Explore every episode of the podcast The Gently Used Human with Dr. Scott Lyons

What if the key to deep healing and self-discovery isn’t just in the substances we take, but in how we prepare for and integrate them? In this illuminating and thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with somatic therapist, teacher, and author Manuela Mischke-Reeds to explore the evolving landscape of psychedelics, trauma healing, and embodiment practices.

Together, they unpack the importance of preparation, integration, and the often-overlooked nuances of psychedelic experiences. Manuela shares her personal journey growing up between cultures, the role of somatics in healing trauma, and why true transformation requires more than just taking a substance—it demands a relationship with it.

From understanding "set and setting" to the dangers of chasing peak experiences, this episode dives deep into how we can navigate the psychedelic space responsibly. Scott and Manuela also discuss how practices like Continuum Movement, somatic awareness, and radical self-inquiry provide alternative pathways to healing and wholeness.

• The difference between recreational drug use and psychedelic-assisted therapy
• How psychedelics can dismantle trauma patterns—and why integration is key
• The power of "set and setting" and how cultural context influences healing
• Why chasing "peak experiences" can become another form of bypassing
• How somatic practices like Continuum Movement can support psychedelic integration
• The dangers of mistaking activation for truth in trauma healing
• The importance of staying in inquiry and dismantling expert mindsets

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the deeper layers of psychedelics, somatics, and the journey of self-discovery.

What if the key to better health, deeper connections, and a more fulfilling life is actually doing hard things? In this enlightening and often humorous conversation, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Jeff Krasno, founder of Commune and Wanderlust, who transformed his health and life by embracing discomfort rather than avoiding it. Five years ago, Jeff was 65-70 pounds heavier and facing a diabetes diagnosis when he discovered the power of "good stress" - the kind that makes you stronger, more resilient, and more connected to others.

Jeff shares his remarkable journey from being a "chubby kid" constantly relocating (11-12 times before age seven) to becoming what Scott calls "the fascia of community" - a super connector who brings people together. His childhood struggles to fit in across different countries and languages eventually became his superpower, leading him to create spaces where others could belong. Through his personal health transformation and spiritual awakening, Jeff discovered that chronic dis-ease is often the result of chronic ease - and that leaning into discomfort might be exactly what we need.

From cold plunges and fasting to facilitating difficult conversations between Israeli and Palestinian students, Jeff reveals how embracing "good stress" can transform not just our physical health but our relationships and spiritual lives. As he beautifully puts it: "The true wonderful ease that we're looking for requires a degree of inconvenience."

• How chronic ease leads to chronic disease
• The concept of "good stress" and hormetic stressors (cold, heat, fasting)
• Jeff's protocol that helped him lose 65 pounds and reverse diabetes
• Building a "psychological immune system" through difficult conversations
• The spiritual dimensions of practices like fasting and cold exposure
• Finding the space between stimulus and response as the key to personal freedom
• Why true ease comes from meaningful connection, not comfort

Have you ever felt lost in the vast wilderness of relationships, chasing a trail of breadcrumbs, hoping they might show you the way? Have you ever wondered if there’s a reliable map, maybe a magical compass, to navigate through the complex dance of partnership without sacrificing a piece of yourself in the process? Or just asked yourself… “What is a healthy relationship, and how do I maintain it?”

In today’s episode, Dr. Scott sits down with therapist, facilitator, and coach, Dené Logan as they explore the rich terrain of relationships. With her nuanced approach blending depth psychology and a profound understanding of human connection, Dené illuminates the journey of self-nurturing and building genuine bonds. As we embark on the quest of understanding the three pillars of peak connection, she shares her insights on the true essence of couples therapy, the keystones of a flourishing relationship, and the difficult but rewarding work of reparenting ourselves.

From the power of embracing your true self and spotting your tribe to the art of balancing in relationships, join us as we journey deep into the relational landscape. 

Topics We Break Down:

• Nurturing through strength-based approaches.
• Constructing thriving relationships.
• Graceful relational transitions.
• Avoiding romantic reparenting.
• Navigating breadcrumbing in dating.
• Unpacking harmful pedestal placement.
• Exploring evolving definitions of love.

“Ah, meditation and yoga, what a beautiful place to hide.”

-Scott’s ex-therapist

While there’s no denying that mindfulness can be a powerful tool, is it the answer to all of our problems, or is it really just a game of playing hide-and-seek from ourselves?  In this episode Dr. Scott and Dr. Sará hilariously break down the complexity of mindfulness- differentiating toxic positivity and splashy bypassing from a path of profound connection to oneself and the full spectrum of human experiences.  

Dr. Scott and Dr. Sará lead by example, demonstrating how play can help you break free from the bondage of trauma as they approach this episode and life with full-on childhood curiosity and a willingness to let life unfold, providing you with the magic sauce of empowerment and deep healing. 

If you’re looking for the kind of mindfulness that cultivates the resilience needed to be in the dance of life and feel a deep sense of belonging to the world while at the same time making you laugh so hard you pee (and question whether mindfulness and bladder control are related)  - this episode of The Gently Used Human is for you.

Topics we break down:

• Trauma bonding.
• The importance of play.
• Healing intergenerational trauma.
• Interdependence. 
• Harmful narratives of the wellness industry.
• The shadow side of mindfulness.

Connect with Dr. Sará King 

Dr. Sará King is a Mother, neuroscientist, political and learning scientist, education philosopher, social-entrepreneur, public speaker, and certified yoga and mindfulness meditation instructor.  She is also the co-director of Mobius, a home for the development of Liberatory Technology, and the founder of MindHeart Collective, a contemplative tech company that she founded to develop AI-integrated platforms, applications, and courses grounded in neuroscience, “The Science of Social Justice” framework and the “Systems Based Awareness Map” (SBAM) which she developed to explore our capacity to heal intergenerational trauma and promote the well-being of "collective nervous systems" by promoting and mapping loving-awareness. In 2021, she was named “One-To-Watch” by Mindful Magazine, as well as she made the November cover of Yoga Journal Magazine as a “Game Changer” for her work bridging neuroscience, social justice and contemplative practices. In 2022, she was also named one of the "10 Most Powerful Women in Mindfulness" by Mindful Magazine.

Bio | LinkedIn | Instagram | MindHeart Consulting

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Ever felt like you should have it all figured out by now? Like life handed you a script you didn’t exactly sign up for? Well, Tamsen Fadal is here to throw that script out the window.

An Emmy-winning journalist, author, and advocate for midlife reinvention, Tamsen has built a career on telling powerful stories—and now, she’s telling her own. From walking away from a decades-long journalism career to becoming a voice for midlife women, she’s proving that there is no expiration date on reinvention.

Together, Tamsen and Dr. Scott dive into: why milestones don’t define us, the radical shift that happens when we stop asking ‘why me?’ and start saying ‘what’s next?’—and how menopause, career changes, and unexpected pivots are all part of the bigger picture.

• Midlife Myths & Why We’re Doing This All Wrong – Forget ‘aging gracefully’—let’s talk about thriving on our own terms.
• The ‘Now What?’ Moment – Why so many of us hit a point where we question everything—and how to navigate it.
• Reinvention is a Muscle – Why starting over isn’t a setback—it’s a superpower.
• The Unspoken Power of Menopause – Breaking the silence around midlife health and why it’s finally getting the attention it deserves.
• The ‘I Get To’ Mindset – Shifting from obligation to opportunity in work, health, and relationships.

✨ This episode is a love letter to second (and third, and fourth) chances. Tune in and get inspired!

Have you ever felt misunderstood? Like the world keeps trying to put you in a box that just doesn’t fit? Then this episode is for you.

Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Dr. Rae Johnson, a leading researcher, professor, and author exploring the intersections of somatics, social justice, and identity. Rae’s work challenges us to reconnect with our bodies, question the systems that shape us, and embrace our full, unfiltered selves.

Together, Scott and Rae explore why we brace ourselves against misunderstanding, how validation changes our nervous system, and what it really means to be witnessed. Plus, they unpack how a simple shift in perspective—or the right words from a total stranger—can change everything.

• Why we over-explain & brace for misunderstanding – The social conditioning that keeps us apologizing for who we are.
• The ‘Validation Reflex’ – How being truly seen creates a physical release in the body.
• Why strangers can sometimes know us better than our friends – The science behind why an outside perspective can feel so powerful.
• The cost of authenticity – What we sacrifice to be fully ourselves—and why it’s worth it.
• Witnessing & being witnessed – How deep presence can transform our relationships and sense of self.

✨ This is a conversation about freedom, embodiment, and breaking free from outdated stories—don’t miss it!

Heartbreak isn’t just emotional—it’s chemical. That’s right, breakups trigger withdrawal symptoms in your brain just like a drug, and if you’ve ever felt literally addicted to your ex, there’s a reason why.

In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with neuroscientist Nicole Vignola to unpack the science of breakups, love addiction, and how to rewire your brain for healing. Together, they explore why we can’t stop thinking about certain people, the dopamine loops that keep us stuck, and the fastest ways to break free from the past.

Plus, they get real about their own breakups, the neuroscience-backed hacks that actually help, and why blocking your ex might just be the most scientifically sound decision you’ll ever make.

• Why Breakups Feel Like an Actual Addiction – The neuroscience behind heartbreak withdrawal.
• Checking Your Ex’s Social Media? Here’s Why You Can’t Stop – How dopamine fuels obsessive behaviors post-breakup.
• The Power of ‘Cold Turkey’ – Why cutting off contact is the fastest way to rewire your brain.
• Re-Scaffolding Your Life – How to rebuild your identity after a relationship ends.
• Why You Keep Dating the Same Type – Breaking free from unconscious relationship patterns.

✨ Whether you’re freshly single, healing from an old breakup, or just fascinated by the brain’s wild ways—this episode is packed with insights to help you move forward.

Are you letting self-doubt, over-explaining, or other people's opinions keep you small? Not on Niyc Pidgeon's watch. This episode is all about stepping into your power, shifting your mindset, and harnessing the science of success to create a life that actually excites you.

Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Niyc Pidgeon, an award-winning positive psychologist, best-selling author, and high-performance business mentor, to explore the psychology behind resilience, joy, and confidence. Author of Now Is Your Chance and Unstoppable Success, Niyc has helped thousands of people rewire their thinking and create their best lives.

Together, Scott and Niyc unpack what it really means to be happy—not in a ‘toxic positivity’ way, but in a real, grounded, and science-backed way. If you've ever felt stuck, exhausted, or like you're tolerating way too much in life, this conversation will help you break free.

• Why positivity isn’t about ignoring the hard stuff – The difference between real happiness and toxic positivity.
• Over-explaining & self-abandonment – Why we do it and how to stop apologizing for simply existing.
• The ripple effect of awe – How small moments of joy can transform your energy (and impact 135 people around you!).
• What’s your Organizing Principle? – The hidden force guiding your choices, and how to harness it for success.
• The power of curiosity – How asking better questions can lead to deeper connections and greater clarity.

✨ This episode is packed with insights, humor, and some seriously life-changing mindset shifts. Tune in now and get ready to step into your most unstoppable self!

Have you ever felt like you were following invisible rules you didn’t agree to? Do you catch yourself playing small, staying “good,” or holding back while others take up space? And what if those subconscious beliefs—about power, success, and even desire—aren’t actually yours?

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Elise Loehnen, a writer, editor, and cultural critic known for her sharp insights on power, patriarchy, and personal growth. As the former Chief Content Officer at Goop, Elise helped shape the modern wellness landscape before turning her focus to deconstructing the subconscious rules that shape our lives. She is also the New York Times bestselling author of On Our Best Behavior, which explores how deeply ingrained cultural norms—particularly the Seven Deadly Sins—still dictate women’s behavior today.

Together, Scott and Elise dive into the hidden forces that govern us, how to unlearn restrictive narratives, and why recognizing our own internalized biases is the key to true liberation. If you've ever felt stuck in a system that doesn’t quite serve you, this episode will give you the perspective shift you need.

• The Cultural Programming We Can’t See – How we internalize and reinforce social norms without even realizing it.
• The Patriarchy Isn’t Just ‘Men’ – Understanding how women also uphold and police patriarchal structures.
• Envy as a Compass – Why the things (and people) that trigger us the most might be showing us what we truly want.
• How We Keep Ourselves Small – The self-imposed rules that hold us back, and how to rewrite them.
• Moving from ‘Against’ to ‘For’ – Shifting from resistance to creation, and learning how to build the world we actually want.

Tune in for an honest, mind-expanding conversation that just might change the way you see yourself—and the world around you.

Do you ever feel like you’re chasing success, but once you get “there,” the finish line moves again?

If you’re nodding along, then this episode is for you.

This week, we’re getting deep, real, and hilarious with bestselling author and keynote speaker Laura Gassner Otting (LGO)—a woman who has done it all, from working in the White House to writing books that change lives. But here’s the twist: even she has struggled with self-worth, impostor syndrome, and figuring out what success actually means.

What if success isn’t about more money, more titles, or even more standing ovations?

What if success is about feeling aligned with your values and choices—no matter what anyone else thinks?

That’s the conversation we’re diving into today. It’s a mix of wisdom, humor, and real talk (plus a detour into drag queens, rage rooms, and why Malala might just be the best at avoiding awkward small talk).

• Success: Who Defines It? – Laura turns the traditional definition of success on its head. Spoiler alert: It’s not about a corner office, a million-dollar paycheck, or someone else’s approval.
• Why We Suck at Receiving Compliments – Laura’s personal struggle with praise, her therapist’s game-changing advice, and how you can actually accept a compliment without feeling weird.
• The Different Versions of Ourselves – Ever feel like you have a work-self, a home-self, and a totally different karaoke-self? Laura shares how she balances “LGO the speaker” with just being Laura, the introvert who loves bad reality TV.
• Success Does Not Equal Happiness – If money and power automatically made people happy, billionaires wouldn’t get divorced and celebrities wouldn’t have meltdowns. We get real about why external success is often a trap.
• The Everest Analogy – What climbing a mountain taught Laura about life, ambition, and why getting to the top isn’t actually the goal.

What are trauma tingles, you ask? Oh, you know them. They're those wild, exciting, tantalizing, and misdirecting feelings that magnetize you into the same shitty relational dynamics you've been dealing with your whole life.

Oof, It's wild out there in the complex realm of relationships. Sometimes we find ourselves more interested in the chase than the embrace or confusing intensity for intimacy- all the while declaring that we want and need love. If red flags feel like home and you find yourself or people you know in the merry-go-round of relationship pains, welcome to the world of trauma tingles... Let's talk about it.

In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons chats with Kai Cheng Thom and Nkem Ndefo about red flags in dating and why trauma tingles feel irresistible. If an ordinary life feels risky and red flags cause a buzz of excitement, don't worry—this is a normal part of being human and an adaptive response to trauma. Through witnessing patterns unfolding and learning how to form safer boundaries for ourselves and others, we can heal to the point that those trauma tingles become boring and unsexy- red flag couture no more!

Topics we break down:

• How trauma tingles relate to your attachment style.
• Why dating apps can be dehumanizing.
• Communicating your needs.
• Reconfiguring relationships.
• Maintaining boundaries.
• Choosing yourself.

Kai Cheng's work focuses on the intersection of social justice, pleasure activism, and transformative approaches to healing conflict.

Connect with Kai Cheng

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Arise Embodiment

Nkem is the founder of Lumos Transforms and the creator of the Resilience Toolkit.

Connect with Nkem

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

The Resilience Toolkit

Connect with Dr. Scott

Website | Instagram | TikTok

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What if the key to unlocking your potential wasn’t waiting for the perfect opportunity but realizing that you get to create it?

In this episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Maha Abouelenein, a global expert in communications, branding, and self-reliance, to explore the mindset shifts that turn hesitation into action, connections into opportunities, and self-doubt into unshakable confidence.

Maha’s career spans decades as a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies, CEOs, and some of the world’s most influential brands. She understands what it takes to build influence, create lasting relationships, and step fully into your strengths. In this conversation, she shares the strategies she’s used to navigate her own journey—from overcoming personal challenges to becoming one of the most sought-after voices in branding and communication.

Together, Maha and Scott break down how to reframe self-doubt, develop confidence through action, and build a personal brand that reflects who you truly are. They explore why networking doesn’t have to feel transactional, how the simple shift from have to to get to can change your entire outlook, and why true success comes from showing up, creating value, and taking bold steps forward.

This episode is filled with practical insights on how to stop waiting, start owning your story, and build the kind of influence that opens doors.

• Reframing self-doubt – Why waiting for confidence is a trap
• Building your network – How to connect with people authentically
• The power of gratitude – Why shifting from have to → get to changes everything
• Personal branding – Why your reputation matters more than ever
• Taking the first step – How to break free from hesitation and just start

This is a conversation about power, presence, and the freedom that comes from stepping into who you truly are. Listen now on The Gently Used Human.

Maha's "Icebreaker Questions for Introverts"

• How can I help? 
• What brought you to this event? 
• What do you enjoy most about your work?
• What projects are you excited about working on next?
• How did you first get started in [industry]? 
• What do you find most challenging/rewarding about your job? 
• What inspired you to pursue a career in [specific field]? 
• Are there any industry trends or developments that particularly interest you right now? 
• How do you see your industry evolving in the next few years? 
• What advice would you give to someone just starting out in [industry/profession] 
• What are your thoughts on [current industry news/topic] 
• Have you attended any interesting conferences or workshops lately? 
• Are there any skills or knowledge areas you're currently looking to develop?

Are you struggling to stay focused in a world full of distractions? Do you feel like your memory isn’t as sharp as it could be? 

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with the world-renowned brain coach, memory expert, and author Jim Kwik. Jim has dedicated his life to helping people break through mental barriers and unlock their full cognitive potential. From overcoming his own childhood struggles with learning difficulties to becoming the go-to brain coach for top performers, Jim shares his transformative journey and the essential tools to supercharge memory, focus, and productivity.

Throughout this conversation, Jim and Scott dive into the impact of digital distractions, the hidden costs of our reliance on technology, and how to reclaim mental strength in a world that often works against us. Jim offers practical, neuroscience-backed strategies that listeners can start using immediately to improve concentration, beat burnout, and optimize brain health.

By the end of this episode, you'll be inspired to take charge of your mental fitness and equipped with actionable techniques to sharpen your mind, cultivate resilience, and create a more fulfilling life.

Topics We Break Down:

• The modern digital habits that are eroding focus, memory, and decision-making

• How the brain rewires itself and how you can train it for peak performance

• How outsourcing our memory to devices is making us mentally weaker

• Daily techniques to rebuild attention span and mental clarity

• What your brain needs to stay sharp and resilient

• The self-imposed beliefs that hold us back and how to overcome them

• How challenges and adversity can be transformed into personal superpowers

• Simple, effective exercises to remember names, learn faster, and stay present

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to reclaim their cognitive power, improve learning skills, and develop unshakable mental resilience.

Where to Find Jim Kwik:

📖 Read his book: Limitless

📱 Follow him on Instagram: @jimkwik

🎧 Listen to his podcast: Kwik Brain

🧠 Take the Brain Type Quiz: My Brain Animal

Join the Conversation!

Screenshot this episode, share your favorite takeaway, and tag us on Instagram @thegentlyusedhuman and @jimkwik! Let us know which Brain Animal you are! 🧠🔥

Welcome to The Best of January—a powerful compilation of the most insightful, transformative, and inspiring moments from our recent episodes. Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, this episode brings together wisdom from thought leaders, wellness experts, and real-life stories of resilience.

If you’re looking for motivation, a fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that healing is possible, this episode is for you. You’ll hear deep, honest conversations about overcoming adversity, shifting your mindset, and reclaiming your sense of self. These moments will not only inspire you but also offer insights to help you navigate stress, relationships, and personal growth.

🔹 Lindsay Roth – The power of presence in parenting, why you don’t need to have all the answers, and how shifting your perspective can transform relationships.

🔹 Elaine Glass – Breaking free from toxic relationships, rediscovering your identity, and learning to trust your intuition in the healing process.

🔹 Gabor Maté – A fresh perspective on ADHD, medication, and mental health, along with how stress and trauma shape our experiences.

🔹 Josselyne Herman Saccio – Why mindset alone isn’t enough, how to turn insight into action, and the power of keeping your word to create real transformation.

✨ Small Shifts Matter – You don’t have to solve everything at once; focusing on the present moment can be life-changing.

✨ Stress Isn’t the Enemy – It’s how we perceive and adapt to stress that shapes our experience.

✨ Healing Starts with Truth – Ignoring problems won’t make them disappear; acknowledging them is the first step toward change.

✨ You're Never Alone – There is always a way forward, and sometimes, it starts with getting quiet enough to listen to yourself.

✨ Action Creates Transformation – Insight is valuable, but true change happens when we take steps—no matter how small.

If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today! And don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and continue your journey of healing and self-discovery.

What if you could design a life where you’re truly unmessable with?

In this episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with the powerhouse of transformation, Josselyne Herman-Saccio, founder of Be Unmessablewith. With over 30 years of experience helping people break through overwhelm and burnout to create lives filled with purpose, Josselyne shares her unique approach to turning vision into action and dreams into reality.

Together, Dr. Scott and Josselyne explore what it means to take control of your life by shifting from reaction to creation. They discuss practical strategies for honoring your word, building resilience, and finding fulfillment—not by working harder but by designing smarter. Josselyne’s wisdom will inspire you to embrace the chaos of life, harness your inner power, and finally say “yes” to the life you’ve always wanted to create.

Whether you're a high performer looking for your next breakthrough or someone ready to overcome the pull of procrastination, this episode will leave you empowered to take action, no matter where you are in your journey.

Topics We Break Down

• Why overwhelm happens—and how to shift back into creation mode
• The power of vision: How to create it, live it, and keep it alive
• Breaking free from the myth of “motivation” and leaning into action
• The secret to working less while achieving more: Delegation and design
• How to honor your word, even when things don’t go as planned
• Practical tools to transition from reacting to creating in every moment
• How to use promises as a tool for transformation and empowerment

In this transformative episode of The Gently Used Human Podcast, Dr. Scott Lyons is joined by the extraordinary Dr. Gabor Maté, a celebrated physician, speaker, and bestselling author whose groundbreaking work has reshaped how we understand addiction, trauma, and chronic illness. With over four decades of clinical experience, Gabor is renowned for his compassionate exploration of the mind-body connection and the profound ways stress and trauma manifest in our lives. His bestselling books, including The Myth of Normal and In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, have inspired countless individuals to embrace healing through reconnection with their authentic selves.

Together, Scott and Gabor explore the hidden costs of disconnection, the survival mechanisms we develop in response to early trauma, and how those patterns shape everything from our identities to our health. Listeners will learn about the dynamic nature of the brain, the powerful role of curiosity and compassion in healing, and practical ways to notice where we’re not being true to ourselves. This episode is an invitation to uncover the unity of mind and body and discover what it means to come home to oneself.

• The profound impact of disconnection on our mental and physical health
• Understanding trauma as a loss of connection with oneself
• The survival mechanisms we adopt to protect ourselves—and how they shape our identities
• How addiction, ADHD, and chronic illness are rooted in early life experiences
• The dynamic nature of the brain and its capacity for healing and change
• The healing power of curiosity, compassion, and connection
• How societal norms and the medical system overlook the unity of mind and body
• Practical steps to notice where we’re not being ourselves and move toward wholeness

Have you ever felt like life is an endless cycle of noise and distraction, leaving no room for stillness? What if the silence we avoid holds the key to profound healing and transformation? How might embracing the quiet spaces between moments change everything?

In this episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons welcomes Elaine Glass to explore the transformative power of intentional silence. After escaping a 13-year toxic marriage that left her health deteriorating, Elaine found healing and purpose through the ancient practice of labyrinth walking. She shares how this sacred tool inspired her to create The Get Quiet Way, a powerful method for creating space, reconnecting with the soul, and reclaiming inner peace.

Elaine's journey from chaos to clarity provides listeners with practical insights into nurturing the body, clearing the mind, and cultivating a healthier relationship with oneself. Her reflections and actionable strategies invite us to pause, listen deeply, and move forward with intention.

Topics We Break Down:

• The transformative journey from survival mode to soul alignment
• The power of intentional silence and meditative walking
• Understanding the three ways we spend our time (in-person, digital, and with ourselves)
• The seven energy paths to reconnecting with your authentic self
• The importance of creating a healthy state of being to co-create with our purpose
• The ancient wisdom of labyrinth walking as a tool for spiritual growth

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons is joined by the talented Lindsay Roth—a TV producer, author, and mother—to dive into the art of connection, resilience, and self-discovery. From navigating the complexities of modern relationships to finding joy in the present, Lindsay’s insights shine a light on how small, intentional choices can lead to transformative change.

The conversation tackles the practicalities and challenges of everyday life to the more significant, profound questions. Dr Scott and Lindsay explore the power of setting boundaries and reframing life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. Lindsay shares her personal journey of balancing career, motherhood, and self-awareness, offering practical advice on maintaining a positive mindset amidst life’s chaos. Together, she and Dr. Scott unpack how asking the right questions—whether about relationships, work, or self—can foster deeper understanding and alignment with what truly matters.

This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and actionable insights, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, connection, and empowerment in their lives.

If you’ve ever struggled to communicate your needs, felt stuck in life’s challenges, or questioned how to align with your authentic self, this episode will inspire and guide you. Lindsay and Dr. Scott’s candid, compassionate conversation offers both relatable stories and practical wisdom to help you navigate life with curiosity and courage. You’ll laugh, reflect, and walk away feeling empowered to embrace your journey as a “gently used human.”

Topics We Break Down:

• How intentional questions can foster deeper connection and self-awareness.
• Viewing stress as a resource for growth and adaptability.
• Redefining boundaries as self-driven actions rather than requests from others.
• Lessons from challenges, the importance of relational “reps,” and reframing the idea of “failure.”
• Strategies for finding gratitude, staying present, and discovering what truly matters.

In this special New Year episode, we pause to embrace the quiet power of reflection amidst the noise of the "New Year, New You" culture. Rather than rushing into resolutions, this episode encourages you to marinate in your existing potential. With curated reflections from past episodes and insights from this year’s most meaningful conversations, we aim to equip you with actionable tools for sustainable change.

Instead of focusing on what needs fixing, this episode celebrates your limitless capacity for renewal. Join us for a heartfelt journey through laughter, wisdom, and empowering truths that prepare you to embrace 2025 with intention and grace.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Beauty of Imperfection: Discover why you’re already enough and how embracing imperfection can be a superpower for growth.
• Crafting Sustainable Shifts: Learn small, meaningful steps to bring clarity and momentum into the new year without burnout.
• Reflections on Joy and Balance: Learn to navigate the thin line between passion and overwhelm and uncover tools for recalibration when needed.
• Breaking Cycles: Explore practical ways to step off the hamster wheel of self-criticism and create cycles of self-compassion instead.

Key Takeaways:

1. Celebrate Your "Now": Before chasing transformation, honor where you are in this moment—imperfections included.
2. Start Small, Stay Consistent: Sustainable change is built on small, regular acts of self-awareness and care.
3. Turn Criticism into Curiosity: Approach challenges and emotions with openness instead of judgment.
4. Boundaries Protect Joy: Craft boundaries that honor your energy and foster healthy relationships.
5. Pause for Possibility: Savor the stillness and rediscover your creativity and vibrancy through presence.

Featuring Clips From:

• Tara Schuster on transforming self-care into a powerful survival strategy
• Thomas Curran on balancing perfectionism with self-acceptance
• Nicole Walters on embracing boldness, courage, and comfort
• Nicole Sachs on decoding and reshaping our relationship with pain
• Rachael Kaplan on the liberating power of emotional release and connection
• Brian Moller on cultivating gratitude as a daily practice
• Amy Morin on strengthening mental resilience and fortitude
• Justin Michael Williams on fostering empowerment and building community
• Eliza VanCourt on nurturing and soothing your inner fears
• Marie Forleo on developing habits that align with intuition and meaning
• Britt Frank on how small, consistent steps lead to big changes
• Michael Galyon on practicing presence and self-care
• Max Lugavere on prioritizing physical well-being today for a healthier tomorrow

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your fellow Gently Used Humans, and leave us a review! Your support helps us reach more listeners on their path toward growth and self-discovery. Here’s to a new year that celebrates the amazing person you already are.

In this special Best of 2024 episode, we revisit the most impactful moments from our inspiring conversations throughout the year. These discussions dive deep into relationships, attachment, community, and healing, offering meaningful insights into how we connect with others and ourselves.

From the complexities of love and partnership to the foundational influence of early experiences, we explore tools for navigating challenges with clarity and intention. Mark Groves and Dr. Stan Tatkin discuss the intricacies of relationships, focusing on the balance of connection and independence that helps them thrive. Dr. Judy Ho explains attachment styles and how our childhood patterns continue to shape our adult behaviors. Kai Cheng Thom and Nkem Ndefo expand on emotional resilience, sharing strategies for navigating conflict and fostering greater compassion for ourselves and others.

We also explore the transformative process of healing. Jessica Fern demystifies ethical non-monogamy, offering practical approaches to reframing love. Dr. Peter Levine delves into the impact of trauma on the nervous system, providing pathways for release and growth. Mastin Kipp and Dr. Nicole LePera share tools for understanding and managing emotional triggers, while Mia Magik reconnects us with ancient practices to strengthen our inner foundations.

Themes of community care and mutual support emerge as Vannessa Bennett and Dené Logan reflect on the importance of fostering connection in mental health. Laura Clery reminds us of the power of humor to lighten life’s burdens, while Michael Galyon encourages us to embrace the present moment with gratitude and openness.

Featured Guests

Mark Groves, Dr. Stan Tatkin, Sabrina Zohar, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Judy Ho, Jessica Fern, Vannessa Bennett and Dené Logan, Dr. Nicole LePera, Mastin Kipp, Dr. Peter Levine, Laura Clery, Mia Magik, Michael Galyon, Kai Cheng Thom, and Nkem Ndefo.

If you feel one of your favorite guests has been missed, don’t worry! Many more of our favorite guests will appear in next week’s specially curated New Year’s episode, where we’ll share transformative tools to help you heal, grow, and graciously embrace 2025.

If you enjoyed this Best of 2024 episode, please subscribe, share it with your fellow Gently Used Humans, and leave us a review! Your support helps us reach more listeners on their path toward growth and healing.

Listen to the full episodes:

Mia Magik https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/the-alchemy-of-rage

Michael Galyon https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/finding-calm-in-chaos

Sabrina Zohar https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/breaking-the-cycle-of-toxic-relationships

Mastin Kipp https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/nourishing-your-nervous-system

Dr Arielle Shwartz https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/the-nonlinear-journey-of-healing

Mark Groves https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/liberated-love

Dr Stan Tatkin https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/the-architecture-of-relationships

Jessica Fern https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/erotic-blueprints-and-the-map-to-intimacy

Dr Peter Levine https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/the-birth-of-somatic-trauma-healing

Dr Nicole LePera https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/healing-trauma-and-an-addiction-to-drama

Kai Cheng Thom and Nkem Ndefo https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/dating-your-trauma-tingles

Vennessa Bennett and Dené Logan https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/tap-dancing-for-belonging

Jillian Turecki https://www.drscottlyons.com/podcast/the-safety-of-turbulance

What is sacred rage, you ask? Oh, you know it. It's that fiery, pulsating energy that simmers under the surface when your boundaries are crossed, your voice feels stifled, or injustice has its way again. It’s the eruption waiting for permission to move—to transform from destruction to something breathtakingly beautiful.

If you've ever felt like rage and anger are forbidden emotions—villains in your emotional spectrum—this one's for you. In a world where feelings are labeled “too much” or “not enough,” it’s no wonder we suppress, deny, and numb. But what if we stopped? What if we gave our sacred rage a place to breathe and heal?

In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons talks with the dynamic and magical Mia Magik, a healer and guide who has become a voice for emotional release—particularly the misunderstood powers of rage. From volcanic eruptions of suppressed feelings to transformational rituals held in castles (yes, castles!), Mia shares how embracing our emotions can create the paradise we all long for.

If you’ve been bottling up your feelings or shamed into toxic positivity, listen up. This is your invitation to feel—fully, fiercely, and safely.

If you’re ready to let go, transform, and reclaim your emotions—this episode will light the fire.

Listen in, Gently Used Humans, and remember—your emotions are not too much. They're magic waiting to be felt.

Topics we Break Down:

• Why rage and anger are sacred—and essential.
• The difference between feeling anger and projecting it outward.
• How suppressed emotions contribute to dis-ease in the body.
• Creating containers for safe emotional expression.
• Toxic positivity and the pitfalls of bypassing real feelings.
• How rage can transform into pleasure, peace, and even paradise.
• Why healing yourself heals the world.

In this powerful episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Sophie Grégoire Trudeau—advocate, former media host, and author of the insightful new book, Closer Together: Knowing Ourselves, Loving Each Other. Drawing from her own life’s journey and experiences on the global stage, Sophie shares her wisdom on turning pain into purpose, navigating personal transformation, and how embracing our vulnerability is key to meaningful connection.

Sophie’s candidness about her own struggles and triumphs creates an inspiring, deeply human conversation. Together, she and Scott explore how cultivating self-awareness and emotional resilience can help us show up more authentically in our lives, for ourselves and for others.

This episode will leave you reflecting on your relationship with pain, your patterns of connection, and the steps you can take toward a more empowered and joyful life. Whether you're curious about healing, curious about self-discovery, or just looking for some soulful motivation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

• The power of transforming pain into connection and advocacy
• Emotional literacy: what it is and why it matters in our personal and collective lives
• Tools for regulating the nervous system and finding calm amidst chaos
• Breaking free from cycles of self-criticism and addiction
• The importance of play and joy in rehumanizing ourselves and others
• Why personal healing is a critical piece of global transformation

In this episode, we sit down with Erica Hornthal, a trailblazer in the world of dance and movement therapy. If you’ve ever felt stuck in life, emotionally overwhelmed, or even disconnected from your own body, this conversation is a must-listen. Erica helps us understand that movement is far more than just exercise – it’s a way to rediscover ourselves, heal from past traumas, and connect more deeply with who we are.

Are you curious about how movement can be a catalyst for change in your life? Erica invites us to look beyond structured exercise and tune into our bodies’ natural rhythms and movements – like the way we sit, walk, or even breathe. She reminds us that movement starts with the smallest, simplest gestures, and that even when we feel trapped in old patterns, moving our bodies can unlock a path to emotional freedom.

Together with Dr. Scott Lyons, Erica shares how our earliest movements – crawling, rolling, and even rocking – shape the way we interact with the world and how we can return to these roots to shift stuck energy. They talk about how reconnecting with play and spontaneity can help us break free of rigid thinking and foster more flexibility in body and mind.

Erica offers practical ways to get started: maybe it’s leaning against a wall and letting go for a moment, exploring playful twirling, or simply noticing how our bodies react when we’re tense. She also introduces her Movement Therapy Deck, a tool designed to make reconnecting with movement accessible and engaging for everyone. Whether through mindful practices, body awareness, or gentle movement prompts, the deck offers guidance for tuning into and transforming your physical experience.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not a dancer,” Erica reassures you: movement is for everyone. Healing through movement isn’t about choreography; it’s about reconnecting with yourself, one step at a time.

So, whether you’re someone who struggles with anxiety, feels stuck in their daily routine, or just wants to reconnect with their playful side, this episode holds something for you. Let’s get moving!

• What is dance and movement therapy, really?
• The disconnect between movement and traditional exercise.
• How movement can heal trauma and reconnect us with our bodies.
• The role of play and spontaneity in finding emotional freedom.
• Practical tools to integrate movement into your daily life.
• Using movement to explore and shift anxiety and tension.
• Rediscovering joy and flow through the body.

In this special Best of November episode, we revisit the most impactful moments from our inspiring conversations with Rainier Wylde, Michelle Boulé, Nicole Sachs, and Michael Galyon. Each of these incredible guests brings unique insights into navigating impermanence, embracing movement as a form of self-expression, understanding the protective nature of pain, and finding meaning in the present moment.

Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing through movement, or learning to savor the fleeting beauty of life, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom and powerful reflections to guide you on your journey.

What You’ll Learn

• Rainier Wylde shares profound insights on embracing impermanence, challenging us to savor life’s transience and recognize the magic in the moments that melt away.
• Michelle Boulé explores the transformative power of movement, revealing how creative expression and physical freedom can reconnect us with choice, agency, and vitality.
• Nicole Sachs unpacks the protective nature of pain, explaining how it serves as a signal from our nervous system and how we can shift from a state of fear to one of empowerment.
• Michael Galyon inspires us to live fully in the “now,” recounting personal stories that illustrate how to embrace life’s fleeting nature and cultivate joy through presence.

Key Takeaways

Savoring Impermanence: Life’s beauty lies in its fleeting nature. Embrace the urgency of now and cherish each moment for what it is.

Freedom in Movement: Rediscover your sense of choice and creativity through intentional movement, whether through dance, small daily gestures, or a mindful connection with your body.

Reframing Pain: Understand pain as a protective mechanism and explore ways to meet it with curiosity, compassion, and actionable strategies for relief and healing.

Living in the Present: Find inspiration in life’s impermanence by connecting deeply to the present moment and focusing on what truly matters.

If you enjoyed this Best of November episode, please subscribe, share it with your fellow Gently Used Humans, and leave us a review! Your support helps us reach more listeners on their path toward growth and healing.

In this episode of The Gently Used Human, we sit down with Michael Galyon, a renowned mindfulness teacher, speaker, and advocate for living authentically. Michael has dedicated his life to guiding individuals toward self-discovery and emotional clarity, focusing on building resilience, embracing vulnerability, and fostering meaningful connections. With a grounded and compassionate approach, he empowers people to navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and self-compassion.

In this conversation, Michael shares his personal journey to mindfulness and how he has transformed moments of chaos into opportunities for growth. He explains what it truly means to find calm amid life’s turbulence and how this transformation can impact our everyday lives. Michael guides listeners in exploring how vulnerability, when embraced, can lead to greater resilience and emotional clarity. He offers practical mindfulness tools and self-compassion practices that can help reduce anxiety, enhance resilience, and bring a sense of balance to our daily routines.

Listeners will gain insights on how to foster deeper connections with themselves and others, even in overwhelming circumstances, and learn strategies to shift from merely surviving to genuinely thriving. Michael emphasizes the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships through empathy and authenticity, providing actionable ways to deepen those bonds.

Topics We Break Down:

• How to foster resilience and emotional clarity in challenging times.
• The transformative power of vulnerability and courage in personal growth.
• Using mindfulness and self-compassion to manage anxiety and find balance.
• Practical techniques to cultivate calm and resilience in daily life.
• Navigating relationships with empathy, authenticity, and deeper connection.

In this transformative episode, Scott Lyons is joined by Nicole Sachs, LCSW, a renowned therapist, author, and expert in mind-body healing. Nicole is the creator of the JournalSpeak method, a groundbreaking practice that helps people uncover and release suppressed emotions that manifest as chronic pain. With over two decades of experience, Nicole has dedicated her career to helping people heal by teaching them to understand the mind-body connection and transform their relationship with pain.

Nicole shares her personal journey with chronic back pain, which began in college and led her down a path of medical consultations, surgeries, and prescriptions. However, it wasn’t until she discovered the work of Dr. John Sarno that she began to understand how emotional repression and nervous system dysregulation were contributing to her pain. Nicole’s own healing experience inspired her to create the JournalSpeak method, and she has since guided thousands of people worldwide in using this powerful tool to find lasting relief.

Throughout the conversation, Scott and Nicole explore how pain is often a signal from the body, protecting us from perceived emotional threats rather than just a physical condition. Nicole offers profound insights on how we can begin to change our relationship with pain by embracing curiosity instead of fear and turning toward the emotions we’ve been suppressing.

She introduces the concept of JournalSpeak as a way to safely release emotional energy, and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and patience on the healing journey. By addressing the emotional roots of pain, Nicole has helped people reclaim their lives from conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, back pain, and more.

Topics We Break Down:

• How the nervous system creates pain to protect us from perceived emotional threats
• The JournalSpeak method: A powerful tool for releasing suppressed emotions and healing pain
• The mind-body connection and how emotional stimuli can manifest as physical pain
• How pain is often a sign of emotional repression, trauma, or nervous system dysregulation
• The importance of validating pain and recognizing its emotional origins
• Building self-compassion and patience in the process of healing
• Inner child work and its role in uncovering deep emotional wounds
• How curiosity and wonder can help shift fear and open new possibilities for healing
• Real-life success stories from people who have healed chronic pain using JournalSpeak

In this deeply moving episode, Dr Scott is joined by Michelle Boulé, a celebrated dancer, choreographer, teacher, and life coach whose transformative journey has been shaped by the interplay of art, movement, and healing. Michelle’s expansive career has taken her from stages across the world to the realm of personal development, where she now helps others unlock their potential through somatic practices, energy work, and emotional movement. Together, Scott and Michelle reflect on their 22-year-long connection, starting when Scott first witnessed Michelle’s magnetic performance in New York City, sparking a journey of personal and creative evolution for them both.

Their conversation delves into Michelle’s personal story, highlighting how significant injuries during her dance career led her to explore somatic healing and energy work, helping her break free from physical and emotional limitations. She shares how these pivotal moments opened new pathways not only in her dance practice but in her coaching work, guiding others toward healing through the body. Michelle and Scott explore the themes of creativity, vulnerability, and resilience—how embracing challenges, whether through physical injury or personal trauma, can lead to profound transformation and greater self-awareness.

The dialogue flows through the broader topics of creativity and purpose, emphasizing the importance of remaining present and curious in the face of life’s uncertainties. They discuss the role of community and support systems in moments of vulnerability, and how letting go of control can open doors to deeper healing and connection. Michelle’s philosophy that “life is our greatest creation” resonates throughout the conversation, encouraging listeners to tap into their own potential for change, no matter the obstacles.

Topics We Break Down:

• The transformative power of creativity and how it fosters presence and awe
• How trauma and obstacles can serve as doorways to growth, fostering resilience and a renewed sense of purpose
• The importance of improvisation in dance and life, allowing for flexibility in navigating uncertainty
• The role of permission in allowing ourselves to fully express and embody our experiences
• Surrendering control and finding freedom through yielding, both in physical movement and emotional processes
• Building emotional capacity through mindful practices and how that leads to more harmony and flow in life
• The importance of community, support systems, and the vulnerability required to truly be held by others

In this compelling episode of The Gently Used Human, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Rainier Wylde, a gifted writer, teacher, and guide known for his candid and insightful approach to life’s toughest questions. Rainier has dedicated his life to helping others awaken to their truest selves through the power of honest reflection, creativity, and storytelling. He leads by example, drawing from his own experiences of profound personal loss and transformation to show us how we, too, can break free from the habits of sleepwalking through life.

Rainier’s approach blends wisdom from ancient traditions with a modern understanding of life’s impermanence, challenging us to confront our fears, embrace discomfort, and cultivate the strength to be fully present. Together, he and Dr. Scott unpack what it means to embrace life in all its fleeting beauty, exploring topics like the connection between joy and grief, the need for community, and how we can reclaim the central role in our own lives. This conversation is an invitation to dive deep into the journey of self-discovery, to live with intention, and to find the courage to show up for the life we truly want.

So, find a quiet space, tune in, and let this conversation inspire you to live more fully, bravely, and joyfully.

Topics We Break Down:

• Awakening from “sleepwalking” and learning to live fully
• The importance of facing mortality to enhance presence
• Savoring life’s impermanent moments as a path to joy
• Finding solace and strength through grief and personal loss
• Becoming the main character in our own lives
• Understanding joy versus fleeting happiness
• Using artistry and creativity as tools for healing and transformation

In this special "Best of October" episode, we revisit the most impactful moments from our inspiring conversations with Mastin Kipp, Sabrina Zohar, Rachel Kaplan, Ann Weiser Cornell, and Britt Frank. Each of these incredible guests brings unique insights into personal growth, emotional healing, self-compassion, and relational awareness. Whether you’re working through stuck patterns, seeking emotional freedom, or learning to embrace the full range of human experiences, this episode is packed with practical tools and wisdom to help you along the way.

What You’ll Learn:

• Mastin Kipp shares his experience with the deep-rooted patterns formed in early life, discussing how childhood programming can shape our adult lives and what it takes to rewire limiting beliefs.
• Sabrina Zohar reveals her journey through relational dynamics and how she’s learned to balance independence with vulnerability, embracing the complexities of dating and attachment.
• Rachel Kaplan explores emotional literacy, explaining the importance of ‘emotional potty training’ and how we can reconnect with our emotional bodies for a more fulfilling life.
• Ann Weiser Cornell delves into the transformative process of self-connection, discussing how awareness of bodily sensations can guide us to uncover deeper truths and navigate our inner experiences.
• Britt Frank offers tools for overcoming stuckness, highlighting the value of embracing discomfort and asking empowering questions to break free from repetitive patterns.

Key Takeaways:

• Practical techniques to understand and reframe early childhood beliefs that may be holding you back.
• Insights into balancing autonomy and intimacy in relationships and embracing vulnerability.
• How to recognize, feel, and express emotions as essential steps in healing and self-discovery.
• The role of body awareness in uncovering subconscious patterns and finding greater alignment.
• Empowering ways to address stuckness and make room for growth and change.

If you enjoyed this "Best of October" episode, please subscribe, share it with your fellow Gently Used Humans, and leave us a review! Your support helps us reach more listeners on their journey toward growth and healing.

In this episode of The Gently Used Human Podcast, Dr. Scott Lyons welcomes Britt Frank, licensed psychotherapist, trauma specialist, and author of The Science of Stuck. Britt has dedicated her career to helping people break through their mental and emotional inertia by exploring how trauma, brain science, and emotional wellness intersect. With her approachable and humorous style, Britt offers deep insights into why we get stuck and how we can reclaim agency in our lives.

In this conversation, Britt not only explores why we get stuck but also shares actionable skills to move away from procrastination and self-sabotage. She introduces powerful strategies like using "micro-yeses" to overcome inertia, practical tools for grounding yourself, and methods for cultivating self-compassion to stay present in moments of challenge. Whether you're feeling stuck in personal growth, relationships, or habits, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and tools to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Tune in to learn how to shift from being "insightfully stuck" to living with more clarity, choice, and peace!

• Why we get stuck and the hidden benefits of staying in unhealthy patterns
• How to break free from the cycle of self-sabotage using "micro-yeses"
• The neuroscience of stuckness and why motivation alone isn’t enough
• Practical, actionable tools to overcome procrastination and create momentum
• How to cultivate self-compassion and stop self-abandoning in moments of pain
• The role of trauma in keeping us stuck and how to gently move through it
• Why we need to address both the positives and negatives in our lives for true emotional wellness
• Practical tools for creating an internal sense of "home" and stability within yourself

In this episode of The Gently Used Human Podcast, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with Ann Weiser Cornell, a leading expert in the practice of focusing—a process for deep self-awareness and emotional healing developed by Eugene Gendlin. For over three decades, Ann has dedicated her work to helping people navigate their inner worlds, untangle stuck emotions, and create more compassionate relationships through her workshops, books, and courses. Ann is also the co-author of Untangling: How You Can Transform What’s Impossibly Stuck, a practical guide to breaking free from entrenched emotional patterns.

In this conversation, Ann shares her wisdom on how we can become better listeners—not only to those around us but to ourselves. With simple, yet profoundly impactful techniques, Ann helps us understand the importance of presence, clarity, and listening as tools for emotional healing and connection. Whether you’re seeking to improve your relationships or find a deeper sense of self-compassion, this episode provides tangible tools to take with you. 

Tune in to this episode for a compassionate, insightful conversation that invites you to take a moment for yourself and explore the transformative power of listening!

Topics We Break Down:

• The transformative power of deep listening and how it can heal relationships and ourselves.
• How to cultivate a “clear pool” within, so we can listen to others from a place of calm and openness.
• Focusing: The practice of listening to ourselves and how it helps untangle stuck emotions.
• Practical steps for becoming a better listener—both externally and internally.
• The role of language in facilitating meaningful, open dialogue.
• How to create a compassionate relationship with yourself by welcoming all parts of your experience, even those that feel shameful or uncomfortable.

In this episode of The Gently Used Human podcast, Dr. Scott Lyons sits down with psychotherapist and author Rachel Kaplan to explore her unique and powerful approach to emotional healing. Rachel is a psychotherapist, emotional educator, and host of the Healing Feeling Sht Show* podcast. She’s also the author of the amazing book Feel, Heal, and Let That Sht Go*, which introduces the concept of “emotional potty training” — and yes, it’s exactly as clever and transformative as it sounds. Rachel's method encourages us to reconnect with our feelings, process them in real time, and ultimately release the emotional backlog that so many of us have built up over the years. 

Rachel dives into the idea that just as we learned to manage our physical needs as children, we need to "train" ourselves to process emotions in a healthy way. With humor and a relatable perspective, she explains how most of us were taught to repress our emotions early on, leading to what she calls "emotional constipation." This buildup of unprocessed pain and feelings can manifest in our lives as stress, numbness, or even physical illness.

Dr. Lyons shares his own experiences of struggling to fully feel emotions, resonating deeply with Rachel’s insights on how avoiding feelings leads to greater suffering. Together, they discuss practical tools for releasing emotions, including how to "schedule" emotional release and why it’s essential to be with our emotions, rather than intellectualizing or bypassing them.

This conversation is filled with humor, wisdom, and practical guidance for anyone who feels emotionally stuck, numb, or overwhelmed. It’s about learning to move toward discomfort, release emotional baggage, and cultivate a deeper, more compassionate relationship with ourselves.

This episode is perfect for anyone seeking more emotional balance and resilience, and it will leave you inspired to reconnect with the parts of yourself you may have hidden away for too long.

Topics We Break Down

• How decades of unprocessed emotions affect our physical and mental health, and how to begin releasing them.
• The importance of reintegrating the parts of ourselves that we’ve hidden away and learning to let them express their pain.
• Dr. Lyons and Rachel explore why repressing emotions leads to greater suffering, and how facing them head-on can lead to lasting relief.
• How to schedule emotional release sessions, and techniques to allow emotions to move through the body naturally.
• Why healing isn’t just about trauma recovery, but about creating a sustainable relationship with your emotions so you can face life’s challenges with strength.

In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons shares a conversation with Sabrina Zohar, a renowned relationship coach whose insights have transformed countless lives. Sabrina's personal journey, from navigating toxic dynamics to building healthy and authentic connections, is deeply inspiring. She candidly discusses how growing up in a dysfunctional environment led her to repeat the same cycles of toxic relationship patterns, but through relentless self-discovery, she has emerged as a voice of clarity in the dating world.

The episode explores some of the most pressing questions surrounding dating and relationships: How can we navigate the complexities of modern dating without losing ourselves? How do we stop seeking validation from others and instead cultivate security within? And most importantly, how can we truly show up authentically in our relationships?

Sabrina’s approach is both relatable and practical. Her vulnerability in sharing her personal hardships, including how hitting rock bottom became a catalyst for her growth, offers hope and actionable insights for anyone struggling with relationships. From setting healthy boundaries to understanding attachment dynamics, this episode is filled with tools that listeners can apply to their own lives.

On a more personal note, this conversation prompted Dr. Lyons to reflect on his own journey, particularly the question: How do I want to show up in a relationship? Sabrina’s ability to navigate the complexities of connection while staying true to herself inspired him to reconsider how he shows up as a partner, friend, and human. The hope is that this discussion will encourage listeners to explore these same questions in their own lives.

A quick note before we dive in: Sabrina speaks openly about her experiences with violence in her childhood. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please take care while listening or skip ahead as needed. Your well-being is always the priority.

• How childhood experiences influence adult relationship patterns.
• The difference between attachment and connection.
• Setting healthy boundaries in relationships.
• How to navigate modern dating with clarity and self-respect.
• The role of vulnerability and authenticity in creating healthy, lasting relationships.

Have you ever felt like your own body was holding you back from reaching your full potential? Like the very nervous system that keeps you alive was also keeping you trapped in patterns of self-sabotage and limitation? What if the key to unlocking our full potential lies not just in our minds, but in the conscious nourishment of our nervous system

In this episode, Dr Scott is joined by Mastin Kipp, a number one best-selling author, speaker, and Creator of Functional Life Coaching™. Recognized as a "thought leader for the next generation" by Oprah Winfrey, Mastin has dedicated his life to helping people create rapid change, connect to their true selves, and live with passion and purpose.

Mastin's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to transform one's life, even in the face of adversity. From his early experiences in the music industry to his battles with addiction and his eventual transition into personal development, Mastin's path has been one of constant evolution and self-discovery.

In this conversation, they’ll delve into the profound impact of prenatal experiences on our beliefs and behaviors, and how understanding the intricacies of trauma and the nervous system can be a catalyst for personal growth and healing. Mastin will share his insights on the importance of honesty, self-discovery, and the unconventional paths that often lead to the most significant breakthroughs. From the power of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to the importance of a balanced diet, Mastin will share his tried-and-true strategies for supporting healing and growth.

Topics We Break Down

• The importance of being honest about your credentials and how you can serve people.
• The biological mechanisms that are at play when it comes to trauma and the nervous system.
• Why safety is imperative in order for change to be cultivated in any transformational process.
• Some examples of therapeutic practices and processes that are working for people.
• Why trauma isn’t just about what happened but also about what happened after the trauma.
• Trauma responses and lived experiences as unconscious reflexes.
• Nervous system nutrition and how to nourish it to make better decisions under stress.

Episode Summary: In this special "Best of September" episode, we revisit the most impactful moments from our inspiring conversations with Marie Forleo, Mark Groves, Arielle Schwartz, and Damona Hoffman. Each of these incredible guests brings their unique insights into personal growth, relationships, healing, and empowerment. Whether you're navigating challenges, looking to deepen your connections, or on a journey of self-discovery, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tools to help you along the way.

What You'll Learn:

• Marie Forleo teaches us how to break free from excuses and start turning dreams into reality, even when time and resources feel scarce.
• Mark Groves dives deep into the complexities of love, revealing why relationships are often so challenging and how we can learn the skills needed to love better.
• Arielle Schwartz shares her personal journey through the non-linear process of healing, reminding us that true healing is about unconditional self-acceptance and returning home to ourselves.
• Damona Hoffman debunks the fairy tale myths about love and relationships, empowering us to redefine what love looks like on our own terms and take charge of our romantic lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Practical steps to live an excuse-free life and make progress toward your dreams.
• How to build deeper, more meaningful relationships by confronting your fears and learning the art of love.
• Insights into the healing process, and how to approach it with self-compassion and patience.
• Why it’s essential to let go of societal myths about love and rewrite your own love story.

If you enjoyed this "Best of September" episode, please subscribe, share it with your fellow Gently Used Humans, and leave us a review! Your support helps us reach more listeners on the journey toward growth and healing.

Dating is HARD. With so many choices at our fingertips, dating apps have become a double-edged sword, offering endless possibilities while simultaneously overwhelming us with options. Do we swipe based on a carefully curated list of desired traits, or do we let our intuition guide us, swiping right on that inexplicable spark of connection? In this ever-evolving landscape where the rules of engagement are constantly shifting, many of us are left feeling lost and uncertain. 

Thankfully, in this episode, Dr Scott is joined by the brilliant Damona Hoffman, dating expert and author, who knows how to make sense of the complexities of human connection. Damona is here to dispel the myths of dating, like the trap of looking for a soulmate or waiting for the right chemistry, offering us tools to help navigate the search for aligned values and lasting intimacy.

In this conversation, they’ll explore the power of vulnerability and self-discovery in creating meaningful bonds, the importance of curiosity in building trust and what it really means for us to each build our own unique love story. They’ll dive into the four biggest dating myths that keep us stuck and learn how to flip the script, prioritizing goals, values, communication, and trust over fairytale fantasies.

So, if you’re ready, let's swipe left on outdated dating myths and swipe right on genuine connection and self-discovery.

Topics We Break Down: 

• Debunking four harmful myths about dating and relationships, and exploring their antidotes. 
• The paradox of choice - how choice impacts the way we interact and communicate.
• How to identify your values, and how to see if they align with your partner's.
• Why repair language (conflict resolution) is just as important as love language.
• Helpful strategies for building trust.
• Diving deeper into the myth of soulmates. 

We’re often told that the path to healing is a straight line from pain to wholeness but what if the journey to reclaiming ourselves is more intricate, more nuanced, and more beautifully complex than we've been led to believe? What if healing is not about reaching a destination, but about compassionately attending to the suffering that has shaped us, and courageously embracing the full spectrum of our human experience?

Today, Dr Scott is joined by Dr. Arielle Schwartz , a clinical psychologist, yoga instructor, and pioneer in the field of resilience-informed therapy. With a deep understanding of trauma recovery, EMDR therapy, and somatic psychology, Dr. Schwartz has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate the nonlinear path of healing, one that honors both the wounds and the innate resilience within us all.

In this conversation, they’ll delve into the intricacies of the healing journey, exploring how trauma becomes encoded in our bodies and how attending to these experiences with mindfulness and self-compassion can lead to profound transformation. Together, Dr Scott and Arielle discuss the importance of creating a safe and accepting inner space, where all parts of ourselves are welcome, and how this radical self-acceptance is key to integrating the fragmented aspects of our being.

But this isn't just about personal healing; it's about reclaiming our power, our agency, and our inherent wholeness. Dr. Schwartz will guide us through the process of taking self-responsibility for our lives, of owning our stories and our potential for growth and the emergence of new possibilities. They'll also explore the evolution of somatic psychology, the power of embodiment practices like yoga, and the importance of integrating science and spirituality in our understanding of the human experience. 

Tune in, as we remind ourselves about the extraordinary capacity for healing that lies within us all.

Topics We Break Down:

• Differentiating between the concept of wholeness and the felt experience of homecoming.
• Cultivating unconditional self-acceptance as you show up for yourself.
• Defining the experiences that form the heart of trauma. 
• How a resilience-informed approach enables you to see the bigger picture. 
• The evolution of somatic therapy from catharsis to mindful attention and presence.
• Experiencing the spectrum of emotion that embodiment facilitates.
• Forging an embodied spiritual path. 
• Healing by bringing buried parts into the present moment.

Have you ever felt afraid to embrace parts of your full, messy, multifaceted self? What would it look like to unapologetically own and express the totality of who you are? Or wondered how your life might transform if you gave yourself that radical permission?

In this episode, Dr Scott is joined by the inimitable Marie Forleo, an entrepreneur, writer, philanthropist and unshakable optimist. From her early days bartending in New York to building a multimillion-dollar socially-conscious empire, Marie has defied convention and forged her own unique path by tuning into her inner voice.

In this delightful conversation, Marie shares her hard-won wisdom on overcoming limiting beliefs, cultivating unshakable faith in ourselves, and finding the courage to pursue our dreams against all odds. She also reveals the transformative power of her mantra (and book title), Everything is Figureoutable, which has changed her life and empowered countless others.

Together, Dr Scott and Marie dive into the importance of embracing our multi-passionate nature, giving ourselves permission to experiment and evolve, and trusting the journey even when the path ahead is uncertain. Marie will challenge us to question the excuses we make, to confront our deepest fears, and to take bold action in service of our highest potential.

This episode is a loving kick in the pants and a compassionate embrace all in one. So grab a notebook, get ready to laugh, and let's get ready to figure it all out.

Topics We Break Down:

• Forging a unique path by turning to your inner voice for wisdom.
• The power of movement to help you cultivate self-confidence.
• Tools of creation that you can rely on to access higher intelligence.
• Practical techniques to help you learn the language of your intuition.
• 3 simple rules to help you apply the Figureoutable Philosophy and become unstoppable.
• Why you already have everything you need to achieve anything you desire.
• Advice from Mother Nature for when it feels like you’ve hit a plateau.
• How to use “fuck you fuel” to fire yourself up for success!

In the realm of human connection, few topics captivate us quite like love. It's a melting pot of desire, vulnerability, and the profound yearning to be truly seen and understood by another. Yet despite love's universal allure, the path to cultivating deeply fulfilling bonds is often obscured by unspoken expectations, unresolved patterns, and the echoes of past wounds.

Mark Groves, a Human Connection Specialist and founder of Create the Love, joins Dr Scott to explore the complexities of connection – from the dizzying heights of passion to the depths of rupture and repair.

Together, they dive into the paradigm of "liberated love" – a conscious and intentional approach to using our relationships as catalysts for personal growth and expanded freedom. They’ll examine how childhood experiences shape adult relational dynamics, the influence of societal narratives, and the transformative power of taking responsibility for our own evolution.

With candor and vulnerability, Mark shares his own triumphs and struggles in navigating intimacy, offering a window into the art of active constructive responding, the significance of clear relational agreements, and the profound impact of unconditional love – a love that holds space for pain, loss, and the inevitable rifts that accompany any deep bond.

Topics We Break Down:

• The paradox and art of loving and the fierce dedication to truth that defines liberated love.
• Distinguishing performative and authentic behavior by understanding the science of your body.
• Different ways to create space for a third, truer reality between you and a partner or friend.
• Understanding how responsive and spontaneous desire influence our relationships. 
• Recognizing that everyone in a relationship is playing out their wounds. 
• The possibility of loving someone and realizing your paths are not aligned.
• Delineating between compromise and self-abandonment. 
• The role of intention in creating codependence. 

Have you ever found yourself in a relationship that felt like a constant battle, where every disagreement escalated into a full-blown war? Or perhaps you've experienced the opposite, a partnership so secure and harmonious that it seemed to defy the odds? What if the key to creating a lasting, fulfilling relationship lies in this podcast?

In this episode, Dr Scott is joined by Dr. Stan Tatkin, a pioneer in the field of couples therapy and the developer of the Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy® (PACT). With a deep understanding of attachment theory, neuroscience, and interpersonal neurobiology, Dr. Tatkin has dedicated his career to helping couples build secure, resilient relationships that withstand the test of time.

Together, they delve into the intricate dance between our brains and our bonds, exploring how our early experiences shape our attachment styles and how those styles manifest in our adult relationships. They will uncover the neuroscientific underpinnings of secure functioning, discussing the importance of honesty, fairness, and mutual support in creating a strong partnership.

But it's not just about theory; Dr. Tatkin will share practical strategies for finding an ideal partner, navigating differences, and tolerating the inevitable pain and discomfort that come with any long-term commitment. They will discuss the role of transparency, setting up guardrails, and creating a shared vision for the future – all essential elements in building a relationship that not only survives but thrives.

Whether you're in a committed partnership, navigating the dating world, or simply seeking to understand the complexities of human connection, this episode promises to be a transformative exploration of the neuroscience behind secure relationships. 

Topics We Break Down: 

• How couples are the only democratic union to come together without a shared vision.
• Why it's vital to build relationships on the same foundation, and how to go about it.
• Helpful tips for setting up guardrails in relationships. 
• How to identify your ideal partner. 
• The impermanence of attraction, and the difference between love and compatibility.
• Dissecting the roles of society and basic human nature in problematic relationships.
• How it's always possible to work through deficits and gain new relationship skills. 

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you felt small, invisible, or unable to fully express yourself? Where the weight of societal expectations or past traumas seemed to silence your voice and diminish your presence? 

In this episode Dr Scott is exploring the transformative power of reclaiming our space and amplifying our authentic selves with Eliza VanCort. Eliza is a multifaceted force – an author, facilitator, speaker, podcaster, and survivor. With a background in both performing arts and political science, she has become a renowned communication strategist and trainer, empowering others to stand tall in an often unnerving world. Her bestselling book, "A Woman's Guide to Claiming Space: Stand Tall. Raise Your Voice. Be Heard," is a transformative and intersectional tome that inspires women while enlightening men.

Listen in, as Dr Scott and Eliza delve into the art of effective communication, the role of intuition and connection, and the profound impact of body language and vocal control. Eliza shares her personal journey of overcoming a devastating brain injury that compromised her ability to communicate, and how that experience fueled her passion for helping others find their voice.

Together they explore the power of reclaiming suppressed parts of ourselves, the significance of accountability and repair in relationships, and the transformative nature of acting as a means to understand human behavior. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, embracing the courage to live life unapologetically, reclaim our souls, and expand our understanding of what it truly means to be human.

Topics We Break Down: 

• Key personality traits that contribute to effective communication.
• The role of body language and vocal control in communication.
• Barriers to communication and practical strategies to overcome them. 
• Explore techniques to reclaim your communication power and space. 
• Why you should never try to be someone else for the sake of others.
• Accountability as a pathway to repairing a fractured relationship.
• Learn how to prepare your emotions to be intentional in situations. 

In today's world, "trauma" has become a buzzword, but what does it truly mean to experience and heal from it? How do we navigate the complex journey of understanding our deepest wounds and finding a path to genuine recovery? And what if the key to breaking free from destructive patterns lies in understanding and appreciating the protective parts of ourselves?

In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Dr. Frank Anderson, a world-renowned trauma expert, psychiatrist, and author of the memoir, "To Be Loved: A Story of Truth, Trauma, and Transformation." Frank's journey from enduring childhood trauma to becoming a leading voice in trauma healing is nothing short of inspiring.

In this conversation, they’ll explore how slowing down and being present with our emotions can lead to genuine healing and how the next generation of trauma recovery will need to move beyond traditional therapy to include a collaborative and holistic approach. They discuss the repetitive patterns in relationships that stem from unresolved relational wounds and the critical inner work required to break free from these cycles, shedding light on how releasing anger and resentment can lead to self-compassion and personal growth.

Listen in as they delve into the transformative power of understanding our inner selves and the journey towards true healing. 

Topics We Break Down:

• Bridging the worlds of humanity and academia 
• Finding the elixir of eternal youth through the power of inner healing work. 
• Listening to and appreciating the protective parts of ourselves to understand how they are trying to help us.
• What it might look like to heal trauma in connection with the person who created the harm.
• Finding self-forgiveness through the path of forgiving others. 
• Breaking free of the habit of demonizing others 
• Unpacking the idea of healing your inner child through self-awareness and self-connection.

In a world where traditional relationship structures are being challenged and redefined, the concept of polyamory has emerged as a topic of both curiosity and controversy. In this episode, Dr Scott delves into the intricacies of this multifaceted approach to love and intimacy with Jessica Fern, a psychotherapist, coach, and author of "Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma, and Non-Monogamy."

Jessica's expertise lies in guiding individuals, couples, and those in multiple-partner relationships to transcend the limitations of reactive patterns, cultural conditioning, insecure attachment styles, and past traumas. Through her work, she invites us to explore new possibilities in life and love, challenging the conventional norms that have long governed our understanding of relationships.

Dr Scott and Jessica unpack the definition of polyamory and its place within the broader umbrella of consensual non-monogamy. They’ll confront the misconceptions and taboos surrounding this lifestyle, such as the belief that it is rooted in promiscuity or an inability to commit. Together they delve into the concept of erotic blueprints, a framework for understanding our unique desires and needs within the realm of intimacy. Jessica will guide us through the different styles of erotic blueprints, from energetic to kinky, and how understanding our own blueprint can enhance our connections and sexual satisfaction.

Listen in as they embark on this thought-provoking journey, challenging societal norms and embracing the diversity of human connection. Whether you're curious about polyamory, seeking to deepen your understanding of intimacy, or simply open to exploring new perspectives, this episode promises to be an enlightening and transformative experience.

Topics We Break Down: 

• Understanding Polyamory and Ethical Nonmonogamy: Definitions and different styles of consensual nonmonogamy.
• Evolution of polyamory terminology and common misconceptions surrounding ethical nonmonogamy.
• Guidelines for setting up rules and agreements in polyamorous relationships, and recommendations for couples considering polyamory.
• Differentiating between romantic, emotional, and intimacy needs, and understanding how emotional needs drive relational needs.
• Signs of healthy monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, including the significance of self-care.
• Recognizing the difference between avoidance and attachment in relationships, and the concept of an erotic blueprint.
• Navigating parenting within polyamorous relationships and why relationship success should not be defined by longevity.

* This episode explores topics of violence, abuse, and other forms of trauma. If you have the strength to listen, please do so with care.

Trauma is a universal experience that touches all of our lives in one way or another. Whether it's the shattering impact of violence or loss, the insidious effects of systemic oppression, or the lingering echoes of childhood adversity, trauma has the power to shape our lives in profound and often invisible ways. But what if the key to healing trauma lies not just in our minds, but in our bodies? What if the path to recovery is rooted in the very essence of our embodied existence?

In this episode, Dr Scott is honored to be joined by Dr. Peter Levine, the pioneer of Somatic Experiencing® and the developer of a revolutionary approach to healing trauma. Known as the father of trauma therapy, Dr. Levine has dedicated his life's work to understanding the intricate dance between our minds, bodies, and the traumatic experiences that can become lodged within us.

In this conversation, they’ll explore the evolution of our understanding of trauma over the past four decades, challenging the notion that it is merely a brain disorder. Dr. Levine will shed light on how trauma becomes encoded in the very fibers of our being, and how addressing it at a somatic level is crucial for true healing and resolution.

Together they will delve into the power of embodiment, the importance of feeling safe in our bodies, and the gradual process of reconnecting with traumatic sensations. Dr. Levine will share his personal journey of healing, emphasizing the significance of being seen and held in relationships, and the transformative act of sharing one's trauma narrative.

Listen in as Dr Scott and Dr Levine venture into the depths of the human experience, uncovering the profound wisdom of our bodies and the resilience that lies within us all. Whether you're a survivor seeking healing, a practitioner in the field, or simply someone who wishes to deepen their understanding of trauma, this conversation promises to be a powerful and enlightening exploration of the path to wholeness.

To avoid Dr. Levine’s account of sexual assault, please skip the audio between [28:23] and [29:30].

Topics We Break Down: 

• Dr. Peter Levine defines trauma and explains how it’s evolved in the past three decades. 
• How somatic trauma healing didn’t exist before Dr. Levine’s research. 
• The way trauma is held in the body and distinguishing trauma from stress.
• Understanding the value of an empathetic presence in your life after a traumatic event. 
• Semantics: the struggles of bringing a new medical solution into the mainstream. 
• Exploring the concept of being and doing enough and why this is always possible. 

Have you ever felt like the weight of your circumstances was holding you back from reaching your full potential? Like trauma or the negative beliefs instilled in you from a young age were shackling you to a life of limitation? 

In this episode, Dr Scott is joined by Nicole Walters, a force to be reckoned with in the world of entrepreneurship and personal empowerment. Nicole's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to rewrite one's story. From growing up in poverty to building a multi-million dollar business empire, she has defied the odds and shattered the glass ceilings that once seemed impenetrable. Nicole shares her inspiring tale, shedding light on the trauma of poverty and the messages it can send about self-worth.

But this conversation goes beyond just her personal triumphs. Together they will delve into the lies we tell ourselves to compensate for negative beliefs, the impact of childhood experiences, and the pressure of the hustle culture. Nicole will share her unique perspective on finding peace, defining success on her own terms, and the importance of taking bold action and reframing negative thoughts.

Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and empowered as we explore the depths of self-belief, the power of calculated risks, and the art of setting boundaries. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply someone seeking to unleash their full potential, this episode promises to be a transformative journey into the heart of what it means to own your power.

Topics We Break Down:

• Why collapse can be a totally valid stress response.
• Finding peace beyond the harm of narcissistic abuse. 
• What it takes to maintain the image of success and intelligence in the world.
• Applying statistics and math to create confidence.
• Three bold moves in one power hour.
• Why failure to grow is just as dangerous as failure to launch.
• The incredible value of knowing your strengths.
• Embodying freedom and understanding that it is your birthright.

In a world that often feels heavy and overwhelming, the ability to find humor in the everyday and share a laugh with others can be a true superpower. In this episode Dr Scott is joined by Brian Moller, also known as B Mo the Prince, a multi-talented artist whose observational comedy and relatable sketches have captured the hearts and funny bones of audiences worldwide.

After losing his on-air radio job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Brian embarked on a new path, producing comedic sketches and sharing them online. His work quickly gained traction, being featured in publications like The Boston Globe, Funny or Die, and US Weekly, among others. But Brian's journey is about more than just entertainment; it's about connection, healing, and the transformative power of laughter.

In this episode, Dr Scott will delve into Brian's approach to observational comedy, exploring how he incorporates generational differences and real-life experiences into his sketches. They’ll discuss the varying reactions and perspectives that different generations may have on the same subject matter, and how Brian navigates these nuances with humor and insight.

But their conversation goes beyond the realm of comedy. They’ll explore the responsibilities and challenges that come with being an online personality, and how Brian creates a supportive and positive community for his followers. They’ll discuss the importance of setting boundaries, maintaining a healthy online presence, and using open communication and support to navigate negative comments and heal.

Join in for laugh upon laugh, who doesn't need a laugh? Whether you're a fan of Brian's work or simply someone who appreciates a roaring chuckle, this episode promises to be a delightful and insightful exploration into the world of an artist who refuses to let life's challenges dim his light.

Topics We Break Down:

• The characteristics that define each generation.
• An influencer’s burden of responsibility.
• How the comments section and other negative feedback influence content.
• The way to navigate aggressive online attacks.
• A journey through the creative process.
• An interlude on the modern truncation of language.

Have you ever felt like you were living someone else's life, trapped in a narrative that didn't quite fit? Or perhaps you've experienced the transformative power of taking ownership of your story, rewriting the chapters that no longer serve you, and embracing the authentic self that's been waiting to emerge? 

In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Tara Schuster, a best-selling author, playwright, and accomplished entertainment executive whose journey of self-discovery and healing is as inspiring as it is relatable. Tara's story is one of resilience, of confronting childhood neglect and abuse, and of taking responsibility for her own life through the powerful acts of reparenting and self-care. In this conversation, they’ll delve into the importance of accepting and allowing suffering, and the transformative power of taking accountability for one's own narrative.

But this isn't just a story of pain; it's a story of understanding, forgiveness, and of seeing the underlying pain behind abusive behavior. Tara will share her insights on the process of understanding and forgiving her parents, and the profound impact it had on her own healing journey.

Together, Dr Scott and Tara also explore the practical aspects of self-care, the importance of structure and routine in making life easier, and the need to find one's own point of view, unshackled by limiting beliefs. Tara will encourage us to question our beliefs, to prioritize our values, and to live in alignment with the authentic selves we've uncovered.

Listen in as they embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and the reclamation of our stories. 

Topics We Break Down:

• Getting to the root of your trauma and accepting the things that happened in your suffering.
• How acceptance, accountability, and responsibility are not the same as assigning blame. 
• What we can learn from identifying and understanding personal values. 
• Making time for self-care 
• How there is no hack to healing, only discipline and hard work. 
• Trusting the process, introspection, and allowing yourself to make mistakes.
• Living in alignment.

In comedy, where laughter serves as both currency and weapon, the art of navigating perception, identity, and creative expression can be a delicate dance, requiring a good dose of bravery and self-reflection. Joining Dr. Scott is the multitalented Joel Kim Booster, a rising star whose work has both entertained and challenged audiences. From his breakout role in Fire Island to his Emmy-nominated writing and acting, Joel has carved out a unique space in the comedy world by pushing boundaries and defying expectations.

In this episode, Joel delves into the complexities of maintaining authenticity while meeting audience expectations. They explore how his stand-up persona has evolved over the years and the challenging balance between personal truth and public performance. Joel also shares his insights on the shifting landscape of comedy, particularly the nuanced discussions around identity and representation in an industry often resistant to change. Dr. Scott and Joel take a look at the concept of "punching up" versus "punching down” and what it teaches us about the ethics of comedy, before discussing the exhaustion of constantly deconstructing one's identity and the desire for creative freedom.

This conversation isn't just about comedy; it's about the human experience, the complexities of public perception, and the pursuit of authentic self-expression. Listen in, as they dive into the nuances of representation, diversity, insecurities, and forging a life in the public eye. 

• Life as a public figure and the unique challenges that accompany it.
• The strengths of punching up versus punching down in comedy.
• Resistance to defining the rules of stand-up comedy and what is off-limits.
• The concept of clapter and how it differs for left-leaning versus more conservative comedians.
• Unpacking the age of identity comedy and how it is shifting.
• The demands and complexities of representation.
• Dealing with the scrutiny you receive as a public figure and how people perceive you.

In a world where laughter can be a balm and a mirror, the art of comedy has evolved into more than just a source of entertainment. It’s a reflection of our shared experiences, a validation of our struggles, and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is room for a little levity. In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Manon Mathews, an actress, comedian, and social media personality whose witty humor and relatable content have captured the hearts of millions. 

With a following that spans platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, Manon has mastered the art of connecting with her audience through her comedic sketches, observational humor, and sage wisdom. Together, Dr. Scott and Manon will delve into the role of empathy in comedy, exploring how comedians have the power to reflect and mirror the experiences of their audience, creating a sense of validation and understanding. They’ll discuss the challenges of receiving validation, particularly from parents, and how authenticity can be a powerful tool for self-expression and connection.

This thoughtful conversation will also touch on the impact of generational differences, the importance of taking risks, and the significance of self-expression through mediums like dance and movement. Manon will share insights into her creative process, the influence of repetition on audience expectations, and the motivation behind creating content that resonates. Listen as they celebrate the healing power of laughter and the transformative possibilities of comedy. 

Topics We Break Down

• Impressions as a love language.
• The challenge of being an empathic comedian. 
• What differentiates reaction from response: the power of pausing. 
• How parallel play can help to generate trust. 
• What we can learn from the Validation Reflex.
• Debunking the myth that the post-birth experience is bliss.
• How to bring in the witness in your everyday life.

In a world that often demands conformity, embracing one’s true self can be a profound act of courage. In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by spiritual revolutionary, mystic, artist, and international bestselling author, Sah D’Simone. His journey has been nothing short of transformative, and he joins us to give a glimpse into his resilient path through anxiety, depression, and addiction to making an impact by helping others through the same struggles. 

From his grassroots work in orphanages, homeless shelters and rehab centers across the world to his critically acclaimed somatic-activated healing method, Sah’s expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of the mind-body connection and the power of kinesthetic learning. Offering us a glimpse into his book, Spiritually, We: The Art of Relating and Connecting From the Heart, Sah challenges us to shift our mindset, embrace compassion, and selflessness, and understand the power of conflict in deepening intimacy in our relationships.

Dr. Scott and Sah consider what it means to cultivate the superpower of authenticity and what that means for genuine connections, and the magnetization of friendships. Sah shares his insights on the impact of code-switching, the fragmentation of self, and the journey to embracing one’s true identity. Together, they will delve into the paradox of freedom, the illusion of manifesting reality, and the true values that bring meaning to our lives. Tune in as they embrace the messiness, beauty and transformative power of living authenticity. 

• Finding the freest version of your life by embracing authenticity.
• Find a healthy balance between your individual needs and your role in the community.
• Understand freedom as it relates to both yourself and your interactions with others.
• Recognize and appreciate people as complete beings to combat loneliness.
• Addressing Inner Experiences Restoratively: Deal with your inner feelings without blame, and focus on healing rather than punishment.
• Learn to handle conflicts and repairs in relationships to make them stronger and deeper.
• Mastering the art of mirroring and naming your needs to truly meet yourself and others.