We Can Do Hard Things

Amanda Ripley, a conflict expert and investigative journalist, shares invaluable insights on navigating healthy conflict. She explains how to diffuse high-conflict situations and emphasizes the importance of understanding shame responses for better resolutions. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of binary thinking in relationships and introduces practical strategies like the BIF approach for effective communication. By advocating for empathy and curiosity, Ripley provides a fresh perspective on resolving disagreements while maintaining personal integrity.

Martha Beck, a New York Times bestselling author and life coach known for her unique blend of science, humor, and spirituality, dives into the art of cultivating joy. She shares strategies for letting go of control and making tough decisions when fear looms. Reflecting on self-discovery, she discusses the importance of living by one's inner compass and the transformative power of pursuing true freedom. Join her as she inspires listeners to reclaim joy and authenticity amid life's challenges.

Ina Garten, the Emmy-winning host of Barefoot Contessa, shares her secrets to a joyful life, emphasizing the importance of not settling for less and silencing your inner critic. She recounts a hilarious night involving Taylor Swift and beer pong, showing that memorable moments often come from unexpected gatherings. Ina also reveals the art of hosting a successful dinner party, connecting it to deeper life lessons about satisfaction and genuine connections. Her insights bridge the gap between culinary mastery and personal fulfillment.

Dive into the complexities of friendships as romantic relationships evolve, and explore the emotional challenges that arise. Discover the differences between boundaries and control, and why people-pleasing can stem from deeper trauma. Hear insights on the importance of mental health diagnoses in women and the impact of societal norms on gender dynamics. Plus, get tips on how to communicate effectively in relationships with people pleasers and the healing journey toward self-discovery and healthier connections.

Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, renowned for her pivotal testimony against Brett Kavanaugh in 2018, reflects on the profound impact her experience had on women’s rights and justice in America. She shares insights on the emotional complexities of speaking out and the necessity of community support for survivors of sexual violence. The conversation also addresses the challenges of seeking justice and maintaining integrity in a divided society. Dr. Ford emphasizes the power of resilience and the importance of solidarity among women fighting for change.

Dr. Kristin Neff, an Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin and a pioneer in self-compassion research, discusses how to silence your inner critic. She shares a simple 20-second daily practice to boost self-kindness and encourages using compassion for others as a model for self-treatment. The conversation covers the power of 'fierce' self-compassion for setting boundaries and balancing acceptance with assertiveness, emphasizing the importance of nurturing oneself for healthier relationships.

In this engaging discussion, Abby opens up about her path to healing intergenerational trauma, delivering a mix of humor and emotion. Amanda shares a surprising study linking mice to human emotional inheritance, sparking a thoughtful conversation about our fears. Glennon reflects on her evolution regarding mental health, revealing her newfound belief in resilience over illness. Together, they empower listeners to recognize and break cycles of trauma in their lives, emphasizing understanding, acceptance, and personal growth.

Cheryl Strayed provides heartfelt insights on co-parenting after infidelity, emphasizing self-healing over seeking closure. There’s a deep dive into setting boundaries with friends and family, especially when navigating estrangement. Listeners learn about the power of creating 'to-know lists' to clarify their thoughts and actions. The discussion also touches on the importance of embracing personal truths and effective communication, encouraging authenticity while tackling life’s emotional complexities.

Dr. Mariel Buqué, a first-generation Black Dominican psychologist and trauma expert, joins to discuss the crucial topic of intergenerational trauma and its effects. She reveals how to identify inherited trauma symptoms and shares the most effective phrase for healing children. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reframing family loyalty and the belief that it's never too late to break harmful cycles. Dr. Buqué's insights empower listeners to understand their family dynamics and embark on a path of personal growth.

Glennon opens up about her emotional journey after deciding to go off antidepressants, sharing a rock bottom moment and the healing it triggered. She reflects on navigating anxiety while parenting, highlighting the balance between encouraging independence and managing personal trauma. The conversation dives into the intricacies of co-parenting, the importance of communication, and self-acceptance. As she embraces vulnerability, Glennon emphasizes the journey of love, control, and personal growth in finding inner peace.