Looking Back on Season 3

Looking Back on Season 3

In this season finale, Chris and Alison reflect on some of the conversations that shaped the year: facing reality as it is rather than what we think it ought to be, pulling gratitude from the sky, and navigating the grief of kids leaving home. They discuss the importance of curiosity in fear, and learning to move through change with honesty and hope. They also revisit some of their favorite Small Talk moments along the way and share what’s been stuck in their heads lately.

From the Parents' Perspective

Chris & Alison are joined by Alison’s husband, Ryan to talk about the relationship between parents and kids who are growing up. They explore the balance in parenting and independence, navigating the hard conversations, and how there is no grief without love.

Our Relationship With Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the few positive emotions we can practice on purpose. Chris and Alison explore how intentionally noticing what is good can help shift our mindset and balance the brain’s natural focus on what’s wrong. Because gratitude doesn’t remove pain, but it does make sure pain isn’t the only thing our brain sees.

Why Do I Keep Messing Up the Same Stuff?

In this episode, Chris and Alison explore how the different “parts” of our personality influence the choices we make. Through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS), they talk about learning to recognize the motives behind our actions and understanding the parts of ourselves that show up in difficult moments. They also reflect on the importance of self-compassion, because while we all make mistakes, they don't define who we are.

The Loneliness Epidemic

Loneliness isn’t always about being alone. Sometimes it can exist even in the middle of relationships. In this episode, Chris and Alison explore the growing loneliness epidemic and the surprising ways it shows up in our lives. They unpack how it’s possible to feel more alone in a relationship than when you’re single, and why meaningful connection requires more than simply being around other people. They also discuss the challenges of making friendships as adults, the importance of shared interests in building connection, and why learning to turn toward others instead of away can make a powerful difference when someone is feeling lonely.