
Got questions about parenting, teenagers, or relationships? Ever wonder why your teen won’t talk to you, or why your relationship feels like hard work lately? Hi, I’m Marie Vakakis—a therapist, mental health educator, and someone who’s been behind the scenes with countless families and couples navigating the ups and downs of real life. This Complex Life is your go-to for relatable insights, practi... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 119 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Health & FitnessEducationSelf-ImprovementMental Health | |||

We all like to think of ourselves as grown-ups, but what does it really mean to grow yourself up? And how does that shape every relationship you have at home, at work, and with the people you love most?
In this encore episode, I’m joined by Dr Jenny... more
Does it ever feel like your teenager just doesn’t hear you?
You remind them about chores, offer advice, try to connect and all you get back is silence, an eye roll, or a quick “whatever.”
In this encore episode, I unpack one of the biggest frustra... more
As kids grow into teens, they start to need more independence, and for many parents, that shift can feel like rejection. When your child pulls away, stops talking, or wants less of you, it’s easy to take it personally.
In this encore episode of This... more
Rejection stings, whether it’s a friend pulling away, not getting the job, being ghosted, or a partner feeling distant. Our brains don’t like ambiguity, so they fill in the blanks with painful stories about not being good enough, smart enough, or lo... more
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I really enjoy this podcast. The host is smart and helpful and easy to listen to. The topics don’t necessarily all apply to me but usually something is mentioned or the way she frames things helps translate to my own situations.
A friend got me onto this podcast. So much interesting info and I love that the episodes are different lengths so I can pick what I have time for in that moment.
Marie is well researched and thorough in her exploration of topics. Her podcast is my go to whenever i’m in the car or during my morning walk. I highly rate this podcast to anyone wanting to increase their knowledge.
As a teacher, This Complex Life has been such an eye-opener—not just for understanding my students but also for my own relationship. Marie’s insights into teenagers and relationships are practical, relatable, and often feel like she’s speaking directly to my experiences.
Her episodes have helped me better understand the emotional challenges my students face, while also giving me thoughtful tips to strengthen communication and connection in my personal life. Whether it’s for the classroom or my ... more
Listening to This Complex Life feels like having a personal therapist in your pocket. Marie’s episodes on relationships are insightful and practical, breaking down why things feel hard and how to make them better.
Her advice is honest, warm, and easy to apply, leaving me with real tools to improve my relationship. If you’re looking for straightforward, relatable guidance, this podcast is a must-listen.
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Apple Podcasts | #235 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
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This podcast focuses on the complexities of parenting, teenage behavior, and relationships, offering real-life insights and practical advice rooted in psychological principles. Hosted by a seasoned therapist and mental health educator, the discussions cover a wide range of issues, from understanding teenage moods to navigating marital difficulties. Each episode features relatable conversations aimed at helping listeners find manageable solutions to the challenges they face in daily family and relationship dynamics, blending education with a touch of humor to make the content engaging and accessible.
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This Complex Life launched 7 years ago and published 119 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on This Complex Life include:
1. Andrea Dindinger
2. Carrie Wiita
3. Ben Feinman
4. Tham Fuyana
5. Belinda Gibson
6. Dr. Lillian Nejad
7. Jamie Maserow
8. Anne Carter
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