Conversations around self-growth are all over every media platform these days – and while introspection and commitment to growth and change is important, it’s easy for it to be an all consuming trap that’s actually the opposite of growth.

In this episode, Valerie and Emerson take a deep dive into the history of the self-growth industrial complex, explore what’s useful, debunk what’s not, and give you real advice on how to tackle self-improvement without spiraling.

This episode covers:

• 05:26 - Tea & Crumpets: Bob Trevino Likes It + the Abbey Yung hair method
• 10:42 - Step Into My Office: How do I know when self-growth is actually healthy vs. when it’s becoming too much?
• 21:55 - The DSM: The Self-Growth Industrial Complex
• 43:09 - Now That's What I Call...OKAAAAY!
• 44:46 - Em Pick: "Love Myself" by Olivia O'Brien
• 47:41 - Val Pick: "Adventures in Success" by Will Powers
• 48:19 - Fire Dumpster Phoenix: 9 year old aspiring pediatric neuro-surgeon Aiden Wilkins very well may become the youngest doctor in the world + The Greenagers group gets youths to love the outdoors

Resources + Stuff  Mentioned in This Episode:

• Bob Trevino Likes It
• Abbey Yung hair method
• Love Myself by Olivia O’Brien
• Adventures in Success by Will Powers
• 9 year old aspiring pediatric neuro-surgeon Aiden Wilkins
• The Greenagers group gets youths to love the outdoors

Connect with Us:

• Send a story or ask for advice: butforrealpod@gmail.com 
• But For Real on IG: @butforrealpod
• Now That's What I Call... OKAAAAY Playlist
• The Gaia Center on IG: @thegaiacenter
• Val on IG: @valkaymartin
• The Gaia Center website: www.gaiacenter.co 

DISCLAIMER: But For Real Podcast is not a substitute for individualized mental health treatment or healthcare. This podcast is solely for entertainment and educational purposes. If you are in crisis, please utilize crisis support services, such as the Crisis Text Line (Text START to 741741 in the US) or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: (Call 988 in the US), or visit www.findahelpline.com for international resources.