Secret Life

Brianne Davis
Secret Life Podcast

Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine — true confessions of love, sex, money, relationships, addictions, and hidden taboo topics that are often hilarious, uplifting, and hopeful. Hosted by best-selling author, actress, and coach Brianne Davis, the podcast offers a mix of guest interviews and topic-specific discussions. Every Monday, listeners are invited to join Brianne as she pulls back the curtain and explores the how, what, when, where, and why of various subjects. Some episodes feature guests sharing their own secrets and stories, while in others Brianne takes a deep dive into a specific topic. Whether laughing, crying, or feeling inspired, each episode offers a revealing journey into the human experience. Brianne's best-selling book, Secret Life of a Hollywood Sex & Love Addict, a roman à clef novel based on a decade in recovery (with a dash of creative license), was launched in February 2021. To share a secret or be a guest on the show, email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com or visit www.secretlifepodcast.com.

  1. Overextending Yourself Is Self-Abuse

    3 DAYS AGO

    Overextending Yourself Is Self-Abuse

    In this candid episode of the Secret Life podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt opens up about the often overlooked issue of overextending oneself. She shares her personal struggles with balancing a demanding career, motherhood, and personal life, highlighting how saying "yes" too often can lead to self-abuse and burnout. Brianne delves into the emotional and physical toll of constantly being on the go, exploring how this behavior stems from a fear of not being enough and the societal pressures to always be productive. Brianne discusses the importance of recognizing when you're overextending yourself and offers practical advice on how to create healthier boundaries and prioritize self-care. She emphasizes the need for downtime and the benefits of taking a step back to reassess one's commitments. Tune in to learn how to break the cycle of overextending and find a more balanced, fulfilling way of living. 🔑 Episode Keywords Overextending, Burnout, Self-Abuse, Boundaries, Self-Care, Work-Life Balance, Emotional Exhaustion, Recovery, Mental Health, Parenting, Personal Growth (00:00) So this overextending myself, this is never enough, right? It's that emptiness. (00:20) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine. (01:00) After twelve years of recovery in sex and love addiction, I finally found my soulmate myself. (02:00) Today I'm pulling back the curtains of all kinds of human secrets. (03:00) Today we are talking about dun dun dun. Overextending yourself is another form of self-abuse. (Brianne Davis) I am literally abusing myself right now. I'm overextending myself. (10:00) I have too many clients. I have finished the second book. I'm working on the third book. (15:00) I cannot function on this level. Plus I'm doing videos, and I'm going to have a program. (20:00) It's another way to escape self. And I do it in the name of helping other people. (25:00) I felt empty. Does anybody else out there feel like that lately? Like, depleted and empty? (30:00) I'm so busy. And then I can reset on the weekends, but with a six-year-old now, it's hard. (35:00) I rather be in my house by myself, nobody talking to me. (40:00) You packed your vacation with so many activities, it doesn't feel relaxing and like a vacation. (45:00) You can't just sit and be and you have to keep saying yes to fill your day. (50:00) I feel like I'm getting in the way. Like, I keep saying too many yeses for things. (55:00) I need to do it in a way where I'm not burnt out. And as an avoidant or reformed avoidant. _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    17 min
  2. Taking Accountability

    9 SEPT

    Taking Accountability

    In a world where admitting fault is often seen as a sign of weakness, the latest episode of Secret Life podcast challenges this perception by highlighting the profound strength found in taking accountability. Hosted by Brianne Davis-Gantt, this episode dives deep into the transformative power of owning our actions and words. Through candid reflections and personal anecdotes, Brianne delves into the societal stigma around admitting wrongs and how stubbornness and pride can hinder emotional and spiritual growth. She emphasizes the importance of self-accountability and how it can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how embracing accountability can empower you and improve your connections with others. 🔑 Episode Keywords Accountability, Personal Growth, Emotional Strength, Self-Reflection, Responsibility, Narcissism, Recovery, Mental Health, Relationships, Conflict Resolution (00:00) You have to be okay saying, here's my part. I am sorry. (00:20) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine. (01:00) After twelve years of recovery in sex and love addiction, I finally found my soulmate myself. (02:00) Today I'm pulling back the curtains of all kinds of human secrets. (03:00) Today we are talking about dun dun, dun. Taking accountability. (Brianne Davis) People do not want to take accountability. Oh, they do not want to say they are wrong. (10:00) The strongest I have ever been is when I say, you know what? I'm sorry. (15:00) Stubbornness literally kills your soul. (20:00) We all play a part in situations that have conflict. Everybody has a part. (25:00) An unwillingness to say when you are wrong and take accountability. (30:00) The best thing with all my recovery, the 15 plus years of work, the mental health growth. (35:00) When you look at your part and take accountability, it builds this inner strength. (40:00) I don't get to then make people who I deal with sit in front of me and go, now it's your turn. (45:00) The one thing we have control over is accountability for ourselves, not other people. (50:00) When I take accountability, I feel like a stronger human being. (55:00) Thank you for letting me record this podcast for my own journey. _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min
  3. Fantasy

    2 SEPT

    Fantasy

    In this riveting episode of the Secret Life podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt delves into the intoxicating and often destructive world of fantasy relationships. She explores how these relationships, fueled by unrealistic expectations and superficial attractions, can lead to emotional turmoil and self-sabotage. Brianne dissects the behaviors and red flags that characterize fantasy relationships, from love bombing and trauma bonding to the avoidance of real intimacy and responsibility. Brianne also shares practical advice on how to recognize and break free from the cycle of fantasy relationships. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations, developing a strong sense of self-identity, and seeking support to navigate the complexities of genuine human connection. Tune in to understand the allure and pitfalls of fantasy relationships and learn how to cultivate healthier, more fulfilling connections. 🔑 Episode Keywords Fantasy Relationships, Love Bombing, Trauma Bonding, Avoidance, Attachment Styles, Emotional Connection, Intimacy, Self-Identity, Red Flags, Relationship Advice, Emotional Healing (00:00) Because fantasy doesn't last. You compromise yourself, you compromise your values. (00:20) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine. (01:00) After twelve years of recovery in sex and love addiction, I finally found my soulmate myself. (02:00) Today I'm pulling back the curtains of all kinds of human secrets. (Brianne Davis) And today we are talking about dun dun dun fantasy, fantasy. A fantasy relationship. (05:00) Disney. Somebody coming to rescue the all-important butterflies. (10:00) When you are looking at a dating app, I tell people, read between the lines. (15:00) An affair is fantasy based. You will literally disappear in that fantasy world. (20:00) If you are fighting and then making up, um, passionate lovemaking, you are recreating a fantasy that is not healthy. (25:00) Fantasy is intoxicating. You should not feel intoxicated by your relationship. (30:00) Fantasies are short-lived. Short-lived and fleeting. Whatever burns fast burns out fast. (35:00) Ten signs you're in a fantasy relationship. You ignore red flags. You see them, but you keep ignoring them. (40:00) Ten ways to deal with fantasy. Recognize that, uh, you're in this fantasy relationship. Talk to your partner about it. (45:00) Because fantasy doesn't last. You compromise yourself, you compromise your values. (50:00) If you don't, you're going to go from fantasy relationship to fantasy relationship the rest of your life. _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    21 min
  4. Fearful Avoidant

    26 AUG

    Fearful Avoidant

    In this eye-opening episode of the Secret Life podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt delves into the intricate world of fearful avoidant attachment styles. She explores how individuals with this attachment style desperately crave connection but simultaneously fear intimacy, creating a paradox that feels like nails on a chalkboard. Brianne dissects the behaviors, underlying anxieties, and emotional struggles that characterize fearful avoidants, from their tendency to engage in casual relationships to their difficulty in maintaining long-term bonds. Brianne also discusses how modern technology and instant gratification exacerbate avoidant behaviors, making genuine human connection even more challenging. She provides practical tools and insights for those grappling with this attachment style, emphasizing the importance of inner child work, setting boundaries, and seeking therapy to build healthier relationships. Tune in to understand the complexities of fearful avoidant attachment and learn how to navigate these emotionally taxing dynamics. 🔑 Episode Keywords Fearful Avoidant, Attachment Styles, Anxiety, Fear of Intimacy, Emotional Regulation, Trauma Bonding, Casual Relationships, Ghosting, Inner Child Work, Therapy, Boundaries, Relationship Challenges, Emotional Healing (00:00) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Today we are talking about dun dun dun (01:54) Fearful avoidance is an attachment style where you crave intimacy but fear intimacy (09:37) There's a pain from childhood that keeps you from fully connecting to another _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min
  5. Dismissive Avoidant

    19 AUG

    Dismissive Avoidant

    In this compelling episode of the Secret Life podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt dives deep into the intricacies of dismissive avoidant attachment styles. Exploring how this challenging attachment style manifests in relationships, Brianne dissects the behaviors and underlying fears that drive dismissive avoidance. From the initial love-bombing phase to the eventual emotional withdrawal, she explains how dismissive avoidants prioritize independence and suppress their emotions, making it difficult for partners to connect on a deeper level. Brianne also contrasts dismissive avoidants with fearful avoidants, highlighting the distinct ways they handle intimacy and relationships. She provides valuable insights on recognizing the red flags of dismissive avoidance and offers advice for those entangled in such relationships. Tune in to understand the complexities of dismissive avoidant attachment and learn how to navigate these emotionally taxing dynamics. 🔑 Episode Keywords Dismissive Avoidant, Attachment Styles, Fear of Intimacy, Love Bombing, Emotional Withdrawal, Relationship Challenges, Avoidant Behavior, Emotional Suppression, Trauma Bonding, Codependency, Narcissism, Inner Child Work, Trauma Healing, Emotional Independence (00:00) One of the hardest ones to work with is dismissive avoidance (01:20) Welcome to Secret Life podcast. Today I'm pulling back the curtains of all kinds of human secrets (01:52) Dismissive avoidance is one of the worst attachment styles to work with (03:11) A lot of people are having characteristics of dismissive avoidance when dating online (09:26) Two people I'm working with are dating dismissive avoidance (15:27) Excessive need for communication, assuming how they're feeling, jumping to conclusion _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    18 min
  6. Self-Sabotage

    12 AUG

    Self-Sabotage

    Have you ever found yourself on the brink of growth, only to revert to old, destructive habits? If so, you're not alone. In the latest episode of the Secret Life podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt dives deep into the topic of self-sabotage, exploring how our fear of the unknown often keeps us stuck in familiar, yet harmful, patterns. She shares her personal journey of overcoming sex and love addiction, emphasizing that real growth comes from pushing through discomfort and doing the hard work, even when it feels unbearable. Brianne also discusses the concept of internal family systems, explaining how different parts of our psyche, like the “firefighters” determined to disrupt our lives, can lead us down paths of self-destruction. She highlights the importance of small, consistent actions—whether it's journaling, making a gratitude list, or attending therapy—as key steps in overcoming self-sabotage. This episode is a powerful reminder that while the journey of self-improvement is challenging, the rewards are immeasurable. Don't let self-sabotage rob you of the life you deserve. 🔑 Episode Keywords Self-Sabotage, Personal Growth, Fear of Unknown, Toxic Relationships, Emotional Evolution, Brianne Davis-Gantt, Secret Life Podcast, Overcoming Addiction, Generational Trauma, Therapy, Mental Health, Self-Improvement, Inner Work, Emotional Healing (00:00) People don't like unknown. They like to know what it's gonna look like (00:34) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Today I'm pulling back the curtains of human secrets (01:50) Self sabotage is happening all around us, and people are not seeing it (10:20) I was doing all this stuff, and I was like, I am done _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min
  7. Trauma Bonding

    5 AUG

    Trauma Bonding

    In this episode of the Secret Life podcast, host Brianne Davis-Gantt delves into the complex world of trauma bonding. Learn about the seven stages of trauma bonding, from the intoxicating love-bombing phase to the difficult acceptance stage. Brianne provides insights on how to identify and navigate these emotionally draining relationships, and contrasts them with authentic, healthy bonds. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how trauma bonds form and how to protect yourself from them. Chapters: (00:00) They are avoidance. So what they do is they try to attach very quickly, live out of fantasy (00:34) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine (01:15) Welcome to Secret Life podcast. I'm Breanne Davis Gantt (01:52) Today we are talking about trauma bonding. And people are doing it left and right (04:25) We are going to talk about the stages of trauma bonding (10:31) You're on the roller coaster of an addictive attachment to this person (14:39) Let's talk about what an authentic bond is and what a trauma bond is (19:52) If you're feeling trauma bond, it usually ends quickly 🔑 Episode Keywords Trauma Bonding, Love Bombing, Emotional Abuse, Dismissive Avoidance, False Intimacy, Toxic Relationships, Gaslighting, Relationship Stages, Emotional Dependency, Rollercoaster Relationships, Isolation In Relationships, Acceptance In Relationships, Authentic Bonds, Healthy Relationships, Boundary Setting, Trauma Recovery, Emotional Healing, Self-Awareness, Relationship Advice _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    21 min
  8. Mastering Emotional Regulation

    29 JUL

    Mastering Emotional Regulation

    In this enlightening episode of the Secret Life Podcast, Brianne Davis-Gantt delves into the critical topic of emotional regulation. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Brianne explores the importance of managing and responding to our emotions in a healthy way. From understanding the difference between feelings and emotions to practical steps for self-regulation, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Brianne also touches on the generational cycle of emotional dysregulation and offers tips for teaching children how to manage their emotions effectively. Don't miss this essential discussion on breaking the cycle of emotional dysregulation and fostering emotional well-being for yourself and your family. 🔑 Episode Keywords Emotional Regulation, Self-Awareness, Generational Trauma, Mindfulness, Parenting, Emotional Well-being, Brianne Davis-Gantt, Secret Life Podcast, DBT Skills, Emotional Support, Self-Compassion (00:00) Welcome to the Secret Life podcast. Today I'm pulling back the curtains of human secrets (02:15) The importance of teaching emotional regulation from a young age (05:45) How unregulated emotions affect relationships and parenting (10:30) The generational cycle of emotional dysregulation (15:00) Practical steps to identify, validate, connect, and regulate emotions (20:45) How to help children learn emotional regulation (25:30) Final thoughts and listener call to action _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at secretlifepodcast.com ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com _____ SECRET LIFE’S TOPICS INCLUDE: addiction recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting, molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. _____ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction, depression, trauma, sexual abuse or feeling overwhelmed, we've compiled a list of resources at https://secretlifepodcast.com. _____ Secret Life Podcast's episodes include topics addressing addiction and recovery, mental health, alcoholism, drug addiction, sex addiction, love addiction, OCD, ADHD, dyslexia, eating disorders, debt & money issues, anorexia, depression, shoplifting,  molestation, sexual assault, trauma, relationships, self-love, friendships, community, secrets, self-care, courage, freedom, and happiness. ______ 
HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Subscribe, Rate & Review here on Apple Podcasts Tell your friends & share online! ______ To share your secret and be a guest on the show email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com For EPISODE NOTES - Click the LINK below. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    20 min

Trailer

Hosts & Guests

About

Tell me your secret, I'll tell you mine — true confessions of love, sex, money, relationships, addictions, and hidden taboo topics that are often hilarious, uplifting, and hopeful. Hosted by best-selling author, actress, and coach Brianne Davis, the podcast offers a mix of guest interviews and topic-specific discussions. Every Monday, listeners are invited to join Brianne as she pulls back the curtain and explores the how, what, when, where, and why of various subjects. Some episodes feature guests sharing their own secrets and stories, while in others Brianne takes a deep dive into a specific topic. Whether laughing, crying, or feeling inspired, each episode offers a revealing journey into the human experience. Brianne's best-selling book, Secret Life of a Hollywood Sex & Love Addict, a roman à clef novel based on a decade in recovery (with a dash of creative license), was launched in February 2021. To share a secret or be a guest on the show, email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com or visit www.secretlifepodcast.com.

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