Shame can shape how we see ourselves, influence our relationships, and affect our sense of self-worth.
Drawing on his experiences with childhood trauma, Dr. Frank Spinelli explains how developing “shame literacy”—the ability to recognize and understand shame—can help us approach this difficult emotion as a source of insight rather than an enemy.
He also introduces the COMPASS framework from his book, offering an approach to confronting, understanding, and integrating shame.
Key takeaways:
- Shame vs. guilt: Understand why shame is connected to our identity rather than simply our actions.
- Shame literacy: Explore how recognizing and understanding shame can support healing.
- The COMPASS framework: Discover an approach to confronting, mapping, and integrating shame.
- The power of sharing: Learn why telling our stories can help us work through shame and reconnect with ourselves.
The Live Happy Now podcast shares tips and ideas for living a happier and more meaningful life through conversations with positive psychology and well-being thought leaders. New episodes usually air every Tuesday.



