Only Trying to Help

Higher education and wellness professional, Joshua Bensink joins Dr. Kate Watson to talk about the well-meaning, but unhelpful, things people do to "help" college-aged youth. 

Sometimes when we’re trying to help someone, we focus on the wrong things—what advice to give, what solution to offer, or what the “right” words might be.

But the most important ingredient in helping might actually be something much simpler: the relationship.

In Episode 138 of the Only Trying to Help podcast, Ravi Maharajh joins the conversation to talk about why rapport matters so much when we’re trying to support others. Before people accept guidance, feedback, or help, they usually need to feel understood, respected, and safe with the person offering it.

We also take a few nostalgic detours into 80s movie references, because sometimes the best conversations about helping others include a little laughter along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered why good advice sometimes falls flat—or why some people seem naturally better at helping than others—this episode explores the powerful role of connection. 

The people who love you may have good intentions, but when it comes #financialplanning, it's best to rely on experts like Neal Regino from  @evolutionfinancialgroup  He breaks down common myths and misconceptions that well-meaning people may be perpetuating. We know they're #onlytryingtohelp, but let's be careful when it comes to money, huh?

In helping professions—and in everyday life—it’s easy to start seeing every problem as an emergency. When someone is struggling, our instinct is to jump in immediately, fix the situation, and relieve their pain as quickly as possible. After all, we’re only trying to help.

But what happens when that sense of urgency actually gets in the way?

In Episode 136 of the Only Trying to Help podcast, Hilary Logan joins the conversation to explore why helpers so often assume that every problem requires immediate action. Together, we discuss how this “emergency mindset” can change the way we think, speak, and respond to others. When we feel pressure to solve things right away, we may become more reactive, less curious, and more likely to say things we later regret.

This episode looks at the subtle ways urgency can interfere with effective helping—and how learning to slow down can create more thoughtful, supportive conversations.

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson is joined by veteran video storyteller Jon Sherman for a conversation about how storytelling can make complex ideas more accessible and memorable. Kate and Jon explore why stories resonate more deeply than facts alone, how to use narrative to build understanding, and what makes a story truly connect with an audience. Whether you’re trying to teach, persuade, or simply help someone see a new perspective, this episode offers practical insights on using story as a powerful tool for helping.

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson sits down with seasoned couples’ counselor Melanie Gibbons to explore the well-intentioned—but often ineffective—ways partners try to support each other. From offering unsolicited advice to trying to “fix” feelings, Kate and Melanie break down why common helping habits can create distance instead of closeness. They share insights, gentle reframes, and practical tools for offering support that actually strengthens connection. A thoughtful listen for anyone who wants to show up better in their relationships.

In this episode of Only Trying to Help, Kate Watson is joined by internationally recognized self-defense expert Nicole Snell for a candid conversation about the well-meaning—but often unhelpful—messages people share about staying safe. Together, they unpack common safety myths, explore why these messages can backfire, and offer more empowering, practical approaches instead. If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about safety without fear-mongering or victim-blaming, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Kate Watson sits down with guest Leslie Ballway for a thoughtful conversation about the simple yet powerful act of asking permission before offering help. Together, they explore why well-intentioned support can sometimes miss the mark, how “rescuing” can undermine autonomy, and what it looks like to shift from assumption to curiosity. Kate and Leslie share practical language, real-life examples, and gentle reminders that asking first isn’t just polite—it’s foundational to trauma-informed, respectful, and effective helping relationships. Tune in for an honest, illuminating discussion that will change the way you show up for others.

In this episode, Dr. Kate Watson sits down with Reyna Puentes for a candid conversation about our natural urge to give advice—especially when we want to help. Together, they unpack why “fixing” often feels like caring, how advice-giving can unintentionally shut down connection, and what to do instead when someone comes to us in pain. It’s an honest, insightful look at the tension between wanting to help and learning to truly listen. 

In our season finale, Kate and Peter talk about how it can (sometimes) be helpful to break the rules. Unprecedented times might call for it.