Imperfect Love cover art

Imperfect Love

Imperfect Love

By: Dr. Carla Marie Manly
Listen for free

About this listen

The messy road of life is difficult to navigate alone, and it’s often tough to figure out the next best step. Hosted by psychologist and author Dr. Carla Marie Manly, the Imperfect Love podcast sheds light on the complicated, sensitive problems that affect us all. Dr. Carla responds to listeners’ real-life questions with a mindfulness-based approach. She delivers quality, nourishing advice on finding love and happiness by learning to embrace life's imperfections.

In supportive conversations with Dr. Carla, you’ll be inspired to cultivate inner joy and create the loving relationships you deserve. With her unique body-mind-spirit focus, she’ll help you create self-love and transform your challenges into growth opportunities. Each episode is an invitation to explore what does and doesn’t work for you. Collectively, the episodes will help you live the life you were meant to live—the life you want to live—right now.

Looking to grow and change for the better? Discover and hone the skills that will bring you fulfillment and success. Explore the shifts that will help you create the life of your dreams. Increase your self-esteem as you let go of the fear and perfectionism that feed everything from anxiety and body image issues to people-pleasing. Get unstuck and gain confidence by turning negative messages into fuel for change. Feel the transformation that comes from loving your wonderful, imperfect self.

Tired of unsatisfying love relationships? Learn how to attract “perfectly flawed” love that helps you feel seen and respected. Explore love’s highs and lows as you discover how to avoid pitfalls and build emotionally intimate relationships. Discover effective skills for cultivating boundaries, emotional intelligence (EQ), and communication skills to improve your dating life, marriage, or other romantic relationship. Delve into hot topics including narcissism, red flags, toxic patterns, sexuality, apologies, insecure attachment issues, situationships, conflict, trauma, and more.

Looking for genuine, supportive friendships? Get the tools you need to create connections with people who understand, accept, and appreciate you. Learn how to let go of unhealthy friends and discover how to build friendships with people who will respect your boundaries and value you for who you are.


Struggling with parenting, in-laws, siblings, or other family issues? Explore challenging family dynamics and attachment problems from multiple angles. Master communication strategies and discover how to shift dysfunctional family patterns with mindful love and empathy.

Feeling burned out or unsatisfied at work? Investigate the problems that make work feel like a depressing chore. Discover the power of workplace EQ and the importance of work-life balance. Learn to use self-care to avoid burnout and feel passionate about your job.

Yearning for respect, equality, and unconditional love? If you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community or other marginalized group and have been rejected because of who you are or who you love, you’ll find inclusivity and affirmation. Dr. Carla's platform is welcoming of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Above all, Imperfect Love creates a warm and accepting space for you to reconnect with your inherent goodness, wisdom, and spirituality. Discover the benefits of self-care and healthy mindset shifts to create positive patterns and internal abundance. Embrace effective stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, journaling, and breathwork to reduce anxiety, calm your mind, and take control of your emotions. Manifest the inner joy that allows you to be the very best version of yourself.

Enjoy Imperfect Love at http://DrCarlaManly.com.


Disclaimer: This podcast is purely educational and is not a replace for professional psychological support. In case of emergency, contact your nearest hospital or emergency hotline such as “911” (US), “999” (UK), or “112” (EU).

Copyright 2025 | All Right Reserved | https://drcarlamanly.com/
Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Spirituality
Episodes
  • Getting Strong: Setting Boundaries without Losing Relationships
    May 1 2026
    Are you a naturally nurturing person who finds that acts of loving kindness are being mistaken for invitations to be taken advantage of or manipulated? For many generous souls, the moment they begin setting boundaries, the pushback can feel enormous.This is the painful reality for one mother, whose question forms the focus of this episode: "I finally realized my daughter is manipulating me... I have started saying no. This has made her really angry. She is worse than ever and threatens to cut me off if I do not give her whatever she wants."How do you keep your boundaries without losing your child?In this essential discussion, Dr. Carla Manly is joined by clinician and host Dr. Darcy Sterling to provide expert tips on how to create and maintain strong, healthy boundaries, navigate uncomfortable conflicts, and avoid falling back into old, detrimental patterns.We often think that giving our loved ones everything they want and need is the right thing to do. And this is especially true for those of us who are naturally nurturing and giving. Yet, from my experience, I've found that certain people mistake acts of loving kindness for invitations to take advantage--or even abuse--generous souls. When this occurs, eye-opening moments often help the giver realize they are being used or manipulated. And if strong boundaries are then put in place, the push-back can be enormous. Today, I'm joined by a terrific clinician who will provide tips to help you create and maintain healthy boundaries.Topics discussed include family, friends, children, adult children, parents, parenting, emotional blackmail, boundaries, demands, ultimatums, estrangement, conflict avoidance, tolerance, discomfort, healthy boundary setting, empathy, validation, listening, reinforcement, negative behaviors, people-pleasing, and imperfect love.Sensitive Episode: Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised.Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes. Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationshipsIMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanlyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_loveTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manlyBooks by Dr. Carla Manly:Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly Aging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships Imperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:Etsy AmazonConnect with Dr. Darcy Sterling:Website: https://www.askdrdarcy.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdarcysterlingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDarcySterling/Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanlyLinkedIn:
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Coming Together: Tips for Turning Conflict into Connection
    Apr 24 2026
    Are you conflict avoidant? Do you find it tough to face difficult conversations? Are you filled with anxiety when it's time to talk to certain people about your thoughts or feelings? As a clinical psychologist, I've learned that many people struggle with communication, especially when it comes to discussing challenging topics with romantic partners, friends, or family members. Yet when you learn to face conflict and other relational issues with emotional intelligence, you and your relationships can actually get stronger. Today's expert, Dr. David Zierk, will walk us through the intricate journey of how to deepen your relationships by turning conflict into connection. Topics discussed include emotional intelligence, conflict, fighting, conflict resolution skills, vulnerability, shutting down, stonewalling, insecurity, trauma, childhood trauma, habituation, conditioning, beliefs, mindset, marriage, divorce, validation, self-reflection, relational intelligence, romantic partner, friend, family, family dynamics, family patterns. Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised. Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanlyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_loveTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manlyBooks by Dr. Carla Manly:Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love FearlesslyAging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and BeyondThe Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached RelationshipsImperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:EtsyAmazonConnect with Dr. David Zierk:Website: http://davidzierk.com/Podcast: https://www.davidzierk.com/podcast/Book: http://davidzierk.com/bookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.DavidZierkConnect with Dr. Carla Manly:Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanlyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_loveTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manlyBooks by Dr. Carla Manly:Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love FearlesslyAging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and BeyondThe Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached RelationshipsImperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:EtsyAmazonLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Unlock Joy and Get Unstuck: Reconnecting with Your Inner Child!
    Apr 17 2026
    Do you have a healthy inner child or do unresolved childhood hurts and wounds keep you stuck? No matter how old (or young) you are, a process called "reparenting" can help you discover and work with emotions and wounds that may keep you entrapped in patterns that leave you hurting and unfulfilled. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Katy Cook, a top-notch inner child specialist who will guide us through the journey of getting to know, heal, and love that precious inner child within you. Dr. Cook is a psychologist, author, and co-founder of the Inner Child Care app. Topics discussed include secure attachment, insecure attachment, inner child healing, inner child work, reparenting, inner critic, criticism, self-worth, negative beliefs, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, validation, emotional abuse, neglect, childhood, parenting, healing, self-compassion, and self-talk. Please note that this episode contains sensitive material; listener discretion is advised. Emergency Assistance Details: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911," "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline), or SAMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). As applicable, additional resources may be provided in the show notes.Non-Emergency Online Mental Health Information: https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/and https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No expert is offering medical or psychological direction or advice; the content is purely informational in nature. Please consult your physician or healthcare provider before undertaking any new regimen or procedure.Connect with Dr. Carla Manly:Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanlyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr_carlamanly_imperfect_loveTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manlyBooks by Dr. Carla Manly:Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love FearlesslyAging Joyfully: A Woman’s Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and BeyondThe Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached RelationshipsImperfect Love Relationship & Oracle Card Deck by Dr. Carla Manly:EtsyAmazonConnect with Dr. Katy Cook:Website: https://www.drkatycook.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkatycookFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586197941963InnerChild: https://www.innerchild.careThe Psychology of Silicon Valley: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Silicon-Valley-Emotional-Unintelligence-ebook/dp/B07Z4LT5V8Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/
    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
No reviews yet