Vulnerability is one of the most essential practices for deep, genuine connection. So why does it feel almost impossible at times?

To answer that, we need to take a step back and ask ourselves, what is vulnerability, really? Why does it matter? And why does it so often feel unsafe? In this episode, we’ll explore the psychology and philosophy of vulnerability: how it shows up in the body, why it’s tied to shame, and what thinkers like Kierkegaard, Beauvoir, and Levinas can teach us about the paradox of exposure and connection.

We’ll also get practical: how do you strengthen your “vulnerability muscle” without collapsing into overwhelm? And what are the first steps toward cultivating openness in a way that actually deepens trust?

00:00 Intro
01:42 What is vulnerability
02:02 Psychologically, what does vulnerability entail?
03:30 How vulnerability shows up in the body
04:29 Why does vulnerability feel inaccessible at times?
05:07 The link to shame
05:56 The Philosophy of Vulnerability (Kierkegaard and Beauvoir)
06:57 The paradox of risk and possibility
07:57 Levinas and interdependence
09:16 To Earn Trust
10:45 Five steps to strengthen the vulnerability muscle
13:47 Closing

Find me on the internet:
Website: www.aubreyaust.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aubrey__aust/
Hint Of Trauma Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hintoftrauma/