We Can Do Hard Things

The hosts discuss their journey of launching a podcast and revisit their very first episode on anxiety. Glennon shares the intense feelings of an anxiety attack and offers three effective strategies for finding calm. Emphasizing vulnerability, they delve into the complexities of love and anxiety, highlighting the importance of support during tough times. Personal reflections celebrate growth and community, while also inviting listener questions for a deeper exploration of these intertwined emotions.

Megan Falley, a nationally ranked slam poet, shares insights from the Sundance-winning documentary 'Come See Me in the Good Light,' which she created with partner Andrea Gibson. The heartfelt discussion covers how love and vulnerability can transform personal suffering into powerful storytelling. They dive into the life-changing impact of seeing oneself through a partner’s eyes and celebrate the film’s emotional resonance, showcasing the universal themes of love and community amidst life's challenges.

Mae Martin, an award-winning comedian known for their roles in "Feel Good" and "The Flight Attendant," dives into sexuality with humor and honesty. They share how their sex-positive upbringing shaped their understanding of attraction and gender as fluid expressions. The conversation explores practical ways to spice up routines, the impact of addiction on relationships, and the importance of open discussions about identity. Mae urges listeners to embrace authenticity and self-exploration in their personal and sexual lives.

The hosts dive into the complexities of humor in relationships, exploring how jokes can impact emotional sensitivity. They discuss the difference between intent and impact, highlighting how malicious humor can reveal deeper issues. The conversation shifts to creativity and anxiety, examining how these elements drive artistic endeavors. Personal anecdotes provide insight into the struggle artists face between vision and reality, emphasizing the connections between suffering, creativity, and emotional growth.

Samantha Irby, a witty author and TV writer, shares her humorous take on life's absurdities. She discusses her strategies for navigating social interactions while hiding underlying frustrations with humor. Irby embraces JOMO, believing no one is truly having a better time, and reflects on her impactful 'Fat Babe Pool Party' episode in Shrill that celebrated plus-sized representation. Their chat dives deep into friendships, showing how casual bonds can be just as meaningful as deeper connections, enriching our social lives.

In an intimate discussion, Glennon reveals transformative lessons about love and control in parenting. The hosts reflect on the delicate balance between supporting kids and fostering their independence. Embracing life as an art form, they explore the beauty of vulnerability and creativity. A family road trip is highlighted as a perfect opportunity for genuine connection. The hosts also advocate for simple experiences over extravagant vacations to deepen family relationships and enhance open communication.

The podcast dives into the journey of overcoming toxic relationships and building healthier connections. Lily Collins shares her personal experience of recognizing emotional toxicity and how she learned to trust herself again after leaving an unhealthy relationship. The discussion highlights the importance of healthy communication, self-awareness, and vulnerability in recovery. Listeners will enjoy insights on navigating trust and trauma, along with the transformative power of support in rediscovering joy and personal growth.

In the midst of chaos, the hosts reflect on a life-changing gift that freed Abby from her fears. They explore the impact of religious trauma on personal narratives and how rethinking our beliefs can lead to liberation. Conversations about navigating loss and the importance of connection emerge, blending humor with serious themes. The power of storytelling is highlighted, emphasizing its dual role in division and healing. Ultimately, they advocate for embracing infinite possibilities beyond binary thinking.

Andrea Gibson, a renowned spoken word artist, dives deep into the healing power of poetry and vulnerability. They discuss the importance of loving our lives relentlessly while navigating fear and mental health challenges. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Gibson emphasizes finding hope in community and creativity, even amidst struggles like cancer. The conversation touches on redefining relationships, embracing life's impermanence, and seeing beauty in every moment, encouraging listeners to face life's challenges with compassion and resilience.

Brittney Cooper, a Professor of Gender and Africana Studies and author of *Eloquent Rage*, along with Rebecca Traister, a writer for New York Magazine and acclaimed author, dive into how to navigate the post-inauguration landscape. They discuss the historical context of our current challenges and why accepting defeat can be liberating. The importance of community, emotional resilience, and having 'adult temper tantrums' becomes clear as they advocate for empowerment through connection and understanding amidst political turbulence.