How To! with Mike Pesca

Dr. Lucy Blake, an expert in family dynamics and self-acceptance, helps a listener, Kate, navigate her feelings of being a black sheep in a hiking-loving family. They discuss the struggle of balancing personal identity with familial bonds. Lucy emphasizes the value of celebrating differences and fostering authentic connections amidst the pressures of togetherness. The conversation also touches on the importance of addressing emotional complexities and the gradual change needed for deeper family ties, particularly for those feeling estranged.

Dale Aucoin, a professional organizer from New York City and founder of Clean & Queer, joins the conversation to tackle the challenges of housework. They discuss prioritizing tasks to keep chaos at bay and share practical strategies to transform cleaning into a rewarding habit. The impact of mental health on organizational skills is examined, along with tips for managing household chores in cozy spaces. Dale emphasizes self-compassion and the importance of creating routines that fit individual lifestyles, making those dreaded chores feel less overwhelming.

Elle, a therapist navigating a tough career transition, shares her journey from a toxic work environment. Rudhir Krishtel, a leadership coach, joins her to discuss transforming workplace dynamics for personal fulfillment. They explore how to communicate better in high-pressure scenarios and the importance of self-reflection in maintaining mental health. Together, they offer insights into empowering oneself after a challenging job and the significance of fostering healthy relationships at work for a more supportive environment.

Gary Gulman, a New York standup comedian known for his candid humor about clinical depression, joins hosts to discuss the art of funny storytelling. They dive into the challenges of crafting effective jokes, particularly in pastoral settings. Gulman shares his personal journey through the world of comedy, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and relatability. The conversation also explores how humor can provide comfort in grief and reflect on societal issues, showcasing its transformative power amidst life's struggles.

Authors Jessica Slice and Caroline Cupp provide guidance to Todd, a man with multiple sclerosis, on navigating dating with a disability. They discuss disclosing disabilities, dealing with ableism, and managing expectations in the dating world.

Shirley Showalter and Marilyn McEntyre know that grandparenting is more than just cookies and Play-Doh. Don't get us wrong, those things are fun! But the art of contemporary grandparenting requires mindfulness, intentionality, and navigating boundaries. On today's episode, Courtney Martin talks with Marilyn and Shirley about their book, The Mindful Grandparent, and the wisdom they've gained as elders to 12 grandchildren. If you liked this episode check out: How To Face Your Kid's Future 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 and Sara McCrea. Slate Plus members get bonus segments and ad-free podcast feeds. Sign up now at slate.com/howtoplus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DJ DiDonna, founder of The Sabbatical Project, shares tips on planning a meaningful and manageable sabbatical. They discuss the importance of taking breaks, exploring personal interests, and managing finances during time off. The podcast provides insights on self-discovery, trying new activities, and avoiding future regrets by reconnecting with oneself and pursuing passions.

Psychiatrist Dr. Bessel van der Kolk helps a shark attack survivor cope with lasting trauma on the podcast. They discuss grieving the 'old you' and embracing your new self to heal mentally and physically.

How To!'s senior editor Joel Meyer recently experienced a yard sale fail and wants to know what went wrong. He spent hours planning and organizing the items on his lawn, but when it was all said and done he barely made enough to cover the cost of lunch. Enter this week's expert, Ava Seavey, a self-described master of garage-sale-ology and author of Ava's Guide to Garage Sale Gold. Seavey tells host Courtney Martin some hilarious stories and insider tips for how to cash in on all your old stuff. If you liked this episode, check out "How To Find the Gems in All Your Junk" 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. Podcast production by Derek John, Joel Meyer, Rosemary Belson, and Kevin Bendis. Slate Plus members get bonus segments and ad-free podcast feeds. Sign up now at slate.com/howtoplus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writer and powerlifter Mikala Jamison joins the podcast to share her journey of starting strength training and how to avoid the bro-culture in weight rooms. Topics include overcoming gym intimidation, building confidence in strength training, and navigating the world of strength training for beginners.