back from the borderline (mollie adler)
Explorez tous les épisodes de back from the borderline
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Jul 2021 | → your transformation starts here ← | 00:02:34 | |
You’re not broken. You’re at the edge of something. What if the symptoms, emotions, and struggles you’ve spent your life trying to fix weren’t signs of disorder—but messages? What if your darkest moments weren’t proof of failure, but the beginning of something deeper? Back From The Borderline isn’t just another self-help podcast. It’s a portal. A space where we go beyond surface-level conversations about mental health — beyond labels, diagnoses, and quick-fix advice — into the depths of depth psychology, mythology, archetypes, and the unconscious forces shaping your life. Real healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself. It’s about seeing yourself clearly. Maybe for the first time. If you’re tired of the same recycled mental health conversations… if you know there’s more to your story than a diagnosis and a pill… You’ve found your way here for a reason. Because anyone — even you — can come back from the borderline. Follow Back From The Borderline on your podcast player so new episodes drop into your feed every week. While you're here, why not jump straight into one of my most popular multi-episode deep-dives: ★ Childhood Emotional Neglect Series → Ready to take this work deeper? Head to backfromtheborderline.com and click into my Patreon, where you can browse episodes by theme, access my full archive of exclusive meditations, listen ad-free, and unlock Pathwork exercises to bring this work into your life. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Jan 2022 | are you emotionally overcontrolled or undercontrolled? (ft. dr. anita federici) | 01:08:50 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Anita Federici, a researcher and clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in personality and eating disorders. Dr. Federici shares groundbreaking insights into why BPD is so often misdiagnosed, introducing the concepts of emotional undercontrol (UC) and overcontrol (OC)—a new way of understanding behaviors commonly associated with BPD. We’ll discuss the latest neuroscientific research, shedding light on the connection between “quiet BPD” and emotional overcontrol, and examine how these insights are transforming the approach to diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Federici also questions the utility of diagnostic labels, offering a fresh perspective on how to view and support individuals navigating these traits. Whether you’re seeking treatment options or looking to better understand DBT and other modalities, this conversation provides valuable guidance on finding the right program to meet your needs. Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of mental health treatment and the new frameworks redefining how we view and support emotional experiences.
Recommended resources: https://behavioraltech.org/ (Marsha Linehan’s Behavioral Tech Website) https://www.youtube.com/c/DBTRU (Official YouTube page for the DBT clinic at Rutgers University directed by Shireen Rizvi)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 31 Jan 2022 | tarot therapy for trauma recovery and shadow work with dr. elliot adam | 01:01:14 | |
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Elliot Adam, a seasoned tarot expert with over 25 years of experience, to explore the transformative power of spirituality, tarot, and mythology. Dr. Adam has guided clients worldwide, from Hollywood creatives to doctors and entrepreneurs, using tarot as a tool for accessing the unconscious mind and deepening self-understanding. We dive into the rich symbolism of tarot, examining how archetypes and symbols can illuminate hidden aspects of ourselves and help us move through repressed emotions and self-sabotaging thoughts. Dr. Adam connects the hero’s journey to the major arcana, showing how these timeless archetypes offer a roadmap for personal growth and transformation. Together, we also explore concepts of self-love, reframe our understanding of death, and discuss Carl Jung’s idea of “the shadow.” This episode invites you to look beyond the surface, using symbolism as a powerful lens for healing, self-acceptance, and a deeper connection with your true self. Resources directly mentioned in the episode: Book | Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: A Book of Tarot by Rachel Pollack
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Feb 2022 | understanding your unconscious mind with psychoanalyst dr. jayce long | 01:18:39 | |
n this episode, I sit down with contemporary psychodynamic psychologist Dr. Jayce Long to explore the power of the unconscious mind and how early, repressed experiences shape our adult lives. Dr. Long sheds light on how hidden memories and emotions from our past can fuel self-destructive patterns, leading to behaviors and symptoms commonly associated with various mental health struggles. Together, we dive into how these unconscious defenses impact us and how we can begin to break free. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Long addresses the impact of repression as an unconscious defense mechanism, keeping disturbing or painful thoughts at bay but ultimately driving toxic shame and self-sabotage. We discuss practical ways to work with the unconscious mind, including labeling emotions without judgment, using critical thinking to manage all-or-nothing thinking (or “splitting”), and understanding both healthy and maladaptive forms of dissociation. We also cover:
Dr. Long provides guidance on acknowledging and owning our needs, working through repressed anger and grief, and moving toward self-understanding and healing. This episode is an invitation to look deeply into the unconscious mind and gain practical tools to release long-held patterns, fostering genuine growth and transformation.
Recommended resources: YouTube Video | Decoding Mother-Infant Interaction with Dr. Beatrice Beebe Follow Jayce on Instagram @darebeingwith Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Feb 2022 | learning to accurately label your emotions with psychoanalyst dr. jayce long | 00:51:13 | |
In this second part of my conversation with psychodynamic psychologist Dr. Jayce Long, we dive even deeper into the emotional patterns that shape our relationships and the path to genuine healing. Building on part one, where we explored the unconscious mind, this episode uncovers the ways in which unresolved childhood experiences continue to influence our adult relationships, often reenacting trauma in subtle yet impactful ways. Dr. Long offers insights into how attachment styles—particularly avoidant and preoccupied/disorganized—tend to attract each other, creating a dynamic that often leads to conflict. Together, we discuss practical tools for breaking these cycles and learning to approach intimacy and trust as a gradual process, rather than a quick fix. Key topics we explore in this episode include:
This episode encourages listeners to develop a deeper connection to their emotions and break free from the patterns that keep them trapped in past trauma. Join us as we explore the nuances of emotional healing, offering practical steps for setting boundaries, cultivating trust, and navigating the complexities of self-growth and recovery. Follow Jayce on Instagram @darebeingwith Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 11 Feb 2022 | how learning to live within your integrity may be the key to resolving your identity issues | 01:18:59 | |
Many people who are asked to identify their “true self” (apart from their specific beliefs and behaviors) draw a complete blank. This sense of shame-spiraling after being asked to talk coherently about our sense of identity is even more pronounced for those of us who identify with symptoms and traits of various mental health "disorder" or "dysfunction" labels. Being true to yourself requires that your whole Self be “whole” – or “integrated.” In this episode, we’ll dive into how much of what makes our lives miserable (people-pleasing, staying in toxic relationships, self-sabotaging behaviors, and coping styles) is because we are out of touch with what makes us feel whole. In these moments, our defensive emotions and reactive impulses overrule our Higher Selves. In these moments, we are living out of integrity. Questions answered and topics discussed in this episode: ■ Why practical skills and therapy might feel like they’re not “working” if you’re living out of integrity ■ How and why we compromise our integrity ■ How the word ‘integrity’ is intimately related to the psychological concept of ‘integration’ ■ History of internal family systems therapy and how it relates to the concepts of integrity and integration ■ Understanding how our different “parts” try their best to protect us from psychological/emotional pain but end instead causing mental health problems and compulsive/maladaptive behaviors ■ Understanding and accepting our caretakers as flawed humans who were disconnected from their “inner conductors” and letting their disowned parts rule the show ■ How we externalize old feelings of inadequacy, abandonment and worthlessness and project them onto our partners and friends in adulthood
Recommended and referenced resources: Book - The Way of Integrity: Finding the Path to You True Self by Martha Beck Article - How & Why You Compromise Your Integrity Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 21 Feb 2022 | overcoming extreme emotion dysregulation and suicidal ideation (ft. CJ THE X) | 00:49:14 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Toronto-based video essayist, artist, and philosopher CJ THE X, whose creative force extends far beyond YouTube. Known for channeling explosive emotions into music and art, CJ shares his journey through the ups and downs of living with BPD and how he’s worked to escape the mental traps that once held him captive. We explore how CJ’s imaginative childhood eventually clashed with the demands of the “real world” as a teenager, leading him to confront his BPD diagnosis, struggles with self-destructive behaviors, and experiences with inpatient psychiatric care. Despite being labeled “high functioning,” CJ found himself dismissed by mental health professionals, leaving him to face the weight of chronic emptiness, intense shame, and fear of abandonment on his own. In this conversation, CJ opens up about the self-sabotaging beliefs that kept him feeling stuck and how DBT therapy became his lifeline, providing the skills and tools to build a life of resilience and purpose. He describes the powerful impact of his “Favorite Person” relationships, the challenge of finding ways to cope with distress, and the importance of navigating emotions without judgment. By thinking dialectically, CJ has found a way to balance opposing feelings, using them as fuel for his art and creative path. This episode is a testament to the power of art and community in the healing journey. CJ reflects on how transforming emotions into music and giving back to others has enriched his life, showing that creativity can be a profound source of strength, insight, and connection. Join us as we dive into CJ’s inspiring journey from despair to empowerment and the tools he’s gained to manage life as a self-employed artist forging his own path.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Feb 2022 | using the power of self-inquiry and your window of tolerance in trauma recovery | 01:42:29 | |
In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of self-inquiry—a practice that can illuminate our deepest blind spots and help us navigate the chronic feelings of emptiness and identity struggles often experienced by those who identify with traits of BPD, cPTSD, or complex trauma. Not knowing who we are can be a frightening and isolating experience, but self-inquiry offers a path to reconnect with our authentic selves and cultivate a grounded sense of identity. We’ll begin by exploring what self-inquiry truly is, drawing on techniques from Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO DBT), and discuss how it can reveal patterns of thought and behavior that sabotage our ability to connect with ourselves and others. By finding our “edge” within the window of tolerance, we can start to understand and expand our emotional resilience, staying present even in challenging moments. In this episode, we’ll also cover:
Whether you’re struggling with self-identity or simply curious about the practice, this episode provides actionable insights to help you cultivate self-awareness and move toward a more grounded, connected life. Join me as we take the first steps on the journey inward, creating space for healing, authenticity, and lasting transformation. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Mar 2022 | why you keep repeating the same dysfunctional relationship patterns (ft. the holistic psychologist) | 01:23:48 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nicole LePera, known to millions as The Holistic Psychologist, to explore the nature of love, intimacy, and authentic connection. Before her rise to nearly 5 million followers on Instagram, Nicole was a clinical psychologist grappling with the limitations of traditional mental health care—a system that often reduces symptoms to lifelong labels. Through her extensive research into trauma, epigenetics, and conscious awareness, Nicole began to challenge conventional teachings and embrace a more holistic approach to healing. Her bestselling book, How to Do the Work, sparked a movement, and her upcoming work promises to dive even deeper into creating “heart-based, authentically connected relationships.” Together, we unpack the deeper roots of our relationship struggles, exploring why so many of us feel trapped in cycles of dysfunctional patterns. Nicole shares insights on how unresolved fears—like a fear of silence, death, and change—can prevent us from forming genuine, intimate bonds. We delve into the ways in which childhood survival mechanisms, developed to keep us safe, often morph into self-sabotaging behaviors that hinder our attempts at love and connection in adulthood. In this conversation, Nicole also addresses:
If you’ve ever wondered why certain patterns seem to repeat in your relationships or how to break free from self-sabotage in love, this episode offers transformative insights. Join us as we dive into the psychology of connection and discover how to cultivate relationships that feel truly heart-centered and whole.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 14 Mar 2022 | stuff i've learned the hard way so you don't have to (my most powerful recovery lessons) | 01:20:20 | |
In my most vulnerable and powerful episode yet, I’m opening up about the hardest, yet most transformative lessons I’ve learned on my recovery journey. Healing from complex trauma and traits of borderline personality can be a painful and isolating path, but I want you to know that hope is real—and by the end of this episode, I hope you’ll feel it too. I’m sharing these insights in the way I wish a friend could have shared them with me, and if you’re here, chances are these words are meant for you. We’ll explore the challenges and breakthroughs in friendships and intimate relationships, uncovering what it means to truly set boundaries and deepen connections. I’ll discuss the role of spirituality, social media, and the importance of reconnecting with our bodies as part of reclaiming our true selves. Together, we’ll reflect on what it means to live authentically, releasing the need to perform or obsess over appearances. In a special segment, we’ll draw on the tarot card The Tower and the story of Maid Maleen to illuminate how collapse and change can lead to profound rebirth and strength. This episode is for anyone in need of guidance, hope, and the reminder that, even in the darkest times, transformation is possible.
Recommended resources: Shaking to release stress and trauma Vagus nerve reset exercise with Sukie Baxter Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Mar 2022 | when your body isn't your own: what abusive relationships and grooming taught me about love | 01:42:08 | |
Reflecting on the Euphoria character "Cassie," Evan Rachel Wood's new documentary "Phoenix Rising" (about her alleged struggle with domestic violence, grooming, and sexual assault at the hands of singer Marilyn Manson), and recent events with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West inspired me to sit down and reflect on my own chaotic experiences with grooming, domestic violence and sexual assault throughout my teens and twenties. I realized that the thread that connected all of the chaos was an underlying disconnection from my intuition or "gut feeling." In this episode, we discuss how to reconnect to our sense of inner knowing and how to move forward and heal from toxic connections that we previously thought were love but weren't.
Questions answered and topics discussed in this episode: ■ Warning signs you've lost touch with your intuition (and how this often happens in childhood) ■ How I learned to overcome my obsession with seeking male validation ■ Sexual grooming (recognizing the signs and my personal experiences) ■ How I learned that rape isn’t black and white ■ Rebound relationships & domestic violence (rushing into things too soon before knowing the person) ■ My experience meeting my current partner and understanding that true love is “friendship first” (finally finding safety in a relationship) ■ Strategies on tapping into our intuition when we’ve lost a connection with it (practical exercises from Martha Beck) Recommended resources: Phoenix Rising Documentary with Evan Rachel Wood 5 Steps for Tapping Into Your Intuition (Article by Martha Beck) “Trip Down Intuitive Memory Lane” Exercise (Lesson 3) Intuition Conversation with Non Dominant Hand (Lesson 5) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Mar 2022 | channeling your emotional intensity into artistic expression | 00:57:08 | |
Alessia Camoirano Bruges is an Italian-Colombian artist based in London. Her unique “fluid art” is inspired by its ever-changing nature – just like humans and our emotions. She combines her passion for color psychology, color therapy, fluidity, and her emotional intensity into her artwork. She sees each piece as a cathartic experience in which she can connect to her inner child and relaxed into fully embodied presence & mindfulness. In this episode, we discuss Alessia's battle with her eating disorder and her struggle with emotional dysregulation & chronic pain that led her to her personal rock bottom moment where she realized *she* was the common denominator in her chaotic life. We also discuss how she bravely decided reach out for help and found healing through DBT and EMDR and how this allowed her to begin channeling her big emotions into creative projects, which resulted in her artwork being published in massive publications and getting hired as a documentary filmmaker for Vice. Questions answered and topics discussed in this episode: ■ Alessia’s experience growing up as an “emotionally intense” child (often being told she was “too much”) ■ How to learn to embrace your emotional intensity as an inherent strength and creative tool ■ Mollie & Alessia discuss their shared struggled with oversharing ■ Getting “the ick” (the sudden desire to rid ourselves of romantic partners or friendships) ■ Alessia’s experience trying to repress her eating disorder/depression with extreme fandom ■ Suffering in silence with “high-functioning” mental health issues (eating disorders, depression, BPD) ■ Alessia’s personal battle with chronic pain ■ How Alessia finally found a therapist that was a good match for her who took a holistic approach to treatment (treated her as person, not a disorder) ■ Alessia’s struggles with emotional flashbacks (and how EMDR therapy helped her with this) ■ How painting has become her most effective therapeutic method ■ Alessia’s early childhood intuitive relationship with color that grew into a passion for color psychology ■ Alessia’s struggle with imposter syndrome even after the critical acclaim and success of her artwork ■ Her experience getting hired to work for Vice and creating documentaries Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Apr 2022 | finding natural relief from PMS and PMDD with menstrual cycle awareness | 02:01:20 | |
If you experience intense mood swings, anxiety, or depression around your period, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the effects of PMS, PMDD, and hormonal birth control on our mental and emotional health, exploring how these cycles shape our mood and well-being. Recently, I discovered the practice of Menstrual Cycle Awareness (MCA) through the work of Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer, founders of RedSchool. This framework, which sees the menstrual cycle as a series of inner “seasons,” has been a game-changer in helping me navigate emotional waves and manage severe premenstrual symptoms—including those intense enough to qualify for PMDD. Together, we’ll unpack how period stigma has shaped our understanding of menstrual health, often leaving out crucial insights that can help us reclaim a sense of control. You’ll learn about the four distinct phases of the menstrual cycle and how becoming attuned to these natural rhythms can support emotional regulation. We’ll also explore the impact of hormonal birth control on mood, examining how it can sometimes exacerbate symptoms of emotional dysregulation. Additional topics include:
This episode is a guide to understanding the power of the menstrual cycle—a power many of our mothers and grandmothers didn’t have the chance to share with us. Whether you’re struggling with intense symptoms or simply curious about a new approach to emotional regulation, this conversation offers valuable insights for reconnecting with your body and finding greater balance. Recommended resources: ■ Flo Period Tracking app (I use the free version) ■ Wild Power (book that explains MCA and the inner seasons) ■ Blog article by Rising Woman that breaks down the inner seasons one by one Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 14 Apr 2022 | radical self-compassion: learning to love yourself (and finding your "touch tree") | 00:36:15 | |
In this episode, you’ll join my dog Cody and me for a walk in the witchy woods while I break in my new Dr. Marten boots. On our walk, I’ll explain why a book about self-compassion made me incredibly furious this week. After that, I’ll tell you why my spirit mother archetype is a mixture of RuPaul and Grandmother Willow from the 1995 Pocahontas movie.
Recommended resources: ■ Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristen Neff ■ The Life Coach School Podcast with Brooke Castillo ■ We Can Do Hard Things podcast with Glennon Doyle
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 19 Apr 2022 | overcoming existential dread, death anxiety, and religious trauma | 00:44:00 | |
In this episode, we explore the topic of existential dread, death anxiety, spirituality, and religious trauma, and offer strategies for coping with these challenging experiences. You'll join my dog Cody and me for a walk as we discuss insights on how to find meaning and purpose in life despite the inevitability of death, and how spirituality can provide a source of comfort and solace in times of crisis. We also delve into the topic of religious trauma, discussing how to navigate the pain and confusion that can arise from experiences of spiritual abuse or trauma. Join us as we offer practical tips and tools for managing existential dread, death anxiety, and religious trauma, and discover how to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Recommended resources: Movie: “A Ghost Story” (2017) Book on the tarot that jump-started my spirituality journey: “Fearless Tarot” by Elliot Adam Episode of the podcast where I interview Elliot Adam Inspiring talk on the 13th century poet & Sufi mystic Rumi Talk on St. Teresa of Avila’s Life & Teaching on Surrender Understanding the Dark Night of the Soul & Spiritual Desolation of St. John of the Cross Talk on The Centering Prayer Meditation from the Festival of Faiths The Noble Journey from Fear to Fearlessness with Pema Chödrön Ho'oponopono Mantra for Healing Everything with Dr. Kim D'eramo Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 24 Apr 2022 | witches and borderline bitches: exploring the rampant sexism in psychiatry | 01:01:18 | |
In this episode, we’re confronting the often-overlooked sexist and misogynistic roots of psychiatry, guided by insights from Dr. Jessica Taylor, author of Sexy But Psycho. Dr. Taylor reveals that, even today, simply being female is correlated with nearly every mental disorder listed in the DSM-V. Women are statistically more likely to receive diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, BPD, and eating disorders, which raises crucial questions about gender bias in psychiatric practices. We’ll examine the historical context of “hysteria” and how early psychiatric labels were used to control and marginalize women. The discussion also covers the disproportionately high rates of BPD diagnoses among women and how feminist critics view this diagnosis as a reflection of societal attitudes toward women’s responses to trauma and oppression, rather than as an inherent disorder. Through this conversation, we aim to expose and challenge the ways gender discrimination continues to shape mental health diagnoses and explore alternative perspectives that validate women’s experiences and resilience. Recommended resources: Please Stop Using My Mental Illness to Fulfill Your Fantasy (Healthline article by Kyli Rodriguez-Cayro) Sexy But Psycho: How the Patriarchy Uses Women’s Trauma Against Them (book by Dr. Jessica Taylor)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 02 May 2022 | reclaiming your sexual agency after chronic objectification with dr. alexandra solomon | 00:42:43 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert on love, intimacy, and relationships, to discuss what it truly means to reconnect with our erotic selves and find grounding in genuine pleasure—whether we’re partnered or not. Together, we explore how cultural expectations, societal pressures, and internalized “scripts” can disconnect us from our own desires, leaving us feeling unfulfilled and even resentful toward intimacy. If you’ve ever felt a sense of “sexual blockage” or wondered if you were somehow disconnected from your erotic nature, this conversation is for you. Dr. Solomon and I discuss the experience of performing sexuality instead of enjoying it, the frustration of feeling like intimacy is something we do for others rather than for ourselves, and the harmful impact of constantly putting our own needs last. We also touch on topics that reveal just how pervasive these struggles are:
Whether you’ve felt disconnected from your body, struggled with resentment toward intimacy, or been wary of “divine feminine” programs that promise to heal you for a steep price, this episode offers a refreshing, honest exploration of what it means to reclaim pleasure and embrace your own erotic journey on your own terms. Join us for a candid conversation that challenges the scripts and empowers you to reconnect with yourself. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Book | Reclaiming Pleasure by Holly Richmond Book | Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski CONNECT WITH ALEXANDRA: https://dralexandrasolomon.com/ Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 May 2022 | understanding hyper-sexuality: how a history of trauma leads to sex as self-harm | 01:30:50 | |
In this episode, I dive into the complex and often unspoken ways that those of us with a history of complex trauma may turn to sex and intimacy as coping mechanisms—behaviors that, rather than healing, can lead to self-abandonment and re-traumatization. Through extensive research, I explore how compulsive sexual behavior and hyper-sexuality can emerge as responses to unprocessed trauma, often serving as temporary escapes that ultimately deepen feelings of disconnection. We’ll examine the nuances of what it means to use sex as a form of self-harm, from sexual masochism to other forms of intimacy that may feel more like self-sabotage than self-care. This episode also addresses the risks of engaging in sex work, such as sugar dating, OnlyFans, or prostitution, particularly for those who haven’t had the chance to fully process and heal from past trauma. By bringing these challenging topics to light, my hope is to encourage a more compassionate understanding of how trauma can impact our relationship with intimacy and to offer insights on recognizing and breaking free from cycles that may be keeping us disconnected from ourselves. Join me for an honest conversation that aims to shed light on the intersection of trauma, intimacy, and self-discovery. Click here to check out the full Contrapoints video I played in the beginning of this episode, you can do so. (It's worth it, trust me.) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 May 2022 | no strings attached: the impact casual sex can have on our mental health | 00:36:52 | |
In this mini bonus episode, I answer a voicemail question from listener Kelly, who asks how to move forward to the next phase of her recovery journey. Together, we explore what it means to deepen your healing, letting go of old patterns and stepping into new growth. To wrap up, I’m also giving you a sneak peek of a premium episode where I dive into the nuanced topic of using sex as a form of self-harm—a powerful exploration of how unhealed wounds can shape our relationship with intimacy. Craving the full version of this episode? Become a Premium Submarine to join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content, including ALL full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more. For the cost of a couple of coffees a month, you can start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 09 May 2022 | are you mentally ill or spiritually starved? (the problem with "disorder" and "dysfunction" labels) | 00:47:27 | |
Is it possible that what we often call “mental illness” might actually be a form of spiritual starvation? In this episode, we explore the limitations of traditional psychiatric diagnoses and question the narratives that define certain behaviors as “disorders” or “dysfunctions.” Diving into the complexities of the medical model in mental health, we discuss why diagnoses like “personality disorder” are often controversial, considering how they can overlook social context and carry heavy stigmas. We also touch on how trauma-informed care and holistic approaches can offer a more compassionate, empowering framework for healing. From alchemical thought and symbolism to spirituality and myth, I’ll share how these elements have played a transformative role in my own recovery, helping me reconnect with a deeper sense of self beyond diagnostic labels. My journey has been guided by the motto “solve et coagula”—to break down and rebuild—a concept that embodies the heart of this episode. Join me as we question the over-pathologizing of human emotion, explore the powerful role spirituality can play in recovery, and consider how a more integrated approach can help us live beyond the limits of labels.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 May 2022 | signs you lack personal boundaries (feeling used and drained by other people) | 01:04:22 | |
Weak or nonexistent personal boundaries can leave us feeling drained, manipulated, and even resentful. In this episode, we’ll explore how to recognize if you’re struggling with boundary issues and the impact this can have on your sense of self-worth, emotional stability, and relationships. Many of us learn unhealthy boundary patterns early on, often tied to codependency and the need to please others, which can ultimately lead to feelings of worthlessness and passivity. If you want to skip straight to the boundaries discussion, jump to minute 16 after the listener Q&A. We’ll cover what personal boundaries truly are, why they matter, and how a lack of boundaries can affect your interactions with friends, family, and partners. We’ll also debunk common myths about setting boundaries and highlight the positive changes you can expect when you start asserting your needs. In the premium version of this episode, available for subscribers, we take an even deeper dive into boundary-setting:
This episode offers practical insights and tools to help you reclaim control over your life, develop a healthier sense of self, and foster more fulfilling relationships. Join us as we unpack the essentials of boundary-setting and create a path toward genuine self-respect and stability. Craving the full episode? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 23 May 2022 | how trauma throws you off balance (understanding your window of tolerance) [+ a discussion on asexuality] | 01:07:20 | |
Have you ever felt completely out of control of your emotions—sudden waves of rage, paralyzing anxiety, or a numb disconnection from life? If so, you might be living outside your “window of tolerance,” the optimal state where you’re able to handle emotions, manage frustrations, and make clear-headed decisions. When we fall outside this window, we can find ourselves hijacked by intense reactions, feeling either overwhelmed or entirely shut down. In this episode, we explore the concept of the window of tolerance and how it relates to trauma recovery and emotional regulation. You’ll learn how our bodies respond to stress through fight, flight, or freeze mechanisms and why staying within this “optimal zone” can be key to living a grounded, emotionally resilient life. This episode is for anyone looking to better understand their emotional responses and develop tools to navigate life with greater stability and awareness.Note: The first half of this episode includes a discussion of a book passage on asexuality and responses to listener questions on intuition, relationships, and emotional dysregulation. If you want to skip directly to the window of tolerance discussion, jump to minute 39. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 30 May 2022 | using radically open dialectical behavior therapy (RO DBT) to overcome issues with overcontrol | 01:46:45 | |
Are you known for always doing things “right,” following the rules, and keeping your emotions in check? If so, you may have what’s known as an Overcontrolled style of coping. People with this temperament are highly detail-oriented, vigilant to potential threats, and possess strong inhibitory control—the ability to hold back impulses and behaviors. On the outside, they often appear “high-functioning,” but beneath the surface, they may feel isolated, rigid, and unseen, with their struggles often going unnoticed. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Larry Dahmer, a psychological associate specializing in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO-DBT), a therapeutic approach designed to support individuals with Overcontrolled coping styles. Larry shares insights into this groundbreaking therapy, explaining how it differs from standard DBT and why it can be transformative for those who feel stuck in cycles of perfectionism and emotional restraint. We explore topics like:
If you or someone you know feels pressured to always “hold it together” but struggles to connect authentically with others, this episode offers a compassionate look at the Overcontrolled coping style and introduces tools for living with greater openness and fulfillment.
Learn more about RO-DBT at https://www.radicallyopen.net/ Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Jun 2022 | how to cope when you feel like you have no control over your explosive emotions | 00:48:45 | |
If you’re a highly sensitive person who often feels overwhelmed by intense emotions, this episode is for you. We dive into the experience of having “big feelings”—emotions so strong they can feel all-encompassing and difficult to manage. Together, we’ll explore the concept of emotional permanence, the sensation that certain emotions feel unshakable in the moment, as well as emotional dysregulation, which can lead to intense, unpredictable reactions. We also discuss a challenging but important topic: how difficulties with emotion regulation can sometimes result in unintentional harm to loved ones. This episode sheds light on how to navigate these intense feelings with greater awareness and offers compassionate insights for fostering healthier, more balanced relationships. Join me as we unpack the complexities of big emotions and how we can learn to honor our sensitivity without allowing it to consume us or those we care about. Recommended resources: ■ Martha Beck podcast interview about how deciding to quit lying for a year changed her life ■ Book | The Way of Integrity: Finding Your Path to Your True Self by Martha Beck ■ YouTube video further describing issues with emotional permanence and BPD ■ Article on how to deal with emotional impermanence Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Jun 2022 | the root cause of your deep fear of abandonment | 00:41:11 | |
Abandonment fear runs deep in the human psyche—it’s a primal instinct, woven into the fabric of how we connect with others. For some, this fear is manageable, an underlying hum that shapes relationships in subtle ways. But for those who struggle with emotion dysregulation, abandonment fear can feel overwhelming and consuming, creating patterns of self-protection that lead to isolation and confusion in relationships. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to fear abandonment on a profound level. We’ll look at the difference between physical and emotional abandonment, how these fears develop, and the ways they can hijack our relationships if left unchecked. Many individuals who identify with certain mental health labels, such as borderline personality traits, often find that their most intense triggers stem from the terror of being left behind. Understanding this connection can be the first step toward breaking out of reactive, self-isolating cycles and finding healthier ways to relate to others. Topics we’ll explore together include:
This episode offers a compassionate look at one of our most powerful fears and provides tools for navigating relationships in a way that fosters resilience and connection, rather than withdrawal. Join me as we unpack the layers of abandonment fear and explore ways to reclaim a sense of stability and self-trust.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 12 Jul 2022 | pete davidson: understanding patterns of unstable relationships and self-harm | 01:36:01 | |
In this episode, we take a closer look at comedian and actor Pete Davidson’s mental health journey, examining his openness about emotional struggles and trauma, and the journey that eventually led to his diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in 2017. Known for his candidness, Pete has spoken about facing intense emotions, dissociation, explosive anger, depression, and challenges with substance use from a young age—experiences that have shaped both his personal life and public image. Through interviews and biographical pieces, we’ll explore how Pete’s story sheds light on the complexities of mental health and resilience in the spotlight. Topics covered include:
By analyzing Pete’s story, we’ll gain a broader perspective on the intersections of fame, mental health, and personal recovery, uncovering the resilience it takes to face these struggles openly. Join us for a reflective look at the ups and downs of Pete Davidson’s journey and the powerful message his story offers about mental health. Recommended resources: ■ Pete Davidson’s full interview with Charlamagne Tha God (YouTube) ■ The Tragic Real-Life Story of Pete Davidson (Full Grunge Article) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 26 Jul 2022 | your symptoms of "mental illness" might be hidden spiritual gifts (ft. dr. lisa miller) | 01:05:12 | |
Do people who identify with symptoms of what is known as borderline personality disorder have a unique ability to connect to the transcendent? Are chronic feelings of emptiness less about being “disordered” and more about being spiritually starved? My guest on this episode, Dr. Lisa Miller, seems to think so. Lisa Miller has devoted her career to scientific research proving that spirituality is a natural aspect of our humanity and that our brains become more resilient and robust because of it. We are each born with an innate desire to question the world around us in search of something more.
A leading generational psychologist on the benefits of spirituality, Lisa graduated from Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania, earning her doctorate in psychology. She is currently a professor of psychology and education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and the Founder and Director of the Spirituality Mind Body Institute, the first Ivy League graduate program and research institute in spirituality and psychology. In her book The Awakened Brain, Dr. Miller uses science to show that spirituality (different from religious belief) is one of the strongest protective factors against psychological suffering. Her research clearly shows that our physiological development presents us with occasional moments of crisis at certain times in our lives. When we meet those moments of crisis and trauma from a spiritual perspective, we are more protected against psychological suffering in later life stages. Dr. Miller believes that healing from trauma requires bringing greater awareness to the signs and lessons that the universe has for us and bringing those lessons into the future without getting stuck in rumination over the past.
Questions answered in this episode:
■ The unexpected gifts inside the traits of borderline personality disorder (BPD / EUPD) ■ BPD and the importance of spirituality ■ Benefits of spirituality in recovery from trauma ■ How our current “me-centered” culture in the West (particularly in the US) is keeping us stuck – and sick ■ Lisa’s view on the future of mental health and personality disorder diagnoses
Recommended resources: Lisa’s website (where you can find links to her books and work) - https://www.lisamillerphd.com/
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 06 Sep 2022 | underrated recovery hacks to change the beliefs that are holding you back | 01:00:20 | |
Most of us are well aware of the patterns we want to break—the cycles that keep us from experiencing true peace and intimacy. We can see the behaviors that sabotage our connections, but knowing isn’t the same as changing. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on my own journey is that transforming our beliefs is essential to transforming our actions. In this episode, we’ll explore some of the deeply held beliefs that might be holding you back, and I’ll share why a temporary break from social media might become a lasting one for me. We’ll dive into how major platforms are shifting from “social media” to “recommendation media” and the effect this can have on our emotional well-being. I’ll also address a recent review that questioned my stance on the BPD label and why I continue to challenge the potential harms of labels that can reinforce limiting beliefs about ourselves. Topics we’ll explore include:
This episode is a deep dive into how shifting your beliefs can open the door to new patterns, healthier relationships, and a more grounded approach to self-discovery and growth.
Recommended resources:
■ Article – “The End of Social Media and the Rise of Recommendation Media” by Michael Mignano ■ Article – The people who want to get rid of the term ‘personality disorder’ by Emily Reynolds for Dazed Digital ■ Book – Designing the Mind: The Principles of Psychitecture by Ryan Bush
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 Aug 2022 | are you at rock bottom and questioning the point of life? (this one's for you) | 00:33:44 | |
I received two listener emails this week that ripped my heart open. One was struggling with addiction, and the other was devastated by a recent heartbreak. These voicemails reminded me of why I started my podcast in the first place, so I decided to record this episode. It is a love letter to the person at rock bottom. The person who is so heartbroken, they feel like they can’t go on—the person questioning if they even want to be on this earth anymore. Through the words of authors who have inspired me and gotten me through my own dark times, it is my hope that this episode can be a light in the darkness. If it inspires just one person to keep fighting, it will have all been worth it.
Authors quoted in the episode: ■ In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction by Gabor Maté ■ The Hero's Journey: Joseph Campbell on His Life & Work by Joseph Campbell ■ Ether: Into the Nemesis by L.J. Vanier
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 23 Aug 2022 | can chronic porn use destroy your sex life? (billie eilish thinks so) | 01:18:48 | |
In a recent interview with Howard Stern, 20-year-old singer-songwriter Billie Eilish revealed the devastating impact that having access to hardcore pornography from as early as age 11 had on her self-image and sexuality. In this episode, we delve into Billie's comments and explore the harmful effects of online porn on millennials and Gen-Z. Additionally, we discuss the potential increased risk of negative impact on individuals who experience symptoms of mental health disorder labels, including borderline personality disorder. Tune in to gain insight into the complex issue of easy access to porn and its effects on mental health and sexuality. Key timestamps in this conversation: 02:00 – Discussion of our “quote of the week” by Stoic philosopher Epictetus (exploring how those who identify with symptoms of BPD can learn to tackle our issues with control) 08:00 – Billie Eilish’s comments on porn and an in-depth exploration on sexuality and mental health disorder labels 50:00 – Preview of this week’s premium episode on “borderline abuse” Questions answered in this episode: ■ The impact easy access to porn has in our developmental years ■ The negative effects of porn on expectations of sex and body image ■ How the overuse of porn can negatively impact your mental health ■ The role mental health symptoms can play in your sex life and perception of intimacy ■ What is “borderline abuse” (“borderline abuse”) and is it a real thing?
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 13 Sep 2022 | are your caveman desires standing in the way of true happiness? | 01:00:23 | |
For many who resonate with symptoms associated with various different mental health disorder/dysfunction labels, the journey to “getting better” often begins with therapy and learning skills through methods like CBT or DBT. But what happens when those skills still don’t seem to bring the sense of peace or fulfillment you’re looking for? You’ve done the research, tried the techniques, yet find yourself feeling perpetually empty or caught in cycles of boredom and dissatisfaction. In this episode, we dig deeper—under the surface of symptoms—to explore the “why” behind our suffering. We’ll take a closer look at the way our brains chase happiness, fueled by biology and a relentless search for the next dopamine fix. This constant chase keeps us in a loop, always seeking the next “desirable” thing or person. By examining what happiness really means and breaking down some common misconceptions about it, we can start to see our lives and relationships through a new lens. In this episode, we’ll cover:
Join me as we peel back the layers of what it means to seek happiness and enter a path toward true and lasting recovery that isn’t about quick fixes, but rather a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Recommended resources: ■ Book - Designing the Mind: The Principles of Psychitecture by Ryan Bush ■ YouTube - Interview with the author of Designing the Mind on the Modern Wisdom Podcast
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 30 Aug 2022 | manipulative love: narcissistic mothers, enmeshed parentified children, and emotional incest (reviewing jeanette mccurdy's book "i'm glad my mom died") | 01:46:33 | |
Former Nickelodeon child-star Jennette McCurdy's provocatively titled memior “I’m Glad My Mom Died” became a near-instant New York Times bestseller after its release in August 2022. The Audible version of the book is narrated by Jeanette herself and details her struggles with disordered eating, alcohol addiction, OCD, unstable relationships and – most notably – her extremely complicated relationship with her codependent, overbearing, and abusive mother. In this episode, I discuss my reflections on the book. Through dissecting Jeannette’s experiences she so bravely shared in this memoir, we’ll dive into what we can learn about parentification, enmeshment (also known as “emotional incest”) and the devastating impact these kinds of toxic family dynamics can have on childhood development that carry on far into adulthood.
Questions answered and topics explored in this episode:
■ The exploitation of children in the entertainment industry (the trauma faced by child actors) ■ The devastating impact of emotionally immature and “narcissistic” parents ■ Signs you may have suffered childhood emotional incest (also known as “covert incest”) ■ Signs you were a parentified child (the damage parentification can have on highly sensitive children) ■ “The narcissistic mother” (the long-term effects these traits have on their daughters) ■ How childhood trauma can lead to adult identity problems ■ How children of cancer patients can experience post-traumatic stress disorder (parental cancer and its psychosocial impact on children)
Recommended resources:
■ I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy ■ The Drama of the Gifted Child: The Search for the True Self by Alice Miller
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Sep 2022 | from disorder to design: flipping the script on "mental health symptoms" with philosopher justin garson | 01:05:11 | |
If you no longer viewed your symptoms as proof of being “disordered” but as a part of your brain’s natural, adaptive design, how would that reshape your self-understanding? How would it impact the hope you hold for your future? For millions, the prevailing belief is that symptoms of mental distress stem from chemical imbalances or genetic flaws—issues inherited and hardwired. But groundbreaking research by Dr. Joanna Moncrieff is challenging this very foundation, shaking up the psychiatric field and prompting us to question: What if our brains are simply doing their best to keep us safe? In today’s episode, I sit down with philosophy professor and author Justin Garson to explore this revolutionary perspective. Together, we’ll delve into how painful symptoms can be seen less as evidence of dysfunction, and more as deeply rooted responses that have adapted over time, especially through childhood. Our early experiences leave profound imprints, shaping how we perceive the world, relationships, and even ourselves. But what if recognizing these imprints as survival mechanisms could offer a path toward real change? Join us as we reframe the entire concept of mental health, shifting from labels of disorder to stories of resilience and adaptation. This episode invites you to see yourself in a radically new light—one where healing means understanding, rather than “fixing” who you are. Recommended resources: ■ Full article by Justin Garson - "Is Borderline Personality Disorder an Adaptation?" ■ Justin's website - https://www.justingarson.com/ ■ Research by Joanna Moncrieff et. al - "The serotonin theory of depression: a systematic umbrella review of the evidence" (July 2022) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 27 Sep 2022 | using the narrative therapy framework to get to the root cause of your suffering | 01:08:22 | |
Have you ever wondered why so many mental health treatments seem to scratch the surface but don’t quite reach the root of what’s going on? For those who resonate with mental health disorder labels, the journey often begins and ends with skills-based therapies like DBT or CBT. While coping techniques can help us manage day-to-day challenges, these approaches rarely address the bigger picture—the societal narratives and systemic forces shaping how we see ourselves. Many people complete treatment programs only to find themselves still feeling unanchored, searching for identity and meaning. In this episode, we’re taking a deep dive into narrative therapy and the concept of agency, examining how these tools can help us reclaim our stories and change the way we see our struggles. We’ll explore externalization, a technique that allows you to step back from negative thought patterns and take control of your life. Along the way, we’ll discuss cognitive distortions and how they keep us trapped in cycles of self-doubt and frustration. We’ll also confront the damaging narratives perpetuated in mental health discourse and consider the profound impact they can have on those in recovery. Key topics we’ll cover include:
This episode challenges traditional approaches to mental health, inviting you to see yourself through a new lens—one where you’re not just coping, but actively rewriting your story on your own terms. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 11 Oct 2022 | identity disturbance: why your search for a "sense of self" might be keeping you stuck | 01:46:18 | |
What if the pursuit of a “strong sense of self” is actually keeping us trapped in cycles of suffering? In this episode, we unravel the complexities of identity disturbance, especially as it relates to the “Favorite Person” dynamic often seen with BPD traits. We’ll explore how attaching our sense of self to others can lead to feelings of emptiness and imposter syndrome, questioning whether common therapeutic goals like developing self-esteem might sometimes do more harm than good. Drawing on the Buddhist principle of anatta, or “non-self,” we’ll examine how loosening the grip on identity can open up new pathways for healing. You’ll also learn why mindfulness can feel challenging when we’re overly focused on the concept of self—and discover techniques for becoming more present without being bound by rigid ideas of who we think we are. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the pursuit of identity, inviting you to see beyond labels and discover what might lie on the other side of “self.” Recommended resources: “The Fiction of the Self - The Paradox of Mindfulness in Clinical Practice” by Ronald Siegel Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 18 Oct 2022 | dissociation, depersonalization and derealization: understanding these common responses to trauma | 01:01:46 | |
Dissociation can feel like slipping out of reality itself—but what’s really going on when we disconnect from our surroundings or even from ourselves? In this episode, we take an in-depth look at dissociation, breaking down its subtypes, including derealization (feeling detached from the world around you) and depersonalization (feeling detached from yourself). We explore how dissociation is often tied to trauma and how it manifests differently for those who experience it. From grounding techniques to mindful awareness, this episode offers practical tools to help you manage these unsettling moments and reconnect to the present. We also address the deeply isolating feeling of “going crazy” that can accompany dissociation and discuss how to seek supportive resources for ongoing dissociative experiences. Whether dissociation is something you experience often or only occasionally, this episode provides insights to help you understand, manage, and ultimately feel less alone in the experience.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 25 Oct 2022 | all the rage: healthy ways to to respond to (and work with) anger | 01:18:45 | |
Anger is one of our most intense and often misunderstood emotions, but what if this powerful feeling could be used as a tool for personal growth? In this episode, we explore the difference between healthy and unhealthy anger, and ask: is society’s view of anger to blame for the “unhealthy” ways we express it? We’ll dive into practical anger management strategies and effective techniques for releasing anger and rage, uncovering how to recognize and work with anger in a way that strengthens self-awareness and emotional well-being. Discover the concept of anger as a secondary emotion, what it truly reveals about our deeper needs, and how unprocessed anger may lead to destructive patterns in our lives. We’ll also discuss the spiritual meaning of anger and its potential to act as a pathway for healing and transformation. Whether you’re dealing with frequent anger, navigating deep-seated rage, or simply want to understand the role anger plays in your life, this episode provides actionable insights and emotional tools for growth. Topics covered in this episode include:
If you’ve ever struggled to control or understand your anger, this episode will help you harness this powerful emotion to cultivate self-compassion, resilience, and balance in your life.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 22 Nov 2022 | transcending the self: the importance of gaining a higher perspective in your recovery journey | 00:38:11 | |
In this episode, we explore the profound sense of spiritual starvation that so many of us grapple with—a feeling of emptiness, brokenness, and isolation that seems impossible to fill. Inspired by a voicemail from Thiago in Brazil and a message from Noura in Egypt, I’m reminded of why I started this podcast: to connect with those searching for meaning beyond the surface-level solutions often offered in mental health and self-help spaces. We dive into the concept of “zooming out”—taking a higher, broader perspective on our lives and struggles. By stepping back, we can begin to see our experiences not as signs of inherent flaws, but as part of a much larger journey of growth and self-discovery. This episode encourages you to follow your own “spiritual breadcrumbs” and find unique ways to reconnect with yourself at a deeper level. Topics include:
For anyone feeling lost or spiritually “starved,” this episode offers a refreshing perspective on reclaiming your journey and nurturing a more meaningful connection with yourself.
RESOURCES: “How Do We Break the Habit of Excessive Thinking?” with Eckhart Tolle “How to re-frame a challenging moment and feel empowered?” with Gabor Maté MD “Let your relationships become a vehicle for freedom” with Ram Dass “The principal of not forcing” with Alan Watts “Holding the tension of the opposites” with Marion Woodman
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 29 Nov 2022 | transforming and healing your intimacy issues (ft. zaz) | 01:02:05 | |
In this episode, my incredible partner Zaz is back to help tackle your pressing questions on love, intimacy, and the realities of building healthy relationships. Together, we’re diving into the complex dynamics that shape romantic connections, from understanding emotional abuse to breaking free from obsessive thoughts about a new crush. This conversation covers the importance of uncovering your core values, how delaying intimacy can strengthen a relationship, and the role unhealed emotional struggles play in partnership dynamics. Whether you’re exploring a new relationship or deepening a long-term connection, this episode offers insights to help you navigate the often-complicated world of love and connection with greater awareness and intention. Topics discussed include:
This episode is for anyone seeking to build a mindful, values-driven relationship or break free from the patterns that keep them stuck. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 06 Dec 2022 | when your emotional dysregulation makes it hard to hold down a job | 01:13:50 | |
Navigating the workplace can be an overwhelming experience, especially for those managing symptoms related to trauma recovery. Many individuals who resonate with the symptoms of various disorder/dysfunction labels are highly sensitive, intuitive, creative, and often find traditional job environments triggering or draining. In this episode, we explore the common workplace struggles faced by people on a trauma healing journey, from difficulties with job stability to feeling trapped in roles that suppress creativity. We’ll talk about practical strategies for coping with workplace stress, handling emotional triggers, and managing job-related anxiety. This episode also offers guidance on finding meaningful work that aligns with your passions, rather than settling for roles that bring discontentment and emotional strain. If you feel caught in a cycle of jumping from job to job or repeating self-sabotaging patterns at work, this episode will provide insights and tools to help you shift toward a career path that feels fulfilling and sustainable. In this episode, we cover:
This episode is for anyone struggling with workplace dynamics while healing, offering hope and actionable steps to find a job that truly resonates with who you are. Resources mentioned: ■ Essay by Paul Graham: “How To Do What You Love” ■ Twitter thread by Billy Oppenheimer: “12 habits and principles for doing your best creative work” ■ Book by Elizabeth Gilbert: “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear”
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Dec 2022 | what to do when you finally wake up to the pain you've caused the people you love | 00:50:17 | |
What do you do when you realize you’ve hurt the people you love? In this episode, I respond to a listener’s voicemail about the deep guilt that follows an episode of emotional dysregulation, where she “lost it” with close friends who haven’t spoken to her since. These moments—the ones where we realize, “I might be the problem”—can be some of the hardest to face on the path to healing. But they’re also powerful opportunities for self-reflection and growth. We’ll explore why emotional “blow-ups” don’t mean you’re back at square one and how moments of self-awareness can actually move us forward. This episode delves into the importance of atonement in relationships, providing steps for repairing the harm we’ve caused, as well as tools for forgiving ourselves. Topics covered include:
This episode is a guide for anyone grappling with guilt and self-doubt in their relationships, offering insights on breaking free from cycles of emotional harm and nurturing healthier connections. Recommended resources: ■ Article by Jim Tolles | “7 steps to Atoning for Pain You’ve Caused Another” ■ TedTalk by Kristin Neff | “The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self-Compassion” ■ YouTube video with Lisa Romano | “Verbal Abuse in Relationships”
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | understanding the different models of mental health can help you find a helpful therapist (and avoid harmful ones) | 00:46:42 | |
To truly advocate for yourself in mental health treatment, it’s crucial to understand the different frameworks that shape how mental health is approached and treated. The dominant view in Western mental health care, known as the medical model, seeks to pathologize emotional experiences, attributing symptoms to “disorders” or supposed chemical imbalances in the brain. But here’s the catch: the medical model is just one theory, and it’s not without its critics. In this episode, we examine alternative perspectives on mental health, including the trauma-informed approach, which many believe offers a more compassionate and effective way of addressing psychological suffering. We’ll break down the four major models shaping today’s mental health landscape:
By exploring and critiquing each of these perspectives, you’ll gain insight into why you may have felt disconnected or even disheartened by certain mental health treatments. This episode aims to empower you with knowledge so you can make informed choices and advocate for a therapeutic approach that aligns with your needs and experiences. Listen in to learn:
This episode will leave you better equipped to navigate the complexities of mental health care and reclaim your voice in your own healing journey.
Recommended resources: ■ Article by Mad in America | “Researchers Critique the Medical Model” ■ YouTube video by Dr. James Davies | Mental Health, Capitalism & the Sedation of a Nation
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | how scott broke the cycle of generational family trauma while parenting with emotion dysregulation | 01:18:57 | |
In this powerful episode, I’m joined by 67-year-old Scott Schaeffer, whose journey through trauma, self-discovery, and resilience is one of the most impactful stories I've shared on the podcast. Scott’s life was shaped by severe physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father, along with the struggle of growing up in a household where his mother couldn’t protect him or his siblings. Despite these challenges, Scott cultivated a strong, healthy marriage and chose to break the cycle of trauma in raising his daughter. With the guidance of a supportive psychotherapist, he began to identify with traits commonly associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD), which brought both clarity and healing. Scott’s story is a testament to the power of self-awareness, the importance of emotional resilience, and the possibility of breaking generational trauma patterns. Whether you’re navigating family trauma, emotion dysregulation, or validation addiction, Scott’s insights and experiences will resonate deeply and offer hope. In this episode, we explore:
This episode is for anyone seeking to understand their own behaviors, heal from past traumas, or simply find encouragement in another’s resilience. Scott’s story shows that no matter your age or past experiences, it’s possible to find meaning, self-compassion, and peace.
Connect with Scott at https://www.usadogbehavior.com/. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 10 Jan 2023 | mental illness is not in your head: evolving beyond the medical model in recovery | 01:33:22 | |
In this episode, we’re taking a hard look at the medical model of mental health—a framework that focuses on diagnosis and medication but often falls short in addressing the true complexities of human suffering. Despite decades of research, psychiatrist and medical historian Dr. Marcos Ramos argues in his article “Mental Illness Is Not in Your Head” that traditional psychiatry has made little progress in diagnosing or treating mental health conditions. He suggests a radical shift in perspective: looking beyond the brain to societal, environmental, and psychological factors as essential elements in understanding and healing mental and physical health. We’ll explore how the medical model often overlooks the root causes of distress, and why it’s crucial to consider a more holistic approach to treatment. This episode invites listeners to question conventional psychiatry and embrace a broader perspective on mental health—one that considers trauma, social structures, and emotional well-being as integral parts of healing. Topics discussed include:
This episode aims to inform and empower, arming you with knowledge to navigate the mental health system with greater confidence—and perhaps even to challenge the status quo in pursuit of true healing. Recommended resources: ■ Full article from the Boston Review – “Mental Illness Is Not in Your Head” by Marco Ramos ■ Follow Marcos on Twitter (@mramos_histmed)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 17 Jan 2023 | overcoming executive dysfunction: "why can't i just do the thing?!" | 01:24:08 | |
Struggling to stay organized, follow through on plans, or keep your emotions in check? You’re not alone. Many people face challenges with executive functioning—a set of mental skills that can impact everything from daily routines to long-term goals. In this episode, we’re breaking down what executive dysfunction really is, especially as it relates to ADHD and emotion regulation. We’ll dive into why executive dysfunction occurs, how it might show up in everyday life, and, importantly, practical strategies for managing it. Through fresh insights into how childhood development shapes executive skills and reflections on Gabor Maté’s perspectives on ADHD, this conversation is all about understanding the “why” behind these struggles and finding realistic steps to move forward. Listen in to learn about:
This episode offers a compassionate look at executive dysfunction that goes beyond labels. Tune in to discover tools and insights that can help you create a more balanced, fulfilling life. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 24 Jan 2023 | breaking the cycle of pain: moving on and healing from a traumatic breakup | 01:30:22 | |
If you’re feeling stuck in the aftermath of a breakup, this episode is a space to help you begin untangling the pain and finding your way back to yourself. Healing from a traumatic separation isn’t a straightforward path—it’s filled with grief, self-doubt, and that persistent question: “Will I ever feel whole again?” We’ll dig deep into the emotional layers of heartbreak, looking at how to rebuild self-worth, embrace closure, and eventually, open up to love once more. We’ll explore how attachments, beliefs, and past traumas can shape our experience of love and loss. From breaking free of trauma bonds and recognizing the patterns of limerence—those addictive, all-consuming feelings that mimic love—to challenging the myth of a “perfect partner,” this episode is about grounding ourselves in reality and embracing a healthier view of relationships and self-worth. Topics include:
Through these reflections, you’ll gain fresh perspectives on navigating breakup pain and new ways to reconnect with yourself. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 31 Jan 2023 | blindsided by betrayal: learning to love again after being cheated on | 00:45:34 | |
This week’s episode dives into some raw and relatable relationship struggles that many of us grapple with behind closed doors. We’ll listen to Liz’s story of battling guilt and shame after feeling responsible for her boyfriend’s eviction from his friend group’s apartment, and we’ll hear from Otillia, who is facing the painful aftermath of discovering that the person she’d been dating was hiding a pregnant girlfriend. These listener stories open the door to real, unfiltered discussions on navigating the tough moments that can make or break our self-worth and trust in others. In this episode, we’ll explore:
Through these stories, we’ll reflect on ways to strengthen our emotional resilience and deepen our understanding of ourselves in love and relationships. Whether you’re navigating guilt, trust, or the challenge of building new connections, this episode offers insights and support for the journey. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of exclusive content on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Feb 2023 | "am i crazy, or are they gaslighting me?" | 00:59:45 | |
In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional turbulence of high-conflict relationships, focusing on a listener’s experience with being gaslit. When Jade called in to share how she’s been made to feel “too much” or “too sensitive,” it highlighted the destructive power of gaslighting—and how easily mental health stigma can fuel feelings of self-doubt and guilt. Together, we’ll unpack the signs and effects of gaslighting, from the subtle shifts in self-perception to the ways it can derail emotional stability. We’ll also explore how partners who are open about their mental health can sometimes be manipulated into taking blame, and why self-soothing and emotional intelligence are key skills for handling intense relationship dynamics. Whether you’re navigating a high-conflict relationship, dealing with unresolved guilt, or simply seeking clarity, this episode will offer guidance and practical steps for reclaiming your sense of self. Key topics covered include:
Tune in for an honest conversation on gaslighting, emotional resilience, and the road to building stronger, more self-aware relationships. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 14 Feb 2023 | sober curious: a fresh and dialectical approach to alcohol use | 00:52:06 | |
With the rise of the “sober curious” movement, more people than ever are questioning the role alcohol plays in their lives and exploring what it means to live (or drink) more mindfully. Inspired by a wave of viral stories and transformations, I set out to uncover what this lifestyle is all about and how it’s challenging social norms around drinking. In this episode, we’ll break down the concept of being “sober curious,” tracing its origins and hearing from voices within the movement who are reshaping our understanding of alcohol and wellness. From redefining social drinking to understanding why Gen Z is leading a cultural shift away from alcohol, we’ll explore the upsides, the challenges, and the powerful potential of a sober curious life. Topics include:
Whether you’re considering a break from alcohol or just want a fresh perspective, this episode offers an inviting look at the benefits and possibilities of going “sober curious.” Referenced resources: ■ Book: “Sober Curious” by Ruby Warrington ■ Book: “Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice Not to Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol” Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Feb 2023 | your personality masks are blocking access to your TRUE self | 01:16:33 | |
Have you ever felt like you’re playing a role rather than being your true self? In this episode, we dive into the concept of “personality masks” and how they can keep us from connecting with our authentic selves. We’ll unpack what “Self” and “personality” truly mean and explore why so many of us develop these protective masks—often as a response to social pressures, trauma, or past experiences. We’ll discuss how masking behaviors can show up in daily life, particularly for those who identify with conditions like ADHD, Autism, or traits associated with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder). By examining common signs of personality masking and examples of masking behaviors, you’ll gain insight into how these tendencies might be affecting your mental health and relationships. Plus, we’ll highlight the different types of masks people use, the unconscious reasons behind them, and the psychological toll they can take over time. If you’re ready to start the journey of unmasking, this episode provides practical tips for recognizing and shedding these layers, helping you reconnect with a more authentic, grounded version of yourself. Key insights and topics covered include:
This conversation offers tools and insights for anyone feeling disconnected from their true self and seeking to live more authentically. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Mar 2023 | healing control and codependency issues to get your needs met in a healthier way | 01:42:59 | |
Do your relationships leave you feeling frustrated, resentful, or unfulfilled? If you’re tired of struggling with intimacy and connection, this episode offers a compassionate look at codependency and the often hidden expectations that can erode closeness. Together, we’ll uncover how “control dramas” can push love away and examine the common trap of setting unrealistic expectations in relationships. We’ll also listen to a voicemail from a listener who’s grappling with these very issues and fears she’s sabotaging her own chance at real love and intimacy. By the end of the episode, you’ll gain clarity on how to identify and voice your needs in a relationship—without it ending in conflict or emotional burnout. Topics covered include:
This episode is for anyone ready to let go of old patterns and find a more authentic path to love and connection. Join me as we dive deep into the real challenges—and solutions—for building fulfilling relationships. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 14 Mar 2023 | developing a growth mindset to overcome splitting and perfectionism | 01:42:07 | |
In this episode, we dive into the complex topic of splitting—a type of black-and-white thinking that can both serve as a protective mechanism and lead us into cycles of self-sabotage. Often linked to various mental health conditions such as BPD, cPTSD, ADHD, and ASD, splitting can profoundly impact our relationships and sense of self. But what if there’s more to splitting than just a label? Exploring splitting through the lens of both psychology and esoteric spiritual practices, we discuss how polarized thinking keeps us locked in cycles of dysfunctional behavior and perfectionism. We also dig into object relations theory to understand how splitting influences our ability to see people and ideas in nuanced ways, shaping everything from our self-perception to our closest relationships. What we cover in this episode:
If you’ve ever felt trapped in all-or-nothing thinking, this episode offers tools to help you recognize and soften these patterns, allowing for a more balanced and compassionate view of yourself and others. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Mar 2023 | emotional reactivity and toxic friendships | 01:14:07 | |
In this dynamic episode of BFTB, we tackle the complexities of mental health stigma, low emotional intelligence, gaslighting, and the challenges of managing intense emotions. With voicemails and emails from listeners, we’ll dive into real-life scenarios that illustrate the misunderstandings surrounding mental health and the painful impact of stigma, both in Hollywood and in our personal relationships. Below is a breakdown of the topics we cover, including practical tips on self-regulation, boundary-setting, and navigating stigmatizing environments. Tune in for a packed episode that offers validation, perspective, and tools for anyone facing mental health stigma or emotional struggles. TIMESTAMPS: 2:02 | The Power of Silence — Discover the benefits of “doing nothing” with insights from new neuroscience research, including a thought-provoking tweet from Billy Oppenheimer. 10:18 | BPD Stigma in Hollywood — Voicemail from Josie on how films like Bodies, Bodies, Bodies perpetuate harmful mental health stereotypes, and a discussion on reframing emotion dysregulation as something we can talk about openly. 17:02 | Navigating Family’s Mental Health Views — Email from Christian, a first-generation immigrant dealing with his family’s outdated and invalidating beliefs about mental health. We’ll discuss tips for handling invalidation in close relationships. 24:06 | Toxic Friendships and Boundaries — Voicemail from Sammy, who wonders how to recognize if a friend might have BPD. We’ll cover the importance of assessing toxic dynamics and setting healthy boundaries, regardless of diagnostic labels. 37:00 | Gaslighting and Emotional Reactions — Voicemail from Erin, who questions if her emotional responses are valid or “just the BPD.” We’ll explore the nuances of gaslighting, the dangers of label weaponization, and techniques to gain clarity over emotional reactivity. 58:00 | Preview of this week's episode of My Stupid Walk for My Stupid Mental Health (Ep 13) RESOURCES: ■ Ryan Holiday’s YouTube channel, The Daily Stoic Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Apr 2023 | completely transform the way you view your mental health symptoms with this reframe | 01:18:33 | |
When psychological suffering enters our lives, the modern psychiatric response is often to label, diagnose, and medicate what’s perceived as “symptoms” of conditions like BPD, EUPD, cPTSD, ADHD, ASD, and countless others. The DSM-5, as of 2022, lists criteria for 193 mental health disorders—a number that seems to expand with every edition. This episode challenges Western psychiatry's tendency to pathologize and medicalize human emotional distress, exploring what might happen if we viewed our symptoms not as problems to be "fixed," but as adaptive responses that reveal unmet needs and deeper truths about ourselves. Imagine seeing these intense emotions and behaviors not as signs of a “disorder,” but as messengers pointing us toward growth and self-discovery. I share my own experience of hitting rock bottom, questioning life’s purpose, and how this perspective shift led to a profound change in how I approach mental health. Together, we’ll explore why reframing symptoms as “saviors” could radically change how we view mental well-being, reduce stigma, and transform treatment approaches for the better. This episode offers a perspective that invites compassion, self-awareness, and integration—helping us move towards a world where our daily emotional experiences are embraced as parts of a greater whole.. RESOURCES AND ADDITIONAL CONTENT MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: ■ Mental Health Symptoms or Hidden Spiritual Gifts? (Ft. Lisa Miller) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 11 Apr 2023 | are you an approval addict? | 01:31:32 | |
The need for approval is universal, but when it spirals into a cycle of constant validation-seeking, it can lead to something often called approval addiction. This lesser-known yet impactful form of addiction drives people to go to great lengths to secure affirmation and avoid rejection, often at the cost of their own well-being. In this episode, we explore what approval addiction is, how it manifests in our lives, and the signs that indicate we may be relying too heavily on others’ validation. Learn how approval addiction shows up in daily life, from over-committing and people-pleasing to compromising your values for the sake of fitting in. We’ll also cover the different types of approval addiction, such as social approval and performance-based validation, and examine the differences between approval addiction and codependency. Finally, we’ll discuss how to break free from the need for constant validation, so you can build a stronger sense of self-approval and authentic confidence. Whether you struggle with people-pleasing, fear of rejection, or a need for external validation, this episode offers practical insights to help you start reclaiming your sense of worth from within. Topics Discussed in This Episode:
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 18 Apr 2023 | deepfakes, revenge porn, and the impact on body autonomy | 01:17:40 | |
Deepfakes have become an unsettling phenomenon in recent years, rising from niche technology to a widespread cultural issue that affects millions. While deepfakes hold potential for media and innovation, the darker side of this technology is alarming. AI-powered deepfake porn, specifically targeting women, threatens their sense of self-control, consent, and safety in the digital world. Victims are forced to see their likeness in explicit content they never agreed to, leaving lasting emotional trauma. In January 2023, this issue gained global attention when popular Twitch streamer Brandon “Atrioc” Ewing accidentally revealed that he had viewed and paid for deepfake porn of fellow female creators without their consent. One of those creators, QTCinderella, responded publicly, shedding light on the devastating impact non-consensual deepfake porn can have on victims. This incident triggered national conversations around consent, safety, and the urgent need for legal protections. In this episode, we explore the troubling implications of deepfake technology on privacy and autonomy, using the Atrioc controversy as a case study. From the legal loopholes that make deepfake porn hard to combat to the emotional toll on victims, we’ll delve into how this technology magnifies the sexualization of women, often with no legal recourse or protection. By the end of the episode, you’ll have insight into the evolving digital landscape, the necessity of safeguards, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones in the face of AI’s rapid advancements. Topics discussed in this episode:
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 25 Apr 2023 | find your life's purpose with the japanese philosophy of ikigai | 01:31:48 | |
Why am I here? What is my true purpose? If you’re feeling lost, stuck in a cycle of unfulfilling work, or questioning if there’s more to life than the 9-to-5 grind and occasional vacation, you’re not alone. Many of us are living on autopilot—choosing careers based on survival rather than passion, trapped by societal expectations, and rarely considering what a life of true purpose might look like. In this episode, we’ll explore the ancient Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, a concept that translates to “reason for being”. Ikigai encourages us to look inward and discover what brings us joy, aligns with our strengths, and allows us to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. This isn’t about quick fixes or surface-level career advice; it’s about peeling back the layers to uncover the unique calling that only you can fulfill. Through this exploration, you’ll discover:
Imagine a life where your actions feel aligned with your values, where your work feels like an extension of your true self, and where every day brings a sense of contribution and joy. Discovering your Ikigai could be the key to that life. Dive in and take the first step toward a deeper, more meaningful existence. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 02 May 2023 | fear of abandonment and the mother wound in fairy tales | 01:01:09 | |
In this episode, we dive into the lasting emotional impact of childhood abandonment and neglect, a wound that can leave us feeling unworthy and disconnected well into adulthood. Set to calming medieval soundscapes, we explore how myths, fairy tales, and timeless stories hold profound insights for healing these deeply rooted scars. From the iconic tales of Cinderella and Vasilisa the Beautiful to the transformative journeys of heroes and heroines, we’ll examine how fairy tales reveal paths to resilience and self-discovery, even in the face of great loss. The episode also features an excerpt from a powerful book that reframed my own perspectives on resentment and the weight of emotional burdens I’ve carried since childhood. Through these stories, we uncover how feelings of abandonment are universal—and how tales of magical godmothers, brave girls with enchanted dolls, and creatures from nature offer guidance for embracing our inner strength. Together, we’ll unravel how the themes of missing mothers, unfulfilled bonds, and wicked stepmothers symbolize the complex realities of human relationships, teaching us to confront our fears and embrace the parts of ourselves we often neglect. Topics Covered in This Episode:
TIME STAMPS: 00:00 - 3:56: Intro 3:56 - 50:13: Fear of Abandonment - Mothers in Fairy Tales 50:18: Preview of this week’s Premium Submarine Episode, “SWSMH 18: smash the peace button” RESOURCES: · The Fear of Abandonment: Missing Mothers and Fairy Tales (article by Dale M. Kushner) · The Interpretation of Fairy Tales (C.G. Jung Foundation Books) by Marie Louise Von Frantz · The O Manuscript: The Seer, The Magdalene, The Grail by Lars Muhl Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 09 May 2023 | recovering human connection through rupture and repair | 00:59:25 | |
In this soul-stirring episode, we dive into the raw, resonant prose of Amanda Palmer’s article, What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023. This piece, originally shared on her Substack, captured my heart so profoundly that I wanted to read it aloud and share it with you, creating a moment of reflection for anyone struggling with life’s most complicated emotions. So brew a warm cup of tea, settle into your coziest spot, and let me read you some words that might help you feel a little less alone. Through Palmer’s words, we explore themes of heartbreak, transformation, and resilience. She grapples with the disorienting aftermath of her divorce, the weight of parenting through tumultuous times, and the surreal experience of navigating these emotions against the backdrop of a TED conference. Palmer’s reflections on love, loss, identity, and belonging are both intimate and universal—giving voice to the raw edges of human experience. Episode Highlights and Topics Discussed:
TIME STAMPS
00:00 – 01:53: Intro 01:53 – 04:37: Why I chose to read the article on today’s episode / intro of Amanda Palmer and her work 04:37 – 50:06: Storytime reading of “What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023” by Amanda Palmer 50:06 – 51:26: Article reflections 51:45: Preview of SWSMH 19
BFTB BONUS: SWSMH #19 (preview): seeing the synchronicities: This week’s Stupid Walk is all about listening, but not in the way you’d expect. We’re diving into the concept of synchronicities. In psychology, synchronicity is defined as the occurrence of meaningful coincidences that seem to have no cause. During our walk, I’ll discuss examples of synchronicities in my own life and how they’ve shaped my recovery journey.
RESOURCES · “What it feels like to get divorced—and possibly remarried—at TED 2023,” full article by Amanda Palmer Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 May 2023 | ending your self-destructive patterns of relationship sabotage once and for all | 00:58:15 | |
In this episode, we tackle the complexities of emotion dysregulation and its deep-rooted ties to childhood emotional neglect and abuse. Many of us who grew up in chaotic or neglectful environments find ourselves craving love and connection yet struggling to maintain healthy, secure relationships. Through a Q&A format, I respond to listener questions and explore common patterns like overthinking, rumination, and drama addiction that often sabotage our chances for stability and connection. If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a cycle of self-sabotaging behavior, toxic relationships, or unresolved anger, this episode sheds light on why these patterns emerge and offers guidance on how to break free from them. Episode Breakdown and Key Topics:
This episode offers a compassionate look at why we often feel drawn to self-destructive patterns and gives listeners actionable insights to foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Tune in to uncover the underlying forces at play and start building a life centered around true connection, rather than chaos.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 23 May 2023 | finding a sense of self as a trauma-dumping emotional vampire | 00:57:48 | |
In this listener Q&A episode, we explore profound and complex themes around self-identity, relationships, forgiveness, and the search for emotional stability. Each listener brings a unique perspective and challenge, from grappling with the Buddhist concept of “no-self” to navigating the difficult terrain of forgiveness and dependency in relationships. Join us as we delve deep into these topics, offering insights that could reshape how you approach your mental health and interpersonal connections. Episode Highlights:
This episode invites you to rethink how you relate to yourself and others, offering both practical guidance and deep reflection on managing emotional triggers, identity, and the pursuit of genuine self-acceptance. Tune in for an intimate, empathetic exploration of recovery and personal growth. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 30 May 2023 | this high school dropout is transforming the failing public school system by following her bliss | 01:36:06 | |
In this inspiring episode, we dive into a vision of education that could reshape how future generations learn, connect, and thrive. At just 15, Zelda Poem felt the weight of a system that wasn’t designed to nurture individuality or emotional well-being. She took a courageous step and left school at 16, setting out to revolutionize education. Since then, she’s become a published author, trained in art therapy, empathic communication, and psychology, and advised various EdTech initiatives. Her current project, “Tomorrow’s School,” is a collective art gallery dedicated to reimagining education as a supportive, holistic, and personalized experience. Zelda and I explore the deep-rooted issues within today’s public school systems in both the U.S. and Europe, and discuss the kind of paradigm shift needed to create schools that focus on emotional regulation, creative exploration, and individual growth. We touch on how AI might play a role in this transformation, offering tailored learning experiences and enhanced support for students, while also weighing its potential risks. Key Topics and Questions Explored in This Episode:
Zelda’s story is a reminder that true change often begins with a willingness to challenge the status quo. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or lifelong learner, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating educational spaces where every child can feel seen, supported, and inspired to follow their passions. Listen in for a glimpse into what education could look like when we dare to imagine something better. Connect with Zelda: Visit Zelda’s website, where you can read about her work and connect with her on her various social media platforms (click here) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 06 Jun 2023 | the mother wound: sacred scars as a portal to healing | 01:34:17 | |
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey into the raw and often hidden layers of the "Mother Wound." This is more than a psychological concept; it’s an emotional inheritance of unresolved pain, abandonment, and unfulfilled needs that many of us carry from our childhood into adulthood, shaping our relationships, self-worth, and the way we view the world. If you've ever felt that lingering ache from unmet maternal love, or if you’ve struggled to break free from self-sabotaging patterns rooted in early wounds, this episode is for you. Starting with a grounded exploration of the Mother Wound, we look at how these core wounds can manifest, ways to recognize their impact on your daily life, and how to begin the healing journey. We draw on insights from Bethany Webster, philosopher Alan Watts, and ancient myth to illuminate how generational pain influences us and, most importantly, how we can reclaim our wholeness. From guided visualizations and re-parenting exercises to the archetypal power of the Divine Mother, this episode is a space to start releasing what no longer serves you and to reconnect with your authentic self. Time-Stamps and Episode Highlights: Part 1 - What is the Mother Wound?
Part 2 - Healing Through Age Regression and Re-Parenting Tasks
Part 3 - Embracing the Divine Mother in Myth and Mysticism
RESOURCES MENTIONED: ★ https://www.bethanywebster.com/ [download her free mother wound healing pdf] ★Article: “You are more myth than science” by Dr. Mia Hetenyi ★ Book: Homecoming: Reclaiming and Championing Your Inner Child by john bradshaw
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 13 Jun 2023 | daddy issues: recognizing and healing the father wound | 02:22:30 | |
In this deep-dive episode, we unravel the complex and often misunderstood concept of "daddy issues"—a term that has been trivialized and sensationalized in popular culture. But beneath the stereotypes lies a significant psychological impact that can shape a person’s life in profound ways. Whether we label it as the "father wound" or simply recognize it as the lingering effects of a strained or absent father figure, these unresolved issues can ripple into our adult relationships, self-worth, and emotional resilience. Together, we explore the father wound beyond the clichés, examining how it manifests in both men and women, its roots in societal expectations, and its distinct differences from the mother wound. From "father hunger" and feelings of abandonment to the ways cultural stereotypes keep men and women alike stuck in cycles of pain, this episode offers both insight and practical guidance on how to start the healing journey. Through storytelling, poetry, and guided introspection, this episode provides tools to understand and begin addressing the father wound—an important step towards self-compassion, healthier relationships, and emotional freedom.
TIME STAMPS 00:00 – 04:05: Intro + reflections (why explore the father wound?) 04:00 – 17:54: What is the father wound? 17:58 – 21:25: How it feels to struggle with an unhealed father complex (poem snippet by Marcus Lee) 21:25 – 24:10: High-level description of the father wound and how it presents 24:10 – 31:20: Father hunger, father absence, father deficit 31:20 – 43:19: The impact the unhealed father wound has on well-being and relationships and how it contributes to the cycle of abuse 43:19 – 01:00:44: How the father wound manifests in our daily lives as adult children 01:00:44 – 01:08:30: What is the difference between the mother and father wounds? 01:08:30 – 01:11:32: How societal expectations and cultural stereotypes keep men stuck in the father wound 01:11:42 – 01:20:09: Masculine expressions of an unhealed father wound 01:20:09 – 01:34:54: Feminine expressions of an unhealed father wound 01:34:55 – 01:42:47: Is the Industrial Revolution to blame for the father wound? (spoiler alert: it’s complicated) 01:42:47 – 01:48:30: Psychology of the Father Archetype 01:48:30 – 01:55:44: Fathers in mythology and symbolism (exploring our need for heroes and villains) 01:55:44 – Practical suggestions and techniques for father wound healing 02:08:46 –02:17:48: HEALING SEGMENT - Getting into the meditative state 02:17:48 – 02:37:18: Father wound healing visualization exercise (inspired by the work of Virginia Satir) 02:37:18 – 02:52:48: Final reflections, where Mollie is at in her current healing journey, additional thoughts + recommendations regarding the father wound
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 20 Jun 2023 | healing parental wounds through spiritual practice | 01:21:50 | |
In this transformative episode, we go beyond understanding the mother and father wounds to explore how we can actually heal from them. With insights from Eastern spirituality and grounded practices, this episode provides a blueprint for addressing the lingering impact of parental wounds, empowering you to cultivate a deeply rooted sense of self, peace, and inner resilience. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly heal from the past and reclaim the parts of yourself that felt lost, this episode is a powerful place to start. We begin with an exploration of "family constellations therapy," unearthing the hidden patterns we inherit and untangling what Eastern philosophy calls samskaras—the karmic knots that keep us bound to past wounds. Episode Highlights:
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES - The Wounded Woman: Healing the Father-Daughter Relationship by Linda Schierse Leonard Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 27 Jun 2023 | shame series part 1: healthy shame makes you human | 01:28:29 | |
What is this sneaky yet destructive thing called toxic shame, and could it be the root cause of our continued suffering and emotional dysregulation? Toxic shame lies at the heart of most self-sabotaging behaviors that keep us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Signs of internalized toxic shame can manifest in various ways and differ from person to person. Persistent feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability and intimacy, difficulty setting boundaries, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability can all be indicators of toxic shame. This is part one in a multi-episode series aimed at helping you alchemize and transmute your toxic shame. Check out the time-stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered. TIME STAMPS
00:00 – 13:48: How mythical interpretations of journeys “into the underworld” can help us understand the process of alchemizing toxic shame 13:48 – 17:56: Shame as myth and allegory 17:56 – 32:50: How toxic shame impacts our sense of Self 32:50 – 37:23: Can shame be healthy? 37:23 – 49:04: When do we develop a sense of shame in childhood? (Psychosocial stage 2) 49:04 – 52:16: Shame as embarrassment 52:16 – 55:21: Shame as shyness 52:21 – 59:12: Shame and community 59:12 – 01:03:07: Shame as a spark for creativity 01:03:07 – 01:05:31: How shame is viewed from a spiritual perspective 01:05:31 – 01:13:23: What happens if we don’t develop a sense of healthy shame? (Shamelessness and its impact on our lives) 01:13:23 – 01:49:10 – Control as a trauma response (how chronic trauma can lead to controlling or caretaking behaviors) 01:49:10 – 01:56:15: Heart opening + shame reduction mantras / affirmations
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 04 Jul 2023 | shame series part 2: when toxic shame becomes who you are | 01:22:43 | |
This is part two in a multi-episode series aimed at helping you alchemize and transmute your toxic shame.What is this sneaky, yet destructive thing called toxic shame, and could it be the root cause of our continued suffering and emotional dysregulation? Toxic shame lies at the heart of most self-sabotaging behaviors that keep us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Signs of internalized toxic shame can manifest in various ways and differ from person to person. Persistent feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability and intimacy, difficulty setting boundaries, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability can all be indicators of toxic shame. Check out the time stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered in this episode: 00:00 – 05:56: Reflections from part one 05:56 – 11:06: Why discuss toxic shame? 11:06 – 16:50: Shame and guilt in neurosis 16:50 – 28:52: How childhood shame shapes adult identity 28:52 – 33:03: Understanding traumatic shame and abandonment 33:03 – 37:47: How toxic shame disconnects and freezes you out from your own needs and desires 37:47 – 46:42: How self-shaming = self-alienation 46:42 – 49:02: Toxic shame as the core of codependency 49:02 – 52:18: Toxic shame as related to BPD or ‘borderline personality disorder’ 52:18 – 59:19: The role of toxic shame in addiction 59:19 – 01:10:11: How are guilt and toxic shame related? PREMIUM | 01:10:19 – 01:37:32: My Stupid Walk for My Stupid Mental Health – “Out of My Head and Into My Body” Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 11 Jul 2023 | shame series part 3: toxic shame and 'disordered' or 'dysfunctional' personality traits | 01:14:21 | |
This is part THREE in our multi-episode series aimed at helping you alchemize and transmute your toxic shame. First, we confront the detrimental effects of toxic shame, its correlation with personality disorder labels, and its potential role in criminal behavior. We’ll also tackle how unprocessed toxic shame from childhood can manifest as traits of grandiose narcissism, causing individuals to seek validation through exaggerated self-importance. Finally, we’ll discover how the burden of shame can stifle our spiritual growth and impede our quest for self-discovery and our connection with others. Tune in to this captivating episode as we uncover the deep-rooted effects of toxic shame on our psyche and gain insights into how we can heal and reclaim our authentic selves.
Check out the time stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered in this episode: 00:00 – 07:18: Reflecting on what we’ve learned so far and an introduction to this episode’s topics 07:19 – 19:46: Toxic shame and personality disorder labels 19:38 – 34:41: Toxic shame and guilt in criminal behavior (recidivism prediction) PREMIUM | My Stupid Walk for My Stupid Mental Health – “head-fucked by perfectionism (ft. a very special surprise guest)” 34:37 – 37:00: Toxic shame and sexual abuse (will be expanded upon in a further episode) 37:00 – 45:17: How unprocessed toxic shame from childhood can lead to feelings of grandiosity (grandiose narcissism) 45:17 – 49:25: Toxic shame and spiritual starvation 49:25 – 59:24: The dehumanizing quality of toxic shame 59:00 – end: [PREMIUM PORTION] My Stupid Walk for My Stupid Mental Health – “head-fucked by perfectionism (ft. a surprise appearance by my partner Zaz)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 18 Jul 2023 | shame series part 4: how toxic shame fuels dysfunctional family systems | 01:37:14 | |
This is part four of our multi-episode series aimed at helping you alchemize and transmute your toxic shame. In this episode, we’ll dive into the generational aspect of toxic shame and how it gets passed down and embedded into dysfunctional family systems. We’ll also discuss the various roles and rules in shame-based families and the pervasive impact this has on children in adulthood.
Check out the time stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered in this episode.
00:00 – 05:14: Intro + reflections 05:00 – 18:07: How toxic shame sabotages our most important relationships 18:07 – 33:13: A case study of how toxic shame gets passed down throughout generations 33:13 – 48:54: Exploration of the various dysfunctional family roles and their characteristics 48:54 – 01:09:54: Multi-generational shame cycles (how children develop toxic shame) 01:09:54 – 01:30:53: Dysfunctional rules in shame-based families 01:30:58 – 01:36:57: How to become more fully human with the “five freedoms” of Virginia Satir 01:46:37 – 01:59:46: Guided meditation and affirmation session to transmute toxic shame
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 25 Jul 2023 | shame series part 5: unraveling the impact of abandonment | 01:36:57 | |
What is this sneaky, yet destructive thing called toxic shame, and could it be the root cause of our continued suffering and emotional dysregulation? Toxic shame lies at the heart of most self-sabotaging behaviors that keep us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Signs of internalized toxic shame can manifest in various ways and differ from person to person. Persistent feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability and intimacy, difficulty setting boundaries, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability can all be indicators of toxic shame. This is part five in a multi-episode series aimed at helping you alchemize and transmute your toxic shame. In this episode, we will explore the devastating impact on our lives when internalized toxic shame becomes our state of being. We will also dive into the different ways abandonment can present in childhood through physical abuse, emotional abandonment, and deprived narcissism. TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 11:24: Intro + reading of my poem “untethered” (the impact of toxic shame in my own life) 11:24 – 14:53: How toxic shame becomes a permanent state of being 14:53 – 19:35: Understanding the connection between toxic shame and abandonment trauma 19:35 – 36:32: Abandonment as physical absence 36:32 – 01:06:24: Abandonment as emotional neglect and deprived narcissism 01:06:24 – 01:12:57: Abandonment as physical abuse PREMIUM PORTION: In the Premium half of the episode, I discuss my personal healing journey and the positive impact Somatic Experiencing therapy is having on my life. We finish up with a guided pendulation exercise inspired by the work of Peter Levine. 01:12:57 – 01:48:16: How somatic experiencing is helping me get back into my body 01:48:16 – 02:01:50: Guided pendulation exercise inspired by the work of Peter Levine (creator of Somatic Experiencing)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 01 Aug 2023 | shame series part 6: toxic shame in the aftermath of sexual and physical abuse | 01:34:26 | |
Discover the insidious nature of toxic shame and its potential role as the root cause behind our ongoing suffering and emotional turmoil. At the core of self-sabotage, toxic shame leaves us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Learn how internalized toxic shame manifests uniquely in individuals, evident through feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability, struggles with intimacy, boundary challenges, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability. This episode is the sixth installment of our multi-episode series, aiming to guide you in alchemizing and transmuting your toxic shame. Join us as we explore how various forms of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse contribute to the development of toxic shame and the initial steps towards healing. Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions and graphic descriptions of sexual assault and abuse. Listener discretion is advised.
Check out the time stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered in this episode: 00:00 – 04:12: Intro + disclaimer (a brief description of what we’ll be discussing) 04:12 – 11:29: Recognizing the different types of sexual abuse 11:29 – 19:59: Covert (hidden) sexual abuse and trauma 19:59 – 32:25: Emotional-sexual abuse 32:25 – 42:07: Physical abuse and toxic shame 42:07 – 54:17: Emotional abuse and toxic shame 54:01 – 01:00:06: How our emotions become shame-bound 01:00:06 – 01:09:35: The impact toxic shame has on the development of sexuality 01:09:23 – 01:12:44: When shame becomes your “master emotion” PREMIUM PORTION: 01:12:44 – 02:00:03: Toxic shame healing meditation “The Black Bear” [PREMIUM PREVIEW] The Black Bear meditation was inspired by and adapted from an original meditation by Sez Kristiansen.
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 08 Aug 2023 | shame series part 7: unmet childhood needs, perfectionism, and public shaming | 01:47:44 | |
Discover the insidious nature of toxic shame and its potential role as the root cause behind our ongoing suffering and emotional turmoil. At the core of self-sabotage, toxic shame leaves us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Learn how internalized toxic shame manifests uniquely in individuals, evident through feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability, struggles with intimacy, boundary challenges, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability. This episode is the seventh installment of our multi-episode series, aiming to guide you in alchemizing and transmuting your toxic shame.
TIME STAMPS:
00:00 – 13:48: The sound of toxic shame (listener voicemails) 13:16 – 42:10: Understanding your core childhood dependency needs (how unmet needs in childhood affect us as adults) 42:10 – 47:54: Abandonment through enmeshment in the overt and covert needs of a dysfunctional family system 47:54 – 59:29: Understanding internalized toxic shame and shame spirals 59:29 – 01:14:20: Toxic shame as forced perfectionism in public school systems 01:14:20 – 01:20:51: How peer shaming in childhood leads to internalized toxic shame 01:20:51 – 01:30:05: The devastating impact of digital public shaming and internet “cancel culture” [PREMIUM] 01:30:05 – 01:36:51: Listener question from Matt (rushing the recovery process) 01:36:51 – 01:51:42: Anonymous listener question (finding self-forgiveness after a shame-inducing mistake) 01:50:47 – 02:02:34: Listener question from Caleb (how to sit with the deep pain of recovery and deal with creative blockages)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 15 Aug 2023 | shame series part 8: religious trauma, rigid sex roles and cultural suppression of emotion | 01:37:08 | |
This episode is the eighth and final installment of our multi-episode series, aiming to guide you in alchemizing and transmuting your toxic shame. Discover the insidious nature of toxic shame and its potential role as the root cause behind our ongoing suffering and emotional turmoil. At the core of self-sabotage, toxic shame leaves us feeling empty, unfulfilled, and disconnected from others. Learn how internalized toxic shame manifests uniquely in individuals, evident through feelings of unworthiness, negative self-talk, perfectionism, fear of vulnerability, struggles with intimacy, boundary challenges, chronic self-consciousness, avoidant behaviors, negative body image, and emotional instability.
TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 11:45: How “underworld experiences” can help bring us closer towards healing 11:45 – 25:05: Understanding the connection between religious trauma and toxic shame 25:05 – 29:41: The denial of secondary causality as the insidious and toxically shaming distortion of many religions 29:07 – 32:55: Spiritual bypassing and how religion is used to deny or suppress “bad” emotions 32:55 – 36:32: Religious addiction and perfectionism as mediated by psychological inflexibility 40:09 – 49:34: Healing toxic shame when it has become a cultural norm (how shame is baked into our modern culture) 49:28 – 01:03:05: How rigid sex roles foster the development of internalized toxic shame 01:03:05 – 01:08:25: The impact of mass cultural denial and suppression of emotion 01:08:25 – 01:17:38: Healing from toxic shame (a starting point)
PREMIUM PORTION: 01:19:10 – 01:27:44: Listener question from Amy (what to do when you’re buried in toxic shame) 01:27:09 – 01:39:54: Listener question from Teresa (dealing with splitting, overthinking and PMS in a new relationship) 01:39:54 – 01:54:34: Listener question from Gia (can you be TOO self-aware?) 01:54:34 – 02:01:57: Outro + premium submarine updates and reflections Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 22 Aug 2023 | the crisis of contemporary psychiatry with dr. bruce levine | 02:08:08 | |
Has psychiatry lost its way? Increasingly, voices within and beyond the profession argue that Western mental health institutions may be perpetuating psychological suffering rather than alleviating it. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Bruce E. Levine, a clinical psychologist and outspoken critic of mainstream psychiatry, to dig into some of the field’s most pressing and controversial questions. Dr. Levine, known for challenging the status quo, explores how psychiatry’s overreliance on pharmaceutical solutions, the failure to address systemic sources of distress, and the widespread acceptance of diagnostic labels with questionable validity may be obscuring real pathways to healing. We examine the radical critiques that are now becoming more mainstream, including the lack of scientific support for the serotonin imbalance theory of depression, the diagnostic limitations of the DSM, and how treatment outcomes often fall short of meaningful relief. Dr. Levine, who serves on advisory boards for Ethical Human Psychology and Psychiatry and the National Center for Youth Law, connects the dots between culture, society, and the individual mind, pushing for an approach to mental health that addresses root causes rather than merely managing symptoms. Episode Highlights:
This episode invites listeners to reflect on the ways psychiatry could be reimagined to prioritize genuine human connection, social context, and the nuances of personal experience. Whether you’re skeptical of mainstream psychiatry or simply curious, this discussion offers insights that may challenge what you thought you knew about mental health.
Recommended resources: ■ Article: Once Radical Critiques of Psychiatry are Now Mainstream, So What Remains Taboo? Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 29 Aug 2023 | living in the shadow of your family tree (interview with family constellations therapist marine sélénée) | 01:52:08 | |
What if the emotional struggles you face aren’t yours alone but echoes from generations before you? In this episode, we dive deep into the powerful world of Systemic Family Constellations, a therapeutic practice developed by German psychologist Bert Hellinger. At its core, Family Constellations reveals a profound truth: we are profoundly shaped by our familial and ancestral bonds, often carrying wounds we didn’t create but can’t escape. Whether we acknowledge it or not, intergenerational trauma weaves through our lives, affecting our emotional landscapes with unexplained sadness, anxiety, or despair. My guest, Marine Sélénée, a renowned Family Constellations facilitator based in New York City and Miami, guides us through this transformative modality. Together, we explore how looking into our family’s past can illuminate hidden sources of pain and allow us to release these burdens, setting us on a path toward healing and deeper self-understanding. This episode unpacks the mysteries of Family Constellations, revealing how facing our family histories head-on can free us from patterns that have haunted us for generations. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – 06:38: Introduction and listener voicemails 06:38 – 11:28: The impact of inherited trauma on our lives 11:28 – 22:39: Breaking down Systemic Family Constellations therapy 22:39 – 26:41: Introduction to our guest, Marine Sélénée 26:41 – 01:42:21: Full interview with Marine Sélénée, exploring the roots and process of Family Constellations 01:42:21 – 02:12:44: What Family Constellations therapy looks like in real life – and how it brings hidden truths to light
Recommended resources: • Work with Marine: https://www.marineselenee.com/ • Netflix series that explores Family Constellations “Another Self” • Live example of Family Constellation work with Bert Hellinger on YouTube (click here) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 12 Aug 2023 | the dystopian "NPC" TikTok trend is melting our brains | 00:34:31 | |
I typically refrain from commenting on trending topics, but I found myself unable to resist discussing this particular one. An unusual (to say the least) TikTok trend has emerged, where users live-stream themselves portraying an “NPC”—essentially an automated “non-player character” with pre-written dialogue. This includes uttering nonsensical phrases like “ice cream so good” in response to gifts from their audience. This trend is spreading rapidly and leaving many of us utterly perplexed. NPCs, or “non-player characters,” are common elements within various video games. These characters aren't under the player's control but engage with players through predetermined dialogue to drive the storyline. The mechanical demeanor of these characters has led to comparisons, inspiring the name of the TikTok NPC trend. In this episode, I'll share my perspective on this trend through my personal experiences, having been involved in sex work and online streaming previously. Is this all harmless entertainment, or does it highlight a more significant concern where we willingly commodify ourselves for financial gain? How far will we allow this to go? Join me as I delve into this dystopian scenario.
Topics explored and questions answered in this episode:
★ What is an NPC? ★ What is the NPC meme and how and when did it begin trending? ★ What is the NPC trend on TikTok? ★ What is NPC streaming and how much do NPC streamers make? ★ What impact does this robotic trend-following behavior have on us as a collective? ★ Does social media make it easier for us to dehumanize one another? ★ How in the hell do we make our way out of this dystopian nightmare?
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 05 Sep 2023 | are you going to fit in or find your path? (ft. james hollis) | 01:29:35 | |
What does it mean to live a life of true purpose and depth, especially when haunted by trauma, self-sabotage, or chronic emptiness? In this special episode, I sit down with legendary Jungian analyst Dr. James Hollis, whose latest work, A Life of Meaning: Relocating Your Center of Spiritual Gravity, addresses the question many of us find ourselves asking: “What does all of this mean?” For those recovering from abuse, neglect, or persistent inner turmoil, this conversation delves into why we feel trapped in self-sabotaging patterns and how we can transform our suffering into self-understanding. Dr. Hollis, a leading voice in Jungian psychology, unpacks how we can break free from life-denying cycles by cultivating a meaningful relationship with our inner world. He shares how reconnecting with our true essence—not our past wounds—can bring healing, fulfillment, and genuine self-expression. Dr. Hollis’s wisdom offers a path toward a more examined life, moving beyond the limiting labels of "good" or "bad" and embracing our complex, whole selves. Highlights and Key Questions Explored: 00:00 – 04:00: Introduction + listener voicemail reflections 04:14 – 10:21: What is Jungian psychology, and how does it foster a deeper, more transformative journey? 10:19 – 13:29: Why Jungian analysis offers a profound alternative to short-term approaches like CBT and DBT 13:29 – 17:30: Introducing Dr. James Hollis and his new book A Life of Meaning 17:34 – 25:25: Why do we repeat the same self-sabotaging behaviors, despite wanting to change? 25:20 – 27:56: How staying stuck in childlike patterns hinders adult self-growth 27:56 – 29:38: The roots of low self-worth in childhood and its lingering effects on adulthood 29:38 – 38:42: How to cultivate an inner life that nourishes your soul without losing touch with reality 38:42 – 50:25: Why living an examined life is essential for lasting inner peace 50:25 – 56:48: The risks of suppressing emotions—and the liberation that comes from facing them 56:48 – 01:03:28: How to handle overwhelming feelings of “emotional neediness” and build self-reliance 01:03:38 – 01:29:34: Analyzing the BetterHelp controversy and its implications for mental health, influencer ethics, and the future of online therapy
RESOURCES “A Life of Meaning: Relocating Your Center of Spiritual Gravity” by James Hollis Click here to view other books by James Hollis Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 18 Aug 2023 | the repressed anger to manipulation pipeline (free preview) | 00:21:31 | |
In this laid-back episode, grab a matcha latte with me and settle in as we explore how unresolved childhood anger and trauma can shape the way we communicate and express our needs. Drawing on insights from somatic experiencing work, I unpack how suppressed anger often resurfaces in adolescence through "acting out" behaviors, leading many of us to adopt unhealthy patterns like manipulation and deception to feel seen and heard. But here’s the pivotal realization: these shadow tendencies may have served a purpose once, but they don’t need to define us. By bringing these hidden aspects into the light, we can recognize that these self-sabotaging habits are no longer necessary. This episode is all about discovering how to voice our needs in healthy, direct ways, moving away from reactive behavior and embracing communication that’s rooted in authenticity, integrity, and self-respect. Topics Explored in This Episode:
Whether you’re on a journey to improve your relationships, strengthen your self-awareness, or just want to understand the roots of your own behaviors, this episode provides practical insights and grounding techniques to help you reconnect with your true voice. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. GET 20% OFF ON YOUR FIRST ORDER FROM SOMMAR PRINTS WITH THE CODE "BFTB" [click here] or visit sommarprints.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 12 Sep 2023 | family scapegoating abuse part 1: the black sheep | 01:55:34 | |
In this episode, we begin an intense 3-part exploration of the “scapegoat” or “black sheep” role within dysfunctional family systems. Often misunderstood, family scapegoating assigns innocent children or adolescents the emotional burden of unresolved trauma, a pattern that can devastate self-worth and echo throughout adult life. Join me as we unpack the origins of scapegoating abuse, trace its psychological impact, and dive into real-life examples—from literary archetypes like Hester Prynne to my own story. This series is about more than awareness; it’s about empowering listeners to break free from toxic narratives. Together, we’ll uncover the hidden scars left by scapegoating and provide tools to help you reclaim your voice and reshape your identity on your terms. In Part 1, gain foundational insights into the scapegoat role and its far-reaching effects on identity, self-worth, and resilience. This episode lays the groundwork for deeper healing and transformation—beginning with awareness and the courage to confront our hidden wounds. Part 1 – Understanding the Scapegoat Role in Dysfunctional Families:
Premium Segment: Navigating Ghosting in Relationships:
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 19 Sep 2023 | family scapegoating abuse part 2: signs, effects, and misdiagnosis | 01:17:35 | |
Join me for part two of a 3-part series exploring the hidden complexities of the “scapegoat” or “black sheep” role within dysfunctional family dynamics. Family scapegoats start as innocent children or adolescents who bear the weight of projected family trauma. In this series, we’ll journey through the origins and consequences of scapegoating abuse, both in early childhood, as well as its lingering impact in adulthood. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences shape our emotional landscapes and relationships. By working with and integrating the concepts covered, you’ll discover valuable insights into breaking free from this suffocating role, allowing you to embark on a journey towards healing and liberation. By the end of this series, it is my sincere hope that you can begin to unmask the layers of this covert form of psycho-emotional abuse, and learn to reclaim your narrative, rewriting a story of resilience and transformation beyond this dysfunctional label that was never yours to begin with.
TIME STAMPS
SCAPEGOATING SERIES PART 2: 00:00 – 05:44: Listener voicemails reacting to the toxic shame series 05:25 – 12:19: The connection between scapegoating and toxic shame + intro to part 2 12:19 – 20:32: How scapegoating abuse can lead to misdiagnosis of mental health disorders 20:32 – 29:34: Questions to help you identify if you were the victim of family scapegoating abuse 29:34 – 38:08: Questions to help you identify if scapegoating abuse is still impacting you as an adult 38:08 – 45:50: Common experiences of scapegoated children 45:50 – 01:04:56: Processing the grief of the scapegoat role
PREMIUM: LISTENER VOICEMAILS: 01:04:56 – 01:22:21: Voicemail from Molly (how to handle a partner who isn’t willing to do their own inner work) 01:22:21 – 01:39:28: Voicemail from Paige (how to keep your word with yourself and avoid self-abandonment when dealing with recovery from addiction and childhood trauma) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 26 Sep 2023 | family scapegoating abuse part 3: grief, acceptance, and healing | 01:16:40 | |
Join me for the third and final episode in this 3-part series exploring the hidden complexities of the “scapegoat” or “black sheep” role within dysfunctional family dynamics. Family scapegoats start as innocent children or adolescents who bear the weight of projected family trauma. In this series, we’ll journey through the origins and consequences of scapegoating abuse, both in early childhood, as well as its lingering impact in adulthood. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences shape our emotional landscapes and relationships. By working with and integrating the concepts covered, you’ll discover valuable insights into breaking free from this suffocating role, allowing you to embark on a journey towards healing and liberation. It is my sincere hope that you can begin to unmask the layers of this covert form of psycho-emotional abuse, and learn to reclaim your narrative, rewriting a story of resilience and transformation beyond this dysfunctional label that was never yours to begin with.
TIME STAMPS
SCAPEGOATING SERIES PART 3: 00:00 – 04:46: Intro and reflections 04:46 – 29:16: Moving through the 5 stages of grief as a scapegoated adult child 29:16 – 01:00:08: Why is the stage of acceptance so difficult for those who have endured scapegoating abuse?
PREMIUM: LISTENER VOICEMAILS: 01:00:08 – 01:26:12: Voicemail from Joslyn (moving on from a complicated breakup that involves trauma bonding, family enmeshment and addiction) 01:26:12 – 01:36:59: Voicemail from Jane (the difficulty that comes with trying to make a relationship work with someone who is in a different phase of their life) 01:36:57 – 01:45:44: Voicemail update from Lauren (more on her complicated entanglement with her work colleague) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 03 Oct 2023 | tapping into your unconscious repressed anger as a highly sensitive person | 01:54:30 | |
In this episode, we’ll delve into the intricate connections between toxic shame, family scapegoating abuse, and the enduring impact of repressed anger in adulthood. You’ll learn about the alignment between the family scapegoat and traits like intuition, empathy, and sensitivity. You’ll also witness a dynamic portrayal of rage, revenge, and anger in TV and film, and learn the catharsis that can come with tapping into these primal emotions within your own psyche. Check out the time stamps below for a more detailed description of the topics covered in this episode. These time markers will allow you to skip to the sections that most interest you or listen to again to portions that you require additional exploration or self-inquiry.
TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 12:30: An exploration of how the core wounds of toxic shame and family scapegoating abuse contribute to repressed anger in adulthood that wreaks havoc on our lives 12:30 – 25:10: The origins of the term “scapegoat” that uncover the hidden gifts and inherent strength in this dysfunctional family role 25:10 – 38:39: Why the family scapegoat is often an intuitive, empath, or HSP (highly sensitive person) 38:36 – 42:48: The importance of being able to tap into your repressed anger 42:41 – 52:52: Rage + Anger edit (examples of expressions of rage, revenge, and anger from TV and film) 52:49 – 56:34: How to use the rage + anger edit for primal scream therapy 56:29 – 01:31:40: Storytime (reading aloud my newest Substack article “revenge and repressed anger” with personal reflections) 01:31:40 – 01:37:37: Reflections + introduction of new BFTB partner PureSpectrum CBD 01:40:28 – 02:37:58: Repressed anger and the highly sensitive person – exploration of article by psychologist Imi Lo (how repressed anger can appear in various forms and how to release it in healthy ways)
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Aug 2023 | it makes perfect sense why we're all sick and fucking tired | 01:23:10 | |
What do “emotionally disturbed” individuals, poets, artists, and burnt-out therapists have in common? We’re all DONE with the systems designed to keep us “sick” and compliant. In this episode, we confront the oppressive structures that profit from our pain, fatigue, and desperation. You'll hear a searing spoken-word piece by Anita D, powerfully condemning forced psychiatric hospitalization—a system that cages rather than heals. Next, YouTuber and former therapist Daniel Mackler delivers a raw confession about why he left the therapy profession, disillusioned by an industry that often punishes instead of liberates. We also delve into a thought-provoking article by Dr. Bruce Levine, who argues that psychiatry’s “control-freak model” is not just failing but actively fueling the suffering and behavioral crises it pretends to treat. And finally, we’ll unpack the unlikely rise of viral artist Oliver Anthony (aka Christopher Anthony Lunsford), whose breakout song “Rich Men of Richmond” has become a cultural lightning rod. In a surprising turn, Anthony has refused to be co-opted by either side, instead calling out political leaders and corporate players for twisting his message for their own agendas. This episode is for the misfits, the rebels, the worn-down healers, and anyone who’s ever felt like a pawn in a system that would rather pacify than empower. Here’s to reclaiming your voice, defying expectations, and refusing to be silenced by those who see you as just another “case” or “consumer.”
Resources mentioned in this episode are below. Please support and follow the work of these fierce and fearless change-makers: ✧ Spoken word poetry by Anita D (“And The Psych Ward Says”) via “Button Poetry” on YouTube [click here to watch] ✧ Why I Quit Being a Therapist by Daniel Mackler [click here to watch on YouTube] ✧ Click here to listen to my full interview with Dr. Bruce Levine (“The Crisis of Contemporary Psychiatry”) ✧ Original viral video of “Rich Men North of Richmond” posted by Radio West Virginia [click here to listen]
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 30 Sep 2023 | pov: your big sister is erykah badu and she's giving you some tough love | 01:15:47 | |
I recently came across an interview with singer-songwriter and creative maverick Erykah Badu on YouTube. Her words were so impactful for me in this phase of my recovery journey that I knew I had to make an episode that included my favorite clips. Although she came from humble beginnings, Erykah’s “mutable” and child-like approach to life has unlocked a lifetime and career of possibilities. This episode will make you feel like you’re sitting down with your best friend, giving you the tough love that you may not want, but desperately need. TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 7:32: Introduction (who is Erykah Badu and why I believe her attitude towards life is so inspiring) 7:28 – 8:17: The importance of looking forward to the future, rather than dreading it 8:17 – 15:31: How Erykah Badu views the development of a solid sense of self and identity (the importance of becoming “mutable,” or more flexible rather than rigid in life) 15:31 – 20:16: On not letting the opinions of others influence you or deter you from doing what you want, and learning to pace yourself 20:16 – 23:14: on facing the sexism and importance placed on looks in the music industry and mainstream media in the 90s 23:14 – 27:45: The advice Erykah Badu would give her “naïve” younger self (how to not become influenced by the thoughts and feelings of others) 27:45 – 31:31: How hip hop culture helped Erykah Badu cultivate her creative identity and confidence 31:31 – 34:53: How Erykah’s focus on “reinvention” and metamorphosis is her primary driver 34:53 – 39:07: Erykah’s advice on style and aesthetics (how to cultivate your own unique style) 39:07 – 48:21: Where does the word “woke” come from and how has it evolved? (How Erykah Badu including this in her song “Master Teacher” and tweeting it out regarding the scandal surrounding Russian activist group Pussy Riot gave the word “woke” a life of its own) 48:21 – 52:42: Why Erykah Badu believes we should avoid putting ourselves in “boxes” and the way labels can keep us stuck in rigid forms that don’t allow for growth and metamorphosis 52:42 – 57:26: On the importance of staying child-like while she unlearns toxic behaviors and stays conscious in her role as a mother 57:26 – 01:02:02: How Erykah uses her art and creativity to transmute and transform the wounds from generational trauma 01:02:02 – 01:05:21: Why we shouldn’t copy the path of others and the importance of finding our own way in life (ikigai philosophy) 01:05:21 – 01:15:38: The best and worst advice Erykah Badu has ever received (reflections on the hermetic principal “as above, so below”) Click here to the full interview on YouTube (“Mavericks with Ari Melber: Erykah Badu,” March 29th, 2023) Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 10 Oct 2023 | accessing your innermost wisdom through dreamwork | 01:29:54 | |
In a world of constant scrolling and instant advice, many of us lose touch with the wealth of wisdom within us—often ignoring dreams as mere “woo-woo nonsense.” But what if the key to deeper self-knowledge, insight, and even healing lies in reconnecting with our dreams? In this episode, we challenge the modern habit of looking outward for answers and explore how dreams can reveal messages from our bodies, minds, and innermost selves. By reclaiming our dreams, we open ourselves to a unique, personal path toward healing. Joining me is Naomi Sangreal, a psychotherapist, dream expert, and artist who integrates Jewish mysticism and depth psychology into her work. Together, we’ll discuss the historical and cultural significance of dreams, why dream symbolism is a powerful tool for inner work, and why relying on quick online “dream dictionaries” often oversimplifies the complex language of our unconscious. Key Topics Discussed:
TIME STAMPS
About the Guest: Naomi Sangreal is a psychotherapist and dream expert specializing in integrating depth psychology, art, and Jewish mysticism. With an MA in Counseling and Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and a BA in Transpersonal Psychology and Art Therapy from Naropa University, she provides a unique blend of spiritual insight and psychological expertise to her clients. Naomi’s new book, Little Hidden Doors, offers readers a deeper look into the world of dreams and healing. Follow Naomi on Instagram @psychesdreamwitch or visit her website at magicalpsychotherapy.com. Prepare to reconnect with a part of yourself you may have forgotten and discover how your dreams could be your most profound guide toward transformation and growth. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 17 Oct 2023 | creating a map through the hell of depression toward a radical elsewhere | 02:21:01 | |
What if depression is not simply a “chemical imbalance” but an altered state of consciousness—a profound journey into the depths of our psyche? In this episode, we look at depression through the nuanced perspective of depth psychology, MBTI personality types, and the sheer mystery of consciousness itself. Joining me is Sarah Mergen, the creator @CarlJungMemes on Instagram. Sarah’s journey started in 2021 with a deeply personal exploration of depression, which she shared with her audience in a guide she called a "personal mythology of depression." Today, she continues that journey in her podcast series, Katabasis/Anabasis, where she delves into the intricate dance between darkness and self-discovery. We’ll discuss the surprising links between depression, intuition, and altered consciousness, as well as the way our personality types influence how we experience and understand these states. With depth psychology as our framework, Sarah and I examine what it means to navigate the darker facets of human experience, and why some of the most persistent questions about reality and selfhood often have no easy answers. Topics Covered:
Resources: ❀ “Experiences of Depression” by Matthew Ratcliffe ❀ Daughters of Saturn by Patricia Reis ❀ Hanging on and Letting Go by Tom Pyszczynski and Jeff Greenberg Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 17 Oct 2023 | our paradigm-shifting UAP experience with the bledsoe family [free preview] | 00:14:29 | |
This is a free preview of episode one of "Unbuttoned. My new "podcast within a podcast" with my partner in crime (and life) Zaz. To unlock the full episode (as well as hundreds of hours of other bonus content) sign up for my Patreon community today. More details on that below. ↴
References: ◦ Duncan Trussell Family Hour Podcast – E574: Ryan Bledsoe ◦ UFOs and Miracles – interview with Chris Bledsoe on New Thinking Allowed with Jeffrey Mishlove, PhD Craving more episodes like this one? Want to unlock the full version? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 24 Oct 2023 | unlock the source code to your imagination matrix with stephen aizenstat, Ph.D | 01:48:29 | |
Ever feel like you’ve hit a dead end in your recovery journey? Like you’re the one person destined to remain stuck in cycles of trauma, self-sabotage, and doubt? What if the answers you’re seeking are already within you, waiting to be accessed? In this transformative episode, we explore the healing power of imagination, creativity, and inner wisdom. Dr. Stephen Aizenstat, a pioneer in the field of depth psychology, joins me to guide us through reconnecting with our deeper selves. By tapping into this “core matrix” of imagination, we can access a greater intelligence that not only heals but also empowers us to become the agents of change our world needs. Dr. Aizenstat, founder of Pacifica Graduate Institute and Dream Tending, has collaborated with leading minds in psychology, mythology, and indigenous wisdom to explore the profound role of dreams and imagination in healing. His decades-long work offers practical insights for those ready to step beyond the limitations of rational thinking and embrace a more holistic, creative approach to growth and self-discovery. Topics Covered and Questions Answered in This Episode:
Resources: ✧ Click here to purchase Stephen’s new book “The Imagination Matrix” ✧ Visit https://dreamtending.com/ to learn more about Stephen’s Dream Tending programs
Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 26 Oct 2023 | why you keep falling in limerence with unavailable people who break your heart [preview] | 00:11:35 | |
In this Premium Submarine exclusive, you’ll hear a preview of my response to a voicemail from a listener who is stumped as to why she continues to fall into the repetitive pattern of falling fast for unavailable partners. Questions answered + topics discussed in this episode: ✧ What is limerence? ✧ How to tell if your feelings for your romantic interest are infatuation or love ✧ What are the stages of limerence? ✧ How to manage limerent feelings and stop repeating self-sabotaging patterns ✧ Why some people are attracted to more avoidant partners (and why anxious and avoidant people tend to attract one another) ✧ Why do anxiously attached individuals often begin to resent or split on more avoidant partners ✧ How growing up in dysfunctional high-conflict homes can make us more attracted to high-conflict relationships (making safe/kind partners seem “boring”) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 31 Oct 2023 | processing complicated feelings around death and grief through working with the unseen worlds | 01:24:14 | |
What if you could tap into the wisdom of those who have passed on, making their guidance available at your fingertips? Perdita Finn believes it's not only possible but essential. In her book, "Take Back the Magic: Conversations with the Unseen World," she invites us to reclaim the forgotten guidance of the deceased and rekindle the magic and miracles in our lives. Finn masterfully weaves memoir, history, and a non-denominational spirituality rooted in ecology, encouraging readers to embrace the idea that the stories of our lives are far older, grander, and more compassionate than we've been led to believe. The journey she takes us on is one of healing, possibility, and love, as she shares her personal story of reconciling with her patriarchal father long after his passing.
This episode will resonate most deeply with you if: ✧ You struggle with anxious or phobic feelings around death and dying (Thanatophobia) ✧ You are dealing with bereavement and grief after the death of a loved one ✧ You have lost someone with whom you’ve had a difficult or complicated relationship (how to process the death of someone who negatively affected your life) ✧ You battle with feelings of “affective ambivalence” (when you love and hate someone at the same time) ✧ You want to learn how to better process your feelings of rage, anger and resentment ✧ You have always felt the deep sense of interconnectedness of all living beings ✧ You’re seeking to tap into / deepen your trust with your intuition
TIME STAMPS 00:00 – 01:27: Voicemail from Mikayla 01:27 – 08:02: The importance of developing a more flexible, holistic, and integral perspective when it comes to spirituality 08:02 – 15:32: How different cultures honor, pay respects to, and engage with the dead 15:32 – 20:53: About my guest, Perdita Finn 20:53 – 01:20:55: Interview with Perdita Finn
RESOURCES ✧ Click here to buy “Take Back the Magic: Conversations with the Unseen World” ✧ Click here to read my Substack article on revenge and repressed anger ✧ Click here to subscribe to Perdita’s Substack ✧ Click here to read more about The Finn/Clark family’s free non-denominational Rosary groups ✧ Click here to read the book Perdita co-wrote with her “reluctant” psychic
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 02 Nov 2023 | "my phobia of death and dying is making it impossible for me to truly LIVE” [preview] | 00:21:52 | |
Tune in for a free preview of this premium BFTB episode where we discuss all things related to how to cope with anxious or phobic feelings around death and dying. I understand this fear deeply because it’s ruled much of my life. And chances are it’s ruling yours, too. Turns out that learning more deeply about this subject and exploring how other cultures approach it instead of shoving my fears down further into my psyche has helped me more than anything else so far. I hope what I share can help, even just a bit. Because let's face it - the fact is that the idea of death is scary as hell for everyone, even if they won't admit it.
TOPICS DISCUSSED: ✧ How to become more comfortable with the idea of death and dying ✧ What is Thanatophobia? (death anxiety / fear of death) – symptoms and overcoming it ✧ How different cultures deal with and view death (and the major differences between East and West) ✧ An exploration on Ram Dass’ view on death and dying: “Death is perfectly safe. It’s like taking off a tight shoe.” Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 07 Nov 2023 | from mainstream to energy medicine with dr. larry burk | 01:11:12 | |
In this episode, we’ll embark on a fascinating journey with Dr. Larry Burk, a medical maverick who transitioned from mainstream medicine at Duke University to the realm of energy healing. Explore the untold stories of past pioneers of medicine like Ignaz Semmelweis, a 'savior of mothers' who was shamed for his “unconventional” groundbreaking ideas, only to be validated in the end, but only after his death. Larry and I also delve into the profound mind-body connection, uncovering how chronic pain and immune issues are intimately tied to our emotions and early life traumas. Dr. Burk shares his work with survivors of the MK Ultra experiments, revealing the resilience of the human spirit. You’ll also discover the transformative power of the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT Tapping) and gain insights from the ACE study, which revolutionized our understanding of how early-life trauma affects our physical health. This episode is your invitation to open your mind and embrace the unconventional healing methods of the future. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: • Visit Dr. Burk’s website at www.letmagichappen.com • “It Didn’t Start with You” by Mark Wolynn • “The Psychology of Totalitarianism” by Mattias Desmet • Tapping with Brad (YouTube Channel) • “Out on a Limb” Film by Shirley MacLaine (Free on YouTube) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 10 Nov 2023 | unlocking emotional freedom: a guide to EFT tapping [preview] | 00:23:51 | |
In this preview of a Premium Submarine exclusive episode, we'll be expanding on the topics covered in my conversation with Dr. Larry Burk and explore the world of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), a powerful tool for healing emotional wounds and overcoming trauma.Together, we'll demystify what EFT is and how it can help you release the grip of painful emotional experiences. Through my obsessive research, I'll break down the technique, providing a step-by-step guide to using EFT for yourself. You'll learn how tapping on specific points can bring emotional relief, ground us back into our bodies, and help rewire negative beliefs. I'm really excited to hear what you all think after you've given this a shot. I've been utilizing EFT since my interview with Larry, and I'm shocked at how quickly it can bring me out of a dissociative state and back into my body after a particularly triggering experience or when I fall into my frequent states of overwhelm. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 14 Nov 2023 | embracing your crazy while falling apart and coming back together | 01:34:14 | |
In this insightful episode, I sit down with Taune Lyons, a licensed marriage and family therapist whose mission is to empower individuals to uncover the healing potential within themselves. Together, we dive deep into transformative practices for managing emotions, confronting our inner shadows, and understanding the unconscious patterns that shape our lives. Taune’s compassionate approach and wealth of knowledge make this conversation a must-listen for anyone ready to break free from self-defeating patterns and take conscious steps toward growth. Through our discussion, you’ll gain practical tools to help you pause and reflect before reacting to triggers, as well as learn how attachment styles and shadow work influence emotional regulation. We also tackle how to set healthy boundaries, not just with those around us, but within the therapeutic relationship itself. Topics Covered in This Episode:
Connect with Taune:
Resources: ✧ Healing Rage: Women Making Inner Peace Possible by Ruth King ✧ Trauma and the Supernatural in Psychotherapy by Alex Monk Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 16 Nov 2023 | venting or vicious: escaping the grip of toxic gossip [preview] | 00:35:04 | |
In this premium preview, we’re diving deep into the timeless and complex world of gossip. From its ancient social roots to the tabloid frenzy of the '90s, gossip has played a significant role in shaping societies, beliefs, and relationships. This episode unpacks why gossip seems to be an irresistible human behavior, drawing insights from evolutionary psychology and cultural studies. You’ll gain practical guidance on managing a gossip habit, navigating rumors, and understanding how different spiritual traditions view the morality of gossip. We’ll explore how gossip can sometimes serve a social purpose, helping to strengthen group bonds or reinforce social norms—but we’ll also look at how it turns toxic, and the lasting impact it can leave on people’s lives. This episode will shed light on why we gossip, when it becomes harmful, and what you can do to shift away from it when it no longer serves you. Topics Discussed:
This episode promises a balanced exploration of gossip’s social functions and personal impacts, offering a fresh perspective on why we gossip and how we can choose a path that supports healthier, more authentic connections. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 21 Nov 2023 | healing from religious trauma using the philosophy of the mystics | 01:23:12 | |
In this episode, we venture into the profound and often challenging terrain of religious upbringing and its enduring effects. Bob Peck, author of Original Sin is a Lie, joins us to unpack the emotional and psychological aftermath of growing up within fundamentalist religious frameworks. Together, we examine how rigid doctrines can embed feelings of unworthiness and how mystical philosophies might provide a healing antidote for those grappling with religious trauma. Bob brings his background in Religious Studies and years of spiritual exploration to our discussion, offering insights into bridging science and spirituality and challenging the limitations of a purely rational mindset. We also discuss psychedelics’ role in trauma healing, navigating the balance between their potential for spiritual awakening and the risks involved. Whether you’re healing from religious trauma, seeking a deeper spiritual practice, or exploring alternative pathways to inner peace, this episode offers a thought-provoking dive into reclaiming one’s sense of worth and authenticity. Topics Discussed:
Bob Peck’s unique journey and insights offer fresh perspectives for anyone questioning traditional religious teachings and searching for a more expansive, compassionate understanding of spirituality. Prepare for an enlightening conversation that explores the intersection of religion, mysticism, and self-discovery in the pursuit of a genuinely fulfilling life. Connect with Bob at https://www.originalsinisalie.com/. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 23 Nov 2023 | from human doing to human being [preview] | 00:13:34 | |
Author John Bradshaw (the author of “Healing the Shame that Binds You”) was one of the first to introduce the idea that we are human BE-ings, not human DO-ings. This catchy expression has particular relevance to those of us who get so busy performing activities “out in the world” that we begin to determine our worth through external measures at the expense of pausing, grounding, and having faith in our inherent value as living beings. Today, you’ll hear a free preview of part one of a relaxed sit-down chat with my friend Melanie. We discuss becoming more cognizant of the difference between always hustling, checking off to-do lists, and getting things done (human doing) versus taking a breather, being mindful, and just soaking in the moment (human being). The 'doing' mode (the mode most of us spend most of our time in), it's all about external wins and achievements, where your identity is basically what you've accomplished. On the flip side, the 'being' mode is about tuning into yourself, reflecting, and enjoying who you are beyond the never ending to-do list of things you “should” be doing. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 28 Nov 2023 | the bledsoe family's cosmic rebirth: unveiling non-human intelligence | 03:10:16 | |
Prepare for a mind-expanding exploration into the cosmic realms of consciousness and the resilience that emerges from the depths of adversity in a world that often misunderstands or rejects the unknown. In this powerful and exclusive interview, Chris and Ryan Bledsoe invite us to explore a different dimension that exists all around us, one that remains aware of our presence. In this episode, we're delving into the extraordinary experiences of the Bledsoe family and their encounters with non-human intelligence (NHI) and high strangeness. This episode explores navigating cosmic mysteries, government scrutiny, and the enduring power of truth. In 2007, Chris Bledsoe experienced something that reshaped his entire perception of reality. From facing near-death experiences due to psychiatric harm while being shunned by his entire community to becoming a best-selling author studied by consciousness experts, Chris shares how serious trauma has played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview. Despite societal pressures to conform, Chris and his family have defied the narrative that painted his experiences with non-human intelligence as something to be feared. He insisted that his encounters were imbued with messages of peace and interconnectedness. Together, we’ll uncover the harsh realities of public scrutiny, media deception, and institutional scapegoating that many victims endure. You’ll hear about the Bledsoes' moments of isolation, ridicule, and governmental interference, witnessing the resilience that ultimately led to hope. The interview also explores the challenges faced by Chris Bledsoe in gaining acceptance on a more spiritual angle that extends beyond the stereotypical “UFOs and Aliens” narrative. Through Chris's conversations with numerous individuals who've undergone similar experiences, we discover that a connecting thread emerges: the profound impact of trauma and the shared journey many individuals have of encountering high strangeness or non-human intelligence at the height of personal suffering. Connect with Chris Bledsoe and read more about his book “UFO of God” at https://ufoofgod.com/ Connect with Ryan Bledsoe and listen to his podcast Bledsoe Said So at https://www.bledsoesaidso.com/
TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 06:10: Intro + Ad Break 06:10 – 36:43: What is non-human intelligence and why is right now such an important time for disclosure? 35:43 – 02:45:33: Interview with Chris and Ryan Bledsoe 02:45:33 – 03:03:16: Exploration of the Schumer Legislation which proposes the establishment of an independent agency to declassify records related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). 03:03:16 – 03:10:15: Final thoughts on the importance of disclosure and the pivotal moment in history we find ourselves in
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 30 Nov 2023 | the healing power of somatic breathwork [preview] | 00:13:34 | |
We don’t tend to think much about our breath in our day-to-day lives. It just… happens, right? Not exactly. Taking the process of breathing for granted would be a mistake, which is exactly what we’re exploring in this episode.Science is only just beginning to validate the extraordinary power of the breath. Breathing, a process which every animal, insect, and plant shares, is perhaps our most vital system. Inhaling gives us life by extracting energy from the interaction of food and oxygen. Exhaling flushes out the waste product of this process, carbon dioxide. Our breathing patterns directly affect our physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing. And unlike other bodily functions, such as digesting food, breathing is unique in that it can be practiced intentionally. Our breath and our emotions are connected. Our breathing and our mind are connected. When strong emotions come up, we know our breath is affected. Breath is the body’s wisdom, reminding us how we’re doing at any moment. Specific breathing patterns can change our internal feelings and alter our emotional state. Today, you’ll hear an exclusive preview of part two of my sit-down chat with my friend Melanie Goldman, where we discuss all things somatic breathwork as she shares about her own profound personal experiences with this healing modality.
Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 05 Dec 2023 | from coercion to consent: WHO and UN say psychiatry must change entirely | 01:07:01 | |
Prepare to uncover a seismic shift in the global mental health landscape as we explore the groundbreaking WHO and UN Guidance that challenges the very foundations of modern psychiatry. This episode delves into how entrenched mental health practices—rooted in the biomedical model—often violate international human rights, exposing significant flaws in current psychiatric systems worldwide. Join me as we navigate the major revelations, including psychiatry’s overreliance on medication, the routine use of detention and involuntary treatment, and the exclusion of individuals with mental health struggles from key decisions about their own care. We’ll examine how the WHO and UN are advocating for a transformative approach to mental health—one that is human-centered, rights-based, and community-driven. Key Topics Covered:
This episode offers a deep dive into the forces challenging established psychiatric practices and shaping the future of mental health. If you’re interested in understanding the critical changes underway and their profound implications for mental health rights and reform, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. REFERENCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Article referenced in this episode: “The New WHO and UN Guidance: Psychiatry Must Entirely Change” by Niall Mclaren Click here watch the full launch of the Joint WHO/OHCHR guidance and practice on mental health, human rights and legislation. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||