Feeling like you don’t truly belong—no matter how hard you try—can leave you lonely, anxious, and questioning your self-worth. In this transformative episode of Life’s Dirty Little Secrets, we unravel the real nature of belonging: what it means, why we ache for it, and how to find it from the inside out.

Hosts Emma Waddington and Chris McCurry is joined by licensed clinical psychologist Meg McElvie, an expert in cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment therapies, for a profound conversation that turns the concept of belonging on its head. Together, they explore the three layers of belonging—social, internal, and spiritual—revealing why true belonging starts within and is our birthright, not something to be earned.

Discover the difference between fitting in and authentic connection, the evolutionary roots of our yearning to belong, and how cultural pressures sabotage our sense of self. Meg shares practical strategies, from mindful self-inquiry to nature rituals and expressive writing, to help you reconnect with your sense of belonging. You’ll also learn why helping others feel included is a radical act of self-acceptance and social justice.

If you’ve ever struggled with loneliness, social anxiety, or felt like you just don’t fit, this episode is your invitation to remember: you’re not alone, you don’t have to change to belong, and your place in the world is already yours. Listen in for a compassionate, eye-opening guide to finding connection—starting with yourself.

Topics Discussed in this episode:

• Innate yearning for human belonging
• Inside-out approach to self-acceptance
• Shame and self-stories around inclusion
• Cultivating compassion through shared humanity
• Radical social justice via belonging

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ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue are some of life’s most stubborn challenges—but what if the true cause, and the path to lasting relief, lies not in your body, but in your brain? In this eye-opening episode of Life’s Dirty Little Secrets, we uncover the groundbreaking science of pain with renowned mind-body physician Dr. Howard Schubiner.

Learn how cutting-edge neuroscience reveals that most chronic pain and related conditions aren’t the result of structural damage, but are instead generated by the brain’s protective mechanisms—often triggered by stress, trauma, or emotional injury. Dr. Schubiner shares powerful, research-backed techniques including pain reprocessing therapy, emotional awareness and expression, and practical life changes that can help you break free from the vicious cycle of pain and fear.

From Emma Waddington’s personal healing journey to astonishing real-life recoveries, this episode will transform your understanding of pain—and give you hope that recovery is closer than you think. Don’t miss this essential conversation for anyone living with persistent pain, unexplained symptoms, or looking to reclaim their wellbeing!

Highlights:

• Neuroscience of predictive processing in pain
• Emotional injury activating danger signals
• Chronic pain and structural diagnosis myths
• Mind body conditions in women
• Pain reprocessing and emotional awareness therapy

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ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

Are you feeling overwhelmed by modern life, increasingly stressed, isolated, or disconnected from the natural world? This enlightening episode uncovers the hidden crisis at the heart of our well-being—how today’s hyper-connected, fast-paced society is fundamentally at odds with our biological and emotional needs.

Join us as we dive deep with entrepreneur, writer, and systems thinker Alex Graybar, founder of the civic tech platform Votr, who champions a bold new philosophy he calls “biological humanism.” Discover why ancient social instincts, evolutionary drives, and our need for nature still rule our behavior—even as technology, capitalism, and urban life pull us away from what truly makes us thrive.

From the dangers of relentless striving and screen addiction to the profound healing power of a simple walk in the park, we explore eye-opening research, the down-to-earth wisdom of the biophilia hypothesis, and real-life strategies for restoring balance and community. Plus, learn how everyday choices, biological empathy, and reconnecting with nature can break the toxic cycle of stress and disconnection.

Whether you’re a city dweller yearning for connection or a changemaker passionate about sustainability, this episode will challenge the way you see society, and inspire you to rediscover the simple (and often overlooked) secrets to a life in harmony with the world around you. Don’t miss this transformative conversation—your well-being (and the planet) may depend on it!

Highlights:

• Biological empathy and human connection
• Impact of modern systems on well-being
• Biophilia hypothesis and restorative nature
• Individualism versus collective well-being
• Technology-driven stress and social isolation

View extended shownotes here

ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

ORDER Justin Case Sits with Anxiety: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)

The Glumm Twins Unhook from Sadness: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Workbook for Ages 8-12 (ACT Workbook Series for Kids)