Best Close Reads Podcast Network Podcasts (2025)

1
Morgan Wallen's Toxic Dating Advice 19:02

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11h ago19:02

19:02

Most people hear Morgan Wallen’s Just in Case and think it’s a sad breakup song. I hear something else. This video breaks down the psychology behind Just in Case and why so many people relate to it without realizing what it’s modeling about dating, attachment, and emotional unavailability. We talk about trauma bonds, avoidant attachment, ghost atta…

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Rachel McCarthy James: Whack Job 54:22

15h ago54:22

54:22

When Rachel McCarthy James and her father wrote their best-selling book The Man from the Train, Rachel became fascinated with axes. Were they good weapons during murders? What kind of killer used them? She wrote the story of the axe in her book Whack Job: A History of Axe Murder. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promoti…

1
Read Anyone In Seconds: Body Language Secrets From Expert Rene Rodriguez 38:25

7d ago38:25

38:25

In this interview, Rene Rodriguez breaks down the real science behind persuasion, influence, and body language and how your presence is shaping outcomes before you ever speak. Rene is a leading authority on leadership and influence, a best selling author, and an expert in applied behavioral neuroscience. This conversation moves past surface level t…

1
Dick Harpootlian: Dig Me a Grave 48:27

8d ago48:27

48:27

Dick Harpootlian might be a name you recognize. He’s from South Carolina, and he’s one of Alex Murdaugh’s defense attorneys. He’s also been a prosecutor. And one of his most disturbing defendants was serial killer Donald “Pee Wee” Gaskins. Dick tells me the story from his book: Dig Me a Grave. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor dea…

1
Awareness Matters 27:51

13d ago27:51

27:51

Level 3 certified IFS therapist, clinical consultant, and co-author of Part and Soul, Shira Fruchter, MSW, explores how self-awareness can support a more grounded and connected dating journey. She shares ways to be authentic and vulnerable without focusing on imperfections. Hosted by Anna Krausz.By YUConnects

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Why Good Men Are Giving Up on Modern Women 19:33

14d ago19:33

19:33

Modern dating culture tells men to give up after one rejection—but are we losing something valuable? In this episode, I share the powerful story of a man who put a rock in a girl's mailbox every day for three months to show his dedication. 50 years later, they're still married. What You'll Learn: - Why pursuit isn't "creepy"—it's how good men show …

1
Yepoka Yeebo: Anansi’s Gold 45:00

15d ago45:00

45:00

The popular former president of Ghana was once accused of hiding gold from the West African country’s government. But it turns out that he was targeted by an audacious con artist who pulled off one of the 20th century's longest running and most spectacular frauds. Author Yepoka Yeebo tells me the story in her book: Anansi's Gold. Support this podca…

1
Landman - Therapist Diagnoses Tommy & Angela 25:24

20d ago25:24

25:24

The Dinner Scene Everyone Is Talking About in Landman S2E1. Landman season 2 episode 1 features some of the show’s most intense emotional and psychological moments, including Cami’s bold luncheon speech, Tommy’s growing identity pressure, Angela’s explosive reaction at the dinner table, and Cooper’s risky ambition. This breakdown analyzes the deepe…

1
Rod Sadler: Depraved Obsession 55:58

22d ago55:58

55:58

For more than a decade, a serial killer stalked teenage boys in Michigan. Ronald Lloyd Bailey was eventually caught. But the story becomes more complicated because of Bailey’s experience at one of the state’s most respected psychiatric hospitals. Author Rod Sadler tells me the story in his book: Depraved Obsession. Support this podcast by shopping …

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Assumptions & Mind Reading 34:07

27d ago34:07

34:07

In conversation with dating coach and RelationShift founder Sara Gita Soble, we explore how our assumptions and desires shape the way we experience our dates. Sara Gita invites listeners to pause, acknowledge, and turn around unhelpful thinking patterns. Hosted by Anna Krausz.By YUConnects

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Boys Need Consequences, Not Lectures - Therapist Explains 19:46

27d ago19:46

19:46

Boys don't learn unless there's physical discipline and consequences - not long lectures or verbal reasoning. As a therapist, I break down why many boys process lessons more effectively through movement, structure, and embodied consequences. In this video, I explain how calm, action-based discipline supports emotional regulation, builds respect, an…

1
Ceri Jackson: The Boy from Tiger Bay 59:25

29d ago59:25

59:25

Almost 40 years ago, a brutal murder on Valentine’s Day shook the country of Wales. When a 20-year-old is murdered in a dark corner of Cardiff’s infamous Tiger Bay area, the police launch an investigation. But did they arrest the wrong people because they were desperate to close the case? Author Ceri Jackson tells me the story from her book: The Bo…

1
How to Handle Layoff Anxiety - Therapist Gives Tips 13:36

1M ago13:36

13:36

How should you deal with the stress that comes from layoffs & potential layoffs? AI just caused Amazon to lay off 14,000 white collar employees, and more are coming at other companies. I'm hearing from a rising number of clients concerned about losing their job. These tips can help you calm and control the anxiety caused by these crazy times. Learn…

1
Dane Huckelbridge: Queen of All Mayhem 1:07:53

1M ago1:07:53

1:07:53

We hear a lot about gunslingers and outlaws in the American West, and those stories are mostly about men. But there were female outlaws, too—like Belle Starr, probably the most famous of them all. Her murder was a mystery. But her life was extraordinary. Author Dane Huckelbridge tells me about Belle and his book: Queen of All Mayhem. Support this p…

1
Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee: Shadow of the Bridge 1:04:18

1M ago1:04:18

1:04:18

The murders of Liberty German and Abigail Williams in Delphi, Indiana shook the country. But the impact of the attention, the speculation and the fear is still felt in the community. Now podcasters Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee have written a book about the case, but it feels different from other investigations. Their book does focus on the case, bu…

1
Becoming Masters, Not Disasters [Re-Release] 42:42

2M ago42:42

42:42

Today we're celebrating our 100th episode by rewinding to the one that started it all: our first episode. Rabbi Dr. Ari Sytner “cracks the code” for mastering our relationships. Hear his simple, yet winning, advice for every couple. How to send the perfect text. Should we always resolve our conflicts? What is the secret key to lasting intimacy? Hos…

1
Therapist Explains What Horror Movies Do to Your Brain (It's a Good Thing) 21:08

2M ago21:08

21:08

What actually happens to your brain when you watch a horror movie? Most people think it’s just adrenaline—but your mind, body, and even your soul are training for something much deeper. We'll talk about the psychology and neuroscience of fear—why your amygdala fires, why dopamine makes you feel alive, and how horror movies secretly help you build c…

1
Rich Cohen: Murder in the Dollhouse 56:27

2M ago56:27

56:27

The disappearance in 2019 of Jennifer Dulos is one of the most chilling stories I’ve ever read about. When the mother of five vanished from her wealthy Connecticut suburb, her estranged husband became the prime suspect. But when Fotis Dulos ended his own life, the mystery deepened. Author Rich Cohen has the inside story in his book, Murder in the D…

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6. Sorting It Out: The Next Challenge for Waste and Resource Recovery 29:30

2M ago29:30

29:30

Welcome to the sixth episode of the Energy from Waste Podcast, brought to you by the Energy from Waste Network. Every couple of episodes, we are joined by a new host and their episode guest. For this episode, our host is Dr. Stephen Wise, Director at Ceres Waste, Renewables, and Environment, and his guest - Jamie Warmington, a waste and resource ma…

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Therapist Diagnoses Cate – Gen V – Trauma & Attachment Style 39:13

2M ago39:13

39:13

In this breakdown, therapist Trey Tucker unpacks how Cate Dunlap's attachment style and trauma responses explain everything about her fall from protector to villain in Amazon Prime's Gen V - and how those same patterns show up in your life. You’ll learn: - How fearful-avoidant attachment makes love feel dangerous - The difference between protecting…

1
Jane Borden: Cults Like Us 50:21

2M ago50:21

50:21

What is the origin story of cults? Author Jane Borden says it goes all the way back to the Puritans and their doomsday beliefs. She says that from the beginning, we’ve been a nation of easy marks for con artists and manipulators. She tells me about her book, Cults Like Us. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at …

1
The Secret to Being Instantly More Attractive (Hidden in Sorority TikToks) 9:35

2M ago9:35

9:35

Millions of people can’t stop watching those viral sorority TikToks — but why? It’s not just attraction. There’s a powerful psychological trigger underneath that makes these videos irresistible, and if you understand it, you can use it to level up your confidence, discipline, and presence in real life. And you'll learn how to develop an attractive …

1
Anne Soon Choi: L.A. Coroner 45:18

2M ago45:18

45:18

When you write a biography about a man dubbed “Coroner to the Stars,” it’s bound to be a compelling story. Who doesn’t want to read about the coroner who performed the autopsies on Marilyn Monroe, RFK, and Natalie Wood, among others? Author Anne Soon Choi tells me about her book, “L.A. Coroner.” Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor d…

1
Therapist Reacts to Netflix's Wayward, Ep 1 37:35

2M ago37:35

37:35

In Netflix’s Wayward, something is dark at Tall Pines. Therapy looks a lot like control, and "healing" looks evil and sinister.This breakdown explores:• Evelyn’s psychological tactics• Leila’s trauma• Abbie’s narcissistic parents• Alex’s hypervigilance• Laura’s quiet denialAnd• The psychology of manipulation and false healing• How shame and control…

1
Patricia Cornwell: Scarpetta 1:04:40

2M ago1:04:40

1:04:40

I’ve interviewed quite a few authors who are inspired by real people or real crimes. And then they write these fantastic novels. Patricia Cornwell’s iconic character, Dr. Kay Scarpetta, has a legion of fans because of how clever she is as a medical examiner, how she solves a mystery. Cornwell was working with Virginia’s first female chief ME Dr. Ma…

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The Hard Truth About Arch Manning’s Mental Game 16:04

2M ago16:04

16:04

Arch Manning is at a make-or-break point. Follow Trey on Instagram Get Trey's Substack Newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy That Sounds Fun Network

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Military Veteran's Trauma Healing Tips - Tony Miltenberger 33:13

3M ago33:13

33:13

One brutally honest friend can save your life.In this powerful conversation, author Tony Miltenberger shares how unaddressed wounds almost cost him his marriage, family, and calling - and the moment a single friend’s ultimatum changed his life.We dig into:- Why men numb with distractions instead of healing wounds- How cracks in your life become can…

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Ross Halperin: Bear Witness 1:06:00

3M ago1:06:00

1:06:00

A gang in a mountain barrio in Honduras terrorized the people there for years. The police claimed that their hands were tied because witnesses refused to testify. An American sociologist and a Honduran schoolteacher devised a plan to protect their neighbors by taking matters into their own hands. Author Ross Halperin tells me the story in his book:…

1
The Sickest Thing a Mother Could Do, pt. 3 17:24

3M ago17:24

17:24

Netflix’s Unknown Number: The High School Catfish showed you the messages. What they didn’t show was the psychological toll on the men - Owen and Shawn. It's a shocking true story, but the reality is even darker than what you saw on screen. A teenage girl and her boyfriend were tormented by nearly 350,000 harassing texts over two years. Police, sch…

1
Charlie Kirk’s Death Exposed the Biggest Weakness in Men 21:51

3M ago21:51

21:51

The Charlie Kirk assassination shook the world. But what it exposed in men might be even bigger. In this first episode of "From Boys to Mentors", therapist Trey Tucker unpacks the ripple effect of Charlie’s life, and what it’s revealing about the state of modern manhood. This episode dives into: - The quiet crisis most men don’t talk about - How Ch…

1
Michael Beach Nichols: Perfect Wife 1:03:52

3M ago1:03:52

1:03:52

Most of us have heard about Sherri Papini. She’s the woman who faked her own kidnapping in 2016, which terrified her husband and soon sparked outrage in her Northern California community. Michael Beach Nichols is the director and producer of the Hulu series, “Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini.” He tells US about his experi…

1
Everyone's Mad at Phillies Karen - But They Missed This 10:54

3M ago10:54

10:54

You saw the Phillies “Karen” steal the ball.You saw the internet rage.But there’s something you didn’t see.It happened in the background.It was easy to miss.But it's the moment that pissed me off the most.🧠 Connect with me#viralvideo #fatherhood #masculinity #therapistreacts #phillieskaren #karen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm…

1
On a Journey [Re-Release] 45:49

3M ago45:49

45:49

Rav Judah Mischel, Executive Director of Camp HASC, reflects on the natural flow of changes within relationships, and why they should be embraced. Hosted by Randi Wartelsky.By YUConnects

1
She Was Bleeding. No One Moved. 11:29

3M ago11:29

11:29

She was stabbed on a subway - and no one helped her. In this episode, I break down why that happened. As a therapist, I explain why people record violence instead of stopping it. Why the good guys get prosecuted, and evil walks free. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. I also talk about the mindset and training you need to be the kind of man who …

1
The Sickest Thing a Mother Could Do, part 2 25:46

3M ago25:46

25:46

Netflix’s new documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish tells a shocking true story, but the reality is even darker than what you saw on screen. A teenage girl and her boyfriend were tormented by nearly 350,000 harassing texts over two years. Police, school officials, and even the FBI got involved, but when the truth finally came out, the…

1
Bryan Burrough: The Gunfighters 50:22

3M ago50:22

50:22

We’ve heard from my buddy Bryan Burrough before for one of his Audible books based on a true crime story. His new book is very different. It’s called The Gunfighters: How Texas Made the West Wild. Enough said. Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/4gF2K18 See more information on my boo…

1
The Sickest Thing a Mother Could Do, part 1 33:03

3M ago33:03

33:03

Netflix’s new documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish tells a shocking true story, but the reality is even darker than what you saw on screen. A teenage girl and her boyfriend were tormented by nearly 350,000 harassing texts over two years. Police, school officials, and even the FBI got involved, but when the truth finally came out, the…

1
Hello Mother, Hello Father: Relationships with In-Laws [Re-Release] 34:29

3M ago34:29

34:29

Listen as Mindy Eisenman, MSW, discusses boundaries, bonding and breaking stereotypes. Host: Rabbi Larry RothwachsBy YUConnects

1
James Polchin: Shadow Men 59:21

3M ago59:21

59:21

Our story this week is set in the 1920s in Westchester County, New York…it’s a Jazz Age mystery. A young ex-sailor is found dead on a desolate road. A suspect from a wealthy family admits to the murder, but he claims that he was trying to protect a dangerous secret. Author James Polchin’s book, Shadow Men unravels a mystery more than a century old.…

1
Therapist Reveals the Reason Arch Manning Struggled, Alabama Soft, FSU Strong | SEC Football Headspace 12:07

3M ago12:07

12:07

The sports psychology behind: - Why Arch Manning struggled - Why Alabama is soft - What caused Florida State’s dramatic turnaround in the offseason Therapist Trey Tucker breaks down the mindset behind what happened on the field in week 1 of college football. Trey's newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
Why Everyone's Suddenly Talking About Ketamine - Psychiatrist Dr. Leo Vando of Mindbloom 29:20

4M ago29:20

29:20

Dr. Leo Vando joins Trey Tucker to unpack the science and personal experience behind ketamine therapy, exercise, and long-term mental health. We explore how exercise impacts brain chemistry, why ketamine works differently from SSRIs, and how it’s helping people with depression, anxiety, and PTSD find relief in hours instead of months. Dr. Vando exp…

1
Dan Slater: The Incorruptibles 59:01

4M ago59:01

59:01

New York in the early 1900s was filled with people trying to make their lives better. But for many, the rise of organized crime kept them in constant fear. On the Lower East Side, Jewish criminals from Eastern Europe formed crime syndicates. There were gangs of horse poisoners, casino owners, thieves and thugs. But then a group of Jewish uptowners …

1
The Power of Emunah: Rabbi Aryeh Cohen 36:29

4M ago36:29

36:29

Rabbi Aryeh Cohen, Mashgiach Ruchani at DRS High School, eloquently explores the transformative role of emunah in the dating journey, drawing on profound insights to inspire and elevate the entire process. Hosted by Anna Krausz.By YUConnects

1
Cracker Barrel Controversy and End Times Prophecy? 9:07

4M ago9:07

9:07

From globalism to Cracker Barrel, are we seeing signs of the Antichrist’s system? The Bible says yes. 00:00 Cracker Barrel and Cultural Collapse 02:00 The Rise of a One World Government 04:00 Revelation and the Spirit of Antichrist 06:00 What the Bible Warned Is Coming I break down: - why traditions are being erased - why nostalgia is exploding - h…

1
Tanya Talaga: The Knowing 56:48

4M ago56:48

56:48

If you’ve ever dug deep into your family history, you know that there are sometimes surprises. Author Tanya Talaga discovered that the life of her great-great grandmother Annie Carpenter was mostly unknown because she was Indigenous. It’s a struggle that many Indigenous people in Canada have: how do you learn about your family’s past without crucia…

1
5. Is EfW a transitional technology? With Dr Stephen Wise and Philip New 42:07

4M ago42:07

42:07

Welcome to the fifth episode of the Energy from Waste Podcast, brought to you by the Energy from Waste Network. Every couple of episodes, we are joined by a new host and their episode guest. For this episode, our host is Dr. Stephen Wise, Director at Ceres Waste, Renewables, and Environment, and his guest - Philip New, Non Executive Director at Nor…

1
Why Anxiety Hits You When Life Feels Fine - Therapist & Author Eli Weinstein 34:13

4M ago34:13

34:13

Why does anxiety sometimes hit you out of nowhere - when life looks fine on the surface? In this episode of Rugged with Trey Tucker, The "Dude Therapist", Eli Weinstein, shares the panic attack that changed his life and what it revealed about hidden stress men carry. This conversation goes deeper than just one story. It’s about you - your identity,…

1
Alex Eliseev: Cold Case Confession 56:51

4M ago56:51

56:51

This week on Wicked Words on Exactly Right: in 1999, a woman named Betty Ketani went missing in Johannesburg, South Africa. She just vanished from the restaurant where she was working. Then a letter found 13 years later changed everything. Author Alex Eliseev tells me about his book Cold Case Confession—a real Agatha Christie story. Support this po…

1
I Used to Be a 10/10 Man 41:04

4M ago41:04

41:04

In this episode, I share my journey from chasing society’s definition of a “10 out of 10 man” to becoming the man I was actually designed to be. I open up about the struggles, the false standards I once lived by, and the pivotal moments that reshaped my life, from therapy and vulnerability to hookup culture, redefining success, and deepening my fai…

1
Megan Abbott: El Dorado Drive 58:40

4M ago58:40

58:40

New York Times’ best-selling author Megan Abbott often uses true crime stories as a jumping off point for her wildly popular novels. Now she has a new book out called El Dorado Drive. It’s about three sisters who become entangled in a pyramid scheme that turns very dark. The real story behind the novel is so strange, it’s hard to know what really h…