Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how to use a life crisis productively, drawing on developmental stage theories, existential philosophy, literature, personal experience, and Rick’s clinical work. They examine the anxieties of death, freedom, responsibility, and choice that often underlie these crises, and discuss how we can not only cope with these anxieties but ... Show More
Aug 17
The Psychology of Manipulation: How to Become Manipulation Resistant
Dr. Rick and Forrest explore how to become more resistant to manipulation, discussing terms like gaslighting, DARVO, and love bombing. They talk about why cynicism doesn’t make you immune to manipulation, and how excessive skepticism and trust can go together. They share the “han ... Show More
1h 10m
Aug 10
What’s The Problem With Therapy Speak? August Mailbag
Terms like boundaries, gaslighting, triggers, trauma, and attachment are everywhere now. Dr. Rick and Forrest answer a listener question about the consequences - good and bad - of clinical language escaping the therapy room. They then answer three more questions: an introverted l ... Show More
1h 1m
Aug 3
Burnout: A Practical Guide for Normal People
Dr. Rick and Forrest explore burnout: what it is, why it’s so common, and what people can do about it. They begin by framing burnout as largely a structural problem that individuals are forced to manage. They unpack the six major drivers of burnout, why some people are especially ... Show More
1h 15m
Mar 2025
If You’re Feeling Uncertain & Anxious, You Need to Hear This
<p>Life is hard. Struggles are inevitable for you and for the people you love. But even when things feel overwhelming, there’s always something you can do. </p><p>And in today’s episode, you’re getting a toolkit – a companion guide to all of life’s twists and turns. </p><p>When l ... Show More
1h 21m
Sep 2025
335 | What is Anxiety? | How This Response Leads to Growth
<p>In this episode, I explore what anxiety is, why it arises, and how confronting it can lead to personal growth. I shares my own struggle with agoraphobia and health anxiety, draw on existential thinkers like Jordan Peterson, and outline practical steps for building structure, c ... Show More
26m 50s
Jan 2025
How to Find Your Purpose & Design the Life You Want
<p>In today’s episode, you’ll learn a process to figure out what you really want, design a life you love, and find your purpose. </p><p>If you feel stuck, lost, or unsure about what’s next, this conversation will give you the clarity and tools you’ve been searching for. </p><p>Th ... Show More
1h 33m
Jan 2024
269 | The Complexity of Life | Existential Philosophy
<p>On today's episode, I dive into the world of existentialism and why this reflects the anxiety, stress, and confusion you are currently combating. We inhabit a small walled off structure of known territory, surrounded by an ocean of complexity. When too much of this complexity ... Show More
27m 1s