Two Therapists, One Couch

Cornell 7, Consent & Toxic Masculinity

In this episode, Jen and Tammy, with co-host AJ, take a closer look at the disturbing allegations surrounding the so-called “Cornell 7” case and the difficult conversations it raises about consent, sexual violence, masculinity, power, and accountability.

We explore what consent actually means—and why intoxication, coercion, power dynamics, and the ability to freely make and communicate a choice matter. We also examine the difference between legal definitions of consent and the ethical responsibility we have toward one another in intimate situations.

Beyond the individual allegations, we look at the culture that can develop within male peer groups: the pressure to perform masculinity, sexual entitlement, competition, bystander silence, and the ways group dynamics can normalize behaviour that would be unacceptable on an individual level.

What does toxic masculinity have to do with sexual violence? How does a culture of “boys will be boys” contribute to harmful behaviour? And what responsibility do men have—not only to understand consent, but to challenge their friends when boundaries are being crossed?

We also discuss victim-blaming, the complicated ways survivors may process and report traumatic experiences, and the responsibility of universities and institutions when allegations of sexual violence arise.

This is not simply a conversation about one case. It is a conversation about the kind of culture we create—and what it means to teach consent, respect, accountability, and healthy masculinity in a meaningful way.

Content warning: This episode discusses sexual assault, rape allegations, drug and alcohol use, trauma, victim-blaming, and toxic masculinity. The allegations discussed in relation to the Cornell 7 remain part of an ongoing legal process. 

If you have experienced sexual assault or find yourself feeling overwhelmed while listening, please take care of yourself. You do not have to continue listening.

If you are in Regina and would like confidential support, you can contact the Regina Sexual Assault Centre, which provides support and resources for people affected by sexual violence.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Back-to-School: Anxiety, School Avoidance & Supporting Our Kids

The return to school can bring excitement, anticipation -- and for many children, a whole lot of anxiety. In this episode, Tammy and Jen, with co-host AJ, talk about back-to-school anxiety and school avoidance, exploring what may be underneath a child's reluctance to attend school and how parents and caregivers can respond with compassion while still encouraging connection and partipation.

Jen and Tammy discuss the difference between typical back-to-school nerves and anxiety that begins to interfere with a child's daily life, including signs such as stomachaches, headaches, sleep difficulties, meltdowns, reassurance seeking and avoiding or refusing school.

Tammy and Jen also explore how avoidance can unintentionally reinforce anxiety, and why supporting a child doesn't mean removing every uncomfortable feeling or allowing anxiety to make all the decisions. Instead, children benefit from feeling heard and validated while being gently supported to face what feels difficult, one step at a time.

Join Jen and Tammy for a compassionate conversation about anxiety, nervous systems, parenting, school relationships and practical ways we can help children feel safe, supported and capable as they head back to school.

Episode 3: Back-to-School Anxiety 🛎️

In this episode of Two Therapists, One Couch, Jen and Tammy, with moderator AJ, talk about something many families experience as summer comes to an end: back-to-school anxiety.

Together, they explore what anxiety can look like in children and youth, and why transitions can feel overwhelming, and how parents and caregivers can support their children without minimizing their worries. They share practical, compassionate strategies for helping kids feel more prepared, connected and confident as they return to school -- while also recognizing the emotions parents may be carryig themselves.

A conversation about anxiety, connection, and reminding our kids: you don't have to feel completely calm to know that you can cope. ❤️

We're excited to introduce our new podcast episode 2, where Jen and Tammy have honest, thoughtful -- and sometimes lighthearted -- conversations about why people go to therapy....including ourselves. 

We will explore the stories, relationships, experiences, emotions and life moments that bring us through the therapy door. Because therapy isn't just about what's "wrong" with us -- it's about understanding ourselves, healing, growing, and sometimes simply needing a safe place to land. 

Join us as we talk therapy from both sides of the couch -- with curiosity, compassion, and a whole lot of real life. 

Because sometimes the people who help others heal are still doing their own healing too 🤍

In the first episode of Two Therapists, One Couch , AJ (Two Therapists, One Couch Moderator & Host) introduces Jennifer Yim-Rodier and Tammy Wagner.