Why do two people experience the same situation so differently? And why does one person’s behavior feel “difficult” while another’s doesn’t?

In this episode of Call Me Katie, I’m joined by psychologists Rachel Samson (@australianpsychologist) and Dr. Jessie Stern (@drjessiestern), co-authors of Beyond Difficult. Together, we explore the unique ingredients that make us who we are — and why understanding these factors is key to transforming our relationships.

We discuss:

This is Part 1 of our two-part series. Stay tuned for Episode 21, where we explore applying these insights to relationships, parenting, and navigating conflict.

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#PsychologyPodcast #Attachment #Temperament #Neurodiversity #BeyondDifficult

What happens when wellness becomes just another pressure to perform?

In this episode, I’m joined by nutritionist, mental health advocate, and Live Well, Be Well podcast host Sarah Ann Macklin for a powerful conversation about the ways the wellness industry may be doing more harm than good. We explore the line between health and obsession, how social media shapes our view of wellbeing, and what it actually looks like to live a life that feels good, not just looks good.

Whether you’re feeling burnt out from trying to "be healthy" or just want a more grounded, compassionate approach to wellness - this one's for you.

 We discuss:

•        The pressure to be “clean” and perfect

•        Performative wellness and social media

•        What people misunderstand about food, mood, and mental health

•        Where to start if you feel disconnected from your body

•        One wellness myth Sarah wishes we could all unlearn

🎧 Listen now on Call Me Katie

#WellnessCulture #MentalHealthAwareness #CallMeKatiePodcast #NutritionAndMentalHealth

Ever felt like you and your partner are on different pages when it comes to sex?

You’re not alone — and you’re not doing it wrong.

In this episode, Licensed Psychologists and AASECT-Certified Sex Therapists Dr. Jennifer Vencill and Dr. Lauren Fogel Mersy help us rethink everything we’ve been told about sexual desire. Whether you're the one who wants more sex, less sex, or just better sex — this conversation is for you.

We explore:

This episode is filled with expert insight and practical tools to help you build more connection, confidence, and compassion in your intimate life.

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📘 Grab their book Desire: An Inclusive Guide to Navigating Libido Differences in Relationships  https://drlaurenfogel.com/book

🎧 Tune in now and share with a partner or friend who needs this

What’s the one thing the world needs most?

This season, I asked every guest the same closing question:

“If you had a magic wand and could gift everyone on the planet one skill or piece of knowledge — what would it be?”

The answers were profound — sometimes simple, sometimes surprising, but always full of heart. In this special reflection episode, I bring together their wishes for a better world.

From therapists and psychologists to authors and wellness experts, these voices offer a collective reminder that small things — like empathy, courage, and connection — can spark real change.

🎧 New episodes weekly — subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

“You’ll be happy once you’re successful.”

We’ve all heard these ideas — and probably internalized more of them than we realize. But what happens when we actually examine the research?

In this Mythbusters Compilation episode, I sit down with psychologists, sexologists, addiction experts, and behavioral scientists to break down some of the most common (and damaging) myths we’re taught about wellbeing, relationships, success, and healing.

This episode features conversations with:

We dive into everything from attachment styles and emotional safety to sexual desire, addiction recovery, and why hustle culture might be hurting more than it helps.

Whether you're a curious mind or a wellness practitioner, this episode will leave you thinking differently — and feeling a little more permission to live life on your terms.

🎧 Subscribe for more honest, evidence-based conversations that go deeper than the wellness fluff.  

In Part 2  Dr. Katie and Dr. Maike Neuhaus go deeper — exploring midlife transitions, how to honor your values and the internal blocks that stop you from designing the life you actually want. From personal stories of transformation to the science of self-compassion, this episode invites you to stop chasing success that doesn’t feel like your own and start redefining your life from the inside out.  

You’ll hear:

- The truth about “midlife crises” (and why it’s really a midlife opportunity)

- How to spot signs you’re stuck in autopilot

- What to do when your dream life doesn’t make you happy

- Why self-compassion is key to growth and fulfillment

If you're ready to break free from the barriers that are holding you back and start living the life you deserve, then tune in because this episode is for you!

 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes filled with practical, evidence-based tips for well-being, self-leadership, and relationships.

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What if the version of success you’re chasing isn't the pathway to your happiness? In this episode, Dr Maike Neuhaus joins Dr Katie to explore how you can unhook from cultural myths about success and redefine success and happiness on your own terms. We discuss hedonic vs. eudaimonic happiness, the trap of “miss wanting,” and how gratitude can reconnect you with what actually matters. 

If you're ready to break free from the barriers that are holding you back and start living the life you deserve, then tune in because this episode is for you!

 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes filled with practical, evidence-based tips for well-being, self-leadership, and relationships.

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In part two of my conversation with Dr. Adi Jaffe, we dive into what recovery actually looks like.

From the harmful power of labels like “addict” to the myth of the “addictive personality,” we unpack what helps people change—and what holds them back. Dr. Jaffe shares powerful personal stories, breaks down the role of shame, and offers a compassionate yet practical roadmap for anyone navigating recovery, trauma, or support for a loved one.

We also talk about building a personal advisory board, how to separate identity from behavior, and why abstinence isn’t the only path to healing.

🧠 If you’ve ever felt stuck in a coping cycle or wondered how to support someone without judgment, this one’s for you.

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Addiction treatment models have failed to reach 99% of people who need help. In this episode, Dr. Adi Jaffe joins me to explore why—and what we can do instead. We unpack how addiction is often misunderstood, the dangers of shame-based labels, and why the real issue is often unaddressed emotional pain.

Dr. Jaffe shares his SPARO Model, offering a clear, compassionate framework for understanding addiction, behavior, and sustainable change. We also talk about his personal recovery story, the myth of the “addictive personality,” and why many coping behaviors are misunderstood.

This episode is for anyone curious about real healing—whether you’re navigating addiction, stuck in unhealthy ways of coping, supporting someone, or just interested in the science of change.

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Why does your partner shut down, react defensively, or seem like a completely different person when things get emotional?

In this insightful episode, Dr. Katie Stirling sits down with Behavior Analyst Chelsea Troutman to explore what your partner’s behavior really means. 

If you've ever felt confused by your partner's reactions — or your own — this conversation will help you move from frustration to clarity.

Are you tired of trying to read between the lines or guessing what your partner really needs?

In this episode we unnpack the psychology of emotional responses in relationships and offer practical tools for deeper understanding and connection.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen a long-term bond, this episode will help you build a relationship rooted in empathy, emotional safety, and lasting connection.

🎯 Watch until the end to discover the surprising truth about what your partner’s behavior really means.

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