Summary

In this episode, Challee asks Justin to share his journey from being a student to becoming a clinician, discussing the challenges and adjustments he faced during this transition. He reflects on the feelings of imposter syndrome, the importance of support from peers and family, and the newfound freedom in scheduling as a clinician. The conversation emphasizes the significance of acknowledging accomplishments and the various career opportunities available in the field of social work.

Takeaways

-Justin graduated with a master's in social work.

-Transitioning from intern to clinician can be challenging.

-Adjusting to life after school involves redefining productivity.

-Imposter syndrome is a common feeling among new graduates.

-Receiving praise can be uncomfortable but is important to acknowledge.

-Scheduling freedom as a clinician is a significant adjustment.

-Support from peers and family is crucial during transitions.

-There are many career opportunities in social work.

-Stepping outside of comfort zones is necessary for growth.

-Reflecting on one's journey can provide clarity and confidence.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Graduation and Transitioning Roles

05:13 Navigating Imposter Syndrome

10:28 Embracing Scheduling Freedom

15:38 Finding Support and Building Confidence

20:55 Reflecting on the Journey

Summary

In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss the emotional challenges many face during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas. They emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, reaching out for support, and breaking away from traditional expectations. The conversation highlights the significance of community and connection during difficult times, encouraging listeners to share their experiences and support one another.

Takeaways

-You don't have to do it by yourself.

-It's okay to reach out for help.

-Acknowledge your feelings about the holidays.

-Reach out to friends or family who may be struggling.

-Breaking from traditional expectations can be liberating.

-There are resources available for those in need.

-It's important to share holiday traditions that resonate with you.

-Community support is vital during tough times.

-Don't hold yourself to a perfect expectation during the holidays.

-Encourage others to share their experiences and traditions.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Holiday Stress and Loss

08:58 Finding Joy Amidst Change

17:59 Creating Meaningful Experiences Over Material Gifts

25:23 Reaching Out and Seeking Support

Summary

In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss the pressures of parenting during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas. They explore various themes such as the challenges of managing holiday traditions, the expectations surrounding gift-giving, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for children. They also touch on the complexities of navigating split households during the holidays and emphasize the need to embrace imperfection and authenticity in holiday celebrations.

Takeaways

-Challee shares her experience of becoming a parent and the joy of her new daughter.

-The elf on the shelf tradition can create pressure for parents to perform.

-Gift-giving from Santa can lead to unrealistic expectations among children.

-It's important to balance gifts from Santa and parents to avoid feelings of inadequacy.

-Creating unique family traditions can lead to more memorable experiences than material gifts.

-Parents often feel overwhelmed by the pressure to create a perfect holiday.

-Splitting holidays between households requires clear communication and setting boundaries.

-Children often remember experiences over material gifts during the holidays.

-Embracing imperfections can lead to more authentic and enjoyable celebrations.

-It's essential to prioritize joy and connection over societal expectations during the holidays.

Chapters

00:00 Welcoming New Beginnings

02:50 Navigating Holiday Parenting Pressures

06:04 The Santa Dilemma: Gifts and Expectations

08:56 Creating Memorable Traditions

12:13 Managing Split Households During the Holidays

15:08 Embracing Imperfection in Holiday Celebrations

27:54 Finding Joy Beyond Perfection

Summary

In this episode, Justin explores the concept of productivity shame and the guilt associated with resting. He discusses how societal and cultural pressures contribute to our feelings of inadequacy when we take time for ourselves. The conversation emphasizes the importance of untangling self-worth from productivity, setting healthy boundaries, and redefining what rest means to us. Justin shares personal experiences and insights on how to challenge productivity shame, set realistic goals, and prioritize self-care for better mental and physical health.

Takeaways

-Guilt with rest often stems from productivity shame.

-Self-worth should not be tied to accomplishments.

-Cultural expectations can create pressure to be productive.

-Rest can mean different things for different people.

-Acknowledging small accomplishments is important.

-Setting boundaries helps manage productivity shame.

-Realistic goal setting can reduce feelings of inadequacy.

-Self-care is essential for mental health.

-Finding balance in identity is crucial for well-being.

-Long-term neglect of self-care can lead to serious health issues.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Productivity Shame

05:48 Untangling Self-Worth from Accomplishments

10:41 Finding Balance in Identity

15:32 Realistic Goal Setting

20:44 Long-Term Effects of Productivity Shame

26:32 NEWCHAPTER

Summary

In this episode, Justin explores the significance of self-care and meditation, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and understanding one's emotions. He shares personal experiences with meditation as a grounding tool, discussing how it has helped him manage racing thoughts and negative self-talk. The conversation highlights the need for a sustainable meditation practice and the benefits of being present in the moment.

Takeaways

-Self-care can take many forms beyond traditional methods.

-Meditation helps in understanding and controlling racing thoughts.

-Self-compassion is crucial for mental well-being.

-Taking time for oneself is a sign of worthiness.

-Meditation can be adapted to fit individual needs.

-Grounding techniques can improve emotional awareness.

-Being present enhances relationships and personal fulfillment.

-Meditation can help distinguish between anxiety and physical needs.

-Creating a habit of meditation can lead to personal growth.

-Prioritizing self-care is essential for managing stress.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Meditation and Self-Care

05:56 Finding Time for Ourselves

10:44 Creating a Structured Meditation Practice

11:40 The Importance of Self-Care

16:32 Meditation as a Tool for Self-Discovery

Summary

In this episode, Justin explores the fear of failure, discussing its prevalence and impact on personal growth. He delves into the role of perfectionism, the importance of self-compassion, and how learning from mistakes can lead to greater resilience. The conversation emphasizes the need to embrace discomfort and view failure as a stepping stone to success, ultimately encouraging listeners to believe in themselves and their abilities.

Takeaways

-Fear of failure is a common experience that can hold us back.

-Perfectionism often exacerbates the fear of failure.

-Starting somewhere is crucial to overcoming fear.

-Failure can be a stepping stone to success.

-Self-compassion is essential in dealing with failure.

-Learning from mistakes is a key part of growth.

-We should challenge unrealistic expectations we set for ourselves.

-Embracing discomfort can lead to personal growth.

-Building self-belief is vital for overcoming challenges.

-Failure should be viewed as an opportunity, not an end.

Chapters

00:00 Facing the Fear of Failure

09:12 Understanding Perfectionism and Its Impact

18:04 Building Resilience and Self-Belief

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee delve into the complexities of people pleasing, exploring its definitions, origins, and impacts on personal relationships and self-worth. They discuss how childhood experiences and societal expectations contribute to the development of people-pleasing behaviors, and share personal anecdotes about navigating these challenges in both personal and professional settings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, building self-confidence, and recognizing the detrimental effects of people pleasing on mental health. Strategies for overcoming these tendencies are also discussed, highlighting the significance of supportive relationships and effective communication.

Takeaways

-People pleasing often stems from childhood experiences.
-Setting boundaries is crucial for mental well-being.
-People pleasing can drain emotional energy.
-Recognizing one's self-worth is essential.
-Average performance should be accepted, not shamed.
-Communication is key in overcoming people pleasing.
-Supportive relationships can help mitigate people pleasing.
-It's okay to say no without justification.
-People pleasing can affect professional dynamics.
-Generational influences shape our behaviors. 

Chapters

00:00 Understanding People Pleasing
05:48 The Impact of Employment on People Pleasing
10:40 Overcoming People Pleasing
15:43 Strategies for Recovery

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee discuss her personal experience with postpartum depression, exploring the emotional challenges and societal expectations surrounding motherhood. They delve into the impact of hormonal changes, the importance of seeking help, and the role of therapy in recovery. The conversation highlights the pervasive feelings of mom guilt and the necessity of building a supportive community. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of open conversations about mental health and the shared experiences of motherhood.

Takeaways

-Postpartum depression can manifest in unexpected ways.
-Hormonal changes after childbirth can significantly affect mental health.
-Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.
-Therapy can provide essential support and validation.
-Mom guilt is a common experience among mothers.
-Building a support system is crucial for mental well-being.
-Open conversations about postpartum experiences can help others.
-It's important to recognize that every mother's experience is unique.
-Acknowledging feelings of inadequacy can lead to seeking help.
-Talking about mental health can reduce stigma and promote understanding.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Postpartum Depression
05:44 The Journey to Diagnosis
10:57 The Role of Therapy and Support
16:22 Breaking the Stigma
21:33 Building a Support System

Summary
In this conversation, Justin and Challee explore the complexities of pregnancy, discussing societal expectations, personal experiences, and the emotional challenges that come with it. They delve into the stigma surrounding pregnancy, the importance of mental health, and the necessity of self-advocacy in healthcare. The discussion highlights the need for support systems and the reality that not all pregnancies are joyful, emphasizing that it's okay to express discomfort and seek help.

Takeaways
-Pregnancy can be a challenging experience, not just a joyful one.
-It's important to have a support system during pregnancy.
-Mental health should be prioritized, even during pregnancy.
-Self-advocacy is crucial in healthcare settings.
-It's okay to feel guilty about complaining during pregnancy.
-Pregnancy can affect physical health significantly.
-Finding a trusted healthcare provider is essential.
-Being honest with oneself and others is vital for well-being.
-Expectations of pregnancy can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
-It's normal to not enjoy every aspect of pregnancy.

Chapters
00:00 Navigating Pregnancy Expectations
05:56 Physical Challenges and Limitations
11:09 The Importance of Support Systems
16:20 Communicating with Healthcare Providers

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee discuss their experience at a mental health conference featuring Kevin Berthia and Kevin Briggs, who shared his journey of overcoming suicidal thoughts. They explore the importance of listening, the impact of personal responsibility, and the need for open conversations about mental health. The discussion emphasizes the human side of mental health professionals and the significance of identity and self-understanding in mental health. They also address the stigma surrounding mental health and the importance of building trust and open communication with those struggling.

Takeaways

-Listening can save lives, as demonstrated by Kevin's story.
-Understanding the layers of trauma is crucial in mental health.
-Expectations can hinder joy and mental well-being.
-Being responsive to others' needs is more important than feeling responsible for their problems.
-Mental health professionals also face personal challenges.
-De-stigmatizing mental health conversations is essential for awareness.
-Identity plays a significant role in mental health struggles.
-Open communication about feelings can prevent crises.
-It's important to normalize discussions about mental health among youth.
-Building trust with young people can lead to more open conversations about their struggles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Mental Health Conference
02:46 Understanding Kevin Berthia's Journey
07:27 The Impact of Listening and Communication
12:11 The Weight of Responsibility and Expectations
17:29 The Power of Choice and Control
22:31 The Importance of Normalizing Conversations
27:17 Building Trust and Open Communication
33:08 Conclusion and Call to Action

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee discuss the differences between self-help and professional help, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each. They emphasize the importance of self-care, the dangers of self-diagnosing, and the need for accountability in personal growth. The conversation highlights that both self-help and professional guidance can work together to foster emotional well-being and personal development, encouraging listeners to strive for progress rather than perfection.

Takeaways

-Self-help can create better self-talk.
-Treat yourself as you would treat a friend.
-Self-care is essential for emotional well-being.
-Professional help provides accountability and perspective.
-Self-diagnosing can lead to harmful conclusions.
-Progress is more important than perfection.
-Finding hobbies is crucial for personal identity.
-Self-help and professional help should complement each other.
-Setting realistic goals is vital for success.
-Engaging in self-care can improve relationships.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Self-Help Strategies
07:31 Understanding Professional Help
16:03 Navigating Barriers to Help
22:54 The Importance of Progress Over Perfection

Summary
In this episode, Justin and Challee delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, sharing personal experiences and insights on how it manifests in their lives and careers. They discuss the feelings of self-doubt, the importance of support systems, and strategies for managing these feelings. The conversation highlights the commonality of these experiences and encourages listeners to seek community support.

Takeaways
-Imposter syndrome is a common experience that many people face.
-Self-doubt can manifest regardless of qualifications or experience.
-Support from peers and supervisors can help alleviate feelings of inadequacy.
-Recognizing and addressing negative self-talk is crucial in overcoming imposter syndrome.
-It's important to give oneself grace and acknowledge achievements.
-Imposter syndrome can be exacerbated by anxiety and lack of support.
-Therapists also experience imposter syndrome, highlighting its widespread nature.
-The transition from student to professional can trigger feelings of being an imposter.
-Self-care practices can mitigate the effects of imposter syndrome.
-Community support and open conversations about these feelings are essential. 

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
02:54 Personal Experiences with Self-Doubt
05:30 Causes and Triggers of Imposter Syndrome
07:57 The Role of Support Systems
09:54 Navigating Client Relationships
12:42 The Impact of Perfectionism
15:03 Challenging Imposter Syndrome
17:35 Transitioning to Professional Roles
19:51 Finding Common Ground in Experiences
22:08 Conclusion and Call for Sharing Experiences

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee explore the stigma surrounding mental health, discussing its impact on individuals, particularly men, and the importance of open communication and vulnerability. They emphasize the need for societal change in how mental health is perceived and addressed, advocating for more supportive environments where individuals feel safe to share their struggles. The conversation highlights the role of language, emotional intelligence, and the importance of validating experiences to foster a culture of understanding and support.

Takeaways

-Stigma around mental health is pervasive and affects access to care.
-Talking about mental health should be normalized, just like physical health.
-Men often face societal pressure to suppress their emotions, leading to negative outcomes.
-Therapy is often seen as a last resort for men, rather than a preventive measure.
-Trauma is subjective; all experiences of trauma are valid and need to be processed.
-Open conversations about mental health can encourage others to share their struggles.
-Validation and appreciation for sharing can foster deeper connections.
-Communication is crucial in reducing stigma and promoting understanding.
-Creating safe spaces for sharing experiences is essential for healing.
-Small conversations can lead to significant changes in mental health awareness.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Mental Health Stigma
10:07 The Impact of Gender on Mental Health
19:07 Breaking Down Barriers: Communication and Validation
29:46 The Role of Language in Stigma
33:07 Moving Towards a Supportive Community

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee explore the concept of fight or flight mode, its effects on the nervous system, and how it influences our decision-making and emotional responses. They discuss coping mechanisms, the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior, and the long-term effects of unprocessed trauma. The conversation also highlights the difference between big T and small T trauma, emphasizing that both can significantly affect our mental health and well-being.

Takeaways

-Fight or flight mode impacts our nervous system and decision-making.
-Coping mechanisms like grounding techniques can help manage stress.
-Childhood experiences can trigger fight or flight responses in adulthood.
-Unprocessed trauma can lead to long-term emotional and relational issues.
-The brain does not differentiate between big T and small T trauma.
-It's important to acknowledge and process our emotional responses.
-Self-talk and awareness can help mitigate the effects of trauma.
-Grounding techniques can be simple and effective in calming the nervous system.
-Therapists also need support and therapy to process their experiences.
-Understanding our triggers can lead to better emotional regulation.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Fight or Flight Mode
03:09 Identifying Triggers and Responses
05:23 Coping Mechanisms and Grounding Techniques
08:28 The Impact of Childhood Experiences
11:01 Long-Term Effects of Fight or Flight
13:31 The Role of Trauma in Daily Life
16:00 Big T vs. Small T Trauma

Summary
In this conversation, Justin and Challee explore the complexities of step parenting, emphasizing the importance of communication, setting expectations, and navigating the emotional dynamics involved in blending families. They share personal experiences and insights on how to effectively integrate a new partner into a family unit while considering the feelings and needs of children. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of step parenting, including establishing boundaries, discipline, and creating new family traditions.

Takeaways
-Step parenting requires open communication with children.
-Children should feel included in family decisions.
-Establishing clear roles and expectations is crucial.
-It's important to address children's fears about new relationships.
-Discipline should be a team effort between partners.
-Vulnerability is necessary when integrating a new partner.
-Every family has its own unique dynamics and routines.
-Children can enjoy relationships with both biological and step parents.
-Setting boundaries helps in managing family dynamics.
-New traditions can enrich the family experience.

Chapters
00:00 Navigating Step Parenting Dynamics
02:42 Incorporating a New Family Member
05:31 Communication is Key
08:00 Understanding Roles and Boundaries
10:09 Building Trust and Respect
13:00 Discipline and Parenting Styles
15:24 The Importance of Clear Expectations
17:59 Vulnerability in Relationships
20:46 Embracing New Traditions
23:19 Challenges and Triumphs of Blended Families

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Challee discuss the significance of setting and maintaining boundaries in both personal and professional contexts. They explore the different types of boundaries, the challenges of maintaining them, especially in therapeutic settings, and the importance of self-care and work-life balance. The conversation also touches on the complexities of social media interactions and the necessity of clear communication regarding expectations. Overall, the episode emphasizes that healthy boundaries are essential for emotional well-being and effective functioning in various aspects of life.

Takeaways
-Boundaries are essential for a healthier life.
-Everyone has experienced feeling burnt out.
-Healthy boundaries allow us to show up better at work.
-Setting clear expectations is crucial.
-Maintaining boundaries is hard.
-Self-care is not selfish.
-Work-life balance is very important.
-Crisis can be defined differently for everyone.
-We can't pour from an empty cup.

Summary

In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss various aspects of body image and making positive language focusing on how to empower children through choices, understanding their eating habits, and encouraging curiosity. We emphasizes the importance of allowing children to make decisions, listen to their bodies, and question rules, fostering a sense of responsibility and value in their actions. Putting this all together to try and think about how this effects us long term and the way we show up in our teen and adult lives. 

Takeaways

-Advocation for our needs. 
-It's important to listen to your body.
-Providing kids with as much control is beneficial.
-I want to encourage asking why.
-Kids are picky eaters for a reason.
-Try to give them as many choices as possible.
-I want him to question the rules.
-He sees the value in what he can do.

Summary

In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss the journey to becoming a licensed therapist in New York, including educational requirements, internships, and the licensure exam. They explore the transition from school to the job market, the challenges faced, and the importance of support in the workplace, especially when moving into private practice. The discussion highlights the need for self-care and the balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.

Takeaways

-You need a bachelor's degree and a master's degree to become a licensed therapist.
-Internships are a crucial part of the training process for therapists.
-The licensure exam can be daunting, but preparation is key.
-Networking and applying to multiple positions can expedite the job search process.
-Transitioning to private practice offers more flexibility and control over one's schedule.
-Financial stability is an important consideration when choosing a career path in therapy.
-Supportive supervisors can significantly impact job satisfaction and performance.
-Self-care is essential for therapists to avoid burnout.
-Creating a positive workplace culture enhances team support and collaboration.
-The human aspect of therapy work is vital for personal and professional growth.

Summary

In this episode, Justin and Chalee explore common myths about therapy and therapists, emphasizing the human aspect of mental health professionals. They discuss the misconceptions that therapists have everything figured out, that they simply listen, and that they always provide advice. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the therapeutic process and the ongoing nature of mental health work beyond the therapy session.

Takeaways

-Therapists are humans first, struggling with their own issues.
-Mental health professionals often share their experiences to connect with clients.
-Therapy is not just about sitting and listening; it's an interactive process.
-Therapists do not analyze everyone in their lives; they maintain boundaries.
-Advice in therapy is not always straightforward; empowerment is key.
-Therapy extends beyond the session; real work happens in daily life.
-Celebrating small wins is crucial in the therapeutic journey.
-Therapists also need outlets for their own mental health.
-The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and understanding.
-Myths about therapy can create barriers to seeking help.

In this episode, hosts Justin and Challee share their personal journeys into the field of social work, discussing their motivations, experiences, and the challenges they faced along the way. They explore the importance of mental health support for caregivers and children, the rewarding aspects of working with different populations, and the impact of their experiences on their professional development. The conversation highlights the need for more therapists in various fields and the significance of creating safe spaces for individuals.

Takeaways

-The podcast aims to nurture mind, body, and spirit.
-Challee's experience in dementia care shaped her social work path.
-Job security was a key motivation for Justin's career choice.
-The importance of caregiver support is often overlooked.
-Justin's personal experience with his son led him to work with children.
-Working with kids can be healing for the therapist.
-The transition from adult to child therapy can be challenging.
-Creating a safe space for clients is crucial.
-Boundaries are essential in therapeutic settings.
-The journey in social work is ongoing and evolving.