Exiting Our Twenties

The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443716/fan_mail/new] Episode 8 – The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection  In celebration of her thirtieth birthday, Berkeley shares an intimate reflection on her twenties and the essential lessons she’s carrying into her thirties. She offers a 3-prompt framework for discovering the essential data you’ve collected about yourself over the last decade, and setting yourself up for an extraordinary adventure in your thirties (or whatever chapter is around the corner for you). Finally, she shares another story from her twenties and the six words she heard recently that changed her life –– This Is Not Working For Me. The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection To join in on the reflection, grab a journal or a piece of scrap paper and a pen, and take some time to answer these three prompts:  1. What are 3 things I did right in my twenties?  2. What are 3 things I wish I had done differently in my twenties?  3. What are 3 Essential Lessons I learned in my twenties?  You can also review the prompts on our Instagram: @exitingourtwenties Berkeley’s Answers – Listen to the Episode to Hear More!  1. What are 3 things I did right in my twenties? 1. I traveled solo  2. I read a lot (especially nonfiction) 3. I allowed myself to change my mind (and followed through for myself) 2. What are 3 things I wish I’d done differently in my twenties? 1. I wish I had prioritized my physical fitness   2. I wish I’d focused less on who might be in love with me – and more on what I wanted to do with my life / who I wanted to be  3. I wish I’d stayed in better touch with my girlfriends   3. What are 3 Essential Lessons I learned in my twenties?    1. What I put in my body has everything to do with how I feel  2. I’m never as stuck as I think I am   3. Having quiet time alone with my thoughts is essential to figuring out who I am and creating a life that feels good Books Referenced in the Episode  * Digital Minimalism and Deep Work by Cal Newport   [https://calnewport.com/writing/] * The Anatomy of Anxiety [https://ellenvora.com/book/] by Dr. Ellen Vora * Quit Like a Woman [https://bookshop.org/p/books/quit-like-a-woman-the-radical-choice-to-not-drink-in-a-culture-obsessed-with-alcohol-holly-whitaker/1b80c45c45510aab?ean=9781984825070&next=t&next=t&affiliate=85251] by Holly Whitaker  * The Artist’s Way  [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-artists-way-julia-cameron/1141992530]by Julia Cameron   * The Morning Pages [https://www.urbanwildstudio.com/blog/2024/2/21/benefits-of-morning-pages-artists-way-graphic-notes]are a great tool for self-reflection as you're exiting your twenties or navigating any big transition in life.  If you enjoyed the solo travel story in this episode, check out Berkeley’s blog post [https://chasingjoytravel.com/blog/f/musings-and-memories-from-the-south-of-france]about the experience at Chasing Joy Travel (originally published Aug. 2021).  Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit] or at ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. We’d love to hear from you!

Natalie's Story

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443716/fan_mail/new] In Episode 7, Natalie from Oregon shares how she learned to cope with the uncertainty of her twenties and overcame debilitating panic & anxiety attacks.   After graduating from college, Natalie felt immense pressure to make all the right choices, fearing one misstep could mess up the rest of her life. But a series of panic attacks threw a wrench in her plans. Sharing the coping strategies that worked for her, Natalie reminds us that when we face our fears head-on, let go of what we can’t change, and lean on the people who love us, we discover how resilient we truly are.  You’ll relate to Natalie’s story if you’ve ever: * Felt the pressure to do everything right in your twenties * Struggled with anxiety or panic attacks   * Resisted therapy out of fear of being labeled with a mental health disorder * Reframed a diagnosis into something you could embrace   * Discovered simple solutions to calm yourself down during difficult moments Resources from the Episode Natalie’s Tools:* * The Worry List: Set a 5-minute timer, write down everything bothering you; then cross off what’s outside your control, and make an action plan for what’s left * Physical Grounding: Hold ice cubes or embrace something warm to bring yourself back to the present moment (practice safely, pls); put your feet up on the wall and breathe into your hands  * Bedtime Rituals: Build a nightly routine that works for you–consider stretching, journaling, reading, drinking water, and/or talking through your fears with a loved one * Connection & Self-Care: Honor yourself and lean into supportive relationships (including professional therapists and counselors) when things get hard *Listen to the episode for more! If you’re struggling with anxiety or mental health concerns, please seek support from a qualified healthcare provider. Berkeley’s Book Rec: The Anatomy of Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming the Body’s Fear Response  [https://ellenvora.com/book/]by Dr. Ellen Vora, MD This is one of the most impactful books Berkeley read in her twenties. Psychiatrist Dr. Ellen Vora teaches us that “anxiety is not simply a brain disorder but a whole-body condition.” She shares the physical factors–including nutrition–that impact our mental health and empowers us with practical tools to support our bodies, manage, and even prevent anxiety.  Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist turning 30 soon! After years of private scribbling and longing for the right outlet, she realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties, to bring hope and confidence to women of all ages and remind those nearing thirty that the best is yet to come. Follow, Subscribe, and Share Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. We're also on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/exitingourtwenties]. If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman who would benefit from Natalie’s story–pleas Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit] or at ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. We’d love to hear from you!

Paulina's Story

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2443716/open_sms] Episode 6 – Paulina's Story “Just because you have the opportunity to do something, doesn’t mean you should.” In Episode 6, Paulina from NYC shares how FOMO shaped her twenties.  After growing up feeling like she missed out on a lot, Paulina was determined to live life to the fullest. But in going full throttle, she sometimes went too far and faced serious consequences. Through candid stories from college and her study abroad, Paulina reflects on the lessons she learned about balancing personal safety and responsibility with the desire to live an unforgettable life. Also on the show, Paulina and Berkeley explore the tension between FOMO and what we truly want, how alcohol and social media disconnect us from the present, and the importance of learning to ask ourselves, “Aren’t you satisfied?” You’ll relate to Paulina’s story if you’ve ever: * Wanted your life to feel like a movie—or caught yourself constantly scrolling your camera roll * Felt the urge to challenge yourself and make every moment count * Made potentially dangerous decisions when you had no one to answer to for the first time * Hid what was really going on from your parents to keep them from worrying * Realized not every day will be fun and exciting * Regretted losing memories to drinking  * Struggled to feel satisfied while comparing your life to everyone else’s online Resources from the Episode Paulina’s Recommended Reading: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow [https://bookshop.org/p/books/tomorrow-and-tomorrow-and-tomorrow-gabrielle-zevin/17502475?ean=9780593466490&next=t] by Gabrielle Zevin Sociopath: A Memoir [https://bookshop.org/p/books/sociopath-a-memoir-patric-gagne/20165549?ean=9781668003190&next=t]by Patric Gagne Berkeley’s Recommended Reading: Quit Like a Woman [https://bookshop.org/p/books/quit-like-a-woman-the-radical-choice-to-not-drink-in-a-culture-obsessed-with-alcohol-holly-whitaker/9577277?ean=9781984825070&next=t&affiliate=85251] by Holly Whitaker – A quit-lit classic that changed Berkeley’s life. Part memoir, part feminist call to arms, this book invites women to reconsider what we believe about alcohol and ask a powerful question: Is drinking actually making my life better? Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist enjoying the end of her twenties (she turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, she realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique—yet relatable—lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. She hopes to bring hope and confidence to women of all ages and remind those nearing thirty that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. We're also on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/exitingourtwenties]. Visit ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/] to stay in the loop. And if there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a yo Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit] or at ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. We’d love to hear from you!

Berkeley's Story

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2443716/open_sms] Episode 5: Berkeley’s Story  “It couldn’t have been a better one night stand experience – and I wish I could not regret it.” In Episode 5, our regular host Berkeley takes the “hot seat,” and her new friend Tori interviews her about a romantic night in Rome that left a lasting impact. Berkeley reads from her study abroad journal and reflects on her mixed emotions following this pivotal experience. Tori fills us in on life as a 25-year-old in Manhattan and shares a story from her 4-month backpacking trip. Together, these friends unpack the pressure we face to have sex in college/our early twenties, the dangers of comparing ourselves to others, and how we learn to choose what it is we truly want. You'll relate to Berkeley’s story if you’ve ever:  * Been inspired by The Lizzie McGuire Movie to travel to Rome and search for your Paolo * Had conflicting feelings about a decision you made while exploring your sexuality   * Felt like there was something wrong with you for not sharing certain “rites of passage” with your peers * Held back your true feelings when talking about sex and relationships with your friends * Discovered how capable you are while traveling or studying abroad  * Searched outside yourself for something that would make you feel complete  * Faced the consequences of making a decision you weren’t really ready for  * Had a Work Wife who you love to gab with <3 Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/], Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences from their twenties. Through exploring these stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe * NEW! Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/exitingourtwenties/] for updates and fun excerpts from the show! Our handle is @exitingourtwenties [https://www.instagram.com/exitingourtwenties/]. * Don’t miss an episode! Follow the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Check us out at exitingourtwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. * If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman you think would benefit from hearing Berkeley's story–please share this show with them! Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit] or at ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. We’d love to hear from you!

Jen's Story

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2443716/open_sms] Episode 4: Jen’s Story “I can make my own decisions – and watch me make my first one.” In our fourth episode, Jen from New York City (by way of Houston, TX) shares how she found a new rulebook for life after a terrible loss.  Growing up, Jen turned to her mom for guidance on every decision, big or small. But shortly after graduating from college, Jen's mom was diagnosed with cancer. Jen was thrust into “a new universe” and overnight, became a caretaker, a support system for her dad and sister, and a daughter wishing for a miracle. After her mom’s passing, Jen came to realize that honoring her mom would require her to chart her own course in life. Jen’s Story is a tender, unflinching look at how we move forward after the unthinkable happens. You’ll relate to Jen’s story if you’ve ever: * Felt responsible for a parent’s happiness * Lost a parent or a beloved parental figure at a young age * Tried on different "hats" or personalities to fit in * Relied on a parent for decision-making growing up, and later struggled to trust your instincts * Consulted a psychic, tarot reader, or other mystic for advice * Left a job without your next career move figured out  * Felt you were "born to be in your thirties" Resources from the episode:  * Berkeley's Favorite Book: The Artist's Way [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-artist-s-way-a-spiritual-path-to-higher-creativity-twenty-fifth-anniversary-edition-julia-cameron/6715439?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=12440232635&gbraid=0AAAAACfld41ghfe50YzGF1NfL-0Wracz6&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlrvBBhDnARIsAHEQgOTozBVUFkCxV946bQiWyziEl1XpRwwUoJ7OO-5uVfyzuikkNDVqMfAaAo7YEALw_wcB]by Julia Cameron – Ever felt that something is holding you back from pursuing your purpose? The Artists' Way is beloved by creatives around the world (from writers to filmmakers to entrepreneurs) for helping them reimagine their lives. Check out this review in the New York Times [https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/12/magazine/artists-way-morning-pages-julia-cameron.html] or pick up a copy at your favorite independent bookstore [https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-artist-s-way-a-spiritual-path-to-higher-creativity-twenty-fifth-anniversary-edition-julia-cameron/6715439?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=12440232635&gbraid=0AAAAACfld41ghfe50YzGF1NfL-0Wracz6&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlrvBBhDnARIsAHEQgOTozBVUFkCxV946bQiWyziEl1XpRwwUoJ7OO-5uVfyzuikkNDVqMfAaAo7YEALw_wcB] today. Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit] or at ExitingOurTwenties.com [https://exitingourtwenties.buzzsprout.com/]. We’d love to hear from you!