In Part 2 of our menopause series, we dive deeper into the emotional, mental, and physical changes women experience during perimenopause and menopause. From brain fog and mood swings to sleep struggles, anxiety, and some more rare symptoms no one talks about. We explore how these transitions impact women’s overall well-being. Join us as we share expert insights, practical tools, and real talk about managing symptoms, protecting your mental health, and building resilience during this stage of life. If you’re looking for guidance on self-care, stress management, and women’s health during midlife, this episode is packed with support and strategies to help you feel more balanced and empowered.
Welcome to part one of our two-part Nearly Normal Podcast series on menopause. In this episode, we dive deep into the real experiences of perimenopause and menopause, breaking down the mental, emotional, and physical changes that women face during this transition. From hormonal shifts that affect mood and energy to the emotional toll of brain fog, anxiety, and sleep changes, we’re talking about it all—with honesty, humor, and compassion. As two seasoned therapists, we explore how menopause impacts mental health and overall wellbeing, while also sharing practical coping strategies, self-care tools, and mindset shifts that can help women feel supported and empowered through the process. If you’ve ever wondered whether your symptoms are “normal,” or you want to better understand how menopause affects the mind, body, and emotions, this episode is for you.
Need a mental health pick-me-up? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we bring you Hot Takes, Cold Coffee—a cheeky, caffeine-fueled chat about TikTok trends, AI in therapy, viral pop culture fads (yes, even ice cube trays), and the shows we’re watching to keep our mental wellness in check. Join two therapists as we laugh, reflect, and remind you that being “nearly normal” is more than enough.
Are your habits truly helping you, or are they just clever ways of avoiding the deeper issues you don’t want to face? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive into the psychology of habits, coping skills, and daily routines. With a mix of humor and introspection, we explore whether your go-to strategies—like working out, overworking, scrolling social media, or even reading—are actually healthy coping mechanisms or subtle avoidance tactics. This fun and insightful conversation will help you reflect on your own behaviors, uncover the difference between healing habits and hiding habits, and give you tools to create healthier patterns for mental wellness. Perfect for anyone curious about self-awareness, emotional health, or building stronger coping skills.
In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive deep into the invisible mental and emotional load carried by women in today’s world. From career burnout and workplace gender bias to fertility struggles, motherhood pressures, and safety concerns, we explore how these hidden burdens impact women’s mental health and emotional well-being. Join us as we discuss practical coping strategies, ways to set boundaries, and how to challenge societal expectations. Perfect for working mothers, women navigating infertility, or anyone seeking balance and self-care, this conversation sheds light on the realities women face while offering supportive tools for resilience and growth.
Welcome back to the Nearly Normal Podcast—your go-to space for real, relatable, and sometimes hilarious conversations about mental health, mental wellness, and everyday life. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of the 5 Love Languages—a powerful framework that can completely transform the way you connect with your friends, partners, and even yourself. We break down what each of the five love languages really means—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch—and explore how understanding them can improve your relationships, reduce conflict, and increase emotional intimacy. We’ll also share our own love languages (spoiler: they’re not the same!) and talk about the funny, awkward, and meaningful ways they show up in our everyday lives. Whether you’re trying to strengthen your romantic relationship, build deeper friendships, or simply improve your overall emotional and mental wellness, this episode will give you the insight and laughs you need to feel a little more nearly normal.
Join us for a rapid-fire round of mental health Q&A in this fun and insightful episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast! We tackle the weird, the random, and the surprisingly important mental wellness questions that don’t always come up in therapy—but probably should. Whether you’re here for a laugh or a lightbulb moment, we’ve got mental health tips, mindset tools, and relatable real talk just for you.
Ever said "I'm so stupid" after forgetting a name or felt guilty for taking a break? You're not alone. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive into the world of micro-shame—those small, everyday moments that stir up guilt, embarrassment, or self-doubt. Learn how to recognize these emotional patterns, why they show up, and how to accept or challenge them using simple mental health tools.
In this fun and insightful episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we explore the everyday situations, strange habits, and random interactions that make you stop and think — “Seriously?” From awkward social encounters to bizarre daily rituals, Kate and Nina unpack these "hmmm?" moments with a humorous twist and a mental health perspective. Tune in for laughs, therapeutic tips, and a reminder that you’re not the only one feeling weird about life’s little oddities.
Do you find yourself repeating the same fights or shutting down during disagreements? In this episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive into the most common phrases people say during conflict—like “You never listen to me” or “whatever”—and offer practical, therapist-approved ways to reframe and respond with clarity and compassion. Whether you're in a romantic relationship, navigating family drama, or dealing with a difficult friend, this episode is packed with tools for healthy communication, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution strategies that actually work. You’ll learn: How to avoid defensiveness and blame What to say when you're feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood How to express your needs without starting a fight Easy-to-use language swaps that can improve any relationship Perfect for anyone looking to improve emotional intelligence, build stronger connections, and experience more peaceful communication in everyday life.
Ready to raise your glass without the buzz? In this lively episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, we're taste-testing our favorite summer mocktails that are perfect for anyone embracing a sober curious lifestyle, practicing alcohol-free self-care, or just looking to support mental clarity and wellness this season. Join us as we sample and rate delicious, easy-to-make non-alcoholic drinks that are big on flavor and fun—but gentle on your mental health. Whether you're exploring sobriety, trying a dry July, or creating new rituals for healthy habits, this episode is packed with laughter, real talk, and refreshing ideas for your sober summer.
Tired of that inner critic dragging you down? In this powerful episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, licensed therapists Kate and Nina break down the science and psychology behind negative self-talk—and teach you how to reframe those toxic thought patterns into empowering, positive self-statements. You’ll learn: Therapist-approved strategies to challenge negative thinking Real-life examples of cognitive reframing techniques Why mindset matters for mental health, anxiety, and confidence Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, overthinking, or chronic anxiety, this episode is packed with practical tips that will help you shift from self-criticism to self-compassion. Hit play to transform your inner dialogue and take the first step toward emotional wellness.
Are the latest mental health tips trending on TikTok and Instagram actually helping your well-being—or hurting it? In this episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, licensed therapists Kate and Nina dive into the most popular self-care hacks and wellness advice spreading across social media. From “dopamine detoxes” to affirmations, mental reset routines, and emotional check-in hacks, we break down what’s therapist-approved and what’s just digital fluff. We’ll talk about: How to tell the difference between evidence-based therapy techniques and social media myths The mental health trends that actually work (according to science) The risks of following unverified advice for anxiety, depression, and trauma How to use social media safely to support your emotional wellness If you're curious about what’s legit in the world of online mental health, this episode is your must-listen guide.
Why do so many men avoid therapy—and how can we change that? In this episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive deep into the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, emotional vulnerability, and help-seeking behavior. From societal pressure to "man up" to the silent battles men fight daily, we explore why mental health care for men often goes unspoken—and what we can do to support the men in our lives. Join us as we unpack practical tips for improving communication with male partners, friends, and family members, and share insight on how to encourage men to seek mental health support without shame. Whether you’re a man struggling in silence or someone who loves one—this conversation is for you.
Are you exhausted from always trying to be nice? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we’re diving into the “Good Girl Wound”—a deeply ingrained pattern that teaches women to stay quiet, avoid conflict, and prioritize others at the cost of their own mental health. Join your favorite nearly-normal hosts as we unpack how this wound shows up in daily life, how it affects your self-worth, anxiety levels, and relationships, and—most importantly—how to break free from the pressure to please. We'll give you mental health tips, boundary-setting strategies, and mindset shifts to help you stop apologizing for existing and start showing up as your authentic, empowered self. Whether you're a recovering people-pleaser or just starting to question the “good girl” narrative, this episode is your permission slip to stop shrinking and start healing.
Ever wondered what depression and anxiety actually feel like? In this honest and deeply personal episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, two licensed therapists pull back the curtain on their own experiences with mental health. You’ll hear what it’s like to live with anxiety and depression—from the racing thoughts and emotional exhaustion to the invisible weight that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. We’re not just sharing stories—we’re giving you practical tools. Learn evidence-based coping strategies, soothing techniques for anxious thoughts, and what actually helps when you're in a depressive fog. Whether you're struggling yourself or trying to understand a loved one, this episode is a must-listen.
You’ve rolled your eyes at journaling. Laughed off breathing exercises. Scoffed at gratitude lists. But... yeah, have you actually tried them? In this laugh-out-loud episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, your favorite therapists break down the “cringey” mental health tools that people love to dismiss—but science and experience say otherwise. We challenge your inner skeptic while serving up relatable stories, honest laughs, and surprisingly simple ways to boost your mental well-being. Perfect for anyone dealing with anxiety, stress, burnout, or just needing a nudge toward something new that might actually work.
Welcome back to The Nearly Normal Podcast – where two quirky therapists keep it real, keep it funny, and keep it free! This week, we're diving into the world of red flags – the ones you spot in clients, therapists, and even yourself. From toxic relationships to questionable therapy practices, we’re exploring how to spot those flashing warning signs before they cost you time, energy, or sanity. And in honor of staying "nearly normal" at all times, we're serving up some tough love with the tagline: “Play Stupid Games, Win Stupid Prizes.” Tune in to hear us break down the red flags that might be waving right in front of you – and how to swerve before it’s too late. Buckle up; this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a dose of hard truth.
Welcome to a special Mother’s Day episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, where we’re celebrating the moms, the mother figures, and all the beautifully imperfect ways they shape our lives. Today, we’re diving into the highs, lows, and hilariously relatable moments of motherhood — from managing expectations to setting boundaries with family and finding time for self-care. Whether you’re a mom, have a mom, or know a mom, this episode is packed with real talk, laughter, and practical advice for staying (nearly) sane.
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the emotional highs and lows of dating — and, even more importantly, how to recognize when a relationship has run its course. We explore why we hold onto relationships longer than we should, the mental health consequences of staying too long, and practical ways to break free with clarity and self-respect.