Understanding Emotional Avoidance and Embracing Vulnerability

Mastering Emotional Avoidance with Dr. Michelle Maidenberg In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Dr. Michelle Maidenberg, a New York-based therapist and author of 'Ace Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want.' They delve into a master class on emotional avoidance, discussing why people engage in it and how it can worsen emotional experiences. Dr. Maidenberg introduces her ACE methodology — Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment — to help individuals connect with their core values and lead fulfilling lives. She also offers insights into men's unique struggles with emotional expression and practical strategies for managing intense emotions. Additionally, they explore EMDR therapy and the importance of setting sustainable goals. 00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 2025 00:20 Introducing Dr. Michelle Maidenberg 01:14 Understanding Emotional Avoidance 04:21 The Impact of Emotional Avoidance 07:15 Connecting with Core Values 16:31 Men and Emotional Avoidance 22:25 Introduction to Managing Negative Emotions 22:44 Understanding Stuckness and Core Values 23:54 The ACE Method: Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment 25:22 Sustainability of Change and New Year's Resolutions 29:18 Exploring EMDR and Healing Trauma 34:12 Personal Journey and Professional Insights 40:46 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with Michelle Dr. Michelle Maidenberg -- http://www.michellemaidenberg.com/ LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellemaidenberg/ Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/drmichellemaidenberg Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/michellemaidenberg Resources ACE Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want, Michelle Maidenberg -- https://amzn.to/3DIvffG Michelle's YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/c/DrMichelleMaidenberg Psychology Today Blog -- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/michelle-p-maidenberg-phd-mph-lcsw-r-cgp Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast: Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant Personal Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info! Podcast Website | http://realmenfeel.org for all things podcast-related! RMF Facebook Group | http://realmenfeel.org/group Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel #RealMenFeel ep 335