How Does Working Together Strengthen a Friendship?

how does working together strengthen a friendship

As any boss babe knows, there’s nothing more empowering than teamwork. We mean, how else would we get all our work done? And by now, we’re already pros at collaborating at work and tapping into each other’s strengths to crush goals. But teamwork isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder or slaying projects. It’s also about creating a support system with others beyond the confines of the office walls. 

Raising each other up is what we do best here at Dear Media, so it only makes sense that facing our goals together would deepen our connection. It’s just like how our Dear Media girlies support each other by going on each other’s podcasts all the time. Like when Lauryn Evarts Bosstick of the Get The F*ck Out of The Sun podcast featured Kristin Cavallari of Let’s Be Honest to chat about skincare, health, and self-care. Or when Siffat Haider of The Dream Bigger Podcast featured Kristen Gaffney and Aurora Culpo from Barely Filtered to discuss friendships, secrets to success, and more. Our collaborations make us stronger and better, every single time.

So if you’re struggling with how to make friends at work, we’ll let you in on a little secret: it turns out that working with other boss babes like yourself can do wonders for your friendships. Besides, who doesn’t want a little extra girl power in their squad?

Today, we’re championing how teaming up might just be the secret to strengthening your friendships. Get ready to discover how being part of a team and fostering those workplace relationships can bring joy, fulfillment, and oh-so-important job satisfaction.

how does working together strengthen a friendship

How Does Working Together Strengthen a Friendship?

Shared Goals and Collaborative Efforts

Setting goals and grinding them out with your friends nurtures a bond like no other. It’s like a friendship elixir when you’re invested in a common goal and ready to work hard with your squad. 

If your shared goal is starting a business, Balanced Black Girl has some advice for you! Check out this ep: Starting A Business & Building With Your Friends.

Trust Building

Trust allows you to rely on other people’s skills and abilities, which can take your friendship to new heights. When you hustle with your friends or work as part of a team, you put faith in one another to do their part to achieve a goal. You must trust them to have your back, no matter what. All this fosters a sense of camaraderie that makes the journey all the more exciting.

Learning and Growing Together

You know what they say: You live and learn together, and you level up together. Working alongside someone else allows you to see, learn, and adapt to how different people navigate all aspects of life, which can inevitably move you from being an ordinary team member to a ride-or-die friend. When you learn life’s lessons together, you both can grow as people! If you both want some serious inspo, listen to the episode of Him & Her called How to Constantly Level Up, Motivate Yourself, Maximize Your Time, and Keep Growing.

how does working together strengthen a friendship

Strengthened Emotional Connection

Having an emotional connection with someone makes you feel truly seen, heard, and cherished. No matter what endeavor you take on, all the quality time you spend working together will help to build emotional familiarity. Plus, when you’re working toward shared goals, chances are that your emotions are somewhat in sync. This can strengthen your emotional connection and help your teammates recognize when something’s off.

Being able to lean on each other emotionally despite challenges in your professional and personal lives not only strengthens your bond, but can also help foster a positive work environment and boost your mental health. Emotion wellness is the real deal!

Memories from Meaningful Experiences

Friendships are built on meaningful shared experiences. But those moments become much stronger when they are manifested from making magic with your friends. Whether celebrating big or small wins together, the memories you create while chasing your goals leave their mark forever and have you feeling genuinely grateful for your girls.

Mutual Support and Encouragement

Some days on the grind can feel like an uphill battle. But, having your girls in your corner, hyping you up every step of the way, can pick you back up and draw you closer to one another. When your work friends believe in you, and you believe in them, it can foster friendships and make all those late nights worth it. Nothing says we’ve got each other’s backs like pushing each other even when the going gets tough. Hopefully, your friends sit you down, pop in your headphones, and make you listen to this SUPER motivating episode of The Career Contessa called How To Create The Career & Life You Want By Creating Your Own Opportunities & Overcoming Your Hardships. 

Improved Communication Skills

When trying to achieve goals together, you and your friend must be on the same page 24/7. Hence, working alongside your girl helps to improve your communication skills through team building activities, open sharing, and feedback. Having solid communication skills allows you to not only smash your goals but also deepen your trust and mutual understanding.

Looking to level up your communication skills to make your team even MORE powerful? The Career Contessa, Lauren McGoodwin, is your girl! Listen to her share how to communicate effectively when you’re put on the spot.

how does working together strengthen a friendship

Working side-by-side with your friend makes your bond stronger.

We hope this has shown you just how much working with others can strengthen your friendship. Whether you’re sharing goals, lending support, solving problems together, or just having fun, doing life side-by-side can create unbreakable connections with unforgettable memories to go with it.

Just like at the incredible Dear Media IRL event, where your favorite podcasters are bringing their insightful discussions live on stage, you and your bestie have the power to inspire, motivate, and uplift each other. So, if you’re looking to level up your squad goals even more, get your tickets, grab this Bestie of the Year tee, and make plans to join us this May 4th. Plus, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to bond with fellow community members.

We can’t wait to see you there!

How to Make New Friends in a New City

the girls are laughing

Moving to a new city comes with tons of excitement: you get a new job, new sights to see, and a new place to live and make your own. It’s the beginning of a new chapter in your life, one you may have been dreaming of for a long time.

But, no matter how excited you are, moving to a new city can be overwhelming and a little scary, too. There’s a lot of unknown out there in your new city! Plus, moving somewhere you don’t have a support system can be more than a little intimidating, to say the least.

Don’t be afraid! Meeting new friends can make the process stay exciting, rather than getting stressful. And you’re like, the absolute best, so you’ll make friends in no time! Plus, we’ve got some great tips for making new friends. (If you’d rather listen to some great advice, check out the episode of Balanced Black Girl called How to Make Friends in a New CIty.) 

So, even if you struggle when meeting new people, you can still expand your social circle with ease after you’ve moved. You may have to work outside of your comfort zone, but trust us, it’s good for you. And, we totally believe in you, babe!

Here’s how to make new friends in a new city:

How to Make New Friends in a New City

How to Make New Friends in a New City 

Try group activities.

Group activities are a great way to find new friends. There typically isn’t a lot of pressure to hold a long conversation during these activities, but you may find that conversations flow with ease because you have a ton of common ground! And, if you both enjoy one hobby together, you may enjoy another, too. 

You can find a lot of different group activities in larger cities by asking around, visiting community centers or coffee shops with community boards, or searching on apps like Nextdoor. Some fun activities include team sports, community musicals, slam poetry nights, or language courses.

Volunteer.

Volunteering can not only help you find new friends, but it can also have great benefits for your mental health by reducing stress and releasing dopamine, which increases positive feelings. (Love those good vibes.) This can make you feel empowered, which boosts your confidence and helps you meet new friends. Plus, you know the people you’re volunteering with probably have similar interests, since they care so much about their impact on the world!

If you’re not sure of the needs of your community, we highly recommend you listen to I Am America, which highlights a lot of social issues our world faces! Or, just think about something you see every day that you want to make better. 

Use your social network.

Sure, maybe you don’t have friends in your new city (yet) but chances are you do have friends, in general, and there’s a chance THEY know someone in your new city! It’s definitely worth asking around, because the friends of friends are like built-in besties! 

Attend community events.

Neighborhood block party? You’re there. Free movie screening on the green downtown? Um, yes PLEASE! Summer arts festival? Don’t mind if we do!

No matter what you’re doing, events that bring the local community together are a great place to start networking and developing your new social life. Spend time researching what your new city has to offer when it comes to community events, and attend ones that interest you! Then, strike up a conversation with someone. 

Feeling nervous? House Guest with Kenzie Elizabeth has a great ep on making friends that can help you gain some confidence. You can also listen to 4 Confident Hacks to Transform Your Life from Transform

Check out local Facebook groups + events.

There are all sorts of local events and groups that won’t be posted in coffee shops, community centers, or on local news outlets. And, they’re definitely not something you want to miss out on! Luckily, you can find cool events like tarot reading nights, art showings, special markets, and nighttime hikes.

Join a book club.

This one’s for our avid readers who love The Readheads Book Club. Take your love of this discussing books out into the real world with a local book club! If you find someone who loves the same books as you, they’re basically already your BFF, are we right?!

How to Make New Friends in a New City

Hang out in coffee shops.

Better yet, start a new routine at your nearest coffee shop the more you’re there, the more comfortable you’ll be there, and the easier it will be to make friends. Plus, you may notice that you’ve got the same routine as another person in the shop. They could be a new coworker, coffee shop gossip partner, or ride or die bestie. Who knows? Either way, you’ve got to get out there and meet them!

Chat up your coworkers.

We get it sometimes at work, it’s clock in, do your sh*t, and clock out. But the truth is, your job is an amazing place to meet people! These people already know what you’re dealing with, because they’re dealing with the same work bullsh*t you are. Plus, you spend time with them every day, so you might as well be friendly with them!

If you’re unsure where to start with your coworkers, check out our post on how to make friends at work. It starts with engaging in small talk, lending a helpful hand, and keeping the gossip to a min. Hopefully soon, you’ll have your next BFAW (best friend at work)!

Go to the dog park (with a dog, obviously).

Know what people LOVE to talk about? Their pets, of course! So going to a dog park can be a great way to meet people, whether or not you have a dog. Just borrow a friend’s, or offer dogsitting services on an app like Rover (which can double as a lucrative side gig SCORE)! And, if you meet someone, the two of you should def bond over The Dog that Changed Me podcast. Prepare for waterworks! 

Try friend-making apps. 

This one could be pushing you out of your comfort zone, but it’s a great option to find a new friend. Apps like Bumble BFF work similarly to dating apps just make a profile with some pictures, a quick bio, and some of your interests, and get to swiping! This one works best if you’re good at small talk. Just keep your guard up and looking out for friendship red flags with the help of the hosts at Twenty Whatever.

Get to know your neighbors.

There are some easy ways to start out on your neighbor’s good side, and who knows? They could turn into a full-blown friendship! Try bringing over a homemade dessert or bottle of wine, host a housewarming party, or grill out on your front lawn. Get to know what your neighbors do, and see if you vibe with anyone!

making new friends as an adult

Making new friends as an adult can be tricky, but you’re totally up for the job. 

Just remember: as nervous as you are making new friends, they’re probably nervous, too! You’re not alone, ever, Plus, the worst they could say is “no.” Soon, you’ll be having those adult sleepovers binging Bravo with your new BFF!  

Want more tips on how to make new friends? We know it can be hard, especially because it’s different at every age. Here’s how to make friends in your 20s, and how to make friends in your 30s

Need something to show your new bestie how much you totally <3 them? Check out this Bestie greeting card from What We Said. It’s the perfect correspondence for the occasion!

How to Empower Yourself to Achieve All Your Goals

how to empower yourself

Self-empowerment is all about taking control of your life to achieve what you want. It’s super important if you want to be successful, and who doesn’t want to be successful?! Knowing how to empower yourself can help you identify what you’re really good at and overcome areas that need improvement, so you can totally take control of your life and destiny.

Sure, to “empower yourself” sounds a little cliche on the surface, but at its core, self-empowerment is a necessary tool for achieving success of any kind. Like Rob Dial, The Mindset Mentor, said during his guest appearance on Scheananigans, “It all starts with believing you deserve everything you desire.”

So, today we’re sharing practical strategies on how to empower yourself so you can be successful and the BEST version of yourself. Here’s what to do: 

How to Empower Yourself to Achieve All Your Goals

How to Empower Yourself to Achieve All Your Goals

Recognize your abilities.

Take a good look at your strengths. What comes easily to you? What are you really good at? There are a ton of different kinds of strengths, but focusing on character strengths can boost your self-confidence and make you feel more empowered. 

Your character is defined by your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Character strengths are the positive personality traits that embody who you are. Common character strengths include:

  • Creativity
  • Optimism
  • Humility
  • Love of learning
  • Bravery
  • Integrity

You’ve got some of those, right?! Of course you do! If you need help figuring it out, listen to this episode of Him & Her called Discovering Your Inner Strength, Ridding Yourself Of Fear, & Unleashing The Person You Are Meant To Be

Never stop learning.

Once you recognize your strengths, it’s time to identify what needs improvement. What do you want to be better at? What do you need to work on to reach your goals? Adopt a growth mindset and never ever stop learning! Remember, your areas of improvement aren’t weaknesses, rather they’re things that you can work on as you pursue success.

Improving skills you already possess, in addition to learning and developing new skills, will make you feel empowered and boost your self-confidence. Check out some of the best self-improvement podcasts for inspiration!

Set reasonable goals.

Setting goals is an important step in self-empowerment because goals give you direction. Deciding what you want to achieve is an easy way to fulfill your purpose and add more meaning to your life. To empower yourself, set clear, realistic, and meaningful goals. You can set small or big goals, as well as short-term and long-term goals. Whatever you want!

If you need some inspiration, check out this episode of Him and Her on how to achieve your goals with special guest Ed Mylett. You can also listen to a more job-focused goal setting mentality by listening to this episode of The Career Contessa

Prioritize and set boundaries.

To empower yourself, dedicate your time and energy to things that uplift you and push you toward success. This will probably require you to say no to more things than you’re used to, but you don’t want to waste time on things that will only slow your progress. Set clear boundaries and soon enough, people will recognize where your priorities lie.

Remind yourself to take care of yourself first by rocking this Boundaries crew from the Dear Media Shop! And, dive deeper on this topic in the episode of Being Her called Finally Set Boundaries and Amplify Your Feminine Energy. 

Use positive self-talk.

How you talk to yourself significantly impacts your self-esteem. To feel more empowered, you have to let go of negative thoughts and make a conscious effort to practice positive self-talk. An easy way to use positive self-talk is with positive affirmations. Give yourself a boost by looking at yourself in the mirror and saying things like “I work hard” or “I am resilient.” The more you say these phrases out loud, the less weird it will feel, trust us! 

If you’re struggling hardcore with negative self-talk, we’ve got a podcast episode for you! Jump into the episode of Looking Up called Self Mastery + Coping with Negative Self-Talk

list of ways how to empower yourself

Surround yourself with supportive people.

Another key step toward personal empowerment requires you to be a bit selective about the people you spend time with. You should surround yourself with people who make you feel good, encourage you to reach your goals, and support you through the highs and lows. Anyone who holds you back should be kept at a distance… a FAR distance.

Support others.

Have you ever noticed how good it feels to help others? It makes sense then that supporting others is a great way to empower yourself. Try to do something every day that supports others. It can be something as small as sending a complimentary text message to a friend. 

Our post on ways to empower women offers some great tips on how to uplift the women around you. 

Practice self-care.

We preach self-care A LOT. It might be because we’re constantly listening to the best self-care podcasts, or it could be because we’ve witnessed firsthand how much of a difference it makes. So many of us are too busy meeting the needs of others to fulfill our own needs, but that comes at a cost. If you’re not already burnt out, it’s only a matter of time. Empower yourself today by taking better care of yourself. 

For some self-care ideas, check out this episode of Trying Not to Care. Oh! And, definitely grab some self-care goodies from the Dear Media Shop like this self-care mug!  

Get organized.

A lack of organization can have a major impact on your overall well-being. Maintaining an organized environment is important for self-empowerment. Whether it’s your office space, your apartment, or your car, a chaotic physical environment can really mess with your head. Take some time to organize the spaces you spend the most time in and you’ll be amazed by how much easier it is to focus on your goals.

This can be super overwhelming at first, so let some of our podcast besties help you out! Listen to the episode of HIm & Her called Setting A Zen Space, Organization, Minimizing Clutter, & How To Make Something Out Of Nothing and the episode of With Whit called Tips to Declutter & Reset Your Home Easily

Be willing to take risks.

Step outside of your comfort zone! Complacency is the enemy of success. Your routine might feel nice and cozy-comfy, but it can keep you from growing. Try something different. Learn a new skill or pick up a new hobby. You never know what opportunities might be waiting outside of your comfort zone!

empowering yourself

With these strategies, you can feel more empowered today!

At the risk of sounding cliche, you only have one life to live. If you want to get the most out of it, be successful, and achieve your goals, you first have to know and believe you can do it. These strategies can make you feel more empowered and give you a major confidence boost. 

For more ways to live your best life and become the best version of you, check out our blog. Dear Media is allll about helping you be the best you can be!

How to Set Boundaries in a Relationship Without Being Controlling

Setting boundaries is important in any relationship, but especially in romantic relationships. Boundaries help keep everything positive while making sure you have a healthy, respectful, and dynamic relationship with your partner. When you both have set and followed boundaries, everyone is happy! 

Here’s the bummer though: setting and negotiating boundaries can be super hard! If you’re not careful, setting boundaries can make you seem controlling or domineering. That’s a big turnoff and totally not the intention of setting boundaries AT ALL. So, it’s important that you do this thing right. 

We’ve tackled setting boundaries with parents and setting boundaries with family, but today we’re focusing on romantic relationships. We’ll give you the DL on how to effectively set boundaries with your S.O., so you’re both feeling good about it. Here are some sure-fire strategies to setting boundaries without being controlling:

How to Set Boundaries in a Relationship Without Being Controlling

How to Set Boundaries in a Relationship Without Being Controlling

Understand the importance and purpose of setting boundaries.

The most important step when setting boundaries of any kind is first understanding why they’re necessary. Boundaries are sometimes mistaken as “rules” within relationships when that’s definitely not the vibe. 

The whole point of setting boundaries is to protect your personal spaces and your physical and mental well-being. Healthy boundaries allow you to form strong and healthy relationships that are built on trust and respect. And that’s what we all want, right? A super healthy and positive partnership—you need boundaries to achieve that. (Here’s more from We Met At Acme on what a healthy relationship looks like.)

Know what you want.

Self-reflection is another important step in setting boundaries in relationships. You should take some time to think about your personal boundaries. Consider what you’re comfortable with in a relationship, and what things would harm your well-being. It’s best to do this on your own, so you know you’re not pressured or influenced by your partner when deciding what’s good with you. 

For some valuable encouragement and insight on creating boundaries, listen to this episode of Him and Her. And for tips on how to trust your intuition when setting boundaries, check out this episode of The Papaya Podcast. Yes, as usual, our Dear Media hosts have the BEST advice!!!

Communicate your boundaries appropriately.

Good communication is super important to setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. Actually, it’s important for a healthy relationship PERIOD! Be as compassionate and respectful as possible when you talk to your partner, especially during important conversations. 

Another great tip for effectively communicating with your partner is to use “I” statements rather than “you” statements. “I need ___ because ___” is easier for your partner to take than “You need to ___ because ___.” The second statement can make them feel attacked and cause them to become defensive. We don’t want that! Here’s more from Kenzie Elizbeth from House Guest on healthy communication in a relationship

How to Set Boundaries in a Relationship Without Being Controlling

Listen to your partner’s needs. 

Setting boundaries in a healthy relationship should involve having a conversation with your partner. As you communicate what you need from your partner, give them time to do the same. Ask for honest feedback and listen to how they feel about the boundaries you want to set. 

This leads to the next tip, which is…

Be willing to compromise on some things.

Sure, it would be amazing if your partner simply accepted your boundaries and respected them without issue. But, it doesn’t always work that way. In these instances, it’s important to be open to compromise.

There will be some boundaries with very little to no wiggle room, like cheating. OF COURSE be firm on these boundaries. But, for other boundaries, there might be an opportunity for you to meet your partner halfway, i.e. how often you spend one-on-one time together. It’s a good idea to decide where you’re willing to compromise before you even have a convo with your S.O., because then you know the choice is actually yours and you’re not being pressured! 

Avoid threats or ultimatums.

Although this falls under proper communication, it’s worth mentioning on its own. A lot of couples make the mistake of using threats or ultimatums to try to ensure their needs are met. Unfortunately, this tactic does more harm than good. 

Think about it… no one likes to feel threatened. Avoid using lines like “if you don’t ___ then we’re done” and focus instead on the benefits of establishing and respecting boundaries within your relationship.

…but also know your deal breakers.

Okay, listen… some lines just can’t be crossed. Some deal breakers are pretty obvious; any kind of physical or emotional abuse needs to be an immediate deal breaker. Other kinds of behavior might not be as clear-cut. 

It’s important to know what YOUR deal breakers are and to stand by them. As you discuss your boundaries with your partner, be clear about your deal breakers. If your partner can’t respect them or even tries to convince you to change your stance, that’s a red flag that you shouldn’t ignore. 

Use these tips to help you set healthy boundaries in your relationship.

Just in case you need a reminder, you deserve to be happy in a healthy relationship with someone who genuinely cares about your well-being. Establishing healthy boundaries is an important part of that, but you want to make sure you go about it the right way, so you don’t come off as controlling. These tips can help you do just that!

For more tips on setting boundaries, check out our post on how to set boundaries with a narcissist. Then head over to the Dear Media blog for even more insightful and entertaining content! And, if you need all the reminders to respect yourself and your limits, grab this Boundaries crewneck from The Bad Broadcast. It’s one of our faves!

dear media relationship advice

 

10 Mental Health Documentaries

the girl is sleeping while listening to music

Documentaries are having their moment! Maybe you’ve noticed, maybe you haven’t, but documentaries are SUPER in right now. Why? They’re a great way to be informed on different issues in society, including mental health!

It is estimated that one in five people in the U.S. suffer from mental illness. That’s 20% of the population! Yet, despite how common it is, there is still a LOT of shame 

surrounding mental illness. 

This is where documentaries about mental illness come into play. They are SUPER important for reducing the cultural stigma and discrimination that comes with these issues. If you’ve listened to our best mental health podcasts, you know what we’re talking about! This stigma MUST be addressed.

That’s why we’re sharing a round-up of documentaries that cover some of these crucial mental health topics. Here are our current faves: 

Mental Health Documentaries

10 Best Mental Health Documentaries

Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness

This docuseries, presented by Ken Burns, tells the stories of more than 20 young people (ages 11-27) who struggle with mental health challenges. It provides a look into their lives, as well as the perspectives of their parents, teachers, friends, and healthcare providers. This documentary offers a contrast to the discrimination and stigma surrounding mental illness to advance a shift in the public perception of mental health issues.

Want to learn more about how mental health affects young people? Listen to this episode of Twenty Whatever to hear more about twenty-somethings’ coping skills, mental health journeys, and struggles with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. 

Nadiya: Anxiety and Me

Nadiya Hussain is known for winning 2015’s season of The Great British Bake Off with her mad cooking skills, but behind the scenes, she struggles with debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. She’s been struggling with mental health issues since childhood, but kept it a secret for decades. In this documentary, Nadiya’s goal is to find out the cause of her anxiety, explore different treatments, and attend therapy, in order to manage her anxiety. 

Looking for solutions to your anxiety? Not Skinny But Not Fat has a great episode on Healing Anxiety w/ The Anxiety Healer. 

OC87: The Obsessive Compulsive, Major Depression, Bipolar, Asperger’s Movie

In this documentary, director Bud Clayman presents his struggle with OCD and Asperger’s Syndrome and how they interrupted his filmmaking career. This documentary provides an intimate account of the mental health issues Bud Clayman faced, and how they have affected his interpersonal relationships, work life, and sense of wellbeing. The documentary also includes interviews with mental health professionals who share insight into the disorders and their treatment options. 

If you enjoy stories of triumph after setbacks like this one, you’ll probably enjoy the podcast Good Morning, Monster as well. It’s a series based on the book Good Morning, Monster by Catherine Gildiner and details five heroic stories of emotional recovery. Start here with episode one!

Mental Health Documentaries list

Dave Harewood: Psychosis and Me

David “Dave” Harewood is an award-winning British actor. At 23, he suffered a mental breakdown and was successfully treated with antipsychotic medication. Thirty years later, he made the documentary “Psychosis and Me,” which explores the impact of mental illness and current available treatments. It’s a powerful documentary that gives you insight into a whole new world!

Out of the Dark

Out of the Dark is a 2022 documentary that shines a light on the lives of people with mental health struggles. It’s a youth-focused series that depicts personal stories of those struggling with mental health. The goal of this series is to create a dialogue and awareness, and to inspire the next generation to be vocal and open about their journey when they live with mental illness. And, seriously, it’s super inspiring.  

Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind

This documentary, told largely through Robin Williams’s own words, celebrates the life and career of Robin Williams, who died due to suicide in 2014. It features interviews with big name actors, such as Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, and Billy Crystal. It really shows you how some of the most seemingly happy people in our lives can secretly be dealing with huge struggles. 

Demi Lovato: Simply Complicated

In Simply Complicated, actress and singer Demi Lovato shares her story of her struggle with bipolar disorder, drug use, and eating disorders. This story doesn’t end there, though. This documentary also shares Lovato’s road to sobriety and a healthy life as she continues to live with bipolar disorder.

If you’re dealing with addiction or drug use (or any other mental health disorder) this documentary will definitely give you hope! For more inspiring stories, listen to the episode of Recovering from Reality called Self-Accountability and Sobriety and the episode of Real Pod called Living With Bipolar II, Overcoming Trauma, & Healing Family Wounds!

Facing Suicide

Facing Suicide explores the crisis of suicide by combining personal stories of people impacted by suicide and the profiles of scientists researching new insights into this mental health crisis. This documentary offers risk factors and prevention strategies as well, making it a must-see for anyone impacted by suicide or suicidal ideation.

Mental Health Documentaries list

Decolonizing Mental Health

Decolonizing Mental Health sets out to dismantle the prejudice, racism, and discrimination prevalent in the mental health industry. This is a real issue, guys! The 2022 documentary focuses on the transformative work of therapists and people of color. Its goal is to change the ways we define, assess, and diagnose psychiatric illness and health. 

Letters From Generation Rx

This 2017 documentary dives deep into the science behind antidepressants and their effect on the brain. It also details some of the horrific experiences patients and their loved ones have had to endure due to the hidden issues with these drugs. The documentary challenges the belief that medication is the best solution to mental health problems. 

If you or someone close to use is going through the healing process, this insight is super valuable. To hear another perspective on medication for mental illness, listen to this episode of Real Pod!  

If you’re looking for a good documentary, look no further!

We’ve got plenty of recommendations for you. These mental health documentaries and related podcasts are interesting, informative, and might challenge your thoughts on mental health or, they might tell you something you already know! You’ll have to watch and listen to find out.

Love documentary-style podcasts? You’ll be totally obsessed with Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story. It’s the story of Coco Berthmann, who became internet-famous when she shared her story of surviving sex trafficking. But, in 2022, Coco was arrested for raising money for a fake cancer diagnosis, calling her whole story into question. The podcast doesn’t bash her and her claims, but instead looks at the mental condition of Coco and how she could be pushed to lie about her past. 

Feel like these documentaries are telling YOUR story, too? It may be a sign you need a mental health day. Get some rest, girl! Not only do you deserve it, but you NEED it. And if you’re struggling, don’t forget to celebrate your wins when you have them. If you need help remembering, check out this Celebrate Your Wins shirt from Freckled Foodie & Friends!

10 Podcasts Like This American Life

This American Life

If you’re big into podcasts, chances are you’ve probably heard of (or listened to!) This American Life. It’s an investigative podcast that takes true stories and makes them oh-so-intriguing, no matter what the topic. And there are a LOT of topics with over 300 episodes, This American Life has told sooooo many stories!

If you like podcasts that keep things smart, light, and entertaining, This American Life is a great podcast for you. You can listen to it wherever you <3 listening to podcasts best, or you can listen to it a day early on The New York Times Audio App.

Dying for more? We thought so. That’s why we’re sharing a round-up of similar podcasts for you to binge! Continue reading to check them out. 🙂

Podcasts Like This American Life

10 Podcasts Like This American Life

I Am America

I Am America is a podcast hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross that aims to broaden our sense of community and deepen our understanding of identity, all while inspiring us with the possibilities of our country’s future. Each episode is an “audio portrait” of an American working to mend a social or cultural issue. Cool, right? It’s super empowering and insightful! 

Our recommendation: Nurturing Masculinity with Kier Gaines, “Injustice in Health” with Dr. Rachel Hardeman, and Ethics in AI with Timnit Gebru, PhD

Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story

If you like stories so intriguing they keep you on the edge of your seat, take a listen to Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story. It’s a podcast hosted by Sara Ganim and Karen Given that details the story of Coco Berthmann, who became famous for sharing her story of surviving sex trafficking. (Lauryn and Michael of Him & Her even interviewed her!) Yet, in 2022, Coco Berthmann was arrested for raising money for a fake cancer diagnosis, which called her entire life story into question. This one will have you on the edge of your seat! 

Our recommendation: start at Episode 1: Something’s Not Right!

Summer of Gold

The Summer of Gold is a history podcast collab between Dear Media and TOGETHXR.  Summer of Gold tells the story of the 1996 Olympic Games through the lens of the women Olympians who dominated that summer. These women trailblazed a path for female athletes today, resulting in the foundation of the WNBA and numerous gold medals. This is the definition of GIRL POWER. It’ll have you wanting to rock this ”Strong for A Girl” crewneck with pride!

Our recommendation: start at Episode 1: See it. Be it. 

Podcasts similar to American Life

Who’s On Content?!

Who’s On Content?! explores and dissects the influential, behavioral altering power of content through thought provoking, culturally relevant and industry shifting dialogues. (Yeah, that’s a mouthful, but seriously. It’s so interesting.)

It’s hosted by DBA’s SVP of Special Projects, Ernest “EJ” James. Who’s On Content?! will host relevant guests like social platform leaders; executives from top brands; media journalists and content creators contributing to the influential content shaping the global society we live in today. They’re all pumped to share their knowledge on how to navigate the digital world. (And, we’re pumped to hear it.) 

Our recommendation: The Content of Living and Inviting Positivity into Your Life Through the Content You Consume and How Content Investigator, Dulma Altan’s Content Makes the Industry a Little More Digestible, One TikTok at a Time

The Dissenters

If you love stories of heroes challenging the status quo and making the world a better place, this one’s for you. Debra Messing and Mandana Dayani host The Dissenters, a podcast where they get to talk to their heroes about the change they made in the world. These Dissenters will give you the courage and hope to find your purpose and chase your passion. Basically, it’s like, “You go, girl! Do your thing!”

Our recommendation: Mark Bustos: The Humanit-hair-ian, on The Power of Kindness and Dr. Edith Eva Eger: The Healing Survivor on Trauma, Healing, and Forgiveness

The Toast

The Toast is a hilarious pop culture news podcast hosted by Jackie O. and Claudia Oshry. With episodes released every weekday morning, you’ll be in the loop for all the latest hot goss. Plus, these two are full of laughs we literally can’t think of a better way to start your morning!

Our recommendation:  I Am Woman Hear Me Roar and FunnyD Deficient

The Moth

The Moth podcast feature re-airs of new episodes of The Moth Radio Hour, which has told THOUSANDS of stories since the show began in 1997. That’s right, this podcast has been around for over 25 years! With such a long-standing reputation for storytelling, it’s sure to impress. (Hear it from us, it is GOOD.)

Our recommendation: Truth and Power–Global Stories of Women and Unexpected Community

Serial

Serial is a podcast from the creators of This American Life. It’s an investigative journalism podcast hosted by Sarah Koenig that narrates a wildly interesting story over a series of episodes. It’s thought-provoking and totally binge-worthy! And, if you fall in love with this one, here are more podcasts like Serial!

Our recommendation: start with Episode 1: The Alibi.

Podcasts Like This American Life

The Shine Series

There’s so much to learn from those who are willing to break barriers and stand out amongst the crowd and one of the scariest places to do that is in the fashion scene. If you want to make it, you’ve got to be brave and risk falling flat on your face. The Shine Series hosts discussions about the struggles and successes of some of the fashion industry’s biggest trendsetters. Learn a thing or two about entrepreneurship, confidence, and perseverance with The Shine Series!

Our recommendation: Serena Williams on the G.O.A.T. of Shoes, Being Bold, and More

Good Morning, Monster

Some podcasts are so inspiring they can actually change your life. That’s what Good Morning, Monster is likely to do if you take a listen! Told from the perspective of Catherine Gildiner, Good Morning, Monster follows the emotional recovery of some of Catherine’s most heroic and memorable patients. If you’re looking for a feel-good podcast that may lead to some emotional recovery for you, too, check this one out! (And, then all the good vibes will give you an excuse to don this “Damn Good” crew!)

Our recommendation: start with Session 1: Madeline

Entertain yourself with the stories of these amazing people!

There you have it! 10 A list of AMAZING podcasts that will inspire you to be your best and change the world. These podcasts can change your life, because hearing other’s stories can lead you to chase your passion and connect with others. Whether you’re into stories that keep you on the edge of your seat, want behind-the-scenes details from different industries, or simply enjoy hearing about the lives of people like you, we’ve got something for everyone.

Looking for more? Check out our list of shows or hop over to the blog to see what’s new over at Dear Media! You won’t be disappointed.

Feeling the Butterflies: 17 Signs A First Date Went Well

couple dancing

EEEEEE!!!! You’re going on a first date?!

First dates are filled to the brim with all kinds of big emotions from excitement to anxiety to frustration to joy! And, it makes sense that there are so many feelings involved. After all, first dates are a big deal! They can be awkward and intimidating, they can be the most fun you’ve had in your life, or they can be anywhere in between. Talk about f*cking nerve-wracking!

Plus, those feelings don’t necessarily go away after the first date. It can be just as anxiety-inducing trying to figure out what’s going on in your date’s head. Do they want a second date? Are they giving subtle signs that they don’t? Do YOU want a second date? It’s all so difficult to decide!

Lucky for you, we want to offer some first-date advice to make the whole process easier. That’s why we’re doing a round-up of signs your first date went well! It’s up to you to decide if that means it’s time for another one. 😉

Signs A First Date Went Well

17 Signs A First Date Went Well

You feel giddy about the date.

Chances are, if you’re feeling the butterflies, they are, too. An okay date might leave you feeling uncertain but if you’re smiling uncontrollably when you think of them, that’s a great sign.

Their body language was comfortable.

While you were on the date, were they leaning towards you? Did they have open body language? Or, did they seem closed off, like they were protecting themselves? A date’s body language can be a huge indicator of whether or not they’re having a good time. Look for body language that seems relaxed and engaged.

You felt comfortable with them.

This is just as important as them feeling comfortable with you! Did you feel comfortable around them? Were you relaxed while talking to them, or did you want to just get out of there? If you felt comfortable around them, it’s a great sign.

There was reciprocated physical contact.

Physical touch on a first date doesn’t always happen, but if it does, that’s definitely a positive signal. Whether it was a touch on the arm, a kiss goodnight, or full-blown sex on the first date, physical touch shows that they’re attracted to you and interested in you. It may or may not lead to more, so it’s good to examine this sign in conjunction with the other positive signs you had a good first date.

The date lasted longer than expected.

If you were going for a quick coffee or drink at the bar, and it turned into hours of talking with one another, chances are, you both had a great time. Why? Neither of you wanted the date to end! Dates can be nerve-wracking at the best of times, and a short date doesn’t mean it was bad. But, if both of you were able to let the nerves and awkwardness go to chat for hours on end? Babes, that can only be a positive. 

Signs A First Date Went Well

You both stayed off your phones.

We’re not saying you can’t check your phone on a good date, but if one or both of you are checking your phone constantly, the date probably isn’t as fun as it should be. You’re bored! A great first date will have you forgetting about your phone almost entirely you want to be coming back to a million texts from your besties about how the date went, rather than having a text conversation with them halfway through the date. 

Plus, staying off your phone is a good rule of first date etiquette. You want to show your first date that you’re happy they are there. If they’re not giving you that respect, kick them to the curb, ladies!

Conversation flowed effortlessly.

It’s easy for there to be awkward moments when you’re talking with someone new. You barely know each other, so you don’t know what the other person likes to talk about yet. But if you managed to leave the date without remembering too many uncomfortable moments of silence, then the date went super well!

You both laughed a lot.

Lots of laughter is a sign you both were having a great time. After all, who doesn’t love to laugh? We know we do. And if you’re already able to make each other giggle, that can be the foundation for a great relationship going forward. 

They mentioned doing something together in the future.

Or, maybe you mentioned it, but it was received well. If you’re imagining a potential future with this person, or they’re imagining one with you, that can only mean it went well. They want to see you again! 

You both asked genuine, interesting questions.

There’s nothing wrong with small talk per say it just doesn’t really tell us if a date went well or not. If you had basically the same conversation you have with your barista or your distant coworkers that you had on this date, you guys probably didn’t get to know each other that well. Conversely, if you both asked deeper questions and discussed things you don’t normally talk about with people, that’s a sign of interest. 

You’re both following each other on social media.

Maybe you were already following each other on social media, or maybe this is new. Either way, the fact that they’re following you indicates they want some type of relationship with you. It doesn’t necessarily mean they want a romantic relationship with you, but it might!

Your pre-date anxiety melted away quickly.

We all get anxiety when going through our pre-first date routines. Not knowing what’s going to happen or how the date is going to go can be tricky! But, if that pre-date anxiety faded to nothing (or next to nothing) within the first few minutes of the date, that means you were probably both pretty comfortable with each other.

They messaged you after the date. 

This is a FANTASTIC sign that the date went well. If they’re messaging you after the date, it means they probably can’t stop thinking about you. Maybe they’re feeling as giddy as you are! Either way, they definitely don’t want you to forget about them. 

You had a spark with them.

Did you feel like you could cut the sexual tension between you two with a knife? Then girl, you better believe that’s a signal things went GREAT! If you could feel the chemistry from date number one, then it’s definitely worth a date number two!

Signs A First Date Went Well

The conversation was balanced.

Ever been on a date where they did ALLLLLLL the talking? Or a date where you couldn’t get them to talk about themselves at all? Yeah, either way, it’s not an indicater of a good date. First dates should be an equal opportunity for you BOTH to get to know one another so if it was a balanced conversation, that most likely means you were equally interested in one another!

There was mutual flirting.

Mutual flirting shows mutual interest. What could be better? First date flirting can be awkward, but if it went mostly smoothly, then that’s a great sign of a good date.

You can’t wait to see them again.

This is one of the BEST signals of an AMAZING first date. You can’t wait to see them again! If you had that much fun and feel that good about them, they probably feel the same way. 

You’ve planned a second date!

Future planning is always a good sign when it comes to dating. And, a planned second date is the best way to know if a first date went well! If you’ve got another date with them coming up, you have nothing to worry about, babes. They’re into you!

couple kissing

First dates can be scary, but they’re a lot less scary when you read the signs. 

If your first date was packed full of these signs, then you’ve got nothing to worry about. On the other hand, if you’re still feeling confused, maybe it’s time to let this one go. 

Of course, these signs aren’t the only ones you should look out for! A first date can go well while still being potentially dangerous and you don’t want to be caught unaware. To keep yourself safe in your dating life, check out these articles on signs of a narcissist and signs of a toxic person, because you do NOT want to get yourself caught up in all that!

Want more dating advice? You can find more great relationship tips, like these date night jar ideas, over on the blog! Plus, we’ve got plenty of shows that get into the nitty gritty of dating just take your pick!

10 Podcasts Like Call Her Daddy

call her daddy podcast

One thing we love at Dear Media is podcast hosts who are a little… unhinged. In the BEST way possible. We want that raw, unfiltered gossip like a baby wants a bottle AKA we’re gonna cry until we get it. Kidding! But seriously, who wants a podcast host who isn’t going to give you all the dirty deets?

One of the most iconic podcasts like this is Call Her Daddy. Call Her Daddy began as a podcast in 2018 with hosts Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn, and quickly grew in popularity and listenership! The podcast, now hosted solely by Alex Cooper, gives frank advice on sex, life, and relationships. In every episode, she puts a fun and insightful twist on modern feminism that engages and empowers podcast listeners of all genders.

With something this good, it’s only natural we want more! And, listening to similar podcasts can help broaden your view on personal freedom and modern feminism. Plus, it’s a great way to get alllllll the tea on what’s going down with the celebs and find out who’s challenging social norms. Who’s got controversy? Who’s in hot water? Babes like us wanna know! That’s why today, we’re rounding up all the best podcasts like Call Her Daddy to get YOU in the loop!

podcasts like call her daddy

10 Podcasts Like Call Her Daddy

The Bitch Bible

We’re starting off with a baddie who’s actually had Alex Cooper as a guest on the show, right after her bestie break up with Sofia Franklyn. Talk about tea time! The Bitch Bible, hosted by Jackie Schimmel, is a great podcast for women who want unfiltered, unapologetic discussions about sex, millennial struggles, pop culture, social faux pas, and more. 

Here are some of our fave episodes from The Bitch Bible:

The Bad Broadcast

The Bad Broadcast is a podcast featuring Madi Murphy, who realized her passion in life is finding sh*t she hates and complaining about it. This is a killer podcast for those who are sick of the toxic positivity you might find on other podcasts, and just want a podcast bestie who will give it to you straight. Madi Murphy is That Girl, and she will tell it like it is with no-holds-barred episode after episode. Her style is comedic, fun, and a little b*tchy just what we like. 

Two of our favorite eps are her episodes on BFF BREAKUPS and FEMININE RAGE. We’ve all been there! Let’s get into it. 

And don’t forget, like Madi always says: “Be safe, be kind, and be hot.”

Barely Filtered

In Barely Filtered, podcast hosts Aurora Culpo and Kristen Gaffney share their blunt opinions on literally everything under the sun. They have an unfiltered and honest approach to all sorts of lifestyle topics. It’s a podcast that not only spills the tea, but also boosts your confidence as they do it. That’s a f*cking win in our books! Some of their most empowering episodes include Throw Out Your Scale and Pro-Age Woman.

podcast like call her daddy

Uncut and Uncensored with Caroline Stanbury

If you like the vibe of these podcasts, but everything you hear is feeling a little…young? Naive? Unseasoned? Then this is the podcast rec for you! Podcast host Caroline Stanbury is known for her witty humor and is NEVER afraid to speak her truth. Uncut and Uncensored follows the details of Caroline’s journey to living her best life after 40. She covers so many topics, from relationships, health, wellness, business, parenting, friendship, travel, relationships, and more.

To get a feel for the podcast, check out the episode Bringing Sexy Back! It’s all about sex through the ages and whether or not you can revive your relationship’s sex life.

Ex-Virgin

This podcast is THE podcast that candidly explores love, sex, and relationships, hosted by Carter Cruise. Carter Cruise shares a refreshing mix of personal anecdotes and expert interviews in her podcast, exploring a wide range of topics with all kinds of guests ranging from porn stars and kink enthusiasts to celebrities and listeners themselves!  

Learn lots from these episodes: 

Let’s Be Honest

Reality TV star and entrepreneur Kristin Cavallari is back and more REAL than ever. Each episode of her podcast dives into the raw and honest conversations we all need, covering topics like self-care, self-discovery, and finding happiness beyond a failed relationship. Get ready to laugh, cry, and feel inspired as Kristin reminds you that you are more than just someone’s ex. We’re still reeling over her episode Getting into the Mind of a Man, which teaches you how to do exactly that if you can survive it, are we right?!

Mind. Body. No Soul.

Mind. Body. No Soul. is hosted by Jackie Schimmel, podcast host of The Bitch Bible and super successful writer, entrepreneur, and producer. The podcast is a series of guided merciless meditations, aggressive affirmations and maniacal mantras. It’s called “wellness for the unwell,” and it’s got all the spirituality mixed in with the raw, honest approach we’re always looking for. Check out one of her latest eps, Social Anxiety Solutions. Don’t we all need a solution for that sometimes?

Not Skinny, But Not Fat

The Not Skinny, But Not Fat podcast is on fire right now with a perfect dose of sarcasm, wit, and lots of laughs. Hosted by Amanda Hirsch, this podcast is all about celeb drama, scandal, romance, and anything that’s turning heads in today’s wild world of entertainment. This is one of the best reality TV podcasts around! Get started with her episode with Jersey Shore’s Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino

gossip podcasts

Twenty Whatever

In Twenty Whatever, Sierra Schultzzie, Riayn Christina, and Paloma Malfavon discuss navigating your 20s with your friends through different phases of life. Formerly called Sierra Unfiltered, you’ll hear these besties speak candidly about all the drama, difficulties, and d*mn good times you can have in your 20s. Seriously, listening to this podcast is like being at a sleepover with your besties we can’t get enough. 

What We Said

The BEST place to get some unsolicited, honest advice? The What We Said podcast. These ride or dies candidly offer advice about topics like health, business, relationships, and life, as well as share other useful and funny life stories. This podcast is intended to inspire and entertain, and d*mn does it hit the mark!

Here are our favorite episodes:

Which podcast will you be tuning into next?

We seriously can’t get enough of these bad*ss women paving the way for us to be our most candid, most unfiltered, and most bad*ss selves. Soon, you’ll be living it up like these ladies, ready to spill the tea about all your latest misadventures. We can’t wait to hear about them! 

Need more podcasts to expand your horizon? Check out these thought-provoking podcasts to help your brain hit the mental gym! And if that’s not enough, you can check out more podcasts on the blog.

12 Best Podcasts to Binge BEFORE Dear Media IRL

headphones on the table

Dear Media IRL is back and we’re showing up bigger, better, and louder than ever! Join us for the ultimate live podcasting experience with intimate conversations from your favorite Dear Media hosts, as they bring their insightful discussions from your headphones to the stage. Engage in live activations from our favorite brands with interactive experiences and connect with other members of the Dear Media community. Get ready to be inspired, and entertained and watch audio get a serious makeover.

Dear Media IRL is on May 4, 2024, which gives you plenty of time to binge every podcaster’s content so you can get to know them better before meeting them in person. If you’re not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing a round-up of the best podcasts to binge before Dear Media IRL.

best podcast to binge before dear media irl

12 Best Podcasts to Binge BEFORE Dear Media IRL

The Skinny Confidential: Him & Her Podcast

The Skinny Confidential: Him and Her podcast is hosted by entrepreneurs Lauryn Evarts Bosstick, founder and creator of The Skinny Confidential, and her husband Michael Bosstick, entrepreneur, brand builder, and founder and CEO of Dear Media

Every week, thousands of listeners enjoy entertaining and thought-provoking interviews with celebrities, entrepreneurs, influencers, experts, and inspiring leaders. Lauryn and Michael also answer listener and audience questions on everything from health and wellness to business and relationships. With over 200 million downloads, it’s clear that people just can’t seem to get enough of Him and Her! As the founders of Dear Media, obviously they’re going to be at Dear Media IRL, so start binging! 

Some of their most popular episodes include:

Transform

Transform is a podcast hosted by Sami Clarke and Sami Spalter, the twenty-something besties who founded FORM, a digital platform for anything related to fitness, wellness, and self-love. We totally stan the Samis… Can you blame us? They, as well as their podcast, are all about empowering women to be their best selves and offering the tools to make it happen. In each episode of Transform, the two women dive into various wellness topics while sharing tips and tools to transform into the best version of you.

To get a feel for what Transform is all about before you get to see these ride or dies live, check out these episodes:

The Art Of Being Well

Has someone ever given you such good advice that you begin to wonder why they’re not charging you for it? When it comes to sharing life-changing info and astoundingly good advice, Dr. Will Cole is leading the way, one podcast episode at a time. Seriously, even nearly 250 episodes in, we’re still shocked, albeit incredibly thankful, that The Art of Being Well is a free source of wellness info and inspo. Tune in as Dr. Cole shares ways you can take better care of your mind, body, spirit, and relationships. We can’t wait to hear what wisdom bombs he drops at Dear Media IRL! 

TBH, every episode is worth listening to, but these are a few listener favs:

best podcast to binge before dear media irl

Everything Is The Best

Everything Is The Best is hosted by Pia Baroncini, creative director of the fashion label LPA. This podcast is all about inspiring you, the listener, to chase your dreams. Sounds corny, but this podcast is anything but. During each episode, Pia asks her guests “How did you go from 0 to yacht?” to prove that even the rich and famous are a lot more like us than we think. 

Oh, and did we mention that her husband and mom are frequent guests who answer weekly relationship questions? LOVE IT! We lowkey love it so much we hope they’ll make an appearance as Dear Media IRL too. We can dream, right???

Here are a couple Everything is the Best Episodes you don’t wanna miss:

The Toast

We can’t think of a better way to start your day than with this hilarious gossip podcast hosted by Jackie and Claudia Oshry. The Toast is a LOL-worthy source for the latest pop culture news. Tune in every weekday morning for an energizing dose of entertainment courtesy of one of our favorite podcasts. They’re definitely going to bring that energy to Dear Media IRL!

It’s literally impossible to find an episode of The Toast that isn’t amazing, but here are a couple of listener favs:

The Blonde Files

The host of The Blonde Files, Arielle Lorre is a blonde who knows her stuff! This Dear Media podcast is all about wellness but feels like a convo with your bestie. In each episode, Arielle takes a deep dive into topics ranging from how to achieve optimal physical and mental health to the latest and greatest beauty hacks and cosmetic procedures. You should def check out a few (or all) episodes of The Blonde Files before you meet Arielle IRL!

You can start from the beginning for a binge fest, or listen to these popular episodes to get a feel for what TBF is all about:

The Dream Bigger Podcast

The Dream Bigger Podcast is exactly what it sounds like: a podcast that inspires you to live your best life. Each week, host Siffat Haider, founder of Arrae, chats with entrepreneurs, wellness experts, skincare specialists, and thought leaders. Whether you’re looking for motivation or hoping to learn something new, The Dream Bigger Podcast is one you don’t wanna miss. Lucky for you even when you’re spending all weekend at Dear Media IRL, you’ll still get Siffat’s AMAZING insight and encouragement. 

Popular episodes of The Dream Bigger Podcast include:

Wellness Her Way

Wellness Her Way, hosted by Gracie Norton, is a podcast all about achieving “true abundance in wellness and all aspects of our lives.” Each week, Gracie explores topics related to improving your overall well-being. If you’re striving for emotional balance, physical growth, or a more fulfilling life overall, listen to this podcast and make sure you prioritize meeting Gracie at Dear Media IRL!

Check out these killer episodes of Wellness Her Way:

Lipstick on the Rim

We’re not convinced that Molly Sims isn’t the real-life Wonder Woman. The former model and actress now hosts the ahh-mazing podcast Lipstick on the Rim with her best friend Emese Gormley. This weekly podcast dedicated to beauty and wellness feels like a convo with your two best gal pals. They frequently sit down with health and beauty experts to chat about the latest trends and the products and procedures you should try or stay the hell away from. We can’t wait to see Lipstick on the Rim on stage!

Listen to these popular episodes to get a feel for what this podcast is all about:

With Whit

You might know her from The Hills, but With Whit host Whitney Port is proving, one podcast episode at a time, that she’s come a long way since her time on the mega-popular MTV reality TV show. Now, as a mom, wife, and business owner, Whit has a wealth of knowledge to share with her listeners. Her podcast covers relationships, parenthood, entrepreneurship, beauty, fashion, health, wellness, and much more. Each week, she sits down with friends, family, and industry experts for informative, inspiring, and entertaining convos that keep listeners coming back for more.

Check out these episodes of With Whit to get her vibe before seeing her IRL:

best podcast to binge before dear media irl

Balanced Black Girl

With the upcoming opportunity to meet Les Alfred at Dear Media IRL, you’re going to want to check out her podcast, Balanced Black Girl. With millions of downloads, this weekly podcast has become a go-to source for advice on health, personal development, self-care, and well-being. Each episode is packed with info to help you feel your best.

The most popular episodes of Balanced Black Girl include:

Let’s Get Dressed (Formerly Friend of A Friend)

Last, but certainly not least, Let’s Get Dressed is gearing up to become your new favorite fashion podcast. Friend of A Friend recently got a facelift and host Olivia Perez introduced her new style show dedicated to sharing tips on personal style, as well as industry secrets, designer interviews, and more. We can’t wait to get a taste of this new show at Dear Media IRL!

Check out the two latest episodes of Let’s Get Dressed:

Who are you most excited to see at Dear Media IRL?

Dear Media IRL is the kind of event you anticipate for months. This live podcasting experience offers a chance to see the hosts of these 12 podcasts do what they do best, in real life! As you count down the days to the big event, check out each show and decide for yourself who you’re most excited to see! 

The jam-packed schedule includes morning bites and beverages, morning panels, a lunch break with meet and greet opportunities, afternoon panels, and happy hour. 

Oh and don’t forget to mark the following dates on your calendar:

  • February 20: Ticket announcement goes live
  • March 15: Reminder of event
  • April 15: Reminder of event
  • May 4: Day of the event

We can’t wait to see you there! Find our more information on the Dear Media website and find even more podcast recs on the blog.

How to Unlock Your Zodiac Powers

Woman with zodiac tattoo on her back

Is there any quicker way to bond with a new bestie than by diving deep into their astrological profile? We’re not sure there is. Even if you don’t know sh*t about the signs of the zodiac, you probably know AT LEAST your sun sign and what people have to say about it. Maybe you’ve been a victim of the “Oooooh, I do NOT get along with [insert sign here].” Maybe you always hear “Omg, I LOVE that sign!” Either way, knowing your sign and what it’s all about is an easy way to get a convo going with a new friend, coworker, or even a stranger!

But the truth is, no matter what reaction people have to your sign, every single sign has its strengths and weaknesses. And, did you know each sign has their own unique superpowers, too? These superpowers can affect your life in MAJOR ways. That’s why today, we’re sharing a round-up of strategies that will help unlock your zodiac powers. Check your sun, moon, and rising sign for the full scoop!

How to Unlock Your Zodiac Powers

How to Unlock Your Zodiac Powers

Aries

Those with the zodiac sign Aries are ruled by Mars, a planet associated with competition and the desire to win. If you’re an Aries, you’re probably like “YUP, that checks out!” Aries tend to be passionate, brave, and self-assured. They are generally natural-born leaders who enjoy a good challenge.

But that’s not all there is to Aries. Mars is also associated with activity, as in wanting things to happen QUICKLY. As a result, Aries may lack patience and have a tendency to be impulsive. If you know an Aries, you may think of them as hotheaded. They stay true to their elements in this way, as Aries are fire signs. (The fire signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.) 

So what are Aries’s powers? 

One: Aries tend to be super efficient. Because they want things to happen quickly, they get things done quickly, too. Their bravery assists them in this area as well, because they’re never afraid to kick off a project. Two: Aries are very self-reliant. They feel confident in themselves and don’t need others to show them what’s up. 

To unlock their zodiac powers, Aries needs only to invest in them. Finding work they find challenging is crucial to expanding Aries’ power of efficiency and self-reliance. They have to feel like there is something to WIN to succeed. 

Some ways to unlock this power: running a marathon, heading striking out on a solo adventure, hiking a difficult trail, and going for a big promotion. All of these activities can unlock Aries’ drive to succeed, and succeed quickly. 

Taurus

Taurus is an earth sign, so you will find that Taurus natives are grounded, consistent, and determined. Their consistency leads to a high level of dependability and loyalty that makes a Taurus a great bestie. They are slow to move, preferring to take their time considering all options before making a decision. This generally works out positively for them—because of their deep consideration, they usually make the right choice.

As for weaknesses, the zodiac sign Taurus can be quite resistant to change. They may take a while to make a big decision. They can also be quite stubborn and narrow-minded. But, that’s okay! This episode of Looking Up should help out all our Taurus besties! 

To unlock Taurus’s superpowers, Taurus should get in touch with their tactile side. Practicing grounding activities like walking outside barefoot, gardening, practicing meditation, or creative arts are all good ways for Taurus to strengthen their concentration and their connection with the earth. This, in turn, helps them stay grounded so they can continue to make good decisions. Learn more about this in the episode of The Balanced Blonde: Soul on Fire called Unveiling Tarot, Astrology, Gene Keys, & Universal Wisdom Through Art! It’s one of our fave episodes!

Gemini

Geminis THRIVE in social settings. We’re talking life-of-the-party vibes. As an air sign, Geminis love communicating with others, and they’re super adaptable as people. (The air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.) Because of this, they tend to make a LOT of friends. They are generally curious, creative people.

On the flip side, Geminis can often be seen as two-faced. This is because their versatility and adaptability in relationships may lead them to speak or behave in ways that are contradictory to themselves. They may (intentionally or unintentionally) be misleading with others at times.

To unlock Gemini’s superpowers, Geminis should try LOTS of new things. Their adaptability means they can welcome new experiences with open arms, and learn life’s lessons from them quickly. Geminis should also invest in their communication skills like writing, verbal communication, and active listening. Journaling their thoughts is a good way for Gemini to practice putting their thoughts into words! 

Cancer

Cancer is known for being nurturing, caring, and sensitive. They are often healers or providers of support. They love being able to help others, especially when they can see someone’s condition or mood improve. Think of Cancer as your mom friend!

Cancer can take their strengths too far, though. When they do, Cancers can be suffocating to their loved ones or people they are trying to help. They may come across as overbearing, emotional, or irrational. 

To unlock Cancer’s superpowers, Cancer should invest in their innate abilities for healing. They would benefit from joining a cause that gives them a place to channel their love and support, like volunteering for a nonprofit they are passionate about. They should also direct some of that healing energy inward, to ensure they are taking care of themselves. After all, it’s self-care or burnout

Leo

Leos are natural-born leaders who love being the center of attention. This may sound negative, but someone’s got to take center stage, and Leos were born to do it! Leos thrive when they are able to help others by leading them to what is right, use their charisma to get what they want, and protect others who cannot protect themselves.

On the other hand, Leos can be quite prideful when it comes to accepting help. Because they see themselves as strong leaders, they want to be able to do things on their own. They may be stubborn about doing things “their way” or doing them alone. They struggle when they are not in control of a situation.

To unlock Leo’s superpowers, Leos should seek out leadership positions or opportunities that will put them in control of different situations. This will allow them to really shine using their leadership talent. In addition, Leos should find friends they feel comfortable accepting help and criticism from. These friends will be crucial in keeping Leos firmly in the zone of leadership, rather than letting them become egotistical and bossy. Everyone loves a boss-*ss bitch, but no one likes a bossy one!

Virgo

Virgos are known for being perfectionists. They have an eye for detail that lends them toward stability and success. They are the kings and queens of working smarter, not harder, as they will find ways to make their routines not only consistent, but maximize their potential.

If you love a Virgo, you probably wish they were a little less hard on themselves. They say if you aim for the moon, you’ll land among the stars—but Virgo will still be beating themselves up for not reaching the moon. They can be highly critical of both themselves and others in their quest for perfection.

Virgo’s superpowers lie in their eye for detail. To unlock their superpowers, Virgos should invest their time in hobbies and careers that take what is already great and maximize it to its fullest potential. They are best suited to positions as editors, auditors, inspectors, or investigators. They may also succeed in positions that allow them to organize systems or people. 

List of ways to unlock zodiac powers for aries to virgo

Libra

Libras are alllllllll about balance. You’ll find Libras prefer to keep the peace over confronting someone. They want the best for everyone, and they believe the best for everyone happens when everyone’s in harmony. They’re often seen as sweet, charming, and loving.

Libra’s weakness lies in their desire for harmony, too, though. Libras can be passive and prefer to keep the atmosphere chill rather than confronting problems head on. They may become frustrated or upset when others want to address negativity head-on, especially if the situation doesn’t have a peaceful resolution.

To unlock a Libra’s superpowers, Libras should work in roles that allow them to cater to both sides, such as hospitality roles or hosting guests. In fact, Libras may make good podcasters as they thrive in leaving space for other people’s stories and opinions! Lastly, Libras should make time for meditation when they need to make a decision, as this will give them clarity of mind to see what is right for them. Light a candle, take some deep breaths, and make that call, bestie! 

Scorpio

Scorpios are known for being charismatic, mysterious, and extremely intuitive. They understand people on a subconscious level, but tend to keep their understanding to themselves. Scorpio is not afraid of a little darkness, so they may have and share experiences that cause others to back away quickly. Wanna know what this sign looks like in the wild? Listen to the episode of Almost Adulting about Violet Benson’s “Scorpio Birthday Shenanigans.”

Scorpios can also be quite secretive and a bit manipulative. Due to their intense understanding of other people, Scorpios have a natural influence over others, which they may use for their own benefit. Their intense emotions may also lead to possessiveness and jealousy. 

To unlock Scorpio’s superpowers, Scorpios should connect with water. As a water sign, meditating near water sources can strengthen their intuitive abilities. (The water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.) Scorpios should be sure to trust their intuition frequently, but only for good, as this will keep them in positive karmic alignment. 

Sagittarius

Sagittarians LOVE adventure. They are always seeking out the next big journey. They want to know more, learn more, and do more. Sagittarians have an open mind that can help them make friends across many different cultures. 

Conversely, Sagittarians may be hard to pin down. They may fear commitment, as it means staying in one place or doing one thing for too long. To unlock Sagittarius’s superpowers, a Sagittarius should go on those big adventures! What’s best for a Sagittarius is to forge their own creative path, one that allows them to learn as much as possible so they can share it with the world. Sagittarians can be a powerful uniting force when they use their powers.  

Capricorn

Capricorn personality traits include practicality, subtle perfectionism, and a good work ethic. As earth signs, Capricorns tend to be grounded in logic and reality. (The earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.) They stick to their guns when challenged, as they are so confident about their ideas and opinions.

Capricorns can also seem a bit arrogant and egotistical because they are so self-reliant on their own thoughts and opinions. Like Virgos, their perfectionism can lead to the wrong impression. Capricorns are often seen as “know-it-alls.”

To unlock a Capricorn’s superpowers, Capricorns should invest in their diligence and discipline. Capricorns truly love working, but they would benefit from meditating on what work is most important to them so they don’t over-commit. Once they know what they want, the best thing for a Capricorn is to put their nose to the grindstone and get to working—this will help them realize their full potential. When it’s time for a break, Capricorns recharge best by spending time outdoors, grounding themselves with the earth. 

Aquarius

Aquarians reside in the balance between routine and flexibility. They are at their best when they are able to challenge the status quo and change the way things are done. They think outside of the box by first learning what’s inside the box—then, they are easily able to see what needs to change.

Aquarians may move more quickly than others are comfortable with, and they may not thoroughly explain their plans before expecting others to get moving. They may also push and push for perfection, which is not attainable.

Aquarians would benefit from being part of an organization that is always pushing for change and for things to be better. They thrive when they are able to push for what’s best for everyone around them, even when others can’t see it. They would benefit from a friend who can help them stay grounded in what is attainable. 

Pisces

Pisces are known for being empathetic, compassionate, intuitive, and imaginative. They are often called “the dreamer” of the zodiac, and they can be quite sensitive. 

This sensitivity can lend to their weaknesses as well. Because of their intense empathy, Pisces can often feel stuck in the emotions and insecurities of others. They are highly sensitive, which may frustrate or annoy other signs. 

To unlock a Pisces’s superpowers, Pisces should protect their aura as much as possible. This will take setting boundaries and cleaning their aura frequently. This will help them to remain empathetic and compassionate without getting stuck. To learn more about aura’s listen to the episode of The Balanced Blonde: Soul on Fire called Know Your Aura: All Things Aura Colors, 5D, Starseeds, Celebs, & Beyond

List of ways to unlock your zodiac powers for libra-pisces

Are you ready to unlock your superpowers, or what?

Unlocking your zodiac powers allows you to bring something unique and powerful to the table—something that is ALL YOU. Aren’t you pumped to unlock your innate abilities and show the world what you have to offer? We know we’re excited to see it!

If you LOVED this post and want more zodiac knowledge to boost your powers, listen to the We Met at Acme episode Zodiac Sign Compatibility, Birth Charts, Nature vs. Nurture, and the Importance of the Moon and the Pretty Basic episode What Your Astrology Sign Says About You. They’re both perfect for helping you get to know yourself more intimately!  

Need something to remind you of your awesome superpowers? This Zodiac Long Sleeve will help you remember your astrological destiny! And, always hang out with us at the Dear Media blog for life hacks, pop culture info, podcast recs, relationship advice, and so much more!