Keyword: agapic love

Love is the Grease on the Gears of Life December 27, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella, Michael Jessen

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the essential role of love in our lives, likening it to grease that keeps the gears of life moving smoothly. He discusses how love, in its various forms—be it romantic, familial, or platonic—can rejuvenate our spirits and keep us engaged in life. Armand shares insights on the dynamics of relationships, the challenges of maintaining love over time, and how the traits that initially attract us to partners can later become sources of frustration. With guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Michael Jessen, he delves into the complexities of love and relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in overcoming disillusionment.

Exploring Trust December 14, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the concept of trust, discussing its significance and the complexities surrounding it. He shares insights from a recent Gallup poll on the trustworthiness of various professions, revealing that nurses and pharmacists rank highest in public trust, while members of Congress and lobbyists rank lowest. Armand emphasizes the importance of healthy skepticism and self-awareness in relationships, suggesting that true love can exist without absolute trust. He encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with trust and the impact of past relationships on their current perceptions. The episode features engaging discussions with guest Linda Vanella Vanella Vidal, who shares her perspectives on self-trust and relationships.

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.

Fear of Close Relationships October 4, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the reasons behind people’s fear of forming close relationships. He discusses how past experiences and childhood conditioning can lead to a reluctance to love and connect with others. Armand emphasizes the importance of recognizing these fears and understanding that love should not be equated with pain or control. He encourages listeners to confront their fears and to seek healthier, more fulfilling relationships. The episode also touches on the dynamics of control in relationships and the role of victimhood in emotional 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.

Protecting Others and Ourselves August 10, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Joseph, Linda Vanella, Lynn, Tom Bond, Yvonne

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complex motivations behind the desire to protect others, often stemming from our own insecurities and fears. He discusses how individuals may attach themselves to those they feel compelled to protect, sometimes as a means of safeguarding their own emotional well-being. Through various anecdotes and examples, including relationships affected by addiction and mental health challenges, Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their protective instincts and the potential consequences of overextending themselves. The conversation delves into the Enneagram’s three instincts—self-preservation, social, and sexual—and how they influence our relationships and sense of safety.

Radical Thinking, The Null Hypothesis June 14, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Kenny Baron, Lauren Sykes, Linda Vanella, Sherri Siegel

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of the ‘null hypothesis’ in relationships, suggesting that people often choose partners based on their ‘false selves’ rather than their true identities. He discusses how societal pressures and childhood experiences shape our adaptive selves, leading individuals to present curated versions of themselves to their partners. Through a series of engaging dialogues with guests, including Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Sherri Siegel, the show delves into the complexities of love, acceptance, and the challenges of revealing one’s true self in intimate relationships.

Exploring the Real Self and Love April 1, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the complexities of the real self versus the outer self, questioning the authenticity of our identities. He discusses the concept of the loving self and how it relates to our feelings of satisfaction and connection with others. Through various examples, including relationships and personal experiences, Armand challenges listeners to reflect on their own perceptions of love and authenticity. The conversation emphasizes that love often reflects how we feel about ourselves in the presence of others, prompting a deeper exploration of what it means to be truly real.

Reactions to Catastrophe March 16, 2011

In this episode, host Armand DiMele discusses the varied human reactions to catastrophic events, particularly focusing on the recent disasters in Japan. He explores cultural differences in responses, emphasizing the Japanese values of security and harmony. Through engaging conversations with callers, the show delves into personal experiences of fear, helplessness, and the quest for understanding in the face of tragedy. DeMille encourages listeners to reflect on their own reactions and the importance of compassion in times of crisis.

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.