Anxiety Society

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Latest Episodes:

Navigating Anxiety: Insights from Sports Psychology Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

The primary focus of this episode revolves around the intricate dynamics of anxiety, particularly in high-pressure environments such as sports. We engage in a profound conversation with Dr. Haley Perlus, a performance psychology expert, who elucidates how athletes can effectively navigate the mental challenges that accompany competitive pressures. Throughout our discussion, we unravel the complexities of anxiety, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the strategies that can be employed to foster mental fortitude. Dr. Perlus shares invaluable insights, including the significance of recognizing one's strengths and the utility of techniques to mitigate self-doubt. This episode is designed to cultivate a deeper understanding of anxiety and to equip listeners with practical tools to transform their relationship with this pervasive experience.

Takeaways:

The Anxiety Society Podcast delves into the pervasive nature of anxiety in contemporary society, highlighting its definitions and impacts.
We engage in candid discussions about personal experiences with anxiety, aiming to challenge societal norms surrounding mental health.
Dr. Haley Perlus shares her expertise in performance psychology, emphasizing the necessity of mental resilience and recovery in handling pressure.
Listeners are encouraged to confront their anxiety through actionable strategies, such as developing a bounce-back mindset and embracing vulnerability.
The host advocates for the importance of understanding one's strengths to navigate anxiety effectively and enhance overall performance.
Through shared narratives, we explore the complexities of anxiety, aiming to foster a supportive community dedicated to mental wellness in sport and performance.

Links referenced in this episode:

OCD in the NFL: Zane Gonzalez on Mental Health and Performance Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

This podcast episode revolves around the intricate relationship between anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and athletic performance, as articulated by our esteemed guest, Zane Gonzalez, a professional football player, now playing for the Atlanta Falcons. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the profound impact of anxiety on both personal and professional facets of life, particularly within the realm of sports. Zane candidly shares his journey, illuminating how his experiences with OCD have shaped his approach to competition and performance, noting that this competitive edge is not without its challenges. Furthermore, we explore the societal stigma surrounding mental health in athletics and the imperative of fostering open dialogues about such experiences. This episode serves as a poignant reminder that mental health struggles are pervasive, yet they can also catalyze resilience and personal growth when addressed openly and supportively.

Takeaways:

Zane Gonzalez, a professional athlete, discusses the intersection of sports performance and anxiety, revealing how his OCD influenced his competitive edge.
The episode highlights the necessity of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues in sports, advocating for vulnerability and openness.
Listeners are encouraged to embrace their unique experiences with anxiety, recognizing that they are not alone in their struggles and that treatment is available.
The conversation underscores the significance of maintaining a balanced perspective on life, integrating personal values, family, and mental health into athletic pursuits.

Helping Kids Get Unstuck: Executive Functioning, Anxiety, and Academic Pressure Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Anxiety Society Podcast, host Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale welcomes special guest, Sara Seitz, founder of The Enrichery. Together, they explore the intricate relationship between anxiety, academic pressure, and executive functioning skills. The conversation delves into practical strategies for helping children manage their academic responsibilities while navigating the challenges of anxiety, as well as the evolving landscape of education today.

Key Topics Discussed

Introduction to Executive Functioning: Sara explains the concept of executive functioning skills, emphasizing their importance for academic success and personal organization.
Challenges for Students: The discussion highlights common struggles students face, including misdiagnosed laziness, procrastination, and task initiation.
Parenting Strategies: Sara offers insights on how parents can effectively support their children, including allowing them to fail safely and implementing structure in their daily routines.
The Impact of Technology: The role of technology in education and its effect on children's executive functioning skills is examined.
College Preparation: Sara discusses the complexities of modern college applications and emphasizes the personal growth potential during this process.

Key Insights

Executive functioning is not just about organizational skills; it encompasses emotional control and task initiation.
Allowing children to experience manageable failures helps them build resilience and learn to overcome challenges.
The increased workload in schools today often leads to heightened anxiety among students, necessitating effective coping mechanisms and time management strategies.
Transitioning from paper planners to digital applications should follow a thorough understanding of personal organization principles.

Notable Quotes

“Weak executive functioning skills are not a character flaw. They just haven’t built up those skills yet.” - Sara Seitz
“Kids want to get started. They want to have the project complete, but they just don't know where to start.” - Sara Seitz
"Anxiety is something that you live, you contribute to, but you have the power to change." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

Timestamps

00:00 - Episode introduction
01:50 - Introduction of guest Sara Seitz
03:00 - Discussion on the challenges faced by parents regarding academics
10:00 - Insights on executive functioning and its importance
15:00 - Practical executive functioning strategies for toddlers
22:00 - Impact of technology on student learning
30:00 - College preparation insights and application essay discussions
39:00 - Tips for parents to support their children effectively

Relevant Resources

The Enrichery Website
Anxiety Society Podcast
Follow @theanxietysocietypod on Instagram for more insights and community engagement.

Call to Action

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Anxiety Society Podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode. We’d love for you to leave us a review, as your feedback helps us to improve and reach more listeners who might benefit from our discussions. Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts with us!

Rewiring Parent-Child Dynamics: The Power of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

Episode Overview:

In this episode of The Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner welcome Dr. Leah Clionsky, a licensed clinical psychologist and PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy) expert. The trio dives into the complexities of parenting and the anxiety that often accompanies it. They discuss effective strategies for managing children's emotions, building strong parent-child connections, and the importance of emotional regulation for both parents and children.

Key Topics Discussed:

Introduction to PCIT and its significance for parents and children
The challenges parents face regarding anxiety and behavioral issues in children
Techniques for fostering a nurturing relationship between parents and children
Emotional regulation skills that can help parents manage their own anxiety and stress
The importance of positive reinforcement and effective communication strategies

Notable Quotes:

"Your connection with your child and your acceptance of your child is the most important thing you can have." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale
"It's not like I take my kids out in public and they're perfect." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale
"If you give I tell parents it's like a giant multivitamin of attention." - Dr. Leah Clionsky

Timestamps:

[00:00:08] Introduction by Cali Werner
[00:01:10] Episode guest introduction - Dr. Leah Clionsky
[00:02:52] Discussion of PCIT and its application
[00:05:14] Defining anxiety in children and its impact on parenting
[00:10:15] Discussion of techniques for managing anxious moments as parents
[00:20:51] Importance of emotional regulation for parents
[00:40:25] Building labeled praises and reflecting with children
[00:52:00] Closing thoughts on the significance of connection in parenting

Relevant Resources:

Thriving Child Center – Dr. Leah Clionsky's clinic specializing in PCIT.
Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Resources - Learn more about PCIT and its benefits.

Call to Action:

If you found this episode valuable, don't forget to subscribe to The Anxiety Society podcast on your favorite platform! Join our community on social media at @theanxietysocietypod for more resources, content, and to submit your questions for future episodes. Your feedback is vital; please consider leaving us a review to help others find our show and benefit from our discussions!

Raising Resilient Kids in an Overwhelming World Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

Episode Overview:

In this episode of The Anxiety Society Podcast, hosts Elizabeth McIngvale and special guest, Dr. Ivy Ruths, dive deep into the nuanced and often challenging landscape of childhood anxiety. They draw from personal experiences and clinical insights to discuss the importance of acknowledging and addressing anxiety in both children and parents. The episode emphasizes the necessity to foster resilience and self-efficacy in children while also providing parents with the tools to navigate their own anxieties as they support their kids.

Main Topics Discussed:

The rise of anxiety among children and how it affects families.
Signs of anxiety in children, including both physical symptoms (like stomachaches) and cognitive distortions (like fear of failure).
The pitfalls parents often fall into when managing their children’s anxiety.
Strategies for teaching children healthy coping mechanisms and encouraging them to 'do hard things.'
The necessity of validating feelings while preparing children for real-world challenges.

Key Insights:

It's vital to allow children to experience and work through anxiety to build resilience rather than shielding them from it.
Conversations about feelings—both positive and negative—should be normalized within families to help children articulate and manage their emotions.
Children are not fragile; they have the capacity to tolerate and learn from discomfort if guided correctly.
Each child's experience with anxiety is unique, and parents should adapt their approach accordingly.

Notable Quotes:

"We want kids to feel they can do hard things." – Elizabeth McIngvale
"It’s okay to feel anxious and still be present with what you're doing." – Dr. Ivy Ruths
"When in doubt, seek help. It’s better to seek it too early than too late." – Elizabeth McIngvale

Timestamps for Significant Segments:

[00:00:00] – Introduction to Episode
[00:01:30] – Discussing the rise of anxiety in children
[00:10:00] – Identifying signs of anxiety in children
[00:22:00] – Strategies for parents to help their children cope with anxiety
[00:40:30] – The importance of open conversations about feelings
[01:02:00] – Closing remarks and calls to action

Relevant Resources:

Visit the Anxiety Society website: anxietysocietypodcast.com
Follow on Instagram: @theanxietysocietypod
Consider reading materials on emotional intelligence and parenting strategies.

Call to Action:

If you found value in today’s discussion, we invite you to subscribe to The Anxiety Society Podcast on your favorite platform. Please leave us a review—your feedback not only helps us improve but also helps others discover our message. Join us as we continue to navigate the intricacies of anxiety together—because together, we can change it!

Miniseries Coming Soon Jan 17, 2026

Show notes

Miniseries dropping Tuesday, January 20th!

As we embark upon this miniseries, we will delve into the intricacies of navigating anxiety during the Back to School season. This series is meticulously designed to resonate with students, athletes, and families who often confront the heightened pressures that accompany this time of year. We will explore an array of pertinent topics, including parenting styles, procrastination, and the many manifestations of anxiety in students, athletes, and parents. We will address pressures faced in academic and athletic environments, offering insights on how to provide support for independence and confidence. If you find yourself or a loved one grappling with these challenges, you are not alone! Join us to find out more!

Understanding Your Max & Making Positive Changes - Q&A Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner welcome listeners back with an open and honest discussion about their personal experiences with anxiety, the complexities of managing it, and the importance of recognizing our controlling behaviors. As both clinicians and relatable voices in the mental health community, they delve into how anxiety manifests in their lives and explore actionable methods for processing anxiety productively.

Main Topics Discussed

Anxiety and Parenthood: Cali shares her experiences navigating anxiety as a new mother of four, emphasizing the need to accept messiness in life.
Understanding Control: The hosts discuss controlling behaviors that often arise during anxious moments and how these behaviors can be misinterpreted, distinguishing between normal anxious responses and OCD.
Processing Emotions: They highlight the importance of recognizing and processing emotions rather than avoiding them, marking the difference between productive processing and rumination.
Productive Processing Techniques: The conversation emphasizes nurturing self-awareness and reflection to manage emotions effectively.
Seeking Help and Therapy: A nuanced look at the necessity of therapy, its role in symptom management, and how to encourage loved ones to seek help.

Key Insights

Controlling behaviors may stem from feeling overwhelmed in other areas of life.
Anxiety waxes and wanes; everyone experiences normalized levels of anxiety in different life stages.
Processing emotions is essential to understanding one’s thoughts and behaviors, allowing for personal growth.
Remember that experiencing anxiety doesn't equate to having a mental health disorder, but seeking help is always a positive step.

Notable Quotes

“Recognizing the discomfort can lead to healthier responses.” – Cali Werner
"If you're questioning if you should seek treatment, you probably should." – Cali Werner

Timestamps

00:00 - 00:45: Introduction and welcome back.
00:46 - 06:10: Personal anxious moments shared by Cali and Elizabeth.
06:11 - 13:20: Discussing control, boundaries, and how they relate to anxiety.
13:21 - 23:00: Processing emotions and reflection techniques.
23:01 - 30:45: The importance of therapy and best practices for encouraging loved ones to seek help.
30:46 - 43:00: Listener Q&A segment discussing EMDR, CBT, and the difference between normal and clinical anxiety.
43:01 - End: Closing reflections and encouragement to subscribe and engage with the community.

Relevant Resources

Podcast Website: anxietysocietypodcast.com
Instagram: @theanxietysocietypod

Call to Action

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Anxiety Society podcast on your favorite platform to never miss an episode. Your feedback is crucial—consider leaving us a review to help us reach others who might benefit from our conversations. Join the conversation on social media and stay connected with our community!

Hoarding Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Misconceptions Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview:

In this episode, host Cali Werner welcomes special guest Jelani Daniel, a seasoned clinician specializing in anxiety and related disorders. Together, they explore the complexities of hoarding disorder, its psychological impacts, and the importance of compassion and understanding in supporting those affected. They discuss common misconceptions about hoarding, the distinctions between hoarding and collecting, and share valuable resources for both individuals struggling with hoarding and their loved ones.

Key Insights:

What is Hoarding Disorder? Defined by persistent difficulty in discarding possessions, regardless of their value, which can severely impact living spaces.
Misconceptions: The portrayal of hoarders in media, especially reality TV, often emphasizes extreme cases and does not represent the average experience.
Hoarding vs. Collecting: Important distinctions exist; collectors are organized and display items, whereas hoarding presents a cluttered living environment without utility.
Support for Family Members: Encouragement for family and friends to seek their own support while navigating the challenges of living with or supporting someone who hoards.

Notable Quotes:

"Hoarding can look a lot of different ways." – Cali Werner
"Cleanouts do not treat the individual; they treat the house." – Jelani Daniel
"Not all clutter is hoarding, and not all clutter is due to hoarding disorder." – Jelani Daniel

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction to the episode and hosts
[00:01:10] - Introduction of guest Jelani Daniel
[00:05:00] - Discussion on what defines hoarding disorder
[00:10:09] - Impact of hoarding on individuals and families
[00:16:45] - Misconceptions about hoarding vs. collecting
[00:24:38] - Understanding the psychological aspects of treatment
[00:39:40] - Resources for family members and support groups
[00:43:01] - Conclusion and call to action

Relevant Resources:

Houston OCD Support: houstonocdsupport.org
Family as Motivators: gregchasson.com
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org

Call to Action:

If you found insights in this episode beneficial, please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, leave us a review, and share your thoughts or questions on social media! Connect with us on Instagram @theanxietysocietypod or visit our website at anxietysocietypodcast.com to engage with our growing community.

The Perfectionism Trap Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Anxiety Society podcast, hosts Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner welcome back Dr. Emily Bailey for an engaging discussion on the pervasive issue of perfectionism. They explore how perfectionism impacts mental health, fuels anxiety, and creates unrealistic expectations. The conversation delves into personal experiences, misconceptions, and practical strategies for overcoming perfectionistic tendencies, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfections and focusing on meaningful values.

Main Topics Discussed

Defining perfectionism and exploring its dual nature: healthy versus maladaptive forms.
The role of perfectionism in anxiety, OCD, depression, and eating disorders.
The link between perfectionism and procrastination as well as imposter syndrome.
The impact of social media on perfectionistic tendencies, especially among younger generations.
Practical strategies for managing perfectionism, including identifying personal values and cultivating a growth mindset.

Key Insights

Perfectionism can drive achievement but often leads to anxiety, procrastination, and feelings of inadequacy.
Social media amplifies perfectionistic expectations by encouraging constant comparisons.
It’s important to distinguish between healthy perfectionism that motivates growth and maladaptive perfectionism that hinders well-being.
Embracing imperfections and learning from mistakes is crucial in reducing perfectionistic pressures.
Recognizing personal values and focusing on meaningful actions can help counteract the negative effects of perfectionism.

Notable Quotes

"Perfectionism can be maladaptive. It can lead to procrastination and a fear of failure." – Dr. Emily Bailey
"Sometimes we make something all of who we are, and I think the pressure's too much." – Cali Werner
"Think about what’s important to you, because that’s not always going to be what anxiety and perfectionism says is important." – Dr. Emily Bailey

Timestamps

00:08 – Introduction to the podcast hosts and purpose of the episode.
01:10 – Welcoming Dr. Emily Bailey; discussion of the topic of perfectionism.
02:57 – Personal anxious moments shared by the hosts.
05:01 – Defining perfectionism and its impact on personal experiences.
12:02 – The clinical perspective on perfectionism and mental health issues.
17:10 – Discussion on procrastination and imposter syndrome related to perfectionism.
27:00 – The role of social media in exacerbating perfectionistic tendencies.
39:11 – Strategies for overcoming perfectionism and embracing growth.

Relevant Resources

Anxiety Society Podcast Website
Follow us on Instagram @theanxietysocietypod

Call to Action

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform to stay updated on future episodes! We would love to hear your thoughts—consider leaving a review to help us reach more listeners who can benefit from our message. Join our community by connecting with us on social media!

Q & A Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

Episode Overview: In this Q&A episode, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale & Cali Werner tackle listener-submitted questions about navigating anxiety in everyday life. They discuss practical strategies for managing negativity, overcoming imposter syndrome, finding balance between productivity & rest, coping with current events, & understanding the difference between OCD & preferences. Plus, they offer insights into how parents’ anxiety can impact children & how to foster a healthier relationship with discomfort.

Key Insights:

Balancing Self-Compassion, Grace, & Behavior Change: It's crucial to find the right mix of self-compassion, grace, & behavior change when addressing negativity. Excessive self-compassion can lead to stagnation, while focusing solely on behavior change without self-acceptance can be counterproductive.
Reframing Productivity: Relaxation & connection are productive activities. It’s essential to evaluate which activities truly drain your energy versus those that fill your tank.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Moving through imposter syndrome is key. Acknowledge feelings of inadequacy, but don't let them paralyze you. Embrace new challenges as learning opportunities.
Setting Boundaries with Current Events: Limit exposure to news & social media to manage anxiety related to current events. It’s okay to set boundaries in conversations with friends & family.
OCD is Not a Positive Performance Enhancer: OCD is disruptive & dysfunctional. It doesn’t improve performance; it hinders it by consuming mental energy.
Anxiety in Parenting: Children are perceptive + sense their parents’ anxieties. Open communication + modeling healthy coping mechanisms are vital.

Notable Moments & Timestamps:

[01:10] Cali shares her anxious moment about adopting two new puppies.
[03:20] Elizabeth discusses her anxious moment about negativity during pregnancy.
[05:25] Q&A begins with a discussion on managing negative self-perception.
[07:51] Addressing guilt + productivity, + the importance of rest.
[13:02] Strategies for managing imposter syndrome.
[20:17] Exposures for anxiety about something bad happening.
[23:19] Managing the need to be hyper-productive.
[26:10] Coping with terror related to current events.
[29:01] Debunking the myth that OCD enhances performance.
[35:19] How parents’ anxiety affects children.
[43:16] Increasing willingness to tolerate discomfort + start treatment.

Call to Action:

Submit your questions for future Q&A episodes via our website or social media! Subscribe to the Anxiety Society Podcast on your favorite platform + leave a review. Join our growing community on Instagram!