In this unplanned bonus episode, Alyssa and Nadia wrap up 2025 on a lighter note after their emotional conversation about gun violence the previous week. The discussion centers on reflection, transition, and what it means to stay authentic as life changes rapidly.

Alyssa kicks off the conversation with a viral social media trend she's been seeing: 2025 is the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac (the 9th cycle), which represents shedding things that no longer serve you, followed by 2026 being the Year of the Horse (cycle 1)—a fresh start. While Nadia hasn't encountered this trend, she shares that her astrology app Co-Star gave her 2026 resolutions focused on authenticity and surrounding herself with people who genuinely support her growth rather than just depending on her.

The conversation shifts to what they're keeping versus shedding as they enter 2026. Nadia reveals she's signed up to take the MCAT in July and will be studying throughout the spring semester while working. She reflects on discovering that she's most productive and in control when she's busy with multiple responsibilities. Rather than actively shedding things, she anticipates natural changes as most of her friends graduate in May while she finishes in December.

A poignant moment comes when they discuss the concept of "home." Nadia shares that while the Bay Area will always be her true home, Boston has become home in a different way—it's where 80% of her year is spent, where her routines are, and where she's chosen to take the MCAT because it feels most comfortable. She admits recent trips home have felt different, knowing her relationship with home might shift as she approaches graduation.

The episode concludes with reflections on the podcast itself, now 2.5 years old. They discuss how they've moved away from guest interviews this year, finding it easier and more comfortable to have direct conversations. Alyssa proposes themes for 2026: either interviewing Nadia's graduating friends about transitioning to post-college life, or bringing in physicians from different specialties as Nadia prepares for medical school. They leave it open-ended, inviting listeners to share their preferences.

Takeaways

• Year of the Snake (2025) symbolizes shedding the inauthentic; Year of the Horse (2026) represents new beginnings and fresh starts
• Staying true to yourself means not getting caught up in comparing your timeline to everyone else's path
• Being busy with meaningful responsibilities can actually create a sense of productivity and control, not just stress
• "Home" can exist in multiple places—your roots and your current base can both feel like home in different ways
• Natural life transitions (friends graduating, moving away) often create the "shedding" without forced action
• The concept of home evolves as you spend more time away—80% of the year elsewhere shifts what feels like your home base
• Taking major tests (like the MCAT) in your routine environment can reduce stress and improve performance
• Authentic podcasting means following what feels natural rather than forcing a specific format

Chapters

0:10–0:32 – Introduction: Ending 2025 on a Happier Note

0:32–1:46 – The Year of the Snake: Shedding & New Beginnings

1:46–3:37 – Co-Star Resolutions: Building Authentic Connections

3:37–5:27 – What to Shed in 2026: Staying True to Your Own Path

5:27–6:16 – Big News: Nadia Signs Up for the MCAT

6:16–7:37 – What to Keep: The Power of Productive Busyness

7:37–8:49 – Friends Going Different Directions & Coming Home

8:49–11:01 – Where is Home? Bay Area vs. Boston

11:01–11:56 – Feeling Tired of Surroundings & Needing Change

11:56–13:26 – Podcast Reflections: Why No More Guest Interviews?

13:26–14:45 – Looking Ahead: Podcast Ideas for 2026

14:45–15:02 – Closing: Happy Holidays & See You Next Year

In this emotionally charged episode, Alyssa and Nadia confront the devastating reality of gun violence in America, prompted by a recent mass shooting at Brown University. What was supposed to be the season's final, positive episode became an urgent conversation about a tragedy that hits too close to home.

Nadia shares her firsthand experience growing up with active shooter drills throughout elementary and high school—practicing hiding, barricading doors, and staying silent as routinely as fire drills. She recalls learning about Sandy Hook Elementary when she was in second grade, 13 years ago, marking the beginning of a childhood defined by preparation for violence. Now at Northeastern, she's met people with direct connections to that tragedy, realizing how interconnected these events truly are.

The conversation explores the cruel irony of their reality: students are trained to survive mass shootings as if they're inevitable natural disasters, yet unlike earthquakes, these tragedies are preventable. Alyssa expresses heartbreak over a generation that has never known safety in schools, while Nadia describes the constant anxiety of knowing violence could happen anywhere—in classrooms, movie theaters, or public spaces.

They discuss potential solutions, from stricter gun control policies to addressing the mental health crisis and community fragmentation that may contribute to such violence. Nadia references Australia's swift policy changes after a mass shooting decades ago, noting that while a recent shooting occurred there, it was the first in many years—proof that legislation can make a difference, even if it's not 100% effective.

The episode concludes with expressions of grief for the Brown University community, for all 389 mass shooting victims in the year so far, and for a generation forced to live in a constant state of alertness. Both hosts commit to continuing advocacy for change, refusing to accept this violence as inevitable.

Takeaways

• Students today have practiced active shooter drills as routinely as fire drills since elementary school, normalizing preparation for violence
• Sandy Hook Elementary (13 years ago) was a formative event for many in Nadia's generation, marking the beginning of childhood awareness about mass shootings
• In 2025, there have been 389 mass shootings—more shootings than days in the year
• The constant threat of gun violence creates a persistent state of anxiety, affecting mental health and community engagement
• Australia's stricter gun control policies after a mass shooting decades ago have significantly reduced such incidents, demonstrating that legislative action can be effective
• The tragedy affects not just direct victims but entire communities, with ripple effects reaching people who know someone connected to each event
• Desensitization to mass shootings is a coping mechanism, making it easier to move on but harder to maintain the outrage needed for change
• Focusing on advocacy and supporting affected communities is essential, even when systemic change feels impossible

Chapters

0:10–0:27 – Content Warning: Discussion of Gun Violence

0:27–0:59 – Introduction: From Positive Finale to Tragedy

1:09-1:42 – A Generation Defined by Fear

1:42–2:45 – Nadia's Experience with Active Shooter Drills

2:45–3:55 – Sandy Hook: The Beginning of Awareness

3:55–6:07 – Preparation as Acceptance: The Cruel Irony

6:07–7:27 – Living with Constant Threat

7:27–9:19 – 389 Shootings This Year: The Frustration of Inaction

9:19–10:08 – Community Fragmentation and Collective Fear

10:08–11:19 – Political Division and the Impossibility of Unity

11:19–12:21 – Learning from Australia's Response

12:21–13:26 – Hate Crimes and Targeted Violence

13:26–14:48 – Desensitization and the Friend at Brown

14:48–16:15 – If Sandy Hook Wasn't Enough, What Will Be

16:15–17:15 – Swimming in It: Not Knowing Any Other Reality

17:15–18:09 – Hope for Future Generations

18:09–19:35 – Final Thoughts: Apologies and Anger

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia return to the mic after a brief hiatus, with Nadia deep in the "finals hole" of her semester. They dive into a viral national news story involving a student at the University of Oklahoma who received a zero on a psychology paper, sparking a heated debate about academic standards, freedom of speech, and religious discrimination.

Nadia breaks down the controversy: a student wrote a reaction paper arguing that gender norms are God’s plan and that deviating from them is harmful, rather than using the empirical evidence required by the assignment. The professor contended that the paper failed to answer the prompt, relied on personal ideology over science, and was offensive to a group of people. The situation escalated when the student mobilized conservative groups, leading to the graduate instructor being placed on administrative leave.

The conversation shifts to the broader implications of this event. Alyssa expresses frustration at how political polarization creates a "constant state of attack," comparing the national mood to crossing a freeway with cars coming at you rather than relaxing on a beach. They discuss the physical toll of this division, with Alyssa noting the conversation actually gave her a "sour tummy".

They also explore the concept of "echo chambers." Nadia reflects on how social media algorithms reinforce our existing beliefs, making it shocking when we encounter extreme opposing views in real life. The episode concludes with a coping strategy for navigating a divided world: instead of trying to fix the massive global problems, Alyssa advocates for focusing on being a good human to the small circle of people immediately around you.

Takeaways

• Using personal religious ideology to argue against empirical evidence in a scientific setting is not "best practice" and can lead to academic failure
• Social media "echo chambers" can blind us to how differently other people in the country think and live
• Political polarization puts many people in a constant state of "fight or flight," similar to the stress of dodging traffic
• Viral outrage can have real-world consequences, such as an instructor being placed on administrative leave
• When a problem feels too big to fix, the best approach is often to focus on spreading positivity within your own small circle
• Even well-intentioned debates about social issues can cause physical symptoms of stress
• Academic prompts usually require answering specific questions, not just writing an op-ed on personal beliefs 

Chapters

0:10–0:39 – Intro: Back from Hiatus and Finals Week Stress

0:40–2:15 – The Viral Story: 0/25 on a Psychology Paper

4:20–6:32 – The Professor’s Feedback: Empirical Evidence vs. Ideology

6:33–7:56 – The Aftermath: Instructor on Administrative Leave

7:57–9:31 – Analyzing the Quality of the Writing

9:32–11:04 – The Human Cost of Political Polarization

11:05–13:31 – Living in Echo Chambers and Cultural Division

13:32–16:03 – The "Freeway" Analogy: Living in a Constant State of Stress

16:04–18:47 – Social Media Propaganda and Finding "Your People"

18:48–20:08 – Alyssa's Solution: Focus on Your Small Circle

20:09–20:50 – Looking Ahead: Nadia’s Final Year of College

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia record together in person for the first time in a while, bringing a different energy to their conversation. They tackle two major topics that come up during the holiday season: sleep and family dynamics.

Alyssa just returned from a week in Melbourne, Australia, where she trained with physical therapists on the connection between sleep, pain, and healing. She learned about custom bed fitting and plans to bring this knowledge into her clinic. The conversation reveals a fascinating insight: when you're chronically sleep-deprived, your brain actually stops recognizing how tired you are.

Nadia opens up about her inconsistent sleep schedule due to constantly shifting between school, home, and travel. Surprisingly, she handles jet lag well everywhere except when returning home to California, where even a 3-hour time difference hits hard. They explore whether this is because home triggers a parasympathetic response, allowing her body to finally relax.

The discussion takes a more serious turn when Alyssa expresses concern about Eric's graveyard shift schedule (9:30 PM to 9:00 AM) and the connection between chronic sleep deprivation and dementia. While Eric can fall asleep anywhere when he's not working, Alyssa learned this isn't actually a good sign—it indicates the body needs more regular sleep.

The second half dives into family dynamics during the holidays. Nadia shares that protecting her peace means going home, not avoiding it. For her, family is always the most important thing, and being away makes the eventual return feel even more necessary. She describes home as "time for herself" because she has fewer responsibilities there—no dishes, no cooking, just being present.

Alyssa brings up how her room has been transformed into a guest room, with all of Nadia's decorations and posters removed. Nadia admits it doesn't really feel like her room anymore, but she's accepted it. She reflects on how she used to revert to her 16-year-old self when coming home, but now without those physical reminders, it's easier to just be present.

They touch on the pressure many people feel around family during the holidays—the loaded questions about relationships, jobs, and life plans. Nadia's approach is to "suck it up" and show up because maintaining family connection is worth more than avoiding temporary discomfort.

The episode wraps with a question to listeners: are they ready for expert guests to join the podcast, or do they prefer the existing format?

Takeaways

• Chronic sleep deprivation makes it harder to recognize you're sleep-deprived
• Working graveyard shifts can have long-term health consequences, including increased dementia risk
• Being able to fall asleep anywhere isn't necessarily a good sign—it can indicate sleep debt
• For some people, protecting your peace means going home, not avoiding family
• Home can feel like "time for yourself" when you have fewer daily responsibilities there
• Coming home during holidays can trigger old patterns and versions of yourself
• Physical spaces and childhood rooms hold emotional significance, even when transformed
• Family loyalty and maintaining connections can outweigh temporary discomfort
• Holiday gatherings often come with loaded questions about life milestones
• Recording in person versus remotely changes the dynamic of conversation

Chapters

0:10–2:08 – Recording Together in Person for the First Time

2:09–5:27 – Alyssa's Trip to Melbourne and What She Learned About Sleep

5:28–7:24 – Nadia's Sleep Patterns and Jet Lag at Home

7:25–8:54 – Concerns About Eric's Graveyard Shift and Dementia Risk

8:55–10:38 – Family Dynamics During the Holidays

10:39–12:23 – The Question: Family Loyalty vs. Protecting Your Peace

12:24–14:25 – Why Nadia Chooses to Go Home

14:26–16:06 – Home as Time for Yourself

16:07–17:52 – Reverting to Your High School Self

17:53–18:57 – Nadia's Room Becoming a Guest Room

18:58–19:54 – Looking Ahead: Will Nadia Move Back? Will There Be Guests?

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia dive into a deeply personal conversation about aging, menopause, and what it means to be a woman as your body changes.

Alyssa opens up about feeling younger than she looks at 48, sparking a discussion about how we perceive ourselves versus how we appear to others. The conversation quickly shifts to menopause and perimenopause — topics that dominate Alyssa's social media feed and conversations with friends her age. While hot flashes get all the attention, the reality includes forgetfulness, mood changes, sexual dysfunction, and vaginal dryness.

Alyssa reveals that she missed her first period last month (and no, she's not pregnant). This milestone has her questioning whether to start hormone replacement therapy now or wait for symptoms. The research suggests HRT can protect brain health, bone density, and heart health — but Alyssa isn't someone who takes pills unless absolutely necessary.

Nadia draws parallels between menopause symptoms and her own menstrual cycle experiences, noting how women are constantly attributing body changes, mood shifts, and physical symptoms to hormonal fluctuations. She reflects on doing multiple projects on women's health for school, discovering there's shockingly little research and funding in this area.

The conversation takes a vulnerable turn as Alyssa grapples with what menopause means for her identity as a woman. Society has taught women that femininity means soft hair, a certain figure, attractiveness, and the ability to have babies. With menopause, many of these markers fade — hair thins, bodies change, fertility ends. It's messing with Alyssa's head, even though she knows logically these societal expectations shouldn't define her.

Both agree that women face constant internal struggles and external pressures that men simply don't experience in the same way. But they also find empowerment in it — Nadia feels deeply in touch with her body because of her cycle, and Alyssa celebrates women's intuition, sensitivity, and the literal magic of creating human life.

The episode wraps with Nadia sharing exciting news: she landed a co-op doing clinical research at Mass General Hospital, focusing on food insecurity, food banks, SNAP benefits, and Medicaid.

Takeaways

• Looking in the mirror can feel disorienting when you feel younger than you look
• Hot flashes are just the tip of the menopause iceberg — symptoms include forgetfulness, mood changes, pain with intercourse, and vaginal dryness
• Hormone replacement therapy may protect brain health, bone density, and heart health
• There's a lack of research and funding for women's health issues
• Menopause can trigger an identity crisis around femininity and societal expectations of women
• Women constantly attribute physical and emotional changes to hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives
• The expectations and daily struggles women face are different from (though not necessarily harder than) what men experience
• Despite the challenges, there's something empowering about being deeply in touch with your body
• Women's intuition and the ability to create life are genuinely magical

Chapters

0:10–2:08 – Feeling Young But Looking Old

2:09–5:27 – Menopause on Social Media and the Symptoms No One Talks About

5:28–7:24 – Alyssa Misses Her First Period (And the Hormone Replacement Dilemma)

7:25–10:50 – Nadia's Perspective: Blaming Everything on Your Period

10:51–12:41 – What Menopause Means for Identity as a Woman

12:42–14:26 – Daily Internal Struggles: The Expectations Women Face

14:27–16:30 – The Magic of Being a Woman (Despite Everything)

16:31–17:51 – Nadia's Big News: Clinical Research Co-op at Mass General

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia have an unexpectedly deep conversation about aging, family caregiving, and what happens when we need help but don't want to admit it.

What starts as a recap of the New York Marathon — where Nadia's gymnastics teammate ran 26.2 miles and a 78-year-old completed the race — quickly turns into a reflection on what aging looks like. Alyssa shares her concerns about her mother-in-law (Nadia's grandmother) who's struggling with the decision of what comes next: staying independent in her 5-bedroom home or accepting that she needs more support.

The conversation becomes vulnerable as Alyssa admits she doesn't understand why older people resist what seems like the obvious, logical choice. Nadia offers a different perspective — cultural expectations, personality, and the desire to maintain independence all play a role. They debate who gets to make decisions when someone needs help: the person needing care, or the caregiver? And what happens when family members disagree?

Alyssa makes Nadia promise (on the record) that when the time comes, she'll listen when her daughters say it's time to move to assisted living. They discuss the financial and emotional costs of elder care, why living with adult children often strains relationships, and the fantasy of having a trustworthy live-in caretaker in your own home. Eric's plan? If he gets dementia, just leave him in the Philippines with caretakers — a plan Alyssa firmly rejects.

The episode wraps with reflections on genetics vs. lifestyle, social media wellness culture, and whether all those expensive creams actually do anything — or just give us the illusion of control.

This is a conversation about autonomy, family dynamics, and the tension between wanting independence and needing support.

Takeaways

• Aging looks different for everyone — some people run marathons at 78, others need significant help
• Cultural expectations shape how we think about caring for aging parents and grandparents
• When someone needs help, there's tension between honoring their autonomy and doing what's practical
• Living with adult children can strain family dynamics — personal space (physical and emotional) matters
• Assisted living costs are a major concern, and fear of running out of money keeps people independent longer
• The "ideal" aging scenario: staying in your own home with a trustworthy caregiver
• Siblings often handle caregiving decisions differently — one usually takes the lead
• Longevity is more about genetics than trendy wellness routines
• Social media wellness culture can overcomplicate things that used to be simple
• We can't control aging, but thinking we can makes us feel better

Chapters

0:09–2:17 – New York Marathon: 78-Year-Olds and 4-Minute Miles

2:18–5:22 – What Do We Want When We're Older? Alyssa's Perspective

5:23–7:27 – Cultural Expectations and Taking Care of Aging Parents

7:28–9:26 – Who Gets to Decide? The Person Needing Help or the Caregiver?

9:27–10:42 – Will You Be Stubborn? Personality and Control

10:43–12:33 – Would You Want Your Parents to Move In

12:34–14:22 – Personal Space and Family Dynamics

14:23–16:27 – Assisted Living Costs and Financial Fears

16:28–17:38 – Eric's Philippines Plan (And Why Alyssa Says No)

17:39–19:46 – Genetics vs. Lifestyle: What Really Determines Longevity

19:47–20:18 – Closing

In this Halloween week episode, Alyssa and Nadia explore themes of control, guidance, and finding meaning in uncertain times — with a little help from tarot cards.

Nadia opens up about getting her tarot cards read by a friend and pulling three cards representing her past, present, and future: Judgment (awakening and rebirth), Knight of Wands reversed (restlessness, impatience, burnout), and King of Cups (emotional maturity and compassion). What starts as a playful conversation about divination turns into something deeper as Nadia admits she was seeking guidance from the universe — not advice from advisors or family, but confirmation that she's doing things for the right reasons.

They discuss why tarot cards resonate: not because they predict the future, but because they offer a mirror to reflect what's already inside us. Nadia shares how she's been feeling stuck, burnt out, and craving control over her life — themes that showed up perfectly in her cards. Alyssa shares a memorable story about Nadia's dad getting his tarot read at a wedding, pulling cards that eerily captured his question about how to maintain a relationship with his daughter as she grew up.

The conversation expands into broader reflections on spirituality, organized religion, and why people seek connection with something bigger than themselves. Nadia reveals she's struggling with wanting control but recognizing she can't have it — and how that tension shows up everywhere from her busy schedule to her career uncertainties. They touch on Halloween plans, costume culture, and the fantasy of having superpowers (spoiler: they'd both freeze time).

At its heart, this is an episode about what we turn to when life feels overwhelming — whether it's tarot cards, faith, or simply the hope that we're on the right path.

Takeaways

• Tarot cards aren't about predicting the future — they're about reflecting what's already inside you
• Sometimes we seek guidance from "the universe" when we need permission to trust ourselves
• Feeling burnt out and restless is a sign you're craving control over an uncertain future
• You can't control everything, and trying to will only lead to more frustration
• The power of tarot (and spirituality in general) lies in giving structure and meaning to our experiences
• What we wish for reveals what we're struggling with: wanting to freeze time = feeling overwhelmed by pace
• Authenticity and emotional honesty are lifelong practices, not destinations
• Even organized religion and spiritual practices tap into the same human need for connection with something greater
• It's okay to seek comfort and reassurance wherever you can find it — tarot, faith, or conversation

Chapters

0:11–1:10 – Halloween Week & Missing Each Other

1:11–2:43 – Bar Crawls, Costumes & Female Halloween Culture

2:44–4:39 – The Comfort of Wearing a Costume (Plus: Flash Mobs!)

4:40–6:25 – Halloween Plans: New York, Parties & Marathon Weekend

6:26–9:47 – Nadia's Tarot Card Reading: Past, Present, Future

9:48–13:05 – Why the Cards Resonated: Burnout, Restlessness & Hope

13:06–16:39 – How Tarot Works: Taking What Resonates, Leaving the Rest

16:40–19:49 – Alyssa's Story: Eric's Tarot Reading About Parenting Nadia

19:50–20:50 – Tarot, Church & Understanding Spirituality Differently

20:51–23:22 – "I Wish I Was a Witch": The Fantasy of Control

23:23–26:39 – Superpowers & What They Reveal: Freezing Time vs. Reading Minds

26:40–28:10 – Connecting the Cards to Life: Past Judgment, Present Burnout, Future Compassion

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia catch up on Nadia's job search for a clinical research co-op and reflect on the "soft skills" she's been building for her future medical career.

Nadia opens up about the humbling reality of applying to 20+ co-op positions over two months and receiving just one interview. She's specifically seeking clinical research or clinical trials work — not another medical assistant role — because she wants to explore new sides of healthcare before committing to medical school. They discuss the pressure of being selective while also needing to secure something, and how different this process feels when you're still a student versus someone with a mortgage and kids to support.

The conversation shifts to bigger healthcare issues: the loss of SNAP benefits for November, Nadia's past research on sanctuary policies and undocumented immigrants' access to food stamps and prenatal care, and how these social determinants of health matter for doctors. Alyssa reflects on what makes a good physician beyond just medical knowledge — communication skills, empathy, awareness of patients' lived experiences, and the ability to work with a healthcare team.

They also touch on internet outages affecting work and school, Nadia's love of rewatching Gilmore Girls, and a new Netflix medical show called "Doc" about a brilliant but cold physician who becomes kind again after a brain injury erases 8 years of her memory.

At its core, this episode is about preparation: the unsexy, uncertain work of building a foundation for a career that demands not just knowledge, but compassion, adaptability, and real-world understanding.

Takeaways

• The co-op/internship process can be humbling — even when you're qualified and confident in your skills
• Being selective about opportunities is important, but so is recognizing when to be flexible
• Clinical research experience doesn't always "count" the way traditional lab research does for med school applications
• Pursuing what genuinely interests you (not just what looks good) shows authenticity to admissions committees
• Understanding social determinants of health — like access to food stamps, immigration status, healthcare barriers — is critical for future physicians
• A good doctor needs more than medical knowledge: communication, empathy, cultural awareness, teamwork, and clinical reasoning
• Pre-med students should focus on gathering "soft skills" before medical school through diverse work and research experiences

• Working in healthcare policy and equity research provides valuable perspective for patient care

Chapters

0:10–1:50 – Internet Outages and Tech Dependence (Amazon Cloud Issues)

1:51–3:16 – From Paper Charts to Digital: How Healthcare Adapted

3:17–5:23 – The Co-op Hunt: 20 Applications, 1 Interview

5:24–7:58 – Should Research "Count" for Med School? A Doctor's Advice

7:59–9:47 – The Pressure of Job Searching (And Why Students Have It Easier)

9:48–12:42 – SNAP Benefits Cut and Healthcare Access

12:43–15:05 – Working at a Grocery Store: The Reality of EBT

15:06–17:29 – Nadia's Public Health Research on Sanctuary Policies

17:30–19:58 – Undocumented Immigrants and Accessing Benefits

19:59–22:10 – What Makes a Good Doctor? Knowledge Isn't Everything

22:11–24:23 – Looking Back: The Skills Nadia Has Built Over 4 Years

24:24–26:22 – Netflix's "Doc" and the Importance of Bedside Manner

26:23–28:45 – Grey's Anatomy vs. Gilmore Girls: Comfort Viewing and Wrap-Up

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia have an honest conversation about Nadia's journey toward medical school and what it really means to become a physician in today's healthcare system.

Alyssa, a physical therapist, shares her concerns after hearing countless patient complaints about their experiences with doctors — from rushed appointments to feeling unheard. She worries about the challenges Nadia will face: the difficulty of getting into medical school, the grueling training process, and the weight of patient expectations that can leave even the best doctors feeling like they've failed.

Nadia responds with remarkable clarity about her motivations. She discusses why she's drawn to treating a broader range of illnesses beyond musculoskeletal issues, why nursing and PA programs don't feel like the right fit for her, and how her public health background is preparing her to be a more compassionate, team-oriented provider. They explore what makes a good doctor — from communication skills to humility about working with other healthcare professionals.

The conversation touches on systemic issues: why there's a doctor shortage despite months-long wait times, how the healthcare system often works against physicians, and the pressure of being put on a pedestal while having only minutes with each patient. But it also celebrates the possibility of excellence, with Alyssa sharing a story about an exceptional obstetrician who exemplified what patient-centered care looks like.

This is a vulnerable, thoughtful discussion about career paths, healthcare challenges, and the determination it takes to pursue a calling despite knowing all the obstacles ahead.

Takeaways

• Getting into medical school is extremely competitive, even as we face a doctor shortage
• The path to becoming a physician is long and demanding — but it acts as a filter for those truly committed
• Patients often feel disappointed by rushed appointments and communication gaps with their doctors
• Systemic issues (limited appointment times, administrative burdens) often aren't the doctor's fault
• Good doctors communicate clearly, show compassion, and work well with the entire healthcare team
• Having a public health background and allied health family members provides valuable perspective
• Academic strength and motivation are crucial — medical school rewards those who are good at school
• Being a good provider means making the most of whatever time you have with patients
• The most important qualities: confidence, clear communication, respect for colleagues, and patient-first thinking

Chapters

0:10–1:30 – Introduction: A Sister's Concerns About Medical School

1:31–3:33 – Concern #1: The Challenge of Getting In

3:34–7:24 – Exploring Alternatives: DO Programs, International Schools, PA & NP Paths

7:25–9:28 – What Draws Nadia to Medicine vs. Other Healthcare Careers

9:29–11:56 – Why Not Nursing or PA? Nadia's Perspective

11:57–15:32 – Concern #2: The Mental and Physical Toll of Medical Training

15:33–17:25 – Patient Complaints and the Pedestal Problem

17:26–20:13 – Concern #3: Managing Expectations and Disappointment

20:14–23:35 – What Makes a Great Doctor: A Real Example

23:36–26:39 – Communication, Compassion, and Teamwork

26:40–28:27 – Public Health Background as an Asset

28:28–30:12 – Final Thoughts and Ongoing Support (Plus: Tuition Concerns!)

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia explore one of the biggest questions of our time — how AI is reshaping learning, creativity, and human connection.

They start by unpacking the role of artificial intelligence in education: how students are using it to double-check homework, why professors are worried about declining test performance, and whether reliance on AI is weakening critical thinking skills. Alyssa shares her husband’s experience using ChatGPT to debug coding problems, sparking a broader debate about what happens when we stop “struggling” through the learning process ourselves.

The conversation expands to the workplace, where tasks that once took teams weeks can now be completed in hours, and into everyday life — from GPS dependence to resume writing. Nadia offers the perspective of a college student navigating professors’ mixed rules about AI use, while Alyssa reflects on the loss of personal depth in an AI-generated world where even thank-you notes and cover letters can sound robotic.

They wrap up with an honest look at generational attitudes toward AI — from curiosity to skepticism — and ask: if technology keeps getting smarter, what remains uniquely human about how we think, create, and connect?Takeaways

• AI is transforming how we learn, work, and communicate — for better and for worse.

• Students may lose problem-solving depth if they rely too heavily on AI to explain or fix mistakes.

• Technology boosts efficiency but may dull creativity and mental “muscle memory.”

• In a world full of automation, human warmth and personalization are becoming rare — and valuable.

• Using AI responsibly means understanding its limits and keeping space for real thought.

• The most meaningful skill of the future might be what remains human: empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.

Chapters

0:10–2:03 – Setting the Stage: Why Everyone’s Talking About AI

2:04–5:51 – Learning with ChatGPT: Shortcuts or Smart Tools?

5:52–9:57 – Are We Losing Brain Strength? Tech vs. Mental Exercise

10:55–17:16 – The Job Market: AI and the Efficiency Paradox

17:17–20:43 – Personalization vs. Templates: What Still Feels Human

20:44–23:50 – Generational Fears and the Ethics of AI

23:51–26:57 – What Makes Us Human: Thinking Beyond the Algorithm

26:58–27:04 – Wrap-up

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia reflect on how noise, social stimulation, and personal priorities shape their daily lives. The conversation opens with lighthearted banter about barking dogs, road construction, and the toll constant noise can take on mental health. From there, they dive into deeper reflections on social energy, nightlife, and the push-pull between wanting to participate in everything versus needing rest and solitude.

Nadia shares her evolving perspective on social life in Boston, adjusting to college routines, balancing work at a café, and questioning whether she’s “missing out” by choosing quiet nights over parties. Alyssa contrasts this with her recent whirlwind trip to Las Vegas, where stimulation overload made her crave peace, underscoring the theme that both too much and too little activity can affect well-being.

The discussion turns toward busyness, structure, and societal pressures to be constantly productive. They explore how being “always busy” can sometimes mask deeper emotions, but can also simply reflect a love of staying engaged. Nadia opens up about the looming weight of pre-med requirements, balancing passion with strategy, and navigating headspace consumed by future goals. Alyssa responds with reassurance from her own journey, reframing the process as focusing on meaningful steps rather than pure strategy.

The episode closes on the reminder that rest is just as essential as productivity, and that both fun and downtime have value in a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

Takeaways

• Noise and constant stimulation affect mental health more than we often acknowledge.

• Social energy shifts over time — it’s normal to prefer quiet nights over partying, even in college.

• Busyness can be both a coping mechanism and a fulfilling way of life, depending on intention.

• Structure and routine can provide comfort, but flexibility and free time are equally important.

• Pursuing big goals (like medical school) requires balancing strategy with genuine passion.

0:10–3:05 – Dogs, Construction, and How Noise Shapes Mental Health

3:06–6:36 – Nadia’s Shift Away from Partying and Managing Café Work-Life Balance

6:37–8:11 – Alyssa’s Overstimulating Vegas Trip and Midlife Social Lessons

8:12–9:29 – Choosing Rest Over FOMO: Leaning Into Quiet Nights

9:30–14:32 – Busyness, Structure, and the Fear of Stillness

14:33–18:31 – Med School Goals: Strategy vs. Passion

18:32–20:43 – Balancing Co-op, Career Goals, and Future Planning

20:21–21:37 – Wrapping Up: Rest, Fun, and Social Chair Irony

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia dive deep into their philosophies around fitness, movement, and the complexities of the modern exercise industry. The conversation begins with Alyssa sharing her concerns about different teaching approaches in Pilates, specifically addressing the tension between her clinic's mindful, precise methodology versus the "push to failure" mentality popular in many fitness spaces.

Nadia shares her current fitness routine, including her work arrangement at CorePower Yoga that allows her affordable access to classes, her relationship with traditional gym workouts, and her strong aversion to running. The discussion evolves into a broader conversation about accessibility in fitness, touching on the recent social media debates around Pilates being perceived as exclusive or elitist.

The episode explores how both hosts have shifted their perspectives on exercise over time - moving away from body image-focused motivations toward viewing movement as essential self-care and mental health support. They discuss the irony of having to pay for movement that humans once got naturally through daily life, while emphasizing that the "best" exercise is simply whatever you'll do consistently and enjoy.

The conversation concludes with reflections on setting intentions during workouts and the importance of making fitness accessible to all bodytypes and economic situations.Takeaways 

• Different fitness philosophies serve different purposes: mindful, precise movement versus high-intensity "push to failure" approaches both have their place, but it's important to find what aligns with your goals and values.
• The fitness industry's pricing can create barriers to accessibility, but creative solutions (like working at a studio for reduced membership costs) can help make movement more affordable.
• Social media debates around fitness exclusivity, particularly with Pilates, highlight the need to actively make movement welcoming for all body types and economic backgrounds.
• The "best" exercise routine is one you'll actually stick to and enjoy, rather than what looks most impressive or challenging to others.
• Shifting focus from appearance-based fitness goals to movement for mental health, strength, and overall wellbeing creates a more sustainable relationship with exercise.
• Setting intentions before workouts can transform exercise from a chore into a meaningful practice of self-care and mindfulness.
• The irony of modern life: we now have to pay for the movement that humans once got naturally through daily survival activities.

Chapters0:10-2:33 - Alyssa's Pilates Teaching Philosophy vs. "Push toFailure" Methods

2:41-4:48 - Nadia's CorePower Work Arrangement and Class Experiences

4:48-6:19 - Cost Barriers and Getting Your Money's Worth from Fitness

6:31-8:07 - College Budget Realities and Future Fitness Spending

8:07-11:00 - Social Media Debates: Pilates Exclusivity andAccessibility

11:00-12:15 - Making Movement Accessible to All Bodies and Backgrounds

12:16-15:10 - Nadia's Gym Routine and Dealing with Gym Intimidation

15:14-16:51 - Running Aversion and Forced Cardio with the Team

16:51-19:20 - Finding What Works: The Philosophy of Enjoyable Movement

19:20-23:29 - Shifting Perspectives: From Body Image to Wellness Focus

23:30-24:08 - Wrap-up and Exercise Motivation

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia have anopen and honest conversation about Nadia's recent experience getting an IUD (intrauterine device). The discussion covers everything from her decision-making process to the procedure itself and her recovery experience.

The conversation begins with Nadia explaining her motivation for choosing an IUD as her preferred method of birth control, citing her difficulty with remembering to take pills and preference for a long-term solution that doesn't require regular maintenance. She discusses the process of getting referred from her school's health center to an external OBGYN clinic in Boston, noting the long wait times for appointments.

Nadia shares details about choosing between different IUD options (hormonal vs. non-hormonal, and different brands within the hormonal category), ultimately selecting the Kylena which lasts for 5 years. The discussion touches on how the 2024 election results influenced her urgency to secure birth control access.

The conversation then shifts to the actual procedure experience, including Nadia's research process (including the mistake of checking TikTok for horror stories), the pain level during insertion, and her ongoing recovery with daily cramping and hormonal adjustments. Alyssa shares her own IUD experience from years ago, including some concerning interactions with a male practitioner and driving complications afterward.

The episode concludes with practical considerations like setting reminders for replacement and follow-up appointments for string checks.

Takeaways      

• IUD insertion appointments often have very long wait times, sometimes 4-5 months, making it important to plan ahead rather than needing immediate birth control access.
• There are multiple IUD options available (hormonal and non-hormonal, with different duration periods), and doctors can help patients choose the best option during the appointment.
• Social media platforms like TikTok tend to amplify negative experiences, which may not be representative of typical outcomes and can increase anxiety before medical procedures.
• Pain experiences during IUD insertion vary widely between individuals, but the procedure typically lasts 5-10 minutes and pain subsides relatively quickly afterward.
• Post-insertion side effects can include ongoing cramping, hormonal changes, early periods, and acne flare-ups as the body adjusts to the device.
• Political climate and concerns about healthcare access can influence timing of reproductive health decisions.
• It's important to set long-term reminders for IUD replacement (3-8 years depending on type) and schedule follow-up appointments for string checks.

• Having a supportive healthcare provider and feeling comfortable with their gender and communication style can significantly impact the experience.

Chapters

0:09-1:24 - Introduction and IUD Basics

1:26-3:29 - Decision Making and Election Influence

3:34-5:10 - Choosing IUD Type and Appointment Process

5:19-6:17 - Wait Times and Healthcare Access

6:18-8:06 - Different IUD Options and Family History

8:07-10:26 - Preparation and Procedure Experience

10:31-12:15 - Recovery and Ongoing Side Effects

12:24-14:09 - Motivations and Peace of Mind

14:14-15:29 - Political Climate and Healthcare Access

15:33-16:18 - Effectiveness Timeline

16:20-19:28 - Alyssa's IUD Experience Comparison

19:37-22:09 - Follow-up Care and String Checks

22:23-23:07 - Current Side Effects and Hormonal Changes

In this episode, Nadia and Alyssa kick off Nadia's senior year of college with an in-depth discussion about the excitement and anxieties that come with being a fourth-year student.

The conversation begins with Nadia explaining her summer dialogue experience in Spain, where she completed her Spanish minor through a 5-week study abroad program. She reflects on how the change of pace was refreshing but also made her appreciate the structure of being back on campus.

The discussion then shifts to Nadia's current activities and commitments, including her new job at Greystone cafe, her final year of gymnastics as social chair, and the upcoming co-op application process. This leads into a deeper conversation about her top three worries as a senior: choosing the right co-op (clinical vs. non-clinical), managing her tendency to overcommit herself, and the general anxiety of not knowing if she's making the right choices.

Nadia and Alyssa explore the concept of creating your own path rather than following a predetermined track, using the metaphor of different routes from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The episode concludes with discussions about future living arrangements and plans to bring guests onto the podcast to help navigate senior year decisions.

Takeaways

• Senior year brings a unique mix of excitement for new opportunities and anxiety about making the "right" choices for the future.
• Study abroad experiences like Northeastern's dialogue program can provide valuable perspective and help students appreciate their home campus structure.
• The pressure to choose between clinical and non-clinical co-ops reflects the broader challenge of figuring out career direction without having to commit permanently.
• Many students struggle with overcommitting themselves when they have free time, leading to a cycle of self-judgment and overwhelm.
• There's no single "right" path after college - like choosing different routes between cities, each path offers unique experiences and learning opportunities.
• Taking a gap year after graduation is becoming more common and can be a strategic choice rather than a delay.
• Living arrangements during extended college programs (4.5 years) present unique challenges, especially when considering expensive cities like Boston, New York, or San Francisco.

Chapters

0:10-1:01 - Welcome Back and Senior Year Introduction

1:02-3:04 - Spain Dialogue Experience and Summer Reflection

3:05-4:09 - Current Activities: Job, Gymnastics, and Co-op Applications

4:10-5:55 - Existential Crisis and Post-Graduation Anxiety

5:56-7:57 - Worry #1: Co-op Selection and Career Direction

8:08-9:19 - Worry #2: Overcommitment and Time Management

9:20-12:22 - Worry #3: General Anxiety and Creating Your Own Path

12:23-14:46 - Living Arrangements and Housing Challenges

14:47-16:18 - Future Podcast Plans and Guest Ideas

In this season finale of Papaya Talk Podcast, Nadia and Alyssa reflect on their podcasting journey together as they prepare to take a summer break. Nadia is approaching her fourth year of college, and they discuss the passage of time, her academic journey, future plans for medical school, and the value of their podcast conversations regardless of listener count. They also touch on college expenses like haircuts and nail care, the normalcy of graduating in 4.5 years versus 4, and Nadia's upcoming six-week study abroad program in Spain. The conversation highlights their close relationship and provides insight into the transitions young adults face as they navigate college and prepare for post-graduation life.

Takeaways

• Value Beyond Metrics: Both Alyssa and Nadia find value in their conversations regardless of listener count, suggesting that authenticity matters more than popularity metrics.
• College Experience Timeline: The episode documents Nadia's college journey, with both Nadia and Alyssa noting how quickly these formative years pass, despite being so impactful.
• Educational Flexibility: Nadia's decision to take 4.5 years to graduate demonstrates the importance of following your own educational path rather than conforming to traditional timelines.
• Transition and Growth: The conversation also reveals the emotional complexity of approaching major life transitions, with Nadia expressing both excitement and uncertainty about her final year of college and gap year plans.
• Family Communication Model: Their candid conversations provide a template for healthy mother-daughter communication during pivotal life stages.
• Future Planning: Nadia outlines her detailed path to medical school, showing thoughtful planning while acknowledging the value of taking time between undergraduate education and medical training.

Chapters

00:09 - Opening chat about haircuts, nails, and college expenses

02:18 - Reflecting on 93 episodes and podcast value beyond listener metrics

05:11 - Discussing previous guests in the podcast and future topics they want to discuss

05:59 - Nadia on her fourth year in college and the quick passage of college years and nostalgic reflections

08:16 - Nadia's 4.5-year graduation plan and gap year before medical school

14:35 - Social perceptions about traditional versus extended graduation timelines

16:43 - Future podcast format and Nadia's upcoming study abroad in Spain

18:36 - Closing thoughts on Spain program details and season wrap-up

In this episode, Nadia and Alyssa compare living conditions in San Francisco versus Boston, focusing on urban challenges that residents face.

The conversation begins with discussing San Francisco's reputation and how news coverage often portrays it negatively, emphasizing homelessness and cleanliness issues.

The discussion then shifts to a specific city problem that Nadia is experiencing in Boston - a mouse infestation in her apartment. She details her experiences with seeing and catching mice, her landlord's inadequate response, and how the situation has affected her daily life. Nadia and Alyssa also touched on tenant rights and landlord responsibilities, concluding with a plan to potentially bring in an expert to discuss both the health implications of living with mice and tenant rights.

Takeaways

• Media portrayal of cities like San Francisco often focuses disproportionately on problems like homelessness and drug use, which can create an exaggerated negative perception.
• Urban living comes with specific challenges like pest control problems, which can be especially difficult for young renters to address.
• Landlord responsiveness varies greatly, and many young renters may not be aware of their tenant rights when facing habitability issues.
• Health concerns related to mice infestations (like exposure to droppings or potential diseases) add another layer of stress to rental problems.
• Having a supportive third party (like a realtor) can help when communicating with difficult landlords, though ultimately it's the landlord's responsibility to maintain safe living conditions.

Chapters

0:10-1:57 - Introduction and San Francisco's Media Reputation

1:58-2:56 - Comparing Boston and San Francisco Living Conditions

2:57-5:42 - Mice Problem in Boston Apartments

5:43-8:12 - Dealing with Mice and Health Concerns

8:13-11:51 - Failed Attempts to Solve the Infestation

11:52-13:21 - Other Urban Living Challenges

13:22-15:56 - Landlord Responsibilities and Tenant Rights

In this episode, Nadia and Alyssa welcome registered dietitian Kerry Blair, founder of Food for Fuel and known on Instagram as "The Gymnast RD." The conversation explores nutrition topics including orthorexia, the differences between registered dietitians and nutritionists, gut health trends, and vitamin supplementation.

Kerry offers evidence-based insights to help young adults navigate nutrition misinformation on social media and provides practical advice for developing healthy relationships with food and understanding when supplements are truly necessary.

Takeaways

• Orthorexia is a form of disordered eating characterized by an unhealthy obsession with "healthy" eating that leads to restrictive behaviors and fears around food.
• Social media significantly contributes to nutrition misinformation and orthorexic tendencies, with studies suggesting 25-30% of young adults may be struggling with orthorexia.
• In the US, registered dietitians have extensive educational requirements (including a master's degree, clinical internship, and board certification), while "nutritionist" is an unregulated title.
• Gut health is an emerging area of nutrition research, and many trendy gut health products lack substantial scientific evidence to support their claims.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements should be taken based on individual needs determined by proper testing, as excessive supplementation can cause imbalances and health issues.

Chapters

00:00 - 01:41: Introduction and welcoming Kerry Blair

01:42 - 05:04: Kerry’s journey to becoming a dietitian and gymnastics nutrition

05:05 - 08:00: Explaining orthorexia and its prevalence among young adults

08:01 - 10:34: Social media's impact on nutrition trends and diet culture

10:35 - 15:45: Navigating nutrition advice and finding reliable information

15:46 - 19:33: The difference between registered dietitians and nutritionists

19:34 - 23:35: Discussion on gut health trends and probiotic products

23:36 - 33:20: Vitamin supplementation, regulation issues, and third-party testing

33:21 - 35:02: Closing thoughts on advocating for proper nutritional testing

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera discuss medical dramas, including "The Pit" and "Grey's Anatomy," and how Nadia’s interest in these shows influenced her desire to become a doctor. They explore how initial interests evolve into deeper motivations, particularly as the younger host contemplates medical school, gap years, and the application process. 

The conversation focuses on finding one's path, embracing different timelines, and seeking guidance from those who've already completed the journey.

Takeaways

• Initial interests (like TV shows) can spark career paths, but real-life experiences help develop deeper motivations.

• Taking a gap year between undergraduate studies and medical school can provide valuable experience and clarity.

• Everyone's educational and career journey is different - there's no single "right" timeline.

• Seeking advice from people who've already completed a similar path can provide valuable insights.

• It's beneficial to focus on one thing at a time rather than dividing attention between multiple priorities.

Chapters

00:00 - 01:55: Introduction and discussions about hospital dramas

01:56 - 04:34: Comparing "The Pit" to "Grey's Anatomy" and other medical shows

04:35 - 07:33: How TV shows influenced career aspirations in medicine

07:34 - 10:08: Developing deeper motivations beyond initial interests

10:09 - 13:18: Considering a gap year before medical school

13:19 - 16:43: Benefits of being around like-minded peers and seeking advice

16:44 - 19:29: Specific questions about MCAT timing and gap year experiences

19:30 - 21:28: Closing thoughts on seeking guidance and continuing TV discussions

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia Herrera discuss modern food trends, gut health, and the impact of social media on eating habits. They explore how nutrition messaging has evolved over generations, from the low-fat craze of the past to today's protein-focused and gut health movements.

The conversation also dives into the dangers of social media influence on eating behaviors, including orthorexia (an obsession with "clean eating") and the rise of influencer-driven food trends. With brands, influencers, and celebrities pushing supplements and diet advice, how do we know what’s actually healthy? Alyssa and Nadia reflect on the importance of critical thinking, balanced nutrition, and learning to trust your own body.

Takeaways

• Nutrition trends have drastically changed over generations, from low-fat diets to high-protein and gut health obsessions.
• Social media heavily influences eating behaviors, often promoting extreme or unrealistic food choices.
• Orthorexia is an eating disorder that involves an obsession with only eating "clean" or "healthy" foods.
• Many influencers lack actual nutrition expertise but still shape public perceptions of food and health.
• Gut health is an important topic, but it's often over-marketed in ways that may not be backed by science.
• Food trends are constantly changing, making it confusing to determine what’s actually beneficial.
• There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to healthy eating—what works for one person may not work for another.
• The rise of celebrity and influencer-branded supplements raises concerns about quality, effectiveness, and trust.
• Brands specifically target younger generations, making it harder to separate marketing from real science.
• The best approach? Take in expert-backed information, but ultimately trust how your own body feels.

Chapters

00:10 – Catching Up: Weekend Plans & College Life

01:55 – What Does "Healthy Eating" Mean to You?

02:44 – How Nutrition Messaging Has Changed Over the Years

03:42 – The Influence of Social Media on Diet & Health Trends

06:02 – Orthorexia: When "Clean Eating" Becomes Harmful

08:47 – The Rise of Influencer-Driven Food Trends

09:58 – The Psychological Impact of Social Media on Eating Habits

11:24 – Gut Health: Science vs. Marketing

12:16 – How to Filter Nutrition Advice & Listen to Your Body

12:36 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

In this episode, Alyssa and Nadia welcome special guest Alta Grace Tan, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and family relationships. Together, they dive into the evolving dynamic between parents and their adult children, discussing the challenges of communication, independence, and setting healthy boundaries.

The conversation covers how parents can support their kids without overstepping, why young adults still turn to their parents for advice, and how to maintain closeness despite different lifestyles and time zones. With humor, real-life stories, and expert insights from Grace, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood within their family.Takeaways

• Parent-child dynamics evolve as kids transition into adulthood.
• Many young adults still turn to their parents for advice but struggle with balancing independence and reliance.
• Time zones, schedules, and life responsibilities can make communication between parents and kids more challenging.
• Parents often feel the urge to immediately solve their child’s problems, but sometimes, kids need space to figure things out.
• The shift from dependence to independence requires mutual understanding and trust.
• Parents can help by using "I" statements instead of judgment to keep conversations open and supportive.
• Every family has a different communication style—some talk daily, while others check in monthly, and that's okay.
• Setting healthy boundaries is key to maintaining a strong relationship without overstepping.
• Shared experiences—whether traveling together or co-hosting a podcast—help maintain closeness despite different lifestyles.
• Love and support don't always mean agreement; it’s about being there, even when perspectives differ.

Chapters

00:10 – Introducing Guest: Psychologist Alta Grace Tan

01:12 – The Struggles of Parent-Child Communication in Adulthood

02:42 – Finding Balance Between Independence & Seeking Advice

06:15 – Why Parents Feel the Need to Solve Every Problem

09:01 – How to Offer Support Without Overstepping

12:00 – The Role of Boundaries in Parent-Adult Child Relationships

14:23 – Using "I" Statements to Prevent Conflict

17:26 – The Importance of Shared Experiences in Maintaining Closeness

21:57 – How Often Should Parents & Kids Communicate?

24:30 – Navigating Different Expectations for Communication

27:41 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Strengthening Relationships

Here is the website where you can request an appointment with Dr. Tan:

https://alta-grace-tan.clientsecure.me/