We Can Do Hard Things
Glennon Doyle and Audacy
Join bestselling author Glennon Doyle as she dives into life's complexities on "We Can Do Hard Things," presented by Audacy. This podcast invites listeners into candid discussions about the challenges and mysteries that life throws at us. Each episode, Glennon, alongside a rotation of insightful guests and co-hosts, explores personal stories, cultural conversations, and hard-earned truths that inspire and empower. From relationships and parenting to activism and self-discovery, "We Can Do Hard Things" offers a space for honesty and healing, reminding us that we're all stronger than we think. The show's empathetic approach allows for a deep exploration of how we can navigate life's toughest moments with grace and resilience. With a blend of humor, vulnerability, and fierce wisdom, Glennon Doyle helps transform the way we think about our struggles, making this podcast a source of comfort and motivation. Whether you're seeking inspiration or understanding, "We Can Do Hard Things" is here to remind you that you're not alone in your journey.
Episodes
Glennon & Abby's Guide to Confronting Crisis with Compassion
In this deeply personal episode, hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach delve into the theme of confronting crises with compassion. The discussion is enriched by personal anecdotes and reflections on handling life’s challenges. They address the feeling of "crisis fatigue" that many experience when faced with continuous hardships, discussing the importance of acknowledging these struggles rather than suppressing them. The episode emphasizes emotional authenticity and the significance of processing feelings fully to foster resilience and self-compassion. Both hosts share insights from their lives, providing a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, strength, and the human capacity to endure and grow from difficulties.
The Embodied Path to Healing Racialized Trauma with Resmaa Menakem
Resmaa Menakem, a therapist and author, engages in a profound discussion on racialized trauma with host Glennon Doyle. Menakem introduces "somatic abolitionism" as a therapeutic approach focusing on the body's role in trauma response and racial healing. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the necessity of incorporating physical sensations and experiences to fully address and mend the impacts of racial trauma, moving beyond intellectual understanding to embody healing practices. Menakem challenges listeners to confront and condition their responses to racial injustice, utilizing personal and collective history as a foundation for deep, transformative work.
Glennon's Friendship Contract with Alex Hedison
In a soul-stirring discussion with Alex Hedison, "We Can Do Hard Things" explores the nuances of maintaining authentic friendships. Alex shares insights on the 'postmortem' analysis of social interactions, emphasizing the importance of alignment with oneself. The conversation highlights how recognizing and addressing misalignments can strengthen connections. Through Alex's experiences and the concept of a 'friendship contract', the episode sheds light on setting boundaries and advocating for oneself in relationships. Key themes include self-awareness, communication, and the delicate balance between personal growth and interpersonal dynamics.
Tell Me More: First Love, Meds + Recovery
In this touching episode of "We Can Do Hard Things," hosts Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle celebrate the podcast's third anniversary by revisiting significant moments and discussions from their lives. Glennon discusses her decision to start medications for depression and anxiety, revealing the profound impact it has on her daily life. Abby shares her journey after retiring from professional soccer and how the podcast has given her a new sense of purpose. Amanda talks about her recovery from an eating disorder and the challenges of managing her mental health. The episode is filled with raw, honest conversations that highlight the hosts' vulnerabilities and growth, making it a celebration of overcoming hardships and embracing change.
The One Who Taught Glennon Friendship: Alex Hedison
In "The One Who Taught Glennon Friendship: Alex Hedison," Glennon Doyle and guest Alexandra Hedison discuss the profound impact of friendship and the ongoing journey toward self-discovery and authenticity. The episode delves into Hedison's personal evolution, touching on themes of identity, artistic expression, and the LGBTQ+ community's dynamics. The conversation highlights how Hedison's experiences and personal revelations have fostered a deeper understanding of friendship's role in personal growth and the importance of expressing one’s true self in relationships. The episode is a celebration of the meaningful connections that challenge and support us, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in their own lives.
Expert Advice on Genetic Testing, Cancer Prevention & Care Disparities with Dr. Rachel Brem
Dr. Rachel Brem joins hosts Glennon Doyle and Audacy to shed light on critical issues surrounding breast cancer, emphasizing early detection and the need for personalized medical advocacy. Dr. Brem discusses the higher mortality rates among Black women with breast cancer compared to their white counterparts, attributing these disparities to systemic issues within healthcare and the importance of high-quality care. She advocates for increased access to specialized care and genetic testing, particularly for populations at higher risk, such as Black and Ashkenazi Jewish women. The episode also explores the potential of AI in enhancing diagnostic accuracy in mammography and discusses new FDA mandates about informing women of their breast density—a factor in assessing cancer risk.
Early Detection, Mammograms & Breast Cancer Care with Dr. Rachel Brem
Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach host a poignant discussion on breast cancer, emphasizing early detection and personalized care, with Dr. Rachel Brem. Dr. Brem, a breast cancer expert, shares her professional insights and personal story, advocating for proactive screening and technological advancements in mammography. The episode is deeply informative, providing listeners with critical information on how different types of screenings are suited to various risk levels and the importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
Breaking Generational Cycles: Embodiment & Healing Trauma with Prentis Hemphill
In this insightful episode, Prentis Hemphill discusses the profound impact of embodiment on breaking generational cycles of trauma. Hemphill, a therapist and embodiment specialist, explores the nuances of personal and collective healing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and transforming inherited patterns of behavior. The conversation, led by Glennon Doyle, dives deep into the mechanisms of trauma, the concept of 'transitional characters'—those who break these cycles, and the critical role of self-awareness and self-regulation in fostering change. The dialogue is rich with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of personal and societal healing.
Abby On Healing From Religious Trauma
In "Abby On Healing From Religious Trauma," hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach explore the painful intersection of queerness and religious indoctrination. The episode, framed around Pride Month, revisits a pivotal conversation where Abby shares her struggles with the deep-seated shame and rejection imposed by her religious upbringing. The dialogue unfolds as a poignant narrative of personal acceptance, challenging societal norms, and the transformative power of embracing one's true self despite religious constraints. Through laughter and tears, the hosts dissect the insidious nature of religiously fueled shame, advocating for a life led by love and acceptance over judgment.
Tegan and Sara Ask: Did We Do Enough?
In this heartfelt episode of "We Can Do Hard Things," hosts Glennon Doyle and Audacy delve into the lives of iconic duo Tegan and Sara. Celebrating over two decades in the music industry, the twins discuss their multifaceted careers, their activism, and the evolution of their identities. They reflect on the highs and lows, the pressures of public life, and their pivotal roles in LGBTQ advocacy. The discussion is interwoven with personal anecdotes, revealing the deep bond the sisters share, and how their experiences shaped not only their careers but also their views on life, success, and personal growth.
What Amanda's Learned About Life, Love & Community (Post Surgery Pt 2)
Amanda Doyle shares her journey of undergoing a bilateral mastectomy, the challenges she faced, and the invaluable support she received from her wife, Abby Wambach, and her community. The discussion covers practical aspects of pre- and post-surgery preparations, emotional struggles, and the crucial role of having a strong support system. The hosts emphasize the importance of asking questions, being well-prepared, and advocating for oneself in medical situations. They also touch upon the broader implications of medical care disparities and the political aspects of healthcare.
Amanda Returns Post Surgery: Here's What She Wants You To Know
Amanda Doyle returns to the podcast after undergoing a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, sharing her emotional and physical journey post-diagnosis of breast cancer. The episode focuses on the nuances of navigating medical decisions, the importance of seeking multiple medical opinions, and the support needed during such challenging times. Amanda, along with hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, discusses the complexities of the medical processes involved, emphasizing the need for patient advocacy and informed decision-making in the face of overwhelming medical information.
Grief: How to Move Through Losing a Friend with Sloane Crosley
In a deeply moving discussion, Glennon Doyle and guest Sloane Crosley explore the nuanced forms of grief experienced after the loss of a friend. Crosley shares her personal story, intertwining the trauma of a burglary and the devastating suicide of a close friend. The conversation navigates the complexities of processing grief, the search for understanding, and the societal pressures and personal challenges that come with discussing suicide and loss openly. Through personal anecdotes and reflective insights, this episode provides a heartfelt look at the often-misunderstood nature of grieving a friend and the importance of open discourse on mental health.
Jealousy: Glennon & Abby Share It All
In "Jealousy: Glennon & Abby Share It All," hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach explore the depths of jealousy in their relationship, revealing their vulnerabilities and discoveries. The discussion starts light but deepens as they recount personal stories of past relationships marked by infidelity, shaping their current perspectives on trust and jealousy. They discuss how jealousy often stems from deep-seated insecurities and past traumas, impacting their communication and trust dynamics within their marriage. The conversation is interspersed with calls from listeners, adding broader context and relatability. Both hosts share their evolving understanding of jealousy—not just as a negative emotion but as a complex layer of their relationship that requires transparency, trust, and ongoing dialogue to manage.
How to Turn a Mistake into Magic with Suleika Jaouad
In this profoundly moving episode, host Glennon Doyle converses with guest Suleika Jaouad, author and cancer survivor, who shares her journey of turning significant life challenges into opportunities for growth and artistic expression. Jaouad discusses her approach to living with a serious illness, her creative processes, and how she uses her experiences to fuel her writing and art, particularly through her project, the Isolation Journals. This episode dives deep into themes of resilience, the therapeutic power of creativity, and the importance of redefining productivity and success in the face of adversity.
Potholes & Productive Conflict in Relationships with Abby & Glennon
Hosts Abby Wambach and Glennon Doyle discuss the delicate balance of maintaining individuality in relationships, the allure and risks of enmeshment, and the transformative power of healthy conflicts. They share personal experiences and insights from their relationship, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and nurturing one's own needs alongside those of a partner. The conversation dives deep into the phases of relationships, from the intoxicating days of initial romance to the more stable, yet challenging, reality of long-term partnership. Listeners are offered a candid look at how both hosts navigated their fears and growth within their marriage.
Post Diagnosis: Glennon & Abby Reflect and Decide What Needs to Change
In this heartfelt episode, hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach engage in a profound discussion about responding to a challenging diagnosis within their family, exploring how it affects their personal lives and relationship. They candidly share insights into their habits and interactions, examining patterns of codependency, control, and self-care. The dialogue reveals how personal challenges can lead to deeper understanding and necessary changes in how they support each other, emphasizing the importance of awareness and adjustment in sustaining a supportive partnership.
Amanda's Diagnosis & What's Next (Pt. 2)
In the emotionally charged episode "Amanda's Diagnosis & What's Next (Pt. 2)," Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach delve deep into the challenges and reflections triggered by Abby's breast cancer diagnosis. The conversation navigates through the complex terrain of handling a serious illness under public scrutiny, exploring themes of vulnerability, personal vs. public experiences, and the intrinsic loneliness of facing one's mortality. The hosts also discuss the broader implications of sharing such personal journeys with a large audience, touching on the balance between private suffering and public sharing.
Amanda's Diagnosis and What's Next (Pt. 1)
In this heartfelt episode of the "We Can Do Hard Things" podcast, Amanda Doyle shares her emotional and medical journey after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The episode covers the moments leading up to her diagnosis, her thoughts on cancer prevention, and her plans for surgery. Alongside her, hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach explore the challenges and intricacies of navigating such a life-changing diagnosis. They discuss the impact of family history on health, the importance of proactive medical checks, and the support systems that play a crucial role during such times.
Brittany Griner On Coming Home & Recovering From Trauma
Brittney Griner discusses her harrowing experiences in a foreign detention and the profound personal impacts of her ordeal. Hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach delve into the emotional and psychological aftermath of Griner's return, emphasizing the broader issues of gender and racial inequities, especially in sports. The conversation reveals the complexities of healing from trauma and the stark realities of being a high-profile athlete facing systemic disparities. Griner's story is a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to endure challenges.
Healing From Complex PTSD with Stephanie Foo
In this enlightening episode of "We Can Do Hard Things," host Glennon Doyle speaks with Stephanie Foo about her struggles and insights into complex PTSD, which Foo vividly details in her memoir. The discussion delves deep into the nature of trauma, how it manifests in daily life, and the unique challenges of complex PTSD compared to other forms. Foo shares her intense personal experiences with trauma from childhood abuse and the subsequent journey towards healing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing the root causes of her mental health struggles.
The Truth of OCD: Therapist Alegra Kastens on Living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
In this impactful episode, Alegra Kastens, a therapist and OCD specialist, shares her personal journey and professional insights into the misunderstood world of OCD. The discussion illuminates the condition's depth beyond common stereotypes, such as the compulsive cleanliness often portrayed in media. Kastens emphasizes that OCD involves intense, intrusive thoughts that are distressing and contrary to an individual's values, known as ego-dystonic thoughts. These can range from violent to sexual or blasphemous thoughts that incessantly plague the person’s mind, leading to significant distress and dysfunctional coping mechanisms such as compulsions or avoidance behaviors. The conversation is not just clinical but deeply personal, as Kastens reveals her struggles and the severe impact of OCD on her life, providing a stark, heartfelt insight into the daily realities of living with OCD.
How to Self-Regulate, Heal Your Relationships & Accept That You'll Never Be Finished
Hosted by Glennon Doyle on the "We Can Do Hard Things" podcast, this episode delves deep into the pressures of productivity and its impact on our personal well-being and relationships. Glennon, alongside her sister Amanda Doyle, unpacks the toxic allure of perpetual busyness driven by societal expectations and capitalism, framing it as a 'cult of productivity' that prioritizes output over genuine contentment. They discuss the disillusionment with traditional milestones like retirement, contrasting it with the European model, and the limited time it actually leaves for personal enjoyment. The conversation highlights the psychological toll of aligning self-worth with productivity, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift towards valuing personal time and intrinsic happiness over societal validation.
Break Up with Busyness & Let Go of Your To-Do List
In this episode, hosts Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach discuss the pervasive culture of busyness, questioning its value and the toll it takes on our lives. They delve into the psychological and societal pressures that lead individuals to equate busyness with worthiness. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and redefining personal success beyond societal expectations. They explore personal anecdotes and societal observations, critiquing the glorification of being busy and providing insights on creating a more balanced life.
Laziness Does Not Exist with Devon Price
In this thought-provoking episode, Glennon Doyle and her co-hosts engage with Dr. Devon Price, who introduces the concept of "the laziness lie"—a societal belief system that equates personal worth with productivity. Dr. Price, a social psychologist, dismantles the stigma surrounding laziness, arguing that our self-worth should not be tied to how much we produce. The discussion delves into how this mindset affects various aspects of life, including work, personal health, and societal expectations. By sharing personal stories and scientific insights, Dr. Price encourages listeners to redefine their understanding of value and productivity, advocating for a life that prioritizes personal fulfillment over societal expectations.
How to Make The Ordinary Come Alive with Amanda Doyle
In this engaging episode of "We Can Do Hard Things," Glennon Doyle and Amanda Doyle explore the beauty found in everyday life, challenging the pursuit of extraordinary achievements as the sole path to happiness. Amanda shares personal stories demonstrating how she learned to appreciate the simple joys, such as relationship dynamics and self-acceptance. The episode weaves through themes of vulnerability, interdependence, and the paradox of seeking help while being helped, culminating in a powerful reading of William Martin's poem, "Make the Ordinary Come Alive," which advises finding marvel in the ordinary.