Share

cover art for finding secret delight in the downfall of others: exploring schadenfreude [preview]

Back From The Borderline

finding secret delight in the downfall of others: exploring schadenfreude [preview]

Have you ever secretly rejoiced in someone else's misfortune? This episode peels back the layers of schadenfreude, a complex emotion often hidden in plain sight.

Schadenfreude, the feeling of pleasure derived from another's troubles, is a concept deeply ingrained in human nature, yet it's rarely acknowledged openly. We delve into its origins and the psychological underpinnings that make us susceptible to this emotion. Why do we experience it, and what does it say about our societal values and personal insecurities?


Through real-life narratives, we examine schadenfreude from both sides. One story explores its role as a defense mechanism, highlighting how personal insecurities and envy can lead to feelings of satisfaction in others' failings. The contrasting narrative focuses on experiencing schadenfreude from the receiving end, unraveling the emotional complexities and unspoken tensions it creates in relationships. In dissecting these stories, we confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. This episode is an investigation into our darker impulses and a call to greater self-awareness and empathy. Join me in exploring the intricate dynamics of schadenfreude and what it reveals about our inner selves.


Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.


The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

More episodes

View all episodes

  • dysfunctional family roles – part 1: decoding the dynamics of dysfunction [preview]

    35:11|
    Every family has its secrets—those untold stories that shape us in ways we don't always see. What hidden roles within your family have shaped you? Are there patterns you're living out without even realizing it? Welcome to the first episode of a series that dives deep into the forces at work in our families—those powerful, often overlooked dynamics that mold our lives. We’ll be digging into the deep-rooted patterns and roles that drive our behaviors and emotions, the ones that set the stage for how we relate to others and ourselves as we grow. Together, we'll unravel the complex ideas behind family systems theory and Internal Family Systems. I'll give you a fresh lens to view your own life and relationships. As we move through this series, you'll not only spot these dynamics but learn how to change them and finally break the cycle of dysfunction. Don't miss this journey to uncover and rethink the roles that have been quietly directing your life.RESOURCES: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz TIME STAMPS:00:00 – 32:02.01: PART 1 (Introduction to the series and dysfunctional family systems, defining and discussing their dynamics, and exploring Family Systems Theory and Internal Family Systems Theory by Richard Schwartz.)32:02.01 – 01:00:20.90: PART 2 (Exploration of core IFS concepts: Self, Managers, Exiles, Firefighters, and their relevance to family roles; identifying signs of dysfunction like conflict, secrecy, and emotional suppression and over-expression; introduction to the purpose of roles; strategies for recognition and healing.) Unlock The Full Episode By Becoming a Premium Submarine: Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
  • mind unveiled part 2: carl jung and the advent of spiritual psychology

    48:29|
    How do your dreams, symbols, and personal myths shape the life you’re living? What hidden dimensions of your psyche are waiting to be uncovered? In this episode of Mind Unveiled, we turn our focus to Carl Jung - a thinker who dared to explore the spiritual undercurrents of human existence, redefining psychology as a bridge between the mystical and the everyday.We’ll trace Jung’s journey from his early influences to the intellectual partnership and eventual split with Sigmund Freud. Their relationship revealed two radically different ways of understanding the human psyche. Freud viewed the unconscious as a container for repressed desires, while Jung saw it as a rich landscape of archetypes and symbols shaping our experiences and choices. Through this exploration, you’ll uncover the roots of Jung’s most transformative ideas: the formation of the ego, the journey toward the self, and the sacred path he called Heilsweg. Far from abstract theory, these concepts illuminate the patterns that drive your inner conflicts and help you navigate the search for meaning in your life.This episode offers a fresh perspective on Jung’s work, showing how the symbolic world provides answers that transcend logic. From the mysteries of the unconscious to the balance between personal growth and collective wisdom, this conversation will inspire you to see your own journey in a new light.Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
  • mind unveiled part 2: carl jung and the advent of spiritual psychology [ad-free]

    48:29|
    How do your dreams, symbols, and personal myths shape the life you’re living? What hidden dimensions of your psyche are waiting to be uncovered? In this episode of Mind Unveiled, we turn our focus to Carl Jung - a thinker who dared to explore the spiritual undercurrents of human existence, redefining psychology as a bridge between the mystical and the everyday.We’ll trace Jung’s journey from his early influences to the intellectual partnership and eventual split with Sigmund Freud. Their relationship revealed two radically different ways of understanding the human psyche. Freud viewed the unconscious as a container for repressed desires, while Jung saw it as a rich landscape of archetypes and symbols shaping our experiences and choices. Through this exploration, you’ll uncover the roots of Jung’s most transformative ideas: the formation of the ego, the journey toward the self, and the sacred path he called Heilsweg. Far from abstract theory, these concepts illuminate the patterns that drive your inner conflicts and help you navigate the search for meaning in your life.This episode offers a fresh perspective on Jung’s work, showing how the symbolic world provides answers that transcend logic. From the mysteries of the unconscious to the balance between personal growth and collective wisdom, this conversation will inspire you to see your own journey in a new light.Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
  • dysfunctional family roles – part 1: decoding the dynamics of dysfunction [premium exclusive]

    01:00:21|
    Every family has its secrets—those untold stories that shape us in ways we don't always see. What hidden roles within your family have shaped you? Are there patterns you're living out without even realizing it? Welcome to the first episode of a series that dives deep into the forces at work in our families—those powerful, often overlooked dynamics that mold our lives.We’ll be digging into the deep-rooted patterns and roles that drive our behaviors and emotions, the ones that set the stage for how we relate to others and ourselves as we grow. Together, we'll unravel the complex ideas behind family systems theory and Internal Family Systems. I'll give you a fresh lens to view your own life and relationships. As we move through this series, you'll not only spot these dynamics but learn how to change them and finally break the cycle of dysfunction.Don't miss this journey to uncover and rethink the roles that have been quietly directing your life. This series will equip you with the insights and tools you need for real change and healing. Get ready to rewrite the hidden scripts that shape our actions and relationships.RESOURCES: ✧ No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz✧ Your Many Faces by Virginia Satir  TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – 32:02.01: PART 1 (Introduction to the series and dysfunctional family systems, defining and discussing their dynamics, and exploring Family Systems Theory and Internal Family Systems Theory by Richard Schwartz.) 32:02.01 – 01:00:20.90: PART 2 (Exploration of core IFS concepts: Self, Managers, Exiles, Firefighters, and their relevance to family roles; identifying signs of dysfunction like conflict, secrecy, and emotional suppression and over-expression; introduction to the purpose of roles; strategies for recognition and healing.)
  • anatomy of evil: britney spears (from pop princess to public prisoner – a story of exploitation and control) [preview]

    52:29|
    Britney Spears has been both a symbol of the dazzling heights of pop stardom and a stark reflection of the exploitation that fame often conceals. Her story invites us to look beyond the glittering façade and into the machinery that constructs—and consumes—our cultural icons.From the beginning, Britney’s rise was meticulously crafted, her image curated to entertain, seduce, and sell. But the glamour came at a cost, turning her life into a commodity to be managed, controlled, and profited from. The conservatorship that dominated her life for over a decade is more than a legal arrangement—it’s a chilling example of how systems can strip autonomy under the guise of protection.This episode delves into the forces that shaped Britney’s life: the media frenzy that feasted on her pain, a legal structure that prioritized control over care, and a society that seems addicted to watching its stars fall. Her story raises uncomfortable questions about the way we consume celebrity, how we justify surveillance and restriction, and what happens when humanity is eclipsed by spectacle.What does Britney’s narrative reveal about the structures we trust and the roles we play in sustaining them? As we unravel the threads of her story, we’re forced to confront the deeper implications for all of us—the ways we allow systems of power to thrive and the cost of our collective complicity. Britney’s story isn’t merely about fame—it’s a mirror reflecting a culture enthralled by control and captivated by its consequences. TIME STAMPS:03:55.20 – 48:58.07: PART 1 (Britney's childhood, family dynamics, rise to stardom, early sexualization, and media exploitation)48:58.07 – 01:43:32.80: PART 2 (The conservatorship's origins, legal battles, forced medications, public resistance, Free Britney movement, and final reflections on societal complicity) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
  • mind unveiled part 1: the birth of psychotherapy and the theories of sigmund freud

    01:15:04|
    Welcome to part one of Mind Unveiled, a six-part series exploring the origins and evolution of depth psychology. To understand how modern psychology impacts us today, we need to go back to its roots: the controversial theories of Sigmund Freud. This series traces the journey from Freud’s psychoanalysis to Carl Jung’s analytical psychology, uncovering how these ideas influence the way we think about the mind and ourselves.Freud’s theories about the unconscious, defense mechanisms, and inner conflict changed the way we see the human mind. But his work wasn’t without flaws. Freud presented himself as a scientist, but much of what he did was based on personal observation rather than scientific evidence. He was a deeply mystical and critical thinker, but was also shaped by his own habits, cultural biases, and obsessions. From his experimentation with cocaine to the way he embedded his own struggles into his theories, Freud’s legacy is as fascinating as it is flawed. In this episode, we critically explore his contributions, exposing both his brilliance and the cracks in his ideas. Freud’s work remains a starting point for understanding the psyche. Let’s dig into where it all began.What’s Next: In Part Two, we’ll turn to Carl Jung, who expanded on Freud’s ideas and took them into bold new territory, from archetypes to the collective unconscious. Each step of this series builds a deeper understanding of psychology’s foundation, showing how these early thinkers shaped the tools we use to navigate our own minds today.Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
  • mind unveiled part 1: the birth of psychotherapy and the theories of sigmund freud [ad-free]

    01:15:04|
    Do you ever wonder what drives your deepest desires, fears, and dreams? Have you ever felt torn between your instincts, rational thoughts, and moral values? Welcome to the first episode of our groundbreaking series on psychotherapy, where we embark on a journey through the fascinating realms of the human mind, starting with the revolutionary work of Sigmund Freud.In this episode, I’ll take you through the birth of psychotherapy, unraveling how Freud's pioneering theories laid the foundation for modern mental health practices. We'll delve into the essence of psychotherapy, exploring its purpose and evolution from Freud's psychoanalysis to the diverse therapies practiced today. Understand how psychotherapy helps individuals achieve self-awareness and personal growth by examining the intricate relationship between therapist and client.Discover who Sigmund Freud was and why his contributions remain pivotal to the field of psychology. Learn about Freud’s major theories, including the role of the unconscious, defense mechanisms, and his famous triad of the psyche: the id, ego, and superego. These concepts are not just historical artifacts but fundamental tools that continue to shape contemporary therapeutic practices.By the end of this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights into how the interplay of the id, ego, and superego influences behavior and personality. You’ll also understand the conflicts and tensions that arise within the psyche and their impact on mental health. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the foundations of psychotherapy—your journey towards greater self-understanding starts here.Next episode, we’ll explore the intriguing world of Carl Jung and the advent of spiritual psychology. Discover how Jung expanded on Freud's ideas, introducing concepts like the collective unconscious and archetypes. Stay tuned to learn how these groundbreaking theories continue to influence our understanding of the human mind.
  • anatomy of evil: britney spears (from pop princess to public prisoner – a story of exploitation and control) [premium exclusive]

    01:43:32|
    Welcome back to another episode of 'Anatomy of Evil,' where we delve deeper than the surface to understand the intricate forces that shape human actions and societal responses. Today, we shift our focus from notorious criminals to a narrative equally complex and shadowed by exploitation — the life of Britney Spears. Britney Spears — a name that echoes across generations as the quintessential pop icon, whose meteoric rise to fame was as dazzling as it was orchestrated. From a tender age, Britney was thrust into the limelight, her image crafted and sexualized, not just for entertainment but as a commodity for immense profit. Today, we peel back the layers of glamour to reveal the unsettling truths of manipulation, control, and the heavy price of fame.In this episode, we'll explore how the early sexualization in the media, intense family dynamics, and convoluted legal battles converged to systematically exploit a vulnerable individual. We begin by tracing her ascent to stardom, marked by the relentless shaping of her public persona by those who stood to gain the most.The saga deepens with Britney's conservatorship years — a period that raises profound questions about autonomy, mental health, and the ethics of guardianship laws. How did a system designed to protect become a tool for control and profit? We'll dissect the roles played by the media, her family, and the legal system that together, wove a web of surveillance and restriction around Britney, often justified under the guise of protection.As we navigate through these turbulent waters, we'll also consider the broader societal implications. The relentless paparazzi, the public's insatiable curiosity, and the shifting tides of public opinion reflect a culture fascinated yet unforgiving of its idols. This episode is not just about one woman’s fight for autonomy; it's a mirror to our society's fascination with and consumption of personal tragedies.Why include Britney Spears in a series about evil? Because evil is not just about the monstrous acts of individuals; it’s also about the systems and societal norms that enable and perpetuate suffering and injustice. Britney's narrative challenges us to reflect on the moral and ethical landscapes of our own lives and societies. It prompts us to ask: in the spectacle of her struggles, who really were the villains? And what does our engagement with her story reveal about us?Join me as we explore these complex dynamics, drawing from psychological theories, historical contexts, and ethical dilemmas to understand not just Britney’s story, but the shadowy underbelly of fame and control in modern society. Let's uncover the mechanisms of exploitation and control that, while uniquely tailored to Britney, echo across many lives and many stories — reminding us that sometimes, the true anatomy of evil is hidden within the structures we trust the most.TIME STAMPS:03:55.20 – 48:58.07: PART 1 (Britney's childhood, family dynamics, rise to stardom, early sexualization, and media exploitation)48:58.07 – 01:43:32.80: PART 2 (The conservatorship's origins, legal battles, forced medications, public resistance, Free Britney movement, and final reflections on societal complicity)
  • from hashtag to holy: reclaiming the mystical art of manifestation from the clutches of social media [preview]

    49:26|
    What if everything you’ve been told about manifesting your ideal reality isn’t just oversimplified but fundamentally misguided? In a world where the art of manifestation is often sold as a quick fix for acquiring your dream life, the perfect partner, or material success, it’s time we peel back the layers of this digital deception. The unsettling reality is that the vast majority of digital manifesters are far removed from the profound, transformative practices they believe they are participating in. Together, we’ll uncover the true essence of manifestation—a practice rooted in millennia-old traditions, where the focus was never about 'me' but about dissolving the 'me' into the greater cosmic order. We’ll trace how this sacred philosophy has been co-opted and corrupted by modern notions of self-centered spirituality, where the deep, integral message of non-duality and unity with the universe has been overshadowed by a rush for personal gain and social media validation. Join me as we navigate through the history and hijacking of manifestation, from its reverent origins in mystical traditions to its current incarnation on your TikTok feed. By the end of our journey, you’ll have the knowledge to discern true spiritual empowerment from the ego-driven noise, bringing you closer to the authentic practices that can truly transform your life and connect you with the deeper rhythms of the universe. Prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about manifestation. It’s time to strip away the illusions and return to the roots of real spiritual power. TIME STAMPS:00:00 – 45:54.03: PART 1 (Introduction to digital manifestation, exploring its contrast with traditional spiritual practices like Islamic tajallī, historical shifts from the Protestant Reformation to the New Age movement, and the impact of psychoanalysis and technology on individual spiritual autonomy.)45:54.03 – 01:17:44.00: PART 2 (Analysis of TikTok manifestation methods versus traditional intentions like niyyah, discussion on how digital spirituality often amplifies ego, exploration of reality shifting and its critiques from various mystics, and strategies for identifying genuine versus problematic spiritual content online.) Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.