The Gently Used Human with Dr. Scott Lyons

Have you ever questioned the deep-seated expectations you hold for your children? And for yourself as a parent? Or wonder how the expectations of your own parents affects you now? There are so many parent experts out there - so which one will actually help you to unlock the exact formula for raising strong, resilient kids? In this insightful episode, Dr. Scott sits down with Dr. Shefali, a renowned clinical psychologist and author known for her groundbreaking work in conscious parenting and family dynamics. Together, they discuss the impact of societal expectations and social comparisons on parenting and the significance of focusing on your child’s self-worth instead of their achievements. They unpack the daily practice of challenging your own expectations, the importance of fostering a sense of self-worth for both parent and child, the value of allowing your children the space to explore their own destiny, the outcomes of fear-based parenting, and much more. Are you ready for the joy and ease that comes when we let go of control and accept our children for who they truly are? Then this episode is for you. Topics We Break Down

Have you ever considered the power of laughter in battling anxiety? What if anxiety was not just a state of mind but also a condition deeply rooted in our bodies? Could we unravel the complexities of anxiety and find solace in the present moment? Dr. Russell Kennedy, also known as Anxiety MD, joins Dr. Scott today to share his unique blend of expertise in medicine, neuroscience, and stand-up comedy. Offering a revolutionary understanding and approach to overcoming anxiety, Dr. Kennedy shares insights from his personal journey, revealing the counterphobic tool of comedy and how this intersects with his medical practice. Together, they challenge the conventional view of anxiety, redefining it as a physical state of alarm that often stems from unresolved trauma. Dr. Kennedy guides us through techniques to connect with our inner self and find a sense of safety in the present moment, and together, we explore the essential difference between everyday discomfort and lingering trauma and how focusing on the body’s alarm signals can pave the way to healing. Topics We Break Down

Ever wondered what lies behind the curtain of the nutritional wellness industry, or considered how the act of cooking is not just preparing a meal, but also a profound expression of self care and creativity? In this episode, Desiree Nielsen joins Dr. Scott in conversation to share a wealth of wisdom from her experiences as a registered dietician. Desiree is an expert in the world of plant-based nutrition and an author of several best-selling cookbooks, including the newly published Plant Magic. Together, they’ll discuss the impact of social media on diet trends, the importance of tailoring nutrition to the individual, and the need for a critical eye toward the wellness narratives that dominate our culture. Desiree offers her insights into the complex layers of nutrition, debunking myths, and teaching us how to sift through the noise to find evidence-based advice that truly benefits our health. This episode serves up insight and laughter, proving that the best meals are not just about what’s on the plate, but also about the conversations that happen around the table. Let’s dig in! Topics We Break Down:

Have you ever found yourself lost in a sea of distractions, struggling to maintain focus? Or wondered about the intricate workings of attention in our brains? How do we understand the fine line between neurodivergence and clinical severity in the context of attention disorders? Today, Dr. Scott sits down with Dr. Sasha Hamdani, a board-certified psychiatrist, best-selling author, and entrepreneur. Dr. Hamdani brings a wealth of knowledge and personal insight into the complexities of attention and its nuances. From the evolution of ADHD diagnosis to the pioneering creation of the Focus Genie app, we explore the multifaceted nature of attention, including its various types and the challenges it presents in our daily lives. Join us as they discuss the critical aspects of attention: its definition, the ability to focus, regulate, and transition between topics, and the intriguing relationship between ADHD, generational stress, and trauma. Dr. Hamdani shares her expertise on the capacity for attention, how it varies among individuals, and the potential impacts of overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis in ADHD. This conversation promises to enlighten and challenge your understanding of attention, providing a deeper appreciation of our brain's complexity and the many shades of normal when it comes to attention-related challenges. Whether you're grappling with focus issues yourself, know someone who does, or are simply curious about the inner workings of the human mind, this episode is not to be missed. Topics We Break Down

Have you ever felt the pressure to prove that your trauma is more severe than others? Or found yourself in situations where experiences of pain and suffering are compared and contrasted in a competitive way? Welcome to the Trauma Olympics. Joining Dr. Scott to unpack this intricate subject are Kai Cheng Thom, MSW, MSc, a certified Somatic Sex Educator and acclaimed author, and Nkem Ndefo, MSN, the founder of Lumos Transforms and creator of The Resilience Toolkit. Together, they explore the different forms of Trauma Olympics, including the troubling trends of one-upping and minimizing others' experiences, and the underlying causes such as capitalism, scarcity mentality, and the quest for validation. They’ll discuss the negative effects of this phenomenon, such as how it splinters social movements and fosters a culture of constant competition over trauma and they’ll delve into the complex politics of trauma disclosure, examining the pressure to share personal experiences for validation and the crucial right to low disclosure. This conversation is not just an exploration but also a critical examination of our societal and individual approaches to trauma. Whether you've experienced this phenomenon personally or are seeking to understand it better, this episode offers insights, personal stories, and thoughtful analysis on navigating the challenging landscape of the Trauma Olympics. Get ready for a profound discussion that sheds light on the complexities and dangers of comparing traumas and the importance of respecting individual boundaries and experiences in the journey of healing and resilience. Topics we break down

How do we navigate the fragile threads that bind us to one another and to our past? How do patterns of attachment emerge from the shadows of our upbringing, influencing not just our romantic relationships but also our friendships, our career paths, and our very sense of self? In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons welcomes Dr. Judy Ho, a distinguished Clinical and Forensic Neuropsychologist, tenured professor, and author of 'The New Rules of Attachment'. Dr. Judy, with her profound understanding of neuropsychology, sheds light on how insecure attachments carve anxious, avoidant, and disorganized trails through our lives. Together, they explore the transformative power of self-awareness, self-regulation, and the sacred act of reparenting. This conversation goes beyond discussing the bonds we form with others; it's an exploration of how to reforge the bonds within ourselves, to heal the attachment wounds that hold us back, and to step into a future of secure attachment and limitless growth. Are you ready to uncover the mysteries of attachment and discover how to navigate the path towards secure connections? Listen in for a profound dive into the heart of human connection and growth. Topics We Break Down

Have you ever stopped to think about what really makes a relationship work? What is the secret sauce of relationship success? How much of it is the way we talk and listen to each other? How much of it is chemistry? What makes or breaks our relationships? In this insightful episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Jillian Turecki, a certified relationship coach, teacher, and writer, known for her compassionate and direct approach to transforming relationships. Under the mentorship of Tony Robbins and Cloe Madanes, Jillian has dedicated 20 years to teaching others how to revolutionize their relationships, starting with the one they have with themselves. Together, they explore the crucial elements of respect, trust, and safety in relationships, and the evolving nature of our preferences and priorities as we grow. Jillian shares her wisdom on the art of effective communication, the importance of setting boundaries, and the skill of active listening. They also dive into the often-overlooked potential of breakups as catalysts for personal growth and even touch on the nuances of meeting a partner's parents for the first time. Listen in to uncover the work and growth necessary for healthy relationships and the vital role of feeling seen and understood by our partners. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a current relationship, healing from a breakup, or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of relational dynamics, this conversation is a treasure trove of insights. Topics We Break Down

Have you ever felt the transformative power of music not just as a soundtrack to your life, but as a key to unlock deep, personal healing and growth? Can a song, a melody, or a rhythm truly spark a revolution within us, challenging us to confront and transcend the boundaries of racism, mindfulness, and our own potential for change? Today, Dr. Scott welcomes Grammy-nominated artist, best-selling author, and visionary speaker, Justin Michael Williams for a fascinating conversation about how we, as a community, can harness the emotional impact of music and mindfulness to not just envision, but actively create a world brimming with possibility and devoid of division. Together, they explore the intricate dance between individual change and collective evolution, shedding light on the role of community and the unifying power of music in the journey towards transformation. Justin challenges us to question the permanence of racism and introduces the concept of "othering" alongside the eight pillars of possibility, offering a fresh perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts that have fallen short. Listen in as we tune into the music of transformation, community, and the endless possibilities that await when we dare to listen deeply and act boldly. Topics We Break Down

There’s a lot of talk about self-love these days but what does it mean to truly love and accept yourself - especially in relationships with others? Could it be that it is the act of embracing our most vulnerable selves that provides a portal to deeper intimacy with others? Today, Dr. Scott is joined by the inspiring Dr. Laura Berman, a renowned expert in the fields of relationships, self-worth, and emotional resilience. Dr. Berman shares her personal and professional insights into the transformative power of self-love and the pivotal role it plays in shaping our connections with others. Together, they explore the delicate interplay between pain and pleasure, and the unique concept of quantum sex, where energy and emotion intertwine. Listen in to uncover the profound impact of self-love not only in our personal lives but in the way we relate to the world around us. Topics We Break Down throughfrom

We would likely all agree that what we eat can transform our health but do we believe that it could also help us to heal our deepest wounds? Dr. Scott’s guest on the podcast today is Elissa Goodman, a true warrior in the world of holistic health and nutrition. Diagnosed with cancer at 32, and having endured the loss of her husband to Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Elissa's journey is not just one of survival, but of profound transformation. Together, they’ll explore Elissa's passionate advocacy for cleansing diets and the power of plant-based nutrition. Elissa’s belief in the mind's capacity to foster healing underscores the conversation, emphasizing the critical role of trauma and emotional well-being in overall health. Elissa's insights on the importance of listening to our body's instincts and finding personalized pathways to wellness promise to be both enlightening and empowering. Join us as we unravel Elissa's insights into the healing journey, from facing life's toughest battles to discovering the power of self-love and the role of nutrition in holistic healing. Topics We Break Down

Ever wondered how passion and purpose intertwine to shape our lives? Or considered the role of adaptability and vision in navigating our paths? In this episode, Dr. Scott explores these questions with John Miles, author of Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life. John brings unique insights from his experiences in the Navy and Fortune 50 companies, highlighting the power of long-term vision and the importance of being adaptable. Together, they’ll explore the power of mattering, the impact of loneliness, and the influence of relationships and environments on our sense of self. Tune in as they connect the dots between passion, purpose, and play to discover how we can all be a little more “passion struck”. Topics We Break Down

In a world that's rapidly evolving, one aspect remains timeless: the human craving for meaningful connections. But what happens when the hustle of modern life, the echoes of a pandemic, and the complexities of adulthood intertwine, transforming the landscape of friendship? In this episode, Dr. Scott dives into the heart of the intricate maze of adult bonding with two extraordinary guides; Vanessa Bennett and Dené Logan. Vanessa is a licensed holistic psychologist and bestselling author, using her expertise and depth in Buddhist and yoga psychology to pave the path toward authentic connections. Dené Logan is a marriage and relationship therapist, yoga instructor, and author of the upcoming book, Sovereign Love, where she offers her psychologically informed perspective on reclaiming our true selves in relationships. Together, they’ll explore the polyamorous nature of friendships, things that make the cake of friendship so rich, and the importance of emotional intimacy. They’ll navigate the nuances of building community in post-COVID times, the art of making and nurturing friendships in new cities, and the pivotal role of shared experiences and memory keepers in solidifying bonds. We'll challenge societal norms that often overshadow friendships, highlighting the gendered nature of close relationships and the empowering concept of Relationship Anarchy. If you’re ready to redefine friendship and explore its transformative power in your own life - it’s time to make friends with this week’s guests. Topics We Break Down:

In a world where we are so often encouraged to achieve and excel, what magic unfolds when we lean into our perfectly imperfect selves? What happens when we blend laughter and play with the profound work of healing? Today, Dr. Scott welcomes Karine Bell, speaker, somatic educator and co-dreamer at The Rooted Global Village, clown-in-training, and somatic abolitionist to transform how we relate to trauma and oppression. With a foundation in community, liberation, indigenous, and eco-psychologies, she takes a decolonial approach to life ― meeting each moment with curiosity, wonder, and a trust in laughter for healing. Together, they explore the importance of embracing healthy shame as a tool for reflection, the impact of toxic shame and the power of embracing our quirky sides for profound personal and collective shifts. For a deep dive into the world of clowning, shame, and learning to laugh at ourselves, be sure to tune in for this expansive and compassionate conversation to find out if the serious can be seriously fun! Topics We Break Down:

In a world where the pursuit of perfection often becomes a relentless race, have you ever paused to wonder what truly lies at the heart of perfectionism? Is it an internal drive towards excellence, or a mask for our own feelings of unworthiness, a manifestation of internal shame? In today’s episode, Dr. Scott welcomes Dr. Thomas Curran, a world-leading expert on perfectionism, author of The Perfectionism Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough, and associate professor of Psychological and Behavioural Science at the London School of Economics. Dr. Thomas has spent many years studying the cloak of perfectionism and how it negatively impacts our lives. In this episode, he breaks it all down for us, including how to understand the relationship of perfectionism to mental health, the social component of perfectionism, and the paradoxical way it blocks our path to genuine success and joy. So, whether you've been caught in the snare of self-loathing for not meeting those sky-high goals or you’re simply seeking permission to embrace your beautifully imperfect self, this conversation is for you. Topics We Break Down:

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the quicksand of life's challenges, where every effort to move seems to pull you deeper into struggle? Or perhaps found yourself caught in a cycle of overachievement and overdoing, only to realize it's a shield against unprocessed trauma? This dance of resilience, this balancing act between breaking and rebuilding, just may be where we find our truest strength. In this episode, Dr. Scott is joined by Dr. Neeta Bhushan, a former cosmetic dentist turned resilience expert and advocate for human connection. Author of the critically acclaimed book, That Sucked, Now What? and Founder of the Global Grit Institute and the Dharma Coaching Institute. Her work has received international recognition, being featured in Forbes, LA Weekly and more, inspiring countless individuals to turn their struggles into opportunities for growth. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and transformed as we unravel the art of turning life’s most sucky moments into stepping stones for growth and self-realization. Topics We Break Down:

What is the true price of admission for laughter that moves you to tears? This episode’s guest isn’t just a comedian; she’s a force of nature in the world of entertainment and advocacy. In today’s episode, Dr. Scott sits down with Margaret Cho, a five-time Emmy nominee and a trailblazer for underrepresented groups who is reshaping the landscape of American comedy. Together, they explore the curious, subversive edges of Margaret’s comedy, where she addresses the absurdity of culture, life during the pandemic, her love for TikTok and reality shows, and even her fascination with pimple popping. They’ll also dive into how she navigates Asian hate through her humor, her journey of healing from addiction, and the transformative power of choice and finding agency on the road to belonging. Are you ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe even squirm a little? Join us for a rollercoaster ride of insight and revelations with the incomparable Margaret Cho! Topics We Break Down:

There’s no question that astrology is having a moment, when even the non-believers among us will openly blame mercury for their technology troubles or saturn for the turbulence in their late 20’s. But what is it about understanding ourselves through the stars that is so compelling? What if astrology isn’t just about predicting our future but is actually a way to feel happier in our daily lives? In this episode, Dr. Scott Lyons is joined by Debra Silverman, Astrologer and Physiotherapist, to unpack the cosmic influences in our daily lives. Debra, author of The Missing Element and the host of The I Don't Believe In Astrology Podcast, views astrology not as a fortune-telling gimmick but as a compass for self-discovery, a playful guide, and a pathway to healing. In our conversation, we explore the unexpected corridors of astrology and its profound insights into understanding the human condition. We unpack the symbiosis of astrology and psychology, the intricacies of our internal "complaining machine,” the limitations of the human operating system, activating the observer within us, the healing power of dance, and much more. Topics We Break Down:

Ever find yourself questioning the jigsaw puzzle of health content out three on the interwebs, wondering if that extra bite of processed food is really playing roulette with your brain and gut health? And amidst the cacophony of dietary do's and don'ts, pondering why the dietary heroes and villains of the internet seem to switch roles and ideas almost daily. Enter Max Lugavere, a dynamo in the realms of health and science journalism. With bestsellers like "Genius Foods'' under his belt and the potent voice of The Genius Life podcast, Max doesn't just preach health; he bridges the gaps between diet, brain longevity, and delectable culinary choices. Through his lens, the connection between the foods we devour and the vitality of our minds isn't just a notion—it's a symphony, a dance, a harmonious interplay. In this episode, Dr. Scott speaks with Max about health in the modern age, delving into evidence-based fitness strategies, the controversy surrounding carbs, and the golden triad of being “Happy, Healthy, Horny” to discover what truly propels us towards a state of well-being. Join us as we disentangle the confusing webs of health advice, champion evidence over anecdotes and prioritize authenticity over trends. Topics We Break Down:

Have you ever found yourself laughing at a meme that felt eerily reflective of your own life or contemplated how our endless scrolling through digital feeds impacts our mental health? In an era where the lines between online personas and real-life emotions blur, we delve into the fascinating and often untold stories behind social media fame. In this episode, Dr. Scott sits down with TikTok sensation Rod Thill to delve into the fascinating and untold stories behind social media fame, where the lines between online personas and real-life emotions blur. As you'll discover, Rod isn't your average content creator; he is a bold storyteller who blends millennial pop culture, humor, and raw honesty to talk about mental health and the realities of corporate life. From the intricate challenges of curating content for a diverse audience to forecasting the trends we hope to witness, we delve into Rod's experiences as a social media influencer. Tune in to reveal layers of fame, creativity, and the unspoken realities of navigating the digital limelight with Rod Thill. Topics We Break Down:

Ever wondered what it's like to navigate the glittering yet turbulent waters of celebrity and reality TV while striving to stay true to your own story? How does one maintain authenticity when every move is magnified, every choice scrutinized, in the high-stakes world of public life? It's a journey that demands a delicate balance between personal truth and public persona. In this episode, Dr. Scott dives into these questions with Rachel Lindsay – an author, attorney, and a trailblazer in the realm of media. Known for breaking new ground as the first Black lead on 'The Bachelorette,' Rachel's journey extends far beyond the television screen. Her story is one of navigating fame, forging a path of self-discovery, and using her platform to inspire and lead with purpose. Together, they’ll explore the challenges of living life in the public eye, the pressures and joys of being a role model, and Rachel’s evolution from reality TV star to a powerful voice in literature and advocacy. Prepare for a heartfelt and revealing discussion, as we celebrate the strength it takes to be a 'gently used human' in a world captivated by celebrity. Topics We Break Down: