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 »
Show Notes Patricia and Nicole celebrate the two-year anniversary of the Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice podcast and close out the last full episode of the year by reflecting on 2025 and sharing personal growth and lessons learned. They discuss the importance of routines, delegating tasks, and finding joy in simple, screen-free activities with each
Typewriters, Tomatoes, & Travel: 2025’s Lessons Learned Read More »
Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole share their favorite books they read this year, discussing a wide range of genres from cookbooks and historical nonfiction to romance and science fiction. They offer personal anecdotes, thoughtful commentary on the books’ themes, and recommendations for listeners, while also touching
Cookbooks, Conjure, & Queers: The Best Books We Read in 2025 Read More »
Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole discuss the myth of moral superiority in doing things the hard way versus accepting help, especially around the holidays and everyday tasks. They share personal stories about overcoming the pressure to do everything from scratch, highlighting how accepting assistance can be
Homemade Isn’t Holy: Debunking the DIY Superiority Complex Read More »
Show Notes In this episode of Enthusiastic Encouragement & Dubious Advice, Patricia and Nicole discuss the emotional and practical challenges of sorting through a loved one’s belongings after their passing, sharing personal experiences and advice for others facing similar situations. They highlight the importance of community support, self-compassion, and taking the process step by step,
Letting Go, Holding On: Lessons from Sorting a Loved One’s Belongings Read More »
Show Notes Patricia and Nicole discuss their ongoing efforts to reduce smartphone usage, sharing personal experiences, research findings, and practical tips for being more intentional with technology. They reflect on the challenges of breaking phone habits, the psychological effects of constant connectivity, and the importance of adding “friction” to limit mindless scrolling. Mentioned on the
Scroll Less, Live More: Being Intentional with Tech Use Read More »