We Can Do Hard Things

The hosts share transformative advice that has shaped their lives, emphasizing self-sovereignty and prioritizing personal well-being. They discuss the need for supportive friends who recognize your greatness and how to encourage kids to live open-heartedly. The conversation features insights from Sara Bareilles and a beloved 7th grade teacher, reminding listeners that authenticity and growth come from embracing both personal challenges and community support. Plus, they explore the importance of navigating emotions and fostering genuine connections.

Ross Gay, an American poet and essayist celebrated for his exploration of joy and gratitude, shares transformative insights on cultivating delight in daily life. He teaches how to rebuild your 'delight muscle' and reconnect with others. The conversation emphasizes the power of joy in fostering deep connections and the significance of vulnerability in relationships. Ross also discusses how loitering in genuine connection can resist consumerism and the joy found in community activities. It's a heartwarming reminder to savor everyday moments.

Dr. Scott Lyons, a holistic psychologist and author of the bestselling book *Addicted to Drama*, explores the intricacies of drama addiction. He shares signs to identify this addiction and discusses how it manifests in our bodies. The conversation highlights the discomfort of relaxation, the surprising benefits of boredom in healing, and provides initial steps to shift away from drama. Dr. Lyons emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness, understanding trauma's role, and cultivating healthier relationships for lasting personal growth.

Candace Parker, a retired basketball legend, discusses her extraordinary journey from WNBA champion to influential public figure and mother. She reveals her surprising aversion to fame and emphasizes the distinction between being a boss and a true leader. Candace shares her insights on the sacrifices made for greatness, the emotional toll of competition, and how motherhood has reshaped her definition of success. Additionally, she highlights the importance of calling loved ones to their higher selves while maintaining a humble leadership style.

Explore the vital question to ask yourself about quitting and why it's essential for personal survival. Discover how big life changes can be liberating and the nuanced relationship between quitting and fulfillment. The discussion challenges societal pressures around resilience, especially for women, and emphasizes the importance of knowing when to let go. Hear personal anecdotes that illustrate quitting as a courageous step toward emotional well-being, transforming it from a sign of failure into an act of self-care.

Carson Tueller, a coach, speaker, and activist who identifies as queer and disabled, shares his transformative journey after a life-altering accident left him paralyzed at 23. He discusses the profound question from his sister that reshaped his outlook on life and reveals how he's experiencing the best sex of his life. Carson emphasizes the hurt caused by ableism and the importance of body acceptance, encouraging inclusivity and self-love while navigating the complexities of identity, love, and empowerment in a societal context.

Dr. Thema Bryant, a psychologist and author of "Matters of the Heart," focuses on rebuilding relationships with oneself as a key to connecting with others. She shares insights on embracing grief as a pathway to healing and emphasizes the importance of self-sovereignty. The conversation also touches on resisting societal chaos, navigating vulnerability, and the need for gentleness in personal growth. Throughout, Dr. Bryant inspires listeners to prioritize self-care and authenticity in their journeys.

Dr. Hillary McBride, a registered psychologist and author, dives into the intricacies of healing spiritual wounds and rebuilding self-trust. She emphasizes that every family functions like a religion, shaping our beliefs and traumas. The discussion tackles the struggles of identity and belonging, particularly in the face of rigid societal pressures. McBride highlights the significance of emotional regulation in parenting and the importance of fostering critical thinking to resist conformity. Her insights aim to empower listeners on their personal healing journeys.

Join Michelle Obama, a former First Lady and author, alongside her brother Craig Robinson, a candid voice on family matters, and dynamic guests Glennon Doyle, an acclaimed author, and Abby Wambach, a two-time Olympic gold medalist. They share heartfelt stories about the challenges of relocating with families, the importance of emotional bonds, and how sports help children adapt. With wisdom and humor, they redefine success in family life, discussing stability and the evolving nature of parenting in diverse environments.

Caroline Strawson, a trauma therapist and author, shares her expert insights from her journey of healing after surviving narcissistic abuse. She discusses identifying narcissistic traits to protect oneself, strategies for effectively parallel parenting with a narcissist, and how our brains and bodies respond to these complex relationships. Caroline emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, boundary setting, and the path to personal growth after trauma, empowering listeners with tools to rebuild their lives.