In this episode, Dr. David Puder, alongside experts Anthony Bateman, Dr. Brandon Unruh, and Robert Drozek, delves into the complexities of treating pathological narcissism with Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT). They explore practical strategies to help individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. Learn how MBT can transform the therapeutic journey for those who often feel misunderstood or resistant to change.

In this episode, we explore the emotional toll of burnout on healthcare professionals with Dr. Jessi Gold, a psychiatrist and Chief Wellness Officer at the University of Tennessee System. Burnout often manifests as depersonalization—a form of emotional detachment that shields clinicians from the relentless trauma they witness. Dr. Gold delves into how this protective mechanism can lead to emotional numbness, distancing healthcare workers from their patients and even themselves.

We discuss the concept of alexithymia, where prolonged detachment causes clinicians to lose touch with their own emotions, making it challenging to process trauma or empathize with patients. Dr. Gold offers practical strategies for overcoming burnout, such as early intervention, therapy, setting emotional boundaries, and advocating for systemic change within healthcare institutions. Tune in to learn how reconnecting with the meaning behind their work can help clinicians rediscover a sense of purpose and resilience in their careers.

In this episode, Dr. David Puder, alongside guests Rachel Blackston and Dr. Eric Bender, dives into the psychological insights presented in Pixar's Inside Out 2. Together, they explore the complex emotional world of adolescence, focusing on the challenges Riley faces as she navigates new emotions—like Anxiety, Envy, and Embarrassment—that reflect common experiences during teenage years. Through expert analysis, the conversation unpacks how these emotions influence identity formation, self-doubt, and social dynamics. The discussion also addresses the impact of childhood experiences, how adolescents process peer pressures, and the role of parental responses in supporting emotional growth. Join us as we delve into the film’s depiction of teenage mental health and its psychological accuracy, providing parents, therapists, and teens themselves with valuable takeaways on emotional resilience and self-discovery.