Awake at the Wheel | Ep 70

In this episode, we dive into the critical conversation around children, smartphones, and social media. Drawing on Jonathan Haidt's advice to delay cell phone and social media use until age 16, we explore the challenges parents face in today's tech-driven world. From monitoring phone usage and setting healthy boundaries to addressing the addictive nature of social media, we discuss practical ways parents can stay involved. We emphasize the importance of ongoing conversations with children about responsible phone and social media use, helping to create a safer, healthier digital environment for them to grow and thrive.

Takeaways

-Delaying cell phone and social media usage until age 16 is ideal, but not always feasible in today's world.
-Parents should set guidelines and boundaries for their children's phone and social media usage.
-Monitoring children's phone usage is important, but it should be done in a way that respects their privacy.
-Parents should have ongoing conversations with their children about responsible and safe phone and social media usage.
-Children should be taught to use technology responsibly and be aware of the potential negative effects of excessive phone and social media usage.

Sound Bites

"One of the biggest problems that has arisen from social media is social isolation."
"Teaching them how to use it responsibly and safely."
"We have the right to make sure that you're not transgressing."

00:00 Introduction: The Impact of Smartphones and Social Media on Childhood and Adolescence
03:08 The Shift in Childhood and Adolescence Due to Smartphones and Social Media
06:44 The Importance of Teaching Responsible and Safe Phone Usage
13:37 Monitoring Children's Phone Usage: Finding the Right Balance
18:13 The Challenges of Snapchat and the Need for Oversight
23:52 Recognizing Phone Addiction and Problematic Usage
31:17 Delaying Cell Phone Usage and Setting Boundaries
35:39 Conclusion: Teaching Responsible and Safe Phone and Social Media Usage

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 69

In this episode, Malini and Orin discuss the issue of men being left out of the conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of psychology. They highlight the growing proportion of women in the field and how this has led to biased research and a lack of understanding for men seeking therapy. They critique the American Psychological Association's policy paper on boys and men, which they argue promotes an ideology that portrays traditional masculinity as toxic. They emphasize the importance of a clinically focused approach in therapy and the need to recognize and respect the unique qualities of both men and women. The conversation discusses the feminization of therapy and the negative impact it can have on men. It highlights the importance of a balanced approach that incorporates both masculine and feminine qualities. The conversation also criticizes the APA document for promoting an ideology-based approach rather than an evidence-based one. It emphasizes the need for critical thinking and open-mindedness in the field of psychology. The conversation concludes with recommendations for individuals entering the field of psychology and for clients seeking therapy.

-Men are being left out of the conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of psychology.
-The growing proportion of women in the field has led to biased research and a lack of understanding for men seeking therapy.
 -The American Psychological Association's policy paper on boys and men promotes an ideology that portrays traditional masculinity as toxic.
-A clinically focused approach in therapy is important, and it is necessary to recognize and respect the unique qualities of both men and women. The feminization of therapy can be detrimental to men and the field of psychology should strive for a balanced approach that incorporates both masculine and feminine qualities.
-The APA document promotes an ideology-based approach rather than an evidence-based one, which can be harmful to the field of psychology.
-Critical thinking and open-mindedness are essential in the field of psychology to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to therapy.
-Individuals entering the field of psychology should approach their education and practice with a critical mindset and seek out like-minded individuals who challenge the status quo.
-Clients seeking therapy should be aware of the therapist's approach and find someone who aligns with their values and can provide a balanced and effective treatment.


00:00 Introduction: Men in DEI Conversations in Psychology
02:40 Biased Research and Generalization in Psychology
08:03 The Problematic Ideology in the American Psychological Association's Policy Paper
12:31 The Importance of a Clinically Focused Approach in Therapy
26:52 The Impact of the Feminization of Therapy on Men
29:14 The Problem with an Ideology-Based Approach in Psychology
33:24 The Importance of Critical Thinking in the Field of Psychology
40:07 Recommendations for Psychologists: Strive for Balance and Open-Mindedness
44:06 Recommendations for Therapy Clients: Find a Therapist Who Aligns with Your Values

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel Ep 68

In this episode, we explore US Politics and why the United States feels more divided than ever. We dive into the psychology behind political polarization, cognitive dissonance, and the impact of social media on our beliefs. Discover how isolation, loneliness, and the lack of critical thinking contribute to the growing divide, and learn how these factors can lead to the breakdown of friendships and relationships over political differences. Join us as we uncover the hidden forces driving polarization and discuss ways to bridge the gap with open-mindedness and understanding. Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the psychological components of US politics and the importance of finding common ground.

🔔 Subscribe for more insights on psychology, mental health, and societal issues!
👍 Like this video if you find the discussion valuable.
📝 Comment below with your thoughts on political division and how we can find common ground.

Takeaways:
- The US election has highlighted the psychological components and cognitive dissonance in society.
- Social media plays a significant role in fueling divisiveness and polarization.
- Critical thinking and open-mindedness are crucial in navigating political discussions.
- Isolation and loneliness contribute to the desire to belong to a political group.
- Differing political views can strain friendships and relationships.
- Finding common ground and respectful dialogue are essential for bridging divides.


"Politics has become such a strange landscape."
"The person who believes they are totally unbiased is the most dangerous."
"The opinion being assigned more than ever is that the other side is dangerous."


Chapters
00:00 Exploring the Psychological Components of the US Election
06:00 The Role of Social Media in Divisiveness and Polarization
07:19 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Political Discussions
10:03 The Impact of Isolation and Loneliness on Political Beliefs
13:40 Navigating Loss of Friendships Due to Political Differences
19:19 Finding Common Ground in a Divisive Political Climate

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Grief is an overwhelming journey that touches every part of our lives. In this episode, we explore the stages of grief, providing clear, educational insights into the emotional rollercoaster that follows loss. We also dive into the Empty Chair Theory, a therapeutic tool that empowers individuals to process their emotions in a tangible way.

Whether you're personally navigating the storm of grief or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical coping mechanisms, highlights the importance of healthy self-care, and underscores the value of social support. You'll learn how to honor your feelings, frame your experience, and use empathy as a powerful tool for healing.

We believe that while grief has no set timeline, hope and healing are always within reach. If this episode resonates with you, we encourage you to share your experiences in the comments—your story could be the support someone else needs.

00:00 Understanding Grief and Bereavement
2:31 Stages of Grief
08:12 Coping Mechanisms and Mixed Emotions
20:37 The Empty Chair Technique

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 66

This episode explores the question of whether men feel safe sharing their emotions with women or if they prefer to share with inanimate objects like trees. The discussion highlights the societal expectations and stereotypes that contribute to men's difficulty in expressing their emotions. It also touches on the manipulation and weaponization of emotions in relationships, as well as the challenges of navigating trauma and emotional needs in partnerships. The conversation explores the themes of men's mental health, the impact of divisive rhetoric on relationships, and the decline in birth rates and long-term committed relationships. The hosts discuss the need for open discussions about men's emotions and vulnerability, as well as the dangers of portraying the other sex as dangerous. They highlight the influence of social media algorithms and the promotion of extreme views. The conversation also touches on the decline in men's desire for sex in new marriages and the portrayal of relationships on reality TV shows. The hosts emphasize the importance of nuance and open dialogue in addressing these issues.

Key Points:

Societal expectations and stereotypes contribute to men's difficulty in expressing their emotions.

Men often feel unsafe sharing their emotions with women due to fear of judgment or not being seen as 'real men'.

The manipulation and weaponization of emotions can occur in relationships, where one person's needs supersede the other's.

Navigating trauma and emotional needs in partnerships requires understanding, compassion, and open communication. Open discussions about men's emotions and vulnerability are necessary to address men's mental health issues.

Divisive rhetoric and extreme views promoted on social media are impacting relationships and contributing to a decline in birth rates and long-term committed relationships.

The portrayal of relationships on reality TV shows may not reflect reality and can perpetuate unhealthy dynamics.

Nuance and open dialogue are essential in addressing these complex issues and fostering healthy relationships.

00:00 Introduction: Men's Emotions vs. Societal Expectations
03:28 The Gap in Men's Ability to Express Emotions
06:26 The Divide: Men's Emotions vs. Societal Expectations
11:09 The Manipulation and Weaponization of Emotions in Relationships
25:08 Exploring Men's Mental Health and the Need for Vulnerability
28:00 The Impact of Divisive Rhetoric on Relationships
33:06 Declining Birth Rates and the Importance of Healthy Relationships
39:26 Promoting Nuance and Open Dialogue in Addressing Complex Issues

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 65

In this episode, we delve into the controversial topic of 'Man vs. Bear' and the damaging narratives it perpetuates. We explore the troubling comparison between encountering a bear and encountering a man, highlighting issues of gender bias, toxic feminism, and the impact on children and teens. Our discussion emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, media discernment, and addressing harmful narratives with young audiences.

Key Points:

The 'Man vs. Bear' Narrative: Perpetuates harmful gender biases and toxic feminist perspectives. Reinforces divisive and biased viewpoints. 

Media Consumption and Critical Thinking: Essential to analyze and question media content, especially content that perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Encourages discernment in media consumption among all age groups.

Parental Guidance:  Parents play a crucial role in teaching children and teens to critically analyze media narratives.
Importance of open discussions about the impact of media on perceptions and interactions. 

Impact on Youth: Harmful narratives can shape divisive perspectives and biased interactions. Addressing these issues early can promote healthier attitudes and critical thinking skills. 

00:00 Unpacking the Harmful Narratives of 'Man vs. Bear'
13:38 Critical Thinking and Media Discernment in the Age of Harmful Content

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 64

In this episode, Malini and Oren dive deep into the movie Inside Out 2 from a psychological perspective. They share their disappointment with the film's portrayal of anxiety, noting its failure to differentiate between normal and disordered anxiety. They critique the movie for its ethnocentric viewpoint and lack of representation of diverse experiences, highlighting the stigmatizing visual depiction of anxiety and the overemphasis on happiness and joy. Malini and Oren argue that Inside Out 2 missed a crucial opportunity to explore the complexities of emotions and the importance of balance. Their discussion focuses on the movie's flaws and missed opportunities in depicting emotions and mental health, with insights on how anxiety and fear could have been handled more effectively. Join them as they unravel the nuances and offer a fresh perspective on this highly anticipated sequel.

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:13 Disagreement with Majority Opinion on the Movie
06:58 Differentiating Between Normal Anxiety and Disordered Anxiety
11:20 The Need for Accurate Portrayal of Anxiety
14:25 Impact on Different Cultural Experiences
22:01 Overemphasis on Happiness and Joy
23:22 The Importance of Embracing a Range of Emotions
24:06 Missed Opportunity to Explore the Complexity of Emotions
25:59 Flaws in Pacing and Integration
27:16 Therapists Filling in Gaps
29:35 Fear and Anxiety
30:03 Locking Up Emotions
32:06 Portrayal of Anxiety
33:33 Criticism of Father's Reaction
34:19 Inaccurate Portrayal of Anxiety
36:39 Importance of Discussion and Problem-Solving
37:06 Life Imitates Art
41:53 Missed Opportunities for Healthy Emotional Development
42:22 The Need for Critical Thinking

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 63

The conversation delves into the complexities of attachment wounds, parental relationships, and the impact on adult behavior. It explores the role of personal accountability, the repetition compulsion, and the use of therapy modalities like EMDR to reconcile difficult feelings.

00:00 Addressing Attachment Wounds and Parental Relationships
08:32 The Role of Personal Accountability and Healing
34:32 Reconciling Difficult Feelings with EMDR Therapy
39:52 Setting Boundaries and Navigating Complexities of Aging Parents

"It's also important to recognize when one is an adult that you can make these changes, that you can have these really difficult reflections."
"If you can go in there, and this is tricky, and this is why I agree with you that if someone isn't able to do this, it's gonna be totally futile."
"EMDR, where you are actually tapping into both that wisdom of the adult brain and the pain of the inner child or the child brain and helping to reconcile a lot of those difficult feelings."

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 62

Dr. Maggie Yu, a family practice and certified functional medicine physician, shares her personal health journey and the inspiration behind her holistic approach to medicine. She discusses the limitations of traditional healthcare and the impact of her own illness on her perspective as a physician. Dr. Yu also delves into the challenges of the healthcare system, the development of her Transform protocol, and the shift to online education and care. Dr. Maggie Yu discusses the importance of patient curiosity and education in driving change in functional medicine. She emphasizes the significance of gut health and its impact on mental health, digestion, and hormonal balance. Additionally, she addresses the challenges patients face in advocating for themselves and the global accessibility of functional medicine education. Dr. Yu shares her personal health journey and the critical role of curiosity in finding answers. She also sheds light on the reality of long-haul COVID and the hormonal impact of the virus.

Dr. Maggie has an free workshop  on June 13th teaching about the underlying causes and symptoms of Long Haul COVID, POTS, and Dysautonomia: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/uncovering-long-haul-pots-dysautonomia-a-functional-medicine-workshop-tickets-915833361237?aff=oddtdtcreator

Get a FREE copy of Dr. Maggie's book, they just need to pay for shipping: https://8outofthebox.com/transform_

Follow Dr Maggie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggieyumdtransformautoimmune
Watch Dr Maggie on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrMaggieYu
Join Dr Maggie's FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/transformautoimmune
Visit Dr Maggie's Website: www.drmaggieyu.com

~~~~~

00:00 Introduction and Personal Health Journey
02:47 Challenges of Traditional Healthcare and the Transform Protocol
08:11 The Shift to Online Education and Care
35:36 The Impact of Gut Health on Mental Health and Hormonal Balance
40:58 Challenges and Accessibility in Patient Advocacy for Functional Medicine
52:06 Understanding Long-Haul COVID and Hormonal Impacts

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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Awake at the Wheel | Ep 61

In this episode, Malini and DocAmitay discuss the victimhood mentality that is increasingly prevalent in society. They reference a study called the Dartmouth scar experiment, which showed that individuals who believed they were at a disadvantage perceived discrimination even when it didn't exist. They highlight the crisis of replication and poor methodology in social psychology and emphasize the importance of taking personal accountability and overcoming adversity. They discuss the negative consequences of fostering a sense of entitlement and the need for parents to teach their children problem-solving skills and resilience. They also critique the trend of eliminating challenges and accommodations in education and the workplace, which ultimately leads to a self-serving and entitled society.

00:00 The Rise of the Victimhood Mentality in Society
09:16 Taking Accountability and Overcoming Adversity
13:19 The Negative Consequences of Entitlement

We want your questions! Future episodes will feature a new segment, Rounds Table, where Malini and Dr Amitay will answer your questions, discuss your comments, and explore your ideas. Send your questions to [email protected], tweet us @awakepod, send us a message at facebook.com/awakepod, or leave a comment on this video!

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