How To! with Mike Pesca

Rachel Menzies, a psychologist at the University of Sydney and author of *Tales from the Valley of Death*, joins to tackle the anxiety of dying. She shares insights on how the fear of mortality affects daily life and relationships, especially for those like comedy writer Katie. Menzies suggests unconventional exposure techniques to confront these fears, including the curious idea of lying in a body bag. She emphasizes that engaging with thoughts of death can actually enhance our appreciation of life, sparking transformative conversations around mortality.

Sarah Wayland, founder of Guiding Exceptional Parents and mother to two autistic young men, shares her profound insights on the emotional challenges faced by parents of adult children with autism. She discusses navigating the complexities of independence while managing caregiver emotions like grief and jealousy. Emphasizing the importance of community support, Sarah offers coping strategies and lobbies for systemic changes in care services. Listeners will find inspiration in her advocacy for shared experiences and the delicate balance of planning for the future.

Dr. Terri Apter, a psychologist and author of "Passing Judgment: The Power of Praise & Blame in Everyday Life," dives into the complexities of judgment and its influence on relationships. She discusses the importance of self-awareness and how initial judgments can actually serve as a tool for deeper self-understanding. The conversation highlights the role of judgment in female friendships, urging a shift toward empathy and curiosity. Ultimately, Terri offers practical tips for cultivating a kinder inner dialogue and fostering meaningful connections.

Maria Failla, host of the Growing Joy podcast and a plant care expert, joins Jenna Andriosi, a studio manager on a mission to revive her struggling office plants. They dive into practical tips for indoor green care, troubleshoot common issues like browning leaves and curling stems, and discuss the emotional significance of plants. Maria shares insights on watering techniques, pest management, and how to adapt care practices for different species. Plus, they explore clever solutions for keeping pets away from houseplants!

Dr. Allison Applebaum, a caregiving expert and author, joins siblings Courtney Martin and Chris to discuss the challenges of caring for a parent with dementia. They share personal stories about how their dad's condition has reshaped their lives. The conversation dives into the emotional landscape of caregiving, addressing feelings of guilt and grief while highlighting the importance of self-care. They also emphasize open communication, practical resources, and the need for informed decision-making in navigating caregiving roles.

Lauren Passell, founder of Tink Media and author of Podcast the Newsletter, shares her expertise on podcast marketing. She discusses innovative ways to attract and engage listeners, emphasizing the importance of community involvement. Lauren also gives practical tips on crafting personalized pitches and highlights the value of collaborations in growing an audience. The conversation dives into strategies for unique content creation and understanding listener dynamics, making it essential for anyone looking to expand their podcast reach.

In this discussion, Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education, dives into the complexities of children’s screen time. He advocates for a balanced relationship with technology, emphasizing self-regulation over strict limits. The conversation explores the dual nature of social media, highlighting its potential to connect isolated youths while acknowledging its risks. Culatta also shares practical strategies for families to establish healthy tech habits and engage in meaningful conversations about their digital lives.

Amanda Ripley, an expert on emergency preparedness and survival, joins the conversation to share her insights on how individuals can better prepare for disasters. She discusses the importance of community support and personal resilience during crises. Listeners learn about crucial preparedness resources like CERT training and local emergency alerts. The dialogue also highlights the psychological phases of disaster response, emphasizing trust and communication as vital for survival. Ripley's updated insights will inspire you to be proactive when facing the unexpected.

Award-winning chef and food writer Sohla El-Waylly discusses transforming home cooking amid rising takeout prices. She shares insights on mastering meal prep with rotisserie chicken and plant-based options, emphasizing the importance of seasoning and a well-stocked pantry. Sohla also highlights the versatility of rice and beans, offering tips on selecting quality ingredients and improvising delicious meals. With practical advice for beginners, she encourages a balanced approach to cooking while enjoying the creative process in the kitchen.

Helen Fisher, a renowned biological anthropologist and author of Anatomy of Love, joins to explore how to let go of unreciprocated feelings. She emphasizes the importance of cutting off contact with a best friend to break the cycle of romantic longing. Fisher shares insights on the brain's responses to love and heartbreak, highlighting the need for personal growth and creating distance. Listeners learn practical strategies for healing, including avoiding emotional triggers and embracing new experiences for recovery.