Love & Life with Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott

Last March I was walking through my all-time favorite grocery store, Seed to Table in Naples, Florida.

Yes, I have a favorite grocery store, and yes, it’s the best ever.

While browsing through the Health & Wellness section, I met Michelle Albergo who was sharing information about Cell Fit.

Cell Fit’s lead scientist, biochemist Tricia Flanagan, created a product like no other! It’s not a supplement, rather it’s a therapeutic enzyme which works at the cellular level to heal conditions and optimize health.

From Cell Fit’s website:

“Our lead scientist, Tricia Flanagan, spent the first part of her 25 year career as a biochemist in immunology and oncology at Brown University.  She studied how healthy cells behave and how they stay healthy.  She developed Cell Fit over the last three years with an attention to purity of product and performance.

Our Super Oxide Dismutase is like no other—our product is the purest brand available and we've exhausted every effort in bringing you the most effective and safe SOD on the market.“

I bought some Cell Fit myself and asked Michelle and Tricia to join us on Love & Life to let us all know the benefits of Cell Fit’s novel approach to health!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

It seems counterintuitive, but sometimes asking a question is the WORST way to gather information!

As we’ve been talking about in the last couple episodes, posing questions can often backfire. Our friends and partners may feel defensive or attacked! Even the most loving questions may impede intimacy, rather than enhance it. 

Elliott’s clients have started making statements instead of asking questions. They’re enjoying increased intimacy and decreased conflict!

While we were speaking today, I kept thinking about how I perhaps ask questions when I could make authentic statements, instead.

So we decided to launch an, “Ask Not Challenge.” Over the next few weeks, we’ll make more statements and ask fewer questions. We invite you to join us in this challenge. Let us know how it goes!

We’ll share more about this challenge in this week’s newsletter. If you haven’t signed up, please do so here: https://www.loveandlifemedia.com/

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Today Elliott and Tim explore the significance of language in relationships and how to avoid potential pitfalls in communication. They discuss how communication styles, gender roles, and temperament influence interactions, especially during conflicts. Elliott shares the importance of using 'we' language to foster unity and understanding in the context of relationships with significant others. 

We hope today’s conversation will empower you with tools to practice effective communication in your relationships. 

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

We are joined on today’s episode by Sarah Knott. Sarah has been an avid listener of the podcast and has done counseling with Elliott. She shares with all of us her profound healing journey that started with some physical manifestations but as she explored things deeper found that there were emotional and spiritual elements at play as well.
She is also a mom and her little ones were excited to be on the podcast too! So you may hear them in the background from time to time. But just as you’ll hear in her story everything about today’s episode is raw and real. 

Sarah is also an artist and has a singer/songwriter group with her husband called Acoustic Truth. You can find her website below. 

We hope this episode will encourage you and we are so thankful for Sarah’s willingness to share her story so openly with our community. 

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Join us for part two of my conversation with Jenna McCarthy, author of, Yankee Doodle Soup for the Fringy, Tin-Foil Hat Wearing, Conspiracy Theorist’s Soul and The War on Ivermectin with Dr. Pierre Kory.

We process our parallel journies as COVID dissidents —including the lingering trauma so many of us continue to experience (well, maybe me more than Jenna!)

Full disclosure—this episode was a bit of a therapy session for me ☺️. Jenna shared her unrelenting optimism despite all she endured thanks to her COVID dissident stance. 

Yes, she lost Hollywood contacts and movie deals. Yes, her friendships remain strained. Yes, her family initially resisted her anti-jab position. 

But she persevered and now Jenna’s is THANKFUL for the COVID trials. She believes her response to the pandemic allowed her to find her life’s purpose and mission.

Join us to be blessed by Jenna’s uplifting energy and spirit!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Elliott and I have been doing a series on trauma—which got me thinking about the thing I’m pretty much always thinking about—COVID.

Talk about a traumatizing event!

Since we all—as in, the entire world—endured the pandemic, it certainly qualifies as what psychologists call a “collective trauma.”

Because we went through it together, right? 

Well no, we didn’t. The “collective trauma” wasn’t a unifying experience. Some complied with the proclamations from “experts” on high. Others resisted the authoritarianism.

The COVID event fractured society and pitted us against each other. Friendships broke down. Family members viewed each other with suspicion and disdain. 

We should have rallied together, yet we remained—and remain—polarized. 

How do we heal from “collective trauma” that has so splintered and divided?

I’m still trying to figure it all out.

To this end, we’re launching a series on COVID trauma.

I’m thrilled to introduce our first COVID trauma guest, Jenna McCarthy. She’s the author of Yankee Doodle Soup for the Fringy, Tin Foil Hat-Wearing Conspiracy Theorist’s Soul and The War on Ivermectin:  The Medicine that Saved Millions and Could Have Ended the Pandemic with Dr. Pierre Kory. 

Jenna shares her COVID journey—and yes, her career tanked and friends turned against her. Oh, and that screenplay she wrote—the one Hollywood producers were so excited about? It got tossed once she publicly challenged “the official” COVID narrative.

If, like me, you’re not over COVID—or, even if you are—this episode is for you! Dissidents will feel heard and validated. Those who went along with the program will gain a greater understanding as to why some of your friends and loved ones didn’t.

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Question:

I’m listening to your boundary podcast about family and newlyweds. My husband and I have been married for 6 months and I come from a very close, tight knit family. He from a family who isn’t as close. He is struggling with the involvement my parents have and the constant plans they make to see me and my sister who lives in the same town as me. She has a 1 year old who is the first grand-baby and my parents want to be involved as much as possible. 

I am struggling trying to find the balance between my family, while putting my marriage first. I told my parents we love them and enjoy spending time with them but we would only like to host occasionally and we may not be able to attend every family plan/event.

Join us to hear our thoughts on this difficult situation. Spoiler Alert:  Our listener is on the right track!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

For the last few weeks we’ve been going through a series on Trauma Recovery. How do we heal from trauma? How do we get unstuck and move towards healing? 

Last week we dove into Dr. Caroline Leaf’s book, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess, and we continue the series today with work by trauma recovery expert Bessel van der Kolk. Inspired by Bessel’s work we discuss 3 more additional movements in healing from trauma by expounding on the role of safety, imagination, and synchrony. 

As always we look at these topics through a mind, body, and spirit lens and hope that you will be equipped and empowered to move through any trauma in your life. 

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

The recovery process often feels nebulous and unclear. Of course, we want to heal from trauma, but how do we do so?

Elliott’s recently been inspired by Dr. Caroline Leaf’s book, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess:  5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking. He immediately began introducing Dr. Leaf’s steps to his clients—many of whom are working through trauma.

We’ve invited Dr. Leaf to appear on the podcast and we certainly hope we’ll be able to interview her soon.

In the meantime, please join us to hear about Dr. Leaf’s 5 steps and how Elliott integrates them into his sessions with individuals and couples. 

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Have you ever been through a traumatic moment or event? With decades of experience helping individuals recover from trauma Elliott wanted to share 3 of his perspectives on how we can have a recovery mindset. Specifically, how do we move through the traumas we face throughout our lives? 

• How do we stay present?
• How do we deal with feeling unsafe?
• Is it possible to live abundantly despite our traumas? 

Join us as we explore how these perspectives can help us all navigate through pain, fear, and uncertainty, ultimately leading to emotional and spiritual growth and healing. 

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

I’m never on Facebook but I hopped on the other day to look at Marketplace.

I doom scrolled for just a minute (mistake🤦‍♀️) and saw some posts about the measles outbreak in Texas.

Some people were quite concerned. Some got a measles vaccines for the first time since childhood.

Others felt the whole thing was overblown. Yes, tragically, a child died. However, we don’t know if he/she had preexisting conditions or comorbidities. Nor do we know if he/she had been vaccinated against measles or received the MMR.

We DO know vaccines don’t 100% stop infection or transmission. (See COVID-19 jab for more info . . .) 

This morning, I received an informative email from Stand for Health Freedom and I wanted to share it with our Love & Life family.

Join us for 8 Important Facts you need to know as you make decisions regarding the measles outbreak!

Source:

Question:  

I met this guy when I was 18 and he was 19. Three years later, I’ve chosen to break it off after realizing that no matter what, my family won’t accept us as a couple. 

For context, I belong to an ethnoreligious group—marrying outside the faith is frowned upon, as we work to preserve our identity and heritage. He was raised Christian, but he’s not devout.

We never met each other's families, I would always be the one to talk about the future, while he just wanted to ''take it day by day.” He never talked about us with his parents or family.

I had several conversations with my mother and because I knew my family would never accept him, I decided it would be best to break it off. When we broke up, he started saying we would probably clash in the future since his family attends Christian church and believes in Jesus.

We chose to remain friends because we value our hobbies together and have the same interests. However, it is sometimes hard to set boundaries when it comes to romantic feelings. 

How do I know if I made the right decision? Would it have been a mistake to leave my family, community, religion, and identity for my boyfriend?

Answer:

Listen to this week’s episode to hear our advice and recommendations for this listener!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

We all felt the immense pressure to get the COVID vaccine. Many were forced to jab in order to keep their jobs. In some cities, we couldn’t eat in restaurants, buy a cup of coffee, or attend a concert unless we showed proof of vaccination.

People rolled up their sleeves. Many regret it because they later learned the “vaccine”prevented neither infection nor transmission. 

And then there’s the lingering question:  did the spike protein remain in the arm or did it travel throughout the body?

One of our listeners fears the spike could continue to negatively impact her health. She asked us for advice. Does Scripture have a word of healing and encouragement for her?

Elliott and I discuss some uplifting Bible verses along with strategies from Cognitive Therapy to help her, “take captive every thought to make it obedient to God.” II Corinthians 10:5.

We also provide info regarding a Spike Detox supplement from The Wellness Company. 

If you have any concerns about ridding your body of the spike protein check out our sponsor The Wellness Company below:

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Welcome to part 2 of Love & Life LIVE! Elliott and I recently spoke to his Personality Class at Judson University. 

In part 2 of our conversation, we take a deep dive into Dr. Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages. We explore the importance of knowing how you and your partner like to give and receive love.

Elliott adds his 2 cents with 2 additional love languages he’s observed during his Elliott’s extensive work with couples 👩‍❤️‍👨.

If you’re single, this episode is still for you! I share insight from my MANY years in the jungle on the dating scene 😅

Join us for Part 2 of Love & Life LIVE!

Sources:

5 Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman

Welcome to a Love & Life Live! Elliott and I recently spoke to his Personality Class at Judson University and we wanted to share this evening with the Love & Life community.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we focused on the personality of love.

Specifically, we delved into the following:

• What is true love? How do we know when we’re in it?
• How can we find the “Total Package?”
• Why are some relationships so incredibly hard?
• What does psych research teach us about the definition of love?
• How does understanding our own personality help us better pick our partner?

We bring Elliott’s extensive work with couples and my MANY years on the dating scene to this upbeat and interactive discussion.

Join us for Part 1 today and Part 2 tomorrow!

Sources:

Sternberg’s Triangle Theory of Love

https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-love-we-experience-2303200

Lee’s Color Theory of Love

https://weddingbandmart.wordpress.com/2012/10/30/john-lees-theory-of-colors-of-love/

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

In today's episode, Dr. Karin and Pastor Elliott tackle a conversation they've been wanting to have for a long time: Toxic Masculinity vs. Toxic Femininity.

We cover the following:

- Defining both toxicities (including A.I.'s definitions...)

- How do these traits present themselves in individuals and within our relationships?

- How does nature vs. nurture impact these traits?

- What role does societal expectations play?

- What's the Biblical perspective on this topic?

- How do we navigate these gender dynamics?

Thank you for joining today. Please leave us comment and let us know what you think of this episode and other content you want us to cover in 2025!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Inauguration Day brings up myriad emotions—either excitement and hope for a bright future or, fear, anger, and disappointment.

What happens when your dearest friends feel the exact opposite emotions?

Tim and I sit down for a few minutes to discuss the inauguration and specifically, the Make America Healthy Again Inaugural Ball which Dan and I attended on the 20th.

We reveled in the hope of RFKJ being nominated as Secretary of Health and Human Services. If confirmed, he can actually address issues that have been buried for years!

• The link between the CDC childhood vaccination schedule and the rise in autism.
• The enormous power Big Pharma wields over our government and public health—demonstrated most recently with COVID mandates.
• The failure of the FDA to protect us from carcinogenic pesticides like glyphosate.

Just to name a few!

But, what about our friends and family who feel threatened by other policy issues on the new administration’s agenda?

Do they see my enthusiasm for MAHA as a betrayal of our friendship?

Tim joins me to process this and more. ❤️🤍💙

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

“How long will I be in trauma recovery?”

Whether we’re in therapy or working on our issues through self help books and podcasts, we often wonder, will I EVER truly heal from this wound?

Elliott and I wanted to address this important concern—especially because Elliott recently received this exact question from a listener. 

Shortly thereafter, he stumbled upon a Keith Crossley reel speaking to this. Keith Crossley’s work is new to us—so we can’t vouch for all his viewpoints—but his perspective on what’s required for healing vs. recovery resonated with our philosophy.

Specifically, we consider:

• When we “own” our trauma and it becomes part of our core identity.
• The limitations inherent to a victim mentality vs. the possibilities of an empowered mindset!
• Why some counselors may unwittingly prolong clients’ recovery.
• What antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds actually do (spoiler alert:  they DON’T heal!)
• God’s word to those hurting and trying to heal i.e. ALL of us!

If you’re feeling stuck and you’re looking for solutions, this conversation is for you! Please join us!

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

A new year brings a fresh start—a chance to make changes and set goals!

We wanted to kick off 2025 by talking about the importance of reflection in the midst of making resolutions and intentions for the new year. 

To do so, we’re answering a listener’s question.

Question:  So, I make horrible choices in men apparently, and I have finally met somebody that I feel like is a good person—a perfect person for me. And, I’m absolutely terrified of him because he’s so nice and he’s so genuine, and he’s such a good person. How do I retrain my brain to not be scared of someone who is going to be good to me instead of settling for people who I know are just not good people?

Elliott and I answer her question by discussing how we can change dynamics that aren’t working for us. We share strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Theory, along with how to see ourselves as God sees us. We also consider a tool I recently heard in an interview with Brené Brown—“What story am I telling myself?”

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

Another current event weaves its way into our series on masculinity . . .

This week I heard Newsweek’s Batya Ungar-Sargon’s take on the Daniel Penny prosecution. 

She viewed it in a way I hadn’t considered. She framed the prosecution itself as an attack on masculinity.

I wanted to hear Elliott’s thoughts as a pastor, husband, and father. 

Has our society completely turned its back on men’s God given instinct to protect?

Join us for another Love & Life commentary on current events.

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

It’s the most wonderful time of year! And also, it’s a season full of intense emotions. 

We head out to parties to celebrate with friends and family. But, what if we don’t connect with our loved ones the way we used to? What if our family doesn’t understand who we’ve become?

As the saying goes, “You always hurt the ones you love.” 

And, those we love will hurt us, too.

This week, Elliott and I answer 2 questions about how to relate to those we care about when we find ourselves in different seasons of life. How can we navigate these waters—especially during the holidays?

We share practical strategies for maintaining connection while also establishing boundaries when necessary.

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

On today's podcast we are joined by one of our listeners Rachel Hui who shares her personal story on how her marriage ended and the journey she's been on to find healing in the aftermath of divorce.

We are so grateful for Rachel's courage and vulnerability to share her story and we hope it will inspire you.

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

It struck him as he was working with his clients over the last several weeks.

Americans are divided—much like couples in crisis are divided. 

We’re dysregulated from the trauma of an incredibly contentious election and thus, we’re now prone to slip into what Elliott calls the “3 A’s of Intimacy Destruction.”

We Assume, Accuse, and Attack—just like spouses in unhappy marriages. 

We Assume the worst in the “other side.” We Accuse them of horrible intentions and actions. We Attack them for their character and values.

We remain rigid in our conceptions of one another. We lose appreciation for the fullness of our friends and family. We see only one aspect of them—who they voted for. 

And, if they voted for __________________, they’re now the enemy.

Elliott has witnessed similar dynamics with couples in distress. He shares how techniques from marital therapy could help heal our divided nation.

Sponsor:

The Wellness Company

The election is behind us, but the division remains.

And, the demonstrations are just getting going. Movements like 4B and Blue Bracelets express rage at men and Trump voters in general.

Women are swearing off sex, shaving off their hair, and wearing bracelets to signify to each other who is “safe” to be around.

Can we possibly remain connected during this volitile time?

I think we can 🙏🏻 

And, to navigate these rough waters, I share some thoughts and tools from psychotherapy that could be helpful.

Specifically, we cover:

• How to remain grounded in empathy—especially when friends see your vote as an attack on their values and the people they care about.
• Techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help us identify cognitive distortions that aren’t serving us. 
• Why emotional cutoffs tend NOT to be the solution!

Whether you’re happy with the results or deeply disappointed, your relationships have likely been impacted. 

Please join us for strategies to move through Post Election Stress Disorder!

Sponsors:

The Wellness Company

With the election now behind us, Elliott and I wanted to share thoughts on how to navigate love and life post election—especially concerning our relationships.

Because half the country is really happy with the results, while the other half feels angry, demoralized, and even afraid.

Specifically, we consider:

• How do we build unity in the midst of so much divisiveness? 
• Can we find common ground?
• What does the Bible teach us about submitting to leadership and those in authority?

Join us as Elliott and I discuss how to move through the post election landscape—one in which people we love may feel deep distress, disappointment, and perhaps even anger at those who voted for Trump.

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

On a day when many Progressives will go to the polls to vote for a “woman,” I’d like to share a few thoughts around the misogyny inherent to Leftists’ ideology.

Their logic breaks down immediately as they can’t define what a woman is. So, how can they get excited about voting for a woman hoping she’ll be the first woman president? 🤷‍♀️ They’ve already established that womanhood is meaningless!!!

Furthermore, the party that prides itself on “female empowerment” nevertheless signals they disparage women at every turn.

1. They think we’re weak.
2. They think we’re stupid. Cue Mark Cuban.
3. They think the female experience can be fully understood by a man in drag.

Finally, the Left asserts the best women are men—certainly in sports, and even in pop culture. In doing so, they advocate for the erasure of women.

I can’t think of a better example of misogyny. Join us for a quick breakdown of voting for a woman because she’s a woman, when one can’t even define what a woman is . . .

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

I know most people want to move on from COVID.

And, maybe you’re ready to move on from the election. 

But, it’s all related—COVID, the election, and our platform of mind, body, & spirit. 

I have some thoughts. 

Plus, I’d like to explain why I’m voting for “literal Hitler” and his MAGA + MAHA team of courageous dissidents—RFK, Jr., Tulsi, and Elon. 

To do so, I respond to 3 current bits of news:

1. Biden calling Trump supporters “garbage.”
2. Harris’ cringy TV ad depicting wives defying their husbands by voting for Harris. 
3. The 3 platforms of the MAHA movement—1️⃣ Restoring Free Speech and ending censorship 2️⃣ Exposing the corruption of Big Ag and Big Pharma which is destroying Americans’ health and 3️⃣ Stop the never ending foreign wars. 

I don’t hold back. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

It’s such a heated issue—and people on each side believe those who disagree with them are abusing children.

In the last 10 years, we’ve witnessed an exponential increase in the number of kids who feel as if they’re the wrong sex.

Although Gender Dysphoria Disorder remains a psychiatric illness per the DSM-5-TR, it currently is viewed quite differently when compared to other mental conditions.

We don’t “affirm” Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or Bipolar or schizophrenia. We treat clients by providing coping mechanisms and helping them ground themselves in reality.

But, we don’t do this with Gender Dysphoria Disorder. 

Why is this? Why do we abandon logic, reasoning, and science when addressing Gender Dysphoria?

As a psychiatric nurse, David Wayne finds this confusing, frustrating, and appalling—especially as it pertains to the US’s current approach to treating kids who decide they’re actually the opposite sex. 

Join us for an insider’s take on what’s really going on with gender “affirming” care. 

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

We’re in the midst of a series on masculinity, so I had to weigh in on this one, and I looped in Producer Tim to get a Millennial male’s take. 

You’ve probably seen the clip of Jen Psaki interviewing Kamala Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff. 

Psaki claimed Emhoff has, “reshaped the perception of masculinity.”

Really?

Psaki then called him a “wife guy.” 

Okay . . . 

And sure, maybe Doug Emhoff is a super sweet and supportive husband. That’s great!

But, there seemed to be a partisan subtext beneath this exchange. Watching the clip, I had the sense Psaki was insinuating only liberal men fully support their wives.

I wanted to share my reaction to this clip and, Tim agreed to join me.

Spoiler alert:  Over my 27 years of dating, I’ve had relationships with both very liberal and very conservative men. I married a conservative. And no one has ever cherished, respected, and adored me more than my conservative husband.

So personally, I’m not picking up what Psaki is laying down.

Join us and let us know your thoughts masculinity and wife guys.

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

Elliott and I didn’t grow up with a lot of political discourse. Our family delved into a wide array of topics, but as educators and musicians, we tended to discuss chord charts and pop tunes more than public policy. 

In fact, as most of you know, our father was a lifelong Democrat and our mother is a lifelong Republican. Yet, they possessed the same core values, had a strong 57 year marriage, and raised three well-adjusted kids. Could that happen nowadays?

During most of our lifetime, it was considered impolite to bring up religion and politics. And, pastors often refrained entirely from wading into political waters. 

But to me, these times feel different. I was curious if Elliott sensed the same. 

So, today we address questions around faith and politics.

We specifically ask:

• Should Christians vote?
• Is it appropriate for pastors to discuss politics from the pulpit?
• Are certain party values for Christian than others?

When Elliott became a pastor, our Dad encouraged him to speak boldly. We’ll honor our father’s wishes and boldly discuss our hot takes on these hot topics. 

Join us!

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

Psychiatric nurse and friend of the program, David Wayne, is back to discuss what he recently shared on Children’s Health Defense’s CHD.TV.

In addition to nursing, Dave has a background in data analytics. Throughout the COVID era, he tried to make sense of the vaccinated vs. unvaccinated hospitalizations—the numbers weren’t adding up.

Databases weren’t talking to each other. Default modes labeled patients as unvaccinated when in MANY cases, these patients had taken the COVID shot.

For those of us who endured derision and scorn for our “selfish” and “irresponsible” choice to abstain from injecting ourselves with a rushed-to-market, mRNA product with no longitudinal studies confirming its safety and efficacy—well for us, these numbers matter.

It matters that, in fact, more COVID hospitalizations occurred among the vaccinated.

It matters that the shot neither prevented infection nor stopped transmission. 

And, it matters that a recent study from the Cleveland Clinic found the more jabs and boosters you took, the MORE likely you are to get COVID.

Dave and I discuss the appalling lack of science guiding our government’s COVID response and the tyrannical jab mandates the administration forced upon us—we’re still astounded. 

If you feel the same—and even if you don’t!—Please join us as our favorite hospital insider reveals what was really going on! 

Citation:

Cleveland Clinic Studies

Growing up is tough. Growing up with a father wound is even tougher.

As we continue our series on masculinity, we’re addressing the complexities of father wounds on sons. 

How do boys grow into men when their model for manhood has been abusive or absent?

One of Elliott’s mentees, Bradley Oberrieder, joins us to share his journey—how his father abandoned his family just as Bradley was moving from adolescence to young adulthood.

How do you step into manhood when you no longer respect your dad—your model of manhood?

If you’ve experienced a father wound—or you’re dating a man who has—please join us for an honest and hopeful account of masculinity in the midst of a father wound. 

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

Dan and I are heading to Rescue the Republic in DC this weekend!

I wanted to share Rescue the Republic’s 8 pillars with Elliott to hear his thoughts. 

1. War is always the last resort vs. Military Industrial Complex
2. Sanctify/recodify informed consent vs. Medical Industrial Complex
3. Banish state media control, surveillance and propaganda vs. Censorship Industrial Complex
4. Enact a rational boarder policy vs. Immigration Industrial Complex
5. End lawfare and abuse of the judicial system vs. Injustice Industrial Complex
6. Secure monetary freedom vs. Finance Industrial Complex
7. Restore family sovereignty vs. Developmental Industrial Complex
8. Return to truth-seeking and open dialogue vs. Academic Industrial Complex

For most of our lives, Americans took for granted the values that underpin these pillars. We agreed on these tenets. They were givens.

Not so much anymore.  

Rescue the Republic will bring together Americans from all walks of life and political persuasions. It’s a unity coalition led by Dr. Bret Weinstein (evolutionary biologist), RFK, Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, and others who were formerly on the left but now feel politically homeless.

Elliott shares his thoughts on the movement. What does the Bible say about these pillars? 

I still believe Americans can find common ground. Praying for unity. Praying for peace. Praying for freedom.

If you want to rescue the republic, too, please join us in DC or at least, join us for this conversation!

Sponsors:

Authentixx 

Website: http://www.authentixx.com

Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order!

The Wellness Company

Recently, I heard a term, “testosteroni.” It was used in a pejorative manner to describe “testosterone-laden” men. In the conversation, these testosterone-laden men were pitted against a kinder, gentler model of manhood.

I wasn’t sure just what they were getting at. But, I had questions.

1. Is testosterone inherently a bad thing? 
2. Does it cause problems for men?
3. How does it impact our perception of masculinity in general?
4. Does testosterone end up being a disadvantage in our modern world?
5. Why cast aspersions at a hormone? (One which women also possess, by the way).

I wanted to hear Elliott’s thoughts about Testosteronis vs. Beta Males.

We delve into all this and more as we continue our “What is a Man?” series. Please join us!

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Q:  I’m 34 and dating a 44-year-old man who rents out a room to a cutie 21-year-old for a very fair price and sometimes, he goes out with her and her friends and buys their drinks. 

I’m not sure how I feel about that. He believes it’s socially acceptable but I disagree and see it as predatory. But I also want to be understanding and I’m unsure if I’m being insecure and unreasonable about the situation.

A:  Join us to hear our response to our listener’s question!

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As a psychiatric nurse, David Wayne believed wholeheartedly in the veracity of medical research and the necessity of pharmaceutical interventions—until he saw how ineffective and at times, harmful, these “treatments” were. 

He began to question his profession—especially psychiatry’s pharmaceutical “solution” for every mental health concern.

Then COVID descended, and because he chose not to inject an experimental substance into his body, he got fired from his hospital.

To support others losing their jobs, he attended protests against the COVID shot mandates. He found himself alongside others who shared his values around health freedom. But, he was surprised to learn many of these dissidents were people of faith. 

He discovered they weren’t at all “anti science.” They just knew science must be questioned—always! And, science doesn’t belong solely to government officials or three letter agencies. Furthermore, these dissidents put their faith in God, as opposed to Fauci.

As a psychiatric nurse, David had questioned the tenets of his profession. Now, he began to question his understanding of God and faith.

COVID profoundly changed all of us in various ways. Four years into the COVID era, more and more psychologists and psychiatrists are questioning Pharma’s hold on our profession—not to mention its regulatory capture of governmental institutions such as the FDA and CDC.

If you’re waking up to the Pharma cartel, this episode’s for you!

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The election is upon us and the political divide—well, it’s probably better described as a chasm. 

So, we weren’t surprised to receive this question from a listener:

“I’ve seen this rhetoric start to pop up on social media, leading into the election:  ‘Don’t tell someone you love them, and then vote for someone who will hurt them.’

How do we deal with this type of divisive statement?”

Our listener also indicated she’s single and in her 40s. She’s an only child, so her friends are absolutely family to her.

Yet, if she votes for a particular candidate, her friends believe she’s choosing to hurt them.

I had a lot of thoughts about this. Like our listener, I have many friends who take issue with my choices around such issues. Most of these friends won’t talk to me about why I hold these values. 

Many people would recommend we steer clear of these topics. Then again, if we don’t talk about what matters most to us, how can we have deep, authentic relationships? 

Elliott and I share how we would respond to a friend who asked us, “How can you say you love me, yet you’re voting for someone who hurts me?”

Elliott brings in the spiritual—“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

I postulate that the “powers that be” gin up “culture wars” to keep us attacking each other, rather than recognizing how the ruling class//oligarchs continue to oppress us.

If you’re struggling to navigate political divisiveness this election season, please join us!

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Elliott didn’t know about this—I’m way more into current events than he is—so I decided to inform him during our episode. I wanted him to share his thoughts as a therapist, husband, father, and perhaps most importantly, as a pastor.

Abortion is a heavy, sensitive, and painful, subject—at least, it used to be. Clinton claimed it should be, “Safe, legal, and rare.”

Now women are encouraged to, “Shout Your Abortion!”

What’s going on?

I share some theories as to how we’ve arrived at this place—views around Second and Third Wave Feminism and how women have fought for a sexual revolution that fails to serve us, but works for men just fine.

We integrate our question, “What is a Man?” throughout the conversation. Elliott asserts that men may have failed women which also relates to the current landscape of women displaying their fielty to a political party by killing their unborn children.

Join us for another Love & Life Current Events episode and hear Elliott’s og story of getting kicked out of Social Studies during an 8th grade current events unit! 😉

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Today Pastor Elliott and Producer Tim continue our series on "What is a Man?"

In his work as a counselor and pastor Elliott has developed a thesis for what he believes makes up the theology of a man based on the book of Genesis.

Specifically Elliott dives into the following topics:

• Accountability
• Responsibility
• Sacrifice
• Interdependence
• And how men facility all of these topics into their lives personally, relationally, and ultimately into their communities at large.

We hope this episode will provide insights into your personal relationships and lead you to a life of thriving in your mind, body, and spirit!

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As you’ve likely heard, last week Olympic boxer Imane Khelif beat Angela Carini in a bout that lasted only 46 seconds.

Carini said of Khelif’s punch to her nose, “I’ve never been hit so hard in my life.”

Controversy ensued because just last year, Khelif had been disqualified from competing in the World Boxing Championships in the women’s category because of testosterone levels that were higher than permissible.

In prior Love & Life episodes, we’ve addressed the touchy subject of men competing against women. We interviewed Paula Scanlan (former UPenn swimmer) in episode 303, author Kara Dansky (The Abolition of Sex:  How the “Transgender” Agenda Harms Women and Girls) in episode 245, and radical feminist Isabella Malbin in episode 193.

With the current controversy still brewing, Elliott and I wanted to share our thoughts. We speak to realities of developmental psychology and biology, along with a Biblical vantage point.

We tackle two questions many people currently struggle to answer or would prefer to avoid, “What is a man?” and “What is a woman?”

Elliott and I start with basic biology—if you have XX, chromosomes you are female. If you have XY chromosomes, you are male.

That being said, in some very rare cases of genetic anomalies, determining a person’s sex can be more complicated. Intersexed individuals (or, what is now known as DSD—Disorders of Sex Development) make up 0.018% (Sax, 2022).

We strive to approach this topic from a place of love. As a husband, father, and big brother, Elliott wants to protect girls and women. As a former female athlete, aunt, and stepmother, I want to protect women’s sports and the future of womanhood itself.

Join us for a conversation we need to have, yet many avoid.

Our world feels increasingly chaotic and morally inverted. And for those who remain skeptical and endeavor to think critically and rationally, it’s extremely overwhelming.

As you know from episode 294 “COVID Trauma:  How to Move Through Post COVID Stress Disorder,” Elliott and I have lost trust in many, if not most, of the institutions we once thought were at least somewhat honorable.

Who can we trust? What’s going on behind the scenes? Who’s actually in charge and why are they so determined to strip us of our rights?

I frequently listen to Dr. Joseph Mercola’s podcast and when I heard his interview with Dr. Leland Stillman, I immediately bought Dr. Stillman’s book, Dying to be Free:  How America's Ruling Class Is Killing and Bankrupting Americans, and What to Do About It.

I devoured the book in a few days. It covers an enormous amount of ground and provides answers to questions like the ones I posed above. 

If you’re not familiar with Dr. Leland Stillman and his work, I’m thrilled to introduce you to him in today’s episode.

Our father told us to “Take Charge” in every aspect of our lives. If you want to know how to take charge in these oppressive times, this episode is for you!

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My father-in-law passed away a month ago. We knew his death was imminent, so we weren’t caught off guard, but I was definitely surprised by the depth of my grief. I’d only known Max for 14 years and because I was in my 40s when I joined the Abrell family, I hadn’t had the years of connection with him. Yet my grief was significant and multifaceted.

My mom, Elliott, and our brother, Warren, attended the funeral. At the end of the service, Dan opened up the floor for anyone who might want to say something to honor Max. I tried to get my courage up but I was afraid I’d cry too hard and make everyone feel uncomfortable. 

I left the service full of regret for not having shared how much Max meant to me, and how blessed I felt to have been his daughter-in-law. Even though I didn’t have the chance to know Max longer, I nevertheless feel his influence every day in my marriage. He raised the love of my life and for that, I’m so incredibly grateful. 

I wish I’d shared these thoughts with those who attended the funeral. 

At the meal after the service, Elliott told me how learning more about Max stirred within him ideas about what it means to be a man of honor, integrity, and character. Since he works with young men and teaches them at Judson University, he sees how much GenZers could learn from the men of Max’s generation!

To make up for my lack of courage at the funeral, we decided to kick off our new series, “What is a Man?” with a tribute to one of the best there’s ever been—Max L. Abrell.

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As psychotherapists, Elliott and I obviously view love and life through a psychological lens. We take a holistic approach to love and life—underscoring the interaction of our mind, body, and spirit. Elliott takes this approach in his role as a pastor, too.  He reads the Bible and interprets scripture through this lens. God designed psychology—meaning, how God created human thinking and behaving.

Which is why I love Elliott’s recent sermon and why we wanted to share it with you. Elliott describes 3 simple, Biblically based steps we can take to level up your mindset—or as the Bible puts it, “renew your mind.”

I claim they’re simple steps, but I don’t mean to suggest they’re easy. That being said, since God created us and therefore knows best how our minds work, it makes perfect sense to look to His word in our efforts to renew our minds or, as we say on Love & Life, “take charge of your thoughts to take charge of your life!” 

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Please enjoy this conversation Dr. Karin had on the Single and Not Settling podcast!

A note from Vanessa of Single and Not Settling:

"This is absolutely a dream come true. I was so nervous throughout this interview as I could have pinched myself, achieving this goal of mine. You see in 2020 after I was ghosted and the world shut down, I found a podcast by Dr Karin. Her advice on dating and relationships gave me hope, taught me so much of what I know today but also helped me dive deeper into why I was choosing the wrong men, it all began to make sense!! On this platform I created, I saw it as an opportunity to personally thank Dr Karin for having such an impact on my life, where I am today and where I continue to grow.

Dr Karin is such a genuine person, so kind and has the best sense of humour!

I am so proud of myself and proud of this episode.

I hope you gain value from Dr Karin as much as I have throughout the years."

In this exciting episode of "Single and NOT Settling," Vanessa Maree sits down with Dr. Karin Anderson Abrell, a psychologist, author, and captivating speaker.

Dr. Karin opens up about her own experience as a "runaway bride" and so much more! Tune in to discover:

The struggle of walking away from a relationship that seems "good enough."

Dealing with the guilt that follows once you've left that relationship behind, and how Dr. Karin finally let go of that guilt.

Insights into ghosting and navigating the world of dating apps.

The importance of understanding your values and finding someone who shares those same values.

High-status dating: What it entails and the impact when women take the lead in dating.

Exploring Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and how it can transform negative thoughts into positive outlooks, especially on your dating journey.

Don't miss out on this empowering conversation packed with valuable insights for your dating journey!

Dr Karin's Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook

I'd love to connect with you on Instagram! Head over to

⁠⁠⁠@vanessamaree_wingwoman

________________________________________________

Sponsors:

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