This special episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast brings back Evan Weinberger, founder of Staying Ahead of the Game, to answer listener questions on executive functioning. Hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner explore practical strategies for overcoming procrastination, building problem-solving skills, and understanding cultural influences on productivity. Evan shares insights on how parents, professionals, and students can develop systems tailored to their unique challenges.

Key Points:

- [0:40] - Procrastination and Productivity Hacks

The hosts and Evan discuss their personal struggles with procrastination and strategies for initiating tasks when motivation is low.

- [7:18] - Executive Functioning Defined

Evan explains executive functioning as the brain's "air traffic control system" for managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and decisions.

- [12:40] - Learned Helplessness in Families

How well-meaning parents may unintentionally reinforce dependency in kids, limiting their executive functioning growth.

- [20:45] - Teaching Problem-Solving Skills

Evan shares how failure and natural consequences can help children and employees develop better problem-solving abilities.

- [30:15] - Cultural Influences on Executive Functioning

A fascinating discussion on how cultural norms, such as attitudes toward punctuality or politeness, shape perceptions of productivity.

Quotable Moments:

[7:35] "Executive functioning is like the brain’s air traffic control system—it keeps all the planes from crashing." - Evan Weinberger

[20:20] "We don’t learn from our successes; we grow from our failures." - Evan Weinberger

[33:18] "Your system might work for you, but it might not work for everyone else—and that’s okay." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

Links Mentioned:

• Staying Ahead of the Game: https://saotg.com/
• Harvard Center on the Developing Child: https://developingchild.harvard.edu
• The Anxiety Society Podcast: https://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com

This episode is packed with actionable tips for tackling executive functioning challenges. Whether you're a parent looking to support your child, a professional navigating workplace demands, or someone working on personal growth, there’s something here for you. Share this episode with someone who might benefit, and don’t forget to leave a review to help others find The Anxiety Society Podcast.

The salient point of this podcast episode revolves around the intricate dynamics of anxiety within relationships, particularly as we explore how it manifests in the lives of our guests, Callie and Tyler. As therapists who have personally navigated their own journeys with anxiety, we delve into the nuances of communication and support that are vital in fostering a healthy partnership. Throughout our discussion, we highlight the importance of understanding one another’s triggers and the necessity of establishing boundaries to prevent anxiety from overwhelming the relationship. This episode is characterized by a candid examination of their experiences, including the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to maintain balance and connection amid the chaos of life. Ultimately, we aspire to illuminate the pathways through which couples can cultivate resilience and empathy, thereby transforming anxiety into an opportunity for growth and deeper intimacy.

Takeaways:

• The Anxiety Society Podcast delves into the societal implications of anxiety and its prevalence in contemporary life, providing a nuanced understanding of its origins.
• Listeners are invited to reflect on their own anxiety journeys and how they can actively participate in transformative discussions surrounding mental health.
• The candid conversations between the hosts illustrate the importance of open communication in relationships, particularly when navigating the complexities of anxiety and support.
• Therapy is emphasized as a crucial tool for personal growth and relationship enhancement, highlighting the value of seeking professional guidance for mental wellness.
• The podcast encourages listeners to challenge societal norms regarding anxiety and to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal change and growth.
• By sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights, the hosts aim to destigmatize anxiety and foster a supportive community for those affected by mental health issues.

Links referenced in this episode:

• anxietysocietypodcast.com
• instagram.com/anxietysocietypod

In this episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner sit down with Evan Weinberger, an expert in executive functioning. Together, they explore the essentials of executive functioning skills—what they are, why they matter, and how to develop them. Evan shares practical strategies for improving organization, time management, and self-presentation while reflecting on personal and professional anecdotes that highlight the importance of building effective systems.

Key Points:

- [0:08] - Introduction to Anxiety and Executive Functioning

Dr McIngvale and Cali kick off the episode discussing how executive functioning skills are vital for managing anxiety and staying productive.

- [2:10] - Meet Evan Weinberger

Evan shares his unique journey from studying psychology and coaching executives to helping kids master essential life skills.

- [5:44] - The Modern Attention Span Crisis

Evan delves into how today's constant digital stimulation impacts our attention spans and executive functioning.

- [25:08] - The Role of Transitions in Executive Functioning

Why life changes like becoming a parent or transitioning to college can disrupt systems—and how to adapt.

- [45:03] - Teaching Kids Early Habits

Practical tips for parents to model and teach organizational routines to children.

- [1:00:15] - Building Systems That Work for You

Evan emphasizes the importance of finding personalized systems for managing time, tasks, and impressions.

Quotable Moments:

[5:10] "The hardest part of school isn't the material—it's juggling everything without letting the balls fall." - Evan Weinberger

[27:14] "Transitions bring turbulence, but they also push us to build better systems." - Evan Weinberger

[45:46] "Modeling is the most powerful way to teach—your kids are always watching." - Evan Weinberger

Links Mentioned:

• The Anxiety Society: https://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com/
• Staying Ahead of the Game: https://saotg.com/
• The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University: https://developingchild.harvard.edu/
• Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: https://a.co/d/aUoeV3y

Evan inspires us to rethink our relationship with organization and productivity. Whether you’re a student, parent, or professional, improving your executive functioning can lead to a more balanced, efficient life. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. For more resources, visit our website or follow us on social media.

In this Q&A episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner tackle listener questions about anxiety's root causes, diagnosis, and treatment. From understanding the differences between generalized anxiety and OCD to exploring the challenges of cultural stigma, this episode is packed with actionable advice and expert insights. Plus, a teaser for a future episode on parenting anxieties!

Key Points:

- [0:25] - Embracing Listener Questions

Why Q&A episodes foster real-world conversations and encourage audience engagement.

- [3:00] - Personal Anxious Moments

Carly and Elizabeth share recent experiences, including road rage incidents and wedding social fatigue.

- [6:00] - Understanding Anxiety’s Roots

Anxiety often stems from the fear of uncertainty and societal pressures for immediacy and certainty.

- [11:10] - How to Get Diagnosed with Anxiety

The difference between full psychological assessments and clinical diagnoses through therapy.

- [15:00] - Types of Anxiety Disorders

A breakdown of common conditions like OCD, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and phobias.

- [20:02] - Cultural and Societal Influences on Anxiety

How cultural norms, stigma, and socioeconomic factors shape anxiety experiences and treatment access.

- [24:15] - Managing Anxiety-Inducing Situations

Tips for addressing triggers in everyday life, such as work stress, relationship conflicts, and public speaking fears.

- [28:40] - Anxiety Treatment Misconceptions

Debunking myths about quick fixes and highlighting the importance of evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy.

- [32:10] - The Role of Self-Compassion in Anxiety Management

How being kind to yourself can reduce the intensity of anxious feelings and improve resilience.

- [37:20] - Parenting and Anxiety

A sneak peek into how parental anxiety impacts children, with a promise of a deeper dive in the next episode.

Quotable Moments:

[6:35] "Anxiety latches onto what matters to us most—our values, our goals, our loved ones." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

[11:50] "A psych assessment is like a full diagnostic roadmap; therapy is your car on the journey to healing." - Carly Werner

[29:40] "Treatment for anxiety isn't about getting rid of it—it's about changing your relationship with it." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

Links Mentioned:

• Anxiety Society Podcast - Submit a Question: https://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov
• John Hirschfeld’s Book on Mindfulness for OCD: https://a.co/d/8THN7M1

Thanks for tuning in to this special Q&A episode! Keep submitting your questions at our website to be featured in upcoming episodes. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram at @theanxietysocietypod. Together, we can transform how we navigate anxiety.

In this episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner are joined by the dynamic Deborah Duncan, host of Great Day Houston. Deborah shares her inspiring journey through adversity, reflecting on personal growth, resilience, and leadership. Together, they explore the role of anxiety in shaping our responses to challenges, discuss the importance of embracing failure, and reveal how we can turn life’s obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Key Points:

- [0:40] - Introducing Deborah Duncan

Deborah recounts her career journey, including her time as a news anchor and talk show host, and how life’s challenges shaped her path.

- [6:02] - Anxious Moments and Public Life

A hilarious and poignant start: Deborah’s Halloween mishap and a reflective discussion on managing anxiety in public roles.

- [10:50] - The Power of Failure and Resilience

How childhood struggles with math and an empathetic teacher taught Deborah the importance of persistence and asking for help.

- [20:30] - Navigating Workplace Challenges

Deborah opens up about workplace adversities, the lessons they taught her, and how they prepared her for greater opportunities.

- [30:45] - The Cost of Overprotection

A candid conversation about how shielding younger generations from adversity can hinder growth and resilience.

- [40:20] - Leadership and Constructive Feedback

Deborah shares her approach to coaching employees, balancing humor, compassion, and accountability to foster growth.

- [48:12] - Failure as a Stepping Stone

Insights into reframing failure as a natural part of growth, and how to use it to propel you toward success.

Quotable Moments:

[10:55] "Failure isn’t the end—it’s the clearing for what’s next." - Deborah Duncan

[30:47] "We’ve done a disservice by shielding people from adversity; it’s the struggle that builds strength." - Cali Werner

[48:15] "The alligator eats the most! It’s about finding the way you learn best." - Deborah Duncan

Links Mentioned:

• Great Day Houston: https://www.greatdayhouston.com
• What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey: https://a.co/d/7hxRLsk
• The Anxiety Society Podcast: https://www.anxietysocietypodcast.com

Deborah Duncan’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and perspective. By embracing adversity and reframing failure, we can all grow stronger. Don’t forget to subscribe, share the episode with friends, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Cali Werner and Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale, tackle the underlying fears driving anxiety. Listen in as they dive deep into the concept of core fears—the hidden drivers behind anxiety that shape behaviors and emotions. Through personal stories and candid conversations, they explore how core fears manifest in our daily lives, from health concerns to relationship struggles

Key Points:

- [0:01] - Defining Core Fears

The hosts introduce the concept of core fears—fundamental anxieties that shape our decisions and emotions—and discuss how understanding them can lead to meaningful change.

- [15:00] - Health, Diet, and Anxiety

Personal stories and discussions around how health concerns and modern diets contribute to anxiety, with a focus on finding balance and making realistic changes.

- [25:00] - How Core Fears Impact Behavior

Using examples like fear of abandonment and fear of responsibility, the hosts break down how core fears drive anxiety responses in daily life.

- [30:00] - Addressing Intrusive Thoughts and Irrational Fears

Jon Hershfield explains the role of intrusive thoughts in anxiety disorders and offers tools for tackling them through mindfulness and CBT.

- [35:00] - Taking Action Against Anxiety

The team provides a roadmap for overcoming anxiety by identifying triggers, confronting fears, and embracing uncertainty for long-term growth.

Quotable Moments:

- [5:30] "Anxiety isn't just something we feel—it's a lens that colors how we see the world. And that lens is often shaped by our core fears." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

- [22:45] "Real change happens when you stop treating the symptoms of anxiety and start digging into its roots." - Cali Werner

- [34:00] "Freedom lies not in eliminating uncertainty, but in learning to live with it." - Jon Hershfield

Links Mentioned:

- Podcast Instagram: [@TheAnxietySocietyPod: https://instagram.com/TheAnxietySocietyPod

Thank you for joining us on this insightful episode of the Anxiety Society podcast! Dive deeper into these discussions by subscribing to the show, or leaving a review.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Cali Werner and Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale are joined by Jon Hershfield, MFT, the Director of The Center for OCD and Anxiety, for a compelling discussion on the rise of anxiety in today’s world. Together, they dive into the uncomfortable truths about how anxiety takes root in our daily lives and uncover actionable strategies to break its hold. From the transformative power of mindfulness to the life-changing tools of dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT). This episode offers fresh perspectives and practical insights for anyone ready to reclaim their peace of mind and live a more empowered life. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!

Key Points:

[0:00] - Introduction to Anxiety Society Podcast

Cali and Dr. McIngvale introduce the Anxiety Society podcast, sharing their mission to dive deep into the topics surrounding anxiety in an honest and raw way.

[4:00] - The Rise of Anxiety in Society

The hosts discuss how society's collective anxiety has escalated, offering insight into how and why anxiety has become so pervasive.

[4:14] - What is DBT?

Jon H. explains the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and how it integrates mindfulness.

[13:00] - Breaking Free from Anxiety's Grip

Cali and Dr. McIngvale delve into actionable steps to overcome anxiety, emphasizing the importance of shifting perspectives and tackling it head-on.

[20:00] - The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Anxiety

Mindfulness techniques are explored as a practical tool to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms.

[27:05] - Mindfulness Practices for Anxiety

Practical mindfulness strategies from DBT that listeners can apply immediately.

[39:32] - Breaking Down Common Myths

Addressing misconceptions about mindfulness and its role in anxiety treatment.

[30:00] - Dealing with Anxiety Triggers

The conversation shifts to understanding specific triggers of anxiety and strategies for managing them in daily life.

[52:21] - Final Thoughts and Resources

Wrapping up with actionable advice and an invitation to explore additional resources on the podcast website.

Quotable Moments:

- [4:30] "We are not just talking about anxiety, we are living it, and that’s where the real conversation begins." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

- [13:30] "Anxiety isn't something we can simply 'fix.' It's about learning how to coexist with it, to understand it, and ultimately to change our relationship with it." - Cali Werner

- [30:45] "Mindfulness gives us the ability to pause, to breathe, and to regain control in the midst of our most anxious moments." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

Links Mentioned:

-Shepherd Pratt: https://www.sheppardpratt.org/why-sheppard-pratt/our-experts/details/jon-hershfield-mft/

- Website: [Anxiety Society Podcast: https://anxietysocietypodcast.com

- Instagram: [@TheAnxietySocietyPod: https://instagram.com/TheAnxietySocietyPod

Thank you for tuning into this powerful episode of the Anxiety Society podcast. If you found these insights helpful, please subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to help others find this message.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.

In this heartfelt episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, host Cali Werner dives into the complexities of grief with guest Megan Jarvis, a trauma-trained psychotherapist, podcast host and author. They discuss the interplay between grief and anxiety, the importance of learning to "live with loss," and practical tools for managing grief during the holiday season. Megan shares her personal journey with grief and explains how understanding the body's response to trauma can help us navigate profound loss.

Key Points:

[0:06] - Welcome to The Anxiety Society Podcast

The mission of the podcast and welcoming Megan Jarvis for an important discussion about grief.

[0:57] - Anxious Moments of the Week

Cali and Megan reflect on their anxiety triggers, from holiday chaos to public speaking mishaps, highlighting the universal challenges of managing mental health.

[8:27] - Megan's Journey into Grief Therapy

Megan shares her personal story of childhood trauma, how it shaped her anxiety, and her eventual path to becoming a trauma therapist.

[15:00] - The Intersection of Grief and Anxiety

Insightful conversation on how grief triggers anxiety, why we react as we do, and tools like EMDR that help regulate our responses.

[34:22] - Tips for Grieving During the Holidays

Megan introduces strategies like the "Triangle of Trust" and mindfulness techniques to stay present and manage grief in emotionally charged situations.

[47:06] - Redefining the New Normal

Megan challenges cultural norms around grief and shares her vision for a more educated, compassionate approach to handling loss.

Quotable Moments:

[4:57] "If you want to know the answer to anxiety, it’s being okay with good enough." — Megan Jarvis

[34:29] "Instead of avoiding pain, ask: how can I be present for whatever comes up?" — Megan Jarvis

[47:43] "Grief isn’t about letting go; it’s learning to live with the loss." — Megan Jarvis

Links Mentioned:

- Megan Jarvis’s Website: https://meghanriordanjarvis.com/

- Grief is My Side Hustle Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grief-is-my-side-hustle/id1568936089

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tKoHpy88JWZEhPz0gREkY

- Book: Can Anyone Tell Me? Essential Questions About Grief and Loss by Megan Jarvis

https://meghanriordanjarvis.com/

Grief is a universal experience that often intersects with anxiety, and this episode provides practical tools and validation for those navigating loss. As you listen, remember that there's no "right way" to grieve—it’s about showing up for yourself and others with compassion and understanding.

Stay connected with us: Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram @TheAnxietySocietyPod. Together, we can transform the conversation around anxiety and grief.

Mentioned in this episode:

World Class Treatment For A Worldwide Need

The OCD Institute of Texas provides compassionate individualized treatment for anxiety, OCD and related disorders with a diverse team of dedicated specialists.