This episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, features a detailed conversation with Heather Borman Morris about understanding narcissistic relationships and how they uniquely affect gifted and neurodivergent individuals. Heather, a clinical social worker, shares her personal experience with narcissistic abuse, providing insights on identifying covert narcissism versus mere intense interest, particularly in neurodivergent or twice-exceptional individuals. The discussion delves into strategies for recognizing and managing toxic relationships, differentiating between narcissism and authentic behaviors, and emphasizes the need for understanding personal boundaries and fostering healthy relationships post-abuse. The episode also introduces Heather's work, including her book 'A Thousand Paper Cuts' and the podcast 'Starting Stronger'.

About Heather:

Heather Boorman-Morris is a renowned therapist, speaker, and author dedicated to helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing toxic relationships. With over two decades of experience in the field, Heather specializes in trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, and neurodivergent mental health. She is the founder of Starting Stronger and the author of the acclaimed book Thousand Paper Cuts: Finding Healing in the Aftermath of a Narcissist. Heather’s compassionate approach and deep understanding of complex emotional landscapes make her a sought-after expert in the journey towards healthy, fulfilling relationships.

In this episode:

• Heather joins the podcast to discuss navigating healthy relationships, focusing on narcissistic abuse.

• Heather shares her experience of being in an abusive relationship and later discovering covert narcissism.

• Discussion on the targeting of neurodivergent individuals by narcissists, highlighting their traits like empathy and ambition.

• Differences between overt and covert narcissists are outlined, including their stages of relationship: idealization, devaluation, and discard.

• Strategies like mirroring used by manipulators in relationships are explained.

• Emphasis on trusting one's body and intuition as indicators of being in a toxic relationship.

• Conversation on distinguishing between love bombing and genuine neurodivergent intensity.

• Importance of taking time to build relationships and recognizing genuine intentions.

• Discussion about the impact of past trauma and hyper-vigilance when forming new relationships.

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Starting Stronger Podcast

A Thousand Papercuts

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In this enriching episode, Aurora hosts Marc, who shares his profound insights on neurodivergent leadership. Marc introduces himself by recounting his journey with ADHD, from his early school years to receiving his diagnosis at 16. This pivotal moment spurred him to embrace and understand his unique brain function, leading to his certification as an ADHD life coach. Marc speaks proudly of founding the Men's ADHD Support Group, a 501c3 nonprofit with over 17,000 members, aiming to empower men with ADHD. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging the inherent strengths of neurodivergent individuals rather than conforming to societal norms. Marc's empathetic and mentorship-driven leadership style, rooted in his personal experiences, serves as a testament to the potential and efficacy of neurodivergent leaders. He addresses challenges such as imposter syndrome, the importance of passion in leadership, and strategies for effective communication within his organization. The discussion also touches on the nuances of the ADHD label, stressing a balanced view that acknowledges both strengths and challenges.

Marc Almodovar Jr. is a neurodiversity advocate and the founder of the ADHD Men’s Support Group, a safe space where men with ADHD can connect with others who share common experiences and challenges. Marc’s personal experience with ADHD led him to feel isolated and misunderstood, and he recognized the need for a supportive community. He believes that by fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the group, men with ADHD can advocate for neurodiversity awareness and acceptance within society as a whole.

As a mental health advocate, Marc recognizes the stigma surrounding mental illness and strives to create a space where men with ADHD can feel safe and supported regardless of their unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world. He is passionate about raising awareness about neurodiversity and helping people understand the diverse ways in which people experience the world. With a balance of authenticity and positivity, Marc inspires others to embrace their unique strengths and connect with others within the neurodiverse community.

• Marc discusses his experience with ADHD, including his diagnosis at 16 and its impact on his life.

• He shares how understanding his brain led him to personal development and becoming an ADHD life coach.

• Founding the Men's ADHD Support Group, a non-profit organization with over 17,000 members.

• People with ADHD often have strong leadership qualities.

• Leveraging strengths rather than conforming to societal norms.

• The importance of mentorship and leading by example.

• Personal and societal challenges neurodivergent leaders face, such as imposter syndrome and self-criticism.

• The value of self-affirmations and support systems in overcoming these challenges.

• Negative feedback and misconceptions about ADHD, especially related to gender.

• The need for safe spaces for men with ADHD and dispelling myths around the condition.

• Giving constructive feedback while staying authentic.

• Using “kind candor” and focusing on team collaboration to improve feedback delivery.

• Resources available for partners of men with ADHD, including support groups and public content.

• The debate around viewing ADHD as a gift versus a disorder.

• Recognizing both the strengths and challenges of ADHD without labeling it strictly as one or the other.

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This week on the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora discusses the transformative power of music with guest Princess Fortier. Princess shares her personal journey of using singing to alleviate her chronic migraines, which began at the age of 13. Despite initially pursuing neuroscience to find a medical cure, she discovered that singing provided significant relief from her symptoms. Aurora and Princess delve into how music can relax, heal, and foster emotional well-being, particularly for those with neurodivergent traits like ADHD and autism. They also explore the importance of community in musical healing practices and offer practical advice for using music and singing as therapeutic tools. Tips for finding and creating musical communities are discussed, along with the benefits of engaging in sound baths and circle singing.

About Princess:

Princess Fortier is a dynamic musician, speaker, and advocate for mental health and neurodivergence. With a rich background in using music as a therapeutic tool, she has dedicated her career to helping others find healing and self-expression through creative outlets. Princess's work emphasizes the emotional and psychological benefits of music, drawing from her personal experiences and professional expertise to inspire and empower her audience. She is known for her engaging and heartfelt presentations, making complex topics accessible and relatable to diverse audiences.

In this Episode:

• Princess shares how music has helped her understand and process emotions, learn about love, and find healing.
• Aurora introduces the "Embracing Intensity" podcast, aimed at gifted, creative, twice-exceptional individuals.
• Moving to a single monthly episode improved downloads.
• Princess discusses her journey studying neuroscience to find a cure for her migraines.
• Singing during a migraine attack unexpectedly relieved her symptoms.
• Aurora opens up Q&A, asking Princess about factors contributing to music helping with migraines.
• Princess explains the potential of music to relax and align with one's purpose, influencing mental and physical well-being.
• Community involvement in singing and music is encouraged for healing and creativity.
• Practical suggestions for engaging in music, such as joining choirs or attending sound bowl classes.
• Discussion on how specific songs and types of music can be personalized for therapeutic benefit.
• Auroras' philosophy: using her platform to allow others to share their voices.
• Princess's invitation to explore creating and experiencing music for personal therapy.
• Closing remarks emphasize continuing conversation and participating in the Embracing Intensity community.
• Aurora concludes with invitations to join the community for support and access to tools for self-regulation.

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Princess’ Website

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In this solo episode, I delve into my personal journey of overcoming a prolonged burnout to explore the concept of truly restful rest. I discuss the five areas of energy balance—physical, emotional, mental, social, and connection—from my 'Balancing Your Time and Energy' workbook. Through my experience, including the importance of joy-driven activities, social connections, and the INCUP (Interest, Novelty, Challenge, Urgency, and Passion) framework, I provide practical advice on how to replenish energy reserves effectively. Also, discover the value of doing an energy audit to identify draining versus energizing activities. Learn more about my strategies for achieving genuine rest and explore my workbook collection for further guidance.

In this Episode:

• Experiencing burnout and the importance of restful rest.

• Five Areas of Energy Balance: Physical, Emotional, Mental, Social, and Connection.

• Physical Rest: Emphasizes the importance of activities that truly relax the nervous system, like going for walks.

• Mental Rest: Stresses shifting focus to activities driven by joy rather than duty to avoid energy drain.

• Emotional Rest: Highlights the significance of assertive actions over anxiety-driven actions.

• Social Rest: Explains how spending time with comfortable social connections can be energizing.

• Connection: Discusses the importance of feeling connected to oneself, others, and the world.

• Motivation Factors: INCUP - Interest, Novelty, Challenge, Urgency, and Passion - as motivational strategies.

• Urgency: Talks about creating a sense of urgency through public accountability to stay motivated.

• Challenge: Transforming tasks into challenges to stay engaged and motivated.

• Interest: Recommends revisiting previous interests to reignite passion.

• Novelty and Passion: Encourages switching things up to maintain novelty and passion in tasks.

• Join our upcoming community call on the healing power of music!

Resources:

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In this episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora Remember Holtzman interviews Bob Yamtich about his journey with intensity, nonviolent communication (NVC), and self-connection. Bob shares his personal experiences with bipolar disorder and hypomania, the importance of shared reality, and his passion for self-connection. He discusses his work, including his self-connection coloring book, and provides insights into the practice of NVC for both self-awareness and enhancing interpersonal communication. Aurora and Bob also delve into the challenges and rewards of forming in-person connections and the role of intensity in their lives. The episode concludes with Bob's emphasis on the foundational role of self-connection in his approach to NVC and a preview of his upcoming live discussion on the topic.

About Bob:

Bob Yamtich is a therapist and Nonviolent Communication trainer. He completed his Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering in 2003, the BayNVC Nonviolent Communication Leadership Program in 2007 (assisting in LP08), and his Master’s in Counseling Psychology in 2011. He earned his Marriage and Family Therapist license in California in 2014. He was a founding member of the Da Vinci Center for Gifted Children in Alameda, CA, and Genesis Innovation Academy in Atlanta, GA. Bob currently lives in Indiana and offers phone coaching and in-person training. He can be followed on Twitter @BobYamtich.

In this episode:

• Introduction by Bob about trusting intensity based on shared reality and positive contributions.

• Aurora introduces Bob Yamtich, mentioning his upcoming talk on Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and their mutual appreciation for NVC.

• Bob expresses gratitude for being on the podcast.

• Aurora asks Bob about what he is intensely passionate about; Bob mentions his role as a dad and his professional passion for developing self-connection, highlighting his self-connection coloring book.

• Discussion on how NVC helps both with self-connection and interpersonal communication.

• Bob speaks about overcoming hypomania and psychosis, emphasizing the need for stability and shared reality.

• Bob shares his journey with bipolar disorder and the importance of medication alongside therapeutic practices.

• Aurora asks about the impact of intensity during Bob's upbringing; Bob shares how his extreme passion led to feelings of guilt and loneliness.

• Bob mentions his gifted program experience and the importance of having passionate friends.

• Bob discusses how nonviolent communication helped him rebuild his life and manage his intensity.

• Aurora and Bob talk about the challenges and benefits of connecting with others in person versus online.

• Bob reflects on the shadow side of his intensity, including an episode where he buried treasure and was not in touch with shared reality.

• Emphasis on the importance of self-connection in managing intensity and understanding one's needs.

• Bob shares a final blessing of self-connection and invites listeners to explore this concept along with empathy and honesty in nonviolent communication.

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Join us in a profound exploration of fun, creativity, and self-care in our latest Embracing Intensity Podcast episode with special guest Boontarika Sripom. Dive deep into the significance of play in nurturing personal growth and bringing joy into our lives, especially for the intensely creative and gifted. Boontarika, a life coach with a passion for play and a background in clinical psychology and human development, shares her insights on how engaging in playful activities can foster innovation, relieve stress, and support our overall well-being. Discover the psychological foundations of play, its role in human development, and how to incorporate more playful moments into your daily routine. Whether you're seeking ways to rejuvenate your creative spirit or find balance in your intense life, this conversation is a reminder of play's transformative power.

For the creative, differently wired, and divergent thinker, play can be as natural as breathing. For some of us, there are layers of shame or uncertainty that inhibit playing across the lifespan. We may be separated from an essential part of maintaining authenticity. This conversation will explore the power of play, sprinkle archetypal journeys within play and fandoms, and encourage listeners to honor their inner children by playing. To those who continue playing: My inner child honors yours. I just waved at you across the playground. :)

About Boontarika:

Boontarika Sripom, MA is a therapy-informed life coach. Her work focuses on coaching using archetypes and understanding the cognition of the differently wired, specifically highly sensitive, creative, and gamer folks. She believes knowledge, guidance, and compassion leads to insights, individual acceptance, and empowerment to change. Boonie is a former preschool teacher, paraprofessional in special education, Outreach Counselor Intern, and College Counselor for creative students. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her favorite games are Age of Empires, World of Warcraft, and Minecraft. She is currently playing Fortnite, Roblox, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

In this episode:

• Rejuvenating rest and exploring creativity as self-care with Sharon Burton's upcoming book release.

• The significance of play, especially for intense, gifted, creative individuals.

• Boontarika introduces her talk on play's importance, touching on her background in clinical psychology and love for video games.

• Discussion on the psychological aspects of play, highlighting its components like being purposeless, voluntary, and having inherent attraction.

• Mentions of Stuart Brown and the National Institute of Play, and their work on defining the components of play.

• Boontarika shares personal anecdotes and illustrations to explain concepts of play.

• Exploration of play's therapeutic and developmental benefits, including combating depression and fostering a sense of community.

• Reference to Jane McGonigal's works on how games can improve our lives and the role of gamification.

• Emphasis on the therapeutic aspects for neurodivergent individuals and how play serves as a safe space.

• Reflection on societal pressures, adulthood's responsibilities, and the overall decline in play.

• Discussion turns to practical ways to reintegrate play into life and its broader benefits.

• Concluding thoughts on the cultural and personal importance of play, inviting the audience to explore their own playful nature.

• Integrating play into educational settings and acknowledging the varying definitions of play.

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In this engaging conversation, Aurora sits down with the multi-talented Princess Fortier, a beacon of inspiration in the journey of embracing one’s intensity. Princess shares her remarkable story, from neuroscientist to singer and model, highlighting how music became her tool for healing and transforming her life. Together, they delve into the themes of harnessing personal intensity, pursuing passions beyond conventional boundaries, and the power of gratitude journaling. Princess's insight provides a riveting exploration of living life unbounded and the beauty of connecting deeply with one's passions. Join us as we uncover the synergy between harmony and intensity, and discover how embracing your full self can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.

Discover how Princess overcame intense migraines through her passion for singing, marking a pivotal shift in her life that not only cured her physically but also steered her towards a fulfilling career in music. Throughout the episode, Princess shares her multifaceted experiences, from her challenges with perfectionism and navigating cultural expressions to engaging deeply with neurodiversity and entrepreneurship. Aurora and Princess delve into the significance of embracing one's intensity, using personal fire for positive impact, and the liberation found in gratitude and self-expression. This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the beauty of pursuing one's passions, and the value of community support. Tune in to be inspired, find connection, and discover how to channel your own intensity into a force for good.

This episode not only celebrates Princess's remarkable contributions to the field of music and arts but also sheds light on how embracing one's intensity can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and personal healing. Listen in as Princess shares her thoughts on perseverance, the significance of music in her life, her battle against perfectionism, and her spirited advocacy for journaling and gratitude as tools for navigating life's challenges.

• Princess is an inspiring figure who transitioned from a neuroscientist to a singer/model and has been featured in shows like Abbott Elementary and All American.

• Princess shares her unique story of how singing cured her chronic migraines, leading her to pursue a full-time music career.

• The power of journaling, especially gratitude journaling, as a tool for self-reflection and goal setting.

• Princess discusses the challenges and benefits of embracing one's intensity, including her resistance to being limited by societal expectations and finding freedom in diversity.

• The dialogue touches on topics like neurodivergence, perfectionism, the importance of setting boundaries, and the impact of cultural and familial pressures.

• Aurora and Princess share experiences of dealing with rejection sensitivity and the internal struggle of wanting to be liked and approved.

• They explore the concept of using one's 'fire' for good, including sharing knowledge, setting examples for others, and creating transformative art.

• Princess discusses how engaging in multiple passions, such as music and entrepreneurship, has allowed her to express her intensity in various domains.

• Aurora emphasizes the importance of self-care and taking breaks to prevent burnout, acknowledging her own past of working on urgency.

• The conversation also covers strategies for harnessing one's intensity and sensitivity, with Princess highlighting the power of gratitude practices.

• Princess encourages the audience to let go of perfectionism and embrace their passions.

• Both speakers reflect on personal growth, the importance of authentic self-expression, and supporting others in their journey to embrace their intensity.

• Princess shares ways to connect with her and learn more about her journey and work, including her website and upcoming appearances.

Princess on Instagram

Princess' Website

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