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Psychologists Off the Clock

Debbie Sorensen, Jill Stoddard, Yael Schonbrun, Michael Herold & Emily Edlynn

We are five experts in psychology, bringing you science-backed ideas that can help you flourish in your work, relationships, and health.

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  • 21 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 53 min
  • English

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  • #474
    Tuesday · 59 min

    474. Rethinking ADHD: Beyond Attention with Debbie Reber and Emily King

    Parenting a kid with ADHD takes way more than standard advice; it requires understanding a complex brain difference that impacts focus, sleep, big emotions, and daily energy. In this episode, child psychologist Dr. Emily King and TILT Parenting founder Debbie Reber join Emily to give their perspective on what neurodivergent parenting looks like by challenging the "disorder" label, unpacking why behaviors shift between home and school, and diving into hidden struggles like RSD, time blindness, and burnout. From navigating evaluations to handling the gap between your child's age and their developmental stage, this conversation offers the honest, evidence-based grounding every parent needs. Tune in now, and reach out to Emily Edlynn to learn more about her 1-on-1 parent coaching! Listen and Learn: Should ADHD be framed as a medical disorder or a brain regulation difference? How pathologizing language impacts stigma, diagnosis, and access to support in both clinical and educational settings Why the name "ADHD" is misleading and how the disorder goes far beyond inattention and hyperactivity to affect emotional regulation, sleep, appetite, and energy management How to navigate the ADHD diagnosis process from choosing between a pediatrician and a full neuropsychological evaluation to gathering cross-environment data and shifting parent strategies for lasting behavioral change Overlooked ADHD traits that rarely get covered in formal evaluations and practical strategies to support your child without damaging their self-esteem How ADHD-related time blindness, task avoidance, and a lack of future-oriented thinking drive daily struggles like running late and better understanding your child's neurodivergent experience How emotional sensitivity, sensory processing, and energy regulation manifest in children with ADHD and autism and why a child's behavior can look so drastically different between home and school Why raising a neurodivergent child feels like "advanced parenting," and the deep isolation, constant judgment, and overwhelming family burnout that comes with it Resources: https://www.dremilyking.com/ The Neurodivergent Learner https://www.learnwithdremily.com/book https://www.learnwithdremily.com/book https://www.instagram.com/emilywkingphd/ https://www.facebook.com/emilywkingphd https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilywkingphd/ https://www.debbiereber.com/ Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781523506316 https://www.facebook.com/DeborahReberAuthor/ https://twitter.com/debbiereber Tilt Parenting Podcast 359 A Conversation with Dr. Emily Edlynn on Raising Autonomous Children Emily Edlynn’s website – contact her directly if you are interested in a parent group! Emily Edlynn’s Substack pieces about ADHD: Raising ADHD: Beyond the Diagnosis Raising ADHD: Why Common Parenting Strategies Don’t Work What the New York Times Got Wrong About ADHD Understanding This One Emotion Will Transform Your Parenting About Emily King and Debbie Reber Emily King is a child psychologist who has worked with neurodivergent learners for over 20 years. She received a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and began her career in Houston, Texas specializing in school-based mental health in K-12 public schools. She has since worked in private practice in North Carolina supporting the mental health, executive functioning, and social needs of neurodivergent youth. Dr. Emily hosts the Learn with Dr. Emily Substack, where she provides parent workshops, is the creator of The Neurodiverse Classroom®, a professional development curriculum for educators, and her first book, THE NEURODIVERGENT LEARNER, came out on August 25th. Debbie Reber is a parenting activist, bestselling author, speaker, and the founder of Tilt Parenting, a top resource for parents raising neurodivergent children. Since launching Tilt in 2016, Debbie has championed a strengths-based approach that reframes how society supports differently wired kids. Her groundbreaking book, Differently Wired, is widely recommended by professionals in education and mental health, and her Full-Tilt Parenting Podcast has 10+ million downloads, featuring leading voices in the intersection of parenting and neurodivergence. A parent coach and Positive Discipline trainer, Debbie has been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and on NewsNation, is a three-time TEDx speaker, and is a founding expert and advisor for HumanUp. She lives in the Netherlands with her husband and two cats, while her neurodivergent young adult attends university in Scotland. Related Episodes: 395. Neurodivergence with Jennifer Kemp 367. ADHD in Adulthood with Michaela Thomas 344. Differently Wired Kids with Deborah Reber 319. Autonomy-Supportive Parenting with the AMAZING Emily Edlynn 202. The Addiction Inoculation with Jess Lahey 187. Raising a Child with ADHD with Russell Barkley See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #473
    August 18 · 58 min

    473. Are You Type C? with Kore Glied and Anna White

    If you’re the kind of person who is pathologically nice, physically incapable of saying "no," and constantly burning out to keep everyone else happy, you might actually have a Type C personality. Debbie Sorensen chats with psychologist Kore Glied and former Wall Street exec Anna White to break down how this conflict-avoidant, super-pleaser trait differs from Types A and B and why hiding your true feelings takes such a heavy toll on your health, career, and relationships. You'll hear Anna open up about her own experience grinding straight through maternity leave until chronic fatigue hit, how these habits usually stem from early criticism or neglect, and how you can change these Type C patterns with a simple SASS framework. Tune in to find out how to Spot your hidden rules, Accept your own worth, Sit with tough emotions, and Say no thoughtfully. Listen and Learn: What defines the Type C personality Anna shares her personal story of growing up as a Type C personality and a cautionary story of how her "Type C" tendency to put work obligations above her own needs led her to work through a seven-week maternity leave How a personal journey through chronic illness and a chance discovery of the "Type C" personality traits How Type C personality traits develop, how cultural expectations and social rewards reinforce them, and how understanding these origins can help reduce feelings of blame and shame How Type C personalities are driven by guilt and recognizing the subtle patterns that prevent you from asserting your own worth How Type C personality traits can lead to unbalanced relationships, career burnout, and vulnerability to toxic dynamics in both the workplace and at home How Type C personality traits can impact parenting and health The practical "SASS" framework to build resilience and break people-pleasing habits Resources: https://thetypecpersonality.com/ Debbie’s burnout appearance on the Type C personality podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6d7AIsfXM18njrNzZvd6Kd To preorder Kore and Anna’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/006349244X Kore’s Website https://www.drkorenissenson.com Anna’s care package company, Rest & Heal: https://restandheal.com About Kore Glied and Anna White Dr. Kore Glied is a clinical psychologist based in New York City who specializes in helping adults manage anxiety disorders, including obsessive compulsive disorder, and insomnia. Before starting her private practice, she spent many years as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at several major New York City hospitals, including Montefiore Hospital, NYU Medical Center, and most recently, Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Glied uses evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients get unstuck and build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Dr. Glied provides training and supervision in (ACT). She has published research on anxiety, trauma, and HIV-related health and has been invited to present her work at national conferences. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Glied leads corporate wellness workshops focused on managing stress, anxiety, and building healthier relationships. She lives in Manhattan with her husband, two sons, and their dog. As a working mom, she understands the challenges of balancing career, family, and everything in between—and she’s the first to admit she doesn’t have it all figured out. Anna White is a former investments executive who spent 20 years working for a range of Wall Street firms in capital markets, private equity, equity research, and asset management. She experienced severe burnout at one point in her career which led to a chronic illness that was difficult to diagnose, treat, and recover from. Type C traits were a significant contributor to her declining health. After leaving corporate life, she founded a specialty care package company, Rest & Heal, which focuses on supporting women who have suffered hardship and/or illness through carefully curated gift packages meant to soothe, educate and re-energize the spirit. She holds a B.S. and M.B.A. in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Related Episodes: 447. Fawning with Ingrid Clayton 362. Adult Bullies and High Conflict People with Bill Eddy – Psychologists Off the Clock 276. Assertive Communication Skills with Randy Paterson 186. Set Boundaries Find Peace with Nedra Tawwab 199. Belonging From the Inside Out with Meg McKelvie 163. The Likeability Trap with Alicia Menendez 399. Likable Badass with Alison Fragale 250. Anxiety and Perfectionism with Clarissa Ong 226. ACT for Perfectionism with Jennifer Kemp See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #472
    August 11 · 47 min

    472. One Relationship, Two Brains with Cindy Ariel

    Every couple has to learn how to accept their differences. But when you’re in a neurodiverse relationship, those differences aren't just quirks; they’re completely different ways of experiencing the world. In this episode, we're getting real about love, autism, and how to actually understand each other in a conversation with psychologist and author Dr. Cindy Ariel, who drops by to chat about her book, Autism and the Two of Us. Cindy brings so many incredible insights to the table, including what autism actually is and why neurodiversity is just a normal variation of the human brain. She also gets into the nuances of identity-first vs. person-first language and why those choices matter, and busts some major myths and talks about redefining what "typical" love even looks like. Tune in for a genuinely eye-opening conversation on love, connection, and neurodiversity! Listen and Learn: Framing neurodiversity as the natural spectrum of variation in human minds Why the assumption that autistic individuals cannot sustain meaningful partnerships is a misconception The need to move away from standard expectations of romantic behavior, and why neurotypical and autistic partners often express love in vastly different ways Actionable insights on how partners can translate each other's emotional signals to build deeper connections How neurodiverse and neurotypical partners often interpret the same situation in vastly different, yet equally valid ways Moving past rigid expectations and deadlocks by co-creating custom, "third-way" solutions that meet both partners' unique emotional and practical needs Overcoming the "closeness communication bias" by learning to treat your partner how they want to be treated rather than relying on default assumptions Navigateing deep neurological differences by letting go of diagnostic labels and distinguishing between normal incompatibility versus toxic behavior Resources: Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/autism-and-the-two-of-us-how-understanding-each-other-can-help-you-build-a-stronger-lasting-love-cindy-n-ariel/b92004b21dec8780?ean=9781462560189&bkshp-astro=t alternativechoices.com Pre-order Yael’s book and get pre-order bonuses! (order 12 or more copies and I’ll join you on a Zoom for a 30-minute mini-workshop or Q&A!) About Cindy Ariel: Cindy Ariel is a Philadelphia-based psychologist who has spent more than three decades at the intersection of psychology, neurodiversity, and intimate relationships. In 1992, she cofounded Alternative Choices, an independent group psychology practice known for its work with LGBTQ families and with individuals on the autism spectrum. She is the author of several books on neurodivergent relationships, including her newest, Autism and the Two of Us: How Understanding Each Other Can Help You Build a Stronger, Lasting Love (Guilford Press). Dr. Ariel is widely recognized for her work with neurodiverse couples, combining clinical insight with advocacy for understanding, acceptance, and the celebration of all kinds of minds. She was doing this work long before most people had a framework for thinking about autism in adulthood. Learn more at alternativechoices.com. Related Episodes: 186. Set Boundaries Find Peace with Nedra Tawwab 263. Relationships with Emotionally Immature People with Lindsay Gibson 449. How to Feel Loved with Sonja Lyubomirsky and Harry Reis 467. Bonded by Evolution with Paul Eastwick See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #471
    August 4 · 48 min

    471. Motivational Interviewing with Kristin Dempsey

    What do you do as a mental health provider when a client walks into your office and flat-out refuses to be there, is silent, or is disengaged? In this episode, Michael chats with psychotherapist and Motivational Interviewing trainer Kristen Dempsey about her book, Advancing Motivational Interviewing, and how to actually navigate those cases. They get into why Motivational Interviewing works so well when a client is stuck on the fence and how these skills end up being surprisingly useful outside the clinic, too. Kristen also breaks down how MI can help to build real connection early on, why our instinct to "fix" people almost always backfires, and how to work with mandated clients without getting into a power struggle. They also touch on practical group ideas, the whole concept of "lending hope," and how using MI might just save you from burning out. Tune in for the full chat! Listen and Learn: How Motivational Interviewing (MI) helps clients uncover their own internal motivation for change Blending MI with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to meet clients where they are and navigate ambivalence Practical strategies for handling mandated and disengaged clients with the use of "comfort agreements," and offering flexible participation options How practitioners can act as a "professional hoper" in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) How MI can prevent burnout and cultivate deeper curiosity, compassion, and presence in relationships Resources: Advancing Motivational Interviewing: https://www.kristindempseycounseling.com/kristins-book-advancing-motivational Kristin’s Website: https://www.kristindempseycounseling.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-dempsey-ed-d-lpcc-lmft-322812a/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Kristin-L-Dempsey-LPCC-LMFT-100057356474362/ https://www.instagram.com/kristin_d_author_trainer?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==&utm_source=qr MI Macrostack Collaboration: https://substack.com/@ali1850709/note/p-194642379?r=1tfnrv&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action Michael’s Confidence Course https://herold.coach/course About Kristin Dempsey Kristin Dempsey is a psychotherapist, trainer, and counselor educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has over 30 years’ experience working with individuals, youth, and families with challenging behavioral issues that impact their lives, such as substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, trauma symptoms, and unresolved grief. Kristin believes that each individual has unlimited ability to change and grow, and she enjoys exploring the complexities of complex challenges and how to approach them with compassion and curiosity. Kristin has taught many classes in the counselor education curriculum, and she is currently focused on practitioner skill development, substance use disorder treatment, and effective practices in community mental health. Kristin is a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT), and she currently teaches motivational interviewing to behavioral health and other allied human services professionals. She is an adjunct professor at the Wright Institute’s Counseling Psychology Program and lecturing faculty at San Francisco State University. Kristin is the author of The Harm Reduction Workbook for Addiction (New Harbinger, 2024), co-author of Advancing Motivational Interviewing: An Experiential Skills Guide for Mental Health Professionals (PESI, April 2026), and a writer for The Mental Health and Substance Use Recovery Workbook (New Harbinger, May 2027). Related Episodes: 135. Power of Empathy and Motivational Interviewing with Stephen Rollnick 66. Helping People Change Using Motivational Interviewing With Nadine Mastroleo 402. Harm Reduction for Addiction with Kristin Dempsey See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #470
    July 28 · 58 min

    470. Parenting Science in the Media: Lost in Translation

    Don't stress over parenting advice, as much of it is based on clickbait, panic, and outdated science. In this episode, we hear from science journalists and experts Melinda Wenner Moyer, Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, Jacqueline Nesi in a conversation with Emily on how to spot actual, trustworthy parenting guidance amid all the online noise. Dismantling the myth of the "one-size-fits-all" approach, they explain why classic research was always meant to be flexible and why anyone claiming there is only one right way is usually just selling something. You'll also learn about the deep flaws in historical parenting studies and what modern research is getting right, as well as the viral panic surrounding screen time, extreme media narratives, and the real risks AI companions pose to kids' emotional growth. If you’d appreciate a reassuring, reality-based sanity check on modern parenting so you can tune out the fear and focus on what actually works for your family, tune in for this episode on Parenting Science in the Media. Listen and Learn: How parenting advice moved past simple "good vs. bad" rules to look at how things like culture, environment, and everyday context actually shape what works Calling out rigid parenting advice, spotting the red flags, and breaking down why real child science actually depends on the context Biases in parenting science and leaning into "goodness of fit" to figure out what actually works for your specific kid How nuanced, multi-method science often gets distorted by media algorithms and fear-based messaging and how to spot misleading science headlines How kids are actively using AI, why vulnerable or unfulfilled kids are most at risk of over-dependence, and how parents can guide their children through open communication rather than strict bans Positive trends in youth resilience and self-control, how modern parenting shifts drive these improvements, and why adults in every generation fall victim to the cognitive bias that "kids these days" are doomed Resources:  jacquelinenesi.com melindawennermoyer.com https://www.tracydennistiwary.com/  technosapiens.substack.com https://tracydennistiwary.substack.com  melindawmoyer.substack.com. The Kids Are All Right, Scientific American article by Melinda Tracy’s Book Review in the New York Times The Most Elusive Part of Modern Parenting, Emily’s Substack (if you hit a paywall, just email Emily for a free link - emily@emilyedlynnphd.com) About Melinda Wenner Moyer, Jacqueline Nesi and Tracy Dennis-Tiwary Melinda Wenner Moyer - Melinda Wenner Moyer is an award-winning science journalist and author. She’s a contributing editor at Scientific American magazine and a regular contributor at The New York Times. She’s the author of How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Assholes and Hello, Cruel World! She also writes the popular parenting Substack Now What. Jacqueline Nesi - Jacqueline Nesi, PhD, is a Clinical Psychologist, Associate Professor at Brown University, and author of the popular weekly newsletter Techno Sapiens. Her research focuses on the role of technology in kids’ mental health (especially teens), and on how parents can help. Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, professor, researcher, mental health tech entrepreneur, and AI safety advisor. Her research focuses on the intersection between digital technology and mental health. She writes about growing up and growing old in the digital age in news outlets like the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post, as well as on her Substack The Future of Sanity. She is author of the book Future Tense: Why Anxiety is Good for You (Even Though it Feels Bad). Related Episodes: 464. Dad Brain with Darby Saxbe 428. How to Fall in Love with Questions with Elizabeth Weingarten 409. Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times with Melinda Wenner Moyer 382. The Anxious Generation? The Conversation We Should Be Having About Kids, Technology, and Mental Health 319. Autonomy-Supportive Parenting with Emily Edlynn 307. Navigating Social Media As a Parent with Cara Goodwin 266. Future Tense with Tracy Dennis-Tiwary 253. Free-Range Kids with Lenore Skenazy 214. How to Raise Kids Who Aren’t Jerks with Melinda Wenner Moyer See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #469
    July 21 · 1 hr 6 min

    469. ACT Refresher with Matt Boone

    We spend an exhausting amount of energy trying to outrun our own difficult thoughts and feelings. For this episode, Jill Stoddard brings back ACT therapist, trainer, and author of The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Skills Workbook, Matt Boone for a refreshingly grounded look at Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Matt shares how his own path through chronic pain led him to ACT, breaking down why trying to "fix" uncomfortable inner experiences usually backfires. You'll hear about why we procrastinate, how to unhook from spiral-inducing thoughts, and how to get unstuck when uncertainty feels overwhelming. Plus, Matt shares how ACT helps therapists dodge burnout. Join us for this practical guide to making peace with the noise in your head so you can finally move toward what actually matters. Listen to POTC ad-free for just $5 a month by becoming a Mega Supporter on Patreon! Or, support the podcast with a one-time donation at Buy Me A Coffee! Listen and Learn: How ACT moves away from trying to "fix" or eliminate difficult emotions, teaching people to live alongside their pain so they can focus energy on what truly matters Matt’s personal journey from chronic pain patient to ACT therapist, exploring how real-life experiences shaped their approach to therapy and led to designing experiential ACT training courses How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) shifts the focus from managing symptom scores to creating meaningful, real-world behavior changes through experiential, values-based action Why "we hurt where we care," how procrastination and avoidance function to give us short-term relief, and how reconnecting with your deeper "why" can help you step through discomfort toward a full life How to define values as actionable, ongoing ways of being rather than fixed feelings, and discover practical tools Aligning small everyday actions with your values to allow you to act with intention, kindness, and self-acceptance, even in hard moments Major clinical hurdles and creative, practical exercises to act in alignment with your values anyway How mindfulness allows you to step back and observe unhelpful thoughts without getting tangled up in them or taking them as "capital-T truth Why arguing with your mind often backfires, how to shift focus from thought content to thought impact, and why taking a "leap of faith" empowers you to take meaningful action aligned with your values Resources: The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Skills Workbook https://www.matthewsboone.com/acceptance-commitment-therapy-skills-workbook Matt's Website https://www.matthewsboone.com/ Connect with Matt on Social Mediahttps://www.facebook.com/matthew.boone.794/about https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewsboone https://www.praxiscet.com About Matt Boone: Matt Boone is a social worker, psychotherapist, and author who specializes in translating mental health concepts for the general public. His books include The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Skills Workbook, co-authored with Jennifer Gregg, and Stop Avoiding Stuff: 25 Microskills to Face Your Fears and Do It Anyway, co-authored with Jennifer Gregg and Lisa Coyne. He is the Associate Director at the Student Wellness Program (SWP) of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry. As the Clinical Director of Mental Health Coaching at Lyra Health, he oversaw the clinical development of Lyra’s mental health coaching program and offered workshops and webinars on mental health topics to workers in the tech industry. Lyra partners with eBay, Lyft, Uber, Servicenow and others to provide evidence-based care to their employees. At Cornell University, he oversaw the development of Let's Talk, an outreach program that has since been replicated at nearly 100 other colleges and universities. He lives and works in Little Rock, Arkansas with his wife, guitars, and cats, Giorgia (a sassy Tortie) and Finley (a gentle giant orange kitty with a superhuman -- or superkitten-- capacity for empathy). Related Episodes: 77. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Jill Stoddard 106. Therapy from “The Heart of ACT” with Robyn Walser 116. Building a Meaningful, Values-based Life with Jenna LeJeune 121. Be Mighty: An Episode for Stressed Out, Worried Women with Jill Stoddard 128. ACT for Food Restriction and Anorexia with Rhonda Merwin 190. ACT for Suicide Prevention with Sean Barnes 195. ACT Daily with Diana Hill and Debbie Sorensen 226. ACT for Perfectionism with Jennifer Kemp 279. ACT for Healing Black Racial Trauma with Jennifer Shepard Payne 301. Seven Daily ACT Practices for Living Fully with Diana Hill and Debbie Sorensen 313. ACT-Informed Exposure for Anxiety with Brian Pilecki and Brian Thompson 338. ACT for Burnout with Debbie! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #468
    July 14 · 57 min

    468. Joyful and Impactful Climate Choices with Elizabeth Dunn and Jiaying Zhao

    Sometimes saving the planet can feel like a massive, exhausting guilt trip. In this episode, Debbie sits down with University of British Columbia professors Elizabeth Dunn and Jiaying Zhao to talk about their book, Leave the Lights On: How Joyful Decisions Can Save Our Species. Their main point is about the whole "you must be perfect" climate messaging is totally backfiring, and focusing on joyful, high-impact changes is actually what keeps people motivated. Jiaying breaks down a massive 63-country study showing how scare tactics just make people want to shut down, and the duo debunks some common eco-myths. It turns out that obsessing over turning off the lights or choosing the perfect reusable bag doesn't move the needle much. Instead, they shout out smarter, high-leverage moves like treating beef and lamb as occasional splurges, eating more plants, and traveling lighter. They also get into how to influence the people around you by making sustainable choices easy, attractive, and non-political, proving that individual habits and big systemic changes (like voting) both matter. Listen and Learn: How "doom and gloom" climate messaging actually backfires by discouraging real-world action Surprising insights from a massive global study of 60,000 participants across 63 countries Finding joyful, climate-friendly lifestyle changes to create a positive feedback loop that makes us happier and more motivated to protect the planet How making practical, high-impact shifts in your daily habits like smarter food choices can create a truly sustainable difference for both you and the planet Data-backed truth behind common environmental myths and how to easily focus your energy on the daily lifestyle choices that actually make a high-impact difference for the planet How to significantly lower your carbon footprint without sacrificing the foods you love Reducing your carbon footprint without giving up the joy of travel by mastering the art of packing light, making smarter flight choices, and embracing the unexpected adventure of staycations How to inspire positive behavior change in others without lecturing them on climate change Why individual action and systemic change are not a false dichotomy, but rather a powerful partnership where local community engagement can drive larger policy shifts and boost your personal happiness Resources: Leave the Lights On: How Joyful Decisions Can Save Our Species www.happyclimate.org Book Debbie mentioned: Soil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden, by Camille T. Dungy Debbie’s essay about the drought in Denver, with pictures of her low-water garden: https://drdebbiesorensen.substack.com/p/drought-dispatches-from-denver About Elizabeth Dunn Elizabeth Dunn is Professor of Psychology at the University of British Columbia and coauthor of Happy Money. She directs UBC’s Happy Lab, which focuses on how to optimize valuable resources including time, money, and carbon to maximize human well-being. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, The Atlantic, TIME, Rolling Stone, and Harvard Business Review; and on numerous podcasts and television shows, including Hidden Brain, NPR’s Short Wave, The Happiness Lab, Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris, Morning Joe, and CBS Mornings. Dunn spoke on the TED mainstage in 2019, and her talk was selected as one of the top ten TED talks of the year. About Jiaying Zhao Jiaying Zhao (JZ) is Professor of Psychology and Sustainability and founded the Behavioral Sustainability Lab at the University of British Columbia, which designs and tests behavioral solutions that encourage climate action. She has worked with NASA, NOAA, and the US and Canadian Forest Service to develop pathways to net zero. Zhao has appeared on numerous podcasts and in documentary films, including Why Is This Happening? With Chris Hayes and Close the Divide. Her research has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, TIME, The Economist, Scientific American, CNN, and NBC. In 2023, Zhao gave a TED talk on climate strategies rooted in happiness, which was selected as one of the top TED Talks to be a better you in 2024. Related Episodes: 262. Hope and Values in Dark Times with Us 255. Influence is Your Superpower with Zoe Chance 215. How to Change with Katy Milkman 371. Uniting Toward a Better Future with Diana McLain Smith 431. Ordinary Magic: Social Psychology for Big Change with Gregory Walton See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #467
    July 7 · 57 min

    467. Bonded by Evolution with Paul Eastwick

    Are we being lied to about the science of attraction? In this episode, UC Davis relationship scientist and author of Bonded by Love: The New Science of Human Attachment, Paul Eastwick, challenges the massive online narratives around "mate value," hardwired gender differences, and dating strategies. It turns out a lot of the viral relationship theories we see online are built on shaky evidence, relying on photos and surveys rather than real, live human interaction. Paul explains why what we say we want on paper almost never predicts who we actually fall for in person. He redefines compatibility not as a rigid trait-matching algorithm, but as something unique that two people construct together over time. If you're ready to look past the internet's rigid dating rules and see how attraction actually works in the wild, tune in. [And if you are interested in pre-ordering Yael’s book, Why Don’t You Understand Me?, this link will take you to the larger booksellers, while THIS link will take you to her pre-order bonus form. Thank you for supporting Yael’s book launch! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeq8tfQnl1o5GvfxrIrDzeOFtIvB8E16czMKajY3B8IDy1oww/viewform] Listen and Learn: The "Evo script" and the popular, outdated evolutionary psychology myths that dominate modern dating advice and why the latest science challenges its assumptions about mate value, gender differences, and relationship strategies Why popular evolutionary psychology models fail to predict real-world relationship success, and learn how relationship science reveals a far less competitive and much more hopeful reality of how we actually choose and stay with our partners Why the way we evaluate romantic partners on paper or dating apps is completely different from how we judge them in person The surprising scientific truth that our abstract checklists for a romantic partner rarely predict real compatibility, discovering instead how long-term satisfaction is built through shared experiences rather than finding someone who matches a mental template How actual data debunks extreme evolutionary psychology scripts about gender differences, revealing that men and women are much more aligned in their romantic and sexual desires than popular media and online advice suggest Why the concept of "mate value" and physical attractiveness only matter for short-term dating and initial impressions, while true long-term relationship success depends on compatibility that partners uniquely construct together rather than a predictable algorithm How relationship satisfaction and compatibility are not predetermined by matching personality traits, but are instead actively constructed through vulnerability, open-minded interactions, and the unpredictable connections built within real-world social networks Why platonic friendships between heterosexual men and women are not only entirely possible but also deeply enriching, mind-expanding, and a proven positive predictor for finding a romantic partner in the long run The major drawbacks of online dating, learn why you should wait until the third date before making a decision, and find out how a "failed" date can actually help you find your next match Resources: Bonded by Love: The New Science of Human Attachment https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593593981 https://www.lovefactuallypod.com/ http://pauleastwick.com/pauleastwick https://linktr.ee/pauleastwick About Paul Eastwick Paul Eastwick is a professor of psychology at UC Davis, where he runs the Attraction and Relationships Research Laboratory. His work sits at the intersection of evolutionary psychology, social psychology, and close relationships research, meaning he has spent his career asking why people fall for who they fall for, and whether the stories we tell ourselves about that process hold up to scientific scrutiny. His new book, Bonded by Love: The New Science of Human Attachment, makes a sweeping argument: the dominant narrative about human mating — attraction as hierarchy, competition, genetic optimization — isn't just incomplete. It's wrong in ways that matter. The real science of how humans form lasting bonds is, if anything, more interesting and more hopeful than what we've been sold. His research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, he sits on the editorial boards of several major psychology journals, and he has the rare combination of scientific rigor and personal candor. Paul is also the co-host of Love Factually, a podcast he runs with Northwestern relationship researcher Eli Finkel, which fact-checks Hollywood rom-coms one movie at a time (and which happens to be one of Yael’s favorite binge-listens). Related Episodes: 63. The Ape That Understood the Universe with Steve Stewart-Williams 92. Marriage in Midlife with Daphne de Marneffe 179. How to Be an Adult in Relationships with Dave Richo 248. Let’s Talk about Sex & Intimacy with Zoë Kors 397. The Mindful Path to Intimacy with James Cordova See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #466
    June 30 · 1 hr 5 min

    466. Creating Meaning and Magic through Writing with Janina Scarlet

    For some people, stories are entertainment; for others, they can be a lifeline. Janina Scarlet, licensed clinical psychologist, author, and founder of Divine Feminine Publishing, returns to discuss her work promoting books with strong female and gender-diverse representation. She shares how surviving illness after Chernobyl, along with physical and sexual abuse, led her to find comfort in stories and eventually become a writer. The conversation covers the challenges of writing about personal experiences, the importance of reading widely, separating drafting from editing, and protecting creativity. Janine also talks about researching and writing her Holocaust novel, Through Bullets and Thunderstorms, based on her grandmother’s survival in Ukraine. Listen and Learn: How surviving childhood trauma, abuse, and the aftermath of Chernobyl shaped Janina’s drive to write, revealing how fictional characters can serve as vital support systems and how shared vulnerability allows us to step into each other's worlds to find hope and healing How sharing our deepest, most vulnerable personal stories is an act of courage that fosters post-traumatic growth and acts as a powerful reminder to others that they are not alone Kickstarting your writing journey by reading your target market and separating the creative writing process from the analytical editing phase Why giving up prematurely is a beginner's biggest mistake and how learning to "embrace the mess" of an imperfect first draft is the true secret to finishing your book How to break out of the research "bottomless pit" when writing about unfamiliar topics by leveraging interviews with experts and people with lived experience to craft authentic, deeply nuanced fiction The raw and deeply personal story behind Janina’s book, Through Bullets and Thunderstorms: Our Holocaust Survival Pact Resources: Through Bullets and Thunderstorms: A Holocaust Survival Pact https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9798992940404 https://www.superhero-therapy.com/ https://divinefeminine-publishing.com/ https://writingtheother.com/ Michael’s Confidence Course https://herold.coach/course I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780808510574 The Artist's Way https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780143129257 About Dr. Janina Scarlet Dr. Janina Scarlet (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, a neurodivergent, queer person with a disability, and founder of the Divine Feminine indie book publishing company. She has authored eighteen books and written chapters for twenty others. Dr. Scarlet is the recipient of the Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Award from the United Nations Association. She regularly consults on books and television shows, including HBO’s Young Justice. She was also interviewed for Marvel’s MPower series and was portrayed as a comic book character in Gail Simone’s Seven Days graphic novel. Dr. Scarlet’s goal is to promote books featuring at least 50% female and/or gender-diverse characters because when women and gender-diverse people have greater representation in fiction, it empowers them to have a stronger voice in real life. Related Episodes 325. Unseen, Unheard, Undervalued with Janina Scarlet 275. Work parent thrive with Yael 345. Writing for Personal Growth with Maureen Murdock See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #465
    June 23 · 39 min

    465. Tradwives, Influencers, and Reality TV with Debbie and Emily

    We’ve all been there: you’re scrolling through your feed, watching someone bake sourdough from scratch in a pristine linen dress, and suddenly your own life feels incredibly messy and chaotic. In this episode of Psychologists Off the Clock, Debbie and Emily are pulling back the curtain on the hyper-curated worlds of social media influencers, reality TV, and the massive "tradwife" trend. Grab your headphones and get ready for a much-needed reality check on why we need to be way more skeptical of what we see on our screens. Listen and Learn: What happened when Debbie fell down a Ballerina Farm rabbit hole How glamorous images of the past conveniently leave out the harsh realities of history, like poverty, oppression, and environmental harm How reality shows feed us false ideals, driving us into a spiral of social comparison and reinforcing toxic, patriarchal beauty standards Why chasing these unrealistic lifestyles actually hurts our well-being The rise of fear-based pseudoscience, MLMs, and totally unqualified "mental health influencers" who are just looking for clicks Resources: Debbie’s recent Substack post on Tradwife Influencers: https://open.substack.com/pub/drdebbiesorensen/p/trad-wife-influencers-reflections The critique Debbie mentioned about how making cereal from scratch is a leisure class activity: https://www.tiktok.com/@professorneil/video/7339254814578150661 Maintenance Phase podcast: https://www.maintenancephase.com/ The Dream podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc28XHKS2jY About Debbie Sorensen Debbie (she/her) is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Denver, Colorado with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Harvard University. She is author of the book ACT for Burnout: Recharge, Reconnect, and Transform Burnout with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and co-author of ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She loves living in Colorado, her home state, with her husband, two daughters, and dog. When she’s not busy working or podcasting, she enjoys reading fiction, cooking, traveling, and getting outdoors in the beautiful Rocky Mountains! You can learn more about Debbie, read her blog, and find out about upcoming presentations and training events at her webpage, drdebbiesorensen.com. About Emily Edlynn Emily (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric health psychology who works in private practice with children, teens, and adults. She has a BA in English from Smith College, a PhD in clinical psychology from Loyola University Chicago, and completed postgraduate training at Stanford and Children’s Hospital Orange County. Emily spent almost ten years working in children’s hospitals before pivoting to private practice, which allowed her to start a writing career. Emily has written her blog, The Art and Science of Mom, since 2017 and a parenting advice column for Parents.com since 2019. Emily’s writing has also appeared in the Washington Post, Scary Mommy, Good Housekeeping, Motherly, and more. She recently added author to her bio with her book, Autonomy-Supportive Parenting: Reduce Parental Burnout and Raise Competent Confident Children and has a Substack newsletter. Emily lives with her husband, three children, and two rescue dogs in Oak Park, IL where she can see Chicago’s skyline from her attic window. Related Episodes: 295. Buyer Beware: Pseudoscience and the Wellness Industry, featuring Pooja Lakshmin 390. Raising Empowered Girls in a Sexist World with Jo-Ann Finkelstein 311. Nobody’s Fool with Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris – Psychologists Off the Clock 307. Navigating Social Media As a Parent with Cara Goodwin 433. Rethinking Screens and Video Games with Ash Brandin 382. The Anxious Generation? The Conversation We Should Be Having About Kids, Technology, and Mental Health 429. May Contain Lies with Alex Edmans See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #464
    June 16 · 57 min

    464. Dad Brain with Darby Saxbe

    We’ve been told forever that women are the only natural caregivers, but neuroscience shows that’s just not true; men actually go through huge biological shifts when they become dads, too. Sitting down with Emily for this episode is clinical psychologist Darby Saxbe, who chats to us about her book Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives, which challenges neo-traditional assumptions about parenting roles. Their conversation highlights the biological reality of fatherhood, exploring how men experience hormonal shifts, brain changes, and even paternal postpartum depression. Darby also uncovers how hands-on parenting trends are shifting across generations, the connection between relationship conflict and a dad's mental health, and how policy changes like paid paternity leave can transform modern family dynamics. Listen and Learn: How the modern science of fatherhood rewrites traditional gender roles, why the "Dad Brain" is biologically wired for caregiving, and how millennial and Gen Z fathers are redefining the rewards and divides of modern parenting The concept of "facultative adaptation" and how it shapes the natural variability of fatherhood How a father's brain and body prepare for parenthood during pregnancy How a couple’s relationship conflict during pregnancy can directly impact the labor and delivery experience Why the prenatal period is a critical window for couples to proactively strengthen their communication, navigate relationship shifts, and better manage the stress and emotional toll of childbirth and early parenthood The ways postpartum depression manifests in new dads How a father's hormone levels naturally drop after birth and why high testosterone can unexpectedly strain romantic relationships and parenting The unique benefits of the father-child relationship Why we need to view men's mental health through a family lens How progressive policy shifts are working to empower and destigmatize active fatherhood Resources: Dad Brain: The New Science of Fatherhood and How It Shapes Men’s Lives https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781250387523 Darby’s Website: https://www.darbysaxbe.com Darby’s Substack: https://darbysaxbe.substack.com Connect with Darby on Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darbysaxbe https://www.instagram.com/darbysaxbephd/ Behind Every Dad Bod is a Healthy Dad Brain https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/06/opinion/dad-brain-health-fatherhood.html About Darby Saxbe Darby Saxbe, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and tenured full professor of psychology at the University of Southern California. She has published over eighty scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals and secured major research grants from the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation. She earned awards from the American Psychological Association and the Society for Research in Child Development and was a Fulbright fellow. Dr. Saxbe received her PhD in clinical psychology from UCLA and her BA in English and psychology from Yale University. Her research focuses on the transition to parenthood, particularly the neural and hormonal underpinnings of fatherhood. She integrates neuroscience and psychology to explore how close connections shape health and wellbeing. When she is not doing research, she hangs out with her husband and two kids, plays guitar in an all-mom indie rock band, and writes the Substack newsletter, Natal Gazing. She was a mediocre contestant on the show Who Wants to Be A Millionaire and recently lost a chili cookoff. Related Episodes: 446. Cognitive Household Labor with Allison Daminger 445. The Unexpected Magic of Caring with Elissa Strauss 361. Dudes and Dads: Men’s Mental Health with Danny Singley 206. Fair Play Part 2 with Eve Rodsky 176. Fair Play with Eve Rodsky See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #463
    June 9 · 52 min

    463. Doubting Accusers; Protecting Abusers

    When a survivor speaks up, the world too often demands a 'perfect victim' before it offers belief, a painful reality that leaves many wondering if their truth will ever be enough. In this episode with Deborah Tuerkheimer, author of Credible: Why We Doubt Accusers and Protect Abusers, we hear about the “credibility complex,” including credibility discount and credibility inflation, rape myths, the “perfect victim” and “monster abuser” archetypes, and how victim-blaming and disbelief are reinforced by culture and legal rules. You’ll also learn about underreporting, the “second assault,” trauma-informed investigation, expert testimony on trauma dynamics, and how loved ones can respond supportively when someone discloses abuse. Listen in to understand why credibility judgments are patterned and how believing, validating, and offering help can change what happens next. Listen and Learn: The credibility complex and how social power dynamics cause the credibility of marginalized individuals to be discounted while powerful individuals receive an inflated boost Why society perpetuates rape myths and victim-blaming How the "perfect victim" myth is weaponized against survivors in the legal system How institutional disbelief and victim-blaming are systemic realities baked into the penal code Why cultural tropes and a deep-seated "care gap" cause society to minimize astronomical statistics, overstate the prevalence of false reports, and prioritize the futures of perpetrators over the lives of victims How the cultural myth of the "monster abuser" prevents fair credibility judgments by creating a false archetype of a deviant stranger How the justice system creates an institutional imbalance by weaponizing an accuser's personal history while shielding a perpetrator’s past behavior How physical attractiveness acts as a "Goldilocks" trap for victims' credibility Why true progress relies on upending a systemic culture of impunity rather than relying solely on institutional training Resources: Credible: Why We Doubt Accusers and Protect Abusers https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780063002760 Deborah’s Website: https://www.deborahtuerkheimer.com About Deborah Tuerkheimer Deborah Tuerkheimer is a professor at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. She earned her undergraduate degree from Harvard College and her law degree from Yale Law School. Tuerkheimer served for five years as an Assistant District Attorney in the New York County District Attorney's Office, where she specialized in domestic violence and child abuse prosecution. She teaches and writes in the areas of criminal law, evidence, and feminist legal theory. She is also the author of CREDIBLE: Why We Doubt Accusers and Protect Abusers (Harper Wave/HarperCollins). Related Episodes: 19. Keeping Children Safe from Sexual Abuse with Feather Berkower 84. Courageous Conversations to Prevent Childhood Sexual Abuse with Feather Berkower 163. The Likeability Trap with Alicia Menendez 394. Sunlight is the Best Disinfectant with Andrea Dunlop and Mike Weber 399. Likable Badass with Alison Fragale 421. Defy with Sunita Sah 436. Consent Laid Bare with Chanel Contos 448. The Power of Oversharing with Leslie John See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #462
    June 2 · 44 min

    462. In a Good Place with Leidy Klotz

    It’s easy to live life on autopilot, with your eyes glued to a screen, completely disconnected from your physical surroundings. But as we learn in this episode with Leidy Klotz, the spaces you inhabit aren't just backdrops; they are actively shaping your mind, moods, and memories. Talking about Leidy’s latest book, In a Good Place, you’ll hear about Leidy’s framework of agency, growth, and belonging; why attention to physical environments matters in an age of screens and automation; how workplaces and homes can support different needs through thoughtful choice and design; and how spaces anchor powerful memories. Listen and Learn: Modern automation and screen time are subtly changing the way you interact with your physical surroundings and how you can intentionally reclaim your agency in the environments you navigate every day Why some modern architectural choices and environmental distractions might actually be making it harder for you to form genuine connections with the people right in front of you Breaking through modern habits, tune out your digital devices, and actively re-engage with the world around you How different personality types navigate physical environments How having personal agency and direct control over one's space profoundly increases comfort levels Allowing spaces to serve as powerful physical conduits for processing grief, honoring lost loved ones, and preserving their spirit through physical landmarks Resources: Subtract The Untapped Science of Less https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781250249876 In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780316567367 Jill’s newsletter post about the sweet spot: https://jillstoddard.substack.com/p/the-one-question-that-can-unlock?utm_source=publication-search Leidy’s website: https://leidyklotz.com/ About Leidy Klotz: Leidy Klotz is a professor at the University of Virginia whose research sits at the intersection of physical design and behavioral science. Before academia, he designed schools in New Jersey — and before that, he played professional soccer. A man who has never met a lane he wasn't willing to cross. His first book, Subtract, uncovered our systematic bias toward adding rather than removing, and what we lose in the process. His latest, In a Good Place: How the Spaces Where We Live, Work, and Play Can Help Us Thrive, explores how the spaces we inhabit quietly shape how we think, feel, and connect — usually without our awareness. It's also a deeply personal book whose emotional resonance defies easy summary. Related Episodes: 182. Stretch with Scott Sonenshein 211. Subtract with Leidy Klotz See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #461
    May 26 · 50 min

    461. A Little More Social with Nicholas Epley

    When was the last time you sparked up a conversation with a stranger and surprised yourself with how good it felt? Behavioral scientist Nicholas Epley, author of A Little More Social, returns to the podcast to discuss with Michael why we systematically underestimate how positively strangers respond, how connection supports happiness, health, and longevity, and the key mechanisms behind our social pessimism (misjudging warmth vs. competence, overlooking reciprocity, and self-fulfilling avoidance). Nicholas shares research on how quickly people update after a conversation and how fast those gains can fade, plus practical “easy choice” experiments like asking someone to take your photo or simply asking, “Can you tell me your story?” Plus, in a special post-interview discussion, listener-turned-friend of Michael’s, therapist Dr. Jennifer Kauder, joins Michael to reflect on voice vs. text, comfort-zone challenges, and why real-time connection changes everything. Listen and Learn: The surprising benefits of connecting with people you don't know, and why our minds trick us into fearing these interactions that can lengthen and enrich our lives Psychological traps that make us overly pessimistic about reaching out to others, and why we miss out on deeper, happier connections due to misplaced expectations Research on why trying to push past social awkwardness just once isn't enough, and why our brains quickly forget positive interactions Why our confidence drops right before we approach someone new, the psychology behind why starting a conversation is much easier than anticipating it, and how small mindsets can instantly dissolve social anxiety A simple, foolproof question that skips past awkward small talk, ignites genuine curiosity, and uncovers the fascinating, hidden stories Resources: A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness, Health, and Connection https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593319543 Nicholas’ Website: https://www.nicholasepley.com/ Nicholas Epley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-epley/ Michael's Confidence Course: https://herold.coach/course Rejection Proof by Jia Jiang: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780804141383 About Nicholas Epley Nicholas Epley is the John Templeton Keller Distinguished Service Professor of Behavioral Science and Director of the Roman Family Center for Decision Research, at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He studies social cognition—how thinking people think about other thinking people—to understand why smart people so routinely misunderstand each other. He teaches an ethics and happiness course to MBA students called Designing a Good Life. His research has appeared in more than two dozen empirical journals, been featured by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Wired, and National Public Radio, among many others, and has been funded by the National Science Foundation and the Templeton Foundation. He has been awarded the 2008 Theoretical Innovation Award from the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, the 2011 Distinguished Scientific Award for Early Career Contribution to Psychology from the American Psychological Association, the 2015 Book Prize for the Promotion of Social and Personality Science, and the 2018 Career Trajectory Award from the Society for Experimental Social Psychology. Epley was named a “professor to watch” by the Financial Times, one of the “World’s Best 40 under 40 Business School Professors” by Poets and Quants, and one of the 100 Most Influential in Business Ethics in 2015 by Ethisphere. He is the author of Mindwise: How We Understand What Others Think, Believe, Feel, and Want. His new book, A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness, Health, and Connection, was published in May! (Our UK listeners will find the book titled Hello: The Unexpected Power of Choosing To Connect) Related Episodes 422. Mindwise with Nicholas Epley 454. Remain Calm. Confidence Ahead with Michael Herold 313. ACT-Informed Exposure for Anxiety with Brian Pilecki and Brian Thompson 393. Supercommunicators with Charles Duhigg 360. The Laws of Connection with David Robson See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #460
    May 19 · 53 min

    460. How to Raise Emotionally Mature Children with Lindsay Gibson

    Parenting often feels like a high-stakes guessing game played in the middle of a meltdown or a deafening teenage silence. Clinical psychologist and bestselling author Lindsay C. Gibson returns to Psychologist Off the Clock to discuss her new book, "How to Raise an Emotionally Mature Child," and the core mindsets that build emotional maturity across development. You’ll hear how emotionally immature parenting shows up, why self-reflection protects against repeating harmful patterns, how mistakes and repair strengthen trust, and what it looks like to treat kids as fully human with rich inner worlds, even when they don’t say much or you don’t understand them. Listen for a relational, autonomy-supportive approach that can improve parenting and adult relationships alike. Listen and Learn: How the toddler-like self-centeredness of emotionally immature parents forces their adult children to constantly manage everyone else's happiness at the absolute cost of their own identity and peace Why breaking the cycle of childhood trauma doesn't require being a perfect parent, but rather practicing self-awareness and honoring your child's deeply sensitive Why parenting is a relational enterprise rather than a production line, where meaningful connection isn't measured by long-winded conversations, but by showing genuine curiosity and active engagement Shifting from "carpentry-style" parenting that forces a narrow path to "gardening-style" parenting that nourishes the child's true, unique self Why true parenting connection doesn't require you to perfectly understand your child at all times, but rather to create a safe, curious environment where they feel inherently understandable Resources: How to Raise an Emotionally Mature Child by Lindsay Gibson https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593735367 Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Children by Lindsay Gibson https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781626251700 Lidnsey’s Website: https://www.lindsaycgibson.com/ How to Avoid Estrangement (a Q&A with Lindsay for Yael’s newsletter) Stories that Connect (about sharing books, Yael’s newsletter post inspired by Lindsay Gibson) Video from Ed Tronick’s research on the “still face experiment” Range by David Epstein https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780735214507 About Lindsay Gibson Lindsay Gibson, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist specializing in emotional maturity and its ripple effects across the lifespan. Her book Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents became a #1 bestseller and has helped countless readers make sense of their childhoods — and themselves. Her newest book, How to Raise an Emotionally Mature Child, takes that work upstream, exploring what it actually looks like to raise kids who are emotionally grounded and self-aware. With a background that spans art, literature, and clinical psychology, Lindsay brings a rare combination of intellectual curiosity and practical wisdom to her work. She practices in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and has a habit of mailing Carl Rogers books to people she likes — which is how she became one of Yael's favorite humans. Related Episodes: 262. Relationships with Emotionally Immature People with lindsay Gibson 303. Both/And Thinking with Marianne Lewis See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #459
    May 12 · 58 min

    459. How to Rehuman Our Lives with Stephanie Malia Krauss

    Modern life has become a gauntlet of "dangerous weather" that frequently strips away our most basic human needs. In this episode, Emily speaks with author and strategist Stephanie Malia Kraus about her book, How We Thrive, and the essential practice of "rehumaning." Stephanie breaks down the four systemic forces, from hustle culture to addictive tech, that undermine our well-being and offers a roadmap for reclaiming play, wonder, and rest. The discussion bridges the gap between ancient Hawaiian wayfinding and modern neuroscience, highlighting the critical importance of restorative "downstates" and simple regulation tools for navigating an increasingly overstimulated world. Listen and Learn: How the Hawaiian tradition of Wayfinding teaches us to navigate a world that has "shifted on its axis" by anchoring into timeless human essentials, and influenced Stephanie's book Why the friction you feel in parenting isn't a personal failure, but a biological mismatch between our human nature and modern society Recognizing the four universal forces: Overtapped, Overworked, Overstimulated, and Overwrought, and understanding why feeling depleted isn't a personal failure, but a natural response to the "stormy" conditions of modern living Why our modern "social jet lag", the mismatch between our hectic schedules and our biological needs, is fueling a youth mental health crisis, and how reclaiming "human essentials" like sleep, play, and internal attunement can act as a biological superpower for both parents and teens How the practices of celebrating small wins, contributing to others, and nurturing an inborn sense of belief act as biological shields that restore our dignity and spark a protective sense of hope even in the most difficult seasons of life How "lemon squeezes", a simple technique of tensing and releasing your muscles for 20 seconds, uses the science of progressive muscle relaxation to signal safety to your nervous system and bring your body back into balance in less than a minute Resources: How We Thrive: Caring for Kids and Ourselves in a Changing World https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781071957561 https://rehumaningourlives.substack.com/ https://www.rehumaning.com/ Connect with Stephanie on Social Media: https://www.youtube.com/@StephanieMaliaKrauss https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemaliakrauss/ https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaliakrauss/ About Stephanie Malia Krauss Stephanie Malia Krauss is an author, speaker, and strategist focused on rehumaning childhood and our lives. Her newest book, How We Thrive, explores the urgent need to protect human essentials—like sleep, play, and connection—that modern life diminishes or denies. An educator and social worker who has worked from the classroom to Congress, Stephanie now advises states, districts, and national organizations on holistic approaches to preparing and caring for kids. Stephanie is the bestselling author of Whole Child, Whole Life: 10 Ways to Help Kids Live, Learn, and Thrive and Making It: What Today’s Kids Need for Tomorrow’s World. Her work has been featured by Newsweek, PBS NewsHour, Parents, and more. Related Episodes: 455. The New Blueprint for Success with Ana Homayoun 444. Mattering with Jennifer Wallace 433. Rethinking Screens and Video Games with Ash Brandin 424. Modern Anxiety with Noelle McWard Aquino 414. The Disengaged Teen with Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop 409. Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times with Melinda Wenner Moyer 324. Toxic Achievement Culture with Jennifer Wallace See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #458
    May 5 · 52 min

    458. The Pain/Brain Connection with Alan Gordon

    We’ve been taught that pain always means something is broken, but it’s often just a "stuck" danger signal in the brain. To show us how to turn that signal off, Jill Stoddard talks with Alan Gordon, the founder of the Pain Psychology Center and author of The Way Out. Drawing on his own recovery from chronic pain, Alan explains how fear and conditioning keep us hurting even after we've healed. Through fascinating stories like the "construction worker" case and MRI surprise, they dive into the science of neuroplastic pain and the tools you can use to retrain your nervous system, build stress tolerance, and finally feel safe in your own body again. Listen and Learn: Alan’s personal frustration with navigating a broken medical system and how that led to the discovery of a groundbreaking mind-body approach that offers lasting relief for chronic pain How your brain can misinterpret emotional stress or past memories as physical danger to create real, persistent pain even after an injury has fully healed The specific clues that can reveal whether your chronic physical pain is actually coming from your brain, and how to break the cycle of fear that keeps symptoms alive The reason why traditional recovery methods can fail when we ignore our internal state, and how "backward engineering" your physical tension can signal to your brain that the danger has passed Why the clinical evolution of Pain Reprocessing Therapy shifted from exploring unconscious emotions to targeting the brain's internal danger signals, and how modern neuroscience identifies the hidden driver keeping your physical symptoms alive Why somatic tracking outperforms traditional mindfulness Resources: The Way Out: A Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven Approach to Healing Chronic Pain https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593086858 Pain Psychology Center Website: https://painpsychologycenter.com/ Follow the Pain Psychology Center on Social Media: https://instagram.com/thepainpsychologycenter https://www.facebook.com/painpsychologycenter Tell Me About Your Pain - Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tell-me-about-your-pain/id1503847664 The Pain Reprocessing Therapy Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pain-reprocessing-therapy-podcast/id1785564399 TEDxAdelaide - Lorimer Moseley - Why Things Hurt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwd-wLdIHjs About Alan Gordon Alan Gordon is the creator of Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and founder of the Pain Psychology Center. He developed PRT through years of clinical practice and research, and its efficacy has been validated in randomized controlled trials published in JAMA Psychiatry. He is the author of The Way Out: A Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven Approach to Healing Chronic Pain. Related Episodes: 39. Chronic Pain with Adrianne Sloan 75. Mindful Self-Compassion with Christopher Germer 114. Way of Effortless Mindfulness with Loch Kelly 155. Mindfulness and Recovery with Rebecca Williams 177. Mind-Body Practices for Stress and Overwhelm with Rebekkah LaDyne 201. Fierce Compassion with Kristin Neff 336. Mindfulness and Living Expansively with Sharon Salzberg 364. The Brain-Gut Connection with Megan Riehl See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #457
    April 28 · 43 min

    457. Tiny Experiments with Anne-Laure Le Cunff

    What if success isn’t about grinding toward big goals but about following curiosity through small, imperfect experiments that lead somewhere better? On Psychologist Off the Clock, award-winning neuroscientist and entrepreneur Anne-Laure Le Cunff, founder of Nest Labs and author of Tiny Experiments, shares how a health scare while working at Google helped her shift from rigid, linear goals to an experimental mindset rooted in curiosity. You’ll hear about common “cognitive scripts” (the sequel, crowd pleaser, and epic scripts), how to design tiny experiments to test beliefs without framing outcomes as failure, and how to reframe success as learning. The conversation also covers “surface area for luck,” the difference between legacy and generativity, and ends with reflections on goals, values, and meaningful community support. Listen and Learn: How Anne-Laure’s career was fueled by imposter syndrome, and led to a life-threatening wake-up call that pushed her to rethink priorities and embrace a more experimental, balanced path Why rigid, linear goals only work when everything is certain, and why it’s more effective to replace them with curiosity and experimentation Why many of your goals come from hidden “cognitive scripts,” and by questioning them, you can move from autopilot to intentional choices Doing “tiny experiments” and observing results without judgment before deciding what to adjust or repeat Why instead of treating outcomes as success or failure, you should approach situations like small experiments, where everything that happens, especially mistakes, is just useful data for learning and adjusting The “Surface area for luck” and why the more you try new things, meet people, and put yourself in different situations, the more you increase the chances of unexpected good opportunities happening in your life Focusing on making a real-time, meaningful impact on people and communities around us through everyday acts of care and mutual support Resources: Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780593715130 Anne-Laure’s Website: https://anne-laure.net/ Tiny Experiments: https://tinyexperiments.org/ Connect with Anne-Laure on Instagram https://instagram.com/neuranne Ness Labs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ness_labs/?hl=en Ness Labs X: https://x.com/ness_labs Ness Labs Website: https://nesslabs.com/ Michael’s Confidence Course: Remain Calm. Confidence Ahead http://herold.coach/course About Anne-Laure Le Cunff Anne-Laure Le Cunff is an award-winning neuroscientist and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Ness Labs, where her weekly newsletter is read by more than 100,000 curious minds. Her research at King’s College London focuses on the psychology and neuroscience of lifelong learning, curiosity, and adaptability. Her book, Tiny Experiments, is a transformative guide for living a more experimental life, turning uncertainty into curiosity, and carving a path of self-discovery. Previously, she worked at Google as an executive on digital health projects. Her work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Forbes, Financial Times, WIRED, and more. Related Episodes: 349. The Hunger Habit with Judson Brewer 351. You Only Die Once with Jodi Wellman 454. Remain Calm. Confidence Ahead with Michael Herold See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #456
    April 21 · 55 min

    456. High Conflict with Amanda Ripley

    Being absolutely sure you’re right should settle an argument, but somehow, it often does the opposite. Instead, things escalate, tensions rise, and before you know it, the conflict has taken on a life of its own. For this episode, Yael welcomes New York Times bestselling author, trained mediator, and Good Conflict co-founder Amanda Ripley to unpack her book  High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped, and How We Get Out, and the difference between “good conflict” that strengthens us and “high conflict” that feeds on contempt, disgust, and rigid us-versus-them thinking. You’ll hear why high conflict makes us more error-prone while feeling more righteous, how group belonging and media incentives can keep the cycle going, and practical ways to interrupt the pattern like Gary Freeman’s three-question pause before speaking. Listen to learn how to stay in the fight without losing nuance, curiosity, or yourself. Listen and Learn: The distinction between healthy conflict that helps you grow and the kind that quietly turns destructive in ways you may not notice Why conflicts can quietly take over our thinking, shifting us into an us-versus-them mindset Why do we get pulled into conflicts that drain us even when we know the cost, and what keeps us hooked? How can even people deeply engaged with information find themselves pulling away from conflict, and what does that reveal about the hidden dynamics of high conflict How you can recognize the early signs of high conflict and shift toward more productive, healthier conversations before things escalate Resources: High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped, and How We Get Out: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781982128579 Amanda’s Website: https://www.amandaripley.com/ Good Conflict Website: https://www.thegoodconflict.com Connect with Amanda on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.ripley.35/ https://www.instagram.com/ripleywriter/ Amada’s Substack: https://amandaripley.substack.com/ Amanda’s article about high-conflict journalism, I stopped reading the news. Is the problem me–or the product? Yael’s Substack post about how journalists quickly build connection Builders Movement: an Instagram feed and website that offers “inspiration, tools, and ways to take action to rise above us vs. them and solve our toughest problems together.” About Amanda Ripley: Amanda Ripley is a New York Times bestselling author, magazine journalist, and co-founder of Good Conflict, a media and training company helping people reimagine how we fight. She has written three award-winning nonfiction books — The Unthinkable, The Smartest Kids in the World, and High Conflict — each following people through transformations to uncover what the rest of us can learn. Her most recent book, High Conflict, chronicles how good conflict metastasizes into something that consumes everything in its path — and, crucially, how people find their way out. A trained mediator herself, Amanda's work reveals that escape from high conflict isn't about being nicer; it's about learning to genuinely comprehend what you still disagree with. Her writing has appeared in the Atlantic, the Washington Post, and Politico Magazine, among others. Related Episodes: 234. The Power of Us with Dominic Packer 371. Uniting Toward a Better Future with Diana McLain Smith 392. Outraged with Kurt Gray 408. Connecting Like a Hostage Negotiator with Gary Noesner 452. How to Disagree Better with Julia Minson See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  • #455
    April 14 · 1 hr

    455. The New Blueprint for College Success with Ana Homayoun

    If your teen is getting caught in cycles of comparison, burnout, or avoidance while trying to “do enough” for college, this conversation offers a different perspective. Emily talks with Ana Homayoun about her book Erasing the Finish Line and what really matters beyond grades, test scores, and prestige. They walk you through unhealthy patterns in college admissions culture, how technology amplifies anxiety, and why most institutions actually accept the majority of applicants. Their conversation also reveals how long-term success depends far more on relationships and meaningful engagement than on brand-name schools. Join Emily and Ana for practical strategies to help your teens build executive functioning systems, shift from time management to energy management, strengthen social capital through supporters and clarifiers, and rethink grind culture, including the role of youth sports. Listen and Learn: Focusing less on comparison and more on building your own strengths and systems for shaping both college outcomes and the kind of work you end up loving later How parents’ own fears and need for control shape the college process can undermine a student’s fit and well-being, and what it takes to step back so they can truly thrive How technology has reshaped college admissions in ways that make independent research, real-world exploration, and staying open-minded more important than ever for finding the right fit Why the most “competitive” colleges may feel that way by design, and how choosing the right environment and relationships over prestige can shape your future more than you expect Focusing on executive functioning skills to shape your teen’s long-term success in ways grades alone never reveal Making small shifts in structure, mindset, and environment to unlock a child’s ability to plan, adapt, and thrive without pressure or perfection How having friendships across different age groups quietly builds confidence, perspective, and real connection in ways most students do not expect Sharing and building social capital in small, everyday ways to quietly shape opportunities for teens and create unexpected outcomes Giving kids real choices, a safe space to fail, and multiple places to belong to builds the confidence, motivation, and life skills they carry into adulthood How shifting from managing time to managing your energy transforms focus, behavior, and motivation Resources: Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admission https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780306830693 That Crumpled Paper Was Due Last Week: https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780399535598 Ana’s Website: https://anahomayoun.com/ Connect with Ana on Social Media: https://instagram.com/anahomayoun https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-homayoun-4783863/) About Ana Homayoun: ANA HOMAYOUN is the founder of Silicon Valley–based Green Ivy Educational Consulting and executive director of Luminaria Learning Solutions, which develops student programs focused on executive functioning and well-being. She is also the author of That Crumpled Paper Was Due Last Week, The Myth of the Perfect Girl, and Social Media Wellness. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Fast Company, and NPR and on Good Morning America and NBC News. Learn more about her work at www.anahomayoun.com. Her most recent book, Erasing the Finish Line, comes out in paperback on June 9th with the updated title, Getting in Is Not Enough: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades, Test Scores, and College Admission. Related Episodes: 324. Toxic Achievement Culture with Jennifer Wallace 414. The Disengaged Teen with Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson 369. The Good News About Adolescence with Ellen Galinsky 332. Middle School Superpowers with Phyllis Fagell 272. Middle School Matters with Phyllis Fagell See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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