Southern Remedy Relatively Speaking | How To Manage Your Emotions

·49 min·4 clips

Dr. Susan Buttress asks if we can control emotions like anger and anxiety that harm our health.

The episode begins with Dr. Susan Buttress introducing the topic of managing emotions, questioning if we can control negative feelings that impact health. She is joined by Dr. Jimmy Stewart, host of the original Southern Remedy, and producer Abram Nanny. The conversation starts with a discussion on emotional control, where Abram notes that while we can control reactions, controlling feelings is harder. The hosts delve into gender differences, highlighting how boys are often told not to cry, which can lead to anger issues. They reference research from Brett Ford at the University of Toronto, which suggests believing emotions are useful and controllable benefits mental health. Dr. Buttress shares findings from a 1924 NIH study showing positive outlooks correlate with lower blood pressure, reduced heart disease risk, and longer life. She explains brain imaging studies: positive emotions activate reward centers like the ventral striata, while negative emotions light up the amygdala, increasing stress hormones. Dr. Emily Falk's research on self-affirmation is mentioned, showing that focusing on personal values improves mood. Callers contribute throughout: Brother Daniel discusses using prayer and reflection to manage anger, Billy shares his emotional response to his brother-in-law's cancer diagnosis, and Kent argues for 'managing' rather than 'controlling' emotions. The hosts explore cultural differences, noting British reserve versus Mediterranean expressiveness. Abram reflects on how aging and parenthood increase empathy, making him more emotional. The episode wraps with practical tips for emotional wellness, including forgiving oneself and surrounding with positive people.

As heard by us

A steady, practical look at self-talk, anger, and the small habits that shape emotional control.

This PlayNext review frames emotional control as something that begins in everyday self-talk. It follows a simple choice, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, into a wider point about noticing constructive qualities and reinforcing them.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If your anger keeps spilling onto people who did not cause it, this conversation gives you a steadier place to begin.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Southern Remedy