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Dr. Pamela Kreiser (with Meredith Edwards Nagel and Teighlor Polendo) shares her practical insights about how to improve relationships and promote peace—drawing upon her experience teaching graduate and undergraduate students, serving as a Lead Mediator, and training Mediators. Submit your questions to hello@afafpodcast.com KEYWORDS: Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Interpersonal Conflict, Relationships, Mediation, Human Connection, Dyadic Communication, Interpersonal Communication Skills.
Episodes
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo share real, honest, and practical ways to improve communication and relationships, especially during holiday gatherings. They recount personal anecdotes about family holiday experiences, discuss how to manage expectations, and tackle hard conversations around politics, religion, and personal life choices. The hosts emphasize emotional boundaries, curiosity, and connection. Key concepts from Brene Brown's “Rising Strong” and “Braving the Wilderness” are explored, focusing on managing emotions, handling conflict, and maintaining authentic interactions. The episode wraps up with practical tips and the importance of focusing on the bigger picture to enjoy a peaceful and meaningful holiday season.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Brene Brown, Dr. Marc Brackett, Dr. Chandra
Resources :
Rising Strong by Dr. Brene Brown:
https://brenebrown.com/book/rising-strong/
Braving Wilderness by Dr. Brene Brown:
https://brenebrown.com/book/braving-the-wilderness/
Permission to Feel by Dr. Marc Brackett:
https://marcbrackett.com/permission-to-feel/
Navigating Difficult People and Opinions During the Holiday by Dr. Chandra:
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo welcome back licensed therapist Vanessa Trine, known for her expertise in anxiety disorders and trauma. Vanessa shares practical ways to handle holiday stress and anxiety, offering insights into maintaining balanced communication and setting boundaries. From discussing the difference between normal holiday stress and anxiety disorders to offering strategies for supporting partners and children during family gatherings, this episode is packed with helpful advice. Vanessa also introduces useful resources like the “Support Deck” and her “Creating Calm” anxiety relief course. Tune in for an honest and actionable guide to navigating the holiday season with a healthier mindset.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Vanessa Trine, LPPC
Resources :
Support Deck: Therapeutic Practices to Help you Manage Big Feelings
https://odddaughterpaper.com/products/support-deck
Anxiety Course: Creating Calm - Anxiety Relief for anyone, anytime, anywhere
https://www.theprocesswellnesscollective.com/creatingcalm-course
Links :
AFAF Episode 62: AFAF with Vanessa Trine on Anxiety and How It Translates Into the Body
Vanessa Trine’s Website:
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo delve into the dynamics of introducing a new partner to your family during the holidays. From deciding if your relationship is ready to tackling family traditions and expectations, this episode covers the practical steps and research-backed strategies to ensure the introduction goes smoothly. Learn how to prepare both your partner and your family, manage emotional climates, and debrief effectively post-visit to strengthen your relationship. Grab your cocoa and fluffy socks and tune in for essential tips on creating a supportive and harmonious holiday season.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. John Gottman, Dr. Brene Brown
Resources :
Plamondon, A., & Lachance‐Grzela, M. (2018). What if they are right? Network approval, expectations, and relationship maintenance behaviors. Personal Relationships, 25(2), 190–204.
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2018-18967-001
DePaulo, B. (2022, December 23). The thrill of going to holiday parties alone. Psychology Today.
Psychology Today: Should You Meet Your Partner’s Family?
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
Tuesday Oct 28, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the holiday pressures of gift-giving. They share insights on finding meaningful and thoughtful gifts, the impact of mismatched gifts, and how to avoid financial stress during the holidays. The conversation explores the importance of communication and relationships, practical gift ideas, and the benefits of generosity for both the giver and the receiver. Tune in for tips on how to make your holiday gifting more thoughtful and less stressful.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Resources :
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
https://milkweed.org/book/braiding-sweetgrass
The Psychology of Gifting
The Psychology of Giving: Money and Generosity
https://team.monetagroup.com/the-psychology-of-giving-money-and-generosity/
Dr Orna - Interview Clip - why talking about money is difficult (1:22)
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore the profound impact of appearance on personal and professional relationships. From the concept of “pretty privilege” to the influence of grooming and scent, they delve into how your look can shape perceptions and opportunities. The discussion includes insights on confidence, the balance between natural beauty and grooming, and the societal biases tied to physical attributes. Listen in as they share practical advice on controlling aspects of your appearance to make positive first impressions and achieve your goals.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Resources :
Beauty and the Labor Market: Accounting for the Additional Effects of Personality and Grooming (Robins, Homer & French, 2011)
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-9914.2010.00511.x
The Role of Fragrance and Self-esteem in Perception of Body Odors and Impressions of Others
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8592444/
Links :
AFAF Episode #95: Can't Touch This! The Power of Nonverbal Touch
AFAF Episode #99: I Don't Like Your Tone! The Power of Nonverbal Paralanguage
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the importance of editing our speech and the adage, "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." They explore the impact of words on relationships and communication, providing insights into when silence is more beneficial than speaking. The conversation touches on practical tools for better communication, the power of curiosity and creativity in speech, and the need to avoid judgmental tendencies. Tune in for practical advice on managing the power of words and improving your relationships.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Newberg, Dr. Waldman, Dr. Puff, Dr. Segal
Resources :
Newberg and Waldman’s Book: Words Can Change Your Brain
Dr. Puff’s Article: The Power of Our Words
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/meditation-for-modern-life/202301/the-power-of-our-words
Dr. Segal’s Article: What We Say Matters
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/social-empathy/201810/what-we-say-matters
Tuesday Sep 16, 2025
Tuesday Sep 16, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore practical ways to enhance communication and strengthen relationships among adult siblings. They discuss common challenges such as dealing with aging parents, inheritance conflicts, feeling left out, and more. The hosts emphasize the importance of employing softer startups, repair attempts, and collaborative efforts. They reveal strategies to break old patterns and foster healthier interactions, focusing on curiosity, clear communication, and setting boundaries. Tune in for valuable tips on navigating complex sibling dynamics in your adult life.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Karl Pillemer, Stockner et al., Dr. John Gottman, Jeffrey Kluger
Resources :
Journal of Family Psychology Article by Stockner, et al.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7012710/
Dr. Karl Pillemer’s Book - Fault Lines
Dr. John Gottman
Jeffrey Kluger from his TED Talk on the Sibling Bond
Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo dive deep into the complexities of adult sibling relationships. This episode responds to previous discussions about relationships with aging parents and transitions into exploring the significance of sibling relationships in adulthood. Topics include the causes of strain, communication patterns, and the importance of these non-voluntary relationships. The hosts also share personal stories and research insights, setting the stage for the next episode, which will provide practical tools for managing and improving sibling dynamics. Tune in for real, honest, and practical advice to better your relationships!
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Karl Pillemer, Stockner et al., Dr. John Gottman, Jeffrey Kluger
Resources :
Journal of Family Psychology Article by Stockner, et al.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7012710/
Dr. Karl Pillemer’s Book - Fault Lines
Dr. John Gottman
Jeffrey Kluger from his TED Talk on the Sibling Bond
“Our parents leave us too early, our spouses and children come along too late. Our siblings are the only ones who are with us for the entire ride". (Kluger)
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
Tuesday Aug 12, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo are joined by Jason Harper, a professional mediator specializing in employment and special education. Jason shares his journey into mediation, the challenges of being a special education mediator, and the strategies he employs to manage difficult conversations involving parents and schools. The discussion also delves into how parents can model healthy conflict resolution for their children, manage their own emotions during conflicts, and foster better communication skills in their kids through role-playing and guided interventions. Dr. Pamela Kreiser and her co-hosts provide additional insights on remaining a safe space for children to discuss conflicts and emphasize the importance of staying engaged in conversations about their interests.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Resources :
Mediator Jason Harper
Links to Episode #30: AFAF with Jason Harper on How to Resolve Conflict
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
Tuesday Jul 29, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, co-hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagel, and Teighlor Polendo explore the challenges of adulting as both you and your parents age. The hosts explore practical strategies for setting boundaries, handling unsolicited advice, and maintaining healthy communication with older parents. Through humor and insightful discussions, they address common scenarios like unannounced visits and over-involvement, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and evolving relationships. Tune in for a light-hearted yet informative quiz, expert advice, and real-life examples to improve your relationship dynamics as an adult child.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. John Gottman
Resource :
Gottman Institute https://www.gottman.com/
Links :
#020: Myths of Boundaries
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/c6b431c4b18335a1759db7588986fd0d
#021: Boundaries 101 - How to Say No!
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/8dc8625be3a918b62f8c9d16a1f888f9
#022: Managing Boundaries: How to Manage Difficult People
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/04a05256443fa4baabf2b3dcbfcc32d9