Are you low on self-esteem lately? We are so excited to have Dr. Marisa Franco back on the podcast! In today’s episode of The Thick Thighs Save Lives Podcast, we get into why success, love, compliments, and connection can actually feel threatening when you struggle with self-worth; why positive affirmations sometimes make you feel worse; and how old experiences can continue influencing your reactions even when you don’t consciously remember them. Marisa is a psychologist, international speaker, New York Times bestselling author of Platonic, and author of the new book Worth: The New Science of Self-Esteem and Secure Attachment. Marisa also walks us through her Feel, Heal, Do practice for navigating insecurity in real time and explains why trying not to feel anger, jealousy, rejection, shame, or hurt can actually make those emotions louder. Healing isn’t about becoming so “secure” that you never feel insecure again. It’s about learning not to abandon yourself when you do. This conversation is science-backed, compassionate, practical, and packed with moments that will completely change the way you understand yourself. Dr. Marisa Franco’s Links: Books: Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make—and—Keep Friends and Worth: The New Science of Self-Esteem and Secure Attachment Instagram: DrMarisaGFranco LinkedIn: Dr. Marisa G. Franco Website: www.DrMarisaGFranco.com (00:00:54) Welcome back Dr. Marisa Franco and introducing Worth (00:05:17) Why trying to “act secure” can actually make us more insecure (00:09:50) Self-sabotage: Why success and happiness can feel threatening (00:14:17) How to recognize insecurity in the moment and in the past (00:17:50) Why positive affirmations don’t always work (00:24:10) How memories shape self-worth and how we can change their impact (00:29:19) Trauma, implicit memories, and feelings you can’t explain (00:35:00) Why women invalidate their own emotions to protect other people (00:39:15) The suppression/rumination cycle (00:47:13) What if feeling worthy seems impossible? (00:53:10) A red flag you shouldn’t ignore. Want to leave the TTSL Podcast a voicemail? We love your questions and adore hearing from you. https://www.speakpipe.com/TheThickThighsSaveLivesPodcast The CVG Nation app, for iPhone The CVG Nation app, for Android Our Fitness FB Group. Thick Thighs Save Lives Workout Programs Constantly Varied Gear's Workout Leggings Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise routine, medications, supplements, or healthcare plan.