A Little Help For Our Friends

Dr. Kibby McMahon
  • 4.9 (138)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

A LITTLE HELP FOR OUR FRIENDS is a mental health podcast hosted by Dr. Kibby McMahon, licensed clinical psychologist and CEO of KulaMind. The podcast sheds light on the psychological issues your loved ones could be struggling with and provides scientifically-informed perspectives on various mental health topics like dealing with toxic relationships, narcissism, trauma, and therapy. As a clinical psychologist from Duke University, Dr. Kibby shares her expertise on the relational nature of mental health. She mixes evidence-based learning with her own personal examples and stories from their listeners. Episodes are a range of solo episodes with Dr. Kibby, as well as with featured guests including Bachelor Nation members such as Zac Clark speaking on addiction recovery, Ben Higgins on loneliness, and Jenna Cooper on cyberbullying, as well as therapists & doctors such as sleep specialist Dr. Jade Wu, world experts on personality disorders like Dr. Zach Rosenthal, amongst many others. Additional topics covered on the podcast have included fertility, gaslighting, depression, mental health & veterans, mindfulness, and much more. Episodes are released every other week. For more information, check out www.ALittleHelpForOurFriends.com Do you need help coping with a loved one's mental or emotional problems?  Check out www.KulaMind.com, an exclusive community where you can connect other fans of "A Little Help" and get support from Dr. Kibby directly.

  1. 1d ago

    Unmasking Manipulation in Toxic Relationships

    This episode breaks down what manipulation is and why it's so common in relationships with people struggling with mental health. It also gives actionable strategies for resisting the effects of manipulation. Have you ever been in a relationship where you found it hard to think for yourself? You somehow make decisions that are out of character and doubt yourself so much, you're not sure what's real? In this episode, Dr. Kibby exposes the truth behind these tactics: what manipulation really is, how it shows up, and most importantly, how to regain control. Deep dive ahead: you'll discover why manipulation isn’t always "evil," but an abuse of normal strategies for communication and social influence. We're being manipulated all the time by ads, entertainment, sales, and even our health providers. But it becomes harmful when it robs you of your autonomy and sacrifices your wellbeing for the manipulator's gain. Dr. Kibby unpacks concrete tactics, like gaslighting, guilt-tripping, love withdrawal, surveillance, and coercive control, that abusers use to undermine your decision-making. She explores how these tactics often leverage your vulnerabilities and blur your sense of choice and agency, whether in romantic, family, or workplace dynamics. Feeling manipulated is common in relationships with people with mental illnesses like borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, or trauma. Actually BOTH the individual with disorders and their loved ones often feel manipulated. Dr. Kibby also breaks down the research behind manipulation in BPD and narcissistic abuse. Why does this matter? Because understanding these subtle tactics can protect your mental well-being, help you spot emotional tricks early, and empower you to set healthier boundaries. This episode offers practical strategies and tools to disarm manipulation’s grip and reclaim your personal agency. Whether you're navigating toxic family ties, romantic relationships, or workplace conflicts, this episode reveals the unseen manipulative tactics at play and how to dismantle them. Resources: If you need more hands-on help with feeling manipulated by people with mental health or addiction challenges, check out ⁠KulaMind

    1h 1m

  2. May 20

    How to Set Healthy Boundaries in High-Conflict Relationships

    This episode talks about setting healthy boundaries in high-conflict relationships with people who have intense, dysregulated emotions. If you're in an emotionally charged or high-conflict relationship, you struggle to say "no" or assert yourself. If you’ve ever felt blindsided, criticized, or powerless in high-conflict moments with loved ones, this episode reveals the proven framework that transforms chaos into clarity. Dr. Kibby talks about common mistakes with setting boundaries that make things even worse. Because boundaries are essential for healthy relationships, she shares the secret sauce from Dialectical Behavior Therapy and clinical science to set boundaries that stick without escalating fights. You’ll learn how to communicate precisely, protect your autonomy, and foster genuine connection even when emotions run high. Plus, she shares real-life examples (like managing rage outbursts from loved ones with trauma or mental health challenges) and how to respond without losing your mind or your heart. Whether you’re navigating family drama, a difficult partner, or teen conflicts, mastering these boundary skills can prevent burnout and create healthier, more resilient relationships. Tune in and learn how to turn high-conflict moments into opportunities for growth and mutual understanding. Resources: If you need more hands-on help with setting boundaries in your high-conflict relationships, check out KulaMind

    59 min

  3. May 14

    "That Never Happened": How Out-Of-Control Emotions Warps Memory

    This episode talks about how mood, especially dysregulated emotions, affect memory. It explains why people with emotional issues may have such a different perspective and memory for things that happened in the past. If you're close to someone with big emotions, you've probably gotten into an argument with them about something you remember...very differently than they do. You bring up something that happened and they'll say "that never happened!", leaving you to question your whole reality. In this episode, Dr. Kibby delves into why the "that never happened" argument happens so often. What if your loved one is genuinely remembering a fight differently- and that difference isn’t about manipulation, but about how your brain reconstructs trauma and emotion? This episode dives deep into the science of how mood, trauma, and dysregulation distort memory, often making "truth" feel entirely relative. Dr. Kibby discusses why borderline personality disorder, trauma, or anxiety see the world and their memories through a skewed lens, and how this impacts trust, communication, and conflict resolution. She describes frameworks like mood-congruent bias and affect-as-information, which explain how emotions activate specific memory networks, creating a battlefield of conflicting recollections. This episode also breaks down practical strategies for coming to a resolution when someone has a very different version of events. Learn how to respond when someone insists "that didn’t happen," or accuses you of things you don’t remember without gaslighting or invalidating their experience. You’ll hear about the dangers of false memories, how negative content is more memorable, and why gaslighting often involves wielding power over someone’s very sense of reality. If you've ever wondered whether their reality is "crazy" or if you're losing your mind, this episode will give you the understanding and tactics you need to foster compassion, clarity, and peaceful communication. Resources: KulaMind for support with loved ones with emotional issuesJoshi, G., Rathore, T., & Verma, K. (2025). Emotion-induced memory distortions: Insights from deese-roediger-mcdermott and misinformation paradigms—A comprehensive review. Health Sciences Review, 14, 100216.

    1h 1m

  4. May 6

    Unpacking the Controversy: BPD vs. CPTSD and the Path to Healing with Kaytlyn Gilner

    This episode features a conversation with Kaytlyn Gilner, a mental health advocate and host of the "Not So Dumb Blonde" podcast. We delve into the complexities of complex post traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD), exploring the nuances and overlaps between these diagnoses. If you struggle with intense negative emotions, difficulty with intimacy, low self-esteem, and dissociation, what "diagnosis" should you get? In this episode, Kaytlyn Gilner shares her personal journey of misdiagnosis and the transformative power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Dr. Kibby and Kaytlyn break down the hot controversy over these diagnoses that pushes back on the stigma of BPD. The recent backlash against the "borderline personality disorder" label argues that a diagnosis like "complex PTSD" recognizes the symptoms as trauma responses better. Dr. Kibby and Kaytlyn discuss the importance of understanding, setting boundaries, and the role of environment in mental health. They also talk about the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), the intensive outpatient treatment that teaches how to regulate emotions and relationships, no matter what diagnosis you have. This episode offers insights into how loved ones can support those struggling with intense emotions, emphasizing the need for empathy and structured support. Resources: KulaMind, Dr. Kibby's program to support loved ones of people with emotion dysregulationKatylyn's Stop Sabotaging Your Relationships (DBT-Inspired Workbook): https://tr.ee/9pKDGhjuNUIs It an Actual Red Flag or Anxiety? (DBT-Inspired Workbook): https://tr.ee/GrAOWvyh1VTo connect, collaborate, or attend an event with Kaytlyn: https://linktr.ee/kaytlynmYouTube: NotSoDumbBlondePodcast Instagram: @notsodumbblonde_pod

    58 min

  5. Apr 29

    Navigating Mental Health Crises: A Guide to Overdose, Self-Harm & Suicide Risk

    This episode gives a step by step guide to managing mental health crises like self-harm, suicide, or overdose threats. Most people feel completely helpless when someone they love descends into a mental health crisis but what if you had a clear, plan that could save lives? In this episode, Dr. Kibby shares the insider knowledge she gained from working in psychiatric emergency rooms and supporting families through the most dangerous moments. Whether it's a loved one overdosing, becoming violent, or threatening suicide, knowing exactly what to do can make all the difference and even prevent tragedy. Dr.Kibby demystifies the chaos of mental health emergencies. She walks you through what really happens inside the hospital, explains how to recognize dangerous signs like alcohol withdrawal or impulsive self-harm, and reveals the untold reality of involuntary holds and crisis interventions. She shares personal stories and offers practical, repeatable steps to de-escalate crises before they escalate further. Tune in for actionable tactics: how to create a tailored safety plan, the best emergency resources like 988 and mobile crisis teams, and when to call 911 versus seek professional help. You’ll learn concrete warning signs and calming techniques from DBT skills, as well as how to assemble your support network in advance. Safety planning isn’t just for professionals- it’s your first line of defense. With clear advice rooted in real-world experience, this episode equips you to act decisively when it matters most. Don’t wait for a crisis to strike! Prepare now, protect those you love, and reclaim your peace of mind. Resources: Safety Plan TemplateDr. Kibby's quick guide for managing an emotional outburst (for free)

    51 min

  6. Apr 22

    Parenting Adult Children with Borderline Personality Disorder

    This episode gives parents of adults with borderline personality disorder insights into the experience of parenting someone with BPD and strategies for supporting their children. When your child struggles with intense emotions, it's heartbreaking for any parent. But when you're a parent of an adult child with borderline personality disorder (BPD), you're walking on eggshells trying not to make things worse. In this episode, Dr. Kibby shares powerful, research-backed strategies for parents of grown children with intense emotions, revealing how your approach can prevent crises from escalating and rebuild vital connections. You’ll discover why family dynamics often reinforce emotional storms, and how shifting your perspective can de-escalate fights before they explode. Dr. Kibby breaks down practical, compassionate tools like validation, boundary-setting, and safety planning—skills that empower you to stay calm and present, even when your loved one is in chaos. Plus, she reveals why involving the whole family system is essential, not just the individual with BPD, and how to handle crisis moments like threats or self-harm without reinforcing harmful behaviors. We’ll also explore the impact of trauma, shame, and guilt that parents carry and how your own mental health is intertwined with theirs. If you’re exhausted by cycles of overwhelm, blame, or hopelessness, this episode is your guide to navigating the unthinkable with clarity and kindness. Perfect for parents, partners, or anyone supporting someone with borderline or emotional dysregulation. Resources: Join KulaMind, Dr. Kibby's support program for parents and partners of people with BPD Book: Stop Walking on Eggshells for Parents: How to Help Your Child (of Any Age) with Borderline Personality Disorder without Losing Yourself

    1h 8m

  7. Apr 15

    Why We Chase the Unavailable: The Clinical Roots of Anxious-Avoidant Relationship Cycles

    This episode explores the psychology of why we chase emotionally unavailable partners. Are you caught in a cycle of pursuing those who seem just out of reach? In this episode, Dr. Kibby delves into the psychology behind why we chase those who are hard to get. She talks about to main principles that drive this behavior, from behavioral economics to the neurobiology of attachment. She unpacks the attachment patterns that lead to the "pursuit-withdrawal" cycle, where anxious and avoidant attachments clash, creating a loop of emotional highs and lows. Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Dr. Kibby reveals how these patterns are rooted in our upbringing and survival mechanisms. Learn strategies to break free from this cycle, including emotion regulation techniques and the importance of secure attachments. Resources: Johnson, S. (2008). Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love. Tatkin, S. (2012). Wired for Love: How Understanding Your Partner's Brain and Attachment Style Can Help You Defuse Conflict and Build a Secure Relationship.

    1h 7m

  8. Apr 8

    The Surprising Truth About Parenting Teens: Why Control Backfires and Connection Wins

    This episode is a conversation with Dr. Cam Caswell, "The Teen Translator," about how to actually connect to your teen who's struggling. Most parents feel powerless when it comes to connecting with their teens (or a loved one that ACTS like a teen), especially when they struggle with anxiety, depression, or other intense pain. In this episode, Dr. Kibby gets golden insights from Dr. Cam, an adolescent psychologist, parenting coach, TEDx speaker, and host of the Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam podcast. The conversation delves into how can you actually support someone who can't handle their emotions, is in distress, but shuts you out? Parents of teens are all too familiar with this dynamic, but so are loved ones of grown adults who have the emotion regulation of a teenager. Dr. Cam reveals that the key to guiding teens isn’t what most of us believe. Instead of controlling or punishing, she advocates for understanding, respect, and building trust, even when your teenager buries their face in their phone. Dr. Cam challenges your assumptions about parenting and equip you with practical, compassionate strategies to foster a secure, trusting relationship with your teen before the storm hits. Imagine transforming the typical power struggle into a partnership based on empathy and understanding. Dr. Cam shares her journey from a communications background to becoming a leading expert in adolescent psychology, and how her insights can help any parent navigate the turbulent teen years. You'll discover how the brain’s development during adolescence makes traditional discipline ineffective, and why connection (rather than control) is the secret to cultivating resilience, independence, and open communication. From setting compassionate boundaries to understanding social media’s role, this episode is packed with actionable advice to foster emotional safety and trust at every stage. This conversation breaks down: Why fear and control undermine your influence and how to replace them with connectionPractical ways to build trust that encourages your teen to share honestly - even during crisesHow to set clear boundaries without punishing, and why respect is the foundation of safetyThe truth about mental health struggles in teens today and how societal stigma and technology impact themSimple daily habits to foster emotional regulation, resilience, and autonomy in your loved onesIn a world full of digital distractions, social pressures, and fears about safety, this episode offers a new blueprint: meet your teen where they are, understand them deeply, and lead with love, not fear. Resources: Dr. Cam's websiteFind her on Instagram: @drcamcaswellPodcast: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam

    1 hr
See All (189)

4.9
out of 5
138 Ratings

About

A LITTLE HELP FOR OUR FRIENDS is a mental health podcast hosted by Dr. Kibby McMahon, licensed clinical psychologist and CEO of KulaMind. The podcast sheds light on the psychological issues your loved ones could be struggling with and provides scientifically-informed perspectives on various mental health topics like dealing with toxic relationships, narcissism, trauma, and therapy. As a clinical psychologist from Duke University, Dr. Kibby shares her expertise on the relational nature of mental health. She mixes evidence-based learning with her own personal examples and stories from their listeners. Episodes are a range of solo episodes with Dr. Kibby, as well as with featured guests including Bachelor Nation members such as Zac Clark speaking on addiction recovery, Ben Higgins on loneliness, and Jenna Cooper on cyberbullying, as well as therapists & doctors such as sleep specialist Dr. Jade Wu, world experts on personality disorders like Dr. Zach Rosenthal, amongst many others. Additional topics covered on the podcast have included fertility, gaslighting, depression, mental health & veterans, mindfulness, and much more. Episodes are released every other week. For more information, check out www.ALittleHelpForOurFriends.com Do you need help coping with a loved one's mental or emotional problems?  Check out www.KulaMind.com, an exclusive community where you can connect other fans of "A Little Help" and get support from Dr. Kibby directly.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Kibby McMahon
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    189
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Kibby McMahon
  • Show Website
    A Little Help For Our Friends

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