The Highly Sensitive Person Podcast
by Kelly O
Do you experience joy, discomfort, empathy, and emotions very intensely? Are you easily overstimulated or bothered by small changes in your environment? You aren't alone, in fact, you might be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). In this podcast, host, blogger, (and HSP herself) Kelly shares real-life experiences that may have you nodding and thinking: "I thought I was the only one who felt that way"!Introverts and people with shyness and social anxiety may also find comfort and camaraderie here. Remember--you aren't crazy or weird…just highly sensitive!
Episodes
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Ep. 74: Podcast Update!
It's been a while since there was a new podcast episode! In this episode, I give a brief update on what's going on with the show!
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73. Dealing with houseguests
A while ago, I received a listener request to do an episode about dealing with people staying at your house--houseguests. Here it is!
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72. Interview with Susan Cain, author of Quiet
When I started this podcast, my #1 dream guest was Susan Cain. So, I'm very happy to bring this episode to you today. Susan's 2012 book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking was my first introduction to introversion. The book changed my life (and thousands of others...
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71. The Highly Sensitive Podcaster with Andy Mort
Today's episode features Andy Mort of the Gentle Rebel podcast (formerly known as the Sheep Dressed like Wolves podcast). We talk about what it's like to be a Highly Sensitive Person and a podcaster. (He interviewed me on his show recently, too: listen here!) Some of the topics covered in this...
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70. Loneliness & the Importance of Relationships with Dr. Amy Banks
Recently someone posted this question in the introvert subreddit on reddit: "How to deal with half wanting new friends and half wanting to be a hermit?" I hear and read questions like this all the time from introverts and introverted HSPs. We cherish being alone, and then sometimes wonder if we…
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69. Curious about Meditation?
This episode is for those who have never tried meditation, are curious about it, or who have tried it but felt like they didn't "get" it. Meditation has helped me a lot over the past year. There was a time when I didn't think I could do it. I didn't understand what meditation was and whether I…
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68. Self-realizations from a few years of knowing I'm an HSP
Discovering the concept of high sensitivity and learning you are a Highly Sensitive Person can be a major life moment for some people. It was for me! Now that I've been living with this knowledge for a few years (and learning more all the time!), I reflected in this episode on some positive...
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67. A view of HSPs from a non-HSP: interview with Al Motter
Today's guest, Al Motter, is one of the hosts of the excellent Introvert Extrovert podcast. He's the "Introvert" out of the two hosts, but he doesn't have the trait of high sensitivity. In this episode, Al talks about how he sometimes wishes he was more sensitive, and how a recent bout of...
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66. The worst places on earth for HSPs
Overstimulation. Noise, chaos, bright lights, smells, crowds. These are the highly sensitive person's kryptonite. I've brainstormed a list of what I think are the worst places on earth for HSPs. This episode is a little different than most—this isn't advice, or a serious topic. It is sort of...
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65. Narcissists & Highly Sensitive People
Did you know that highly sensitive people and narcissists tend to be attracted to each other? I've welcomed Nikki Eisenhauer onto the show today to discuss what a narcissist is and why HSPs can be drawn to people with narcissistic personality disorder. I think it's important for HSPs to be aware…
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64: Oliver Burkeman on Happiness & Negative Thinking
I'm thrilled to have on the podcast Oliver Burkeman, author of The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking. Oliver is a writer for The Guardian. In his column titled, "This column will change your life", he explores ideas around social psychology, self-help culture,...
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63: "I feel like I'm drowning, like I'm never caught up"
Two acquaintances in the same week made similar comments to me out of nowhere: that they felt behind, like they weren't getting enough done in their work and businesses. It made me sad to hear that they were struggling and not feeling good about themselves. I can totally relate to the feeling of...
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62. Six Hidden Benefits of Being Highly Sensitive
In episode 59, I started a 3-episode series about the positive aspects of being a Highly Sensitive Person. I talked about people who are celebrated for their sensitivity, like artists and musicians. In today's show, I'm discussing what I think are 6 not-so-well-known benefits of being highly...
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61: Amy Morin and Building Mental Strength
A popular misconception about Highly Sensitive people--to those who aren't very familiar with the trait--is that HSPs are always emotionally fragile and not mentally strong. But this isn't true. You CAN be mentally strong and an HSP--it's all about your coping skills. That's why I'm excited to...
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60: The Extroverted Highly Sensitive Man: An Interview with Johnny Martinez
The Highly Sensitive Podcast is for people with Sensory Processing Sensitivity--or those who want to better understand HSPs. In this show, I share personal stories, tips, rants, and occasionally interviews with interesting HSPs. Today's episode is a special treat! I've got an interview with an...
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59: People who are celebrated for their sensitivity
I realized recently that I haven't done an episode (in detail) about the benefits of high sensitivity. HSPs are meant to be here. We have a role to play in this world. I plan to do a few episodes about this topic--since there is so much to cover--but this specific show is about the people who are...
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58: What is an Empath? With Caroline of The Happy Sensitive
I've heard the word "empath" a lot, but didn't truly understand what it meant. I thought it maybe simply referred to people who experienced a lot of empathy....? But that didn't seem right. When searching for a simple explanation about empaths, I came up empty, until I found this great article on...
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56. Best Jobs for HSPs (revisited)
In the past, I've talked about what I thought were the best jobs for HSPs--and even the #1 best job (working for oneself). But over time, my thoughts on this have changed. In today's show, I explain how the best job for HSPs....depends. On so many factors. I also cover some of the challenges of...
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55. Easily Grossed Out
In this episode, I share stories about things that have grossed me out--a cow lung, pinning insects, and dissecting pigs. I also discuss how HSPs might get "grossed out" more than people without the trait--touching on the vasovagel response. Mentioned on the show: Radiolab "The Heartbeat" episode...
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54. Crying
HSPs cry easily. HSPs cry all the time. In this episode, I talk about my problem with the statements like the ones above, and whether or not HSPs really DO cry "a lot" or not. I also discuss the difference in crying in a ranking situation versus a linking situation (the concept comes from a great...
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53. FAQs about HSPs (for those who are not highly sensitive)
This episode is especially for those who do not have the trait of high sensitivity. It's for those who don't understand HSP, yet want to learn more about it to support someone in their life. In this show, I cover some "Frequently Asked Questions" about HSPs to clear up some misconceptions about…
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52. The Sensitive Documentary: My reflections
“We miss nothing and have an innate ability to let others shine.” -John Hughes This has been a big month for HSPs. Dr. Elaine Aron’s documentary, called Sensitive: The Untold Story, came out on September 10. I thought the documentary was groundbreaking and an amazing tool for people to learn…
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51. Job Interviews- A Rant & Tips
I think it’s fair to say that most people dislike job interviews. And for HSPs, they are extra super not-fun. In this episode, I talk about why traditional interviews are a poor way to judge a candidate, how HSPs may react to being interviewed, and end it with 3 interviews tips. (Hey, I wanted to...
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50. How to stop wanting to escape your job
Have you ever thought: "If only I could quit my job, everything would be better." And you daydream about following your passions, or traveling, or going after that business idea you've always fantasized about? But you know, deep down, that you will never quit your office job, for whatever reason....
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49. Arguing with internet trolls and other people who anger you
Have you ever gotten into an argument about politics with a family member or co-worker and you got really angry and fired up? Have you ever gotten into a fight online with a complete idiot? Then, did you later find yourself turning over the events in your head, getting angry all over again? Then...
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48. How to Give Condolences
You’d think as an HSP that I’d be good at knowing what to say when someone I care about, a friend or family member, had something terrible happen to them. I want SO BADLY to say something helpful, but I’m always afraid that I’ll say the wrong thing. So this honestly isn’t for HSPs only—these tips...
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47. Overwhelmed by Big Parties
Recently, I found myself at a big family party. Even though I liked everyone there, and was happy to be there, it did remind me how hours-long parties can wear on me, no matter how much I like the people there. Here are my tips on how to deal with overwhelm at long parties. Related content on my...
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46. Empathy & the Spicy Food Contest
Storytime! In this episode, I talk about how I convinced my husband to participate in a contest eating increasingly spicier chicken wings. What followed was an intense HSP moment. Also, please note that the show will now be published every two weeks instead of weekly. Here's the blog post related...
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45. Are you a People Pleaser
“Sure, I can work late tonight." “Yeah, you can crash at my place.” “I can babysit, no problem.” “I can lend you some money.” These are things a people pleaser might say. People pleasers take on too much and don't know when to say "no". Their desire to please others and be seen as important and...
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44. The Highly Sensitive Man (Part 2)
Last week, in part 1, I talked about the challenges of being a male HSP. There is a cultural expectation that women are more emotional and sensitive than men and that men should be tough and stoic. This expectation could clash with the traits of being an HSP, for men. Today, I talk about how to...
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43. The Highly Sensitive Man (Part 1)
There is a cultural expectation that women are more emotional and sensitive than men and that men should be tough and stoic. This expectation could clash with the traits of being an HSP, for men. For this show, I asked several highly sensitive men for their stories and opinions. Even though I...
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42. Kelly Gets Profound
What if we HSPs could fully allow and embrace our strongest emotions--our reactions to beauty in nature in art? What if we didn't have to hold back at all? (And yes, the title of this episode is meant to be tongue-in-cheek.) Related posts on my blog, highlysensitiveperson.net: Perfection in…
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41. Where to vacation
An introvert/extrovert and HSP/non-HSP might take a look at the same vacation itinerary and have completely different reactions. An action-packed, busy vacation in a chaotic big city might seem thrilling to a non-HSP. Whereas an HSP might enjoy quieter, more peaceful activities with time for...
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40. Distracted at work
I'm often surprised that I am so easily distracted when I work. Isn't that a symptom of being weak-minded? sad face. If you find yourself easily distracted (especially when working at home), please know that you aren't the only one. Lots of us share the same struggle. The key is to acknowledge,...
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39. Responding to the Haters
One of the reasons being a Highly Sensitive Person is tough because a lot of people don't believe that HSP is a legitimate thing. This episode 39 is about dealing with those haters. It's a little heavy on the sarcasm and ranty-ness, so fair warning. My new book is out on Amazon: A Highly…
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38. Handling Criticism
This episode 38 is about handling criticism. I talk about three little tactics I use to help deal with negative feedback in my life. (Last week I talked about self-criticism, how HSPs often criticize themselves in order to avoid the trauma of criticism from others.) My new book is out on Amazon…
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37. Self-criticism
HSPs often criticize themselves in order to avoid the trauma of criticism from others. Next week, I'll talk about how to handle criticism. Big Announcement: My new book is out on Amazon: A Highly Sensitive Person's Life: stories & tips for those who experience the world intensely. Resources...
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36. Creativity
Today's episode was inspired by this bit of Dr. Elaine Aron's writing: “All HSPs are creative, by definition. Many have squashed their creativity because of their low self-esteem; many more had it squashed for them, before they could ever know about it.” This quote really spoke to me. Maybe this...
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35. Not all jokes are funny
Have you ever been told: “Learn to take a joke." "Why are you so serious?" "Lighten up." In this episode, I explain which jokes I find offensive and how sensitive people think it's more important to not hurt people than to be funny. Related posts on my blog: Some jokes aren't funny The mean...
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34. Sensitive to smells and odors
Are there specific smells and odors that you just cannot stand? And which smells are so wonderful they leave you in a state of bliss? Do you smell things that other people don't? In this episode, I talk about HSPs' sensitivity to odors as well as the ones I love and detest. If you like the…
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33. Introverts in an Extrovert's Job
When I’ve talked about jobs and careers in the past, I’ve always said that sales, in my opinion, is one of the worst jobs for introverted HSPs. But a post on Reddit turned my thoughts about sales on their head. What if an introverted HSP was in a typically "extroverted" job, and instead of…
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32. Compassionate Care
Imagine riding in a car with your friends, and everything goes black. The next thing you know, you are lying somewhere, but you can’t see. You’re in indescribable pain. You can’t speak. You can’t move your head. Then you feel a soft touch on your hand and arm, and a caring voice explains that you...
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31. Airplane Turbulence
Over the past dozen years or so, I’ve gotten more and more scared of turbulence on airplanes. When I was younger, I enjoyed turbulence. I remember a time when I would snicker when I saw other people who looked nervous! But now, It’s now to the point where I’m barely fighting off a panic attack.…
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30. Politeness
Are you ever sorry about being sorry? Have you apologized to inanimate objects? Because HSPs are observant to social cues and other people’s feelings, we tend to be very polite. And not only do HSPs have good manners, we notice when other people’s don’t. If you like the podcast, please leave a...
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29. Extroverted HSPs
One glaring topic I have neglected to cover in this podcast and blog is extroverts. Approximately 30% of HSPs are extroverts! (btw, it can also be spelled extravert). In this episode, I share some tidbits I've learned from interviewing extroverted HSPs, including the challenges and differences of...
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28. Travel Tips
How have I not yet tackled the topic of travel? I looove to explore new places, and in today's episode, I share my top 11 HSP travel tips from 35+ countries of experience. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes. If you love the podcast or blog, consider donating by...
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27. Science!
In today's episode, I talk about the most interesting parts of this great interview of Dr. Elaine Aron on Reset.me. It's about genetic studies and stuff. Ok, ok, that doesn't sound very exciting, does it? Take #2. In today's episode, I talk about why high sensitivity hasn't been bred out of…
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26. Caffeine
In this episode 26, I talk about how and why HSPs are more sensitive to caffeine than others. I also touch on the effects of other drugs as well as a possible connection to Mitral Valve Prolapse and HSP. I know--crazy. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for...
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25. Using high sensitivity as a "crutch"
In this episode 25, I share some quotes from people in relationships with HSPs who are fed up! They say that HSPs are selfish and don't try to improve themselves. This bums me out and I hope that I don't act this way in my own relationship. Do you ever worry that your partner is ignoring their…
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24. Tips for Coping with the Challenges of Being Highly Sensitive
In this episode 23, I provide some tips on how to deal with the challenging aspects of being highly sensitive. Do you ever say these things to yourself? "I give a lot to other people but they don’t notice--they don't appreciate or reciprocate my thoughtfulness." "I can’t trust many people because...
About this show
Do you experience joy, discomfort, empathy, and emotions very intensely? Are you easily overstimulated or bothered by small changes in your environment? You aren't alone, in fact, you might be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). In this podcast, host, blogger, (and HSP herself) Kelly shares real-life experiences that may have you nodding and thinking: "I thought I was the only one who felt that way"!Introverts and people with shyness and social anxiety may also find comfort and camaraderie here. Remember--you aren't crazy or weird…just highly sensitive!
Hosted by
Kelly O