The Highly Sensitive Person Podcast

When I’ve talked about jobs and careers in the past, I’ve always said that sales, in my opinion, is one of the worst jobs for introverted HSPs.   But a post on Reddit turned my thoughts about sales on their head. What if an introverted HSP was in a typically "extroverted" job, and instead of forcing themselves to be extroverted...they used their innate traits to their advantage?   (Apologies to the extroverted HSPs because this is one of those episodes about introverts, or introverted HSPs.)   If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes!   Related Blog Posts: For HSPs, jobs are more than just a paycheck The Best Jobs for HSPs   Resources mentioned in the podcast: A travel experience for introverts via cnet.com Sign up for the weekly HSP newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news.  Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Imagine riding in a car with your friends, and everything goes black. The next thing you know, you are lying somewhere, but you can’t see. You’re in indescribable pain. You can’t speak. You can’t move your head. Then you feel a soft touch on your hand and arm, and a caring voice explains that you were in a car accident. This person squeezes your hand and says, “I’m here.” Those two words make a world of difference. This is the story of Marcus Engel. Marcus has used his experience to write books for healthcare professionals, teaching them how to better communicate and treat their patients compassionately. In this episode, I talk about some of Marcus' tips for compassionate care and why HSPs are well-suited to care professions. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes. Related Blog Posts: Compassion Fatigue The Best Jobs for HSPs Resources mentioned in the podcast: I'm Here - Compassionate Communication in Patient Care by Marcus Engel The Other End Of The Stethoscope - 33 Insights fo

Over the past dozen years or so, I’ve gotten more and more scared of turbulence on airplanes. When I was younger, I enjoyed turbulence. I remember a time when I would snicker when I saw other people who looked nervous! But now, It’s now to the point where I’m barely fighting off a panic attack. In this episode, I talk about why turbulence is scary to some people, plus some tips on how I calm down while on a plane. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Resources mentioned in the podcast: Cockpit Confidential by Patrick Smith. This book is recommended for regular people who want to learn more about how commercial flying works (like, why you shouldn't fear turbulence.) Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Are you ever sorry about being sorry? Have you apologized to inanimate objects? Because HSPs are observant to social cues and other people’s feelings, we tend to be very polite. And not only do HSPs have good manners, we notice when other people’s don’t. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. And get your 30-day free audio book trial (including 1 free book) at Audible.com. They have more than 150,000 titles, including The Highly Sensitive Person and Quiet. Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

One glaring topic I have neglected to cover in this podcast and blog is extroverts. Approximately 30% of HSPs are extroverts! (btw, it can also be spelled extravert). In this episode, I share some tidbits I've learned from interviewing extroverted HSPs, including the challenges and differences of being the wonderful way they are. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: Elaine Aron on Psychologytoday.com Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

How have I not yet tackled the topic of travel? I looove to explore new places, and in today's episode, I share my top 11 HSP travel tips from 35+ countries of experience. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes. If you love the podcast or blog, consider donating by clicking "Donate" button on the right side of the blog here. Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: How to travel the world long-term when you are highly sensitive HSP travel survival kit Resources mentioned in this episode: AirBnb for renting apartments (free $25 credit)       Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

In today's episode, I talk about the most interesting parts of this great interview of Dr. Elaine Aron on Reset.me. It's about genetic studies and stuff. Ok, ok, that doesn't sound very exciting, does it? Take #2. In today's episode, I talk about why high sensitivity hasn't been bred out of humans (in an evolutionary sense) and that HSPs might be more likely to be thrive (or, conversely, suffer) than non-HSPs, depending on their upbringing. SCIENCE! If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: Please check out the source for the summarized content of this episode: this interview on Reset.me of Dr. Elaine Aron by Lynn Parramore Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

In this episode 26, I talk about how and why HSPs are more sensitive to caffeine than others. I also touch on the effects of other drugs as well as a possible connection to Mitral Valve Prolapse and HSP. I know--crazy. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: Dr. Elaine Aron "Coping Corner: Strengthening Your Decisions Through "Cardiac Exercise" Caffeine and Anxiety from stressbusting.co.uk Caffeine and shaking hands from Livestrong Mitral valve prolapse information Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: A connection between caffeine, Mitral Valve Prolapse, and high sensitivity? Sensitive to Caffeine: It’s my Kryptonite  Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

In this episode 25, I share some quotes from people in relationships with HSPs who are fed up! They say that HSPs are selfish and don't try to improve themselves. This bums me out and I hope that I don't act this way in my own relationship. Do you ever worry that your partner is ignoring their own needs to help you with yours? Let me know in the comments below. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: The Highly Sensitive Person in Love by Elaine Aron Related posts on this blog: Podcast Episode #7: Explaining HSP to Your Partner A conversation with your non-HSP partner Interview: "My Partner is a Highly Sensitive Person" Responding to haters, yet again Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

In this episode 23, I provide some tips on how to deal with the challenging aspects of being highly sensitive. Do you ever say these things to yourself? "I give a lot to other people but they don’t notice--they don't appreciate or reciprocate my thoughtfulness." "I can’t trust many people because they will inevitably hurt me or let me down." "How can I be less sensitive?" "My empathy weighs heavily on me--It’s so tiring. How can I better handle this?" Have a listen and let me know what you think of my tips in the comments below. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: Book: The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: Podcast Episode #23: Kindred Spirits & Friendship People Pleasers: "I don't want to bother you..." 7 Tips for Coping with the Challenges of Being Highly Sensitive (blog post) Podc

Pontificating on Friendship "Kindred Spirits" are intimate friends, people with whom you are comfortable being your true self. HSPs are often on the hunt for kindred spirits, especially at parties, gatherings, or networking events. Having a deep, intense, shared connection with someone else is essential to meeting the emotional needs of sensitive people. In this episode 23, I also talk about Anne of Green Gables, Susan Cain (as per usual), and why it's ok to let go of friends you don't truly connect with. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: The Susan Cain & Marie Forleo interview. (The "kindred spirit" part is around 13:00) Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: How to meet other Highly Sensitive People Finding the Stasis of Peace 2014 Gift Guide for Highly Sensitive People & Introverts Podcast music attribution: By the C

Emotional cutting is reading or watching things that hurt us emotionally...but we keeping doing them anyway. I do this when I look at dog rescues on Facebook that show when animals were saved or euthanized. Why do I, and other HSPs, seek out this pain? Even though it hurts, sometimes makes me cry, and can take a long time to recover from, I still do it. Do I, deep down, want the pain? If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: Emotional cutting: Reading things that make me sad HSP Podcast #10: HSPs & Animals Compassion Fatigue 2014 Gift Guide for Highly Sensitive People & Introverts Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

The holiday season is here and I've been thinking about gift giving. HSPs' temperament makes them well-suited to picking out the perfect gift for loved ones. We pay close attention to details so we are likely to pick up on the wants and desires of others. In this episode, I talk about the most thoughtful gift I ever received and I also go off on a rant about gift cards. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: 10 Reasons Gift Certificates Make Horrible Gifts from Lifehacker Related posts on this blog: 2014 Gift Guide for Highly Sensitive People & Introverts 2013 Gift Guide for Highly Sensitive People & Introverts My heart still hurts from something that happened when I was 5...  (about losing a gift someone gave me.)         Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Anticipatory grief is a grief reaction that occurs before an impending loss, typically, the death of someone close to you. This episode is about how us HSPs can experience this grief more than others, and not just about death. If you like the podcast, please leave a positive review on iTunes! Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Resources mentioned in this episode: The pet photo from from SkyMall that makes me cry Could I handle having a dog? Related posts on highlysensitiveperson.net: Anticipatory Grief Empathy toward other people’s loss Fearing (Other Peoples’) Death Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

The previous episode was about the single best job for HSPs--working for yourself. Today's show is about more traditional jobs and careers, including what you should look for (and avoid as an HSP). What qualities of being highly sensitive are a benefit to certain jobs? If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a positive review on iTunes! (And if you don't like it, then please don't leave a review!) Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Further reading on highlysensitiveperson.net: Resources for people who want to change their career / work for themselves online HSP Podcast #06: The Importance of Caring Less at Your Job Jobs and Careers for HSPs Here’s the best job for a highly sensitive person All the Battles I Fought When I Worked in a Cubicle Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Since HSPs are detail-oriented, and can be bothered by too much stimuli, there is one job that seems to make the most sense for us! Learn about it here in episode 18. If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a positive review on iTunes! (And if you don't like it, then please don't leave a review!) Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Mentioned in the show: Resources for people who want to change their career / work for themselves online Further reading on highlysensitiveperson.net: HSP Podcast #06: The Importance of Caring Less at Your Job HSP Podcast #15: Needing Control Jobs and Careers for HSPs Here’s the best job for a highly sensitive person All the Battles I Fought When I Worked in a Cubicle My Goal is to Take Down Bright Lights in the Workplace Don’t Stand Over Me While I’m Working Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Episode 17 of the Highly Sensitive Person Podcast is brought to you by the word sensitive. A blog reader, Mike Voss, gave me the great suggestion that maybe the moniker Highly Sensitive Person could be changed to something without the word sensitive, because it's such a loaded word. How about Highly Sensory Person? I like that a lot better. (Actually, the trait's scientific term is Sensory-Processing Sensitivity, or SPS--but I don't hear that used very often!) I discuss how the word sensitive might turn off male HSPs, and even how I denied being HSP at first because I didn't like "sensitive", either. Oh, did I mention it's kind of a rant? If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a positive review on iTunes! (And if you don't like it, then please don't leave a review!) Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Futher reading on highlysensitiveperson.net: I’m reminded that most people don’t understand (or respect) high sensitivity

Episode 16 of the Highly Sensitive Person Podcast is about High Sensation Seeking HSPs. You have no idea how many times I had to edit myself saying that mouthful of words incorrectly in this episode. HSPs are careful and evaluate everything around them thoroughly. But those who are also High Sensation Seekers crave excitement, arousal, and new experiences (not necessarily extreme stuff like skydiving or bungee jumping, mind you.) How can those two traits co-exist in the same person?! I think it's an interesting concept. If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a positive review on iTunes! (And if you don't like it, then please don't leave a review!) Sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news.      Mentioned on this episode: Take the test to see if you are a high sensation seeker Further reading: From Dr. Elaine Aron's website: Personality and Temperament: The Highly Sensitive Person Who Is Also A High Sensation Seeker  This blog: A

Episode 15 of the Highly Sensitive Person Podcast is about control. It wasn't until I started writing about all my HSP stuff that I realized so many of the things that bothered me were about a lack of control. From working in a cubicle, to a fear of flying, to drop-in tennis, I outline the sneaky ways needing control is in my life. If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a review on iTunes! And sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news.        Mentioned on this episode: What would Aristotle do? The fear of losing control Further reading on highlysensitiveperson.net: Deadlines, Schedules, and Commitment Stress Me Out Working at Night = Complete Control Bad news: we can’t change the world to fit our needs Airplane Turbulence Scares Me So Much All the Battles I Fought When I Worked in a Cubicle Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5

Episode 14 of the Highly Sensitive Person Podcast is about empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another being. I talk about wondering if Muay Thai fighters are lonely or sad, and crying about the tragedies of people I don't think I have a right to be that sad about. If you like the podcast, please say "thanks" by leaving a review on iTunes! And sign up for the weekly newsletter to be notified of the latest blog posts, podcast episodes, and HSP news. Mentioned on this episode: Dr. Elaine Aron's empathy brain study Further reading: On this blog: Fearing other people's death On this blog: Feeling the physical pain of others The Condolence Note Coach website - a wonderful resource helping people deal with and write condolence notes A Few Suggestions for "Regulating" Fear, Grief, Anger, and Joy by Elaine Aron Being empathic versus being empath - crucial differences Podcast music attribution: By the Coast (2004) (Antony Raijekov) / CC BY-NC 2.5