Shows
How To RelateUnderstanding Men: Pressure, Purpose, and Potential with Justin Carotti
June is Men's Mental Health month and Justin Carotti is back. We're talking about men's mental health, pressure with reaching potential, and finding purpose.
00:43 Discussing the Lost Boys Report
01:32 Impact of Societal Changes on Men
05:01 Men's Mental Health and Behavioral Responses
08:44 Challenges in Addressing Men's Issues
12:05 Family Dynamics and Potential
22:14 Building Resilience and Handling Distress
29:15 Motivation vs. Discipline
31:48 Overcoming Resistance to Change
32:36 Discovering Personal Values
33:06 Practical Exercises for Value Identification
37:56 Career Counseling Insights
40:50 Navigating Life's Choices
51:24 Making Therapy Accessible for Men
56:39 Resources
Resources
Justin:
https://www.valiancecounseling.com/
One Percent Better: https://one-percent-better.kit.com/landing-page
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincarot...2025-06-1358 minHow To RelateCareer Therapy: Navigating Career Transitions, AI, and Myth of the Dream Job with Marty McGovernNavigating career transition? Thinking about leaving your job? Want to find your purpose? Marty McGovern from Career Therapy talks about how to navigate your work life with practicality and ease. We'll discuss AI, myth of the dream job, and importance of building relationships.
00:32 Career Transition: From Corporate to Therapy
02:08 The Evolution of Workplace Mental Health Services
04:29 AI in Therapy: Opportunities and Concerns
06:53 The Impact of Remote Work on Mental Health
14:59 The Myth of the Dream Job
35:14 Burnout in Marketing and Advertising
35:58 The Misconception of Career Coaching
37:57 The Difference Between Coaching and Therapy
38:08 The Value of Credentials in Coaching
39:13 Navigating the Coaching Ind...2025-06-051h 05How To RelateDating After Divorce with Gwendolyn Watson, LMFTWelcome back to the How to Relate Podcast! Brittani is here with Gwendolyn Watson! Gwendolyn Watson is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT #147312) based in California, where she supports individuals and couples navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, and the impact of past experiences. Certified in EMDR and trained in Gottman Method (Level 2), she blends clinical insight with a strategic mindset shaped by her decade-long past career at Google in Strategic Partnerships. Outside the therapy room, she writes The Hopeful Partner, a free newsletter exploring how we get in our own way in our relationships—and how to find our way back...2025-05-2945 minHow To RelateExploring Desire: Understanding Desire and Keeping It Alive with Jen Wynn, LMFTDesire is the sense of aliveness in relationships. Brittani is here with couples therapist and sex expert Jen Wynn, LMFT to talk about how we can handle desire discrepancies, responsive vs spontaneous desire, and ways we can explore the meaning of erotic energy in ourselves and relationships.
01:53 Understanding Desire: Beyond the Light Switch
05:59 Spontaneous vs. Responsive Desire
13:47 The Role of Time and Connection in Desire
18:44 Circular Model of Sexuality
26:36 Accelerators and Brakes: The Dual Control Model
29:11 Understanding Desire and Arousal
30:56 The Impact of Shame on Wanting
32:32 Sex Education and Societal Norms
35:38 Breaks and Accelerators in Sexual Desire
37:0...2025-05-271h 00How To RelateTrauma, Chronic Illness, EMDR, and Resiliency with Erica SmithErica Smith, LCSW is a trauma therapist and practice owner at Whole Mentality. Erica discusses her experience being diagnosed with Lupus, funny trauma stories, and what it means to live with chronic illness. Enjoy this light conversation discussing trauma.
00:34 The Power of Cold Emails
01:27 Trauma and Chronic Illness
01:36 Personal Stories of Trauma
05:32 Living with Chronic Illness
08:53 Understanding Spoon Theory
13:55 The Intersection of Trauma and Chronic Illness
22:41 Defining Trauma
33:54 Exploring Childhood Reactions in Adult Relationships
34:27 Understanding Trauma and Unmet Needs
35:18 Personal Reflections on Trauma Responses
39:05 The Impact of EMDR Therapy
41:53 Navigating Relationships and Trauma
47:01 The Role of EMDR in Healing
01:01:52 Supporting Loved Ones Thro...2025-05-151h 06How To RelateThings I Heard While Dating with Emily O'BrienEmily O'Brien is a freelance writer and author of the book Things I Heard While Dating. This fun conversation includes our own dating stories, excerpts from the book, and lessons from the real world of dating. Have fun with this episode! Highly recommend listening with a friend and share your own dating stories.
00:35 How Emily Created 'Things I Heard While Dating'
02:34 Hilarious and Awkward Dating Stories
04:18 The Blueprint of Relationships
11:31 The Cool Girl Phenomenon
19:30 Speed Dating Adventures
26:33 Unbelievable Name Critique
27:06 Supporting Evidence for Name Dislike
28:32 Personal Stories and Reactions
30:15 Memorable and Awkward Compliments
31:45 Cyclist Stereotypes and Dating
33:07 Unexpected and Shockin...2025-05-0848 minHow To RelateWorkplace Wellness: Beyond the Corporate Ladder with Merrill WoodWelcome back to How to Relate: The podcast that aims to answer how we can do relationships better. This episode is with Merrill Wood, a licensed therapist, consultant, and co-founder of Monday Wellness. We'll explore themes such as:
The narratives around work stress
The arrival fallacy
How societal and institutional pressures shape our professional lives
Merrill emphasizes that addressing these issues requires creating supportive workplace cultures, leveraging resources, and balancing values to sustain both professional and personal fulfillment.
Merrill's Resources:
https://www.mondaywellness.com/
htt...2025-05-0149 minHow To RelateUnderstanding Each Other: A Deep Dive into Relationship Dynamics with Christian CharetteWant to know what happens behind the scenes of couples therapy? Welcome to the couples therapist's couch with Christian Charette. Christian deep dives into how couples can find emotional connection through creativity, curiosity, and intention.
00:45 Journey into Couples Therapy
03:07 The Practicality of Couples Therapy
04:42 Challenges in Therapy and Real-Life Application
06:05 Family Systems and Therapy
08:13 The Importance of Connection in Relationships
21:33 Intentional Connection and Creativity
30:31 Curiosity and Differentiation in Relationships
34:50 Understanding Emotional Connection in Relationships
37:40 The Importance of Curiosity and Non-Judgme...2025-04-241h 09How To RelateWhat's Happening with Young Men? Lessons in Male Vulnerability and Mentorship with Justin CarottiWhat's happening with young men?
Brittani is with Justin Carotti! Justin is an experienced coach, mentor, clinician, and clinical supervisor. primarily works with young adults in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from residential care to in-home treatments. He considers it a privilege to have the opportunity to form meaningful and supportive relationships with those he serves. In addition to his work at Valiance, Justin is also an adjunct faculty member of Fairfield University and the University of Connecticut. He studied at the University of North Carolina–Wilmington for his bachelor’s in Social Work and at the U...2025-04-171h 00How To RelateYour Guide to Relationship Dynamics: Communication and ConnectionCommunication problems are not the real problem: they're a symptom of the problem. Get to know what's underneath, how to communicate better, and how your attachment styles are coming into play.
00:29 Understanding Communication Issues in Couples
02:09 Exploring Boundaries in Relationships
03:30 Emotional Regulation and Accountability
04:34 Roles in Couple Dynamics
05:53 The Complexities of Communication
07:48 Attachment Theory and Human Needs
14:16 The Infinity Loop: A Tool for Relational Work
21:53 Individuation and Differentiation in Relationships
28:43 Effective Communication Strategies
35:31 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
2025-04-1036 minHow To RelateUnspoken Hardships: Navigating Maternal Mental Health with Megan DavisFor anyone who has thought, "There are so many struggles no one told me about as a mom," then this episode is for you. In this episode of the How to Relate Podcast, Brittani is here with Megan Davis, a therapist specializing in maternal mental health. Discussion topics include the challenges and nuances of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, the importance of sleep, self-compassion, and support systems for new mothers. Megan also delves into acceptance and commitment therapy, offering insights and practical advice for new and expecting parents navigating the early stages of parenthood.
00:00 Importance of Maternal Mental Health
00:22 Understanding Ma...2025-04-0346 minHow To RelateTwo Human Needs: Security and ExplorationIn this solo episode we're going through the importance of security and desire for individuals and couples. You'll learn:
Importance of relational security and having a home base
Importance of desire and novelty
How to be a creative couple
How to explore individually
Why modern couples feel more pressure than ever
Find me @brittani_procknow on Instagram
Sign up for the Newsletter: https://relate-co.kit.com/e9f87bb2dc
2025-03-2713 minHow To RelateNavigating Money and Relationships: Questions to ask each other, self-reflections, and importance of lifestyle discussions
Everett Uhl is back! Consider this episode a mix of Nobody Wants This and therapist guidance for navigating money in relationships. You'll learn about our pasts with money, how navigated money conversations in relationships, what you need to consider for your lifestyle similarities and differences, and how to communicate about money.
00:53 Setting Up the New Studio
03:13 College Memories and Growing Up
07:47 Everett's Pursuit of a Singing Career
14:21 The Reality of Money and Society
18:59 Why We'll Never Recommend Better Help
33:44 Personal Stories and Money Beliefs
36:28 Childhood Money Lessons
37:54 Balancing Materialism and Minimalism
39:47 Marriage and Money: A Business Partnership
40:42 Financial Compatibility in Relationshi...2025-03-211h 16How To RelateAddiction Recovery: Finding Strength in Community and Play with Nolan WrightA vulnerable story about addiction, recovery, and resilience with Nolan Wright.
Disclaimer: This episode mentions suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling see NAMI's resources https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:39 The Birth of Recess Games
03:22 Navigating COVID Challenges
04:13 The Importance of Play in Recovery
07:18 Pre-Recovery Chaos17:29 First Rehab Experience
24:13 The Turning Point: Healing Transitions
34:45 Thor's Magical Beer and the Illusion of Endless Resources
35:28 From Magic to Money: A Downward Spiral
36:20 H...2025-03-131h 09How To RelateLegalities of Marriage: All you need to know from beginning to end in the eyes of the law with Daniel SwainIf marriage's tagline is: "I love you so much, let's get the law involved," then shouldn't we have a complete understanding how the law is involved in marriage? This episode is like your privacy policy settings that you don't want to ignore if you're thinking of getting married, already married, or thinking about ending a marriage. Whatever stage you're in, this episode is for you.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:12 The Role of a Family Law Attorney
03:27 Marriage and Legal Implications
06:44 Financial Considerations in Marriage
13:15 Understanding Marital Property and Debt
28:30 Child Custody and Best Interests
32:44 Navigating Custody Disputes
...2025-03-061h 26How To RelateRelating with Self-Compassion: Unpacking Perfectionism and Anxiety with Kylie Lambert
What does self-compassion really mean? How do we navigate perfectionism in a world of social media self-help? Do we need to diagnose ourselves from Tik Tok? And more with Kylie Lambert!
00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction
00:26 First Meeting and Connection
02:14 Understanding Anxiety and Perfectionism
04:32 Roots of the 'Not Good Enough' Story
10:31 Shame Narratives and Self-Compassion
10:58 The Pressure of Productivity and Rest
23:15 Defining and Practicing Self-Compassion
29:24 Understanding Anxiety and Communication
29:57 The Power of Language and Self-Regulation
30:41 Trusting Yourself and Building Resilience
31:21 Navigating Relationships and External Validation
32:47 Perfectionism and Emotional Responsibility
33:52 The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health
42:20 Self-Compassion and Its Impact on Relationship...2025-02-2757 minHow To RelateChaos, Control, and Cherry Juice: Unfiltered conversation with Jamie Drescher Ilinetsky
Enjoy this unplanned, unfiltered conversation with Jamie. We'll dive into the messiness of early adulthood, Jamie's martial arts career, religious faith and marriage, navigating friendships, and curing anxiety with cherry juice. Enjoy!
00:00 Introduction and Initial Banter
00:21 First Meeting and Early Memories
02:02 Life as Roommates
03:15 Adulting and Personal Growth
06:20 Social Work and Career Paths
07:28 Dating and Social Plans
09:17 Jewish Faith and Hebrew School
13:53 Taekwondo Journey and Challenges
29:28 Anxiety and Mental Health
35:01 Telepathic Connections and Idle Hour Coffee
35:33 Reconnecting After Years Apart
37:03 Girls Trip Planning and Busy Schedules
38:54 Discussing Anxiety and Imposter Syndrome
40:33 Convenience and Habitual Routines
48:58 Married Life and Household Chores
58:30 Fun Activities an...2025-02-201h 09How To RelateNavigating Your 30s: Love, Career, and Self-Discovery with Beth VincentIn this episode of the How to Relate podcast, host and guest Beth Vincent explore the intricacies of life as a woman in her 30s. They discuss the challenges of balancing career ambitions with personal and relational goals, the role of self-care and movement in maintaining mental health, the impact of societal expectations on dating and relationships, and strategies for dealing with dating burnout. They also delve into gender socialization, the importance of vulnerability, and how to maintain a sense of identity while juggling multiple roles.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:12 Connecting Through Running and Therapy
02:08 Balancing Career and Personal Life
04:45 Navig...2025-02-131h 07How To RelateReviving Dead Bedrooms: Sex, Desire, and Communication with Everett Uhl
In this episode of the How to Relate Podcast, host Brittani and guest Everett, both therapists, dive into the complexities and nuances of dead bedrooms in relationships. They discuss the definition and implications of sexless relationships, the importance of mutual communication about sexual needs, the impact of individual self-esteem and body image, and the role of environmental and emotional factors in sexual desire. They also touch on the concept of 'the ick' and its impact on sexual attraction, the power dynamics in initiating sex, and how to compassionately reject a partner while maintaining intimacy and connection.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:11 Me...2025-02-061h 06How To RelateHow to Practice Embodiment with Glenn Cheatham
Talking about embodiment, therapy, yoga, and relationships with Glenn Chetham!
00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast
00:18 First Impressions and Shared Interests
01:04 Journey to Becoming a Therapist
04:53 Exploring Embodiment
14:46 Core Capsule Exercise
25:54 Navigating Emotions and Inner Dialogue
34:47 Empathy and Secure Attachment
35:45 Self-Security and Relationships
36:26 Embodiment in Relationships
38:01 Trust and Nervous System Regulation
41:57 Embodiment Practices and Community Healing
58:20 Movement as a Tool for Embodiment
01:04:40 Challenges and Benefits of Embodiment
01:07:30 Final Thoughts on Embodiment
2025-01-311h 10How To RelateNavigating the Complexities of Dating with Jaclyn DitterIn this episode of the How to Relate podcast, Brittani and Jaclyn dive into the intricate dynamics of dating, especially from the perspective of therapists. The discussion centers navigating the dating landscape, highlighting the importance of understanding both oneself and the other person involved.
Key topics include managing differences in dating, the balance between independence and togetherness, and how therapists navigate personal relationships while maintaining professional boundaries. We'll touch on common dating hurdles like handling expectations, potential versus reality, and the often blurred lines between offering support and becoming a fixer. Explore the concept of emotional availability...2025-01-231h 05How To RelateHow to Understand and Heal Trauma with Dr. Amie Sharrits
Understanding Trauma: Insights from Psychiatry
In this episode of the How to Relate podcast, Brittani sits down with Dr. Amie Sharrits. Amie is a psychiatrist specializing in trauma and alternative modalities to heal trauma. In this episode we discuss the complexities of trauma, psychodynamics, and psychoanalysis. We'll delve into the differences between psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches, talk about the role of the unconscious mind, and discuss practical steps for managing trauma in oneself and in relationships. The conversation also covers gentle support techniques, the importance of setting goals, and how to address triggers in a healthy way. Whether you're a...2025-01-1637 minHow To RelateUnlocking Attachment: Building Secure Relationships
In this episode of the How to Relate Podcast, the focus is on attachment theory and the various attachment styles, exploring how they affect our romantic relationships. You'll have a general overview of attachment theory, discuss the four types of attachment styles—secure, anxious, dismissive-avoidant, and disorganized. You'll understand how these styles originate from childhood experiences and manifest in adult relationships. The episode also offers actionable insights to understand your own attachment strategies and move towards more secure and fulfilling relational dynamics.
00:00 Introduction to Attachment Theory
01:00 Origins of Attachment Strategies
01:49 Exploring the Four Attachment Styles
05:35 Common Misconceptions and Communication Issues
06:10 Societa...2025-01-1415 minHow To RelateHow to Let Go of Perfectionism with Andrea Beardsley-Glover
In this episode of the 'How to Relate' podcast, Brittani talks with long-time friend and therapist Andrea. In his episode, we'll dive deep into understanding perfectionism, the importance of boundaries, and the challenges brought about by societal norms and social media. You'll also learn healthy ways to set New Year's goals, the therapeutic benefits of journaling, and how to foster supportive, emotionally intelligent relationships. Tune in for practical insights into achieving mental wellness, especially for perfectionists and those struggling with obsessive behaviors.
00:00 Welcome to the How to Relate Podcast
00:12 Meeting Andrea: A Journey from 2017
01:10 Navigating Changes and Challenges
01:26 Impact of COVID...2025-01-061h 09How To RelateHow to Make Friends with Matthew CaseHow can we get better at making connections? What makes friendships unique? How can we show up as better friends without sacrificing ourselves? An episode all about friendships with Matthew Case.
2024-12-191h 07How To RelateHow to Date Better with Dr. Lori HusbandWhat makes dating so challenging in 2024? Should we be using our dating lives as entertainment? What's the best way to use the apps? All of these questions are answered with dating expert Dr. Lori Husband!
2024-12-1850 minHow To RelateHow to Survive the Holidays: BoundariesYou holiday essentials for staying well.
2024-12-0617 min
BedtalksBedtalks Episode 87: Decoding Love: Navigating Dating, Love, & Relationships with Brittani ProcknowHi There!
We’re back with another new episode of Bedtalks with Britanni Procknow.
She is a Licensed Therapist in Raleigh, North Carolina. with Certifications in EMDR along with being an Addiction Specialist. We’re diving into discussing the complexities of navigating dating, love, and relationships.
On this show, we discuss:
The emotional system of families
When to call it quits (for real), sometimes you have to move on from unhealthy relationships
How to identify your value system and
The importance of relational contracts.
Brittani breaks it down for you. She help...2023-08-1446 min
Career Therapy#123 - WORK-AHOLISM: THE SLOW BURN TO A GREATER PROBLEMBrittani Procknow is a relational therapist who strives to help individuals and couples live life passionately. Her work encourages others to move beyond complacency both personally and professionally through enhancing self and relational awareness. Together, we discuss workaholism, how it develops, what it looks like, and what you can do to break the cycle and begin living a more connected, fulfilling, and engaging life. 2023-04-1257 min