Welcome back to Message in the Middle! I’m your host, Marianne, and Today I’m joined by Dr. Michelle Maidenberg—psychotherapist, TEDx speaker, adjunct professor at NYU, author, and passionate advocate for mindfulness and emotional wellness.In this episode, Dr. Maidenberg and I dive into the powerful concept of emotional avoidance—what it looks like in everyday life, why we do it, and how to move through uncomfortable emotions instead of shutting them down. We also unpack what it really means to feel stuck, how to spot it (even when it’s not obvious), and what practical steps we can take to get unstuck and create meaningful change.You’ll also hear about Michelle’s inspiring nonprofit, Thru My Eyes, where she helps chronically ill individuals leave behind a meaningful legacy through free guided video storytelling. Plus, she shares her best advice for sustaining personal growth and the most valuable piece of wisdom she’s ever received.If you’re ready to step out of autopilot, face your feelings, and live with more intention, this conversation is for you.Topics We Cover:What emotional avoidance really is—and how it shows upThe difference between managing vs. avoiding difficult emotionsHow to know when you’re stuck (and how to get out of it)Why change can feel hard—and how to make it stickThe powerful impact of legacy work through Thru My EyesThe best advice Dr. Maidenberg has ever receivedConnect with Michelle:WebsitePsychology Today Blogger Facebook   YouTubeLinkedIn  Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content.Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...