Why Suppressed Anger Shows Up in Midlife (and What It’s Telling You)

Ever feel anger rise up and wonder, “Where did that come from?”

Explore why anger isn’t the problem, and what it’s been trying to protect all along. 

In this episode of The Underlayer, host David Young is joined by Carolyn Warsham for a deep, honest conversation about anger, emotional health, and personal growth, especially in midlife.

Together, they unpack why anger is one of the most misunderstood emotions, how cultural and corporate conditioning teaches us to suppress it, and what happens when unexpressed feelings quietly accumulate beneath the surface.

Carolyn shares personal stories and professional insight to reframe anger not as something to fix or avoid, but as a signal, often pointing to crossed boundaries, unmet needs, or unprocessed experiences.

The conversation also explores:

• Why anger often resurfaces more intensely in midlife
• How corporate culture and social norms discourage emotional expression
• The “pressure cooker” effect of suppressed emotions
• The difference between healthy anger and toxic outbursts
• How therapy, coaching, and curiosity can help us process emotions safely

If you’ve ever felt surprised by your own anger or wondered why it shows up when life looks “fine” on the outside, then this episode will help you understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.

Carolyn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-alburger-warsham/

Meet with Carolyn, https://calendly.com/carolyn-warsham-coaching/intro-with-caro?month=2025-12

Subscribe to her Substack, Awake at Work

The Underlayer YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@the_under_layer

The Underlayer Podcast Website: https://www.theunderlayerpodcast.com/

David's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-young-mba-indy/