From “gaslighting” to “boundaries” to “toxic,” therapy language has officially gone viral. In this episode, Doug and Kendall unpack how psychology has become part of everyday speech — and why that’s both empowering and misleading. In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we break down the real meanings behind the most overused buzzwords, talk about how pop culture and social media have blurred clinical lines, and explore what happens when self-awareness turns into self-diagnosis. With humor, real psychology, and a little myth-busting, this episode asks: are we actually healing, or just hashtagging our way through therapy?

Is TikTok the new therapist’s office — or a mental health minefield? In this episode, Doug and Kendall delve into the rise of “diagnosis influencers” and the complex world of self-diagnosis culture on social media. We talk about the pros (normalizing mental health and reducing stigma) and the cons (over-pathologizing normal emotions and mistaking relatability for accuracy). From ADHD to narcissism, the internet is full of quick quizzes and trending checklists that claim to explain your brain — but what’s the psychology behind why they go viral?

We’ll unpack the confirmation bias that makes relatable content feel “true,” the illusion of accuracy created by repetition, and why everyone seems to be an armchair therapist.

We explain the psychology of virality — where confirmation bias + relatability = perceived truth.

Ever wondered why smart, self-aware people still get stuck in toxic relationships? In this episode, Doug and Kendall pull back the curtain on the psychology of staying vs. leaving.

We break down the science behind why our brains confuse chaos for connection — from attachment theory and intermittent reinforcement to trauma bonds that feel a lot like addiction. You’ll hear why love can mimic withdrawal, how the sunk-cost fallacy keeps us trapped (“I’ve already put too much into this”), and why even unhealthy relationships can feel chemically rewarding. Using real research and real talk, we unpack what makes people stay — and what finally helps them walk away. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why can’t I leave?”, this one’s for you.

In this Halloween special of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we shine a light on phobias—those irrational fears that go far beyond Halloween scares. From the most common (public speaking!) to the strangest (yes, even peanut butter), we explore why phobias develop, when they become a clinical problem, and how psychology treats them through exposure therapy, CBT, and even virtual reality. Plus, we’ll share some weird phobia facts to keep the spooky season fun. Whether you’re afraid of spiders, clowns, or crowded rooms, this episode reveals why fear can feel so powerful—and how you can take the power back.

In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we explore the fascinating world of parasocial relationships—the one-sided bonds we form with celebrities, influencers, and even fictional characters. Why do these connections feel so real, and what do they mean for our mental health? We break down the difference between healthy admiration and unhealthy obsession, share surprising “parasocial breakups,” and discuss how these relationships can act as both coping strategies and risks in therapy. Tune in for weird facts, psychology insights, and a deeper look at why our brains treat TV characters and TikTok stars almost like best friends.

“On Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we’re asking a provocative question: which relationship is better — AI or human? With the rise of AI companions and chatbots designed to be romantic partners, more people are experimenting with digital love than ever before. Studies show that nearly one in five young adults have already interacted with an AI designed to mimic a romantic partner, and an even larger share believe AI could replace human relationships in the future. But what does psychology tell us about intimacy, trust, and connection when one partner isn’t human? We’ll explore the appeal of AI relationships, the comfort and control they can offer, and the risks of replacing the messy, unpredictable beauty of real human love with something programmed to meet our every need.”

"On Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we’re diving into how public shootings affect our mental health. These tragedies don’t just impact the people who are physically there — they ripple through entire communities and even across the country. Psychologically, events like these heighten our sense of vulnerability and trigger what’s called collective trauma. Even if you’ve never been directly exposed, constant media coverage can create vicarious trauma — leaving people anxious, hyper-alert in public spaces, and fearful about everyday routines like going to school, concerts, or shopping. The reality is that the odds of being in a mass shooting are very low, but because our brains are wired to hold onto threats more than safety, these events stick with us and change how we see the world.”

"Have you ever lain awake at night replaying the same conversation over and over, or found yourself stuck in a mental loop of 'what ifs' that never seem to end? That’s overthinking and rumination at work—our brains trying to solve problems but instead trapping us in cycles of doubt, anxiety, and second-guessing. In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we dive into the psychology of overthinking—why our minds spiral, what it does to our mental health, and how to break free from the endless replay button in our heads."

"Humans are wired for connection. From the moment we’re born, our need to belong—to be seen, heard, and valued—shapes how we think, feel, and even how long we live. In today’s world, though, connection is more complicated than ever. We’re more digitally linked than at any point in history, but many of us still feel isolated, misunderstood, or disconnected. In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we’re peeling back the layers on the psychology of connection—why we crave it, how it impacts our mental health, and what it really takes to build meaningful relationships in a busy, noisy world."

1We all hold on—whether it’s to physical objects gathering dust, old habits that keep us stuck, or emotional baggage from the past. But why is letting go so hard? In this episode of Naked Psychology with Doug and Kendall, we unpack the psychology behind our attachments and explore why the brain resists change, even when it’s for our good.

From the endowment effect that makes possessions feel more valuable just because they’re ours, to the emotional conditioning that keeps us tied to relationships or identities we’ve outgrown, we reveal the hidden forces at play. You’ll hear real-life stories, science-backed insights, and practical strategies to help you release what’s weighing you down—without guilt or fear.  Whether you’re decluttering your closet, breaking free from a toxic relationship, or shedding outdated self-beliefs, this episode is your guide to creating space for growth, joy, and the life you want.