Shame is an unspoken epidemic, the secret behind many forms of broken behavior. Brené Brown, whose earlier talk on vulnerability became a viral hit, explores what can happen when people confront their shame head-on. Her own humor, humanity and vulnerability shine through every word.

Shame and vulnerability researcher Dr. Brené Brown says shame is the intensely painful feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging. It’s the most primitive human emotion we all feel-and the one no one wants to talk about. If left to its own devices, Dr. Brown says, shame can destroy lives.

An excerpt from the audio program, Men, Women & Worthiness, by Brené Brown, PhD.

Shame and vulnerability researcher Dr. Brené Brown says shame is the intensely painful feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging. It’s the most primitive human emotion we all feel-and the one no one wants to talk about. If left to its own devices, Dr. Brown says, shame can destroy lives.