We Can Do Hard Things

Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author, dives into the complexities of maintaining vibrant relationships in uncertain times. She discusses how common struggles during the pandemic can impact romantic and familial ties. Esther offers insights into the idea that behind every criticism lies a longing, exploring ways to revive 'dead' relationships and reconnect by emphasizing joy and intimacy. Her practical conflict resolution strategies aim to foster deeper emotional connections, promoting resilience and community.

The hosts share their personal journey from the excitement of falling in love to the comfort of landing in love. They discuss the self-guilt that can overshadow joy in relationships. A meaningful gift becomes a symbol of their connection. The episode also examines how the quirks that frustrate us in our partners can also be the very things that drew us in initially. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the complexities of love and the importance of self-trust and autonomy in nurturing lasting relationships.

The hosts dive into the dizzying experience of falling in love, sharing personal stories and insights. They debate the romantic notion of 'the one,' with Abby arguing for it and Amanda calling it uninteresting. Glennon compares loves to plants, emphasizing that every relationship, even fleeting ones, contributes to our growth. They also discuss the common misconception that love can fix us, stressing the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth. Ultimately, they champion the idea that true love begins from within.

The hosts discuss why the phrase "I can’t imagine" misses the mark in empathizing with others. They urge listeners to ditch superhero praise and suggest more tangible support, like bringing someone a sandwich. The conversation highlights how toxic environments can push us away from things we love and the importance of recreating safe spaces. Amanda shares her thoughts on the intimate stories she shares, revealing her view that they’re not personal at all, sparking reflections on authenticity and vulnerability.

In this insightful discussion, Simone Biles, a legendary gymnast and mental health advocate, joins Laurie Hernandez, an Olympic medalist and bestselling author, to share their journeys. They delve into Simone's brave decision at the Tokyo Olympics, choosing mental health over expectations. Laurie reflects on rebuilding self-trust post-toxic coaching. Both speak on the duality of talent as a blessing and a challenge. They emphasize the importance of creating spaces for authenticity, reminding listeners that they are more than their achievements.

The conversation kicks off with Amanda's breakthrough moment, sparking her journey from obligation to joy. They discuss how childhood labels limit our exploration of identity, and Glennon reflects on feeling like Ben Affleck's character in Good Will Hunting, urging Amanda to embrace love. The chemistry of fire serves as a metaphor for igniting our fun selves. The importance of prioritizing personal happiness amidst life's demands is emphasized, along with the power of self-approval and reclaiming creativity for personal fulfillment.

Glennon shares how writing became her refuge, allowing her true self to emerge. Abby reflects on sports as an art form that connects with personal identity. They discuss the evolution of Glennon's writing journey, from early morning scribbles to bestselling success. A critical look at the tendency to label women's books as 'self-help' reveals deeper biases in storytelling. The transformative power of art and the struggle for authentic self-expression in a world of gender norms are key themes throughout their engaging discussion.

In a compelling talk, Tarana Burke, activist and founder of the #metoo movement, shares transformative insights from her journey of over 25 years. She reflects on what she would tell her younger self and reveals a key realization about her maternal relationships. Tarana discusses how one pivotal conversation with her child sparked a lasting change, emphasizing the importance of emotional capacity in parenting. The conversation also touches on empowerment through vulnerability, the need for safe spaces for young women, and the profound impact of validation on trauma healing.

In a compelling conversation, Tarana Burke, the activist behind the 'me too.' movement, shares her journey in fighting sexual violence and advocating for racial justice. She reveals how societal pressures forced her to embody the 'good girl' role, while also discussing the dual struggles of protecting her community and silencing her own pain. Tarana reflects on the transformative impact of Maya Angelou's work, her personal experiences with trauma, and how dance became a vital outlet for her healing and self-exploration.

Join a journey of bravery as one host recalls her defining moment of seeking help in high school. Discover how to differentiate between intuition and anxiety, alongside the struggles of emotional expression influenced by societal expectations. The conversation dives into the significance of meditation for inner peace and creativity, along with personal insights on embracing authenticity and self-advocacy. It's a candid exploration of navigating one's inner world and living life on your own terms.