Episodios

  • In this episode, I welcome back James Esses, a writer and advocate who has been at the forefront of discussions surrounding gender ideology and its impact on the therapeutic profession. We dive into James's journey, which began during his training as a therapist in the UK, where he raised concerns about the medicalization of children experiencing gender dysphoria. His advocacy led to a significant legal battle after he was expelled from his graduate program, a case that has since resulted in important settlements affirming the validity of gender-critical beliefs among therapists.

    We explore the implications of James's case for therapists in the UK and beyond, particularly regarding freedom of speech and the ethical responsibilities of mental health professionals. We discuss the troubling trend of therapists prioritizing identity politics over individual client needs, and how this shift has affected the quality of care. Additionally, we examine the concept of "lived experience" and its potential dangers when it comes to guiding treatment decisions, especially for vulnerable populations like adolescents.

    Throughout our conversation, we aim to uncover the challenges faced by therapists today, the impact of social media on mental health, and the importance of maintaining ethical standards in therapy. Join us as we navigate these complex issues and consider what the future holds for the counseling profession.

    James Esses is a writer, commentator and advocate, specializing in the impact of ideology on society. He has a particular interest in the topic of gender ideology from the perspective of safeguarding children from irreversible medicalisation. He founded the Declaration for Biological Reality, calling for significant change to public policy in this space. James brought high-profile legal action against the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), and his case resulted in a significant statement expressly protecting therapists with gender critical beliefs. He frequently appears on television, including on GB News and TalkTV, and writes for a number of publications, including the Mail, Telegraph, Spectator, Spiked and Critic. He also writes a Substack alongside Matt Goodwin. James was previously a Criminal Barrister and spent many years specializing in crime and criminal justice in the public sector, including tackling child sexual abuse and exploitation.

    James will soon be launching Just Therapy. Make sure to follow or subscribe to him on your platforms of choice in order to stay informed.

    SubstackX @JamesEssesJames' previous episode on my podcast

    Books mentioned in this episode are listed below.

    Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up, by Abigail Shrier

    View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.

    As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show!

    00:00 Start

    [00:02:36] Ethical concerns in therapy training.

    [00:07:04] Therapist freedom of belief.

    [00:10:06] Trainee therapists facing pressure.

    [00:15:37] Purpose of therapy and risks.

    [00:18:47] Therapy and societal relationship norms.

    [00:20:27] Loneliness in modern society.

    [00:24:15] Sanity versus Insanity in Therapy.

    [00:29:23] Privilege versus oppression beliefs.

    [00:32:10] Wokeness and therapy dynamics.

    [00:36:32] Lived experience in therapy.

    [00:41:11] Teenage advice and mental health.

    [00:45:45] Power dynamics in gender identity.

    [00:49:51] Just therapy and advocacy.

    [00:52:17] Accreditation in therapy practice.

    [00:56:05] Ethical concerns in therapy accreditation.

    [01:00:03] Gender critical beliefs in therapy.

    [01:04:36] Online shaming and social justice.

    [01:09:59] Biological factors in gender dysphoria.

    [01:11:45] Gender dynamics in modern society.

    [01:16:12] Healing through daily renewal.

    [01:20:07] Gender crisis and its realities.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & s...

  • Even if you’ve been following my work for a while, you’re not going to believe how bad the state of affairs has gotten when it comes to postgraduate education in counseling psychology — until you hear from today’s guest.

    Ryan Rogers, a student currently pursuing a masters degree in the hopes of becoming a therapist, joins me to discuss the troubling trends he's observed in mental health education. Ryan shares his personal journey, including his background in addiction and the motivation behind his pursuit of a counseling career. We delve into the alarming shift in graduate programs, where political activism often takes precedence over the core principles of therapy.

    Ryan highlights his experiences in classes that prioritize critical theory over practical skills, leaving students ill-equipped to address the real needs of their clients. We explore the implications of this shift, particularly in relation to suicide prevention, addiction treatment, and the importance of cultural competency. Ryan raises critical questions about the role of therapists: should they be activists for so-called social justice, or should they focus on helping individuals navigate their personal struggles?

    Throughout our conversation, we examine the consequences of substituting genuine therapeutic training with ideological indoctrination. As we unpack these issues, we aim to shed light on the future of counseling psychology and the urgent need for a return to a client-centered approach that prioritizes healing over activism.

    Ryan Rogers is a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling. He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and work history in addiction treatment.
    Twitter/X: @RyanMcRogers
    Upcoming book: The Woke Mind: The Twisted Psychology of the Social Justice Movement (Social Justice Fanaticism Book 6) - Kindle edition by Rogers, Ryan

    View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.

    As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show!

    00:00 Start

    [00:02:30] Counseling program concerns and indoctrination.

    [00:04:18] Activism in therapy training.

    [00:08:22] Cultural competency in therapy.

    [00:10:37] American perfectionism vs. Mexican culture.

    [00:17:12] Counseling grad programs' effectiveness.

    [00:18:22] Teaching quality in psychology classes.

    [00:24:01] ROGD Repair for parents.

    [00:27:16] Common humanity versus identity markers.

    [00:31:06] Wokeness in academic environments.

    [00:34:12] Lack of experienced educators.

    [00:38:58] Counseling theories in academia.

    [00:42:46] Counseling versus Social Justice Advocacy.

    [00:45:04] Self-beliefs and mental health.

    [00:51:06] Antinatalist views and human nature.

    [00:52:57] Normlessness in society and therapy.

    [00:58:00] The Ethical Slut in Counseling.

    [01:00:45] Attachment theory and relationships.

    [01:04:44] Therapy and its societal perceptions.

    [01:09:03] Intersectionality and Religion Evaluation.

    [01:12:24] Pride in Professional Experience.

    [01:16:20] Hate and envy in activism.

    [01:20:54] The downfall of counseling profession.

    [01:24:51] Therapy and political discontent.

    [01:29:56] Transition in kids.

    [01:30:41] Limits of gender dysphoria treatment.

    [01:34:13] Tribalism and cultural biases.

    [01:38:48] Understanding social justice radicalism.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation...

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  • Has modern therapy become a hostile environment towards Jewish people? I sit down with Malka Shaw, a licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist, to delve into the pressing issue of anti-Semitism and its psychological implications. Malka shares her experiences as a therapist and the challenges Jewish clients face in therapy, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened anti-Semitic sentiments. We discuss the inappropriate remarks some therapists make, which can invalidate the experiences of their Jewish clients, and how this reflects a broader trend of misunderstanding and bias within the mental health field.

    Malka also introduces her organization, Kesher Shalom, which aims to provide education and support for Jewish communities while addressing the cultural accommodations needed in mental health practices. We explore the concept of anti-Semitism as a form of racism, the historical context of Jews as scapegoats, and the psychological mechanisms that allow such biases to persist. Malka clarifies the true meaning of Zionism and why the rise of anti-Zionist sentiments concern her. Throughout our conversation, we question why anti-Semitism is often overlooked and how it serves as a warning sign for societal health.

    Malka Shaw, LCSW (licensed in NJ, NY, and Florida), is a psychotherapist and trauma expert with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Specializing in trauma recovery using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she has built a private practice focusing on women’s wellness, relationship dynamics, and maternal health. Malka also provides clinical supervision, and consultation, develops continuing education courses on trauma and antisemitism; and often presents at professional events. Drawing on her experience with large-scale trauma, Malka founded Kesher Shalom Projects following the devastating events of October 7th. KSP's mission is to provide education and professional development on mental health and antisemitism, critical for building resilience within Jewish communities. By helping others understand the psychology behind antisemitic propaganda and its impact on society, Kesher Shalom offers valuable insights for combating antisemitism and supporting those affected.

    MalkaShaw.com

    KesherShalom.com

    Malka’s next training for therapists, coming up December 2, 2024: Navigating Trauma: GUARD System Techniques for Addressing Symptoms from Antisemitism and Prolonged Stress

    Books mentioned in this episode are listed below.

    "The Madness of Crowds" by Douglas Murray: https://amzn.to/40uFjlA

    View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.

    As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show!

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:21] Psychology of antisemitism and impact.

    [00:03:44] Mental health education gaps.

    [00:09:08] Anti-Semitism in healthcare settings.

    [00:11:18] Therapist validation of Jewish concerns.

    [00:17:36] Multi-ethnic identity of Jews.

    [00:19:56] Targeted hate crimes statistics.

    [00:24:16] Defining anti-Semitism and its nuances.

    [00:27:07] Jews as universal scapegoat.

    [00:30:22] Jewish identity and resilience.

    [00:33:44] Responsibilities of the chosen people.

    [00:37:34] Moral disengagement and accountability.

    [00:41:27] Moral disengagement and gaslighting.

    [00:48:22] Defining Zionism and its implications.

    [00:51:14] Right to live in our land.

    [00:56:00] Peaceful coexistence in the Middle East.

    [00:57:41] The meaning of Zionism.

    [01:01:49] Importance of diverse opinions.

    [01:06:08] Jewish culture and moral compass.

    [01:09:51] Cultural competency and anti-Semitism.

    [01:11:35] Gender crisis and care.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to

  • Why is it so hard to find a trustworthy physician? Dr. Andrew Zywiec has chosen to practice medicine as a licensed tribal practitioner through the First Nation Medical Board in order to allow him the freedom to operate according to his conscience. What is his inside perspective on the moral and ethical crossroads many aspiring healers find themselves navigating in today’s politicized, money-corrupted healthcare landscape?

    We dive into the complexities surrounding gender dysphoria, exploring how it often intersects with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Zywiec shares his perspective on the current medical landscape, particularly the challenges parents face in finding trustworthy doctors for their trans-identified youth.

    We discuss the evolution of the "standard of care" in treating gender dysphoria, highlighting how it has shifted from a more holistic approach to one that prioritizes affirmation and fast-tracks medicalization without addressing underlying issues. Dr. Zywiec emphasizes the importance of both critical thinking and intuition in medicine and critiques the algorithmic nature of modern medical practices, which can lead to a lack of personalized care.

    We also break down the concept of “medical necessity” and how it has been manipulated within the healthcare system, particularly in relation to insurance practices. I question whether “gender affirming” practitioners are in fact committing insurance fraud.

    Dr. Zywiec graduated medical school in 2019 with Distinction in Research and the Research Commendation Award, then left hospital medicine in 2023 due to ethical objections to current vaccine practices as well as the pharmacological castration and surgical mutilation of children. Dr. Zywiec actively fought against COVID mandates and “gender affirming care” in minors, and is still involved in the fight against medical tyranny and censorship, working with healthcare professionals nationwide and leaders in both the Ohio and Michigan House of Representatives. Dr. Zywiec is active in pro-life advocacy, and cofounded Doctors Against Gender Affirming Care with Dr. Somil Viradia. If you are a doctor please sign their petition. Follow Dr. Zywiec on X @AndrewZywiecMD. Visit his website at ZywiecAndPorter.com.

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    Turtles All The Way Down: Vaccine Science and Myth, by Zoey O’Toole and Mary Holland

    View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.

    As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show!

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:10] Trauma response in gender dysphoria.

    [00:05:20] Freedom in medical practice.

    [00:08:37] Sick care model profit motives.

    [00:12:20] Standard of care in medicine.

    [00:16:21] Disconnect from critical thinking.

    [00:20:42] Surgical methods for mental illness.

    [00:21:47] Chest Dysphoria Rating Scale.

    [00:26:48] Insurance fraud in therapy.

    [00:30:23] Tribal practitioner licensing explained.

    [00:33:18] Anti-system doctors in medicine.

    [00:35:42] Vaccine opinions and polarization.

    [00:39:12] Vaccine injury and immune response.

    [00:45:14] Vaccine safety concerns.

    [00:48:46] Fragile early weeks of life.

    [00:52:15] World without vaccines health benefits.

    [00:53:23] Handwashing reduces infectious diseases.

    [00:58:50] COVID response and civil liberties.

    [01:01:22] Vaccine shedding and its effects.

    [01:06:49] Long COVID mechanisms discussed.

    [01:10:02] Long COVID and vaccine injury.

    [01:11:16] Chronic illnesses post-COVID.

    [01:15:19] Biological basis of gender dysphoria.

    [01:18:39] Social contagion and mental health.

    [01:22:27] Endocrine disruption in young men.

    [01:25:31] Medication withdrawal effects on women.

    [01:30:41] Finding a trustworthy doctor.

    [01:32:41] Empowering patients in health care.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI....

  • In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jillian Spencer, a child and adolescent psychiatrist from Brisbane, Australia, who has found herself at the center of a heated debate surrounding so-called “gender-affirming care” for children. After raising concerns about the practices at her hospital's gender clinic, Jillian was suspended and is now embroiled in legal battles that could redefine workplace protections for those with gender-critical beliefs. What led her to take such a bold stand, and what are the implications for mental health care?

    We explore the concepts in a not-yet-published paper Jillian recently co-authored with Dr. Roberto D’Angelo, analyzing the interpersonal dynamics between gender clinicians and their patients using psychodynamic theory. How do psychological dynamics such as repression, collusion, codependency, projection, and reaction formation play into relationships between distressed, vulnerable patients and the professionals who “affirm” them? And what are the risks involved in psychiatry’s shift away from psychodynamic thinking?

    We analyze the alarming trend of fast-tracking youth with suicidal ideation to gender clinics and the dangerous message this sends to vulnerable adolescents, potentially incentivizing personality disordered behavior and risking permanently entrenching vulnerable people into problematic problems for life that they could have grown out of in adolescence if only provided with the proper support.

    Jillian Spencer is a child and adolescent psychiatrist in Brisbane, Australia. In April 2023, she was stood down from her job at the Queensland Children’s Hospital for raising concerns about gender interventions for children. Since that time, she has spoken out in the Australian media about her concerns which has led to further allegations of breaching the employee Code of Conduct. She remains suspended from her job. Jillian has launched legal action claiming political discrimination in the workplace due to her belief in biological reality, that people can’t change sex, in the hope of achieving a Forstater decision in Australia. This court case will occur in early 2025. She is also awaiting an employment commission outcome as to whether she is officially a ‘whistleblower’. If so, this would help her to retain her hospital job. You can follow her on X @jilliantweeting

    Note: I mentioned that an episode with James Esses would come out the week before Jillian’s. The timeline for the release of James’ episode has been pushed back a few weeks to allow him time to finish a project we hope to be able to announce with that episode. Be on the lookout for my conversation with James in November.

    00:00 Start

    [00:02:39] Psychodynamic thinking in therapy.

    [00:05:36] Gender clinic referral practices.

    [00:09:39] Suicidality and gender clinic access.

    [00:12:20] Trans identity and self-harm.

    [00:16:04] Parent-Child Dynamics in “Trans” Care.

    [00:19:07] Gender clinic assessment validity.

    [00:23:15] Whistleblower protections in Queensland.

    [00:27:22] Political discrimination and beliefs.

    [00:30:49] Multidisciplinary care model critique.

    [00:34:43] Psychodynamic perspective in treatment.

    [00:37:49] Clinician influence on therapy dynamics.

    [00:44:36] Projection and hate in therapy.

    [00:46:11] Power dynamics in gender clinics.

    [00:50:35] Psychological health and gender distress.

    [00:53:11] The wounded healer archetype.

    [00:56:32] Transgender identity and empathy.

    [01:00:17] Gender non-conforming youth sexuality.

    [01:04:16] Downfall of psychotherapy.

    [01:08:03] Self-care and well-being tips.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call. Find all other information about my consulting work at stephaniewinn.com and the podcast at sometherapist.com.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow ...

  • In this episode, I sit down with Warren Smith, a passionate educator and critical thinker, who gained viral attention for his thought-provoking dialogue in which he used Socratic dialogue to question a student’s belief that “J.K. Rowling is transphobic.” We dive deep into the importance of teaching critical thinking skills in today's educational landscape, where echo chambers and social media often stifle independent thought. How can we encourage students to think for themselves amidst a flood of content and opinions?

    Warren shares his experiences as a multimedia teacher, revealing the innovative ways he helps students become comfortable on camera and articulate their thoughts. But what happens when the very framework of education is challenged by administrative pressures and societal expectations? We explore the obstacles he faced in fostering a culture of open dialogue and critical inquiry.

    As we discuss the implications of his viral video, Warren reflects on the repercussions it had on his career. Did he anticipate the fallout, and how did it change his teaching environment? We also touch on the broader cultural shifts in education and the challenges of navigating a landscape that often prioritizes conformity over creativity. What does the future hold for educators who dare to challenge the status quo?

    Warren also turns the tables and interviews me, offering me an opportunity to articulate how I built my podcast, how my thoughts on gender ideology have taken shape over the past several years, and where my attitude toward the mental health profession currently stands.

    Warren Smith is the founder of the Secret Scholars on YouTube. He is a volunteer firefighter, teacher and critical thinker.

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:16] Teaching critical thinking skills.

    [00:05:30] Critical thinking in education.

    [00:10:45] Workplace culture and leadership changes.

    [00:13:40] Teaching critical thinking challenges.

    [00:18:35] Movie industry critical thinking challenges.

    [00:21:00] Democratization of content creation.

    [00:24:31] Podcasting and audience engagement.

    [00:29:17] Gender critical perspectives and challenges.

    [00:30:34] Gender identity in therapy settings.

    [00:35:58] Detransitioners and their experiences.

    [00:40:43] ROGD Repair course for parents.

    [00:42:23] Gender identity and its implications.

    [00:46:39] Trans identity and cultural change.

    [00:50:15] Therapy's purpose and expectations.

    [00:56:39] Defining mental health challenges.

    [00:58:30] Social contagion and mental health.

    [01:02:20] Identity and emotional attachment.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.


    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • Have you ever wondered why far left Gen Z activists idealize foreign cultures halfway across the planet while diminishing their own, to the point of holding beliefs that seem paradoxical or even delusional? Today’s brilliant guest, Maral Salmassi, helps us explore the complex dynamics of the "Queers for Palestine" movement and the sadomasochistic interpersonal dynamics that can emerge within woke culture.

    Maral draws on the psychological frameworks of Erich Fromm to unpack the internal conflicts that fuel these behaviors. Are we witnessing a projection of powerlessness that leads to sadistic control over dissenting voices? As we navigate these intricate themes, we also touch on the implications of cluster B personality traits in social movements. In order to better understand ideologically captured youth, what do mature thinkers need to know about psychological phenomena such as splitting, projection, idealization and devaluation, and the Karpman Drama Triangle of victim, rescuer and persecutor?

    What role does social media play in amplifying these dynamics, and how does it contribute to identity fragmentation among vulnerable individuals?

    Join us as we dissect the paradoxes of ideological purity and the logical fallacies that can arise in the pursuit of social justice. Tune in to discover Maral's insights and my reflections on these pressing questions that resonate deeply in today's cultural landscape. Today’s format deviates from the norm as Maral reads a thoughtfully scripted monologue prepared exclusively for my listeners, and I respond with my asynchronous reflections.

    Maral Salmassi was born in Tehran, Iran, and spent her early years in Iran, Jordan, and Israel, where her father was a diplomat under the Shah. Her mother, a literature teacher, nurtured her appreciation for culture and the arts. Following the fall of the Shah and the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq war, her family fled Iran in 1986, settling in Germany. Salmassi pursued an education in Media Art in Cologne, which provided a foundation for her future endeavors. She is also a self-taught music producer and sound engineer. Since 1997, she has shaped culture as an artist, producer, and entrepreneur, initially in Cologne and later in Berlin. Her work is influenced by her diverse cultural background and a strong interest in sociopolitics and psychology. She also spent a brief period living in France, contributing to her multicultural perspective.

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness by Erich FrommEscape from Freedom by Erich FrommThe Coddling of the American Mind by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:10] Ideological purity in woke culture.

    [00:05:06] Sadomasochism in Queers for Palestine.

    [00:08:07] Polarizing content and identity.

    [00:12:20] Gameable heuristics in society.

    [00:17:34] Victim mentality and self-interest.

    [00:20:10] Reaction formation and its implications.

    [00:24:46] Woke beliefs and self-interest.

    [00:27:25] Sadomasochism and entitlement dynamics.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support th...
  • In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Vaishnavi Sundar, a self-taught filmmaker and advocate for women's rights, about her groundbreaking documentary, Behind the Looking Glass. This film delves into the often-overlooked experiences of women whose male partners “transition,” shedding light on the emotional turmoil and coercive control they face. Why is it that these women, often silenced and marginalized, feel compelled to redefine their identities in the shadow of their partners?

    Vaishnavi shares powerful insights into the dynamics of narcissism and gaslighting that permeate these relationships. How do societal expectations and gender ideology contribute to the erasure of these women's voices? As we explore the metaphor of the "looking glass," we uncover the disturbing reality of men who, in their quest for self-identity, leave their partners feeling like mere ghosts of their former selves.

    What happens when these women finally muster the courage to leave? What challenges do they face in reclaiming their autonomy and identity? Join us as we navigate these complex questions and hear the poignant stories of resilience and hope from those who have endured this unique form of domestic violence. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation that challenges the narratives surrounding gender identity and the often-unseen victims of this movement.

    Watch Behind the Looking Glass on YouTube.

    Vaishnavi Sundar is a writer and a self-taught filmmaker from Chennai, India. Through her films, she advocates for the rights of women and girls worldwide. She founded Lime Soda Films about a decade ago with the aim of highlighting themes of social justice, women’s empowerment and education. She is the Founder of Women Making Films (WMF) – a platform for female filmmakers to collaborate and create works of art, and has the privilege to host the work of members from more than 20 countries. Follow her on X @Vaishax.

    00:00 Start

    [00:02:08] Trans widows and their experiences.

    [00:04:03] Narcissism and gender ideology.

    [00:09:13] Women's experiences in relationships.

    [00:12:19] Marital struggles and gender ideology.

    [00:18:59] Women's voices in transitions.

    [00:20:25] Questions about gender identity.

    [00:24:17] Prenuptial agreements and women's rights.

    [00:30:14] Emotional boundaries in relationships.

    [00:32:25] Disgust in gender identity changes.

    [00:39:08] Protective instinct in abuse situations.

    [00:42:57] Defining identity beyond trauma.

    [00:46:16] Supporting trans widows and families.

    [00:51:46] Support for women in distress.

    [00:52:17] Reassurance for women in abuse.

    [00:55:48] Radical love and understanding.

    [01:01:44] Transitioning and identity complexities.

    [01:04:03] Identity and self-perception struggles.

    [01:09:08] Creative career shift in India.

    [01:11:23] Filmmaking as a personal outlet.

    [01:17:21] Workplace sexual harassment in India.

    [01:19:35] Gender ideology and women's safety.

    [01:24:09] Pornography's impact on society.

    [01:29:58] Women's struggles in a multicultural society.

    [01:31:20] Domestic violence and helplessness.

    [01:35:54] Women's rights in rural India.

    [01:39:50] Anger as creative fuel.

    [01:43:59] Compassion and anger connection.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

  • I’m grateful to share a portion of my most recent conversation with Josh Slocum from the Disaffected podcast, where we dive deep into the complexities surrounding Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD) and my new program, ROGD Repair. Have you ever wondered how cluster B personality traits intertwine with gender identity ideology to create a perfect storm for vulnerable youth? What if the very beliefs that are meant to empower these young people are actually leading them down a path of confusion and harm?

    As we explore the trifecta of social contagion—gender identity ideology, woke beliefs about social justice, and cluster B personality traits—I reveal how these elements can distort the way adolescents perceive themselves and their relationships. What are the common pitfalls parents face when trying to connect with their children caught in this whirlwind? Can more information actually backfire when trying to reach a child who feels morally superior?

    Join us as we unpack the psychological vulnerabilities at play and discuss practical strategies for parents to navigate these turbulent waters. How can understanding the dynamics of splitting and projection help parents regain their footing? Tune in to discover the answers and learn how ROGD Repair can empower families to foster healthier communication and understanding.

    Josh Slocum is the host of the weekly show Disaffected, available on Youtube and all usual podcast platforms. Disaffected examines politics and culture through a psychological point of view. Josh's experience coming from an abusive childhood informs the show's working premise that the psychological narcissistic abuse found in families now structures our public life. Follow him on X @disaffectedpod. This episode was borrowed from episode 187 of Disaffected, Old Man Yells at Cloud. Find this podcast and more of Josh’s work at disaffected.com.

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:43] Trifecta of social contagion.

    [00:06:25] ROGD Repair and family support.

    [00:08:25] Gender identity ideology's impact.

    [00:12:01] Course and community for parents.

    [00:15:09] More information doesn't help.

    [00:22:00] Cluster B personality disorders.

    [00:24:21] Grandiosity in identity politics.

    [00:27:52] Projected doubt in parenting.

    [00:32:04] ROGD parent community dynamics.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Anita Bartholomew, who is deep into writing her upcoming book, "Sacrificial Lambs," which explores the alarming indoctrination happening in our K-12 education system. Have you ever wondered how children are being taught about gender identity in first grade? What happens when the lines between education and ideology blur?

    Anita shares her journey from being a traditional liberal to confronting the radical shifts in educational content, particularly around queer theory and gender ideology. We discuss the troubling rise in young people identifying as transgender and the role schools play in this phenomenon. How are children being primed for these beliefs, and what impact does this have on their mental health?

    We dive into shocking examples of curriculum materials that normalize complex and abstract concepts about gender for young children. Are teachers equipped to handle such sensitive topics, or are they overstepping their bounds? As we unravel these issues, we also touch on the implications of comprehensive sexual education and the troubling trend of keeping parents in the dark. What does this mean for the future of our children? Tune in to discover the answers and more as we navigate this critical conversation.

    For almost three decades, Anita Bartholomew has been one of Reader’s Digest’s top reporters, and a contributing editor to the magazine for eight of those years. She’s covered a vast range of stories over the course of her career. But what’s always animated her writing, no matter the topic, is her focus on the people involved, how they coped with the extraordinary events affecting their lives. Her current book project, about how the trans cult targets kids, combines in-depth reporting and analysis with vignettes about the real people trying to maintain sanity in what amounts to a mass psychosis afflicting nearly all of the western world. She is the co-author of the award-winning medical memoir SOMETHING TO PROVE, and the author of SIEGE, about the January 6, 2021 US Capitol uprising. Two of her narratives have been adapted as TV movies, one for Netflix and another for Lifetime. AnitaBartholomew.com

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    Time to Think by Hannah BarnesIrreversible Damage by Abigail ShrierWhy Gender Matters by Leonard Sax

    All books mentioned on this podcast can be found at sometherapist.com/bookshop

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:32] Indoctrination of children.

    [00:08:25] Queer theory and social justice.

    [00:10:07] Queer theory in education.

    [00:16:41] Predation in gender identity discourse.

    [00:19:16] Gender identity teaching in schools.

    [00:25:23] Teacher's role in sexual education.

    [00:28:00] Innocence of childhood crushes.

    [00:34:45] Pornographic content in education.

    [00:36:39] School curriculum and anti-bullying.

    [00:44:51] Diagram of a thousand genitals.

    [00:46:00] Planned Parenthood and gender clinics.

    [00:52:00] Fourth grade girls and furries.

    [00:55:04] Intersex and genitalia misconceptions.

    [01:01:39] Gender identity and inclusion in education.

    [01:06:04] Gender education in schools.

    [01:09:14] Puberty blockers and children.

    [01:12:42] Sexualization of children in education.

    [01:19:19] Furries and sexual role-playing.

    [01:21:45] Predators disguising in society.

    [01:29:32] Sympathy for monsters and boundaries.

    [01:31:26] The battle between good and evil.

    [01:36:24] Cultural shifts and individual responsibility.

    [01:40:56] Understanding January 6th participants.


    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.


    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order.

  • Laura Wiley Haynes returns to shed light on the complex intergenerational aspects of the current gender crisis. Why do so many young people today seem unable to launch into adulthood, remaining perennially online and disembodied, reportedly held back by feelings they label “dysphoria?” What developmental shifts have occurred in parenting over the last few generations that might explain this phenomenon?

    Laura shares her insights on how the lack of dyadic care—one-on-one nurturing relationships—has contributed to a generation of children who struggle with self-perception and emotional regulation. Could the rise of screens and social media be robbing our kids of the deep, relational connections they need to thrive? We explore the implications of group care environments and how they may hinder the development of essential social skills.

    As we discuss the alarming trend of young adults romanticizing their emotional turmoil, I ask: what happens when a young man on estrogen experiences mood swings reminiscent of a teenage girl? Is this a sign of deeper unresolved issues? Join us as we unpack these critical questions and more, revealing the intricate web of attachment, trauma, and the urgent need for effective parenting in today’s world. Tune in to discover how we can better support our children in navigating their identities and emotions.

    Laura Wiley Haynes is a writer, a mother & grandmother, and a former CASA. Follow her on X @haynes_wiley.

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    Emotional Blackmail by Dr. Susan Forward

    Episodes mentioned:

    123. Identity-Based OCD: Dr. Elliot Kaminetzky on Trans & the Fear of Living Inauthentically

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:41] Intergenerational aspects of gender crisis.

    [00:06:46] Impaired grownups and child distress.

    [00:11:21] Early attachment trauma effects.

    [00:13:06] Developmental needs and selfhood.

    [00:19:39] Self-regulation and emotional responses.

    [00:22:50] Authenticity and children's identity struggles.

    [00:27:39] Boundaries and communication in parenting.

    [00:30:28] Parenting teenagers and communication.

    [00:34:26] Parenting and cultural changes.

    [00:40:23] Failure to launch in youth.

    [00:44:56] Parenting and boundaries for children.

    [00:49:21] Authority in parenting dynamics.

    [00:51:33] Strategic apologizing in parenting.

    [00:57:07] Boundary setting in parenting.

    [01:00:25] Parenting and children's disappointment.

    [01:03:34] Parental honesty in difficult discussions.

    [01:08:41] Reading between the lines.

    [01:14:15] Cluster B behaviors and attachment.

    [01:15:34] Cluster B relationships and control.

    [01:20:40] Parenting and setting boundaries.

    [01:24:40] The importance of saying no.

    [01:29:09] Parenting and setting boundaries.

    [01:34:52] Identity instability and self-perception.

    [01:37:39] Hostage negotiation techniques.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.


    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • Like so many other young women I’ve met in my counseling career, Taylor was prescribed both SSRI antidepressants and hormonal birth control shortly after she hit puberty, and remained on both types of pills until her 20’s, impacting her libido, identity, body image, and self-esteem. Somewhere along the way, she developed gender dysphoria and a fixation on the idea that becoming a “trans man” would solve her psychological problems. But when she stopped taking meds, her “dysphoria” lifted like a fog. What happened here? And what can Taylor’s story tell us about the possibility of a massively underreported iatrogenic pipeline of young women being ushered from hormonal contraceptives and SSRI’s at puberty, to testosterone and mastectomies in their 20’s after years of low libido and identity instability?

    Due to the many years Taylor Murphy spent thinking she was transgender and wanting to transition into a man, she now shares her cured experience of gender dysphoria and how it was related to the medication she was on. She shares her concerns on the side effects of medication and transition. Follow her on X @taymurph26

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    This Is Your Brain on Birth Control: How the Pill Changes Everything by Sarah E. Hill, PhD.

    Thank you for making purchases from Amazon affiliate links, helping support the show.

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:47] The impact of medication on identity.

    [00:06:42] Effects of hormonal birth control.

    [00:09:34] Mental health and medication effects.

    [00:14:51] Feeling trapped in gender identity.

    [00:18:16] Exploring gender identity and expression.

    [00:22:11] Inner struggles with transition.

    [00:23:42] ROGD Repair Course + Community for Parents.

    [00:25:42] Parenting and questioning gender identity.

    [00:27:38] Gender Identity Struggles

    [00:32:55] Awakening after medication withdrawal.

    [00:37:35] How birth control affects psychology.

    [00:41:58] Gender dysphoria and hormonal effects.

    [00:44:27] Medication impact on gender identity.

    [00:48:24] Life after overcoming dysphoria.

    [00:52:35] Medication and managing emotions.

    [00:55:57] Adolescence and resilience.

    [00:59:33] Discovering teenage sexuality.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.


    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • Parents of trans-identified adolescents and young adults need educational resources that go beyond merely explaining why gender ideology and medicalization are harmful. They need tools that help them understand the psychological state their adolescent and young adult children are in, and teach them different approaches to communicating that are more likely to succeed than to backfire given their kids’ state of mind.

    I created The ROGD Repair Course and Community with this in mind. It’s a comprehensive toolkit designed to empower concerned parents to help get their kids out of this mess while restoring their relationships — and their sanity.

    ROGD Repair is a promising new program designed to equip parents of trans-identified adolescents and young adults with a comprehensive and customizable toolkit of psychology concepts and communication skills, curated specifically to help them walk their children toward desistance while protecting parents’ own sanity.

    Imagine if parents of “trans” identified kids actually had a way to walk them out of this mess, wisely and strategically, and bring them home to safety and sanity.

    Imagine if every new ROGD parent knew which pitfalls to avoid when communicating with zealous adolescents and young adults. What if, instead, these parents could skillfully apply time-tested communication techniques, suited to address the mental state of gender-confused youth? What if the youth’s own fears and motivations could actually lead them toward health, harmony and wholeness?

    What if parents could protect their sanity and their most important relationships at the same time, all while improving their odds of rescuing their children from the clutches of a harmful ideology before any bodily harm takes place?

    The ROGD Repair Course + Community for Parents is designed to do all of that. And now, it’s available to the public, at a fraction of the cost of coaching.

    Parents can learn the tools from 90+ video and written lessons on their own time and begin implementing them immediately. Discuss the Reflection Questions with their spouse or a buddy, or journal straight into the program. Ask questions, share insights, and request new topics in the community forums.

    Right now I am offering the first 100 people to enroll post-launch an incredible offer that won’t come again. Coupon code FIRST100 takes 50% off every month a student remains enrolled in the program, for as long as they need to stay. Simply visit ROGDrepair.com and enter the code FIRST100 at checkout to use this offer. This special offer is my way of saying thanks for being part of the launching phase of this project, while we are still building a robust community.

    If that code has been used up, you can still use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month until the end of the year.

    If you have an audience of your own who you think would want to know about ROGD Repair (eg., a popular podcast or blog), and you would consider promoting this resource, reach out to me with your website and a bit about you, and I will give you access to the course so you can check it out. [email protected].

    00:00 Start

    [00:02:40] ROGD Repair explained.

    [00:07:21] Creating accessible educational tools.

    [00:10:45] ROGD Repair.

    [00:13:35] Family systems view and gender ideology.

    [00:17:19] Talking to kids about detransitioners.

    [00:20:30] Detransitioning and transphobia.

    [00:24:37] Parenting and health concerns.

    [00:28:10] Combating gender identity ideology.

    [00:33:46] Female-specific issues.

    [00:36:03] Reducing Screen Time Techniques.

    [00:41:14] Parenting and activism balance.

    [00:44:37] Double binds in parenting.

    [00:48:34] Assertive communication techniques.

    [00:52:18] Therapeutic communication techniques

    [00:55:22] Recognizing signs of uncertainty.

    [00:57:19] ROGD Repair offering.

    [01:03:00] Special discount offers.

    [01:08:03] A total game changer.

    [01:11:13] Overcoming challenges in success.

    [01:14:26] Battling gender ideology.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deep...

  • Dr. Elliot Kaminetzky is a child and adolescent psychologist specializing in parenting based interventions for child anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and behavioral challenges. He received his PhD at Hofstra University. Dr. Kaminetzky is the founder and clinical director of My OCD Care and The Center for Child Behavioral Health. Dr. Kaminetzky has publicly spoken out against unethical practices in the area of pediatric gender medicine and the silencing of concerned medical and mental health professionals. Recognizing the challenges parents face in parenting children with gender related concerns, Dr. Kaminetzky founded Serenity Parent Consulting to provide parents with accurate information, useful resources, and emotional support.

    Together, we delve into the intriguing world of identity-based OCD. We explore the fears and obsessions associated with OCD, from concerns about being in the wrong body to the fear of living inauthentically. But what if these fears are not just about identity but also about the fear of being ordinary? How do these fears manifest in transgender-identifying young people, and what role does societal influence play in shaping their identities?

    We uncover the complexities of OCD, from intrusive thoughts to compulsive behaviors, and how they can impact one's sense of self. How do individuals with OCD navigate the fine line between seeking reassurance and finding inner validation? And what happens when therapy becomes a battleground for seeking external validation versus trusting one's own judgment?

    Join us as we unravel the layers of identity-based OCD, exploring the nuances of authenticity, societal constructs, and the quest for certainty in a world filled with uncertainties. Tune in to discover how individuals grapple with their fears, seeking validation from external sources while yearning for inner peace and self-acceptance.

    All books mentioned on this podcast can be found at sometherapist.com/bookshop

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:22] Identity-based themes in OCD.

    [00:04:41] Trauma and public shaming.

    [00:10:28] Therapists' differing beliefs.

    [00:15:18] Fear of ordinariness.

    [00:18:48] Identity and societal expectations.

    [00:22:45] Identity-based OCD.

    [00:28:26] Fear of being ordinary.

    [00:30:34] Fear of being ordinary.

    [00:37:21] Maladaptive beliefs about identity.

    [00:38:50] Fluidity of Male Sexuality.

    [00:44:19] Intrusive thoughts and OCD.

    [00:49:43] Mild OCD in therapy.

    [00:51:38] OCD therapy techniques.

    [00:56:03] Pain reprocessing therapy and acceptance.

    [00:59:57] Finding your life's mission.

    [01:05:21] Exposure therapy in podcasting.

    [01:09:17] Gender-related OCD.

    [01:12:24] Gender identity and mental health.

    [01:17:22] Cultural changes regarding suicide.

    [01:19:44] Gender crisis.

    ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.

    PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • Audra's firsthand experiences with heinous crimes provide a chilling insight into the lack of guilt and empathy in certain offenders. What drives these individuals to commit such atrocities? How do they navigate the world with a narrow focus on their selfish and sadistic desires, devoid of remorse?

    As the conversation unfolds, we touch on the importance of mothering in the 21st century and the delicate balance between protecting children and navigating societal norms. We discuss the risks associated with daycare and the need for vigilant screening of caregivers. What red flags should parents watch out for? How can they ensure their child's safety in a world where predators lurk in unexpected places?

    The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as we explore the complexities of mental health services and the challenges faced by individuals with various conditions. From the need for social skills training for autistic young adults to the debate surrounding the treatment of chronic offenders with antisocial traits, the conversation delves into the gaps in the current system. But where do these individuals truly belong? Are prisons the answer, or is there a need for more specialized care? Tune in to uncover the answers to these pressing questions and more.

    Audra Worlow has a Bachelors of Applied Health Science from BGSU. She worked in criminal law for her local county prosecutor's office for five years dealing with homicide and sex crimes, before leaving the field to focus on her family and writing. She is Catholic as well as a Conservatarian. She writes about science, politics, culture, humor, and morality. Follow her on X at @audrawrongspeak

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    The Gift of Fear by Gavin DeBecker

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:45] Mothering in the 21st century.

    [00:06:18] Daycare safety concerns.

    [00:09:19] Choosing a trustworthy babysitter.

    [00:14:36] Reading physiological cues in gerbils.

    [00:19:49] Stepfathers' hidden motives.

    [00:22:27] Stepparenting and relationship dynamics.

    [00:26:09] Stepmothers and abusive behavior.

    [00:30:36] Living in a rape culture.

    [00:35:52] Grooming in abusive situations.

    [00:37:42] The nature of sexual impulses.

    [00:42:54] Lack of empathy in criminals.

    [00:48:31] Autistic young adults and identity.

    [00:52:51] Criminal justice and mental health.

    [00:55:35] Bipolar disorder and borderline personality.

    [00:58:26] Mental health and stigma.

    [01:01:18] Conflicting values and bodily autonomy.

    [01:07:26] Hormones and mental health consequences.

    [01:10:33] Personality disorders in trans-identified people.

    [01:14:32] Personality disorders in society.

    [01:19:02] Religious element in detransitioning.

    [01:23:07] Gaslighting and manipulation techniques.

    [01:28:14] Envy and resentment in relationships.

    [01:30:13] Surgeons and psychopathy.

    [01:34:34] Injecting cross-sex hormones into others.

    [01:37:51] The gender crisis.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • Jane Wise is a certified addictions counselor who, like me, provides both individual and group support for parents of ROGD kids. After learning that parents who questioned their children's gender identity were not only lacking in support, but were being called bigots and transphobes just for worrying about their kids, Jane decided to use her skills as a group counselor to help provide a space for them to support each other.

    In this episode, we compare and contrast our approaches to helping ROGD parents, work that occupies relatively new and uncharted territory in a cultural and political landscape that remains hostile toward the concerns of both parents and mental health professionals. Jane shares her personal evolution from a staunch supporter of the trans movement to a critical observer, shedding light on the struggles faced by parents navigating rapid onset gender dysphoria in their children.

    The episode touches on the delicate balance between offering support and avoiding enabling harmful decisions, drawing parallels between addiction dynamics and gender identity exploration. We discuss the emotional turmoil experienced by parents, the impact of societal pressures, and the importance of maintaining hope amidst uncertainty. We explore the concept of motivational interviewing and its application in guiding parents through difficult conversations with their children. I also share a sneak preview of a few concepts from my upcoming course for parents.

    Jane Wise is a certified addictions counselor who facilitates one of the regional, monthly parent support groups for Parents of ROGD Kids. Jane is not a parent herself, but after learning that parents who questioned their children's gender identity were not only lacking in support, but were being called bigots and transphobes just for worrying about their kids, she decided to use her skills as a group counselor to help provide a space for them to support each other. Jane also provides free individual support to parents of ROGD kids by appointment, and they do not have to belong to the support group she facilitates.

    Books mentioned in this episode can be found via these Amazon affiliate links:
    - Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
    - The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt

    Check out the rest of my recommendations for ROGD parents in the second section down in my bookshop.
    Thank you for purchases that support the show.

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:10] Supporting parents of ROGD kids.

    [00:04:29] Detransitioners and changing perspectives.

    [00:09:25] Parental dynamics in transition.

    [00:13:32] Maintaining Connection with Trans Children

    [00:16:15] Cluster B personality traits.

    [00:19:57] Catch-22 situation.

    [00:21:41] Double binds in parenting.

    [00:28:23] Parenting and problem-solving strategies.

    [00:31:12] Motivational interviewing technique

    [00:35:17] Addiction and gender exploration.

    [00:37:32] The nature of gender ideology.

    [00:40:08] The nature of evil.

    [00:44:31] The concept of being an ally.

    [00:50:52] Love and limits in parenting.

    [00:54:29] Parenting challenges and dynamics.

    [00:57:02] Cluster B personality traits.

    [01:01:22] Moral psychology and disgust.

    [01:05:16] Powerful, destructive habit.

    [01:09:16] Puberty blockers and suicide rates.

    [01:13:40] Destructive vs. good addictions.

    [01:15:03] Recognizing harms of gender affirmation.

    TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.

    LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.

    SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.

    DO NO HARM: join our community of concerned professionals.

    EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.

    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.

    MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • My good friend Amy Sousa is a brave and resilient woman presently battling stage 3 breast cancer. We delve into the complex emotions and decisions Amy faces as she navigates her cancer journey. Amy shares her unique perspective on the significance of breasts, challenging societal norms and gender ideology. We explore the impact of cancer on her embodiment activism and the importance of self-acceptance and love.

    Amy discusses her holistic approach to treatment, incorporating a metabolic approach alongside traditional chemotherapy. We uncover the power of nutrition and lifestyle choices in supporting the body's natural healing processes.

    We explore the boundaries and intersections between the psyche and the body in the context of illness. Why might people who identify as transgender claim to have “phantom limb sensations” about body parts they’ve never had? And when cosmetic, optional, life-shortening procedures are reframed as “medically necessary,” how does this affect the flow of medical resources toward those truly in need?

    Join us as we unravel the complexities of cancer treatment, the mind-body connection, and the resilience of the human spirit.

    Amy E. Sousa holds a MA in Depth Psychology. She is a women's rights activist, lecturer, and educator, with an expertise in embodiment. She holds one-on-one coaching, teaches classes, and facilitates workshops to help women strengthen their intuition. She also posts educational videos about embodiment & boundaries on her YouTube. Sousa has organized multiple rallies, protests, and free speech events on behalf of women/girls sex-based safeguarding provisions and against the unnecessary medicalization of children. For more about Amy follow her on Twitter, Instagram, & TikTok @KnownHeretic, on Substack at theknownheretic.com, or on YouTube @KnownHeretic.

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:00] Breast cancer and gender identity.

    [00:05:19] Embodiment and breast cancer.

    [00:09:49] Self-acceptance and body image.

    [00:15:05] Elective surgeries and privilege.

    [00:18:31] D-trans women's reproductive challenges.

    [00:22:03] Identity and authenticity.

    [00:28:42] The pleasure of having breasts.

    [00:32:00] Sensation and personal choices.

    [00:38:08] Gender role-playing among men.

    [00:40:18] Phantom limb sensations.

    [00:43:33] Obsessive thoughts and compulsions.

    [00:47:03] Ketosis and cancer treatment.

    [00:52:33] Gender-affirming care and passive models.

    [00:56:26] Neuroplasticity and self-fulfilling prophecies.

    [01:03:24] Resilience and self-identity.

    [01:07:11] Internalizing vs. externalizing behavior.

    [01:11:07] Misdiagnosing depression as abuse.

    [01:15:06] Self-diagnosis in mental health.

    [01:20:38] Time blindness and consequences.

    [01:22:23] Time blindness in modern society.

    [01:25:17] Cancer and self-reflection.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • MaryCate Delvey is a female rights activist and satirist. She created the video series “Listen To Trans People,” which exposes the dark nature of transgender ideology in their own words.

    In this episode, she helps me uncover the disturbing inner worlds of porn-saturated misogynists, incel Redditors, and autogynephiles, shedding light on the fetishistic nature of some men who simultaneously seek to become women while mocking us and undermining our safety.

    What is hypno sissy porn? Is “gender euphoria” just a euphemism for inappropriate erections? What drives these men to seek validation through violating women's spaces and boundaries? How do their actions reflect possible deeper issues of narcissism and sadism? And what do parents of young heterosexual men with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria (ROGD) need to know about the dark corners of the internet their sons may be spending time on?

    Join us as we navigate through the murky waters of gender identity and the blurred lines between sexual orientation and fetishism. Are you ready to uncover the unsettling realities behind the Transmaxxing Manifesto and its implications on society? Tune in to find out more.

    MaryCate Delvey is a female rights activist and satirist. She created the series “Listen To Trans People,” which exposes the dark nature of transgender ideology in their own words. She enjoys painting, Chinese soap operas, and rescuing elderly and special-needs animals. You can find her on X at @marycatedelvey

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters by Abigail ShrierFour Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:00] Transitioning for dating pool expansion.

    [00:07:55] Pornhub model confusion.

    [00:08:33] Super straight and gender critical.

    [00:16:09] Dark revelations about transgender communities.

    [00:19:51] Desire to escape sexualization.

    [00:22:31] Gender euphoria and arousal.

    [00:25:43] The sick thrill in sissy porn.

    [00:30:50] Effects of extreme porn on youth.

    [00:37:35] Sexual fetish and violation.

    [00:41:43] Unusual encounters in locker rooms.

    [00:44:43] Fear of speaking up.

    [00:49:29] Genital preference.

    [00:54:26] Gender identity in young lesbians.

    [00:57:45] Sexuality and identity complexities.

    [01:00:15] Trans Maxing Manifesto.

    [01:05:20] Parenting challenges in ROGD cases.

    [01:09:48] Men coming out as trans

    [01:13:04] Psychological dynamics in relationships.

    [01:14:27] Merger and self-respect in men.

    [01:19:07] Fetish and hypnosis in therapy.

    [01:24:32] Psychedelics for personal growth.

    [01:26:12] Psychedelics and ego death.

    [01:31:21] Life's Difficult Decisions

    [01:34:46] Sacrifices for living.

    [01:39:25] Veganism and health.

    [01:42:34] Pregnant men and Twilight Zone.

    [01:46:12] Twisted relationship with evil.

    [01:48:55] The importance of dialogue.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • In this episode, I sit down with Tamara Pietzke, a mental health therapist best known for having blown the whistle on gender affirming care this past February in a Free Press article. What has she been up to since then?

    We discuss the complexities of therapists being pressured to rubber stamp gender identities and recommend medical interventions. Tamara shares her experiences challenging the status quo and the backlash she faced for questioning the rush to affirm identities.

    We explore the ethical dilemmas therapists face when young clients demand immediate medicalization, and confront the myths surrounding suicide risk and prevention in the transgender population. How do we navigate the fine line between supporting individuals in the moment and ensuring their long-term well-being? The conversation touches on the hot-cold empathy gap, the sunk cost fallacy, and the conveyor-belt nature of the gender industry, shedding light on the challenges of helping vulnerable youth in today's society.

    Join us as we unravel the layers of social contagion, neuroplasticity, and the impact of social transitioning on young minds. Can therapy provide a safe space for exploration beyond immediate demands for medical interventions? Tune in to discover how therapists like Tamara navigate the delicate balance of protecting the holistic health of their clients.

    Tamara is a mental health therapist (licensed independent clinical social worker) and has been a therapist for twelve years. She has worked a number of places, but most recently was working at Multicare, one of the state's largest hospital systems, for the past six years. When she raised concerns about the shift towards mandated "gender affirming care," she was bullied and dismissed. She stopped working there January of 2024, a couple weeks before her whistleblowing article came out in the Free Press. From Multicare, she went to another practice, but they let her go after three weeks, the same week the article came out, simply saying she wasn't "the right fit for the position." She has since been working on building a private practice. Meanwhile, the state is now investigating her license on account of not being "gender affirming.”

    Links & Resources:
    Free Press article 1
    Free Press article 2
    City Journal article
    Give Send Go
    Pietzke Counseling

    00:00 Start

    [00:01:10] Gender affirming care concerns

    [00:07:11] Gender-affirming therapy for teenagers.

    [00:12:25] Symbolic exploration of identity.

    [00:14:25] Gender identity exploration challenges.

    [00:17:48] Suicide risk and gender-affirming care.

    [00:20:51] Teenagers and parental involvement.

    [00:27:02] Therapists' reaction to detransitioners.

    [00:29:10] Therapists' reaction to differing views.

    [00:31:27] The gray area in ethics.

    [00:36:59] Challenges in therapy practice.

    [00:40:21] The hot cold empathy gap.

    [00:44:05] Conversion therapy and gender identity.

    [00:45:05] Gender dysphoria and identity confusion.

    [00:48:57] Power dynamics in adolescence.

    [00:53:35] Navigating marketing in therapy.

    [00:59:10] Ethics of helping endangered children.

    [00:59:29] Detransitioning concerns in youth.

    [01:05:03] Ethics in Therapy

    [01:08:28] Whistleblowers and support network.

    [01:10:50] Gender crisis.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
  • LaRell and Valerie Herbert are a married couple with a very unique story. During their time together, LaRell first believed he was a transgender woman and went through full sex trait modification before awakening to self-acceptance as a man.

    Join us as we explore their journey through somatic psychology and psychedelic integration. How did their relationship withstand the challenges of detransitioning, medical trauma, and identity crises? What impact did their individual traumas have on their journey?

    Discover the intricate dynamics of their blended family and the unexpected twists that unfolded as they navigated the medical pipeline of gender transition. How did their experiences with therapists and surgeons shape their perspectives on identity and healing? Tune in to uncover the profound insights and personal growth that emerged from their transformative journey.

    Valerie is a somatic trauma-informed mentor and teacher. She is an earth ceremonialist and weaves wisdom through understanding and learning more about our innate goodness and wildness from connection with Mother Earth and learning from her elements. Although she is classically trained as a systems thinker and understands theoretical approaches and methods of healing trauma, she finds that creating a deep, loving, consistent, and safe relationship and container is how people heal. Valerie helps people remember the wholeness of who they are.

    LaRell Herbert is a former transwoman who lived for years believing he was a female born in the wrong body. This belief led him to pursue hormone replacement therapy in 2017 at 36 and gender reassignment surgery in 2019, despite being married to a loving and supportive woman. Through introspection and self-growth, LaRell realized his gender identity was rooted in childhood trauma. In October 2023, he de-transitioned and returned to living as his biologically male self. His journey through trans ideology and lived experience as a trans woman has made him acutely aware of the tragedies young people face when sold the idea of medical transition for happiness. LaRell and his wife Valerie aim to raise awareness about the impact of transition on spouses and family members, recognizing that while transition is a personal choice, it significantly affects those around you.

    Books mentioned in this episode:

    "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk"The End of Gender" by Debra Soh

    00:00 Start

    [00:00:00] Identity exploration and transition journey.

    [00:05:30] Shame and trauma in childhood.

    [00:11:45] Discovering transgender identity.

    [00:14:10] Inner dissonance in marriage.

    [00:18:51] Repression and trauma in relationships.

    [00:23:02] Transition and addiction parallels.

    [00:25:46] Taking female hormones' impact.

    [00:30:42] Hormone effects on emotionality.

    [00:33:45] Femininity and bone mass.

    [00:38:17] Fear of suicide and transition.

    [00:41:22] Blended family challenges.

    [00:44:32] Relational healing and gender ideology.

    [00:52:20] Vaginoplasty experiences and complications.

    [00:53:02] Post-surgical challenges in transitioning.

    [00:57:08] Gender identity and self-love.

    [01:01:19] Dissociation and body acceptance.

    [01:07:00] Gender identity and transition journey.

    [01:09:58] Gender identity realization.

    [01:12:55] The journey of self-discovery.

    [01:17:30] Unique life path and experiences.

    [01:22:16] Men's initiation retreats.

    [01:24:43] Best friends with therapist.

    [01:30:25] Real-life relationships and complications.

    [01:31:51] The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care.


    To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!

    Learn more about Do No Harm.

    Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.

    Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.

    Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.

    Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

    Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.


    Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

    Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.

    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon â˜