In this powerful episode, Soroosh and Alican dive into the complex and often painful reality of toxic relationships with parents during the teenage years and even adulthood. As a teenager, dealing with toxic parental dynamics can be particularly challenging. The pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, constant criticism, and a lack of emotional support can lead to severe consequences such as depression, anxiety, and difficulties in establishing personal boundaries. We explore how these toxic relationships can manifest and the impact they can have on mental health, academic performance, and social life. Our discussion includes personal stories from Alican and Soroosh who have navigated these turbulent waters, expert insights into recognizing toxic behaviors, and practical advice on coping mechanisms. We also highlight the crucial role of support systems – friends, therapists, and online communities – in providing the understanding and validation that might be lacking at home. In this first episode, listeners will hear the engaging story of Alican and how he felt as a teenager. Lacking self-worth, lacking boundaries in a house where he did not feel safe. Want to join our online men's circle? You can put yourself on the waiting list by getting in touch with us (see below). We're launching soon! Have a question, a guest in mind who should be on our podcast, or a topic that you think we should cover related to men's mental health? Send us a voice message on Spotify, DM us via our Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hearts_wide_open_podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or simply mail us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you're enjoying the podcast, your 5-star review really helps us amplify the voice for men's health and motivates us to lead by example in showing that men can open up space where it's okay to be vulnerable and authentic.