• Navigating Anxiety: Insights from Sports Psychology
    Feb 17 2026

    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:

    1. The Anxiety Society Podcast delves into the pervasive nature of anxiety in contemporary society, highlighting its definitions and impacts.
    2. We engage in candid discussions about personal experiences with anxiety, aiming to challenge societal norms surrounding mental health.
    3. Dr. Haley Perlus shares her expertise in performance psychology, emphasizing the necessity of mental resilience and recovery in handling pressure.
    4. Listeners are encouraged to confront their anxiety through actionable strategies, such as developing a bounce-back mindset and embracing vulnerability.
    5. The host advocates for the importance of understanding one's strengths to navigate anxiety effectively and enhance overall performance.
    6. 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:

    1. drhaleyperlus.com
    2. anxietysocietypodcast.com
    3. instagram.com/theanxietysocietypod

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    46 Min.
  • OCD in the NFL: Zane Gonzalez on Mental Health and Performance
    Feb 10 2026

    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:

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

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    39 Min.
  • Helping Kids Get Unstuck: Executive Functioning, Anxiety, and Academic Pressure
    Feb 3 2026
    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
    1. Introduction to Executive Functioning: Sara explains the concept of executive functioning skills, emphasizing their importance for academic success and personal organization.
    2. Challenges for Students: The discussion highlights common struggles students face, including misdiagnosed laziness, procrastination, and task initiation.
    3. 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.
    4. The Impact of Technology: The role of technology in education and its effect on children's executive functioning skills is examined.
    5. College Preparation: Sara discusses the complexities of modern college applications and emphasizes the personal growth potential during this process.

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

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

    Timestamps
    1. 00:00 - Episode introduction
    2. 01:50 - Introduction of guest Sara Seitz
    3. 03:00 - Discussion on the challenges faced by parents regarding academics
    4. 10:00 - Insights on executive functioning and its importance
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    41 Min.
  • Rewiring Parent-Child Dynamics: The Power of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
    Jan 27 2026

    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:

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

    Notable Quotes:

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

    Timestamps:

    1. [00:00:08] Introduction by Cali Werner
    2. [00:01:10] Episode guest introduction - Dr. Leah Clionsky
    3. [00:02:52] Discussion of PCIT and its application
    4. [00:05:14] Defining anxiety in children and its impact on parenting
    5. [00:10:15] Discussion of techniques for managing anxious moments as parents
    6. [00:20:51] Importance of emotional regulation for parents
    7. [00:40:25] Building labeled praises and reflecting with children
    8. [00:52:00] Closing thoughts on the significance of connection in parenting

    Relevant Resources:

    1. Thriving Child Center – Dr. Leah Clionsky's clinic specializing in PCIT.
    2. 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

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    54 Min.
  • Raising Resilient Kids in an Overwhelming World
    Jan 20 2026

    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:

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

    Key Insights:

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

    Notable Quotes:

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

    Timestamps for Significant Segments:

    1. [00:00:00] – Introduction to Episode
    2. [00:01:30] – Discussing the rise of anxiety in children
    3. [00:10:00] – Identifying signs of anxiety in children
    4. [00:22:00] – Strategies for parents to help their children cope with anxiety
    5. [00:40:30] – The importance of open conversations about feelings
    6. [01:02:00] – Closing remarks and calls to action

    Relevant Resources:

    1. Visit the Anxiety Society website:
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    1 Std. und 3 Min.
  • Miniseries Coming Soon
    Jan 17 2026

    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!

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    2 Min.
  • Understanding Your Max & Making Positive Changes - Q&A
    Jul 1 2025
    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!

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    50 Min.
  • Hoarding Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Misconceptions
    Jun 24 2025

    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.

    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    44 Min.