Twin Minds Unwind

The stories we tell ourselves can shape how we see our bodies, our abilities, and what's possible for us.In this episode of Twin Minds Unwind, Dr. Holly Batchelder sits down with Miguel Sanchez, a strength coach, story-work coach, and sports massage therapist specializing in chronic pain and movement.With over a decade of experience working with the body, Miguel integrates strength training, recovery, and story work to help people better understand themselves and create meaningful change.Together, we explore the connection between physical and psychological well-being, how our personal narratives influence our health and habits, and why lasting change takes more than motivation.In this episode, we discuss:Story work, self-talk, and identityMotivation, consistency, and lasting habitsMovement, nutrition, and healthy agingThe role of community and accountabilityFrom challenging limiting beliefs to finding sustainable ways to care for our bodies, this conversation reminds us that meaningful change doesn't require perfection. Sometimes, it starts with a new perspective and a willingness to keep moving.Miguel SanchezInstagram @_miguelangelsanchezemail: [email protected] Batchelderwww.hollyphd.com-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Is romantic love still worth pursuing in a world where we no longer need it to live meaningful lives? In this episode, psychologists Dr. Holly and Dr. Alison Batchelder explore the science of modern love, changing expectations of marriage, and whether we're asking too much from romantic relationships.We discuss attachment, emotional safety, high standards versus unrealistic expectations, vulnerability, and the difference between settling and accepting imperfection.Ultimately, is romantic love worth the risk, and how do our personal values shape that answer?Research & TheoriesFinkel et al. (2015): Suffocation model of marriageSternberg (1986): Triangular theory of loveRobles et al. (2014): Marital quality and physical healthDeci & Ryan (2000): Self-determination theory: autonomy, competence, and relatednessDr. Alison Batchelderhttps://www.alisonbatchelderphd.com/Dr. Holly Batchelderhttps://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelderhttps://www.hollyphd.com/Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical concerns.

Motherhood changes more than your daily routine, it reshapes your identity, your brain, and your relationships. In this episode, Holly sits down with  Hayley Sanchez, therapist and founder of Matrescence Matters, to talk about matrescence, the often-overlooked developmental transition into motherhood.They explore why so many women feel unprepared for this shift, the pressure to “get it right,” and what’s actually happening psychologically and biologically during this time. The conversation also touches on identity loss, comparison, relationship changes, and the question many mothers ask: “Will I ever feel like myself again?”This episode offers a grounded, honest look at modern motherhood and a reminder that struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing.Hayley Sanchez is a wife, mother of two boys, and therapist based in Michigan. She co-runs her private practice, Matrescence Matters, with her partner, where they support men and women throughout the journey to parenthood—from preconception to pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Her work is rooted in non-judgmental, trauma-informed care, helping parents feel supported through the realities of modern motherhood.Hayley enjoys connecting with her community, talking all things motherhood, and supporting moms through the highs and lows of parenting. Outside of her practice, she loves reading, gardening, and spending time by the lake.Website: www.matrescencemattersmi.comInstagram: @matrescencemattersmiDr Holly Batchelderhttps://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelderhttps://www.hollyphd.com/-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this episode, we explore the science of fun, play, and why so many high-functioning adults struggle to access them. We unpack why fun often feels unproductive or even guilt-inducing, and what your brain is actually doing when you experience joy.We answer: Why does fun feel “wrong” or undeserved? When is fun restorative vs. avoidant? When is guilt about fun actually useful? Why isn’t rest alone enough anymore?Simply put, fun is regulating.And in many ways, it’s what allows us to return to our lives with more energy, connection, and capacity.References & ResourcesAchor, S. (2010). The Happiness Advantage. Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American Psychologist.Panksepp, J. (2007). Play and the development of the social brain. Journal of the Canadian Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.Dr. Alison Batchelderhttps://www.alisonbatchelderphd.com/Dr Holly Batchelderhttps://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelderhttps://www.hollyphd.com/-Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

In this conversation, Dr. Holly Batchelder and Dr. Yesel Yoon explore the complexities of perfectionism, its cultural influences, and the journey towards healing. Dr. Yoon shares insights from her book, 'Letting Go of Perfectionism,' discussing how perfectionism can be both a survival mechanism and a source of distress. They dive into the nuances of perfectionism, including the concepts of over-functioning and under-functioning, and emphasize the importance of self-compassion and redefining 'good enough.' The discussion also covers practical treatment approaches for managing perfectionism and the societal pressures that contribute to these tendencies.Bio Dr. Yesel Yoon is a Psychologist and Learning Facilitator. She loves bringing people together to learn, reflect, and grow. Her background as a psychologist has given her deep insight into how people learn, build habits, and navigate uncertainty. After a successful career in private practice helping people make meaningful, sustainable shifts in how they work and live, she’s looking forward to applying these skills in organizational contexts—creating group programs, trainings, and resources that help people build the skills the modern workplace demands. She recently authored the book, “Letting Go of Perfectionism: Stop Striving and Start Living”. In this book, she weaves her personal and professional perspectives to help people get a more nuanced understanding of how perfectionism and striving affect our well being. https://www.amazon.com/Letting-Go-Perfectionism-Striving-Living/dp/1399817310) You can read more about her and connect with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/yyoonphd/ -Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discusses mental health and related subjects. The content provided in this episode is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.Dr Holly Batchelderhttps://www.youtube.com/@dr.hollybatchelderhttps://www.hollyphd.com/