The Intense Mind with Imi Lo

https://eggshelltherapy.com/podcast-blog/2025/04/30/brianearp/

In this episode, we discuss

- Dr. Brian Earp’s prolific academic work in philosophy, psychology, and medical ethics.
- how his conservative religious upbringing sparked his curiosity about morality and ethics.
- his transition from professional theater to academia and his commitment to a PhD at age 30.
- his research on love, obsession, and addiction, and his critique of monogamy as a societal default.
- his book Love Drugs and the ethics of using medical technologies to enhance relationships.
- ethical challenges in AI, his stance on bodily autonomy.
- his current projects on AI, personalized digital tools, and more!

Some Quotes from Dr. Earp

 “Whether it’s harmful can be kind of contingent on historical and social attitudes.”

“If you think love is about fundamentally wanting to contribute to the flourishing of another person… then the question of whether you should possess them… might not be conducive to their flourishing.”

 “We should advocate for a view of love according to which it’s something that is rooted fundamentally in care and respect.”

“Addiction can be part of one’s identity… if you cure yourself of this addiction, you almost change who you are.”

About Dr. Brian Earp 

Associate Professor Brian D. Earp, PhD, is director of the Oxford-NUS Centre for Neuroethics and Society (OCNS) and the EARP Lab (Experimental Bioethics, Artificial Intelligence, and Relational Moral Psychology Lab) within the Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS). Brian is also an Associate Professor of Philosophy and of Psychology at NUS by courtesy.

See www.brianearp.com for more information.

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Summary: https://eggshelltherapy.com/podcast-blog/2025/02/27/darkmoods/

This episode stands out as one of my most special conversations! In this thought-provoking episode, I sat down with Dr. Mariana Alessandri, a modern philosophy professor whose work inspired me. We specifically explored the often misunderstood and undervalued role of "dark moods"—emotions like sadness, anger, anxiety, grief, and depression. In our conversation, we challenged the cultural obsession with happiness and optimism, critiquing "toxic positivity" and the societal tendency to label these emotions as problems to be fixed. Drawing on insights from her book, The Defender of Dark Moods, Dr. Alessandri reframed, rigorously and passionately, that dark moods as meaningful, natural, and even valuable aspects of the human experience. 

Our conversation also examined the harm caused by suppressing emotions, the limitations of modern self-help, Stoicism, and the liberating potential of existential philosophy. By reclaiming space for authentic emotional expression—without judgment or shame—we can move toward a richer, more authentic life. 

What we discussed: 

How society undervalues dark moods like sadness, anger, and anxiety
Why toxic positivity is harmful
Why the binary view of emotions as “positive” or “negative” is limiting
Why modern self-help version of Stoicism can be problematic
Why we need more nuanced language for emotions
Why dark moods are essential to a meaningful life


About Dr. Alessandri:

Website: https://www.marianaalessandri.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/mariana.alessandri/

The book: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691215457/night-vision



** 
 

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

In this episode, we have a highly sensitive, soulful gifted man as a guest. His name is Eric Windhorst,  a registered psychotherapist, educator, mentor, and writer, deeply passionate about personal growth and environmental well-being. 

His diverse academic background in social and cultural health studies, human geography, theology, and biology enriches his approach to therapy. Eric's exploration of intuitive and energetic realms, coupled with his commitment to environmental advocacy, offers a unique perspective to his practice. 

In this episode, he openly shares his journey of self-discovery, highlighting his work with individuals who feel disconnected from societal norms, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and personal transformation. 

We touched on many topics, from Quantum Physics to Ego Consciousness, to the intersections of masculinity, giftedness, sensitivity, and relationships. We delve into the impact of societal conditioning, trauma, and the struggle for authenticity within the constraints of social systems. Eric reflects on his own experiences of loneliness, disconnection, and the journey toward wholeness, acknowledging the complexities of relationships and self-discovery.

Eric shares insights on the profound loneliness experienced by highly sensitive people, especially men, the struggle for authentic connection, and the journey towards self-understanding and acceptance.  

The dialogue touches on the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and the challenges faced by hyper-aware individuals in navigating personal growth and intimacy. 

In sharing his journey and insights, Eric emphasizes the need for us to stay true to ourselves, embrace vulnerability, and not lose hope in the journey toward self-discovery and healing.

 We Covered:

~ Eric's Background and Work 

~ Quantum Physics and Labels

~ Reflection on Labels and Ego Consciousness

~ The Nature of Reality

~ MBTI and Society's Emphasis on Labels

~ Toxic Masculinity, Masculinity and Identity

~ Eric's Personal Journey and Dark Night of the Soul

~ Loneliness and Finding Connection as a Highly Sensitive Gifted Man

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Full text: https://eggshelltherapy.com/emotional-blackmail/

Emotional blackmail takes on a complex dimension when it comes from parents who may not be intentionally malicious but are limited by their trauma, neurodivergence, or psychological limitations. Some manipulative parents may genuinely love their children and try their best, yet still emotionally blackmail their children through guilt, obligation, and fear. Their emotional blackmail often manifests through seemingly innocent phrases that exploit their children's empathy and sense of duty. This creates a confusing dynamic where children must reconcile their parent's genuine love and good intentions with harmful, manipulative behaviors, often leading to complex trauma and self-doubt.

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

FULL SUMMARY AND LINKS:
https://eggshelltherapy.com/podcast-blog/2025/01/16/ai-therapist/

I have recently released a new podcast episode, where I interviewed Dr. David Burns, the author of 'Feeling Good' and CBT pioneer! 

In his latest research, he showed that AI therapist platforms can sometimes outperform human practitioners in providing consistent, empathetic responses to patients.

Here are some quotes from the interview that may surprise you: 

"We more or less proved that this idea that depression is due to a deficiency of this neurotransmitter, serotonin, can't possibly be a valid theory."

"Empathy from a computer outperforms by a big margin human empathy."

"Empathy, whoever gives it, sucks in terms of healing power. It's not enough to cure depression or panic attacks or anything else."

"The app, if anything, is just as effective or slightly more effective, the more severe the patient's problems are."

https://youtu.be/QF8GYvlTmfU?si=L_LA0QJItKpjCmii

About Our Guest 

Stanford psychiatrist Dr. David Burns, renowned for developing high-speed, effective approaches to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), joins us today. His 1980 book "Feeling Good" is probably the most recommended self-help book by mental health professionals in the United States. His follow-up work "Feeling Great" builds on decades of clinical innovation, introducing his TEAM-CBT methodology that has revolutionized how we approach rapid recovery from depression and anxiety.

In his latest research, Dr. Burns has explored the intersection of AI and psychotherapy, examining how machine learning could transform our understanding of cognitive distortions and therapeutic interventions. His findings suggest that AI therapist platforms can sometimes outperform human practitioners in providing consistent, empathetic responses to patients.

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Today we're joined by Nicole Matusow, a psychoanalyst who's going to take us on a deep dive into the fascinating world of limerence - that overwhelming, obsessive state of romantic infatuation that can completely take over our lives. With her extensive background in psychoanalysis, Nicole will help us understand the unconscious mechanisms driving this intense experience, from the early attachment patterns that set the stage to the role of fantasy and emotional regulation. 

We'll explore why some of us are more prone to limerence than others, how early experiences shape our romantic patterns, and most importantly - what we can actually do about it. Whether you're currently experiencing limerence or supporting someone who is, I hope this conversation will be useful to you. Imi

About Nicole: 

Nicole Matusow is a New York City psychotherapist practicing in the Flatiron area. She sees both individuals and couples/family members, taking a contemporary psychoanalytic and feelings-based approach. Her practice addresses limerence, judgmental self-talk, people-pleasing, difficulties in conveying thoughts and feelings, and familial ruptures.

She offers both in-person and teletherapy services.

https://www.nicolematusow.com

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

FULL TEXT: https://eggshelltherapy.com/bpd_limerence/

Limerence is an experience unlike any other. It is beyond pure infatuation, but an all-consuming experience that can bring us to the highest ecstasy and the lowest depths of despair. It floods our brains with neurons and turns everything into a breathless roller coaster ride. However much we 'know' it is irrational, and try to shake it off, we cannot seem to escape the constant loop of hope and disappointment, longing and devastation.  This state of all-consuming romantic obsession is what Dorothy Tennov termed as limerence in her groundbreaking 1979 work.

Limerence is a complex and often painful experience for most people, as few of us would choose to have our whole sense of being taken over by intrusive thoughts and fantasies. But it is never as simple as a conscious choice. Behind these overwhelming feelings lies a deeper story—one that begins in our earliest experiences of love and loss and speaks to the very heart of how we learn to attach and bond with others.

The picture gets even more complex for those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in limerence. When you have BPD, your emotional thermostat is already set at a different level, and with limerence in the mix, it can become truly unbearable chaos.

In this piece, we shall explore the underlying psychological mechanisms of limerence and how these dynamics take on unique dimensions for those with BPD. By understanding these patterns more deeply—from both psychoanalytic and neurobiological perspectives—we can hopefully help you chart a path forward that honors the intensity of your experience and your capacity for healing.

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Even when no one sees it at all.

Keep going. 

The world needs those who dare to work differently.

The ones who create their own definitions of meaning.

The ones who choose authenticity over appearance.

You’re not alone in this journey

We’re here too, working in our own invisible ways.



Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Full text: https://eggshelltherapy.com/freearticles/2024/10/28/defensive-parent/

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...

Text: https://www.imiloimilo.com/writing/invisible-loss

Eggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com/
Imi Lo:  imiloimilo.com
Sister Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Zcl8ZUsu4AePugDoWtXcg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eggshelltransformations
Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRz
Disclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers 
 
Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics.

Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content to be clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute professional consultation, psychotherapy, diagnosis, or any mental health intervention.  Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views, and they reserve the right to change their opinions. The opinions of the guest do not reflect the position of this channel or Imi. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken strictly at your own risk.  For a full disclaimer, please refer to: https://www.eggshelltherapy.c...