The Love Vox

Imagine a future where the key to unlocking your potential lies not just in hard work or effective study habits, but within the very strands of your DNA. What if science could unravel the secrets behind our intellectual abilities and illuminate pathways to academic success? As we stand on the brink of groundbreaking advancements in genetics, researchers are beginning to explore how our genetic makeup could predict intelligence and learning capabilities.

The Hungry Mind Lab, based at the University of York and directed by Professor Sophie von Stumm, conducts research that uses big data and n...

In an age where podcasts and streaming platforms are saturated with stories of real-life horrors, the fascination with true crime has transformed from mere morbid curiosity into a cultural phenomenon. But what is it about the sinister lives of serial killers that captivates us so deeply? Is it the thrill of danger from a safe distance or perhaps the psychological intrigue that lies beneath their heinous acts? Join us as we delve into this darkly fascinating world, exploring why we can’t help but be drawn to these tales of terror—and what they reveal about our own humanity.

Relational trauma, borne from disrupted attachments or significant interpersonal conflicts, can leave lasting scars that affect our ability to connect meaningfully with others. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety in relationships or struggled to trust those around you, you're not alone. But what if there were a path to healing that could help you break free from the trauma chains of the past? Enter Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Join us as we explore how this powerful treatment is designed to rewire the brain's response to trauma.

Our Guest: Liz Modugno is...

In a world where seconds can mean the difference between life and death, there exists an unsung hero behind every emergency call—the dispatcher. Yet, despite their critical role in public safety, 911 emergency call responders often work tirelessly in the shadows, facing immense pressure without the recognition they deserve. As we delve into the challenges faced by 911 call responders and explore how we can rally to support them, it becomes clear that acknowledging their contributions is not just important—it's vital. Join us as we shine a light on these essential lifelines of our communities and discover ways to advo...

In the land of opportunity, where dreams are meant to thrive, an alarming reality lurks beneath the surface—a growing homelessness crisis that challenges our values and our humanity. Each night, over half a million Americans find themselves without a place to call home, confronting not only physical hardships but also social stigma and systemic barriers that keep them trapped in cycles of despair. Join us as we explore this issue with an individual who is working tirelessly with her team and her community.  Let's open our hearts.

Our Guest:  Michele Conderino, MSW, is Chief Execu...

As we gather around festive tables, filled with steaming plates of turkey and all the trimmings, it's easy to overlook the complex relationship many have with food—especially during this season of celebration. For some, mealtimes can evoke feelings far more profound than mere culinary enjoyment; they may surface hidden battles with eating disorders that intertwine deeply with our psyche. In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of eating disorders through a psychoanalytic lens.

Our Guest: Dr. Susan Kavaler-Adler (Ph.D., ABPP, Dr. Litt.,NCPsyA) is a Clinical Psychologist and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist. She is the Fou...

In a world where we are constantly connected through screens and social media, we strive to find our place, our community, and our clan. But what does it truly mean to belong? How do we navigate the complexities of identity in a digital age? These are questions that have become increasingly relevant as technology continues to shape and influence our lives and mental health.

Our Guest: Ian MacRae is a psychologist, award-winning author, and independent researcher specializing in the psychology of work, digital communication, and emerging technologies. He is the author of several books that have been...

It’s that nagging little quirk in human nature where we see others’ flaws but remain blissfully unaware of our own. Could this cognitive hiccup have prevented some individuals, commentators, and pundits from understanding the underlying reasons behind people's voting motivations? Let’s take a small bite of the bias blind spot.

As election day approaches, a palpable tension fills the air; it’s more than just candidates and campaigns—it's about our collective psyche. In this episode, we delve into how elections have shaped our emotions, influenced our mental health, and even altered our relationships with those around us. From anxiety over divisive issues to rage and despair in defeat, join us as we explore the profound psychological impacts that resonate long after votes are cast.

Alfred Hitchcock, often hailed as the "Master of Suspense," not only revolutionized film but also delved fearlessly into the darker realms of madness and obsession. From voyeuristic gazes to fractured identities, Hitchcock’s films serve as a mirror reflecting our deepest fears and desires.

Our Guest: Katarzyna Szmigiero is a graduate of the University of Łódź, Poland. She is an Associate Professor at the Department of English Studies at the University of Social Sciences, Lodz, Poland. Her research interests concentrate on medical humanities, especially cultural representations of psychiatry and gender, and genre fiction as well as mythological retel...

In a world overflowing with information—where news travels at the speed of light and social media serves as both our window and our mirror— some individuals find themselves drawn to alternate realities. Rejecting established facts for narratives steeped in fear and mistrust, some people find solace in explanations that challenge reality. Is it the thrill of rebellion against mainstream thought, an innate desire for deeper understanding, or perhaps even the comfort found in belonging to a community united by shared feelings of powerlessness? Join us for a Small Bite.

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, where a single viral video can catapult an unknown teenager into overnight fame, social media has become the heartbeat of youth culture. At the forefront of this phenomenon is TikTok—a platform that not only shapes trends but also influences identities and relationships in profound ways. However, as these social media videos take center stage, troubling questions are emerging about privacy, mental health, and accountability. With lawmakers now turning their gaze toward these powerful social media platforms, we find ourselves at a critical crossroads.

In the shadowy corners of American literature, few figures loom as large as Nathaniel Hawthorne - the master of the gothic tale and chronicler of moral complexity. Yet beneath the surface of his acclaimed works lies a more personal narrative intertwined with the very town that shaped him: Salem, Massachusetts. Once a bustling port known for its witch trials, Salem cast an indelible spell on Hawthorne’s psyche—one that fueled both his creativity and inner turmoil.

Our Guest: Nancy Brewka-Clark’s short stories of classic mystery, psychological horror, and speculative otherworldliness have been anthologized in the...

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, a chill creeps into the air, beckoning forth one of the most enchanting holidays of the year—Halloween! It's a time when ghosts and goblins roam free, jack-o'-lanterns flicker with delight, and candy reigns supreme. But have you ever paused to wonder how this spine-tingling celebration evolved from ancient rituals into the festive extravaganza we know today? Join us as we peel back the layers of history surrounding Halloween, tracing its roots from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain to today's playful celebrations filled with costumes, trick-or-treating, and haunting dé...

Have you ever found yourself captivated by notorious figures or drawn to those who walk on the dark side? If so, you might be intrigued by hybristophilia—the complex attraction to individuals infamous for their crimes, also known as the Bonnie and Clyde syndrome. As this phenomenon gains traction across platforms like TikTok, it sparks curiosity and debate about human psychology, morality, and the nature of attraction itself. Join us. This Small Bite is both intriguing and thought-provoking!

In this episode, we meet Nicole Gallant-Nunes, a professional and genetic genealogist with 20 years of experience specializing in Colonial New England, Acadian, and French-Canadian research. Nicole and her husband Derek were both born and raised in Danvers, Massachusetts, once known as Salem Village and the site of the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. She has deep knowledge of the Salem Witch Trials and the genealogies of many of those involved in the events surrounding this period of Salem's history. Her husband Derek Nunes and their son D.J. are direct descendants of George Jacobs who was sadly hanged in S...

Welcome to the realm of emotions where hearts can dance and clash in equal measure! We’ve all felt those gnawing tugs of discontent when someone else seems to effortlessly glide through life with the latest devices, sparkling relationships, or enviable success. Enter envy and jealousy—two powerful feelings that often leave us questioning our self-worth and happiness. But what if we told you that understanding these emotions could be your secret weapon for personal growth? In this episode, we're peeling back the layers on these green-eyed monsters to explore their origins, differences, and how they shape our interactions. Join us a...

The idea of perfection is merely a figment of our imagination, an illusion that we strive for. In reality, imperfection is what makes us and the world around us unique and real. Let go of perfection and embrace the concept of "good enough."

In this episode, we meet with clinical psychologist Dr. Louis Damis to clarify the misconceptions about Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and understand his use of Clinical Hypnosis to treat the mental health condition of DID.

Louis Damis, PhD, is a Diplomate with the American Board of Professional Psychology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Clinical Health Psychology, the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis, the Florida Society of Clinical Hypnosis, and the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance, and holds ASCH Certification in Clinical Hypnosis with Consultant Status.

As more people embrace cosmetic procedures, questions arise about their impact on emotions and psychological well-being. Can injecting botulinum toxin into facial muscles really change how we express or perceive feelings? And could it be used as an innovative approach to treating conditions like depression? Join us as we explore the multifaceted relationship between Botox and mental health—it's more than skin deep!

In a world where the glow of our screens often replaces face-to-face interactions, social media has become both a lifeline and a labyrinth. Have you ever found yourself scrolling through perfectly curated feeds, feeling that pang of inadequacy as those picture-perfect moments flash before your eyes? Or perhaps you've experienced the bubbling anxiety that comes with Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)—the nagging urge to stay connected lest you miss out on life’s latest happenings? Welcome to the complex interplay between attachment, self-esteem, and FOMO in our digital age.

In this episode we meet with psychoanalyst Dr. Mark Ruffalo to discuss the mental health condition called Borderline Personality Disorder.

Mark L. Ruffalo, M.S.W., D.Psa., is a psychotherapist in private practice in Tampa, Florida, and serves as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and Adjunct Instructor of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine. He has broad clinical experience in the psychoanalytic treatment of mood disorders, personality disorders, and psychosomatic illness, and has particular interest in the psychotherapy of schizophrenia. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of The C...

Consider the hours spent planning meals or obsessing over calorie counts and macros. This fixation may stem from deeper emotional ties, reflecting how we connect with ourselves and others. Join us as we discuss how Object Relations theory explains our relationship with food.

Kicking off our Small Bites segment, we reflect on the recent divorce filing of Jennifer Lopez from husband Ben Affleck and consider the possibilities of power and vulnerability in a relationship.

In our first episode, we delve into the enigma of the Ouija, a mystical board with a long history. For more than a century, this board has served as a doorway to the mysterious realm beyond. Our guest, John Kozik, shares his expertise as the proprietor of the Salem Witch Board Museum and a member of the Talking Board Historical Society. Through our conversation, we explore how the Ouija's origins have influenced societal attitudes towards spirituality and its role as a conduit to the unknown. Can it truly connect us with the other side, or has capitalism played a role...