Understanding Emotional Avoidance and Embracing Vulnerability

Real Men Feel with Andy Grant

Mastering Emotional Avoidance with Dr. Michelle Maidenberg

In this episode of Real Men Feel, host Andy Grant welcomes Dr. Michelle Maidenberg, a New York-based therapist and author of 'Ace Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want.' They delve into a master class on emotional avoidance, discussing why people engage in it and how it can worsen emotional experiences.

Dr. Maidenberg introduces her ACE methodology — Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment — to help individuals connect with their core values and lead fulfilling lives. She also offers insights into men's unique struggles with emotional expression and practical strategies for managing intense emotions. Additionally, they explore EMDR therapy and the importance of setting sustainable goals.

00:00 Welcome to Real Men Feel 2025

00:20 Introducing Dr. Michelle Maidenberg

01:14 Understanding Emotional Avoidance

04:21 The Impact of Emotional Avoidance

07:15 Connecting with Core Values

16:31 Men and Emotional Avoidance

22:25 Introduction to Managing Negative Emotions

22:44 Understanding Stuckness and Core Values

23:54 The ACE Method: Acceptance, Compassion, and Empowerment

25:22 Sustainability of Change and New Year's Resolutions

29:18 Exploring EMDR and Healing Trauma

34:12 Personal Journey and Professional Insights

40:46 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Michelle

Dr. Michelle Maidenberg -- http://www.michellemaidenberg.com/

LinkedIn -- https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellemaidenberg/

Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/drmichellemaidenberg

Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/michellemaidenberg

Resources

ACE Your Life: Unleash Your Best Self and Live the Life You Want, Michelle Maidenberg

-- https://amzn.to/3DIvffG

Michelle's YouTube channel -- https://www.youtube.com/c/DrMichelleMaidenberg

Psychology Today Blog -- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/michelle-p-maidenberg-phd-mph-lcsw-r-cgp

Connect with Andy and the Real Men Feel Podcast:

Ready to create your best year yet? Book a Clarity Call with Andy at https://theandygrant.com/talk

Instagram | @realmenfeelshow & @theandygrant

Personal Website | https://theandygrant.com for coaching, healing, and book info!

Podcast Website | http://realmenfeel.org for all things podcast-related!

RMF Facebook Group | http://realmenfeel.org/group

Support this podcast | https://anchor.fm/realmenfeel/support

YouTube | https://youtube.com/realmenfeel

#RealMenFeel ep 335