Stress And The City: Recent Episodes

Britnei Nicole

Stress and The City is a self-care podcast for the busy + burned out. Listen each episode as host Britnei Nicole shares the best books, methods, tips + tools in mental health & wellness.

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Infidelity requires a systematic deception that once exposed can totally deconstruct your world. Putting yourself together after this is a herculean feat, made more challenging by being given sucky advice in a vulnerable state.

I've been there. So I'm sharing some advice on how to take advice.

In this episode, we also delve into the concept of deceptive sexuality and the trauma it inflicts. Dr. Omar Minwalla's trauma model expands our understanding beyond conventional definitions of sex addiction, shedding light on covert psychological abuse, manipulation, and the devastating impact of deception.

Resources Mentioned In The Episode:

The Secret Sexual Basement By Dr. Omar Minwalla

Why Does He Do That By Lundy Bancroft

Want to Connect With Me?

Join my free online community: CoachBritneiNicoleWeekly.com

Are you looking for support with restructuring your life after dealing with covert abuse? Schedule a free consultation and let's discuss how I can help.

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This is a juicy episode. I'm giving you the tea on what led me to hitting rock bottom and having a complete break down at 30. This breakdown would also prove to be a pivotal turning point for me and is now a time I look back on with tremendous respect and love for myself.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

The Body Keeps The Score

Body Aware

The ABCs and 123s of Nervous System Regulation

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In this episode we delve into a rarely discussed topic: emotional abuse within the lives of seemingly formidable women.

This episode is a compassionate reminder that even the "strongest" among us can find themselves trapped in an unhealthy partnership. We underscore the importance of recognizing the signs and realizing that strength doesn't negate vulnerability. A healthy partnership is built on mutual support, encouragement, and —not on chronic criticism and manipulation.

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In this episode, I chat with Trisha Williams a personal stylist who focuses on women with Martyr Complex Syndrome about style & identity. In our chat we discuss how to develop personal style and how it can serve as the ultimate rebellion for people pleasers.

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If the thought of being lazy and slacking off makes you itchy and irritated this is the episode for you. We're breaking down different types of rest, including physical, mental, emotional, sensory and social rest. 

Whether you're a Type-A workaholic or a People Pleaser, this episode is meant to give you the permission you've been secretly craving: to slack off guilt-free. We'll explore the delicious benefits of rest and living your best life by doing less.

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In today's episode, we dive into the difficult topic of emotional abuse and why it's often misunderstood.

Emotional abuse is not commonly accepted as real abuse, despite its profound impact on the victim's mental and emotional well-being. This makes it difficult to identify and even harder to talk about, creating a sense of isolation and shame for those who experience it.

We'll explore the concept of cognitive dissonance and how it creates confusion in the victim's mind. We'll also discuss why victims may feel bad for the abuser, and how narcissists use grooming tactics to manipulate and control their victims.

If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional abuse, check out the resources in our show notes, including links to BTR.org, an organization that provides support for emotional abuse survivors. They offer valuable information on recognizing abuse, understanding its effects, and finding ways to heal.

Resources:

Why Does He Do That: Inside The Minds of Angry and Controlling Men

Support for Emotional Abuse: https://www.btr.org/support-emotional-abuse/

What Abuse Victims Look Like: https://www.btr.org/abuse-victims-look-like/

How Narcissists Groom Victims: https://www.btr.org/narcissists-groom-victims/

How Do I Know If It's Abuse?: https://www.btr.org/how-do-i-know-if-its-abuse/

4 Things Emotional Abuse Victims Need to Know: https://www.btr.org/4-things-emotional-abuse-victims-need-to-know/

7 Powerful Truths About Emotional Abuse: https://www.btr.org/7-powerful-truths-about-emotional-abuse/

In-Law Abuse: https://www.btr.org/in-law-abuse/

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Are you someone who finds themselves constantly seeking the approval of others, even at the expense of your own needs and desires? In this episode, we're delving deep into the root causes of people pleasing, and exploring how to break it down into easy-to-understand concepts.

We'll discuss the psychological and societal factors that contribute to the development of this addictive behavior, and how it can manifest in different relationships and situations. We'll also explore the impact of a high perception of others and low perception of self, and the importance of achieving a balanced perception of both. 

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In my latest podcast episode I'm diving into some of the most important lessons I've learned from getting an F in Marriage (Or maybe a D for Divorce?). This is my most personal episode yet, and admittedly I am nervous to share pieces of my story with you.  But I believe that by sharing my unsolicited advice, maybe...just maybe you can avoid the mistake I made. 

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In this episode, we’re diving into the New York Times bestseller “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. Clear’s book is a must-read for anyone who wants to create sustainable habits that stick. We’ll explore the book’s core principles, including how to build identity-based habits and how to create an environment that supports your goals.

Clear’s approach to habit-building is refreshingly practical. He reminds us that success isn’t about the big, dramatic changes we make in our lives. It’s about the small, incremental improvements we make every day. Clear calls this the “atomic” approach to habit formation. By breaking down our goals into tiny, manageable steps, we can create lasting change that feels almost effortless.

One of the most powerful ideas in “Atomic Habits” is the concept of identity-based habits. Clear argues that the most effective way to change our behavior is to change our identity. Rather than setting goals like “I want to lose weight,” we should focus on becoming the type of person who prioritizes healthy eating and exercise. By aligning our habits with our values and beliefs, we can create a sense of purpose and meaning that makes habit-building feel like second nature. So if you’re tired of setting goals that never seem to stick, tune in to this episode to learn how to build habits that last.

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In this episode of Stress And The City, we dive deep into the topic of identity with our guest, brand strategist Timeesha Simone. Together, we explore how to reclaim your identity by creating an authentic sense of self, even amidst life shifts and changes.

Timeesha shares her personal journey of self-discovery, and how she learned to create a strong brand identity for herself that aligns with her values and aspirations. She also offers valuable insights on how to manage ADHD in the business world, and the role that self-awareness and self-acceptance play in this process.

We discuss how our identities are often shaped by external influences, such as societal expectations and cultural norms. Listen in as we explore the importance of introspection and self-reflection in reclaiming our identities and living authentically.

Whether you're struggling with finding your true identity, navigating a life transition, or managing ADHD in your career, this conversation is sure to provide you with valuable insights and actionable steps to take. 

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Hi Friends! We talk a lot about therapy around here. But truthfully, there can be many barriers to getting mental health support we need. In this episode I share affordable and accessible tips for improving your mental health without a therapist.

Extra Credit:

The Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses

How to Achieve Stable and Balanced Blood Sugar

The Surprising Benefits of Walking - Model Health Show

21 Tips to Get Better Sleep - Model Health Show

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There's a saying that some people are in your life for a reason and some for a season (or something like that). We've all experienced the waxing and waning of relationships as our lives changes. Whether it's having a baby, or deciding to stop drinking, our life choices can have an impact on our existing relationships. So let's talk about it! How do we recognize & navigate when our friendships have taken a turn? 

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Caring for your mental health is as mainstream of an idea as it's ever been. Yet, "how" to do this still remains largely a mystery. This episode we're making therapy more actionable by discussing types of therapy, how to find a therapist (and even questions to ask your insurance company) & how to know if it's working for you (or against you) Let's get into it!

Listen to the episode here

Don't forget to pick up a copy of my FREE audio book Adulting 101 here

Resources From The Episode:

Therapy For Black Girls

Therapy For Black Men

Psychology Today

Extra Credit:

What Type of Therapy is Right For You?

5 Signs You're Seeing A Bad Therapist

What Makes A Good Therapist?

Gaslighted By Your Therapist

What Does A Somatic Healing Session look Like?

How Stored Trauma Creates Somatic Symptoms

The Secrets of EMDR Therapy And How It Can Help You

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Let’s talk about support. The world is weird right now. 2 years into a pandemic, a potential war and rumors about low rise jeans returning? I mean come on. We need each other more than ever. But…no shade (ok semi-shade) we’re not typically that good at being supportive. So let’s learn how we're all sometimes unsupportive AF and also how to fix that.

Check out the list of feeling words that I mention in the episode.

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This episode we’re discussing mental health in the black community specifically. Culturally, we have this subconscious belief that therapy is…just no. We don’t do that. Uh uh. It’s time to challenge this. Why have we been encouraged to believe that therapy is not “for” black people? What affect does this have on black people collectively? Let’s get into (and over) it.

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Hi Friends!

We're back with a fresh episode of Stress and the City. Comedians, am I right? What's up with that?

There's a lot of discussion about comedy in today's extra sensitive, politically overcorrect world. And it seems comedy and recent attacks on certain comedians such as Chris Rock & Dave Chapelle are on everybody's minds (and timelines).

What role does comedy have in your life? Are you the jokester or do you find yourself the butt of jokes? Are we taking things too far or are we too sensitive?

Let's get into it

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Hi friends! We’re talking about journaling this episode…why it works, and how to do it. Believe it or not journaling isn’t just for young girls with diaries. Did you know Einstein kept a journal? I know it sounds corny, but before you dismiss this episode open your mind (and your notebook) to the world of journaling.

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This week we're digging into attachment theory & attachment styles. Ever wonder why you attract certain types of friends or partners? Have you ever considered what makes you act the way you do in relationships? Tune in to find out more.

EXTRA CREDIT

The Four Attachment Styles In Love

Secure Attachment Style

8 Signs of an Anxious Attachment Style

8 Signs of an Avoidant Attachment Style

Avoidant Attachment, How It Forms & How to manage It

Healing Disorganized Attachment

Disorganized Attachment Style Childhood, Adulthood Love

How to Reparent Yourself

How to Make Friends as Adults

Communication Skills - The 6 Keys Of Powerful Communication

How to Be a Good Listener

Play Is More Than Fun - Stuart Brown Ted Talk

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Ever felt like you were about to be exposed as a fraud for pretending to be..an expert, artist, business owner or anything else? Imposter Syndrome leaves us doubting our talents, abilities and worth. You may feel like you don't belong where you are, or like you got there as a fluke. It affects all humans. Listen as host, Britnei Nicole processes her own struggles with imposter syndrome and shares some real life coping skills.

Resources for this episode:

What is Imposter Syndrome?

How to overcome Imposter Syndrome?

Atomic Habits

Summary of Atomic Habits

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Eek! "And Just Like That" is finally here! Spoiler Alert...listen after watching episodes 1 & 2. 

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Hi Friends!

This episode we're continuing our discussion of the book Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski and we're tackling some tough topics. Did you know that 1/5 women will experience a form of sexual assault in their lifetime? That means we need to talk about sexual trauma & boundaries. Listen this week as I share what some experts say (and my own 2 cents) about consent, coercion & healing from sexual trauma.

The Body Keeps The Score

Insight Timer App

Consent Playlist on YouTube

Sexual Coercion Playlist on YouTube

https://www.healthline.com/health/sexual-coercion#common-scenarios

https://www.bustle.com/articles/67926-is-it-rape-if-you-say-yes-5-types-of-sexual-coercion-explained

https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/identifying-abuse/what-is-sexual-coercion

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We're off to the races with a spicy episode this week! This is not your middle school s3x-ed (but kinda should be?). Listen as host Britnei Nicole discusses her fave takeaways from the book Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski. Stay tuned next episode for part 2 of the review.

References mentioned in this episode:

Come As You Are - By Emily Nagoski

Come As You Are Workbook - By Emily Nagoski

Burnout: The Secret To Unlocking The Stress Cycle - By Emily Nagoski

Clitoris Diagram

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Voice Artist & Book Nerd Britnei Nicole introduces the Stress And The City podcast to the world (ok an audience of 5 so far but whose counting).

What's the Stress And The City Podcast? Basically it's like takeout for your soul. It's like medicine in the candy. What I'm trying to say is, I'm bringing sexy back...to books. Ok seriously, Stress And The City is a book review podcast for the people who need it the most (busy and burned out!). Stay tuned each week as the best books in self-care are broken down in a non-snoozy way.