In this episode, you’ll be regaled by the brilliant stories and psychiatric hacks of Dr. Sheldon Zablow—known to his friends and patients as Dr. Z, and to me as Dr. Shelly.

Dr. Z is a retired child, adolescent, and forensic psychiatrist who practiced in San Diego for over four decades. He taught child psychiatry at UCSD for 25 years, earning multiple teaching awards, and worked with everyone from military families aboard the USS Carl Vinson to underserved populations and elite medical institutions.

What makes Dr. Z truly one of a kind is how effortlessly he bridges science and story—whether he’s explaining the neurobiology of mental health or describing wrestling maneuvers like The Granby Roll with poetic precision.

He’s also the author of Your Vitamins Are Obsolete: The Vitamer Revolution, a provocative and practical book on nutritional psychiatry—and yes, we’ll dive into that too.

Credits:

River is High, Ticketless Traveler

Carl Reisman, guitar, singer, and songwriter

Jenny Goodwine, vocals

James Singleton, bass

Johnny Vidocovich, drums

Dave Easley, steel guitar

Produced by Morgan Orion Reisman

for more information, [email protected]

Copyright 2025

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An Interview with Carl Reisman

In this special episode, I sit down with my cousin Carl Reisman—a published poet, musician, chef, and lawyer who ran his law practice out of a converted Phillips 76 Station in Urbana, Illinois.

We explore what it means to be fully human across disciplines, reflecting on two AI-generated pieces that deeply resonated with Carl (about Carl) and what it means to be fully human. He shares insights on justice, creativity, and presence—pondering whether humans are becoming more machine-like as AI becomes more human.

A rich, soulful conversation on living authentically, nourishing others with “kind-fulness,” and embracing the freedom to live many lives in one.

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Dr. Jim welcomes back his podcast comrade, Rafael Cortina, who returns to the studio after stepping into his new role as President of the International Association for the Advancement of Gestalt Therapy (IAAGT).

In this episode, Rafael shares insights from his leadership journey and offers a fresh take on the impact of Gestalt Therapy. He explores key principles including existentialism, parts work, present-moment awareness, and the transformative power of self-acceptance in fostering healthier relationships. Rafael also highlights the influence of Gestalt on contemporary approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with his own expertise in trauma and addiction.

But it’s not all theory—Dr. Jim and Rafael dive into their beloved offseason ritual: talking 49ers football. From leadership in therapy to leadership on the field, the conversation flows into a spirited discussion about the team’s future and the importance of community, both on and off the gridiron.

This episode might just inspire you to sign up for an international Gestalt training—or snag tickets to a 49ers game and cheer on Brock Purdy, now Mr. Very Relevant.

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In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Jim interviews Ben Yalom about his moving collaboration with his father, renowned psychiatrist Dr. Irvin D. Yalom, on their co-authored book, Hour of the Heart: Connecting in the Here and Now. 

Ben reflects on what it was like growing up in the shadow of a famous father—and in Palo Alto, no less, where not inventing a technological breakthrough by age 14 made you seem like a slacker. He shares how he forged his own unique path in theater, coaching, and therapy, while still honoring his father’s influence.

We also explore the origin of the book: Irv, facing memory loss and aging, invited Ben to help him capture and shape his reflections—many drawn from decades of work with patients. Having supported his father on previous writing projects, Ben stepped into this collaboration with both tenderness and clarity.

Throughout the conversation, we dive into themes of aging, legacy, father-son connection, existentialism, and the power of being present. Whether you’re a therapy enthusiast, a clinician, or someone interested in meaningful relationships across generations, this episode offers rich insights and warm humanity.

Hour of the Heart speaks to both everyday readers and therapy nerds (like yours truly). Don’t miss this intimate and inspiring dialogue.

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Dr. Jim Interviews Dr. Richard Freed

In this powerful episode, Dr. Jim sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Richard Freed, whose new book Better Than Real Life examines how persuasive design is reshaping childhood—and not for the better. Dr. Freed’s work has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and other major media outlets. And he’s also the author of the influential book Wired Child.

You’ll hear a personal story about Dr. Freed’s long-lost Harvard certificate. And you’ll learn about his roots in Silicon Valley—back when it was covered in orange groves (okay, maybe not that long ago) and chips meant Pringles. 

Dr. Freed pulls back the curtain on persuasive design and what Jim calls “attention fracking”—how screen-based platforms, powered by behavioral science, hijack kids’ attention and emotions for profit. He explores how Big Tech uses these tools to draw children into the multiverse of social media, video games, and streaming content—stealing them away from the real-world experiences they need to thrive.

Determined to speak truth to power, Dr. Freed exposes the science behind screen addiction and how it renders young minds vulnerable to manipulation. He makes the case for reclaiming a childhood centered on family, education, nature, and real human connection—not devices engineered for dependency.

This episode is essential listening for parents, educators, and anyone concerned with the future of childhood in the digital age.

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Andre DeCary returns for his third episode—just two more, and he earns the coveted ShrinkRap jacket, SNL-style!

In this conversation, Andre shares his distinctive approach to couples therapy, highlighting the key differences between working with individuals and couples. He also reflects on personal insights from his own life in this domain.

Together, we explore the profound impact of reactivity on victimization—how staying out of a victim mindset can empower both you and your partner. Andre offers thoughtful perspectives on breaking free from disempowering narratives to create healthier, more connected relationships.

This episode is a treat, so grab your tea and soak it all in!

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A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here

An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a.k.a., the John Lennon of Pediatric Gender Care

Dr. Jim sits down with the prolific and brilliant Dr. Diane Ehrensaft, a leading expert in pediatric gender care who envisions a more inclusive world for gender expression. A scholar, psychologist in private practice, author, child advocate, parent coach, and UCSF researcher, she plays a pivotal role in advancing cutting-edge gender-affirming care for children and adolescents.

In this episode, Dr. Ehrensaft discusses her latest book, Gender Explained, co-authored with Michelle Jerkiewicz, Psy.D. She tackles the persistent myths surrounding gender care and compares transphobia today to the outdated beliefs of flat earthers. Like John Lennon, she dares to imagine a future of greater acceptance and understanding, predicated on love, empathy, truth, and caring. 

With humor, she reflects on the challenges of her field, joking that, given the current political climate, life might have been easier had she pursued dance instead of psychology. She also speaks candidly about the archaic and transphobic policies emerging from Project 25 and the ongoing battle to ensure access to gender-affirming care.

Dr. Ehrensaft's research explores the development and psychological experiences of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive youth. She is actively involved in studies on the developmental pathways of gender-diverse children before puberty and the mental health outcomes of those who choose puberty blockers or gender-affirming hormones.

Stick around until the end of the episode. Dr. Ehrensaft takes on University of Michigan trivia with enthusiasm. Go Blue!

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In this powerful episode, Dr. Jim Bramson interviews Dr. Lindsay C. Gibson, clinical psychologist and bestselling author of Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents. Together, they delve into the lasting impact of emotionally immature parents on their children’s lives—from feelings of neglect and rejection to lifelong challenges with self-worth, relationships, and parenting.

Dr. Gibson explains the four types of emotionally immature parents, how their behaviors influence family dynamics, and shares practical strategies for healing. She highlights the importance of setting healthy boundaries, developing emotional autonomy, and differentiating from immature parents to reclaim personal identity and foster growth. Lindsay also discusses how these experiences affect our own parenting styles and the journey to healing the inner child.

The conversation explores the impact of emotional neglect or unresolved childhood trauma and how these patterns manifest in adulthood. Dr. Gibson stresses that in contrast to emotionally immature parents, emotionally mature parents are curious, emotionally attuned, and are on the lookout for ways to improve their child’s self-worth. On a lighter note, Dr. Bramson shares the fascinating origin of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan—a town where Dr. Gibson attended graduate school and a special place for your Michigan-native host.

This episode blends deep emotional insight with inspiring stories of hope and intergenerational transformation. Whether you’re on a personal healing journey or looking to break generational cycles, this episode is for you. Tune in for a thought-provoking and uplifting conversation.

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Live from Berkeley California - Dr. Marty Klein keynotes at the Human Potential Conference.

Dr. Marty Klein – certified sex therapist, award-winning author of 7 books, and New York Times-lauded educator - shares his ideas about Sexual Intelligence, explaining how we create our own sexual obstacles--and how to overcome them, "without losing 10 pounds, getting a new sex toy, or learning exotic new techniques."

Download and follow along with the slides from Dr. Klein's website.

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Live from Berkeley California - Linda and Charlie Bloom present on The End of Arguing and the Beginning of Great Sex at the Human Potential Conference. 

Linda and Charlie are celebrated marriage and relationship experts, workshop leaders, trainers, authors, co-therapists, and curators of knowledge on successful relationships. They discuss adjusting to sex life in an aging body, while learning to keep love alive and passionate. 

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A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here