15: The Final Episode
Ask Your Mother
This episode marks a significant shift in our podcast journey. When it all began in a Miami hotel room back in January 2020, little did I know how my endeavor would evolve, becoming a lifeline of connection and support for both listeners and myself during the pandemic. Our mission for the podcast - to support and assist moms and caregivers, has remained constant throughout. We have tackled diverse questions and adapted to changing circumstances, providing support and calm in stormy times. Now, we are moving in a new direction to allow our message of love and kindness to reach a broader...
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14: Life After Death with Keela Fowler
Ask Your Mother
I am delighted to have a Keela Fowler joining me today to dive into a topic near and dear to both of our hearts and answer a question many of you have been curious about: what happens after losing someone you love? Death can be a catastrophic experience, and it is only natural to wonder when the pain will subside, when the healing will begin, and how life will continue. Keela and I share the common bond of losing our mothers, although our losses occurred at different stages of life. In this episode, we share our experiences, provide insights, and offer a glimpse into the...
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13: Halloween and Kids' Anxiety
Ask Your Mother
Today, I aim to present a novel perspective on Halloween inspired by the numerous questions I have received. The question we are tackling today is, what should a parent do if Halloween is not what their child wants? This issue usually centers on the apprehensions kids may feel about Halloween, kids who do not enjoy the Halloween experience, exceptional kids, or children on the spectrum. But it could also happen in kids with no diagnosable reason why Halloween would be challenging. In those situations, I always feel it is best to revert to the principles I repeatedly emphasize in explicit...
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12: What Do I Want?
Ask Your Mother
This podcast episode marks a new chapter as we step into the world of video for the very first time! My producer convinced me that the possibilities with video are endless, so here we are! Today, I'm embracing a cozy vibe with my favorite Monday T-shirt and my hair freshly washed and left to its natural curls instead of the meticulous look you might be used to. Feel free to check out our YouTube channel for the video experience rather than the audio version. If there are any unexpected quirks or if I need to clarify things differently, it is all part of this exciting transition. Today, I want...
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11: Making Friends
Ask Your Mother
Hey friends! Today's discussion really excites me because the inspiration came from the Women of Wonder community I lead! Stay tuned at the end for more details about this community. The question we explore today is relevant for women of all ages. The tricky part of preparing this episode was coming up with advice that would resonate with women at different stages of life. The question is: How do I make friends as a grown-up? Let me tell you, traversing the intricate landscape of adult friendships is a universal challenge! It is a question that hits close to home for me, and I look...
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12: Career Advice for Mental Health Careers
Ask Your Mother
I am delighted to be back with you, my friends, after our summer break! Our brief hiatus during the summer months was time well spent, as I devoted my energies to nurturing the Women of Wonder community. Today's episode holds a special place in my heart! It stems from a question I posed on Instagram a few months ago about career guidance. Even though my post was intended for general advice, the very first query I received was related to mental health. Given my expertise in that area I decided to tackle this topic personally. I did some extra research to deepen my...
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10: Women of Wonder
Ask Your Mother
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck in a cycle of constant fatigue? Have you ever wished for a space where you can freely share your concerns without fear of judgment while connecting with others who truly understand what you are going through? Well, that is just what I have been working tirelessly to create! It has become increasingly clear that many people are battling isolation and burnout, and I can no longer tolerate or ignore that. The Transformative Power of Supportive Communities As a therapist, I have witnessed the transformative power of supportive...
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ENCORE: Grieving for Non-Death Losses
Ask Your Mother
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ENCORE: Having It All and Still Struggling with Depression and Anxiety with Kadi Baker
Ask Your Mother
Many people struggle with depression and anxiety, and we don’t know how to help them. We don’t know how to help because depression and anxiety don’t have a characteristic “look.” Sadly, people who seem to “have it all together” and are “full of fun” are sometimes in a deep, dark pit on the inside. It takes courage to acknowledge the depression and ask for help, and their story can be beautiful, honest, and candid as they share their journey. Today’s guest has been in the darkness, and she’s opening up with the hope of bringing help to others. Join us. Kadi Baker is a...
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ENCORE: Sex, Fun & Female Pleasure with Thien Kim Lam
Ask Your Mother
Thien Kim Lam is unafraid to have uncomfortable conversations about sex. She’s not your typical romance writer because she’s focused on empowering women to enjoy sex and pleasure for themselves. Thien learned a lot as a sex toy sales consultant and eventually she realized that so many issues were with female sexuality were universal and they needed to be addressed in a positive way. She eventually started Bawdy Bookworms to combine the pleasures of romance novels with the pleasures of sex toys. She’s all about bringing back fun and pleasure for all types of women. Join Cristie and Thien...
info_outlineHey friends! Today's discussion really excites me because the inspiration came from the Women of Wonder community I lead! Stay tuned at the end for more details about this community.
The question we explore today is relevant for women of all ages. The tricky part of preparing this episode was coming up with advice that would resonate with women at different stages of life. The question is: How do I make friends as a grown-up? Let me tell you, traversing the intricate landscape of adult friendships is a universal challenge! It is a question that hits close to home for me, and I look forward to diving into this topic alongside all of you!
Navigating Friendships in a Changing Landscape
During our school years, making friends was mandatory, with daily interactions providing ample opportunities for connections. Transitioning to a career happened naturally for me, and working at a school, I formed bonds with colleagues who shared similar experiences and goals.
Recent events, however, have altered that landscape. The pandemic forced us into isolation, and returning to the same office dynamics was not guaranteed. Our lives have shifted, whether through remote work, career changes, or the arrival of children. The common thread among those transitions is a sense of loneliness and disconnection, leading many to ask how to make friends as adults.
Revisiting Old Friendships
The Ben Rector song, Old Friend, is about people who share our memories and understand our inside jokes. Unfortunately, recreating things from the past might be unattainable in our grown-up lives. I have also been there- longing for feelings of connection and wondering if it is possible to rekindle or replicate my old relationships.
Self-Reflection and Four Key Questions
In my experience, it all begins with introspection and four fundamental questions:
- What am I looking for? For this question, identifying your specific needs and desires is crucial. Are you seeking deep connections or simply companionship? The answer will shape your approach.
- What do I have? Take stock of your current social resources. They could be existing friendships, colleagues, neighbors, or online communities.
- What can I give? Friendships require mutual effort, so consider what you are willing to invest. It could be your time, your vulnerability, or your support.
- Am I willing to do what it takes? Making friends often entails stepping out of your comfort zone, initiating conversations, and taking risks.
Adapting to a Changing Life
Your stage in life will influence your approach to making friends. For instance, if you have young children, you might naturally connect with other parents or neighbors. As your kids grow and become more independent, you may wonder how to fill the void left by their increasing self-sufficiency. I have been in this position, and found it essential to adjust my expectations and adapt to the changing landscape.
Finding New Friendships
How we forge friendships as adults tends to echo how we did it in our youth. Making friends involves seeking out people who share your interests and passions. You may find them in clubs, classes, volunteering opportunities, or possibly at work. Online platforms and apps can also be valuable tools, especially in larger cities where finding like-minded individuals can be more challenging. It is ultimately about understanding what you are searching for and being open to the journey.
Creating Women of Wonder
I noticed the need for support and connection during life transitions, so I created the Women of Wonder group for women to come together and connect with others who share their interests and passions. Whether we discuss stand-up comedy, books, or television, our goal is to form connections based on commonalities beyond our roles and responsibilities.
Women of Wonder
I want to introduce everyone out there feeling lonely, sick of being tired, overwhelmed, unsupported, or not sure where to turn to our Women of Wonder community, abbreviated as WoW. It is a judgment-free, safe space to ask questions and connect with real people for support and answers. Loneliness is a common human experience, and it is crucial to understand that it is okay to seek connection.
Where Friendship Starts
I remind you that whether you want to expand your social circle or reconnect with old friends, it is all part of the human experience, and it starts with understanding what you need and have to offer in a friendship.
What Am I Noticing?
First up is The Bear. It is a Chicago-based series about a Michelin-starred chef who takes over his brother's restaurant. The family dynamics and kitchen conflicts make it a compelling watch, and the visuals and sound design are top-notch. If you enjoy intense storytelling and family drama, give it a shot.
Next is Heartstopper, a delightful love story based on a YA graphic novel. It follows two young men falling in love, surrounded by LGBTQ relationships. It is well-written, funny, and cute, making it a perfect choice for rom-com and high school drama enthusiasts.
Lastly, I recommend the book Charm City Rocks by Matthew Norman. Set in Baltimore, it explores co-parenting, aging, and the complexities of relationships. The way that the author portrayed inner thoughts and struggles resonated with me. It is a relatable read for anyone navigating adult life and relationships.
So, if you have some spare time and are not too busy making new friends, consider these TV shows and the book for enjoyable entertainment!
Links and resources:
Women of Wonder (W.o.W) Founding Members