Self-Helpless

Delanie Fischer chats with counseling psychologist and executive director of the International Cultic Studies Association, Michael D. Langone, about high-control groups and cultic dynamics. They explore key characteristics of cults (they’re more common than we think!), what can prompt people to question their involvement, recovery and healing from spiritual and psychological abuse, and how to lead groups responsibly and ethically. Episode Highlights:  3 Red Flags to Watch For When Joining Any Group What if Not Everyone Agrees Something's a Cult? Is All Religion a Cult? Why or Why Not? Creating Real Harmony: Unity vs. Uniformity Can a Family Dynamic be Considered a Cult? 2 Powerful Resources for Recovery Michael’s Diagram for Evaluating Groups How Does Someone Realize They're in a Cult? Who is Most Likely to Become a Cult Leader? What Most Cults Have in Common in the U.S. Michael's book, Recovery from Cults: Help for Victims of Psychological and Spiritual Abuse: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/recovery-from-cults-michael-d-langone/1100879783 ____ A quick 5-star rating means a lot! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: The Psychological Impact of Gaslighting with Dr. Stephanie Sarkis: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2a31527c/the-psychological-impact-of-gaslighting-with-dr-stephanie-sarkis Guilt Trips, Criticism, Lies, And Healing From The Narcissistic Family System with Psychotherapists Katie McKenna and Helen Villiers: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2219cf6e/guilt-trips-criticism-lies-and-healing-from-the-narcissistic-family-system-with-psychotherapists-katie-mckenna-and-helen-villiers Diagnosed Narcissist (Lee Hammock) and Clinical Psychologist (Dr. Ramani) Offer Insights Into Manipulation And Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/241deda3/diagnosed-narcissist-lee-hammock-and-clinical-psychologist-dr-ramani-offer-insights-into-manipulation-and-narcissistic-personality-disorder-npd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with activist and social reformer Robin Greenfield about his approach to living in harmony with the Earth. Known for powerful social experiments—like living with zero possessions, growing and foraging all of his own food for a year, and even wearing the trash he created to highlight consumer waste—Robin shares the philosophies that guide his life, practical ways to live more simply and sustainably, and how rethinking our relationship with money, consumption, and nature could transform the way we live. Episode Highlights:  Robin's Public Vows, Experiments, and Daily Routine The "100 Changes" List: Easiest vs. Hardest Robin's Hygiene Swaps: Sunscreen, Toilet Paper, Floss & More 8 Apps, Tools, and Resources for Conscious Living Why Robin Chooses to Earn Below the Federal Poverty Threshold 4 Books & Documentaries That First Inspired Him More about Robin: https://www.robingreenfield.org/ ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: How to Make Film and Art That Inspires Generations with Shaun Monson: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1ee1219a/how-to-make-film-and-art-that-inspires-generations-with-shaun-monson Upcycling, Sustainability, and Getting Resourceful With What You Have with Yousuf Ahmed: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/288296f6/upcycling-sustainability-and-getting-resourceful-with-what-you-have-with-yousuf-ahmed The Science of Generosity: How Giving Rewires Your Brain and Impacts Health & Behavior (+ What We Get Wrong About Human Nature) with Cherian Koshy: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/22b303ba/the-science-of-generosity-how-giving-rewires-your-brain-and-impacts-health-and-behavior-what-we-get-wrong-about-human-nature-with-cherian-koshy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Leslie John, Harvard professor and author of Revealing: The Underrated Power of Oversharing, about the nuanced risks and rewards of undersharing versus oversharing in our lives. They explore how the choices we make about what to reveal — and what to withhold — can profoundly shape our health, relationships, and even our careers. Leslie also shares practical, research-backed strategies for becoming a more effective and intentional sharer. Episode Highlights:  Impact of Secret-Keeping on Your IQ (+ How Undersharers Are Perceived) 3 Studies About the Pros & Cons of Undersharing vs. Oversharing Transparency in Job Interviews: What Kind of Shares Works Best Burned by Oversharing? 2 Questions to Ask Yourself Discernment & Balance: What to Share, When, and With Whom ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: How Judging Others (and Yourself) is Sabotaging You with Jessica Frew: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/3ea318d2/how-judging-others-and-yourself-is-sabotaging-you-with-jessica-frew Adult Friendships: How to Start, Nurture, and When to Let Go with Dr. Joy Berkheimer: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/368f37c7/adult-friendships-how-to-start-nurture-and-when-to-let-go-with-dr-joy-berkheimer How Confidence, Culture & Self-Worth Shape Success with Big Asian Energy’s John Wang: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/228fec8c/how-confidence-culture-and-self-worth-shape-success-with-big-asian-energys-john-wang Attention-Seeking Behaviors: Understanding Sympathy-Seeking, Root Causes, and Empathy-Based Approaches with Dr. Judy Ho: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/3a0c8810/attention-seeking-behaviors-understanding-sympathy-seeking-root-causes-and-empathy-based-approaches-with-dr-judy-ho Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with filmmaker and creator of Earthlings Shaun Monson about his creative process, evolving as an artist and activist, and balancing meaningful, niche storytelling with commercial work. He shares candid advice for filmmakers on staying true to your voice while building a sustainable creative career. Episode Highlights:  Rejection to Virality: Inspiration + Word of Mouth Shaun’s Favorite Tools & Inside His Creative Process Powerful Advice to Shaun from James Cameron Editing: How Much to Show in Non-Fiction Film 2 Genres That Support Small Budgets & Visibility Have You Tried the Opposite of Your Usual Approach? 4 Powerful Quotes for Artists and Activists Collaborating with Celebs Who Share Your Values Check out Shaun's Films: https://www.nationearth.com/ ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Filmmaker Kit Williamson on the Highs and Lows of a Creative Career: Dead Projects, Taking Control & an Unconventional Path: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1db83de7/filmmaker-kit-williamson-on-the-highs-and-lows-of-a-creative-career-dead-projects-taking-control-and-an-unconventional-path We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee Can Ambition Be Sustainable? How to Prioritize What Matters in Life and Work with Kathy Oneto: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/469eca67/can-ambition-be-sustainable-how-to-prioritize-what-matters-in-life-and-work-with-kathy-oneto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with neuroscientist and author of Smitten, Dr. Tom Bellamy, about limerence. They discuss the evolutionary roots of limerence, why only 50% of the population experiences it, guidance for those amidst infatuation (whether reciprocal or not), when it crosses the line into prolonged limerence, and practical tips for breaking the cycle of romantic obsession. Episode Highlights:  Why Romantic Partners May Not Understand Your Feelings Dopamine: The Common Misconception and How It Really Works When Limerence Should Wear Off (And What If It Doesn’t?) Prolonged Limerence: Why Eradicating Uncertainty is Key Limerence and Infatuation vs. Delusion and Stalking ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Cracking The Code To Behavior Change: Troubleshooting Tiny Barriers That Destroy Big Goals with Molly Maxwell: ⁠https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/24e651e8/cracking-the-code-to-behavior-change-troubleshooting-tiny-barriers-that-destroy-big-goals-with-molly-maxwell 7 Shocking Truths About Codependency And Addiction with Heidi Rain: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/24c74079/7-shocking-truths-about-codependency-and-addiction-with-heidi-rain The Dark Side of Fetishization: Representation, Stereotypes, and Origins with Kaila Yu: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/3b8cfe65/the-dark-side-of-fetishization-representation-stereotypes-and-origins-with-kaila-yu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Yousuf Ahmed, founder and CEO of B-SIDES, about upcycling, sustainability, and building an ethical CPG brand—from origin story to sourcing, manufacturing, and growth. Yousuf also shares the routines and mindset practices that keep him grounded through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, offering practical takeaways for anyone building a conscious business or looking for inspiration to upcycle in daily life. Episode Highlights:  Inside the Evening Ritual That Keeps Yousuf Grounded Where You Start Isn't Likely Where You'll End Up 2 Mindsets Every Entrepreneur Can Use as Needed Releasing Perfectionism for the Sake of the Mission Inside Scoop: Production in the U.S. vs. Canada ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee Q&A: Publishing, Podcasting, and Creative Entrepreneurship with Literary Agent Lindsey Smith and Podcaster Delanie Fischer: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23bfb9d7/qanda-publishing-podcasting-and-creative-entrepreneurship-with-literary-agent-lindsey-smith-and-podcaster-delanie-fischer The Shocking Ingredients in Menstrual Products: Toxic Truths, Safe Alternatives, and the Future of Period Care with Arielle Loupos: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2bd21fe3/the-shocking-ingredients-in-menstrual-products-toxic-truths-safe-alternatives-and-the-future-of-period-care-with-arielle-loupos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Cherian Koshy, author of Neurogiving and a leading researcher on generosity, about the science of giving—and why it’s not just nice, it’s powerful. They discuss the research-backed benefits of giving for mental, emotional, and physical health, and how we can leverage generosity not only to help others, but also to improve our lives, work, and relationships. Episode Highlights:  The $5 Happiness Experiment  The Baby Study: Are We Wired for Generosity or Selfishness? 4 Unconscious Biases That Drive Buying Behavior  Giving’s Health Benefits: Stress, Anxiety, Blood Pressure & Loneliness The Power of (Individual) Storytelling: Rebecca the Chicken! Tips for Nonprofit Workers Who Want to Increase Donation Efficacy The Power of Identity, Belonging, Framing, and Cognitive Dissonance ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: 10 Fascinating Tricks For More Wins And Improved Well-Being with Janice Kaplan: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23c60009/10-fascinating-tricks-for-more-wins-and-improved-well-being-with-janice-kaplan It’s Not a Mental Health Crisis: Human Reactions to a Loneliness Epidemic with Dr. Jody Carrington: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2d626d7b/its-not-a-mental-health-crisis-human-reactions-to-a-loneliness-epidemic-with-dr-jody-carrington Stop Asking Yourself the Wrong Questions: How to Unlock Deeper Fulfillment with Elliott Connie: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/365204fb/stop-asking-yourself-the-wrong-questions-how-to-unlock-deeper-fulfillment-with-elliott-connie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s another Subscriber Stories episode! Delanie Fischer chats with subscriber Sadie, who made the bold choice to stop dating for six years to focus on raising her son, deep personal growth, and meaningful friendships. Sadie shares the tools and resources that have supported her most—including ones she created herself—as well as how she met her partner when she was truly ready. Want to be considered for a "Subscriber Stories" Series episode? Apply here: https://www.delaniefischer.com/submissions Visit jonesroadbeauty.com and use code HELPLESS for a free Cool Gloss on your first order. Episode Highlights:  The Dating App Sadie Met Her Partner On Destigmatizing Sexuality for Women & Moms 2 Tips for Healthy Non-Attachment in Dating How to Make a “Bad Girl” List 1 Simple Tool to Release Everyday Guilt 2 Book Recs for Intimacy & Connection Sadie’s 1-Year Dating Experiment Sadie's website: https://www.sadiefreely.com ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on ⁠Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Reinventing Midlife: Career, Identity, and Aging Your Way with Sherri Dindal: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1e7637e8/reinventing-midlife-career-identity-and-aging-your-way-with-sherri-dindal Your Burning Relationship Questions Answered with Rachel DeAlto: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/3f1ddb9c/your-burning-relationship-questions-answered-with-rachel-dealto When You're Single At 35 (+ Eldest Daughter Syndrome) with Natalie Katona: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23f054b6/when-youre-single-at-35-eldest-daughter-syndrome-with-natalie-katona Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with the host of Cramped, Kate Downey, about why we know so little about period pain. They discuss Kate's experience with endometriosis, as well as her research findings—including expert insights on what might be at the root of period pain and menstrual cramps, little-known biological facts about menstruation and conception, historical gaps in women's health, and the latest innovations in menstrual care. Turns out, periods are way more fascinating than we’ve been told. Episode Highlights:  Latest Breakthroughs in Period Pain: 1 New Test & Treatment Menstruation Isn't Common: Only These Animals Do It How the Womb Heals Itself (and What it can Heal for Others) Forget What You've Been Told: The Egg is in Charge, Not the Sperm! The Connection Between Inflammation and Period Pain 3 Powerful Ways to Advocate for Women's Health Alright...What's the Deal with Period Poops?! Visit jonesroadbeauty.com and use code HELPLESS for a free Cool Gloss on your first order. ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Free goodies like The Quote Buffet + The Docs & Books List: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on ⁠Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: The Shocking Ingredients in Menstrual Products: Toxic Truths, Safe Alternatives, and the Future of Period Care with Arielle Loupos: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2bd21fe3/the-shocking-ingredients-in-menstrual-products-toxic-truths-safe-alternatives-and-the-future-of-period-care-with-arielle-loupos Hormone Imbalances and Your Menstrual Cycle with Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/c4a75fbe/hormone-imbalances-and-your-menstrual-cycle-with-dr-jolene-brighten Infertility, IVF, Silent Endometriosis, Adoption, Surrogacy and Creative Living with Riki Lindhome: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/233c0ebf/infertility-ivf-silent-endometriosis-adoption-surrogacy-and-creative-living-with-riki-lindhome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delanie Fischer chats with Dr. Michael Greger, physician, New York Times bestselling author, and founder of NutritionFacts.org, about the impact of meat, dairy, and eggs from both industrialized and local sources on human health. They discuss hormones, antibiotics, contaminants, toxins, and disease-causing pathogens commonly found in animal products, as well as how animal flesh, breast milk, and reproductive cells themselves affect health independent of these factors. Episode Highlights:  Why Cow’s Milk is Linked to Shorter Lifespan & Infertility  Combat the World’s #1 Killer with 1 Simple Swap The Soy Controversy: 20+ Years of Data Demystified 2 Essential Tips for Cancer Survivors Protein & Calcium Choices: Baggage vs Benefits Swap 3% of This for a 20% Longer Life 1 in 5 of These at Grocery Stores Test Positive for Salmonella Ummm What's the Deal with Rotten Egg Farts?! Have a health question? Check out the search engine at https://nutritionfacts.org/ ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Free goodies like The Quote Buffet + The Docs & Books List: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes (audio & video) now on ⁠Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Heal Your Gut, Change Your Life: Insights on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis & Everyday Digestive Issues with Dane Johnson: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1ac8b40e/heal-your-gut-change-your-life-insights-on-inflammatory-bowel-disease-ibd-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs-crohns-ulcerative-colitis-and-everyday-digestive-issues-with-dane-johnson Rethinking Alcohol: Mommy Wine Culture, Daddy Beer Culture, and More with Suzanne Warye: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1be0c2c8/rethinking-alcohol-mommy-wine-culture-daddy-beer-culture-and-more-with-suzanne-warye The Shocking Ingredients in Menstrual Products: Toxic Truths, Safe Alternatives, and the Future of Period Care with Arielle Loupos: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/2bd21fe3/the-shocking-ingredients-in-menstrual-products-toxic-truths-safe-alternatives-and-the-future-of-period-care-with-arielle-loupos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices