Only Trying to Help

College advisor, Meredith Goodman, helps us understand the ways in which well-meaning people may lead a college applicant astray. She has tips for being more helpful to the young adult in your life. 

Our old friend Jennifer Ollis Blomqvist joins us again-- this time, to share her observations and insights about coaching kids' sports teams. What are the things that coaches say and do that REALLY HELP? 

Laurie Dimond joins the show to talk about the ways that we reassure people (or attempt to) during difficult times. Where does the urge come from? And is it actually helpful? Listen and find out. 

Higher education and wellness professional, Joshua Bensink joins Dr. Kate Watson to talk about the well-meaning, but unhelpful, things people do to "help" college-aged youth. 

Sometimes when we’re trying to help someone, we focus on the wrong things—what advice to give, what solution to offer, or what the “right” words might be. But the most important ingredient in helping might actually be something much simpler: the relationship. In Episode 138 of the Only Trying to Help podcast, Ravi Maharajh joins the conversation to talk about why rapport matters so much when we’re...

The people who love you may have good intentions, but when it comes #financialplanning, it's best to rely on experts like Neal Regino from  @evolutionfinancialgroup  He breaks down common myths and misconceptions that well-meaning people may be perpetuating. We know they're #onlytryingtohelp, but let's be careful when it comes to money, huh?

In helping professions—and in everyday life—it’s easy to start seeing every problem as an emergency. When someone is struggling, our instinct is to jump in immediately, fix the situation, and relieve their pain as quickly as possible. After all, we’re only trying to help. But what happens when that sense of urgency actually gets in the way? In Episode 136 of the Only Trying to Help podcast, Hilary...

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson is joined by veteran video storyteller Jon Sherman for a conversation about how storytelling can make complex ideas more accessible and memorable. Kate and Jon explore why stories resonate more deeply than facts alone, how to use narrative to build understanding, and what makes a story truly connect with an audience. Whether you’re trying to teac...

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson sits down with seasoned couples’ counselor Melanie Gibbons to explore the well-intentioned—but often ineffective—ways partners try to support each other. From offering unsolicited advice to trying to “fix” feelings, Kate and Melanie break down why common helping habits can create distance instead of closeness. They share insights, gentle reframes...

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson is joined by internationally recognized self-defense expert Nicole Snell for a candid conversation about the well-meaning—but often unhelpful—messages people share about staying safe. Together, they unpack common safety myths, explore why these messages can backfire, and offer more empowering, practical approaches instead. If you’ve ever wondered...

In this episode, Kate Watson sits down with guest Leslie Ballway for a thoughtful conversation about the simple yet powerful act of asking permission before offering help. Together, they explore why well-intentioned support can sometimes miss the mark, how “rescuing” can undermine autonomy, and what it looks like to shift from assumption to curiosity. Kate and Leslie share practical language, real...

In this episode, Dr. Kate Watson sits down with Reyna Puentes for a candid conversation about our natural urge to give advice—especially when we want to help. Together, they unpack why “fixing” often feels like caring, how advice-giving can unintentionally shut down connection, and what to do instead when someone comes to us in pain. It’s an honest, insightful look at the tension between wanting t...

In our season finale, Kate and Peter talk about how it can (sometimes) be helpful to break the rules. Unprecedented times might call for it. 

Andrea talks about severe mental illness

Nurture by Nature: A Chat with Marie Burgess

Explore the connection between our bodies and our minds with Somatic Therapist, Marie Delorme.

Margo joins us to talk about helping yourself in tiny simple ways

Scott Kerby joins the show to talk about the power of togetherness and group support.

Kate reads a letter from a listener who is curious about ambiguous loss

Back to basics! Jennifer and Kate talk about simple listening skills. 

Ravi joins us to talk about performative helping

Learn about accountability with Meg Rogers and Elizabeth McElroy

Only trying to help the homeless: Well-meaning behaviors when trying to help folks living in poverty

We used to do an annual episode on "well-meaning gift giving" and we're bringing it back with guest, Laura Hayes Ford. 

Dr. Alicia Carter joins us to talk about body shaming conversations with our loved ones.