

The Work of Being Human
Vanessa Bentley
This is a podcast about facing truth in a world that keeps offering better-sounding lies. We talk about the ideas people organize their lives around—spiritually, psychologically, relationally, and culturally—and what those ideas actually do to real human beings when lived out. Some episodes lean clinical, some philosophical, some cultural, some theological—but the backbone is the same: human beings heal when we face reality and embrace our humanity. We believe Truth is discoverable, and orienting our lives around it — that's the Work of Being Human.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 17, 2025 • 40min
Drill Down to the Real Issue: Your Belief Systems
This week we delve into the real issue... past the emotions, the mental distress, the "diagnosis" your psychiatrist uses to categorize you. We look at the REAL root cause of ALL mental and emotional distress. Hint: it's not a brain malfunction or a chemical imbalance. It's far simpler than that: it's what you believe about yourself and the world. Yes, your belief systems are shaping your entire life. But what if they're false? What if we've built our entire life on a belief system that can't stand the test of scrutiny? This week, we dive into what shapes our belief systems that literally lie at the root of who we believe we are and every decision we make, and we address how to shift them if we discover that they aren't congruent with reality, that is to say... if they're not true. Belief systems are the root of mental health and mental distress. It's time we start really understanding this.

Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 24min
Dr. Chip Dodd: A Champion for the Human Heart
I interviewed one of my heroes! Dr. Chip Dodd, author of the seminal and bestselling book "The Voice of the Heart," is our guest on this week's podcast. Get ready to understand your feelings and how you're made to function. Get ready to feel restored to YOURSELF. Get ready for truth bomb after truth bomb. And get ready to take copious notes. If a podcast has the ability to heal you, this is the one. (Sorry for the audio quality on my end. My mic wasn't properly attached. But don't listen to me anyways. Listen to Chip!)https://www.chipdodd.com The song Chip talked about: https://youtu.be/x8aEVJQhyOg?si=zUldWdzkOYGhDUhr

Jan 27, 2025 • 39min
You Can't Grow IF...
This week we take a closer look at why some people grow and change, and some don't. We'll unpack what is necessary for inner transformation to occur. Hint: it's simple but not easy. Most people will NOT do the work and simply live their lives blaming others and making excuses, but for those who brave themselves, transformation is inevitable.
For more information about online groups: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact
To contact me about the podcast: thepodcast@vanessalondino.com

Jan 20, 2025 • 41min
How to Leave the Past in the Past
Human beings have a unique relationship with the past that sets us apart from any other animal: we can meaningfully reflect on the past and learn from it. Unfortunately, this also means that we get stuck in it sometimes. This week, we tackle what a healthy relationship with the past looks like. Why should we talk about and reflect on the past, and when? And how do we shut the door and move on?
Send me an email about the podcast! I’d love to hear from you:
thepodcast@vanessalondino.com
For information about Online groups: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact
If you’d like to cry with me while listening to “The Time Machine:” https://youtu.be/c0UfOH21ptE?si=BMUEKsuCGWVmIA2g

Jan 13, 2025 • 31min
Healthy and Unhealthy Pain (Yes, some pain is healthy.)
Pain is inevitable. It's an unavoidable truth. Yet, we all want to avoid it and end it as quickly as possible. Without being wise about what kind of pain is good and healthy and what kind of pain is unhealthy, we risk trying to rid ourselves of ALL pain, and we won't grow as a result. This week, we analyze healthy and unhealthy pain and what to do about both. If life is pain (and it is), we need to consider our pain carefully and purposefully.
** If you like this podcast, please subscribe and share! **
To join the online group and learn how to develop an unconditional and irrevocable Self-Love: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact
To send me an email about the podcast: thepodcast@vanessalondino.com
If you'd like a good cry, listen to "The Time Machine" by Colin Ray: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0UfOH21ptE

Jan 6, 2025 • 36min
No Excuses
Welcome to a new year, Everyone! This week we examine the motivation and mechanics of change. What makes changes really stick? And role does excuse making have in our attempts at growth?
for more information on groups: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact
To send me info or questions about the podcast : thepodcast@vanessalondino.com

Dec 16, 2024 • 29min
The Four Books You Must Read at the Start of Every Year
As we wind down a year, let's plan to start 2025 with our best foot forward. This week, we explore the four books you should read at the start of every year. They're refreshers and reminders of what a sound, mentally healthy life looks like. (No, my book isn't in the top four, but it did receive an honorable mention. ;-))
For more information on the online group: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact
To order the Toolbox: https://www.amazon.com/Toolbox-Tools-Build-Relationships-Repair/dp/1736381318/ref=sr_1_1?crid=S4J2K5DQ2R3B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XjU3lr1rKkpRsHzhBrV93g.jAb0HCS-FOvks5ilx8hTuv_8Rum80u81ny3elCdAp8E&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+toolbox+vanessa+londino&qid=1734320455&sprefix=the+toolbox+vane%2Caps%2C172&sr=8-1

Nov 18, 2024 • 42min
David Thornton: Healing the Soul (a follow up to “You Are Holy”)
You might remember our previous interview with Dr. David Thornton called "You Are Holy." He's a therapist in the Nashville, TN area who specializes in spiritual abuse, and because we simply can't get enough of David, he's back to point us on another path toward our true selves, toward healing. So sit back, get yourself a cup of tea, and let David's voice guide you into the places you fear, only to realize that the only thing there is Love.
For more information on David: https://davidthorntontherapy.com

Nov 5, 2024 • 33min
Get a Thicker Skin! (Or don't)
We've all heard the phrase: "get a thicker skin." It means to toughen up, not let things affect you, don't be so sensitive, or don't take it personally. This week we look at this common phrase and the harm it causes. It's part of family dysfunction, and it's actually a reaction to unnecessary cruelty. What kind of boundaries can we set with aggressive people? Or should we all try to just get a thicker skin?
For more info on the online group: https://www.vanessalondino.com/contact

Oct 7, 2024 • 60min
Valentina Bain: What's Genes Got to Do with It?
This week, Valentina Bain - an epigenetic coach - walks us through how our genes affect our mental and physical health. Yes, our genes! The genetic blueprint of our entire life from the moment of conception to death. Are we fighting nature? Are we aligned with what our bodies actually want and need? Valentina breaks it down and makes it possible to approach your own personal health with precision.
Website- www.ValentinaBain.com
Instagram- @valentina.bain


