Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast | Breaking Silence Around the Secrets We All Carry
Psychology & Relationships
About
We often find ourselves comparing our internal struggles to the flawless images others project, leaving us feeling isolated and misunderstood. But here’s the truth: you are not alone. Join psychologists Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry as they delve into the little-discussed yet incredibly common challenges that come with striving to be your best self. In each episode of "Life's Dirty Little Secrets," you'll find thoughtful conversations filled with insights, humor, and compassion that reflect the beautiful complexity of being human. Together, we’ll explore the raw realities of issues like anxiety , depression , self-esteem , grief , and the nuanced journey of growing up . Whether it's confronting the pressures of modern life or unpacking emotional baggage, we provide a safe space for you to resonate with these experiences. Our intriguing discussions with expert guests will illuminate your path toward understanding and healing. Tune in for practical answers to your pressing questions, such as: How can I better manage anxiety and stress? What can help me overcome self-doubt? How do I navigate grief and find solace? How does self-compassion play a role in my journey? What steps can I take towards greater emotional clarity? Join us weekly as we embrace the messiness of life and uncover the secrets that bind us together. With every episode, you’ll feel empowered, understood, and reminded that it’s perfectly okay to not have it all figured out. Together, let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery and compassion—because we all have secrets, and it’s time to share them.
Episodes
- Secret #79: Fierce Compassion with Dr. Dennis Tirch
In this episode, Dr. Dennis Tirch redefines compassion, emphasizing its role in developing strength, courage, and the ability to confront suffering. The discussion covers how compassion relates to fear, boundaries, and everyday life challe…
- Secret #78: The Healing in Horror Films with Dr. Amy Beddows
This episode explores the connection between horror films and healing, with Dr. Amy Beddows explaining how the genre can help individuals process trauma, find language for difficult experiences, and offer validation.
- Secret #77: The Paradox of the Overwhelmed with Dr. Kerry Makin-Byrd
This episode features Dr. Kerry Makin-Byrd explaining the paradox of overwhelm, distinguishing it from stress and burnout, and providing a framework to navigate feeling overloaded by considering the nervous system, environment, and expecta…
- Secret #76: Ageism wtih Claudia Drossel
This episode features Dr. Claudia Drossel discussing ageism, challenging the notion that aging equals decline. The conversation explores how cultural biases shape our experience of getting older and promotes reframing aging as diversity.
- Secret #75: Impossible Masculinity with Ruth Whippman
In this episode, Ruth Whippman joins hosts to discuss the challenges of raising boys in a culture with contradictory expectations of masculinity. They explore the science of boys' emotional development, cultural narratives, and offer pract…
- Secret #74: The Cost of Pretending with Jonathan Kanter
Jonathan Kanter joins the podcast to discuss the 'cost of pretending' and the concept of hypernormalization. The conversation explores why people pretend things are okay, the role of emotional avoidance, and strategies for moving toward ac…
- Secret #73: The Confidence Lie with Michael Herold
Confidence coach Michael Herold discusses the "Confidence Lie," explaining that confidence is built by taking action, especially while experiencing anxiety, and that competence follows confidence. The episode emphasizes values-based action…
- Secret #72: Transforming Guilt and Shame with Dr. Carolyn Allard
Clinical psychologist Dr. Carolyn Allard explains how guilt and shame, initially survival strategies after trauma, can become non-adaptive, fueling avoidance and self-blame. The episode explores how values-based decision making can replace…
- Secret #71: What a Terminal Diagnosis Taught Me About Living with Dr. Ray Owen and Sam Stroud
Psychologist Dr. Ray Owen and Sam Stroud, who has been diagnosed with MND/ALS, share insights on living purposefully when facing a terminal illness. They discuss the importance of staying engaged with life, seeking support, practicing medi…
- Secret #70: So Many Paradoxes with Dr. Emma Waddington and Dr. Chris McCurry
In this year-in-review episode, hosts Chris McCurry and Emma Waddington discuss recurring paradoxes and uncomfortable truths that emerged from their podcast conversations, such as how trying harder to fix ourselves can lead to feeling stuc…
- Secret #69: No One Is Self-Made Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon
This episode challenges the myth of the "self-made" individual, featuring educator Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon. The discussion focuses on the power of community, the concept of being "village-made" instead of self-made, and the benefits of collab…
- Secret #68: Secrets of Rest with Alex Soojung-Kim Pang
Best-selling author Alex Soojung-Kim Pang explains that rest is an active skill, not the opposite of work. The episode covers deliberate rest, the default mode network, and practical rhythms like 90-120 minute work intervals followed by re…
- Secret #67: Living with Death - An Existential Conversation with Dr. Manuela O'Connell & Dr. Robyn Walser
Hosts Chris and Emma discuss mortality with Dr. Robyn Walser and Dr. Manuela O'Connell, exploring death through the lens of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The conversation covers cultural avoidance, mindfulness, and using the rea…
- Secret #66: Holding the Heavy Stuff with Ben Sedley
Ben Sedley joins Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry to discuss holding painful thoughts and emotions using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The episode covers self-criticism, presence as a first step, and compassion with boundaries, offer…
- Secret #65: The Self-Help Paradox with Joe Oliver
Hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry talk with psychologist Joe Oliver about the self-help paradox, where the booming industry may increase suffering. They discuss how psychological flexibility and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT…
- Secret #64: Moral Outrage with Kurt Gray
Social psychologist Kurt Gray joins Life's Dirty Little Secrets to explore the psychology of moral outrage, its evolutionary basis, and its impact on relationships and political discourse. The episode offers techniques for transforming out…
- Secret #63: When Food Becomes Fear with Tamara Hubbard
This episode features Tamara Hubbard, an expert on the psychological impact of food allergies. She shares insights on managing anxiety, fostering resilience in children, and balancing safety with a full life when dealing with food allergie…
- Secret #62: The Connection Paradox with James Cordova
Dr. James Cordova discusses the Connection Paradox, exploring how warmth, authenticity, and mindful space influence human relationships. The episode covers vulnerability, presence, and self-compassion for healing in therapy, family, and pe…
- Secret #61: Reimagining Anger with Russell Kolts
This episode features clinical psychologist Dr. Russell Kolts discussing anger not as aggression, but as a response to threat or helplessness. Learn compassion-focused therapy techniques to manage anger, guide children through emotional di…
- Secret #60: There is No Normal with Dr. Steven C. Hayes [REPLAY]
Dr. Steven C. Hayes discusses the limitations of one-size-fits-all therapy, such as the '8 session' model, arguing that efficiency can be detrimental. He emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty and discomfort for genuine healing…
- Secret #59: Rethinking Boyhood with Emily Edlynn, Jennifer Fink, Nike Oruh and Ana Waddington
This episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets features a roundtable with experts Emily Edlynn, Jennifer Fink, Nike Oruh, and Ana Waddington discussing the complexities of raising boys today. They explore redefining masculinity, fostering emo…
- Secret #58: Raising a Self-Driven Child with Dr. William Stixrud & Ned Johnson
Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson discuss strategies for raising self-driven children, focusing on autonomy-supportive parenting, fostering resilience, and building confidence. They cover topics like motivation, screen time, and the impo…
- Secret #57: Conflict Resilience with Bob Bordone and Dr. Joel Salinas
This episode features conflict resolution expert Bob Bordone and behavioral neurologist Dr. Joel Salinas discussing conflict resilience. They explain how avoiding or rushing conflict resolution can harm relationships and offer insights int…
- Secret #56: Spirituality with Dr. Matthieu Villatte
This episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets features psychologist Matthieu Villatte discussing modern spirituality, distinguishing it from organized religion. It covers the psychological benefits of spiritual practices, their role in resil…
- Secret #55: Belonging with Meg McKelvie
This episode features licensed clinical psychologist Meg McElvie discussing the concept of belonging. It covers the innate human yearning for connection, the difference between fitting in and authentic connection, and strategies for cultiv…
- Secret #54: The Reign of Pain (Lies Mainly in the Brain) with Howard Schubiner
This episode features Dr. Howard Schubiner discussing how the brain generates chronic pain, anxiety, and fatigue, often linked to stress or trauma rather than physical damage. It explores neuroscience, pain reprocessing therapy, and emotio…
- Secret #53: Biological Empathy with Alex Graybar
This episode features Alex Graybar discussing biological humanism and how modern society conflicts with our innate needs. It explores the impact of technology and capitalism, the importance of biological empathy, and strategies for reconne…
- Secret #52: Toxic Striving with Dr. Paula Freedman Diamond
Dr. Paula Freedman Diamond joins Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast to discuss toxic striving, perfectionism, and the pressures of hustle culture. The episode explores the roots of these issues and offers science-backed strategies for mov…
- Secret #51: New Thinking on Grief with Dr. Ray Owen
Dr. Ray Owen, a psychologist with 40 years of NHS experience, explores the complex nature of grief on Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast. The episode covers the universality of grief, its varied expressions beyond sadness, cultural impact…
- Secret #50: Happy High Achievers with Dr. Mary Anderson
Dr. Mary Anderson explains how to be a "Happy High Achiever" by managing stress and energizing for success. The episode covers cognitive-behavioral strategies, values-based goals, and the SELF acronym (sleep, exercise, look forward, fuel)…
- Secret #49: Parenting Your Anxious Child
This episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast features hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry discussing the challenges and strategies of parenting an anxious child. They cover the evolutionary basis of anxiety, practical tools such…
- Secret #48: The Tree That Bends with Ross White
Dr. Ross White uses the Tanzanian proverb "the wind does not break the tree that bends" as a metaphor for resilience and flexibility in the face of life's challenges. He debunks the endurance culture, emphasizing thriving over surviving by…
- Secret #47: Living a Meaningful Life with Jenna LeJeune
Dr. Jenna LeJeune explains that a meaningful life is created by choosing our values, not discovered. She highlights that living authentically with values can involve discomfort but ultimately honors our suffering and provides an accessible…
- Secret #46: Madness with Dr. Eric Morris
Dr. Eric Morris challenges traditional views on psychosis and mental health, suggesting unusual experiences are more common than believed. He advocates for a compassionate, contextual understanding of mental health, focusing on how individ…
- Secret #45: ADHD in Women with Michaela Thomas
Michaela Thomas, a clinical psychologist, explores ADHD in women, its link to perfectionism, emotional sensitivity, and the benefits of diagnosis. The episode also touches on ADHD brain motivations, coping mechanisms, and includes insights…
- Secret #44: Parental Burnout with Debbie Sorensen
In this episode, clinical psychologist Debbie Sorensen discusses parental burnout with hosts Chris McCurry and Emma Waddington. They explore societal pressures, perfectionism, and the importance of self-compassion and support networks for…
- Secret #43: Who Am I? Navigating Identity in Young Men with Nike Oruh
This episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets features Nike Oruh discussing the challenges young men face in finding purpose, navigating social media, shifting gender roles, and the importance of emotional expression and support systems.
- Secret #42: Raising Loving Siblings with Jonathan Caspi
Dr. Jonathan Caspi, a sibling expert, joins Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry to explore sibling dynamics, conflict resolution, and the lasting impact of sibling relationships. The episode offers parental strategies for managing conflict a…
- Secret #41: Gender Affirming Care with Steve Graybar
Dr. Steve Graybar joins the podcast to discuss gender affirming care for minors. He advocates for a research-based approach that includes psychological evaluation and family therapy, while cautioning against political influences and emphas…
- Secret #40: Detoxifying Masculinity with Russell Kolts
In this episode, Dr. Russell Kolts discusses the complexities of masculinity and anger, addressing societal expectations, emotional expression challenges, and the need for safe spaces for men. The conversation highlights the impact of upbr…
- Secret #39: The Two-Way Gift of Compassion with Becky Platt
This episode features pediatric nurse Becky Platt discussing the power of compassion and human connection in healthcare. Platt shares insights from her work in Gaza and with her nonprofit 'Don't Forget the Bubbles,' emphasizing empathy and…
- Secret #38: Is Your Work Worth It with Christopher Michaelson & Jennifer Tosti-Kharas
Christopher Michaelson and Jennifer Tosti-Kharas discuss their book "Is Your Work Worth It?", examining career purpose, societal work values, and the privilege of questioning one's job. They explore historical influences on work motivation…
- Secret #37: Youth Interpersonal Violence with Carina Simmons
Hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry interview consultant clinical psychologist Carina Simmons about the complexities of youth interpersonal violence. The discussion covers the impact of social media, emotional literacy, and systemic fa…
- Secret #36: The Secret Power of Disagreements with Dr. Yael Schonbrun
Dr. Yael Schonbrun rejoins "Life\
- Secret #35: Two Homes, One Family: Making It Work with Tiffany Rochester (Part 2)
In this episode, clinical psychologist and co-parenting coach Tiffany Rochester discusses strategies for separated families to co-parent across two homes. She emphasizes the importance of collaborative solutions, effective communication, a…
- Secret #34 - The Power of Separating Well - choosing peace over conflict with Tiffany Rochester (part 1)
This episode features clinical psychologist Tiffany Rochester discussing effective co-parenting strategies. She emphasizes psychological flexibility, kindness, and communication to help separated families navigate challenges and reduce con…
- Secret #33: Parents Matter - But Do We Make a Difference with Dr. Emily Edlynn
Dr. Emily Edlynn explores the extent of parental influence on children, discussing genetics, parental anxiety, and autonomy-supportive parenting strategies.
- Secret #32: Choicefulness with Dr. Aprilia West
On Life's Dirty Little Secrets Podcast, Dr. Aprilia West explains the concept of choicefulness, emphasizing how intentional decision-making and recognizing biases can help individuals tap into their full potential and live more purposefull…
- Secret #31: Our Favorite Dirty Little Secrets - Season 2
This episode wraps up season two with hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry. They reflect on season discussions covering self-discovery, personal growth, relationships, social justice, and mental health, including topics like challenging…
- Secret #30: Wise Effort with Dr. Diana Hill
In this episode of Life's Dirty Little Secrets, Dr. Diana Hill explains the concept of "Wise Effort," providing three steps: get curious, open up, and choose wisely. The discussion covers managing energy, avoiding common pitfalls, and the…