2025 is officially here, and in this week’s episode, Val and Emerson are talking all about how to kick off the new year with compassionate self-discipline, instead of the often toxic #newyearnewme mentality. 

This episode covers:

• 03:42 - Tea & Crumpets: Emerson is getting creative with her iPad and Val finally started watching Nobody Wants This.
• 08:03 - The Lore: After extreme stress due to caring for aging parents, a woman had a bizarre immune reaction that showed her very tangibly that she needed a fresh start.
• 11:50 - The DSM: The #NewYearNewMe culture historically isn’t working for the vast majority of people, why doesn’t it work and what CAN work instead!
• 32:56 - Now That’s What I Call…OKAAAAY
• 34:01 - Em Pick: “New Year’s Day” by Taylor Swift
• 36:32 - Val Pick: “Yes and More Please” by Fia
• 37:32 - Fire Dumpster Phoenix
• Val’s pick: Minnesota Summer Camp for HIV-Positive Kids Closes Down— [dramatic pause] Because There Aren’t Any More” 
• Em’s pick: Woman collects and reunites families with their photographs lost to Hurricane Helene

Resources + Stuff  Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Practice of Groundedess: A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds--Not Crushes--Your Soul
• Brad Stulberg
• Kristin Neff’s self compassion work
• New Year’s Day by Taylor Swift
• Yes and More Please by Fia
• Minnesota Summer Camp for HIV-Positive Kids Closes Down— [dramatic pause] Because There Aren’t Any More
• Woman collects and reunites families with their photographs lost to Hurricane Helene

Connect with Us:

• Send a story or ask for advice: butforrealpod@gmail.com 
• But For Real on IG: @butforrealpod
• Now That's What I Call... OKAAAAY Playlist
• The Gaia Center on IG: @thegaiacenter
• Val on IG: @valkaymartin
• The Gaia Center website: www.gaiacenter.co 

DISCLAIMER: But For Real Podcast is not a substitute for individualized mental health treatment or healthcare. This podcast is solely for entertainment and educational purposes. If you are in crisis, please utilize crisis support services, such as the Crisis Text Line (Text START to 741741 in the US) or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: (Call 988 in the US), or visit www.findahelpline.com for international resources.