There wasn’t going to be an episode this week but I was inspired by a conversation around difficult relationships with food and so here we are.

Here is what ai makes of it all -

Combating Food Addiction: My Journey from Alcohol to Sugar and Finding Balance

In this special Christmas podcast episode, I open up about my struggles with food addiction and binge eating, particularly during the holiday season. Inspired by a conversation in my online community, I discuss how my difficult relationship with food began when I quit drinking 12.5 years ago, and how it replaced alcohol as a comfort mechanism. I delve into the cycles of binge eating and calorie counting, and how both have affected my body image and self-esteem. I also share how I found a way to manage my food addiction through abstinence from refined sugar, resulting in significant positive changes in my life. Join me as I speak from the heart about overcoming addiction and striving for a healthier relationship with food.

00:00 Introduction and Christmas Day Reflections

01:22 Struggles with Motivation and Food Addiction

01:52 Personal Journey with Food Addiction

03:28 Binge Eating and Shame Cycles

09:17 Calorie Counting and Control Issues

16:42 Quitting Refined Sugar

23:28 Reflections and Advice

26:15 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

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As promised I chat about the reality of Christmas for a lot of people but not before talking about debating on LinkedIn and the impact it had on me and why.

Also dive into to some toxic parent questions you sent in. And now here's what AI made of it all -

In this episode of The Dysfunctional Podcast, the host dives into various topics just before the Christmas holidays. He starts by discussing the controversial feedback on his podcast's picture, explaining his reasons for keeping it despite mixed opinions. Transitioning to a more serious topic, he reflects on holiday struggles, especially for those with difficult family dynamics. The host also shares his recent experience debating on LinkedIn about misinformation in podcasts, highlighting the importance of skepticism and personal research. Emphasizing self-awareness, he talks about personal triggers from his past and the need for open, respectful debates. Finally, he tackles listener questions about parental enmeshment, childhood dysfunction, attracting toxic partners, and maintaining self-worth as an adult. This episode offers a mix of personal reflections, practical advice, and thoughtful insights into navigating emotional and social challenges during the festive season.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

03:36 Debate on LinkedIn and Misinformation

06:33 Personal Reflections and Childhood Experiences

18:26 Navigating Christmas and Family Dynamics

30:39 Q&A Session: Addressing Listener Questions

41:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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I have fully reignited my passion for supporting the plight of children of alcoholics and I dive into why in this episode. But this not before talking about spiritual bypassing and the problems it causes!

If you are impacted by parental drinking you can find support at Nacoa.org.uk

Here is what AI made of it all -

Understanding Children of Alcoholics | Toxic Relationships & Recovery

In this episode, Josh Connolly discusses the impacts of growing up with alcoholic parents, the dynamics of emotional abuse, and the journey towards healing. Josh shares personal insights on the challenges children of alcoholics face, the complexities of forgiveness, and the importance of addressing the truth of one's experiences. He critiques certain spiritual and therapeutic approaches while emphasizing the need for comprehensive support for those affected by a parent's addiction. Join Josh as he navigates through addiction awareness, the stigma surrounding it, and the ongoing need for better conversations about recovery and healing.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup

00:31 AI Picture Controversy

01:47 Reposting the Toxic Parents Reel

02:44 Understanding Toxic Parents

05:30 Children of Alcoholics

07:06 Personal Reflections on Addiction

07:34 Critique of Online Gurus

09:10 The Struggle of Forgiveness

10:38 Spiritual Bypassing and Abuse

17:50 Challenges of Children of Alcoholics

28:27 The Need for Children’s Recovery

37:28 Conclusion and Future Plans

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I said I would bring you my honest energy each time and I definitely do that here. You are gunna get to know me on deep level if you listen in to these every week that's for sure. An emotional one! Here is what our good friend AI has to say -

Finding Belonging: Breathwork, Community and Authenticity | Episode 4

In this episode, Josh Connolly reflects on his first 'Belong' in-person event, discussing its significance, the importance of morning routines, and personal authenticity. He shares insights on social media pressures, the essence of genuine community building, and the emotional journey of creating supportive spaces. Josh also opens up about his past struggles and how events like 'Belong' aim to make wellness accessible and real. Join Josh as he navigates mental health, sobriety, and the profound impact of breathwork in fostering connection and understanding.

00:00 Introduction and Energy Update

00:49 Morning Routine and Mental Health

03:09 Social Media and Authenticity

06:45 Belong Event Recap

07:33 Emotional Impact and Human Connection

08:13 Challenges in the Wellness Industry

11:41 Community and Accessibility

27:15 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

33:03 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

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Once again I go deep on this one. The main topics are role models in the mens space and why young boys seems drawn to Andrew Tate. Then I look at why I say 'toxic parents' before the questions...there is of course loads in between. Here's what AI makes of it all -

In Episode 3 of 'Dysfunctional,' host Josh Connolly delves into various significant topics including the complexities of mental health, the power of the mind-body connection, and the profound influence of toxic family dynamics. Josh reflects on the differences between presenting struggles authentically and toxic positivity. He shares personal anecdotes about coping with pain, societal expectations on men, and the importance of role models. Josh also discusses the impact of estrangement from toxic parents and the loneliness it can cause. Answering listener questions, he offers insights on navigating familial relationships while maintaining personal well-being. Tune in for a raw and deep exploration of these pressing issues.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:53 The Struggles of Living with Pain

06:09 The Power of Mind-Body Connection

08:24 The Role of Positive Self-Talk

09:58 Western Medicine vs. Holistic Approaches

13:42 Celebrating Uncommon Man and Role Models

16:52 The Impact of Andrew Tate and Male Role Models

20:37 Navigating Male Identity and Societal Expectations

24:16 The Importance of Honest Conversations

30:44 Creating Authentic Spaces

31:31 Embracing All Parts of Yourself

31:57 The Struggle with Online Perception

33:17 Contradicting Emotions and Truths

35:19 Understanding Toxicity

39:02 The Impact of Toxic Parents

45:00 Navigating Family Estrangement

53:00 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

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I feel like the podcast has arrived with this episode. I go deep on the topics in the title and I think you are going to love it. Here is what AI said about it. -

In this episode, Josh dives deep into his personal struggles and experiences surrounding people-pleasing, confrontation, and emotional intimacy. Despite technical difficulties, he remains authentic, discussing the impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships and self-awareness. Engaging with his audience, Josh answers questions about inner healing and dealing with toxic parental relationships. The discussion spans across various topics, including the mental health system, addiction, societal impacts on family dynamics, and practical steps for emotional well-being. Join the conversation as Josh navigates the complexities of healing from past wounds and finding balance in emotional intimacy.

02:47 Taking a Moment to Breathe

04:17 Discussing People Pleasing and Fear of Confrontation

07:47 Emotional Intimacy and Vulnerability

09:46 Impact of Childhood on Adult Behavior

19:43 Systemic Issues and Hypercapitalism

29:40 Skepticism Towards Media

35:24 Questioning Groupthink and Embracing Uncertainty

36:05 Exploring the Link Between Childhood and Addiction

38:25 Understanding Cravings and Addiction

41:24 Personal Struggles and Coping Mechanisms

44:06 Answering Listener Questions

50:26 Inner Child Work and Spiritual Experiences

59:04 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.