Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast | Breaking Silence Around the Secrets We All Carry

In this episode of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets," hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry invite Kristen Campbell, a clinical psychosexual therapist, to delve deep into the secrets of our sexual selves. From exploring the emotional neglect in previous generations to the importance of personal responsibility for pleasure, this episode promises to challenge deeply ingrained societal messages around sexuality and provide valuable insights.

Kristen touches on the lack of investment in sexual development as people grow, leading to anxiety and feelings of inadequacy in partnered experiences. She emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility for pleasure and the need to learn about sexual experiences on one's own to reduce pressure. Together with Emma and Chris, she advocates for cultivating healthy sexual practices from childhood through adulthood, while addressing the taboo and societal beliefs surrounding sexual development.

Join the hosts and guest as they discuss the impact of mismatched libido in couples, the need for open conversations about sexual desires, and the importance of giving oneself permission to explore and discover what truly brings pleasure

Highlights:

• Importance of Personal Responsibility in Sexual Development
• Parental Guidance and Children's Sexual Development
• Cultivating a Healthy Masturbation Practice
• Effort in Sexual Relationships
• Talking with Children about Bodies and Pleasure

Resources:

Family Planning Queensland - Traffic Light Resource - Sexual Behaviors

Secret #8: The Taboo of Sex with Kristen Campbell

About Kristen Campbell

Visit Kristen’s website: http://www.kristencampbell.com.au/about

I have been working as a Social Worker for 15 years and have worked in a range of settings including mental health (inpatient & community services) and interpersonal trauma (sexual assault & domestic violence). In the last 7-8 years I have been working in Private Practice, providing therapy to both individuals and couples. I currently specialise in Sex & Relationship therapy, but continue to be passionate about the impact of trauma and adverse events in people’s lives and how this impacts attachments to other people and effects day to day functioning. I also hold a teaching role with the University of Sydney, within the Sexual & Reproductive Health faculty.

I aim to provide a space where people can feel safe, brave and supported as they navigate the challenges in their relationships and their lives. I am a big believer that we develop responses to situations we find ourselves in, so you will find my approach non-pathologising and I work to collaborate with you in understanding what has happened in your life and how to move forward with your goals.

I will be a good fit for those who are wanting a direct, empathic approach and for those who have developed their goals and believe in their capacity for change.

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode, we delve into the controversial notion of "normal." Renowned psychologist, Dr. Steven C. Hayes, challenges the traditional understanding of normalcy, and exposes its historical ties to eugenics and the distortion by scientists for over a century.

Dr. Hayes advocates for a shift from standardized, one-size-fits-all treatment plans, instead, highlighting the importance of individual differences and the need for personalized approaches in therapy and medicine.

Join us as we explore the implications of embracing individual diversity and the potential for AI tools to tailor treatments based on individual choices. This thought-provoking discussion sheds light on the complexities of mental health and the importance of valuing individual voices in a world obsessed with the concept of "normal."

Highlights:

• Dr. Steve Hayes' Critique of Statistical Models and Emphasis on Individual Differences
• The Concept of "Normal" and Its Historical Context
• Embracing Common Humanity and the Myth of "Normal" Versus "Broken" Individuals
• Personalization in Mental Health and Behavioral Health
• Use of Technology and Data for Personalized Psychology

About Dr. Steven C. Hayes

Check out Dr. Hayes Youtube Channel

Join Psychflex - Get first 30 days for free

Visit Institute For Better health

Follow Dr. Hayes on Linkedin

Visit Dr. Hayes website and get his free newsletter

Dr. Steven C. Hayes is an Emeritus Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Reno and President of the Institute for Better Health, a nearly 50-year old charitable organization dedicated to better mental and behavioral health. He is also the author of 48 books and over 700 scientific articles, originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Relational Frame Theory, and co-founder of Process-Based Therapy and of PsychFlex.

Dr. Hayes has been President of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies and the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science, among other scientific groups. His work has been recognized by several awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies and the Impact of Science on Application Award from the Society for the Advancement of Behavior Analysis. A Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, he is one of the most cited psychologists in the world.

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

For season 2 of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets" podcast, hosts Chris McCurry and Emma Waddington express the importance of embracing our fallibility in a society that often rewards pretending to be perfect.

They give a sneak peek of the exciting conversations lined up for the upcoming season, featuring guests and topics such as Steve Hayes (myth of normalcy), Kristen Campbell (our sexual selves), Elisabeth Lahti (the Finnish concept of sisu), Dr. Zurita (the downsides of perfectionism), and Stephen Batchelor (the duality of good and evil) and more.

Don't miss out on this insightful and engaging podcast that delves into the depths of human existence by exploring life's dirty little secrets with honesty and compassion. Follow, rate, and review the podcast on your preferred platform to help spread the word and reach new listeners.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In the season 1 finale of Life's Dirty Little Secrets, hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry explore the profound complexities of embracing change and fostering personal growth. Through candid and introspective discussions, they delve into the challenges of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the transformative power of second-order change.

Drawing from their experiences and insights gained throughout the past year of podcasting, Emma and Chris reflect on the invaluable lessons learned and express gratitude for the privilege of witnessing the genuine human experiences shared on their show. They also offer a glimpse into the forthcoming Season 2, tantalizing listeners with the promise of deeper exploration and engaging discourse.

Tune in as Emma and Chris guide listeners through the intricacies of life's less-discussed nuances, inspiring introspection and a renewed appreciation for the journey of self-discovery.

Highlights:

• Importance of Conversations and Understanding in Relationships
• The Role of Wonder and Curiosity in Adulthood
• Cultural Emphasis on Productivity and Recognition
• Letting Go of Control and Focusing on Efforts
• Body Image, Self-Esteem, and Burnout
• Reflections on the Podcast's Past Year
• Embracing Discomfort for Growth

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets," join hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry as they dive into the world of adolescence, exploring its challenges, growth opportunities, and the curious minds that define it. Joined by special guest Louise Hayes, a clinical psychologist and author, they discuss why adults struggle with adolescents, the importance of embracing mistakes and taking risks, and the power of curiosity and creativity. They also touch on Louise's volunteer work with the Pearl Trust, a charity helping children in Nepal. Get ready to embrace your inner adolescent and discover the secrets to navigating life's messy moments on this thought-provoking episode.

Highlights:

• Adolescence and the Importance of Discovery and Risk-Taking
• Nurturing a Sense of Wonder and Openness as Adults
• Adult Struggles with Adolescents
• Louise Hayes' Work and Involvement with Pearl Trust
• Reflecting on Growing Up and Remembering What It's Like to Be a Kid
• Challenges of Parenting and Respecting Adolescents' Autonomy

About Dr. Louise Hayes

Visit Dr. Hayes’ website

Dr Louise Hayes is a clinical psychologist, author, international speaker, and educator. She is a Fellow and Past President of the Association for Contextual Behavioural Science. Louise currently holds a position as Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at La Trobe University, where she collaborates on projects using contextual behavioural science. She is a peer-reviewed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy/Training (ACT) trainer engaged in training professionals worldwide. Together with Joseph Ciarrochi, she developed DNA-v, a leading acceptance and commitment therapy model that has sparked international studies. In 2022 she released a new book for helping adults thrive in the face of change – What Makes You Stronger. She is the co-author of two best-selling books for young people – Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life for Teenagers; and Your Life Your Way. She is also the co-author of the practitioner book, The Thriving Adolescent. Louise is an active clinician, working with adults and adolescents. Louise’s passion project and the highlight of her work is establishing a not-for-profit endeavour of taking professionals on the journey of their life into the Himalayas to develop their mindful way of being while raising funds to help children in remote Nepal. She is also a certified Buddhist meditation teacher in the Dzogchen tradition.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets," hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry delve into the complexities and challenges of promoting autonomy in children. They are joined by special guest Emily Edlund, a clinical psychologist, academic, and author, who shares her experiences and insights on the topic. The conversation covers the importance of maintaining a trusting relationship during adolescence, the dangers of using the phone as a weapon in parenting, and the need for ongoing conversations about technology use. They discuss strategies for autonomy-supportive parenting, including empathy, problem-solving, and allowing independence

Highlights:

• The positive impact of allowing child autonomy and self-determination
• Challenges and pitfalls of excessive control in parenting
• Ongoing conversations about technology use and trends
• Common anxieties and challenges in letting go of control
• Different parenting styles and concerns for success

About Dr. Emily Edlynn

Check our Dr. Edlynn’s website

Follow  @DrEmilyEdlynn on Instagram:

Read Dr. Edlynn’s Substack

Emily Edlynn is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric health psychology who works in private practice with children, teens, and adults. She has a BA in English from Smith College, a PhD in clinical psychology from Loyola University Chicago, and completed postgraduate training at Stanford and Children’s Hospital Orange County. Emily spent almost ten years working in children’s hospitals before pivoting to private practice, which allowed her to start a writing career. Emily has written her blog, The Art and Science of Mom, since 2017 and a parenting advice column for Parents.com since 2019. Emily’s writing has also appeared in the Washington Post, Scary Mommy, Good Housekeeping, Motherly, and more. She recently joined the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast as a co-host and is the author of a new book, Autonomy-Supportive Parenting: Reduce Parental Burnout and Raise Competent Confident Children. Emily lives with her husband, three children, and two rescue dogs in Oak Park, IL where she can see Chicago’s skyline from her attic window.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets," hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry dive deep into the topic of burnout with special guest, Dr. Debbie Sorensen. Burnout is a widespread issue in today's society, especially in chronically stressful roles such as the workplace, parenting, and caregiving. Dr. Sorensen sheds light on the importance of reconnecting with our values to combat burnout and regain vitality in our lives. Join us as we explore the misconceptions surrounding burnout, its impact on various professions, and the need for systemic changes to address this prevalent issue. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation about reclaiming purpose, finding relief, and nurturing our well-being in the face of burnout.

Highlights:

• Understanding Burnout and its Causes
• Reconnecting with Values
• Burnout in the Healthcare Industry
• Coping Strategies for Stress
• Support and Relief from Burnout
• Detachment and Disengagement as Coping Mechanisms

About Dr. Debbie Sorensen

Visit Dr. Sorensen’s website

Follow Dr. Sorensen on Twitter

Check out @drdebbiesorensen Instagram account

I am a clinical psychologist with a private therapy practice in Denver, Colorado. I specialize in providing individual Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for adults. My approach centers on helping my clients live a meaningful life, engage in effective behavior patterns, and have a healthy relationship with their thoughts and emotions.

I am a co-author of the book ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and a co-founder and co-host the popular psychology podcast Psychologists Off The Clock. On the podcast, we interview experts in the field of psychology and discuss ideas that can help people thrive.

I have a Ph.D. in Psychology from Harvard University, and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and anthropology from the University of Colorado, Boulder. I completed an APA-accredited clinical psychology internship at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford, Massachusetts. I then spent 12 years working as a psychologist on interdisciplinary medical teams at the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, where I worked with veterans with disabilities, chronic health conditions (including MS and ALS), and chronic pain. After that, I worked for about two years as a part-time Clinical Research Psychologist at the Rocky Mountain VA MIRECC for Suicide Prevention. I co-founded ImpACT Psychology Colorado, a psychotherapy collective in Denver/Boulder, and the Healthcare Wellbeing Collective, which provides mental health support and resources for Healthcare Professionals. I currently serve as a co-president of the Women’s Special Interest Group of the Association of Contextual Behavioral Science.

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode of Life’s Dirty Little Secrets,, we dive into the topic of motivation and how it can influence our ability to meet deadlines and make positive changes in our lives. Our guest, Michelle Drapkin, shares her personal struggles with motivation and explores various strategies she has tried to improve her time management skills. We also discuss the importance of autonomy and acceptance in motivating others, as well as the principles of motivational interviewing. Tune in to gain insights and practical tips for finding your own motivation and helping others find theirs.

Highlights:

• Exploring Motivation and Challenges
• Promoting Autonomy and Understanding Others
• Motivational Interviewing and Empowerment
• Core Concepts of Motivational Interviewing
• Addressing Anxiety and Developing Mindfulness

More about Dr. Michelle Drapkin

Visit Dr. Drapkin’s website

Purchase The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change: The Essential Workbook for Creating the Life You Want

Follow Dr. Drapkin on Linkedin

Dr. Michelle Drapkin is the founder and director of the CBT Center. She is a board-certified clinical psychologist, licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania and part of the Psychological Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), which enables her to see patients virtually in almost 30 other states. Dr. Drapkin specializes in individuals (both late adolescents and adults), couples, and families. She strongly believes in developing the most effective treatment plan for each individual’s needs.

Dr. Drapkin has held a variety of roles across different industries, including healthcare at Johnson & Johnson and academia as faculty at the University of Pennsylvania. She consults in the behavior science and health technology arenas and tries to stay on the bleeding edge of science-backed treatment approaches. She was featured recently by the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) and was interviewed on the Full Potential Movement.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode, join us as our guest, Jonathan Shippey, unpacks the secret of Happily Ever After. We explore the limerence phase and how couples can sustain it for up to two years without progressing. Unveiling the importance of building trust, we discuss how conflict can deepen knowledge and strengthen relationships. We also challenge the notion of "happily ever after" and explore the power of small adjustments in the present moment. Tune in as we reveal the secrets to a happy relationship and navigate the ups and downs of love together.

Highlights:

• Understanding the phases of love in relationships
• The role of conflict in building trust
• Personal anecdotes and experiences with relationship challenges
• Embracing the concept of "small things often"
• Challenging the idea of "happily ever after"
• Validating emotions and understanding in relationships

More About Jonathan Shippey

Visit Healing Bridge’s website: https://healingbridgetherapy.com/

Follow Jonathan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanShippeyLMFT

Jonathan Shippey has been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice since 1999 and has served clients in the Louisville, Kentucky area since completion of his Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy from Louisville Presbyterian Seminary in 1997. Jonathan also holds a Masters degree in music composition from Southern Seminary, as well as a Bachelors degree in biology from Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina.

Jonathan is a Clinical Fellow with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and is a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and Workshop Leader, having been personally trained by Drs. John and Julie Gottman at their Seattle Relationship Institute. He regularly leads the “Art and Science of Love” weekend workshop for couples and the Level 1, 2,  3 Gottman Method trainings for clinicians. Jonathan is among a select few whom John and Julie have invited to assist with private retreats in their home on Orcas Island, Washington. He is one of only 25 Advanced Clinical Trainers worldwide so designated by the Gottman Institute and also serves as a Consultant for those wishing to become certified in the Gottman Method.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

In this episode we dive into the fascinating topic of imposter syndrome and psychological flexibility with guest expert, Dr. Jill Stoddard. Join us as we explore the discomfort of imposter syndrome and how being open and willing can lead to positive changes in our lives. Jill shares her unique therapy methods, involving mindful willingness experiences and exploring emotions, to help clients overcome imposter syndrome and embrace their true potential. We also discuss the societal and cultural factors that contribute to imposter syndrome and the importance of aligning our values with being bold and brave. Don't miss this insightful and empowering conversation on conquering imposter syndrome and living the life we truly desire.

Highlights:

• Psychological Flexibility and Embracing Discomfort
• Overcoming the Imposter Phenomenon
• Therapy Sessions and Methods
• Factors contributing to Imposter Syndrome
• Imposter Thoughts and their Significance
• Promoting Psychological Flexibility

About Dr. Jill Stoddard

Visit Dr. Stoddard’s website

Follow @jillastoddard on Instagram

Connect with Dr. Stoddard on LinkedIn

Jill Stoddard is passionate about sharing science-backed ideas from psychology to help people thrive. She is a psychologist, writer, TEDx speaker, award-winning teacher, peer-reviewed ACT trainer, and co-host of the popular Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. Dr. Stoddard is the author of three books: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors: A Practitioner’s Guide to Experiential Exercises and Metaphors in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Be Mighty: A Woman’s Guide to Liberation from Anxiety, Worry, and Stress Using Mindfulness and Acceptance; and Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career. Her writing has also appeared in Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, and Mindful Return. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog.

Follow us on Facebook @lifesdirtylittlesecretspodcast and on Instagram @lifesdirtylittlesecrets

Reach out and let us know you are listening and what you would like to hear on the show - email:[email protected]

• ORDER Max Cross Gets Unstuck from Anger: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook series for kids)
• ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)
• ORDER The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)