back from the borderline – Détails, épisodes et analyse

We’ve all had moments that totally flipped our idea of reality on its head. Maybe it was an image from a dream that stayed with you for weeks, a phrase that popped into your head out of nowhere that led you somewhere unexpected, or maybe a pattern of synchronicities that couldn’t have just been coincidences. Like all of us, you’ve probably tried to explain them away or forced yourself to believe they were meaningless in order to stay aligned with what society told you “reality” was meant to be. But a small part of you knows that those moments were real - and they matter. 

This episode is meant to help you remember how to take those moments seriously. Through this audio journey together, we’ll step outside the narrow version of reality we’ve been trained to accept and ask what it might mean to re-enter a world that is communicative, intelligent, and alive. I share the story of a plasma orb I witnessed in the presence of Chris Bledsoe, which was an experience that shifted how I understand consciousness and reality itself. We’ll explore how plasma, which makes up nearly all of the observable universe, might function not just as matter, but as a medium for awareness. We’ll also dive into a discussion around ancient cultures, like the Dogon people, who somehow knew about invisible celestial bodies long before modern instruments could detect them, and we ask what it means that knowledge can be accessed in ways we’ve forgotten how to recognize.

Let this episode be an invitation to play closer attention to the data of your own life. Your dreams, the symbols that appear in your life, the timing, and all the things that pull at your intuition. It’s also a reflection on why so many of us feel spiritually staved, chronically empty and disconnected in a world that has stripped reality of its relational depth. When you begin to see the universe not as a closed, mechanical system, but as an open field that responds, listens, and reflects, something shifts inside of you. And not just in how you think, but in how you live. If you’ve been waiting for a kind of confirmation that doesn’t come from institutions or experts, but from the deeper rhythm of your own experience, this episode is a map back to that source.

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If you were to believe the dominant frameworks of modern psychology, psychiatry, and popular self-help, you might assume that personality is a fixed structure. An inherited configuration of traits, disorders, or diagnoses that define who you are and what you are capable of becoming. In this episode, we trace the deeper story of how that idea came to take root.

Long before the invention of the DSM or the rise of diagnostic labels, ancient and esoteric systems treated personality as dynamic and initiatory. Drawing from humoral theory, Vedic philosophy, planetary archetypes, and role-based development models like maiden–mother–crone or fool–sage, we explore a time when who you were was seen as raw material for conscious evolution instead of a permanent identity to manage or medicate.

From there, we move through the historical shift: how empirical psychology, industrial systems, and the psychiatric institution turned personality into a category to be measured, labeled, and controlled. You’ll learn how traits became disorders, how archetypes gave way to acronyms, and how modern AI systems are now using these same fixed models to classify emotional risk in everything from employment to healthcare.

At the heart of this conversation is the HEXACO model of personality, and in particular, what’s known as the “H factor” (honesty and humility) as a powerful ethical mirror. We explore the characteristics of “high H”, the covert and overt expressions of “low H”, and how trauma, survival mechanisms, and cultural conditioning can pull us toward manipulative, entitled, or exploitative patterns without our conscious awareness.

Instead of being used to armchair diagnose others as “low H” or toxic, this episode is meant to serve as a call to personal responsibility and psychological maturity. You’ll be invited to examine your own tendencies with clarity and compassion, and to ask whether the person you’ve become is the person you’re choosing to be. Personality is not a prison, and the story you tell about who you are doesn’t have to be the one you live out forever.

If you’ve ever felt trapped by your patterns, your diagnosis, or your past, this episode will offer you a map for true inner  transformation.

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What happens when no one teaches you how to feel safe with other people? When no one shows you how to speak your needs, regulate your emotions, or come back together after a rupture? This episode introduces a phrase you may have never heard before, but once you hear it, it won’t leave you: emotional feralness.

If you grew up with emotionally immature parents, absent caregivers, or constant disconnection, your body may have learned to adapt in ways that protected you back then but isolate you now. You may find closeness uncomfortable. You may shut down when things get real. You may scan for danger in relationships that are trying to love you. You’re not broken. You’ve just never been shown another way. We’ll explore the emotional orphan archetype, why so many of us were raised without repair, how emotional neglect gets passed from one generation to the next, and what it takes to interrupt that pattern without becoming emotionally cut off from the world around us.

What You’ll Learn:

• What emotional feralness actually is (and how to recognize it in yourself)
• The long-term effects of childhood emotional neglect and emotionally immature parenting
• Why so many of us avoid conflict and mistake self-protection for empowerment
• How to practice meaningful repair in relationships when rupture is inevitable
• How emotional rewilding can help you reconnect with the parts of yourself that had to shut down to survive
• What it means to parent forward without a map (and how to avoid passing on what you never received) 
• Why empathy without boundaries keeps you stuck in cycles of hurt
• How to recognize emotional feralness in others without absorbing their chaos
• How to move from orphan to initiate (without pretending the pain didn’t happen)
• 
  

This isn’t therapy-speak or spiritual bypass. This is raw, practical, and grounded work for people who want to understand the shape of their inner world and to reshape it with intention.

Unlock my FULL ARCHIVE of members-only content + Patreon exclusives:

PATHWORK → Weekly self-inquiry prompts to turn insight into transformation.

THE CONSCIOUSNESS STREAM → Raw, unfiltered deep dives.

THE DEEP CUT → Structured breakdowns of esoteric + psychological themes.

BONUS EPISODES + RESOURCES → Hundreds of hours of hidden gems.

Start exploring right now for FREE and see everything waiting for you at backfromtheborderline.com.

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In this hard-hitting episode, I sit down with Dr. Roger McFillin, a board-certified clinical psychologist, executive director of the Center for Integrated Behavioral Health, and host of the globally popular "Radically Genuine" podcast. Known for his fearless critique of the mainstream mental health system, Dr. McFillin exposes the detrimental consequences of psychiatric diagnoses and drugs, advocating for a deeper understanding of human suffering.

Dr. McFillin shares his journey from a disillusioned practitioner of evidence-based treatments to a vocal critic of the American mental health system. We discuss his "red-pill moment" while working in an in-patient child psychiatric unit, where he witnessed the heartbreaking reality of children being restrained and drugged. This pivotal experience led him to question the efficacy and ethics of psychiatric interventions and to explore the profound impact of the placebo effect in psychiatric drug studies.

In our conversation, Dr. McFillin highlights the hypocritical nature of psychiatric drugs being labeled as "medicine" when prescribed, yet still considered "drugs" when obtained elsewhere. He argues for the importance of finding the "story behind our suffering" rather than merely labeling and pathologizing it. Dr. McFillin also critiques the current mental health system, describing it as the "fast food of health care," prioritizing quick fixes over addressing the systemic issues underlying the mental health crisis.

We delve into his views on antidepressants, which he describes as potentially "one of the most lucrative scams in history." Dr. McFillin explains how our culture has "lost its language for suffering," and how focusing excessively on mental health can paradoxically harm our well-being. He emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in understanding and addressing psychological distress.

Join me as Dr. McFillin shares his provocative insights and well-researched perspectives, challenging the status quo and advocating for a more compassionate, story-driven approach to mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning the mainstream narrative on mental health and seeking deeper, more humane approaches to understanding and alleviating human suffering.

✧ Click here to listen to + follow Roger’s podcast Radically Genuine

✧ Click here to learn more about (or join) the Conscious Clinician Collective

✧ Click here to watch the video that was originally banned on YouTube mentioned in our discussion

CONTACT ME + UNLOCK PREMIUM: To join the Premium Submarines on Patreon (unlocking full + ad-free episodes), check out my sponsors and book recommendations, or contact me directly, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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What if everything we think we know about depression is wrong? What if the very framework we've built around the concept of depression has been shaped, not by the inherent nature of the experience, but by changing cultural narratives and evolving medical perspectives?

In today's episode, we’ll trace depression’s origins back to ancient times, where it was known as melancholia—a term that encompassed a broader and perhaps more human understanding of the experience. Unlike the clinical, often pathologizing perspective we hold today, melancholia was viewed as a natural response to life's inevitable sorrows and hardships.

Fast forward to the modern era, and we see a shift—one that frames depression as a medical condition, a disorder to be treated and cured. This transformation didn't just happen overnight. It was the result of centuries of evolving thought, influenced by cultural changes, medical advancements, and societal expectations. As we navigate through this historical tapestry, we'll uncover how these shifts have impacted the way we experience and talk about depression today.

You'll learn about the ancient notion of melancholia, how it was perceived by thinkers like Freud and the ancient Greeks, and how modern psychiatry has redefined it. We'll discuss the implications of viewing depression as a disorder versus a natural human experience and explore how language and culture shape our understanding of mental health.

But more importantly, we’ll reflect on what these insights mean for us today. Are we, perhaps, pathologizing what might be a normal aspect of the human condition? Could our modern approach to depression be limiting our understanding and empathy towards those who suffer from it?

By the end of our journey today, you’ll have gained a new perspective on depression and melancholia. Perhaps you will see these experiences not just as conditions to be treated but as essential parts of what it means to be human. So settle in and prepare to uncover the rich history and evolving narrative of these deeply human experiences, and consider how we can move forward with a more compassionate and nuanced understanding of psychological suffering.

UNLOCK THE FULL EPISODE: visit https://www.patreon.com/backfromtheborderline to join the community on Patreon. From here, you'll be able to access all full-length (and ad free!) episodes of BFTB, opening up hundreds of hours of additional bonus content.

CONTACT ME CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To read my Substack articles, access my Amazon book recommendation list, or contact me for collaborations, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

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In this episode, I sit down with Elisabeth Kristof, an expert in nervous system health and trauma resolution, the founder of Brain-Based Wellness and a co-host of the Trauma Rewired podcast. Elisabeth shares her journey of discovering neurosomatic intelligence, a path sparked by her own experiences with childhood sexual abuse, self-sabotaging behaviors, and toxic relationships. When her life fell apart, she found healing through understanding the brain-body connection and applied neurology.

Before her healing journey, Elisabeth felt she was "flailing through life," constantly in reaction mode, always sensing an internal lack of safety. She describes feeling like she was "running from something all the time," as if life was chasing her. Despite years of cognitive therapy, self-help books, and understanding the psychology behind her suffering, she couldn't get past the behaviors that kept her stuck.

Many of my listeners find themselves stuck in repeating toxic and self-sabotaging behavior patterns, attracting unhealthy relationships, and constantly in a hyper-reactive state. This is a painful place to be. However, there is a way to heal our nervous systems. The key is to connect body, brain, and spirit. Join me as Elisabeth shares how to make this vital connection. She provides insights, tools, and her personal story of transformation, illustrating how applied neurology and somatic practices can lead to profound healing and lasting change.

RESOURCES: 

✧ Click here to start your 2-week free trial of nervous system healing with The-Rewire [unlock your 20% discount with the code BFTB20]

✧ Click here to follow and listen to the Trauma Rewired podcast

✧ Click here to visit Elisabeth’s website @ brainbased-wellness.com.

✧ Click here to buy Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter Levine

CONTACT ME + UNLOCK PREMIUM: To join the Premium Submarines on Patreon (unlocking full + ad-free episodes), check out my sponsors and book recommendations, or contact me directly, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are we so obsessed with looking young, and what does this obsession say about us as a society? From the ads we see on TV and social media to the conversations we have with friends and family, there's a relentless focus on maintaining a youthful appearance. But have you ever stopped to wonder why? Why do we place such high value on looking young, and how does this impact our mental health and self-perception?

The beauty industry, worth billions of dollars, thrives on this obsession. It tells us that aging is something to be feared and fought against. We're bombarded with messages suggesting our worth diminishes as we age, leading many to resort to various anti-aging treatments, from Botox to expensive skincare products. But what are the psychological costs of this constant pressure to look young? How does it affect our self-esteem, our sense of identity, and our overall mental health?

In today's episode, we're going to unpack these questions and more. We'll explore societal beauty standards and how they've evolved over time. We'll take a critical look at the role of the beauty industry and the powerful marketing strategies that shape our perceptions of beauty. We'll delve into the impact of anti-aging treatments like Botox, examining both the physical and psychological implications. And, most importantly, we'll discuss what all of this means for our personal identity and self-worth.

By the end of this episode, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the beauty industry's influence on our lives. You'll learn how societal pressures to look young can shape our behaviors and beliefs. And you'll be encouraged to reflect on your own views of beauty and aging, perhaps challenging some of the assumptions you've held for years.

UNLOCK THE FULL VERSION OF THIS EPISODE: visit https://www.patreon.com/backfromtheborderline to join the community on Patreon. From here, you'll be able to access all full-length (and ad free!) episodes of BFTB, opening up hundreds of hours of additional bonus content.

CONTACT ME CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To read my Substack articles, access my Amazon book recommendation list, submit a voicemail, or contact me for collaborations, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

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Join me as I sit down with Dr. Lucy Johnstone, a trailblazing consultant clinical psychologist, author, and co-creator of the Power Threat Meaning Framework (PTMF). Dr. Johnstone’s extensive work challenges the conventional biomedical model of mental health, offering an innovative approach that prioritizes understanding human suffering within its broader social, cultural, and political contexts.

Dr. Johnstone shares her journey from a young academic inspired by the works of Carl Jung to a leading critic of traditional psychiatric practices. She delves into the concept of the "DSM mindset" and why the current diagnostic approach often fails to address the true origins of mental distress. We explore how the PTMF shifts the focus from individual pathology to the impact of power dynamics and life experiences, providing a more holistic understanding of mental health.

Throughout our discussion, Dr. Johnstone provides insights into the motivations behind developing the PTMF and addresses the resistance and criticisms it has faced. She offers practical advice for mental health professionals looking to incorporate the PTMF into their work and discusses how the framework can influence mental health policies and service structures to better meet the needs of those in distress.

For individuals and families navigating the mental health system, Dr. Johnstone shares valuable guidance on seeking support. She also outlines her vision for the future of mental health care, shaped by the principles of the PTMF.

Join me for an enlightening conversation that not only critiques existing mental health paradigms but also offers a hopeful and empowering alternative. Whether you're a mental health professional, someone experiencing distress, or simply interested in innovative approaches to understanding human suffering, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in to explore how we can move from a model of diagnosis to one of understanding and meaning and learn how the Power Threat Meaning Framework can reshape our approach to mental health.

✧ (PDF) 2-page summary of the Power Threat Meaning Framework (PTMF) via the British Psychological Society

✧ Click here to explore books by Dr. Lucy Johnstone

✧ Full PDF of the Power Threat Meaning Framework via Mad in America

CONTACT ME + UNLOCK PREMIUM: To join the Premium Submarines on Patreon (unlocking full + ad-free episodes), check out my sponsors and book recommendations, or contact me directly, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Borderline personality disorder is often stigmatized, with a significant number of professionals within the industry regarding borderline patients with contempt. As one psychiatrist told anthropologist Tanya Lurhmann, “if you’re talking to a patient and it feels like your internal organs are being turned into hamburger meat, she’s probably borderline.” This harsh and dehumanizing perspective is alarmingly common and contributes to the intense stigma faced by individuals given a diagnosis of BPD.

But what if we looked at BPD not as a disorder of personality, but as a disorder of relationships? Most people diagnosed with BPD grew up in situations where their very existence as a person with independent thoughts and feelings was invalidated. They overwhelmingly experienced their early lives as involving constant messages that they do not—and should not—fully exist. These invalidating environments shape behaviors that, while once adaptive, become problematic as they carry into adulthood.

Join me as I explore these profound insights through the work of anthropologist and psychotherapist Rebecca J. Lester. We’ll uncover how societal and familial invalidation can lead to the behaviors associated with BPD and discuss why clinicians often dread working with these patients. Through compelling quotes and real-life examples, this episode will challenge your understanding of BPD and offer a new perspective on the resilience and struggles of those living with it.

By the end of this episode, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of BPD, not just as a clinical diagnosis, but as a complex interplay of personal history and relational dynamics. You’ll learn how relationships can both exacerbate and alleviate the symptoms associated with the BPD label, offering a path to healing and growth. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion that will change how you perceive mental health, relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit. Tune in to uncover the lessons from the borderline and discover a new perspective on what it means to struggle and survive.

UNLOCK THE FULL VERSION OF THIS EPISODE: visit https://www.patreon.com/backfromtheborderline to join the community on Patreon. From here, you'll be able to access all full-length (and ad free!) episodes of BFTB, opening up hundreds of hours of additional bonus content.

CONTACT ME CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To read my Substack articles, access my Amazon book recommendation list, submit a voicemail, or contact me for collaborations, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me for a compelling exploration into the intersection of trauma, folklore, and the supernatural with psychotherapist and author Alex Monk. In this episode, we delve into his book, Trauma and the Supernatural in Psychotherapy: Working with the Curse Position in Clinical Practice, which integrates psychoanalytic theory, anthropology, and esoteric philosophy to offer a new perspective on trauma therapy.

Alex shares his insights on how traumatic experiences interact with unconscious fantasies rooted in folklore and the supernatural. We discuss his concept of the "curse position" and its relation to deeply ingrained trauma responses. Discover how the mythopoetic imagination can be both a source of suffering and a pathway to healing, and learn about the role of "magical consciousness" in therapeutic practice.

We explore the haunting nature of family structures, the therapeutic benefits of viewing clients' experiences through a lens of empowerment rather than pathology, and the importance of narrative in overcoming trauma. Alex also highlights the parallels between historical scapegoating, like the persecution of witches, and modern psychiatric labels, offering a more compassionate understanding of conditions such as BPD.

Listen in as Alex Monk discusses the role of art, mythology, and folklore in therapy, the healing potential of engaging with the archaic unconscious, and the delicate balance of recognizing 'clairvoyant' sensitivities in traumatized individuals. This episode promises to challenge your perceptions and provide you with new tools for understanding and healing from trauma.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges the worlds of psychology, spirituality, and the supernatural, offering deep insights into the complex legacy of trauma and the transformative power of narrative.

✧ Click here to subscribe to Alex’s Substack “The Logic of the Cat”

✧ Click here to view Alex’s website or book a consultation

✧ Click here to buy/read Trauma and the Supernatural in Psychotherapy

CONTACT ME + UNLOCK PREMIUM: To join the Premium Submarines on Patreon (unlocking full + ad-free episodes), check out my sponsors and book recommendations, or contact me directly, visit backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.