Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, hosts Patricia and Nicole cover more practical communication skills, focusing on how to choose the right environment and timing for difficult conversations. We also share some book recommendations, including an inspiring new release. Mentioned on the show: Find the full show notes with all […]
No Good Time for a Hard Talk (But So Very Many Bad Times) Read More »
Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole recap a birthday trip to New York City where they saw multiple shows, including a standout production of Cats: The Jellicle Ball — a reimagining of the classic musical set in the world of ballroom culture. The main topic explores the
Disco Doesn’t Suck, It’s Just Not for You Read More »
Show Notes Patricia and Nicole are off this week so here is an encore of an earlier episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice on finding a therapist. We cover what therapy is, why someone might seek it out, and the very real barriers — including cost, privilege, cultural stigma, and systemic biases — that
Encore: How to Find a Therapist Read More »
Show Notes In this first goals check-in episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement and Dubious Advice, hosts Patricia and Nicole reflect on a busy first three months of 2026 that left most of their annual goals barely touched. They walk through individual progress updates with candid admissions about what has worked and what has gotten in the
Spring Equinox, Vernal Equinox, Whatever: It’s Goal Review Time Read More »
Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement and Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole discuss strategies for managing personal overwhelm. The episode also includes library accessibility updates, and the not infrequent segment talking about recent books they’ve read. Mentioned on the show: Find the full show notes with all the books mentioned in this episode
Permission to Not Have It Together: A Practical Guide to Overwhelm Read More »
Show Notes This episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement and Dubious Advice focuses on the concept of building a “container” for creative activities—a ritual framework to spark creativity and cultivate focus. Patricia and Nicole share personal examples and discuss how this approach can be applied to various activities, from art projects to difficult tasks like doing taxes.
Make It a Production: The Art of Intentional Creative Time Read More »
Show Notes This episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement and Dubious Advice features hosts Patricia and Nicole discussing their adventures at the Oakland Museum of California White Elephant Sale where they scored vintage treasures. The main topic explores the concept of intentional choice as a tool for combating overwhelm and burnout. The episode wraps up with book
I Am Choosing to Listen to This Podcast Right Now Read More »
Show Notes On this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole discuss maintaining connections with friends through simple, manageable get-togethers, sharing examples of low-key hangouts like morning neighborhood walks, planner sessions over coffee, & quick pizza-and-cake visits. Mentioned on the show: Find the full show notes with all the books mentioned in
Showing Up: A Casual Hangs Renaissance Read More »
Show Notes Happy New Year! In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole review their 2025 goals and set intentions for 2026. They reflect on successes while acknowledging they didn’t accomplish everything, and that’s okay! They also announce the 2026 goal check-in for Patreon subscribers. Mentioned on the show: Find the
You Don’t Serve Your Goals: 2025 Reflections & 2026 Plans Read More »
Show Notes Happy Holidays! Patricia and Nicole close out 2025 with a short episode of the Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice. They share some weird Christmas trivia and as always, share what’s filling their cups. Mentioned on the show: Find the full show notes with all the books mentioned in this episode and official transcript
Louboutin Saddles & Slinky Origins Read More »