Family Therapy, The Podcast

Kal sits down with psychotherapist Elliott Connie — host of the iHeartPodcast Family Therapy — to talk about Kevin Hart's Audible Original memoir Kids Make Me Angry.

It's a funny, heartfelt conversation about breaking cycles, healthy masculinity, and why the right question can change everything.

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During this final session, the family talks about what they hope to gain from the conversation: better communication, staying in touch, meeting nieces and nephews they haven’t met, and building real togetherness across a large, spread-out family. Lance, a new voice and additional family member who joins the conversation, stresses the word "accountability"—doing what you say you’ll do—to help break generational patterns of disconnection and model unity for their kids. They discuss a past group chat that faded after misunderstandings, and how hard it is to keep momentum with busy lives and people in different states. Elliott offers three building blocks for a connected family: leadership, shared traditions, and regular routines, and proposes a “family board” made up of Chris, Gladys, Jasmine, and Lance to reengage relatives, plan reunions, and set up recurring Zoom check-ins so no one feels forgotten.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

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Elijah captures his push and pull between craving praise, guarding against rejection, and wanting both connection and independence through a poem. Elliott explains how art can function as therapy—an outlet for emotions we can’t always say out loud, and invites listeners to think about their own safe place to put their feelings.

 In the session, Elijah talks about how insecurity can make him vulnerable to controlling or demeaning “tough love,” and how that affects the power dynamics in his relationships. He shares that he often presents a more stoic public persona, even though he wants to feel more peaceful and authentic, and he’s trying to create a space where he doesn’t have to hide those softer parts of himself.

Elliott challenges Elijah to build self-esteem around what he can control instead of outside feedback. Elijah decides to attach his confidence to effort, discipline, and creativity: writing, reading, drawing, cooking, and building projects, rather than whether other people notice or validate him.

The episode ends with a reminder that anxiety grows when self-worth depends on variables we can’t control, and that small daily habits can move you closer to being your authentic self.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's session, we hear from Gladys, Jasmine, and Elijah as they explore themes of power versus powerlessness, finding joy amidst challenges, and building resilience. Gladys talks about her efforts to stay intentional while dating and helping Elijah feel empowered from a distance. Jasmine questions the necessity of finding positivity during times of pain. Elijah opens up about his feelings of powerlessness and the limitations of communication in influencing others. The session encourages focusing on what brings joy and mastering the skill of gratitude to build mental strength. The key message is understanding what internal power we have, even when external factors feel uncontrollable.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Elijah shares his experiences after returning home and navigating the dynamics at home. The conversation explores challenges like anxiety in family interactions, the importance of honesty, and the quest for self-expression through writing and cooking. Elijah discusses how setting boundaries and being assertive without anger can lead to personal growth and a sense of stability. The session highlights the difference between acting out of expectation versus personal choice, urging listeners to prioritize their mental health and authentic selves.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Elliott discusses a dynamic form of patience, particularly the kind tested when we deeply care about someone who isn't meeting their potential. This episode features Gladys, who shares her experience with her younger sister, Jasmine, as the latter transitions to a new environment in Georgia. Gladys illustrates her frustration, love, and the difficulty of supporting someone who isn't ready to take action. The conversation explores the challenges of dealing with old behaviors in new environments and highlights the importance of patience and participation in fostering change. 

The session closes with crucial questions to help listeners manage their impatience and anxiety, emphasizing the need to ask better questions to achieve better outcomes.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a poignant moment between sisters Jasmine and Gladys as Jasmine undertakes a significant move to Georgia, both geographically and emotionally. This conversation illuminates the challenges and rewards of choosing one's own well-being, dealing with grief, embracing support, and growing in unfamiliar spaces. Gladys shares her insights as the supportive big sister, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-compassion. As Jasmine navigates this new chapter, she reflects on the complexities of longing for familiarity while striving for peace and growth. The session offers relatable insights into the human experience of change, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to rebuild one's life.

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In this episode, Jasmine shares her journey of setting healthy boundaries with her father, highlighting the struggles and growth it entails. By learning to pause and not react aggressively, Jasmine experiences a newfound peace but is challenged by familiar tensions. The discussion centers on understanding the true purpose of boundaries, not to change others, but to protect one's own well-being and healing. The conversation underscores the importance of aligning personal goals with actions, even when it involves difficult interactions with loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to focus on their own growth and integrity, rather than expecting others to change, in order to foster healthier relationships.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the evolving relationship between Elijah and his Uncle Chris. The session begins with both sharing their hopes for building trust and understanding each other better. Chris expresses a desire to unify the family and become a key connector, while Elijah admits to uncertainty but shows openness to understanding. Despite a technical issue causing Elijah to drop off, Chris continues to discuss his plans for reconnecting the family through consistent communication and leadership, inspired by traditional family roles like 'Big Mama.' The episode highlights the importance of ongoing commitment, small consistent actions, and the willingness to take responsibility in family relationships.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gladys and Elijah open up to one another about their hopes for growth, resolution, and deeper love in their relationship. Both speak candidly about their desire for honesty and understanding within their family. Elijah expresses his confusion about certain family conflicts and concerns, yearning for accountability and clarity. Through their stories, you'll witness a mother's unwavering pride in her son's boldness and kindness, as well as Elijah's reflections on his mother's nurturing influence. Their shared moments reveal the profound connections between them and their hopes for a healed, harmonious future. Discover the significance of consistency, the joy of cooking, and the importance of self-care and service to others in their lives.

Learn More: ElliottConnie.com

Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640

Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.