NUSKA

Send us Fan MailAre we living through a second "Satanic Panic," or are the receipts finally catching up to the monsters? This week, Connie and I are performing a sociological autopsy on the collision of the 2026 Epstein File Dump and the rise of the "New Moral Panic."Following the DOJ’s massive release of 3.5 million unredacted pages this year, the internet has become a digital war zone. We’re moving past the headlines to ask: Why is our culture responding to real, systemic horror by reviving the paranoid scripts of the 1980s?Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWe're baaaack! We're switching gears this week to lighten the mood. Join us as we chat about pop culture, history, mythology, and everything and anything in between. Want a recipe for pudding? Curious about Irish creation myths? Then you're going to love this random awesome episode. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailIs it just us, or is the "New Year, New Me" energy actually kind of... exhausting? It's a new year and in this episode of NUSKA, hosts (and resident neuro-spicy besties) Connie and E.B. are officially opting out of the January 1st industrial complex. If you’ve ever felt like a failure because your gym membership lasted exactly four days or your "organized life" lasted until the first pile of laundry, this one is for you.We’re diving deep into why the neurodivergent brain often clashes with traditional goal-setting and how to navigate the "Fresh Start Effect" without the inevitable burnout.Whether you're currently hyperfixating on a new hobby or just trying to remember to drink water, pull up a chair. We’re doing the New Year differently—mostly by not doing it at all.Connect with NUSKA:Patreon: patreon.com/nuskaSubstack: practicalgrowth.substack.comInstagram: @NuskaPodcastStay weird, stay curious, and we’ll see you in the next one.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailEver listened to something one of us has said and thought...wtf? Well, you're not alone. It's a new episode of Nuska, and this time we're talking crazy childhoods. That's right. Moms talking to aliens. Psychic conventions. Ghost girls in the road. If you want to know what makes us so kooky, we're going to lay it all out for you. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhat if the Salem witch trials weren’t about piety at all, but booze, power, and old grudges dressed up as holiness? This week, it's a special interests episode! We're talking the Salem Witch Trials, Frankenstein, POTS, and those two hair-plugs-attached-to-veneers that Donald Trump calls his sons. It’s all part of one through-line: special interests are not a distraction. They’re a way to decode how fear, status, and desire shape law, health, and art...and how we can push back with better stories and better tools.If this exploration sparked you, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves deep dives, and leave a review telling us which rabbit hole we should tackle next.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we journey across continents in search of the creatures that haunt our maps and imaginations. From the misty lochs of Scotland to the dense swamps of the American South, and the shadowed mountains of Korea, we uncover the legends of the world’s most intriguing cryptids. Join us as we explore the stories, sightings, and cultural roots behind these mysterious beings that blur the line between myth and reality. Whether it’s a scaly serpent, a swamp monster, or a shape-shifting spirit, each tale reveals something deeper about our fascination with the unknown.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThis week, we’re blending the serious with the silly in a casual episode. We talk Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, dig into the Epstein Files, debate ancient mysteries, and laugh about modern politics. Grab a coffee (or a cocktail) and hang out with us.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailShe’s funny. She’s wild. She’s dangerous...and she’s being rewarded for it. This episode dives deep into the phenomenon of Bonnie Blue: the woman weaponizing shock, sex, and self-destruction in a culture too entertained to call it predatory. We talk about power, gender, the illusion of “feminist chaos,” and why her rise exposes the cracks in how we talk about accountability (for everyone).Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean to be happy...and how do we design a life that leads us there? In this lively first episode of NUSKA, I sit down with my friend Connie Facer to wander through the strange, beautiful, and complicated landscape of human happiness. From the wisdom of ancient Greek philosophers, to eccentric figures in history who found joy in the oddest ways, to the role of art, culture, and creativity in shaping our inner lives, this conversation is part philosophy, part storytelling, part human curiosity. It’s fun, it’s thoughtful, it’s a little weird—and it just might leave you rethinking what happiness can look like.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailFrom Practical Growth to NUSKAThis isn’t just a new name...it’s a new era. In this reintroduction episode, I share why Practical Growth is evolving into NUSKA, what the change means, and what you can expect moving forward.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailIn this eye-opening episode of Practical Growth, we're peeling back the curtain on the enigmatic world of narcissistic relationships. Have you ever found yourself ensnared in the web of a partner’s universe, or do you struggle to understand why friends can't easily leave these destructive ties? You're not alone, and this conversation is for you."What is a narcissistic relationship?" We'll kick off our discussion with a clear breakdown of this complex dynamic, shedding light on the psychological mechanisms at play. Does your relationship leave you feeling consistently unheard and invisible? We're here to discuss the often-overlooked signs that might suggest you're more than just star-crossed lovers; you might be caught in a narcissist’s captivating narrative."Why are they so hard to leave?" We’ll explore the seductive dance of the narcissistic relationship – why it's so easy to fall into and why detaching can feel like an impossible task. Through powerful anecdotes and psychological insights, we'll reveal the magnetic pull of these toxic bonds."Breaking free and moving forward." Most importantly, we'll chart the course towards liberation and self-discovery. How does one break the cycle? What does the path to recovery look like? It's not about a quick fix—it's a profound, personal revolution. I will guide you through creating healthier relationship habits, building the resilience to recognize and resist narcissistic lures, and cultivating an environment that fosters genuine connections.Empathy and encouragement are what you can expect here—because I believe in your ability to grow past adversity. Together, we’re on a mission to empower and validate your feelings because your story deserves to be heard—and you deserve a narrative where you're the hero.Join me as I step into the labyrinth with a torch of wisdom to recognize, understand, and overcome the phantom reality of narcissistic relationships. Tune in to find solace, support, and the first steps toward a healthier, happier you.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailJoin me this week on a heart-wrenching yet uplifting journey with our latest episode, where we peel back the layers of the poignant documentary, Quiet on Set. 🎥 Listen as we not only explore the film's intricate development but also its profound impact on shedding light upon the hidden scars of childhood trauma.In this episode, we are diving deep into the often-unseen long-term effects that complex trauma imprints on individuals and, by extension, society at large. How do these formative experiences shape our adult lives? 🌱 What can we, as a community, learn from these narratives to foster healing and understanding?We'll also engage in an honest and eye-opening conversation about the role of parenting in filtering the world for the vulnerable life of a child. Are we, perhaps unknowingly, contributing to the cycle, or are we the gatekeepers of resilience and hope?Can awareness be the first step towards healing? 🤔Prepare to be moved. Prepare to be inspired. Most importantly, prepare to walk away with a renewed sense of purpose in how you engage with the personal stories around you.After soaking in the insights from this conversation, turn your spark into a wildfire of change. Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone you know who can benefit from its messages. And for those hungry for more, join my TikTok Subscription for FREE live coaching sessions and deep dives into topics that touch the soul and foster personal growth. 🌟Isn't it time we take a collective step forward towards understanding and compassion? Listen now and be a part of the change. 🎧✨Listen to the episodeJoin TikTok SubscriptionRemember, your story matters, your healing is paramount, and your growth is our mission. 🌿#ChildhoodTrauma #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #QuietOnSetSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailCould you become the most powerful version of yourself through a single question? In today’s episode, I ask, "What would you do if you were the richest and most powerful person in the world?"Join me on a profound exploration of self-worth, where I unearth the role of self-reflection in fertilizing the seeds of true self-esteem. 🌱 It's not about wealth or status but about piercing through the ordinary to reveal your extraordinary desires and the values that shape them."Imagine unlimited resources at your disposal; it's in this scenario where your true aspirations shine brightest."✨I'll arm you with insights on aligning your actions with your inner compass, navigating by the stars of your deepest convictions—a guaranteed way to solidify your self-worth and beam out into the world with indomitable grace.By the end of our chat, you'll have the tools to frame your vision for the life you're destined to lead. A life where you don't just exist but truly live, authentically and powerfully, creating ripples of change around you.Remember, you are the author of your story; when you write it with intention, the narrative gains a momentum of its own.Don’t just listen; leap into the heart of these conversations and emerge transformed. Your most potent self is only a question away. #RealizeYourPotential #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #SelfEsteemJourneySupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailIn this heart-to-heart episode of the #PracticalGrowthPodcast, we unwrap the invisible blueprints that lay the foundation for our relationships – yes, we're talking about attachment styles. 🧩"Are you seeking closeness or space in relationships?" 🤔 We all dance to a unique rhythm in our partnerships, often choreographed by our attachment styles. Whether you're the secure-confident type, the freedom-loving avoidant, or the warm and sometimes anxious sort, recognizing how these styles play out can be a game-changer for your connections. 💞This episode is your map to understanding:"What's my attachment style – and what does it say about me?"The tapestry of attachment styles – why knowing yours could be the Rosetta Stone of relationship dynamics.How to steer the ship of your relationships knowing the tides of attachment styles.Join us as we explore the alchemy of attachment and transform relational lead into gold. Knowledge is power, and self-awareness? That’s your superpower. 🦸‍♂️✨Don't forget, the conversation doesn't end here! Join me and fellow growth enthusiasts on social media using #PracticalGrowthPodcast. Got that hunger for deeper change? Apply to work 1:1 with me (TheRealEBJohnson.com). And remember, for the daily dose of growth and wisdom, make sure you're following me on TikTok, Medium, Instagram, and Youtube.Keep those heads up, eyes on the stars, and hearts open to change. Until next time, grow on! 🚀💚Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailYour life is a reflection of your beliefs, woven deeply into the fabric of your daily existence. But what if we told you that a shift in these silent narratives could unlock a transformation like no other? This week, we aren't just scratching the surface; we're diving deep. 🤿"To change your life, you have to change your behaviors. And to change those, you start with your beliefs." Have you felt stuck in a loop, witnessing the same outcomes, no matter how much effort you put in? It's time to pause and introspect: Could your beliefs be the director of this play?Without new scripts, the actors of our lives can’t play out new scenes. We'll explore the powerful connection between what you believe and the reality you experience. More importantly, we'll discuss strategies to unearth and shift those belief systems that no longer serve you. 🌱Do you carry beliefs that might be expired tickets to a show long over? It's time to exchange them for a pass to your own growth and transformation. Get ready to engage in an honest conversation with yourself, challenge the echoes of past narratives, and learn to script new ones that resonate with the life you aspire to live.No guests, no distractions — just you, me, and a heart-to-heart about how foundational beliefs shape your world. And remember, self-exploration isn't about uncovering flaws. It's about meeting yourself at the crossroads of past experiences and future possibilities. 🚀Tune in and take the first step toward not just changing, but truly elevating the quality of your life. Because when your beliefs shift, so does your reality.Listen now, and reshape the contours of your life's story. 🎧✨Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhen life handed Melanie Branch lemons, she didn't just make lemonade—she built an empire. Join me on Practical Growth, where Melanie, a business mindset coach and the co-founder of Neuro Spicy Academy, shares her riveting transformation. From the dark trenches of a negative mindset to the empowering light of energy healing and coaching, her journey is a testament to the profound impact of reprogramming our internal narratives. Together, we dissect the critical role of mindset in achieving happiness, and how Melanie's approach is carving a unique path to success for those whose brains are wired a bit differently.In a world that sometimes seems designed for the neurotypical, those of us with neurodivergent brains are crafting our own maps to productivity and self-advocacy. This episode offers a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs who think differently, discussing the evolution of flexible systems tailored to our fluctuating capabilities. We celebrate the magic in mundane tasks, explore the impact of generational trauma on our behaviors, and advocate for relationships that empower, rather than drain. Melanie helps me envision a future society that values authenticity in all its forms—a society where spontaneous connections enrich our lives and where being neurodivergent is not just accepted but celebrated. Join us for an empowering exploration into the hearts and minds of those who are reshaping the definition of success.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailAre you neurodivergent and looking for peace after a lifetime of trauma? Struggling to feel comfortable in your own body? Fed up with feeling constantly anxious and burnt out wherever you go?In this episode, we'll uncover why you're stuck in this never-ending burnout cycle. The neurodivergent nervous system is wired differently from neurotypical people, and that has a huge impact on the healing process.To find healing, you need to create safe environments and improve the connection in your nervous system. But how can you do that? Don't worry, I'll explain it all in this episode of the Practical Growth Podcast.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to the Practical Growth podcast! 🌟 Join me for a feel-good episode where I will be spilling the secrets of tackling life's uncertainties like a champ. Life's full of surprises, and guess what? You've got the power to turn those curveballs into your greatest victories.I'm sharing the lowdown on building a rock-solid foundation for embracing change and rocking a growth mindset. Get ready for the usual practical tips and mindfulness magic that'll have you navigating life's rollercoaster with true resilience.And because we're all about those success vibes, we've got inspiring stories of everyday heroes who turned uncertainty into stepping stones to their dreams. It's time to transform uncertainty from a challenge into an adventure and discover just how awesome and resilient you truly are.So, grab your favorite snack, hit play, and let's kick uncertainty to the curb with a boost of confidence and a sprinkle of positivity! 🚀✨Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailHave you ever encountered someone who seemed to always be more concerned with their own interests than anyone else's? Perhaps they were willing to use deceit, manipulation, or even cruelty to get what they wanted...If so, you may have encountered a Machiavellian personality.  Machiavellianism refers to a personality trait characterized by a tendency to prioritize one's own goals and desires over the wellbeing of others, and to be willing to use any means necessary to achieve those goals. It's a common trait in narcissistic people and psychopaths. By understanding the traits associated with this personality type, we can better recognize the behavior and motivations of those around us. With that knowledge in hand we can protect ourselves, our futures, and our families. In this episode I'll be breaking down what Machiavellianism looks like and how it manifests in family and relationships. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo you find yourself trapped in the cycle of overthinking, plagued by self-doubt? It's a common struggle, but there's a way out.Join me in this episode as I delve deep into the roots of overthinking and self-doubt. Discover the underlying factors that drive these habits, and gain insights into regaining control over your decision-making.In this engaging conversation, I'll give you a practical framework designed to help you break free from the chains of overthinking and self-doubt. It's time to reclaim the happiness you truly deserve.Tune in now to take the first step toward a more confident and empowered you.Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailIn the last week, we have all watched as horrific events have continued to unravel around the globe. It's a lot to take in and process. There's been a huge debate around these events. Compassion fatigue is real. Do we look away from the horrific events that are happening, to save ourselves? Or do we keep our eyes on the pain occurring in the Middle East and beyond? The answer, just like the problem, isn't a simple one. No. None of us can afford to look away. Yes. We can burn our compassion out. What is the solution? Finding the balance so you can remain an engaged member of society, who cares for their own needs. In this episode, I'll help you understand your compassion fatigue and what you can do to rest and recharge - while remaining engaged in reality. Listen in now for the relief you've been looking for.  Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailHave you gotten yourself stuck in the trigger trap? Do you keep running through the same painful memories over and over again? This is a pretty common mistake that most survivors make at some point. Trying to uncover what went wrong in the past, they can get caught up in anxious and negative thought loops. These loops cause rumination, which is an emotionally painful experience. Getting lost in rumination will make you more anxious, hopeless, and lost in the journey. For you to stay on track, you have to remember to find the joy in healing and learn how to put the painful memories on the shelf where they belong. In this episode, I'll teach you how to do both as we bust the trigger trap and get you out of the miserable rumination cycles that are dragging you down. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailFeel like you don't have enough "juice" to get through the day? Do you feel like you can't concentrate on the people and things that matter? Are you foggy or exhausted all the time? These could be the signs of a low emotional bandwidth. What's that? It's a concept that describes the amount of emotional energy you have to deal with the people and experiences in your life. If your "bandwidth" is low, you have a harder time regulating your emotions and responding to the pressures in your life. To get back to a place of calm, ease, and courage, you must get your emotional bandwidth back online. How do you do that? In this episode, I'm going to break down the techniques that I teach my clients to regulate their emotions and recover from periods of emotional burnout. If you've been feeling like you don't have the strength for the emotional labor in your life, this is the episode you don't want to skip. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo you have a bad habit of gaslighting yourself? Do you tell yourself your trauma wasn't so bad? Or that maybe you had a hand to play in it? Survivors do a better job of gaslighting themselves than their abusers do. It's one of the reasons it's so hard to accept what happened and heal. Instead of staring their trauma in the face, survivors get trapped in a cycle of downplaying and dismissing it. In this episode, I'm going to give you my top technique for beating this toxic gaslighting cycle. Stop blaming yourself, stop pretending it didn't happen, and most importantly get yourself out of the Pain Olympics and stop comparing your suffering to others. By the end of this episode, you're going to learn how I, and others like me, have exited the gaslighting cycle and embraced a reality we can heal within. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailLast week, the world was horrified when the news about Ruby Franke broke. The popular Youtube "momfluencer" had done the unthinkable...In this week's episode, we're going to get into this unfolding horror. Who is Ruby Franke? What did the popular 8 Passengers mom do? What are we going to see out of her trial moving forward?  There's no doubt we're seeing a narcissistic mother face her fears on an international stage. That will have big consequences for children and mothers across the globe. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailAre you still trying to figure out why your parent hurt you? Feel a deep need to identify the causes behind that last abusive relationship? Here's the deal: your nervous system doesn't care why any of it happened. It doesn't care if that person who hurt you was a narcissist. It doesn't care if they have BPD or autism. All it knows is that it was traumatized. All your body knows is that it's in pain and it doesn't want to be in pain anymore. Too many survivors get caught in the trap of trying to pathologize their trauma. Many think that if they get the right "label" on someone (or something) it will magically explain away the hurt. But it doesn't...and it can't. In this episode, we'll discuss getting out of the pathology trap and getting focused on what really matters. Improving our own lives and psychological well-being. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailFeel like you're drowning in debt? Do you think you'll never be able to live a comfortable, abundant life? That's what I thought too after decades of narcissistic abuse and a history of childhood trauma. As it turns out, that history of family dysfunction had turned into an obstacle that was blocking my own ability to create a financially and emotionally abundant life. In this episode, I'll detail the ins and outs of childhood trauma and how it shapes our relationship to financial abundance (and self). Listeners will want to take notes because I'm going to break down how to get out of the abundance slump and defeat those patterns of childhood scarcity thinking once and for all. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it look like when a child is spiritually victimized by their parent? I've been pretty quiet about my story and my experiences with spiritual abuse...until now. In this episode, I'm going to break down my relationship with spiritual abuse and explain how narcissistic parents use this weapon against their children. This is a must-listen-to for anyone who has been gaslit or manipulated by a spiritually toxic (or narcissistic person). Learn to spot the signs and recover yourself from the pain, devastation, and confusion of spiritual abuse. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailHave you been putting in the work of making major manifestations happen? You've probably done the journaling, you've done the meditation, and changed your energy...but nothing is happening. Why? Why aren't you getting what you want? In this episode, I'm going to reveal the truth about manifestations. Specifically, I'm going to show you why your manifestations aren't working and how you can turn that around. Let's face it, you're not getting the truth from your gurus. You're not getting it from your bestie or your therapist. This is the episode that's going to change it all for you. Ready to make more money? Find a better relationship?  Buy your first home or just find some peace? Get ready to fast-track your manifestations after you hear my 4-step process to making *real* magic happen across your life. Listen now! Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailSpiritual practices are all the rage right now, but some of them aren't leading people into the light. They're banishing people into the darkness of mental illness...We've all seen the videos. People are in full-on spiritual psychosis, starting cults and forming extreme communities all over the world and the web. What is happening? Why are so many people turning away from reality to their detriment? Some of it comes back to spiritual bypassing. It's easier to look to the sky than it is to go to a doctor, take medicine, or confront the trauma that damaged you. That requires looking inside and being accountable for the mess you find. A lot of people would rather dissociate through spiritual practices. Now is the time to skip this path and embrace a healthier one - mental and emotional healing. It's a rocky path, but a worthy one, and one we can only take hold of when we have a well-rounded toolbox of skills and coping mechanisms to support us. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThere is a terrifying new trend taking root in vulnerable spaces on TikTok. Have you fallen prey to it? Today, I'm breaking down a scary new trend overtaking the #NarcTok communities on TikTok. Over and over again we see it happen. People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder gaining massive platforms of avid (mostly female) followers that they exploit for views, validation, and money.  What is behind this worrying trend? Is there anything we can do to stop it? I'm going to explain this and a lot more in this new episode of the Practical Growth Podcast. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo you feel lonely? Do you feel like you don't have any friends? Or that you don't know how to make friends anymore? If so, you're not alone. Making friendships in adulthood is one of the hardest things you can do. It's like starting over in a relationship. You have to put yourself out there and meet new people all over again. But what really makes a friendship? What helps us escape the rejection loop and get into better social circles?In this episode, I'm going to help you tackle this question and so much more. Together, we're going to uncover what it takes to make new friends in adulthood and keep them no matter what age you are or what life phase you're going through. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWe are living in a new age. Now, more than ever people know more about their mental and emotional health. We're becoming an informed public, but we're not quite taking that knowledge far enough...As we become more informed on the realities (and long-term effects) of trauma, we have to face a lot of hard truths. Specifically, our trauma has deep links to our genes and history as human beings. If the human brain hasn't changed in 10,000 years, it means our physiological reactions to trauma are also little changed. Acknowledging this takes us on a supercharged journey into the heart of truth and a future of mental and emotional freedom. Ready to see the past for what it is? Ready to use your trauma-informed knowledge to change the future? Join me as we uncover the truth in this episode. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailHave you ever been manipulated by a narcissist? Shamed by them? Coerced through therapy-warped language? That's what we're talking about today as we explore the Jonah Hill controversy and what real boundaries look like in a relationship. We dive into how narcissists exploit therapy terminology to manipulate and even shame their partners. Even more intriguing, we'll question the effectiveness of treating a narcissist and examine their toxic entitlement to control in a relationship. This episode is a wake-up call to recognize these signs in your own partnerships. More importantly, it's an essential guide to asserting and maintaining healthy boundaries in your relationships. So tune in, and let's grow together!Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo you want to improve your emotional regulation, stress management, and resilience? Join me, E.B. Johnson, in the final episode of season two, as we dive into this groundbreaking approach and reveal how you can implement these life-changing techniques. Listen in as we explore why cognitive reappraisal is so powerful and discuss three ways for you to embark on a journey of emotional transformation this summer. As the season comes to an end, I want to encourage you to think differently about yourself and your life, and to strive for your personal greatness before the year's end. So, tune in, embrace the journey, and get ready to unlock your full potential with the power of cognitive reappraisal. Keep your head up and your eyes on the stars – the sky's the limit!SEASON 3 STARTS JULY 6thSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailHow much fun are you having on your healing journey? It seems like the wrong question to ask. Healing? Fun? That's not how it's supposed to work. Healing is tough. It's all about facing our pain and accepting the part of ourselves that we don't like...right? Yes, but that's only half of the work. The truth is that you're healing to achieve peace and fun in your life. But there's no magical finish line to be reached for you to gain those things. You have to find joy and start having fun right here and right now, in this moment. It's an interlinked system. The more you are able to enjoy yourself now, the easier your healing will become. You have to have one to boost the other. You need the light to get through the shadows. So, in this episode, we're going to talk about making space for fun and for joy in your journey. Buckle up. This is not your mama's healing episode! What We're Talking About: Having Fun HealingLearn to Chase JoyLearning to Let Go Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailLike it or not, there's power in having a realistically positive mindset. It changes everything in your life. Why? It's because all our behaviors and decisions begin there, in how we think and what we believe. Our thoughts shape the decisions we make and the actions that we take. The people you choose, and the career paths you take, all of it is affected by your mindset. Be careful, though...It's easy to take this idea and fall into the toxic positivity trap. We don't want that. That's why in this episode I'm going to walk you through what it takes to adopt a more balanced mindset that can create more positive outcomes in your life. Find the balance and improve every avenue of your life.  Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailAre you stuck in the grips of a manipulative person? Is someone trying to pull your strings? Are they trying to call the shots in your life? It can be hard dealing with someone who tries to control you through your emotions, or the close bond you share with them. You're always being diminished and forced to put yourself on the back burner. No more. In this episode, I'll help you identify the manipulative relationships in your life and the tools you need to stop the endless string-pulling. Instead of settling for hurt and resentment, I'll teach you how to stand by your boundaries and to stand up for what you need - no matter who is manipulating you. What We're Talking About:  How toxic people manipulate us Beating manipulative behaviors Taking control of your happiness A Few More Resources: Take back power from manipulative people (GUIDE)Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailLast week, it was all about forgiveness. This week? We're tackling the next step in the recovery journey...self-compassion. It's easy for victims to have self-compassion for others. After all, they're conditioned by abusive parents and partners to have compassion (and empathy) for some of the most unforgivable and brutal of behaviors. The problem comes when they try to extend that same compassion to themselves. While survivors may learn to extend compassion to those who hurt them, they rarely learn to extend that same compassion to themselves. Instead, survivors tend to get stuck in patterns of harming themselves and tearing themselves down. In this episode we're going to take a look at radical self-compassion, what it is, and why it must be the next step on your healing path. What We're Talking About: What is radical self-compassion?How does it look in action? Why is it a part of the forgiveness journey? A Few More Resources: Real Self-Compassion GuideSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThere are a lot of lies that self-made "healing gurus" peddle in online recovery spaces. The worst? That you have to forgive your abusers to heal. How much truth is there in this? Are we really required to extend the grace of forgiveness to someone who doesn't show remorse? Do we have to hold that kind of space in our hearts for someone who made a choice to damage us mentally, emotionally, and physically? In this episode, we're going to dispel one of the biggest and most dangerous myths in the self-recovery space: forgiveness. Tune in and listen up to protect yourself from more gaslighting and toxic advice that will lead you down the tunnel of abuse. What We're Talking About: What is true forgiveness? Who deserves forgiveness? Do we have to forgive to heal? A Few More Resources: Forgiving AbusersForgiveness and HealingEssential Ingredients ForgivenessSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo you feel a sense of relief every time your partner or spouse leaves the house? This is one of the biggest and most important relationship issues to pay attention to. You shouldn't feel a greater sense of peace or comfort when your partner is gone. If anything, you should miss them and feel comfortable with them around. Are you someone who looks forward to getting them out of the house? Is being left alone the best part of your relationship? Serious problems may be bubbling up in your relationship. In this episode, we're going to face each and every one. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailMake no mistake, this episode is a call to action. It's a baptism by fire. And I hope on the other side you feel called to shed your pain and end the line of generation trauma that's been haunting your family for centuries...Secrets are what make toxic families strong. From decade to decade, century to century, we see it. Entire families, hell bent on holding on to the shame, the pain, and the secrets that help to perpetuate the darkest corners of their homes. These family secrets are what make us sick. These family secrets are what allow the abuse and the disrespect to continue. This is your chance to break the cycle; to end the generations of trauma that have been breaking down, compacting, and shredding every new branch of your family tree. You have the power to make it stop, but you're going to have to speak up first. In this episode, we're going to empower you to speak up and end the trauma that's been putting you through the spin cycle your whole life. Silence is violence, but screams - they are power. This episode is your permission, your power to call out the trauma once and for all. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDo narcissistic parents really love their children? I'm sharing one of my most controversial opinions and laying out the facts in this episode.  I'm going to explain how narcissistic relationships function - between parent and child - and explore the depth of love and what it really means in that context. We'll be exploring empathy, support, and stewardship vs. ownership. What we're talking about: What makes a narcissistic parent really? The elements of true parental love The root of a narcissistic relationshipA few more resources: Narcissistic parents Narcissistic families Narc abuse recoverySupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailMy deepest healing couldn't until I accepted one brutal truth: my mother knew she traumatized me. It was demonstrated throughout my childhood. Moment after moment revealed a woman who could have done better, but didn't. A woman who saw the pain building, and decided to do little.  Once I accepted that my mother was aware, I was able to accept myself and my childhood in radically transformative ways. You can too, but you may have to swallow one of these 6 hard realities and commit to doing something about it. What We're Talking About: The line of awarenessSigns of consciousnessConfronting the realityA Little More...My Mother Knew She Was Traumatizing MeSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhere do narcissists come from? They certainly don't exist in a vacuum. So where do they come from? Are they created strictly by trauma? Is it inherited? The answer is a lot more complex than we first believe. The truth is that narcissism has many layers. Biology is certainly a part of it. Genes play a role and so does neurochemistry. Environment is also a key factor in harboring narcissistic tendencies. But there's a deeper level to consider: parenting. And that's what we're going to take a look at in this episode. What are the 2 parenting styles that contribute the most to narcissism? Is there anything we can do to change the pattern? Yes. What We're Talking About: Development of narcissismHow parenting affects narcissismOvercoming narcissistic parentingA Few More Resources: The Parenting Styles That Create NarcissistsSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailWhere do you sit on the narcissistic spectrum? This week, I'm taking you on a deep dive into echoism - the distant cousin of narcissism. What does it mean to be an echoist? Are you living in echoistic patterns? Listen to this episode to find out the truth about echoism and how you can defeat it in yourself after surviving narcissistic abuse. It's not always as straightforward as you may think.  What we're talking about: What is echoism? Where does it come from? How can we defeat it? A few more resources: Echoism and NarcissismSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThe Practical Growth Podcast is back with special guest Duncan from BoldlyGrowing4Ward. In this episode, we're talking personal accountability. What does it mean to be personally accountable? What role does it play in improving the world and ourselves? Duncan is going to blow your mind in this eye-opening episode on healing, admitting when you're the problem, and making the most out of the parts that make you most human. Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThis is the most brutally honest episode of Practical Growth I've ever released, and the most brutal to record. I hope you'll understand, and I'll see you in the new year. Happy Holidays!Support the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailDid you suffer a lot of your trauma around the holiday season? Even when you're removed from the chaos, the symptoms can remain. Notice yourself getting overly stressed, even though there's not a lot going on? Feel an impending sense of doom as Christmas looms closer? Feel like you can't show up enough for your friends and family? Like you need to impress them? All of these could be signs of cyclic trauma rearing its ugly head. Check out this episode, as I break down why this happens and how we can manage the stress of traumatic holiday memories. What We're Talking About: Cyclic nature of traumaEffects of holiday traumaHow to manage triggersA Few More Resources: Cyclic Holiday TraumaManaging Holiday ExpectationsToxic Holiday RelationshipsSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more. 

Send us Fan MailThere's a reason I go on and on about narcissistic families. They differ from any other form of a toxic family in the world. Why? I'm going to break it down for you in this new episode. We are going to set out the 5 main differences between a standard, run-of-the-mill toxic family and a narcissistic one. Were you raised in a toxic family? What makes their abuse so much longer lasting? So much more damaging. It's all getting exposed. Listen now for the full scoop. What We're Talking About:What is narcissism? What is a narcissistic family? Why are they so different? A Few More Resources: Narcissistic FamilyChildhood TraumaHealing from the PainSupport the showLove the podcast? Leave a 5* review on Apple Podcasts. Or, join us on Patreon for early access to new episodes, bonus content, and more.