In this heartfelt episode of #FreeAdviceFriday, Dr. Spirit offers deep soul-level healing and practical advice for managing burnout, overcoming depression, navigating cultural identity, setting boundaries, and healing from breakups. She passionately reminds listeners to check in with their bodies, not just their thoughts, and highlights the importance of rest, discernment, and self-honoring decisions. Whether you're struggling with friendship conflicts, first-time heartbreak, or figuring out how to communicate better—this episode brings therapy to your soul with actionable insights and love.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – 04:00 ✨ Welcome & Body Check-in: Spirit opens with a wellness check and the importance of naming true emotions, not just conclusions like "fine" or "bad."

04:00 – 07:00 ❤️ The Gift of Compersion & Provision: Spirit talks about how helping others helps her, and defines "compersion"—joy from others' joy.

07:00 – 10:30 📩 Listener Q&A Begins – Psychology & Media: Spirit shares her journey into media, healing, and merging cultural relevancy with therapy.

10:30 – 14:00 🧠 Burnout vs Depression: A masterclass on how to tell the difference, understand symptoms, and why recovery must include rest.

14:00 – 20:30 🛑 The Cost of Not Resting: Spirit uses powerful car analogies to explain depletion, burnout, and the absolute necessity of slowing down.

20:30 – 26:30 🌍 Culture, Conflict & Returning Home: Advice to a listener navigating cultural obligations vs. emotional needs while visiting family abroad.

26:30 – 33:30 🔍 Friendship, Boundaries & Clarity: Spirit guides a listener in transforming confusion into clarity and setting intention-based boundaries.

33:30 – 39:00 💬 Becoming a Better Communicator: Why therapy helps you unpack emotional blocks and become a more effective communicator.

39:00 – 46:00 💔 Processing Past Hurt & Reclaiming Voice: Spirit links emotional trauma to fear of speaking and guides healing through comparison to physical pain.

46:00 – 52:30 🔥 Flirting, First Moves & Feminine Power: A vibrant response to whether making the first move appears "desperate." Spoiler: it's about authenticity.

52:30 – 58:00 👵 Healing a Broken Heart – For Your Granddaughter: How to comfort a grieving teen and help her see this breakup as the floor—not the ceiling—of love.

58:00 – 01:07:30 🧠 When Therapy Plateaus: Spirit breaks down when to switch therapists, how to assess progress, and why therapy should always move you forward.

01:07:30 – End 💌 Closing Blessings: Spirit ends with love, reminders to rest, contact info, and her heartfelt commitment to community care.

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

📌 Episode Summary: In this powerful and emotionally charged episode of #FreeAdviceFriday, Dr. Spirit welcomes listeners into a vulnerable and transformative space of growth, healing, and self-discovery. She opens with a grounding conversation about how we label our emotions and encourages a deeper awareness of what we're truly feeling.

Through heartfelt listener questions, Dr. Spirit explores the complexities of emotional boundaries, the pain of betrayal, and how to process life-changing experiences like therapy "hangovers." She dives into what it means to live alone for the first time at 57, navigate narcissistic relationships, and determine true compatibility in love.

Her bold and empowering advice is filled with compassion, clinical wisdom, and unshakable realness. Whether you're recovering from relationship trauma, questioning your path, or preparing for a new life chapter, this episode offers clarity, support, and hope.

⏱️ Timestamps + Highlights

• [00:00:00] – Welcome & Check-In "I'm good" isn't a feeling. Let's explore what you're really experiencing.

• [00:03:50] – The Emotional Range We Live In You don't have to live in joy or sadness forever — learn to reset and move between emotions with awareness.

• [00:08:00] – Setting Boundaries with Loved Ones What do we owe emotionally to those we love? Advice on guilt, boundaries, and honoring your own emotional safety.

• [00:15:40] – What is a Therapy or Vulnerability Hangover? Why deep emotional work can leave you exhausted — and why that's a good sign that healing is happening.

• [00:24:20] – Starting Over at 57: Living Alone for the First Time Fear of the unknown is natural. But what if the best chapter of your life is just beginning?

• [00:32:10] – Betrayed by a Partner Who Had a Secret Baby Processing the pain of betrayal, defining your non-negotiables, and protecting your peace while co-parenting.

• [00:43:10] – Compatibility vs. Chemistry Are you two truly aligned, or are you forcing a fit? Understanding the blueprint for a lasting relationship.

• [00:56:30] – The Residual Impact of Narcissistic Personality Disorder How being in relationship with a narcissist affects your mental health, and how to recover from it.

• [01:05:20] – Why Some Men Expect Women to Stay After Infidelity Unpacking trauma, double standards, and why emotional processing isn't optional for real healing.

• [01:16:00] – Closing Thoughts + Big News A call for new clinicians, and the announcement of a $200,000 grant to support mental health access in Atlanta.

✨ Episode Takeaways:

• Boundaries protect your peace — not everyone deserves access to your emotions.
• Therapy that "hurts" is often working — give yourself space to integrate the transformation.
• You're never too old to start over — and never too young to walk away from what no longer serves you.
• Narcissistic abuse is real and leaves residue. Healing is possible — and necessary.
• Your relationship should feel like a home, not a battleground.
• Legacy is built in how we choose to care for ourselves and others, every day.

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

In this insightful episode of #FreeAdviceFriday, Dr. Spirit tackles a wide range of topics centered around mental health, relationships, trauma, and personal growth. She opens with a grounding reflection on resilience and self-care, emphasizing the importance of therapy, breathwork, and holistic wellness.

Throughout the episode, she provides in-depth advice on:

• Recognizing and managing anxiety and trauma responses
• Setting healthy boundaries with toxic family members
• Navigating romantic relationships, including dating lulls and long-term compatibility
• Understanding attachment styles and their impact on relationships
• Using therapy as preventative care rather than a crisis tool
• Handling friendship loss and social isolation
• How to tell when a relationship is no longer serving you

Listeners engage with real-life questions, from navigating generational trauma to the importance of self-worth in relationships. Dr. Spirit offers powerful insights and practical strategies to heal, grow, and build fulfilling connections.

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] – Opening reflection: The importance of resilience and finding joy in small victories
• [00:02:00] – The power of deep breathing and recognizing when your nervous system is dysregulated
• [00:05:00] – Engaging in therapy and holistic wellness beyond just talk therapy
• [00:07:00] – Dear Spirit: Managing mental wellness when dealing with toxic family members
• [00:11:00] – Setting boundaries with elderly loved ones while maintaining respect
• [00:12:00] – Navigating dating lulls and assessing compatibility in relationships
• [00:16:00] – Avoiding the mistake of treating dating like a marriage
• [00:17:30] – Breaking the habit of only going to therapy in times of crisis
• [00:22:00] – The importance of preventative mental health care
• [00:23:00] – Dealing with friendship loss and feelings of social inadequacy
• [00:28:00] – Healing intergenerational trauma and setting clear boundaries in family dynamics
• [00:35:00] – Understanding anxious and avoidant attachment styles in relationships
• [00:47:00] – Designing a structured relationship plan with your partner
• [00:53:00] – How to know when a relationship is no longer for you
• [00:58:00] – Managing trauma triggers when people don't keep their promises
• [01:06:00] – Closing thoughts: Prioritizing your mental health and accessing support

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

In this special birthday edition of #FreeAdviceFriday, Spirit and guest therapist Margena Carter dive into pressing mental health topics, relationships, and personal growth. The episode features live audience questions about setting boundaries, co-parenting struggles, navigating breakups, exploring identity, and managing anxiety.

In addition to answering listener questions, Spirit leads a fundraiser for Centennial Academy in Atlanta, supporting K-8 students who are at risk of losing access to therapy services.

Tune in for insightful discussions, expert advice, and actionable tips on mental well-being, relationships, and personal empowerment.

Timestamps & Key Topics

[00:00:00] – Birthday Celebration & Fundraiser Introduction

• Spirit celebrates her birthday by raising funds for Centennial Academy to save their mental health program.
• Emphasis on why therapy is vital for young students, especially those in poverty or unstable environments.

[00:02:20] – Introducing the Guest: Margena Carter

• Margena Carter shares her expertise as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Entertainment Therapist.
• Her work in trauma therapy, self-harm interventions, and academic contributions at Antioch University.

[00:07:40] – How to Move On but Stay Friends with the Love of Your Life

• Audience question: Is it possible to stay friends after breaking up with "the love of your life" while dating others?
• Spirit and Marjina discuss emotional boundaries, potential pitfalls, and unrealistic expectations in maintaining such relationships.

[00:11:10] – Exploring Identity: A Man's Desire to Wear Heels Without Consequences

• Discussion on self-expression, confidence, and societal judgment.
• Advice on gradual integration in supportive environments and the importance of self-acceptance.

[00:15:00] – Pregnancy, Marriage Pressure & Relationship Red Flags

• A pregnant woman questions whether she should marry her child's father despite not feeling ready.
• Insights on coercion, relationship readiness, and the long-term consequences of marrying out of obligation.

[00:22:50] – Managing Anxiety, Career Growth & Co-Parenting Struggles

• Caller shares struggles with imposter syndrome at work, lack of career fulfillment, and a toxic co-parenting dynamic.
• Spirit & Marjina recommend boundary-setting, therapy, and career planning for long-term relief.

[00:34:30] – Breaking Up with a Partner Who is Emotionally Dependent

• Advice on codependency, guilt-driven relationships, and constructive uncoupling.
• Spirit reveals a hard truth about how people unconsciously enable dependency in relationships.

[00:41:10] – When Someone Keeps Leaving & Coming Back: Relationship Patterns

• A listener asks why a partner repeatedly enters and exits their life.
• The dangers of "almost compatible relationships" and the illusion of fixing someone.

[00:47:30] – Family Drama: A Sister Who Keeps Leaving & Moving Back In

• When a family member continually seeks refuge but never leaves a toxic relationship.
• How enabling differs from supporting, and setting boundaries while still being compassionate.

[00:53:00] – Understanding Schizophrenia & Mental Illness

• Breaking down common myths about schizophrenia and its biological vs. environmental causes.
• Treatment options, the importance of medication management, and support for family members.

[01:00:00] – Final Thoughts & Fundraiser Wrap-Up

• Encouragement to donate to the Centennial Academy Mental Health Fund.
• Reflection on the importance of mental health resources for underserved youth.

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

In this episode of #FreeAdviceFriday, Dr. Spirit invites listeners to check in with themselves, offering guidance on emotional self-awareness and managing overwhelming feelings. She addresses anonymous questions on relationships, career growth, parenting, personal identity, and boundaries. Discussions include navigating dating after divorce, turning down a promotion without seeming unambitious, preparing teens for responsible decision-making, handling non-exclusive relationships, and overcoming childhood colorism trauma. Dr. Spirit also shares insights on high school application stress, accessing mental health support, and empowering children with healthy expectations in relationships.

Timestamps & Topics: [00:00:00] Opening & Emotional Check-In

• Encouragement to reflect on emotions
• Recognizing where feelings manifest in the body
• Understanding how to shift from negative emotions

[00:05:50] Dear Spirit: Dating After Divorce & Feeling a Void

• Increasing social engagement to find meaningful relationships
• Avoiding the trap of waiting for love rather than living fully
• Building a fulfilling life independent of a partner

[00:11:00] Career Dilemma: Declining a Promotion Without Seeming Weak

• Understanding the root cause of career stress
• Reframing a leadership decision as strength
• Negotiating job responsibilities to maintain balance

[00:16:30] Navigating Self-Discovery After a Long-Term Relationship

• Learning to listen to oneself and internal thoughts
• Dating yourself and rediscovering interests
• The role of therapy in post-relationship healing

[00:20:50] Parenting: Supporting a Teen's Curiosity About Substances

• Educating teens on safe and informed decisions
• Understanding modern drug risks, especially marijuana potency
• Setting up harm reduction and safety plans

[00:26:30] Facing Divorce & The Fear of Starting Over

• Recognizing when a marriage is no longer salvageable
• Planning an amicable exit strategy
• Utilizing therapy for smoother transitions

[00:29:50] Oversharing in Relationships: Is It a Trauma Response?

• Differentiating between transparency and oversharing
• Understanding personal expectations in relationships
• Identifying past experiences that drive communication styles

[00:38:00] Managing Stress in High School Applications

• Overcoming documentation barriers when one parent is uncooperative
• Strategies for appealing school requirements
• Finding alternative solutions for admissions

[00:44:00] Seeking Free Therapy & Early Autism Diagnosis for a Child

• Exploring employee assistance programs (EAPs) for free therapy
• Identifying community mental health resources
• Pushing for an early autism evaluation despite delays

[00:49:10] Expressing Emotions & Being Heard in a Non-Exclusive Relationship

• Identifying the root cause of communication frustrations
• Setting boundaries and expectations in open relationships
• Using therapy to strengthen relational dynamics

[00:55:50] Healing from Childhood Colorism Trauma

• Unlearning internalized negative narratives
• Recognizing societal influences on self-worth
• Integrating self-love practices

[01:00:50] Teaching Children Healthy Expectations in Relationships

• The dangers of teaching kids to expect nothing from others
• Setting boundaries to prevent exploitation
• Encouraging emotional intelligence and self-worth

[01:07:30] Closing Remarks & Podcast Availability

• Encouragement to set personal expectations for self-care
• Contact details for support and questions
• Announcement that #FreeAdviceFriday is now available as a podcast

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

In this engaging and insightful first episode of #FreeAdviceFriday, renowned psychotherapist Dr. Spirit is joined by therapists Jon Diggs and Lydia Johnson to provide real, unfiltered advice on relationships, mental health, and personal growth. Listeners submit their questions, and the panel tackles tough topics such as trust issues in relationships, setting boundaries, overcoming personal struggles, and breaking free from toxic patterns.

From dating dilemmas to the impact of addiction on relationships, this episode offers valuable perspectives on healing and self-improvement. Whether you're struggling with a toxic partner, navigating single parenthood, or trying to understand why you keep attracting the same relationship patterns, this episode is full of wisdom, tough love, and humor.

Tune in for candid conversations, therapeutic insights, and real-life advice that can help you transform your relationships and mindset.

🎧 Topics Covered & Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Introduction & Technical Difficulties
• [00:00:30] Welcome to Free Advice Fridays – Meet the Therapists
• [00:02:40] How to Choose the Right Therapist
• [00:05:20] Relationship Red Flags: What to Do When a Partner Lies Early On
• [00:09:10] Boundaries & Trust: Is It Okay for Someone to Show Up Unannounced?
• [00:11:00] Breaking Up with a Spouse for an Ex – The Right Way to Handle It
• [00:14:30] Finding Yourself & Overcoming Past Trauma
• [00:19:10] When a Partner Moves in with Their Ex – What Now?
• [00:25:50] How to Leave a Toxic Relationship with an Addicted Partner
• [00:36:20] The Reality of Emotional Dependency & Why You Stay Too Long
• [00:44:20] The Cycle of Choosing the Wrong Partners – Understanding Relationship Patterns
• [00:52:40] Why Men Struggle with Vulnerability in Relationships
• [00:54:30] Creating Safe Spaces for Open Communication in Relationships
• [00:55:10] Closing Thoughts & Encouragement

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

In this episode, Dr. Spirit delves into the importance of staying present and engaged with our emotions, especially during challenging times. She emphasizes the dangers of checking out emotionally and provides actionable strategies to maintain mental wellness. Through insightful listener questions, Dr. Spirit explores themes of intimidation, betrayal, marriage dynamics, parental relationships, mental health self-care, leadership in dating, and overcoming childhood trauma. She encourages listeners to remain connected with their feelings, seek help when needed, and nurture supportive relationships.

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] - Introduction: Embracing gratitude and being present despite challenges.
• [00:02:10] - Avoiding Emotional Numbness: Why staying engaged with your emotions is crucial for mental health.
• [00:04:50] - Listener Questions Begin: Instructions on how to submit questions anonymously.
• [00:05:20] - Community Mental Health Initiatives: Donations supporting sliding fee scale services and global projects.
• [00:06:20] - The Emotion of Intimidation: Understanding what feeling intimidated reveals about our inner beliefs.
• [00:11:20] - Transitioning to Full-Time Marriage: Tips for couples moving from long-distance to everyday life.
• [00:18:30] - Coping with Betrayal: How to process betrayal and avoid self-blame.
• [00:25:00] - Transactional Marriage Dynamics: Exploring therapy's role and finding solutions even if one partner is therapy-averse.
• [00:30:40] - Adult Children and Parent Relationships: Building healthy, non-obligatory connections with adult children.
• [00:37:00] - Daily Mental Health Tips: Sleep, diet, hydration, movement, and reducing social media for mental wellness.
• [00:45:20] - Navigating Dating and Leadership: Understanding leadership in relationships and setting healthy expectations.
• [00:51:00] - Shame and Change: How to create lasting change without shaming people.
• [00:57:30] - Childhood Peer-on-Peer Abuse: The long-term impact and the importance of healing from childhood trauma.
• [01:05:00] - Closing Remarks: Embracing community, accessing mental health resources, and practicing self-care.

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

Here's another great #FreeAdviceFriday from the vaults. This one features Licensed Social Worker Jason Phillips who tried to convince me this was his very first podcast. Then he turned around and killed it like the pro that he is! I hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed answering the questions.

JOIN US LIVE EACH FRIDAY 12 NOON ET!

00:00:00] Introduction

[00:01:00] Differences Between Social Work and Professional Counseling

[00:03:10] How to Participate in Free Advice Friday

[00:06:30] Mental Health Check-In

[00:07:20] Morning Rituals for a Good Start to the Day

[00:10:20] Financial Transparency in Marriage

[00:24:20] Supporting Friends and Family in Therapy

[00:31:00] Reconciling After Separation

[00:34:40] Dealing with Toxic Relationships

[00:40:20] Establishing Boundaries with Partner's Friends

[00:45:10] Navigating Life Without Friends

[00:51:20] Anger in Relationships and Potential Narcissism

[00:58:00] Healing After an Abrupt Divorce

[01:01:50] Closing Remarks

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

[00:00:00] Introduction

• Welcome to Free Advice Friday
• Broadcasting from the wellness center
• Commitment to the audience despite a busy schedule

[00:01:00] Emotional Check-In

• Feeling "taxed" and acknowledging global challenges
• Shoutout to mental health professionals in low-resource and war-torn areas
• Encouraging listeners to check in with their own feelings

[00:04:00] Managing Heavy Emotions

• Recognizing and understanding depression, anxiety, irritation, and isolation
• Connecting feelings with their root causes

Listener Q&A [00:06:00] Burnout and Exhaustion

• Listener expresses burnout and exhaustion
• Dr. Spirit explains the difference between exhaustion and burnout
• Tips for setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care
• The role of therapy in recovery

[00:13:15] Handling Grief

• Veronica shares the recent loss of her mother
• Guidance on "wound care" and taking small steps toward healing
• Considering therapy for additional support

[00:20:10] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

• New beauty entrepreneur struggling with self-doubt
• Emphasizing authenticity and using personal experiences to connect with clients
• Encouragement to build self-confidence

[00:27:00] Starting a Mental Health Organization

• Mental health professional asks about trauma-focused vs. general mental health services
• Dr. Spirit advises on aligning services with community understanding
• Avoiding limiting potential reach by broadening the approach

[00:32:15] Triggers vs. Self-Sabotage in Relationships

• How to differentiate between responding to triggers and self-sabotaging behavior
• Identifying emotions and healing underlying wounds

[00:38:00] Chronic Nail Biting

• Addressing lifelong habits of finger-picking and nail-biting
• Exploring the behavior as a coping mechanism for deeper emotional issues
• Importance of understanding and healing the root cause

[00:44:50] Navigating Breakups and Reconciliation

• Listener struggling with relationship boundaries after a breakup
• Emphasis on resolving underlying relationship issues
• Importance of healthy communication and therapy

[00:52:00] Advice for Junior Counseling Psychologists

• Tips for managing feelings of helplessness and anxiety with clients
• Focusing on the client instead of self-critique
• The value of mentorship and professional development

[01:00:00] Closing Remarks

• Message of hope and resilience
• The importance of accessing tools and community support to thrive
• Encouraging listeners to support children's mental health and leave a positive legacy

[01:03:35] Final Words

• Contact information for T2S Enterprises
• Reminding listeners of their worth and the power of community support
• Promise to return for next week's episode

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/

Here's a great throwback to when #FreeAdviceFriday featured guest Therapists. This was the first time I met Dr. Glenna. Immediately I knew we would go on to become friends.

JOIN US LIVE EACH FRIDAY 12 NOON ET!

Introduction & Overview of Free Advice Friday (00:00:00 - 00:02:00)

Understanding Family of Origin and Relationship Patterns (00:02:00 - 00:04:00)

Trust Issues in a Relationship (00:04:00 - 00:08:00)

Should I Stay in a No-Label Relationship? (00:09:00 - 00:12:00)

Why People Fear Commitment (00:12:00 - 00:13:30)

Marriage and Healthy Relationships: Working on the Relationship (00:14:00 - 00:15:30)

Staying in an Unhealthy Marriage for the Kids (00:15:30 - 00:19:00)

Dating a Long-Time Friend but Lacking Attraction (00:20:00 - 00:23:30)

Personal Time & Emotional Health (00:26:00 - 00:28:00)

Stigma of Being Single in Your 30s (00:29:00 - 00:31:00)

Tit-for-Tat Relationships & Emotional Healing (00:33:00 - 00:35:00)

Engaged but Partner is Controlling (00:37:00 - 00:42:00)

Struggling with Sexual Attraction to Wife (00:45:00 - 00:49:00)

Bad Luck in Dating & Feeling Desperate (00:50:00 - 00:54:00)

How to Meet People After Being Separated for Two Years (00:56:00 - 00:58:00)

Closing Remarks (00:58:00 - 01:00:00)

Follow Dr. Spirit: Instagram: https://instagram.com/talk2spirit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talk2spirit TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talk2spirit LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talk2spirit/