What if the problem isn’t that you don’t know enough, but that you’re trying to change alone? In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Andrew sits down with psychiatrist and author Dr. Curt Thompson to explore the intersection of neuroscience, faith, and emotional healing. Together, they unpack why anxiety is often rooted in the feeling of being alone in our suffering and how real transformation happens through connection, not just information. Drawing from interpersonal neurobiology, Curt explains how relationships shape the brain and why healing from trauma, shame, and painful memories requires safe, consistent community.

Thought-Provoking Quotes:

“Anxiety is ultimately about my perception that I am being left alone with myself in my suffering.” - Dr. Curt Thompson

“We think information will transform us, but that’s not how the brain works.” - Dr. Curt Thompson

“The brain becomes less anxious when it is connected to other people.” - Dr. Curt Thompson

“It takes about less than three seconds for shame to encode… a remembered event of joy takes 60 to 90 seconds.” - Dr. Curt Thompson

Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:

The Soul of Shame by Dr. Curt Thompson

The Soul of Desire by Dr. Curt Thompson

Center for Being Known, Dr. Curt Thompson’s organization

New Story Behavioral Health, Dr. Curt Thompson’s clinical practice

*Watch this interview on Andrew’s YouTube channel!

*All episode music is by Andrew Osenga.

Dr. Curt Thompson: Overcoming Anxiety Through Connection