What if many of the beliefs you hold about yourself were taught, not chosen?

In this episode, we’re exploring how the “isms”—capitalism, racism, sexism, ableism, classism, and other systems of power— shape the way we think about our worth, our relationships, our success, and even our ability to rest.

Using psychology, trauma research, and systems thinking, we’ll examine how these forces become internalized over time and why so many of the struggles we experience are bigger than individual willpower.

We’ll also reflect on recent cultural moments and ask a deeper question:

Resources & References

The ideas explored in this episode are informed by the work of the following researchers, clinicians, and scholars:

• ​Dr. Gabor Maté – Trauma, attachment, addiction, and the mind-body connection
• ​Dr. Bruce Perry – Neurosequential Model, childhood trauma, and brain development
• ​The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Study – Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., and colleagues
• ​Dr. Bruce McEwen – Allostasis and allostatic load (how chronic stress affects the brain and body)
• ​Dr. Peter Sterling – Co-developer of the concept of allostasis

These works have profoundly influenced the trauma-informed perspective shared throughout this episode and are recommended for anyone interested in learning more.