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Psychobabble with Joe Nucci

Joe Nucci

Therapy speak is everywhere. But does more language bring clarity or confusion?


Joe Nucci is a psychotherapist and writer exploring the space between real psychology and mental health trends. 


In solo episodes and interviews, Joe breaks down complex psychological ideas, challenges popular narratives, and brings much-needed clarity to the way we think and talk about mental health.


Clear thinking. Honest conversations. No psychobabble.

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

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 50 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • S2 · E14
    Sep 30, 2025 · 8 min

    Trauma Healing Explained: Bessel van der Kolk vs George Bonanno

    Trauma is one of the most talked-about and most misunderstood topics in mental health culture. In this episode of Psychobabble, Joe Nucci unpacks two very different books on trauma: Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score and George Bonanno’s The End of Trauma. Although both books offer powerful insights into how we process painful experiences, they don’t always agree. One emphasizes the body and stored trauma, while the other highlights resilience and recovery. So which one is right? Watch for the answer. #TheBodyKeepsTheScore #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #Psychology #Resilience #SomaticTherapy #PTSDRecovery #Psychobabble Order: Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E13
    Sep 9, 2025 · 58 min

    Becoming You: Suzy Welch on Self-Awareness, Career Alignment & the Power of Knowing Yourself

    Joe Nucci sits down with Dr. Suzy Welch, professor, author, researcher, and creator of the "Values Bridge" framework, to explore how understanding your unique values, aptitudes, and personality can unlock a more authentic and fulfilling life and career. From Suzy’s days as a crime reporter to becoming a business journalist, launching a methodology at NYU, and grieving the loss of her husband, this conversation offers profound insights into navigating paradoxes, increasing self-awareness, and making better life decisions based on who you truly are. Topics Covered: How to manage conflicting values like ambition vs. self-care Why most of us are far less self-aware than we think How work and love reveal your most authentic self Suzy’s book: Becoming You: The Proven Method for Crafting Your Authentic Life and Career Pre-order Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E11
    Aug 19, 2025 · 1 hr

    From Woke to Awake | Anthony Rispo on Political Polarization, Psychology, and Breaking the Mold

    In this provocative episode of Psychobabble, Joe Nucci sits down with Anthony Rispo—Columbia graduate, writer, and rising content creator—to unpack his intellectual evolution from progressive activism to political heterodoxy. Rispo shares how the events of 2020 triggered a wave of cognitive dissonance, prompting him to explore overlooked voices, challenge academic dogmas, and examine the psychological underpinnings of political behavior. A candid, research-backed exploration of polarization, this episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning the status quo or struggling to discuss it openly. 🔎 Topics include: Left vs. right-wing authoritarianism Identity, victimhood, and performative activism Content creation and backlash The limits of academic discourse How psychological traits influence ideology Pre-order Psychobabble Follow Joe Nucci: Instagram: @joenuccitherapy Website: joenuccitherapy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E10
    Aug 5, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min

    Is Therapy Keeping You in a Victim Mindset?

    In this episode of Psychobabble, we’re breaking down one of the most misunderstood topics in modern therapy: the victim mindset. Joe sits down with psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman to unpack the psychology of victimhood and the mental health labels that can quietly hold people back. Dr. Kaufman shares powerful insights from his new book Rise Above, and the two discuss: Why “trauma-informed” therapy isn’t always helpful The potential connection between trauma and identity politics The difference between emotional validation and emotional regulation What vulnerable narcissism looks like Why therapists need to believe in transformation, not just affirm your pain Whether you're a therapist, a client, or both, this raw conversation will offer tools for emotional resilience. Don’t miss an episode—subscribe now. #psychobabble #victimmindset #trauma #traumainformedtherapy #narcissism #mentalhealth Follow Joe Nucci: Instagram: @joenuccitherapy Website: joenuccitherapy.com Book: Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E7
    May 27, 2025 · 57 min

    Why Everything Isn't ‘Trauma’ - A Wake-Up Call with RaQuel Hopkins

    Do you actually have trauma? Therapist and capacity expert RaQuel Hopkins and I discuss what our culture gets wrong about common mental health terms and verbs. Listen in as we discuss trauma, victimhood, and other viral mental health myths. Bonus - Raquel got a sneak preview of my coming book, Psychobabble, and she shares her feedback with you in the clip. For more on Raquel, check out her Instagram @raquel_the_capacity_expert. ‼️Pre-order my book, Psychobabble! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E5
    May 6, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min

    Therapist vs. Psychic: Intuition

    Is intuition real? Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with psychic and intuition expert Shoshanna French to discuss the real science behind energy, empathy, emotional boundaries, and, yes, intuition. From navigating messy family dynamics to sensing when a business deal is off, Shoshanna shares how intuition is a skill anyone can learn. This episode will challenge your beliefs on mindfulness, boundaries, and emotional intelligence. For more on Shoshanna, check out her Instagram @shoshannafrenchstokes and her website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E4
    Feb 13, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min

    Is 'The Spark' a Red Flag? | Dating Coach vs. Therapist

    Is instant chemistry actually toxic? Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with dating coach and relationship expert Sabrina Zohar to discuss the hidden truth about ‘the spark’ on the latest episode of Psychobabble. Whether you’re single or boo’d up, this conversation will have you questioning if you’re dating for the right reasons. Bring your relationship drama, raw honesty, and a little popcorn. Please follow Sabrina on Instagram @Sabrina.zohar and @thesabrinazoharshow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E3
    Dec 4, 2024 · 27 min

    Toxic Men Don’t Need Feminism, They Need Hercules

    Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci takes on the internet’s favorite label — narcissism — in his latest episode of Psychobabble. Reflecting on the trend of ex-partners being called narcissists, Joe explores why this might signal personal and societal growth. In this episode, he delves into the balance of individuality and connection in relationships, inspired by the works of Jungian analyst Robert Johnson and the lessons embedded in myths and pop culture classics like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. Through candid storytelling and psychological insights, Joe discusses how losing oneself in a relationship, rather than maintaining healthy boundaries, often fuels perceptions of narcissism. He examines themes like splitting, individuation, and the delicate dance between giving and preserving one’s identity. Whether you’re processing a breakup or navigating the complexities of love, this episode invites listeners to confront hard truths about relationships and self-growth. Tune in for an honest and thought-provoking conversation that redefines how we think about love, individuality, and those so-called "narcissistic" exes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E2
    Nov 21, 2024 · 27 min

    Therapist Reacts to “The Substance” Movie: Ozempic, Eating Disorders, & Diet Culture

    For his latest podcast episode of Psychobabble, licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci reacts to the new movie The Substance. He explores themes from the film, such as the difference between self-esteem and self-respect, the harmful side of the body positivity movement, our obsession with beauty, Ozempic and diet culture, and the chase for perfectionism in our FaceTuned and Instagram-conscious world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S2 · E1
    Nov 15, 2024 · 49 min

    Forgiveness After The Election With Abby Skeans | Psychobabble Podcast

    Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with politico Abby Skeans for his latest podcast episode of Psychobabble. They discuss the psychology of forgiveness after the election, extending grace, the rupture and repair process, cancel consciousness, and the value of disagreement, among other topics weighing heavily on our hearts and in our divided nation right now. Please note - this episode was recorded in October 2024, before the election. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Nov 15, 2024 · 2 min

    Welcome to Psychobabble

    Gaslighting. Narcissism. ADHD. 6 signs you're neurodivergent. Are you autistic? These are just some of the mental health buzzwords popping up all over your feed these days. Is it real? Or are we seeing the start of a mental health industrial complex? Joe Nucci is a psychotherapist seeing his industry devolve into psychobabble right in front of his eyes. Join Joe as he speaks to experts in his field and outside of it as they decipher what kind of mental health information is helpful for you and what isn't. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • #23
    Jul 29, 2024 · 58 min

    A Dynamic Psychotherapy Style You Haven't Heard Of | Michelle May

    Joe talks to Michelle May, a psychotherapist, author, and expert in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is highly tailored to the client, and, as Michelle tells Joe, is about "getting to things as quickly as your (the client's) body can tolerate." The therapist relates to their client based on the client's emotional capacity, moment by moment. Joe discusses his own theoretical trainings and practices and is so inspired by Michelle's expertise that he is thinking about getting trained in ISTDP himself. Mentions: Michelle's web site: https://michellemmaylpc.com/ Follow Michelle on Instagram: @michellemaylpc Michelle's forthcoming book, available now for pre-order, is called What I Couldn’t Tell My Therapist: The Truths We Told to Heal Our Lives Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • #22
    Jul 22, 2024 · 1 hr 6 min

    The Matchmaker of Mental Health Services and More | Dr. Denise McCain-Tharnstrom

    Joe interviews Dr. Denise McCain-Tharnstrom, a former litigator with a background in public policy and philanthropy, about how a technological app she helped develop is able to able to pull off an incredible feat. The app connects people who are unhoused or otherwise have insecure resources to the services and support they need. (And no, the fact that it’s an app is not a barrier; you’ll learn why that’s the case in this fascinating episode.) Joe learns how it's possible to help more people with technology, making social services accessible to everyone who needs them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • #21
    Jul 15, 2024 · 53 min

    What Should Your Boss Know About Your Mental Health? | Tyler Allen

    Should you tell your boss if you are struggling with a mental health concern? When Joe was in graduate school he wrote his capstone on this very topic, exploring issues such as stigma, disclosure, and accommodations for disability. Employment lawyer Tyler Allen speaks to Joe about the legal aspects of the very tricky central question of this episode. It's one that's relevant to many who want to succeed in their careers while also prioritizing their mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • #20
    Jul 8, 2024 · 1 hr

    What is Big Dating Energy? | Jeff Guenther

    Joe and his guest Jeff Guenther (@therapyjeff) dive deep into dating and relationships. As the author of a forthcoming book titled Big Dating Energy (and a podcast of the same name) Jeff Guenther has, after 20 years of practicing therapy, some great insights into relationships. In this episode, Joe and Jeff don't stick solely to the predictable terms (like "attachment," or "codependence") but explore topics such as dating norms, and how to have a successful break up. Throughout the conversation, Jeff and Joe share about their own experiences on the journey of love: They talk about dating, getting divorced, and finding happiness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • #19
    Jul 1, 2024 · 55 min

    Why Aren't There More Male Therapists? | Trey Tucker

    In a profession where most therapists are women, what do two therapists who identify as men talk about when they get together? In this timely and light-hearted conversation, Trey Tucker sits down with Joe Nucci to talk about their personal reasons for becoming therapists, what it's like navigating clinical work in a largely feminine sphere, the importance of choosing to be vulnerable, and how they create safe spaces for clients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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