What is the essential self and how do we get in touch with it enough that it becomes a trusted leader for all of our parts? Today we welcome Dr. Alison Cook, therapist and host of the top-ranked podcast, The Best of You, to talk about the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and how it can help all of us do some important healing work toward integration. We also discuss her new book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action.

In this episode, we explore:

• What the 3 distinct parts of the personality are and the role each plays

• The 8 Cs of the Self

• The importance of learning to honor the inner tension of mixed emotions

Dr. Cook also shares her 3-step process to reconcile mixed emotions and foster self-acceptance. Tune in for practical insights that can help you integrate your parts and find harmony with your essential self.

About Dr. Alison Cook

Dr. Alison Cook is a therapist and host of the top-ranked The Best of You podcast. Originally from Wyoming, Dr. Alison studied at Dartmouth College (BA), Denver Seminary (MA), and the University of Denver (PhD), where she specialized in integrating psychology and theology. Dr. Alison’s doctoral dissertation centered on the relationship between religion and prejudice. She is certified in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and is the author of the ECPA bestselling book The Best of You and coauthor of Boundaries for Your Soul, with nearly 100,000 copies sold– based on the popular IFS therapy model. Widely recognized as an expert at the intersection of faith and psychology, Dr. Alison empowers individuals to heal from past wounds, develop a strong sense of self, and forge healthy relationships. Her newest book, I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What’s Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action released earlier this year.

Today we welcome the incredible Finnian Kelly, an Enneagram 7 and author of the groundbreaking book, Intentionality: A Groundbreaking Guide to Brain Consciousness and Radical Self-Transformation.

In this episode, Finnian shares his journey of discovering his Enneagram type and the insights he's gained along the way as it pertains to his work and relationships. We discuss the significance of breathwork in cultivating intentionality and emotional awareness. Finnian shares a simple yet effective breathwork exercise that you can practice anytime you feel triggered or activated. This technique can help you pause, gain clarity, and make more conscious choices in your life.

Tune in to discover valuable insights and practical tools to help you bring more intentionality into your life.

This week, we welcome back beloved author and pastor, Max Lucado for a meaningful conversation about a range of topics, including the emotional landscape of shame and guilt, the nuances of addiction and how it manifests in various forms beyond substance abuse, and Max’s new book What Happens Next: A Travelers’ Guide Through The End of This Age.

In this episode, we explore:

• the distinction between guilt and shame and how these feelings can impact our relationships with ourselves, others, and God
• the nuances of addiction and how it manifests in various forms beyond substance abuse
• how the Twelve Steps offer a transformative path for everyone, regardless of their struggles
• what eschatology is and the significance of understanding end times in a contemporary context

Whether you're navigating personal challenges, seeking deeper understanding of yourself, or curious about the intersection of faith and psychology, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.