Rhonda Polakoff,PhD & JD Schloss
Finding Serenity: Episode 1 (Freedom from the Bondage of Self)
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by self-criticism, control struggles, or shame, you're not alone—and there’s a way out. Rhonda and JD share raw, real insights from their personal journeys and professional work, revealing how the "bondage of self" keeps us stuck—and how to break free. In this candid conversation, you'll discover how recovery isn’t about feeling happiness all the time but about navigating the inevitable imperfections with grace. Rhonda and JD break down the elusive concept of serenity, exposing how shame, control, and self-pity are like cuffs holding us back from peace—and how a...
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Episodes
Finding Serenity: Episode 8 (Denial) 09.07.2026 28:24
The conversation delves into the concept of denial as a defense mechanism and its impact on children in foster care. It explores the nuances of denial and its role in coping with high levels of anxiety and emotional pain. The discussion highlights the destructive nature of denial and its impact on children's well-being, self-esteem, and sense of self.
Denial and Gaslighting 09.07.2026 0:43
Denial and Gaslighting in Caregiving Takeaways Denial in caregiving can exacerbate a child's loneliness and suffering. Gaslighting by caregivers can lead to the denial of a child's reality.
EPISODE 8 (EXPECTATIONS) 18.06.2026 26:37
The conversation delves into the impact of expectations on personal well-being, relationships, and spiritual growth. It explores the discovery of expectations, the bondage of self, and the power of semantics in shaping perceptions. The weight of dread and negativity, entitlement, and the role of gratitude as an antidote are also discussed, along with the connection between anxiety, depression, and...
Epissode 7: The Serenity Prayer 15.06.2026 28:06
The conversation explores the significance of the serenity prayer in finding serenity, delving into the themes of spirituality, acceptance, change, and self-awareness. It emphasizes the flexibility and balance provided by the prayer, as well as the power of reflection and self-responsibility in achieving serenity. Takeaways Serenity prayer offers flexibility and balance Reflection and self-respons...
Finding Serenity: Episode4 (Overidentification as a VIctim) 22.05.2026 23:19
The conversation delves into the impact of victimhood and self-pity on individuals, the journey to finding serenity, overcoming victim mentality, and concluding thoughts on the topic. Takeaways Victimhood and self-pity can have long-lasting effects on individuals and their interactions. The journey to finding serenity involves self-awareness, inner work, and the ability to change perspectives.
OverIdentification as a Victim 22.05.2026 0:38
Overcoming victim mentality and conditioned hopelessness to find happiness and contentment. Takeaways Victim mentality leads to self-fulfilling prophecy. Conditioned hopelessness can result from addiction and trauma.
Finding Serenity: Episode 5 (Detachment) 01.05.2026 22:34
The conversation delves into the complex nature of detachment, exploring its relationship with dissociation and trauma responses. It also highlights the concept of detachment with love in Al-Anon and the challenges of letting go of control over a loved one's behavior. The discussion emphasizes that detachment is a lifelong journey and involves self-reflection, self-care, and the exploration of fam...
PRIMITIVE NARCISSITICWOUND 08.04.2026 4:17
The conversation delves into the concept of primitive narcissistic wounds and their impact on individuals. It also explores the challenges of seeking help, the role of denial, and the importance of self-awareness and consciousness in healing and recovery.
FINDING SERENITY: EPISODE 3 (LETTING GO) 04.04.2026 22:25
The conversation explores the themes of acceptance, awareness, action, and surrender within the context of recovery and personal growth. It delves into the challenges of letting go, self-pity, and the importance of community and spirituality in the recovery process.
FINDING SERENITY: EPISODE 2 (DEPENDENCE ON OTHERS) 04.04.2026 22:40
Giving the master key to your serenity to somebody else is dependence.
FINDING SERENITY: EPISODE 6 (PROJECTION SERENITY) 04.04.2026 22:18
The conversation delves into the concept of projection as a defense mechanism and its impact on destroying serenity. Personal examples of projection are shared, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and pausing to overcome projection.
Finding Serenity: Episode 1 (Freedom from Self Bondage) 04.04.2026 23:02
Unlock the secret to lasting serenity-despite life's chaos and your own inner turmoil. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by self-criticism, control struggles, or shame, you're not alone—and there’s a way out.
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