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Why do some relationships feel safe and easy while others leave us anxious, distant, confused, or desperately trying to hold on? In this episode, Amy and Brittney dig into attachment and the ways our earliest relationships can shape how we connect with other people throughout our lives. Brittney explains the difference between bonding and attachment, what children actually need from their caregivers, and how those needs can affect our relationships long after childhood. They break down secure attachment and the three types of insecure attachment: avoidant, ambivalent, and disorganized. Along the way, they talk about why familiar relationship patterns can be so difficult to recognize, how attachment wounds can get passed from one generation to the next, and why our childhood experiences can continue showing up in adult relationships even when we have no idea they're running the show. They also explore some attachment needs that may sound simple but can have a huge impact, including healthy limits and boundaries, validation, reassurance, loving correction, emotional attunement, and simply delighting in a child for being who they are. And because discovering your own “attachment junk” isn't exactly the cheeriest revelation, Brittney explains why none of this means we're permanently stuck with the patterns we learned growing up. Attachment wounds can be worked on, and approaches including EMDR and ego state work can help adults begin meeting needs that weren't met earlier in life. Because, as Amy puts it, everybody's got some sh*t they gotta work out.   Content note: This episode includes discussion of childhood abuse, sexual abuse, trauma, dysfunctional family relationships, and other potentially sensitive topics. This Way In is a conversation about mental health and everyday well-being, but it is not therapy. The information shared is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not replace care or advice from a qualified mental health professional.   Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro 01:30 What is Attachment 02:44 Bonding and Attachment 04:42 Boy Mom Tangent 06:52 Types of Attachment 18:12 Attachment in Relationships 19:25 Attachment Junk 20:39 Diagnoses for Attachment Trauma 22:42 Importance of Social Support 32:31 List of Attachment Needs 43:33 Other Attachment Needs from Parents 46:44 Attachment is Tricky 49:36 First Five Years 50:17 Being Attuned to Your Child 54:26 Not Taught in School 56:16 Disclaimer and Credits   Episode links: Ego State Therapy Interventions to Prepare Attachment-Wounded Adults for EMDR by Shirley Jean Schmidt https://amzn.to/4h5ES9b The Developmental Needs Meeting Strategy: An Ego State Therapy for Healing Adults with Childhood Trauma and Attachment Wounds by Shirley Jean Schmidt https://amzn.to/4zRzLRz Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.  This episode was recorded on August 19, 2026 and released on September 23, 2026.

In this episode, Amy and Brittney dig into PTSD: what actually qualifies for a diagnosis, how trauma can affect the brain and body, and why the symptoms can look very different from person to person. They explore flashbacks, avoidance, hypervigilance, dissociation, emotional numbness, and the difference between “big T” and “little t” trauma. Brittney also explains complex PTSD, how trauma symptoms can overlap with conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and how severe trauma can sometimes involve hallucinations and delusions. Plus, they talk about the role attachment and support systems play in trauma, why the body can hold onto experiences even when our conscious memory doesn’t, and treatment approaches including EMDR, ego state therapy, CBT, and DBT. They also discuss the fear that can come with starting trauma therapy, why healing sometimes means going slowly, and the vicarious trauma experienced by first responders, therapists, and others who regularly witness or hear about traumatic events. As always, this conversation is for education and discussion and is not a substitute for individualized mental health care.   This episode was recorded on May 18, 2026 and released on September 9, 2026. Chapter Markers 00:00 Intro 00:00:45 What Actually Qualifies as PTSD 00:02:48 Avoidance 00:12:21 When the Stress Response Stays On 00:16:37 Big T, Little T 00:18:33 Complex PTSD 00:20:20 Complex PTSD Overlaps 00:21:59 Dissociation & Disintegration 00:30:25 Hallucinations, Delusions & Trauma 00:34:02 Narrative Disruption 00:47: 56 Therapies That Work for Trauma 00:56:15 Finding the Right Trauma Therapist for You 00:58:12 One More Thing About Types of Attachment 01:03: 25 First Wrap Up 01:06:21 Helpers Need Help 01:11:36 Disclaimer and Credits   Crisis Text Line is a global nonprofit organization founded in 2013 that provides mental-health support through text messaging. In the U.S., people can text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with a live trained crisis counselor. The service is free, confidential, and available 24/7. They support people dealing with things like anxiety, loneliness, bullying, substance use, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

Bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder may have similar names and some overlapping symptoms, but they are very different diagnoses. In this episode, Amy and Brittney break down the differences between bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, including depression, mania and hypomania, emotional reactivity, impulsivity, attachment, and fear of abandonment. They also look at where symptoms can overlap and why telling the difference isn't always as straightforward as it seems. Along the way, they use examples from King of the Hill, Shameless, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Girl, Interrupted, and even Star Wars to help put some of these symptoms into context. They also discuss sleep, medication, support systems, routines, and other tools that may help manage symptoms. Plus: Amy learns that apparently starting with the same letter is enough for her brain to file two completely different diagnoses in the same folder.   Chapters 00;21 Intro 01:11 Why the Mix-Up? 02:23 Symptoms if Bipolar Depression 08:00 Pop Culture Examples of Bipolar 12:24 Symptoms & Criteria of Borderline Personality Disorder 17:37 Pop Culture References of Borderline 22:56 Overlaps of Bipolar and Borderline 26:24 Getting Help, Not Self-Diagnosis 28:39 Help for Both Disorders 33:41 Three Spirit Drinks 34: 24 Is it Manic? 35:20 Medications 37:04 Non-Medicinal Help 47:22 One last question 52:08 How You Can Help Someone    This episode was recorded on May 4, 2026 and released on August 26, 2026. Episode links: I Hate You Don't Leave Me by Jerold J. Kreisman, Hall Strauss https://amzn.to/4qDgyyA Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Crisis Text Line is a global nonprofit organization founded in 2013 that provides mental-health support through text messaging. In the U.S., people can text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with a live trained crisis counselor. The service is free, confidential, and available 24/7. They support people dealing with things like anxiety, loneliness, bullying, substance use, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.     Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

Depression is much more than feeling sad. It can affect your body, your thoughts, your motivation, and the way you experience the world around you. In this episode, Amy and licensed therapist Brittney Baxter Dameron explore the symptoms of depression, how it differs from grief and everyday sadness, why depression often overlaps with anxiety, and what it actually feels like to live with it. They also discuss practical ways to support yourself or someone you love, from building meaningful connections to finding small steps that can help break through the shutdown response.   Content Warning: This episode includes an in-depth discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Crisis Text Line is a global nonprofit organization founded in 2013 that provides mental-health support through text messaging. In the U.S., people can text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with a live trained crisis counselor. The service is free, confidential, and available 24/7. They support people dealing with things like anxiety, loneliness, bullying, substance use, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. This episode was recorded on April 6, 2026 and released on August 12, 2026. If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com\ Chapter Markers 00:00 Welcome and Trigger Warning 01:07 Why Depression Defies Logic 02:46 Personal Experiences and Prevalence 04:36 Roots in Trauma and Attachment 08:51 Depression Anxiety Overlap 10:56 Gender Differences and Control 13:54 Clinical Symptoms Checklist 16:28 Suicide and Misconceptions 18:26 How Depression Feels Physically 20:25 Dark Thoughts and Self Talk 22:57 Anhedonia and Grief vs Depression 26:43 Treatment Beyond Medication 27:19 Activate Your Body 28:16 Nature As Medicine 30:29 Senses And Small Wins 32:23 Music For Connection 34:12 Loneliness And Suicide Risk 37:32 Prevention Through Connection 38:58 Medication Tradeoffs 43:20 Therapy And Deeper Work 44:53 Reaching Out To Others 48:11 After The Episode 50:09 Treat Yourself And Credits   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

What does a panic attack actually feel like? How is it different from everyday stress or generalized anxiety? And why can anxiety make you feel like you're having a heart attack when you're perfectly safe? In this episode of This Way In, Amy shares her firsthand experience with panic attacks while Brittney explains what's happening in the brain and body during both panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder. Together, they explore common symptoms, why anxiety can seem to come out of nowhere, how panic disorder differs from generalized anxiety, and practical grounding techniques that can help calm the nervous system. Whether you've experienced anxiety yourself or want to better understand someone who has, this episode offers compassionate, practical insight into one of the most common mental health conditions. This episode was recorded on March 23, 2026 and released on July 30, 2026. If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Chapter Markers 00:25 Intro 01:00 Amy's Past Experiences with Panic Attacks 06:58 Tips for Calming a Panic Attack 15:33 Panic Disorder 29:01 Anxiety Disorder 40:01 Next Time 40:32 Disclaimer  Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

Have you ever wondered if you have ADHD... or if something else might be causing similar symptoms? In this first episode of our new Symptoms & Diagnoses series, licensed therapist Brittney joins Amy to unpack The Many Faces of ADHD. Together they explore the differences between inattentive, hyperactive, and combined presentations of ADHD, why self-diagnosis can be misleading, and how conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and depression can sometimes look remarkably similar. They also discuss what ADHD symptoms actually feel like, why they develop differently from person to person, and how understanding your brain can be a powerful first step toward self-compassion. Whether you've been diagnosed with ADHD, suspect you might have it, or simply want to better understand yourself or someone you love, this episode offers practical insights without judgment. Brittney shares real-world strategies for managing both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms, explains why getting the right diagnosis matters, and reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a unique person, not just a checklist. This episode was released on July 8, 2026. If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Chapter Markers 00:23 Intro 11:25 Inattention Symptoms 19:34 Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms 24:11 Overlap to other Diagnoses 28:14 Being Diagnosed with ADHD 33:50 Ways to Deal with Hyperactivity Symptoms 34:40 Ways to Deal with Inattentive Symptoms 38:53 How We Learn 41:50 Music is Magic 46:03 Managing Symptoms of ADHD 01:02:24 Disclaimer/Outro   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

Sleep. We all need it. Most of us aren’t getting enough of it. And somehow we still treat it like an optional side quest instead of basic human maintenance. In this episode of This Way In, Amy and Brittney tumble headfirst into the strange, fascinating world of sleep. From circadian rhythms and sleep hygiene to stress dreams, lucid dreaming, REM cycles, and the very real effects poor sleep can have on your brain and body, this conversation wanders through both the science and the deeply human side of what happens when we close our eyes. Amy's Note: At the time we were recording we were having some technicians here installing our furnace. So I had to stop a few times to talk to them, and also the little dog barked incessantly. I tried to cut her out, but it was only possible when I was not talking  They talk about: ·        Why sleep affects far more than just energy levels ·        The connection between sleep and long-term brain health ·        Sleep routines that actually work in real life ·        Why some people are night owls and others aren’t ·        Dream symbolism, lucid dreaming, and those “wait… was that real?” dreams ·        Emotional dreams that stick with you all day ·        Why alarms are basically tiny panic attacks ·        The myth of “catching up” on sleep ·        Dogs who believe breakfast should happen at 5:42 AM sharp   There’s science. There’s woo. There’s laughter. There’s existential dread about dementia. Basically: classic This Way In.   And yes... there is also a very vocal tiny dog making her opinions known throughout portions of the recording. At the time, Amy was also dealing with furnace technicians in the house, so despite editing efforts, some background chaos survived the final cut. Honestly? It feels on-brand for a conversation about disrupted sleep.   So fluff your pillow, silence your notifications (or don’t, we discuss that too), and join us as we wander This Way In… to your sleep. This episode was recorded on February 23, 2026 and released on June 24, 2026.   If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com   Chapter Markers 00:00:20 Intro 00:01:19 How Important is Sleep 00:12:16 Chronic Lack of Sleep 00:14:18 Sleep Hygiene & Circadian Rhythms 00:19:23 Why Teenagers Need More Sleep 00:21:52 Sleep Cycles, Alarms & Waking Up Groggy 00:29:03 Dreams, Lucid Dreaming & Emotional Processing 00:43:57 Sleep & Brain Health 00:53:01 Getting Your Circadian Rhythm Back on Track 00:56:02 Tools for Falling Asleep 01:04:31 Sleep Paralysis 01:08:49 Dreams vs. Visitations 01:13:33 Wrapping Up   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

What does it actually mean to “reset your nervous system”? Is that even a real thing… or just another TikTok buzz phrase floating through the algorithm swamp? In this episode, Amy and therapist Brittney Baxter Dameron dig into what the nervous system actually does, why our bodies react the way they do to stress, and why “calming down” is a lot more complicated than somebody yelling “just relax!” from across the room like an emotionally constipated camp counselor. They explore the difference between real threats and perceived threats, how cortisol and adrenaline affect the body, and why chronic stress can leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally fried, and stuck in survival mode. The conversation also covers the vagus nerve, fight/flight/freeze responses, and practical ways to give your nervous system a much-needed reprieve during difficult times. Amy shares some of the tools that genuinely help her sleep and regulate stress, including guided sleep meditations, binaural beats, color-noise soundscapes, sleep stories, and even a surprisingly soothing color-by-number app that apparently relaxes her enough to convince her smartwatch she’s unconscious. Which honestly feels like a glowing review. Brittney also explains: ·        Why meditation doesn’t have to look like sitting cross-legged chanting “ohm” ·        How creativity and sensory comfort can help regulate stress ·        Why sleep is one of the most powerful nervous system reprieves we have ·        The difference between healthy coping mechanisms and stress-relief behaviors that create even bigger problems later ·        How to recognize when your body is trying to tell you something important This episode also contains a very honest conversation about living through stressful and uncertain times, navigating fear and helplessness, and finding sustainable ways to care for yourself without shutting down completely. So grab your coziest blanket, your comfort beverage, and maybe a pair of headphones for those binaural beats… and join us as we find our way into the strange, complicated world of stress, survival, and nervous system reprieves.   This episode was recorded on January 26, 2026 and released on June 10, 2026.   If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Chapter Markers 00:00:21 Intro 00:00:54 What IS the Nervous System? 00:02:58 “Resetting” Your Nervous System 00:04:38 Controlling our Autonomic Nervous System 00:06:39 Breathing Exercise 00:07:35 “Calm Down” Rarely Works 00:09:56 Tips for Regulating Your Nervous System 00:11:02 Meditation 00:15:38 Binaural Sounds 00:18:47 Other Forms of Meditation 00:21:41 Other Nervous System Reprieves 00:23:03 Stress Responses in Everyday Life 00:25:18 A Cozy Environment 00:26:38 Sleep Hygiene 00:27:39 Cortisol Explained 00:31:57 Healthy Reprieves 00:32:18 Unhealthy Ways to Relieve Stress 00:36:06 Real and Perceived Threats 00:45:57 Credits   Episode links: Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/  Please see our blog post for the list of all the podcasts Amy recommends.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

WE'RE BACK!!! After a "short" hiatus we are back! Choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming. What do all those letters after their name mean? What’s the difference between therapy and counseling? And how do you know if the person sitting across from you is actually the right fit? In this episode of This Way In, we unpack what therapy really is (and what it definitely isn’t), how to clarify what you want from the process, and how to tell if a therapist is helping you move forward—or if it’s time to try someone new. We also talk about telehealth, online therapy platforms, insurance realities, and the red flags to watch for. If you’ve ever wondered where to start—or whether you’re even “doing therapy right”—this conversation will help you feel more confident taking that next step. This episode was recorded on January 12, 2026 and released on May 27, 2026. If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com   Chapter Markers 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:53 Therapy vs. Counseling 00:02:15 Credentials and What They Mean 00:06:29What Do You Want Out of Therapy 00:07:59 Reasons for Seeking Therapy 00:10:29 Dialectical behavior Therapy 00:17:16 Looking for Growth? 00:18:27 Looking for Trauma Healing? 00:19:56 Is This a Good Fit? 00:21:13 Reflective Listening 00:23:13 Treatment Plan 00:24:14 Things to Avoid 00:27:31 When it is NOT Therapy 00:30:08 When it’s the Parent’s Responsibility 00:33: 13 Your Responsibility in Therapy 00:36:07 When To Try a New Therapist 00:46:43 Popular Online Therapy Companies 00:51:13 Walking through the Search Process 00:52:57 Insurance or No 00:55:20 End Credits    Episode links:  “How to Behave So Your kids Will Too” by Dr. Sal Severe: https://amzn.to/4cchCEM EMDR International Association: https://www.emdria.org/ Marsha M. Linehan https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marsha_M._Linehan Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

In this final episode of our Parts of Self series, we take a deep dive into the Logical Part. We explore what it does best, how it works with other parts, and what happens when it gets pushed out of the driver’s seat.   Logical is not emotionless or cold. When it is unburdened, it helps us problem-solve, reflect without spiraling, and navigate stress in a grounded and realistic way. When it becomes overwhelmed or co-opted by other parts, especially Critical or Protector, it can shut down or begin justifying behaviors that do not actually align with our values.   We also zoom out to look at how all parts work together, why balance matters more than control, and how logical thinking intersects with intuition, spirituality, and lived experience.   As part of the series wrap-up, Brittney walks through a practical overview of Parts of Self work, including how to create a mental meeting space, how to work with parts even if you cannot visualize, why physical sensations are often the clearest signal that parts work is active, and when doing this work on your own is appropriate versus when it is time to bring in a therapist.   We talk honestly about trauma containment, why parts exist in the first place, and how to approach this work safely and compassionately.   This episode brings together everything we have covered in the series and sets the stage for what comes next. This is not the end of the conversation, but a solid place to pause and integrate.   This episode was recorded on January 5, 2026 and released on January 14, 2026.   If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com     Chapter Markers 00:00:23 Welcome to Your Logical Part 00:00:55 The Logical Part’s Job 00:06:53 Burdened Logical Parts 00:09:49 Logical Parts vs. Intuition 00:16:04 Parts of Self Dream Team 00:20:10 Mental Meeting Spaces 00:25:29 When Sh*t Gets Real 00:28:51 Self-Control 00:29:16 Good vs. poor Mental Health 00:30:53 Aphantasia: Can You Visualize? 00: 39:48 Brittney’s Thank Yous 00:43:52 Disclaimer/Outro 00:44:32 Outro   Episode links: Julie Dubovoy Aguggia: https://juliedubovoy.com/ Fraser's Dissociative Table: https://newhopecounselling.com/psychology/frasers-dissociative-table-technique/ You Are the One You’ve Been Waiting For by Richard Schwartz: https://amzn.to/4gy3NAE Easy Ego State Interventions by Robin Shapiro (accessible and clinician-friendly) https://amzn.to/3IaKkcx EMDR Toolbox by Jim Knipe https://amzn.to/42H3AVP Works by Sandra Paulsen on preverbal trauma The Dynamic Needs Meeting Strategy (DNMS) by Shirley Jean Schmidt MA LPC https://amzn.to/4mugMV3   Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

This one is a tearjerker. This week on This Way In, we continue our “Parts of Self” series by diving into the Nurturing Part. We explore how our inner nurturer shows up, how it gets shaped (and sometimes burdened) by gender roles and life experience, and what it really means to love and be loved. Amy shares a vulnerable and timely story about navigating care for her mom, while Brittney offers deep insights into what happens when our nurturing part is overworked, unauthentic, or misunderstood.   We also touch on topics like: The dynamic between nurturing and protector partsWhat happens when nurturing goes too far (hello, savior complex)Gender norms around who gets to be “the nurturer”Medical aid in dying, caregiver fatigue, and difficult end-of-life decisions  Plus, we talk about how to nurture ourselves in small and meaningful ways—from meditation and support groups to the underrated power of just showing up for one another.   Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of pet loss, elder care, assisted living/memory care transitions, and medically assisted death.   This episode was recorded on December 8, 2025 and released on December 31, 2025.   If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com     Chapter Markers 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:49 Recap of Protector Part 00:04:29 Gender Roles: Protector and Nurturer 00:10:15 Nurturing Part 00:12:48 Short and Long-Term Nurturing 00:18:19 When Nurturing Parts Can’t Do Their Jobs 00:22:26 Burdened Nurturing Parts 00:32:50 Nurturing Too Much 00:41:59 What We Can Do to Nurture Yourself 00:47:38 Staying Nurturing in Relationships 00:50:55 Disclaimer/Outro 00:51:34 Credits   Episode links: Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood, (1990)  https://amzn.to/47YAmnm Fight Right: How Successful Couples Turn Conflict Into Connection by Julie Schwartz Gottman PhD & John Gottman PhD https://amzn.to/3KYsaMr Other John Gottman books: https://amzn.to/4q41itT Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood — and most powerful — parts of the internal system: the Protector Part. The Protector is the part of us that steps between us and anything that feels threatening… which, as Brittney explains, can mean real threats OR the ones our brain just perceives as dangerous. Sometimes that looks heroic and loving. Sometimes it looks self-sabotaging. And sometimes, when paired with the Critical Part, it can go to some dark places. It’s heavier material, but it’s important material. And as always, we keep it real, grounded, and practical.   Content Warnings This episode includes discussion of: ·        Suicide and suicidal ideation ·        Domestic violence and abuse ·        Power, control, and harmful ideologies ·        Real-world violence and systemic oppression Please listen gently and skip sections as needed.   This episode was recorded on November 17, 2025 and released on December 17, 2025.   If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Chapter Markers 00:00:15 Welcome 00:03:20 Real vs. Perceived Threats 00:16:17 When Protector Parts are Challenged 00:31:05 When Protector Interacts with Other Parts 00:45:00 Protector Parts and Suicide 00:50:08 Medically Assisted Suicide 00:53:00 When Protection Mode is Always On 00:54:40 What Can We Do? 01:01:03 Disclaimer and Outro   Episode links: Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood, (1990)  https://amzn.to/47YAmnm Leave us a voicemail at:  https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

This week, we’re tackling one of the most powerful—and complicated—parts of self: the Critical Part. You know that inner voice that claims it’s “just being helpful” but somehow leaves you feeling like garbage? Yeah, that one.   Brittney breaks down how our critical parts can either build us up or tear us (and everyone around us) down. When unburdened, they help us make solid decisions, set boundaries, and stay true to our values. When burdened, they morph into bullies—judgy, rigid, and obsessed with control. We explore how these parts get shaped early on (hello, critical parents), why they can hijack relationships and even fuel abuse, and how our protectors often tag-team with them in the name of “safety.” The tradeoff? Freedom, joy, and genuine connection.   Amy shares personal reflections on how the critical part shows up in everyday life—from podcast goals to family dynamics—and Brittney offers practical ways to spot when this part’s in the driver’s seat. Together, they unpack how to shift from self-sabotage to self-awareness.   And yes, Paul Rudd makes another cameo as our unofficial Parts of Self mascot—because who better to remind us that you can be serious and stay playful?   And if your inner critic pipes up while you do—just tell it to chill. You’re doing great.   This episode was recorded on October 27, 2025 and released on December 3, 2025.   Chapter Markers 00:00:15 Intro 00:01:45 When Criticism Turns Toxic 00:05:35 Self-Criticism and Inner Abuse 00:10:03 Critical Parents 00:10:52 Control, Power, and Relationships  00:25:20 Critical Thinking vs. Judging 00:34:27 Freedom vs. Safety 00:37:16 Generational Patterns 00:42:43 Taming the God Complex 00:48:12 Harness Your Power 00:59:56 Domestic Violence Joined the Chat 01:03:14 Next Time: Protector Part     Episode links: Visit us at: https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/   Amazon links could generate a small commission to the show, at no additional cost to you.   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

In this illuminating episode of our Parts of Self series, Brittney and Amy dive deep into the Responsible Part—what it looks like when it's balanced and unburdened, and what happens when it hits burnout and critical parts step in like stressed-out understudies. We explore the fascinating (and sometimes maddening) relationship between responsible and kid parts, how social conditioning and gender roles shape emotional labor, and what to do when our inner to-do list manager becomes a joyless tyrant. Amy shares how tech glitches turn her into a one-woman rage spiral, and Brittney offers powerful insights from therapy, life, and the beach (spoiler: pink Speedos are involved). If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, overfunctioning, or over-it—this one's for you. Chapter Markers 00:00:15 Intro 00:01:12 Review of Kid Part – Onto Responsible Part 00:03:12 When Critical Comes to the Party 00:07:12 That Glorious Responsible Part High 00:08:00 When Responsibility is Kinda Fun 00:10:03 Crushed by the ToDo List 00:13:01 When You’re Not Allowed to be Authentically You 00:19:38 Emotional Labor: What is it Really? 00:24:58 Growing up with Kid Parts at the Helm 00:33:01 Wait. Was that Mania? 00:38:02 Balance Your Responsible with your Kid 00:40:30 Vacations and Paul Rudd 00: 44:17 Next Up: Critical Part Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!

In this episode of This Way In, Amy and Brittney explore one of the most central and authentic aspects of self: the Kid Part.   Together, they unpack: ·        The difference between unburdened Kid Parts (playful, joyful, free) and burdened Kid Parts (shy, anxious, stuck in the past). ·        How Kid Parts shape our dreams, desires, and even our adult responsibilities. ·        Pop culture examples (yes, Paul Rudd makes an appearance!) that bring the Kid Part to life. ·        How unprocessed childhood experiences can linger in our Kid Parts and influence how we react as adults. ·        Ways to recognize, acknowledge, and support our Kid Parts without pushing them away.   From funny pet stories to reflections on childhood dreams, this episode balances lighthearted laughter with real talk about healing, validation, and making peace with the little kid still inside us all. Tune in to learn how connecting with your Kid Part can bring more authenticity, play, and compassion into your life. Chapter Markers 00:00:14 Welcome 00:01:07 What are Kid Parts? 00:09:46 Unburdened Kid Parts 00:11:42 Burdened Kid Parts 00:21:04 Importance of Knowing our Parts 00:24:12 Parental Expectations 00:27:36 How to Recognize and Help Our Burdened Kid Parts 00:32:57 Next Time: When Kid Parts Interact with Other Parts 00:35:09 Sign Off   This episode was recorded on September 15, 2025 released on November 5, 2025.   Episode links: Visit us at: https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/   Disclaimer This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.   Credits: Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC. Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio   Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!