Tell Us More About That

About Tell Us More About That

"Tell Us More About That" (TUMAT) is a podcast focused on taking the often complex, misunderstood, or under discussed topics within human psychology and connecting the dots to our individual experiences. TUMAT is dedicated to decoding the "why" behind the "what" through casual and insightful conversations with some of the most credible experts in the industry. Join us and our guests as we turn the complicated into the candid, exploring the fascinating world of human psychology. Serious topics. Credible Guests. Candid Conversation.

Publisher

Tony Paixão and Jen Crawford

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

12 Mar 2024

Latest episode

14 Sept 2025

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2025

   NPD, BPD, and Mentalization-Based Treatment: A conversation with Bob Drozek, LICSW and Brandon Unruh, MD.

   In this episode, we dive into the often-misunderstood world of personality disorders with a focus on borderline and narcissistic presentations. Rather than simply listing symptoms, our conversation explores what it means to view these disorders dimensionally, how traits show up in real life, blur at the edges, and influence identity, relationships, and emotional regulation. We also examine mentalization, the ability to understand our own and others’ inner worlds, and why it is such a powerful tool in therapy. From rethinking the DSM’s categories to unpacking the role of empathy and vulnerability, this discussion offers a fresh perspective on conditions that are too often oversimplified and stigmatized. TUMAT Takeaways: Personality disorders involve instability in emotional regulation, self-identity, and interpersonal relationships. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by emotional dysregulation and interpersonal hypersensitivity. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can be divided into grandiose and vulnerable subtypes, each with distinct characteristics. Mentalization is the ability to understand one's own and others' mental states, crucial for effective therapy. Empathy is a component of mentalizing, involving both cognitive and emotional aspects. The DSM's categorical approach to personality disorders may not fully capture the complexity of these conditions. Therapists must adopt a 'not knowing' stance to encourage patient reflection and insight. Mentalization-based treatment (MBT) has shown effectiveness in treating personality disorders. Understanding the patient's perspective is key to effective treatment. Research supports the idea that mentalizing deficits are common in personality disorders. To learn more about Mentalization-Based Treatment, check out MBT Boston, here (www.mbtboston.com). Check out publications from our guests! (https://www.mbtboston.com/our-publications)

2. 

   1 Aug 2025

   Dr. Noble, Pt. 2 - Navigating Cognitive Biases in Leadership: A discussion on the pervasive nature of cognitive biases, particularly in personnel selection and leadership.

   In this conversation, Dr. Noble discusses the pervasive nature of cognitive biases, particularly in personnel selection and leadership. He delves into the Dunning-Kruger effect, illustrating how individuals often overestimate their knowledge and competence. The discussion also touches on personal career journeys, the challenges of self-awareness in leadership, and the evolving landscape of consulting in psychology, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and the need for reliable data in decision-making. TUMAT Takeaways: Cognitive biases are prevalent in decision-making processes. Awareness of biases can help individuals make better decisions. The Dunning-Kruger effect illustrates how confidence does not equal competence. Imposter syndrome is common among high achievers, contrasting with the overconfidence of less knowledgeable individuals. Self-awareness tends to decrease as leaders rise in rank due to fewer honest feedback sources. Narcissistic leaders can sometimes protect their teams but may harm the organization overall. Therapy and coaching can provide valuable support for personal and professional growth. Manipulation and bias are significant factors in how individuals present themselves in leadership roles. For more information on Dr. Noble and to learn more about the services offered by Noble Organizational Consulting, visit his website, here (https://www.psychology.consulting/).

3. 

   27 Jun 2025

   Operational Psychology: Dr. Noble discusses the mission of Op Psych, what it takes to become one, and shares unique firsthand accounts from working in the field.

   Dr. Jeremy Noble illuminates the mission of operational psychology within the U.S. Army's Ranger Regiment, sharing firsthand accounts and discussing ethical challenges in military settings in this interview.

4. 

   13 Aug 2024

   Interviewing Kids: An overview of the field of Child Forensic Interviewing, the training involved and the unique variables present when interviewing children.

   TUMAT Takeaways: • Child forensic interviewing is an investigative interview conducted in a developmentally sensitive, trauma-informed, and legally sound manner within the context of a child abuse investigation. • Child advocacy centers are nonprofit organizations that serve as a one-stop shop for services related to child abuse investigations, providing a child-friendly and neutral setting for forensic interviews. • Child forensic interviewers are trained professionals who conduct interviews with children who may have experienced abuse or witnessed a crime, and they work closely with law enforcement and child protective services. • Techniques like narrative event practice and source monitoring are used to elicit information. • Interviewers need to be mindful of potential coaching or contamination of the child's narrative and ask appropriate questions to assess credibility. • Forensic interviews are typically video and audio recorded and are conducted in a private and safe environment to ensure the comfort and well-being of the child. • Mandated reporting laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, anyone over the age of 18 is considered a mandated reporter and is legally obligated to report suspected child abuse or neglect. • Child forensic interviewers gather information for an active criminal investigation and work closely with investigators and prosecutors to ensure the defensibility and reliability of the information obtained. • Caregivers can contact Child Advocacy Centers for assistance and guidance. • The forensic interview process is tailored to the child's age and developmental level. • Interviewers create a safe and supportive environment for children to share their experiences. • Caregivers should avoid discussing concerns directly with the child and provide accurate information about the interview process. • The support of non-offending caregivers is crucial in helping children disclose abuse and participate in the investigation. A little bit about our guest, Kate Myers, MSW: Kate Myers is a seasoned forensic interviewer with over a decade of experience in sexual and domestic violence. She has conducted over 1,600 forensic interviews for various agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security in Miami, FL, and Safe Shores - The DC Children’s Advocacy Center. She has handled cases involving child sexual abuse, violent crime, severe physical abuse and neglect, online child exploitation, human trafficking, and human smuggling, both domestically and internationally. As part of this work, she has testified in civil and criminal court proceedings, as well as provided consultation and training to multidisciplinary teams and other community stakeholders. Kate holds an MSW from The Catholic University of America and a BA in Foreign Languages with a concentration in Spanish and a minor in Women & Gender Studies from George Mason University. She is currently the Forensic Interview Program Manager at the Collins Center & Child Advocacy Center in Harrisonburg, VA, where she leads interviews with children, adolescents, and vulnerable adults, addressing cases of abuse and neglect with a victim-centered and trauma-responsive approach. To learn more about the Collins Center CAC, check out their website, here (https://www.thecollinscenter.org/cac)!

5. 

   26 Jun 2024

   Mental Health and Law Enforcement: Breaking stigmas, building trust and changing the game. A Conversation with Dr. Katherine Kuhlman.

   About our guest, Dr. Katherine Kuhlman: Dr. Katherine (Katie) Kuhlman, ABPP, is a board-certified psychologist in Police and Public Safety Psychology, and has expertise in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and general life stressors. She has worked since 2014 providing services to first responders and their family members, truly understanding the unique stressors inherent in these occupations. She has presented nationally on wellness issues related to law enforcement, as well as threat assessment and management. She served as a subject matter expert on traumatic stress on the Colorado Governor's Expert Emergency Epidemic Response Committee prior to moving to Arizona. Dr. Kuhlman has responded and provided debriefing services to critical incidents including officer-involved shootings, suicides, line-of-duty deaths, and mass shootings. Dr. Kuhlman regularly provides analysis to news organizations, and has provided expert testimony in cases related to psychological assessment and PTSD. Check out her website, here (http://www.drkuhlman.com/)! TUMAT Takeaways: • Law enforcement psychology focuses on the mental health and well-being of law enforcement officers and first responders. • Most mental health challenges LE personnel are facing are TREATABLE! If provided with the appropriate support from their agencies, personnel can not only overcome the struggles, but they can thrive. • Building trust and establishing rapport with clients is crucial in this field, and authenticity is key. • Dr. Kuhlman emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and assures her clients that their information will remain private, except in cases of harm to self or others. • Red flag laws can pose challenges for officers dealing with suicidal ideation • Some departments are starting to offer treatment options and support for officers struggling with mental health issues • Embedding psychologists within law enforcement agencies can provide valuable support and address administrative stress and trauma • The field of police psychology is evolving with a focus on prevention and wellness

6. 

   7 Jun 2024

   Adult ADHD: Defining, Diagnosing, and Determining Treatment Options. A conversation with Bennett Harris, PA LCMHC

   This conversation focused on ADHD, its definition, and how it presents in different populations. Our guest, Bennett Harris PA, LCMHC, discussed the observable symptoms of ADHD, such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. He also introduced the concept of rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD), which is often associated with ADHD. The discussion touched on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to ADHD, as well as the impact of stress on individuals with ADHD. Bennett emphasized the importance of emotional regulation and shared strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, including medication and mindfulness practices. The conversation also explored the differences in ADHD presentation between men and women. Women tend to be more inattentive and men tend to be more impulsive or hyperactive in ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD start in childhood, with girls showing more inattentiveness and daydreaming, while boys show more impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, these patterns are not always consistent. The diagnostic criteria for ADHD were originally based on assessments of men. Stimulant medications, such as amphetamines, increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving ADHD symptoms. Long-term use of stimulants can lead to dopamine downregulation and the need for higher doses. Building discipline and healthy habits, such as exercise and a balanced diet, can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. ADHD coaching can also be beneficial in developing practical skills and strategies. The long-term effects of stimulant medication use and the potential benefits of other medications for ADHD are still being studied. TUMAT Takeaways: • ADHD is characterized by observable symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. • Rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD) is a common experience for individuals with ADHD, causing emotional reactivity to stress and criticism. • ADHD is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, and it can be present from a young age. • Emotional regulation is crucial for managing ADHD symptoms, and strategies like mindfulness and medication can be helpful. • ADHD can present differently in men and women, and women may be more likely to receive a later-in-life diagnosis. ADHD symptoms differ between men and women, with women being more inattentive and men being more impulsive or hyperactive. • Stimulant medications increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving ADHD symptoms. • Long-term use of stimulant medications can lead to dopamine downregulation and the need for higher doses. • Building discipline and healthy habits, such as exercise and a balanced diet, can be effective in managing ADHD symptoms. • ADHD coaching can help individuals develop practical skills and strategies for managing their symptoms. Learn more about Bennett, here (https://resilientmindcounseling.com/bennett-harris-pa-lcmhc/)! Learn more about ADDition Coaching and Consulting, here (https://www.additioncoaching.org/)!

7. 

   31 May 2024

   Art Therapy: An introduction to the world of research supported Art Therapy Interventions. A conversation with Sarah Balascio, ATR-BC

   Sarah Balascio is a nationally board-certified art therapist and adjunct lecturer with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. Sarah has a master’s degree in Education from Lesley University in Massachusetts and a second master’s degree in Art Therapy from Pratt Institute in New York. She has practiced art therapy in hospitals including New York Presbyterian, residential programs for adolescents, eating disorder treatment centers, schools, autism centers, and in private practice. She has helped clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, eating disorders, trauma, grief, addictions, developmental and sensory issues, as well as autism spectrum disorders. She currently works at the College of William & Mary's McLeod Tyler Wellness Center facilitating groups and individual sessions for students, faculty, and staff as well as teaching undergraduate courses in the field of art therapy under the Wellness Applications Program. She also serves on the Art Therapy Credentials Board Nominating Committee. She recently published a book through Routledge titled "Art Therapy Directives: An Intervention Toolbox." TUMAT Takeaways: • Art therapy is a field of mental health that uses art and creativity as a way to express and understand emotions. • Art therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of issues, including stress reduction, trauma, and eating disorders. • Art therapists work in various settings, such as psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and schools. • Art therapy can be integrated into traditional therapy practices and can be helpful for individuals who may not consider themselves artists. • Art therapy is not limited to children and can benefit people of all ages. • Art therapy has a significant impact on the quality of life for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's. • Art therapy aligns with somatic therapy in exploring and processing trauma through a feeling-based approach. • The future of art therapy involves expanding access through state licensing and integrating it into general studies and traditional therapy programs. Check out Sarah's book, here (https://www.amazon.com/stores/Sarah-Balascio/author/B0CX5FXTRG?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true)! Learn more about Tim Robbins Prison Project, here (https://www.arts.gov/stories/magazine/2016/1/telling-all-our-stories-arts-and-diversity/actors-gang-prison-project-makes-difference)!

8. 

   24 May 2024

   Evidence Based Policing: The pursuit to make research available, practical and consistent for LE practitioners. A conversation with Dr. Susanne Knabe-Nicole.

   Dr. Suzanne Knabe-Nicol, an investigative psychologist and founder of Police Science Dr., discusses the importance of evidence-based policing and the role of investigative psychology in law enforcement. She emphasizes the need for research findings to be accessible to frontline practitioners and advocates for the inclusion of investigative psychologists within police forces. Dr. Knabe-Nicol also highlights the lack of awareness and access to research in the field and aims to bridge this gap through her platform, Police Science Dr., which provides easily digestible content and resources for law enforcement professionals. In this conversation, we discussed the role psychologists play in law enforcement and the benefits of embedding psychologists within police agencies. We also touched on the need for collaboration between academics and practitioners to establish trust and improve outcomes. The discussion highlighted the changing landscape of police recruitment and the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy in policing. We also discussed the challenges of implementing evidence-based principles in law enforcement and the need for better training and education. Overall, our conversation emphasized the importance of using research to inform and improve policing practices. TUMAT Takeaways: • There is a need for research findings to be accessible to frontline practitioners in law enforcement. • Psychologists can play a crucial role in training, advising, and conducting research within police forces. • The lack of awareness and access to research in law enforcement is a barrier to implementing evidence-based practices. • Police Science Dr. aims to bridge the gap between research and practice by providing easily accessible content and resources for law enforcement professionals. • Collaboration between academics and practitioners is critical to establish trust and impact outcomes • The changing landscape of police recruitment and the emphasis on emotional intelligence and empathy • The challenges of implementing evidence-based principles in law enforcement and the need for better training and education Resources: www.policesciencedr.com (www.policesciencedr.com) American Society of Evidence Based Policing (https://www.americansebp.org/) Evidence Based Policing Matrix (https://cebcp.org/evidence-based-policing/the-matrix/)

9. 

   17 May 2024

   Viral Videos, Seltzers and Speedos: Navigating the ups and downs of building a social media empire. A Conversation with Loryn Powell and Shawn Casey

   This episode features our conversation with the coolest couple out there, Loryn Powell and Shawn Casey. Loryn is a social media influencer who has amassed millions of followers across multiple platforms. She is hilarious, brilliantly creative and most of all, has great taste in men (Shawn, we're looking at you). Every job comes with it's fair share of stress and challenges but working in an industry where YOU are your entire brand brings a whole new level of difficulty. Loryn and Shawn share their story of how they got to where they are today, how this lifestyle impacts their personal/family lives and how they each play critical roles in making this unique career path so successful. TUMAT Takeaways: It is important to stay true to yourself and don't constantly compare yourself to others in the industry. Setting boundaries and taking breaks from social media is crucial for mental well-being. Having a supportive community of followers is invaluable and can help counteract the negativity. Gratitude for the opportunities and connections that social media has provided is essential. Chubbies are the gateway drug to speedos. Check out Loryn and Shawn's podcast, The CaPower Hour, here (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz6-TFdatrxlIFzwwdAyVXQ) Join the Seltzpert community, here (https://seltzpert.com/en-usd/) Follow them on all major platforms at: @lorynpowell @shawncey @capowerhour

10. 

    10 May 2024

    All Things Anxiety: Defining, differentiating and diagnosing anxiety in children and adolescents.

    Dr. John Walkup, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, discusses a range of anxiety disorder along with providing a road map for various treatment modalities. He describes three common anxiety disorders in children: separation anxiety, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety. Dr. Walkup emphasizes the importance of understanding the triggers and developmental experiences associated with these disorders. He also discusses the challenges in diagnosing anxiety and the need for a comprehensive approach that considers the root cause and longitudinal analysis. He also discusses the effectiveness of different treatment options, including medication and therapy, and addresses common concerns and misconceptions parents may have. He highlights the need for a collaborative and individualized approach to treatment, considering the unique needs and circumstances of each child. TUMAT Takeaways: • Anxiety is a healthy human emotion, but there are also pathologic forms of anxiety. • Separation anxiety, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety are common anxiety disorders in children. • Understanding the triggers and developmental experiences associated with anxiety disorders is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. • Cognitive-behavioral therapies, such as progressive desensitization and exposure therapy, are effective in treating childhood anxiety. • Parent interventions play a significant role in the treatment of anxiety disorders in children. A comprehensive approach that considers the full context of a child's life and experiences is crucial in the treatment of anxiety and other mental health conditions. • Combining medication and therapy can lead to higher remission rates and better outcomes for children with anxiety. • Parents may have concerns and misconceptions about medication, but it is important to have open and honest discussions with healthcare providers to make informed decisions. • Long-term treatment and rehabilitation may be necessary for children who have experienced chronic anxiety or other mental health conditions. More on Dr. John Walkup: Dr. Walkup is an international authority on Tourette syndrome and has extensive experience as a principal investigator in NIH-funded treatment trials in child and adolescent psychopathology, including anxiety and mania. Dr. Walkup has three main academic areas of interest. His work with Tourette syndrome, uniquely spans psychiatry, child psychiatry and neurology; his expertise in interventions research focuses on the development and evaluation of psychopharmacological and psychosocial treatments for the major psychiatric disorders of childhood including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Tourette syndrome and suicidal behavior; and lastly, he has been involved in developing and evaluating interventions to reduce the large mental health disparities facing Native American youth, specifically drug use and suicide prevention. Dr. Walkup was recently elected president-elect for the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and also serves on the Scientific Advisory Boards of the Trichotillomania Learning Center, the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, and the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. Previously, Dr. Walkup was the Chair of the Medical Advisory Board of the Tourette Association of America. He is also the Deputy Editor for Psychopharmacology for the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. His research has been published in major medical journals including Journal of the American Medical Association and the New England Journal of Medicine, an unusual accomplishment for a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Lurie Children's Hospital Profile (https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/doctors/walkup-john-3765/) Northwestern Medicine Profile (https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/faculty-profiles/az/profile.html?xid=40625)

11. 

    3 May 2024

    When Families Blend: A conversation on relationship dynamics, divorce and navigating the stepfamily process, with Jamie Simkins, LCPC

    Our guest this week is, Jamie Simkins, LCPC. Jamie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and is the owner of Hemispheres Counseling and founder of the Rebel Stepmom Academy. Jamie specializes in addressing the unique challenges faced by stepmothers, helping them navigate complex family dynamics and build healthy, fulfilling relationships. Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, Jamie has further honed her skills with specialized training in family systems therapy and conflict resolution. As a stepmother herself, Jamie understands the specific issues and pressures stepmothers can encounter. She is deeply committed to creating supportive spaces for stepmothers to share their experiences and learn effective coping strategies. TUMAT Takeaways: • The way couples handle conflict is a strong predictor of the health of the relationship. Couples should focus on the way the argue rather than their occurrence, emphasizing kindness, respect, and openness. • Arguments in front of children can be traumatic; it's vital for them to see healthy disagreements and resolutions to feel secure. • Children exposed to toxic arguments may subconsciously replicate these dynamics as adults, attempting to heal childhood traumas. • Blended families need dedicated effort and intent to foster a positive environment, challenging misconceptions about abusive relationships and focusing on healing and growth. • Education and clear communication are vital in addressing the complexities of blended families. • Prioritizing the marital relationship in a blended family setting is essential for a supportive and healthy household. Connect with Jamie, here: ⁠Rebel Stepmoms⁠ (https://www.rebelstepmom.com/) ⁠Hemispheres Counseling⁠ (https://www.hemispherescounseling.com/)

12. 

    26 Apr 2024

    Perinatal Psychology: A discussion on the lifecycle of mental health considerations pre, during and post pregnancy. A conversation with Ashli Gibson, PMHNP, CNM

    Ashli Gibson is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry. Ashli has a background as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in which she developed expertise in prenatal care, birth, postpartum care, and gynecology over the span of six years. Ashli also holds a certificate in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum Support International adding an additional level of proficiency to her skill set. In this episode, we discuss: ·      Providers should be trained in trauma-informed care to ensure patients feel comfortable during gynecological exams. ·      Proactive mental health care is important for women planning to get pregnant to address any pre-existing mental health conditions and ensure a supported journey. ·      Perinatal mental health concerns can manifest as anxiety, depression, OCD, and even postpartum psychosis. ·      Untreated postpartum anxiety and depression can have negative effects on both the mother and the baby. ·      Medication, such as SSRIs, can be safe and effective for treating mental health issues during pregnancy. ·      Infertility treatment can take a toll on mental health, and support from providers and therapists is important. ·      Having a postpartum plan and seeking help early can make a significant difference in mental health outcomes. Additional resources: Fetal brain development studies:  https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/stress-in-pregnancy-alters-brain-development/#:~:text=Maternal%20anxiety%20was%20associated%20with,levels%20in%20the%20fetal%20brain (https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/stress-in-pregnancy-alters-brain-development/#:~:text=Maternal%20anxiety%20was%20associated%20with,levels%20in%20the%20fetal%20brain). Pregnancy registry:  https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/ (https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/) PSI- support groups, general information, provider support: https://www.postpartum.net/ (https://www.postpartum.net/) Trauma informed care resource as well as a great birth resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf4jRfmk1j4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf4jRfmk1j4) Zurzuvae: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-oral-treatment-postpartum-depression (https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-oral-treatment-postpartum-depression)

13. 

    19 Apr 2024

    Understanding Burnout: A Relational Issue - A Conversation with Michael Leiter, PhD

    Michael Leiter, PhD is professor emeritus of psychology at Acadia University and co-author of The Burnout Challenge: Managing People’s Relationships with Their Jobs. In this conversation, Dr. Leiter explains that burnout is more of a relational issue between individuals and their workplaces, rather than a personal problem. He defines burnout as a three-part syndrome: exhaustion, cynicism, and a loss of confidence. The conversation explores how organizations can address burnout and create a healthier work environment. It discusses the catalysts for change, such as leadership recognizing the problem and seeking help. Some key take-a-ways: Addressing burnout requires improving the connection between individuals and their workplaces. Conducting surveys can provide valuable information about the level of burnout within an organization and help identify areas of distress. Setting boundaries and managing work-life balance are important for preventing burnout. Aligning expectations and being aware of core psychological needs can help mitigate burnout. Individuals experiencing burnout can benefit from self-reflection and open communication with managers. Check out "The Burnout Challenge", written by Michael P. Leiter and Christina Maslach, here (https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674251014).

14. 

    11 Apr 2024

    Exploring Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Symptoms, Treatments and Impact - A conversation with Nathaniel Van Kirk, PhD

    This episode focuses on all things "OCD". Join Tony and Jen as the speak with one of the leading experts in the field, Nathaniel Van Kirk, PhD, to navigate the often misunderstood world of obsessive compulsive disorder. Nathaniel Van Kirk, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in severe anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma/PTSD. At McLean Hospital, Dr. Van Kirk is the director of psychological services at the OCD Institute. He is a member of the hospital’s Patient and Family Advisory Committee and Interdisciplinary Recovery Oriented Practice Committee, and also serves as the site facilitator for McLean’s Schwartz Rounds Committee. Dr. Van Kirk’s clinical research focuses on the role of motivation across treatment and the impact of trauma on treatment outcomes, and on promoting innovative methods to assess and conceptualize recovery. Additionally, he is involved in efforts to reduce mental health stigma (such as participating in McLean Hospital’s Deconstructing Stigma campaign), emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between therapists, researchers, and those with mental health challenges, including individuals who work in the mental health field. Key notes from this episode: • OCD can manifest in various ways and is often misunderstood • Living with OCD requires learning to tolerate uncertainty and resisting the urge to engage in rituals • Early identification and intervention can help manage OCD symptoms and improve quality of life • OCD is characterized by intrusive, unwanted, repetitive, and distressing thoughts, images, feelings, urges, or impulses. • Compulsions or rituals are repetitive behaviors or mental acts aimed at neutralizing fear or distress. • OCD can manifest in various ways, including contamination concerns, fear of harm, unacceptable taboo thoughts, and perfectionism. • The brain science behind OCD involves hyperactivity in the frontal lobe and the orbital frontal cortex, leading to constant "what-if" scenarios and difficulty in completing tasks. • Treatment for OCD includes medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and behavioral therapy, specifically exposure response prevention (ERP). Learn more about Dr. Van Kirk, by visiting his website, here. (https://www.mcleanhospital.org/profile/nathaniel-van-kirk) To learn more about OCD, visit the OCD Institutes page, here. (https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/ocd-institute)

15. 

    4 Apr 2024

    Pt. 2 - Trauma, Abuse and the Anatomy of an Apology: A conversation with Dr. Chris Wilson

    Join us for the second half of our conversation with Dr. Chris Wilson. We recommend you go back and listen to Pt. 1 from last week before diving into this episode. Here are some takeaways from this episode: Victimization is not a result of seeking out abusers, but rather abusers taking advantage of vulnerabilities. Apologies should involve accountability, awareness of impact, openness to coaching, and self-reflection. Psychological violence has a long-lasting impact and should be addressed alongside physical violence. Vulnerability, support, and understanding are essential in relationships. Recognizing patterns and prioritizing long-term goals of feeling loved are important for healthy relationships. Past trauma can create sensitivity and insecurity, making it difficult to identify grooming behaviors. Neglect and cultural misogyny can contribute to unhealthy relationship patterns. Challenging societal norms and beliefs is crucial in preventing and addressing abuse.

16. 

    28 Mar 2024

    Pt. 1 - Trauma, Abuse, and the Anatomy of an Apology: A conversation with Chris Wilson, PsyD

    Our guest for this episode is Chris Wilson, PsyD. Chris is a retired licensed psychologist from Portland, Oregon. For eighteen years Chris worked with victims and perpetrators of crime, including seven years with the Oregon Department of Corrections. He currently runs ⁠Being Trauma Informed⁠ (https://beingtraumainformed.com/) where he leads global training seminars on a variety of issues including the neurobiology of trauma, vicarious trauma, and being trauma informed. Chris also testifies as an expert in both civil and criminal trials. In this episode, Chris covers the following: Overview of vicarious trauma and how it differs from burnout Discussion on the concept of "threat to status" The psychology of why abusers abuse The neurobiology of why victims often stay in relationships with an abuser The anatomy of an effective apology If you, or someone you know is impacted by domestic abuse, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline:(800)-799-7233 Beyond being an incredibly skilled and informed psychologist, Chris is also in a band called, "Larry Awesome". Check out their single, ⁠here⁠ (https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TT12BTOf2w4gLjBY1zas1?si=xgkWHJniQd6TrgsGOFyoFg)!

17. 

    21 Mar 2024

    A Discussion on the Psychology of Decision Making, with Neil Shortland, PhD

    Neil Shortland, PhD is an Assistant Professor, Criminology and Justice Studies at University of Massachusetts Lowell. His research focuses on the psychological aspects of domestic and international security. His research portfolio includes funded projects on military decision making (cognitive and neuroscience psychology), the interaction of aggressive cognitions and extremist propaganda (cognitive psychology) and grass-roots programs aimed at counter violent extremism and building societal resistance (developmental and social psychology). Learn more about Neil, here (https://www.uml.edu/research/ctss/faculty/shortland-neil.aspx). This episode is focused on discussing principles from, "Decision Time (https://www.amazon.com/Decision-Time-Make-Choices-Depends-ebook/dp/B09PZDW3PJ)", a book he co-authored along with Laurence Alison, PhD. Neil is also a contributing author on the ground breaking research on field-based rapport solutions, "ORBIT (https://www.amazon.com/ORBIT-Rapport-Based-Interviewing-Enforcement-Security-ebook/dp/B08PL1G2T3/ref=sr_1_2?crid=313ESIJ6BR4E4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.MYA3Xjb1U4ZMR5vxA4nyAXReKja9t_lK3fKQOV8LqkszNPtXwSnd5KzD2H9uKVmKkkSGowHznd9-jOYTV42Q4UMbbEFHJzqM_zHC2fUUVM-pVNowGJe3vY7EC3gcnXDXx8fgo0V48U1-qqmJkpP4K1dPac0w9k1XRV7gz55Z0r-3m-RA9MWpTuveKak5xZHyy5WPB7AHCsKI2l0cDO89XhWuTzhTdQu5AtwP5mGsH1k.Pk_lc8Owh5wLF-1DKglQKieSJChS5DfRIfOC89N0eeI&dib_tag=se&keywords=ORBIT&qid=1711036555&s=digital-text&sprefix=orbit%2Cdigital-text%2C69&sr=1-2)". In this episode, we dive into the following topics: Benefits of making "deliberate difficult decisions" Variables that comprise "sound" decision making A discussion on the "STAR" method to decision making The role emotional intelligence plays in making value-based decisions What the future holds with developing technology assisted decision making platforms (https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2022-03-03) (this one is NUTS)

18. 

    12 Mar 2024

    Interviewing, Introspection and Sled Dogs - A Conversation with Colton Seale

    Colton is a retired FBI agent who also worked as the Director of Training for the High Value Detainee Group (HIG) and currently owns/operates an investigative interviewing training and consulting firm, www.pyxisacademy.com. (https://www.pyxisacademy.com/) Colton walks us through the journey of his early career with the FBI where he started working in remote areas of Alaska. He talks through the personal challenges of moving his girlfriend (later wife) to such a remote destination and shares their experiences for how they not only "made it work" but how their time in Alaska strengthened their relationship. After Alaska, Colton discusses his time with the FBI Fly Team, his persistent curiosity for learning the strategies of effective communication, and shares his personal prescription for managing his own mental health throughout every stage of his life. Key Takeaways: Invest in developing your own emotional intelligence Take time to slow down. Remember your career is one part of your story. Prioritize your relationships (with yourself and those closest to you). The most effective communicators are those who develop and project a genuine curiosity of the other person. General human psychology principles are universal in promoting effective communication. Whether dealing with a high-value terrorist subject or in a disagreement with a co-worker, there are universal principles that work in nearly all settings. Resistance comes from projecting judgement. The event in question should be in the background. Learning about who the person is, their values and the context that got them there is the answer.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 36 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

53

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

51