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:

Couple walking along a boardwalk towards the ocean

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

Couple sitting on a couch intimately

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!

Couple holding hands walking along a hillside in fall

 

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

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

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!

Entrepreneur Stress Management

Yay – you’re an entrepreneur! You did it! But wait, what? Now that you’re the boss, you’ve got a whole new list of stressors that are causing you to worry and feel anxious.  Entrepreneurs are often faced with different kinds of stresses, whether they are from constant work pressures, deadlines, managing people, etc. And you might be thinking, stress is a normal part of life, right? Yes, it is! But the real issue here is prolonged stress.

As humans, we just aren’t built to withstand chronic stress and when we do, it can have plenty of negative effects on our mind and body. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), chronic stress can have negative effects on almost all the systems in your body including your musculoskeletal system, respiratory system, reproductive system, cardiovascular system, and the list goes on! To make sure that your stress doesn’t get the best of you, check out our top stress management techniques for entrepreneurs below.

Entrepreneur Stress Management

What Is Stress Management?

As an entrepreneur, learning how to manage stress is especially important because you’re the boss; you’re the one that’s setting an example and leading the charge! Chronic stress can have mental and physical effects like soreness, muscle aches, headaches, anxiety, and even depression and these ailments can definitely reduce your productivity. Chronic stress can also cause irritability and lessen your sex drive. This, in turn, can create issues in your personal and professional relationships.

So, first let’s talk about what stress management even is. Unfortunately, you can’t turn stress and anxiety on and off like light. Stress management is a process. Stress is unavoidable. So it requires practice and training and it’s all about handling stress as it comes to avoid getting overwhelmed. Stress management is the process of finding the best stress management techniques that work for you, and then implementing daily tasks to reduce anxiety and other physical and mental health problems by preventing stress from creeping back in. Here are our top tips for how to manage stress as an entrepreneur!

Stress Management Tips For Entrepreneurs

Identify the Causes of Stress:

First and foremost, figure out where those main stressors are coming from. Is it your workload? Do you work long hours? Is it your employees? Or is it because you need employees? Take some time to find out exactly where that stress is coming from so that you can anticipate it and maybe even prevent it in the future. Some great ways to locate the sources of your stress are to do some writing when you feel stressed and practice some mindful meditation. Doing these things can clear your head, open your eyes to the real issues at hand, and help you see past that emotional vail. Check out this episode of Backbone Not Wishbone to learn more about avoiding stress when running a business.

Heed the Body’s Stress Signals:

Listen to your body! Our minds and bodies have built-in alarm systems that let us know when something isn’t right. According to WebMD, there are tons of symptoms associated with chronic stress like depression, digestive issues, headaches, trouble sleeping, high blood-pressure, weight gain, inability to focus, and the list goes on. Be sure to take these symptoms seriously and don’t let the stress overcome you!

Check out this episode of Dear Gabby to learn some fantastic solutions for stress and anxiety.

Take a Break:

Don’t forget to give yourself a break! You might be thinking that this tip is an obvious one, but as an entrepreneur, finding scheduling time to stop and disconnect can be really hard. Make sure to set aside time to do something for yourself that is NOT work related and that offers an escape from those stressors. Consider a long nature walk, hitting the gym, or just taking a few minutes to take a deep breath and focus on some deep thinking to calm yourself. Maybe even take some time to listen to an inspirational entrepreneurial podcast like this episode from Trading Secrets. For more ideas about how to make the most of your break, check out these 7 ways to show up for yourself.

Delegate What You Can:

Work smarter, not harder! You’re not in this alone, so why are you doing all the heavy lifting? Take some time to learn what toxic productivity is and how to keep it in check. Delegate those time-consuming tasks to employees or consider a virtual assistant from a website like Upwork. Sharing the load with employees can greatly reduce your stress and prevent you from spreading yourself too thin. To learn more about the benefits of delegating, check out this episode of Unzipped.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle:

A great way to reduce stress is to adopt an effective routine that works for you and that contributes to a healthy lifestyle. A healthy sleep routine can keep you feeling energetic and ready to take on the day. Good sleep is essential to helping you process and deal with stress better by making you less emotional and more motivated. Eat healthy foods and avoid fast food and processed food as much as possible to more effectively manage stress. Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet makes you feel good about yourself and gives you the energy you need to conquer the day. You can also adopt more specific routines like incorporating more mediation and mindfulness or this morning routine for success.

Find A Hobby:

Discovering a hobby or an activity that you enjoy releases endorphins to make you feel good in the short term, while helping reduce stress in the long term. No matter how much you love what you do, finding a passion separate from work is a great way to eliminate some of the causes of stress. A lot of entrepreneurs can greatly benefit from spending time doing things just for fun. Find something you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, hiking, painting, dancing, etc., and then incorporate your hobby into your regular routine.

Check out this episode of Balanced Black Girl to learn more about why we need hobbies for self-care.

Set Boundaries:

As an entrepreneur, you probably have a lot on your plate. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, which is why it’s more important than ever to set boundaries and learn to say no. For example, if you set aside time each day for self-care, block out your calendar or silence your phone to allow you to focus on your well-being without being interrupted.

Get Some Advice:

There are several ways you can get advice about managing stress. You can listen to podcasts on the subject, reach out to friends and family, read blogs, or speak to a therapist who can give you professional tips to help you understand how to manage stress (there is NO shame in asking for help). At Dear Media, we have a ton of helpful content for entrepreneurs. For advice about creating a more balanced work-home schedule, check out our top 30 time management tips for work life balance. For information on stress and mental health, feel free to check out our list of the best mental health podcasts. And lastly, for advice and inspiration about entrepreneurship, check out the best podcasts for female entrepreneurs.

If you’re an entrepreneur, how do you keep stress in check?

If you are an entrepreneur and have any incredible tips, please share in the comments below! The Dear Media community is all about lifting each other up so share the details pleas! The most important thing to remember about stress management is that you’re not alone; there are tons of people out there struggling with the same thing! And trust us, it gets easier! Stress management is a breeze once you’ve established what techniques work best for you and learned how to shift your mindset and stay focused. You’re an awesome entrepreneur who has already accomplished so much by simply becoming an entrepreneur. You got this! For tips on how to be a successful business owner, check out this episode of the Dream Bigger podcast.

Don’t be afraid to make the necessary changes so you can get out there and take risks! Listen to this awesome episode of Life with Mariana to learn why you should be taking risks as an entrepreneur. And for those days when it’s hard to leave the stress at the office, check out our blog about stress management techniques at home! If you have any additional tips, questions or comments, feel free to drop us a comment below!

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.

How To End a Podcast

Ending a podcast episode with a bang is important to set your podcast apart from others and keep those listeners coming back for more. Your outro is just as important as your podcast intro.  So we really recommend taking some time here to create an original and catchy closing. An awesome outro should leave your listeners wanting more and give your audience something to think about after listening. It’s also the perfect opportunity to thank your hardcore listeners for listening all the way to the end! So, today we’re sharing a few practical and creative tips you can use to wrap up your podcast episodes. Plus!! Bonus points – create a lasting impression on your listeners.

How To End A Podcast

Thank Your Listeners

First things first, you want to give your loyal listeners some credit for tuning in. But it should be so much more than just a quick “Thanks for listening!”. Share some insight into the difference your listeners are making for you and your podcast, and how grateful you are for their support. Your thank you should be authentic and meaningful.

Be Intentional

Always be intentional when you’re wrapping up your podcast. Remember that both your intros and outros should serve a purpose. Your podcast ending is your final opportunity to leave your listeners with a great taste in their mouth and make them want to come back for more. So, be intentional with your closing and choose your final words with care and creativity. A well thought-out and original outro can help you grow your audience and retain more listeners!

Recap the Episode

An easy way to wrap up your podcast is by giving your listeners a quick recap of the episode. Use this time to talk about the main bullet points you made throughout the episode, what you want your listeners to take away from the episode, and what made that episode so special. You can even give listeners a little run down of what they can expect from your podcast in the future or from an upcoming episode with a teaser for the next episode. This is a great way to help listeners actually remember what you talked about and keep your podcast fresh in their mind!

Close with a Call to Action

It’s also a good idea to create a call to action (cta) to engage with listeners and get them to remember your podcast! Listeners love a call to action because it’s a way to interact with their favorite podcast in addition to just listening. No matter your niche, there are many ways you can incorporate a call to action in your episode outro script. Call to actions can be designed to help grow your podcast. For example, maybe you ask listeners to subscribe or share your show. You can also encourage listeners to take the advice you gave throughout the episode, point them towards another awesome episode, suggest they visit your website, or plug things like small businesses, charities, and local events in your area! Check out this episode of the Real Pod podcast for an example of ending an episode with a call to action.

Create a Unique Sign-Off

Really set your podcast apart by creating a unique sign-off! Try to think of something fun and interesting that you can do at the end of each podcast. Something that will keep your listeners tuned in till the end and coming back for more. For some inspiration, check out the We Met At Acme podcast.  Host Lindsey Metselaar wraps up each episode with an entertaining round of rapid fire questions. Another podcast with an awesome sign-off is Absolutely Not! Host Heather McMahan ends most episodes by answering hilarious voicemails and calls from listeners on her hotline. Other creative ways to sign-off include using unique podcast outro music or fun sound effects that your loyal listeners will quickly become familiar with.

Plug Yourself and Your Podcast

Don’t forget that you can totally close out your  great podcast episode by simply plugging yourself and your podcast! This is just one of many ways to promote your podcast. Your outro is a great time to plug past episodes that your listeners should check out. Or give them a sneak peek into future episodes. You can also point them to your emailing list, website, blog, show notes, affiliate links, Youtube channel, eCommerce page, social media, etc. Give yourself a shout out and let your listeners know how they can stay up to date on your podcast! And lastly, be sure to remind your listeners to rate and review your podcast. This is key to growing your audience!

Plug Your Guests

For those podcast hosts that bring on special guests, your outro is the perfect time to plug your guests! If you don’t bring on guests, but you’d like to, check out our blog about how to get guests for your podcast! Most likely your guest will be someone who owns a business, works in an awesome industry, has a rad story or tell, or someone who just does something cool. Plugging their business or project could be really beneficial to their cause and help them gain followers and support! No matter your guest, we’re willing to bet they’d love some sort of a shout out.

For an example of a podcast that closes by plugging their guests, check out this episode of Life with Marianna. Be sure to point your listeners in the direction of your guest’s social media and emailing list, and let your listeners know how they can keep up with your guest beyond the scope of your podcast. And for additional tips about hosting guests, check out our blog about the best questions to ask in a podcast interview!

How do you end a podcast?

No matter how you choose to end your podcast, just remember that your outro should be purposeful! Ending a podcast can be as simple or as creative as you want to make it. But it should always promote engagement with your listeners and keep them coming back for more. These are just a few tips out of many that you can use to help you create an awesome and impactful outro. Consider trying a few different methods, and see what works best for you and your podcast by learning how to measure podcast performance. Let us know which method works best for you below!

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 Best Friend Of A Friend Podcast Episodes

The Friend of a Friend podcast is one of the best podcasts for female entrepreneurs hosted by entrepreneur and founder Olivia Perez. On the show, Olivia welcomes the next generation of luminaries, up-and-comers, and game-changers from all over the world to share their experiences on her podcast. You’ll hear from thought leaders, visionaries, activists, artists, influencers, and more. On the show, the guests talk everything from making it in various niches, to answering your career questions, & so much more.

Olivia Perez is an entrepreneur herself, and loves connecting with the great minds of today. Friend of a Friend podcast introduces you to those that have accomplished big things, their advice, and the real stories behind their success. So if you’re looking for inspiration, you’ve come to the right place. Check out the top 10 episodes of Friend of a Friend below!

10 Best Friend Of A Friend Podcast Episodes

Maggie Rogers: Artist

Hear from GRAMMY-nominated singer, Maggie Rogers, as she sits down to discuss her journey in the music industry with podcast host, Olivia Perez. Maggie’s music has surpassed over 650 million streams all over the world – WOW! They also discuss Maggie’s rise to stardom, what she’s doing now, and life after touring. Pus, get ready to hear about her next big business venture.

Joe Holder: Nike Master Trainer, Performance Consultant, Co Founder of System of Service

Olivia releases a special series with her friend and business partner, Joe Holder, every Monday. In fact, this is the first episode of that series. So it’s a great place to start if you’ve never listened to Friend of a Friend. Olivia and Joe talk about anything and everything in this series. In addition, they give us an inside look at their organization, System of Service. In this episode, you’ll meet Joe and hear about how the duo is coping with quarantine. Also, hear about how incorporating some new daily habits can improve your life.

Caroline Daur: Fashion Blogger and Media Mogul

Caroline Daur is a fashion blogger and mogul known for her partnerships with amazing brands like Fendi, Adidas, Nike, Dior, Valentino, Levis, and more! She’s even been featured in magazines like Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. Hear about her rise to popularity, how she uses social media to her advantage, and the small German village where it all began.

Kirsty Godso: Energy Dealer

Meet fitness luminary and entrepreneur, Kirsty Godso. Kirsty is a one-of-a-kind fitness instructor, a Nike Master Trainer and spokeswoman, and also owns two companies –  Pyrogirls and Made Of. In this episode, Olivia and Kirsty talk about living in the big apple and how Kirsty is challenging gender norms in the gym.

Devon Lee Carlson: Model, Co-Founder of Wildflower Cases 

Devon Lee Carlson is down-to-earth, hilarious, and one of the most popular influencers on the internet right now. She is also a co-founder of Wildflower Cases. In this episode, Olivia and Devon talk about the responsibility and hardships that come with being an influencer and what it’s like to work in a family business.

Joe Holder and Olivia Perez on Activism, Embracing Anxiety, And Investigating Your Mental Health

In another episode from Olivia’s series with Joe, we hear about a wide range of interesting, and super relevant, topics. They discuss mental health and anxiety, George Floyd and civil unrest, and Joe’s latest initiative, Intergenerational Health. Olivia and Joe also take some time to answer questions submitted by listeners via Instagram.

Living Zero Waste with Lauren Singer, Founder of Package Free Shop

Lauren Singer lives a completely waste free life and we are impressed to say the least. She is the founder of Package Free Shop, the soon-to-be largest distributor of sustainable products in the world. Get ready to hear all the best tips and tricks to living a zero waste life and how living waste free can make you happier, healthier, and save you a ton of money. Plus, get the scoop on why the word “sustainable” is gaining such a negative reputation!

Sami Miro: Impact Designer

In this episode, we meet a fashion designer who is paving the way for renewable and impactful fashion. Sami Miro, founder of Sami Miro Vintage, creates one-of-a-kind pieces by sourcing and redesigning vintage clothing. Her designs have been worn by popular celebrities today like Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez and Drake. Hear about all her hard work and the challenges she faces with fashion sustainability today!

Sheena Yaitanes: Founder, Kosas Beauty

Sheena Yaitanes is super inspiring and reminds us that we can do absolutely anything we put our minds to. Kosas Beauty, her clean beauty brand, got its start at her kitchen table and is now an internationally known line of beauty products. Celebrities like Gweneth Paltrow and Gisele Buchananon love Sheena’s brand and you can find her products at Sephora and Goop. Hear all about how Sheena built her brand from nothing and how she plans to redefine the beauty industry moving forward!

Khruangbin’s Laura Lee On Creating A Sound And Identity That’s Uniquely Yours

Laura Lee is one of three band members in the iconic band Khruangbin. She is an absolute badass bassist and her band is known for their instantly recognizable and individual sound. It’s a blend of soul, funk, and disco. Laura gives us the scoop on her on-stage persona, the creation of the band, their most recent album, and what they’re doing next!

Do you listen to the Friend of a Friend Podcast?

We heard from a friend of a friend that you should totally check out this podcast! Olivia Perez and her game-changing guests do a great job at teaching us how to shift our mindset and stay focused to achieve our goals! With over 100 episodes of inspirational and influential content, there is something for everyone here. We’ve given you the low-down on the top 10 episodes, and we’d love to hear which one is your favorite! So let us know which episode of Friend of a Friend is your favorite below!

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.

16 Healthy Ways To Cope With A Breakup

Breakups: they’re inevitable, unavoidable and as much as our feeble hearts hate it, they’re just a normal part of life. But, knowing that doesn’t make breakups any easier! They are among the most painful and stressful events a person can experience and they’re accompanied by a wide range of negative feelings and emotions including sadness, grief, and anger to deal with. This can really have an effect on your overall well-being!

We hate to break it to you, but healing from that broken heart takes time and patience! It’s hard to figure out how to forgive someone who hurt you. There will probably be times when you’ll want to resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, but binging on ice cream and rom coms is not the answer. There are more healthy ways to cope with a breakup. Which is why we’re here to show you the top 16 healthiest ways to cope with a breakup. Coping the healthy way will benefit you more in the long-run and there are tons of ways to speed up the healing process!

16 Healthy Ways To Cope With A Breakup

Take a Time Out:

Breakups cause a spectrum of emotions that will have your head absolutely spinning. And while you might be thinking of doing something drastic, it’s never a good idea to make big decisions when your emotions are running high. Take a quick time out to just allow yourself to process the shock of the breakup, you deserve it! During your time out, listen to We Met At Acme’s Ghosting, Healing from Break Ups, And Attachment Styles (The Book “Attached”) Ft. Amy Chan to remind yourself that you’re not going through this alone!

Examine What You’ve Learned from this Relationship:

Start your healing process by reflecting on what you learned from your relationship. It may be over, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t learn some valuable life lessons from the situation. Think about, and maybe even write down, what you did and didn’t like about your relationship. Then use these lists as an opportunity to think about what you really want out of long-term romantic relationships.

Reach Out to Your Support System:

Remember that you absolutely do not have to go through your breakup alone! Hanging out with friends and family members can be a great way to cope with your breakup. Your support system can help you in so many ways from just being there to talk, to helping with cooking or cleaning while you’re taking time to process your emotions. Let your support system do what it’s meant to do….support you!

Be Patient with Yourself:

What’s the big hurry? These things take time. And by these things, we mean recovering from a broken heart. Just be patient with yourself! Every breakup is different and it’s not a competition to see how fast you can move on. This is a time of self exploration and reflection. So don’t feel pressured to get back out there before you’re ready. For more tips on how to be patient with yourself, check out The Uncomfortable Podcast: Getting Over A Break Up, How to Put Yourself Out There Again, Loving Yourself.

Do Something You Love:

Think of something you absolutely love doing…something that you haven’t done in a really long time. Now, go do it! Doing something you love will bring you joy and brighten your outlook on life. It will remind you that the end of a relationship is not the end of your life, it’s just the start of something new! We recommend listening to It Sure Is A Beautiful Day – Breakup, Betrayal, and Back to Self for more ideas about how you can get back to your true self.

Find a New Hobby:

Is there something you always wanted to try, but never had the time? Now is your chance to take the extra time you’re not spending with your ex, and put it to better use! Try something new like hiking, painting, crafting, writing, work on a business plan, or whatever your heart desires. You’ll see that a new hobby can be both a great distraction from your breakup and a fun way to learn how to do something new.

Try Meditation:

Meditation is an extremely calming practice that can bring you both relaxation and clarity. You can do it anywhere, which makes it a great stress relief practice you can do at home alone if you don’t feel like going out. Taking some time to meditate each day is a great way to reconnect with yourself mentally and physically and clear your head of all those negative emotions. And meditating doesn’t have to be super time consuming either; try meditating for just ten minutes each day and you might be surprised by the positive effects.

Start a Journal:

Writing down your feelings and emotions is a super healthy way to cope with the wide range of emotions that come along with breakups. Writing is a great way to reflect on your relationship and the things you’d like to change moving forward. Getting your feelings out of your head and onto paper can bring that sense of relief and closure you need in order to move on.

Prioritize Self Care:

Now that you’re single, it’s time to put yourself first! You can prioritize self care by doing some of the things we already mentioned like trying meditation or starting a journal. But you can also prioritize self care by doing a little something extra for yourself. Consider taking a nice bath, doing a facemask, cleaning or rearranging your room, buying yourself something special, or listening to a podcast. Check out these 10 ways to show up for yourself for more tips on how to put yourself first.

Listen To Podcasts About Breakups

Podcasts are a great way to gain perspective and insight. So instead of binge watching TV that is meant to distract you, tune in to some podcasts that help you grow. You’ll give yourself time to reflect and go through the grieving process. Plus hopefully move forward with a more well rounded view of your break up. If you don’t know where to start, this list of the best podcasts for breakups has it all!

Get Some Good Sleep:

Good sleep is essential to process emotions in a healthy way. Lack of sleep can cause you to be more emotional and can make your feelings seem heightened and overwhelming. Consider getting into a better sleep routine, even if it’s short term, as you process your breakup. Small adjustments like going to bed early and getting at least seven hours of sleep can greatly improve your ability to cope with your breakup.

Do Some Exercise:

Let’s get physical! Getting some exercise will make you feel so much better, both physically and mentally. Put all that pent up energy into something productive! Once you get those endorphins flowing, you’ll see that your mood has been greatly improved. Just be sure to take it slow, and don’t over-exert yourself – this workout should be about feeling good!

Eat Healthy:

Eating healthy is important because making sure your body is getting plenty of water, vitamins, and nutrients will make you feel better in general. Getting over a breakup is exhausting, and if you’re not eating healthy, it will be even harder to process those emotions. If you’re feeling tired and worn down, try changing up your diet to include more fruits and vegetables and less junk food and soda. This will make sure your body is getting the energy it needs to cope with this breakup!

Keep Busy:

Keeping busy is a great coping strategy to keep in mind while dealing with a breakup! To stay busy, you can do things like attend sports games in your area, hit the coffee stand, do some window shopping, or do literally anything else that you enjoy. This will keep you distracted from all those breakup feelings and it will give you the opportunity to meet new people!

Get Back Out There:

Let’s talk about getting back in the saddle! Getting back out there with an open heart might seem intimidating. However the best way to overcome your fear is to face it head on. There are plenty of ways to ease back into dating and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A great place to start is listening to podcasts like House Guest with Kenzie Elizabeth: BREAK UP BOOT CAMP | Attachment Theory, Heartbreak in The Brain, Getting Over Your Ex & How To Move On and Relationshit – Moving On and Leveling Up with Bri Springs to get some advice. Then, consider going out with friends, hitting your favorite bar, or downloading dating apps like Tinder or Bumble. You got this!

Seek Outside Help if Needed:

Let’s be clear – there is absolutely no shame in seeking outside help if you’re really struggling with your breakup. There are professional therapists out there who are trained specifically to help people through these exact types of situations. Your mental health should be your top priority and a therapist will be able to give you the expert, medical advice you need to pick yourself back up and move on!

How do you cope with a breakup?

Breakups are hard, to say the least. There are tons of healthy ways to cope with a breakup to keep you from spiraling into an unhealthy pattern of self-doubt and loneliness. Coping the healthy way may even heal that heartbreak faster than you thought possible! We’ve recommended our top 16 healthy ways to cope with a breakup. So now we want to hear your tips on how you survived your last heartbreak. Drop your suggestions below!