Love, Happiness and Success with Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Are your subconscious "thinking traps" getting in the way of your finding the right person? On today's episode of the podcast, NPR's dating expert Damona Hoffman is here to help you get out of your own way and find the love you're looking for. Join us! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

It's effortless for kind, competent, hard-working people to say "yes" to all the demands for their time and attention. But just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. If you're not setting healthy boundaries around your time and energy, the result can be mental and emotional depletion, burnout, and disconnection from what truly matters. On this episode of the podcast I'm talking with Becky Morrison about how to get clear about your priorities and set healthy boundaries. Learning how to (selectively!) say "yes" only to what's most important makes amazing things happen. Learn how — join us! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Divorce is nobody's first choice. But sometimes relationships cannot be saved, and divorcing feels like the right thing to do. While divorce is always hard, having an amicable divorce is the best possible outcome — particularly if you're going to be coparenting or sharing a business for years to come. My guest on today's episode is divorce attorney Stephanie Randall. She shares her honest advice about what getting divorced is *really* like, the biggest mistakes divorcing couples make, insight into the divorce recovery process, and drops real-world strategies for how to create an amicable divorce. If you're considering divorce (or in the thick of one) today's episode is a must listen. Be prepared to take notes! (Or get a the show-notes with Stephanie's top takeaways here: https://www.growingself.com/amicable-divorce) xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

The past year has been a uniquely stressful time for couples, but it has also been offering a slew of "micro-moments" that can make or break a relationship. Smart couples are using these opportunities to grow stronger, closer and more connected. Other couples are missing them, and their relationships are failing as a result. Today I'm putting on my marriage counselor hat and sharing the most important things you can do to strengthen your relationship (and what to avoid at all costs) so that you can grow together instead of grow apart. Learn how to use challenges to actually strengthen your relationship. Join me! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

How about this idea for a #NewYearsGoal? Learn how to practice radical self acceptance, and love yourself, for who and what you already are. Learning how to be okay with not being okay, have compassion for yourself and others, and grow in your authenticity may sound like the antithesis of personal development, but the opposite is true: The practice of radical acceptance can (paradoxically) lead to transformational change on every level. Learn how to lean in, in this episode. And happy new year! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

On the cusp of a new year it can be easy to over-focus on constant-and-never-ending self-improvement, new goals, the next step, and all the things you have yet to achieve. But the truth is that you have already grown so much, learned so much, and done so much. Sometimes it can be more empowering to slow down and respect the enormous amount of work you already have done rather than pushing yourself. Amazing things happen when you learn to appreciate the strength, accomplishments, courage, growth, and wisdom you already possess. I'm walking you through how to tap into all that you are, on this episode. You're already incredible! xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby PS: I've created an activity for you to journal through the questions I'm asking on today's show if you'd like. Access it here: https://www.growingself.com/learn-and-grow

In this season of gift giving, it can be easy to forget what our loved ones really want and need from us: Our unconditional love, trust, kindness, appreciation, attention, time, understanding, empathy, respect, emotional safety, and cherishing. That's what we all want! However, we cannot provide those things for anyone without first prioritizing our own wellness and personal growth. Today's episode is all about helping you cultivate the highest and best in yourself so that you can better appreciate how much you matter, and fully embrace the amazing gift of your growth. With love, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

If you're currently single you've probably experienced first hand the new online dating reality: Dating in the pandemic age is more complex than ever. However, there are fantastic opportunities to create healthy new relationships — if you know the pitfalls to avoid. On this episode of the podcast, get expert online dating coach advice from dating coach Markie K. She shares her top "dating advice do's and don'ts" to help you navigate the new modern dating landscape with clarity and confidence. Join us! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby PS: Get even MORE of Markie's great dating advice on the blog at GrowingSelf.com.

Men crave emotional connection too. But our culture can lead boys and men towards toxic masculinity that impedes emotional intelligence, and damages emotional health (not to mention relationships!) My guest today is Andrew Reiner, frequent contributor to the New York Times and the author of Better Boys, Better Men: The New Masculinity That Creates Greater Courage and Emotional Resiliency. He's generously sharing the strategies his research has uncovered for how to cultivate emotional health and connected relationships with men. If you are a man (or love one!) "What Men Secretly Want" is a must listen. Join us! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

I've had many "my relationship is on the brink, what do I do?" questions from listeners lately. When one person is half out the door, standard-issue relationship advice and conventional marriage counseling approaches can make things worse. But Discernment Counseling — a special, obscure type of couples counseling — can still save your relationship. In today's episode we're doing a deep dive into the unique dynamics of failing relationships in order to help you use the principles of discernment counseling to potentially turn things around. Join me! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby More relationship questions? Leave them for me (and help yourself to more free resources) on the blog at GrowingSelf.com.

Were you the perfect child? The clown? The scapegoat? If you weren't who your family needed you to be, did other people fall apart? Without self-awareness and intentional correction, dysfunctional family roles from your family of origin can sabotage your adult relationships. In this podcast episode I'm sharing strategies to help you learn how to overcome the legacy of a dysfunctional family, stop the cycle, and develop healthy relationships today. Join me! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby More about Dysfunctional Family Roles on GrowingSelf.com...

If you have anxiety about coronavirus, you’re not alone. Many people have been experiencing Covid anxiety, and understandably so. The virus is spreading, things are being canceled, schools and businesses are closing, and these are uncertain times. There's lots in the news about how to protect your physical health, but not so much info about how to protect your mental health from coronavirus-related anxiety. Help is here: On this episode I’m sharing practical strategies for how to manage Corona anxiety using helpful cognitive-behavioral strategies so that you can stay in a good place mentally and emotionally during this challenging time. Wishing you love, happiness, success and health, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby PS: In addition to the anxiety management strategies I shared on this episode I mentioned a couple of resources that you might use in addition to online therapy for anxiety. These include: The book, “Feeling Good” by Dr. David Burns The book, “10 Best Ever Anxiety Management Techniques” by Dr. Margaret Wehrenberg The online Happiness Class: The online CBT therapy course that teaches you cognitive skills for managing anxiety as well as mindfulness strategies and emotional regulation skills. Mindfulness training apps, and also the mindfulness / stress management videos I have available for you on my IGTV channel @drlisamariebobby

Dr. Lisa here, doing a swan dive into your podcast feed a little early today to let you know that if you've been experiencing a resurgence of "covid anxiety" lately, you're not alone. I'm re-releasing my "How to Cope With Covid Anxiety" podcast episode for you right now, and will be back in touch later today with a new episode. Wishing you all the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Long distance relationships have unique challenges, but love from a distance can work beautifully. In today's episode I'm answering your long distance relationship questions around: How to keep your connection strong when you're living apart How to manage feelings of anxiety and insecurity in a long distance relationship The unique stressors (and opportunities) of long distance couples The most important "Us" conversations all long distance couples must have How to cohabitate successfully after living long distance And more! xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby P.S. If you have questions about your relationship share them in the comments of the "Long Distance Relationship Questions" post so I can answer them. While you're on GrowingSelf.com, be sure check out the other articles and podcasts we have on this topic. It's all for you!

Difficult conversations are tough to have, and easy to avoid (or botch). But authentic communication is vital for healthy relationships — especially when it's about something that is really important to you. It's at times like these that productive, compassionate "critical conversations" are so crucial. Today: Learn real-world strategies for how to have difficult conversations so that you can prevent differences from fracturing your most important relationships. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Time to embrace your shadow side: The part of yourself that is authentic, real, and needs to have a voice. It's so easy to disown parts of yourself, but until you reclaim them, you'll never be fully congruent or empowered. Shadow work helps you make contact with your whole self, and can lead to transformational growth. Learn how, on the latest episode of the podcast. Happy Halloween! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby PS: If you'd like to do some of the activities I shared in this episode, you can download your free "shadow work exercises" right here. GrowingSelf.com

We can all agree that the world needs more kindness right now. But the practice of meaningful, deep kindness is more challenging than you'd think. It requires empathy, intention, mindfulness and commitment. Yet the rewards of cultivating a kindness practice are enormous. Kindness mends stressed relationships, boosts self esteem, protects against depression and anxiety, and strengthens supportive friendships. Practicing kindness helps you as much as it helps others. In this episode, my guest Houston Kraft, author of "Deep Kindness," shares how to have courage and be kind, and cultivate a transformational kindness practice that will lift everyone up, including you. Tune in, and unleash the power of kindness in your life! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

The best time to change your life is the moment you decide you're ready. Most people put off making big changes — waiting for the stars to align, for circumstances to improve, for some future version of themselves to finally feel ready. But here's what I've learned from years as a life coach and therapist: there is no perfect moment. There is only the decision to begin. And you can make that decision right now. The moment you choose to grow is the moment everything becomes possible. In this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast, I'll walk you through how to: Take honest stock of where you are right now — what's working, what isn't, and what it's time to let go of Declutter and reset the areas of your life that are draining your energy — your habits, your relationships, how you're spending your time Identify the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that have been holding you back Build a real, actionable plan for the life you actually want — starting today You deserve love, happiness, and success. And you don't have to wait another day to start creating it. xoxo, ⁠Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby⁠ www.growingself.com

If you've been stuck in a relationship with someone who is not treating you well, and who is causing you hurt, anxiety, pain and frustration, now is a wonderful time to consider leaving your toxic relationship behind... and creating a new chapter full of healing, health and happiness for yourself. On this episode I'll be discussing: - Characteristics of toxic relationships - Why toxic relationships are so addictive - Whether toxic relationships can be healed - The impact of toxic relationships - And how to end a toxic relationship, for once and for all. If you've been stuck on the terrible roller coaster of a toxic relationship, this episode is for YOU. All the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com

Has it felt challenging for you to get the respect you deserve on the job? Today's episode is all about helping you gain influence and power in your professional role. My guest, executive coach and leadership coach Mory Fontinez, shares her insights for how to cultivate empowerment in the workplace — both as a striver on your way up, and as an empowering leader dedicated to cultivating talent. Join us! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Being honest with yourself is a fundamental part of authentic personal growth... but it can be hard to do. We all have blindspots, stories we tell ourselves, and things we’re not conscious of that are holding us back. Today's podcast with therapist and life coach Josephine Marin can help you get clarity about your authentic truth so that you can move forward fearlessly. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

Do you struggle to feel like you are good enough? It's not just you: Many people — no matter how successful or accomplished — still feel like they're not *quite* measuring up. Today's episode does a deep dive into HOW to feel that you're good enough. Plus, psychologist and executive coach Dr. Lisa Orbe Austin shares how push back against self-doubt and overcome imposter syndrome. Follow along! Text ESTEEM to 55444 to get the Self Esteem Quiz discussed in this episode. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

If you are feeling increasingly overwhelmed by life and trying to figure out how you’re going to juggle a zillion different things and stay on top of it all.... this episode is for you. In this episode, Denver psychologist Dr. Danielle Kahlo spills the beans on why conventional "how to get organized" tips never work for long, and how to instead focus on cultivating the type of "organized mindset" that makes everything else fall into place: Priorities, time, tasks, and stuff too. Being organized makes you less stressed and anxious, it improves your relationships, and it makes you feel better about yourself and your life. Being organized is important, and it begins from within! Listen, and learn how. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Do you ever feel like your own worst enemy? Like no matter how motivated you are, or how clearly you can see what you want, something always seems to get in the way — and that something is you? Here's what I've learned from years as a life coach and therapist: when people struggle to reach their goals, it's almost never about lacking motivation, willpower, or determination. Most of the time, they're unintentionally sabotaging their own success — often from day one. And the hardest part? They usually have no idea it's happening. The good news is that self-sabotage isn't a character flaw. It's a pattern. And once you can see it, you can change it. In this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast, you'll learn: The real reason most people fail to reach their goals (it's not what you think) How to recognize the subtle ways you might be sabotaging yourself without realizing it Six proven strategies to stop getting in your own way How to set yourself up for lasting success from day one xoxo, ⁠Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby⁠ ⁠www.growingself.com

If you've been feeling trapped lately, and like you don't know which way to turn — this episode is for you. We're doing a deep dive into how to get mentally and emotionally unstuck with life and career coach Elise Ross. Listen for actionable advice and new ideas that will help you break free and start moving forward again. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

Are you holding on to resentment about hurtful things that have happened in the past? Is your partner? In today's episode, we’re talking about how to let go of resentment in your relationship, so that you can both move forward, put the past behind you, and start enjoying each other again. xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

If you've been feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted, and that the daily grind is relentless... you are not alone. The realities "corona-life" are wearing down even the sturdiest and most productive among us. Help is here: Today's show is all about helping you recover from burnout, reclaim control, cultivate resilience, reprioritize time and energy, and craft a sustainable "burnout prevention" plan for yourself, your career and your family. With love, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

A listener asked, “I want to grow and move forward, but HOW?” Today, I'm giving you the inside scoop — from my perspective as a therapist and life coach — into what the process of personal growth actually involves so that YOU can move forward. We're discussing: The circumstances that set the stage for growth (and why now is the perfect time) How to transform a "breakdown" into a "breakthrough" Why courageously tapping into your dark emotions is essential What things may seem like “obstacles” but actually ARE the path forward in disguise! The key turning points that accelerate your growth Shifting from a victim mindset to one of empowerment How to release your participation in old patterns for good And more! I hope this discussion provided you with both hope and direction as you find your own path forward. Questions or comments about this episode? Share them! "Moving Forward" @ GrowingSelf.com xo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

How healthy is your self esteem? If don't feel good about YOU, it's hard stay in a good place and feel confident, hopeful, and effective. In this episode, we'll explore the signs of low self esteem and its causes, and discuss the action oriented strategies that will help you feel good again. Bonus! Text the word "ESTEEM" to 55444 to get the "How Healthy is Your Self Esteem" quiz, to see where you land on the spectrum of self esteem. To growth! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

How do you know when it's time to break up? Knowing when to end a relationship can be confusing, especially when there are good parts — and maybe even hope for the future. Some people are clear that they're done with the relationship, but worry that the realities of single life could be harder than trudging on in the marriage. If you're in this bind, today's episode is for you. We're tackling questions like: How can you get clarity and confidence around whether to end a relationship? What are the signs that hope and growth is still possible (even if it hasn't happened yet?) What are the "no-hope" red flags that you need to listen to? What if you want to break up, but feel guilty about it? What do you do if you’re unhappy in your relationship, but are facing practical realities such as co-parenting concerns or financial consequences if you separate? All that and more, plus insights, thought provoking questions, and action steps to help you move forward one way or another, on this episode of the podcast. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Comments or Questions? Share them in this post @GrowingSelf.com

How do you relate to others? Are you unknowingly getting involved with people who are only going to hurt you? How do romantic partners experience you — good, bad, and ugly? How can you release self-limiting patterns in relationships so that you can create a healthy, secure, long-term connection? Understanding your attachment style can provide you with answers to all these questions. Listen and learn about attachment styles, what they mean for you, and don't forget to text "ATTACH" to 55444 to get the Attachment Style Assessment to uncover your own patterns in relationships. All for you, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Are you in a relationship with someone who has issues they're not getting help for? It is painful to watch someone you love struggle, and it's also frustrating when you're not getting your needs met in a relationship. How do you help someone who won't help themselves? How long do you wait? When does being "supportive" slide into being "codependent?" When do you call it quits and move on? All that and more, on this episode. Wishing you all the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Are you seeking to increase your social circle with true-blue friends who have your back? (And weed out the selfish people who take more than they give?) On today's episode of the Love, Happiness & Success podcast, Val Walker is here to share expert advice for how to cultivate relationships with friends you can count on. In this emotionally intimate interview, Val talks about the moment she realized she had "400 Friends & No One To Call" (the title of her latest book), and how it launched her intentional, successful creation of a supportive community of meaningful friendships. Val has so much fantastic advice to share with you for how to build up a community of support for yourself. I hope you listen! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Most busy professionals feel they don't have the luxury to "just hang out." Yet investing in healthy friendships is one of the single most impactful things you can do to improve your mental, emotional, and even physical health. To support YOU in your understanding of the importance of healthy friendships, and to deepen you understanding of what it really takes to build supportive relationships in your life, I’ve invited science journalist and author Lydia Denworth to speak with me about her new book, “Friendship: The Evolution, Biology, and Extraordinary Power of Life’s Fundamental Bond.” She shares what her painstaking research has uncovered about why friendships are so important to us, the risks of neglecting your friendships, the impact of friendships on children and adolescents, and — perhaps most importantly — concrete strategies for how to build and nurture your friendships during social distancing. Listen, and learn about the importance of healthy friendship and how to build strong friendship connections in your own life. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

How to Deal With Cultural Differences in a Relationship As a marriage counselor and couples therapist l know that all relationships bring a variety of challenges and opportunities for growth. At the same time, some couples — particularly those in cross-cultural relationships — feel that they have further to go in bridging the gap. It’s very easy for couples to get entrenched in conflict rooted in a core belief of “right and wrong” when it comes to how to approach various aspects of their shared life. This can be especially true around hot-button issues such as: “How much influence should my mother-in-law have in our family?” “How do we handle money as a couple?” “How do we parent our children together?” “How do we communicate with each other when we’re stressed?” “Who is in charge of what, around our home?” “How do we handle racial prejudice directed at one of us, or our children?” To tackle these questions, and provide some direction for how to begin building bridges to the center, I’ve asked some multicultural relationship experts to join me for this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast. Growing Self relationship coaches Dr. Georgiana Spradling, MFT, Tania Chikhani, M.A, and Teresa Thomas, M.A. often work with cross-cultural couples and interracial couples, and have great relationship advice for how to create peace and harmony in your gloriously diverse family. All the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

We are living in historic times. In the midst of a global pandemic, our country is also fighting another battle: One that seeks to shine a light on injustice and systemic racism, end abuse and discrimination of Black Americans and other people of color, and begin the hard work of healing. This reality brings up questions that need to be answered: How can a person of color cope with feelings of anger and pain due to being directly impacted by (or bearing witness to) racial injustice in our society? What are some strategies that Black Americans can use to stay empowered in their relationships, and to make informed, affirming decisions that honor their needs and rights? Where do you turn for safety, support and understanding in a divided and uncertain world? How can people of color honor the reality of the past and present, and also remain hopeful about the future? Growing Self therapists Teresa Thomas, M.S., and Zachary Gaiter, M.S., LPCC tackle these questions and more, on this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast. Join us! Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.GrowingSelf.com

Ever feel like your ex is living rent-free in your head, even though the relationship is so over? Whether it’s been weeks, months, or (gulp) years since your breakup, if you’re wondering “Why do I keep thinking about my ex?” and you’re still caught in a loop of thoughts, memories, or even fantasies about them, I made this episode just for you. I know firsthand — both as a therapist and from my own experience — that getting stuck on an ex is exhausting. But there is a path forward. In this episode of Love, Happiness and Success, I’m walking you through exactly why this happens (spoiler alert: it’s not your fault — it’s biology), and more importantly, how to finally break free so you can move forward into peace, clarity, and emotional freedom. Timestamps: 00:00 – Why Do I Keep Thinking About My Ex? 06:30 – Love and Addiction: Your Brain on Heartbreak 14:58 – The Truth About Breakup Recovery 28:17 – Emotional Loose Ends: The Silent Saboteur 38:05 – Rebuilding Your Self & Reclaiming Your Future 48:14 – You’re Not Doomed to Keep Thinking About Your Ex If your ex is still living rent-free in your mind, please know you don’t have to stay stuck here. The first step to getting your power back is understanding exactly where you are in your healing process. That’s why I created a free tool just for you. 👉 Take the Breakup Quiz: How Over Your Ex Are You? In just a few minutes, this quiz will show you which stage of healing you’re in — and what specific steps will help you move forward. Whether you're still in emotional withdrawal or starting to let go, you'll get personalized insight and a roadmap for what to do next. And, if you're tired of spinning in circles, overthinking every memory, every mistake, every what-if — you don’t have to navigate this alone. Sometimes, the fastest way to start feeling better is simply talking to someone who truly gets it. Our team at Growing Self includes licensed therapists and breakup recovery coaches who specialize in this kind of healing work. 👉 Schedule a Free Consultation — to talk to one of the experts on our team and take the next brave step toward peace, healing, and freedom. You deserve to feel like yourself again. And yes, it’s absolutely possible to stop thinking about your ex — not because you forced yourself to forget, but because you’ve grown into someone who no longer needs to hold on. And you can start your healing today. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you know someone who keeps spiraling over their ex, share this with them. Forward the link, post it on your story, or send them a little nudge. Be the friend who helps them start healing.

We all hear “You have to love yourself first.” But what if you don't know how to love yourself? This episode is all about authentic self love: What it really means, why having compassion and care for yourself matters so much, and how to love yourself even if (and especially if) you don't always feel like it. You are worthy of love and respect, and today's podcast will help you build your relationship... with yourself. With love and gratitude for the gift that is YOU, xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com P.S. — For even more support in creating a healthy, loving relationship with yourself, check out my “cultivating self-confidence” collection. You'll find articles and advice about confidence and self-esteem, plus podcast playlists I put together for you.

Feeling Trapped? When you're in a situation you're unhappy in but feel that the exits are blocked and that you have no good options, it's easy to feel trapped. Perhaps you're in an unhappy relationship, but can't leave. Or you feel forced to stay in a job you hate. Or your circumstances are limiting your empowerment and growth. When change feels futile, or impossible, it's easy to feel helpless, disempowered, and trapped. Does this sound familiar at all? If so, you're not alone. We all hit a wall sometimes. The good news is that there is a way out. Through using your creativity and giving yourself permission to entertain new thoughts, you'll either find new solutions... or inner peace. Listen, and learn about how to get unstuck when you're feeling trapped on this episode of the podcast. Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Is your partner threatening divorce? Are you? If so this is certainly a relationship crisis... but not necessarily the end. In fact, when couples are on the brink of divorce, it can be a turning point for a marriage. On this episode, I'm sharing some from-the-heart advice learned from my years as a marriage counselor about things you can do to stop this runaway train, and have new conversations with your partner to start the process of healing. I am also aware that there are situations where you cannot stop a divorce if your partner has made up their mind. I also have some advice for how to handle this, and offer some concrete strategies for having the healthiest and most collaborative parting as possible. I hope that all the advice helps you find your way through this confusing, and scary time, and that the path forward is one of growth for you -- no matter how things unfold. With love and respect, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com

Feeling bad and being depressed are not the same thing. What some call "dark emotions" — grief, sadness, disappointment, regret, hurt — aren't just a normal part of life. They're actually essential to it. Uncomfortable feelings are often what push us toward change, growth, and a deeper understanding of who we are and what we need. When you sit with those feelings instead of running from them, something meaningful can happen. That's not depression. That's being human. What Is Depression? Depression is something else entirely. Unlike the difficult emotions that can spark insight and growth, depression isn't instructive or motivating — it's an illness. It affects the way you think, feel, and function, and it doesn't come with a silver lining. In fact, depression often needs to be addressed and treated before real personal growth becomes possible at all. In this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast, I'm breaking down what depression actually is — and what it isn't. I'll walk you through how to recognize the symptoms in yourself or someone you love. How to Tackle Depression We'll also cover what to do if you think depression might be affecting your life — including natural remedies, cognitive behavioral therapy, and when medication makes the most sense. I'll also talk about how to support a partner or loved one who may be struggling. Depression exists on a spectrum, and at its most serious, it can become life-threatening. If you or someone you love needs help right now, please reach out: Colorado Crisis Hotline: 1-844-493-8255 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 My hope is that this episode helps you get clarity on what you're going through — and if depression is part of your story, that it leaves you feeling hopeful and ready to take your next step. Depression is very treatable, and you don't have to face it alone. Lisa Marie Bobby

Intentional Living: Without and Within On this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast (as well as other episodes to come), I'm providing you with new ideas and growth activities that will help you move yourself forward on a deep level, while the world around us stops. To begin, I'm speaking with my dear Olivia, the mastermind behind Decluttered Intentions, about simple things you can do to: Create organization and order in your personal space Cultivate spaciousness and peace inside of yourself Release the opportunity to bury yourself in busyness Understand your patterns and ways of relating to the world Create order in your routines Curate your thinking patterns in a way to create gratitude, appreciation, and contentment. Connect with your dreams so that you can design a sanctuary within your home that nourishes you from the inside out. I hope that these ideas and activities help YOU use this special, quiet time to move forward on your journey of growth. All the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Ps: One of the resources I mentioned in this episode is my "What's Holding You Back" assessment, that gives you insight into your personal strengths and growth opportunities in a variety of domains. Text "GROW" to 55444 if you'd like to take it. xoxo, LMB

FINDING BALANCE: We want to have everything. We want and need to have rules and structure to protect us and guide our lives. Yet we also crave freedom and independence. We long to have empathy and compassion in our relationships,but we also want to be challenged so that we can grow. Finding Balance In All Things Tight vs. Loose. Protective vs. Forgiving. Planning vs. Being Present. Everything we do exists on a continuum, a spectrum of finding balance between extremes so that we can create a healthy path on every level. Dr. Michele Gelfand is the author of "Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World," she's been on the stage of TedEx, she's been featured on The Hidden Brain podcast, and now she's here with me to share her wisdom with YOU. I hope her fascinating insights help you find a healthy balance in your life. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Let's face it: Couples and money is a hot-button issue for many relationships. Sooner or later, all successful long-term couples need to work together to figure out how to communicate productively about money so that they can get on the same page and create a shared financial future. This is not always easy under the best of circumstances. Now, many couples are facing financial uncertainty or even a financial crisis (thanks coronavirus). It's more important than ever to be working as a united team around finances so that your relationship stays strong and healthy... even if your bank account takes a hit. To help you have constructive, drama free conversations about money with your partner, I've invited my colleague Meagan Terry to give us the scoop on exactly what to do (and what NOT to do) in order to have loving, respectful, and effective conversations about finances that create unity and connection. Meagan is a highly experienced marriage counselor who has helped countless couples stop financial conflict and get on the same page around money. Now she's here for YOU. Listen, and get her actionable tips you can start using today! With love, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

ADVICE FROM A CAREER COACH | In addition to everything else in your life being upended by the coronavirus pandemic, you probably have a slew of new "coronavirus career anxieties" in addition to the usual coronavirus anxiety that's buzzing inside everyone right now. Many people are very worried about their career future right now. Many jobs have been lost to coronavirus, and with the threat of recession, there may be more layoffs to come. (Read: Coping With a Layoff) For those among us lucky enough to have stable employment, we now figure out how to maintain our professionalism via online video meetings, work from home while balancing childcare, homeschooling and more. In times like these it's absolutely normal to be worried about work, and help is here. Advice From a Career Coach Today I've tapped a couple of my career coaching colleagues to discuss important questions like: What to do if you lost your job How to get a bridge job right now if you need one How to use this time to develop yourself professionally and make long term career plans How to protect your long-term career goals from coronavirus, if they're getting derailed right now Managing anxiety about your career Best practices when working from home for online video meetings Balancing work and life when you're working from home And more! Join us for some timely coronavirus career advice on this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Breakups are painful enough on their own — but for many people, the real struggle begins after the split. The sleepless nights, the mental replay of every conversation, the desperate search for answers. And underneath it all, two haunting questions: Will I ever feel okay again? And when? Because so much of my work centers on breakup and divorce recovery, I hear from a lot of people who are deep in that pain. But recently, one listener of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast reached out in a way that genuinely stopped me in my tracks. She had read my book "Exaholics: Breaking Your Addiction to An Ex Love" and still had questions — so instead of sending an email, she recorded a heartfelt video sharing them. Watching her speak so openly, I kept thinking: she's not the only one going through this. I reached out to ask if I could share her recording on the podcast so others in the same boat could hear the answers too. She graciously said yes — and this episode is the result. If you're navigating a breakup and find yourself asking things like... How do I let go of guilt and regret over what happened? How do I rebuild my self-esteem after rejection? How do I handle running into my ex's friends? How do I cope when I never saw the breakup coming? Will I ever feel genuinely hopeful about love again? ...this episode of the Love, Happiness & Success Podcast was made for you. My hope is that this conversation gives you something real to hold onto on your road to healing. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com

Coronavirus anxiety? Struggling with the new reality of "Corona Life?" You're not alone. I recently polled some of my tribe on Instagram to see how they were doing mentally and emotionally during the Coronavirus crisis we are all experiencing together. In efforts to help you manage Coronavirus anxiety and cultivate emotional resilience, I am devoting this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast to addressing your questions about coping with "Coronavirus Life" in order to provide new ideas and direction. Specifically: "I am freaking out about Coronavirus. How do I stop worrying about getting sick? Or being worried that people I love will get Coronavirus?" "I'm having anxiety about separation during the Coronavirus quarantine, and I am so sad about being cut off from everyone. What do I do?" "What are some of the best self-care strategies for dealing with Coronavirus stress?" "Being cooped up at home with my spouse is taking a toll on my relationship. How do we handle the stress of this situation without damaging our relationship?" "I'm so worried about my financial future thanks to Coronavirus. What do I do?" "Coronavirus has destroyed my life. I can't deal with the uncertainty of not knowing what is happening." I'm answering these listener questions and sharing some special, free resources for my listeners (You!!) on this episode. I hope this discussion and the resources I'm sharing helps you find new coping skills, and practices that help build a firm foundation of emotional resilience inside yourself right now. Wishing you all the best, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby

Knowing how to handle inevitable issues that creep into every relationship makes all the difference in whether your relationship becomes stronger over time... or strained. The truth is that all couples need to learn "how" to do relationships, and there are a few core skills that are essential. My guests today are expert premarital counselors who are sharing their best advice for the things every couple must do to keep their relationship strong and healthy for the long haul. Whether you're in a newly committed relationship or have been married for years, I hope you listen to this episode! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby GrowingSelf.com

Do you feel like it's hard to manage the stress of it all? If you're like so many of our high-achieving type-A life coaching and therapy clients here at Growing Self, you probably have days when you're feeling spread thin. How do you create a sustainable way of being that allows you to not just do the things that you need to do but manage your life in such a way that you don't constantly feel like a frantic stress-ball? My guest on this episode of the Love, Happiness and Success Podcast, Marilyn Paul, PhD, is here to show us how. Listen to get insights and tips, and compassionate, empowering ideas that you can use ASAP to cultivate calm and order in your life, so that you can feel genuinely stress free from the inside out. Your partner in growth, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby