We Can Do Hard Things

The conversation dives into hilarious and heartfelt holiday stories that highlight the chaos of family gatherings. From comical cooking mishaps to a Christmas proposal filled with unexpected antics, laughter is a constant theme. The hosts reflect on the complexities of blended families and the emotional weight of traditions. They also touch on the bittersweet nature of joy and disappointment during the holidays, and share listener anecdotes that embody nostalgia and connection. It's a celebration of love, humor, and the unique dynamics of family life.

Chanel Miller, a celebrated writer and artist known for her memoir *Know My Name*, shares her transformative journey of healing and creativity. She views depression through a unique lens, comparing it to seeing the world through toilet paper roll binoculars. Chanel speaks about defining success as being true to oneself, rather than chasing perfection. A pivotal moment in her healing occurred at Stanford, where sound helped set her free. She also explores the deep connection between art and personal transformation, shedding light on identity challenges and the power of storytelling.

Riley Keough, an Emmy-nominated actress and granddaughter of Elvis Presley, dives deep into her family's legacy and the emotional weight it carries. She discusses co-authoring her mother Lisa Marie's memoir, revealing the intertwining of fame and trauma. Riley reflects on generational grief, addiction, and the complexities of love within her family. With poignant anecdotes, she shares how her experiences have shaped her understanding of resilience and compassion, emphasizing the importance of healing amidst profound loss.

Dr. Robin Stern, co-founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and expert on gaslighting, dives deep into identifying gaslighting in relationships. She explains what gaslighting truly is and the three types of gaslighters—the Intimidator, Glamour Gaslighter, and Good Guy Gaslighter. The conversation offers listeners strategies to reclaim their identities and build resilience against manipulation. Personal anecdotes highlight the emotional turmoil caused by gaslighting, empowering individuals to recognize and confront these toxic dynamics.

Patric Gagne, a writer and former therapist diagnosed as a sociopath, shares her journey of understanding sociopathy and its impact on her life as a wife and mother. She reveals the surprising prevalence of sociopathy and argues that it can be a superpower rather than a liability. Gagne contrasts sociopathy with psychopathy, challenging societal stereotypes and emphasizing the need for compassion. Her insights into emotional disconnect and the complexities of empathy add depth to the discussion, advocating for open conversations about emotional experiences.

In this engaging conversation, Tia Levings, New York Times bestselling author of "A Well-Trained Wife," shares her poignant journey of escaping a high-control Christian Fundamentalist cult. She highlights the power of women's storytelling in challenging patriarchal structures. Tia delves into how to reclaim one’s voice and navigate the emotional complexities of leaving abusive environments. She discusses the allure of fundamentalism and offers insights on developing personal agency, the importance of community, and the need for support when breaking free from controlling relationships.

Discover effective healing techniques that can be implemented today. Hear about the impact of witnessing parental joy—or a lack thereof—on personal growth. Explore the often unrecognized unhealthy self-soothing strategies we rely on. Dive into the connection between childhood wounds and healing across generations. Learn how to find closure when apologies are never given, while unpacking the significance of intentional living and self-awareness in fostering emotional well-being.

In this engaging discussion, Tia Levings, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on Christian patriarchy, shares her remarkable journey of escaping a high control religious cult. She uncovers why strong women are often drawn to such extremism and how they can reclaim their freedom. Tia reveals the troubling practices surrounding parenting and marriage in these communities, and examines the unsettling crossover between wellness culture and fundamentalist beliefs. Her insights challenge societal norms around gender roles and highlight the path to healing from religious trauma.

The hosts dive into the complexities of moving on from heartbreak and the myth of closure. They explore Glennon's concept of 'magical pessimism' and why creative individuals often shy away from seeking closure. The discussion touches on how our environments impact emotional healing and the ongoing influence of past relationships. Themes of grief, self-care, and the challenges of family dynamics add depth, emphasizing acceptance of ambiguity as crucial for personal growth.

Melissa McCarthy, an award-winning actor and producer known for hits like Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters, chats about her journey from dreams to success. She shares her parents' pivotal support that shaped her career. Melissa reveals the green and red flags she teaches her kids in relationships and explains her strategy of 'Running Around the Block' in tough situations. The conversation takes a spooky turn as she discusses personal ghostly encounters and candidly reflects on how she approaches sex education with her children.