Category: Love, Relationships, and Psychology

Exploring Love and Bonding November 8, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the complexities of love and bonding, exploring how humans seek affection and connection through various behaviors and personality types. He discusses the role of oxytocin in creating feelings of attachment and how different strategies, such as perfectionism, caregiving, and performance, influence our relationships. Armand emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own motivations and the dynamics of love, encouraging listeners to reflect on how they are loved and how they love others. The discussion also touches on the Enneagram personality types and their impact on interpersonal connections.

Eight Phases of Love and Loving Relationships September 1, 2011

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of love and relationships, outlining his philosophy on the eight significant phases of love. From the exhilarating honeymoon phase to the challenges of long-term commitment, he discusses how timing, chemistry, and personal circumstances shape our romantic experiences. Armand emphasizes the importance of understanding these phases to foster healthier relationships and navigate the inevitable changes that come with love. He also touches on the hormonal influences that affect our feelings and behaviors within relationships.

Valentine’s Day Reflections February 14, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the essence of love as Valentine’s Day approaches. He reflects on the unique dynamics of romantic relationships, emphasizing the concept of ‘I love us’ over ‘I love you.’ Armand discusses the hormonal influences on love, the complexities of childhood experiences, and how they shape adult relationships. He highlights the importance of honesty and vulnerability in love, suggesting that true connections often emerge from overcoming deception. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to appreciate the beautiful ache of love, recognizing it as a continuous journey rather than a destination.

Exploring the Chemistry of Love and Relationships September 2, 2010

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the intricate chemistry of love, discussing how initial attraction is influenced by body language, tone of voice, and the powerful hormones involved in bonding. He explores the three stages of love: lust, attraction, and attachment, highlighting the roles of neurotransmitters like adrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and vasopressin. DeMille also examines how these chemical reactions impact relationships, family dynamics, and even mental health, suggesting that issues like PMS and ADD may be symptomatic of broader relational tensions. The conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and connection.

Kissing and Its Impact on Relationships March 11, 2010

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the fascinating dynamics of kissing, discussing its hormonal effects and significance in romantic relationships. He delves into how kissing can influence sexual attraction through the exchange of pheromones and testosterone, as well as its role in emotional bonding via oxytocin and dopamine. The conversation touches on cultural differences in kissing practices and the psychological implications of intimacy. Listeners share personal experiences, highlighting the deep connections formed through kissing and the importance of maintaining this intimate act in relationships.

Bonding and Therapy July 23, 2009

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of bonding in therapy and relationships, emphasizing the importance of oxytocin in fostering connections. He explores why individuals may leave therapy prematurely, citing reasons such as anger towards the therapist, financial constraints, and a lack of perceived progress. DeMille highlights the significance of trust and emotional connection in therapeutic settings, arguing that effective therapy often hinges on the bond between therapist and client. He also touches on the biological aspects of bonding, including the roles of oxytocin and prolactin in human relationships, and how these hormones influence feelings of love and attachment.

Exploring the Nature of Love October 28, 2008

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Ari Erwin, Dr. Bernard Starr, Helen Fisher, Lucy Brown

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the complexities of love, questioning whether it is merely an emotion or a chemical state. Drawing on research by anthropologist Helen Fisher, the discussion explores the biochemical and neurological underpinnings of romantic love, including the brain’s reward systems. The conversation touches on the challenges and joys of love, the risks involved, and how love evolves over time. Armand also reflects on personal experiences and the broader implications of love in human relationships.

Eight Phases of Love and Loving Relationships March 1, 2008

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores his philosophy on love, detailing the eight significant phases of romantic relationships. He discusses the initial honeymoon phase, where passion and chemistry dominate, followed by the reality testing phase, where partners begin to see each other more clearly. As relationships evolve, they face challenges such as the ‘seven-year itch’ and the need for security and acceptance. Dimele emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding in navigating these phases, ultimately leading to a deep, lasting connection. He invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and relationships.

Kissing: The Science Behind the Connection February 6, 2008

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the fascinating science of kissing, or osculation, and its profound implications on human relationships. He discusses how kissing serves as a complex exchange of information, revealing genetic compatibility and emotional connections. Drawing on research from evolutionary psychology, DeMille highlights the biological and chemical responses triggered by kissing, including the release of oxytocin, the bonding hormone. He also delves into cultural perceptions of kissing and its significance across different societies. This enlightening conversation encourages listeners to appreciate the deeper meanings behind this seemingly simple act.

Memory and Love September 26, 2007

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Roberta Maria Patti

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Roberta Maria Patti explore the intricate relationship between memory and love. They discuss recent scientific discoveries about how migrating birds perceive the Earth’s magnetic field, drawing parallels to human emotional connections. The conversation delves into the complexities of attraction, the role of early childhood memories, and the mysterious factors that influence whom we love. With insights into neurobiology and psychology, they challenge traditional theories of attraction and bonding, emphasizing that many elements of love remain elusive and unexplainable. The episode invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and memory.