Shows
Nuance Needed58: Living with Chronic Suicidal Thoughts: Suicide FAQYour questions about suicide answered with honesty and nuance. In this follow-up episode, we're tackling the questions you were brave enough to ask - from living with chronic suicidal thoughts to the impossible task of explaining suicide to children. CW- This episode discusses suicide, and suicidal thoughts.Questions we answer:* "I've had chronic suicidal thoughts for years - how do I build a life worth living when these thoughts are always there?"* "My mom died by suicide and our family never talked about it. How do I tell my kids about their grandmother?"2025-07-1018 minNuance Needed57: The Suicide Conversation Nobody's HavingIn this deeply personal episode, we're getting real about the topic nobody wants to discuss - suicide and suicidality. Drawing from both our professional training and Amanda's raw personal experiences, we're breaking down what it actually feels like, why it happens, and what truly helps (spoiler: it's not telling someone how selfish they are). CW- This episode discusses suicide, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm in detail. Please prioritize your wellbeing and skip if needed.WE ARE NOW ON SUBSTACK with bonus episodes, pep talks, episodes guides, and so much more! Join us at nuanceneeded.substack.com...2025-07-0849 minNuance Needed56. Princess Treatment & Feminine EnergyFrom "feminine energy" dating tips to refusing to tie your own shoes - we're unpacking how Princess Treatment content is actually political messaging in a pretty package.In conversation, we tackle:* The TikTok video that sent us over the edge: a woman who won't speak to waitstaff or check in for reservations* How "feminine energy" morphed from dating advice into political messaging* Why Princess Treatment might actually be a suppressed kink masquerading as lifestyle content* The pipeline from "light a candle and relax" to "I don't tie my own...2025-07-0159 minNuance Needed55. No Isn't Always a Complete Sentence: Boundaries Part 2When did "no is a complete sentence" become the ultimate boundary flex? In this episode, we're unpacking why this oversimplified advice might actually be hurting your relationships.In conversation, we tackle:* Why "no is a complete sentence" works for sexual boundaries but not for declining dinner plans* The uncomfortable truth that closer relationships require more explanation (and that's actually healthy)* How rigid boundaries are creating lonelier people who wonder why they feel disconnected* Why flexibility in boundaries is a strength, not a betrayal of yourself* How to...2025-06-2625 minNuance Needed54. How to Combat Misinformation with Matthew FaccianiToday we chat with misinformation researcher Matthew Facciani, PhD to explore the psychological factors behind how we process information in our increasingly polarized world. From social media algorithms to the comfort of echo chambers, we dive into why challenging our beliefs feels so threatening and what we can do about it.In conversation, we discuss—* The evolution of "misinformation" from a psychology research term to a polarizing concept in today's media landscape* The concept of "social identity complexity" and why having separate, independent identities makes us more resilient to misinformation* Signs yo...2025-06-241h 00Nuance Needed53. Q+A- My Therapist Won’t Confirm my CPTSD & more!In this follow-up episode, we dive into your most pressing questions about navigating the complicated world of mental health labels. When is a diagnosis helpful? When might it be limiting? And what should you do when you're convinced you (or someone else) has a specific condition?In conversation, we tackle:* Why your therapist might hesitate to confirm your self-diagnosis (even after working together for years)* The delicate balance between validating someone's experience and responsibly diagnosing conditions like CPTSD* How to approach a loved one who's in a relationship with someone showing...2025-06-1920 minNuance Needed52. The Pros & Cons of Self DiagnosisIn this very NUANCED episode, we're diving into the the pros and cons of self-diagnosis and why that moment of clarity might be both helpful and misleading.In conversation, we tackle:- The fine line between empowering self-awareness and misdiagnosis in the age of mental health social media- Why mental health symptoms are like horoscopes – specific enough to feel personal, but general enough that everyone relates- The uncomfortable reality that many symptoms overlap across different diagnoses- What "differential diagnosis" really means and why professionals start at th...2025-06-1739 minNuance Needed51. Is "Therapy Culture" Really to Blame for Estrangement & Child Free Adults?In this episode, we discuss our thoughts on a recent NYT article claiming a link between therapy culture and childlessness.In conversation, we explore:* Why the article misses the mark by focusing on "therapy culture" rather than addressing the real accountability crisis* The problematic suggestion that having children would fix estranged relationships with parents* How simple acknowledgment—not even apologies—is often all adult children are asking for* The critical communication skills many parents are missing that could prevent estrangement* The difference between explaining your perspective and inva...2025-06-1231 minNuance Needed50. How Wellness Culture Weaponizes Women's Health & FerilityIn this rant-y episode, we dive into the intersection of wellness culture, toxic positivity, and women's reproductive health after a viral clip from Lauryn Bosstic claiming her positive mindset was the reason she got pregnant on her first try.In conversation, we tackle:* The harmful impact of telling women their fertility struggles are due to not being "positive enough"* How wellness influencers oversimplify complex medical issues and profit from women's desperation* The "wellness to MAHA pipeline" and how legitimate health concerns are being co-opted by conservative movements* The historical...2025-06-1048 minNuance Needed49. Resting Girl SummerFeeling exhausted despite your nightly "relaxation" routine? In this episode, Sam challenges our collective delusion about what true rest actually looks like in a world of constant stimulation.In conversation, we explore:Why your "cool girl summer" aesthetic might be missing the most important element: actual restThe uncomfortable truth about how scrolling TikTok is stimulation, not recoveryHow we've mistaken digital consumption for downtime and why it's depleting usThe critical difference between brain stimulation and genuine nervous system recoveryWhy even "self-care" can become another performance when it's aestheticized for social mediaPractical strategies for creating technology boundaries that...2025-06-0512 minNuance Needed48. The Truth About Tradwives with Jo PiazzaWhat’s really happening behind the dreamy farmhouse aesthetic of tradwife content? In this episode with journalist Jo Piazza, we're exploring the complex reality behind the perfectly curated images of traditional womanhood.In conversation, we tackle:* Why tradwives are a "political branding machine designed to make women participate in their own oppression"* How many of these women are renting houses, staging content, and creating fake versions of their lives* Why conservative groups have been funding and boosting tradwife content for nearly a decade* The hypocrisy of tradwife influencers benefiting fr...2025-06-0359 minNuance Needed47. The Problem with #ShadowWorkToday we examine the explosion of "shadow work" content on social media and why psychological tools in untrained hands may do more harm than good.* The commercialization of shadow work through viral journals, courses, and TikTok content* How spiritual coaches adopt psychological concepts without proper training or oversight* The origins of shadow work in Jungian psychology and its connection to modern therapy* Why "opening wounds" without proper guidance for integration can leave people worse off* The powerful scalpel metaphor: "Just because you have a surgical tool doesn't mean you...2025-05-2951 minNuance Needed46. Secret Lives of Mormon WivesEver wanted a therapist's take on reality TV? In this episode, we're breaking down "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives”. We discuss-* The emotional immaturity masked as empowerment* The missed opportunity to explore the repressive religious culture these women were raised in* Why claiming to "change the world" while engaging in manufactured drama feels particularly hollow* How that barbecue scene with Taylor's family perfectly encapsulates Mormon toxicity and gender double standards* The problem with filming vulnerable moments (like therapy sessions) without proper context or follow-through...2025-05-2753 minNuance NeededRaising Resilient Kids: Finding Balance in an Anxious World (Pt 2)How do we raise children who can navigate life's challenges when our instinct is to protect them from every discomfort? We are not parenting experts, but Amanda is a parent and together we come up with some ideas for how we may be able to parent without losing our minds and falling into intensive parenting.In this conversation, we tackle:* The "harbor and ship" metaphor: how parents can provide a safe port while allowing children to venture into the world* How our cultural fear of risk has limited children's independence and growth opportunities2025-05-2250 minNuance NeededAre We All Just Intensive & Anxious Parenting? (Pt 1)When did raising children become a high-stakes competitive sport? In this extremely nuanced conversation, we are examining the culture of intensive parenting from a parent (Amanda) and a non-parent (Sam). In this conversation, we tackle:* How social media algorithms reinforce parental anxiety by promoting rigid, conflicting approaches* The rise of intensive parenting and the pressure to optimize every aspect of childhood* The confusion around "gentle parenting" and why it often slides into permissive parenting* Amanda's experience navigating food choices with her toddler while healing from her own eating disorder...2025-05-2134 minNuance NeededRethinking Borderline Personality Disorder with Britt FrankTired of the stigma and oversimplification around BPD? In this episode with trauma therapist Britt Frank, we're diving into why this controversial diagnosis deserves a complete rethinking.In conversation, we tackle:* Why BPD may be better understood as a response to trauma rather than a "personality disorder"* How clinicians' fear of "difficult clients" perpetuates harmful stigmas* The problematic gender bias in BPD diagnosis (it's diagnosed predominantly in women)* The problem with social media creating identity around mental health diagnoses* Why suicidality needs to be discussed openly rather...2025-05-1456 minNuance NeededThe Illusion of Being Cool & Exhaustion of Pretending Not to CareIs the 'cool girl’ trope just a patriarchal trap designed to exhaust women? Amanda and Sam tackle this question while sharing their drastically different approaches to being unpopular in school. In conversation, we explore:The phenomenon of "coolness" and how it shapes our identitiesHow social media has created a never-ending popularity contest that extends far beyond high schoolBreaking down the iconic Gone Girl monologue that perfectly captured women's impossible balancing actHow maintaining "coolness" requires constant adaptation to rapidly shifting trendsFinding liberation in recognizing these systems and choosing what actually works for youThis revealing dis...2025-05-0758 minNuance NeededSam's Reflections on Starting Over (Pt 2)In the second part of our conversation about Sam's Mormon deconstruction, we dive into her emotional journey leaving Utah and the church. In conversation, we explore:- The powerful moment of driving away from Utah and feeling unprecedented relief- The unexpected grief that followed - not about leaving, but about staying so long- The complicated process of deciding what beliefs and values to keep versus discard- How to rebuild trust with yourself after leaving a high-demand religious environment- Finding peace with being a "late bloomer"...2025-05-0141 minNuance NeededMormon Culture & Utah Life: Sam's Journey of Deconstruction (Pt 1)In this deeply personal episode, Sam shares her experience growing up Mormon in New York and her eventual move to Utah, where she spent 15 years navigating a much more intense religious culture. In conversation, we explore:- Sam's unique experience as a "non-Utah Mormon" and how her family's more relaxed approach differed from the mainstream- The cultural quirks of Mormonism that most people don't understand (like special undergarments and dating pressure)- How personal choices about substances (coffee, alcohol, cigarettes) are influenced by religious upbringing- The overwhelming pressure to...2025-04-3035 minNuance NeededFinding Hope in History: What Eleanor Roosevelt Taught Sam About Taking ActionIn this preview episode of Sam's History Corner, Sam shares why she's launching this special series on Substack and gives us a deep dive into the life of Eleanor Roosevelt.In this episode, Sam explores:Eleanor Roosevelt's tragic childhood marked by parental loss and emotional abuse- Why Eleanor's lifelong insecurities never stopped her from taking meaningful action- How we can apply Eleanor's approach to making change in our own -lives- The importance of starting where you are—whether that's with family or community- Wh...2025-04-2417 minNuance NeededStop Calling Everyone a Narcissist with Britt FrankTired of hearing everyone labeled a "narcissist"? In this episode with therapist Britt Frank, we're diving into the nuanced reality of narcissism and why this term is both overused and misunderstood.In conversation, we tackle:* Why labeling everyone a "narcissist" gives too many people too much credit* The key difference between narcissism, being narcissistic, and actually having NPD* The "Narcissist Relationship Matrix" - how narcissists create distinct categories for people in their lives* Why confusion is the #1 sign you might be dealing with narcissism* The difference between...2025-04-2357 minNuance NeededYour Vacation Won't Fix Your Burnout : FAQ (Pt 2)When you're completely depleted, even the smallest decisions feel impossible. In Part 2, we tackle your most pressing questions about recognizing, navigating, and recovering from burnout.In Part 2, we discuss:* The crucial difference between "cosmetic" changes and "structural" problems at work* Why adding self-care tasks can feel like poison when you're exhausted (but it's actually medicine)* How to support someone with burnout* The uncomfortable truth about making changes when you have no energy left to make them* Why we need to treat burnout like a physical injury2025-04-1731 minNuance NeededBurnout: Stop Stealing From Tomorrow To Fix Today (Pt 1)Is the world rigged for burnout or are we just not trying hard enough?In this episode, we unpack why we're collectively exhausted and how our connected world has created the perfect conditions for burnout to thrive - in ways our brains simply weren't designed to handle This is a two part episode- second one comes out tomorrow!In Part 1, we explore:* Why our brains aren't wired to process information about billions of people* How constant exposure to others' interpretations (not just facts) is draining our capacity* The vulnerability...2025-04-1645 minNuance NeededWhy Money Issues Are Mental Health Issues with Chelsea FaganTired of the oversimplified financial advice flooding social media? In this episode, we're diving into the uncomfortable truth about why money management is 10% math and 90% emotional intelligence with Chelsea Fagan, founder of The Financial Diet.In conversation, we tackle:* How growing up in a low-income household surrounded by affluence shaped Chelsea's complicated relationship with money* Why you can't have stable mental health when you're financially unstable* The problem with analysis paralysis around money decisions and practical first steps for those feeling overwhelmed* How social media creates unrealistic timelines for...2025-04-0954 minNuance NeededBONUS: Pep Talk About Economic & Political UncertaintyWe are here today with a bit of a last minute casual episode. We recorded this on Thursday April 3rd after watching panic and anxiety on social media and thought it may be helpful to hear Sam give Amanda a pep talk to calm her down about the current state of the country. Skip if you aren't interested in political content. WE ARE NOW ON SUBSTACK with bonus episodes, pep talks, episodes guides, and so much more! Join us at nuanceneeded.substack.comTo learn more about therapy reach out to Therapy for Women Center...2025-04-0434 minNuance NeededWe Need to Talk About SkinnyTokIDK about you but we have THOUGHTS about SkinnyTok trend on Tiktok and how its infiltrating other social media platforms. In this episode, we're diving into the why this trend is problematic and how it's impacting our relationship with our bodies and food.In conversation, we tackle:- Why glorifying thinness as the ultimate goal is a dangerous path to self-hate- How phrases like "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels" are eating disorder dog whistles- The misrepresentation of body positivity and intuitive eating concepts- Some...2025-04-0259 minNuance NeededManifesting, Magical Thinking & Grief: Coping When Things Fall ApartWhat happens when the trendy concept of "manifesting" collides with real-life tragedy? In this vulnerable episode, we start discussing manifesting and end up deep in conversation about grief, caregiving, and finding meaning when life doesn't go as planned.In this episode, we explore:- The problem with manifesting coaches who claim "if something negative is happening to you, you're just not manifesting hard enough"- How easily manifesting can slip into harmful magical thinking, especially during crisis moments- Sam's experience with prayer and spirituality from her religious background and how...2025-03-2647 minNuance NeededNot Everything is "Trauma Dumping"- How Therapy Speak is Killing FriendshipsWhen did telling a friend about a tough time become "trauma dumping"? In this episode, we dissect how misusing therapy concepts is creating barriers to authentic friendship.In conversation, we tackle:The viral text where someone got accused of "trauma dumping" for simply mentioning their grandmother diedWhat trauma dumping ACTUALLY is vs. how it's being misused to shut down normal conversationsWhy you CAN'T trauma dump on your therapist (that's literally what they're there for!)How "annoyance is the price you pay for community" might be the most important relationship concept we've forgottenHow Amanda and Sam balance...2025-03-1946 minNuance NeededMillennial Friendship, Parenting and Social Media with Kate KennedyKate Kennedy, author of One in a Millenial and host of Be There in Five Podcast, is here (!!) for a deep dive into how friendship has fundamentally changed since our own childhoods, and what that means for the next generation. In conversation, we explore:- The lost art of unstructured playtime and being bored- The "no sleepovers" trend - How social media has changed the experience of being left out- What happens when every moment needs to be "enriching"-What its like being a millenial...2025-03-121h 05Nuance NeededThe Problem with the "Let Them" Theory & Why Overly Simplistic Advice Fails UsTired of oversimplified self help advice? US TOO! Today we are diving into our controversial take on why we don't like the "Let Them" theory by Mel Robbins.Listen to hear...- The problematic oversimplification in viral mental health theories- Why the original "Let Them" poem by Cassie Phillips carries more depth and nuance- The problem with shame-based approaches to personal development- The difference between temporary inspiration and lasting transformation- The inherent privilege in telling someone to "just let them"...2025-03-0547 minNuance NeededWhy People Pleasing Makes You Angry & How to Stop Part 2Ready to get uncomfortably honest about why being "the nice one" is leaving you feeling resentful? This is part 2 of our people pleasing episode. Go listen to the first episode before diving into this one!In conversation, we tackle:* The exhausting cycle of expecting people to read your mind* How avoiding conflict actually creates MORE conflict* Why assertiveness feels like aggression when you're used to people pleasing* Sam’s experience learning to stop apologizing for existing* How resentment builds when you don't express your needs* Wh...2025-02-2734 minNuance NeededWhy People Pleasing Can Be Manipulative Part 1Buckle up! We get radically candid about our own (very different) journeys with people-pleasing. We share:* How Amanda discovered her "thoughtful gift-giving" was actually manipulation to avoid accountability* Why Sam's role as a childhood caregiver shaped her people-pleasing patterns* How Sam learned to stop apologizing for existing* Their personal struggles with being "the nice one"* Why they both ended up becoming therapists for the "wrong" reasons* The uncomfortable truth about using "niceness" as control* What happens when your whole identity is built on being agreeable2025-02-2634 minNuance NeededYour Fear of Discomfort is Keeping You StuckTired of understanding all your patterns but still feeling stuck? In this episode, we're diving into the uncomfortable truth about why all that self-help content and therapy insight isn't actually changing your life.In conversation, we tackle:Why being "the self-aware friend" might be your newest form of avoidanceHow instant access to information is making us worse at solving our own problemsWhy validation without action is just spicy procrastinationThe uncomfortable truth about why therapy isn't just about feeling seenWhat your endless TikTok scrolling says about your fear of changeHow technology is teaching us to avoid sitting...2025-02-1951 minNuance NeededHow to Break Free from Perfectionism & Live Your ValuesIs your commitment to being perfect or good actually the enemy of your growth? In this episode we discuss: - The subtle ways perfectionism masquerades as preparation and protection- How perfectionism can become a form of self-harm and procrastination- The connection (and important differences) between perfectionism and people-pleasing- Why letting go of perfectionism can feel like losing your foundation- The role of defensiveness in maintaining perfectionist behaviors- How social media has transformed perfectionism from an internal to an external expectation. ...2025-02-1251 minNuance NeededHow to Prevent Parental Estrangement with Whitney Goodman, LMFTWant to prevent estrangement in your kids? This is the second part of our conversation with Whitney Goodman, LMFT. For the first part, please listen to the "Calling Home" podcast. In the first part of this conversation, we cover, what social media gets wrong about parental estrangement and what the nuance is that is missing online. In this second part of the conversation, we discuss. - How becoming a parent has impacted how Whitney and Amanda see parental estrangement- The single most important thing you can do to prevent estrangement with your child2025-02-0529 minNuance NeededYou Do Owe People Things: The Myth of Zero ObligationsHas "setting boundaries" turned into an excuse for treating people like they're disposable? We're seeing a concerning trend in our therapy rooms: people are using self-care language to justify ghosting, dishonesty, and basic human decency.In conversation, we tackle:The wild disconnect between how we treat strangers IRL vs. potential partners onlineWhy your "I don't owe anyone anything" mindset might be sabotaging your chances at real connectionThe uncomfortable truth about why you're really keeping those dating app matches aroundHow friend groups can enable poor behavior (yes, we're looking at those "slay queen" responses)What evolution and...2025-01-2944 minNuance NeededBONUS: Post- Inauguration Processing & Pep TalkIn this raw and personal bonus episode, Sam and Amanda process their feelings on Inauguration Day, sharing a candid conversation about:Dealing with political anxiety and finding hope amid uncertaintySam's experiences working in healthcare during COVID-19, including confronting conspiracy theorists and managing the hospital's COVID responseThe importance of local government and understanding political structures that remain in placeHistorical perspectives on social movements and resistancePractical ways to take action while maintaining mental healthThe balance between acknowledging difficult realities and maintaining hopeWant to join the conversation? CALL us at 813-444-8683 or EMAIL info@therapyforwomencenter.com Follow...2025-01-2339 minNuance NeededStop Flaking On Your Friends!In this candid episode, therapists Sam and Amanda discuss Sam's recent experience with a TikTok going viral. After posting about friendship and flaking culture, Sam faced unexpected backlash leading to a broader conversation about social media, nuance, and connection in today's world. The hosts explore:How legitimate concerns about accessibility and mental health can sometimes be weaponized to avoid discomfortThe erosion of our collective ability to say "this doesn't apply to me" and keep scrollingThe importance of maintaining friendships despite busy lives and different life stagesPractical ways to maintain connections when you have limited capacityThe difference between genuine...2025-01-2249 minNuance NeededMental Health Advice That Changed Our Lives Part 2In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda and Sam delve into their favorite mental health advice and life lessons. They explore the concept of numbing emotions, the importance of yoga and mindfulness in personal growth, and the significance of understanding one's emotions through interoception. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-advocacy, embracing both good and bad experiences, and living intentionally by considering how one's future self would respond to challenges. In this conversation, Amanda and Sam explore the importance of morning routines, self-care, and finding stability amidst chaos. 0:40-13:40 You cannot selectively numb.13:47-35:50...2025-01-1538 minNuance NeededMental Health Advice That Changed Our Lives Part 1In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda and Sam share their best mental health tips, focusing on the importance of understanding emotions, accountability, and self-reflection. They discuss how current feelings can distort perceptions of the past and future, and emphasize the need for personal responsibility in navigating life's challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing one's role in various dynamics and the power of reframing thoughts to foster personal growth and emotional well-being. 1:10-8:09 How you feel right now, is not how you will feel in the future.10:50-21:35 How do you contribute to the...2025-01-0844 minNuance NeededWhy We Hate Resolutions: What to do InsteadWe hate resolutions, but we love setting realistic goals. In this episode, we discuss their thoughts on the New Year, resolutions, and explore the difference between resolutions and goals, emphasizing the need for planning and the impact of shame on personal progress. The conversation also touches on the significance of specificity in goal setting and building a healthy relationship with food. We explore the distinction between resolutions and goals, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic and relevant objectives that align with personal values. We also discuss the significance of celebrating progress, understanding the motivations behind goals, and...2025-01-0137 minNuance NeededHoliday Pep Talk!In this holiday episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda and Sam discuss the emotional complexities of the holiday season, offering insights on how to navigate feelings of pressure and sadness. They emphasize the importance of self-care, finding comfort in traditions, and the freedom to enjoy the holidays in a way that feels right for each individual. The conversation also touches on the New Year, encouraging listeners to embrace the present without the burden of resolutions. Want to join the conversation? Call us at 813-444-8683. Follow us on Instagram or Tiktok- Sam (@Sam.the.therapist) Amanda...2024-12-2507 minNuance NeededTaylor Swift Therapy: The End of The Eras TourHow are we feeling post Eras Tour? Amanda and Sam delve into the aftermath of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, discussing the mixed reactions from fans, the overwhelming conspiracy theories, and the pressures of celebrity culture. We explore the expectations set by Taylor's performances, the marketing strategies surrounding her music releases, and the need for more nuanced discussions within the fandom. We delve into the multifaceted world of Taylor Swift, exploring her artistry, the complexities of her lyrics, and the intense dynamics of her fandom. We use this as a jumping off point to discsuss how to break...2024-12-1846 minNuance NeededHow to Actually Change: The Messy Truth No One Talks AboutHow exactly do people change? In this episode we dive deep into the messy reality of personal change, sharing Sam's recent cross-country move from Utah to Florida as a launching point to explore how real transformation happens. We discuss our professional and personal experiences with change, challenging the common misconception that change should feel good or comfortable. From Sam's enlightening moment in Kensington Gardens to our collective understanding of the five stages of change, we unpack why the "storm" of emotions - including anxiety, grief, and uncertainty - isn't a sign you're making the wrong choice, but rather evidence...2024-12-1144 minNuance NeededHow to Break free from All-or-Nothing Thinking & Find Joy OnlineIn this episode, licensed therapists Amanda White and Sam Dalton, we explore the pervasive impact of all-or-nothing thinking in our digital world and how to find balance amidst the extremes. Through personal stories (including Sam's endearing confession about her fear of whales), we dive into how social media algorithms reward black-and-white thinking and extreme takes, making it challenging to maintain nuanced perspectives. We share our own struggles with content consumption - from Amanda's climate change spirals to Sam's political doom-scrolling - while acknowledging that even as therapists trained in recognizing cognitive distortions, we're not immune to these patterns. 2024-12-0439 minNuance NeededHow to Decide If You Want To Have Kids & Why It's Okay to Question ItIn this conversation, Amanda and Sam discuss the topic of whether or not to have children. They explore their own experiences and Amanda shares her perspective on being someone who was not sure if she wanted children and how she decided she wanted one. Now she shares her experience form the other side-- specifically the challenges and joys that come with it. We also touch on the importance of individual choice and the need to prioritize personal values and well-being when making decisions about having children. The conversation explores the challenges and decisions surrounding parenthood. It highlights...2024-11-2743 minNuance NeededHow to Be Happy Being Single (Even If You Want a Partner)In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW delve into the complexities of being single in today's society. We discuss the cultural shift towards women choosing to remain single, the empowerment that comes with financial independence, and the challenges of navigating relationships while maintaining personal ambition. As some may know, Sam has been single for a long time, while Amanda is married, so this conversation is a really great balance of sharing Sam's best tips on how to enjoy your life being single (even if you want a partner), while...2024-11-2056 minNuance NeededParental Estrangement: Trend or Necessity?In this episode of the Nuance Needed podcast, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW delve into the complex topic of family estrangement, exploring its rising prevalence among younger generations and its seeming trend on social media. We discuss the generational differences in parenting styles, the impact of trauma, and the importance of accountability and repair in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the validity of individual experiences and the emotional layers involved in the decision to go no contact with family members. In this conversation, we explore into the complexities of family relationships, particularly focusing on the concept...2024-11-1353 minNuance NeededPost Election Processing: Grief & Hope In Hard TimesIn this emergency episode of the Nuance Needed Podcast, Amanda and Sam discuss their emotional responses to the recent election results, exploring themes of grief, coping strategies, and the impact of social media on mental health. We answer your questions that you submitted such as "how do I tell my kids what happened?", "what do I do about people in my life who voted for Trump?" "how do I go on if I feel like I can't go on?" and "how can I find hope?". We emphasize the importance of acknowledging feelings and how to take care of yourself...2024-11-0847 minNuance NeededSelf-Care Spending Trap Part 2: When Doctors Become InfluencersIf you can believe it we have EVEN MORE TO SAY about wellness TikTok trends. In this bonus episode, Amanda and Sam revisit their previous discussion on TikTok trends, particularly focusing on how it can be even more confusing on social media when real doctors and licensed providers have products and are the ones sharing information. We explore the implications of self-tanner usage, the overwhelming nature of social media trends, and the impact of consumerism on personal style. The conversation also touches on the dangers of following influencer trends without critical assessment. Finally, Amanda shares a story...2024-11-0725 minNuance NeededSelf-Care Spending Trap: When Wellness Becomes OverconsumptionWe have a bit of a lighter episode planned this week and second part coming tomorrow in order to help distract you and keep you company during this election week! In this conversation, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW discuss the frustration and misinformation surrounding wellness trends and beauty standards. They highlight the dangers of believing in made-up terms like 'cortisol face' and the pressure to constantly fix perceived flaws. They emphasize the importance of seeking professional advice and being mindful of the content we consume. The conversation also touches on the need for self-discipline, self-awareness, and the...2024-11-0650 minNuance NeededWhen Their Breakup Feels Like Yours: The Psychology of Celebrity RelationshipsLicensed therapists, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW have a conversation about the public's reaction to celebrity relationships and breakups, focusing on the recent reunion and divorce of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck. It delves into the pressure and expectations placed on celebrities and the projection of our own desires onto their relationships. The hosts discuss the impact of social media and the creation of parasocial relationships, where we feel connected to celebrities despite not knowing them personally. They also touch on the need for permanence in relationships and the challenges of navigating public perception. Overall...2024-10-3044 minNuance NeededCoaching v. Therapy and How to Be an Informed Social Media ConsumerLicensed therapists Sam Dalton, LCSW and Amanda White, LPC explore the challenges of navigating mental health content on social media and the importance of discernment. They highlight the need to focus on basic self-care before diving into niche trends. They discuss the impact of social media on mental health and the difficulty of finding accurate and helpful information. They emphasize the importance of therapy in exploring emotions and finding deeper meaning behind diagnoses. They also discuss the limitations of coaches compared to licensed therapists in providing comprehensive support. In this conversation, Sam and Amanda discuss the challenges...2024-10-2344 minNuance NeededChappell Roan: The Nuance of Fame, Mental Health & Public PerceptionIn this episode of the Nuance Needed Podcast, Amanda and Sam delve into the recent backlash surrounding artist Chappell Roan, particularly focusing on her decision to cancel performances for mental health reasons. They explore the complexities of social media reactions, the pressures of fame, and the importance of nuanced discussions in the face of polarized opinions.They explore the challenges faced by artists in managing fan expectations, the impact of public reactions on mental health, and the importance of understanding the consequences of one's actions. The discussion emphasizes the need for emotional management and the significance of...2024-10-1643 minNuance NeededBONUS: Hurricane Influencers and Social Media Misinformation* Please note we recorded this during the evacuation, so the audio is not up to our normal level. We appreciate you understanding* In this episode of the Nuance Needed Podcast, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW discuss the complexities of navigating personal experiences during natural disasters, particularly focusing on the recent hurricane. They explore the emotional impact of such events, the role of misinformation on social media, and the ethical responsibilities of influencers in crisis situations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of media literacy, community support, and setting boundaries with media consumption to maintain emotional well-being during crises...2024-10-1552 minNuance NeededMomtok, Mormonism & Faith DeconstructionIn this episode, Amanda and Sam delve into the Hulu series 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,' exploring the cultural implications and personal experiences tied to Mormonism. They discuss the impact of reality TV on perceptions of the culture, the struggles with shame and accountability, and the complexities of emotional responses within a patriarchal framework. This episode is especially important because as some of you may know, Sam grew up Mormon and has a unique perspective on the show and Mormon culture. Sam also shares about her faith deconstruction journey and gives listeners tips for how...2024-10-1057 minNuance NeededWho We Are and How We Got HereAmanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW introduce their new podcast, Nuance Needed, and discuss why they created it. They talk about their frustration with social media and how it has impacted mental health content. They emphasize the importance of nuance and the dangers of oversimplification. They also discuss the difference between normal human experiences and mental health disorders. Overall, they aim to create a space where they can navigate complex topics and model the process of exploring different perspectives. In this conversation, Amanda and Sam discuss their personal experiences with sobriety and the challenges they faced...2024-10-0936 minNuance NeededThe Weaponization of BoundariesLicensed therapists, Amanda White, LPC and Sam Dalton, LCSW discuss the topic of boundaries and how they are often misconstrued. They explore the difference between boundaries, norms, and expectations, emphasizing the importance of understanding intentions and allowing for mistakes. They highlight the need for nuance and grace in navigating boundaries, both in personal relationships and online interactions. The conversation also touches on the impact versus harm debate and the role of repair in building trust and understanding. In this conversation, Amanda and Sam discuss the importance of flexible boundaries and the dangers of rigid boundaries. They explore...2024-10-0951 minNuance NeededNuance Needed TrailerThe internet is saturated with content that talks about mental health in all the wrong ways. Licensed therapists, Amanda White and Sam Dalton, know firsthand the harm and confusion that this causes. We are on a mission to bring nuance back to the internet and help you make sense of it all. Together, we’ll psychoanalyze internet culture, debunk TikTok trends, and teach you how to *actually* care for your mental health while being online. Join us every Wednesday as we give you the tools to turn your doom scrolling into hope scrolling. For more information about us a...2024-09-1801 min