We Can Do Hard Things

Dawn Staley, a legendary coach and three-time Olympic gold medalist, reflects on her journey from athlete to mentor. She discusses the pivotal lessons from her mother that shaped her coaching philosophy and how she fought for equal pay at her university. Staley shares insights on grace in both winning and losing, the toll of achieving dreams, and the ongoing fight for equity in women's sports. Her new memoir, Uncommon Favor, weaves in personal anecdotes, highlighting the importance of self-worth and advocacy in both sports and life.

Cheryl Strayed, author of the bestselling memoir Wild, shares heartfelt insights on navigating relationships, including how to end them lovingly and support loved ones struggling with addiction. She reflects on cutting back her drinking and the unexpected joys of self-care, sparked by a trip to Greece. Strayed also discusses midlife transitions, the importance of authenticity in personal narratives, and the humor found in life's absurdities. Throughout, she emphasizes embracing change and cultivating resilience in challenging times.

Explore the fascinating psychology behind how we react to criticism and the defense mechanisms at play. Discover a three-part recipe for effective 'care-frontations' that promotes healthier communication. Uncover the surprising relationship killer that isn’t conflict and how embracing challenges can actually bring people closer together. Personal anecdotes about parenting and feedback reveal the complexities of navigating criticism, emphasizing the need for understanding and acceptance in building stronger connections.

In this engaging discussion, Senator Elizabeth Warren, a leading progressive voice and consumer advocate, dives into critical topics concerning democracy and activism. She outlines strategies to combat the Trump regime and the urgency of midterm elections. Warren emphasizes the dangers of military actions in the Middle East and introduces the "Big Beautiful Bill" aimed at improving healthcare. Listeners are encouraged to actively engage with their representatives, reinforcing the power of collective citizen action in shaping legislation and defending democratic values.

Lillian Aponte Miranda, Executive Director of the Florence Project, passionately discusses the heartbreaking realities faced by unaccompanied immigrant children in U.S. immigration court. She shares personal insights from recent protests against ICE, emphasizing the urgent need for community action and advocacy. The conversation highlights the emotional struggles these vulnerable children endure without legal support, urging listeners to use their voices and resources to protect those in need. Lillian's dedication to immigrant rights and social justice shines through, inspiring hope amid despair.

Michelle Zauner, the talented singer-songwriter behind Japanese Breakfast and author of the memoir Crying in H Mart, dives deep into the themes of identity and motherhood. She candidly discusses healing mother wounds while sharing her passion for sheetcake and Winnebagos. Zauner opens up about her battles with mental health and the complexities of parenting styles. She also reflects on her biracial identity and the duality of belonging, revealing how these experiences shape her art and relationships.

Delve into the gift of sharing your messy middle as a way to build connections. Discover why asking for help feels daunting and the pitfalls of so-called 'vague favs.' The hosts share their own current struggles while discussing the science behind how help strengthens relationships. Personal anecdotes highlight the complexities of vulnerability, especially in parenting and community support. The conversation emphasizes that openness about needing assistance can enhance mutual respect and deepen bonds.

Suleika Jaouad, an artist and New York Times bestselling author, discusses the significance of creativity in staying human. She reveals how attachment theory influences our creative expression and self-worth. Suleika shares insights on the challenges artists face in promoting their work while resisting public pressures. She also introduces a simple yet powerful journaling practice as a means to unlock self-connection and enhance creative clarity, emphasizing its transformative benefits during difficult times.

Dr. Amishi Jha, a leading expert in Contemplative Neuroscience at the University of Miami, dives into the fascinating world of attention. She explains the three types of attentional systems we use daily and debunks the myth of multitasking. Discover how attention is a limited resource that can be cultivated through mindfulness practices. Dr. Jha shares insights on enhancing emotional connections through focused attention and provides a quick 12-minute mindfulness exercise to boost your capacity for attention—all aimed at enriching fulfillment and joy in life.

Nedra Glover Tawwab, a licensed therapist and author of bestsellers like Drama Free, shares invaluable insights on navigating family drama. She emphasizes the power of speaking up for oneself, arguing that confrontation can be a form of kindness. Listeners learn when to address conflicts versus when to let them go, as well as the most loving ways for parents to respond to their children’s emotional struggles. Tawwab’s expertise shines through as she highlights the importance of setting boundaries and fostering genuine family connections.