Exploring Severance and Beyond: A Deep Dive with Allen Stare

In this episode, Vanessa Gorelkin and Allen Stare, creator of the acclaimed Severed: The Ultimate Severance Podcast and host of the brand new (as of February 2026) Hello Carol: The Ultimate Plur1bus Podcast spend time exploring themes of work-life balance and corporate satire.

Vanessa and Allen do some behind-the-scenes storytelling about what makes Severance such a phenomenon—plus listeners gain insights into Allen’s passion for deep analysis, storytelling, and his latest projects. Hello Carol: The Ultimate Plur1bus podcast being his newest endeavor into ultimate rewatch territory.

Key Topics:

• The origins and creative process behind AppleTV's Severance and its thematic depth
• How corporate culture and identity resonate with audiences
• The role of humor and satire in dark, heavy series like Severance
• Allen’s deep research techniques, including identifying Easter eggs and production details
• The inspiration and influence of Office Space, Breaking Bad, and other pop culture on Allen’s podcasts
• Practical advice on maintaining work-life balance and finding joy in hobbies that spill over into work
• The importance of detail-oriented viewing and enjoying media on a layered level
• Behind the scenes stories from production, including script insights and casting details
• The cultural commentary on employee identity and corporate control in modern workplaces
• How Allen’s podcasts serve as love letters to storytelling and analytical engagement

Resources

• Hello Carol - The Ultimate Pluribus Podcast by Allen Stare
• Severed: The Ultimate Severance Podcast by Allen Stare
• Apple TV+ Severance: https://tv.apple.com/show/severance
• The Matrix (1999):
• Office Space (1999)
• Sandy Pony Donuts: https://sandypony.com

Allen Stares shares a passion for storytelling, detailed analysis, and connecting with audiences over themes of work and identity. His podcasts go beyond surface-level critique, offering a richly layered exploration of beloved series and their cultural impact. Whether you’re a Severance fan or just love deep dives into media, Allen’s work enriches understanding and sparks curiosity. Get busy taking a listen to Hello Carol: the Ultimate Plur1bus Podcast-- you won't be sorry.

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

Summary

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the Default Mode Network (DMN) of the brain, its role in neurodivergence, and how it influences rumination and creativity. She discusses the importance of understanding the DMN as a feature rather than a flaw, especially in the context of ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. Vanessa offers practical strategies for managing rumination and building a healthier relationship with one's internal narrative, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and self-reflection.


Takeaways

The default mode network (DMN) is active during internal thought.
ADHD can cause the DMN to pull attention inward at inappropriate times.
Mind wandering is not inherently negative; it can foster creativity.
Therapy can help shift maladaptive DMN activity to more flexible processing.
Deliberate mind wandering can help manage ruminative thoughts.
Grounding techniques can help redirect focus from the DMN.
Labeling thoughts can interrupt rumination loops.
The DMN serves as both a wise narrator and a critic.
Understanding the DMN can improve mental health management.
Your brain's default mode is a meaning-making machine.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Default Mode Network
06:31 Navigating Neurodivergence and Rumination
09:28 Strategies for Managing the Default Mode Network

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the subtle ways perfectionism sabotages our efforts and shares practical strategies to shift from perfection-driven habits to more flexible, compassionate approaches. Learn how to recognize these patterns and build sustainable progress without the trap of perfection.

Key Topics

• The difference between adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism
• How perfectionism quietly undermines goal-setting and motivation
• Recognizing patterns like procrastination, guilt, and all-or-nothing thinking
• The importance of self-compassion and psychological flexibility
• Small actionable steps to practice imperfection intentionally
• The role of curiosity and growth-driven motivation over fear-based standards
• Tips for naming and neutralizing perfectionistic inner critics
• How to set flexible standards that allow for human variability

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

Vanessa and Diana share a frank discussion of pet grief, with a few laughs because life allows us a range of emotions. 

Diana and Vanessa delve into the complex emotions surrounding pet grief and the broader topic of loss. They discuss the unique bond between humans and their pets, the societal perceptions of pet grief, and the personal experiences that shape how individuals process loss. The conversation also touches on the therapeutic aspects of grief, the concept of shadow work, and the importance of embracing both light and shadow in life. Diana shares insights from her counseling practice, emphasizing the individuality of grief and the journey towards acceptance and accommodation.

Takeaways

• Grief is a deeply personal experience and varies from person to person.
• Pet grief is often underestimated but can be as profound as losing a human loved one.
• The bond with pets is unique due to their unconditional love and companionship.
• Grief involves both light and shadow, requiring acceptance of both to heal.
• Therapy can help individuals navigate the complexities of grief and loss.
• Shadow work involves exploring hidden aspects of oneself to foster healing.
• Grief is not linear; it doesn't follow a set pattern or timeline.
• Embracing vulnerability and courage is essential in the grieving process.
• The loss of a pet can trigger reflections on mortality and personal growth.
• Grief can transform over time, becoming less sharp but always present.

Reach Diana here:

https://www.luxumbracounselling.com/

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, host Vanessa Gorelkin explores the concepts of yin and yang as they relate to self-care, balance, and personal growth. She discusses the importance of recognizing one's tendencies towards action (yang) or receptivity (yin) and offers practical suggestions for achieving a harmonious balance in daily life. The episode also addresses a listener's question about work-life balance, providing evidence-based strategies for creating boundaries and transitions between work and personal time. Ultimately, Vanessa emphasizes that balance is a journey of awareness and self-compassion, rather than a destination of perfection.

Takeaways
The tension between doing and being is something a lot of us wrestle with.
Balance between yin and yang produces harmony.
Neurodivergent individuals often feel these tensions more intensely.
Identifying your own tendencies is the first step to balance.
Small shifts can create ripples of balance over time.
Saying no is an act of self-care.
You do not need neurosurgery, just awareness and intention.
Balance doesn't mean every day is perfectly equal.
The journey itself can be comforting and exciting.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Yin and Yang in Life

02:58 The Balance of Doing and Being

07:14 Identifying Personal Tendencies

07:58 Practical Suggestions for Balance

11:14 Listener Question: Achieving Work-Life Balance

Link to Severed Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/severed-the-ultimate-severance-podcast/id1660658805

14:21 Embracing the Journey of Balance

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

Summary

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the complex topic of masking neurodivergent traits. She discusses the pros and cons of masking, its impact on mental health, and the importance of context and safety in deciding when to mask. 

Vanessa emphasizes that masking is not inherently good or bad but should be a choice rather than a necessity. The episode also includes practical strategies for managing masking and unmasking in various environments.

Takeaways

• Masking is a tool, not inherently good or bad.
• Chronic masking can lead to mental health issues.
• Masking should be a choice, not a necessity.
• Context and safety are crucial in masking decisions.
• Unmasking should be intentional and safe.
• Masking can protect against discrimination.
• Unmasking everywhere is not always advisable.
• Healthy masking is flexible and temporary.
• Unhealthy masking feels like hypervigilance.
• Grief about masking deserves respect.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Masking
• 00:03:00 Defining Masking
• 00:06:00 Pros and Cons of Masking
• 00:09:00 Impact on Mental Health
• 00:12:00 Practical Strategies for Masking

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

In this episode, Vanessa Gorelkin and guest, Diana Magallon Romero, Licensed Clinical Counselor, delve into the complex topic of grief, exploring its many facets and surprise- grief goes way beyond the loss of life. 

Vanessa and Diana discuss how grief is a response to change, whether it's losing a loved one, a friend, a job, or even a way of life. Diana shares her insights as a clinical counselor, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and processing grief to find meaning and healing.

The conversation also touches on the role of psychedelics in therapy and how they can aid in redefining one's mental map after a significant loss.

If you'd like to explore working with Diana, her website is:

https://www.luxumbracounselling.com/

Please subscribe and leave us a 5 start review if you are enjoying the show!

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin explores the concept of denial as a psychological defense mechanism. She discusses how denial can provide temporary comfort but ultimately leads to greater issues if not confronted. Through personal anecdotes and societal examples, she illustrates the dangers of denial and offers strategies for facing difficult truths. The episode also addresses health anxiety and the importance of acknowledging one's fears regarding medical visits. Listeners are encouraged to take small steps towards confronting their own truths.

Takeaways

Denial can protect us but also cause harm.
Ignoring symptoms doesn't make them vanish.
Denial delays confrontation of scary truths.
Denial can isolate us from support and healing.
Societal denial can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Psychological experiments show how denial operates in groups.
Gradual exposure can help face difficult truths.
Externalizing problems reduces emotional pressure.
Curiosity can help in recognizing denial.
Noticing patterns of denial is a step towards growth.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Denial: A Double-Edged Sword
09:53 Facing Difficult Truths: Strategies for Confrontation
15:01 Navigating Health Anxiety: A Personal Journey

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

It's the holiday season, and it's a time when people feel many things. Sometimes it's not all cheer or all good.

This time of year can be hard on people because of stress, loneliness or real life pressure. The intensity of everything being "joyous" can feel like a heavy weight. We want to lighten things up with some real talk about lonely feelings-- and to suggest a few solutions.

This episode is for you if you need a little boost and don't feel quite like whooping it up at the celebration. We've got you.

Don't forget to share this podcast - maybe that's your first opportunity to reach out!

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467

In this episode of Real Over Ideal, Vanessa Gorelkin delves into the intricacies of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), exploring its unique approach and why it often gets misunderstood. She highlights the therapy's blend of cognitive techniques with mindfulness and emotion regulation, and discusses its potential pitfalls when applied rigidly. Vanessa offers alternative strategies for distress tolerance and emphasizes the importance of context and flexibility in therapy.

Thanks for listening!

Please share the show with anyone who may enjoy it. We'd love it if you'd leave us a 5 star review wherever you're listening- it helps listeners find the show and we read every review.

If you'd like to submit an "Untangle This" question, a comment, or an episode idea-- Email us:

[email protected]

Vanessa is available to consult professionally with individual clients. If you'd like to work with Vanessa , reach out here:

https://vanessagorelkin.com/contact-us#12398ed6-3711-4e15-ae41-4711059fd6ab

If you'd like to read about Vanessa's background, treatment perspective and techniques, or other handy information about her practice, check out her Psychology Today profile here:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/vanessa-gorelkin-scottsdale-az/809467