back from the borderline

mollie adler
back from the borderline

I don’t want to talk to your personality; I want to talk to your soul. Imagine if your most painful and debilitating mental health symptoms and self-sabotaging behaviors aren’t evidence of 'disorder' or 'dysfunction', but adaptive strategies that once kept you safe. My goal is to help you shift from asking ‘What’s wrong with me?’ to ‘What happened to me?’ The word ‘borderline’ in this podcast isn’t about psychiatric labels. It’s about coming back from the inner psychological brink we all experience. Everyone has found themselves on the edge, in that liminal space where the old self falls apart and the new Self emerges. Here, we explore what it means to undergo true emotional alchemy: that ancient and primordial process of falling apart, confronting the underworld of our psyche, and falling back together into someone stronger, wiser, and more whole. Many highly sensitive people who identify with the seemingly never-ending list of diagnostic mental health labels contained within ‘the bible of psychiatry’ (the DSM) share the same underlying sense of being irreparably broken, disconnected from their intuition, and paralyzed by life’s existential questions. I believe the resulting—and perfectly understandable—chronic feelings of emptiness and spiritual starvation are the TRUE causes of our current collective ‘mental health crisis.’ Together, we’ll dive into depth psychology, mythology, human consciousness, critical psychiatry, and the impact of trauma to help you begin the process of emotional alchemy. This exploration will help you get to the root cause of your suffering and free yourself from the toxic shame, limiting beliefs, and mental programming that have kept you locked in the chains of your past. In an era where mental health and spirituality are too often commercialized, I’m not here as a guru with a quick fix to sell you. I don’t believe anyone is ever truly ‘healed’ or ‘cured.’ There is no return to some mythical state of pre-trauma purity, but rather a continuous spiral of unbecoming, unlearning, and transformation. As a fellow seeker, I will be there in your ear, walking alongside you on your path toward wholeness as a sort of parasocial big sister. That, I can promise. By integrating the concepts we explore together, you’ll begin to see that anyone—even you—can come back from the borderline. CRAVING MORE? Visit backfromtheborderline.com to dive into my universe, connect with me, access my Patreon, and discover more about my journey and work. Don’t forget to follow Back from the Borderline so new episodes on Tuesdays and Thursdays automatically drop into your podcast feed. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    dysfunctional family roles – part 5: hidden agendas (the peacemaker/mediator and narcissistic traits) [preview]

    Welcome back to our deep dive into the heart of dysfunctional family dynamics. This is the final episode of our series where each segment builds upon the last, further unraveling the complex roles that shape not just family life but our individual paths. If this is your first time joining us, consider starting with Episode 1, "Dysfunctional Family Roles – Part 1: Decoding the Dynamics of Dysfunction," to catch the full scope of our exploration. In this episode, we're capping off our series by examining two pivotal roles in the dance of family dynamics: The Peacemaker/Mediator and those with Narcissistic Traits. In this episode, we delve deep into these roles and their intricate interrelations—exploring how peacemakers often find themselves entangled with narcissistic behaviors, both overt and covert, and the profound impact these dynamics have on family systems.   Why do some individuals take on the role of the peacekeeper, and how might this well-intentioned behavior enable narcissistic manipulation? How does covert narcissism mask itself as peacemaking, complicating the detection and understanding of these traits within familial relationships? We'll dissect these roles to understand the toll they take on those who bear them and the broader implications for the family. Drawing from real-life narratives, including personal accounts from Reddit, we explore the challenges and coping mechanisms of those enmeshed in these roles. From the overt displays of narcissism to the hidden agendas of the covert narcissist, we unpack how these dynamics play out in real-world settings, shaping everything from personal development to family equilibrium.   Join me as we conclude our exploration, aiming not only to unveil the complex layers of these roles but also to provide insights and strategies for recognizing and breaking free from the dysfunctional patterns they often sustain. Let's peel back the final layers of family myths to reveal the stark realities that lie beneath, offering pathways to understanding and healing.   TIME STAMPS:   04:34.69 – 41:32.16: PART 1 (Introducing the Peacemaker/Mediator role, its characteristics, impact on family dynamics, emotional and psychological toll, and common signs to identify peacemakers. Disclaimer on diagnosing personality disorders, understanding narcissistic traits, and discussion on overt narcissism.)  41:32.16 – 01:21:40.41: PART 2 (Exploration of covert and malignant narcissism, their characteristics, impact on relationships, covert narcissism deception, distinguishing between true peacemakers and covert narcissists, interaction dynamics, real-world implications, strategies for recognition and adaptation, cultural variations, and the impact on family dynamics. Concluding with a segment on healing and breaking free from dysfunctional family roles.) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    mind unveiled part 6: the individuation process as spiritual ascent (integrating outer psychology, personality types, and the mystical qabalah)

    Have you ever wondered what it truly means to become your most authentic self? To integrate all aspects of your being—both conscious and unconscious—and embark on a profound journey of self-realization? Welcome to the final episode of our 'Mind Unveiled' series, where we explore the transformative process of individuation, as envisioned by Carl Jung. In this episode, I'll guide you through the concept of individuation, defining it as the journey toward becoming a complete, self-realized individual. We’ll delve into how this holistic and spiritual approach differs from traditional models of healing in mainstream biomedical mental health. Discover why individuation is crucial for personal growth and psychological well-being, and learn about the balance and harmony it aims to achieve between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche. We’ll also explore the role of outer psychology and personality types in individuation. You'll learn how Jung distinguished between introverted and extroverted personality types and how this distinction plays into the individuation process. We'll break down the organization of personality types according to Jung’s model, focusing on the four faculties: sensing, thinking, feeling, and intuition, and illustrate how these faculties interact and contribute to your journey of self-discovery. Furthermore, we’ll dive into the spiritual dimensions of individuation, discussing how Jung viewed it as a spiritual journey and the significance of his use of spiritual terminology. We'll explore how Jung’s system of individuation complements the mystical Qabalah, highlighting parallels like the Tree of Life and the process of spiritual ascent. By integrating psychological and spiritual growth, you’ll understand how to achieve a more holistic and enriched life. Finally, I'll provide practical advice to help you embark on your own individuation journey, encouraging self-reflection, mindfulness, and the exploration of dreams and fantasies as tools for self-discovery. Join me for this transformative conclusion to our series, and take the next step on your path to becoming your true self. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive exploration of the individuation process and its profound impact on your personal and spiritual growth. Tune in and discover how to integrate all facets of your being for a richer, more fulfilling life. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 6m
  3. FEB 13

    dysfunctional family roles – part 4: avoidance strategies (the mascot/clown and the lost child/rebel) [preview]

    Welcome back to our deep dive into the complexities of dysfunctional family dynamics. You're tuning into Episode 4 of our series, where each segment builds on the last, further unraveling the roles that shape not just family life but our individual identities. If this is your first time joining us, consider starting with Episode 1, "Dysfunctional Family Roles – Part 1: Decoding the Dynamics of Dysfunction," to catch the full scope of our exploration. In this episode, we're examining avoidance strategies within dysfunctional families through the unique perspectives of The Mascot/Clown and The Lost Child/Rebel. Why do some turn to humor as a shield against family tension, while others retreat into silence or rebellion? Together, we'll explore these roles, their development, and the profound impact they have on personal growth and family dynamics.   Drawing from genuine conversations and personal stories shared on platforms like Reddit, we delve into the lives of those who've navigated these roles. From the Mascot/Clown, often seen lightening the mood at their own emotional expense, to the Lost Child/Rebel, hiding in plain sight or pushing back against family norms, we'll uncover how these strategies serve as coping mechanisms that both maintain and challenge family equilibrium. Join me as we dissect how these avoidance strategies not only reflect but also shape the core identities of those who employ them, influencing their interactions both within and beyond the family context.   TIME STAMPS:   00:00 – 20:50.26: PART 1 (Examining how avoidance strategies manifest through humor and withdrawal in dysfunctional families; grouping roles for their commonality in avoiding stress; understanding these strategies in family dynamics. Defines Mascot/Clown role, its origins in family instability, psychological impact, and coping mechanisms, including the connection with comedians.)  20:50.26 – 43:18.85: PART 2 (Defines Lost Child/Rebel role, its origins in feeling overlooked, and psychological impacts like isolation. Explores coping mechanisms, portrayals in media, and comparative analysis of how both roles maintain family equilibrium and enable caregivers to avoid confronting family dysfunction.) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    24 min
  4. FEB 11

    mind unveiled part 5: the shadow (working with your dark side)

    Do you ever feel like there's a part of yourself that you can't quite grasp? A hidden side that influences your thoughts and actions in ways you don't fully understand? Welcome to Episode 5 of our 'Mind Unveiled' series, where we dive deep into one of Jung’s most compelling concepts: the shadow. This episode is designed to build on the insights from our previous discussions and delve into the practical aspects of working with your shadow. In this episode, I'll guide you through a precise definition of the shadow, emphasizing its role as the repository of disowned parts of the self. We’ll explore how this concept was coined by Carl Jung and supported by quotes from Jung and other prominent Jungian analysts. You'll discover how the shadow manifests in everyday life, influencing your interactions, habits, and emotional reactions, with relatable examples from workplace dynamics, personal relationships, and self-sabotaging behaviors. We’ll also cover practical shadow work techniques, offering new self-reflection exercises and mindfulness practices tailored to uncovering shadow aspects. Learn step-by-step guidance on identifying shadow traits through journaling and introspection, and explore creative methods like art therapy, role-playing, and storytelling to reveal hidden aspects of yourself. I'll outline a structured approach to integrating these shadow aspects into your conscious awareness, discussing the importance of self-compassion and patience in this transformative process. Understanding and addressing the shadow in relationships is crucial for healthy and fulfilling connections. We'll discuss how shadow projections affect romantic and familial relationships and provide practical advice on recognizing and addressing these projections. Additionally, we'll touch on the collective shadow, focusing on societal issues and cultural dynamics, using contemporary examples to illustrate how it influences social and political behavior. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
  5. FEB 6

    dysfunctional family roles – part 3: responsibilities and escape (the parentified child and the addict) [preview]

    Welcome back to our exploration into the heart of dysfunctional family dynamics. This is Episode 3 of our series, where we continue to unravel the complex roles that not only shape family life but also deeply influence our personal journeys. If this is your first encounter with this series, I encourage you to start with Episode 1, "Dysfunctional Family Roles – Part 1: Decoding the Dynamics of Dysfunction," to fully appreciate the groundwork that informs today's discussion.   In this episode, we turn our focus to roles defined by excessive responsibilities and coping through escape, examining The Parentified Child and The Addict. Have you ever wondered why some individuals seem forced to grow up too soon, taking on burdens far beyond their years, while others may seek escape in detrimental ways? In this episode, we'll delve into these roles—exploring how excessive responsibilities and escapism serve as coping mechanisms within dysfunctional families.   Drawing on insights from real stories, including personal accounts shared on Reddit, we explore the personal and psychological toll of these roles. From the Parentified Child, thrust prematurely into adult responsibilities, to The Addict, whose escape from family pressures comes through substance use, we explore how these roles maintain or disrupt the family equilibrium. Join me as we navigate the complexities of responsibility and escape within family systems, revealing the unseen forces that shape these roles and their long-lasting effects on individual lives and family dynamics.   TIME STAMPS:  03:36.82 – 36:40.87: PART 1 (Exploration of the Parentified Child, including definition, characteristics, origins, psychological impact, challenges, and coping strategies, with insights from Reddit) 36:40.87 – 01:01:10.66: PART 2 (Examination of The Addict role, including definition, characteristics, origins, psychological impact, challenges, and coping strategies, first-hand accounts and experiences and comparative analysis with the Parentified Child. Discussion of external influences and personal development) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  6. FEB 4

    mind unveiled part 4: the psyche as a living reality (exploring consciousness and the collective unconscious)

    Have you ever wondered about the hidden depths of your mind? Curious about what lies beneath your conscious thoughts and how it all shapes your reality? Welcome to Episode 4 of our 'Mind Unveiled' series. In this episode, we journey into the intricate nature of the psyche, exploring its profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. I'll take you through a comprehensive overview of what the psyche truly is, examining Jung's holistic view that integrates the soul, intellect, spirit, and the totality of psychic processes. We'll discuss how the psyche is as real and tangible as the body, emphasizing the importance of understanding its comprehensive nature. You'll learn how Jung's insights laid the groundwork for modern trauma and somatic therapies, influencing pioneers like Gabor Maté, Bessel van der Kolk, and Peter Levine. Discover the different parts of the psyche as we delve into Jung's model, including the collective unconscious, consciousness, and the personal unconscious. We'll explore the contents and significance of the collective unconscious and provide practical examples of how it manifests in daily life. You'll gain a clear understanding of how consciousness interacts with other parts of the psyche and the critical role it plays. Finally, we'll tie everything together by highlighting the importance of achieving harmony between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche. Learn how the interplay between these parts influences your mental and emotional well-being, and discover techniques and practices to achieve balance and integration. By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of your inner world and practical tools to enhance your psychological health. Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 24m
  7. JAN 30

    dysfunctional family roles – part 2: the extremes of family focus (the golden child and the scapegoat) [preview]

    Welcome back to our deep dive into the heart of dysfunctional family dynamics. This is Episode 2 of our series, where each segment builds upon the last, unraveling the complex roles that shape not just family life but our individual paths. If you happen to come across this episode first, be sure to check out Episode 1 (Dysfunctional Family Roles – Part 1: Decoding the Dynamics of Dysfunction), which sets the stage for today’s discussion —where we explore the extremes of family focus through the lenses of The Golden Child and The Scapegoat.   Have you ever wondered why some children in a family are put on a pedestal while others seem to carry all the blame? In this episode, we’ll dissect these polar roles—how they emerge, the pressures they bring, and their profound impact on all aspects of the personal lives of those who adopt them. We'll draw insights from real discussions, including voices from Reddit, where people share their firsthand experiences with these roles. From the Golden Child, who is often seen as the beacon of perfection, to the Scapegoat, who becomes the carrier of the family’s unacknowledged shame and pain, we explore not just the personal toll but also the broader societal and cultural forces that mold these identities. How do these roles serve to maintain a balance—or imbalance—within family systems? What happens when these scripted roles follow us into adulthood? Join me as we peel back the layers of family myths to reveal the stark realities hidden beneath.   TIME STAMPS:   00:00 – 37:40.35: PART 1 (Recap of series purpose, insights from the previous episode, introduction to the theme of The Golden Child and The Scapegoat, explanation of role pairing, and discussion of extreme parental expectations. Detailed exploration of The Golden Child including its definition, origins, psychological impact, Reddit insights, challenges, and coping mechanisms.) 37:40.35 – 01:14:03.23: PART 2 (In-depth look at The Scapegoat, covering its definition, origins, psychological impact, Reddit insights, challenges, and coping mechanisms. Comparative analysis of the dynamic between The Golden Child and The Scapegoat, societal and cultural influences on these roles, and their broader implications.) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  8. JAN 28

    mind unveiled part 3: unmasking the soul image (the false self, archetypes, the anima and animus)

    Do you feel like you’re playing a role, always adjusting who you are to fit in? What if there’s a deeper, truer version of you just beneath the surface, waiting to be revealed? In Episode 3 of the ‘Mind Unveiled’ series, we’re diving into the mask we wear- the persona - and the false self we construct to navigate the world. But behind those layers lies something more profound: the soul image, an authentic guide leading us back to ourselves. In this episode, we’ll explore how the false self protects us but keeps us disconnected from our true nature. What would it take to dissolve that mask and reclaim your essence? Through Jung’s insights into the anima and animus - our inner feminine and masculine - we’ll uncover how these archetypes shape our internal world and our relationships, and how embracing them leads to deeper wholeness. We’ll also venture into the realm of primordial images - those ancient symbols nestled in our collective unconscious. These universal archetypes have a quiet power over our thoughts, dreams, and behaviors, helping us understand the mysteries of our psyche. Together, we’ll explore how these images surface in our daily lives and offer valuable lessons on the journey of self-discovery and individuation. Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com. The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 32m

Trailer

Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
429 Ratings

About

I don’t want to talk to your personality; I want to talk to your soul. Imagine if your most painful and debilitating mental health symptoms and self-sabotaging behaviors aren’t evidence of 'disorder' or 'dysfunction', but adaptive strategies that once kept you safe. My goal is to help you shift from asking ‘What’s wrong with me?’ to ‘What happened to me?’ The word ‘borderline’ in this podcast isn’t about psychiatric labels. It’s about coming back from the inner psychological brink we all experience. Everyone has found themselves on the edge, in that liminal space where the old self falls apart and the new Self emerges. Here, we explore what it means to undergo true emotional alchemy: that ancient and primordial process of falling apart, confronting the underworld of our psyche, and falling back together into someone stronger, wiser, and more whole. Many highly sensitive people who identify with the seemingly never-ending list of diagnostic mental health labels contained within ‘the bible of psychiatry’ (the DSM) share the same underlying sense of being irreparably broken, disconnected from their intuition, and paralyzed by life’s existential questions. I believe the resulting—and perfectly understandable—chronic feelings of emptiness and spiritual starvation are the TRUE causes of our current collective ‘mental health crisis.’ Together, we’ll dive into depth psychology, mythology, human consciousness, critical psychiatry, and the impact of trauma to help you begin the process of emotional alchemy. This exploration will help you get to the root cause of your suffering and free yourself from the toxic shame, limiting beliefs, and mental programming that have kept you locked in the chains of your past. In an era where mental health and spirituality are too often commercialized, I’m not here as a guru with a quick fix to sell you. I don’t believe anyone is ever truly ‘healed’ or ‘cured.’ There is no return to some mythical state of pre-trauma purity, but rather a continuous spiral of unbecoming, unlearning, and transformation. As a fellow seeker, I will be there in your ear, walking alongside you on your path toward wholeness as a sort of parasocial big sister. That, I can promise. By integrating the concepts we explore together, you’ll begin to see that anyone—even you—can come back from the borderline. CRAVING MORE? Visit backfromtheborderline.com to dive into my universe, connect with me, access my Patreon, and discover more about my journey and work. Don’t forget to follow Back from the Borderline so new episodes on Tuesdays and Thursdays automatically drop into your podcast feed. acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/back-from-the-borderline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada