A CLOSER LOOK with Dr. Robin Pickering

How do we strengthen resiliency and manage stress?

Dr. Brian Luke Seaward is regarded as one of the foremost experts in the field of stress management. As stated by former Good Morning America host Joan Lunden, "Dr. Seaward’s words have touched my life profoundly and helped me to find grace and dignity, the patience and compassion needed to navigate my ever-changing course. They have helped me understand that it is the way I choose to see the world that I will create the world I see." In this episode, Dr. Seaward and I discuss how finding purpose, setting boundaries, and addressing trauma are essential in effective stress management.

How do we cultivate hope?

In this episode, Dr. Patricia Bruininks, Professor of Psychology at Whitworth University, and I discuss the role of hope in optimizing health. We explore how hope differs from optimism, the dangers of toxic positivity, and how we can cultivate hope in ourselves and others.

How do we get better sex within our relationships?

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Mark Baird, Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor at Whitworth University, about improving sex and intimacy within our relationships. We discuss what couples who have great sex have in common, health impacts of a good sex life, and the role of communication within intimate relationships. We explore how trust violations can impact sex and how technology has blurred what it means to cheat.

How do we cure addiction?

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Michael McDonell, clinical psychologist, professor, and researcher in the Department of Community and Behavioral Health at the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine at Washington State University, about creative and effective strategies available for tackling addiction. We dig deeper into what predisposes people to addiction and the ways in which men and women process drugs and alcohol differently, and we discuss some hopeful and accessible new treatment options.

Consider Taking a Break - Rethinking our relationship with alcohol.

In this episode, Dr. Michael Caldwell (Chief Medical Officer, Dry January USA), Jhon Goodwin (Summit Kitchen and Canteen, Lost Boys Garage), Simon Moorby (Hogwash Whisky Den), and I discuss the health benefits of taking a break from alcohol and the increasing popularity of the "Dry January" movement. We also discuss the evolution of adult non-alcoholic beverages, the expanding selection available, and the art of crafting the perfect mocktail.