You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist

Stephanie Winn
  • 4.5 (151)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist

You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist intimately explores the human experience while critiquing the state of the counseling profession as it yields to cultural madness. Your host, Stephanie Winn, distills years of wisdom gained from her practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as she pivots away from treating patients, and toward the question of how to apply psychology to the novel dilemmas of the 21st century. What does ethical mental health care look like in a normless age, as our moral compasses spin in search of true north? How can therapists treat patients under pressure to affirm everything from the notion of gender identity to assisted suicide? Stephanie invites heretical, free-thinking guests from many walks of life, including current and former therapists, medical professionals, writers, researchers, and people with unique lived experience, such as detransitioners. Curious about many things, Stephanie’s interdisciplinary psychological lens investigates challenging social issues and inspires transformation in the self, relationships, and society. Pick up a torch to illuminate the dark night and join us on this journey through the inner wilderness.

  1. 2D AGO

    154. Uncomfortable Truths About “Trans”: A Conversation with Filmmaker Travis Brown

    You may have recently seen episode 1 in the new docuseries "Uncomfortable Truths." Today I’m joined by its filmmaker, Travis Brown, who was drawn to investigate gender ideology after noticing many traits it shared in common with the controlling religious environment he grew up in. We discuss the historical context of gender transition protocols and the questionable ethics of current practices. Travis highlights the alarming trend of rushing into medical procedures without adequate understanding or consideration of the long-term consequences, especially for minors. From his libertarian perspective, he emphasizes the need to balance personal freedom with the importance of waiting periods and psychological evaluations before undergoing irreversible surgeries. Meanwhile, I argue that these procedures should be outlawed altogether, reframing the debate from one of individual rights to one of professional ethical responsibilities. Travis Brown is a visiting fellow at Danube Institute, content producer for Genspect, the president of a non-profit, and an international filmmaker and commentator known for his thought-provoking docuseries 'The Woke Reformation,' which features Peter Boghossian, Douglas Murray, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Vivek Ramaswamy, and other brave intellectuals who demolish and then offer a positive alternative to Woke culture. Travis frequently engages with contemporary cultural issues, exploring themes like identity, belief, and the importance of meaning through his work. He travels internationally to screen his work and engage in public discussions. Travis is the president of The Signal Education Project (SEP), a non-profit that shines a light on how dogmatic thinking distorts the truth and fractures our relationships. Through SEP, Travis explores how strict ideologies shape our view of reality, the effect this has on our conversations, and what it does to relationships and society as a whole. SEP's current project investigates the contentious topic of gender identity in the upcoming docuseries Uncomfortable Truths: The Reality of Gender Identity Ideology. Donate to support the series on GiveSendGo. 00:00 Start [00:02:03] Trans ideology and its impact. [00:03:33] Identity and oppression in upbringing. [00:08:06] Oppression and authoritarian tendencies. [00:12:00] Compassionate perspectives on trans issues. [00:16:18] Conveyor belt of transition. [00:19:02] Communicating with trans-identified youth. [00:22:27] Language and its implications. [00:27:03] Interviewing controversial figures. [00:31:17] Buck Angel's evolving perspectives. [00:35:55] Moral psychology and fear. [00:38:31] Importance of opposing views. [00:41:41] Concerns about social media influence. [00:46:53] Medical autonomy and restrictions. [00:48:10] Ethical dilemmas of technology. [00:53:31] Rebuilding parent-child relationships. [00:58:04] Spiritual needs in society. [01:01:40] Pursuing creativity after activism. [01:03:13] Content quality in storytelling. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission. ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 6m

  2. MAR 17

    153. Understanding Identity and Personhood Through a Catholic Lens with Dr. Greg Bottaro

    I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Greg Bottaro, a Catholic psychologist and founder of the Catholic Psych Institute. We delve into the complexities of identity, particularly in the context of gender dysphoria, and explore the importance of compassion in addressing these sensitive issues. Dr. Bottaro emphasizes the need for a blueprint for understanding the human person, which he believes is rooted in Catholic teachings. For a deep dive into this blueprint check out our other conversation in episode 152. We discuss how the Catholic vision of the human person can inform our approach to mental health and well-being. Dr. Bottaro shares insights on the unity of body and spirit, and how this understanding can help individuals who feel at odds with their identity. We also touch on the historical role of the Catholic Church in preserving knowledge and culture, and how this legacy can guide contemporary discussions about ethics and psychology. Throughout our conversation, we aim to explore critical questions: How can we approach those struggling with their identity with both compassion and truth? What does it mean to have a healthy understanding of personhood? And how can the principles of Catholicism provide a framework for healing and thriving in today's complex world? Join us as we navigate these profound topics and seek to understand the intersection of faith, reason, and mental health. Dr. Greg Bottaro is a Catholic psychologist, founder of the CatholicPsych Institute and creator of the CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism (CPMAP). He received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences, and works to integrate Catholic philosophy and theology with relevant psychology. He leads the CatholicPsych Institute's mission to, "Create a Catholic Standard for Mental Health." Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Bottaro discerned a religious vocation with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFRs). He lived in the Bronx for four years following the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi. Under the mentorship of Fr. Benedict Groeschel, this experience formed him in the spirituality of Abandonment to Divine Providence, which he now integrates with his model of psychology, along with the discernment of God's will he learned from Fr. Benedict. In 2012, Dr. Bottaro returned to New York as a psychologist and founded the CatholicPsych Institute, which has continued to grow and serve clients around the world. Most recently he launched the CPMAP Certification to train others in their model of integrated accompaniment. He lives in Connecticut with his wife Barbra and their seven children.  00:00 Start [00:00:10] Compassion in identity struggles. [00:05:37] Civilization saved by Catholic Church. [00:10:03] Resurrection and its implications. [00:12:33] Eucharistic miracles and their significance. [00:19:40] Catholicism and Human Understanding. [00:22:12] Faith versus science paradox. [00:26:22] The ideal human person. [00:30:29] Fatherlessness and its impact. [00:34:02] Compassion in conservative approaches. [00:37:03] Spiritual identity and personhood. [00:40:18] Identity and body connection. [00:45:00] Complexities of therapeutic relationships. [00:49:39] Eternal communion with divinity. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    53 min

  3. MAR 10

    152. The Catholic Blueprint of the Human Psyche with Dr. Gregory Bottaro

    What does Catholic theology have to offer the field of counseling psychology? Catholic psychologist Dr. Greg Bottaro joins me to explore the concept of the "blueprint of the human being" according to Catholic thought, emphasizing that we are made in the image of God, which inherently involves a relational aspect. Dr. Bottaro outlines five essential marks of relationship that shape our identity: being made in God's image, being formed in relationships, experiencing wounds in relationships, finding healing through relationships, and ultimately being destined for eternal relationship with God. We discuss how these principles extend into family life and the ideal structures for nurturing healthy relationships. I ask Dr. Bottaro about the common perception that Catholicism promotes repression, and he offers a nuanced perspective, highlighting the importance of authentic human experience and the developmental journey toward becoming our best selves in right relation with all things. Throughout our dialogue, we aim to uncover how understanding our relational nature can lead to deeper healing and growth, both personally and within our families. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the transformative power of connection in the context of faith and psychology. Dr. Greg Bottaro is a Catholic psychologist, founder of the CatholicPsych Institute and creator of the CatholicPsych Model of Applied Personalism (CPMAP). He received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences, and works to integrate Catholic philosophy and theology with relevant psychology. He leads the CatholicPsych Institute's mission to, "Create a Catholic Standard for Mental Health." Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Bottaro discerned a religious vocation with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFRs). He lived in the Bronx for four years following the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi. Under the mentorship of Fr. Benedict Groeschel, this experience formed him in the spirituality of Abandonment to Divine Providence, which he now integrates with his model of psychology, along with the discernment of God's will he learned from Fr. Benedict. In 2012, Dr. Bottaro returned to New York as a psychologist and founded the CatholicPsych Institute, which has continued to grow and serve clients around the world. Most recently he launched the CPMAP Certification to train others in their model of integrated accompaniment. He lives in Connecticut with his wife Barbra and their seven children.  00:00 Start [00:02:09] Catholic view of human being. [00:07:42] Eternal relationship and purpose. [00:08:14] The blueprint of the person. [00:15:48] Transcending space and time. [00:18:06] Inner goodness and relationships. [00:21:39] Corrective emotional experiences in relationships. [00:25:10] Objective truth and beauty. [00:30:31] The path to moral action. [00:33:25] Integrated approach to healing. [00:38:35] Communication skills for children. [00:41:29] Mirroring in parenting. [00:48:02] Growth through therapeutic experiences. [00:52:57] Purgatory as God's mercy. [00:54:05] Mercy in life and death. [00:58:57] Suffering and knowledge in purgatory. [01:03:39] Trust in God's mercy. [01:06:30] Loving God Through Neighborly Actions. [01:10:33] Marriage and maturity challenges. [01:15:57] Transcendent relationships in therapy. [01:18:58] Gender craze impact on families. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 20m

  4. MAR 3

    151. Revisiting Race Relations: Letters in Black and White with Winkfield Twyman & Jennifer Richmond

    The co-authors of "Letters in Black and White" found common ground in their frustration with America's polarized racial discourse. Our conversation explored provocative ideas like "Blackness as oppression"—a concept that shook Wink's foundational beliefs about identity—and Jen's jarring return to an America where diversity training often stifled genuine dialogue. We challenged simplistic narratives of "privilege," examined the controversial topic of reparations (with Wink offering a compelling case for Black agency over victimhood), and questioned how society's racial scripts influence our thinking. Throughout our discussion, we highlighted the power of curiosity and personal storytelling to bridge seemingly insurmountable divides—inviting listeners to reconsider their own perspectives on race and identity in America. Winkfield Twyman and Jennifer Richmond are co-authors of Letters in Black and White: A New Correspondence on Race in America. A former law professor and current author, Winkfield (Wink) Franklin Twyman, Jr. is a southern writer from a small-town suburb outside of Richmond, Virginia. Wink lived on Twyman Road until the age of eight. Everyone on Twyman Road was a Twyman. A graduate of the University of Virginia and Harvard Law School, Wink has penned articles and essays in the South Carolina Law Review, the Virginia Tax Review, the National Black Law Journal, the St. Croix Review, the Pennsylvania Law Review, the Intellectual Conservative, The Civil War in Pennsylvania: The African American Experience, the Richmond Times Dispatch, the Chicago Tribune, and the New York Post. Wink identifies as an American Native to Virginia. Follow him on Substack or his personal or professional Facebook page. A former professor at Trinity University on Chinese Politics and Vice President of International Projects for Stratford, Jennifer Richmond now serves as the Executive Director and Co-founder of the Institute for Liberal Values. In this role, she takes her academic acumen and knowledge of authoritarian governments, turning her attention and skills towards the most polarizing issues within the United States. Instagram: @jsrichmond @ilvalues X: @truth_inbetween @ilvalues LinkedIn YouTube: @ilvalues 00:00 Start [00:02:09] Polarization in race discourse. [00:03:55] Diversity training experiences and reflections. [00:10:11] Language and cultural privilege. [00:12:59] Individuality vs. Stereotypes in Society. [00:19:20] Black identity and entrepreneurship. [00:20:58] Fatherlessness and its impact. [00:25:35] Racial solidarity and misalignment. [00:29:54] Individuality in racial narratives. [00:32:48] Kafka traps in wokeness. [00:37:27] Opposition to reparations for slavery. [00:40:14] Reparations and black agency. [00:45:43] Post-traumatic growth syndrome. [00:49:04] Family personality and resilience. [00:52:49] Curiosity and cognitive ability. [00:58:23] Slavery in Family Genealogy. [01:00:49] Ancestry and racial identity. [01:04:32] Ghost slaves and modern comforts. [01:09:05] Perspective taking and arrogance. [01:11:56] Lack of empathy in communication. [01:16:22] Racial consciousness in family dynamics. [01:20:44] Fragmented identity and cultural expression. [01:25:50] Racial identity and cultural upbringing. [01:27:11] Choosing cultural identity wisely. [01:32:34] Potential vs. Environment in Families. [01:38:15] Human interaction and identity politics. [01:40:41] Individual dignity and creative expression. [01:42:15] Beautiful world amidst challenges. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas ...

    1h 45m

  5. FEB 24

    150. When Treatment Worsens Trauma: Detransitioner Levi Hayes on Filing a Board Complaint

    Levi Hayes is an artist and writer eight months into his deeply personal journey of detransitioning who recently decided to file a complaint against the therapist who “affirmed” his “gender identity” rather than treating his trauma. We delve into the often-overlooked trauma that accompanies both the transition process and the aftermath of living a transitioned life. Levi opens up about the emotional toll of navigating societal expectations, the pressure to maintain an illusion, and the regret that can follow such significant life changes. We explore the complexities of Levi's experiences, from his childhood in a rural Midwest town where he faced bullying and rejection, to his adult life marked by impulsive decisions and a search for validation through transition. Levi candidly discusses his encounters with therapists who failed to address the underlying trauma and internalized homophobia that influenced his choices.  We also touch on the challenges he faced when filing a complaint against a therapist who affirmed his transition, highlighting the systemic issues within mental health care. My template that Levi used can be found here. Throughout our conversation, we aim to uncover the nuances of identity, the impact of societal pressures, and the importance of addressing trauma in therapeutic settings. Levi's story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in discussions about gender identity and mental health. Levi is an award-winning multidisciplinary artist and designer with a passion for creative expression. Based in Missouri, he is also a writer and blogger who has transformed his journaling and Written Exposure Therapy practice into a powerful storytelling platform. As a detransitioner, Levi shares his journey with authenticity, inspiring others to reclaim their own paths. Levi’s blog post about his board complaint The subsequent update & response from the board Blog: Living for Levi Levi's Art Portfolio  00:00 Start [00:00:00] Trauma of living a transitioned life. [00:08:00] Statute of limitations challenges. [00:14:09] Sharing stories for change. [00:15:08] Childhood trauma and identity struggles. [00:20:35] Trauma and escapism in identity. [00:31:29] Understanding trauma in therapy. [00:35:57] Therapy for detransitioners. [00:42:26] Escaping homosexuality through transition. [00:43:32] Masculinity and male acceptance. [00:51:11] Fantasy of acceptance and validation. [00:56:09] Detransitioning and personal awakening. [01:02:03] Trauma of transition experience. [01:10:17] Shapeshifter as a hero. [01:12:20] Detransitioning and self-discovery journey. [01:16:28] Self-care in detransition journey. [01:22:01] Impact of gender craze on families. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 23m

  6. FEB 17

    149. Sissy Hypnosis Pornography: What Parents of Boys Need to Know with Shane Cole

    If you have a son, you need to be aware of the information in today’s episode. When he was in sixth grade, Shane Cole discovered sissy hypnosis pornography. A secretive and shameful addiction to this disturbing sexual content impacted his formative years, and ultimately led him to identify as transgender and experiment with cross-sex hormones. But today, he is a health-conscious, detransitioned young man who leads trauma-informed Breathwork workshops and studies Tibetan Buddhism. How did he get here? Shane shares his deeply personal journey of overcoming an addiction to sissy hypnosis pornography — and an alarming message to parents about the prevalence and accessibility of this brainwashing online material. We delve into the emotional turmoil that this type of content can inflict, particularly on young boys, and how it intertwines shame, trauma, and pleasure in a way that can lead to destructive patterns of behavior. Shane explains how this genre of pornography exploits male insecurities and can lead to a distorted sense of identity, including a brief period where he believed he was transgender. We explore the alarming rise of sissy hypnosis content online, particularly among young men, and discuss the implications of this trend for parents and society at large. Shane highlights the importance of understanding the psychological impact of such material, including the cognitive dissonance it creates in sensitive young men who are trying to navigate their identities in a world filled with conflicting messages about masculinity and femininity. Surprisingly, like other detransitioners I’ve spoken with here, Shane credits his awakening in part to psychedelics. He speaks about how trauma-informed Breathwork, meditation, and other mind-body practices have helped ground him in a new, healthy sense of self. Throughout our discussion, we aim to uncover the underlying factors that contribute to these issues, including societal pressures, the influence of social media, and the lack of open conversations about male sexuality. This episode serves as a wake-up call for parents and listeners to recognize the potential dangers lurking online and the urgent need for dialogue around these topics. Shane Cole is a trauma-informed breathwork facilitator and founder of Inspiratus Breathwork. After studying psychology at the University of Southern California and completing a nine-month, trauma-informed breathwork facilitator training program, he travels the country to musical festivals and retreats teaching breathwork. With Inspiratus, he creates sacred spaces for humans to cultivate purpose, positivity, and presence through his research-backed approach to breathwork. Throughout his life, he struggled with gender dysphoria and an addiction to sissy hypnosis pornography. After traditional talk therapy did not assist or even want to address the issues he faced, he turned to alternative solutions. Using breathwork, meditation, IFS therapy, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and men's work, he was able to free himself from his addiction, come back to his masculinity, and reclaim his innocence. He is now on a mission to bring breathwork practices to clients struggling with gender dysphoria and pornography addiction.  Website: https://www.inspiratusbreathwork.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breathingwithshane/  00:00 Start [00:01:12] Sissy hypnosis pornography addiction. [00:05:16] Sissy hypno porn and its effects. [00:12:46] Epigenetics and inherited trauma. [00:16:27] The devil frequency in hypnosis. [00:21:24] Male-dominated trans-identified community. [00:28:11] Shame and gender dysphoria. [00:29:08] Addiction to dark pornography. [00:34:03] CIA and mind control theories. [00:38:19] Forced feminization in hypnosis porn. [00:44:32] Cognitive dissonance in masculinity. [00:49:59] Feminization as perceived safety. [00:52:27] Validation and gender dysphoria. [00:56:32] The impact of pornography addiction. [01:00:51] Detransitioning and psychedelics insights. [01:07:35] Breathwork training and meditation. [01:08:27] Spiritual practices and self-acceptance. [01:15:09] Breathwork as emotional catharsis. [01:16:55] Emotional catharsis and healing. [01:21:31] Male sexual shadow and healing. [01:25:12] Masculine rites of passage. [01:31:06] Breathwork in music venues. [01:34:08] Breathwork for purpose and healing. [01:38:31] Custom camping breathwork retreat. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics docume...

    1h 41m

  7. FEB 10

    148. Executive Orders Decoded: Attorney Glenna Goldis Explains Impacts on American Families

    I met with Glenna Goldis, a New York-based lawyer with experience in government, fraud investigations, and domestic violence advocacy, to discuss the recent executive orders related to gender ideology. Glenna, who publishes a Substack newsletter called "Bad Facts" about the so-called transgender rights movement, provided her legal expertise on what these orders mean for American families. We covered five key executive orders recently implemented by the Trump administration: 1. The day-one order defining biological sex and restoring single-sex spaces 2. The order ending gender ideology indoctrination in K-12 schools 3. The order protecting children from chemical and surgical procedures 4. The military order prioritizing readiness over ideology 5. The most recent order protecting women's sports Glenna and I explored the practical implications of these orders, discussing everything from school bathrooms to military readiness. We delved into important nuances around funding mechanisms, enforcement challenges, and potential loopholes. While Glenna expressed optimism about the orders' potential impact, she helped clarify their actual scope and limitations. A significant portion of our conversation focused on how these orders might affect healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and mental health professionals. As a therapist myself, I took the opportunity to advocate for addressing how "conversion therapy" bans have been weaponized against ethical mental health care. We also discussed the concerning trend of insurance fraud in gender medicine and the potential for increased federal investigations. Glenna shared her work with the Gender Critical Law Society, organizing lawyers to defend professionals who face challenges for maintaining biological reality in their practice. This led to an important discussion about the need for legal support for mental health professionals who want to provide ethical care without fear of losing their licenses. Throughout our conversation, we emphasized the importance of understanding what these orders actually do versus what they're often claimed to do in media coverage. While they represent significant policy changes, their implementation will take time and face various challenges through the court system. This episode provides crucial information for parents, healthcare providers, educators, and anyone concerned about how these executive orders might impact their families and communities. For help learning how to discuss these executive orders and other contentious topics with your trans-identified adolescent or young adult, check out my course and community for concerned parents, ROGD Repair. I’ve added a follow-up lesson on the executive orders, which teaches ROGD Repair students how they might apply the program’s 120+ communication skill enhancing lessons to this particularly fraught topic. Listeners of this podcast can take 50% off their first month with code SOMETHERAPIST2025. Glenna Goldis is a lawyer in New York with experience in government, fraud investigations, and domestic violence advocacy. She publishes Bad Facts, a newsletter about the movement for trans rights. Lawyers and law students can sign up for her Gender-Critical Law Society here. Follow Glenna on X @GlennaGoldis. 00:00 Introduction to Executive Orders on Gender Ideology02:45 Overview of Gender-Related Executive Orders05:52 Defining Sex and Gender in Law08:50 Implications for Schools and Parental Rights12:08 Investigating Social Transitions in Education15:09 Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schools17:47 The Role of Federal Funding in Education20:55 Legal Recourse for Parents24:05 The Impact of Licensed Professionals in Schools26:48 Cultural Backlash and Investigations30:09 Protecting Children from Medical Interventions36:10 Federal Funding and Control44:02 Implications of Executive Orders on Families56:53 Insurance Fraud and Gender-Affirming Care01:09:02 Military Readiness and Gender Policies01:09:31 Military Policies and Trans Rights01:22:39 Protecting Women's Sports01:27:40 Mental Health and "Conversion Therapy"01:39:25 Legal Perspectives on Gender Issues TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looki...

    1h 43m

  8. FEB 3

    147. Supporting Wives and Girlfriends of Autogynephilic Men: Is Healthy Relating Possible?

    Having previously run a support group for the wives and girlfriends of men with autogynephilia (AGP), Wildfire Whispers brings a unique perspective on the intersection of AGP and relationships. Are all such men hopelessly self-centered narcissistic fetishists women should run from — or are there ever legitimate reasons a self-respecting woman might stay? Is full recovery from the addictive cycle of autogynephilic fetishism possible for any man, and if so, what needs to change? We explore the cultural taboos surrounding AGP and how their erosion in recent years has led to a surge in openly expressed paraphilic behaviors. We discuss the psychological underpinnings of AGP, including the concept of Peter Pan syndrome and how it manifests in men seeking nurturing and validation from their partners. Wildfire shares her insights on the four stages of AGP, from initial fascination to full transition, and the critical moment when men often name their female alter egos, leading to a split in their identities. This naming process creates a dynamic where the wife feels in competition with an idealized, unattainable version of femininity. Throughout our conversation, we aim to answer pressing questions: What are the implications of AGP for the partners involved? How can women set boundaries and navigate these challenging relationships? And what role does addiction play in the behaviors associated with AGP? Join us as we unpack these themes and offer support for those grappling with similar experiences. Wildfire is a writer who is passionate about women’s rights advocacy, empowerment, and protection. Her journey into gender-critical discourse began after she ran an online support group for the wives and partners of AGP men for several years. Initially, she joined the group as a member seeking the same support. Her experiences there deeply moved her to advocate for this often-overlooked group, who frequently struggle to share their stories. Her activism is also shaped by her personal experience of surviving a suicide cluster during her senior year of high school, which tragically claimed the lives of five teenagers. She recognizes the “suicide narrative” as one of the most perilous aspects of gender ideology. Wildfire has found a platform to express her thoughts on X, where she often shares her strong and lengthy opinions. Her words have resonated with many readers, amplifying her voice in the public sphere. Follow her on X @WildfireWhisper Books mentioned in this episode:18 Months: A Memoir of a Marriage Lost to Gender Identity, by Shannon Thrace 00:00 Start[00:00:12] Cultural taboo and AGP dynamics.[00:06:49] Healing from AGP relationships.[00:11:21] Psychological impact of cross-dressing.[00:14:43] Cultural taboo and paraphilias.[00:19:52] AGP men and nurturing dynamics.[00:26:05] Narcissism and insatiability in relationships.[00:29:37] Recovery potential for narcissism.[00:35:06] Reality versus pleasure principle.[00:38:31] Stages of sexualization and craving.[00:46:24] The power of naming.[00:52:03] Spiritual attachments and addictions.[00:52:26] Frequency and spiritual connection.[00:58:30] Influence of psychological technology.[01:02:53] Toxic envy and admiration.[01:10:03] Healing from sexual addiction.[01:12:01] Helping others with gender issues. ROGD REPAIR Course + Community gives concerned parents instant access to over 120 lessons providing the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2025 to take 50% off your first month. TALK TO ME: book a meeting. PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate. ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI. MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.  ALL OTHER LINKS HERE. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend! Learn more about Do No Harm. Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com. Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi. Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products. Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI. Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission. Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 15m
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    About

    You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist intimately explores the human experience while critiquing the state of the counseling profession as it yields to cultural madness. Your host, Stephanie Winn, distills years of wisdom gained from her practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as she pivots away from treating patients, and toward the question of how to apply psychology to the novel dilemmas of the 21st century. What does ethical mental health care look like in a normless age, as our moral compasses spin in search of true north? How can therapists treat patients under pressure to affirm everything from the notion of gender identity to assisted suicide? Stephanie invites heretical, free-thinking guests from many walks of life, including current and former therapists, medical professionals, writers, researchers, and people with unique lived experience, such as detransitioners. Curious about many things, Stephanie’s interdisciplinary psychological lens investigates challenging social issues and inspires transformation in the self, relationships, and society. Pick up a torch to illuminate the dark night and join us on this journey through the inner wilderness.

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