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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

3 hours ago
3 hours ago
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the importance of setting boundaries in personal and professional relationships. They demystify common misconceptions, explore why boundaries are essential for healthy interactions, and offer practical advice on how to create, state, and maintain effective boundaries. The conversation includes real-life examples and role-playing scenarios to help listeners understand the importance of clear, direct communication. Tune in to learn how to respect your needs and foster stronger relationships through thoughtful boundary-setting.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Nicole LaPera, Cloud and Townsend
Resources :
Dr. Nicole LaPera’s Formula for Boundaries
- CREATE
- STATE
- MAINTAIN
https://theholisticpsychologist.com/boundaries-the-ultimate-life-hack/
Cloud and Townsend’s Book:
https://www.boundariesbooks.com/products/boundaries-updated-expanded-edition
Links to AFAF Episodes on Boundaries :
Episode #020: Myths of Boundaries
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/c6b431c4b18335a1759db7588986fd0d
Episode #021: Boundaries 101 - How to Say No!
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/8dc8625be3a918b62f8c9d16a1f888f9
Episode #022: Managing Boundaries - How to Manage Difficult People
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/04a05256443fa4baabf2b3dcbfcc32d9
Episode #067: How to Set Boundaries to Help Others Treat You Well
Episode #068: How to Handle Boundary Testers

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
#123: Stonewalling Explained: Why it Happens and How to Overcome it!
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo explore the concept of stonewalling in relationships. They discuss common misconceptions, Gottman's Four Horsemen, and the damaging effects stonewalling can have on relationships. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, practical advice on how to manage and recognize stonewalling, and effective strategies like planning discussions to avoid emotional flooding. Tune in for insightful tips and real-life experiences to improve your communication and relational dynamics.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. John Gottman, Gottman Institute
Listen Here: Shut Down Mode
Episode #005: https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/100334e9de176a1fa5f53be4503458cf
Watch and Listen Here: AFAF REWIND "How to Manage Stonewalling"
Episode #094: https://youtu.be/lTGfidapgAo

Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
#122: Stop Taking It Personally! Managing Defensiveness
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
In this episode of Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc, Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo take a deep dive into defensiveness in relationships. They explore how defensiveness affects communication, relationships, and even children, drawing from personal experiences and research by Dr. John Gottman. The hosts break down Gottman’s 'Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' and discuss practical strategies to reduce defensiveness, including taking responsibility, seeking clarity, and reframing interactions. Tune in for expert insights and actionable tools to strengthen your communication and relationships.
Music by epidemic sound.

Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
#121: That's Not What I Meant! Unpacking Intent vs. Impact
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
In this episode of “Asking For A Friend with TalkDoc,” Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo discuss the intricacies of communication and relationships, emphasizing the difference between intent and impact. Using Maya Angelou's quote as a backdrop, the hosts explore how words and actions leave lasting impressions.
Join the conversation as they share personal stories and research findings to highlight the importance of empathy, curiosity, and mindful communication in maintaining and repairing close relationships. Practical tips, including perception checks, are provided to help listeners improve their interactions, particularly in long-term relationships and family dynamics.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Angelou, Stamp and Knapp, Albright, Brown, Gottman
Resources :
Stamp and Knapp Article:
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1991-04377-001
Albright, et al. Study:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022103103001288
Maya Angelou Quotation:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/3503.Maya_Angelou
Brene Brown:
Gottman Institute:
Tools : Formula for Perception Checking
- Identify the Behavior
- Offer Two Interpretations
- Request for Clarification
Links :
Episode 001: The Message Received is the One That Counts
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/6dce9b4a421e11cc80560cc626684dde
Episode 065: REAL TALK! Checking Our Perception Checking

Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
#120: Unfiltered! The Joy and Curiosity of Children's Speech
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor dive into the hilarious and insightful things kids say. From funny family anecdotes to holiday preparations, discover the lighter side of parenting and the developmental quirks of childhood speech.
Listen in as our hosts discuss the cognitive theories behind children's humor and the importance of embracing curiosity over social embarrassment. The episode underscores the importance of curiosity, honesty, and the joy found in innocent, childlike perspectives. Don't miss their entertaining holiday quiz and expert tips on navigating parenting challenges.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Jean Piaget, Dr. Michael Gervais
Resources :
Children’s Humor Article:
https://us.sagepub.com/sites/default/files/upm-binaries/4884_ScarlettChapter5.pdf
Gervais article in Harvard Business Review:
https://hbr.org/2019/05/how-to-stop-worrying-about-what-other-people-think-of-you
Watch/Listen to Simon Sinek Podcast with Michael Gervais:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWrpJ00IQWY
Michael Gervais Book on Mastery:
https://findingmastery.com/book/
Links : Family Survival Kit for the Holidays
#034: Family Survival Kit Part 1 - How to Manage Expectations
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/8026ba30dfc35b46303b9c5cd9cfc24e
#035: Family Survival Kit Part 2 - How to Manage Family Rules and Traditions
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/6d2622d6e1f0782093fbb85bb38ac801
#036: Family Survival Kit Part 3 - How to Skip Guilt Trips
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/3b9ec74a701299cdcf662394b86d71fa
#037: Family Survival Kit Part 4 - How to Handle Bad Behavior
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/d538f81fa48a0e67d27c18d61ec66d04
#038: Family Survival Kit Part 5 - How to Manage Differences with Family
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/28ea4ed1fa69b3d210bfdb76ac415918
#039: Family Survival Kit Part 6 - Wise Words from 2021
https://pod.link/afafwithtalkdoc/episode/a4622dcca7ab2641d3fb91fb9f3aad54

Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
#119: Navigating Conformity: When to Speak Up and When to Listen
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
Tuesday Nov 19, 2024
In this episode, TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor share personal anecdotes from their week, including funny family moments and unexpected challenges that set the tone for a lively and relatable discussion. They dive into the fascinating dynamics of conformity and the pressures to fit in, exploring why people often stay silent in group settings or avoid conflict.
The conversation unpacks the psychological forces at play, such as social anxiety and FOPO (Fear of Other People's Opinions), and examines the emotional toll of compromising authenticity to align with group norms. Drawing insights from thought leaders like Dr. Michael Gervais and Simon Sinek, the hosts, highlight the critical distinction between “fitting in” and “true belonging.”
They also discuss practical strategies to break free from societal pressures, live in alignment with your purpose, and build meaningful, authentic relationships. Whether you're navigating workplace dynamics or seeking deeper connections in your personal life, this episode offers thought-provoking takeaways and actionable advice to help you speak up and stay true to yourself.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Brene Brown, Simon Sinek, Dr. Michael Gervais
Resources :
Brene Brown’s Book: Braving the Wilderness
https://brenebrown.com/book/braving-the-wilderness/
Gervais article in Harvard Business Review:
https://hbr.org/2019/05/how-to-stop-worrying-about-what-other-people-think-of-you
Watch/Listen to Simon Sinek Podcast with Michael Gervais:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWrpJ00IQWY
Michael Gervais Book on Mastery:
https://findingmastery.com/book/
Gervais 3 Questions on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/michaelgervais/p/CyglHCFATF1/?img_index=1

Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
#118: Cracking the Code on Humblebragging
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
In this episode of “Asking for a Friend,” hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo take a deep dive into the fascinating world of humblebragging. Together, they unpack what humblebragging really is, why we do it, and how it shapes our social interactions. With humor and relatable examples, the hosts explore the subtle yet powerful impact humblebragging has on friendships, work dynamics, and even our social media presence. Tune in for insightful discussions on responding to humblebragging, tips to break the habit, and advice on handling humblebrags like a pro.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Harvard Studies on Humblebragging:

Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
#117: Cultivating Joy and Gratitude with TalkDoc and Atlas of the Heart
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
In this last episode of our three-part series on Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart (2021), Meredith, Teighlor, and TalkDoc dive deep into Chapter 11 focusing on the concepts of joy, happiness, tranquility, and contentment. Engage with discussions on the importance of vulnerability, the impact of gratitude on life satisfaction, and practical tips for fostering joy and contentment in parenting. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, learn how to balance control with connection and appreciate the present moment to enhance your emotional and mental well-being.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Dr. Brene Brown
Brene Brown’s Book: “Atlas of the Heart”
https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/
Brene Brown’s Book: “Dare to Lead”
https://www.reddit.com/r/wholesomememes/comments/9hd2ye/this_is_why_the_dog_is_happier/

Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
#116: How To Keep an Open Heart with Meredith and Atlas of the Heart
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
Tuesday Oct 08, 2024
In the second episode of our three-part series on Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart (2021), Meredith, Teighlor, and TalkDoc dive deep into Chapter 10: 'The Places We Go When the Heart Is Open.' This chapter explores powerful emotions like love, heartbreak, trust, betrayal, defensiveness, and hurt.
Together, we unpack the challenges of vulnerability, the journey to rebuild trust, and the emotional barriers that keep us guarded. Meredith offers thoughtful reflections on how opening up can be both difficult and rewarding in relationships. Join us for an engaging conversation about navigating these emotional landscapes and embracing the courage to keep our hearts open.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Brown and Hooks
Brene Brown’s Book: “Atlas of the Heart”
https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/
Brene Brown’s Book: “Dare to Lead”
https://brenebrown.com/book/dare-to-lead/
Brene Brown’s “B-R-A-V-I-N-G” Acronym
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqB5CEkPlI4&t=76s
Bell Hooks Book “All about Love”

Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Join hosts Dr. Pamela Kreiser, Meredith Edwards Nagle, and Teighlor Polendo in this episode of Asking for a Friend with TalkDoc. They delve into Chapter 9 of Brené Brown's “Atlas of the Heart” which explores the places we go when we search for connection. Covering topics such as belonging, fitting in, connection, disconnection, insecurity, invisibility, and loneliness, the hosts share personal insights and practical advice.
Hear our conversation about the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in fostering meaningful relationships and discuss the challenges of balancing self-acceptance with the desire to connect with others. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on creating deeper connections and understanding the complexities of human relationships.
Music by epidemic sound.
SHOW NOTES:
Experts : Brown, Clifton, Maslow
Brene Brown’s Book: Atlas of the Heart
https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/
Strengthsfinder 2.0
https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/254033/strengthsfinder.aspx
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:
https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html
Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Asking for a Friend
00:19 Overview of Atlas of the Heart
00:42 Taylor's Personal Connection to Chapter Nine
01:27 Exploring Belonging and Fitting In
04:35 Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Belonging
08:12 The Importance of Vulnerability in Relationships
17:21 Challenges of Connection and Perfectionism
25:39 Cultivating Deeper Connections
27:28 Conclusion and Podcast Information