Dr. Pamela Kreiser - Podcast Details

Shows

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#132: 🔍Interpersonal Data Mining: Breaking Through Assumptions🔦In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the impact of assumptions on relationships and provide practical tools to replace these assumptions with clarity. Through real-life examples, they explore how silent assumptions can fuel misunderstandings and share strategies for fostering open communication and trust. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls like judging intentions, predicting behavior based on past actions, and failing to communicate expectations. Discover the importance of asking clarifying questions and using Brene Brown's technique,”the story I'm telling myself,” to improve your relationships. Mus...2025-07-1517 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#131: 📢 How to Give Feedback without Sounding Harsh 🔥In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore the art of giving feedback. Reflecting on the discomfort of receiving harsh feedback, they present two effective strategies for providing constructive criticism without triggering defensive reactions— the Positive Feedback Sandwich and the Situation-Behavior-Impact (SBI) technique. Alongside discussing research insights from Gottman and the Harvard Business Review, the hosts offer practical examples and scenarios to illustrate these strategies in action, aiming to improve communication and relationships. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: Experts : Dr...2025-07-0122 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#130: Stop the Drama! How to Break the Avoid-Criticize LoopIn this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the “Avoid Criticize Loop,” a destructive conflict pattern in relationships. They explain how indirect communication, passive-aggressive comments, and involving third parties escalate conflicts instead of resolving them. Through relatable examples, the hosts emphasize the importance of direct and vulnerable communication, recognizing and addressing one's role in the cycle, and setting boundaries to promote healthier interactions. Tune in for practical insights on improving your communication and relationship strategies. Music by epidemic sound. 2025-06-1731 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#129: 🥉Dad Life: Insights on Balancing Home, Work and Self-CareIn this Father's Day special episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo step aside and give the microphones over to their spouses, Pete, Tom, and Ralph. In this episode, they dive into personal stories, tips for self-care, managing work-from-home life, and the joys and struggles of parenting. Tune in for an insightful conversation peppered with heartfelt moments and practical advice that every dad (and mom) can relate to. Plus, a fun Father's Day quiz to keep things lively! Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES:2025-06-0330 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#128: You Did It First! Breaking the Tit-for-Tat TrapIn this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo dive into the topic of tit-for-tat arguing and its detrimental impact on relationships. They explore the concept of critical startup moments, blame shifting, and the risks of competitive retaliation. The hosts offer practical strategies for breaking these negative patterns, such as active listening, taking responsibility, and practicing empathy. Drawing on research from John Gottman, they discuss how mindful communication can prevent conflicts from escalating and help build trust and emotional connection. Whether you're facing relationship challenges or seeking to...2025-05-2025 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#126: Embracing Common Ground We Didn’t Know We HadIn this enlightening episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo delve into the complexities of maintaining cherished relationships. The episode addresses the common tendency to focus on differences rather than similarities and offers practical tools to bridge gaps and create connections. It highlights examples from everyday life, family gatherings, workplace dynamics, and even vacations to illustrate how emphasizing commonalities can lead to more harmonious interactions. Learn how shifting your language and mindset from 'me' vs. 'you' to 'we' and 'us' can transform the way you connect with others. 2025-04-2229 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#125: Unlocking Optimism: The Art of ReframingWelcome back to Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, featuring hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo. In today's episode, we explore “reframing”—a powerful mental communication tool backed by research that helps cultivate resilience, clarity, and purpose. The discussion juxtaposes growth versus fixed mindsets and optimism versus pessimism, drawing on insights from Martin Seligman's “Learned Optimism” and Carol Dweck's “Mindset: The Psychology of Success.” Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, we delve into how shifting our perspectives can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether it’s navigating relationship breakups or dealing with everyday inconveniences, reframing aids i...2025-04-0823 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#124: Mastering Boundaries: How to Say No and Improve Your Relationships!In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the importance of setting boundaries in personal and professional relationships. They demystify common misconceptions, explore why boundaries are essential for healthy interactions, and offer practical advice on how to create, state, and maintain effective boundaries. The conversation includes real-life examples and role-playing scenarios to help listeners understand the importance of clear, direct communication. Tune in to learn how to respect your needs and foster stronger relationships through thoughtful boundary-setting. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES:2025-03-2541 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#123: Stonewalling Explained: Why it Happens and How to Overcome it!In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore the concept of stonewalling in relationships. They discuss common misconceptions, Gottman's Four Horsemen, and the damaging effects stonewalling can have on relationships. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, practical advice on how to manage and recognize stonewalling, and effective strategies like planning discussions to avoid emotional flooding. Tune in for insightful tips and real-life experiences to improve your communication and relational dynamics. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: Experts : Dr. John Gottman, Gottman Institute 2025-03-1135 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#122: Stop Taking It Personally! Managing DefensivenessIn this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo take a deep dive into defensiveness in relationships. They explore how defensiveness affects communication, relationships, and even children, drawing from personal experiences and research by Dr. John Gottman. The hosts break down Gottman’s 'Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' and discuss practical strategies to reduce defensiveness, including taking responsibility, seeking clarity, and reframing interactions. Tune in for expert insights and actionable tools to strengthen your communication and relationships. Music by epidemic sound. 2025-02-2530 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#121: That's Not What I Meant! Unpacking Intent vs. ImpactIn this episode of “Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc,” Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel and Teighlor Polendo discuss the intricacies of communication and relationships, emphasizing the difference between intent and impact. Using Maya Angelou's quote as a backdrop, the hosts explore how words and actions leave lasting impressions. Join the conversation as they share personal stories and research findings to highlight the importance of empathy, curiosity, and mindful communication in maintaining and repairing close relationships. Practical tips, including perception checks, are provided to help listeners improve their interactions, particularly in long-term relationships and family dynamics. ...2025-02-1133 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#118: Cracking the Code on HumblebraggingIn this episode of “Asking for a Friend,” hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo take a deep dive into the fascinating world of humblebragging. Together, they unpack what humblebragging really is, why we do it, and how it shapes our social interactions. With humor and relatable examples, the hosts explore the subtle yet powerful impact humblebragging has on friendships, work dynamics, and even our social media presence. Tune in for insightful discussions on responding to humblebragging, tips to break the habit, and advice on handling humblebrags like a pro. Music by epidemic sound. 2024-11-0523 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#115: True Belonging vs. Fitting In? A Deep Dive with Teighlor and Atlas of the HeartJoin hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo in this episode of Asking for a Friend with TalkDoc. They delve into Chapter 9 of Brené Brown's “Atlas of the Heart” which explores the places we go when we search for connection. Covering topics such as belonging, fitting in, connection, disconnection, insecurity, invisibility, and loneliness, the hosts share personal insights and practical advice. Hear our conversation about the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in fostering meaningful relationships and discuss the challenges of balancing self-acceptance with the desire to connect with others. Tune in for a heartfelt discus...2024-09-2427 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#112: Overcoming Negative Sentiment Override: Strategies for Healthier RelationshipsIn this insightful episode, hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser (TalkDoc), Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo dive into the phenomenon of negative sentiment override. Discover how negative experiences can overshadow positive ones in relationships and learn the importance of maintaining a healthy emotional balance. This episode offers practical strategies to manage and improve personal interactions, highlighting the psychological impact of negative sentiment override. Through real-life examples and expert advice, the hosts provide valuable insights on fostering better communication and enhancing positivity in the relationships we want to keep. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES:...2024-08-1323 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#110: AFAF Rewind! How to Control Your AngerIn this episode, hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo revisit episode 59 featuring Christopher Faris and Carrie Johnson. The discussion delves into anger management, exploring the nature of anger, its physiological effects, and strategies for controlling emotional responses. Through insightful definitions and personal anecdotes, they emphasize the importance of understanding and managing anger to prevent negative consequences. The hosts also highlight the significance of being curious rather than condemning one's feelings, and the role of emotions in deriving meaning from experiences. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: Link: AFAF Episode #059...2024-07-1607 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#109: Direct vs. Indirect Communication: Understanding the DifferencesIn this episode of "Asking for a Friend,” join Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo dive deep into the nuances between direct and indirect communication styles. Through personal experiences, expert insights, and practical examples, they explore why individuals might prefer one method over the other and how these preferences are influenced by cultural backgrounds. The discussion includes an analysis of Cynthia Joyce's article on communication impact, interactive quizzes, and valuable tips for bridging the gap between different communicative approaches. Whether it's navigating breakups, professional settings, or everyday interactions, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to improving co...2024-07-0234 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#108: Understanding Contempt: The Silent Relationship KillerIn this episode of "Asking for a Friend,” join Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo as they delve into the toxic dynamics of contempt in interpersonal relationships. Dubbed the "worst of the four horsemen" by renowned researcher John Gottman, contempt is a critical indicator of potential relationship demise. Tune in as we unpack the verbal and non-verbal signs of contempt, its devastating effects on relationships, and its alarming impact on individual health, including heightened vulnerability to infectious diseases. Through engaging discussions, we highlight practical solutions and emphasize the importance of nurturing a culture of ap...2024-06-1829 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#081: How To Spot Yellow Flags in Your Relationships and DatingHave you ever found yourself pondering the subtle indications that something might not be quite right in your relationships and dating experiences? Those cautionary yellow flags that discreetly wave, urging us to pay attention to underlying concerns as the relationship progresses. These yellow flags serve as early warnings, signaling that there is some essential work to be done within the relationship, and if left unattended, they may evolve into more pronounced red flags. In this thought-provoking episode, the insightful trio of TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor embark on an engaging exploration of Yellow Flags in Relationships and Dating...2023-07-1127 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#080: How To Spot Red Flags in Your Relationships and Dating!Red flags are warning signs that indicate potential problems and sometimes even dangerous situations in relationships. Red flags are easier to spot in other people’s relationships than our own. Whether it is avoiding difficult conversations, frequently referencing former relationships, displaying inappropriate levels of emotion or other potentially dysfunctional behavior, red flags are important to identify and address. In this episode, TalkDoc, Teighlor, and Meredith identify red flags in relationships. We discuss common red flags and strategies for helping ourselves and others when they appear. Join us for this important conversation! Music by epidemic sound. ...2023-06-2737 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#078: ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and ParentingHave you been wondering if Artificial Intelligence is going to replace your job? Or negatively impact your children? In this episode, we talk about parenting in a society using Artificial Intelligence. We draw on the incredible work of Dr. Sherry Turkle who helps us understand the importance of addressing the growing AI presence in our world. Listen to TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor as we discuss ways to increase the empathy in our children to fight loneliness and depression. Since Artificial Intelligence is only expanding we discuss strategies for working with Artificial Intelligence as a partner instead of s...2023-05-3031 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#077: ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), & RelationshipsOver the past few years, AI (artificial intelligence) has transformed the way we interact with technology, making it possible for machines to perform tasks that previously required human input. From instant document creation and contract drafting to graphic design and music composition, AI has proven to be a powerful tool that can save us time and enhance our productivity. However, as the use of AI continues to grow, concerns about its impact on communication and relationships have emerged. In this episode of our podcast on communication and interpersonal relationships, TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor delve into the topic...2023-05-1636 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#076: AFAF on the First Year of MotherhoodWelcome to our special Mother's Day episode where we celebrate the amazing women who have taken on the all-important role of motherhood. Join TalkDoc and Teighlor as they sit down with Meredith, a new mother, who shares her journey of mothering her almost 1-year-old. In this candid conversation, Meredith shares her invaluable insights and lessons learned during her first year of motherhood. From watching her baby grow to finding ways to slow down, Meredith gives us an intimate glimpse into her experiences and the joys and challenges that come with this beautiful responsibility. Moreover, we...2023-05-0231 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#075: How To Express Your Needs to Unlock More IntimacyCommunication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. It allows us to express our needs, desires, and emotions, and to better understand those of our partner. However, effective communication is not always easy, especially when it comes to expressing our needs without creating conflict or causing hurt feelings. In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor explore the roots of why we don’t always express our needs to the people we care about the most. We identify a message structure tool (below) that can help us get in the practice of sharing our needs and improving our re...2023-04-1837 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#074: Why Can’t You Read My Mind?Do you find yourself guessing what others are feeling or thinking around you? Do you feel like your partner expects you to know what they want without having to tell you? Do you find yourself feeling out of sync with your partner and on different wavelengths? Having to read someone’s mind can be problematic in relationships because it can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. When we assume that we know what our partner is thinking or feeling, we may act in ways that are not helpful or even harmful. Join TalkDoc, Meredith and Teig...2023-04-0430 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#073: Managing Your Conflict StylesHave you ever found yourself in a conflict and wondered why the other person acts the way they do? To you, their behavior just doesn’t make sense. You just don’t “get them.” In these moments, it’s tough to communicate with other people. In this episode, we explore moments when our conflict styles are different from the people with whom we are communicating. We highlight extreme pairings when an accommodating style meets a competing style as well as when an avoiding style meets a collaborating style. Join TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor as we explore strat...2023-03-2137 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#072: What is Your Conflict Style?Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to deal with a conflict, and noticed that you always approach it in a certain way? Whether you are aware of it or not, everyone has a preferred conflict style that they tend to use. Understanding your own conflict style and styles of others can make a significant difference in how conflicts are resolved. In this episode, we dive into five primary conflict styles - Competing, Collaborating, Compromising, Accommodating, and Avoiding. We’ll explain what each style entails and give examples of how they play out in...2023-03-0733 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#071: AFAF with Carrie Johnson on People Pleasers!Do you have trouble saying “NO” to people in your life? Do you feel guilty when you can’t say, “YES?” Do you want to be seen as “easy going” or “uncomplicated” to those around you? Or are you in a relationship with someone who has trouble articulating their needs? In this episode, we deep dive into People Pleasing with licensed therapist, Carrie Johnson. Listen to TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor explore the behaviors of People Pleasers and learn strategies for improving communication in the relationships you want to keep. Music by epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: Ex...2023-02-2145 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#070: Women and Heart Attacks!In honor of our TWO YEAR PODAVERSARY we are re-publishing our episode on Women and Heart Attacks where we interviewed Staci Ross and Kim Newlin after Staci suffered a heart attack. In that episode, we walked through Staci’s heart attack experience as well as how Kim (a friend and nurse) helped her identify her symptoms and get immediate care. Heart attacks are the leading killer of women world-wide. Yet, women sometimes downplay or disregard apparent symptoms. We hope you will pass this episode along to the women you love. Help women identify their symptoms and learn stra...2023-02-1058 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#069: How to Manage Valentine’s Expectations!Valentine’s Day and other “love” holidays are celebrated all over the world. But often, relationship partners heap expectations on each other only to find the holiday ends in disappointment and/or resentment. Are you someone who carries great expectations of your partner on Valentine’s Day? Or does your relationship partner place great expectations on you? Have you checked your expectations for this upcoming holiday? Listen to TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor discuss relationship expectations. Hear their strategies for managing expectations in relationships, especially this Valentine’s Day. Music by Epidemic Sound. Experts : Judee Burgoon, Esther Perel...2023-02-0732 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#068: AFAF Real Talk - How to Handle Boundary TestersDon’t you hate it when someone tests your boundaries? It feels like being dismissed and disrespected. It’s hard to push back in those moments and reinforce your boundaries. In this episode TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor revisit the topic of Boundary Management. We reflect on our previous episode (EP #22) on Managing Boundaries - How to Handle Difficult People. We identify ways we have improved our boundary management as well as what we still need to work on. We discuss strategies for handling boundary testers and getting role clarification. Music by Epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: 2022-12-2731 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#067: AFAF Real Talk - How to Set Boundaries to Help Others Treat You Well!Without boundaries we keep the people around us “guessing” about how to treat us. We are expecting them to read our minds! But, if we want to keep our relationships healthy, we need to set boundaries so we can help others treat us well. In this episode TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor revisit the topic of Boundary Setting. We reflect on our previous episodes (EP #20 and EP#22) on Boundaries. We identify ways we have improved our use of boundaries as a tool and what we still have to work on. We discuss tools for creating boundaries to keep our relationships heal...2022-12-1336 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#066: Find Your Voice - How to Increase the Power of Your SpeechEP 66: Find Your Voice - How to Increase the Power of Your Speech Have you ever noticed someone self-sabotaging their own speech? Phrases like, “Sorry to bother you,” “This is a little thing,” and “It’s probably nothing but…” are all examples of instances that reduce the power of our speech. When we engage in self-defeating speech, we silence our own voices. In large organizations, many working professionals struggle with the feeling of personal uncertainty in communicating…especially women. Because there are no guarantees when we communicate with others, it can be risky. As a result, we may choo...2022-11-2948 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#065: AFAF Real Talk - Checking Our Perception Checking!Too often people approach situations believing they are reading the context accurately. We just believe we are right! We believe we know what’s going on in most situations! In this episode TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor revisit the topic of Perception Checking. We reflect on our previous episode (EP #26) on Perception Checking. We identify ways we have improved our use of perception checking as a tool and what we still have to work on. We discuss tools for continuing to use perception checking in the relationships we want to keep. Music by Epidemic sound. SHOW NO...2022-11-1532 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#064: AFAF Real Talk - Don’t Be So Defensive! It’s Me Not You!In defensive moments, we face the ultimate question - Would you rather be right? Or would you rather have a good relationship? In this episode TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor revisit the topic of Defensiveness. We reflect on our previous episode (EP #2) on How to Manage Defensiveness. We identify ways we have improved our non-defensive reactions and what we still have to work on. We discuss tools for continuing to reduce defensiveness in the relationships we want to keep. Music by Epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: Experts : John Gottman and Gottman Institute (2021), Hocker an...2022-11-0132 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#063: So Passive-Aggressive! How to Stop It Now!Do you have someone in your life who manipulates you with passive-aggressive behaviors? In this episode, listen to TalkDoc and the team breakdown this destructive form of communication. First, we identify behavior that is considered passive-aggressive. Second, we differentiate irony from sarcasm. Next, we talk about passive-aggressive patterns of behavior. Finally, we discuss the consequences of this behavior for all of us as we manage the relationships we want to keep. Music by Epidemic Sound. SHOW NOTES: Experts : Hocker and Wilmot (2018), Patterson (2000) Resources : AFAF Episode #59 on Anger Manag...2022-10-1828 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#062: AFAF with Vanessa Trine on Anxiety and How It Translates Into the BodyAre you someone who gets “stressed out” often? Do you wonder if you are experiencing underlying Anxiety? What’s the difference? Listen to our interview with therapist, Vanessa Trine, LPPC as she helps us differentiate stress from anxiety. In our conversation, Vanessa helps us understand when one needs to get help to manage their anxiety. Hear our group discussion about listening to our physical responses as data that reminds us to have a conversation with ourselves. Music by Epidemic sound. SHOW NOTES: EP 62 : AFAF with Vanessa Trine on Anxiety Experts...2022-10-0446 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#061: Stop Criticizing! How to Properly Complain without BlameLet’s face it. It’s easy to criticize the people around us. But, research shows that too many criticisms can harm our relationships. In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor differentiate between critical comments and useful complaints. Listen in and learn how to turn your critical comments into helpful complaints to create more peace in the relationships you want to keep. Music by Epidemic Sound. SHOW NOTES… EP 61 : Stop Criticizing! How to Properly Complain without Blame Experts : Hocker and Wilmot, Gottman, Brown, Purdue University Resources : below Too...2022-09-2037 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#060: AFAF with Staci Ross and Kim Newlin on Women and Heart AttacksThe number one cause of death in women globally is heart attacks. So, why have heart attacks traditionally been identified as a man’s disease? The truth is that heart attacks should be a concern for everyone! In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor are joined by special guests Staci Ross, M.A., L.M.F.T. and Kim Newlin, RN, CNS, ANP-C to talk about Women and Heart Attacks. On a personal level, Staci talks about her own heart attack experience. Listen to Kim describe risk factors, symptoms, and strategies for managing cardiac events. Hear the grou...2022-09-0655 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#059: Anger Management! How to Tame Your Temper with Christopher Faris and Carrie JohnsonThere are times when we are faced with sudden feelings of anger. The challenge is to have prepared anger management strategies to be ready for those moments. In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor are joined by special guests Christopher Faris and Carrie Johnson who are both practicing family therapists for the past 10 years, to dive deep into the swamp of anger management. During this episode you’ll learn about how anger works and why confronting and mastering anger will strengthen your relationships. Our hosts and guests share stories that illustrate the pitfalls and opportunities along the an...2022-08-2353 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#058: Keeping Your Cool - How to Control Your Emotions SoThey Don’t Control YouYou know the feeling….that knot that forms in your stomach….that wave of stress that hits your body….that moment where you feel hijacked and out of control. Depending on the circumstances these can be incredibly challenging moments for anyone. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor dive into those moments where we get hijacked by our emotions. We discuss strategies for keeping your cool so that you control your emotions so they don’t control you. Listen in to hear practical strategies to keep your emotions in check. Music by Ep...2022-08-0926 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#057: Perfectionism - How to Stop ”Shoulding” Yourself!Are you someone who is caught up in telling yourself what you “should” be doing or achieving? Someone once said, “Perfectionism is a trait that makes life an endless report card on accomplishments or looks.” If you or someone you know struggles with perfectionist behaviors or self-shoulding, this episode is for you. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor identify three types of perfectionism and the danger of high expectations. They identify practical strategies for combating self-shoulding and forcing perfectionism on our children and those around us. Music by Epidemic sound. 2022-07-2636 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#056: You Can’t Take it Back! How to Navigate What You Didn’t Mean to SayHave you ever said something and wished you could take it back? The reality is we can’t. Once something is said, intentionally or not, “it’s out there.” What we choose to say next, can mean the difference between eroding or repairing the relationship with the person or people who received your message. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor get candid about their own experiences saying words they wished they’d never said - and what happened next that made the situation worse or better. Alon...2022-07-1239 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#055: All the Feels! How to Better Express Your FeelingsIn this episode, we discuss how to express feelings effectively. Specifically, we unpack how to better Express and Regulate emotions in a healthy way to help grow and deepen our everyday relationships. You’ll hear about which communication patterns to avoid and which ones to focus on to help us increase our emotional intelligence. TalkDoc and the team help us visualize what Expressing and Regulating looks like by role playing with each other. And, if you are looking for TC4G (trading comfort for growth) there is more than enough of it to go around in this episode - prac...2022-06-2844 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#054: Father Knows Best! How to Foster Curiosity and Build Self-Confidence in Your ChildAs a special tribute to Father’s Day, TalkDoc, Teighlor and Meredith hand-over their microphones to their spouses - Pete, Ralph and Tommy to talk about what fatherhood is teaching them about their relationship with their kids and themselves. Tommy guides the discussion as a soon-to-be father, with Ralph, dad to two young boys and Pete, father to 3 adult children. Together they share highs and lows through stories from their own experiences, tackling important topics like how to foster curiosity and build self-confidence. Listen in now as these three dads shed some light on how they...2022-06-1427 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#053: Sad? Mad? Glad? How to Expand Your Emotional VocabularyDo you leave the people around you wondering how you are feeling? Do you play it safe and “not go there?” Too often we take the easy road and fail to recognize, label, and/or express ourselves well. The truth is that all of us could improve our emotional expression to help our relationships grow. Afterall, we are emotional people who sometimes think! In this episode of “Asking for a Friend with TalkDoc,” we explore three strategies for increasing our emotional vocabularies. Additionally, we discuss ways to help the children in our lives become better at expressin...2022-05-3125 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#052: Blooper Reel 4 - Uhm...Asking for a HostAs we celebrate our 15 Month-A-Versary, we continue to grow our podcast! Listen to TalkDoc, Teighlor and Meredith’s latest blooper reel to hear more of our uncoordinated moments. Special thanks to our listeners from all 50 U.S. States and from over 72 countries. Thank you for listening to Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc! Check out our web page: AFAFPodcast.com Music by epidemic sound. 2022-05-2404 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#051: Now We’re Talkin’ - How to Get Someone to Tell You MoreDo you ever find yourself wanting to have a two-way conversation with someone else, but realize you’re mostly having the conversation with yourself? In this episode of “Asking for a Friend with TalkDoc,” we explore three simple communication tools we can use to quickly jump start a two-way conversation. TalkDoc teaches us the principle of getting out of our own way and the steps we can take to make that happen. TalkDoc roleplays with Meredith and Teighlor to show us how to use each of these tools in practice. Listen in now to learn and laugh along...2022-05-1727 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#050: You’re a Mother: How to Pick Your Battles and Help Your Child Write Their Own StoryBeing a mother can be challenging and complex! Given the life changing impact a mother’s responsibilities carry, it’s hard to believe that a lot of the learning takes place on-the-job. That’s why it’s so important for mothers to find places they can turn for real world perspective and practical mother-child relationship advice. In this episode of “Asking for a Friend with Talkdoc," we celebrate Mother’s Day and all future and current moms. Soon to be mother, Meredith, poses top questions on her mind to current mothers, TalkDoc and Teighlor. Together the AFAF team discusse...2022-05-0341 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#049: Fallacies (Part 6): How to Vet Your InfluencersInfluencers and endorsers with famous faces and voices are now a multi-billion-dollar industry for the advertising industry. The exploding popularity of social media channels is accelerating this trend. As a result, we are bombarded nearly by the minute with messages propped up by celebrity, media, and online personalities. Often these messages leverage the Fallacy of False Authority. So, what steps can we take to more intelligently respond to these messages - especially the ones where the expertise of the individual speaking up in support of a product, service or idea doesn’t at all match? In this episod...2022-04-1920 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#048: Fallacies (Part 5): It’s Complicated! How to Avoid OversimplificationSimplification can be a handy way for us to make sense of something that may seem complex. But when oversimplification takes over, we may end up missing the truth about what’s really going on. In our everyday relationships it helps to be equipped with detection tools to help us avoid accepting explanations of outcomes that simply aren’t true. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," TalkDoc along with Meredith and Teighlor, discuss types of oversimplification that we encounter in our everyday lives, like confusing correlation with causation. Then they lay out practical tools for detecting...2022-04-0519 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#047: Fallacies (Part 4): Are You Stitious or Superstitious?Have you ever heard someone blame a superstition on an outcome that is completely unrelated? Like, “I saw a black cat cross my path and that is why I failed my test.” If you have, then you know what a post hoc ergo propter hoc fallacy sounds like (Latin for “If therefore because of this”). Superstitious “Post hoc” fallacies are another way we attempt to explain events to ourselves. In an earlier episode of “Asking For A Friend” on Mindsets (Episode 4) we talked about how we explain things in our lives to ourselves. In this episode, you’ll learn about more su...2022-03-2219 min

Resolutions: A Podcast About Dispute Resolution and PreventionPreparing for the Future with Peer Mediation in Schools with Anne Sawyer & Dr. Pamela KreiserThis episode covers a topic that deals with the youngest members of our mediation community and the future of our industry. Peer Mediation programs have been going on for years, but it’s been going on in the background of the mediation landscape. So today we’re going to shed a small bit of light on the programs that are bringing long-term benefits to their schools, neighborhoods, and families. For that discussion, host Jason Harper is speaking with Anne Sawyer and Dr. Pamela Kreiser.2022-03-1629 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#046: Fallacies (Part 3): How to Spot Scare TacticsFallacies come in all shapes and sizes, but what they all have in common is fundamentally unsound. Consequently, fallacies do not hold up under scrutiny. In part 3 of our series, we explore fallacies based on scare tactics and emotional appeal. You’ll become better acquainted with this type of fallacy, the forms it takes and the power it has to convince you to change your mind. Listen to TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor discuss how to better manage and respond to an encounter with someone who lobs this type of fallacy into your court. As you beco...2022-03-0820 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#045: Fallacies (Part 2): How to Keep an Open MindIn part 2 of our series on fallacies, TalkDoc along with her AFAF colleagues Teighlor and Meredith, introduce additional types of fallacies. As they unpack these fallacies, you’ll learn about the role being rooted in your own values plays when fallacies come your way and the impact of credibility on the believability of an argument. As you become familiar with how to spot different types of fallacies you’ll be better equipped to keep an open mind so that you can focus on evidence and ideas vs the origin or people delivering the message. Music by epi...2022-02-2219 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#044: Fallacies (Part 1): How to Stop Jumping to ConclusionsIn this episode, TalkDoc introduces our new series on fallacies. This week we are looking at the fallacy of hasty generalizations. The team breaks down what this is and why it is important. As you listen with us, consider areas you may jump to conclusions or areas you hear people around you doing this. This fallacy can range from bad parenting advice to stereotypes on categories of people. Remember to consider terms you use, watch out for stereotypes, and as always, research, research, research! Music by epidemic sound. 2022-02-0820 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#043: New Year‘s Resolutions (Part 4): Spending Time WiselyAs an end of the year bonus, we’ll be releasing 4 short episodes on New Years resolutions over the next 4 days! Join us as we learn about what communication resolutions we can make to improve our relationships. In this episode the AFAF team wraps up our New Year’s resolutions with how to reduce screen time and how to get off the office chair more often. Did you know the average use of screen time is only increasing year by year? Re-listen to our Episode 15 (“What the Phub”) for more detailed information about phone usage and relationships. Explore w...2021-12-3116 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#042: New Year‘s Resolutions (Part 3): Intentional RelationshipsAs an end of the year bonus, we’ll be releasing 4 short episodes on New Years resolutions over the next 4 days! Join us as we learn about what communication resolutions we can make to improve our relationships. In this episode we’re getting intentional with Part 3 of New Year’s resolutions. Saving money or spending more wisely is a widely known resolution. So how does it connect to AFAF? First we each pull a quote or poem that sparks this resolution. When we talk about saving or spending more wisely it connects to communication in that we can be...2021-12-3013 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#041: New Year‘s Resolutions (Part 2): Improving Communication FitnessAs an end of the year bonus we’ll be releasing 4 short episodes on New Years resolutions over the next 4 days! Join us as we learn about resolutions and what communication resolutions we can make to improve our relationships. Fitness is one of most people’s top goals for the new year. But what is communication fitness? What resolutions can we add to our daily life to make us more fit and successful in our experience with others? It’s important to keep realistic goals—maybe we won’t do it perfectly every time, but there can be improvem...2021-12-2915 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#040: New Year‘s Resolutions (Part 1): Losing WeightAs an end of the year bonus, we’ll be releasing 4 short episodes on New Years resolutions over the next 4 days! Join us as we learn about what communication resolutions we can make to improve our relationships. Research shows that a lot of people make resolutions— mostly related to weight-loss and health. But what about our relationship and communication goals? Have you learned some things from this podcast but maybe have yet to put them into practice? Let’s take the time now to be intentional and actually do the work. What bad habits can we los...2021-12-2813 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#039: Family Survival Kit Part 6 - Wise Words from 2021Are you a regular listener but missed some episodes along the way? Or are you brand new to AFAF and looking for the best of what you’ve missed? No matter who you are, we bet you’ll enjoy our recap in this episode of the guests we hosted on the podcast this year. Dr. Pamela Kreiser, along with Meredith and Teighlor discuss some of the practical wisdom each guest shared that can help sharpen communication in your everyday relationships. So sit back for a quick tour of our guest episodes. Then choose what to listen to again...2021-12-2117 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#038: Family Survival Kit Part 5 - How to Manage Differences with FamilyIn this episode, TalkDoc breaks down the communication concept of distance versus difference. The team shares personal examples and survival kit tools for how to manage the work at the holiday table. Imagine your gatherings as you listen this week. When you sit at the table, does everyone think exactly the same on every topic? Probably not. So how do you manage the difference? Do you want to bring up topics that are polarizing at the dinner table? Is your goal to be right or do you want to create a welcoming environment of warmth? Are you thinking of topics t...2021-12-1424 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#037: Family Survival Kit Part 4 - How to Handle Bad BehaviorWe all have relationships we want to maintain long-term. But sometimes, especially over the holidays, bad behavior by others can test the limits of our goodwill even if it is unintentional. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," listen in as Dr. Pamela Kreiser, with colleagues Meredith and Teighlor, discuss their own experience with and response to holiday bad behaviors. They share their own personal stories and how they drew on a number of the tools that have been unpacked in previous episodes to shift conversational gears from bad behavior to more productive outcomes. You’ll...2021-12-0724 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#036: Family Survival Kit Part 3 - How to Skip Guilt TripsThe holidays are a journey. And for most of us one of the experiences along the way will be an encounter with guilt. Guilt that is either directed towards us or perhaps even (cringe) guilt we dish out on our own. Either way it pays to plan ahead and be prepared with the gear we need to make sure guilt doesn’t become a detour that steals joy from the trip. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend,” Dr. Pamela Kreiser shares some tools you can use to weather or even avoid the guilt storms. She is joined b...2021-11-3023 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#35: Family Survival Kit Part 2 - How to Manage Family Rules and TraditionsHave you ever unexpectedly bumped into a tradition at a family holiday gathering that seemed normal to everyone there except you? A warning not to sit in a certain chair? An obligation to eat a slice of Aunt Mary’s fruitcake? Did it feel like a rule or expectation you were being forced to play along with? If you’ve had encounters of this kind (and most of us have), then you know the complications your potential responses can create for the relationships you have with those you care about and love. In this episode of “As...2021-11-2328 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#034: Family Survival Kit Part 1 - How to Manage ExpectationsThe holidays are coming and if you’re like us, there’s gonna be some added stress around this season. In this episode, we begin our 6-part series: “Family Survival Kit for the Holidays.” Many of us have expectations of the perfect holiday, but that can be problematic for most. As TalkDoc suggests, we can minimize some of the expected conflict by planning ahead, especially by planning our communication. We want to be practical about what we can improve. We’ll start by unpacking what a communication survival kit entails and have a laugh at our expense as we share some...2021-11-1640 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#033: Blooper Reel 3As we celebrate our 9 Month-A-Versary, we continue to grow our podcast now reaching 46 states and over 55 countries! Listen to TalkDoc, Teighlor and Meredith’s latest blooper reel to hear more of our uncoordinated moments. Special thanks to our listeners who have supported our first nine months of podcasting in spite of our imperfections. Thank you listening to Asking For A Friend with Talkdoc! Check out new web page: AFAFPodcast.com Don't miss our upcoming series called "Family Survival Kit for the Holidays" coming on November 16, 2021. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-11-1205 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#032: Leading Questions - How to Ask Neutral Questions“Did you have a good day at school?” “Did you like the service we provided you tonight?” “Weren’t you sick on Tuesday?” All of us have encountered questions like these - framed to lead us to answer in a specific manner. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend," Dr. Pamela Kreiser, aka TalkDoc, will help you identify the 4 types of leading questions. Co-hosts, Teighlor and Meredith join TalkDoc for a conversation about the danger of responding as-is to these “question traps” and how to re-frame the questions to elicit answers that bu...2021-11-0928 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#031: Shhhhhhh: How to Manage SilenceFrom time to time we all experience silent moments during our conversations. How we utilize and respond to the quiet spaces between what we are saying to each other can either nurture or decelerate the progression of our everyday relationships. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend,” TalkDoc explores silence as a space for something new to happen. You’ll learn how to manage the awkwardness and tension that silence can create to improve the quality of your interactions with others. Meredith and Teighlor join TalkDoc to discuss silence from a variety of perspectives and provide practical...2021-10-2631 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#030: AFAF with Jason Harper on How To Resolve ConflictAre you experiencing conflict in a close, personal relationship? Are you searching for ways to overcome communication roadblocks in order to bring your relationships to a new and better place? In this episode of “Asking For A Friend,” join TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor as they interview Jason Harper, mediation expert and conflict coach. Jason brings his wealth of credentials and experience to the conversation offering practical insights to better work through conflicts and find resolution. Jason shares his unlikely path and winding road through his legal and corporate experience and what it has taught him - there is n...2021-10-1234 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#029: The Dance of Visibility (Part 3): Strategic Alignment - How to be a Better CommunicatorIn this episode, TalkDoc guides us through part 3 of the “Dance of Visibility." Wouldn’t it be great if there was a do over in conversation until we are satisfied with the results? Whether this be missed opportunities to speak or wishing you could delete an interaction altogether, learning to be strategic is a key element in this dance. It can be tempting to dump all responsibility on one person, but communication is a joint activity. This “dance” involves others and true competence is adaptive to the other. But what makes someone competent? TalkDoc challenges competence to be a joint ac...2021-09-2831 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#028: The Dance of Visibility (Part 2): How to Stop Over Explaining!In this episode, we tackle Part 2 of the “Dance of Visibility” discussing ways to reduce over explaining and over justifying our messages. Are you someone who finds yourself in moments of over explaining? This week is about the part of the dance where we speak up too much then regret the interaction altogether. TalkDoc challenges our emotion of worry in these moments. Perhaps you worry about others’ negative perceptions of you or worry about not belonging. Research show us four ways people confuse messages by repeating, false starts, filled pauses and unfilled pauses. These misfires confuse the listener. Strategies to com...2021-09-1431 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#027: The Dance of Visibility (Part 1): How to Speak Up!In this episode, TalkDoc begins our 3 part series, “The Dance of Visibility” with the effects of not speaking up, the consequences silence can have within ourselves and the world around us. Even a Supreme Court justice has admitted to electing not to speak up when she wanted to. So if you don't speak up, you’re not alone! When we don’t speak up when we want to, we lose alignment within ourselves - it’s the tinge of regret we’ve all felt before. But the cost can be so great! So how do we lean into correct the alignmen...2021-08-3130 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#026: Perception Checking - How to Get People to TalkHave you ever had a conversation go no-where or just end because of a short response? Do you get frustrated with these type of non responses? In this episode, TalkDoc and the team explain the 3-part format of perception checks using practical everyday examples. These 3 part perception checks help us move through frustrating conversations and find clarity in our interactions. As you develop these tools remember practicing them in advance is vital to relationship success. Consider making your TC4G for this week keeping your words and non-verbal expressions aligned. Be wary of a perception check followed by a...2021-08-1728 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#025: Bloopers Reel 2 – Reaching farther…furtherAs we celebrate our 6 Month-A-Versary, we continue to grow our podcast further…farther! Listen to TalkDoc, Teighlor and Meredith’s latest blooper reel to hear more of our uncoordinated moments. Special thanks to our listeners who have supported our first six months of podcasting in spite of our imperfections. Thank you listening to Asking For A Friend with Talkdoc! Music by epidemic sound 2021-08-1105 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#023: AFAF with Staci Ross on How to Identify Gaslighting (PART 1)In this episode (part one), Staci Ross, M.A., L.M.F.T., of over 20 years, holistic health coach and Reiki master answers questions and walks us through what gaslighting and manipulation really are. We hear these terms thrown around often and wonder if we use them accurately. Staci eloquently guides us to better understand these serious traits. As you listen, remember gaslighting comes in phases: disbelief, defense and depression. There’s a difference between being manipulative and a person who is gaslighting. Gaslighting is the extreme action of a manipulator. It is systemic, an intentional attempt to break do...2021-08-0329 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#024: AFAF with Staci Ross on How to Manage Gaslighting (PART 2)In this episode (part 2), Staci Ross, M.A., L.M.F.T. is our guide for how a targeted person of gaslighting can see the warning signs and find freedom. Staci relates healing from gaslighting as similar to healing from grief. While the loss of an unhealthy relationship is good for us, we still acknowledge the process of loss and healing work that’s needed. For example, have you ever felt pity for someone that hurts you? Join us as we pick Staci’s brain for advice on discerning gaslighting and manipulative traits. Lean in as Staci gets beautifully brav...2021-08-0329 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#022: Managing Boundaries - How to Manage Difficult PeopleNow that we’ve broken down boundary myths and how to make a boundary, we deep dive into practical examples of how to manage boundaries in real-time. We need to understand the other person's “why” for resisting our boundary. Look for the “turbulence” you feel, it’s a clue about what is important to you. We all know stress is inevitable in relationship, so why not learn ways to be pro-active instead of reactive to these stressors? This week we learn lessons from TalkDoc for how to carefully plan responses to boundary resistors in our lives. To be kind to our relatio...2021-07-2028 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#021: Boundaries 101 - How to Say No! In this episode TalkDoc breaks down what boundaries really are versus what they are not. Do you know clear boundaries actually help the people in our lives treat us better? What do you say yes and no to in your life? Do you feel overwhelmed or used? Research shows if we stick to our boundaries they help us feel less taken advantage of by others. It’s important to learn that boundary making is about owning responsibility and our own needs, not directing the actions of people around us. So consider what is good for you without casting shade on...2021-07-0630 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#020: Myths of BoundariesIn this episode we discuss what a boundary actually is versus how boundaries often get misconstrued. Boundaries are all around us and help us know what we are responsible for or what others’ responsibilities are. They are about providing structure and research shows we require structure to thrive. Join us as we explore boundary violations, their limits and how you can clarify your needs. We clarify what boundaries are not through 4 myths many of us believe. As you listen, explore the beliefs you carry about boundaries and work through them with us in practical ways. Take a listen and le...2021-06-2234 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#019: AFAF with Jamal Jivanjee on Transforming Self TalkJoin us as we interview life-coach Jamal Jivanjee about his work with others to confront the stories they tell themselves to reshape their thinking for better relationships and a better life. Jamal explains that pain is inevitable but suffering is optional. Jamal reminds us that our body is a record of the past and what we believe about ourselves will often repeat itself in life unless we change the record. Once we become aware that suffering typically happens in patterns like a record, transformation can take place through intentionally re-writing the narrative. Music by Ep...2021-06-0830 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#018: Beating Around the Bush - How to Choose Your WordsIn this episode we discuss how we use words to soften the blow of our messages. Every culture has ways to “beat around the bush.” Take a listen and let us know how you do this (hello@afafpodcast.com). Are there times when we should blunt? Or can euphemisms be helpful to the other at times? Maybe trading our own comfort for the growth of the other is a good place to start (TC4G). While we believe honesty is the best policy, it is equally important to distinguish the reasons we share with others. Checking our motivations is key thi...2021-05-2529 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#017: AFAF with Molly McManimie on Reframing SuccessIn this episode we deep dive into the professional world of communication with NFL Agent, Molly McManimie. From her undergrad in Communication Studies to her Doctorate in Law, Molly continues to put in “the work” personally and professionally. Listen as she shares her own definition of success and how she trades comfort for growth (TC4G) on a daily basis. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-05-1836 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#016: Bloopers Reel 1 - Everybody Makes MistakesWe all know nobody’s perfect - including TalkDoc, Meredith, and Teighlor. So we thought what better way to celebrate our 3 Month-A-Versary than by sharing some entertaining imperfections in a blooper reel. We hope you enjoy this podcast of outtakes as much as we enjoy putting together the show in spite of - or maybe because of our do-overs. 2021-05-1107 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#015: What the Phub!In this episode we explore the meaning of phubbing (phone snubbing). Have you ever had someone pick up their phone mid-conversation? Is this normal or are we addicted to the brick in our pocket? Cell phones may bring us closer to those far from us yet take us further from those next to us. Research shows that in situations where our phones are constantly accessible perceived relationship satisfaction goes down as well. Some research even explores phone addiction and its relation to how we spend our time. This week we discover several way to increase our attention span - w...2021-05-0430 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#014: Taboo TopicsIn this episode we talk about subjects we “shouldn’t” talk about, a.k.a taboo topics. Talkdoc brings us up to speed with the reasons we avoid these topics. There’s lots of reasons we don’t talk about things but the key is to start thinking about what those are and where they come from. Some people in our lives can support tough topics and some cannot. Remember to carefully navigate whom we share our stories with. Timing is also a major player in these topics and actively understanding the people around us will help. Music by e...2021-04-2730 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#013: Stories We Make UpDo you have stories you tell yourself rattling around in your head about the thoughts, feelings, motivations and behaviors of those you care about? Have you convinced yourself you know what you need to know? Are you sure you know whether the story is made up or whether it’s true? The stories we create, can create problems for ourselves and others. In this episode of “Asking For A Friend,” find out about the reasons why we choose to operate with less information vs more. Learn about the brain science behind the cause and effect of operating with to...2021-04-2034 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#012: AFAF with Shardasia LeDay on How to ReconcileIn this episode Shardasia LeDay, Social Worker and entrepreneur invites us into the difficult roads she’s walked through with her incarcerated father. She describes how forgiveness and reconciliation have shaped her and her relationship with him. Research shows us forgiveness and reconciliation are about choice. But how do we do it? As Shardasia reminds us, many people will focus on how things can go bad...but “what if it goes good?” Join us as Shardasia courageously shares her and her father’s brave journey. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-04-1340 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#011: Self Forgiveness - You Hold the Keys to the Cell You OccupyHave you ever done something you felt was unforgivable? Have you felt unworthy of forgiveness when it was offered to you? Do you freely extend forgiveness to others but withhold it from yourself? In this episode we talk about the critical steps to accepting forgiveness when it is offered and what it means to forgive yourself even if it isn’t. Listen in and discover the keys you hold to unlocking the cell you occupy. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-04-0633 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#010: Forgiveness 101- How to Forgive OthersIn this episode we focus on tools for forgiving others. Ugh, forgiveness is messy. We hear examples of people doing the work and find the path of forgiveness can take ordinary people on extraordinary journeys. TalkDoc describes 4 phases to guide us through this work: uncover, decide, work and discover. Research warns us the danger of conditional forgiveness. You know...that “if” condition to earn forgiveness, it can keep us from our own freedom. Conditional forgiveness reinstates the string we are trying to cut. So how do you get to a place where the string is cut between you and...2021-03-3035 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#009: Myths of ForgivenessThis week we unpack the myths of forgiveness. The world tries to convince us forgiveness is weak, minimizes justice and over simplifies the work it takes among other frustrating ideas. We wrestle with how these myths have effected our own paths to forgiveness. The real work of forgiveness is discovering how to set ourselves free and how we hold our own keys to freedom. Don’t forget, rumination is “the bad boy”! Music by epidemic sound. 2021-03-2329 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#008: AFAF with Katie Masters on Taking RisksKatie Masters, a former student of TalkDoc, takes the guest seat on “Asking For A Friend” this week. She shares her TC4G journey to create her company, Nail Thoughts, and what she’s learned about starting a successful nail artist business. Listen and learn from Katie about what worked for her, what didn’t, and what motivated her to cross the bridge between dreaming and doing. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-03-1641 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#007: Sweet Talk - How to Give A Compliment!In this episode we look for the good around us via the language of compliments. Research shows that compliments positively contribute to our relational health. However, back handed compliments can have an equally opposite effect. TalkDoc gives us framework for how to make space with compliments both for others and within ourselves. So how do you desire to be seen? Do you take time to study the people you love? Consider your TC4G carefully this week and let us know! Music by epidemic sound. 2021-03-0933 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#006: Meet the Bickersons! How to Reduce BickeringIn this episode TalkDoc teaches us about the effects of bickering. We’ve all done it and we’ve all disliked it when we’ve experienced it. So how do we curb this? This week we confess our own bickering habits, what it feels like to witness it and why it gets us nowhere. Bonus, research shows the more we improve this communication area the quicker our bodies heal! Don’t forget to let us know your TC4G! Music by epidemic sound. 2021-03-0235 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#005: Shut Down Mode - How to Manage StonewallingIn this episode, we discuss a tough communication challenge...Stonewalling. TalkDoc walks us through the analogy of Stonewalling as a warning light on our relationship dashboard. It’s time we unlearn the habit of leaving the light on too long so the whole engine (i.e. relationship) doesn’t break down. Join our carpool ride hosted by Dr. Pamela Kreiser (along with Teighlor Polendo and Meredith Edwards) for reliable, practical guidance to address these “walls” in ourselves as well as help our partners when we observe them in shutdown mode in front of us. Music by Epidem...2021-02-2340 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#004: Birthday Mindset! How to Stay PositiveIn this episode, we navigate the communication art of Reframing and how actively pursuing “reframe” can help us reevaluate events in our lives. Remember, beware the beast of comparison. TalkDoc walks us through powerful and learned tools that help shift our mindsets from fixed to growth. Even Michael Jordan has felt the sting of failure but his growth mindset helped him “reframe” and move into more opportunities for success. Join us as we learn to adopt optimism; don’t worry it’s not the cheap stuff. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-02-1642 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#003: Sorry, Not Sorry - How to ApologizeIn this episode, we dive into cultural differences of apologies, twisted apologies, and non-apologies. Taking responsibility is hard work, no matter who we are or where we come from. We also explore elements of a good apology and discover what the receiver is really listening for. Hint hint: a good apology isn’t about “you.” Music by epidemic sound. 2021-02-1033 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#002: Ah, Defensiveness - How to Manage DefensivenessIn this episode, we learn how defensive language (in trusting relationships) can stop our conversations and relationship development. We explore three ways to trade comfort for growth (TC4G) through acknowledging our own bad habit, as well as learn why perceived threats can be so hard to shake. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-02-1034 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#001: The Message Received is the One That CountsIn this episode, we learn why the message received is the one that counts. We discuss why what we “intend” does not always equal the impact of our messages. Also, does everything said mean something? Or can some things we say be meaningless? Music by epidemic sound. 2021-02-1041 min

Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc#000: Nice To Meet You!Meet the Asking For A Friend podcast team in this introductory episode! Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the purpose of the podcast and what to expect in future episodes. Music by epidemic sound. 2021-02-0110 min