Strides To Solutions

Understanding Core Shame," dives into this powerful emotion to help you bring what is unconscious into the light.

While guilt is the feeling that "I did something bad," core shame is the belief that "I am bad". It is a primary emotion that becomes a core part of one's identity, often leading to feelings of being flawed, fraudulent, or never good enough. This sense of self is often formed by stories we internalized as children that are not true.

In this video, we will explore:

• The Origins of Core Shame: Learn how core shame is induced from "ruptures in interpersonal bridges"—the emotional severing of bonds with caregivers, family, or others—and originates in the right brain, living in our unconscious, implicit memory.

• How Shame Gets "Hardwired": Discover how the beliefs and attitudes we observe in our parents become embedded as "hardwired" pathways in our subconscious minds, particularly between the ages of 2 and 6 when the brain is in a highly programmable state.

• The "Architecture" of Shame: We'll break down how early attachment, co-regulation (or lack thereof), and emotional safety form the foundation for the scripts and stories that create a "false self" rooted in shame.

• Defenses Against Shame: Uncover common coping mechanisms like perfectionism, avoidance, rage, blaming, and people-pleasing that serve as defenses against the painful feeling of shame.

Recognizing shame is the first step toward more effective treatment; failing to do so often makes problems worse. This video will provide you with the foundational knowledge to begin connecting the dots between a current feeling, a body sensation, an early memory, and a core shame belief. By understanding where the story comes from, you can begin the journey of forgiveness, creating a new story, and reconstructing your authentic self.

Join us to uncover the roots of shame and start your path toward healing.

Listen to a comprehensive deep dive 1 hour and 50 mins of what shame is in depth and how to transform it [click here] to listen.

If you've ever wondered why years of positive self talk haven't touched your deepest feelings of unworthiness, this comprehensive exploration reveals what's really happening in your brain and body when shame takes hold. Drawing from cutting edge neuroscience, attachment research, and trauma informed therapies, this in depth podcast unpacks why shame operates differently from any other emotion. Shame lives in the nonverbal right hemisphere, manifests as a full body collapse, and resists all attempts at logical intervention.

You'll discover how experiences in your first two years of life created neural pathways that still dictate your sense of worth today. These experiences occurred before you could even form memories, yet they shaped the very architecture of your brain. Learn why shame and guilt are neurologically distinct experiences requiring completely different healing approaches, why perfectionism and imposter syndrome are actually shame in disguise, and how your nervous system confuses a critical comment with tribal rejection.

Most importantly, you'll understand why traditional talk therapy often fails to reach shame's hiding places and what actually works. Somatic approaches speak the body's language in ways that words cannot reach. The power of "rupture and repair" in relationships creates new neural pathways, while witnessing shame with compassion literally rewires the brain. Whether you're struggling with shame yourself, supporting someone who is, or you're a professional working with these deep wounds, this podcast provides both the scientific understanding and practical pathways toward genuine healing. Explore this 1 hour and 50 minute comprehensive deep dive of shame and how to transform it [click here]

Note: This content explores sensitive topics including trauma and its effects. Please listen with self compassion and seek professional support if needed. This material is for psychoeducational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice.

A comprehensive hour and fifty minutes of exploration covering shame's development in the infant brain, its difference from guilt and humiliation, how it manifests across relationships and professional life, and the full spectrum of healing approaches from somatic therapy to creative expression. The definitive psychoeducational guide for both those experiencing shame and those helping others heal.

Important Disclaimer:

This content is provided for psychoeducational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information presented here should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a replacement for therapy, counseling, or other professional mental health services.

If you are experiencing severe emotional distress, having thoughts of self-harm, or are in crisis, please seek immediate help from a qualified mental health professional or contact a crisis helpline such as:

* National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

* Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

* International crisis lines can be found at findahelpline.com

While the concepts discussed draw from established psychological research and therapeutic approaches, every individual's experience with shame and trauma is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. Healing from deep-seated shame, particularly when related to trauma, requires professional support tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Esther Adams is not providing therapeutic advice or establishing a therapeutic relationship with readers. If any content triggers difficult emotions or memories, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional who can provide appropriate support and guidance.

Remember that reading about psychological concepts, while valuable for understanding, is not the same as receiving professional treatment. If you recognize yourself in the patterns described, consider this information as a starting point for seeking appropriate professional help rather than as a standalone solution.

Your mental health matters. Please take care of yourself and seek professional support when needed.

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