Episodes

  • 105. How Can We Cultivate a Sense of Safety to Overcome Anxiety?
    Jan 8 2025

    In this episode of the Anxiety Podcast, we dive into the fundamental concept of safety.

    I share personal stories about my father's struggles with mental health during the holidays and how these experiences left me feeling unsafe and on edge as a child.

    Feeling safe is such an important part of healing from anxiety, so I talk about ways to create that sense of safety for yourself. I include simple but effective strategies like mindful breathing and self-soothing techniques. More than anything, I want to remind listeners that healing takes time and effort, but it’s possible to find those small moments of safety and start easing the constant state of hypervigilance.

    Thank you for listening, and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX ______________________________

    TIMESTAMPS

    Introduction to Safety (00:00:00) Dr. Kennedy introduces the topic of safety and its relation to anxiety, particularly during the holiday season.

    Childhood Experiences of Unsafety (00:01:02) He shares personal anecdotes about his father's mental health struggles affecting his sense of safety as a child.

    The Importance of Feeling Safe (00:02:02) Dr. Kennedy emphasizes that feeling safe is crucial for healing from anxiety and overcoming childhood trauma.

    Hypervigilance and Its Impact (00:04:13) He discusses how hypervigilance prevents individuals from experiencing safety and contributes to ongoing anxiety.

    Creating Safety in the Body (00:06:25) Dr. Kennedy explains the need for physical safety to combat hypervigilance and promote healing.

    The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System (00:10:08) He describes how the nervous system's balance affects feelings of safety and anxiety.

    Connection and Safety (00:11:10) Dr. Kennedy highlights the importance of social connections in establishing safety and overcoming anxiety.

    Developing a Sense of Safety (00:12:33) He suggests methods for creating safety through body awareness and present-moment sensations.

    Addressing Childhood Trauma (00:15:44) Dr. Kennedy reflects on how childhood experiences of trauma impact current perceptions of safety.

    Using the Mind to Acknowledge Safety (00:16:55) He discusses the interplay between mind and body in recognizing and establishing a sense of safety.

    Overcoming Hypervigilance (00:17:57) Dr. Kennedy explains how hypervigilance blocks connection and healing, leading to addictions and distractions.

    Practical Ways to Create Safety (00:19:10) He offers strategies for improving breathing and staying present to cultivate safety within oneself.

    Creating a Sense of Safety (00:20:20) Dr. Kennedy discusses the importance of recognizing safety in the moment, despite discomfort.

    Daily Practices for Safety (00:21:21) He emphasizes the need for daily practices to foster a sense of safety and reduce hypervigilance.

    Reversing Childhood Coping Strategies (00:21:21) Dr. Kennedy explains how to reverse childhood coping strategies related to hypervigilance and safety.

    Small Steps to Safety (00:22:33) He encourages taking small steps to create safety, which can accumulate over time for greater security.

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • 104. Hormones, Anxiety, and the Art of Mindful Eating: A Functional Approach to Well-Being
    Dec 29 2024

    Hey everyone, welcome back to The AnxietyRX Podcast! In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Megan Lyons, a functional medicine expert who specializes in endocrine health and nutrition.

    Dr. Lyons opens up about her own journey with anxiety and hormonal imbalances, which were heavily tied to her high-achieving lifestyle. We dive into how our childhood experiences can shape the way we show up as adults, and explore the complex link between hormones and mental health.

    We also talk about why taking a personalized approach to nutrition and lifestyle changes is so important for long-term healing.

    Dr. Lyons makes a powerful case for looking at the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—when it comes to achieving real wellness.

    It’s a great conversation, and I think you’ll find it really insightful. Tune in!

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

    If you liked this conversation with Dr. Lyons, you can take a short quiz and receive a file with a useful guide, by clicking the link below:

    https://form.typeform.com/to/DrqW4qlv?typeform-source=www.thelyonsshare.org

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:33 - Dr. Lyons' Work

    01:24 - Personal Journey into Functional Medicine

    06:22 - Understanding Anxiety and Its Roots

    07:50 - Patient Assessment Process

    10:40 - Adrenal Burnout Discussion

    12:34 - Hormonal Changes and Anxiety

    14:22 - Impact of Antidepressants

    16:31 - Supporting Patients on Medications

    17:05 - Recommended Supplements for Anxiety

    18:28 - Ideal Patient Profile

    20:05 - Importance of Connection in Healing

    21:26 - Initial Steps with New Clients

    22:51 - Insulin Resistance and Surprising Health Markers

    23:32 - Intermittent Fasting Insights

    24:56 - Importance of Real Nutrition

    26:36 - B Vitamins and MTHFR

    27:50 - Top Supplements for Perimenopausal Women

    29:48 - Cod Liver Oil and Omega Supplements

    31:33 - Adaptogens for Anxiety

    33:08 - Nutrition and Anxiety Connection

    37:03 - Hydration and Food Colorings

    39:11 - Blood Sugar Balancing

    41:00 - Empowering Nutrition Awareness

    42:14 - Celebrating Small Wins in Nutrition

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    46 mins
  • 103. Dads, Are You Listening? Lessons on Parenting and Connection
    Dec 15 2024

    In this episode, I chat with Ian Abbott about the challenges of parenting, especially from a dad's point of view. We talk about how being aware of emotions is key and how parental anxiety can affect kids.

    Ian shares some great tips from his parenting classes for dads, focusing on how important it is for fathers to connect with their children's feelings.

    We discuss how to find the right balance between pushing kids to grow and giving them support, how curiosity helps us understand emotions, and how parenting roles are changing.

    The conversation centers on creating a safe space for open talks and emotional growth.

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:52 - Challenges in Parenting

    01:38 - Emotional Awareness in Parenting

    02:59 - Men Seeking Help

    04:07 - Energetic Influence on Children

    05:49 - Stereotypes of Fatherhood

    06:52 -Guiding Children Through Challenges

    07:27 - Emotional Development in Boys

    09:17 - Goals of Parenting Classes

    10:07 - Cultural Stigma Around Men's Emotions

    10:26 - Benefits of Men's Groups

    11:20 - Single Dads vs. Single Moms

    12:14 - Nurturing and Challenging Dynamics

    13:01 - Importance of Emotional Resilience

    14:01 - Experiences of Discomfort

    15:52 - Personal Growth Through Challenges

    17:42 - Validating Emotions in Parenting

    18:52 - Understanding Immersion in Parenting

    19:10 - Information vs. Conversation in Courses

    20:19 - The Importance of Slowing Down

    23:03 - Curiosity Over Fixing

    23:59 - Building Resilience in Parenting

    26:44 - Emotional Immaturity in Parenting

    27:16 - Role Reversal in Parenting

    29:02 - Modeling Healthy Behavior

    30:20 - Humor as a Coping Mechanism

    31:54 - Parenting Daughters Softly

    32:08 - Common Challenges in Parenting

    33:17 - Self-Awareness and Reflection

    34:43 - Visualizing Conflict and Repair

    35:03 - The Importance of Repair

    36:01 - Handling Discomfort in Parenting

    36:59 - Listening vs. Fixing

    38:00 - Asking for Understanding

    39:16 - Girls and Emotional Expression

    40:18 - Creating Open Conversations

    41:01 - Body Awareness and Emotional Regulation

    42:35 - Using Self as a Reference Point

    43:49 - The Power of Connection

    44:34 - Normalizing Male Emotions

    45:14 - Emotional Sovereignty

    46:30 - Shame and Emotional Disconnect

    47:07 - Finding Ian's Course

    48:37 - Shared Experiences in Parenting Classes

    49:27 - Learning and Empowerment

    50:00 - Managing Children's Emotional Outbursts

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    52 mins
  • 102. Creating Safe Spaces: Unlocking Human Potential
    Dec 8 2024

    In this episode of The AnxietyRX Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Nick Holton and Dr. Adam Wright as we explore the powerful connection between trauma, resilience, and well-being.

    I dive into why I believe the traditional medical focus on medication isn't enough and why a holistic approach, including spiritual healing, is so important.

    Dr. Holton shares his thoughts on how having a clear sense of purpose and value-based goals can help us unlock our full potential.

    Dr. Wright offers insights from sports psychology, explaining how controlled exposure to stress is key to building resilience.

    We wrap up by discussing the concept of "anti-fragility" — how, with the right support, we can actually thrive through adversity.

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:31 - Dr. Nick Holton's Background

    01:53 - Dr. Adam Wright's Experience

    03:08 - Disenchantment with Systems

    04:32 - Importance of Purpose

    05:09 - Concept of Anti-Fragility

    07:31 - Proactive Resilience Building

    09:10 - Childhood Trauma and Resilience

    10:14 - Defining Anti-Fragility

    12:42 - Cultural Influence on Resilience

    13:55 - Trauma's Impact on High Achievers

    14:38 - Talent and Trauma Correlation

    18:27 - Trauma and Cellular Memory

    19:06 - Understanding Trauma and Sensitivity

    20:01 - Expanding Capacity and Resilience

    21:15 - Cortisol Response and Inherited Trauma

    22:15 - Reframing Trauma Perspectives

    24:44 - The Importance of Safety in Healing

    25:17 - Neurogenesis and Safety

    27:37 - Applying Skills to Real-Life Challenges

    28:30 - Navigating Stress Responses

    31:02 - Health Management vs. Sick Management

    32:12 - Client Goals and Progression

    34:04 - Case Studies in Performance Improvement

    37:44 - Defining Mental Health

    38:18 - The Reward of Worry

    40:10 - Defining Mental Wellness

    42:01 - The Role of Joy

    44:13 - Contrast in Life

    45:06 - Tolerating Negative Feelings

    48:27 - Creating a New Narrative

    50:19 - Optimizing Performance

    51:12 - Finding Resources

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • 101. Laughing Through the Chaos: How Faith, Humor, and Psychedelics Shape Our Journeys with Anxiety
    Dec 2 2024

    Today I sit down with comedian Damonde Tschritter to chat about our personal experiences with anxiety, alcohol, and psychedelics.

    We share some funny and heartfelt stories from our stand-up comedy careers, including one wild tale where Damonde performed with severe alcohol poisoning—talk about pushing through!

    We also dive into the world of psychedelics, with Damonde opening up about his life-changing experience with ayahuasca, while I talk about the more challenging side of my own journey.

    Along the way, we discuss the power of faith, grounding techniques, and how a shift in perspective can make all the difference when it comes to managing anxiety and facing the uncertainty life throws our way.

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    02:40 - Alcohol Poisoning Story

    03:09 - Medical Intervention

    04:28 - Unexpected Performance

    05:25 - Adrenaline and Performance

    07:23 - Sobriety and Stand-Up

    09:14 - Panic Attacks Experience

    11:32 - Comparison of Professions

    15:33 - The Art of Timing in Comedy

    18:49 - Life-Altering Health Scare

    20:27 - Impact of Near-Death Experience

    23:04 - Ayahuasca Experience Discussion

    24:18 - Transformation After Ayahuasca

    25:10 - Spiritual Insights from Ayahuasca

    28:10 - Change in Alcohol Consumption

    29:26 - Varied Experiences with Ayahuasca

    31:06 - Neuroscience of Psychedelics

    32:16 - Psychedelics and Experience

    33:36 - Control and Anxiety

    34:38 - Perception of Time

    35:17 - Facing Fears Through Purging

    36:26 - Imagery and Messages

    37:38 - The Encounter with an Entity

    39:09 - The Messenger Show

    40:16 - Messages to Share

    42:43 - Connecting Through Shared Experiences

    44:44 - Spiritual Component in Medicine

    46:43 - Microdosing as an Introduction

    50:35 - Personal Reflections on Ayahuasca

    51:30 - The Concept of Greater Existence

    52:44 - Perception Limitations

    54:25 - Facing Fears

    59:51 - The Reward Beyond Fear

    01:00:46 - Morning Rituals and Calmness

    01:02:33 - The Importance of Faith

    01:04:27 - Reflections on Adversity

    01:06:14 - Faith in the Journey

    01:06:29 - Daily Mantra

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 7 mins
  • 100. Sipping from Your Own Cup: The Essential Role of Self-Care in Healing Anxiety
    Nov 24 2024

    In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Nicole Cain, a therapist and author of Panic Proof. We dive into a heartfelt conversation about the roots of anxiety, especially how childhood experiences shape what we feel as adults.

    Dr. Cain opens up about her own journey with anxiety and shares valuable insights from her work, including why it's so important to address the deeper issues behind our anxiety—not just the symptoms.

    We talk a lot about the power of self-care, reconnecting with your inner child, and taking a more holistic approach to healing.

    If you're looking for lasting relief, this episode will encourage you to face your emotions and start the healing process.

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    01:17 - The Role of the Oldest Child

    02:55 - Core Memory of Anxiety

    03:56 - Understanding Family Dynamics

    04:20 - The Impact of Anxiety

    05:53 - Adaptive Mechanisms in Anxiety

    07:07 - Fragmentation of Self

    09:23 - Fractured Identity and Anxiety

    12:59 - Mind-Body Connection

    14:15 - Writing "Panic Proof"

    18:40 - The Journey to Recovery

    19:38 - Unresolved Grief and Anxiety

    20:58 - Connecting with the Inner Child

    22:01 - Processing Mechanisms in Healing

    23:46 - Using Photographs for Emotional Evocation

    24:43 - The Role of Psychedelics in Healing

    26:25 - Addiction as a Temporary Connection Tool

    29:05 - Understanding Panic Attacks

    30:56 - The Role of Awareness in Anxiety

    33:21 - Survival Mode and Rational Thinking

    37:26 - The Therapeutic Order in Naturopathy

    39:35 - Addressing Obstacles to Cure

    42:25 - The Limits of Conventional Medicine

    43:47 - Discussion on Medication vs. Root Cause

    45:12 - Case Study of Panic Colitis

    48:22 - The Alarm Anxiety Cycle

    51:31 - Inner Child Work and Healing

    55:25 - Personal Agency as an Antidote to Anxiety

    56:49 - Reflection on Fear of Flying

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Power of Presence: Bridging Science and Spirituality for a Holistic Approach
    Nov 17 2024

    Today we’re diving into a fascinating conversation with Debra Doerksen, a spiritual medium and author.

    In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of anxiety, spirituality, and healing. Debra will bring her wisdom on the energetic side of our existence, showing how spirituality can be a key piece in managing anxiety.

    Together, we’ll talk about the importance of a holistic approach to healing—one that brings together the mind, body, and spirit—and the critical roles of curiosity, connection, and community in navigating anxiety.

    It’s an open, honest, and deeply insightful conversation you won’t want to miss!

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    01:05 - Spiritual Connection in Healing

    01:30 - Rigid Nature of Medicine

    02:47 - Merging Science and Spirituality

    04:12 - Childhood Trauma and Anxiety

    05:32 - Energetic Nature of Existence

    06:36 - Anxiety and Spiritual Awareness

    07:27 - Misunderstanding Anxiety Symptoms

    08:25 - Energy Exchange in Relationships

    09:09 - Societal Views on Anxiety

    10:54 - Skepticism and Spirituality

    12:00- Crisis and Energetic Awareness

    15:24 - Anxiety Symptoms and Energy

    16:19 - Mind as a Servant

    17:37 - Healing and Sensitivity

    18:31 - Therapeutic Tools for Healing

    19:27 - Spiritual Beings Having a Human Experience

    20:21 - Experiencing Detachment

    21:21 - Understanding Anxiety

    23:16 - Objecting Without Contracting

    24:04 - Connecting to the Body

    25:00 - Navigating Sensitivity

    26:02 - Curiosity Over Fear

    28:01 - Trauma and the Body

    30:41 - Acknowledging Pain

    32:26 - Energy and Spirit Connection

    33:43 - The Role of Faith

    38:13 - Healing Through Mediumship

    40:09 - Skepticism and Openness

    42:15 - The Importance of Connection in Healing

    44:10 - Medical Training vs. Spirituality

    45:07 - The Complexity of Healing

    46:27 - Intergenerational Trauma and Healing

    49:08 - Anxiety and Grief Connection

    51:53 - The Role of Thoughts in Anxiety

    53:12 - Separation and Anxiety

    55:12 - Body Awareness in Trauma

    57:40 - Mind-Body Connection

    58:51 - Recognizing Unproductive Thoughts

    59:50 - Trauma and Energy

    01:00:20 - Breath and Color as Connection

    01:01:40 - Sensation Without Explanation

    01:03:14 - Writing and Vulnerability

    01:04:12 - Eternal Connection

    01:05:00 - Skepticism and Growth

    01:06:39 - Practical Spirituality

    01:07:35 - Community and Sharing

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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Dancing with Discomfort: The Surprising Benefits of Play in Healing Trauma
    Nov 10 2024

    Hey there, welcome back to The AnxietyRX Podcast! I’m Dr. Russ, and today I’ve got a special guest, Chelsea Horton, who’s an amazing expert in body-based therapy. We’re going to chat about something really important: the connection between anxiety, trauma, and creative expression.

    We often think of therapy as just sitting and talking, but Chelsea and I explore why that’s not always enough.

    We’ll dig into how movement and play can really help us work through trauma. Chelsea also shares why hands-on learning is so crucial in therapy.

    We talk about the need to reconnect with our bodies, create a safe space, and empower ourselves in the healing process. It’s all about taking a holistic approach—mixing mind, body, and creativity for deal healing.

    So, grab a comfy seat and join us for this enlightening conversation!

    Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

    PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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    TIMESTAMPS

    00:00 - Introduction

    03:16 - Chelsea's Background

    04:32 - Experiencing Trauma

    05:03 - Movement and Trauma Processing

    06:29 - Play and Safety in Healing

    08:46 - Choice and Agency in Healing

    10:05 - Evolving from Childhood Trauma

    11:55 - Overcoming Inertia

    14:47 - The Alarm-Anxiety Cycle

    16:38 - Building Trust with the Inner Child

    18:43 - Neuroscience of Trauma

    19:10 - Understanding Body Connection

    20:16 - Mind-Body Disconnect

    21:23 - The Role of Neuroscience

    22:30 - Living in the Moment

    23:17 - Grounding Techniques

    24:18 - Familiarity and Security

    27:06 - Healing Through Discomfort

    28:45 - Coping Mechanisms and Anxiety

    29:47 - Understanding the Body's Role

    30:31 - Creating Expression Through Movement

    32:07 - Rewiring Emotional Pathways

    34:08 - Science vs. Healing

    35:02 - Embodiment and Creativity

    37:41 - Connecting with the Inner Child

    41:01 - Relational Patterns in Trauma

    43:59 - Concerns About Trauma Practices

    45:17 - The Limitations of Academic Training

    46:15 - Importance of Repetition in Healing

    47:02 - Criticism of the Term 'Empath'

    47:58 - Cognitive vs. Experiential Healing

    48:04 - Skills-Based Approach in Somatic Practice

    49:10 - Concerns About Rapid Trauma Transformation

    50:05 - The Long Process of Unlearning

    51:50 - Importance of a Year-Long Program

    56:19 - The Role of Community in Healing

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    59 mins