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 On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist  addresses the common parental concerns of getting kids to listen the first time and limiting screen time. It provides strategies for both issues, emphasizing clear expectations, positive reinforcement, consistency, and parental control tools for screen time. The document also recommends the book "How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk" by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, summarizing its key takeaways and explaining how its respectful, empathy-based approach can improve parent-child communication and aid in resolving conflicts, including those around screen time.

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Mark Johnston is a fascinating figure in the Posi-core music scene, fronting the band Knelt Before from Portland, Oregon. He lives by the principles of PMA (Positive Mental Attitude), embracing a vegan straight-edge lifestyle. Beyond music, Mark wears many hats—he’s a devoted father, a combat firefighter, and a fire marshal, making him a hero both on stage and in his community.

Mark's passion for music is deeply personal; his songs are dedicated to his son, Atlas, blending heartfelt life stories with uplifting messages of resilience and positivity. Recently, Mark released new music, and it’s clear his artistry continues to inspire those who hear it. He’s also a close friend to the podcast, where he shares his journey, from balancing family life and firefighting to spreading hope through his lyrics.

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I tackle the topic of financial infidelity—what it means, how it can erode trust, and the emotional and financial toll it takes on relationships. I also explore practical steps to repair the damage and rebuild a foundation of trust and transparency with your partner.

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On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist I had a chance to speak to Angel Graves, my straight-edge sister from the Bay Area, exemplifies the power of combining passion and purpose. As an active member of the Straight Edge Run Club, Angel credits the club as a cornerstone of her mental health and well-being. Beyond running, she dedicates her time to volunteering with Rocket Dog Rescue, a nonprofit organization devoted to saving at-risk animals and finding them loving homes.

Angel’s creativity and drive shine in her ability to bridge her passions. She spearheaded the collaboration between the Straight Edge Run Club and Rocket Dog Rescue to create Wild in the Street—a unique event merging running and advocacy to raise awareness for animal rescue efforts.

She also organized the Furnace Fest 5K in partnership with the Straight Edge Run Club, bringing together the community in an energetic and inclusive celebration of music, movement, and straight-edge culture.

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"In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I dive into the complex topic of emotional cheating—how to recognize the signs, understand its impact, and take proactive steps to enrich your emotional well-being. Learn how to foster deeper connections within your current relationships and avoid seeking validation or intimacy elsewhere. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the challenges of emotional intimacy."

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Craig Holloway, a fellow Detroiter and Wayne State University alumnus, is both a talented bassist and visual artist. He has played bass in bands such as Ricochet, Full Circle, Blunt Force Trauma, and is currently active in Cold As Life, H8 Inc, and Prevenge. As a visual artist, Craig has created album covers and show flyers for notable bands like Agnostic Front, Cold As Life, Negative Approach, H8 Inc, and many others. Additionally, he contributes concept drawings for Throbblehead bobbleheads, featuring iconic figures like Descendents, Danzig, Tesco Vee, and Mike Watt.

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On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I tackle a powerful question: What is a dismissive-avoidant attachment style, and how does it show up in relationships?

A dismissive-avoidant person’s attachment style is shaped by a deep discomfort with emotional closeness and dependence. This isn’t something they consciously choose. More often than not, it’s rooted in their early experiences—where they may have learned that relying on others for emotional support wasn’t safe or dependable.

To protect themselves, they developed a coping mechanism built on fierce independence and emotional distance. While this approach may have served them in their formative years, it can create significant challenges in romantic relationships, friendships, and even parenting.

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On this episode I had the chance to talk to my new best friend John Coyle a key figure in spreading positive hardcore through his work in several influential bands. As the vocalist of Outspoken, John helped create some of the most celebrated West Coast hardcore records, following in the footsteps of bands like Uniform Choice.a few years before them.  Later, he explored a more punk-driven sound with Kill the Messenger. He was also in Straight Arm Yuckmouth, Shriners Club, and LastLight. 

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In this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, Don and I discuss our goals and intentions for 2025. Attach is a helpful handout for you to use! 
Couples Journal Prompts

Instructions for Use:
 Dedicate time together each day, week, or month to fill out your journal. Use these prompts as conversation starters or written reflections to deepen your connection and track your growth as a couple. Celebrate your progress and embrace the journey together!

Daily Prompts

Gratitude

• What’s one thing you did today that I appreciate?
• What’s something you’re grateful for in our relationship today?

Connection

• What made you feel loved or connected to me today?
• What’s one small way we could strengthen our bond tomorrow?

Weekly Prompts

Reflection

• What went well in our relationship this week?
• Did anything this week feel challenging in our communication or connection?

Intentions

• What’s one thing I can do to better support you next week?
• What’s a goal we want to focus on as a couple this week?

Fun & Joy

• What made us laugh together this week?
• What’s a small adventure or fun activity we can plan for next week?

Monthly Prompts

Goal Check-In

• What progress did we make on our shared goals this month?
• Are there any goals we need to adjust or new ones we want to set?

Celebrations

• What’s one thing we’re proud of achieving as a couple this month?
• How can we celebrate our love or accomplishments together next month?

Challenges

• What challenges did we face this month, and how did we handle them?
• Is there anything unresolved that we should address?

Deep-Dive Prompts (Use Quarterly or for Special Occasions)

Relationship Growth

• How do you think our relationship has grown in the last three months?
• What’s one area where we’d like to grow further?

Individual Support

• What’s a personal goal you’re working on, and how can I support you?
• Is there anything I can do differently to be a better partner?

Long-term Vision

• Where do we see ourselves by the end of the year?
• What’s one dream or goal we’ve both been putting off that we can commit to this year?

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On this episode of The Hardcore Therapist, I am ending the year with an amazing interview with Mark Scondotto, the vocalist of the iconic hardcore band Shutdown, who have been tearing it up for over 30 years. Shutdown just announced the release of their brand-new EP, By Your Side, dropping on Friday, January 17, 2025, through Equal Vision Records. I can’t wait to dive into what this EP is all about and discuss the powerful messages behind Shutdown’s music over the years

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