We Can Do Hard Things

Akram Ibrahim, a dedicated Palestinian-American volunteer and president of the Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF), shares his lifelong commitment to supporting Palestinian children. He highlights the urgent crisis facing orphaned children in Gaza, emphasizing that caring for them means treating them as our own. Discussing the impact of ceasefires, the historical context of the Palestinian struggle, and the vital work of PCRF, Akram also showcases Palestinian culture and the importance of sustained support. He invites listeners to contribute to the cause and uplift Palestinian voices.

Melani Sanders, a digital creator and founder of the We Do Not Care Movement™, dives deep into the wild ride of menopause. The discussion is packed with candid insights on night sweats, emotional numbness, and the chaos of changing hair and skin. Glennon humorously reflects on her own perimenopausal struggles, while Melani shares empowering rules for midlife relief. Together, they emphasize the need for solidarity among women navigating this often-overlooked phase of life, promising laughter and liberation over perfection.

Brandi Carlile, an eleven-time Grammy-winning artist and activist, opens up about her deeply personal new album, Returning to Myself. She shares the serendipitous journey of writing in a barn and the loneliness necessary for her creative truth. Brandi reflects on the beauty of vulnerability, the duality of intimacy and mystery in relationships, and embraces aging with grace in her songs. With themes of joy amidst destruction and the importance of connecting with one another, she reminds us to cherish our brief time together.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Lucy M. De La Cruz, a breast surgical oncologist and Chief of Breast Surgery at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, shares vital insights into breast cancer care. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and making informed choices about surgery, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. The conversation covers navigating complex medical decisions, understanding breast density, and the benefits of innovative reconstruction techniques. Listeners are encouraged to take charge of their health with knowledge and empowerment.

Mandy Patinkin, a Tony Award-winning actor known for his roles in stage and screen, and Kathryn Grody, an Obie Award-winning actress and writer, dive into a lively conversation about love and life. They share insights on maintaining a lasting marriage, the dignity of aging, and the importance of quiet moments. Mandy reflects on introversion while Kathryn emphasizes the power of storytelling across generations. They passionately advocate for humanitarian causes and encourage elders to raise their voices, promoting a more compassionate world.

Glennon shares her wild journey with therapeutic psychedelics, revealing a macro-dosing mishap that had her tripping during Zoom calls. She delves into vivid visions, including encounters with her ancestors and the influence of Sinéad O’Connor. The experience shifts her perspective from fear as a personal flaw to an inherited survival pattern, fostering compassion and understanding. Discover how the phrase 'I don’t know' transformed her mindset and offered healing insights.

Katie Gavin, a talented musician and member of the pop band MUNA, dives into desire, recovery, and intergenerational healing. She shares insights on identifying one’s true desires and the courage it takes to pursue them. Katie discusses the complexities of love addiction, likening it to a cosmic treadmill, and how embracing feminine agency transformed her outlook. She also reveals the personal journey behind her solo album, What A Relief, highlighting the importance of emotional honesty and accountability in creativity and life.

Explore how community care can foster body peace rather than individual wellness. Discover Glennon’s journey navigating fear and control around food while emphasizing the power of showing up physically in community. Learn about setting boundaries in the face of public visibility and how activism can be a form of self-care. Tune in to hear tips on embodying agency and participating in life authentically, shaking off anxiety, and reclaiming bravery while being vulnerable.

In this conversation, Emily Saliers and Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, alongside Grammy winner Melissa Etheridge, share their journeys through music and activism. They delve into songwriting inspirations, from personal experiences to life observations. The trio reflects on spirituality and offers empowering advice for young queer activists, while discussing how they cope with political instability. They also touch on the importance of community support, the challenges of public life, and their shared passion for animal rescue.

The hosts dive into the emotional journey of dropping a child off at college, discussing the bittersweet nature of parenting older kids. Topics include the delicate balance of sharing their kids' stories while respecting their privacy, and the unique grief experienced during move-in day. They reflect on the lessons learned from gap years and the shifts in family dynamics. With humor and honesty, they explore the longing, excitement, and complex feelings that come with watching children grow into adulthood.