self-help |

Anxiety: Friend or Foe March 26, 2013

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of anxiety with Dr. Sarah Denning, founder of Adaptive Behavioral Therapy. They explore the nature of anxiety, its mechanisms, and how it can serve both as a motivator and a hindrance. Dr. Denning introduces her Anxiety Notebook Series, emphasizing the importance of identifying anxiety levels and understanding their origins. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing anxiety, including recognizing physical symptoms, the role of movement, and the significance of resensitizing oneself to lower levels of stress. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their anxiety constructively and learn to navigate its challenges.

Interview with Jack Canfield December 18, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Jack Canfield, Rachel Hutt

Category: Philosophy and Personal Growth

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the concept of success and the importance of focus with renowned author Jack Canfield, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. They explore how emotions, particularly sadness, can impact decision-making and the significance of prioritizing personal goals. Canfield shares insights from his book, ‘The Power of Focus,’ emphasizing the need for clarity in one’s objectives and the role of good habits in achieving success. The conversation also touches on the necessity of surrounding oneself with positive influences and the techniques for overcoming distractions and toxic relationships.

Worrying: Understanding the Roots and Effects April 18, 2012

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the nature of worrying, its origins, and its impact on our lives. He discusses how worrying can stem from deep-seated fears of abandonment and rejection, often rooted in childhood experiences. DeMille highlights the maladaptive schemas that contribute to a person’s tendency to worry and the psychological traps that can ensnare individuals. He emphasizes that while concern can be healthy, excessive worry is unproductive and can hinder problem-solving abilities. The episode encourages listeners to understand their worries and find healthier ways to cope.

Losing Control April 11, 2012

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella

Category: Emotional Intelligence and Communication

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of losing control, particularly in the context of anger and compulsive behaviors. He explores how various factors, including alcohol, emotional wounds, and hormonal influences, can lead to moments of rage or impulsivity. The conversation delves into the psychological underpinnings of these reactions and the importance of honesty in expressing emotions. Armand emphasizes that losing control is not a normal response and encourages listeners to understand the triggers behind their feelings. The episode also addresses the societal pressures that can inhibit self-expression and the need for healthy coping mechanisms.

Adaptive Behavioral Therapy and Understanding Anxiety April 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Sarah Denning

Category: Emotional and Mental Health

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Denning discusses her insights on anxiety, drawing from her work with the Anxiety Notebook Series. She explains how anxiety is learned as a behavioral response from early experiences and explores the neurological mechanisms behind it. The conversation covers the spectrum of anxiety, from mild discomfort to panic attacks, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing anxiety triggers. Dr. Denning introduces practical strategies for identifying and managing anxiety, including the significance of physical movement and mindfulness. The episode aims to equip listeners with tools to understand and cope with their anxiety more effectively.

Alter Selves and Psychological Functioning March 1, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of alter selves and their impact on psychological functioning, particularly in relation to addiction and behavior disorders. He discusses how individuals often dissociate from their true selves in response to stress, trauma, or emotional challenges, creating alternate personalities that manage these experiences. Through anecdotes and insights from his extensive experience in psychotherapy, DeMille encourages listeners to recognize and befriend these alter personalities rather than criticize them. This approach may lead to better self-understanding and healing.

Craziness January 6, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Mental Health Challenges

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of craziness, discussing its various definitions and manifestations. He highlights the psychological aspect of repeating behaviors in hopes of different outcomes, often rooted in childhood experiences. DeMille delves into the chemical influences on mental states, such as hormonal imbalances and paranoia, and the different forms of withdrawal and fear that can lead to a loss of sanity. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns and encourages listeners to seek control over their lives rather than succumbing to madness.

Thursday Thoughts December 23, 2010

Host: Armand DiMele

Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the concept of vainglory, distinguishing it from boastfulness. He explores how vainglorious individuals often seek admiration by subtly inserting their accomplishments into conversations about significant events, like 9-11. Armand reflects on the nature of vanity and humility, emphasizing the importance of genuine humility over self-promotion. He encourages listeners to recognize the signs of vainglory in themselves and others, advocating for understanding and compassion towards those who may feel inadequate and resort to boasting as a defense mechanism. The episode concludes with a reminder of the value of humility in personal interactions.

Understanding Paralysis of the Mind and Brain July 21, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Michael Grove, Lauren Sykes, Sherri Siegel

Category: Mental Health Challenges

In this episode, Sherri Siegel, along with guest Dr. Michael Grove and research assistant Lauren Sykes, explores the complex phenomena of paralysis, both mental and physical. They discuss various forms of psychological paralysis, including writer’s block, perfectionism, and executive dysfunction. The conversation delves into how these conditions manifest, their impact on individuals, and strategies for overcoming them. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their own experiences with paralysis and to understand the importance of movement—both emotional and physical—in leading fulfilling lives.

Paradox of Choice April 7, 2010

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Barry Schwartz, Sherri Siegel

Category: Philosophy and Personal Growth

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the paradox of choice, featuring insights from psychologist Barry Schwartz. Schwartz argues that while freedom and choice are essential to human welfare, an excess of options can lead to paralysis and dissatisfaction. He highlights how modern society’s abundance of choices in areas like healthcare and consumer goods can overwhelm individuals, making decision-making difficult and leading to regret. The conversation also touches on the implications of choice in personal relationships and the impact of societal expectations on happiness. Joined by guest Sherri Siegel, they explore the complexities of choice and its effects on mental health.