We Can Do Hard Things

Over 15,000 listeners joined for a celebratory live event filled with insightful discussions. The hosts shared their experiences with mental health medications, exploring the complexities of seeking help. Abby revealed the humorous story of her first love at the Macaroni Grill, sparking nostalgic feelings. Glennon opened up about her journey with eating disorders and recovery. They also tackled the importance of vulnerability in friendships and the emotional process of planning gatherings, reminding us that showing up is rarely perfect.

Natalie Portman, an Academy award-winning actress and activist, shares her inspiring journey in sports and leadership. She recounts the pivotal moment she invited Abby to join Angel City FC, the first majority women-owned soccer franchise. Portman discusses overcoming people-pleasing tendencies and recognizing when to say 'YES' to new challenges. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and decisiveness in parenting, and tackles gender stereotypes in communication. Plus, she offers wisdom on the dual power of gossiping well and the complexities of female ambition.

In this conversation, Marisa Renee Lee, a grief advocate and author of "Grief is Love," shares her transformative journey through loss. She offers practical tips for guiding loved ones through grief, emphasizing action over words. Marisa reflects on surrendering to her emotions and the bond between love and grief, even including her late mother in her son's life. A powerful discussion with Trayvon Martin's mother reveals the intersection of grief and privilege, highlighting the unique experiences of Black women in mourning.

Samantha Irby, a humorist and author known for her candid and witty insights, shares her thoughts on navigating the absurdities of life. She discusses using humor to mask deeper emotions and her philosophy on friendship, highlighting the value of casual connections. Irby embraces JOMO (Joy of Missing Out), convinced that true joy comes from personal experiences rather than the fear of missing out. She also reveals the powerful behind-the-scenes story of a pivotal episode from 'Shrill,' showcasing the importance of representation in storytelling.

This discussion delves deep into the emotional toll of recent abortion law changes, urging community support and activism. The conversation highlights the legal ramifications of overturning Roe v. Wade and explores the vital role of collective action in safeguarding reproductive rights. Listeners are provided with four actionable steps to engage in grassroots movements while emphasizing the importance of empowering marginalized communities. The dialogue concludes with a focus on midterm elections as a critical battleground for reproductive justice.

In this engaging discussion, Billie Jean King, a trailblazer in women's sports and a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, shares profound insights from her life. She reveals how she struggled for authenticity until her 50s and reflects on the moment she knew Abby wasn’t okay post-retirement. King also opens up about her eating disorder recovery and how she navigated personal choices amid public pressure regarding abortion. With candor, she advocates for reproductive rights and the ongoing fight for equality in sports, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Heidi Rose Robbins, a professional astrologer with 25 years of experience, dives into the world of astrology and its transformative power. She explores how our Sun, Moon, and Rising signs shape our identities and personal growth. Heidi reveals the meaning behind Mercury retrograde and dispels misconceptions surrounding astrology, emphasizing the value of a full natal chart. She discusses how understanding these celestial influences can enhance relationships and self-awareness, sparking joy and clarity in life.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Lori Brotto, a renowned expert in women’s sexual health and author, dives into a range of fascinating topics. She offers practical mindfulness strategies to increase arousal and satisfaction while dispelling myths about orgasm timing. The conversation highlights the importance of communicating desires and fantasies to enhance intimacy, alongside advice for those struggling with faking orgasms. Dr. Brotto emphasizes reclaiming pleasure through body connection and the power of open dialogue in intimate relationships.

Dr. Lori Brotto, a leading expert in women’s sexual health from UBC, sheds light on the surprising disconnect many women feel between physical arousal and orgasm. She discusses the impact of societal pressures and stress on sexual experiences, offering insightful advice on overcoming sexual droughts. Lori empowers listeners to reconnect with their bodies for enhanced pleasure and challenges the myths surrounding female orgasms. The conversation encourages open communication about intimacy, redefining pleasure beyond mere frequency.

In a captivating discussion, Cole Arthur Riley, author of the best-selling "This Here Flesh," shares her unique perspective on spirituality and identity. She challenges the idea that self-perception dictates beauty, arguing instead that dignity is essential for truly experiencing life. Cole emphasizes the restorative power of wonder and the importance of grounding ourselves in our bodies. She also tackles the complex ties between shame and familial love, urging listeners to confront their insecurities while embracing their worth.