Best Stigma Busting Podcasts (2025)

Family acceptance isn’t instant — it’s a journey. In today’s Touching Tornadoes episode, I talk about what happens when mental illness hits home: the confusion, the silence, and the small steps toward healing. Featuring my gratitude check-in, daily mood journal, and affirmations to remind you that love and understanding are built one day at a time.…

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The Gentle Power of Sisu w/Dr. Elisabet Lahti 48:45

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4d ago48:45

48:45

This week, Scott welcomes Dr. Elisabet Lahti—educator, applied psychology researcher, and founder of the Sisu Lab. Dr. Lahti is the world’s leading expert on sisu, a Finnish concept that embodies extraordinary courage, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. Together, they explore the meaning of sisu and how it can help us persevere…

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From Hospital to Healing: My Bipolar Recovery Journey 33:30

1d ago33:30

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In today’s 11/4/25 Touching Tornadoes episode, I open with a gratitude check-in, share my daily mood journal, and talk honestly about my time in the hospital — what it taught me about surrender, recovery, and rebuilding. If you’ve ever been through a hospitalization or felt like you were starting over, this one’s for you. Healing isn’t linear, but …

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Bipolar Recovery: Learning to Rest Without Guilt 24:04

1d ago24:04

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In this episode 11/3/25 of Touching Tornadoes, I talk about post-mania exhaustion, the reality of being on Abilify and Depakote, and why recovery can feel like fatigue instead of freedom. 💭 Gratitude Check-In 🧠 Daily Mood Journal 💊 Medication Fatigue & Healing ✨ Affirmations to Close #BipolarRecovery #MentalHealthPodcast #TouchingTornadoes #Abilify…

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The Anxiety Avenger's Toolkit: Practical Strategies for Daily Calm 39:43

1d ago39:43

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In this episode, we dive deep into the world of anxiety with expert Bonnie Brindle, author of 'Cracking the Crazy Makers'. Bonnie shares her insights on the rising prevalence of anxiety in society, particularly among seniors and caregivers. We explore the various causes of anxiety, from hereditary factors to environmental influences, and discuss ho…

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Thalassemia Myth-Busting: Part 2 – Complications, Exercise, & Transfusions 20:24

1d ago20:24

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In part two of their myth-busting series, NinaMaria Badalamenti and Dr. Kevin Kuo continue to break down common misconceptions about thalassemia. They discuss the risks and complications for both alpha and beta thalassemia, the importance of individualized care, and why physical activity is encouraged for people living with the condition. The episo…

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Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 11/2/25: Bipolar Disorder vs. Schizoaffective Disorder 22:04

4d ago22:04

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Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 11/2/25: Bipolar Disorder vs. Schizoaffective Disorder

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Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 11/1/25: Forgiveness and Family 26:59

5d ago26:59

26:59

Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 11/1/25: Forgiveness and Family

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Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 10/31/25: The Future of Bipolar Disorder 28:06

5d ago28:06

28:06

Friday Mood Journal. Didn't Sleep Well. Feeling a little High or fuzzy.

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Daily Bipolar Mood Journal 10/30/25: Recovery Fatigue and Resilience 42:16

7d ago42:16

42:16

Gratitude Check-in Daily Mood Journal Brandon's Story Recovery Fatigue and toolbox tips

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Daily Mood Journal 10/29/25: Blue Collar Men and Mental Health 27:54

10d ago27:54

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Daily Mood Journal 10/29/25: Blue Collar Men and Mental Health

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Daily Mood Journal 10/28/25: and how compassion changes the brain. 23:21

9d ago23:21

23:21

Welcome to *Touching Tornadoes*! This channel dives into the raw, real, and often funny aspects of living with bipolar disorder. From personal stories and insights to navigating mental health challenges, every video explores life through the lens of a bipolar mind. Whether it's dealing with the ups and downs of recovery, finding balance in the chao…

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From Coping to Capacity w/ RaQuel Hopkins 54:03

19d ago54:03

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This week, Scott speaks with RaQuel Hopkins, a certified coach with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. RaQuel shares her personal and professional journey—from mastering the art of coping to discovering the transformative power of growth. Together, they explore how adults can expand their mental and emotional capacity, why many…

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Beyond the For Sale Sign: Understanding Senior Real Estate 34:32

15d ago34:32

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In this episode, we dive into the complex world of senior real estate with Jody Epstein, a Senior Real Estate Specialist from Windermere Real Estate. With 20 years of experience, Jody shares invaluable insights on navigating the emotional and financial challenges seniors face when making significant housing decisions. We explore the delicate balanc…

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Thalassemia Myth-Busting: Part 1 – Fatigue, Hemoglobin & Iron Levels 19:31

17d ago19:31

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In this episode of Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution, hosts NinaMaria Badalamenti and Dr. Kevin Kuo tackle common myths and misconceptions about thalassemia. They discuss the importance of communicating symptoms like fatigue to healthcare providers, the complex relationship between hemoglobin levels and how patients feel, and the realities of ir…

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Why Brains Need Friends w/ Dr. Ben Rein 1:03:38

1M ago1:03:38

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This week, Scott sits down with Dr. Ben Rein, a Stanford neuroscientist and one of today’s most engaging science communicators. Dr. Rein has spent over a decade studying the neuroscience of social interaction, and his new book, Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection, explores how our relationships shape our minds and well-be…

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Tech that Connects: Game Changing Communication Connecting Families & Communities! 37:43

1M ago37:43

37:43

In this episode, we dive into the world of senior care communication with Justen Spirk, CEO of How's Mom. We explore the emotional challenges families face when placing loved ones in senior communities and how improved communication can alleviate concerns and guilt. Justen and Darleen discuss the importance of bridging the communication gap between…

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Busting Viral Mental Health Myths w/Joe Nucci 1:08:43

2M ago1:08:43

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This week, Scott speaks with psychotherapist and writer Joe Nucci, whose work tackles the intersection of mental health, misinformation, and pop psychology. Joe has built a large following by debunking viral myths and bringing nuance to conversations that are too often oversimplified online. Together, they dive into his new book, Psychobabble: Vira…

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Brain Boost or Bust? Unpacking the Latest Dementia Prevention Study 36:30

2M ago36:30

36:30

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of cognitive health with Dr. Mitchell Clionsky, a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist specializing in memory disorders assessment. Our host, Darleen Mahoney, explores a recent study on lifestyle interventions for cognitive health, presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Confe…

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Navigating Fertility, Pregnancy, & Parenthood with Thalassemia 33:54

2M ago33:54

33:54

Hematologist Dr. Arielle Langer joins host NinaMaria Badalamenti to unpack fertility, pregnancy, and family planning for people with thalassemia. From timing and iron control to genetic counseling, birth control options, and postpartum care, this episode offers practical, clear guidance for every stage of the journey. SHOW DESCRIPTION Thal Pals: Th…

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Patient Empowerment: Taking Charge in Talking Effectively with Your Doctor 35:50

2M ago35:50

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In this episode, we dive into the world of patient empowerment and personalized healthcare with Dr. Gina Siddiqui MD, founder and CEO of CARTE Medical. Dr. Siddiqui shares invaluable insights on how seniors can become active participants in their medical care, from communicating effectively with doctors to understanding the nuances of personalized …

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The Psychology of Athletic Excellence w/Dr. Alex Auerbach 55:00

2M ago55:00

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This week, Scott Barry Kaufman sits down with Dr. Alex Auerbach, a licensed counseling and sport performance psychologist who works with some of the world’s top performers—from Olympic champions to NBA, NFL, and MLB athletes, as well as elite military units, Fortune 500 companies, and high-growth startups. Together, they dive into insights from Dr.…

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Dealing with Feelings w/ Dr. Marc Brackett 55:57

2M ago55:57

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This week, Scott sits down with Dr. Marc Brackett, founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of Dealing with Feelings: Use Your Emotions to Create the Life You Want. Together, they explore why so many of us struggle to manage our emotions and what we can do about it. Dr. Brackett explains the importance of co-regula…

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The Hidden Health Crisis in America: Beyond the Empty Stomachs 32:12

3M ago32:12

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In this episode, we dive into the critical issue of food insecurity with Katie Hilliard, Director of Healthcare Partnerships at Homestyle Direct. Katie breaks down the complex concepts of food swamps and food deserts, explaining how these environments impact access to nutritious food and, consequently, overall health. We explore the startling stati…

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Rethinking Time and the Myth of Urgency w/ Chris Guillebeau 43:02

3M ago43:02

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This week Scott speaks with author, entrepreneur, and world traveler Chris Guillebeau, best known for The Art of Non-Conformity and his latest book, Time Anxiety: The Illusion of Urgency and a Better Way to Live. Chris unpacks the concept of time anxiety—the persistent feeling that we’re running out of time—and explains why it’s different from FOMO…

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Shake the Stigma of Medical Alert Devices: Smart Tech in the Digital Age! 35:42

3M ago35:42

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In this episode, we dive into the world of medical alert devices where many of us remember the commercial, "Help, I've fallen and I can't get up". It can be a stigma that is hard to shake, but the truth is that modern medical alert devices are light-years ahead of the devices advertised in these commercials, etched in our memories. We are joined by…

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Small Community, Big Perks: Why Smaller Senior Communities Rock! 38:41

3M ago38:41

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In this episode, we dive into the world of family-owned and smaller senior living communities with Frank Evegan, Chief Operating Officer at Spring Oak Senior Living. Frank shares invaluable insights on what makes these intimate communities unique and why they might be the perfect fit for your loved ones. We explore the benefits of smaller senior li…

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Can You Really Change Your Personality? w/ Olga Khazan 48:29

3M ago48:29

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This week Scott speaks with journalist and Atlantic staff writer Olga Khazan about her latest book, Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change. Olga shares her personal journey experimenting with ways to reshape her own personality—armed with insights from the latest psychological research. Together, she and Scott explore whether…

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Breaking the Silence: Thalassemia, Stigma & Strength in the Arab Community 28:20

4M ago28:20

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In this powerful Arabic-language episode, Dr. Sherif Badawy shares his journey from Egypt to the U.S., his lifelong passion for thalassemia care, and the silent weight of stigma families often carry alone. From gene therapies to community education, this one's about more than medicine—it's about connection. A must-listen for anyone impacted by thal…

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Willing vs. Unwilling... Setting Guilt-Free Boundaries in Caregiving 43:11

4M ago43:11

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In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of creating a comprehensive playbook for caring for aging parents with Justin Boogard, CEO of GoGo Grandparent and GoGo Cares. Justin shares invaluable insights on planning, setting boundaries, and finding solutions for various caregiving challenges, helping listeners prepare for the complex journey…

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Debunking the Genius Myth w/ Helen Lewis 1:07:11

4M ago1:07:11

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This week, Scott sits down with acclaimed journalist and Atlantic staff writer Helen Lewis to explore her latest book, The Genius Myth: A Curious History of a Dangerous Idea. Together, they examine how society defines—and often distorts—the concept of genius. Helen argues that there’s no universal, objective definition of genius, and that the peopl…

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In America: Tackling Rising Utility Costs & Affordable Living for Seniors with AARP 33:54

4M ago33:54

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In this episode, we dive into the world of senior advocacy with Zayne Smith, Senior Director of Advocacy at AARP Florida, shares his insights on the pressing issues facing seniors today, from financial security to healthcare challenges. Zayne highlights the growing housing crisis, discussing not just affordability but also accessibility issues affe…

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Embracing Neurodiversity w/ Robin Ince 57:17

4M ago57:17

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This week, Scott sits down with English comedian, author, and BBC radio host Robin Ince. Known for co-presenting The Infinite Monkey Cage alongside physicist Brian Cox, Robin brings his signature wit and wisdom to a deeply personal and socially relevant conversation. The episode centers around Robin’s new book, Normal Weird and Weirdly Normal: Adve…

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Home Modifications 101: Safe Homes for Seniors 37:27

4M ago37:27

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In this episode, we dive into the world of home modifications for aging in place with Alex Modric, CEO of Phoenix Pro Management. Alex shares invaluable insights on how seniors can access resources to modify their homes and maintain independence longer. We explore the benefits of aging in place, available funding options through programs like Long …

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Transitioning with Thal: From Pediatric to Adult Care 32:19

5M ago32:19

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In this episode of Thal Pals, NinaMaria speaks with nurse practitioner Melony Avella-Howell about the challenges and solutions in transitioning from pediatric to adult care for patients with chronic illnesses like thalassemia and sickle cell disease. They discuss the importance of community support groups, tailored transition programs, and the role…

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From Neighbors to New Best Friends: Thriving Socially in Senior Living 41:33

5M ago41:33

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In this episode, we explore the vital role of social connections and engagement in senior living communities with guests Kristy Ruppe Craddock and Paula Harder from Commonwealth Senior Living. They share insights on fostering meaningful relationships and creating personalized experiences for residents, emphasizing how these connections contribute t…

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The Science of Inspiring Leadership w/ Dr. Adam Galinsky 1:00:09

5M ago1:00:09

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This week, Scott welcomes Dr. Adam Galinsky, Professor at Columbia Business School and author of Inspire: The Universal Path for Leading Yourself and Others. Together, they explore what makes a truly inspiring leader—and how anyone, regardless of title or position, can develop the qualities to lead with vision, courage, and impact. Dr. Galinsky sha…

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Staying Home, Staying Healthy: The Case for Aging in Place 32:02

5M ago32:02

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In this episode, we explore the vital topic of aging in place with Jeff Barteau, CEO of Homestyle Direct. Jeff shares insights on how seniors can maintain independence and improve their quality of life by staying at home, emphasizing the crucial role of nutrition to include access to medically tailored meals. We discuss the benefits of aging in pla…