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April Fool’s Day and Resilience April 1, 2015

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Ed Zara

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexities of humor, pain, and resilience, particularly in the context of April Fool’s Day. He discusses the impact of cognitive dissonance, the importance of trustworthiness in fostering resilience, and the challenges faced by children and adults dealing with trauma. Guest Ed Zara shares insights on helping children recover and build resilience through honest relationships. The conversation delves into the deeper emotional struggles individuals face and the significance of being present and trustworthy in the healing process.

Mental Toughness and Relationships December 30, 2014

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Ben Starr, Giullian Gioiello

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the impact of home life and relationships on personal success and mental toughness. Joined by guests Giullian Gioiello and Ben Starr, they explore strategies for building mental resilience, including taking responsibility for one’s actions, not taking things personally, and letting go of the past. The conversation also touches on the importance of intimacy in relationships and how the dynamics of a partner can influence one’s professional life. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their growth and the role of their relationships in shaping their success.

Veterans and the Battles We Face November 11, 2014

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of being a veteran, not just in the military sense, but as a metaphor for anyone who has faced and overcome personal struggles. He discusses the importance of recognizing our own battles, whether they be against addiction, illness, or emotional trauma. Through engaging conversations with callers, Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the resilience they have shown in the face of adversity. The show emphasizes the power of community and connection in healing and personal growth.

Victimhood and Power June 25, 2014

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Billy Ann, Giullian Gioiello, Grace, Joe, Mark, Ori Yumini-Morrison, Paul

Category: Social Dynamics and Psychology

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the concept of victimhood and its psychological implications. He explores how individuals often adopt a victim mentality to gain empathy and support from others, while also examining the dynamics of power in relationships. Through various anecdotes and caller interactions, Armand highlights the importance of recognizing one’s own role in situations of perceived victimization and encourages listeners to shift their perspective from being victims to becoming empowered individuals. The conversation delves into the complexities of relationships, forgiveness, and the emotional strategies people use to navigate their lives.

Exploring Feelings and Therapy June 11, 2014

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the importance of feelings in therapy and the role of therapists in helping clients access their emotions. He shares a poignant story about a woman mourning her mother’s death and reflects on the challenges of managing feelings in therapeutic settings. The conversation also touches on the mismanagement of Pacifica Radio and WBAI, emphasizing the need for support to keep valuable programming alive. Throughout the episode, DeMille encourages listeners to confront their feelings and consider the deeper emotional connections that shape their experiences.

Emotions and Fear January 29, 2014

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complexity of emotions, focusing on fear as a primary feeling that many struggle with. He discusses how anxiety can lead to a sense of danger and the desire for security, often resulting in avoidance behaviors. Armand emphasizes the importance of recognizing and processing these feelings rather than suppressing them. Through listener interactions, he highlights the commonality of these experiences and encourages individuals to confront their fears and seek understanding. The conversation delves into the interplay between personal history and emotional responses, aiming to empower listeners to lead a more positively minded life.

Dignity and Self-Respect September 18, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Majid Ali

Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of dignity and its relationship with self-respect. He discusses how individuals often abdicate their dignity through justifications and denial, particularly in the context of cheating and exploitation. Through anecdotes and reflections, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s self-worth and the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures that affect dignity, particularly in relation to health issues like diabetes and the emotional struggles faced by individuals. Ultimately, Armand encourages listeners to confront their realities and restore their sense of dignity.

Funny Thinking September 17, 2013

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Psychology and Cultural Insights

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of ‘funny thinking’—irrational beliefs that lead to emotional disturbance and unhappiness. He discusses how our thoughts can create stress and affect our spirit, particularly in the context of physical illness and emotional challenges. Armand shares insights from his experiences as a psychotherapist, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and the dangers of seeking external validation. He provides a list of common irrational thoughts and encourages listeners to identify their feelings to better understand their emotional states. This episode aims to help individuals recognize and challenge their funny thinking patterns for a more positive mindset.

Mentoring and Sponsoring August 14, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Esther Armand

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele engages in a deep conversation with Esther Armand about the importance of mentoring and sponsoring individuals in need. They explore the cultural significance of community support, the role of elders, and the transformative power of mentorship. Esther shares her experiences working with young women, particularly those who have faced incarceration, and emphasizes the need for a willing spirit in both mentors and mentees. The discussion highlights the essence of recognizing and nurturing brilliance in others, as well as the challenges and rewards of guiding individuals towards their potential.

Exploring the Nature of Change August 13, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Andrea Katz, Andrew Phillips, Giullian Gioiello

Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the inevitability of change and the psychological transitions that accompany it. He reflects on the recent changes at WBAI, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the physical act of change and the mental adaptation required. Armand explores the complexities of change, including the stages of denial, anger, bargaining, acceptance, and depression, and how these relate to personal experiences such as relationships and career shifts. He encourages listeners to embrace change with curiosity and to communicate their feelings about transitions. The episode highlights the significance of navigating change positively to foster growth and resilience.