About this episode

Kristina Orlova and Tom Smalley discuss the hidden impacts of OCD stigma and the importance of community and self-compassion in recovery.

Ever wonder why people with OCD can seem incredibly strong... yet still feel completely alone? In this episode of The OCD Whisperer Podcast, Kristina Orlova speaks with Tom Smalley, MS, CMPC—mental performance consultant, OCD advocate, and speaker. Together, they explore the hidden impact of OCD stigma, why uncertainty is at the heart of OCD recovery, and how community, education, and self-compassion can change lives. Tom opens up about: • His OCD diagnosis at age 16 and living with up to 15 hours of compulsions a day • How ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) helped him reclaim his life • Why embracing uncertainty—not eliminating it—is the key to recovery • His powerful story of experiencing discrimination because of OCD and transforming pain into purpose This conversation also dives into: • Why reassurance can accidentally keep OCD alive • How everyday phrases like "I'm so OCD" contribute to stigma • Why community and advocacy play such an important role in healing • The connection between sports, mental health, perfectionism, and OCD • How choosing education over anger helps reduce stigma and create lasting change If you've ever felt misunderstood because of your OCD—or…

More episodes of The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova

• 194. Why You Keep Doubting Yourself (Even After Doing the Work) · July 18, 2026 · 31 min
• 192. Why OCD Makes You Doubt What You Already Know · July 4, 2026 · 29 min
• 191. The Reason You Keep Second-Guessing Yourself (OCD Explained) · June 27, 2026 · 33 min
• 190. Your Compulsions Actually Make Sense (Here's the Real OCD Problem) · June 20, 2026 · 28 min
• 189. Why OCD Believes Possibilities Instead of Reality | ICBT Explained · June 13, 2026 · 28 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The OCD Whisperer Podcast with Kristina Orlova podcast page.