We Can Do Hard Things

Explore the power of letting go of perfection and embracing the beauty of the present moment. The conversation dives into the nuances of genuine apologies and the emotional weight they carry. Discover how feelings of longing can be transformed into a deeper appreciation for love, even amidst hardship. The hosts reflect on the complexities of connection and grief, reminding us of the bittersweet nature of life. Ultimately, it's about finding joy and authenticity in our experiences, especially during the holiday season.

The speakers dive into how vulnerability transformed their lives and the joy brought by their community. They discuss the nuances of preparation styles and share personal anecdotes that reveal their authentic selves. Abby recalls a significant moment that shaped her path, and they explore the importance of maintaining individuality in collaboration. The conversation also reflects on redefining success, fostering resilience in children, and embracing uncertainty together. Laughs, insights, and a strong sense of community make this a relatable and inspiring discussion.

Ashley C. Ford, the author of the best-selling memoir Somebody’s Daughter, dives into the importance of discussing our pain for healing. She emphasizes the power of apologies in nurturing relationships and explores our struggle to allow ourselves to be loved. Ford shares how her self-belief grants her peace, revealing that true empowerment comes from within. The conversation also touches on the links between childhood experiences, self-worth, and the ongoing journey of embracing self-love and authenticity.

Ashley C. Ford, a New York Times best-selling memoirist and author of Somebody’s Daughter, shares her insights on finding peace amidst complex family dynamics. She discusses how forgiveness involves accepting our pasts as they are and the importance of recognizing the dual truths of parental love and shortcomings. Ashley reveals her struggles with accepting love from others and highlights how anger can drive us to advocate for children. She emphasizes the necessity of setting boundaries and the impact of storytelling on personal identity.

Discover the freedom that comes from accepting we can't do it all. Hear how Amanda reclaimed her fire through simple changes and navigate the anxieties of returning to normal life. Get inspired by personal anecdotes of community resilience and emotional moments sparked by Adele's music. Engage with listener questions about self-compassion and authenticity in a post-pandemic world. Plus, insights on prioritizing self-care while juggling life's demands and the importance of nurturing mental health.

A heartfelt exploration of love and motherhood takes center stage, with a powerful moment that reshapes definitions of family. The speakers reflect on their inner journeys, emphasizing adventure within, especially during uncertain times. Experiences during the pandemic spark discussions about self-discovery and authenticity. Envy is embraced as a catalyst for growth, revealing hidden desires. The importance of non-traditional relationships and chosen family adds depth, showcasing resilience and freedom in the pursuit of one's true self.

1. Brené and Glennon role play through a scenario on how to put boundaries in practice with family members this holiday season.2. Why Brené insists that starting “a love affair with the thing you’re most afraid of” will change your life.  3. Glennon asks Brené the question she’s been dying to ask about how a woman’s work is defined and received in the world compared to her male counterparts. 4. How understanding that grief and loss are an inevitable part of change helps us navigate toward the decisions that serve us. 5. Brené answers questions from the Pod Squad and our rapid fire session on: tough emotions, tattoos, and her favorite place on Earth.About Brené:Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston where she holds the Huffington Foundation Endowed Chair at The Graduate College of Social Work. Brené is also a visiting professor in management at The University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business.  She has spent the past two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy, is the author of five #1 New York Times bestsellers, and is the host of the weekly Spotify Original podcasts Unlocking Us and Dare to Lead. Brené’s books have been translated into more than 30 languages and titles include:  Dare to Lead, Braving the Wilderness, Rising Strong, Daring Greatly, and The Gifts of Imperfection. Most recently Brené collaborated with Tarana Burke to co-edit You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame Resilience, and the Black Experience. Her TED talk – The Power of Vulnerability – is one of the top five most viewed TED talks in the world with over 50 million views. She is also the first researcher to have a filmed lecture on Netflix. The Call to Courage special debuted on the streaming service in April 2019.  Brené lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband, Steve. They have two children, Ellen and Charlie.Book: Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human ExperienceInstagram: @brenebrownTwitter: @BreneBrown

Brené Brown, a renowned research professor and bestselling author, shares insights on navigating emotions and relationships. She discusses her new book, emphasizing the power of emotional language to foster connections. Brené contrasts feeling stressed versus overwhelmed, offering tools to cope. She also reveals how family survival strategies can be both strengths and hurdles. Listeners learn how to ensure children feel a deep sense of belonging, and the transformative question she now asks herself before making decisions.

Enjoy a humorous Thanksgiving pep talk that embraces authenticity at the holiday table! Discover why everyone should bring their own casserole to family gatherings. Learn to navigate the complex dynamics with in-laws and reflect on how past behaviors predict future interactions. Engage with thought-provoking listener questions about breaking traditions and managing family expectations. Ultimately, find empowerment in self-worth and strategies to foster joyful connections, even amidst the chaos!

1. How our second holiday hack—“Be unsurprised”—eliminates walking on eggshells around family, and leaving holiday gatherings feeling badly about ourselves or our people.  2. Amanda shares the first time she broke her family’s biggest holiday tradition—and how it’s now one of her most precious memories. 3. Abby remembers watching her mom stress out by preparing and perfecting every holiday detail—and the change she made to minimize her own holiday stress.  4. How carrying around a cup of hot tea serves as Glennon’s super shield.