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Shame is one of the most universal human emotions — and one of the most misunderstood. Whether you feel it daily or it’s been tucked away for years, shame has a way of shaping how we see ourselves, how we connect with others, and even how we believe we deserve to live.

In this episode of The Lemon Tree Coaching Podcast, Dr. Allison Sucamele explores the psychology of shame cycles:

• How shame first takes hold
• Why it repeats itself in predictable patterns
• How it quietly shapes our identity and self-worth
• And most importantly — how we can begin to break free

Together, we’ll walk through the research of pioneers like Brené Brown, Gershen Kaufman, and Donald Nathanson, and connect their insights to everyday experiences of shame, self-criticism, and belonging. You’ll also hear practical tools for interrupting shame cycles — from self-compassion practices (see Kristin Neff’s work) to somatic grounding and safe connection.

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📚 References & Recommended Reads:

• Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and Loss.
• Bradshaw, J. (1988). Healing the Shame That Binds You.
• Brown, B. (2012). Daring Greatly.
• Kaufman, G. (1992). Shame: The Power of Caring.
• Nathanson, D. (1992). Shame and Pride: Affect, Sex, and the Birth of the Self.
• Neff, K. (2011). Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself.
• Tangney, J. P., & Dearing, R. L. (2002). Shame and Guilt.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988 in the U.S. (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), or dial 000 in Australia.

Grab your coffee, tea, or journal — this is an episode you’ll want to lean into gently.