The Nearly Normal Podcast

Winter has a way of making us want to disappear under a blanket—but is that self-care or something more concerning? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we unpack the real difference between hibernation and isolation and why it matters for your mental health during the colder months. We explore how to move through winter with intention, how staying busy doesn’t have to mean staying overwh...

Ever find yourself doing something you are clearly not built for—and doing it anyway?  In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we lean into humor, self-awareness, and radical acceptance as we talk about the things we truly have no business doing. From skills we can’t master to habits we keep forcing, this lighthearted episode reminds us that perfection isn’t required for personal growth. If...

If you’re tired of setting goals that disappear by February, this episode is for you. On the Nearly Normal Podcast, we talk about how to set realistic expectations, replace unhealthy habits, and build sustainable routines that support your mental health — not sabotage it. In this episode, we explore: Why most New Year’s resolutions fail (and what works instead) How to build habits that support men...

The holidays are over—and so is our patience. In this witty and refreshingly honest episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we unpack the post-holiday burnout, emotional exhaustion, and unrealistic expectations that leave so many of us drained and frustrated. From forced cheer and family tension to overspending and social overload, we break down what we’re officially done tolerating after the holida...

Family dynamics shape us long before we realize it. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we break down dysfunctional family systems and the common family roles many of us grow up playing—such as the caretaker, the peacemaker, the rebel, or the “responsible one.” Using a mental health and wellness lens, we explore how these roles develop, why they persist into adulthood, and how they impac...

The holidays can be one of the most challenging times of the year for people in sobriety and recovery—and for the family and friends who want to support them without saying the wrong thing. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, licensed therapists Kate and Nina break down what actually helps when supporting someone in recovery during the holidays. We talk about navigating holiday parties,...

The holidays don’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we’re sharing practical, realistic, and totally doable mental health hacks to help you manage holiday anxiety, family expectations, grief triggers, time pressure, and emotional overload. Learn how to safeguard your energy, create healthy limits, navigate difficult relationships, and find moments of joy—even...

Step inside The Self-Compassion Lab—your weekly boost of mental wellness, emotional resilience, and self-improvement. In this episode, Kate and Nina unpack simple ways to practice self-compassion, challenge negative thinking, and finally become your own hype person. Whether you’re battling self-doubt, burnout, or low self-esteem, this episode gives you tools to build confidence, increase self-wort...

Feeling mentally exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we break down the most effective, research-backed strategies for reducing burnout, rebuilding your energy, and protecting your mental health. Learn practical tools for managing stress, setting boundaries, creating balance, and preventing long-term emotional fatigue. If you're looking for...

Feeling overwhelmed by family gatherings, holiday expectations, and financial pressure? In this week’s episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we break down real-world mental health strategies to help you stay calm, confident, and emotionally grounded this holiday season. Join Kate and Nina as they share therapist-approved tips for managing holiday anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, reducing burno...

Feeling drained, overwhelmed, or emotionally stretched too thin? This episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast explores how to create and protect emotional space in your life. Learn how to set boundaries with confidence, say “no” without guilt, and cultivate habits that support long-term emotional wellness. Real talk, practical tips, and a little humor—because self-care shouldn’t feel like another cho...

In this week’s episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, Kate and Nina share quick, evidence-based mental health tips you can start using today to feel calmer, happier, and more in control. From simple mindset shifts to easy daily habits, learn how small changes can create powerful improvements in your mood and overall wellness. No complicated therapy talk—just realistic, relatable advice you can star...

In this episode of The Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating world of introverts, extroverts, and social anxiety disorder. Have you ever wondered why some people feel energized in crowds while others feel drained—or even panicked? We break down what social anxiety really feels like, how it differs from being introverted, and share real-world techniques to reduce anxiety, boost c...

Ever wonder why certain things make your anxiety spike while others barely faze you? Feeling your heart race, palms sweat, or mind spiral into overdrive? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we unpack the wide range of anxiety triggers—from everyday stressors that make you uneasy to full-blown moments that spark panic attacks. We’ll explore why certain situations cause a...

Feeling anxious, stressed, or just a little off lately? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we share our favorite quirky but effective coping skills that help ease anxiety, lift your mood, and make life feel a little lighter. From unusual self-care tricks to mindset shifts that work, discover unique coping strategies that go beyond deep breathing and journaling, because your mental healt...

Feeling stuck, unmotivated, or overwhelmed by your goals? We’ve all been there—staring at our to-do list, feeling totally unmotivated. In this week’s Nearly Normal Podcast, two therapists get real about the struggle of motivation. Discover how to set meaningful goals, create action plans that actually work, and manage the mental roadblocks that keep you from moving forward. If you’re ready to boos...

In Part 2 of our menopause series, we dive deeper into the emotional, mental, and physical changes women experience during perimenopause and menopause. From brain fog and mood swings to sleep struggles, anxiety, and some more rare symptoms no one talks about. We explore how these transitions impact women’s overall well-being. Join us as we share expert insights, practical tools, and real talk abou...

Welcome to part one of our two-part Nearly Normal Podcast series on menopause. In this episode, we dive deep into the real experiences of perimenopause and menopause, breaking down the mental, emotional, and physical changes that women face during this transition. From hormonal shifts that affect mood and energy to the emotional toll of brain fog, anxiety, and sleep changes, we’re talking about it...

Need a mental health pick-me-up? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we bring you Hot Takes, Cold Coffee—a cheeky, caffeine-fueled chat about TikTok trends, AI in therapy, viral pop culture fads (yes, even ice cube trays), and the shows we’re watching to keep our mental wellness in check. Join two therapists as we laugh, reflect, and remind you that being “nearly normal” is more than eno...

Are your habits truly helping you, or are they just clever ways of avoiding the deeper issues you don’t want to face? In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive into the psychology of habits, coping skills, and daily routines. With a mix of humor and introspection, we explore whether your go-to strategies—like working out, overworking, scrolling social media, or even reading—are actuall...

In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive deep into the invisible mental and emotional load carried by women in today’s world. From career burnout and workplace gender bias to fertility struggles, motherhood pressures, and safety concerns, we explore how these hidden burdens impact women’s mental health and emotional well-being. Join us as we discuss practical coping strategies, ways t...

Welcome back to the Nearly Normal Podcast—your go-to space for real, relatable, and sometimes hilarious conversations about mental health, mental wellness, and everyday life. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of the 5 Love Languages—a powerful framework that can completely transform the way you connect with your friends, partners, and even yourself. We break down what each of the five l...

Join us for a rapid-fire round of mental health Q&A in this fun and insightful episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast! We tackle the weird, the random, and the surprisingly important mental wellness questions that don’t always come up in therapy—but probably should. Whether you’re here for a laugh or a lightbulb moment, we’ve got mental health tips, mindset tools, and relatable real talk just fo...

Ever said "I'm so stupid" after forgetting a name or felt guilty for taking a break? You're not alone. In this episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we dive into the world of micro-shame—those small, everyday moments that stir up guilt, embarrassment, or self-doubt. Learn how to recognize these emotional patterns, why they show up, and how to accept or challenge them using simple mental health too...

In this fun and insightful episode of the Nearly Normal Podcast, we explore the everyday situations, strange habits, and random interactions that make you stop and think — “Seriously?” From awkward social encounters to bizarre daily rituals, Kate and Nina unpack these "hmmm?" moments with a humorous twist and a mental health perspective. Tune in for laughs, therapeutic tips, and a reminder that yo...