In this episode, special guest Oliver Mann, founder of www.unleash.ink, guides us through using a powerful new approach to journaling as a tool for working on our shadows, those aspects of our personality we keep buried and out of sight.  His approach, as a trauma survivor, frees up energy for personal growth, and unlocks untapped reservoirs of empathy and compassion.  Use the following links to go further in our own personal growth:

https://www.unleash.ink/free-shadow-journaling-pdf (free starting point)

Two online courses for those wanting to go deeper (use HABERMAN coupon on checkout for a discount):

https://www.unleash.ink/discover-the-hidden-you-shadow-journaling-essentials

https://www.unleash.ink/introduction-to-journaling-course

In this episode, which builds on previous episodes this season, Joe and Kathy Haberman are joined by author, trauma survivor, and recovery advocate Kristina Bentle.  She shares her personal journey, her disappointments with traditional therapy, as well as the freedom she experienced with recent trauma-informed therapy that accurately reconnects the body and the brain, that allows the emotional and rational parts of the brain to communicate and heal.  

This episode focuses on the changes that occur to the brain after trauma.  Focusing on the work of Bessel Van Der Kolk, the traumatized brain is changed to interpret the world as threatening, and memories are stored not only in the mind but in the body.  Goals and recommendations for a new approach to treating trauma are then discussed.

Season 2 begins with an exploration of the ways that our brains, in addition to being complex information processors, are very much emotional organs as well.  The biological reasons for this are discussed, along with the ways we know this through our own experiences.  The emotional impacts of music on the brain is also examined.  This episode sets the stage for the next 2 episodes from Season 2.

In the second part of the Identity podcast episode, hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman delve into the limits of our ego-driven, self-constructed identities and begin exploring the elements of transcending our initial identity so that we can begin finding answers to life's larger questions.

In this podcast, hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman explore the psychological basis for the development of our individual identity.  This sets the stage for Part II, when they explore what comes BEYOND this identity, and the things that allow some people to move beyond themselves, into true community with others, and tackle our deepest questions as we develop.

A continuation of our focus on making human connections in an age of distractions.  Looking at the bigger picture, at the messages we get from society, from our culture, and what the consequences are, with specific focus on individualistic cultures.  Concludes with practical ways to reconnect, and discusses the habits that well connected people maintain.

Hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman tackle the modern complexities of communicating, and how it may or may not result in real connection to each other.  Includes concrete steps to become a better listener, and a focus on the nature and challenges of constant distraction.

What is the psychology behind motivation, and how can we use this to better understand our motives, our lack of motivation, and how to maintain motivation.  How is being unmotivated similar/different from being "lazy" or procrastinating?

In this episode, hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman discuss the ego, and how this part of our personality provides both benefits and costs.  Balancing the positives with the potential negatives to help find a way forward as we seek our truest selves, and reach our full potential.

Hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman explore the cognitive psychology behind our tendency to form/act on superstitions.  How these thinking processes have evolved over time, how they are supported by the structure of our brain, and the ways they may impact on our relationships to each other.

In this episode Joe and Kathy take a look at the underlying psychology and the lessons learned from our life choices.  At life's crossroads, which choices are least likely to lead to regrets later in life, and how can we apply these lessons.

In this episode, hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman reflect on their own, 39-year long marriage, as well as on their experience in helping others.   The lessons learned have resulted in the 4 key dimensions to lasting relationships.  Dimensions that together make up the valuable "diamond" that long-term relationships represent.

What are the 5 key practices that result in "flourishing," in leading a highly satisfying life?  Hosts Joe and Kathy Haberman provide an overview of this exciting field of psychology, with practical ways to evaluate yourself and begin to flourish in your own life.