Family Therapy, The Podcast

During this final session, the family talks about what they hope to gain from the conversation: better communication, staying in touch, meeting nieces and nephews they haven’t met, and building real togetherness across a large, spread-out family. Lance, a new voice and additional family member who joins the conversation, stresses the word "accountability"—doing what you say you’ll do—to help break generational patterns of disconnection and model unity for their kids. They discuss a past group chat that faded after misunderstandings, and how hard it is to keep momentum with busy lives and people in different states. Elliott offers three building blocks for a connected family: leadership, shared traditions, and regular routines, and proposes a “family board” made up of Chris, Gladys, Jasmine, and Lance to reengage relatives, plan reunions, and set up recurring Zoom check-ins so no one feels forgotten. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elijah captures his push and pull between craving praise, guarding against rejection, and wanting both connection and independence through a poem. Elliott explains how art can function as therapy—an outlet for emotions we can’t always say out loud, and invites listeners to think about their own safe place to put their feelings.  In the session, Elijah talks about how insecurity can make him vulnerable to controlling or demeaning “tough love,” and how that affects the power dynamics in his relationships. He shares that he often presents a more stoic public persona, even though he wants to feel more peaceful and authentic, and he’s trying to create a space where he doesn’t have to hide those softer parts of himself. Elliott challenges Elijah to build self-esteem around what he can control instead of outside feedback. Elijah decides to attach his confidence to effort, discipline, and creativity: writing, reading, drawing, cooking, and building projects, rather than whether other people notice or validate him. The episode ends with a reminder that anxiety grows when self-worth depends on variables we can’t control, and that small daily habits can move you closer to being your authentic self. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's session, we hear from Gladys, Jasmine, and Elijah as they explore themes of power versus powerlessness, finding joy amidst challenges, and building resilience. Gladys talks about her efforts to stay intentional while dating and helping Elijah feel empowered from a distance. Jasmine questions the necessity of finding positivity during times of pain. Elijah opens up about his feelings of powerlessness and the limitations of communication in influencing others. The session encourages focusing on what brings joy and mastering the skill of gratitude to build mental strength. The key message is understanding what internal power we have, even when external factors feel uncontrollable. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Elijah shares his experiences after returning home and navigating the dynamics at home. The conversation explores challenges like anxiety in family interactions, the importance of honesty, and the quest for self-expression through writing and cooking. Elijah discusses how setting boundaries and being assertive without anger can lead to personal growth and a sense of stability. The session highlights the difference between acting out of expectation versus personal choice, urging listeners to prioritize their mental health and authentic selves. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Elliott discusses a dynamic form of patience, particularly the kind tested when we deeply care about someone who isn't meeting their potential. This episode features Gladys, who shares her experience with her younger sister, Jasmine, as the latter transitions to a new environment in Georgia. Gladys illustrates her frustration, love, and the difficulty of supporting someone who isn't ready to take action. The conversation explores the challenges of dealing with old behaviors in new environments and highlights the importance of patience and participation in fostering change.  The session closes with crucial questions to help listeners manage their impatience and anxiety, emphasizing the need to ask better questions to achieve better outcomes. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Future See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a poignant moment between sisters Jasmine and Gladys as Jasmine undertakes a significant move to Georgia, both geographically and emotionally. This conversation illuminates the challenges and rewards of choosing one's own well-being, dealing with grief, embracing support, and growing in unfamiliar spaces. Gladys shares her insights as the supportive big sister, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-compassion. As Jasmine navigates this new chapter, she reflects on the complexities of longing for familiarity while striving for peace and growth. The session offers relatable insights into the human experience of change, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to rebuild one's life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Jasmine shares her journey of setting healthy boundaries with her father, highlighting the struggles and growth it entails. By learning to pause and not react aggressively, Jasmine experiences a newfound peace but is challenged by familiar tensions. The discussion centers on understanding the true purpose of boundaries, not to change others, but to protect one's own well-being and healing. The conversation underscores the importance of aligning personal goals with actions, even when it involves difficult interactions with loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to focus on their own growth and integrity, rather than expecting others to change, in order to foster healthier relationships. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore the evolving relationship between Elijah and his Uncle Chris. The session begins with both sharing their hopes for building trust and understanding each other better. Chris expresses a desire to unify the family and become a key connector, while Elijah admits to uncertainty but shows openness to understanding. Despite a technical issue causing Elijah to drop off, Chris continues to discuss his plans for reconnecting the family through consistent communication and leadership, inspired by traditional family roles like 'Big Mama.' The episode highlights the importance of ongoing commitment, small consistent actions, and the willingness to take responsibility in family relationships. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gladys and Elijah open up to one another about their hopes for growth, resolution, and deeper love in their relationship. Both speak candidly about their desire for honesty and understanding within their family. Elijah expresses his confusion about certain family conflicts and concerns, yearning for accountability and clarity. Through their stories, you'll witness a mother's unwavering pride in her son's boldness and kindness, as well as Elijah's reflections on his mother's nurturing influence. Their shared moments reveal the profound connections between them and their hopes for a healed, harmonious future. Discover the significance of consistency, the joy of cooking, and the importance of self-care and service to others in their lives. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session, Jasmine, Elijah, and Gladys discuss the importance of open communication within families to truly understand each other without blame or silencing.  Elijah raises profound questions about love and its complexity in familial interactions. The discussion moves towards how to maintain transparency and understand historical family trauma without taking things personally. The group also explores the idea of speaking their truth with care, even when responses might be offensive or triggering. This leads to a deeper understanding of boundaries and healthy love. The conversation serves as a reminder that real growth and healing come from aligning one's communication with their true self, and centers around balancing honesty with compassion. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO IS JASMINE? Jasmine shares her hopes of managing her boundaries and healing through saying 'no' to others. She reflects on her transformation from reacting aggressively to choosing calm responses, igniting her healing journey. Jasmine explores how she knows she is on her healing path by feeling healthier and maintaining positive changes in her life. Through an engaging conversation, Jasmine expresses her desire to build a supportive village, move to Atlanta, and maintain the changes she’s manifesting in her life. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone learning to set boundaries and striving for a healthier future. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO IS CHRIS? From being separated at a young age after his mother's tragic death to the struggles of growing up in foster care, Chris opens up about his life experiences and the importance of therapy in his healing process. Chris expresses how understanding his siblings' perspectives could transform his relationships and help him become a better father and grandfather. He emphasizes the value of truth, acceptance, and passing down positive life lessons to future generations. Keep listening to learn more about Chris's journey and gain inspiration from his pursuit of inner peace and happiness. Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Read: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this session of Family Therapy, Elliott Connie works with Gladys, who shares her emotional struggle and hopes to mend her relationship with her son, Elijah. After court battles, misunderstandings, and a damaging altercation, both mother and son have experienced significant pain and distance. Despite these challenges, there remains an unbroken bond, exemplified when Elijah reached out to his mother during a moment of deep despair. The therapy session aims to help Gladys reconnect with Elijah by focusing on the present and letting go of past anger and resentment. Elliott encourages Gladys to get to know her son as he is today, as this could pave the way for healing. The session closes with a powerful message about the importance of choosing healing and creating a space for connection, urging listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the emotions that may be hindering them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO IS ELIJAH? Elijah explores his past traumas and seeks clarity on his role within his family. He discusses his hopes for healing, understanding his family dynamics, and avoiding repeating past mistakes with future generations. Elijah also shares his love for working with kids and his dream of becoming a storyteller and writer. Throughout the discussion, Elijah delves into the impact of family conflicts and his aspiration to break the cycle of anger and violence. Join us on this emotional journey as Elijah reflects on his personal growth, aspirations, and the importance of self-recognition in his path to healing. Connect @ElliottSpeaks Learn More ElliottConnie.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WHO'S ALL HERE? Jasmine, along with her siblings Chris and Gladys, and her nephew Elijah, embark on a transformative journey of family healing through therapy. Led by licensed psychotherapist Elliott Connie, this session, we learn more about each person who agreed to participate and who did not. Discover how consistency, cooking, and a shared love of service play pivotal roles in their paths to personal growth and familial connection. Experience the power of vulnerability, honesty, and hope as this unique family works together to create a better future. Perfect for anyone seeking tools and support for their own healing journey. Connect @ElliottSpeaks Learn More ElliottConnie.com   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Family Therapy! Before we dive into the sessions with this Season's family, we catch up with last season's family—Jay, David, and Freddy—to see how they've been progressing. During their last sessions, we tackled issues concerning lack of confidence, adjusting to co-parenting, and personal growth. Today, we hear about David's journey back to faith with his baptism and his new role supporting special education students. Jay shares her commitment to a healthier lifestyle and her pride in her children's achievements. Both express a strong desire to move forward by living separately, emphasizing the need for personal peace and better co-parenting. Elliott encourages them to replace resentment with appreciation to create a better environment for their kids, even before they transition to separate living spaces. It's a heartfelt check-in that underscores their continuous effort and the slow, steady progress they are making. Connect @ElliottSpeaks Visit ElliottConnie.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Family Therapy, real families, real stories on a journey to heal together. Hosted by Leading Psychotherapist, Elliott Connie Listen to Season Two of Family Therapy Every Wednesday starting November 12th from the Black Effect Podcast Network.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this bonus episode of Family Therapy, host Elliott Connie guides listeners through a series of questions to help them adopt a new way of thinking and create the life they want. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the things in life that are improving and shifting from asking unproductive questions to asking useful ones. Connie shares examples of how asking positive 'what if' questions can lead to action and increased hope. He also discusses the significance of being outcome-led, making small intentional changes, and discovering one's purpose. The episode encourages listeners to pay attention to the positive shifts in their lives. Thank you for listening to Season One of Family Therapy.  Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The final session of Family Therapy focuses on forgiveness and personal growth. Each family member reflects on the impact of therapy and their hopes for the future. The conversation explores the power of positive thinking, focusing on accomplishments, and letting go of past mistakes. It emphasizes the importance of self-belief and recognizing one's own greatness. The session ends with the family members sharing their final thoughts and expressing gratitude for the healing journey they have been on.  Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The conversation covers two main themes: the impact of police violence on the Black community and the importance of breaking generational trauma within a family. Elliott's opening statement focuses on the traumatic experiences of witnessing police brutality and the fear and trauma it instills in the Black community. The second theme explores the desire to heal and reconnect within a family that has been plagued by generational trauma, estrangement, and inconsistency. This week's session highlights Jay and Freddie and the importance of forgiveness, understanding, and building strong family bonds for future generations. Freddie shares his journey of personal transformation and how he found strength through faith. They discuss the challenges of breaking generational trauma and the importance of recognizing and embracing change.  Learn More: ElliottConnie.com Connect: @ElliottSpeaks Text: 972.426.2640 Pre-Order: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.