"We Promised You Real – So Here's Real"

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There's something powerful about admitting you're in a valley. In this raw and unscripted 20th episode, we break from our usual format to have an honest conversation about the seasons of life we're currently navigating.

Greg, Jess, and Producer Michael (making his on-mic debut) dive deep into what it means to practice genuine self-care versus slipping into selfishness. We carefully define the difference: self-care is actively taking care of yourself to improve your overall well-being, while selfishness prioritizes your needs at the expense of others. This distinction becomes our compass as we share personal struggles.

Michael courageously opens up about his divorce journey and how community became his lifeline. Greg reveals professional frustrations at 52, feeling undervalued despite decades of experience. Jess battles the persistent voice in her head saying she's "not enough" – a struggle many will recognize. Through these stories emerges a powerful metaphor from Greg's mountain climbing days: when traversing dangerous terrain, you rope yourself to others so if one person falls, the team prevents catastrophe.

The conversation takes a transformative turn when Michael shares wisdom from his healing process: "If I am coping with where I'm at, I am not thriving, because coping and thriving cannot coexist." We explore how distraction prevents genuine processing of difficult thoughts and emotions, keeping us stuck in cycles rather than moving forward.

Each of us commits to one specific action to climb out of our current valleys – from Greg's "50 by 50" life lessons project to Michael's renewed dedication to community building. These aren't grand gestures but intentional steps toward healthier living.

Whatever valley you're walking through right now, this episode reminds you that you're not alone. Connect with us on social media, share your own journey, and remember – the most treacherous mountains aren't meant to be climbed solo.