In this episode, we’re talking about something that's often overlooked but deeply important: friendship between men.  Why is it that so many men struggle to maintain close friendships over time?  What elements play a part in building friendship and what creates barriers? 

You heard from Susie Stewart and Megan Peña in episode 5, and now we get to hear from their counterparts--Reagan Stewart and Chris Peña on what it's like...

In this episode, I talk with  Amber Olson,  a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who works with individuals and families in the neurodiverse community. We explore the intersection of neurodiversity and friendship—how neurodivergent individuals experience social connections, the unique strengths they bring to relationships, and how friends can support each other with empathy and understanding. Whether you're neurodivergent...

You can walk away from a work day feeling lonely and isolated, or you can look around and form bonds outside of the 9-5p.  In this episode, we dive into the friendships that start at the workplace but go beyond office hours. Lyndsey, Amanda, and Amaya walk us through how the connection they found with one another has been meaningful and encourages us all on how to take steps to cultivate deep friendship with those we work with.   <...

In this episode, we’re talking about the beauty and importance of friendship during the golden years. While life changes—whether through retirement, family shifts, or even loss—one thing remains constant: the need for deep, meaningful connections.  Val, Donna, and Sheila are here to tell us it’s never too late!  There’s so much wisdom in this episode to encourage all of us no matter what season of life we are in. 

Whether you’re in ...

In this episode, we’re diving into the beauty of friendships that go beyond just good company, they become family. Nurturing friendships with individuals that are already built into your life can be a true lifeline.  Susie Stewart and Megan Peña join me to share how they have formed a community of neighbors that feel like family.  

Life is better when we have people who truly see us, support us, and walk with us not just for the adu...

In this episode, we’re joined by Bridgett Blood, a certified Connection Codes coach, podcasting from Nashville, TN. Bridgett helps Christian singles process sexual shame and connect with their desires without compromising their core values. She’s here to prove that you can live a life that’s both hot AND holy—and she shares some of the ways she coaches and encourages others in this space.

 This episode isn’t just for singles! We als...

In this episode, I’m joined by therapists-turned-podcasters Jazmin Crookes and Karen Jennett of Therapy Tea podcast, as we dive into the beauty and complexities of friendship. What started as a friendship of convenience for them blossomed into something deep and meaningful—though not without its challenges.

We discuss:

• Friendship Reciprocity 
• Vulnerability 
• Friendship Awareness 

Follow: @therapyteapod 

My episode on Therapy Tea

O...

When your partner is a firefighter, or a first responder of any kind, life looks a little different. But one thing that makes it easier? Friendship. In this episode, we’re diving into the incredible bond between fire wives—the sisterhood that forms when you share the unique challenges of fire life. 

This episode is not ONLY for those in the first responder lifestyle but is also an encouragement to all of us to not let our own unique...

My three best friends from high school join me today to talk about our long standing friendship.  We have had ups and downs in our friendship but one thing we can all agree on is that we can count on each other no matter what!   You’ll hear in this episode what conflict has looked like in our relationship and how low maintenance doesn’t mean low effort.  I will warn you there are tears but most of all lots of laughter. 

Previous epi...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• Who will you interact with this holiday that might fall under this description of an Emotionally Immature Person (EIP)? 
• What expectations can you reframe to help protect yourself in the relationship?
• What plans can you make going into this interaction with an EIP based on what you hear in this episode?
• How can you practice emotional intimacy in other, safe relationships?

Lindsay C. Gibson&...

Points to Ponder as you listen:   

• What feeling comes up for you when you set boundaries or even when you think about setting boundaries?
• What are unspoken boundaries you can set?
• What are spoken ones you can plan for during your holiday gatherings?
• If boundaries are violated does a decision about a relationship need to be made? 

Boundaries, Henry Cloud & John Townsend

Follow me: @candicefraserlpc

I'd love ...

Points to Ponder as you listen: 

• What's most importnat to you during the holidays?
• What causes you stress? 
• Do you judge how you feel during the holidays?
• What are your expectations?  Have you communicated these?

The Lazy Genius Collective (just peruse her episodes--guarantee you'll find something of interest)
Quick Check In: Self Care episode

Follow me: @candicefraserlpc

I'd love to hear from you...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• When can you schedule a calendar meeting with your partner?
• What topics need to be included (budget, division of labor, connection time)?
• Are there holiday chores you can reframe as events or fun activities in order to intentionally connect with one another? 

Fair Play
Couple's Therapy episode

Follow me: @candicefraserlpc

I'd love to hear from you! Send a message to the sho...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• What traditions do you want to establish as you start a family?
• What is most important to your kids' memories of the holidays?
• How do you want your kids to remember you around the holidays?
• How can you let your kids weigh in on holiday traditions?
• What is your ultimate goal as a parent around the holidays?

Follow me @candicefraserlpc

I'd love to hear from you! Send a message to the s...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• Has there been a change in the family that would require a shift in traditions?
• How can flexibility occur to support these changes?
• How can you communicate with the family well to honor these changes?
• What is the "why" for your holiday needs?
• What are the boundaries to respect?

Follow me @candicefraserlpc

“All I know is that my life is better when I assume that people a...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• What are safe topics to talk about?
• What are your boundaries regarding talking topics?
• How can you communicate your boundaries preventatively?
• How can you connect with someone of different views (human to human)?

Remember if there is harrassment and verbal abuse or aggression that is unacceptable.  Refer back to the emotiionally immature people episode.  These suggestions are for those that ...

Points to Ponder as you listen:

• How can you be gentle with yourself during this season?
• How can you honor your loved one during this season?
• How can you create new memories or traditions to help cope with a loss of a season?
• How can you be less judgmental with your ideas of grief?

Support Groups:
GriefShare
Christi Center
The Austin Center for Grief & Loss

Follow me @candicefraserlpc

I'd love to hear...

My husband, Jason Fraser, is back to give a not so recap recap of the Expert Series.  We talk less about the episodes and more about what it means to be an expert in your own mental health.  How can your own self awareness and support system help in that, and how might this change over the years?  Jason always brings a new perspective to the mental health conversation and this one is no different.  However, I'll admit this con...