In this episode, I welcome back the amazing Africa Brooke, a consultant, coach, speaker, podcaster and author renowned for her work in overcoming self-sabotage and self-censorship. In this conversation, Africa dives into the concept of "collective sabotage" and why she wrote her book, The Third Perspective, which explores brave expression in a climate of intolerance. We also explore self-sabotage as a basis for societal behaviors and talk about the importance of embracing contradictions and diverse thoughts. Africa and I share our personal journeys and struggles with self-censorship and discuss different ways to navigate societal pressures and evolving dialogues. We also address the impact of cancel culture and the importance of creating avenues for honest curiosity and conversation to exist to lead us to more genuine connections. We advocate for truth-telling, embracing complexity, and challenging entrenched viewpoints as vital components for introspection and navigating collective dynamics with awareness and empathy. Tune in for a candid and open dialogue that encourages us to fully engage in our relationships and reshape our approach to differences. 

Africa Brooke is the founder and CEO of Africa Brooke International where she provides consulting, coaching, and support to a global audience. She hosts two personal development podcasts, “Beyond the Self” and “Unthinkable Thoughts,” and is a frequent guest on TV shows, podcasts, and radio broadcasts. Her insights have been featured in publications like The Guardian, and she has delivered keynotes at prestigious venues, including Cambridge University.

—Africa’s Book - The Third Perspective: https://africabrooke.com/preorder-my-book

—Africa’s Website: www.africabrooke.com

—Africa’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africabrooke/

—Africa’s Podcast: https://africabrooke.com/podcast 

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Breakups, Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Transformation, Conflict, Collective Sabotage, Self-Sabotage, Brave Expression, Self-Expression, Embracing Contradictions, Diverse Thought, Difference, Cancel Culture, Genuine Connection, Empathy, Courage, Societal Norms, Societal Pressure, Complex Conversation, Self-Righteousness, Binary Thinking, Curiosity

This episode is sponsored by:

—BON CHARGE: Use code MARKGROVES to save 15% at http://boncharge.com/MARKGROVES

—Open: Get 30 days free with code CREATETHELOVE AT https://withopen.com/createthelove

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, we pay tribute to the late Dr. Sue Johnson, a beloved relational teacher, therapist, author, and the pioneering innovator behind Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Her work has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of relationships and I recently had the privilege of hosting her on the podcast. To honor Dr. Sue and her significant contributions to relationship therapy and education, we've put together some of the most impactful moments from that episode. I am profoundly grateful for Dr. Sue's work and her lasting influence. Thank you for the gift of your voice, your presence, and your loving heart in this life, Dr. Sue. You are deeply missed.

—Dr. Sue's Full Episode: https://markgroves.com/episode/unlocking-the-world-of-attachment-emotional-isolation-and-eft

—Dr. Sue's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsuejohnson/ 

—Dr. Sue's Website: https://drsuejohnson.com/

—Dr. Sue's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drsuejohnson/

—Dr. Sue's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dr_SueJohnson

—Dr. Sue's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DoctorSueJohnson?themeRefresh=1 

—Dr. Sue's Website for International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT): www.iceeft.com

— Dr. Sue's Books: https://drsuejohnson.com/books/ 

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Health, Codependency, Attachment Theory, Transformation, Conflict, Mental Health, Grief, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Emotions, Honoring Dr. Sue Johnson, Dr. Sue Johnson, Legacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I welcome bestselling author Steven Pressfield to the podcast. Steven dives into the idea of relating differently to resistance and embracing creativity in our lives. We discuss the commitment, self-awareness, and resilience in navigating the complex path of creative expression as well as the perseverance, self-doubt, and the internal battles creatives face. Steven shares practical strategies for confronting resistance, including the transformative power of daily practice, and emphasizes the role of dedication and authenticity in fulfilling creative visions. Tune in to hear this meaningful conversation that will undoubtedly inspire you to overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and embrace your creative journey.

Steven Pressfield is the bestselling author of fiction and nonfiction including The Legend of Bagger Vance, Gates of Fire, and A Man at Arms, as well as the classics on creativity, The War of Art, Turning Pro, and his most recent, The Daily Pressfield. He lives in Los Angeles.

—Steven’s Website: https://stevenpressfield.com/

—Steven’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven_pressfield

—Steven’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StevePressfield

—Steven’s Twitter/X: http://twitter.com/SPressfield

—Steven’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StevePressfield

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Transformation, Conflict, Career, Mental Health, Purpose, Resistance, Creativity, Perseverance, Self-Doubt, Commitment, Resilience, Creative Expression, Daily Practice, Dedication, Personal Growth, Inspiration, Meaningful Work, Obstacles, Opportunities, Creative Journey

This episode is sponsored by:

—Cozy Earth: Use code GROVES for 40% off sitewide at http://www.cozyearth.com

—Organifi: Use code CREATETHELOVE for 20% off sitewide at http://www.organifi.com/createthelove

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss triggers and how these signals-of-past-pain are integral to our relationships and healing journeys. We talk about the importance of our response to activations – including triggers of intimacy and vulnerability. We also explore how working through our wounds fosters self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and empowered relationships. Listen in to this eye-opening episode to learn how embracing both positive and challenging experiences in our lives can pave the way towards liberated love rooted in integrity, trust, and deep understanding.

—Get My New Book! Liberated Love - Release Codependent Patterns and Create the Love You Desire: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get the Replay of our Liberated Life Event! Liberated Life - Learn How to Live and Love on (Y)our Terms: http://createthelove.com/liberated

For updates and more info on The Big Delete (up until June 1st):

—Follow me on Instagram - @createthelove: https://www.instagram.com/createthelove

—Follow me on Facebook - @createthelove: https://www.facebook.com/createthelove

Otherwise, follow me and my work here:

—Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/markgrovestv 

—Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://createthelove.myflodesk.com/join-my-newsletter

—Subscribe to my Substack: https://markgroves.substack.com

If you want to dive deeper into my content, search through every episode, find specific topics I've covered, and ask me questions, go to my Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Relationships, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Transformation, Grief, Triggers, Healing, Vulnerability, Intimacy, Personal Growth, Self-Discovery, Emotional Well-Being, Self-Awareness, Emotional Intelligence, Empowerment, Liberation, Meditation

This episode is sponsored by Open: Get 30 days free with code CREATETHELOVE AT https://withopen.com/createthelove

Drop us a note at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, guest suggestions, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Stephen Porges, the originator of the Polyvagal Theory, to the podcast. Dr. Porges discusses the impact of trauma histories on our relationships and behaviors – sharing Polyvagal Theory's role in our physiological responses. We also discuss post-pandemic societal shifts, navigating the challenges of societal evaluation, the impact of social media, and ethical considerations surrounding digital interactions. Dr. Porges explores alternative modalities for self-regulation – emphasizing the importance of co-regulation, and shares somatic therapies for trauma healing. Listen in to this conversation that reminds us of the transformative power of connection for promoting healing and well-being.

Stephen W. Porges, Ph.D. is a Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University where he is the founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium in the Kinsey Institute. He is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina, and Professor Emeritus at both the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Maryland.  He served as president of the Society for Psychophysiological Research and the Federation of Associations in Behavioral & Brain Sciences and is a former recipient of a National Institute of Mental Health Research Scientist Development Award. He is the originator of the Polyvagal Theory, a theory that emphasizes the importance of physiological state in the expression of behavioral, mental, and health problems related to traumatic experiences. He is the creator of a music-based intervention, the Safe and Sound Protocol ™ , which currently is used by approximately 3,000 therapists to improve spontaneous social engagement, to reduce hearing sensitivities, and to improve language processing, state regulation, and spontaneous social engagement. Dr. Porges is a founder of the Polyvagal Institute.

—Stephen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polyvagalinstitute

—Stephen’s Website: https://www.stephenporges.com/

—Stephen’s Website: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/

—Stephen’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/polyvagalinstitute

—Stephen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-w-porges-6514877b/

—Stephen’s Books: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/bookstore

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Health, Transformation, Grief, Trauma, Polyvagal Theory, Neuroception, Physiological Responses, Social Media, Self-Regulation, Co-Regulation, Nervous System Regulation, Nervous System, Somatic Therapy, Dysregulation

This episode is sponsored by BON CHARGE: Use code MARKGROVES to save 15% at http://boncharge.com/MARKGROVES

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special episode is a sneak peek of Liberated Love's audiobook. After each chapter, Kylie and I have recorded special bonus conversations where we dive deeper into the content and our personal journeys. Today’s episode is a preview of the discussion we have about Chapter Five called Breaking Up With Normal. Want to listen to more of these conversations? Get the audiobook here: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get My New Audiobook! Liberated Love - Release Codependent Patterns and Create the Love You Desire: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get the Replay of our Liberated Life Event! Liberated Life - Learn How to Live and Love on (Y)our Terms: http://createthelove.com/liberated

For updates and more info on The Big Delete (up until June 1st):

—Follow me on Instagram - @createthelove: https://www.instagram.com/createthelove

—Follow me on Facebook - @createthelove: https://www.facebook.com/createthelove

Otherwise, follow me and my work here:

—Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/markgrovestv 

—Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://createthelove.myflodesk.com/join-my-newsletter

—Subscribe to my Substack: https://markgroves.substack.com

If you want to dive deeper into my content, search through every episode, find specific topics I've covered, and ask me questions, go to my Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Breakups, Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Codependency, Transformation, Conflict, Grief, Liberated Love, Book, Freedom, Patterns, Self-Awareness, Personal Growth, Self-Care

Drop us a note at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, guest suggestions, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I welcome Meg Jay – a developmental clinical psychologist specializing in twentysomethings – who helps tackle the question: are your 20s the best years of your life? Together, we explore the complexities of navigating our 20s and the misconceptions about this period. Meg sheds light on societal pressures, mental health hurdles, and the crucial need for tailored support for individuals in their 20s. She also discusses the power of empathy over stigmas, touches on generational shifts in work culture, and addresses the common obstacles faced by twentysomethings. Whether you're currently in this age group or not, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the support we all require during this pivotal decade of life.

Meg Jay, PhD, is the author of The Twentysomething Treatment: A Revolutionary Remedy for an Uncertain Age, Supernormal: The Secret World of the Family Hero and the cult classic The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now. Her books have been translated into more than a dozen languages and her work has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review and on NPR, BBC and—maybe most important for her audience—TikTok. Her TED talk “Why 30 Is Not the New 20” is among the most watched to date. Dr. Jay earned a doctorate in clinical psychology, and in gender studies, from the University of California, Berkeley. She is on faculty at the University of Virginia and maintains a private practice in Charlottesville. 

—Meg’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmegjay/

—Meg’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-jay-phd/

—Meg’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drmegjay 

—Meg’s X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmegjay

—Meg’s Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drmegjay

—Meg’s Book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Twentysomething-Treatment/Meg-Jay/9781668012291

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Relationships, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Transformation, Career, Mental Health, Purpose, Empathy, Personal Growth, Twenties

This episode is sponsored by:

—Cozy Earth: Use code GROVES for 40% off sitewide at http://www.cozyearth.com

—FACTOR: Use code MARKGROVES50 to save 50% at http://factormeals.com/markgroves50 

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special episode is a sneak peek of Liberated Love's audiobook. After each chapter, Kylie and I have recorded special bonus conversations where we dive deeper into the content and our personal journeys. Today’s episode is a preview of the discussion we have about Chapter Four called Getting Right with Reality. Want to listen to more of these conversations? Get the audiobook here: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get My New Book! Liberated Love - Release Codependent Patterns and Create the Love You Desire: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get the Replay of our Liberated Life Event! Liberated Life - Learn How to Live and Love on (Y)our Terms: http://createthelove.com/liberated

For updates and more info on The Big Delete (up until June 1st):

—Follow me on Instagram - @createthelove: https://www.instagram.com/createthelove

—Follow me on Facebook - @createthelove: https://www.facebook.com/createthelove

Otherwise, follow me and my work here:

—Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/markgrovestv 

—Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://createthelove.myflodesk.com/join-my-newsletter

—Subscribe to my Substack: https://markgroves.substack.com

If you want to dive deeper into my content, search through every episode, find specific topics I've covered, and ask me questions, go to my Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Breakups, Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Codependency, Transformation, Conflict, Grief, Liberated Love, Book, Freedom, Patterns, Self-Awareness, Personal Growth

Drop us a note at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, guest suggestions, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I'm joined by Matthew Hussey, a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and coach specializing in confidence and relational intelligence. Matthew discusses the transformative power of authenticity and vulnerability – highlighting how personal struggles can deepen empathy and strengthen interpersonal connections. He shares insights from his own journey, including battles with chronic pain and the pursuit of happiness. Our conversation dives into themes of self-acceptance, inner peace, and reframing perspectives to lead a more fulfilling life. We also explore strategies for managing emotional and physical pain, transitioning from victimhood to proactive resilience. Join us for this empowering discussion, where we learn to find contentment, navigate emotions effectively, and cultivate self-compassion for healthier relationships and resilience in life's challenges.

Matthew Hussey’s YouTube channel is number one in the world for love life advice, with over half a billion views. He writes a weekly newsletter and is the host of the podcast Love Life With Matthew Hus­sey. Hussey provides monthly coaching to the members of his private community at LoveLifeClub.com. Over the past fifteen years, his proven approach has inspired millions through authentic, insightful, and practical advice that not only enables them to find love but also feel confident and in control of their own happiness. He lives in Los Angeles.

—Matthew’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thematthewhussey

—Matthew’s Website: https://matthewhussey.com/

—Matthew’s Book - Love Life: https://matthewhussey.com/lovelifebook-announce/

—Matthew’s Live Retreat: https://matthewhussey.com/live-retreat-2024/

—Matthew’s Love Life Club: https://matthewhussey.com/llc/

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Breakups, Relationships, Boundaries, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Dating, Transformation, Conflict, Career, Mental Health, Purpose, Grief, personal growth, vulnerability, self-acceptance, self-compassion

This episode is sponsored by:

—BON CHARGE: Use code MARKGROVES to save 15% at http://boncharge.com/MARKGROVES

—Organifi: Use code CREATETHELOVE for 20% off sitewide at http://www.organifi.com/createthelove

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I discuss the vital role of repairing ruptures in relationships – diving into the significance of mutual understanding, empathy, and consistent repair as foundational elements for building trust and deep emotional connections. I talk about the importance of addressing unresolved issues early on to prevent lingering negativity and nurture intimacy. I also explore the challenges in modeling repair, the barriers to genuine apologies, and the valuable insights gained through reflecting on past experiences. Join me in this conversation as we prioritize repair over ego, embrace love in our lives more deeply, and co-create a culture of grace for stronger, healthier relationships.

—Get My New Book! Liberated Love - Release Codependent Patterns and Create the Love You Desire: http://createthelove.com/liberatedlove

—Get the Replay of our Liberated Life Event | Liberated Life - Learn How to Live and Love on (Y)our Terms: http://createthelove.com/liberated

For updates and more info on The Big Delete (up until June 1st):

—Follow me on Instagram - @createthelove: https://www.instagram.com/createthelove

—Follow me on Facebook - @createthelove: https://www.facebook.com/createthelove

Otherwise, follow me and my work here:

—Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/markgrovestv 

—Subscribe to my Newsletter: https://createthelove.myflodesk.com/join-my-newsletter

—Subscribe to my Substack: https://markgroves.substack.com

If you want to dive deeper into my content, search through every episode, find specific topics I've covered, and ask me questions, go to my Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Relationships, Breakups, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Codependency, Infidelity, Dating, Transformation, Conflict, Emotional Health, Grief, Repairing Ruptures, Empathy, Intimacy, Grace, Apology, Healing, Relational Repair

Drop us a note at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, guest suggestions, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I welcome Violet Benson back to the podcast. We dive into the transformative process of shadow work and the impact of confronting grief. In order to help understand how past experiences have shaped our present behaviors, Violet speaks about the significance of understanding our personal experiences of childhood trauma and the coping mechanisms we’ve developed. She also discusses the power of self-expression, boundaries, and the channeling of emotions into constructive actions. Violet encourages us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth – sharing the tool of shadow work as a means of healing past wounds, enhancing emotional intelligence, and cultivating fulfilling relationships with oneself and others. Join us for this enlightening conversation that invites honesty forward and deepens our connections within.

Violet Benson, comedian, motivational speaker, creator of Daddy Issues and podcast host of the largest self love podcast and movement for women. Known for her solo episodes and amazing guests, You can catch new episodes of Almost Adulting, every Tuesday and Thursday on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.

—Violet’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violetbenson/

—Violet’s Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostadulting/

—Violet’s Meme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daddyissues_/

—Violet’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/daddyissues

—Violet’s Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7IY1Gjc1uktmDCmNLA0HXo

If you want to dive deeper into Mark’s content, search through every episode, find specific topics we’ve covered, and ask him questions, go to his Dexa page: https://dexa.ai/markgroves

Themes: Authenticity, Belonging, Relationships, Self-Worth, Self-Love, Transformation, Conflict, Career, Mental Health, Shadow Work, Grief, Trauma, Self-Expression, Emotional Health, Healing, Personal Growth, Boundaries, Coping Mechanisms

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth: Use code GROVES for 40% off sitewide at http://www.cozyearth.com

Contact us at [email protected] for sponsor product support, questions, comments, or just to say hello!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices