Psychobabble with Joe Nucci

Trauma is one of the most talked-about and most misunderstood topics in mental health culture. In this episode of Psychobabble, Joe Nucci unpacks two very different books on trauma: Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score and George Bonanno’s The End of Trauma.Although both books offer powerful insights into how we process painful experiences, they don’t always agree. One emphasizes the body and stored trauma, while the other highlights resilience and recovery. So which one is right? Watch for the answer.#TheBodyKeepsTheScore #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #Psychology #Resilience #SomaticTherapy #PTSDRecovery #PsychobabbleOrder: Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Nucci sits down with Dr. Suzy Welch, professor, author, researcher, and creator of the "Values Bridge" framework, to explore how understanding your unique values, aptitudes, and personality can unlock a more authentic and fulfilling life and career.From Suzy’s days as a crime reporter to becoming a business journalist, launching a methodology at NYU, and grieving the loss of her husband, this conversation offers profound insights into navigating paradoxes, increasing self-awareness, and making better life decisions based on who you truly are.Topics Covered:How to manage conflicting values like ambition vs. self-careWhy most of us are far less self-aware than we thinkHow work and love reveal your most authentic selfSuzy’s book: Becoming You: The Proven Method for Crafting Your Authentic Life and CareerPre-order Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can AI actually help us heal?Joe Nucci sits down with clinical psychologist and author Dr. Elisha Goldstein to explore the intersection of therapy, technology, and emotional health. From AI-generated therapists to the science of connection and healthspan, they unpack what the future of mental health might look like.Topics include:The promise and pitfalls of AI in therapyMindfulness—when it helps and when it harmsHealthspan vs. lifespan: living longer and betterWhy social connection is the ultimate longevity hackMoral outrage, anger, and digital citizenship in the social media era#psychology #AI #mentalhealth #therapy #mindfulness #futureoftherapyPre-order Joe’s new book Psychobabble: Viral Mental Health Myths & the Truths to Set You Free (released September 23, 2025): https://a.co/d/11WG9Gw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this provocative episode of Psychobabble, Joe Nucci sits down with Anthony Rispo—Columbia graduate, writer, and rising content creator—to unpack his intellectual evolution from progressive activism to political heterodoxy. Rispo shares how the events of 2020 triggered a wave of cognitive dissonance, prompting him to explore overlooked voices, challenge academic dogmas, and examine the psychological underpinnings of political behavior.A candid, research-backed exploration of polarization, this episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning the status quo or struggling to discuss it openly.🔎 Topics include:Left vs. right-wing authoritarianismIdentity, victimhood, and performative activismContent creation and backlashThe limits of academic discourseHow psychological traits influence ideologyPre-order PsychobabbleFollow Joe Nucci:Instagram: @joenuccitherapyWebsite: joenuccitherapy.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Psychobabble, we’re breaking down one of the most misunderstood topics in modern therapy: the victim mindset.Joe sits down with psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman to unpack the psychology of victimhood and the mental health labels that can quietly hold people back.Dr. Kaufman shares powerful insights from his new book Rise Above, and the two discuss:Why “trauma-informed” therapy isn’t always helpfulThe potential connection between trauma and identity politics The difference between emotional validation and emotional regulationWhat vulnerable narcissism looks likeWhy therapists need to believe in transformation, not just affirm your painWhether you're a therapist, a client, or both, this raw conversation will offer tools for emotional resilience.Don’t miss an episode—subscribe now.#psychobabble #victimmindset #trauma #traumainformedtherapy #narcissism #mentalhealthFollow Joe Nucci:Instagram: @joenuccitherapyWebsite: joenuccitherapy.comBook: Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bestselling author and linguist Amanda Montell joins psychotherapist Joe Nucci to unpack the psychology behind our modern-day psychological biases.Topics we cover:Cognitive biases like the Illusory Truth Effect and Confirmation BiasThe cult of celebrityHow to think more clearly in a world of noiseGet Amanda’s bestselling book The Age of Magical Overthinking: Notes on Modern IrrationalityPre-order Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a powerful interview, relationship expert Dr. Warren Farrell sits down with Joe Nucci to discuss his new book, From Rolemate to Soulmate, which compiles decades of experience researching relationships and training couples counselors. They discuss:Frameworks to help partners grow togetherThe destructive character of rigid gender rolesControlling patterns that hurt connectionWhether it’s showing up emotionally or learning how your traits can help (or hurt) your relationship, this interview will help you become the soulmate your partner deserves.Buy From Rolemate to SoulmatePre-order Psychobabble Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you actually have trauma?Therapist and capacity expert RaQuel Hopkins and I discuss what our culture gets wrong about common mental health terms and verbs.  Listen in as we discuss trauma, victimhood, and other viral mental health myths.Bonus - Raquel got a sneak preview of my coming book, Psychobabble, and she shares her feedback with you in the clip.For more on Raquel, check out her Instagram @raquel_the_capacity_expert.‼️Pre-order my book, Psychobabble! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Black women in America. Jim Crow’s South. Solidarity with Jewish communities. Join me as I have a powerful and timely conversation with singer, activist, and content creator Malynda Hale to discuss all these and more. In a world that demands binary answers, we discuss how to practically live out nuanced beliefs. For more on Malynda, check out her Instagram @malyndahale and her website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is intuition real? Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with psychic and intuition expert Shoshanna French to discuss the real science behind energy, empathy, emotional boundaries, and, yes, intuition. From navigating messy family dynamics to sensing when a business deal is off, Shoshanna shares how intuition is a skill anyone can learn. This episode will challenge your beliefs on mindfulness, boundaries, and emotional intelligence. For more on Shoshanna, check out her Instagram @shoshannafrenchstokes and her website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is instant chemistry actually toxic? Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with dating coach and relationship expert Sabrina Zohar to discuss the hidden truth about ‘the spark’ on the latest episode of Psychobabble. Whether you’re single or boo’d up, this conversation will have you questioning if you’re dating for the right reasons. Bring your relationship drama, raw honesty, and a little popcorn. Please follow Sabrina on Instagram @Sabrina.zohar and @thesabrinazoharshow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci takes on the internet’s favorite label — narcissism — in his latest episode of Psychobabble. Reflecting on the trend of ex-partners being called narcissists, Joe explores why this might signal personal and societal growth. In this episode, he delves into the balance of individuality and connection in relationships, inspired by the works of Jungian analyst Robert Johnson and the lessons embedded in myths and pop culture classics like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. Through candid storytelling and psychological insights, Joe discusses how losing oneself in a relationship, rather than maintaining healthy boundaries, often fuels perceptions of narcissism. He examines themes like splitting, individuation, and the delicate dance between giving and preserving one’s identity. Whether you’re processing a breakup or navigating the complexities of love, this episode invites listeners to confront hard truths about relationships and self-growth. Tune in for an honest and thought-provoking conversation that redefines how we think about love, individuality, and those so-called "narcissistic" exes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For his latest podcast episode of Psychobabble, licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci reacts to the new movie The Substance. He explores themes from the film, such as the difference between self-esteem and self-respect, the harmful side of the body positivity movement, our obsession with beauty, Ozempic and diet culture, and the chase for perfectionism in our FaceTuned and Instagram-conscious world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Licensed psychotherapist Joe Nucci sits down with politico Abby Skeans for his latest podcast episode of Psychobabble. They discuss the psychology of forgiveness after the election, extending grace, the rupture and repair process, cancel consciousness, and the value of disagreement, among other topics weighing heavily on our hearts and in our divided nation right now.Please note - this episode was recorded in October 2024, before the election. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gaslighting. Narcissism. ADHD. 6 signs you're neurodivergent. Are you autistic? These are just some of the mental health buzzwords popping up all over your feed these days. Is it real? Or are we seeing the start of a mental health industrial complex?Joe Nucci is a psychotherapist seeing his industry devolve into psychobabble right in front of his eyes. Join Joe as he speaks to experts in his field and outside of it as they decipher what kind of mental health information is helpful for you and what isn't. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe talks to Michelle May, a psychotherapist, author, and expert in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). ISTDP is highly tailored to the client, and, as Michelle tells Joe, is about "getting to things as quickly as your (the client's) body can tolerate." The therapist relates to their client based on the client's emotional capacity, moment by moment. Joe discusses his own theoretical trainings and practices and is so inspired by Michelle's expertise that he is thinking about getting trained in ISTDP himself.Mentions:Michelle's web site: https://michellemmaylpc.com/Follow Michelle on Instagram: @michellemaylpcMichelle's forthcoming book, available now for pre-order, is called What I Couldn’t Tell My Therapist: The Truths We Told to Heal Our Lives Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe interviews Dr. Denise McCain-Tharnstrom, a former litigator with a background in public policy and philanthropy, about how a technological app she helped develop is able to able to pull off an incredible feat. The app connects people who are unhoused or otherwise have insecure resources to the services and support they need. (And no, the fact that it’s an app is not a barrier; you’ll learn why that’s the case in this fascinating episode.)  Joe learns how it's possible to help more people with technology, making social services accessible to everyone who needs them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you tell your boss if you are struggling with a mental health concern? When Joe was in graduate school he wrote his capstone on this very topic, exploring issues such as stigma, disclosure, and accommodations for disability. Employment lawyer Tyler Allen speaks to Joe about the legal aspects of the very tricky central question of this episode. It's one that's relevant to many who want to succeed in their careers while also prioritizing their mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe and his guest Jeff Guenther (@therapyjeff) dive deep into dating and relationships. As the author of a forthcoming book titled Big Dating Energy (and a podcast of the same name) Jeff Guenther has, after 20 years of practicing therapy, some great insights into relationships. In this episode, Joe and Jeff don't stick solely to the predictable terms (like "attachment," or "codependence") but explore topics such as dating norms, and how to have a successful break up. Throughout the conversation, Jeff and Joe share about their own experiences on the journey of love: They talk about dating, getting divorced, and finding happiness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a profession where most therapists are women, what do two therapists who identify as men talk about when they get together? In this timely and light-hearted conversation, Trey Tucker sits down with Joe Nucci to talk about their personal reasons for becoming therapists, what it's like navigating clinical work in a largely feminine sphere, the importance of choosing to be vulnerable, and how they create safe spaces for clients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you have to be an alcoholic for drinking be affecting your mental health? Can you engage in hedomism without it affecting your mental health? How can one be "sober-curious" amongst social pressures? These are just some of the questions that Joe and Amanda White discuss on this latest episode. Joe also shares about his relationship to substances on his mental health journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does free speech have to do with mental health? Joe interviews Greg Lukianoff, CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) and author of numerous books including The Coddling of the American Mind and The Cancelling of the American Mind. Please note this episode was recorded prior to campus protests in the United States.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nancy McWilliams is a legend in the field of mental health. Joe and Nancy discuss a few mental health buzzwords ("abuse," "psychotic," "schizophrenic") that, through overuse and misuse, have lost their meaning. They also discuss whether "mommy issues" or "daddy issues" are real, if/how Nancy and Joe are able to turn off their therapist brains when hanging out with friends, and exciting developments in attachment and mother-infant research. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Clinical psychologist and researcher Darby Saxbe, of the University of Southern California recently penned a fascinating New York Times op-ed Op Ed called "This is Not How to Help a Depressed Teenager." Like Joe, she has concerns about the pathologizing of normal problems of living that so many people in our culture do these days--particulary teenagers, who are highly tuned into the people around them. ("Everyone's got a mental health problem, so I must have one, too," is a common calculus many teens and adults make.) Understanding the biological underpinnings of social relationships is one of Professor Saxbe's prime focus areas. She and Joe dive into all of it, making for an episode that is rich with illuminating dialogue about mental health and mental health culture--regardless of whether or not you know a teenager. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can psychoanalysis and psychological development actually be chronicled in a Disney Movie about an adventuring princess? Hear Joe’s take. If you have not seen the movie, you’ll want to see it after listening to this episode. And if you’ve seen it before, you’re probably going to want to see it again.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we psychologically and philosophically understand the political climate regarding the Israel-Hamas War? Joe shares about his experience studying and working in politics, and combines his knowledge of personality psychology to set the groundwork for an ongoing exploration of mental health and political identity in a rapidly changing world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Salya Namazi is an expert on assessing and diagnosing "nuerodivergency." She speaks with Joe about ADHD, autism, and about what she thinks of today's discussions concerning nuerodivergency in society at large. Joe shares his experiences of learning how to navigate in his own ADHD. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Nicholas Haslam and Joe discuss the process by which harm-related topics can sometimes start to be defined more expansively, and the implications that expansion has on how we talk and think about mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Psychotherapist Matthias Barker (@matthiasjbarker) and Joe respectfully debate a hot topic: Is the word "trauma" over- and misused in conversation? Or is our widespread adoption of the term actually getting us to address mental health sooner and more effectively? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jake Ernst is an expert on the impact that technology has on our nervous systems. As a psychotherapist who works with children and families, he and Joe discuss the various societal effects of social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's the impact of having a mental health field made up of mostly women? In this important interview, Joe asks tough questions about sexism, mental health, and culture with the one of world's foremost experts on men’s health issues, Dr. Warren Farrell. Joe also shares about his complex relationship with masculinity while growing up and during his time in college. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Fischer (@paulaaronfischer) is a model who has made viral videos critiquing the impossible standards of today’s beauty industry. Joe interviews Paul about some of his own insecurities. They also discuss their journeys becoming influencers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe and psychiatrist Dr. Carlene MacMillan (@carlenemacmillanmd) talk about their own struggles with mental health and the stigma around personality disorders. Joe learns that narcissism might even have a cure! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

JOB is one of today's hottest new plays, currently on its second run off-broadway. It takes place during a therapy session. Joe interviews playwright Max Friedlich, who wrote JOB, and dives into what the play gets right about the therapy process. Plus, Joe learns how to better empathize with the trolls in his comment sections. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy DeCicco’s (@jimmydecicco5) Super Coffee (@drinksupercoffee) has seen a meteoric rise...and DeCicco credits therapy for playing a pivotal role. Joe also learns about an important distinction between therapy and coaching.. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karith is a comedian, speaker and founder of Inversity,-- a cutting-edge approach to issues of diversity in the work place. She speaks candidly with Joe about her experience with race. racism. mental health and more. Joe reflects on the importance of the internal locus-of-control and hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Makeup artist to the stars Colby Smith (@colbymakeup) discusses the culture implications that social media has had on the beauty industry. Joe reflects on the differences between self-esteem and self-respect as well as his own insecurities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gen Z mental health and wellness influencer Zach Gottlieb (@talkwithzach) chats with Joe Nucci about his generation's struggles with belonging, self-esteem and acceptance. Joe learns that Get Z and millennial mental health concerns aren’t as different as he previously thought. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Nucci (@joenuccitherapy) is a psychotherapist seeing his industry devolve into psychobabble right in front of our eyes. Join Joe as he speaks to experts in his field and outside of it, as we decipher what kind of mental health information is helpful for you and what isn’t. You’ll leave each episode armed with tools you need to better handle the more emotionally difficult parts of your life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.