Dr Karin Love & Life

The Valentine’s season can be difficult if you’re single and you don’t want to be. We’re wired for intimacy and connection—it’s normal to feel a huge void when we’re waiting to meet our person. The season can also be rough for couples if your relationship is rocky. You’re supposed to feel all lovey-dovey, but at the moment, you really can’t stand your partner. Your happily ever after” has turned into disaster. Elliott and I discuss strategies to move through the season of love. I share how I handled my many Valentine’s Days as a single woman. Elliott provides insight from his 30+ years working with couples in crisis and marriage recovery. Join us for love and support during the Valentine’s season! Previous Episode Resources: Ep. 303 - Paula Scanlan: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/save-womens-sports-with-former-upenn-swimmer-paula/id1183475201?i=1000655071522 Ep. 229 - How to Move Through Loneliness at Valentine's: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-move-through-loneliness-at-valent

In today's episode, Dr. Karin and Pastor Elliott tackle a conversation they've been wanting to have for a long time: Toxic Masculinity vs. Toxic Femininity. We cover the following: - Defining both toxicities (including A.I.'s definitions...) - How do these traits present themselves in individuals and within our relationships? - How does nature vs. nurture impact these traits? - What role does societal expectations play? - What's the Biblical perspective on this topic? - How do we navigate these gender dynamics? Thank you for joining today. Please leave us comment and let us know what you think of this episode and other content you want us to cover in 2025! Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Inauguration Day brings up myriad emotions—either excitement and hope for a bright future or, fear, anger, and disappointment. What happens when your dearest friends feel the exact opposite emotions? Tim and I sit down for a few minutes to discuss the inauguration and specifically, the Make America Healthy Again Inaugural Ball which Dan and I attended on the 20th. We reveled in the hope of RFKJ being nominated as Secretary of Health and Human Services. If confirmed, he can actually address issues that have been buried for years! The link between the CDC childhood vaccination schedule and the rise in autism. The enormous power Big Pharma wields over our government and public health—demonstrated most recently with COVID mandates. The failure of the FDA to protect us from carcinogenic pesticides like glyphosate. Just to name a few! But, what about our friends and family who feel threatened by other policy issues on the new administration’s agenda? Do they see my enthusiasm for MAHA as a betrayal of

“How long will I be in trauma recovery?” Whether we’re in therapy or working on our issues through self help books and podcasts, we often wonder, will I EVER truly heal from this wound? Elliott and I wanted to address this important concern—especially because Elliott recently received this exact question from a listener.  Shortly thereafter, he stumbled upon a Keith Crossley reel speaking to this. Keith Crossley’s work is new to us—so we can’t vouch for all his viewpoints—but his perspective on what’s required for healing vs. recovery resonated with our philosophy. Specifically, we consider: When we “own” our trauma and it becomes part of our core identity. The limitations inherent to a victim mentality vs. the possibilities of an empowered mindset! Why some counselors may unwittingly prolong clients’ recovery. What antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds actually do (spoiler alert:  they DON’T heal!) God’s word to those hurting and trying to heal i.e. ALL of us! If you’re feeling stuck and

A new year brings a fresh start—a chance to make changes and set goals! We wanted to kick off 2025 by talking about the importance of reflection in the midst of making resolutions and intentions for the new year.  To do so, we’re answering a listener’s question. Question:  So, I make horrible choices in men apparently, and I have finally met somebody that I feel like is a good person—a perfect person for me. And, I’m absolutely terrified of him because he’s so nice and he’s so genuine, and he’s such a good person. How do I retrain my brain to not be scared of someone who is going to be good to me instead of settling for people who I know are just not good people? Elliott and I answer her question by discussing how we can change dynamics that aren’t working for us. We share strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Theory, along with how to see ourselves as God sees us. We also consider a tool I recently heard in an interview with Brené Brown—“What story am I telling myself?” Sponsor: Th

The holidays can be rough. Family dynamics can be complicated and messy. On today's special Christmas Eve episode we dive into a question Elliott received from a listener about how to deal with difficult family dynamics after a divorce that involves kids. We hope today's episode will give you a sense of support and encouragement during this holiday season. Merry Christmas and thank you for listening! Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Christmas time is here! We’re supposed to feel merry and bright! But, what if we don’t feel joyful at all? What if we’re pretty darn miserable? Maybe you’re grieving—it’s the first Christmas since your father passed away. Maybe you’re lonely—you’re staring down yet another round of holiday parties without a plus 1. Maybe you’re worried—your kid’s hanging with the wrong crowd. Maybe you’re depressed—your divorce was just finalized. How can we experience the joy of the season in the midst of deep emotional suffering? Elliott and I share our thoughts, along with recommendations and support from Scripture for embracing the beauty of Christmas despite the pain of current circumstances. Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

Another current event weaves its way into our series on masculinity . . . This week I heard Newsweek’s Batya Ungar-Sargon’s take on the Daniel Penny prosecution.  She viewed it in a way I hadn’t considered. She framed the prosecution itself as an attack on masculinity. I wanted to hear Elliott’s thoughts as a pastor, husband, and father.  Has our society completely turned its back on men’s God given instinct to protect? Join us for another Love & Life commentary on current events. As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20 Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

It’s the most wonderful time of year! And also, it’s a season full of intense emotions.  We head out to parties to celebrate with friends and family. But, what if we don’t connect with our loved ones the way we used to? What if our family doesn’t understand who we’ve become? As the saying goes, “You always hurt the ones you love.”  And, those we love will hurt us, too. This week, Elliott and I answer 2 questions about how to relate to those we care about when we find ourselves in different seasons of life. How can we navigate these waters—especially during the holidays? We share practical strategies for maintaining connection while also establishing boundaries when necessary. Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

On today's podcast we are joined by one of our listeners Rachel Hui who shares her personal story on how her marriage ended and the journey she's been on to find healing in the aftermath of divorce. We are so grateful for Rachel's courage and vulnerability to share her story and we hope it will inspire you. Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingBook Instagram: @dr.karin | @pastorelliottanderson

It struck him as he was working with his clients over the last several weeks. Americans are divided—much like couples in crisis are divided.  We’re dysregulated from the trauma of an incredibly contentious election and thus, we’re now prone to slip into what Elliott calls the “3 A’s of Intimacy Destruction.” We Assume, Accuse, and Attack—just like spouses in unhappy marriages.  We Assume the worst in the “other side.” We Accuse them of horrible intentions and actions. We Attack them for their character and values. We remain rigid in our conceptions of one another. We lose appreciation for the fullness of our friends and family. We see only one aspect of them—who they voted for.  And, if they voted for __________________, they’re now the enemy. Elliott has witnessed similar dynamics with couples in distress. He shares how techniques from marital therapy could help heal our divided nation. Sponsor: The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr

The election is behind us, but the division remains. And, the demonstrations are just getting going. Movements like 4B and Blue Bracelets express rage at men and Trump voters in general. Women are swearing off sex, shaving off their hair, and wearing bracelets to signify to each other who is “safe” to be around. Can we possibly remain connected during this volitile time? I think we can

With the election now behind us, Elliott and I wanted to share thoughts on how to navigate love and life post election—especially concerning our relationships. Because half the country is really happy with the results, while the other half feels angry, demoralized, and even afraid. Specifically, we consider: How do we build unity in the midst of so much divisiveness?  Can we find common ground? What does the Bible teach us about submitting to leadership and those in authority? Join us as Elliott and I discuss how to move through the post election landscape—one in which people we love may feel deep distress, disappointment, and perhaps even anger at those who voted for Trump. Sponsors: Authentixx  Website: http://www.authentixx.com Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order! The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDat

On a day when many Progressives will go to the polls to vote for a “woman,” I’d like to share a few thoughts around the misogyny inherent to Leftists’ ideology. Their logic breaks down immediately as they can’t define what a woman is. So, how can they get excited about voting for a woman hoping she’ll be the first woman president?

I know most people want to move on from COVID. And, maybe you’re ready to move on from the election.  But, it’s all related—COVID, the election, and our platform of mind, body, & spirit.  I have some thoughts.  Plus, I’d like to explain why I’m voting for “literal Hitler” and his MAGA + MAHA team of courageous dissidents—RFK, Jr., Tulsi, and Elon.  To do so, I respond to 3 current bits of news: Biden calling Trump supporters “garbage.” Harris’ cringy TV ad depicting wives defying their husbands by voting for Harris.  The 3 platforms of the MAHA movement—1️⃣ Restoring Free Speech and ending censorship 2️⃣ Exposing the corruption of Big Ag and Big Pharma which is destroying Americans’ health and 3️⃣ Stop the never ending foreign wars.  I don’t hold back. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Sponsors: Authentixx  Website: http://www.authentixx.com Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order! The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin &

It’s such a heated issue—and people on each side believe those who disagree with them are abusing children. In the last 10 years, we’ve witnessed an exponential increase in the number of kids who feel as if they’re the wrong sex. Although Gender Dysphoria Disorder remains a psychiatric illness per the DSM-5-TR, it currently is viewed quite differently when compared to other mental conditions. We don’t “affirm” Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or Bipolar or schizophrenia. We treat clients by providing coping mechanisms and helping them ground themselves in reality. But, we don’t do this with Gender Dysphoria Disorder.  Why is this? Why do we abandon logic, reasoning, and science when addressing Gender Dysphoria? As a psychiatric nurse, David Wayne finds this confusing, frustrating, and appalling—especially as it pertains to the US’s current approach to treating kids who decide they’re actually the opposite sex.  Join us for an insider’s take on what’s really going on with gender “affirming” care.  Sponsor

We’re in the midst of a series on masculinity, so I had to weigh in on this one, and I looped in Producer Tim to get a Millennial male’s take.  You’ve probably seen the clip of Jen Psaki interviewing Kamala Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff.  Psaki claimed Emhoff has, “reshaped the perception of masculinity.” Really? Psaki then called him a “wife guy.”  Okay . . .  And sure, maybe Doug Emhoff is a super sweet and supportive husband. That’s great! But, there seemed to be a partisan subtext beneath this exchange. Watching the clip, I had the sense Psaki was insinuating only liberal men fully support their wives. I wanted to share my reaction to this clip and, Tim agreed to join me. Spoiler alert:  Over my 27 years of dating, I’ve had relationships with both very liberal and very conservative men. I married a conservative. And no one has ever cherished, respected, and adored me more than my conservative husband. So personally, I’m not picking up what Psaki is laying down. Join us and let us know your thoug

Elliott and I didn’t grow up with a lot of political discourse. Our family delved into a wide array of topics, but as educators and musicians, we tended to discuss chord charts and pop tunes more than public policy.  In fact, as most of you know, our father was a lifelong Democrat and our mother is a lifelong Republican. Yet, they possessed the same core values, had a strong 57 year marriage, and raised three well-adjusted kids. Could that happen nowadays? During most of our lifetime, it was considered impolite to bring up religion and politics. And, pastors often refrained entirely from wading into political waters.  But to me, these times feel different. I was curious if Elliott sensed the same.  So, today we address questions around faith and politics. We specifically ask: Should Christians vote? Is it appropriate for pastors to discuss politics from the pulpit? Are certain party values for Christian than others? When Elliott became a pastor, our Dad encouraged him to speak boldly. We’ll honor

Psychiatric nurse and friend of the program, David Wayne, is back to discuss what he recently shared on Children’s Health Defense’s CHD.TV. In addition to nursing, Dave has a background in data analytics. Throughout the COVID era, he tried to make sense of the vaccinated vs. unvaccinated hospitalizations—the numbers weren’t adding up. Databases weren’t talking to each other. Default modes labeled patients as unvaccinated when in MANY cases, these patients had taken the COVID shot. For those of us who endured derision and scorn for our “selfish” and “irresponsible” choice to abstain from injecting ourselves with a rushed-to-market, mRNA product with no longitudinal studies confirming its safety and efficacy—well for us, these numbers matter. It matters that, in fact, more COVID hospitalizations occurred among the vaccinated. It matters that the shot neither prevented infection nor stopped transmission.  And, it matters that a recent study from the Cleveland Clinic found the more jabs and boosters you too

Growing up is tough. Growing up with a father wound is even tougher. As we continue our series on masculinity, we’re addressing the complexities of father wounds on sons.  How do boys grow into men when their model for manhood has been abusive or absent? One of Elliott’s mentees, Bradley Oberrieder, joins us to share his journey—how his father abandoned his family just as Bradley was moving from adolescence to young adulthood. How do you step into manhood when you no longer respect your dad—your model of manhood? If you’ve experienced a father wound—or you’re dating a man who has—please join us for an honest and hopeful account of masculinity in the midst of a father wound.  Sponsors: Authentixx  Website: http://www.authentixx.com Code: LOVELIFE for 10% off your order! The Wellness Company Website: ⁠https://www.twc.health/lovelife⁠ Code: LOVELIFE for 15% off your order! Dr. Karin & Pastor Elliott Anderson Website: http://loveandlifemedia.com/ Empowered Dating Playbook: smarturl.it/EmpoweredDatingB