Podcast Summary: Dr. Laura Call of the Day – "You Don't Have to Forgive and Forget"

Release Date: July 19, 2025
Host: Dr. Laura Schlessinger
SiriusXM Triumph 111

Introduction

In this episode of Dr. Laura Schlessinger's "Call of the Day," titled "You Don't Have to Forgive and Forget," Dr. Laura addresses a heartfelt call from a listener named Susanna. The discussion delves into complex family dynamics, personal accountability, and the empowerment found in setting emotional boundaries.

Listener's Story: Navigating a Difficult Parent-Child Relationship

Caller’s Background: Susanna shares her challenging upbringing, marked by a physically abusive father and a seemingly passive mother who did not intervene during the abuse. This tumultuous relationship has left her grappling with feelings of abandonment and unresolved anger.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Reevaluating Parental Roles:

   • Dr. Laura introduces the concept of "tearing up your parent card," explaining that it signifies mentally and emotionally distancing oneself from a parent who caused harm.
   • Quote:
     Dr. Laura Schlessinger [01:56]: "I call that tearing up your parent card."

2. Acknowledging Both Parents' Failures:

   • The conversation extends beyond the father's abuse, highlighting the mother's inaction and lack of protection.
   • Quote:
     Dr. Laura Schlessinger [02:27]: "I call that tearing up your parent card when you sat there. And I don't care what her excuse is."

3. Empowering the Listener:

   • Dr. Laura encourages Susanna to assert her boundaries firmly, emphasizing that her mother's efforts to reconnect are motivated by her own needs rather than genuine concern.
   • Quote:
     Dr. Laura Schlessinger [04:18]: "They reach out because they want something. They want comfort. They want a bond. They want connection."

4. Assertiveness Training:

   • Recognizing Susanna's timid nature, Dr. Laura provides practical advice on projecting strength through vocal assertiveness.
   • Quote:
     Dr. Laura Schlessinger [07:28]: "One of the ways you work on it is you talk louder from the diaphragm."

5. Managing Emotional Responses:

   • Dr. Laura addresses the presence of anger in Susanna's healing process, advising her to focus on the positive aspects of her life to mitigate negative emotions.
   • Quote:
     Dr. Laura Schlessinger [08:16]: "But don't bother with that. You got too much beauty in your life right now to have to deal with anger."

Notable Insights and Conclusions

• Setting Emotional Boundaries: Dr. Laura emphasizes the importance of recognizing when a relationship is no longer healthy and taking decisive steps to protect one's emotional well-being.

• Personal Responsibility: The conversation underscores the role of personal accountability in overcoming past traumas and building a fulfilling life.

• Empowerment Through Voice: By encouraging Susanna to speak more assertively, Dr. Laura illustrates how vocal strength can translate into personal empowerment and confidence.

• Moving Forward: The episode concludes with a positive note on Susanna’s progress and the affirmation of her decision to focus on her new life, free from the constraints of her past.

Listener Feedback and Testimonials

Towards the end of the call, Susanna shares her appreciation for Dr. Laura's guidance and the impact of her book, "In Praise of Stay at Home Moms," which influenced her decision to become a stay-at-home mother.

• Quote:
  Caller [08:41]: "Your book, In Praise of Stay at Home Moms, helped me make the decision to become a stay at home mom 11 years ago when we had our first son. And I've never looked back."

Dr. Laura responds with warmth and encouragement, reinforcing the listener's positive choices and inviting further communication.

Conclusion

In "You Don't Have to Forgive and Forget," Dr. Laura Schlessinger provides a compassionate yet candid analysis of familial relationships gone awry. Through Susanna's story, listeners gain valuable insights into setting emotional boundaries, the importance of personal empowerment, and the enduring impact of unresolved family dynamics. Dr. Laura's advice serves as a beacon for those seeking to reclaim their lives from the shadows of their past.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [01:56]: "I call that tearing up your parent card."
• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [02:27]: "I call that tearing up your parent card when you sat there. And I don't care what her excuse is."
• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [04:18]: "They reach out because they want something. They want comfort. They want a bond. They want connection."
• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [07:28]: "One of the ways you work on it is you talk louder from the diaphragm."
• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [08:16]: "But don't bother with that. You got too much beauty in your life right now to have to deal with anger."
• Caller [08:41]: "Your book, In Praise of Stay at Home Moms, helped me make the decision to become a stay at home mom 11 years ago when we had our first son. And I've never looked back."
• Dr. Laura Schlessinger [09:24]: "My number one, 800-375-2872."

For more insightful discussions and advice, tune into Dr. Laura Schlessinger's "Call of the Day" on SiriusXM Triumph 111 or visit DrLaura.com.