Episode 366: Explaining My Polyamorous Relationship & Supporting a Partner in Grief Over a Pet

Episode 366: Explaining My Polyamorous Relationship & Supporting a Partner in Grief Over a Pet

Author: Robert Duff, Ph.D. September 15, 2023 Duration: 47:09

Hello, everyone! I appreciate your attention and hope you are doing well.

In our first segment, we dive into a topic that's close to my heart - the evolution of my own marriage into a non-monogamous, polyamorous relationship. I unravel the intricacies of non-monogamy, elucidate the various terminology surrounding it, and give an insight into my personal journey of 'opening up'. If you're curious about polyamory, its various facets, or simply want to understand what it means to navigate such a relationship, this segment offers a comprehensive overview.

The next question touches upon a sensitive yet universal theme: grief. A listener reaches out, concerned about her partner's impending loss of his beloved cat, Jimmy, who has been a steadfast companion through some of life's most challenging moments. We discuss the profound impact pets have on our lives, the unique grief associated with their loss, and strategies to navigate this emotional terrain, especially when mental health challenges are at play.

As always, your stories and questions provide invaluable insights, making every episode a journey of discovery. If there's a topic or question you'd like addressed in future episodes, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For a detailed breakdown of today's episode, check out the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode366.

----

If you are looking for a quick and simple skin care routine that targets aged cells to promote longetivity that is backed by science, check out http://oneskin.co and use the coupon code DUFF for 15% off.

For many people, therapy and traditional medications are not enough to truly help their depression and anxiety. Luckily there are other options, such as Mindbloom, the leader in at-home ketamine treatment. Get $100 off your first series at http://mindbloom.com/duff and use the code DUFF at checkout.


Robert Duff, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist who finds most self-help advice too sanitized to be useful. On The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych, he cuts through the fluff with a direct, science-backed approach. Each episode is built on the premise that real improvement requires honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Duff brings his background in neuroscience and clinical psychology to interviews with a wide range of fascinating guests, dissecting topics from mental health struggles and relationship dynamics to the latest brain research. Listeners consistently note his skill at asking pointed questions that get to the heart of an issue, then translating complex psychological concepts into language anyone can apply. This isn't about quick fixes or vague positivity; it's a practical, evidence-based look at how our minds work and how we can work with them better. The tone is conversational and grounded, like getting actionable advice from a knowledgeable friend who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Whether exploring anxiety, habits, or the science of motivation, this podcast delivers substance without the jargon, making professional insights accessible for everyday life. You'll find the discussions are both deeply informative and surprisingly relatable, a combination that has built a dedicated audience for Duff's unique perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
Podcast Episodes
426: How to Find Purpose and Not Regret Your Life with Jordan Grumet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:33
In this inspiring episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jordan Grumet, a hospice director, author, and podcast host, to explore how we can transform our lives by embracing the concept of "little…
425: My Word for 2025! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:34
In today's year-end wrap-up episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast (Episode 425), I reflect on 2024 and reveal my guiding word for 2025. Instead of traditional New Year's resolutions, I choose a single word each year…
423: Neurodiversity Playbook with Dr. Matt Zakreski [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:14
In today's episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with psychologist, professional speaker, and author Dr. Matt Zakreski to explore the concept of neurodiversity and how to create a more supportive world fo…
422: Charles Duhigg on Becoming a Supercommunicator [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:25
In today's episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and best-selling author Charles Duhigg to explore the science of effective communication and its profound impact on…
421: Grieving your Therapist & Non-Suicidal Self-Injury [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:00
In this Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I address two insightful listener questions. The first explores coping with the end of a therapeutic relationship, while the second delves into the physical manifest…
420: Productive Failure with Dr. Manu Kapur [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:27
In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Manu Kapur, a professor of learning sciences, to delve into his unique approach to education: productive failure. Dr. Kapur explains how intentionally designing failure within the…
419: Seth Godin - Using Strategy to Shape Your Life and Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:12
In today's episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I'm thrilled to sit down with marketing guru and best-selling author Seth Godin. Seth shares his near-death experience off the coast of San Clemente—a moment that bec…
417: Podcast Updates and Random Show! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:15
In this laid-back check-in episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I take you through a series of updates and random musings. I discuss the current state of the podcast, why I decided to fire my ad agency, and the rec…