Is it ever okay to stay friends with an ex or is it a total dealbreaker?

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the "unspoken rules" of relationship dynamics. We compare how cultural expectations differ between the LGBTQ+ and heterosexual communities and how our unique backgrounds dictate the way we love, fight, and connect.

Special guest Melissa (Cristina’s girlfriend) joins the conversation to get personal. She shares her experience adapting to new community norms and the specific hurdles of building authentic friendships while learning to navigate the unwritten rules of the LGBTQ+ dating scene.

From the "intent vs. impact" trap in arguments to the sting of sibling resentment, this episode is a roadmap for anyone trying to navigate the messy parts of human connection.

In this episode, we dive into:

The "Community Rulebook": How LGBTQ+ vs. hetero dating norms differ.

Family Friction: Navigating political divides and long-held resentments.

Communication Traps: Why your "good intentions" might still be causing hurt.

The Balancing Act: Can you stay loyal to your partner while staying close to your past?

Digital Dating: The evolution of boundaries in the age of apps.

Connect with us on Instagram or Threads: https://www.instagram.com/socialthreadspodcast/ https://www.threads.com/@socialthreadspodcast?xmt=AQF0zpgdoyW11wyJonW7RPRcnmW9NUmp-P4wr-ievocWKF8

What happens when you’ve checked all the boxes of the "hustle" but still feel like something is missing?

In this episode, we explore the profound concept of The Two Halves of Life, inspired by Jungian analyst Dr. James Hollis. While the first half of life is about building an ego and achieving success, the second half is about dismantling it to find your true self.

But it’s not all deep philosophy! We’re also getting vulnerable (and a bit awkward) about our messy coping mechanisms. From the "Cleaning Lady Chronicles" to our struggle with being "loners" in a crisis, we unpack how our childhoods shaped the way we comfort others—or fail to. We also dive into a debate on privilege and gratitude, our spending philosophies on travel, and why we’re choosing experiences over things.

In this episode, we dive into:

The Jungian Shift: Why the "Second Half of Life" requires a totally different rulebook.

The Ego Trap: Letting go of societal expectations to find genuine purpose.

Friendship Fails: Why "just being there" is harder than it looks.

The Privilege Debate: A deep dive into the $100 race and what priviledge actually means.

Life on the Road: Our spending philosophy and why we’re prioritizing travel and tattoos.

Watch the video we mentioned on Social Inequalities: Social Inequalities Explained in a $100 Race - https://youtu.be/4K5fbQ1-zps?si=x0RINVL5-Qlk7zv9

Join the conversation: Are you in your "first half" or "second half" of life? Let us know in the comments! 👇

Missed us?! After a month-long break, Cristina and I are back with a wide-ranging conversation that gets straight to the heart of what's on our minds. We dive into personal growth, social dynamics, and even some controversial topics. Join us as we explore Cristina's recent journey into Buddhism and its impact on her worldview, unpack the complexities of being a Trump supporter, and share personal stories about family, careers, and the pursuit of an authentic life. It's a candid chat about transformation, privilege, and the ongoing quest for inner peace.

00:00 Catching Up After a Long Hiatus

00:31 Public Declaration of Love

02:25 Vegan Girlfriend?!

05:51 Technical Difficulties and Funny Anecdotes

11:47 Reflecting on Life Choices and Small Town Life

34:36 Understanding Trump Supporters

58:31 Exploring the Lens of Suffering

59:40 Empathy and Choice

01:01:17 The Pushback Phenomenon

01:03:13 Questioning and Research

01:07:16 Buddhism and Personal Growth

01:13:53 Veganism and Diet Challenges

01:30:15 Astrology and Compatibility

01:38:33 Final Reflections