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In this powerful conversation, Anne sits down with Chad Scott to explore the raw intersections of anxiety, emotional intelligence, drinking culture, and the unexpected healing power of dark tourism. Chad opens up about his lifelong struggle with anxiety, how society normalizes alcohol as a coping mechanism, and what happened when he finally confronted the truth about his habits. He breaks down why dark tourism activates a different part of the brain, how it helped him process his own internal darkness, and why facing human suffering can expand empathy in a way nothing else can. From IQ vs. EQ to the difference between empathy and sympathy, from being blessed by the Pope to ultimately leaving Catholicism, this episode uncovers how spirituality, trauma, and emotional awareness shape who we become and how we show up in the world.

Chad Scott, Ph.D. is critically acclaimed author, seasoned explorer, and licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience in mental health. He has extensively taught university level psychology and criminal justice courses, published three books, and captivated audiences at conferences and seminars.

Drawing on his own challenges, including illness, a transplant, divorce, and anxiety, Dr. Scott writes with a hard-earned grit, offering profound insights on resilience and growth. Specializing in transformative travel, he explores dark tourism sites like Hiroshima and Alcatraz to uncover lessons on healing, human strength, and personal transformation. He lives for adventure and cherishes time with his loyal Boston Terrier, Duke.

http://DrChadScott.com

https://m.facebook.com/chadscottauthor/

This podcast dives deep into real, raw topics—think vulnerability, triggers, and childhood trauma. But just so we're super clear: I’m not a licensed therapist, mental health professional, or anything close. I’m just a human sharing stories, lessons, and life hacks based on personal experience and a whole lot of curiosity.

So, while you might find some golden nuggets here, this is not therapy and should never replace professional mental health care. If you or someone you love is going through it, please—seriously—reach out to a licensed therapist or healthcare provider. You deserve the real deal.

Need Help Now?
Here are a few amazing resources:

· 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988
· NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or nami.org/help
· Therapy Directory: psychologytoday.com
· Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

The opinions expressed on this show are ours and ours alone—no official organizations are responsible for what we say (or how much we overshare).