Wellness in Today’s World

Dive into the latest hot topics in wellness, psychology, and everything in between.

Your new favorite wellness podcast!

“Wellness in Today’s World” with Dr. Debra Kawahara is the space to hear the latest insights in psychology, wellness trends, and everything in between. Hosted by APA President and California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) Associate Dean Dr. Debra Kawahara, each episode explores important topics with thought leaders and health experts. You’ll also hear compelling personal stories from the wellness community and Alliant University. Dr. Kawahara and her guests are ready to be a valuable resource for your mental health and well-being!

_{Charles Duhigg, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Supercommunicators, joins Dr. Debra Kawahara to explore the science behind meaningful communication. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral research, Duhigg explains how communication is not just about words but about connection.}

_{The conversation introduces three types of conversation: practical, emotional, and social, and how misalignment between them can lead to misunderstanding. Duhigg shares actionable strategies for improving communication, including the “matching principle,” asking deep questions, and practicing active listening through techniques like “looping for understanding.”}

_{They also discuss the role of vulnerability in building trust, the importance of curiosity in navigating difficult conversations, and how strong relationships are foundational to overall health and well-being. The episode offers listeners practical tools to become more effective communicators and build deeper, more meaningful connections in both personal and professional settings.}

About Dr. Debra Kawahara

Debra M. Kawahara, PhD, is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and a Distinguished Professor at the California School of Professional Psychology (CSPP) at Alliant University. She earned her BA in psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, and holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from CSPP with a focus on multicultural and community psychology. In 2025, she became the first Asian American woman and the first Japanese American to serve as APA President.

About CSPP

Founded in 1969 as one of the nation’s first free-standing schools of professional psychology, CSPP has educated thousands of students who are now working professionals in clinical psychology, couples and family therapy, social work, and organizational psychology. Our degree programs prepare the next generation of mental health professionals and advocates to help improve access to quality care in every community.

CSPP is also well known for our powerful connections to the field of psychology and highly regarded faculty and alumni, both past and present. CSPP has a legacy of academic excellence and supporting a multicultural, diverse culture.

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