Clinical psychologist Dr. Chloe Carmichael joins Dr. Mark Bonta for an important and timely conversation about free speech, emotional regulation, and the psychology of open dialogue. Drawing on her clinical work and her new book, Dr. Carmichael explains how suppressing opinions affects stress, anxiety, and even physical health. She describes her own experience with media self censorship, the impact of masking policies during COVID, and how moving from New York to Florida revealed the mental health benefits of open discussion.
The episode explores how naming emotions reduces amygdala activity, how repressing thoughts can lead to acting out, and why honest conversation promotes neural coupling and lowers cortisol. Together they examine bullying, victimhood, groupthink, and how language can unintentionally shut down dialogue instead of inviting clarity and connection.
Listeners will learn practical tools for navigating political disagreements, managing emotional overload during difficult conversations, and practicing reflective listening to stay grounded and curious rather than reactive.
Dr. Carmichael’s message is simple and powerful. Dialogue matters. Open conversation strengthens emotional regulation, builds healthier relationships, and supports mental clarity. Her invitation to the audience is to have more honest disagreements and to rediscover the psychological value of speaking freely.
