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  • Most of us think we’d know how to help if someone we loved was struggling with their mental health.


    But here’s the truth: Mental health crises rarely look the way we expect. They don’t come with warning sirens or dramatic breakdowns. They come with canceled plans. Short texts. “I’m just tired.” A fake smile and a quick change of subject.


    In this episode of We Need to Talk, I sat down with Dr. Joseph Donnelly and Elena Saldutti—two experts in Mental Health First Aid—to talk about the signs we miss, the instincts we get wrong, and the simple ways we can all learn to show up better for the people we love.


    Whether you’ve been on the receiving end of well-meaning but misguided support—or you’ve stayed silent, unsure of what to say—this will change the way you think about helping someone in crisis.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why most of us hesitate to speak up (and how to get past that fear).How to recognize the early signs of emotional distress.What not to say to someone who’s struggling.How Mental Health First Aid works—and why it’s as essential as CPR.

    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES / RESOURCES

    Mental Health First Aid: mentalhealthfirstaid.org

    National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988

    Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

    Mental Health First Aid Citation

    Bridging the Gap: Empowering Teachers and Supporting Students with Mental Health First Aid.

    Social Emotional Learning Citation

    Enhancing Health Education: The Role of Social Emotional Learning in PreK-12 Students' Well-being.

    Social Media Citation

    Public Health Implications of Social Media on Adolescent Health Behaviors: Upstream Approaches to Prevention Strategies.


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Robyn Jaenchen. 

     

    DISCLAIMER

    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Most people are going to want to skip this episode.

    I get it—grief is uncomfortable. It’s messy. It brings up stuff we’d rather avoid.


    But if you want to develop strong relationship skills—if you want to be the kind of person who shows up when it matters—this is mandatory listening.


    We don’t talk about grief until we have to. And even then, most of us don’t know what to do. Do we check in? Give space? Bring up the loss—or avoid it altogether?


    In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor, author of The Grieving Brain and The Grieving Body. She’s one of the world’s leading grief researchers, and she’s here to help us understand what actually helps when someone we love is hurting.


    We talk about what grief does to the brain and body, why so many of us disappear during someone else’s grief, and how to show up better—even when you don’t know what to say.


    This conversation might challenge you—but it’ll make you a better partner, friend, and human. 


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    Finding The Words Colin Campbell

    The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss

    The Grieving Body: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Robin Jaenchen.

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling  

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • Trying to find the right therapist can feel like a job—especially when every Psychology Today bio starts sounding the same. And in a world where therapists market themselves on Instagram, it’s harder than ever to tell who’s actually good… and who just has a good aesthetic.


    In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Coe-Odess—a licensed clinical psychologist and therapist-matching expert—to break down the most common mistakes people make when choosing a therapist. From red flags to look out for, to how to find affordable options that actually help, this conversation gives you the tools you need to stop guessing and start healing.


    Whether you're starting therapy for the first time or wondering if it's time to move on from your current therapist, this episode will help you make the right call.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    The biggest mistakes people make when choosing a therapist.How to tell the difference between productive discomfort in therapy vs. actual harm.Red flags in therapist bios, social media, and first sessions.How to find high-quality therapy when you’re dealing with budget constraints or bad insurance.

    Xxoo Darcy



    RESOURCESMindful CarePsychological Treatments

    https://www.instagram.com/the_sarahpist/

    https://sarahpist.com/#contact

    https://form.typeform.com/to/Smv62wG3


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • In today’s world, sharing an opinion can feel like stepping onto a battlefield. We fear being judged, misunderstood, or canceled—so we stay silent. Or worse, we speak at each other instead of with each other. But real connection isn’t about having the perfect words. It’s about showing up with curiosity, intention, and presence—even when it’s uncomfortable.


    In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by legendary therapists and relationship experts Dr. Harville Hendrix and Dr. Helen LaKelly Hunt, creators of Imago Therapy and authors of the new book How to Talk With Anyone About Anything. We unpack the deeper purpose of conversation, how to reconnect during moments of conflict, and why our differences might actually be the gateway to deeper intimacy.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why differences don’t mean you’re incompatible—and how they can lead to greater intimacy.The #1 most effective tool to stay grounded and present in uncomfortable conversations.The one thing that must be present in every relationship if you want it to be healthy.

    PLUS: I bring Harville one of my most triggering real-life scenarios—and ask him to walk me through it. And he does not disappoint. 


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful CareGetting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples: Third EditionHow to Talk with Anyone about Anything: The Practice of Safe ConversationsKeeping the Love You Find: A Personal GuideDoing Imago Relationship Therapy in the Space-Between: A Clinician's GuideThe Space Between: The Point of ConnectionMaking Marriage Simple: Ten Relationship-Saving Truths

    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling 

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Do you keep ending up with the same type of partner—different face, same red flags?

    Are your relationships lopsided—with one of you craving emotional intimacy, and the other can’t (or won’t) go there?

    Do you find yourself thinking, “Why does this keep happening to me?”


    If so, this episode is for you.


    At some point, we all have to stop pointing fingers and ask the harder question: What’s my role in this?

    Not to take all the blame. Not to spiral into shame.

    But because real change in your love life starts with the one thing you can control—you.


    This week, Ashtyn’s back—and I’m the one in the hot seat, answering the questions.

    If you’re brave enough to look in the mirror, I promise to be right there with you, making it okay (and even a little bit funny).


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    The most common reason people fail to see their part in relationship patterns.The key questions to ask yourself when your relationships feel like déjà vu.What to do when you realize you are contributing to the problem.

    This episode is packed with humor, honesty, and our own stories—so you don’t have to feel alone while doing the work. You can be the hero in your own love story. 


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Anxiety is the most common mental health issue in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults each year. And yet, despite how familiar it is, we still get so much wrong about it.


    We’re taught to treat anxiety like something to conquer, suppress, or “fix.” But what if that mindset is actually making things worse?


    If you've ever spiraled over a future that hasn’t happened—or replayed a conversation on loop, dissecting every word you said—this episode is for you.

    Joining me is licensed therapist Alison Seponara, creator of The Anxiety Healer, and one of Instagram’s most trusted voices on mental health. Together, we unpack what anxiety really is, why it’s so hard to manage, and how to stop unintentionally feeding the very thing we’re trying to escape.


    In this episode, you'll learn:

    The one anxiety tool no one’s talking about—but everyone should be usingWhy you actually don’t want to get rid of your anxiety completelyHow early life experiences can shape our relationship with anxietyA personal story from Alison about the well-intentioned act that triggered her worst panic attack

    If anxiety is part of your story, this episode is a must.

    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    TheAnxietyHealer.com

    The Anxiety Healer's Guide: Coping Strategies and Mindfulness Techniques to Calm the Mind and Body


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 


     DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #MentalHealthAwareness #AnxietySupport #MentalHealthMatters #EmotionalWellness #MentalHealthEducation #AnxietyTools

    #AnxietyHelp #AnxietyRelief #HealingAnxiety #AnxietyRecovery #RelationshipExperts #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling

    #DrDarcy #HighFunctioningAnxiety #AnxiousMind #TheAnxietyHealer #AlisonSeponara


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • What if you could train your brain to work with you—not against you?


    In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jeff Karp, one of the world’s leading biotech researchers and a professor at both Harvard Medical School and MIT. His lab runs more like a think tank, focused on unlocking human potential through creativity, innovation, and intentional living.


    As someone with severe (but well-managed) ADHD, I’ve spent my life chasing ways to improve my focus, boost my productivity, and become high-functioning. This conversation is packed with tools that genuinely shifted how I think, how I work, and how I show up in the world.


    You’ll learn:

    How to harness the power of your mind.Why failure is a powerful gateway to success.Practical strategies to sharpen your focus and fuel your creativity.

    By the end, you’ll have a toolkit to manage overwhelm, reduce self-doubt, and unlock your brain’s potential.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    www.jeffkarp.com

    LIT: Life Ignition Tools: Use Nature's Playbook to Energize Your Brain, Spark Ideas, and Ignite Action


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove

    #MillennialLife #Neuroscience #BrainHealth #CognitiveScience #DrJeffKarp #DoctorJeffKarp #JeffKarp #JeffKarpInterview #JeffKarpPodcast #JeffKarpHarvard #ADHDTips #ADHDAwareness #FocusHacks #ProductivityTools


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Ever find yourself replaying a conversation in your head—over and over—only to avoid it altogether? Maybe you want to tell a friend they hurt your feelings. Or ask for a raise. Or bring up that thing your partner said that’s still bothering you.


    We all do it. But why? Why do we avoid conversations that could actually improve our relationships—and our lives?


    Most of us dodge these talks because we fear conflict or don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings. But avoiding the conversation doesn’t make the discomfort go away. It causes it to fester.


    Today, I’m joined by someone who knows this terrain professionally and personally—my wife, Steph Sterling, LCSW. She also happens to be the most talented couples therapist I know.


    In this episode, we unpack:

    How to tell if you’re avoiding a conversation out of fear or just waiting for the right time.The biggest mistakes people make when they finally speak up.How to navigate tough talks in a way that brings you closer together instead of pulling you apart (step-by-step).

    Plus… Steph shares some stories about our own struggles that just might surprise you.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful CareGetting The Love You Want Forbes Article: Are Your Employees Avoiding Difficult Conversations?https://www.instagram.com/steph_sterling_lcsw/https://alternativescounseling.com/meet-the-owners/steph/

    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • If you’re feeling more anxious than ever about politics, you’re not alone. Nearly 70% of Americans believe the country is more divided now than at any point in recent history. And with 24/7 news cycles, social media outrage, and family group chats that feel like landmines, staying sane in this political climate can feel impossible.


    But how much of our political stress is actually within our control? How do we stay informed without feeling consumed? And how can we navigate relationships when political differences threaten to tear us apart?


    To help me unpack these questions, I’m joined by Chris Cuomo—anchor at News Nation and The Chris Cuomo Project. Chris has spent decades reporting on the most divisive issues of our time, and he’s here to share his strategies for staying grounded when the political world feels like it’s spinning out of control.


    In this episode we dive into:

    How to maintain personal relationships with people who hold opposing political views—without compromising your values.How to stay informed without drowning in political overwhelm.How Chris navigates political disagreements with the people closest to him.

    This was one of the most thought-provoking (and wildly entertaining) conversations I’ve had on We Need To Talk. Don’t just listen—watch the full episode on YouTube.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #PoliticsAndMentalHealth #PoliticalAnxiety #NewsOverload #StaySaneInPolitics #NavigatingDisagreements #PoliticalDivide #PoliticalConversations #TheChrisCuomoProject #ChrisCuomo #NewsNation #RelationshipGoals #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipExperts #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp  #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy#DrDarcySterling

    #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #MillennialLife


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Imagine missing out on dream vacations because you fear flying, or passing on career opportunities due to public speaking anxiety. Phobias don’t just protect us—they can hold our lives hostage.


    Traditional treatments like exposure therapy can take months or years, with no guarantee of success. But what if you could overcome your fear in just one session?


    Today’s guest, Merel Kindt, neuroscientist, professor of clinical psychology at the University of Amsterdam, and founder of Kindt Clinics, has developed the Memrec Method—a groundbreaking phobia treatment with an 85% success rate after just one session.


    If fear has been running your life, this conversation could change everything.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How she treats phobias in just 1 session. Why her treatment works so quickly.How Merel Kindt’s discovery could change how we think about fear for good.

    What would your life look like if fear no longer called the shots? Let’s find out.


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychological-medicine/article/abs/crossnational-epidemiology-of-specific-phobia-in-the-world-mental-health-surveys/A0EDD4B22E19CDB63269D7A34F2C21AA 

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25980916/

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25549103/


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy

    #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife

    #PhobiaCure #OvercomeFear #FearlessLiving #AnxietyRelief #MindHack #RapidHealing #NeuroscienceBreakthrough #MentalHealthMatters


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    Twitter:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • If you’ve ever had someone in your life step into recovery, you know how profound—and fragile—that journey can be. It’s a moment of hope, courage, and transformation, but also one where friends, family, and coworkers can feel unsure of how to show up. How do you avoid unintentionally triggering them? And how can you be there without making things…awkward?


    Today we’re digging into the hidden challenges of supporting someone in recovery. Whether it’s your partner, sibling, best friend, or coworker, this conversation will help you show up in ways that are compassionate, thoughtful, and, most importantly, truly helpful. 

    Joining me today is addiction psychiatrist and CEO of Mindful Care, Dr. Tamir Aldad. 


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How treatment centers can (and SHOULD) involve loved ones in the recovery process.The essential structures and routines that support early sobriety.Strategies for managing your own emotional well-being while being there for someone in recovery.

    And I’ll share a story about how I recently mismanaged a situation with a loved one—so you don’t make the same mistake.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #SobrietySupport #SupportingRecovery #NewlySober #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney

    #SoberLiving #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #MillennialLife


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Everything you thought you knew about intimacy? Michaela Boehm is here to challenge it.


    Michaela Boehm is a renowned intimacy expert and celebrity relationship coach whose unconventional approach flips traditional relationship advice on its head.


    In this episode, we reveal:

    Why date nights can backfire on your romantic connection.How casual touch may be dulling your sexual chemistry over time.Why fading attraction can actually be a sign of relationship growth.

    If you’re looking for practical intimacy tips and a fresh perspective on love, sex, and relationships, this is a must-listen.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    The Wild Woman's Way: Reconnect to Your Body's Wisdom (A Woman's Guide to Spiritual Growth)

    *We could not locate the study on oysters mentioned in the episode. 

    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy

    #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife

    #IntimacyRedefined #RelationshipGoals #LoveBetterLiveBetter #MichaelaBoehm #WeNeedToTalkPodcast


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Valentine’s Day is typically all about romantic relationships, but today, we’re celebrating a love that’s just as powerful—lifelong friendship.


    My niece Ashtyn, who you know from We Need To Talk, has been inseparable from her two best friends, Claire and Danielle, since middle school. Now in their late 20s, their bond has not only survived but thrived, weathering life’s ups and downs. 


    True, lasting friendships are rare, which is why today, I want to highlight what makes theirs work. How do they navigate change and personal growth without growing apart? What keeps them emotionally connected even as life pulls them in different directions?


    In this special Valentine’s Day episode, we’re honoring the deep love and loyalty in friendships—the kind built on trust, laughter, and unwavering support.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How to maintain strong friendships as you grow and evolve.The key to offering emotional support without overstepping.Why deep, lasting friendships shape who we become.

    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    Number, Timing, and Duration of Marriages and Divorceshttps://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/marriage-divorce.htm

    Study titled "Changes in personal relationships: How social contexts affect the emergence and discontinuation of relationships."

    https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090527111907.htm

    https://www.livescience.com/5466-friends-replaced-7-years.html

    https://phys.org/news/2009-05-friends-lost-years.html

    National Marriage Rates


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Gaslighting is often framed as a one-way act or behavior—someone manipulates, and the other is manipulated. But in reality, gaslighting is a relational dynamic. Its "success" hinges not only on the manipulator’s actions but also on the recipient's openness to self-doubt and questioning their own perceptions.


    Certain traits make people more vulnerable to gaslighting. These qualities often lead the person to trust the gaslighter's version of reality over their own. Gaslighters often choose partners who value harmony and trust over conflict, knowing their partner might be more willing to question themselves rather than the person they love.


    The term gaslighting has been around for decades. But it’s only been used in the psychological sense since 2007, and it was coined by today’s guest. 


    Dr. Robin Stern, the author of The Gaslight Effect and co-founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, has spent years studying this insidious phenomenon. She explores how it manifests in relationships and, more importantly, how we can break free from its grip.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why gaslighting is one of the most powerful tools of control.The surprising positive traits that make people more susceptible to gaslighting.How to spot the early, subtle signs of gaslighting.

    AND… the most common ways people misuse the term—and why it matters.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    The Gaslight Effect: How to Spot and Survive the Hidden Manipulation Others Use to Control Your Life


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 


    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipExperts

    #RealTalkRelationships #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling

    #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #DrRobinStern #Gaslighting #TheGaslightEffect #EmotionalIntelligence

    #ToxicRelationships #MentalHealthMatters


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

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    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • It’s January, and everyone’s still buzzing about their New Year’s resolutions—promises to hit the gym, eat healthier, or finally start dating with intention. But the reality is, by mid-February, nearly 80% of those resolutions are abandoned. Why?


    Because willpower alone can’t outmuscle unresolved emotional wounds. The patterns you can’t seem to break—the procrastination, the self-sabotage, the over-committing—they’re often rooted in emotional triggers tied to unhealed pain. And until you address those triggers, goal-setting can feel like pushing a boulder uphill.


    Today, we’re diving into the emotional baggage that holds us back from creating meaningful change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a cycle of failed resolutions or wondered why you can’t seem to follow through on your goals, this episode is for you.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why willpower and motivation don’t work when it comes to reaching a goal.How struggles like procrastination or self-sabotage reveal three types of unresolved emotional wounds.What to do if your tribe isn’t giving you the kind of support you need to achieve your goals.

    Xxoo Darcy


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy

    #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife

    #EmotionalHealing #NewYearsResolutions #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #GoalSetting #UnresolvedTrauma #EmotionalWellness #HealingJourney

    #SelfSabotage #InnerWork


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

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    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Normally, I ask the questions, but this time, it’s your turn. 

    To be honest, I’ve avoided doing an Ask Me Anything episode because I feel like I talk about myself too much. But my team voted and I was outnumbered.


    So, here we are—your questions, unfiltered, and my honest answers. From relationship advice to podcast behind-the-scenes, no topic was off-limits.


    And I’ve recruited someone very special to join me for this episode—my wife, couples therapist, Steph Sterling. 


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    The podcast guest who had the biggest impact on me (and why).What I do to keep my mental health in check. The relationship trend I hope to see more of in 2025.

    If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a therapist who's married to a therapist, tune in — you get 2 for the price of 1 today!


    Xxoo Darcy


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 


    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy

    #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #AskMeAnything 

    #MentalHealthMatters #PodcastLife #LoveAndRelationships


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

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    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Talking about sex is one of the hardest conversations to have. It’s clumsy, it’s awkward, and for some, it’s completely off-limits.


    Research shows that only 2 out of 3 long-term partners know what their partner enjoys sexually, and just 1 in 4 knows what their partner dislikes.

    Why is it so hard to talk about something so fundamental to intimacy? And how could our relationships transform if we learned to communicate about sex with honesty and confidence?


    To answer these questions, I’ve invited Shannon Boodram—better known as Shan Boody. She’s a trailblazing author, certified sex educator, and one of the most insightful voices on intimacy and communication.


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    The real reason many women fake orgasms—and how to stop faking it.Why sexual incompatibility can be a surprising turn-on.The importance of discussing your sexual appetite early on in the dating process. 

    If you’re ready to transform your sex life with open, honest conversations, this episode is for you.


    Xxoo

    Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    https://europepmc.org/article/MED/34968095?utm_source=chatgpt.com

    https://www.statista.com/topics/1209/sexuality/

    “Want” Sexual Fantasies by Anonymous


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy

    #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife #SexualHealthEducation #IntimacyCoach #RelationshipCommunication

    #SexualEmpowerment #OpenConversations #ShanBoodram


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the United States, affecting 1 in 3 of us at some point in our life. For many, it’s an all-consuming cycle of worry and fear that can upend careers, relationships, and the ability to perform basic daily tasks. 


    But what if anxiety isn’t an inevitable part of modern life?


    I sat down with Dr. Jud Brewer, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist whose groundbreaking work sheds light on how anxiety forms and how to break free. Drawing from his New York Times bestselling book, and his evidence-based tools, Dr. Jud explains how our brain’s habit loops fuel anxiety and how we can reclaim control.


    If anxiety has ever held you back—or if you know someone who struggles with it—this should be mandatory listening. 


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How our habits create and sustain anxiety cycles.Why trying to control anxiety can backfire—and what to do instead.What cutting-edge research reveals about psychedelics and anxiety treatment.

    If you listen to 1 podcast this month, THIS IS IT. 


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful CareUnwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind

    Unwinding Anxiety App on App Store

    DrJud.com Prevalence of Anxiety Among AdultsAnxiety & Depression Association of America

    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 


    #Anxiety #MentalHealth #Worry #Fear #AnxietyCycles #UnwindingAnxiety #AnxietyTreatment #AnxietyRelief #ManagingAnxiety #TransformAnxiety #AnxietyHelp #Anxiousness #NewYorkTimesBestSeller #NewYorkTimes #Relationships #DrJudBrewer #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy


    DISCLAIMER

    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling 

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Choosing when to share your past—and deciding how much to share—is one of the trickiest balancing acts in relationships. Whether it’s with a romantic partner, a friend, or even a colleague, the decision to open up can feel overwhelming.


    In today’s episode, we’re diving into the delicate art of disclosure—learning when and how to share your personal stories so they don’t become burdensome secrets. 


    We discuss:

    The right timing to share mental health diagnoses, physical illnesses, financial struggles, legal troubles, family secrets, or personal mistakes.How to balance family loyalty with honesty when revealing family secrets.Tips for discussing sensitive topics like politics, religious differences, or biases with new people.How to present your mistakes as opportunities for growth and accountability.

    PLUS, I uncover the #1 mistake people make when they’re on the receiving end of someone else’s vulnerable story—and how to avoid it.


    Tune in to learn how to navigate these tough conversations with confidence, compassion, and authenticity.


    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER


    #Dating #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #PodcastLove #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy

    #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife #Vulnerability #FamilySecrets #GrowthMindset #EmotionalIntelligence #LifeLessons

    #Authenticity #SelfAwareness #CommunicationSkills


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • For many women, sexual desire isn’t always spontaneous or readily available—it’s something that ebbs and flows, influenced by factors like stress, fatigue, and emotional connection with a partner.


    Yet, our culture promotes the idea that great sex must be spontaneous, passionate, and frequent, leaving many women feeling like they’re broken when they experience a lull in their desire.


    But what if that belief is a myth? What if our cultural narrative around sexuality and desire is part of what makes it so difficult to sustain?


    In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Lori Brotto, a leading expert in the science of desire. Dr. Brotto has dedicated her career to dismantling myths about female desire and providing practical, evidence-based strategies to help women reconnect with their sexuality. She emphasizes that desire isn’t just something that happens to us—it’s something we can nurture, approach with mindfulness, and redefine in ways that align with our unique lives and relationships.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:Key differences in sexual desire between men and women.The top disruptors of women’s desire.A single transformative skill to help combat low libido and rekindle desire.

    Xxoo Darcy


    REFERENCES

    Mindful Care

    Debby Herbenick, Margo Mullinax, Kristen Mark, Sexual Desire Discrepancy as a Feature, Not a Bug, of Long‐Term Relationships: Women's Self‐Reported Strategies for Modulating Sexual Desire, The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Volume 11, Issue 9, September 2014, Pages 2196–2206, https://doi.org/10.1111/jsm.12625

    Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire


    CREDITS

    “We Need To Talk With Dr. Darcy Sterling” is a Sterling Standard Production. Editing and sound engineering by Bart Migal. Our theme music is by Trending Music. Special thanks to Amanda Cristiani and Preston Smith. 

     

    DISCLAIMER

    #DatingTips #RelationshipGoals #DatingAdvice #Relationships #RelationshipPodcast #RelationshipPodcasts #RelationshipAdvice

    #RelationshipExperts #RealTalkRelationships #LoveLanguage #RelationshipIssues #RelationshipHelp #WeNeedToTalkWithDrDarcy #Therapy #CouplesCounseling #CouplesTherapy #DrDarcySterling #DoctorDarcySterling #DrDarcy #ModernRomance #ModernLove #MillennialLife #DrLoriBrotto


    Instagram:@drdarcysterling 

    Facebook:Dr.Darcy Sterling

    Tik Tok:@doctordarcysterling  

    X:@DrDarcySterling   

    YouTube:@DarcySterling   

    Threads:@drdarcysterling

    Watch this episode here on YouTube. 

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.