Podcast
Transforming Relationships
Hosted by Eric Spiegel and David Alter · EN
Transforming Relationships is a podcast about how relationships shape our minds, our lives, and the world. The hosts, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter, bring their decades of expertise as psychologists and hypnotherapists to this rich series.
Relationships are the foundation of life. The podcast explores the profound role that relationships play— from the earliest bonds of attachment in childhood to the complex relational networks of influence in our culture, communities, politics, technology, and collective life. Through engaging discussions, Eric and David explore meaningful facets of being human and "in relationship."
The podcast will feature two new episodes each month. Join us for a journey into the world of the transformative nature of relationships by tuning into Transforming Relationships, with Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter.
14episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Life Amid War — Voices From Ukraine
2w ago01:09:03Tap to summarizeWhat is it like to live psychologically under the constant threat of war? In this episode, Ukrainian psychologists Volodymyr Voloshin and Olha Serha share firsthand experiences of living and working in Ukraine during ongoing conflict. We explore trauma, resilience, relationships, uncertainty, and the emotional realities of adapting to life under chronic danger. The conversation examines how war reshapes identity, daily life, and mental health — while also revealing the power of connection, community, and hope in sustaining resilience. A moving discussion about survival, healing, and the human experience during war. Subscribe to the newsletter for episode updates and reflections: https://www.transformingrelationships.substack.com/subscribe Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships
Transcribe →
What Creates Change in Psychotherapy? | Dr. Mary Jo Peebles
May 501:13:09Tap to summarizeWhat creates real change in psychotherapy? In this episode, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter speak with Dr. Mary Jo Peebles, clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst, about the deeper processes that drive transformation in therapy. Moving beyond technique-driven and manualized approaches, Dr. Peebles explores psychotherapy as a dynamic, relational process—one shaped by uncertainty, mutual influence, and the evolving interaction between therapist and patient. The conversation examines how therapeutic change emerges over time through moments of connection, rupture and repair, and shifts in perception and expectation. It also highlights the importance of "scaffolding" in early treatment, the role of relational safety, and the neurobiological foundations of lasting psychological change. If you'd like episode updates, reflections, and future conversations delivered directly to you, join the email list on Substack: https://transformingrelationships.substack.com/subscribe Topics include: The limits of manualized and protocol-driven therapy Psychotherapy as a relational, emergent process The role of uncertainty and ambiguity in clinical work Rupture, repair, and the development of trust Scaffolding and early therapeutic structure Perception, expectation, and psychological change Neurobiological perspectives on transformation This episode offers a nuanced exploration of psychotherapy for clinicians, students, and anyone interested in how meaningful change unfolds within human relationships. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mary Jo Peebles 02:54 The Complexity of Psychotherapy 05:54 Trans-Theoretical Approaches in Therapy 08:47 Siloed Practices in Psychology 11:55 The Role of Identity in Therapy 15:07 Understanding Patient Experiences 18:07 Role Play: Navigating Panic Attacks 20:54 Exploring Uniqueness vs. Commonality in Therapy 24:11 Role Play: Attachment and Connection 27:06 The Therapeutic Alliance and Patient Engagement 36:05 The Emergence of Change 39:02 Navigating Emotional Spaces 43:51 Understanding the Therapeutic Process 46:17 The Role of Ambiguity in Therapy 48:09 Scaffolding in Early Sessions 52:51 Duality of Experience in Therapy 55:05 Rupture and Repair in Therapeutic Relationships 01:01:52 The Challenge of Change 01:06:57 Structural Changes for Lasting Impact Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com
Transcribe →Loneliness and the Crisis in Connection
Apr 2100:49:57Tap to summarizeAre we truly facing a loneliness epidemic—or are we misunderstanding what connection really requires? In this episode, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter explore the growing concern that modern life is eroding meaningful human connection. They examine how changes in technology, work, and social structure have reshaped relationships—and why many people feel increasingly disconnected despite constant contact. The conversation distinguishes between being alone, feeling lonely, and being fundamentally disconnected, offering a more precise framework for understanding emotional isolation. They also explore why many attempts at connection feel superficial or performative, and what actually creates relationships that are reciprocal, honest, and emotionally sustaining. The episode concludes with practical, grounded ways to rebuild connection—through consistency, vulnerability, and a willingness to engage beyond surface-level interaction. Key Topics The "loneliness epidemic": reality vs perception Real vs superficial relationships Technology and social disconnection Vulnerability and reciprocity in relationships Rebuilding meaningful connection The role of environment, nature, and presence
Transcribe →
Conflict, Identity and Multiple Perspectives in Israel–Palestine
Apr 101:20:41Tap to summarizeWhy is it so difficult to hold multiple perspectives in conflict, especially when identity, history, and trauma are involved? In this episode, conflict negotiator Naseem Khuri explores the psychology of conflict through the lens of Israel–Palestine and, later in the episode, polarization in the United States. Drawing on his professional work and personal history, he examines how people interpret the same reality in fundamentally different ways, and why conflict is often something to be managed rather than resolved. The conversation addresses intergenerational trauma, competing narratives of loss and displacement, the danger of certainty, and the role of process in creating conditions for understanding. It also explores the limits of empathy in active conflict and the importance of building structures that allow people to be heard without requiring agreement. This episode offers a psychological perspective on conflict, identity, and polarization—both in international contexts and in everyday human relationships. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Naseem Khuri Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
Dr. David Patterson: Hypnosis, Pain & Neuroplasticity
Mar 1201:17:56Tap to summarizeHow can hypnosis transform the way we experience pain? In this episode, psychologists Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter speak with Dr. David Patterson, a leading expert in pain psychology and medical hypnosis, about the science and psychology of pain—and how hypnosis can reshape our relationship with it. The conversation explores the critical differences between acute and chronic pain, the role of neuroplasticity in maintaining pain patterns, and how hypnosis can help patients shift perception, reduce suffering, and reconnect with activity and meaning. Dr. Patterson also shares deeply personal reflections on grief, resilience, and healing, illustrating how relational aspects of therapy and human connection play a powerful role in recovery. This episode offers both clinical insight and human perspective on one of the most challenging experiences people face: living with pain. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: David Patterson Keywords Pain management Hypnosis Neuroplasticity Chronic pain Medical hypnosis Psychotherapy Pain treatment Mind-body medicine Emotional resilience Healing Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
"Mother was a Psychopath: I Became a Psychologist"
Mar 501:00:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Transforming Relationships, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter sit down with Dr. Susanna Carolusson, a psychologist whose career has spanned five decades of work in trauma treatment, hypnosis, and ego state therapy. Drawing on both clinical wisdom and lived experience, Dr. Carolusson reflects on how her own childhood adversity—including growing up with a deeply troubled parent—shaped her lifelong curiosity about the mind and her commitment to helping others heal. The conversation explores ego state therapy and parts work, the role of hypnosis in trauma treatment, and the importance of attunement and emotional safety in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Carolusson describes how understanding the different "parts" of the self can help clients move toward integration, resilience, and a renewed sense of vitality. Along the way, she offers practical wisdom for therapists and anyone interested in personal growth—from learning to listen to the body's signals to cultivating the kind of curiosity that restores energy, creativity, and connection. Whether you're a clinician, a student of psychology, or someone interested in the process of healing, this episode offers a rare opportunity to learn from a therapist whose work bridges personal transformation and decades of trauma-informed practice. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Susanna Carolusson Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Topics Covered: Ego state therapy and parts work Hypnosis in trauma treatment Attunement and safety in psychotherapy Curiosity as a therapeutic tool Therapist–client boundaries Resilience and childhood adversity Listening to the body in the healing process Keywords: psychology, trauma therapy, hypnosis, clinical hypnosis, ego state therapy, parts work, trauma healing, attachment, psychotherapy, mental health, therapy techniques, resilience, personal growth, attunement in therapy, trauma treatment Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Transforming Relationships 05:26 The Role of Hypnosis in Trauma Treatment 10:51 Understanding the Parts of the Self 16:11 Curiosity as a Therapeutic Tool 25:39 Navigating Therapist–Patient Boundaries 34:56 The Dandelion Child: Resilience in Adversity 45:19 Listening to the Body: Intuition and Healing Follow Dr. Susanna Carolusson: General Info: https://carolussons.se/english.htm Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
Dr. Richard Chefetz on Transforming Trauma into Healing
Feb 2501:18:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Transforming Relationships, Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter sit down with trauma psychiatrist and author Dr. Richard Chefetz for a profound exploration of trauma, dissociation, and what it means to feel real. Together, they examine how disconnection forms amidst trauma—and how empathy, presence, and safe relational spaces help restore connection. The discussion delves into the impact of dehumanization in enabling trauma; and the therapeutic use of hypnosis in trauma therapy. Throughout the conversation, the speakers emphasize the significance of creating safe spaces for vulnerability and the power of non-verbal communication in fostering intimacy. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges of intimacy in therapy and the need for meaningful connection in our relationships. Through clinical insight and heartfelt dialogue, this episode illuminates how genuine presence can transform both therapy and relationships. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Richard Chefetz Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Keywords: trauma, dissociation, connection, healing, empathy, hypnosis, therapy, vulnerability, non-verbal communication, intimacy Takeaways: Trauma can lead to dissociation and a fear of feeling real. Connection is essential for healing and transformation. Empathy and vulnerability are crucial in therapeutic relationships. Dehumanization can occur in families and society, impacting relationships. Hypnosis can facilitate connection and healing in therapy. Creating safe spaces allows for open communication and vulnerability. Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in therapy. Understanding the complexity of self and other is vital for healing. Intimacy in therapy requires both clinician and patient to be present. We all need to know that we exist and matter. Chapters: 00:22 Introduction to Transforming Relationships 02:09 Understanding Trauma and Dissociation 05:46 The Impact of Trauma on Connection 10:14 Creating Safe Spaces for Healing 14:37 The Role of Hypnosis in Therapy 19:19 The Importance of Bearing Witness 24:36 Intimacy and Vulnerability in Therapy 37:29 The Role of Vulnerability in Therapy 42:34 Understanding Nonverbal Communication 49:27 The Importance of Existence and Mattering 58:00 Navigating Shame and Humiliation 01:02:10 The Power of Presence in Therapy 01:06:15 Reflections on the Interview with Richard Chefetz Follow Dr. Richard Chefetz: General Info: www.richardchefetzmd.com Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
Rabbis Ain & Weininger: Building Community & Kahal
Feb 1901:01:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Eric Spiegel and David Alter sit down with Rabbi Rachel Ain (New York City) and Rabbi Aaron Weininger (Minneapolis) to explore the transformative power of community. Together, they examine the concept of Kahal—the sacred gathering of diverse individuals—and what it means to truly show up for one another in moments of joy, grief, and crisis. Rabbi Weininger shares lessons from recent ICE actions affecting the Minneapolis community, while Rabbi Ain reflects on congregational life in New York following 9/11. Both discuss in personal ways their experiences as Rabbis leading their communities in the new landscape post-October 7th. The conversation explores how communities navigate polarization, identity, and difficult conversations while maintaining empathy, clarity, and love. They discuss why presence matters, how boundaries strengthen relationships, and why diverse perspectives enrich communal life. As one guest notes, "Community has the power to transform relationships." With this in mind, this episode asks: How do we build resilient communities capable of transforming relationships in emotionally and spiritually profound ways? Keywords: community, kahal, synagogue, faith leadership, Rabbi Rachel Ain, Rabbi Aaron Weininger, October 7th, 9/11, ICE Minneapolis, empathy, polarization, identity, relationships, resilience, grief and joy, interfaith dialogue, community crisis leadership Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guests: Rabbis Rachel Ain & Aaron Weininger Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
Dr. Michael Osterholm: Facing Infectious Threats Together
Feb 1101:06:27Tap to summarizeDr. Michael Osterholm joins Transforming Relationships to explore how we can face infectious threats—together. In this powerful & emotionally resonant conversation, hosts Dr. Eric Spiegel and Dr. David Alter speak with one of the world's leading epidemiologists about the relational side of public health: how trust is built, how misinformation spreads, and how communities come together in the face of crisis. We look at what COVID-19 revealed about our vulnerabilities, what needs to change in our communication and preparedness, and how personal and community relationships shape our ability to respond to pandemics. Drawing from his decades of public health leadership, Dr. Osterholm discusses how trust, communication, and community relationships shape our ability to prepare for and respond to infectious diseases. The conversation dives into the impact of misinformation, the challenges of navigating a polarized public health landscape, and the lessons learned from COVID-19 that will shape future preparedness. This episode highlights why relationships—between individuals, communities, and institutions—are at the heart of effective public health. A timely, grounded, and deeply human conversation with one of the world's most respected voices in infectious disease. Hosts: Eric Spiegel and David Alter Guest: Michael Osterholm Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Keywords: Michael Osterholm, infectious diseases, epidemiology, public health, COVID-19, pandemic preparedness, virus mutations, misinformation, health communication, community trust, vulnerable populations, health equity, public health polarization, science communication, relational public health, community resilience, health messaging, disease prevention, trust in science, public health leadership Chapters 00:00 Pre-Interview Discussion 03:08 Introducing Dr. Michael Osterholm 05:44 Dr. Osterholm's Background and Experience in Epidemiology 08:32 The Impact of Infectious Diseases on Vulnerable Populations 11:33 The Role of Misinformation in Public Health 14:23 Understanding Virus Mutations and Pandemic Preparedness 17:07 The Polarization of Public Health Responses 20:04 Challenges in Communicating Public Health Information 22:08 Building Trust in Public Health Messaging 25:22 The Importance of Humility in Public Health Communication 28:35 The Need for Clear and Tangible Public Health Messaging 31:28 The Role of Community in Public Health 34:15 Addressing the Common Foe of Infectious Diseases 37:03 The Importance of Personal Relationships in Public Health 40:02 Final Thoughts on Public Health and Community Engagement 56:46 Post-Interview Discussion Follow Dr. Michael Osterholm: Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP): https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/ Osterholm Update podcast: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/osterholm-update Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →
Renée DiResta (Pt.2) on Creating Trust in the AI Era
Feb 600:49:58Tap to summarizeThis is the second part of our interview with Renée DiResta, author of 'Invisible Rulers', which explores the rampant and disruptive influence of misinformation and disinformation generators, and the reciprocal relationship with people who consume this social media content. In this episode, we discuss how influencers play a significant role in shaping public opinion; how generative AI complicates trust in media and information; how public health communication needs to adapt to modern engagement strategies; and how building trust requires face-to-face engagement, complex conversations, and good faith interactions. Hosts: Eric Spiegel, Ph.D. & David Alter, Ph.D. Guest: Renée DiResta Watch this and all of our podcast episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transforming.relationships Keywords Renée DiResta, social media, misinformation, public health, algorithms, generative AI, trust, political dynamics, influencers, community engagement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pt. 2 of our Interview with Renee DiResta 01:52 The Collapse of Society and the Need for Leadership 03:06 The Vacuum of True Leadership 05:28 The Role of Online Influencers in Politics 08:08 Generative AI: An Accelerant of Misinformation 12:06 The Importance of Face-to-Face Engagement 16:09 Navigating Trust and Skepticism in Conversations 20:35 The Value of Complex Conversations 28:18 Building Trust in Public Health Communications Follow Renée DiResta: General Info: https://reneediresta.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renee.diresta Follow Dr. David Alter: General Info: www.drdavidalter.com For Couples: www.partnersatcrossroads.com Follow Dr. Eric Spiegel: General Info: www.ericspiegelphd.com Group Practice: www.therapistsinphiladelphia.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/drericspiegel
Transcribe →