Shame, Self-Compassion and the Courage to Be Human with Chris Germer

Have you ever felt like you weren't just getting something wrong, but that something was wrong with you?

In this honest conversation about the things we carry, the moments that challenge us, and what it means to meet ourselves with a little more kindness, I'm joined by Chris Germer to talk about shame: how it can hide behind perfectionism, people-pleasing or that harsh inner voice, and why it can be so difficult to name.

Christopher Germer is a clinical psychologist, teacher, and one of the world's leading voices in self-compassion. As co-developer of the Mindful Self-Compassion program alongside Kristin Neff, Chris has spent decades helping people respond to life's difficulties with greater kindness, courage, and emotional resilience. His newest book, Self-Compassion for Shame: A Step-by-Step Guide to Inner Freedom, offers a deeply compassionate and practical path for healing shame and reconnecting with our inherent worth. (Chris Germer's Website and books)

I'll share how compassion helped me face intense fear before delivering a keynote, and how this conversation connects with chronic pain. Together, we'll explore the difference between shame and guilt, our longing to belong, and a gentle self-compassion practice you can try at your own pace.

This isn't about fixing yourself or making difficult feelings disappear. It's about making room for being human. So, wherever you're listening from, you're welcome here. It's a real pleasure to welcome Chris Germer to the podcast.