Somewhere in adulthood, an inevitable shift occurs where making and retaining new friends just seems tough - but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we explore why friendship often takes a backseat as we age and how to shift your mindset and approach to build meaningful, mutual connections. Whether you're craving deeper relationships, moving to a new city, or just tired of feeling disconnected, this conversation is packed with honesty, strategies, and encouragement for getting out of an isolated rut. This episode is for anyone who wants to make friends more intentionally while staying true to themselves.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:

• Why friendship often fades into the background during adulthood and how to change that.
• What it really means to be "friendship available" and how to signal that to others.
• Tips for moving past self-consciousness and initiating connection in low-stakes ways, even as an introvert.
• How to recognize when a connection feels mutual—and when it doesn't.
• Why shared intention and clear communication are key to deepening adult friendships.
• The power of staying open-hearted (but grounded) while you expand your social circle.

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New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out.

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Got thoughts, questions, or episode ideas? Email us: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Loneliness is as dangerous as smoking — and most people don’t even realize it.

In today’s conversation, we break down the research on why emotionally safe, reciprocal relationships are essential for your health, happiness, and self-worth. Plus, we share practical tools for spotting real connection versus surface-level friendships and love. If you want deeper friendships, better romantic relationships, or to feel a little less alone — this one’s for you.

Inside this episode:

• The 4 personality traits and 5 skills that predict thriving relationships
• How to trust yourself when navigating friendships and dating
• Why authenticity is magnetic — and how to develop it
• Why being self centered is the key to healthy intimacy

SOURCES:

Harvard Adult Development Study

Gender Differences in Singles' Wellbeing

Social Relationships and Mortality Risk

Friendship and Happiness

Authenticity

Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much!

New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out.

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Got thoughts, questions, or episode ideas? Email us: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Have you ever found yourself waiting to feel confident before taking action, only to stay stuck? Or maybe you find that perfectionism holds you back from ever trying something new? If so, this episode on confidence may be for you. In this episode, Allie and Katie unpack the real meaning of confidence, and spoiler alert: it’s not something you either have or don’t. It’s something you build through courageous action, self-trust, and small wins.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• The difference between confidence and self-esteem
• Why confidence is task-specific and needs to be practiced
• Why fear, vulnerability, and risk are vital to the confidence equation
• How the 3 pillars of confidence can be used to build unshakeable belief that you can handle anything that may come your way
• How perfectionism blocks confidence and what to do instead
• A step-by-step guide to building confidence through mastery experiences
• How small decisions help you practice self-trust before making big life changes

Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much!

New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out.

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Got thoughts, questions, or episode ideas? Email us: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Think self-esteem is about feeling like you’re “the best”? Think again. If you’re tired of the comparison trap and want a healthier relationship with yourself, this one’s for you.

This episode unpacks the myths and truths about self-esteem and how to actually start liking yourself without needing approval, praise, or perfection. We also share our personal stories about unlearning old standards and building real self-worth by staying rooted in our values.

In this episode:

• Why self-esteem isn’t about being perfect—or being liked
• The role of emotional wiring, social media, and self-trust
• How to shift from self-criticism to self-respect
• Practical tools to realign your actions with your values
• How to feel good even when you’re not feeling your best

Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much!

New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out.

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Got thoughts, questions, or episode ideas? Email us: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Does criticism leave you spiraling and feeling like you're the worst? You’re not alone. You’re doing the best you can with what you know, and there’s another way.

In this empowering episode, we unpack why shame hijacks your nervous system, how to pause instead of crashing out, how to navigate hard conversations without abandoning yourself, and what real emotional repair looks like.

If you’re tired of letting shame run the show, this episode will show you a new way.

You’ll learn:

• Why feedback often feels like a personal attack (and how to reframe it)

• How to regulate your emotions before responding

• Why ruptures are normal and actually make relationships stronger

• Practical tools for moving from shame to self-trust

OTHER HELPFUL EPISODES:

Episode 13 is a deep dive into understanding guilt and shame

• on Apple Podcasts
• or on Spotify

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

New episodes launch every Tuesday!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email your thoughts, questions, & requests for episode topics: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Struggling with the guilt of sharing your truth? You’re not alone. In this episode, Allie and Katie explore why truth-telling is not the same as shaming—even when others react as if it is. Learn how to stay grounded in your healing without carrying responsibility for others’ discomfort.

This episode will help you:

• Understand how internalized beliefs about loyalty can keep you silent

• Release shame around acknowledging your truth

• Break free from people-pleasing

• Discern when you're ready to share, and how

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

New episodes launch every Tuesday!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email your thoughts, questions, & requests for episode topics: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Have you ever been told you're too emotional, too sensitive, or it's all in your head?

In this episode, we’re breaking down the toxic messages we’ve all internalized about emotions—and why struggling with your mental health doesn’t make you weak.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

• How society gaslights your natural emotional responses

• The real reason people internalize shame around mental health

• How emotional suppression creates disconnection and burnout

• What therapy actually is—and why it’s not just for “crazy” people

• How to reclaim your sensitivity as a strength, not a flaw

• The myth of emotional control in a “positive vibes only” world

This is for the overthinkers, the feelers, the “I should be fine” crowd. It’s time to drop the shame and honor the truth of how you feel. This episode will meet you with compassion and help you come home to yourself.

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

New episodes launch every Tuesday!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email your thoughts, questions, & requests for episode topics: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Not sure if you need therapy or coaching? Many people wonder where to turn for support in their personal growth journey. In this episode, we explore the key differences, bust common myths, and share insights on:

• How therapy helps when you’re struggling vs. how coaching helps when you’re ready to grow

• Why you keep dealing with the same "devil" even when you reach new levels in your personal development journey.

• What to ask before choosing a coach or therapist to tell if they're right for you

• Why therapy alone may not help you become fully self-centered

Tune in to gain clarity and find the right path to becoming more self-centered, confident, and fulfilled. This episode will help you make an informed decision on the support you need to thrive.

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

New episodes launch every Tuesday!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email your thoughts, questions, & requests for episode topics: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but in this episode, we’re breaking it down and debunking the myths! We share our contrasting experiences to explore what therapy really is (and isn’t). We tackle it all; who therapy is for, what actually happens in a session, and do I really have to lay on a couch?

If you’ve ever worried about being judged, not knowing what to say, or even how to "break up" with a therapist who isn’t the right fit, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re curious about therapy or hesitant to take the first step, this conversation will give you the insight and encouragement you need to feel more confident in your mental health journey.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• Therapy isn’t just for people in crisis
• How to find a good fit therapist
• The differences between therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists
• Why we DON'T recommend BetterHelp
• What to expect in your first therapy session
• Common fears about therapy—like being judged or not knowing what to say—and how to overcome them
• When medication in mental health treatment might be helpful
• Why it’s okay to “break up” with a therapist who isn’t the right fit

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email: [email protected]

RESOURCES:

• Find a Therapist Psychology Today
• BetterHelp, the FTC, and broken privacy promises
• Newsweek: BetterHelp Patients Furious at 'Sketchy Therapists'
• For more information on which specific therapy techniques may be helpful for you, check out Episode 9: Instagram vs Reality

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

“You’re making it all about you!” Ever been hit with this accusation when setting boundaries? You’re not alone!

In this episode, we break down why asserting your needs isn’t selfish and how to navigate pushback from partners, friends, family, and even adult children. This episode is for you if you're tired of feeling guilty for standing up for yourself. Tune in to learn how to stand firm and create healthier, more balanced relationships.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why people react negatively when you prioritize yourself
• How to respond when someone says "you've changed"
• The best way to communicate your needs in tough conversations
• What to do when someone doesn't respect your limits
• How to shift from people-pleasing to mutual respect in relationships

Go to the episode page to leave a quick rating and/or review!

New episodes launch every Tuesday!

Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod

Email your thoughts, questions, & requests for episode topics: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training.

The information provided on this podcast does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of licensed healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, coaches, or other appropriate professionals regarding their individual circumstances.

The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and any related content is at your own risk.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.