Episode 43 - New Year's Goals

1. Dry January & Drinking Habits

• Discussion of Dry January and personal choices around alcohol
• Launa explains why she didn’t commit to Dry January
• Drinking in moderation (1–2 times a week)
• Wine/cocktails as a way to wind down
• Parenting stress, noise, and needing a mental break
• Humor around being “stocked up” with alcohol and the beer fridge
• Comparison of different household drinking habits
• Acknowledgment that everyone copes differently

2. New Year’s Goals & Self-Reflection

• Question: Did anyone make resolutions or goals?
• Launa’s goal: “Just do better”
• Cutting back on drinking
• Going to the gym more
• Improving her relationship with Paul
• Letting go of small stressors
• Example: Stress over the broken washing machine
• Discussion of anxiety, spiraling, and emotional reactions
• Honest talk about age, hormones, and emotional spikes
• Group reflection and gentle teasing

3. Career & Financial Goals

• J.R.’s goal: Creating additional streams of income
• Voice work and freelance opportunities
• Discussion about acting and logistical challenges
• Side conversation about expenses (storage shed)
• Launa’s home-buying journey
• Short sale complications
• Seller bankruptcy
• Frustration with delays
• Commentary on real estate stress and lack of control

4. Homeownership Projects & Fear of Heights

• Kevin’s home renovations
• New windows and inspection requirements
• Painting challenge involving ladders and roofs
• Shared fear of heights and roof work
• Stories of panic attacks while decorating
• Discussion of “giant ladders” and DIY risks
• Humor around kids and even neighbors being fearless on roofs
• Kevin’s plan to paint via window access instead of ladder
• Support and encouragement from the group

5. Work, Trauma Bonding & Friendship

• Introduction to the concept of trauma bonding at work
• Reflection on shared workplace challenges:
• COVID
• Pay cuts
• Moving during uncertain times
• How shared stress creates strong friendships
• Spending more time with coworkers than spouses
• Importance of having trusted people outside of romantic relationships
• Agreement: the group has become best friends

6. Weekend Plans & Personal Moments

• Kevin’s painting mission
• J.R.’s upcoming daddy-daughter ballet class
• Nervousness about toddler separation anxiety
• Parenting survival tips (stuffed animals, Bubble Guppies, diaper bag)
• Lighthearted send-off and encouragement

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