We Can Do Hard Things

Florence Williams, author of "Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey," dives into the intriguing science of heartbreak and its emotional toll. She discusses the physiological reactions to heartbreak, revealing how it can trigger conditions like 'broken heart syndrome.' Florence shares her personal healing journey and the transformative power of nature and therapy. The conversation highlights the surprising connection between awe and recovery, suggesting that experiencing beauty can significantly aid the healing process.

Jessica Yellin, founder of News Not Noise and former chief White House correspondent for CNN, emphasizes a mindful approach to news consumption. She discusses the importance of calming the nervous system before engaging with the news. Yellin also highlights how to channel emotional responses into productive activism and navigate the overwhelming nature of current events. Additionally, she shares insights on privacy concerns related to technology's influence in governance, urging listeners to prioritize mental well-being while staying informed.

Explore the complexities of date nights and their impact on relationships. Discover why traditional date nights might not be the solution. Delve into the significance of eye contact and vulnerability in fostering genuine connections. Uncover creative ideas to revitalize romance through novelty and adventure. Learn how spontaneous interactions can enhance intimacy amidst life's demands. Join a discussion about the challenges couples face and innovative ways to bring joy back into shared experiences.

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.