perfectionism, and the constant need for validation. Discover why your achievements don't define you and how to break free from the chains of comparison and self-doubt.Norense openly shares his personal journey, reflecting on meaningful conversations with his family, especially around transitioning careers and pursuing uncertain dreams. He offers practical advice on how to communicate effectively with your support system, reclaim your self-worth, and embrace vulnerability in moments of growth and change.In this episode you'll learn:✅ Why constant validation leads to anxiety and exhaustion✅ How to stop identifying your worth with your achievements✅ Practical ways to communicate your goals and needs to loved ones✅ The importance of community and real connections in overcoming anxiety✅ Biblical insights to ground your identity and strengthen your faith during transitionsIf you've ever felt pressure to perform, fear making mistakes, or struggled with the belief that you're not good enough, this episode is for you. It's time to stop running scared and start standing confidently in your purpose.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brynn Snyder, the CEO and co-founder of Slate, as she shares her entrepreneurial journey in creating an innovative electric flosser designed to alleviate dental anxiety and promote oral health. Brynn's story begins in Alberta, Canada, where she learned the ropes of entrepreneurship from her parents, a foundation that proved invaluable when supporting her husband in his dental practice. Together, they recognized the potential of preventative dentistry, and the idea for Slate was born. Listen in as Brynn recounts the challenges and triumphs of launching a business, from the financial and time commitments to the essential feedback from dental professionals that validated their product. Brynn's narrative highlights the necessity of patience, perseverance, and the willingness to take calculated risks in the world of entrepreneurship. In this engaging episode, we explore the complexities of overseas manufacturing and the strategies required to succeed in a competitive market. Brynn shares her insights on overcoming hurdles such as tariffs and building trust with factories, as well as the importance of social proof in establishing credibility. Celebrating the success of being featured in major publications like Allure, Goop, and Men's Health, Brynn emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being, underscoring the positive impact of their product on customers' dental health. Additionally, we discuss the empowerment of women through nurturing meaningful relationships and the importance of supporting each other in celebrating financial successes. As Brynn continues to learn from mentors and grow her network, she expresses her desire to eventually mentor others, all while providing listeners with information on where to find Slate Flosser and connect with her on social platforms.   Connect with Brynn:Website: www.slateflosser.com Instagram: @slateflosser Let's keep the conversation going!Website: www.martaspirk.com Instagram: @martaspirk Facebook: Marta Spirk Want to be my next guest on The Empowered Woman Podcast?Apply here: www.martaspirk.com/podcastguest Watch my TEDx talk: http://bit.ly/martatedx  

Whether you find yourself checking who viewed your story every hour, feeling salty when someone else gets praised, or thriving off compliments, Dr. Gabe walks us through the subtle—and sometimes not-so-subtle—ways we all might seek a little more spotlight than we realize.Need relationship advice? Text Dr. Gabe. Text bandwidth to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Bandwidth.Gabriel Powell MerchUse the code BAND10 for 10% off.WebsiteSupport the Bandwidth PodcastCash App $bandwidthpodcastConnect with Bandwidth Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Connect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | WebsiteIf you are interested in advertising on this podcast or having Dr. Gabe as a guest on your Podcast, Radio Show, or TV Show, reach out to info@gabrielpowell.co

AI Doomsday by 2035? We unpack the terrifying plan (and a wild tax hack to get rich before it hitsWelcome to the Alfalfa Podcast

Dr. Caroline Fleck is a licensed clinical psychologist and executive coach, and the author of Validation, a powerful new book that teaches how to transform relationships and communication through the science of being seen, heard, and accepted.15 Daily Steps to Lose Weight and Prevent Disease PDF: https://bit.ly/46XTn8f - Get my FREE eBook now!Subscribe to The Genius Life on YouTube! - http://youtube.com/maxlugavereWatch my new documentary Little Empty Boxes - http://littleemptyboxes.comThis episode is proudly sponsored by:Experience the unparalleled flavor and health benefits of fresh, artisanal olive oils delivered right to your door with the Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil Club—your first bottle for just $1 at OLIVEOILGENIUS.com.BiOptimizers makes a magnesium mega-supplement containing 7 forms of magnesium. They also make great digestive support aids. Head to ⁠bioptimizers.com/genius⁠ and use code GENIUS10 for 10% off.Manukora makes delicious, creamy, glyphosate-free Manuka honey that's rich in MGO. Head to http://manukora.com/genius for $25 off a starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!

Today on The Casey Adams Show, I sit down with Kevin Smith — Co-Founder of Snipd, the AI-powered app that's redefining how we learn from podcasts. After walking away from a safe corporate job, Kevin found himself learning more from podcasts than anywhere else — but forgetting everything he heard. That pain point sparked the vision for Snipd: a tool that uses AI to help you capture insights in real time, revisit powerful moments, and build a lifelong knowledge base from the content you already consume.In this conversation, Kevin shares how his childhood shaped his entrepreneurial drive, why moving to Zurich changed everything, and what it really takes to build something that stands out in a world dominated by giants like Spotify and YouTube. We dive deep into the future of AI in media, why reflection matters more than passive consumption, and how to build a product that truly serves people.Try SnipdChapters:00:00 Introduction to Snipd and AI in Podcasting03:03 Building Snipd: The Product and Its Purpose05:51 From Corporate to Startup: Kevin's Leap into AI09:04 Childhood Influences and the Entrepreneurial Spark11:55 Why Moving to Zurich Changed Everything14:58 Competing in a Podcasting World Dominated by Giants17:48 How Video is Reshaping Podcast Discovery20:57 Building for a Specific Audience: Snipd's Core Focus29:42 Commitment, Validation, and Early Traction31:57 Taking the Leap: Quitting a Stable Job to Build Something New37:03 From Prototype to Product: Snipd's First Iteration46:18 What's Next for AI in Podcasting — and for Snipd

Could your deepest challenges hold the key to unlocking your ultimate purpose and securing the recognition you deserve? In this episode of Wickedly Smart Women, host Anjel B. Hartwell interviews Dana Cox, who has been bringing pieces together and providing level-headed, calm solutions her entire life. Imagine transforming unexpected career shifts into powerful springboards, leveraging decades of hard-won experience not just for personal growth, but to command your true market value and help others rise.  This isn't just about overcoming obstacles; it's about redefining success on your terms, understanding the profound importance of self-investment, and recognizing that the power you need to achieve your vision is already within you.  Prepare to be inspired by a journey from global executive to empowering coach, revealing that the best bet you can ever make is boldly choosing to invest in and champion yourself, leading to returns far richer than just financial gain. What You Will Learn: How an unexpected corporate exit can serve as a catalyst for pursuing a long-held aspiration. The importance of identifying and stepping into the parts of your corporate work you loved most. Encouragement for those facing unexpected career changes. Why betting on yourself is considered the best investment. If you expect others to invest in you, you must be willing to invest in yourself first. Understanding that entrepreneurs are also susceptible to burnout and how recognizing the signs early can help prevent a full tailspin. Why financial literacy is critically important to understand your financial situation, manage resources, and make informed decisions for entrepreneurial success. Dana's focus on women's empowerment and working with organizations to create thriving cultures. Validation that women are often underpaid in the marketplace and tend to undercharge as entrepreneurs. Connect with Dana Cox: Website Connect with Anjel B. Hartwell Wickedly Smart Women Wickedly Smart Women on X Wickedly Smart Women on Instagram Wickedly Smart Women Facebook Community Wickedly Smart Women Store on TeePublic Wickedly Smart Women: Trusting Intuition, Taking Action, Transforming Worlds by Anjel B. Hartwell Listener Line (540) 402-0043 Ext. 4343  Email listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com

This week's guest is Jim Fox (https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-s-fox/), SVP of Americas Supply Operations at AstraZeneca. Jim explains how digital manufacturing in pharma has evolved over his nearly 3 decades in the industry, from basic automation and data collection to advanced predictive modeling and integrated digital ecosystems—and why having humans in-the-loop continues to be critical despite these advancements in autonomy. He also shares his perspective on building trust in emerging technology, the continued importance of lean principles, and the tension between regulation and speed to market. Augmented Ops is a podcast for industrial leaders, citizen developers, shop floor operators, and anyone else that cares about what the future of frontline operations will look like across industries. This show is presented by Tulip (https://tulip.co/), the Frontline Operations Platform. You can find more from us at Tulip.co/podcast (https://tulip.co/podcast) or by following the show on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentedpod/). Special Guest: Jim Fox.

We exist in a neurochemical marketplace where external validation operates as both currency and drug—a psychological opioid creating temporary inflation of self-worth while depleting intrinsic value reserves.

Part 2 of our guidance on why interviewing must not only select the right candidate, but also build organizational trust through a fair, known, challenging, and respectful process.

In this special series of Fitness & Sushi, I'm sharing the live recordings from each day of the Ideal Body Challenge—designed to help you break free from diet culture and finally feel at home in your body. In Day 1 – “Scale, Weight & Self-Validation”, you'll learn…

You know that feeling when a social media post stops you in your tracks and resonates deeply? We've all been there. In fact, it happened to me this week!Join me as we unpack a powerful Instagram post from the insightful Charlotte Grimmel (@themindfriend) that exposes the ridiculous, unattainable "awards" so many high-achieving women find themselves striving for.Let's dissect these invisible accolades and the beliefs that fuel them, offering you a roadmap to liberation. Here's what we're diving into:

In this episode, Professor Rob Biernacki delves into his jiu-jitsu journey, highlighting memorable matches and the validation he has gained from his unique training methods. He recollects two pivotal matches that proved his capabilities: a victory against Todd Margolis at the Nogi Worlds, and a strategic win over Dave Porter at the ADCC Open in Vancouver. Additionally, Professor Rob discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and the struggle for legitimacy in the jiu-jitsu community. He praises influential figures such as Marcelo Garcia and Damian Maia, emphasizing their exceptional contributions to the art. Lastly, Rob touches upon the future of jiu-jitsu amid evolving training methodologies and the role of athleticism in the sport.   00:00 Introduction and Solo Hosting 00:39 Memorable Matches and Competition Experience 03:07 Facing Tough Opponents 14:13 Validation and Teaching Philosophy 21:15 The Validity of Coaches in Jiu-Jitsu 22:47 Evaluating the Quality of a Teacher 23:33 Influential Figures in Jiu-Jitsu 29:09 Genetics vs. Learned Skills in Jiu-Jitsu 32:58 The Role of Athleticism in Jiu-Jitsu 37:44 Innovations in Training and Coaching 40:01 How to Learn from Professor Rob

In this episode, a caller reflects on his estranged relationship with his father, whom he hasn't spoken to in eight years. He contemplates reaching out for closure regarding past neglect and emotional abuse but feels significant anxiety. Host Stefan encourages him to explore his feelings, emphasizing that biological ties don't guarantee emotional support. They discuss the futility of seeking validation from an abusive parent, with Stefan highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and moving on. The conversation leads the caller to consider processing his grief and anger rather than pursuing a potentially harmful reconnection, focusing on themes of acceptance and personal healing.GET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

After disposing of the Los Angeles Lakers in 5 games, it is fair to ask the question, can the Minnesota Timberwolves win it all? Phil Mackey and Kyle Theige discuss. Kyle also explains why he wasn't super excited when he woke up this morning after the Minnesota Timberwolves BIG game 5 win. HINT, he expected the Minnesota Timberwolves to win the series. Kyle has an interesting Chris Finch thought as the leader of these Timberwolves. The boys also give Rudy Gobert his flowers for willing the Minnesota Timberwolves to the game 5 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After disposing of the Los Angeles Lakers in 5 games, it is fair to ask the question, can the Minnesota Timberwolves win it all? Phil Mackey and Kyle Theige discuss. Kyle also explains why he wasn't super excited when he woke up this morning after the Minnesota Timberwolves BIG game 5 win. HINT, he expected the Minnesota Timberwolves to win the series. Kyle has an interesting Chris Finch thought as the leader of these Timberwolves. The boys also give Rudy Gobert his flowers for willing the Minnesota Timberwolves to the game 5 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode I talk about seeking validation from our friends and partners. Making our own decisions and being comfortable with the choices that we make. It is so easy to get caught up in how we think other people are viewing us or their perceptions of us. Making choices you are happy with unapologetically. I have a mothers day poetry show coming up in New York and have also included the ticket link.https://citywinery.com/new-york-city/ticket-selection?eventId=maui-the-writer-pfd9al

Are You Joyful… or Just Functioning? Most people don't realize it—but there's a silent struggle happening behind the smiles and the schedules. Today, I sit down with Dr. Judith Joseph, a Columbia-trained psychiatrist and author of High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy. We tackle something that I think is affecting more people than anyone talks about… high functioning depression. It's not in the "DSM"—but it's very real. And if you've ever felt like you're doing everything “right” but still feel empty inside, you need to hear this. We talked about a condition called anhedonia—this sneaky, silent twin of depression that robs you of joy without making you collapse. It's the part of depression that doesn't get seen or treated because you're still performing, still producing, still achieving. Dr. Judith broke down how traumas, even the little ones, can rewire the way we experience joy. And more importantly, she gave a way out. You don't have to crash to get help. You don't have to be broken to deserve healing. This episode isn't just about naming the problem. It's about owning your emotional truth, slowing down, and reclaiming the simple human experiences that actually fill you. Whether you're a high achiever constantly “doing” or someone who feels like joy is always out of reach, this one's for you. Judith's “5 V's” framework gives you real tools you can use every day—like planning your joy, validating your feelings, and choosing presence over performance. And let me tell you what stood out most. Joy is contagious! It spreads. To your kids, your spouse, your team. The more we access joy, the more we model it for those around us. This conversation hit home for me—and I think it will for you too. Key Takeaways: Why anhedonia is the overlooked symptom stealing your joy. The difference between happiness (an idea) and joy (an experience). The “5 V's” system to help reclaim joy: Validation, Venting, Values, Vitals, Vision. How trauma—big or small—can lead to high functioning depression. Tools to help yourself or someone you love who's silently struggling. The impact of hormonal changes on mental health, especially for women. A method to ground yourself daily and reduce anxiety: the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. Let's not wait for the crash to start healing. You deserve joy. You just forgot how to feel it. Max out.

Wil Wheaton (Star Trek, The Big Bang Theory) joins us again this week to follow up our first conversation about his trauma recovery, being a survivor of child abuse and isolation from his family. Wil talks about the experience of re-traumatizing himself to expose what still needs to be worked on while sharing the tactics he uses to prioritize his current well being by having convos with his past self. We also talk about the validation and support he receives from his Star Trek family, how he's shining a light on new talent with ‘It's Storytime,' and the idea of trying to feel normal. Thank you to our sponsors: