When Good Music Goes Bad? The Surprising Psychology of Over-Listening

We all know music can lift your spirits—but can too much of a good thing mess with your mental health? In this episode, we unpack five recent studies exploring the double-edged sword of music and mental health. From emotional rumination and music addiction to neural overstimulation and sad-song spirals, we explore how listening habits can either heal or harm. With fresh research on music and depression, dopamine desensitization, and adolescent mental health, this episode hits more than just the right notes—it asks the tough questions.

Keywords: music and mental health, music therapy, sad music, rumination, dopamine, music addiction, overstimulation, emotional regulation, neuroscience of music

a perspective on music and mental health

Can your playlist improve your mood—or just help you cry more efficiently? In this episode, we explore the science behind music’s impact on mental health. From dopamine hits and sad-song catharsis to clinical music therapy and brain scans, we unpack how rhythm and melody shape emotion, memory, and healing. Backed by research, sprinkled with humor—this one hits all the right notes.

Keywords: music and mental health, dopamine, music therapy, neuroscience, mood regulation, psychology of music, sad songs, brain and music

A perspective on emotional regulation with Rose Shackelford, ACC - Empowerment Coach and author of 'The Long Road to Happy Love.'

tiktok@roseshackelford2

In this episode, we explore the science of emotional regulation, positivity, and resilience — and how our relationship with emotions directly shapes our health, behavior, and long-term wellbeing.

We break down why suppressing emotions may feel helpful in the moment, but actually increases stress and harms us physiologically over time. Research shows that cultivating positive emotions isn’t “toxic positivity” — it’s biologically protective. Higher levels of positivity are linked to lower cortisol, stronger immune functioning, reduced cardiovascular risk, and even greater longevity (Pressman & Cohen, 2005). Evidence-based practices like gratitude journaling, mindfulness, and acts of kindness measurably improve anxiety, sleep, and life satisfaction.

We also discuss the 2021 Annual Review of Psychology paper “Integrating Models of Self-Regulation” (Inzlicht, Werner, Briskin & Roberts), and break down the difference between self-regulation, self-control, and cognitive control — and why this matters for real change.

This episode is for anyone who wants a deeper, science-grounded understanding of how humans actually change — not through ignoring feelings, but through learning how to work with them.

Listen to learn how to feel more — and suffer less — while becoming more effective, intentional, and aligned with your goals

A perspective on emotional regulation with Mara

Why do we struggle with emotions like anxiety, sadness, or stress—even when things seem “fine”? And more importantly, how can we respond in a way that promotes healing, not harm? In this episode, we unpack the science behind emotional resilience—how we process, regulate, and grow through life’s toughest feelings. You’ll hear insights from groundbreaking studies and leading experts in psychology and neuroscience. This episode invites you to stop numbing and start listening—compassionately, curiously, and with evidence-backed tools that actually help.

What do you do when you’re angry? Do you lash out — or shut down? In this powerful follow-up, we explore evidence-based anger management tools and the science of assertive communication.

Learn how to recognize anger’s early signs, regulate your nervous system, and express yourself clearly — without aggression or silence. Featuring insights from Frontiers in Psychology (Lee & DiGiuseppe, 2021), Physiological Reports (Vierra et al., 2022), and Anxiety, Stress & Coping (Wolfe et al., 2023), we break down the difference between reaction and response — and why assertiveness is key to healing, boundaries, and self-respect.

Plus, real-life examples and practical scripts to turn frustration into clear, calm dialogue — even in heated moments.

Keywords:

anger management techniques, assertive communication, emotional awareness, breathwork for anger, neuroscience of emotion, self-regulation, healthy conflict resolution