Achievement as a Trauma defense mechanism, with Lena Fein

Achievement as a Trauma defense mechanism, with Lena Fein

Author: Popped Collar Productions May 19, 2026 Duration: 41:28

Lena Fein is the author of Shattering The Mirror, a story of her experience with abuse. From an early age Lena Fein coped with abuse and neglect by trying to achieve. She believed that if she could do well enough in school, meet everyone's expectations, and especially avoid anything that would trigger her mother, that she would finally feel safe and happy. Her book tells her story of masking with achievement, suppressing difficult emotions, and how she learned to break that cycle. 

Our highlighted charity for April and May is Kids & Art, helping pediatric cancer patients through Art. Go to www.kidsandart.org to learn more about this wonderful nonprofit. 


Ever wondered what happens when you take the serious, often intimidating world of psychology and run it through a filter of genuine curiosity and humor? That’s the space where The Broken Brain lives. Produced by Popped Collar Productions, this podcast sits at a unique crossroads between education and comedy, offering a therapist’s perspective without the sterile clinic feel. Each episode is structured as an organized panel discussion, gathering voices to unpack a wide variety of topics-some unexpectedly silly, others leaning into practical, self-help territory. You’ll hear real therapeutic points of view applied to everyday life, all within a conversation that feels more like a lively chat among insightful friends than a lecture. The result is an hour (ish) of content that aims to demystify mental health concepts while acknowledging the inherent messiness and humor of being human. Tuning in provides a refreshing blend of learning and levity, making complex ideas accessible and surprisingly entertaining. This isn't about jargon or quick fixes; it's about thoughtful exploration with a dose of relatability. The panel format ensures multiple angles are considered, offering listeners a richer understanding than a single host could provide. So, whether you're navigating your own challenges or just fascinated by how minds work, this podcast delivers a compelling mix of insight and irreverence.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Broken Brain
Podcast Episodes
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