Podcast
Anxiety Fitness
Hosted by Peter Ruppert · ENGLISH
I'm Peter, and I've been diagnosed with Social Phobia (Social Anxiety), Illness Anxiety Disorder (Health Anxiety), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia at different points of my life, and now my goal has been to use my experience and journey to help others who struggle with anxiety disorders.
In each episode, I sit down with other people who truly understand anxiety - whether through their own lived experience or their professional work helping others. From those with anxiety sharing what actually works for them in daily life, to therapists, doctors, and researchers breaking down the science in ways that make sense.
Whether you're newly diagnosed, years into your anxiety journey, or supporting someone who is, you'll find honest conversations, practical insights, and the reminder that you're not alone in this.
Join our supportive community at https://anxietyfitness.com.
*Educational content only. Not a replacement for medical guidance or therapy.
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
5episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Perfectionism, Anxiety & Burnout: Why “Never Good Enough” Is Keeping You Stuck with Vassia Sarantopoulou
Mar 3000:58:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Anxiety Fitness, Peter speaks with psychologist Vassia Sarantopoulou about the hidden cost of perfectionism — and how it fuels anxiety, burnout, and the feeling of never being “good enough.”They explore how perfectionism often develops through early experiences, how it quietly shapes our self-worth, and why even success can feel empty when the bar keeps moving. Vassia shares how perfectionism isn’t about having high standards — it’s about the mindset behind them. One that keeps the nervous system in a constant state of pressure, comparison, and urgency.Together, they unpack:Why perfectionism is often the “thief of joy”How anxiety is maintained by constant internal pressureThe link between perfectionism and burnoutWhy your brain creates a false sense of urgencyHow rest actually improves performance (not the opposite)Practical ways to break the cycle of overworking and self-criticismSleep, cortisol, and why switching off is so difficultThey also share simple, practical shifts — from reframing failure to building non-negotiable rest — that can help you move from survival mode into a more balanced, sustainable way of living.This is a powerful, honest conversation for anyone who feels driven, high-functioning… but internally exhausted.This episode was livestreamed to an online audience at anxietyfitness.comSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Understanding Trauma, Avoidance, and Healing with Dr. Steve Mahan-Taylor
Mar 1000:56:21Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Anxiety Fitness, Peter speaks with Dr. Steve Mahan-Taylor, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and founder of London Bridge Therapy, about the nature of trauma and how it affects the mind and body.They explore the important differences between stress and trauma, how traumatic experiences can shape our responses to the world, and why avoidance — although natural — can sometimes keep anxiety cycles going.Dr. Mahan Taylor explains how trauma can develop from single events, complex experiences, or early developmental environments, and why our bodies can continue reacting to past events as if they are still happening today.The conversation also explores:• Why trauma is often misunderstood• The role of avoidance in anxiety and panic disorders• How therapy helps people “file away” traumatic memories so they no longer dominate the present• The difference between knowing something intellectually and truly processing it emotionally• Why even therapists sometimes need therapy themselves• The importance of authentic human connection in effective therapyPeter also shares personal insights from his own recovery journey with panic disorder and agoraphobia, including the powerful moment that changed his relationship with anxiety.This episode offers a thoughtful and practical discussion about trauma, recovery, and learning to live with uncertainty while still feeling safe in the world.This episode was originally live streamed to the Anxiety Fitness community.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Overcoming Panic, Anxiety Insights & Personal Growth with Phil Lane, LCSW
Mar 301:18:01Tap to summarizeJoin us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Phil Lane, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, and author, who shares his journey with illness anxiety and panic. We delve into the intricacies of overcoming panic attacks, understanding the mechanics of anxiety, and coping with illness anxiety. Phil opens up about his personal experiences, the importance of psychoeducation, and offers practical strategies for managing anxiety symptoms. We also explore the role of medication, the significance of finding safety in small steps, and how societal perceptions impact mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of anxiety and panic disorders.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Emotional Maturity, Parents & Somatic Therapy with Katherine Ripley, LCSW
Jan 2400:54:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Anxiety Fitness, I sit down with Katherine Ripley, a somatic therapist from New York City, to explore the transformative power of somatic therapy. Our conversation touches on the challenges of confronting emotions, the significant role parents play in shaping our emotional responses, and the delicate balance required for healthy emotional expression. Katherine provides insightful perspectives on emotional maturity, the impact of emotionally immature parents, and the importance of reclaiming emotions like anger. We wrap up with practical advice on finding safety within ourselves and the therapeutic potential of somatic practices.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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OCD, Anxiety & Medication with Psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer Siegel, MD
Jan 1500:55:53Tap to summarizeI sit down with Dr. Jennifer Siegel, a psychiatrist based in Los Angeles, to have a deep and honest conversation about OCD and anxiety. Dr. Siegel brings both her clinical expertise and her own lived experience to the discussion, which allows us to explore these topics with nuance, clarity, and compassion.We talk about the key differences between OCD and generalized anxiety disorder, and why OCD is so often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Dr. Siegel explains how OCD is driven by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, how it can show up in many different subtypes, and why treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are so different from standard anxiety approaches.We also discuss the stigma around certain OCD themes, including harm OCD, and how shame and fear can stop people from seeking help or speaking openly about what they’re experiencing. Dr. Siegel shares what to look for in a knowledgeable provider, why specialized care matters, and how treatment plans should be tailored to the individual rather than forced into a one-size-fits-all model.We wrap up with practical advice on how to advocate for yourself within the mental health system, how to communicate more effectively with healthcare providers, and where to find trustworthy resources, including the International OCD Foundation.This one is for anyone who’s ever felt confused about their diagnosis, misunderstood in treatment, or unsure where anxiety ends and OCD begins.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/anxiety-fitness-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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