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Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
Dr. Alexander Avila
100 episodes
1 week ago
Love University: A Podcast Where you can Learn How to: Love-Yourself, Others, & a Higher Power! Hosted by Renowned Clinical Psychologist Dr. Alex Avila www.loveuniversity.love
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Love University: A Podcast Where you can Learn How to: Love-Yourself, Others, & a Higher Power! Hosted by Renowned Clinical Psychologist Dr. Alex Avila www.loveuniversity.love
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Society & Culture
Episodes (20/100)
Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
TRANSFORM YOUR ANGER WEAKNESS: AWAKEN YOUR INNER HARMONY AND RULE YOUR WORLD
What if you could use the energy of anger to create peace instead of conflict? This week on Love University, we explore how to use Anger—one of the most volatile forces in the emotional universe—for healing and empowerment. Often mistaken for strength, irrational anger is actually a form of reactivity that drains your mental energy and damages your relationships. Drawing from his book Invincible You, Dr. Avila offers practical strategies for mastering what he calls the Anger Weakness—the tendency to be consumed by frustration and irritability when you feel blocked from your desires and wishes. Here are two key approaches to shift from anger to empowered calmness: Use grounding and empathy to transmute anger You don’t have to suppress your anger—you can learn to redirect it. When you stay physically grounded and emotionally aware, you can turn reactive energy into emotional strength. For example, instead of clenching your fists and raising your voice during a tense conversation, take a slow breath, plant your feet firmly on the ground, and steady your tone. This simple act calms your nervous system and keeps your mind clear; you hold your ground without aggression. In addition, make sure you recognize the humanity in others, even during disagreements. This approach not only protects your serenity—it also deepens your self-control and helps you build stronger, more respectful relationships. Treat anger like a color until it disappears. The true goal isn’t to erase anger—it’s to transform it. When anger arises, you can choose non-reaction: Feel the fire, but don’t fuel it.  Say to yourself, “I’m experiencing a certain color at this moment. Some call it anger, but I see it as a color, for example red.  I will allow myself to momentarily feel its hot intensity, but I won’t do anything about it.  I will simply let it pass through me until its fierceness vanishes.” Over time, this emotional mastery over anger builds what Dr. Avila calls the Invincible Mind—a state of calm strength in which you acknowledge emotions without being overpowered by them. From this place of ultimate strength, you will transmute anger into fuel for positive change and upward soul elevation, culminating in the most wonderful of gift of all: Peace.   Learn how to manage anger with clarity, wisdom, and self-mastery.  Also, pick up a copy of Invincible You at https://tinyurl.com/3y3szh27.      
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1 week ago
5 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
TRANSFORM THE REGRET WEAKNESS: ERASE COMPULSIVE LOOK-BACK THINKING AND CREATE A LIMITLESS FUTURE
What if you could turn regret into wisdom and self-attack into self-love? This week on Love University, we explore how to finally break the grip of regret and live with full freedom and joy. The Regret Weakness is a subtle but persistent thought pattern—the belief that your past defines your future, and that you’re somehow unworthy of success, love, or happiness because of previous mistakes and failures.  Regret, unfortunately, can lead to paralysis, low self-worth, and a repeated cycle of poor choices. But when reframed into wisdom and self-acceptance, it can be one of your greatest sources of strength and clarity. Here are three essential takeaways from the episode: Separate mistakes from your identity Regret becomes destructive when it turns into self-definition. It’s one thing to acknowledge a mistake—it’s another to believe that an error or failure means you’re fundamentally flawed. The Regret Weakness thrives on that confusion. Because of what happened in the past, you begin to believe you're “bad at relationships,” “not cut out for success,” or “too damaged to change.” But the truth is, the version of you who made those past decisions no longer exists. Healing begins when you stop dragging your old identity into your present and realize that the new you doesn’t need to repeat the cycles of the past. Allow progress without perfection A common regret trap is expecting overnight transformation—then feeling like a failure when old habits resurface. But growth isn’t linear. You will have setbacks—what matters is how you interpret them. If you shame yourself for every backward step, you reinforce the very patterns you’re trying to break. But when you allow yourself to return, recommit, and realign—without judgment—you build emotional strength. The Regret Weakness loses its power when you understand that healing includes imperfection, and growth encompasses wisdom from lessons learned. Convert regret into learning and hope When regret lingers, it’s usually because you haven’t yet mined the wisdom from the experience. You’re stuck in “If only…” instead of “Next time I will…” That shift—looking forward instead of backward—changes everything. Every painful memory contains valuable knowledge: what mattered to you, what you ignored, what boundary you didn’t set. When you uncover that meaning, you create a new imprint—a Loving Memory—where wisdom replaces shame, and acceptance surpasses imperfection. Now regret stops being a chain and becomes a compass to the discovery of your most loving and true self.   The bottom line: Learn how to erase regret and look forward to a glorious and wonderful future.
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1 week ago
9 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
The Power of Hope Realized: Rebuild Your Life from the Precipice to the Mountain With Special Guest, Jennifer Dickenson — the “Healing Advocate”
What do you do when you’re faced with an insurmountable obstacle? Answer: You act with realistic hope. This week at Love University, we had an inspiring time with Jennifer Dickenson—cancer survivor, wellness advocate, and author of A Case for Hope (https://tinyurl.com/4j2jukn8). In 2011, she was a busy, stressed-out lawyer who was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer and told she only had twelve months to live. She recovered and now teaches others how to harness their mind, body, and spirit to create durable well-being. Here are some important things to keep in mind when you’re stuck in an unwinnable place: Hope Is a Daily Verb One way to define hope is “focusing on the positive while taking realistic steps toward joy and meaning.” Genuine hope begins with practical optimism. You expect the best while also planning for contingencies and unexpected occurrences. In this way, you’re prepared but positive; realistic yet optimistic. Train Your Attention on Small but Steady Goals Big numbers—diagnoses, timelines, statistics—can paralyze you. The antidote is to work on the small numbers you can control. Begin with the smallest winnable action: a five-minute walk when your energy is low; talking to a friend for a short while when you’re lonely; reading a few pages of a spiritual book when you need inspiration.  Remember: Your attention is your remedy. Focus on the things that empower and heal you: meditating, praying, exercising, listening to music, spending quality time with loved ones, or practicing a relaxing bedtime ritual (turn off devices 30 minutes before sleep). When you do these things, you will be refreshed and energized, ready to look forward to tomorrow with renewed hope and enthusiasm.    Laughter Is a Great Medicine Laugher can save your life.  Norman Cousins, the renowned journalist and author, combined humor films with medical care during a serious inflammatory illness. He recovered and wrote a classic book: Anatomy of an Illness. It’s true: Humor can lighten your life and help you gain perspective. Start this week: watch funny shows, go to a comedy show, or play improv games with your friends—the laughter that ensues will enlighten your mind and lift your spirits. In the end, rebuilding your life is about practical, optimistic, and repeatable steps. Choose one healthy thing you can do today—do it before noon, and let tomorrow build on it. Your life will grow with hope and happiness.  
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3 weeks ago
29 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
TRANSFORM YOUR RUSH WEAKNESS: AWAKEN YOUR INVINCIBLE MIND
What if you could transform your rushing and impatience into peace, clarity, and real accomplishment? This week on Love University, we explore how to do exactly that. In a world addicted to speed and urgency, many people are unknowingly ruled by what Dr. Avila calls the Rush Weakness—the inner pressure to do more, faster, all the time. But rushing rarely leads to real progress. Instead, it drains energy, clouds thinking, and invites mistakes. The good news is that this mental habit can be transformed into a deeper strength known as the Mind of Patience. Drawing from his class book, Invincible You (https://tinyurl.com/3y3szh27), Dr. Avila teaches you how to replace reactivity with calm direction so you can stop racing against time and start living with purpose. Here’s how transformation begins:   Recognize the Rush Weakness as a fear-based habit Rushing feels productive, but it's often driven by fear—fear of falling behind, missing out, or not doing enough. It masquerades as urgency but creates inner tension and impulsive decisions. Transformation begins with awareness: noticing when the Rush Weakness is controlling your pace, and realizing that calm action often leads to better results.   Train your patience like a mental muscle Patience is not passivity. It’s a deliberate, focused mindset that brings clarity under pressure. A key tool in building this strength is the “Choose the Longer Line” exercise: intentionally standing in the slower queue to recondition your tolerance for waiting. By facing down the discomfort, you gain control over your impulses and strengthen emotional resilience. Shift from rushing to rhythm When guided by the Mind of Patience, your actions become more grounded. You stop chasing time and start managing energy. This shift leads to fewer mistakes, less stress, and greater clarity. Results come not from moving faster, but from aligning thought with purpose—and trusting that the right outcomes will unfold when approached with steadiness and focus. Learn how to break free from the Rush Weakness and step into a new pace of life—one built on patience, presence, and sustainable achievement.
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1 month ago
8 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO WIN BIG: YOUR UNSTOPPABLE COMEBACK BEGINS NOW
1 month ago
13 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
WHY YOU LOVE SCARY MOVIES—AND HOW TO MAKE FEAR WORK FOR YOU—WITH MONICA KASTLE, "THE HORROR QUEEN"
      Why do we deliberately seek out fear—only to feel more alive afterward?      This week on Love University, we’re exploring the psychology of horror with acclaimed supernatural thriller author Monica Kastle, creator of the Cascade Wolves series. Known for suspenseful plots, richly layered characters, and emotionally intelligent writing, Kastle crafts stories that don’t just scare you—they awaken something deeper in your mind and heart.     Here’s what we uncovered about why fear fascinates us—and how her novels hook into our most primal wiring: Fear is our brain’s rehearsal room.     Monica’s novels serve as controlled “threat simulators.” When we read scary scenes, the amygdala—the brain’s fear center—fires off as if we’re in danger. But the rational brain knows we’re safe, creating a unique tension loop. That loop, according to National Geographic, helps us process stress more efficiently. Horror fans often show greater emotional regulation and resilience—because they’ve practiced fear in a safe container.     Kastle’s work gives readers that exact laboratory: fear without real harm, emotional risk without real loss. And the payoff? A psychological sense of mastery. The adrenaline-to-euphoria connection.    Kastle’s books build suspense through rising tension, then release it through resolution. This taps into what scientists call excitation transfer: the idea that physiological arousal (like increased heart rate and sweaty palms) intensifies whatever emotion follows it. So when the monster disappears—or the hero survives—we feel extra relief, even joy.This adrenaline -to-euphoria payoff is hardwired in us. It’s why scary stories can be strangely uplifting. Monica’s smart layering of supernatural danger and emotional stakes creates exactly this effect—fear that leads to catharsis (emotional release). We learn from the worst-case scenario.       Horror stories are deeply instructive. We unconsciously collect survival strategies as we read: What would I do in that cabin? Would I trust that character? How would I escape that pack of wolves? This “morbid curiosity” isn’t unhealthy—it’s evolutionary. Research during COVID-19 showed that horror fans were more psychologically prepared for uncertainty and threat.       Kastle's readers aren't just along for the ride. They’re gathering intel. Her fiction activates our learning brain while thrilling our emotional core. Fear sharpens connection.       One of the most fascinating psychological effects of horror is called misattribution of arousal. It means we can confuse fear for attraction. In a famous 1974 study, men were more likely to feel romantic interest after crossing a dangerous suspension bridge than a safe one. That’s because fear spikes adrenaline—which mimics the symptoms of romantic excitement.      Kastle’s Cascade Wolves plays on this beautifully. Tense survival scenes mirror this “bridge effect,” where readers find themselves rooting not just for safety—but for slow-burn intimacy. Fear and empathy merge, drawing us closer to the characters and to ourselves. From fear to growth.      In Cascade Wolves, Kastle’s heroines don’t just run from fear—they grow through it. This mirrors what psychologists call “coping rehearsal.” Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, scary stories help train emotional muscles. Readers learn to manage panic, slow their breathing, and stay alert in high-pressure moments—all while sitting safely on the couch.    That’s the deeper brilliance of Kastle’s work: her stories aren’t just entertainment. They’re emotional conditioning.    Monica Kastle uses the language of fear to teach courage, deepen empathy, and rewire how we experience stress and safety. If you’ve ever wondered why we love scary stories—or how they help us heal—this episode    will change the way you think about horror.      
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2 months ago
16 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
HOW TO LIVE LIKE A CHAMPION —DR. AVILA SHARES THREE POWERFUL STEPS TO ACHIEVE YOUR GREATNESS
Would you like to live like a champion—someone who consistently wins in life, not just occasionally, but day after day, in every area that matters most? On this week’s episode of Love University, we explore three key principles that can help you step into your greatness—starting now. Whether you want more success in your relationships, career, finances, health, or mindset, these three simple steps can help you live with more confidence, power, and joy: Step 1: Turn “Little Bads” into “Little Goods”Many people are weighed down by self-defeating thoughts: “I don’t have enough time,” “Life is difficult,” or “I can’t find someone to love.” These are the little bads—small, self-defeating messages that accumulate in your thinking and drain your emotional and psychological energy. The key to living like a champion is to notice these patterns and change them for little goods: positive, believable affirmations like “There’s plenty of love and opportunity for me,” or “I have all the time I need.” At first, the negative voices will resist—after all, they’ve lived in your head for years. But, with daily repetition, you will crowd them out and replace them with encouraging, life-affirming thoughts that fuel your actions and elevate your mood. Step 2: Start with the Easy.Champions don’t wait for the perfect moment. They begin with what they can do right now. This might mean reading a short article about a new career path, writing the first sentence of a book, or spending just 20 minutes at the gym. Psychologists call these early actions successive approximations to the goal—small steps that build confidence and momentum as you reach your larger objectives. With each completed action, you develop a rhythm of success. As you go from short walks to longer ones, from brief study sessions to deep dives, and from quality conversations to meaningful relationships, you prove to yourself that growth is possible—and that you’re the kind of person who follows through to achieve what you desire. Step 3: Practice the Power of Discard.Living like a champion isn’t just about doing more—it’s about letting go of what holds you back. That includes old clothes that don’t fit, obsolete equipment, and cluttered paperwork. Discarding isn’t just physical; it’s psychological. When you clear your external space, you begin to free your internal space. As you throw away objects that no longer serve you, you create mental clarity, self-respect, and room for new, empowering beliefs to take root. The more you let go of what you don’t need, the more power you have to attract what truly matters.
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2 months ago
8 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
CAN MUSHROOMS SAVE YOUR LIFE? PSYCHADELIC-ASSISTED THERAPY WITH SPECIAL GUEST, DR. STACEY SIMMONS, “THE PHARMACY QUEEN”
Have you ever wondered if something as natural—and as ancient—as a mushroom could help you resolve trauma, reduce depression, or even diminish the fear of death? On this week’s episode of Love University, we met Dr. Stacey Simmons—psychotherapist and certified psychedelic-assisted therapy practitioner (staceysimmonsphd.com). Her work brings together neuroscience and and plant-medicine research. As the author of Mushroom Pharmacy, Dr. Simmons explores how psilocybin and other psychedelics may support emotional healing, spiritual awakening, and brain transformation. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: What is psilocybin therapy?Dr. Simmons explained that psilocybin—the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms”—has been used for thousands of years in sacred ritual. Today, it’s being clinically studied for depression, trauma, and end-of-life anxiety. Several U.S. states, including Oregon and Colorado, have already approved regulated use in therapeutic settings. Microdosing vs. full-dose journeys.We talked about the difference between microdosing (small, sub-perceptual doses taken regularly) and higher-dose “journey” sessions, which can open people to profound experiences of unity, inner clarity, or even a rehearsal of death—helping some individuals release long-held fear or emotional pain. The healing comes from preparation and integration.Dr. Simmons emphasized that psychedelics aren’t miracle pills. Safety, psychological screening, and careful integration afterward are essential—especially for those with conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, where use is contraindicated. Beyond chemicals: spiritual repair.According to Dr. Simmons, psilocybin can temporarily silence the inner chatter of the “monkey mind,” opening space for deep insight, connection, and awe. She believes these moments remind us that we’re more than our bodies—and can reconnect us with a sense of mystery in an increasingly mechanized world. A new kind of medicine.With her clinical practice and book, Mushroom Pharmacy, Dr. Simmons invites us to rethink how healing happens—not just with prescriptions, but with purpose, intention, and reconnection to self and nature. Dr. Simmons left us with a simple reminder: Mushrooms alone may not save your life—but when used with wisdom, they can help you remember how to live it more fully. 🎧 Catch the full interview now on Love University to explore the intersection of brain science, plant medicine, and personal transformation—with one of the most grounded and inspiring voices in the psychedelic wellness space. Also make sure to follow Dr. Avila on Instagram at @dralexavila    
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2 months ago
22 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH—WITH SPECIAL GUEST RICHARD K. LOWY, INTERNATIONAL EVENT PRODUCER AND AUTHOR OF KALMAN & LEOPOLD: SURVIVING MENGELE’S AUSCHWITZ
Have you ever carried a family secret so heavy that the only way to heal was to bring it into the open? On this week’s episode of Love University, we sat down with Richard K. Lowy—international event producer, creative director, and now author of Kalman & Leopold: Surviving Mengele’s Auschwitz (Jan 2025). Through deep, painstaking interviews with his father, Leopold, and his father’s childhood friend, Kalman, Richard uncovers how two Hungarian-Jewish boys—friends by circumstance—survived Josef Mengele’s experiments, served SS guards, endured unspeakable horror, and ultimately reunited more than five decades later. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: From stages to testimony. Richard had a successful career producing events for icons like Van Morrison and thought leaders such as Malcolm Gladwell, but says he reached a tipping point: the weight of his father’s unwritten history was greater than the draw of any concert or summit. The bridge between film and book. His documentary, Leo’s Journey, became the foundation for deeper psychological layers in the memoir—exploring post-traumatic growth, social support as a buffer, gallows humor, and how friendship can serve as a lifeline in extreme trauma. Friendship as survival, and the science behind it. In the camps, Kalman and Leopold became a “protective pair.” Psychological research supports the concept that in trauma zones, strong dyadic bonds (pairs) lower mortality risk. Richard also explores reciprocal altruism (mutual giving and protection between two people) and how it plays out in survival—each risking for the other, not out of obligation, but from shared trust. Humor, grief, and truth. The memoir includes moments of gallows humor—dark laughter amid horror. Richard says that while the book risks jarring readers, it was essential to preserve the emotional authenticity of his father’s voice. Tragedy as a platform for inspiration. With his media appearances and public speaking, Richard’s mission is to turn sacred memory into living purpose—raising witnesses, protectors, and storytellers to resist forgetting the unforgettable. Always remember Richard’s lesson we need to learn: suffering doesn’t just require remembrance—it demands witness, action, and connection.
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3 months ago
28 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
AGGRESSIVE OPTIMISM: HOW TO TRANSFORM CHALLENGES INTO MIRACLES WITH A HEALING HEART, WITH SPECIAL GUEST JENNA EDWARDS, ACTOR AND SURVIVOR OF THE FARMER'S MARKET CRASH
Have you ever faced something so traumatic that it felt impossible to move forward—and wondered how anyone could choose optimism in the aftermath? On this week’s episode of Love University, we sat down with Jenna Edwards—actor (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), award-winning producer, and mental health advocate—who survived the tragic 2003 Santa Monica Farmer’s Market crash and the years of debilitating PTSD that followed. Jenna is the bestselling author of Aggressive Optimism, host of the Aggressive Optimism Podcast, and founder of Jenna Edwards Media, where she helps creators turn their hardest stories into uplifting content. Here are some important elements of Aggressive Optimism: From tragedy to triumph. Jenna recounted the harrowing Farmer’s Market crash—when she witnessed an elderly driver plowed through the crowd killing 10 people and injuring 63 (she saw a man killed right in front of her)—and how that moment reshaped her life. Her recovery journey was long and painful, but it also birthed a new philosophy: Aggressive Optimism. Aggressive versus naïve optimism. Aggressive Optimism isn’t about pretending everything is fine—it’s about facing hard truths with honesty, choosing optimism as a deliberate act of strength, taking real steps forward, and leaning on community instead of going it alone. Speak the hard stuff out loud. Whether in classrooms, on stage, or in one-on-one conversations, sharing trauma stories out loud is a key to dismantling shame and igniting hope—for ourselves and for others. Choosing hope as rebellion. When PTSD tried to silence her, Jenna refused to stay broken. She chose to dream again, to keep creating, and to remind others that hope itself is a radical act of strength. Jenna left us with a powerful reminder:  “Aggressive optimism is a mindset where we acknowledge the challenges in front of us but remain fiercely optimistic about finding a way forward. It's about being real without dwelling in negativity.”
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3 months ago
26 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
SPARKS, SONGS, AND SOUL—WITH SPECIAL GUEST ASPEN JACOBSEN, AWARD-WINNING RECORDING ARTIST
      Have you ever wondered what it’s like to busk with a red ukulele at nine years old—and end up headlining festivals before even finishing high school? On this week’s episode of Love University, we sat down with Aspen Jacobsen—an 18-year-old Americana-folk prodigy and award-winning recording artist. With her finger-style guitar, mandolin, and raw vocals, Aspen’s debut LP Arsonist Daughter is turning heads with its fearless lyrics on relationships, mental health, and social justice. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: • Origins of a prodigy. Aspen shared what she sang for tips as a 9-year-old busker—and why music called her even without a family influence. She described herself as an “old soul” drawn to lyrics that spark reflection and change. • Why fire? We asked why her debut album carries the title Arsonist Daughter. For Aspen, fire symbolizes transformation—controlled destruction that clears the way for rebirth. She even pointed out the lyric that burns hottest for her personally. • Music as medicine. Anxiety often threads through Aspen’s lyrics. She opened up about whether performing soothes or stirs it—and how songwriting itself gives her a tool for healing that therapy alone could not. • Staying grounded. From sold-out shows to industry recognition, Aspen stays centered by leaning on close friends, mindfulness practices, and remembering why she writes: to spark thought, ignite conversations, and inspire change. • Takeaway from Arsonist Daughter. Each track, Aspen says, is a spark meant to ignite reflection—on faith, climate grief, mental health, or identity. Her goal is for listeners not only to hear her music but to feel compelled toward empathy and action. Aspen left us with one lasting truth: songs aren’t just melodies—they’re matches. When you strike them, they can light up the dark corners of your heart. Catch the full interview now on Love University to hear Aspen’s remarkable journey—from street corners to festival stages—and why she believes music can still change the world, one lyric at a time.  
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3 months ago
21 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU TRYING THE RIGHT WAY? HOW THE “THREE TRIES” CAN TURN YOUR DREAMS INTO REALITY
Have you ever worked incredibly hard toward a dream—only to feel like you’re not making any progress?  What if the key wasn’t just trying harder, but trying smarter? On this week’s Love University episode, we explore the science and psychology of effective trying—how to aim your efforts in the right way for the right goals. Whether you’re pursuing love, career success, health, or personal growth, this method can transform the way you approach your ambitions. Here are the three game-changing insights we covered: Meditate on GreatnessToo often, repeated setbacks cause us to give up entirely—a psychological phenomenon known as learned helplessness. The solution is to seek out role models who’ve already succeeded in what you want to do. For example, Heather, an HR professional, was unfulfilled in her career until she met a local congresswoman she admired. Volunteering for her campaign not only reignited Heather’s passion but also gave her a new career direction. By studying and connecting with those who’ve walked the path before you, you create a roadmap that can save you years of trial and error. Reverse Your TryingSometimes effort works against you. When you push too hard—whether in relationships, business, or personal goals—you may create pressure that drives results away. Instead, step back. If your dating life feels stalled, shift your focus inward: pick up a hobby, travel, strengthen friendships. By letting go of the chase and becoming more grounded and fulfilled on your own, you naturally draw in the right opportunities to meet the right person. Reverse trying turns forced effort into effortless attraction. Try for Your DonYour Don—taken from the Spanish word for “gift”—is your natural, God-given talent. It’s the skill or passion that energizes you, inspires you, and allows you to contribute your best to the world. If you love cooking, you might look into a culinary career. Consider if numbers are your passion, then finance could be perfect for you. Or, if you need to feed your soul, a career in psychology or spirituality can be just what you need. When you work within your natural strengths, your energy increases, motivation rises, and you’ll find that success becomes not only possible—but sustainable. The Three Tries aren’t about doing more—they’re about doing what works: learning from proven success, stepping back when over-effort is holding you back, and aiming for goals that align with your deepest talents. When you apply these steps, you start making real, lasting progress toward your biggest dreams.
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4 months ago
12 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
HEAL YOUR CORE WOUNDS THROUGH ASTROLOGY AND SELF-FORGIVENESS, WITH SPECIAL GUEST: LISA TAHIR, THE WORLD’S HEALER WITH THE STARS
Have you ever felt stuck in the same emotional pattern—no matter how much you try to change? What if that pattern was written in the stars… and could be healed through radical self-forgiveness? On this week’s enlightening episode of Love University, we welcome Lisa Tahir—licensed therapist, podcast host of All Things Therapy, and author of The Chiron Effect: Healing Our Core Wounds Through Astrology, Empathy, and Self-Forgiveness. With a blend of psychotherapy, spiritual insight, and something called psychoastrology, Lisa helps people uncover their deepest inner wound—and alchemize it into strength. Here’s what we explored in this soul-healing conversation: Your Chiron placement is your “wounded healer” key. Chiron—a celestial body named after the mythical centaur who could heal others but not himself—represents your most tender internal wound. Lisa shows how discovering its sign and house in your birth chart reveals the area of life where you’ve been hurt the most—and where you’re called to grow the most. From pain to power: the Chiron Effect. Lisa breaks down how we unconsciously repeat the same emotional themes (relationships, health, money, career) until we face the core wound underneath—and how forgiveness, responsibility, and spiritual connection are the cure. Healing starts with empathy—for yourself. Whether your wound is around perfectionism (Virgo), rejection (Aries), or trust (Scorpio), Lisa shares how writing self-affirmations, setting boundaries, and reconnecting to joy can help release toxic cycles. Psychoastrology meets purpose. Learn how each of the 12 astrological houses reflects a unique life domain—family, body, money, love, legacy, and more—so you can understand where your triggers come from and how to transform them into compassion. Bonus: We even ask if cats are more spiritual than dogs. (She has two—Jiggy and Baby—and a strong opinion.) Lisa’s message is clear and powerful: you are not broken. You are simply being invited to heal—and to remember your original wholeness. With self-compassion, spiritual awareness, and a willingness to do the inner work, your core wound can become your greatest teacher. Tune in now to Love University, and start dancing with your shadow… into the light.
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5 months ago
37 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU SPIRITUALLY SEXY? HOW GRIEF, DANCE, AND DIVINE ENERGY CAN TRANSFORM YOUR HEALTH AND LIFE WITH DR. ZAHRA TABASSIAN
Do you believe it’s possible to heal your body—and your heart—through joy, movement, and spiritual connection? On this week’s episode of Love University, we welcome the radiant Dr. Zahra Tabassian—known as “America’s Healing Dancing Doctor.” A double-board-certified internist and nephrologist, Dr. Tabassian blends cutting-edge medicine with soulful healing through her “Spiritually Sexy” method. Her story begins with heartbreak—losing her beloved father—and evolves into a revolutionary mind-body-spirit framework that’s changing lives. Here are some highlights from our inspiring conversation: She turned grief into grace. Dr. Tabassian’s memoir My Daughter, My Dad explores the mystical bond between father and daughter—and how that loss led her to birth the “Dance to the Music of Your Soul” method. Her method raises your BEE. Using the 3 M’s—Music, Mindset, and Movement—she helps patients raise their Bio-Electromagnetic Energy (BEE) to reverse inflammation, restore kidney function, and feel vibrant and disease-resistant. She defines what it means to be “Spiritually Sexy.” According to Dr. T, it’s being deeply connected to your divine spark—and letting that joy ripple through your body, health, and relationships. You’ll even learn a 3-minute micro-practice—a quick routine you can do anywhere to breathe, dance, and shift your mindset back into joy and possibility. Dr. Tabassian reminds us that medicine doesn’t have to be cold and clinical. With faith, rhythm, and purpose, it can be joyful, sacred—and sexy. Tune in to hear her remarkable journey from Tehran prodigy to Los Angeles healer, and learn how you can co-create your own health destiny… starting from the inside out. 💫 “With God in us, all things are possible.” — Dr. Zahra Tabassian Listen now on Love University—where the heart and the soul come to learn.      
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5 months ago
25 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU A WHEELER DEALER? HOW TO FIND YOUR PARTNER-IN FUN FOR A LIFETIME OF EXCITING ADVENTURE AND EMPIRE BUILDING AS AN ESTJ (MYERS-BRIGGS TYPE)
Do you crave a relationship that’s fast-paced, full of possibilities, and built on action, ambition, and mutual hustle? If so, you may be the Wheeler Dealer LoveType (ESTJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the bold, pragmatic go-getter who turns dreams into deals and wants a partner who’s just as driven. On our Love University podcast, we explored the romantic firepower of the Wheeler Dealer—one of the most dynamic and forward-moving LoveTypes from my book LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here's what we uncovered: As a Wheeler Dealer, you love to lead, organize, and execute. You thrive on results—whether it’s launching a business, planning a major trip, or crushing your goals side-by-side with a partner-in-action. You're the type who thinks love should be useful and exciting—about building something real and lasting together. You believe in fun, excitement, smart risks, and doing what works—especially if it gets you both further, faster. At the same time, your strong personality and focus on achievement can sometimes overshadow emotional nuance. You may struggle with vulnerability or grow impatient with partners who aren’t as efficient or goal-oriented as you are. You want passion—but also progress. And if you feel that your time or effort isn’t respected, you won’t stick around for very long. The good news? When you match with someone who shares your appetite for adventure and appreciates your powerhouse drive, love becomes not just satisfying—it becomes an empire. To help you find and keep your ideal co-creator in life and love, consider these power moves: Pick a Partner Who Plays to Win With You: You don’t want a bystander—you want a collaborator. Look for someone who supports your vision, shares your energy, and isn’t afraid to dream big and move fast. Make Room for Heart, Not Just Hustle: Your natural strength is action—but don’t forget the power of emotional connection. A little softness, presence, and listening can deepen your bond beyond strategy and plans. Celebrate Your Inner CEO of Love: You run things well—whether in business or romance. Just be sure your partner feels like a true equal, not just a team member on your mission. Remember: Shared leadership equals shared joy. Ultimately, your love story will thrive when it’s fueled by passion, purpose, and mutual respect. With the right partner by your side, you won’t just build a relationship—you’ll build a legacy—one thrilling, laughter-filled deal at a time.
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5 months ago
10 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU THE TRADITIONALIST? FINDING AND KEEPING LOVE THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY AS AN ESTJ (TRADITIONALIST)
Do you long for a relationship built on trust, responsibility, and doing things the “right” way—where roles are clear, effort is mutual, and loyalty is everything? If so, you may be the Traditionalist LoveType (ESTJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the grounded, dependable partner who leads with action and honors commitment above all else. On our Love University podcast, we explored the romantic strengths and potential blind spots of the Traditionalist—one of the most reliable and enduring LoveTypes from my book LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here’s what we discovered: As a Traditionalist, you take relationships seriously. You’re likely the one who plans the future, keeps things running smoothly, and makes sure that promises are kept. You believe in hard work, structure, and showing love through consistent, tangible actions. When you care about someone, they know it—because you prove it through responsibility, protection, and follow-through. It’s true that your practical, rule-based nature can sometimes clash with more emotionally expressive or free-spirited types. If your partner is looking for spontaneous romance or lots of emotional nuance, they might misunderstand your love style. You may get frustrated when others don’t “just do what they say they would do,” or when your deep feelings go unnoticed beneath your outer strength. The good news is that you can build a rock-solid, lasting love when you pair up with someone who shares your values and appreciates your loyal, steady presence. Here are a few tips to help your traditional heart thrive in today’s topsy-turvy love world: Choose a Partner Who Respects Duty and Dependability: Because you’re not into flaky, chaotic relationships, you need someone who is as serious about commitment and follow-through as you are—ideally someone who sees strength in your stability. Let a Little Flexibility In: Love doesn’t always follow a blueprint. Practice softening your grip on control now and then. Small moments of vulnerability and spontaneity can go a long way. Express, Don’t Just Execute: While actions speak loudly, your partner may also need to hear that you love them. Try verbal affirmations and affectionate gestures in addition to your usual responsible deeds. At the end of the day, your greatest romantic power lies in your ability to build a life of integrity, structure, and trust. When you find a partner who respects your old-fashioned values and meets you in your strong, steady rhythm, love becomes not just a feeling—but a legacy. That’s when tradition becomes timeless.
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6 months ago
13 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU THE DUTIFUL HOST? HOW TO FIND AND KEEP YOUR LIFE-LONG LOVE PARTNER AS AN ESFJ (DUTIFUL HOST)
Do you yearn for a love that’s joyful, socially connected, and filled with shared experiences—one where you feel appreciated for the warmth, effort, and devotion you bring? If so, you may be the Dutiful Host LoveType (ESFJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the gracious, relationship-focused partner who thrives on bringing people together and making them feel cared for. On our Love University podcast, we dove into the romantic strengths and challenges of the Dutiful Host—one of the most generous and loving personality types from my book LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here’s what we uncovered: As a Dutiful Host, you radiate friendliness, loyalty, and an almost unmatched desire to please and serve the people you love. You’re the one who remembers birthdays, plans special dinners, and makes everyone feel welcome. Your ideal relationship is one where emotional connection, shared traditions, and active involvement in each other’s lives are front and center. You often go the extra mile to ensure harmony—offering affection, support, and thoughtful gestures to keep love alive and thriving. Yet, your strong focus on others’ needs can sometimes leave you feeling overlooked or taken for granted. When you can’t take it any longer, you may strongly express your deeper emotional concerns, which may result in conflicts or arguments. The good news is that with the right partner—someone who values your giving heart and reciprocates your care—you can build a lifelong relationship that’s as emotionally rich as it is socially vibrant. To help you attract and sustain this kind of enduring love, keep these pointers in mind: Choose a Partner Who Values Tradition and Togetherness: You thrive in relationships where family, loyalty, and shared rituals matter. Look for someone who appreciates your efforts and enjoys being part of your social world. Beware of People-Pleasing Traps: Sometimes you may say “yes” when you mean “no.” Practice setting gentle boundaries—it will strengthen both your self-respect and your relationship. Celebrate Your Role as a Connector: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or supporting your partner through tough times, your gift for connection is a powerful love language. Just remember: love flows best when it flows both ways. Ultimately, your path to romantic fulfillment lies in embracing your extraordinary capacity for warmth and connection—while making space for your own emotional truth. When you find someone who honors your loyalty and shares your joy in togetherness, love becomes not just a beautiful experience—but a lifelong celebration. With that kind of partnership, you won’t just host love—you’ll live in it.
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6 months ago
10 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU THE ADMINISTRATOR? HOW TO FIND AND BUILD A STABLE AND HAPPY MARRIAGE WITH THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE AS AN ISTJ (ADMINISTRATOR)
Do you long for a love that’s grounded, reliable, and built on mutual respect—one that thrives on shared responsibilities, long-term vision, and practical support? If so, you may be the Administrator LoveType (ISTJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test)—the steady, dependable planner who values duty, loyalty, and a well-ordered life. On our Love University podcast, we explored the essential relationship strengths and romantic needs of the Administrator—one of the most grounded and responsible love personality styles from my classic book, LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here’s what we discovered: As an Administrator, you bring a strong sense of purpose and integrity to your relationships. You are the builder of love’s foundation—someone who creates trust by doing what you say, showing up consistently, and working hard for the people you care about. You thrive in partnerships that honor tradition, shared goals, and clear expectations. For you, love is a well-structured home built with mutual respect, consistent effort, and a deep commitment to a shared future. However, your strong sense of duty can sometimes make romance feel like just another task on the to-do list. You may find it hard to relax emotionally or express affection spontaneously. Fortunately, your partner will come to see your care in your actions—how you protect, provide, and plan for the future. With time and trust, your affection blossoms in deeply meaningful ways. To attract and maintain a strong, lasting love, consider these practical tips: Prioritize Emotional Presence: Even though you're more comfortable with logistics than emotions, try to be present emotionally. A listening ear or a reassuring word can go a long way in connecting with your partner on a deeper level. Look for a Partner Who Respects Structure: You flourish with someone who values routines, shared responsibilities, and long-term planning. Together, you can build a life of peace, purpose, and partnership. Make Space for Playfulness: Love doesn’t always have to follow a plan. Leave room for surprise, spontaneity, and affection beyond your comfort zone. It can recharge your relationship and deepen emotional intimacy. Recognize Your Love Language: You show love through acts of service, protection, and reliability. Helping your partner understand this—and learning theirs—can help both of you feel more seen and appreciated. Ultimately, the key to a fulfilling relationship as an Administrator is honoring your gift for commitment while learning to connect emotionally in ways that may not come naturally. When you find a partner who values your stability and depth—and who encourages your emotional expression—you’ll discover that love is not only built, but also deeply felt. Together, you’ll construct a partnership that’s enduring, loving, and unshakably real
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7 months ago
10 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
ARE YOU THE CARETAKER? HOW TO FIND YOUR LIFE PARTNER AND BUILD YOUR COSY HOME AS AN ISFJ (MYERS-BRIGGS TYPE)
Do you dream of a love that feels warm, secure, and deeply caring—one that’s rooted in loyalty, kindness, and the quiet joys of everyday life? If so, you may be the Caretaker LoveType (ISFJ on the Myers-Briggs personality test), the devoted nurturer who cherishes emotional intimacy and harmonious relationships. On our Love University podcast, we explored the distinctive romantic needs and strengths of the Caretaker—one of the most caring love personality styles from my classic book, LoveTypes (lovetype.com). Here's what we discovered: As a Caretaker, you approach life with a generous heart, exceptional empathy, and strong devotion, making you a compassionate and dependable partner. You thrive in relationships that offer emotional closeness, stability, and a shared appreciation for cozy routines. For you, love means building a sanctuary—a warm, comforting home filled with thoughtful gestures, heartfelt conversations, and small acts of kindness that deepen bonds over time. Whether preparing a favorite meal, remembering special occasions, or creating welcoming traditions, you find immense joy in giving love through steady and practical care. However, your giving nature may sometimes lead you to put your own needs last, causing you to feel emotionally drained or underappreciated. Fortunately, your innate sensitivity often help you gently communicate your needs, restoring balance and nurturing mutual respect. Your ability to tune into your partner’s emotional landscape and offer unwavering support creates lasting bonds of trust and affection. To attract and cultivate your ideal partnership, consider these helpful pointers: Express Your Needs Clearly: Because you naturally focus on others’ happiness, you might downplay your own emotional desires. Openly sharing your feelings and needs helps your partner recognize how best to care for you in return, creating a balanced and fulfilling relationship. Find a Partner Who Appreciates Stability: Seek someone who values consistency, loyalty, and heartfelt connection as much as you do. Together, you'll create a harmonious home that honors both your emotional depth and shared values. Balance Giving and Receiving: Though giving nurtures your soul, it's equally important to graciously accept love, appreciation, and support from your partner. Learning to comfortably receive strengthens intimacy and mutual understanding. Honor Your Quiet Strength: Celebrate your natural talents—such as organizing, empathizing, and quietly supporting—without feeling pressure to become someone else. Your gentle strength is deeply attractive to partners who seek genuine, lasting love. Ultimately, the key to finding lasting happiness as a Caretaker is recognizing your remarkable capacity for nurturing love, while ensuring that your own emotional well-being is also prioritized. When you build your cozy home with someone who honors your warmth and devotion, you'll experience the quiet joy and deep connection you've always desired. With the right partner, you'll find that love isn’t merely about caring for each other—it's about feeling equally cherished, supported, and at home together.  
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7 months ago
10 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
INVINCIBLE YOU: FOCUS, TRANSFORM, AND MANIFEST YOUR GREATEST LIFE
Do you ever sense that you’re moving fast yet, somehow, standing still?  You’re busy but you’re not making progress in your important goals—finances, career, relationships, health, or happiness. On our latest Love University Podcast, we explored that turning-point moment when scattered effort condenses into laser focus, self-doubt thins out, and your boldest vision starts taking physical form. Here’s what we learned: Direct Your Spirit Flow: Master the Energy Within Most of us leak power in a hundred ways—notifications, half-finished projects, stray worries. Energy diffused is energy diminished. When you choose one meaningful target and give it your undivided attention, everything changes: tasks line up, distractions fall away, and progress compounds. Think of sunlight: it’s pleasant when spread across a porch, but astonishing when it’s focused through a lens strong enough to weld steel. Your attention is that lens. Transform, Don’t Erase, Yourself Real change isn’t a demolition job; it’s a patient revelation of what you have inside you. The great artist Michelangelo said the statue already lived inside the marble—his task was to remove what didn’t belong. In the same way, your confidence, creativity, and resolve are already present. Strip away outdated labels, inherited fears, and second-hand expectations, and your genuine strengths stand in full power. Transformation is less about becoming someone new and more about allowing the best of you to step forward. Materialize Your Desires Through Perfect Conception Invention always begins as a clear imagination. Visionaries from Beyoncé to Whitney Wolfe Herd (founder of Bumble dating app) saw vivid mental movies of their future long before anyone else believed in them. They didn’t wish vaguely for success; they rehearsed every detail until the outcome felt inevitable. When your picture of the future sharpens into a high definition, resources and opportunities organize themselves around that certainty. If you’re ready to shift from hoping to happening, practice these four essential keys: Keep a Daily Time of FocusReserve an uninterrupted slice of time—no alerts, no multitasking—to clear your mind and advance your most important objective. Meditate, think, journal, exercise, engage in a spiritual practice, plan your next step. It’s true that momentum loves consistency. When you focus on what truly matters, your energy and motivation mutlipy. Eliminate the NonessentialIdentify one commitment, habit, or belief that drains your energy without bringing you closer to your goal. Now, whatever it is, stop doing it; eliminate what is not moving you toward your dreams. Each distraction and nongoal you let go of gives you strength and encouragement to keep pushing for your true aims. Draft a Vision ScriptWrite a one-page snapshot of your ideal day.  Imagine that you wake up to work that excites you, relationships that nourish you, and activities that energize you. Study your script and visualize your brilliant future—morning, noon, and night—until it feels real to you. It will be. Act in Alignment to Your DreamTake one step—however small—that matches your script: Send the proposal, enroll in the course, introduce yourself to a future collaborator or prospective soul mate. Action signals to the mind that your vision is underway. Remember, the life you want isn’t waiting somewhere outside you; it’s pressing from within, eager to emerge. When you direct your spirit flow, you hold a vivid vision that feels familiar, and you transform potential into power. Let today be the day that you close the gap between knowing and doing. Aim your attention like a beam, bring your authentic strengths to center stage, and watch the world rearrange itself around a picture you have created of your future. Above all, keep loving yourself, others, and a Higher Nature—when love fuels focus, the results are limitless.
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7 months ago
10 minutes

Love University with Dr. Alexander Avila
Love University: A Podcast Where you can Learn How to: Love-Yourself, Others, & a Higher Power! Hosted by Renowned Clinical Psychologist Dr. Alex Avila www.loveuniversity.love