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The Dr. Sylvia K Show

Dr. Sylvia K

Hosted by Dr. Sylvia K—therapist, speaker, and author of Lonely AF – A Therapist’s No BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone—this podcast is an honest, compassionate exploration of what it means to be human in a world that often teaches us to disconnect from our feelings, from each other, and from ourselves.

Dr. Sylvia K wrote Lonely AF to create a meaningful resource and offer practical tools to help people better manage loneliness, anxiety, and overall emotional well-being. Rooted in the themes explored in the book, this show reframes loneliness not as a personal failure, but as an important signal—one that points us back toward connection, self-trust, and wholeness.

Through the lens of brain science, attachment theory, trauma-informed psychology, mindfulness, and lived experience, each episode offers grounded insight, real talk, and tools you can actually use in your daily life—especially in your relationships and family systems.

If you’re ready to move beyond self-limiting beliefs, stop performing your life, and begin living with more meaning, deeper connection, and grounded confidence—The Dr. Sylvia K Show is for you.

✨ Lonely AF: A Therapist’s No-BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone is available to order on Amazon.

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June 22 · 58 min
From Resentment to Freedom: Forgiveness Through Creativity and Imagination with Paul Lubicz
In this powerful and deeply transformative episode, I sit down with Paul Lubicz, founder of Return to True Nature, to explore the profound connection between forgiveness, healing, imagination, and personal transformation. Paul works with high-capacity founders, leaders, and creatives to break through limiting beliefs and remove the emotional and structural blocks that impact clarity, performance, and overall well-being. With more than two decades of experience, his approach focuses on restoring nervous system capacity, increasing resilience, and creating sustainable change. Drawing from Eastern and Western philosophies, somatic practices, and Indigenous wisdom traditions, Paul helps people reconnect with their authentic selves and unlock new levels of freedom and possibility. During our conversation, Paul guided me through one of the most powerful healing exercises I have ever experienced. Using imagination and creativity, I was able to begin releasing years of resentment, hurt, and a deeply rooted sense of abandonment connected to my relationship with my father. It was a profound reminder that healing often begins when we allow ourselves to engage with our inner world in new ways. Paul's work has been praised by Elton John and Richard Branson and featured in GQ and The Guardian. In this episode, he shares practical tools and insights for anyone looking to heal old wounds, cultivate forgiveness, and create lasting transformation. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why forgiveness is essential for emotional freedom and healing • How imagination and creativity can be powerful tools for transformation • The role of nervous system regulation in personal growth and performance • Ways to identify and release limiting beliefs and emotional blocks • Practical approaches to creating sustainable change in your life Whether you're navigating unresolved pain, seeking greater clarity, or looking for new tools to support your personal growth journey, this conversation is filled with wisdom, compassion, and actionable insights. To learn more about Paul and his work, visit Return to True Nature.
June 4 · 47 min
Understanding Depression: Tools for Healing and Supporting Loved Ones with Dr. Z
This is a very special and heartfelt episode focused on depression, hope, recovery, and healing. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Lisa Zielbauer, PharmD, also known as Dr. Z, owner of Root Cause Rx and the voice behind Instagram accounts @RootCauseRx and @theMINDfulFARMacist. A Doctor of Pharmacy and Functional Medicine Consultant, Dr. Z courageously shares her personal journey with depression and anxiety, which began in high school and eventually led to a severe depressive episode requiring hospitalization shortly after pharmacy school. In this deeply honest discussion, Lisa opens up about the challenges she faced, the turning points that helped her find hope, and how connecting with others through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) became a powerful part of her recovery. She shares the lessons she learned along the way and how those experiences inspired her to help others uncover the root causes of mental health struggles through a holistic and functional medicine approach. Listeners will walk away with practical tools and strategies for navigating difficult moments of depression, building resilience, and finding support during life's darkest seasons. Lisa also offers valuable guidance for friends and family members who want to better understand depression and learn meaningful ways to support a loved one who may be struggling. Whether you have personally experienced depression, are supporting someone who has, or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of mental health, this episode is filled with compassion, wisdom, and actionable takeaways that can make a real difference. Tune in for an empowering conversation about recovery, reducing mental health stigma, and discovering that healing—and hope—are possible. ❤️
May 27 · 52 min
Slow Down to Become with Dara Steinberg
Dara’s perspective on sensitivity as physiology rather than personality offers a powerful and refreshing conversation that so many women need to hear. In this deeply informative and supportive episode of The Dr. Sylvia K Show, I sit down with Dara Steinberg to explore what it truly means to be a highly sensitive woman and how understanding your nervous system can become the foundation for healing, self-trust, and deeper connection. We dive into what the nervous system actually is, how it influences our daily experiences, and why so many highly sensitive women may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, disconnected, or misunderstood. Dara also shares her transformative Slow Down to Become™ Method, which beautifully blends occupational therapy, pelvic health, nervous system regulation, and energetic awareness to support women in feeling safe, supported, and at home in their bodies again. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, compassionate insight, and tools you can begin using right away. My hope is that after listening, you feel less alone, especially if you identify as a highly sensitive woman, and that you walk away feeling more supported and more connected to your own body. In this episode, you'll learn: • What it means to be a highly sensitive woman • What the nervous system is and how it affects us • Practical tools to help regulate your own nervous system • Why sensitivity is more than a personality trait • How slowing down can become a pathway to healing and self-trust Connect with Dara: Instagram: @slowdowntobecome Facebook: Slow Down to Become Website: slowedowntobecome.com Enjoy this powerful conversation and remember: your sensitivity is not something to change or fix — it may be something to understand, honor, and support.
May 4 · 37 min
Dr. Kim - Parenting Through Play
In this episode, we dive into the powerful insights of Dr. Kim, also known as “The Parentologist,” and her transformative approach to raising emotionally connected, confident children. Drawing from her clinical work and her new book Parenting Through Play, we explore how play is truly the language of childhood—and how, as adults, we often forget its importance. Dr. Kim reminds us that while parents tend to rely on words, children communicate through play. When we meet them in that space, we unlock deeper trust, understanding, and connection. This episode highlights how play isn’t just fun—it’s a foundational tool for building self-confidence, emotional security, and strong parent-child relationships. We also discuss the importance of validation: seeing our children, hearing them, and responding in ways that foster trust and reciprocity. Dr. Kim offers practical, relatable strategies that feel accessible and real—no overwhelming jargon, just guidance that meets you where you are as a parent. In addition, we touch on a topic that’s often overlooked: the parent’s own emotional regulation. From navigating the transition between work and home life to managing stress in everyday parenting moments, Dr. Kim provides tools to help you stay grounded so you can show up fully for your children. Whether you’re parenting a baby, toddler, or child up to age 12, this episode is packed with meaningful takeaways. If your goal is to build trust, deepen connection, and nurture confidence in your child, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. About Dr. Kim: Dr. Kim is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Play Therapist, author of Parenting Through Play: Creative Strategies for Building Better Behavior, Deeper Connection, and Positive Communication, and host of The Parentologist Podcast. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UCLA, a Master’s in Broadcast Journalism from Syracuse University, and both a Master’s and Doctorate in Psychology with a focus on Marital and Family Therapy. With over 20 years of experience as a public speaker, Dr. Kim has worked extensively in television and radio. Prior to earning her doctorate, she spent five years in Los Angeles as a National Account Manager for Clear Channel Communications, specializing in sales, marketing, and advertising. Following her doctoral work, she served for five years as a Program Manager at a nonprofit agency, where she implemented a positive behavior support program across more than 20 elementary schools. She has also worked as a Behavior Consultant and Supervisor, supporting families with children on the autism spectrum. Follow her on Instagram : @theparentologist
April 20 · 41 min
Beyond Food Noise: Connection Over Control with Dr. Vanessa Scaringi
In this deeply meaningful episode, I sit down with Dr. Vanessa Scaringi—licensed psychologist, certified eating disorder specialist, and co-owner of CALM Counseling in Austin, Texas—for a conversation that feels both grounding and transformative. Vanessa brings her relational approach to the forefront as we explore what it really means to feel connected—to ourselves, to others, and to our relationship with food. We dive into her upcoming book, Hungry for Connection, and unpack the powerful themes behind it. Together, we talk about perfectionism and rigidity, and how these patterns quietly shape our relationships—with both people and food. Vanessa shares insight into hunger cues, fullness cues, and the experience of “food noise,” helping us better understand what our bodies are trying to communicate. We also explore the practice of slowing down—learning how to eat with intention, reconnect with our needs, and step out of autopilot. Vanessa speaks candidly about loneliness and disconnection, and how these experiences can pull us away from what we truly need, both emotionally and physically. This episode is filled with practical tools, thoughtful reflections, and moments that will leave you seeing your relationship with food—and yourself—in a new light. Call to Action: Vanessa’s book Hungry for Connection officially releases October 1, 2026, and it’s a must-read for anyone looking to heal their relationship with food and deepen their connection to themselves and others. Pre-order your copy now to be among the first to experience this powerful guide—and take a meaningful step toward more connected living. I truly can’t wait to hold this book—and I know you’ll feel the same after listening. Follow Calm Counseling on Instagram
April 16 · 51 min
Rewire Your Nervous System: Jessica Ortner on Tapping, Emotional Healing & Why You Can’t Think Your Way Out of Triggers
What if you could calm your nervous system in minutes—without overthinking, forcing positivity, or “figuring it all out”? In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Jessica Ortner, New York Times bestselling author and co-creator of The Tapping Solution, to explore how Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping, can help you regulate your nervous system, release emotional blocks, and build deeper self-compassion. Jessica shares the incredible origin story of how one of her brothers discovered tapping through Tony Robbins—and how that discovery led them to create a groundbreaking documentary that helped bring tapping into the mainstream. We dive into some fascinating questions, including: Why is it so hard to think your way out of emotional triggers? How does understanding the nervous system change the way we treat ourselves? What actually happens in the brain when we tap? Has tapping been studied with brain scans? How is tapping different from meditation? Jessica also guides us through practical tapping techniques, including specific points you can use—especially if you’re dealing with fears like making new friends or stepping into new social situations. This conversation is both deeply insightful and incredibly practical. Whether you're new to tapping or already using it, you’ll walk away with tools you can apply immediately. About Jessica Ortner: Jessica Ortner is a New York Times bestselling author and co-founder of The Tapping Solution, a platform that has helped millions of people worldwide through EFT tapping. Her new book, Rewired, is the first she’s co-authored with her brothers Nick and Alex, with a foreword by Tony Robbins. She is also the founder of The Tapping Solution App, which has been downloaded in over 190 countries, with tapping meditations played more than 26 million times—making it one of the most widely used and well-documented tools for mental and emotional health. Her work has been featured on The Today Show, CNN, Fox News, Shape, Women’s Health, and many other major media outlets. Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, you’re going to love what Jessica has created next. Her brand-new book, Rewired, is available now for pre-order—and it dives even deeper into how you can transform your emotional patterns, rewire your responses, and create lasting change in your life. 👉 Pre-order your copy of Rewired today at TheTappingSolution.com or here on amazon:https://a.co/d/0aAL4D2Z And if you want to experience tapping for yourself right away, I highly recommend downloading the Tapping Solution App. I’ve personally used it—with both my clients and in my own life—and it’s been phenomenal. It’s packed with guided tapping sessions, support for anxiety, stress, sleep, confidence, and so much more. 👉 Download the Tapping Solution App wherever you get your apps Take a moment, give tapping a try—and see what shifts for you.
March 30 · 29 min
Your Loneliness is Trying to Tell You Something, and How to Listen
In this solo episode, I explore something we all crave but rarely practice deeply enough: truly listening. I dive into the art of listening—not just to respond, but to understand. From reflective listening to the simple (but powerful) act of putting your phone down, I share practical ways we can show up more fully for the people in our lives. And when we can’t? How to communicate that honestly, without disconnecting. At the heart of this episode is something even deeper: the transformational power of feeling "heard." I also open up about my own experiences navigating difficult conversations within my family, and how these moments—while messy—can become catalysts for growth, healing, and connection. Plus, I share a glimpse into my recent launch party for Lonely AF and what this chapter of my journey has been teaching me. This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen better, feel deeper, and connect more honestly—with others and with yourself.
March 16 · 37 min
Identity Reset with Author Ashley Olivia Nelson
In this powerful and deeply human conversation, we sit down with author and grief specialist Ashley Olivia Nelson to celebrate the release of her debut book, The Identity Reset, publishing March 16, 2026. Ashley’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. A two-time widow who has walked through profound personal loss, she has transformed her lived experience with grief into compassionate guidance for others navigating life’s most disorienting seasons. Her work reminds us that grief isn’t just about losing someone we love—it can also mean losing the life we imagined, the roles we held, and even the version of ourselves we once knew. In The Identity Reset, Ashley offers a powerful framework for navigating the transformation that often follows loss. Through archetypes and tools such as the Shapeshifter, Releaser, Builder, and Truth Seeker, she helps readers understand the different ways we adapt, let go, rebuild, and ultimately discover deeper truth about who we are after profound change. During this conversation, Ashley shares her deeply personal journey through grief and identity shifts, along with the practical insights that have helped many people feel less alone in one of the loneliest human experiences on earth. Her storytelling is honest, empathetic, and deeply grounding—offering language and tools for experiences that many struggle to articulate. In this episode, we explore: • What happens when loss reshapes your identity • Why grief can feel so isolating—and how connection helps us heal • The roles we move through during transformation: Shapeshifter, Releaser, Builder, and Truth Seeker • How to rebuild meaning and discover truth in the aftermath of loss • Practical tools for navigating grief and life after profound change Ashley’s warmth, empathy, and wisdom shine throughout this conversation. Whether you are grieving a person, a relationship, a life chapter, or a version of yourself that no longer exists, this episode offers both comfort and direction. ✨ If this conversation resonates with you, support Ashley’s work by purchasing her debut book The Identity Reset, available March 16, 2026. The book expands on these tools and offers a compassionate roadmap for anyone navigating grief, loss, and the journey of rebuilding their identity. Because even in the midst of loss, you are not broken—you are becoming. Follow Ashley Olivia Nelson on IG: https://www.instagram.com/learningaboutgrief/ Order your copy of Identity Reset:https://a.co/d/02XQ6b16
January 23 · 18 min
When Family Love Comes With Strings: The Beckham Feud Through a Family Therapist's Lens Episode
What if the Beckham family “feud” isn’t about drama, entitlement, or ingratitude—but about something much deeper? In this episode, we unpack emotionally immature parents, family enmeshment, and differentiation using simple, everyday language anyone can understand. Through the lens of Bowen family systems theory (don’t worry—we keep it sixth-grade friendly), we explore how growing up too fast, carrying adult responsibilities as a child, and prioritizing family image can shape parenting—and family conflict—later in life. Using the Beckham family as a real-world example, we reframe Brooklyn Beckham’s choices not as rejection or disrespect, but as a healthy (and painful) attempt to become his own person. We also explore how performative family systems operate, why independence can trigger anxiety and control, and why guilt is often the emotional price of breaking generational cycles. This episode isn’t about blaming parents. It’s about understanding limitations, naming patterns, and learning how to grow without cutting off the people we love. ✨ You’ll walk away with: A clear definition of emotionally immature parents Signs you may have grown up in a performative or enmeshed family system A short self-reflection quiz Simple tools to manage guilt, anxiety, and the fear of disappointing your family If you’ve ever felt torn between loyalty and selfhood, this episode is for you. If today’s episode resonated with you—especially the part about feeling lonely inside your own family—I want to invite you to go deeper. My book, Lonely AF – A Therapist’s No BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone, is available for preorder now on Amazon, and it includes an entire chapter dedicated to what it’s like to feel unseen, disconnected, or emotionally alone in your family system. This book is honest, practical, and grounding—no fluff, no therapy jargon—just real tools to help you understand your relationships, your anxiety, and your loneliness in a new way. ✨ When you preorder before March 16, you’ll receive my free preorder bundle, including: Guided meditations recorded by me Access to my workshop on my 5-Step HEART Method And one more thing—if the book helps you, please leave a review. Reviews tell bookstores and readers that this conversation matters and that this book is needed right now. Preorder Lonely AF on Amazon today—and remind yourself: You’re not broken. You’re not too much. And you don’t have to do this alone. 💛
January 21 · 8 min
Lonely Isn’t a Failure — It’s a Threshold, 8 Minute Meditation
This is not your usual podcast episode. This is a guided meditation designed to meet you in the quiet places—the tiredness that lingers in your body, the loneliness that doesn’t always have words, and the moment in life where something old no longer fits, but something new hasn’t fully arrived yet. This episode is part of a special meditation series created to complement the work inside Lonely AF: A Therapist’s No BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone. Here, loneliness is not treated as a problem to fix or a flaw to overcome. Instead, it’s honored as a threshold—a sacred in-between space where inherited roles, survival identities, and emotional patterns begin to loosen. If you’ve been feeling exhausted, disconnected, or like you’re standing at the edge of a version of yourself you don’t fully recognize anymore, this meditation is for you. You don’t need to push. You don’t need to perform healing. You only need to arrive. Put on your headphones, get comfortable, and allow yourself to cross something quietly powerful. The Identity Inventory Pause: When loneliness or exhaustion shows up, pause and ask: “What role am I still playing that I no longer need?” This tool isn’t about changing behavior—it’s about naming what you’re carrying. Awareness alone begins the release. Use this question whenever your energy feels drained without explanation. HOMEWORK PRACTICE The Role Release Ritual (5 Minutes) Tonight or sometime this week: Write down 3 roles you learned in your family system to survive (e.g., caretaker, peacekeeper, achiever, invisible one). Read them out loud. Say: “These roles protected me. I no longer need to live inside them.” Fold the paper and place it somewhere symbolic—or tear it up if that feels right. No analysis. No fixing. Just acknowledgment. TAKEAWAY Loneliness doesn’t always mean you need more people. Sometimes it means you’re meeting yourself without the roles that once defined you.That space can feel quiet, empty, even unsettling—but it’s also where your truest identity begins to emerge. Your CTA for Presence: The next time loneliness arises, resist the urge to distract, numb, or explain it away. Instead, place a hand on your chest and say: “I’m listening.” Because loneliness isn’t asking you to escape yourself— it’s asking you to finally arrive. xo, Dr. Sylvia K
January 21 · 15 min
Why Your Family Triggers You: Understanding Bowen Theory & the Emotional Family System
Why does family stress hit so differently than anything else? Why can love and anxiety exist at the same time in the same family? In this episode of The Dr. Sylvia K Show, I break down Bowen Family Systems Theory in simple, everyday language—no therapy jargon required. You’ll learn how families operate as emotional ecosystems, why anxiety spreads through relationships, and how one person often ends up carrying the emotional weight for everyone else. Using a real-world example from the Beckham family, I explain how tension between parents, adult children, and new partners is not about blame—but about anxiety, change, and emotional connection. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, lonely, or triggered around family, this episode will help you understand why—and what you can actually do about it. You’ll walk away with: A clear, easy-to-understand explanation of Bowen Theory One powerful takeaway to reduce family anxiety One simple homework assignment you can try this week A new way to think about loneliness and emotional connection ✨ Special Reminder: Dr. Sylvia K’s first book, Lonely AF: A Therapist’s No BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone, is available for preorder on Amazon: https://a.co/d/biJhkFc Preorder by March 16 to receive a free preorder bundle, including: Guided meditations recorded by Dr. Sylvia K Access to her workshop on the 5-Step HEART Method Preordering and leaving a review helps bookstores know this book is relevant, needed, and important right now. 🎧 Tune in, take a breath, and remember—you’re not broken. You’re part of a system, and you can learn to navigate it.
January 11 · 10 min
The 7 Minute Meditation That Changed My Life
This is not a traditional podcast episode—it’s a guided meditation experience. In this special installment from my ongoing meditation series, I guide you through The Seven-Minute Meditation That Changed My Life—a short but powerful practice designed to help you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and release the family roles and self-limiting beliefs that may be keeping you stuck. Many of us grow up taking on roles in our family systems—the caretaker, the achiever, the strong one, the peacekeeper—in order to feel safe, connected, or valued. Over time, those roles can follow us into adulthood, shaping how we relate to ourselves and others, and contributing to feelings of loneliness, disconnection, and emotional burnout. This meditation blends grounded psychology, nervous system regulation, and higher-self visualization to help you: Let go of old family roles that no longer serve you Release self-limiting beliefs and inherited identities Connect with your highest self and inner clarity Feel more present, calm, and emotionally connected Access a sense of possibility beyond your past This practice is especially supportive if you: Feel lonely even when you’re not alone Overfunction, people-please, or feel responsible for others Struggle with self-trust or emotional disconnection Want a short, powerful meditation you’ll actually return to Listen when you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in old patterns. You don’t need to think your way out of loneliness—you need a new internal experience. This is The Seven-Minute Meditation That Changed My Life—and it may become one you come back to again and again. If this meditation resonated with you, I’d love to invite you to take the next step and pre-order my book: Lonely AF - A Therapist’s No-BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone Pre-orders are incredibly important—especially for first-time authors. When you pre-order, you’re not just buying a book early. You’re helping signal to bookstores, publishers, and retailers that this book is in demand, which directly impacts how widely it’s distributed and how many people it can reach. By pre-ordering, you’re also helping make this resource more accessible to the people who need it most. Lonely AF is packed with: Practical, therapist-approved tools you can actually use Real client stories that normalize what you’re feeling A clear, compassionate five-step method to help you feel less alone Support for continuing to grow, evolve, and reconnect with yourself Guidance for breaking out of old patterns and accessing the infinite possibilities within you If you believe loneliness isn’t a personal failure—but a signal—and you want to help spread a grounded, honest, and deeply human resource, your pre-order truly makes a difference. Pre-order on Amazon (US): https://a.co/d/4Z8Jyza
January 10 · 14 min
Breaking Up With Shame - A Guided Meditation
This is not a typical podcast episode. This is a guided meditation. Breaking Up With Shame is part of a growing meditation series designed to support personal growth, emotional healing, and awareness of the family and relational systems that shape how we see ourselves. In this short, no-BS meditation, you’ll be guided to gently notice shame-based patterns and self-defeating behaviors that may have once helped you cope, belong, or survive—but no longer support who you are today. Rather than analyzing or fixing yourself, this practice helps you release what was never yours to carry and reconnect with a more compassionate, grounded, and supportive relationship with yourself. This meditation is especially supportive if you: Feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, guilt, or embarrassment Struggle with feeling “too much” or “not enough” Want to feel less alone in your inner world Are interested in healing through a family systems and relational lens Find a quiet space, get comfortable, and allow yourself to be guided. If this meditation resonates with you, my upcoming book Lonely AF: A Therapist’s No-BS Guide to Feeling Less Alone goes even deeper into the patterns that keep us disconnected from ourselves and others—and how to change them without shame or fluff. You can pre-order the book now at any of the links below. Pre-ordering helps support this work and allows me to continue creating resources like these guided meditations. Pre-Order Here: Amazon: https://a.co/d/13f9p1I Porchlight Books: https://www.porchlightbooks.com/products/lonely-af-sylvia-kalicinski-9781394345564?_pos=1&_sid=14cb6503a&_ss=r
January 7 · 9 min
Beyond Family Roles: A Guided Meditation to Release Family System Patterns
This is not your ordinary podcast episode. This is a guided meditation created to support your healing. In this meditation, you’ll be gently guided to bring awareness to the family roles you may have learned to play—consciously or unconsciously—such as the rescuer, the scapegoat, the caretaker, the peacemaker, or the one who stayed unseen. These roles often begin as survival strategies in our early systems and can quietly shape how we relate to ourselves and others well into adulthood. Through intentional reflection and guided visualization, this meditation invites you to acknowledge the roles that once helped you belong, release the ones that no longer serve you, and reconnect with who you are beyond the system you grew up in. This is the first in a growing series of guided meditations I’ll be sharing to help support you through your healing journey—offering space for awareness, compassion, and meaningful change. Find a quiet place, get comfortable, and allow yourself to simply be guided.
Dec 7, 2025 · 42 min
Should I Text my Ex? Navigating Loneliness & Breakups during the Holidays with Coach Cole Zesiger
In this incredibly real and compassionate conversation, I’m joined by breakup coach Cole Zesiger, whose down-to-earth wisdom and lived experience make him one of the most relatable voices in the breakup and healing space. Cole just wrote his first book, Ex’s and No’s: The Breakup Advice You Don't Want to Hear, and wow… this episode delivers exactly the kind of clarity, comfort, and practical guidance you’d expect from him. Together, we dig into a struggle so many people face this time of year: the temptation to get back with your ex during the holidays — and the loneliness that often fuels it. Cole shares grounded, realistic tools for managing loneliness in healthy ways, especially when the world feels festive and you’re just trying to hold yourself together. He offers thoughtful, applicable advice on: Navigating loneliness during the holidays while going through a breakup Building a stronger relationship with yourself Handling those “should I text them?” moments Caring for your emotional and physical wellbeing Understanding why New Year’s and Valentine’s Day are statistically the biggest breakup holidays — and how to prepare for them Moving through the shame of feeling like you’ve “failed” after a breakup What to do when you do slip up and sleep with your ex — and how to recover with self-compassion rather than self-blame Cole also opens up about his own journey, including taking the MCAT 18 times, being rejected from medical schools 50 times, navigating divorce and breakups, and how every detour ultimately led him to his purpose — and to writing his book. His honesty is refreshing, validating, and such a beautiful reminder that being human is messy… and that you are never alone in it. Cole brings warmth, humor, and grounded truth to a topic that so many people feel isolated in — making this episode an incredible companion for anyone navigating heartbreak, loneliness, or holiday emotions. If you connected with Cole’s compassionate, relatable wisdom in this episode, you’re going to love his book. Pre-order Ex’s and No’s: The Breakup Advice You Don’t Want to Hear on Amazon or Barnes & Noble — link in the show notes! Cole's website: https://coachcolezesiger.com/ Cole's IG account: https://www.instagram.com/coachcolezesiger/?hl=en Preorder Ex's & No's: https://www.amazon.com/Exs-Nos-Breakup-Advice-Dont/dp/1394324138/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3AN57A038AXBX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fhcmiaqLUEJ0rkhFKmN5kA.7c4sEiBq3aVDUzSdYh1ncPsOMJiIR6bnkWmq8irpXYM&dib_tag=se&keywords=ex%27s+and+no%27s+zesiger&qid=1765138779&sprefix=ex%27s+and+no%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1 ABOUT AUTHOR: Cole Zesiger is a breakup and relationship coach specializing in breakup recovery, dating advice, and relationship coaching. After a divorce at 23 and another breakup soon after, he began sharing his journey on social media—growing to over 750,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more. He has coached 2,000+ people through heartbreak, helping them either rekindle relationships in a healthy way or move on with peace. His practical approach blends psychology, attachment theory, and real-world strategies to guide people from heartbreak to healing. When not coaching, Cole enjoys time with his wife and daughter, playing guitar, dirt biking, and exploring the mountains. His debut book, Ex’s and No’s: The Breakup Advice You Don’t Want to Hear, offers a prov
May 26, 2025 · 57 min
The Hunger to Be Seen: Childhood Emotional Neglect & Emotional Loneliness with Mary Dobson, LMFT
What if your struggle with food isn’t about food at all? In this raw and revealing episode of The Dr. Sylvia K Show, licensed psychotherapist and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist Mary Dobson, LMFT, joins us to explore Family Systems Theory and hidden roots of disordered eating—childhood emotional neglect (CEN) and emotional loneliness. We unpack family systems theory, the roles we play in our families, and why so many high-functioning people feel numb, disconnected, or constantly “not enough,” despite looking like they have it all together. Mary shares how perfectionism, people-pleasing, and the pressure to perform often begin in emotionally neglectful environments—and how these patterns become embedded not just in the mind, but in the body. She introduces her Recover Your Self™ framework and daily practices that help you come back to who you really are—beneath the masks, the roles, and the “shoulds.” We also discuss: How emotional neglect shapes identity, not just behavior The link between emotional abandonment and disordered eating Why community service—not just talk therapy—is essential for recovery The radical power of joy, pausing, and breaking free from performative living If you’ve ever felt emotionally invisible or like your struggles are “too much,” or whatever you do, it never feels enough, you're not alone. This conversation will meet you right where you are—with truth, compassion, and a path home to yourself. Call to Action: Loved this episode? Share it with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe, leave a review, and join our community for more real, healing conversations that reconnect you with your truth. For more information on Mary Hobson,LMFT, visit her website: https://www.marydobson.com/ Follow her on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/realpsychotherapist/
S2 · E29
Oct 10, 2024 · 11 min
Kintsugi: Embracing the Beauty in Our Brokenness
In this episode of The Dr. Sylvia K Show, we explore the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi, a powerful metaphor for healing and growth. Kintsugi, meaning “to join with gold,” teaches us to embrace our cracks and imperfections, turning them into sources of strength and beauty. Dr. Sylvia dives into how this philosophy can help us better understand family dynamics, navigate feelings of loneliness within relationships, and heal the parts of ourselves that feel broken or difficult to accept. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How to apply the principles of Kintsugi to heal emotional wounds and broken family dynamics. 2. How to view loneliness as an invitation to reconnect with yourself and foster self-acceptance. 3. Practical steps to embrace your imperfections and turn them into a source of personal growth. Join Dr. Sylvia as she inspires you to transform life’s cracks into golden opportunities for resilience and connection. Tune in to discover how you can mend your emotional wounds with gold and transform your struggles into something truly beautiful.
S2 · E28
Oct 5, 2024 · 1 hr 17 min
Lonely AF in Your Own Family: A Conversation with Stacey Dorenfeld, Author of Kosher Crack
In this raw and eye-opening episode of The Dr. Sylvia K Show, we dive deep into the often-hidden loneliness that can exist within family structures. Joining me today is Stacey Dorenfeld, author of the powerful memoir Kosher Crack, who bravely shares her personal story of feeling isolated and disconnected in her own family. Together, we explore themes of abuse, survival, and the difficult journey of healing. Trigger Warnings: Sensitive discussion about rape, alcohol, drugs, and suicide. Stacey opens up about her experience growing up in a family that was far from the safe haven it was supposed to be, challenging the idea that family always equals belonging. We’ll discuss the painful moments that led her to question her place in her family and the courage it took to write her story. From physical and emotional abuse to finding “miracles in the mud,” Stacey’s journey is a testament to resilience. In this episode, you’ll hear Stacey’s insights on: What it means to be “Lonely AF” in your own family How to recognize when family dysfunction crosses the line into toxicity The importance of finding light and acceptance in who you are now Whether you’ve felt like an outsider in your own family or are seeking a path toward healing, Stacey’s story will inspire you to take the first steps toward finding belonging, even when it seems impossible. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about pain, survival, and ultimately, self-love. As always, thank you for listening, and don’t forget to pick up Stacey’s memoir Kosher Crack. It’s a raw, healing narrative that will leave you feeling seen, heard, and empowered.
S2 · E27
Dec 4, 2023 · 56 min
The Radical Hope of Spectacular Failure with Kristen McGuiness- NYT bestselling editor + author. Founder of @risewriters, Co-founder of @rowhousepub
In this intimate episode, we delve into the intricate world of storytelling, guided by the insightful and multi-talented Kristen McGuiness. From her early days at Shakespeare & Co. in New York to becoming a revered author, editor, and publisher, Kristen's journey is a testament to the power of narrative in our lives. The Power of Story: Kristen shares her deep-seated passion for storytelling, tracing it back to her childhood love for books and the profound impact they've had on her life's trajectory. Her work at Storyboxing and Rise Books, providing content, coaching, and courses, reflects her commitment to nurturing and fostering the stories within each of us. A Journey Through Publishing: As a co-founder of Row House and founder of Rise Books, Kristen is at the helm of publishing imprints that merge wellness with social justice, offering a platform where stories ignite change. With over two decades of experience, she has collaborated with renowned authors and shaped compelling narratives, wielding her expertise in book development and editing. Rise Books is a boutique literary publisher, which curates the best of the Rise Writers community, publishing 6 to 10 books a year in the genres of cultural disruption, mysticism, ethical business, radical birthing, collective liberation, political fiction, literary memoir, motherhood, recovery, and other works that explore what it means to be radically inspired. Vulnerability and Real Connections: The interview takes a personal turn as Kristen candidly shares anecdotes about her relationship with her father, grief, and relief- that invite listeners into her world of "real life." The conversation resonates deeply as personal stories about fatherhood emerge, fostering a raw and genuine connection between Kristen and myself. I get very personal and share a story with Kristen- THAT I HAVE NEVER TOLD ANYONE! Navigating Life's Chapters: Kristen's openness extends beyond her professional journey, offering glimpses into her marriage, her current life situation, and the genesis of her upcoming works, THE RADICAL HOPE OF SPECTACULAR FAILURE. Her candor and warmth infuse the conversation with authenticity, creating a space for genuine moments and revelations. A Tapestry of Hope and Resilience: Throughout the interview, Kristen's warmth and wisdom shine, inspiring a narrative woven with hope, resilience, and the transformative power of vulnerability. As she highlights the back story behind her debut novel, Live Through This, and explores various film and TV projects, Kristen embodies the essence of storytelling as a vehicle for healing and understanding. Join us in this captivating episode, where Kristen McGuiness invites us into the profound world of storytelling and the remarkable journey of embracing vulnerability and authenticity in crafting life's narratives. FOLLOW KRISTEN MCGUINESS : https://www.risebooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenmcguiness/https://www.instagram.com/kristenmcguiness/
S2 · E28
Nov 8, 2023 · 45 min
Facing your Fears: Learn to live with discomfort and become comfortable with the uncertainty of life with Madina Alam, LMHC
Are you or someone you know struggling with OCD or anxiety? In this episode, I sit down with Madina Alam, M.A., LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor and certified yoga instructor, who specializes in treating OCD and anxiety. Madina is also the Director of Operations at NOCD, a company dedicated to treating individuals with OCD using exposure response prevention (ERP), a research-backed type of treatment. Madina shares her expertise on how to effectively treat OCD and anxiety, including: What is OCD and anxiety and how do they affect people? The different types of OCD and anxiety and how to identify them How exposure response prevention (ERP) works as a treatment option The role of mindfulness and yoga in managing symptoms Practical tips for living with discomfort and managing symptoms Madina's approach to treatment focuses on helping individuals learn to live with discomfort and become comfortable with the uncertainty of life. She believes that everyone has the ability to overcome their struggles and live a fulfilling life. My favorite part of this episode, is when Madina shares a profound story of how she overcame a deep fear by approaching the things that she was sacred of. Madina shares how she did not down grade the traumatic experience that had happened to her regarding her personal trainer and spoke up for herself. Madina shares how she was the therapist to herself and followed her own advice: "Pick to the choice that is alignment with your values, not with what you're scared of." I hope this episode inspires you as much as it did for me. xo, Dr. Sylvia You can follow Madina Alam on Instagram: @mentalhealth_madina_

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