License to Self-Validate

In this episode of House on Fire, Dr. Stefanie Sugar and Jordan Reid explore the wide spectrum of parental anxiety, from fears about serious safety threats to everyday worries about movies, sleepovers, and growing independence. They discuss how the line between protective parenting and fear-based parenting isn’t black-and-white, but shaped by each child’s personality, resilience, sensitivity, and the way they process the world around them. Bringing a thoughtful, skills-based lens to the conversation, they reflect on why shielding children from all discomfort isn’t always helpful, and how guided exposure to challenging experiences can build understanding and emotional resilience. With practical insights and compassionate perspective, this episode encourages parents to pause and ask whether a situation poses real harm or an opportunity for learning, growth, and stronger coping skills.

Loneliness is something many of us experience, even when we’re not technically alone. In this episode of House on Fire, Dr. Stefanie Sugar and Jordan Reid unpack what loneliness looks like in adulthood, why it can show up in relationships, and how cultural narratives and social media shape our sense of connection. Bringing DBT skills into the conversation, they explore mindfulness, judgment, and opposite action as tools for navigating isolation and taking small, meaningful steps toward connection. With personal reflections and practical takeaways, this episode invites listeners to rethink loneliness and gently move toward belonging, one moment at a time.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and what makes it such a powerful, skills-based approach to emotional well-being. Dr. Stefanie Sugar breaks down what DBT is, how it differs from other forms of therapy, and why it focuses on building practical tools rather than assigning labels or diagnoses. From emotional regulation and mindfulness to purpose and values, this conversation explores how learning the right skills can help people feel more grounded, capable, and connected, creating a life worth living.

The holidays are upon us! Filled with good food, friends and family, the holidays can also be fraught with stress, anxiety, dread and disappointment. Join us as we talk about common stressors during the holiday season and specific DBT skills (Cope Ahead, Radical Acceptance and Opposite Action) you can use to navigate them more effectively!

In this special two-part series of House on Fire, we sit down with Dr. Francheska Perepletchikova, the developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C). DBT-C is an adaptation of DBT designed to help children and their families develop essential coping skills. In Part 1, Dr. Perepletchikova shares the origins of DBT-C, the differences between standard DBT and its child-focused adaptation, and how parents play a central role in the treatment process. She also discusses the core strategies used to teach children emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and problem-solving skills in an engaging and developmentally appropriate way. Whether you’re a clinician, parent, or just curious about the power of DBT for kids, this series offers a fascinating look into the transformative potential of DBT-C. Tune in to learn from the expert herself!

Join us for the Season 2 premiere of House on Fire as we interview Dr. Stefanie Sugar, Executive Director and Founder of Behavioral Psych Studio. We'll delve into all things BPS and DBT, explore the journey from where we've been to where we're heading, and discuss the intersection of the personal, professional, and professional-personal. Don’t miss this engaging, heartfelt conversation between three clinicians and friends as we kick off our new season! 

Join the hosts of House on Fire as we dive into the role that self-validation plays in managing overwhelming emotions, building resilience, and maintaining relationships. We'll explore the what, how, where, when, and why behind this skill, sharing practical tips and anecdotes - including an ever-present emphasis on our love for Taylor Swift. Whether you're a parent, a therapist, or someone seeking personal growth, our season one finale will offer valuable insights to help you trust and honor your own experiences. Hop in our 'Getaway Car,' license to validate in-hand, as we draw our first season to a close! 

In this episode of House on Fire, join us for an exploration into the dynamics of validation in relationships — a tool that plays a crucial role in how we connect with others. Tune in as we share personal experiences and anecdotes, offering a candid look at how validation manifests in our own lives. With humor, humility, and empathy, the hosts of House on Fire walk listeners through the six levels of validation. Listen now to discover how validation influences our relationships, amidst both festive, celebratory gatherings and the ordinary moments of our lives!

Join the hosts of House on Fire as we dive into the intricate dynamics of family relationships! Our conversation examines the inherent tensions, conflicts, and harmonies that shape family life, unraveling the complexities of some of our closest bonds. Tune in for insights on navigating conflicts, finding common ground, and fostering deeper connections within your own interpersonal relationships. Through anecdotes and DBT skills, we'll be exploring how to find a synthesis. It's a worthy expedition, and we hope that you'll embark upon it with us!

We're walking a middle path (with a pep in our steps!). Join House on Fire as we dive into the world of workplace dialectics. Discover how striking that balance of opposing ideas and perspectives can enhance connection and alleviate suffering across three common stress points: interpersonal conflict at work, navigating job transitions, and seeking work/life balance. How do Razor Scooters, Khloe Kardashian, and preparing lemonade fit in? Join us to find out, and learn more about finding your workplace equilibrium.