The Barbara Thompson Podcast
A space for honest conversations about relationships, identity, healing and being human.
Hosted by therapist Barbara Thompson, this podcast explores the emotional patterns, conditioning, self doubt, anxiety, overthinking and relationship dynamics that shape our lives. Through solo episodes and conversations with experts and inspiring guests, Barbara shares practical insights, honest reflections and thought provoking discussions to help you better understand yourself, your relationships and the way you move through the world.
If you’re ready for deeper conversations, self awareness, and honest truths this podcast is worth a listen.
The Barbara Thompson Podcast
Why we care so much about what other people think of us
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In this episode I dive deep into something almost all of us wrestle with, the craving for validation. From childhood praise to social media likes, we’ve been conditioned to measure our worth through other people’s approval. But when does that desire cross the line into people pleasing, self abandonment and exhaustion?
I share stories from my own life, the hidden costs of chasing approval and why rejection feels so painful even as adults. Together, we explore the cycle of people pleasing, how it disconnects us from our true selves and how to shift the pattern.
✨ Why external validation feels so addictive
✨ The emotional toll of people pleasing
✨ How to start giving yourself the approval you crave
✨ Simple practices to anchor your worth from within
