How To! with Mike Pesca

Before the 2024 election, Maureen and Jayna had hoped to attend a historic inauguration for Kamala Harris in Washington, D.C. But when Donald Trump won the presidency, the lesbian couple scrapped their trip—and booked a fact-finding mission to Portugal instead. On this episode of How To!, they talk with co-host Carvell Wallace about their plans to leave the U.S.—and start a new life somewhere they'll feel safer. And, Jen Barnett of Expatsi offers up advice about Portugal and other LGBTQ+ friendly countries, the implications for taxes and international travel (including return trips to the States), and what expat-curious listeners need to know about raising kids, voting, EU citizenship—and how to take the first step. Links Mentioned: The Expatsi Test Mindful Migrant on TikTok If you liked this episode check out: How To Uproot Your Life and How To Live Anywhere in the World. Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. How To's executive producer is Derek John. Joel Meyer is our senior editor/producer. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Want more How To!? Subscribe to Slate Plus to unlock exclusive bonus episodes. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts by clicking "Try Free" at the top of the How To! show page. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, siblings Jen and Todd Brandel chat with their dad, Bruce, to navigate their differing political views. Jen is an advocate for respectful dialogue, while Bruce offers insights from his conservative perspective. They explore the evolution of political language and the emotional complexities of discussing contentious issues like immigration and voting rights. Mónica Guzmán provides valuable analysis, emphasizing empathy, personal storytelling, and the necessity of understanding in bridging political divides within families.

Mónica Guzmán, a senior fellow at Braver Angels and author, joins journalist Jenn Brandel to tackle the challenge of discussing political disagreements with family, particularly their father. They explore practical strategies for converting heated debates into meaningful conversations. Mónica emphasizes the need for understanding over agreement while sharing techniques like personal storytelling and emotional management. Their journey aims to bridge ideological divides, demonstrating that political discussions can strengthen familial bonds.

Reflect on the standout advice of 2024, from flirting with confidence to being a mindful drinker. Discover the joys and challenges of forever parenting and hear heartwarming listener success stories. Delve into the importance of emotional processing in relationships and explore personal growth through family and career transformations. The conversation is filled with humor, authenticity, and valuable insights about life's meaningful moments. Join in the celebration of achievements and gratitude for a year well-spent!

Danielle Friedman, author of *Let’s Get Physical* and a contributor to the New York Times Well section, dives into the joy of movement. She discusses rediscovering the pleasure in exercise and its importance for lasting commitment. The conversation touches on redefining fitness beyond traditional standards, emphasizing personal enjoyment over performance. Danielle also highlights navigating family life while embracing fitness, promoting the idea of involving kids in physical activities for a guilt-free, supportive journey.

In this enlightening discussion, M.P. Dunleavey, a journalist and aging expert, sheds light on navigating the complexities of estate planning. She helps André tackle the daunting task of preparing for their parents' future care while dealing with their reluctance to share crucial information. Topics include drafting essential paperwork, communicating with family, and the emotional challenges of being an estate executor. M.P. emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and suggests involving neutral parties to ease tensions. Prepare yourself for invaluable insights!

Priya Parker, author of The Art of Gathering, shares her insights on creating memorable events that foster connection. She emphasizes transforming casual hangouts into purpose-driven gatherings that draw people back. With tips tailored for the holiday season, she discusses the art of crafting the right guest list and setting meaningful rules. Parker also explores the significance of intention in social interactions, highlighting how structured events like trivia nights can rebuild community and deepen relationships.

Andrew McPeak, author and vice president of Growing Leaders, tackles the existential struggles faced by today's youth, particularly Generation Z. He shares insights on how to find purpose and meaning amid uncertainty and societal pressures. The conversation covers navigating unique challenges, the importance of individual agency, and establishing habits rooted in personal values. McPeak emphasizes transforming lives through authenticity and connection, encouraging a focus on joy and simplicity amidst the complexities of modern life.

Join Dr. Sarah Miller, a family planning specialist, and Dr. Brian Nguyen, a USC obstetrics professor, as they tackle the often-ignored topic of male birth control. They discuss the cultural shifts needed for men to share reproductive responsibilities and the evolution of contraceptive methods. With innovations like a hormonal gel and even ideas like universal vas deferens occlusion, the duo emphasizes the importance of engaging men in family planning dialogues while addressing misconceptions and pain perceptions surrounding male contraceptives.

Join nonprofit consultant Malini Sridharan as she shares her expertise on community leadership and board dynamics. She explores how new board members can navigate their roles, manage time effectively, and communicate ideas without overstepping. Malini emphasizes the delicate balance of oversight and collaboration in nonprofit settings, while also tackling the dynamics of power, inclusivity, and the importance of leveraging individual strengths. Tune in for valuable insights on creating a thriving board environment!