🎧 Episode 59: Attachment, Vulnerability & Modern Relationships with Michael Ashenfelter, LPC-S
đź“ť Episode Summary:
This week on The Millennial Life Podcast, Liz sits down with therapist Michael Ashenfelter for a grounded and compassionate discussion on men, therapy, and the misunderstood landscape of vulnerability. Michael unpacks the emotional barriers men often face in relationships, the attachment patterns that influence how they connect, and how redefining strength through emotional awareness can transform intimacy and connection. This episode shines a light on how repair and vulnerability can reshape modern relationships—from the inside out.
đź’¬ Episode Notes:
Real change begins when we slow down and tune into our emotional experience.
Emotional processing comes first — once we move *through* emotion, logic follows naturally.
Shame is often an adaptive attempt to connect, not a flaw or weakness.
Individuals with anxious-avoidant attachment styles often crave validation to feel safe in relationships.
Dismissive-avoidant types may fear their own emotions and suppress them to maintain control or safety.
Avoidant attachment stems from experiences where needs were unmet or caregivers were unavailable.
Millennial men have received mixed messages about emotion and masculinity, leading to both conflict and growth in emotional awareness.
The beauty of attachment theory lies in *repair* — it’s never too late to reconnect, rebuild trust, and heal.
True bonding doesn’t happen in perfection, but in repair after disconnection.
Men *do* have emotions — the key is creating an environment safe enough for them to be felt and shared.
đź“š Resources Mentioned:
đź’» Learn more about Michael and his practice: [Ashenfelter Counseling](https://www.ashenfeltercounseling.com)
🎙️ Listen to Michael’s podcast: *Cocktail Therapy*
🎥 Watch Becky Kennedy’s TED Talk: “The Single Most Important Parenting Strategy”
đź”— Stay Connected:
Instagram: @millenniallifecounseling
Facebook: Millennial Life Counseling
Website: www.millenniallifecounseling.com