The Love, Happiness and Success Podcast With Dr. L

Ever wonder why your relationship with money feels so complicated? It’s more than just dollars and cents—it’s emotional, it’s psychological, and it deeply affects your life and relationships. Today, I'm talking with a marriage and family therapist who specializes in financial therapy, Jillian Knight. We're diving into why understanding your relationship with money can be a total game-changer for your finances, career, and relationships. From unconscious money beliefs to how your upbringing shapes your financial habits, we cover it all. Whether you're struggling with debt, feeling anxious about spending, or having money-related conflicts with your partner, this conversation is for YOU. In this episode, we’ll discuss: What happens when we’re not self-aware about our relationship with money How money scripts influence our behaviors and decisions Why it’s crucial to approach money with empathy—not shame And most importantly, how to shift your money mindset to build a healthier, more balanced financial life Timestamps: 00:00 – Exploring Your Relationship with Money 00:49 – Introducing Jillian Knight: Financial Therapy Expert 01:21 – Understanding the Impact of Money Beliefs 04:49 – The Cultural Ideals of Financial Management 06:39 – Challenging Authoritarian Financial Advice 08:07 – Personal Stories and Financial Therapy Insights 10:53 – The Importance of Compassion in Financial Health 19:31 – Identifying Your Money Scripts 23:13 – Exploring the Enneagram and Money 24:46 – Couples and Money Dynamics 28:39 – Understanding Money Stories 33:30 – Identifying Core Needs and Triggers 36:55 – Building Bridges and Shared Goals 42:12 – Conclusion and Resources I know talking about money can feel uncomfortable. That’s why conversations like this one are so important! I also created something to help you navigate those tough financial conversations with love, empathy, and understanding—without the stress or conflict.. Check out my Communication That Connects 2-part training. You’ll learn how to approach money talks in a way that strengthens your relationships, rather than creating distance. I hope you check it out! Also, let’s connect on Instagram and Youtube! I drop a new podcast every week with interviews just like this one so you can create love, happiness, and success in your life. I also go live every Thursday at 12pm MT on both platforms. I chat about the topic of the week and answer any questions you might have live. This week, I’ll be digging into your relationship to money!  Let’s break free from old financial patterns together and build a future where money feels like a source of freedom, not stress. See you there! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobbywww.growingself.com P.S. If this episode was helpful for you, share it with a friend or family member who could use the info too!  

Ever wonder why your child melts down over the tiniest thing—or how to actually help them navigate big emotions? Today, we’re diving into the world of Child-Centered Play Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps kids build confidence, self-regulation, and emotional resilience… all through PLAY. I’m joined by the amazing Dr. Brenna Hicks, a specialist in helping parents use these techniques at home to create a happier, calmer family environment. Whether you have a preschooler, a strong-willed school-age kid, or a moody teen, this conversation will give you powerful tools to understand your child’s emotional world—and strengthen your bond in the process. We’re covering: What makes Child-Centered Play Therapy different from other approaches How play can help kids process emotions (even when words fail!) What really causes tantrums and dysregulation Simple therapist-approved parenting strategies you can start using today How to know if your child might need therapy—and how to find the right therapist Timestamps: 03:29 - What is Child-Centered Play Therapy (and why does it work?) 09:27 - The parent’s role in play therapy (and why it’s a game-changer!) 16:03 - Why kids “act out” and what’s really going on 23:09 - The surprising science behind play as therapy 34:41 - How therapy transforms kids from anxious to confident 36:27 - What to do if your child is struggling emotionally 43:20 - How to tell if a therapist is actually qualified to help your child 47:58 - Parenting tips: What to say (and what not to say) to your kid 53:11 - When to seek professional help & what to look for in a therapist 01:02:49 - Resources, next steps & final thoughts I know how much you love your child and want the absolute best for them. Parenting is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—jobs in the world, and sometimes, we all need a little extra guidance and encouragement. That’s why I created the Happy Families Collection—a curated set of expert tips, strategies, and insights designed to help you build a stronger, more connected, and emotionally healthy family. ✨ 👉 Access the Happy Families Collection here! And if you loved this episode, let’s stay connected! Find me on Instagram for daily inspiration and expert-backed advice, and don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube for even more deep-dive conversations so you can create love, happiness, and success in your life. You’re doing an amazing job, and I’m so honored to be on this journey with you! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you know a parent who could benefit from this episode, share it with them! I know personally that us parents really appreciate the love and support.  

Ever felt like you completely lost yourself in a relationship? Like one day you woke up and thought, Wait… who even am I anymore? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and, spoiler alert, it’s not just in your head. There’s real science behind why we fuse our identities with our partners and why breakups can feel like more than just heartbreak—they can feel like an identity crisis. In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with relationship scientist Dr. Morgan Cope to break down the psychology behind losing yourself in a relationship, why it happens, and most importantly—how to rebuild your identity after love. Whether you're freshly single, in a relationship that feels too enmeshed, or just curious about how relationships shape our sense of self, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and practical strategies to help you come back to YOU. Timestamps: 00:00 - Is Losing Yourself in a Relationship a Real Thing? 00:35 - Meet Dr. Morgan Cope & Her Research on Relationships & Identity 01:00 Understanding Identity in Relationships 03:07 - Attachment Styles and Identity 07:30 - Impact of Breakups on Identity 24:42 - Mental and Physical Effects of Breakups 30:27 - Fear of Being Single 32:02 - Changing the Environment vs Changing Yourself 36:56 - Rebounding and Self-Expansion 39:14 - Identity and Values Assessment 44:11 - Cult Psychology and Group Identity 51:21 - Personal Growth Through Relationship Challenges Feeling lost after a breakup? I know how hard it can be to find yourself again, so I created something to help you out on your healing journey. Check out my FREE  Breakup Recovery Quiz to get personalized insights on where you are in your healing journey & how to move forward so you can begin to feel like yourself again. And if you’d like to keep this conversation going, I’d love to hear from you! You can find me on YouTube or Instagram. Every week, I drop a new podcast episode dedicated to your personal growth and healing so you can create love, happiness, and success in your life. I hope to see you there!  Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. Know someone who might need to hear this? Share this video with a friend who’s struggling in their relationship or going through a tough breakup. 💕

Ever feel like therapy is supposed to help you move on after a breakup… but instead, you’re just rehashing your pain over and over again? The truth is that most therapists are not actually trained in breakup recovery—which means traditional therapy for breakups might be keeping you stuck instead of helping you move forward. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why therapy for breakups doesn’t always work, and what actually does. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re trapped in an endless loop of overthinking, heartbreak, and emotional pain—definitely give this a listen. I break down: The missing pieces in traditional therapy for breakups The 8 essential stages of breakup recovery (skip one and you stay stuck!) Why your brain reacts to breakups like a drug withdrawal (and how to cut the cords) The biggest myths about healing after a breakup that keep you spinning in circles Timestamps: 00:00 - The Problem With Therapy For Breakups (Nobody Talks About This!) 00:51 - Why Therapists Aren’t Trained in Heartbreak Recovery 02:47 - My Journey: From Therapist to Breakup Specialist 15:49 - How Your Biological Attachment System Keeps You Stuck 24:10 - The Real Path to Moving On (hint: it’s NOT what you think!) 26:25 - The Eight Stages of Heartbreak Recovery (Which one are you stuck in?) 34:23 - For You: Heartbreak Recovery Resources I know how hard this is. If you’ve been feeling stuck, like no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to move on—please know that it’s not your fault. Healing from heartbreak is a process, and if you don’t have the right map, it’s so easy to stay lost in the pain.  That’s exactly why I created the Breakup Recovery Quiz—to help you get clarity on where you are in your healing journey and what might be holding you back from truly letting go. It’s completely free, and I made it just for you, so you can finally start moving forward.  And if today’s conversation resonated with you, I really encourage you to check out my other podcast episodes and follow me on Instagram and Youtube. Every week, I share my years of expertise and interviews with experts so you can achieve the love, happiness, and success you deserve!  Here’s to your healing and growth. 🌱  Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you know someone who could use a little bit of support today as they navigate their breakup, share this episode with them. It could be exactly what they needed to hear today. ❤️  

That moment when you see your ex looking happier than ever with someone new—while you're still crying in the bathroom at work? Yeah… it’s brutal. You might be wondering to yourself, “Why did my ex move on so fast? Did they care about me AT ALL?” But before you spiral, let's talk about what’s really happening here and dig into how you can finally move on too. In this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success, I'm breaking down the psychology behind why some people seem to bounce back instantly (spoiler: it’s not always what it seems). You’ll also learn why your path—however slow and painful it may feel—is actually the healthiest, strongest, and most transformational. By the end of this podcast, you’ll understand: Why your ex seems to be over it (and why that may not be the whole story) The biggest mistake people make when they rush into something new What avoidant attachment has to do with it (and why it’s not about you) How to turn your pain into fuel for real growth and healing Grab a cup of tea and get cozy. This one is for YOU.   Timestamps: 00:00 - Why Does This Keep Happening?! 01:40 - The Weird Ways Your Ex Still Sneaks Into Your Mind 02:37 - The REAL Reason You Can’t Let Go 06:02 - The 8 Stages of Heartbreak Recovery—Which One Are You Stuck In? 16:05 - The Science of Heartbreak: Your Brain on Love (and Withdrawal!) 21:34 - Unfinished Business: What You Need for REAL Closure 29:35 - How to Finally Move On—For GOOD 34:39 - Next Steps & How I Can Help You I know how hard this is. Going through the breakup recovery process can be long and grueling, but you don’t have to figure this all out on your own. As a licensed therapist and psychologist specializing in relationships and heartbreak, I’ve seen people grow and thrive after a breakup time and time again. And you can do it too.  I took all of the information I’ve learned over the years and created a free Heartbreak Recovery Quiz to help you on your journey to reclaim your heart and your life. By taking this quiz, you’ll be able to figure out exactly where you are in your healing journey—and what steps to take next. You’ll get a personalized roadmap to moving forward with clarity and confidence. I hope this helps. ❤️ Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com  P.S. If you know someone who needs a little extra support today, send this podcast episode over to them. It could be exactly what they needed to hear.  

Ever feel like your ex is still haunting you? You’re living your best life, maybe even in a happy, healthy relationship—so WHY do they keep popping up in your head, completely uninvited? If you've ever caught yourself late-night stalking their Instagram (oops), wondering what if?, or feeling like you just can’t shake the past, don’t worry. There are steps you can take to move forward. In this episode of Love, Happiness & Success, I dive deep into why you still think about your ex—even when you don’t want to. We’ll talk about the science of attachment, why your brain keeps looping back, and—most importantly—how to finally break free. Timestamps: 00:00 - Why Does This Keep Happening?! 01:40 - The Weird Ways Your Ex Still Sneaks Into Your Mind 02:37 - The REAL Reason You Can’t Let Go 06:02 - The 8 Stages of Heartbreak Recovery—Which One Are You Stuck In? 16:05 - The Science of Heartbreak: Your Brain on Love (and Withdrawal!) 21:34 - Unfinished Business: What You Need for REAL Closure 29:35 - How to Finally Move On—For GOOD 34:39 - Next Steps & How I Can Help You I know how hard it can be to feel stuck in the past when all you really want is to move forward and feel at peace. If today’s conversation resonated with you, I have some resources that can help. First, if you’re wondering why this is happening to you and what you can do about it, I invite you to take my Heartbreak Recovery Quiz. It’s a free tool designed to help you understand where you are in the healing process and what specific steps you can take next to finally be free of the past. Healing is possible, and you will get through it.  And if you’d like to keep this conversation going, I’d love to hear from you! Come join my live stream this Thursday at 12 PM MT on YouTube or Instagram. We’ll be talking more about why you still think about your ex—and I’ll be answering your questions live. Whether you need advice, reassurance, or just a supportive space, come chat with me. Sending you warmth and support, always. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. Know someone who could use this advice? Share this video with them—it might be exactly what they need to hear today. ❤️

What if the secret to transforming your relationships wasn’t about saying more, but saying it better?  I know how hard it can be when communication in your relationship just isn’t working. Those moments when you’re trying so hard to connect, but it feels like you’re speaking two different languages—they’re exhausting and heartbreaking. I’ve seen so many people struggling with this, and I want you to know it doesn’t have to be this way! This week on the Love, Happiness, and Success podcast, I sat down with Charles Duhigg, New York Times bestselling author of Supercommunicators, to dive into how to be a better communicator. We talk about the importance of knowing what kind of conversations you’re having, how to ask better questions to unlock deeper connections, and steps to actually hearing and understanding each other.  Whether you’re trying to connect with a partner, a friend, or even a coworker, this conversation is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable tips to help you truly get and be gotten. Chapters: 00:00 - Why communication is the ultimate relationship glue 00:35 - Meet Charles Duhigg, your new favorite communication guru 07:38 - Game-changing tips to up your communication game 08:57 - The art of asking deep, meaningful questions 17:31 - What really works in tough conversations 28:30 - Identifying what people really need from you 31:58 - Building trust through listening and understanding 36:02 - Redefining the goal of conversations 37:49 - Resources for communication skill building My favorite takeaway from this episode was that you don’t have to be born a “supercommunicator.” These are skills that you can learn and improve with practice. So if you’re thinking “Heck yes! I’m ready for some growth!”, check out my free Communication That Connects 2-Part Training. It’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what’s really going on beneath the disconnect, and how to rebuild the trust and emotional safety that can get lost along the way. Together, we’ll explore tools and strategies to stop the cycle of conflict, restore your connection, and start creating a more positive chapter for your relationships. Also, let’s connect on Instagram or YouTube! I go live every Thursday at 12pm MT on both platforms, diving deeper into topics just like this one and answering all of your personal questions. So check out this episode, and then come chat with me! I’m here to help. 🩵 Xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby P.S. Know someone who could use this guidance? Maybe a partner or a bestie struggling to communicate? Share this with them! Because better communication makes the world (and your group chats) a much better place.  

How are you really sleeping these days? Be honest—are you waking up feeling refreshed, or is it more like dragging yourself out of bed and powering through the day on fumes? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Sleep is a huge part of feeling like your best self, but it’s so easy to overlook. In this podcast episode, I’m sitting down with my friend, Dr. Michelle Okun, a health psychologist and sleep scientist. We’re talking about how sleep impacts literally everything—your mood, your stress levels, your health, and even your energy. We’re diving into the science of why sleep matters and the simple things you can do to feel like your best self again. Don’t worry, your sleep helpline is here!  So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s talk about how to get the rest you need to feel amazing. You deserve this! 💖 Timestamps: 00:00 – Tired and Stressed? Let’s Fix That! 00:41 –  Meet Dr. Michelle Okun 02:12 – The Surprising Ways Sleep Impacts Your Life 06:48 – Stress, Cortisol, and Sleep 09:56 – How Stress Keeps You Awake (and How to Fix It) 19:42 – Common Causes of Sleep Issues 23:40 – When to Consider a Sleep Study 32:09 – Practical Sleep Tips That Actually Work 50:08 – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia 53:50 – Resources to Improve Your Life I hope this podcast was as helpful for you as it was for me. I learned so much from Dr. Okun! If you’re ready to take the next step or just curious about what might be holding you back—whether it’s sleep-related or just something in your overall wellness—check out my free What’s Holding You Back? Quiz.  Gaining clarity and self-awareness around the places in my life where I needed some extra love and attention was a huge game changer for me. This quiz will give you the same insights so you can start taking steps to thrive in your life.  If you have questions or want to chat with me more about this, I’d love for you to join me for this week’s livestream on Thursday at 12 PM MT on Instagram and YouTube! I’m diving even deeper into how to improve your sleep and answering your questions live.  Oh, and don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell! I’m here every week sharing insights and resources with you so you can achieve the love, happiness, and success that you deserve. Let’s figure this out together, friend! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com PS: If you know someone who’s running on empty and could use this advice, send this podcast their way. Sleep is life-changing, and we all deserve to wake up feeling amazing! 😴✨

Recently diagnosed with adult ADHD (or thinking that you probably should be?) Well friend, welcome to the club, and I'm glad you're here to learn all about the upside of ADHD superpowers! In this episode of the Love, Happiness, and Success Podcast, I sit down with my colleague and fellow therapist, Jesse S., to talk about the ups and downs of ADHD—especially when you’re diagnosed as an adult. Together, we share our personal stories (and some laughs!) about what it’s like to navigate life with ADHD—before and after diagnosis. We dive deep into the challenges, relationship struggles, and unexpected upside of ADHD superpowers, while offering practical tools to help you thrive. Timestamps: 00:00 Is This You? Recognizing ADHD as an Adult 00:42 Meet Jesse S.! 02:12 The “Aha!” Moment That Changed Everything 03:49 How to Get Diagnosed: Jesse’s Journey 05:07 Life Before and After Diagnosis 17:06 ADHD and Relationships 23:42 Struggles, Self-Esteem, and Stigma 26:39 Thriving in School and Work 28:29 Finding Your Zone 30:18 Structure for ADHD Success 39:46 Boosting Brainpower: Sleep, Nutrition, and Hydration 42:20 Resources and Words of Hope Living with ADHD can feel like a whirlwind—your creativity and energy can light up a room, but staying organized or focused might sometimes feel like an uphill battle. And let’s be real: when ADHD gets in the way of meeting expectations (yours or others'), it can take a toll on your self-esteem.  The good news? Self-esteem isn’t a fixed trait—it’s something you can strengthen with the right insights and support. Take my How Healthy is Your Self-Esteem? quiz to discover where you’re thriving and where you could use a little extra love and support. It’s quick, eye-opening, and might just be the first step toward embracing the amazing person you are, ADHD and all.  And don’t forget to stay connected with me on social media! I’m always sharing tips, insights, and inspiration on Instagram and YouTube. I also host regular live streams on both platforms where we can dive deeper into topics like ADHD, relationships, and personal growth. See you there! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. Share this podcast with someone who needs a little ADHD inspo today! Let’s thrive together. 💖  

Do you ever feel like “working” on your relationship just drains the joy out of it? You’re not alone— that “work on it” narrative is so common and in my experience as a marriage counselor…. some of the worst advice ever.  Of course you want a better relationship, but there are much more effective ways of making that happen: Especially when you start prioritizing the parts that you enjoy. In this podcast, I’ll show you why the idea that “relationships are hard work” might actually be sabotaging your connection and what to do instead. Learn how to bring more fun, positivity, and love into your relationship with simple, actionable steps. We’ll explore everything from changing your mindset to building better communication and adding joy to your everyday life. Timestamps: 00:00 – The Worst Relationship Advice Ever 00:38 – Why Relationships Should Be Fun 01:34 – Shifting Your Mindset from Work to Joy 02:40 – Bringing Fun Back into Your Relationship 03:30 – How Personal Growth Improves Love 04:53 – Mastering Positive Communication 06:12 – Focus on What’s Good (And Watch it Grow!) 07:51 – Making Your Relationship Pleasurable Again 09:31 – Leading with Love 12:35 – Turning Mundane Tasks into Meaningful Moments If you’ve been feeling like your relationship is more work than it should be, I’ve got something for you. My free 2-part video training, Communication That Connects, will help you shift out of that "hard work" mindset and give you tools to build a relationship that feels fun, loving, and easy again. Check it out here: https://www.growingself.com/communication. 💕 💬 Got questions? Join me for this week’s livestream on Thursday at 12 PM MT on YouTube. Submit your questions anonymously ahead of time here: https://www.growingself.com/dear-lisa Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you know someone who could use this advice, share this video with them! Let’s create stronger, happier relationships together. 💕  

  Ever feel like you’re at war with yourself? This might change everything… In this heartfelt and transformative episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Richard Schwartz, founder of Internal Family Systems (IFS), to explore how understanding and working with your “parts” can unlock profound healing and self-growth. 🌟 We all have parts of us—the inner critic, the procrastinator, the overachiever. These parts aren’t flaws; they’re doing their best to protect us, even if their methods aren’t helpful. Dr. Schwartz explains how we can connect with these parts, heal the pain behind them, and step into the calm, confident Self that’s been there all along. Plus, we’ll dive into practical tools from his new workbook, discuss how trauma impacts your inner world, and even demonstrate how to start connecting with your parts. This conversation is packed with insights you don’t want to miss. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Why You Feel Stuck 01:15 Meet Dr. Richard Schwartz: Founder of IFS 03:40 What Are “Parts” and Why Do They Matter? 08:20 The Healing Power of Your Self 12:45 Live Demo: Working with Your Parts 20:00 Balancing Inner Conflicts 30:50 When and How to Seek Professional Help 38:15 Insights from IFS 40:56 Final Thoughts and Next Steps Ready to take the first step? Check out my free What’s Holding You Back? quiz to help you gain personal insights and self-awareness around your inner world. This will shed a light on hidden obstacles within yourself so you can move forward into your best year yet with clairity and confidence. I hope you check it out.  After you listen to this episode, join me LIVE this Thursday at 12 pm MT for an open Q&A on personal growth and Internal Family Systems. Submit your anonymous questions here, and I’ll answer them live on Thursday: https://www.growingself.com/dear-lisa. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. Don’t forget to share this podcast with someone who could use a little encouragement today. Let’s grow together! 💕  

Ever feel stuck, like you're trying SO hard to change, but somehow end up back in the same place? You're not alone, and guess what—it's not your fault. In this episode, I'm joined by the brilliant Thais Gibson, founder of the Personal Development School, as we unlock the secrets to reprogramming your subconscious mind to finally get the life you want. 🙌 Thais shares a powerful roadmap to align your conscious goals with your subconscious priorities, tackle those sneaky limiting beliefs, and create real, lasting change. You’ll also learn her 3-step auto-suggestion technique to rewire your brain in just 21 days! 🎯 Whether you're aiming to nail your New Year's resolutions or just break free from old patterns, this episode will give you the tools to make it happen. ✨ Timestamps to Transform Your Mindset: 00:00 – Why “Wanting It” Isn’t Enough 01:20 – Meet Thais Gibson: A Pioneer in Emotional Healing 03:05 – Mind Wars: Conscious vs. Subconscious Goals 05:07 – Aligning Goals with Subconscious Needs 10:08 – How to Identify Limiting Beliefs 24:03 – Brain Rewiring 101  41:14 – Building Self-Trust: Small Steps, Big Shifts 45:51 – Your Roadmap to Lasting Change Ready to take the first step? Check out my free What’s Holding You Back? quiz for personalized insights into your subconscious blocks! This will help you start your new year off with clarity and confidence so you can achieve what matters most to you. And don’t miss this week’s livestream on Thursday at 12 PM MT right here on YouTube. We’re diving into how to reprogram your subconscious mind —submit your anonymous questions now at GrowingSelf.com/Dear-Lisa. Xoxo  Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growingself.com P.S. Don’t forget to share this video with a friend who’s so ready to make a change—you might just change their life. Let’s do this together! 💪

Friend, this topic is SO important I'm putting it back in front of you again. Here's the deal: Even people in strong, satisfying relationships can develop feelings of attraction for another person. It's part of the human experience. These feelings can be transient and meaningless... OR they could destroy your life, if you follow them.  Are crushes innocent, or on-ramps to an affair? Can you be "friends" with someone you have a crush on, without risking your relationship? What should you do when you're married, but have a crush on someone else? Oh, the questions! It happens: people in happy, healthy, committed relationships can still develop crushes on others. However, smart, self-aware people in committed relationships that they care about need to handle these maturely and with wisdom. That's what you'll learn how to do on today's show. We'll discuss:  The mechanics of a crush; how and why crushes develop The difference between a crush and a platonic friendship Why happy, committed married people can have crushes on others How crushes can turn into something more serious How to use self awareness, integrity, and honesty to protect your marriage How to use your crush experience in order to add energy and intimacy into your relationship Warning signs that your crush is developing into something else Why extramarital affairs are always a bad idea, and rarely end well How to stop having a crush on someone else How to avoid embarrassment and professional ruin if you have a crush on a coworker How to protect your relationship and stay true to your values even when you're having feelings for another. All this and more on today's episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com Ps: As we discussed in this episode, part of your action plan needs to be leaning towards your partner in an authentic and emotionally intimate way, and that calls for excellent communication skills. To support you in this, please help yourself to my free two part communication skills training, "Communication That Connects." I made this for you!  ... LMB

How often do you say "yes" when you really want to say "no"? If you've ever felt that way, you're not alone! Today, we're diving into what happens when you stand up to someone in all areas of life—work, relationships, even healthcare.  My guest is the incredible Dr. Sunita Sah, an award-winning professor at Cornell and author of Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes. Dr. Sah's research focuses on why so many of us feel pressured to go along with things we don't believe in and how we can cultivate the courage to say "no" when it matters most. In this episode, you'll learn how social norms and "insinuation anxiety" hold us back from standing up for our true selves. You’ll walk away with the confidence to take small, powerful steps toward defiance in a way that feels authentic and empowering. Timestamps 00:22 - Meet Dr. Sunita Sah: Her Story of Transformation 00:47 - The Psychology of Compliance and Defiance 01:31 - Defying Social Pressures: Real-Life Stories 02:07 - Why Compliance in the Workplace Hurts Us All 07:37 - A Fresh Take on Defiance: It’s Not What You Think 10:11 - The Social Roots of Compliance 17:51 - Facing the Inner Blocks to Standing Up for Yourself 25:32 - Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Defiance Muscle 33:23 - Living Authentically: The Real Benefits of Saying No 45:02 - Wrapping Up: Your Takeaways and Resources Having low self esteem can make it hard to stand up for yourself. Is this true for you? Find out by taking my free Self Esteem Quiz! You’ll find out where your self esteem thrives and discover new areas for growth. Take it here.  And, join me for a live Q&A this Thursday at 12 pm MT on YouTube, where we'll be talking all about self-advocacy. Want to submit a question anonymously? Use this link PS: Think of someone who could use a boost in self-advocacy? Share this episode with them, and let’s help each other live authentically! ❤️  

Is pornography addiction taking a toll on your life or relationship? You’re not alone, and real help is here! 🙌  In this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success, I sit down with the incredible Sathya Sam, founder of the Deep Clean program, to discuss what recovery from porn addiction actually looks like.  Together, we dive into tough (but crucial) questions: How do you spot the signs of addiction? What does true healing look like for both individuals and couples? And, most importantly, how can you support a partner without losing yourself along the way? 🎥 Ready to learn practical strategies for growth, connection, and positive change? Listen now and find actionable steps to help you or your loved one break free from pornography addiction, once and for all.  Timestamps: 00:00 – The Hidden Impact of Porn Addiction 01:03 – Meet Sathya: From Personal Struggle to Lifelong Mission 06:21 – Spotting the Warning Signs 10:46 – The Toll on Relationships and Intimacy 13:48 – Physical and Emotional Consequences 18:35 – Healing Betrayal Trauma Together 21:13 – Steps Toward Lasting Recovery 22:53 – Three Core Steps to Heal 23:41 – Building Self-Awareness 26:40 – How Trauma Shapes Addiction 30:56 – Supporting Your Partner’s Recovery (Without Losing Yourself) 36:41 – Long-Term Transformation If you or a loved one are ready to break free from porn addiction, I have something to share with you. Recovery starts with connection—and connection starts with communication. My free video training series, Communication That Connects, is here to help you open up, ask for support, and rebuild trust with those who matter most. You don’t have to do this alone.  Your partner in growth,  Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com P.S. Don’t miss this week’s live stream on Thursday at 12 pm MT here on YouTube, where we'll dive deeper into porn addiction recovery. Submit your anonymous questions in advance – I’d love to help you find your way forward. 💬

Are you walking on eggshells, questioning your sanity, and starting to wonder if your partner’s behavior is actually...narcissism? In this episode, we’re diving deep into the challenging and often painful question of whether you might be married to a narcissist. Narcissism isn’t a one-size-fits-all diagnosis; it has shades, nuances, and layers, which can make it tough to recognize and even harder to deal with. Chapters: 00:45 - The Signs You’re Married to a Narcissist 10:47 - The Two Types of Narcissists: Wounded vs. Malignant.  19:12 - Inside the Narcissistic Relationship Cycle 27:00 - Can a Relationship with a Narcissist Work?  44:42 - Strategies to Navigate Conflicts.  If you're in a relationship with someone who might be a narcissist, I know how exhausting and frustrating communication can be. That's why I created my free 2-part video training, Communication That Connects. You’ll learn practical tools to de-escalate arguments, protect your emotional well-being, and build healthier patterns of connection, even with difficult personalities. I hope you check it out. ❤️ And don’t forget to join me for this week’s livestream on Thursday at 12 pm MT / 2pm ET on YouTube, where we’ll chat all about being married to a narcissist. You can ask an anonymous question in advance at https://www.growingself.com/dear-lisa. If you know someone else who could benefit from this episode, send it over to them! Let’s keep looking out for each other.  Xo, Dr. Lisa GrowingSelf.com  

Are You Exhausted Trying to Help Someone Who Won’t Change? Here’s What Actually Works! Have you ever bent over backward trying to help someone you love, only to feel like you’re getting nowhere? You’re not alone—and I’ve got good news: people can change. But here’s the kicker: they’ll only do it when it comes from within. In this episode, I’m breaking down the psychology of change, the stages people go through, and the surprising reason why trying to force change never works (spoiler alert: it usually backfires). You’ll also learn powerful, actionable strategies to: ✅ Set healthy boundaries (without guilt). ✅ Protect your emotional well-being (because you matter too!). ✅ Provide the kind of support that actually encourages growth. If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and frustrated, and instead discover the most effective way to empower someone on their journey—this is for you. 🎧 Timestamps You’ll Love: 00:00 – Why It Feels Impossible to Change Someone Else 01:15 – Can People Really Change? (Yes, But Here’s the Secret) 03:45 – The Real Power of Intrinsic Motivation 06:20 – The Stages of Change: Where Your Loved One Might Be 12:40 – Setting Boundaries That Encourage Growth 18:55 – Avoiding the Trap of Enabling 23:15 – Free Tools to Help You and Your Loved One BONUS GOODIES! 👉 Want to help a loved one uncover what’s really holding them back? Share my free What’s Holding You Back? Quiz with them—it’s designed to uncover hidden obstacles, subconscious blocks, and personal strengths to help them move forward with confidence. 👉 Don’t miss this week’s YouTube Livestream: How to Help Someone Who Doesn’t Want to Help Themselves (Thursday, 12 pm MT). You can even submit an anonymous question ahead of time here: www.growingself.com/dear-lisa. This conversation could change everything. See you there! 🎥

Are political differences with people you love threatening to tear your relationships apart? You’re definitely not alone! Today, we’re diving deep into the delicate dance of keeping relationships healthy across political divides.  In this episode, I’m sharing the strategies to help you navigate tricky conversations with grace, keep your cool, and protect your own happiness along the way. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to preserve the connections you care about most, even when politics threaten to tear you apart. Stick around to the end—I’ve got some free resources to help you practice these skills and share them with your loved ones. Let’s jump in!   Timestamps: 00:00 - Are Political Differences Threatening Your Relationships?   04:22 - Assess the Importance of Each Relationship   07:32 - Radical Acceptance (It's Tough, But Worth It!)   11:12 - Emotional Regulation - How to Stay Cool   16:49 - Focus on the Positives (Yes, Really!)   23:09 - Set & Maintain Healthy Boundaries   32:18 - Advanced Skills: Radical Curiosity and Empathy   39:06 - Free Resources + Final Thoughts If you loved this episode, don’t miss the next video in this series! Let’s keep building those relationship skills. P.S. Need a little more support? Check out my free Communication That Connects 2-Part Video Series. Also, join me Thursday at 12 pm MT for a live session right here on YouTube on this very topic, how to navigate political differences in relationships. You can even submit an anonymous question right here.  

Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding with your partner? You're not alone—and you're not powerless to fix it! In today’s episode, I’m breaking down how to fix a broken relationship by exploring the underlying patterns that keep couples locked in negative cycles. Plus, I’ll share my own story (yes, I’ve been there too) and reveal the key strategies and mindset shifts that can help bring you and your partner back together. If you’ve been trying to make things better but feel like you’re swimming against the tide, tune in for some essential insights and actionable steps to get your relationship back on track In this video, we’ll cover: 0:32 – The Toxic Spiral of Negative Communication   3:15 – Uncovering the Hidden Patterns   6:48 – How Negative Cycles Shape Perception   10:25 – Breaking Free and Finding Real Solutions   15:45 – When to Seek Help   Want more guidance on fixing your relationship? Check out my free resource, How Healthy Is Your Relationship Quiz. Using this quiz, you’ll be able to decipher strengths and growth points in your relationship.  If you want to ask me a question about your relationship, join me this Thursday at 12 pm MT on YouTube for my Livestream about how to fix a broken relationship. Submit your question anonymously here: https://www.growingself.com/dear-lisa. See you there!  

"This wasn't supposed to happen!" Have you ever felt life throw you a curveball so big it knocked you flat? It’s that gut-punch moment when plans unravel, your candidate didn't win, dreams dissolve, and you’re left wondering, “Now what?” In this episode, I’ll take you through the tools and mindset shifts needed to transform disappointment into personal growth. We’ll talk about the power of radical acceptance, why it’s okay to feel all the feels, and how to find the hidden opportunities in setbacks. Timestamps:   00:00 Intro: Life’s Unexpected Curveballs   01:22 Embracing Disappointment: Feel All the Emotions   05:46 Finding the Lesson in Loss   15:23 Radical Acceptance and Moving Forward   18:36 Steer Clear of Destructive Reactions   21:16 What Does This Make Possible? 24:15 Conclusion and Free Resources   PS: Get free access to my Emotional Wellness Collection, a personally curated podcast and blog collection designed to help you grow and stay well emotionally.  Also, don’t miss our live Q&A this Thursday at 12 PM MT on YouTube, where we’ll dive even deeper into this topic. Submit an anonymous question in advance here: https://www.growingself.com/dear-lisa See you there!