Michael faces breakup blues while Louie shares dating advice from therapy. They dive into grief, guilt, family dynamics, and how relational thinking shapes love and connection.

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BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy.

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Michael is in the middle of the breakup blues, and Louie brings fresh dating advice straight from his therapist.

This week on Secondhand Therapy, Michael opens up about how grief impacts the brain in ways similar to addiction, while Louie reflects on the guilt he feels enjoying his partner’s family more than his own. They explore why talking politics with family rarely works, and what therapy teaches about boundaries, guilt, and connection.

Michael also unpacks the difference between relational and non-relational thinking, and how those patterns affect the way we approach love, conflict, and family.

It’s a vulnerable, funny, and deeply relatable conversation about breakups, grief, dating, family dynamics, and learning how to navigate relationships without losing yourself.

Support the pod:

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818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Keywords: breakup podcast, dating advice, grief and the brain, therapy podcast, mental health podcast, family dynamics, guilt in relationships, politics and family, relational thinking, addiction and grief, unlicensed therapy, men’s mental health, emotional boundaries, personal growth podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Abortion advocate Sophie Nir joins us to unpack stigma, misinformation, and advocacy — from “abortion positivity” to global rights, men’s roles, and why abortion must be seen as a social good.

Take Our Survey --> http://bit.ly/secondhandtherapy-survey

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy.

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Abortion is one of the most stigmatized topics in society — and this conversation takes it head-on.

In this episode, we sit down with abortion advocate Sophie Nir to explore the realities of abortion rights, stigma, and advocacy. Together, we unpack:

• How stigma and misinformation shape the abortion debate
• Why shifting to “abortion positivity” changes the conversation
• The role of partners and men in supporting reproductive rights
• The global landscape of abortion vs. the unique challenges in the U.S.
• How language, culture, and politics influence the way abortion is understood
• Why abortion should be recognized as a social good, not a source of shame

We also share personal perspectives on identity, political beliefs, and the intersections of global conflicts — including Israel–Palestine — with conversations around justice, autonomy, and control of women’s bodies.

It’s a raw, informative, and deeply personal discussion about reproductive rights, stigma, advocacy, and the urgent need for a cultural shift in how we talk about abortion.

https://www.abortionpositivity.com/

http://instagram.com/abortionpositivity

http://tiktok.com/@abortionpositivity

Support the pod:

PATREON - http://patreon.com/secondhandtherapypod

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Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

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Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

topics: abortion rights podcast, reproductive rights, abortion stigma, abortion positivity, women’s autonomy, abortion advocacy, misinformation on abortion, men and abortion debate, global abortion access, U.S. abortion laws, reproductive justice, language and advocacy, abortion as a social good, secondhand therapy podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael admits failure embarrasses him. Louie confesses to a codependent moment. Together they explore imperfection, relationships, and what growth really looks like.

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy.

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

In this episode, he shares how failure feels embarrassing, why imperfection is so uncomfortable, and what it means to be okay with being seen as flawed. Louie and Michael debate the phrase “figure it out” — is it tough love or secretly insulting?

Michael opens up about practicing reliance and verbal processing with the people in his life, while Louie reflects on a recent codependent moment that sparks tension between them.

It’s a vulnerable and funny conversation about trying new things, embracing failure, communication in relationships, and the messy process of personal growth.

Support the pod:

PATREON - http://patreon.com/secondhandtherapypod

MERCH - http://secondhandtherapypod.com

Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

http://tiktok.com/@secondhandtherapypod

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

topics: therapy podcast, mental health podcast, embracing imperfection, learning to fail, vulnerability, codependency recovery, communication in relationships, personal growth podcast, men’s mental health, self acceptance, trying new hobbies, emotional growth, unlicensed therapy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louie reflects on radical acceptance, family wounds, and whether he truly desires a connection with his father.

This week, Louie and Michael unpack the idea of fatherhood — from the hypothetical qualities they wish they’d had in a dad, to what it means to grow up without a father figure. Louie challenges Michael’s story of not having one, and shares his perspective on who carries the responsibility for repairing parent–child relationships.

Michael opens up about how codependency and avoidance have shaped his romantic life, especially in a long-distance relationship. He shares the painful reality of emotional whiplash — the push–pull, yo-yo effect — and how it impacts intimacy, trust, and connection.

It’s a vulnerable and raw conversation about fathers, family dynamics, codependency, and the difficult process of learning to accept people as they are while still protecting your own emotional health.

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy.

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Support the pod:

PATREON - http://patreon.com/secondhandtherapypod

MERCH - http://secondhandtherapypod.com

Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

http://tiktok.com/@secondhandtherapypod

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Topics: therapy podcast, mental health podcast, radical acceptance, father wounds, fatherhood, absent father, family dynamics, repairing parent–child relationships, codependency recovery, long distance relationships, emotional whiplash, yo-yo relationships, self-growth, unlicensed therapy, breakups, heartbreak

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louie has a bone to pick with the audience over last week’s episode — and his therapist has thoughts.

This week, Louie unpacks why being “hard to argue with” might be hurting his relationships, and what it really means to meet people where they are without losing yourself. Michael shares a fresh example of Louie’s dismissive side and opens up about the possibility of having Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

Louie reflects on a recent conversation with his mom that stirred unexpected discomfort, while Michael shares lessons from his CODA (Codependents Anonymous) meetings about boundaries, connection, and self-awareness.

It’s an honest, funny, and vulnerable conversation about communication, self-growth, family dynamics, and the messy process of trying to show up authentically in relationships.

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy.

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Support the pod:

PATREON - http://patreon.com/secondhandtherapypod

MERCH - http://secondhandtherapypod.com

Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

http://tiktok.com/@secondhandtherapypod

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Topics discussed: therapy podcast, mental health podcast, rejection sensitive dysphoria, RSD, codependency recovery, CODA meetings, family dynamics, emotional boundaries, self-awareness, meeting people where they are, communication in relationships, personal growth, unlicensed therapy podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael and Louie get real about boundaries, control, and what it takes to accept people — especially family — as they are.

This week, Louie opens up about deciding to accept his mom for who she is, letting go of the hope for a deeper emotional connection, and navigating the grief that comes with a more shallow relationship. Michael shares how childhood neglect, acts of service, and the loss of key family support have shaped the way he gives and receives love. Together, they unpack emotional walls (“the bricks”), codependency, the need for validation, and how old wounds show up in adult relationships. And then we get into a fight over communication. Autism vs ADHD: the Showdown.

It’s raw, unfiltered, and sometimes hilarious — a deep dive into family dynamics, attachment, emotional boundaries, and why some conversations feel like battles.

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy..

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Support the pod:

PATREON - http://patreon.com/secondhandtherapypod

MERCH - http://secondhandtherapypod.com

Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

http://tiktok.com/@secondhandtherapypod

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Topics discussed: therapy podcast, mental health podcast, family boundaries, mother-son relationship, emotional boundaries, letting go of control, accepting family, childhood neglect, acts of service love language, codependency recovery, inner critic, family dynamics, grief and loss, personal growth, unlicensed therapy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louie’s new therapist introduced him to Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — and it’s already getting personal.

In what early listeners have called our "most beautiful episode yet"... Louie brings EFT-style attachment questions to the pod, exploring what he and Michael learned from their families about vulnerability, emotional safety, and connection. They reflect on how their mothers shaped their ability (or inability) to express feelings, the emotional roles they were expected to play, and what it means to unlearn emotional avoidance as adults.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why is vulnerability so hard for me?” — this one’s for you.

topics: emotionally focused therapy, EFT, therapy podcast, attachment styles, emotional vulnerability, childhood trauma, family dynamics, inner child healing, men’s mental health, emotional avoidance, healing relationships, therapy questions, how to be vulnerable, funny therapy podcast

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy..

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Support the pod:

PATREON - Join Patreon for Exclusives

MERCH - Shop Merch

Follow us here:

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http://instagram.com/itsloubear

http://instagram.com/malonecomedy

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael has a new therapist — again — and session one gets heavy fast.

In this episode, Michael opens up about his childhood introduction to pornography, the grief of losing his mom, and how he's been (literally) conjuring her in his mind. He shares his fears around trying new things, the weight of codependency, and the haunting voice of his inner critic… which sounds a lot like his mother. Louie joins in to reflect on shame, identity, and the early experiences that shaped them both.

It’s an honest, funny, and deeply emotional conversation about therapy, loss, childhood trauma, and learning how to grow without the people who shaped us — for better or worse.

Topics: mental health podcast, grief and loss, inner critic, codependency, childhood trauma, therapy session, pornography addiction, men’s mental health, self-discovery, healing journey, comedy and grief, emotional resilience, parent wound, unlicensed therapy podcast

BetterHelp:

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor. Visit https://betterhelp.com/secondhandtherapy for a discount on your first month of therapy..

If you have questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are credentialed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation, here is an overview written by the YouTube creators behind the channel Cinema Therapy that goes into these topics: https://www.reddit.com/r/cinema_therapy/comments/1dpriql/addressing_the_betterhelp_concerns_headon_deep/

Support the pod:

PATREON - Join Patreon for Exclusives

MERCH - Shop Merch

Follow us here:

http://instagram.com/secondhandtherapypod

http://tiktok.com/@secondhandtherapypod

http://instagram.com/itsloubear

http://instagram.com/malonecomedy

Contact us:

secondhandtherapypod@gmail.com

818-850-2448

PO BOX 230595, Las Vegas, NV 89105

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.