In this episode of Breaking Formation, co-host Merryl Tengesdal becomes the "guinea pig" as licensed psychotherapist Shea Phinney demonstrates the powerful trauma technique known as Brain Spotting.

We explore the fascinating science behind how our brains process information and why "where you look affects how you feel." Shea breaks down how trauma can get stuck in the subcortical brain—the survival center—and how using your field of vision can access and release unprocessed emotional pain. Merryl shares her personal experience during a live demo, opening up about the unique ability of pilots and first responders to compartmentalize and dissociate in high-stress environments.

Whether you are struggling with past trauma or just curious about how your mind works, this episode offers a fascinating look into the body's ability to heal itself.

Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications to join us as we break formation and forge new perspectives.

In This Episode:

0:00 - Intro: Merryl Becomes the Guinea Pig

1:45 - Understanding How the Brain Processes Trauma

5:20 - What is Brain spotting? (The Science)

10:15 - Live Demo: Merryl Tries Brain spotting

18:30 - Merryl’s Reaction: From Anger to Relief

22:40 - The "Super Skill" of Dissociation in First Responders

27:00 - Why You Should Process Trauma Sooner Than Later

Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or mental health concern.

#breakingformation #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #teens #brainspotting #youthdevelopment #subscribe #subscribetomychannel

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Ever feel like your social media feed knows exactly what you're thinking? It’s not magic—it’s math. In this episode of Breaking Formation, we dive deep into the invisible algorithms that curate your digital life and create what we call "reality bubbles."

Join hosts Merryl Tengesdal, Col, USAF (ret.), and Shea Phinney, MFT, as they uncover how these digital feedback loops shape your opinions, reinforce biases, and distort your perception of the world. Are you seeing the whole picture, or just what the algorithm wants you to see? We discuss the psychological impact of echo chambers on teens and young adults and share real-life stories about getting trapped in the scroll.

Most importantly, we provide a flight plan for breaking out. Learn practical strategies to diversify your feed, spot algorithmic manipulation, and reclaim control over your online experience. Whether you're a parent worried about your child's digital diet or a young adult looking for clarity, this episode is your guide to staying grounded in a curated world.

What’s the weirdest thing an algorithm has recommended to you? Let us know in the comments!

👍 Like this video, subscribe to our channel, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode.

In This Episode:

0:00 - Intro: Is Your Phone Reading Your Mind?

2:13 - How Algorithms Actually Work

5:35 - The Impact on Young Adults & Teens

8:06 - Understanding Echo Chambers & Reality Bubbles

11:18 - Personal Stories: Trapped in the Feed

22:15 - How Algorithms Influence Our Beliefs

26:11 - Expert Advice: Maintaining Perspective

30:31 - Strategies for Parents & Teens to Break the Bubble

33:51 - Taking Back Control of Your Digital Life

#breakingformation #socialmedia #mentalhealth #echochamber #techpsycology #parenting #teens #onlinesafety

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Have you ever typed out a comment online, only to delete it out of fear of saying the wrong thing? In a world of online shaming and instant judgment, the fear of being "canceled" is real, especially for young adults. This episode of Breaking Formation tackles the pervasive anxiety surrounding cancel culture and its deep impact on our digital lives.

Join hosts Merryl Tengesdal, Col, USAF (ret.), and Shea Phinney, MFT, as they explore how this constant scrutiny affects self-expression and mental health. They discuss why the threat of being "canceled" can feel like a physical injury and how it silences authentic conversation. Through personal stories and professional insights, Merryl and Shea offer a flight plan for navigating these turbulent digital skies.

Learn practical strategies for handling online criticism, including the "ACT" method: Acknowledge, Correct, and Transform. Discover how to respond to mistakes with accountability, give yourself and others grace, and build resilience against online mobs. This is an essential guide for anyone who feels the pressure to be perfect online and wants to learn how to engage with confidence and integrity.

Don't let the fear of judgment hold you back. Subscribe and follow Breaking Formation for more tools to navigate modern life.

#breakingformation #meantalhealth #youthdevelopment #cancelculture #fear

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.