Dr. Sunita Sah on her book Defy and mastering the skill of saying no.

Dr. Alissa Jerud on Emotion-Savvy Parenting, helping parents manage emotions and support kids.

Breakups as rites of passage: John Kim on healing, growth, and redefining relationship endings.

Dr. Phil Lane explores how narrative therapy helps reshape self-stories for healing and self-acceptance.

Journalist Emi Nietfeld critiques The Body Keeps the Score and shares true trauma healing insights

Explore how ACT and exposure therapy help reclaim life after trauma with Dr. Robyn Walser.

Casey Davidson shares her alcohol-free journey, busts myths, and inspires mindful sobriety choices.

Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson on why teens disengage at school and how you can help.

What’s a skill that can instantly improve your relationships, communication, and even your influence? In this episode, Yael talks with Caroline Fleck, a licensed psychologist and author of Validation, to unpack exactly that. Caroline explains what validation really is, how it’s different from empathy or sympathy, and why it can be so powerful in both personal and professional relationships.  They walk you through how validation first gained traction in therapy, especially in dialectical behavior therapy, and Caroline shares simple techniques like attending, copying, and proposing that anyone can use. You’ll get Caroline’s take on the challenge of validating someone when you strongly disagree, the role of self-disclosure in connection, and how our understanding of emotions has shifted from classic microexpressions to a more nuanced view of emotional experience. If you’re looking for practical ways to build better relationships and truly connect, this episode is full of insight. Listen and Learn:  What is validation? Why feeling truly seen and accepted is the key to deeper trust, love, and real connection in your life How invalidation can be toxic to your relationships and how empathy and validation actually heal them Can validation help you connect with someone even if you don’t agree or relate to their situation? How accepting someone else's view first can actually boost your influence and get you heard more often The simple act of repeating exact words in conflict helps fights cool down and allows real conversations to happen Why messing up shows you’re trying to truly understand, and how that keeps the connection real Why you don’t have to agree with someone’s whole view to validate it; just find the part that makes sense How to be open, but balanced, to create space for real connection and trust to grow Resources:  Validation: How the Skill Set That Revolutionized Psychology Will Transform Your Relationships, Increase Your Influence, and Change Your Life https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593541210 Visit Caroline’s website: https://drcarolinefleck.com/ Connect with Caroline on social media:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinefleck/ https://www.instagram.com/carolinefleckphd/ https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.CarolineFleck https://www.tiktok.com/@drcarolinefleck  Boogie Board Tablet on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/B551B3AA-1FD5-4BBA-AB25-58D0F67052FE?ingress=0&visitId=8be7808f-e257-437b-b72f-b8e79fd8fca9  Study on empathic effort versus accuracy How Emotions Are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett The Autistic Brain by Temple Grandin About Caroline Fleck:  Dr. Caroline Fleck is a licensed psychologist, writer, and corporate consultant who has served as a supervisor and consultant for some of the most rigorous training programs in the country, including Dr. Marsha Linehan’s program at the University of Washington, the Department of Psychiatry at Stanford Medical Center, and the VA Palo Alto. She is a respected voice in psychology and has been featured in national media outlets, including The New York Times, Good Morning America, and The Huffington Post. Her new book, which we’re here to discuss, is the first of its kind to make the specialized validation skills therapists master to get through to anyone available to everyone. Related Episodes: Episode 120: Use DBT Skills to Regulate Emotions and Be More Effective in Relationships with Matthew McKay Episode 241. Emotion Coaching Skills for Families with Mindy Solomon Episode 282. Toxic Positivity with Whitney Goodman Episode 397. The Mindful Path to Intimacy with James Cordova Episode 408. Connecting like a Hostage Negotiator with Gary Noesner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a world constantly demanding our attention and energy, have you ever felt trapped between the crucial need to care for yourself and the undeniable urge to care for those around you?  Well, for this conversation, Debbie gets into that very dilemma with Dr. Jordan Quaglia, as he challenges us to move beyond the 'either/or' of self-care and explore his revolutionary 'We Care' approach.  Jordan, who is the author of Self-Care to We Care: The New Science of Mindful Boundaries and Caring From an Undivided Heart, gives his take on the research on balancing self-care with caring for others and emphasizes the importance of holding both self-care and compassion for others simultaneously and offers practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries and integrating self-care into daily life. Come join Debbie and Jordan to redefine what it means to care! Listen and Learn:  Why balancing care for others and self-care isn’t an either-or and the hidden choices in between When self-care crosses into avoidance or indulgence, it may signal disconnection rather than renewal Finding balance when caring for others overrides your own needs In moments of tragedy, do you become the superhero or collapse from the hurt? The We Care framework to transform self-care and caring for others into one balanced practice in everyday life Transform overwhelming empathy into sustainable compassion that fuels your action and protects your well-being How care-based boundaries protect your energy while deepening connection, not guilt Balancing self-care and caring for the world work together to fuel your resilience and action Resources:  From Self-Care to We-Care: The New Science of Mindful Boundaries and Caring from an Undivided Heart: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781645473473 Jordan’s website: https://www.jordanquaglia.com/ Connect with Jordan on LinkedIn and Instagram:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanquaglia  https://www.instagram.com/mindfulboundaries/?hl=en About Jordan Quaglia Jordan Quaglia, PhD, has spent over a decade researching and teaching on topics such as mindfulness, compassion, and boundaries. He is an associate professor of psychology at Naropa University, where he directs the Cognitive and Affective Science Laboratory and is research director for its Center for the Advancement of Contemplative Education. A recognized expert in the science of compassion, he has been designated as a research fellow by the Mind & Life Institute, a Contemplative Social Justice Scholar for Contemplative Mind in Society, and a panelist for multiple United Nations Day of Vesak conferences. In addition to his research, Jordan co-developed and regularly teaches an eight-week compassion training curriculum for hundreds of individuals. He lives with his wife in Boulder, Colorado. Book: From Self-Care to We-Care: The New Science of Mindful Boundaries and Caring from an Undivided Heart Related episodes:  374. Developing and Deepening Connections with Adam Dorsay  360. The Laws of Connection with David Robson  262. Hope and Values in Dark Times 254. Cultivating Compassion for a Lasting Connection with Michaela Thomas 234. The Power of Us with Dominic Packer  201. Fierce Compassion with Kristin Nef 105. The Self-Care Prescription with Robyn Gobin 75. Mindful Self-Compassion with Christopher Germer 65. Self-care, Kindness, and Living Well with Kelly Wilson  46. Altruism and the Flow of Compassion with Yotam Heineberg 32. Social Connection: Exploring Loneliness and Building Intimacy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

True strength and success lie in how well we can come together and support one another and how well we can stand side by side to move forward as a collective.  That powerful message comes straight from our guest, Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, who is the author of No One Is Self-Made: Build Your Village to Flourish in Business and Life, and it perfectly sets the tone for this deeply honest and inspiring conversation with Jill. They talk about why we’re not meant to do life or business solo, the power of building your “village,” and how real success comes from community, not isolation. If you’ve ever wondered who you need in your corner, how to find your purpose, or how to stop carrying the weight alone, this one’s for you. Hit play on this conversation to find out what being “village made” really means and why it just might change the way you show up in the world. Listen and Learn:  Why the "self-made" myth is harmful and how being "village-made" redefines success How neuroscience proves we're wired for community and why it's vital for well-being Why being communal is especially critical for marginalized communities to overcome systemic barriers Are purpose and alignment the driving forces behind building a thriving community? "Life assignments" you can put into practice reveal your true purpose The six essential roles needed to build your "village" and how they contribute to collective success How to attract your "village" by showing up authentically and setting intentions in new spaces The crucial difference between individual and "village-made" values, and how they shape community Key "village-made" values like sharing space with those who shine and radical inclusivity When to keep grinding and when surrendering opens doors you never expected Channelling your anger into action and the "village verbs" that empower community building Resources:  Find Lakeysha and buy her book, No One is Self-Made, at https://drkeyhallmon.com/noism/ or get it at our POTC bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780063315891  Connect with Lakeysha on social media: http://www.linkedin.com/in/lakeysha-hallmon-ed-d-52680215a https://www.instagram.com/drkeyhallmon   Debbie’s article on asking for help: https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-ask-for-help-without-discomfort-or-apology About Lakeysha Hallmon Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon has transformed the lives of thousands of Black entrepreneurs across the world through her flagship brand The Village Market, and sister organizations The Village Retail, a storefront featuring premier Black-owned brands and nonprofit Our Village United, which revitalizes small businesses by providing funding and technical services. Her love of community, paired with her mantra, Support Is a Verb, inspires Black entrepreneurs everywhere and the communities who support them with intention. As an award-winning expert in education and business development, Hallmon’s innovative village model has become highly sought-after and has facilitated 8.3 million dollars in sales to Black businesses. Related Episodes 116. Building a Meaningful, Values-based Life with Jenna LeJeune 138. Exploring Existence and Purpose: Existentialism with Robyn Walser 234. The Power of Us with Dominic Packer 273. A More Just Future with Dolly Chugh 285. What Do You Want Out of Life? Values Fulfillment Theory with Valerie Tiberius 329. The Power of Curiosity with Scott Shigeoka 370. Freedom, Energy, and Power with Emma Seppälä 371. Uniting Toward a Better Future with Diana McLain Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s easy to forget how much doing something creative can lift your mood. Whether you're painting, building something, or just doodling for fun, creating is good for your brain and your mental health!  In this conversation, Debbie interviews bestselling author Kelly Corrigan, along with her daughter and coauthor, Claire Corrigan Lichty. They talk about their new children’s book, Marianne the Maker, which highlights how creativity and hands-on making can support well-being for kids and adults alike. Listen in to hear about Kelly and Claire's experience working together as a mother-and-daughter duo, and learn how to incorporate everyday creativity to lift spirits, spark connection, and bond families! Listen and Learn: How can engaging in small creative acts help restore mental clarity and emotional balance during times of stress or uncertainty? Why is creativity not just a luxury but a scientifically backed, essential part of human well-being that can help both children and adults access better mental health? Actively supporting children's creativity by observing their interests and making space at home that reflects and encourages those passions Why is it valuable for families to create a home environment that normalizes creativity and engaged leisure, and how does this foster long-term cognitive and emotional development in kids? The benefits of creative hobbies as a form of active rest highlight their role in reducing mental fatigue, enhancing focus, and providing a healthy escape from cognitive overload How writing, even in imperfect or irregular ways, can serve as a powerful tool for mental clarity and emotional release during stressful times The importance of unstructured time and creative making in fostering self-entertainment, well-being, and resisting cultural pressures to constantly be productive The importance of sharing creative work for values-driven reasons rather than external validation Resources: Kelly’s website: https://www.kellycorrigan.com/  Podcast: Kelly Corrigan Wonders: https://www.kellycorrigan.com/podcast Book: https://www.mariannethemaker.com/ https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593206096  Social Media:  Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellycorrigan/  Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellycorrigan/  Claire on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claire.lichty/ Kelly’s TED Talk, To Love Is to Be Brave: https://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_corrigan_to_love_is_to_be_brave  Kelly’s New York Times Op Eds:  https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/05/opinion/parenting-college-empty-nest-pandemic.html https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/13/well/family/advice-to-my-college-freshman.html https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/24/opinion/thanksgiving-family-forgiveness.html https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/22/well/family/college-applications-parents-children-advice.html Your Brain on Art (book mentioned in this interview):  https://bookshop.org/p/books/your-brain-on-art-how-the-arts-transform-us-susan-magsamen/18580097  If you want to write and could use some writing prompts and guided writing exercises, check out Debbie’s Guided Journaling Substack here: https://guidedjournaling.substack.com/  Debbie’s article on letting kids be bored: https://www.drdebbiesorensen.com/blogposts/2020/5/15/parents-get-ready-for-the-summer-of-boredom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Raising grounded, thoughtful kids in today’s chaotic world is no small task. In this episode, Emily talks with award-winning journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer about her new book, Hello, Cruel World: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times. Melinda shares practical, research-based tools to help parents guide their children through media influence, bias, and the challenges of social media and technology. It’s a powerful conversation filled with real-world strategies for raising compassionate, critical-thinking kids who can thrive, even when the world feels upside down. Listen and Learn: How can parents raise compassionate, resilient kids when the world feels increasingly chaotic and uncertain? Understanding how bias and polarization form in kids is key to raising thoughtful, inclusive humans Why kids develop biased thinking and how family conversations can counter social media's influence How listening to your kids can reduce extremism, build empathy, and shape a better future Ways to talk with your kid about bias and hate language, even if they don't open up easily The importance of getting your kids to team up with diverse friends on projects to help them see past biases Teaching kids media literacy helps them think critically Research often misrepresents social media harm, but parent-child bonds shape kids’ real tech experience Managing kids’ tech means by balancing connection, autonomy, and open talks, not just strict rules Melinda’s hope for parents embracing open talks and respect, shaping a stronger, kinder generation Resources: Hello Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593719367 Melinda’s website: https://www.melindawennermoyer.com/ Melinda’s Substack: https://melindawmoyer.substack.com/  Connect with Melinda on social media:  https://www.instagram.com/melindawmoyer/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/melindawennermoyer/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindawennermoyer  Emily’s Substack article about Netflix’s Adolescence: https://emilyedlynn.substack.com/p/the-two-problems-with-netflixs-adolescence?r=8nx18 About Melinda Wenner Moyer Melinda Wenner Moyer is an award-winning journalist whose work explores the intersection of science and everyday life. She’s known for her deep dives into subjects that have both scientific and societal implications, addressing issues that are relevant to parents, families, and the general public. Melinda is a contributing editor at Scientific American magazine and a regular contributor and former columnist at The New York Times. Her first book, How To Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes, was published in July 2021 and won a gold medal in the 2022 Living Now Book Awards. Her second book, Hello Cruel World!: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times, will be published on May 27, 2025. She lives in New York's Hudson Valley.  Related Episodes: 390. Raising Empowered Girls in a Sexist World with Jo-Ann Finkelstein 381. Reimagining Boyhood with Ruth Whippman 382. The Anxious Generation? The Conversation We Should Be Having About Kids, Technology, and Mental Health 377. How to Raise a Citizen with Lindsey Cormack 317. Growing Up in Public with Devorah Heitner 256. Social Justice Parenting with Traci Baxley 214. How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Jerks with Melinda Wenner Moyer 398. Finding Joy in Your Relationship with Money with Elizabeth Husserl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the ability to negotiate with a hostage-taker was also a skill that could improve relationships in everyday life? Gary Noesner, who is a former FBI chief negotiator and author of 'Stalling for Time,' which deep dives into his experiences and the lessons he's learned about human nature and effective communication over his 30-year career, joins Yael for this episode. You’ll hear how patience, empathy, and active listening aren't just crisis tools; they're essential for everyday connection too. Gary also reflects on the evolution of negotiation tactics, the significance of emotional control, and the value of building genuine relationships. Listen and Learn:  How active listening transformed hostage negotiation, from trading demands to truly hearing the pain beneath Why most hostage-takers aren’t criminals but people in crisis, and how listening changes everything How sitting with uncertainty and leading with empathy defuses crises more than force ever could Why slowing down negotiations and investing in human understanding can save lives in high-stakes crises Understanding even the most difficult people can defuse conflict and open the door to real influence The Waco Siege and how it exposed a clash of FBI strategies and what it taught us about negotiation, power, and restraint What strategies do elite negotiators use to maintain composure in high-pressure situations and handle their emotions without assuming undue responsibility? How humility, likability, and relationship-building can defuse conflict at home, work, or in crisis Resources:  Stalling for Time: My Life as an FBI Hostage Negotiator https://garynoesner.com/ Yael’s newsletter post about connecting like a hostage negotiator Kate Murphy’s book with a profile of Gary: Why Won’t You Listen to Me? Jamie Holmes’ book with a profile of Gary: Nonsense Connect with Gary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-noesner-1a2480b Connect with Gary on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Stalling-for-Time/148979708465038 Connect with Gary on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garynoesner/?hl=en About Gary Noesner:  Gary Noesner retired from the FBI in 2003 following a 30-year career as an investigator, instructor, and negotiator. A significant focus of his career was directed toward investigating Middle East hijackings in which American citizens were victimized. In addition, he was an FBI hostage negotiator for 23 years of his career, retiring as the Chief of the FBI’s Crisis Negotiation Unit, Critical Incident Response Group, the first person to hold that position. In that capacity, he was heavily involved in numerous crisis incidents covering prison riots, right-wing militia standoffs, religious zealot sieges, terrorist embassy takeovers, airplane hijackings, and over 120 overseas kidnapping cases involving American citizens. He has written a book about his FBI negotiation career, which was published by Penguin Random House in 2010, entitled Stalling for Time: My Life as an FBI Hostage Negotiator.    The book is being used in part as the basis for a six-part mini-series on Waco that will air on the Paramount Network on January 24, 2018. Related Episodes: 255. Influence is Your Superpower with Zoe Chance 276. Assertive Communication Skills with Randy Paterson 392. Outraged with Kurt Gray 403. Conflict Resilience with Bob Bordone and Joel Salinas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today’s episode is one you’re really going to want to lean into because Michael is talking all about radical listening with Robert V. Biswas-Diener. If you’ve ever felt like traditional ‘active listening’ just doesn’t cut it, this conversation is going to open your ears and your mind in a whole new way. They chat about key ideas from Robert and his coauthor Christian Van Nieuwerburgh's book, Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection, such as why traditional active listening often falls short and what it means to really show up for someone through listening with intention, how to adapt your listening style depending on the situation, how culture can shape communication, and why staying curious might be one of the most powerful tools in your toolbox. This conversation is for anyone who wants to have deeper, more meaningful conversations with friends, coworkers, or anyone you care about! Listen and Learn: Why does radical listening go beyond traditional active listening, and how does focusing on intention transform the way we pay attention in conversations? How does your listening intention, whether to validate, learn, or fix, shape what specific cues and details you focus on during a conversation? How can well-intentioned behaviors like comparing, competing, or offering advice become obstacles to effective listening and connection? The importance of aligning your listening intention with the speaker's intention to create a true connection in a conversation How you can use internal and external skills, like calming your mind or staying present, to become a better listener Noticing different types of silence to help you understand what's really happening in a conversation Understanding cultural differences, and letting go of the “awkward pause” to help you listen more openly How you can accept someone’s perspective without agreeing with it, and still create a more respectful and open conversation Why the way you ask questions matters, and why you want to ask ones that help the other person open up, not just satisfy your own curiosity How can interjecting, when done thoughtfully, show deep engagement in a conversation without being rude? Resources: Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781523007196 Robert's LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-biswas-diener-a860289/ Robert’s websites https://robertdiener.com/ and https://positiveacorn.com/  Christian’s website: https://coachonamotorcycle.com/ Parking Cars in America, 1910-1945: A History https://relationalriffs.substack.com/p/why-listening-is-a-superpower https://hiddenbrain.org/podcast/are-you-listening/ About Robert Biswas-Diener: Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener is a researcher, author, and consultant with 75 peer-reviewed academic articles, and he has over 27,000 citations.  His previous books include The Upside Of Your Dark Side (New York Times bestseller, 2014) and the 2007 prose award winner, Happiness.  He has presented keynotes to Lululemon, Deloitte, Humana, AARP, The World Bank, and others.  In 2024, Thinkers50 named Robert one of the “50 most influential executive coaches in the world”.  He lives in Portland, Oregon, enjoying drawing and rock climbing. Related Episodes: 393. Supercommunicators with Charles Duhigg 353. Ask Great Questions with Jeff Wetzler 360. The Laws of Connection with David Robson 191. Conversations that Connect with AJ Harbinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leadership so often comes with the pressure to appear strong, composed, and endlessly capable, but that version of leadership is no longer serving us. In this episode, Debbie sits down with Patricia Grabarek and Katina Sawyer, co-authors of Leading for Wellness, for a meaningful conversation about redefining leadership through the lens of wellness, authenticity, and vulnerability.  They share why it’s time to move beyond outdated ideals of stoicism and perfection and how embracing a more human-centered approach, through genuine connection, clear boundaries, and flexible team cultures, can lead to healthier, more productive workplaces. With real-life examples and research-backed insights, Patricia and Katina offer practical strategies leaders can use to show up more fully, support their teams more deeply, and lead with intention and care. Listen and Learn: How toxic workplaces don’t just harm employees, they drain communities, profits, and society as a whole How small acts of support from “generator” leaders can spark workplace wellness, even in hard times Can embracing authenticity over outdated leadership norms help teams connect, grow, and stay human? Why showing vulnerability and owning mistakes builds trust, safety, and real connection in leadership Building emotionally honest, flexible team cultures without slipping into toxic positivity How humane leaders bend rigid rules and protect their teams without crossing ethical lines The ways leaders break toxic overwork cycles and build teams that thrive without being always on Resources: Leading for Wellness: How to Create a Team Culture Where Everyone Thrives: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781394292011Connect with Patricia Grabarek and Katina Sawyer on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciagrabarek/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/katina-sawyer-ph-d/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/workrbeeing/  https://www.instagram.com/workrbeeing/ https://www.instagram.com/patriciagrabarek/ About Patricia Grabarek and Katina Sawyer: Patricia Grabarek and Katina Sawyer are co-founders of Workr Beeing, and coauthor of Leading for Wellness: How to Create a Team Culture Where Everyone Thrives. Patricia Grabarek, Ph.D., is a seasoned industrial and organizational psychologist specializing in workplace wellness, organizational culture, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development. With a background in both consulting and internal roles, Dr. Grabarek has led people analytics and talent management initiatives for more than 60 organizations across various industries. Her work focuses on research-based strategies to improve well-being, retention, performance, and diversity efforts. She holds a Ph.D. and MS in industrial/organizational psychology from Penn State and a B.A. in Psychology from UCLA. Katina Sawyer, Ph.D., is an industrial and organizational psychologist and an Associate Professor of Management and Organizations at the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management. A leading expert in work-life balance, leadership, positive workplace behaviors, and diversity, she has published more than 50 peer-reviewed studies, book chapters, and articles in outlets such as Harvard Business Review. She holds a B.A. in psychology from Villanova University and a dual Ph.D. and M.S. in industrial and organizational psychology and women’s studies from Penn State. Related episodes:  338. ACT for Burnout with Debbie!  265. The Power of Emotions at Work with Karla McLaren  299. Leadership and the Changing Workplace with Chris Shipley  378. The Happy High Achiever with Mary Anderson 357. Is Your Work Worth It? How to Think About Meaningful Work with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and Christopher Wong Michaelson 290. Shared Sisterhood: Collective Action for Racial and Gender Equity at Work with Tina Opie and Beth Livingston  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Constantly battling that harsh inner voice that tells you you're not enough, that you’ll never measure up? It can feel like this voice is always lurking, trying to undermine your confidence and making it so much harder to move forward. The good news is that you can change your internal narrative. For this episode, Jill welcomes Shawn Costello Woolley and Holly Yates, coauthors of The Inner Critic Workbook, a fantastic resource that helps you transform your inner critic into a supportive, empowering voice. You’ll understand how shame fuels negative self-talk, but more importantly, how self-compassion, mindfulness, and connecting with shared humanity can help you to quiet your critic and start building a kinder, more confident inner dialogue. Listen and Learn: How your inner critic often sabotages your path toward what matters to you most Why your inner critic exists, how it hijacks your progress, and the ways it holds you back in life Is your inner critic pushing you to avoid discomfort, keeping you from the meaningful things you crave? Why self-compassion isn’t about letting yourself off the hook Why attempting to replace your inner critic with positivity frequently fails, and what works instead When your inner critic speaks, does it close doors or point you in the direction of values you care about? Using the CARE method for growth to turn your inner critic into a compassionate coach How shame isolates you, but sharing struggles helps you connect and turns our inner critic into a coach Transforming self-criticism into compassion by speaking to yourself the way you would to a friend Stepping back from your thoughts and reacting intentionally, not just based on emotional interpretations How observing your thoughts and actions in the present moment can help clarify your values and guide your choices Resources: The Inner Critic Workbook: Self-Compassion and Mindfulness Skills to Reduce Feelings of Shame, Build Self-Worth, and Improve Your Life and Relationships: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781648484292 Shawn’s website: https://www.drshawnwhooley.com/ More about Holly on: https://www.newharbinger.com/author/holly-yates/ Connect with Shawn and Holly on social media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-yates-8a8055321 https://www.instagram.com/holly.yates.healing/ https://www.instagram.com/shawncostello19/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-costello-whooley-psyd-b181294 Related Episodes: 385. Oliver Burkeman on Embracing Your Limitations 346. Self-compassion Daily Journal with Diana Hill 341. Self-Forgiveness with Grant Dewar 301. Seven Daily ACT Practices for Living Fully with Diana Hill and Debbie Sorensen 201. Fierce Compassion with Kristin Neff 147. Extending Compassion with Janina Scarlet and Sara Schairer 145. Caring, Compassion, and Cooperation with Paul Gilbert 75. Mindful Self-Compassion with Christopher Germer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You’ve tried reasoning with your kids, setting boundaries, and even taking away privileges, but the conflict just keeps bubbling up. When nothing seems to calm the chaos, where can you turn as a parent who’s simply worn out and craving peace in your home? For this conversation, Emily brings in guest Dr. Jonathan Caspi, an internationally recognized sibling expert and professor at Montclair State University. Jonathan offers insights from his book, Raising Loving Siblings, on the parental role in sibling conflict, the importance of sibling closeness, and strategies to manage and improve sibling relationships.  Tune in if you are interested in learning about parental involvement and guidance for cultivating positive sibling relationships and reducing conflict.  Listen and Learn:  Why well-meaning parents may unknowingly fuel sibling rivalry and what to do differently instead Does parental conflict fuel sibling rivalry?  Why recognizing harmful sibling behavior matters How sibling bullying hides in plain sight through avoidance, fear, and subtle signs parents often miss Why everyday sibling spats are normal, but constant conflict may signal deeper family dynamics at play Can frequent sibling fights sabotage lifelong bonds? Why perceived favoritism can fuel sibling conflict, why avoiding favoritism talk may actually hurt family dynamics, and how to handle it better How to manage sibling bickering and aggression with strategies that foster better behavior and connection How validating kids' emotions and avoiding the 'victim vs. aggressor' mindset can help resolve sibling conflicts How parents' own childhood experiences can shape their approach to sibling relationships Resources: ● Jonathan's book Raising Loving Siblings: How to Stop the Fighting and Help Your Kids Connect  ● Jonathan’s websites:  https://siblingexpert.com/author/caspij/ http://www.theeasyfamily.com/  ● Connect with Jonathan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siblingexpert/  About Jonathan CaspiJonathan Caspi, PhD, MSW, is Professor of Family Science and Human Development at Montclair State University in New Jersey. Dr. Caspi is an internationally recognized sibling expert. In addition to researching, writing, and teaching about families and siblings, he has been a family therapist for over 30 years and has a private practice in New Jersey. Related Episodes: 397. The Mindful Path to Intimacy with James Cordova 386. Parents Are Stressed: What Do We Do About It? With Emily, Debbie, and Yael 373. How to Stop Freaking Out with Carla Naumburg 369. Good News About Adolescence with Ellen Galinsky 241. Emotion Coaching Skills for Families with Mindy Solomon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if your next disagreement could actually bring you closer to someone instead of driving you apart? In this episode, we’re diving into Conflict Resilience: Negotiating Disagreement Without Giving Up or Giving In with co-authors Bob Bordone, a conflict resolution expert from Harvard, and Joe Salinas, a behavioral neurologist and founder of Isaac Health. Together with Yael, they have a down-to-earth conversation about what it really takes to stay present in conflict and why that matters for your relationships and your brain.  You’ll hear personal stories, surprising research, and powerful insights on why it’s so important to get comfortable with discomfort, listen with an open heart, and know when (and how) to engage in tough conversations.Listen and Learn:  What happens when a conflict avoider and a conflict expert team up to explore how tension builds connection? Why do two people experience the same conflict so differently, and how does your brain shape that story? Is conflict really worse today, or have we just lost the resilience to stay in the heat and handle it? Why avoiding conflict rewires your brain to fear it and building resilience means facing the heat, slowly. How sharing real stories across deep divides can reshape how we see “the other” and actually spark true change. Can deeper listening to those we disagree with reshape our brains, our beliefs, and maybe even our world? Why listening grows from curiosity to open space for real connection Knowing when to engage or exit conflict starts with curiosity and protects both peace and power Resources:  Conflict Resilience: Negotiating Disagreement Without Giving Up or Giving In: http://www.conflictresiliencebook.com Joel’s website: https://joelsalinasmd.com/ Bob’s website: https://www.bobbordone.com/about-me#:~:text=My%20Story,served%20as%20the%20Thaddeus%20R Yael’s newsletter interview with the authors of You’re Not as Crazy as I Thought (But You’re Still Wrong)—on the topic of moving from “me versus you” to “us versus the problem” Additional Books Referenced in the Episode  Doppelganger: A Trip into the Mirror World: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781250338143  The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed Our Minds: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780393354775 Rising Out of Hatred: The Awakening of a Former White Nationalist: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780525434955 The Klansman's Son: My Journey from White Nationalism to Antiracism: A Memoir: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781419764783 You're Not as Crazy as I Thought (But You're Still Wrong): https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781612344614 About Bob Bordone: Robert C. Bordone is a Senior Fellow at Harvard Law School, founder and former director of the Harvard Negotiation and Mediation Clinical Program, former Thaddeus R. Beal Clinical Professor of Law at Harvard Law School, and founder of The Cambridge Negotiation Institute. He is co-author of Designing Systems and Processes for Managing Disputes, and co-editor of The Handbook of Dispute Resolution. Bordone was ranked among 2025’s World’s Top 30 Negotiation Professionals by Global Gurus. About Joel Salinas: Joel Salinas, M.D. is a behavioral neurologist, scientist, and Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, founder and Chief Medical Officer at Isaac Health, and former Harvard Medical School faculty. He is the author of Mirror Touch: A Memoir of Synesthesia and the Secret Life of the Brain.   Related Episodes: 51. The Psychology of Political Division with Yael and Debbie 392. Outraged with Kurt Gray 397. The Mindful Path to Intimacy with James Còrdova 276. Assertive Communication Skills with Randy Paterson 371. Uniting Toward a Better Future with Diana McLain Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Breaking the cycle of addiction is both possible and challenging, but even just rethinking your relationship with it can be a powerful first step toward change. Offering an alternative to strict abstinence models is Kristin Dempsey, the author of The Harm Reduction Workbook for Addiction, who invites you to reconsider your approach to addiction, offering a tangible, compassionate, and science-backed method of recovery known as harm reduction.  Through reflective listening, motivational interviewing, curiosity, and "change talk," Kristin talks to Michael about just a few of these helpful strategies for reassessing your relationship with addictive substances (and even other areas of your life) and navigating change in a way that feels both supportive and sustainable.  Listen and Learn:  How harm reduction and motivational interviewing reshape substance use treatment with compassion What changes when someone explores behavior on their own with a workbook versus in live conversation? How can Kristin’s workbook also reveal insights about everyday habits and hidden patterns? Why do we resist advice, even when we ask for it, and how can choice unlock real change? How “change talk” in motivational interviewing helps people move from intention to action Using reflective listening to improve your conversations and build stronger, more meaningful connections Can curiosity, not problem-solving, unlock deeper conversations and personal growth? Why you should support someone struggling with substance use by building a relationship first, not by jumping to advice Resources:  The Harm Reduction Workbook for Addiction: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781648481901  Kristen’s social media links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-dempsey-ed-d-lpcc-lmft-322812a Bluesky: ‪@kristind-lmft-lpcc.bsky.social‬ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057356474362.  For more on Kristen’s webinars and podcasts, in addition to information about her practice, see here: https://www.kristindempseycounseling.com/ Order The Harm Reduction Workbook and find free worksheets: https://www.newharbinger.com/9781648481901/the-harm-reduction-workbook-for-addiction/ Yael’s newsletter on listening About Kristin DempseyKristin L. Dempsey, EdD, LMFT, LPCC, is a psychotherapist, counselor educator, and trainer. For thirty years, she has supported individuals with exploring their own relationships to substances. She is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) and has been privileged to provide motivational interviewing (MI) training to thousands of people in behavioral health, primary care, public health, school, corrections, and human services organizations. Related Episodes 66. Helping People Change Using Motivational Interviewing With Nadine Mastroleo 286. Not Drinking Tonight with Amanda White 101. The Complete Family Guide to Addiction with Thomas Harrison and Hillary Connery 202. The Addiction Inoculation with Jess Lahey 135. Power of Empathy and Motivational Interviewing with Stephen Rollnick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.