Self Centered™ with Katie and Allie

Self Centered™ with Katie and Allie

by Katie Kurtz and Allie West
Mental HealthRelationships
Season 1
71. Why We're Taking a Break from the Pod (Building a Life We Can Hold)
Explicit
What happens when you finally start feeling momentum toward the life you’ve wanted, and realize you need to nurture it instead of overextending yourself? In this deeply personal episode, we share why we’re taking a break from the podcast, not because things are falling apart, but because they’re finally coming together. After years of survival mode, burnout, health struggles, overfunctioning, and pushing through, we’re entering a season focused on sustainability, fullness, joy, and learning how to actually sustain the lives we’ve worked so hard to create. We talk about: Moving from survival mode into thriving The difference between glimpses of wellness and sustainable wellness “Patching the holes in the cup” so growth can actually last Choosing alignment over pressure and performance Building lives that feel nourishing, grounded, and sustainable This episode is especially for you if you've: Spent years in survival mode or chronic stress Felt yourself finally beginning to heal and stabilize Struggled to slow down because you're used to overfunctioning Need permission to prioritize sustainability and joy Are learning that growth sometimes means stepping back, not pushing harder If you’ve been feeling yourself outgrowing survival mode and craving a more sustainable, grounded, joyful life, this episode will deeply resonate. EPISODES MENTIONED: 2. Stop Overextending by Staying in Your Seat 6. Boundaries 23. How to Make Friends as an Adult 27. Ego 101 28. Defense Mechanisms & Relationships 29. Gaslighting 101 42. The Drama Triangle 48. Codependence 101 49. Breaking Codependent Patterns 50. Subconscious Codependent Habits 51. Our Culture is Codependent, too Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E71
Jun 9, 2026
1:01:27
70. Love is Blind Part 7 (Final Episode): Why Chemistry isn't Enough for a Healthy Relationship
Explicit
What happens when you want love so badly that you stop listening to yourself? In this episode, we unpack some of the biggest relationship dynamics from Love Is Blind, including avoidant attachment, codependency, emotional unavailability, weak egos, over-pursuing, validation seeking, and staying true to your values in relationships. Using examples from the show (especially episodes 10, 11, 12, and the reunion), we explore: Why some relationships feel emotionally addictive and confusing The difference between being loved and simply being chosen Why confusion in dating is often a red flag, not a challenge to solve How fear of starting over keeps people stuck in unhealthy dynamics The role insecurity and ego play in dating behavior What healthy partnership, emotional safety, and reciprocity actually look like Why staying self-centered sometimes means walking away from someone you love The importance of compatibility around values, children, finances, and communication This episode is especially helpful for people who: Struggle with people pleasing or codependent relationship patterns Feel stuck in confusing or emotionally inconsistent relationships Tend to ignore red flags because they want love to work Have experienced avoidant partners or anxious attachment Want healthier, more reciprocal relationships rooted in mutual care and emotional maturity EPISODES MENTIONED: 27. What the Ego is and Why it Matters 32. Communication Styles, and how to Become more Assertive 35. How to Know Who You Can Trust (and Who You Can’t) 48. Codependence 101 Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E70
May 26, 2026
1:17:14
69. Love is Blind Part 6: Avoidant Attachment, “Fixing” Partners, and When Love Isn’t Enough
Explicit
What happens when someone seems emotionally available one minute… and completely shuts down the next? In this Love Is Blind recap of Emma and Mike, Bree and Connor, and Chris and Jessica in episodes 7-9, we unpack the real relationship patterns underneath what we’re watching unfold. From avoidant attachment and emotional deactivation to trying to mold someone into your ideal partner, this episode is really about the ways people disconnect from themselves and each other in relationships. We talk about: Avoidant attachment and “deactivation” The difference between loving someone vs loving their validation The pressure to “fix” or raise a partner Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E69
May 12, 2026
42:20
68. Love is Blind Part 5: Confused, Avoidant, and Still Engaged
Explicit
This week, we continue our Love Is Blind breakdown by looking at the difference between relationships that feel grounded and relationships that leave you confused, disconnected, and second-guessing yourself. We talk through the growing disconnect in episodes 7-9 between Brittany and Devonte, the red flags and confusion showing up with Ashley and Alex, and the steadier dynamic we see with Jordan and Amber and Vic and Christine. This conversation circles around self-trust, emotional availability, communication, and what it means to notice when something feels off instead of trying to force clarity out of confusion. Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E68
Apr 28, 2026
36:35
67. Love is Blind Part 4: Couples Retreat Chaos
Explicit
This week, we pick back up on episodes 4-6 of Love is Blind Season 10 as the newly engaged couples head into the couples retreat in Cabo. As we react in real time, we talk about the very different energy across the couples: where connection feels easy, where bids for connection keep getting missed, where lifestyle differences already start showing up, and where attraction, insecurity, and mixed signals make everything feel off. From gym-rat compatibility and "Type A" vs "Type B" living to avoidant behavior, performative confidence, and couples who actually seem calm together, this one gave us a lot to talk about. Come sit with us as we unpack the retreat phase and all the dynamics starting to surface. Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E67
Apr 14, 2026
1:08:32
66. Love is Blind Part 3: Coupling Up and Closing the Pods
Explicit
This week, we finish out the pod phase of Love Is Blind and reflect on the final pairings before the couples retreat. As we watch the last connections unfold, we talk about the pressure to be chosen, the difference between anxiety and clarity, and what happens when someone wants certainty before real trust has had time to form. We also touch on people-pleasing, mixed signals, bids for connection, and the bigger questions that come up when values around marriage, kids, and readiness do not fully line up. Come sit with us as we wrap the pods and see who actually makes it to the next stage. Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E66
Mar 31, 2026
47:24
65. Love Is Blind Part 2: A Codependency Triangle
Explicit
This week, we’re back in Love Is Blind and continuing the conversation with more dynamics, decisions, and relationship patterns starting to unfold as couples pair up and leave the pods. As we react in real time, we find ourselves circling the same dynamics: what happens when attraction is strong but the depth isn’t really there, how differently people respond to uncertainty, and how easy it is to look for calm, clarity, or completion through another person. We also reflect on the people our past selves would have been pulled toward, and how differently those same dynamics land when you trust yourself more. There’s humor, secondhand embarrassment, and a lot of “wait… why did they do that?” but also a deeper layer of recognizing how easy it is to lose yourself when connection feels uncertain or high stakes. Come sit with us as we unpack it all through the lens of the self-centered way. Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E65
Mar 17, 2026
1:09:33
64. Love is Blind - The Self Centered Way Part 1
Explicit
This week, we’re diving into the first three episodes of Netflix's newest season of Love Is Blind and using the chaos, chemistry, and confusion as a mirror. As we share our real-time reactions, we explore the difference between staying grounded in yourself and slowly drifting away from yourself in the name of connection. We talk about communication patterns, emotional regulation, attachment behaviors, and the subtle moments that reveal whether someone is dating from clarity or from fear. The episodes are messy. The dynamics are loud. And underneath it all, we found ourselves asking bigger questions. What do we normalize? What do we excuse? When does chemistry start to feel like self-abandonment? Some of it feels distant. Some of it hits uncomfortably close to home. Join us as we watch Love Is Blind unfold through the lens of the self-centered way by noticing what happens when people stay in their seat… and when they don’t. Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E64
Mar 3, 2026
1:16:33
63. Tools to Cope, Part 2: Minneapolis, ICE, Renée Good & Alex Pretti
Explicit
After last episode’s heavy reflection on current events in the United States, Katie and Allie shift toward coping with the emotional weight of living in a divided country. They speak honestly about grief, anger, exhaustion, and the tension between hope and despair, while also stepping back to name the cultural and psychological dynamics at play, including patterns like the Drama Triangle, ego strength in our reactions, and what it takes to stay present when your world feels like it’s on fire. This episode shares tangible tools and grounding practices to help you stay regulated while navigating a difficult political climate and holding vision for a hopeful path forward. We discuss: The 10/30/60 Principle introduced by a shamanic teacher, Sierra McFeeters, of Indigenous Roots Institute "beginners mind" and other grounding practices to help you stay regulated and present tangible ways to hold vision for a better future how to manage emotional flooding by prioritizing joy and being strategic about your media consumption RESOURCES: Episode 62 Naming What We're Feeling Part 1: Minneapolis, ICE, Renée Good & Alex Pretti Sierra McFeeters, Indigenous Roots Institute Heather Cox Richardson - political historian Ground News Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E63
Feb 17, 2026
33:05
62. Naming What We're Feeling Part 1: Minneapolis, ICE, Renée Good & Alex Pretti
Explicit
In this episode, Katie and Allie sit with what it feels like to watch the country fracture in real time. We speak openly about grief, anger, confusion, and the exhaustion of watching violence become normalized. The conversation reflects on recent events, including the killings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti by ICE, as well as the arrest of journalist Don Lemon, and what these moments reveal about systemic oppression, political division, and the long road ahead for meaningful change. We also reflect on how news and social media shape our understanding of current events, how dynamics like the Drama Triangle and ego strength show up in our reactions, and what it feels like to engage with people who support systems that we believe cause harm. There are no clean answers here. This conversation names the weight of the moment and the difficulty of holding grief, anger, and uncertainty while still trying to imagine a way forward. We Discuss: Our personal response to the ICE shootings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti How polarized reporting and social media echo chambers shape our perceptions Identifying dynamics like the Drama Triangle and ego strength in political and personal interactions How trauma, violence, and systemic oppression affect people across divides Reframing how to interact with people whose beliefs or political alignment don't align with your own RESOURCES: The Ego Series: Episodes 27-30 The Drama Triangle: Episode 42 The Codependency Series: Episodes 48-51 Ground News Love the show? A quick rating or review helps us so much! New episodes every Tuesday – hit subscribe so you don’t miss out. Follow us on IG: selfcentered.pod Thoughts, questions, guest requests, or episode ideas? Email us: selfcenteredthepod@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The Self Centered with Katie and Allie Podcast is intended for entertainment, educational, and reflective purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and content shared by the hosts and guests are personal and subjective. They are not presented as objective facts or as representative of any professional body, organization, or field, including psychotherapy, coaching, or personal training. This podcast includes personal reflections on dynamics in various relationships, platonic, family, romantic, and professional. General references to “family,” “an ex,” or “a friend”, for example, are intentionally vague to protect anonymity and do not refer to every individual in those categories. When names are used, they are fictitious, and identifying details are altered. Some information shared is based on research or professional experience, not personal history. The information provided does not constitute medical, mental health, legal, or other professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with qualified, licensed professionals. Listeners are strongly encouraged to seek the advice and support of appropriate professionals for their own needs. The hosts, guests, and creators of the podcast disclaim all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential loss or damages arising from the use of, reliance on, or interpretation of the podcast content or any linked materials. Use of this podcast and related content is at your own risk. By listening, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
S1 · E62
Feb 3, 2026
1:20:50
1 of 8