Unapologetically Sensitive
In this podcast, we explore how sensitivity weaves itself into our lives. We talk about the richness that it adds, and the strengths we have BECAUSE of our sensitivity and some of the challenges it poses as well. If you are a Creative, a deep thinker, a deep feeler, a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), an introvert, or identify as INFJ or ENFJ, you may enjoy the in-depth conversations where we talk openly and honestly about how we experience life. This is a podcast where you can learn, relate, laugh and maybe even live a bolder, brighter life. Have you been told you’re “too” (fill in the blank)? You’re too sensitive; you think/worry too much; you take things too personally; you’re too emotional, too finicky, too fragile, too intense, too uptight, too slow. Have you been told you can’t take a joke; you can’t go with the flow? You can’t let go of things? Making decisions can be very difficult. You might have an acute sense of smell, and strong odors, crowded noisy environments and bright lights are just too much! You notice things that no one else does. You have a strong sense of justice and you may be a peace-keeper. Conflict feels uncomfortable. You’re the one that everyone tells their problems to because you’re a good listener who cares deeply. You’re in the right place! You may have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, ADHD or something else. Sometimes Highly Sensitive People are misdiagnosed. Our brains are wired differently. We are born with the trait of High Sensitivity. There’s nothing wrong with you! You will learn that your perceived weaknesses are really are your superpowers! Dr. Elaine Aron coined the term Highly Sensitive Person (also known as Sensory Processing Sensitivity).
Episodes
TITLE
Taking a Podcast Pause; Self-Care
GUEST
Solo episode
EPISODE OVERVIEW
I’m taking a pause from the podcast. Not sure if it’s temporary or permanent. COVID has been brutal, but it has given us opportunities to redefine what we value. I initially had thoughts of failure when I decided to take a break, but now I see it as an act of self-love. We all should have joy, laughter and creativity in our lives! I share how I’m working o...
TITLE
I’ve Always Known I was Anxious
GUEST
Elizabeth Cush, LCPC
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Elizabeth shares her story and why she decided to specialize in anxiety. She then defines anxiety, and we talk about the different ways that anxiety can present for people. Elizabeth talks about common myths, and we talk about tools to use to manage anxiety and what type of lifestyle changes can also help to reduce anxiety. We talk about the Highly ...
TITLE
Complex childhood trauma and healing for the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
GUEST
Kina Wolfenstein
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Kina defines trauma (and it may surprise you), and how the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) responds to trauma. We talk what may not be considered trauma (but is), and how it impacts the person in adulthood (including attachment systems). Kina talks about trauma responses as they relate to polyvagal theory, and why ...
TITLE
The Brain of the Highly Sensitive Person
GUEST
Drs. Esther Bergsma
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Drs. Bergsma, a Dutch expert on High Sensitivity, discusses research from her book: The Brain of the Highly Sensitive Person. She explains the biological survival benefits of the trait in animals. We talk about social rejection, and the negative messages HSPs receive around their traits. Esther takes 7 negative perceptions and talks about th...
TITLE
The Challenges and Strengths of Sensitive Strivers in the Workplace
GUEST
Melody Wilding, LMSW
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Melody was named one of Business Insider’s “Most Innovative Coaches” for her work on “Sensitive Strivers.” Melody defines Sensitive Striver, and she talks about common challenges sensitive strivers face in the workplace. She talks about imposter syndrome, and ways to work with your inner critic. Melody gives strate...
TITLE
This feels so awkward; my vulnerability softens my husband and improves communication
GUEST
Anni Furniss
EPISODE OVERVIEW
This is an honest and vulnerable chat. Anni talks about feeling awkward, and how her vulnerability makes communication with her husband easier. She talks about expectations around friendships, and the challenges and corresponding strengths she finds being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Anni talks abou...
TITLE
I wanted to understand my wife, who is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
GUEST
Pete Childs
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Pete talks about wondering if he is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Taking the Online HSP Course helped Pete change how he looks at his interactions with his wife, who is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Pete learned to understand more about what his wife (and Highly Sensitive Child) need. He learned more about self-car...
TITLE
The Power of Attachment Styles and the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
GUEST
Jessica Fern, MS
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Jessica Fern explains why attachment is important; what fosters a secure attachment; what creates an insecure attachment; the 4 types of attachment systems, and she has an insight about the Highly Sensitive Person and attachment. We talk about how attachment injuries show up in relationships, and that ruptures and mi...
TITLE
Coming to a Place of Peace Being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
GUEST
Heather Bollman, MSN, RN
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Heather did not like being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). She struggled with accepting the trait. She also felt challenged being a Highly Sensitive Person and working as a nurse. Heather talks about learning to accept how she’s wired, and developing an understanding of the trait, and being able to verbalize to ...
TITLE
A Sensitive Man Who Embraces and Loves his Sensitivity.
GUEST
Andy Smallman
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Andy talks about being called a woman/man when he was a teacher, and having a girlfriend break up with him because he wasn’t “tough enough.” His personal stories embody vulnerability that most can relate to, and they show his remarkable resilience. Andy is passionate about helping boys maintain their sensitivity. He and his wife fou...
TITLE
We (HSPs) are not too much
GUEST
Susan Kraker
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Susan is a therapist who specializes in relationships, and she works with the Highly Sensitive Person. She decided to take the Online HSP Course because she didn’t have many friends who were also Highly Sensitive. We had a rupture during one of the groups, and we talk about this. Susan has some astute observations. We both talk about some common wounds we both ha...
TITLE
Leadership Skills that are innate traits for the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
GUEST
Dr. Catherine Zeisner
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Dr. Catherine Zeisner describes what she calls competencies of good leadership. We talk about thriving, resiliency, authenticity, self-advocacy and the value of sharing one’s feelings. We relate these competencies back to how the Highly Sensitive Person is innately wired, and how these skills show up i...
TITLE
Boundaries, Consent and Creating Safety with Touch. A Conversation with a Certified Cuddle Therapist
GUEST
Keeley Shoup
EPISODE OVERVIEW
We underestimate the healing properties of touch, and the limitations of talk therapy. Keeley talks about the professional training to be a cuddle therapist. She rocks at communication, and setting clear expectations. We talk about awkward situations and how Keeley creates safety for her cli...
TITLE
Should We Call Sensitivity a Superpower?
GUEST
Solo episode
EPISODE OVERVIEW
If the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is neutral, is it incorrect to call being an HSP or sensitivity a superpower? This is something I’ve been thinking about for some time. Dr. Elaine Aron, who coined the trait Highly Sensitive Person, and has written extensively about HSPs, sees the trait as neutral—not positive or negative. Is...
TITLE
The Rebellious Widow: A Practical Guide to Love and Life After Loss
GUEST
Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Jill talks about the impetus for writing her newest book, "The Rebellious Widow: Reclaiming Life and Love after Loss," which came from the blogs she wrote through the deaths of both of her wives. Jill’s book is a guide to successfully navigate and grow through terminal illness, death, and recovery fro...
TITLE
How to Manage Your Anxiety in a Holistic, Loving Way
GUEST
Victoria Albina
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Victoria defines anxiety, and we talk about social and anticipatory anxiety—especially as they are related to the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Victoria talks about de-armoring, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and codependency. Victoria gives an abundance of things we can do to ground ourselves, and we explore common reactions when s...
TITLE
Everything is Love; I Love Myself
GUEST
Sarah Buino, LCSW
EPISODE OVERVIEW
In a culture that values and rewards productivity, it can be challenging for the Highly Sensitive Person, who thrives at being vs. doing. Sarah talks about coming to fully love herself. We talk about trauma training, boundaries, developmental trauma. We talk about the gifts and challenges of living during COVID. Sarah talks about her Kundalini Awaken...
TITLE
10 Strategies for Managing When You’re Feeling Down
GUEST
Solo episode
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Many of us are struggling with mood and high levels of ongoing stress. I give 10 tangible strategies for coping when we’re struggling. I also share about the challenges I experienced over the holidays and wondering if maybe I have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), our high levels of emotional responsi...
TITLE
Sarah Buino, LCSW, CADC, RDDP, CDWF Interviews Patricia
GUEST
Sarah Buino
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Sarah Buino interviews me—these are from her show notes--One of my greatest joys in life is connecting with a fellow outcast and truth-teller. All the better if said person comes equipped with a badass nickname like Mad Lady-Balls. Patricia Young, LCSW, the person behind the stern, brass-plated moniker is everything you’d expect her t...
TITLE
A Highly Sensitive Person and Introvert, Heidi Tamm, Talks About Her Experience Taking the Online HSP Course
GUESTS
Heidi Tamm
EPISODE OVERVIEW
Heidi talks about these questions—How did you feel about the cost? Was it worth it? How was it having an online experience? Did you feel connected to the other members of the group? How was it being an introvert in the group? Did you feel seen, heard, and honored? Did the Course meet ...
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