Summary

Gabi kicks off the new Basically Unbothered format with guests Ivy and Don. Life updates? Check—Gabi’s dog adoption chaos included. Pop culture? We’ve got Twilight drama and Kanye’s latest antics. Then it gets real: representation of Black trans women, age gaps in books, and how Hollywood handles our faves. Plus, Ivy, Don, and Gabi dive into polyamory, queer identity, and what family really looks like—unfiltered, honest, and basically unbothered.

Takeaways

* This is the first episode of the Basically Unbothered podcast.

* Ivy identifies as a cosplaying, poly, pan princess.

* Don is an author, speaker, and activist.

* Gabi shares her hectic week and dog adoption experience.

* The conversation touches on the new Twilight special edition release.

* Kanye West’s documentary highlights his struggles with mental health.

* The discussion includes the importance of representation in media.

* Age gaps in literature are examined through popular book series.

* The House Made by Frieda McFadden is being adapted into a movie.

* Miss International Queen USA highlights the challenges faced by black trans women. Empowerment comes from self-protection and self-acceptance.

* Navigating queer identity can be challenging but is essential for personal growth.

* Polyamory is distinct from polygamy and requires ethical considerations.

* Parenting in a polyamorous relationship is possible and can be fulfilling.

* Open communication is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships.

* Compersion, or finding joy in a partner’s happiness, is a valuable emotional skill.

* Honesty with children about relationships fosters trust and understanding.

* Family dynamics can be redefined beyond traditional structures.

* It’s important to embrace the spectrum of relationships and personal identities.

* Self-awareness and understanding one’s needs are key to successful relationships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Basically Unbothered Podcast

02:42 Meet the Guests: Ivy and Don

05:33 Catch-Up: Personal Updates and Dog Stories

08:28 Pop Culture Roundup: Twilight Special Edition

10:43 Kanye West Documentary Discussion

12:44 Practical Magic 2 and Other Sequels

15:34 Reflections on Age Gaps in Relationships

26:49 Nostalgia for Inuyasha and Parenting Themes

29:36 Book Discussions: The House Made and Its Adaptation

35:24 Exploring Morally Gray Characters in Literature

37:27 Miss International Queen USA: Celebrating Diversity

44:01 Polyamory vs. Cheating: Understanding Relationship Dynamics

55:05 The Dynamics of Polyamorous Parenting

57:46 Navigating Relationships and Communication

01:00:48 Understanding Compersion and Emotional Growth

01:05:51 Honesty and Openness in Polyamorous Families

01:16:04 Redefining Family Structures and Societal Norms

01:21:08 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

This week, Madi and Gabi cover a little bit of everything—travel stories, health and wellness tips, and of course, the wild rollercoaster that is relationships. They dive into the messy but fascinating differences between polyamory and monogamy, sprinkle in some personal stories and mental health check-ins, and remind us why communication really is the glue that holds it all together. And because it wouldn’t be us without some pop culture detours, yes, Hilary Duff and Twilight both make appearances. The episode wraps with some real talk on advice for folks exploring polyamory, and whether you actually need to read all the books before you live the lifestyle.

Takeaways

* Traveling allows for personal growth and connection with family.

* Health and wellness practices, like massages, are essential for self-care.

* Red flags in relationships can often be overlooked.

* Different therapies can help individuals find healing.

* Mental health adjustments can be challenging but necessary.

* Podcasting can be a fulfilling creative outlet.

* Pop culture references can provide insight into societal norms.

* Polyamory and monogamy have distinct differences that should be understood.

* Advice on entering polyamorous relationships varies by individual experience.

* Communication is key in any relationship dynamic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

02:18 Travel Adventures and Family Connections

04:51 Health and Wellness: Massages and Self-Care

07:49 Red Flags in Relationships

10:47 Exploring Different Therapies and Healing Methods

13:46 Mental Health and Medication Adjustments

16:40 Podcast Growth and New Ventures

19:28 Pop Culture Roundup: Hilary Duff and Twilight

22:31 Polyamory vs. Monogamy: A Deep Dive

25:24 Advice on Entering Polyamorous Relationships

28:09 Am I the Asshole? Discussion on Polyamory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

This week, Gabi and Maddi cover a lot. We’re talking the highs (and definite lows) of collaboration, why taking care of your health and nutrition actually matters (yes, we’re side-eyeing ourselves too), and how personal struggles can sneakily turn into emotional growth.

We also dive into the messy world of adoption, reflect on pop culture through the lens of Amanda Knox’s story, and what it all says about justice and identity. From there, it’s a ride through self-deprecating humor, how to tell your own story without tripping over it, and the balancing act between parenthood and career.

And because no conversation is complete without it—we go into relationships: cheating, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy… basically, all the ways love gets complicated. Spoiler: communication and honesty are still undefeated.

Catch up with our two parter episode. Part 2 dropping next week.

Takeaways

* Interacting with people can lead to miscommunications and hurt.

* Collaboration is challenging and often requires effort.

* Health and nutrition play a crucial role in physical recovery.

* Protein is essential for muscle recovery and overall health.

* Creatine should be cycled to avoid negative side effects.

* Pre-workout supplements can lead to energy crashes.

* Emotional growth involves navigating ups and downs.

* Adoption can be a beautiful thing but is complicated by industry issues.

* Amanda Knox's story highlights the flaws in the justice system.

* Pop culture often reflects deeper societal issues. Self-deprecating humor can be a double-edged sword.

* Comedy often requires a level of intelligence to appreciate.

* Parenthood can significantly alter career choices and priorities.

* Cheating can have lasting emotional consequences for all parties involved.

* The narrative of a person can be difficult to shift after a scandal.

* Polyamory and ethical non-monogamy are valid relationship structures.

* Communication is key in any relationship, especially in non-traditional setups.

* The societal normalization of cheating can lead to emotional abuse.

* Every relationship setup should be tailored to the individuals involved.

* It takes a village to raise a child, and multiple partners can contribute positively.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Collaboration and Personal Challenges

07:18 Health, Fitness, and Nutrition Insights

16:08 Emotional Growth and Personal Struggles

21:23 Adoption Industry and Its Implications

22:28 Pop Culture Roundup: Cardi B and Industry Standards

25:03 Authenticity in the Industry

25:29 Exploring Burning Man

30:53 Amanda Knox: A Complex Narrative

44:37 Channing Tatum's Reflections on Fatherhood

53:32 Parenting and Communication in Relationships

54:38 The Impact of Attachment Styles

55:52 Reflections on the VMAs

57:58 Cultural Significance of Award Shows

01:00:27 The Role of Social Media in Pop Culture

01:02:41 Fidelity and Relationships

01:05:37 The Consequences of Cheating

01:09:28 Navigating the Role of the Other Woman

01:13:50 Personal Experiences with Infidelity

01:16:59 The Complexity of Cheating and Trust

01:20:52 Exploring Non-Traditional Relationships

01:25:51 The Future of Polyamory Discussions

01:27:06 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

This week, Gabi and Maddi are back with a little bit of everything—because when do we ever stay on one topic? We kick things off with the eternal struggle of setting up mics without losing our sanity, sprinkle in some personal updates, and yes… brand collabs (because apparently, we’re influencers now?). Then we slide straight into the world of writing and editing—aka the art of torturing yourself with cliffhangers.

From cultural biases in language to pop culture chaos, we’ve got opinions. Millie Bobby Brown’s adoption news? Sabrina Carpenter’s album? The girlies are thriving. We also dig into the messy world of sports culture, the “fun” economics of even participating, and why class and accessibility matter more than people admit. And don’t worry, there’s still time for our Titanic obsession, the upcoming Degrassi doc, and a quick side-eye at Travis Kelce’s brand deals.

To wrap it all up, we get real about “princess treatment” versus “bare minimum” energy in relationships, plus the love languages and self-love convo you didn’t know you needed

Chapters

00:00 Audio Setup and Initial Banter

01:02 Coffee Talk and Weekly Updates

03:59 Brand Collaborations and Creative Endeavors

07:42 Editing Challenges and Writing Process

12:18 Reading Preferences and Series Discussions

16:29 Embracing the DNF: A New Perspective on Reading

18:47 The Impact of Slang in Literature

22:23 Navigating the YouTube Landscape

24:03 Pop Culture Roundup: Cardi B's Courtroom Drama

28:56 Millie Bobby Brown: Adoption and Public Perception

34:57 Sabrina Carpenter's New Album: A Shift in Style

39:22 Tennis Controversy: Class and Race in Sports

42:38 The Love for Sports and Its Accessibility

44:09 Class and Accessibility in Sports

47:07 The Cost of Sports Equipment

48:50 Accountability in Sportsmanship

50:37 Natural Selection and the Titanic Obsession

54:25 Degrassi Documentary and Its Impact

56:21 Travis Kelce's Brand Collaborations

59:55 The Influence of Brands on Celebrity Image

01:01:51 K-Pop and the New Girl Group Formation

01:04:53 Controversies Surrounding BTS and Their Personal Lives

01:05:45 Princess Treatment vs. Bare Minimum in Relationships

01:07:56 Understanding Relationship Expectations

01:12:35 Exploring the Five Love Languages

01:21:29 The Importance of Authentic Gift Giving

01:32:28 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Maddi and Gabbi explore a variety of themes including personal transformations, mental health journeys, the challenges of hurricane season, and reflections on pop culture events. They discuss the importance of support systems, the impact of medication on mental health, and the societal pressures surrounding body image. The conversation also touches on the recent engagement of Taylor Swift and the dynamics of reality TV, particularly the Love Island reunion, highlighting the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. In this conversation, Gabbi and Madi explore various cultural and social themes, including the impact of advertising on brand perception, the dynamics of dating and time value, gender roles in relationships, and the concept of living a softer life. They discuss the cultural implications of fashion representation, the backlash against certain advertising campaigns, and the evolving expectations in dating. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the importance of embracing both softness and strength in life, while also addressing the complexities of masculinity and domestic roles.

Takeaways

* Maddi shares her hair transformation experience.

* Gabbi discusses her mental health journey and medication.

* The importance of having a support system during tough times.

* Maddi talks about the challenges of hurricane season.

* Gabbi expresses her feelings about Taylor Swift's engagement.

* The conversation touches on body image and societal expectations.

* Maddi and Gabbi discuss the impact of medication on mental health.

* The importance of self-acceptance and understanding one's body.

* Gabbi shares insights on the Love Island reunion.

* Maddi emphasizes the need for women to support each other. Cultural representation in fashion is crucial.

* Advertising can significantly impact brand perception.

* Dating should prioritize time and mutual respect.

* Gender roles in relationships are evolving.

* Living a softer life can enhance mental well-being.

* Jealousy often stems from personal insecurities.

* It's important to communicate needs in relationships.

* Softness in life can combat hustle culture.

* Self-care is essential for mental health.

* Understanding different life choices fosters empathy.

Chapters

00:00 Hair Transformation Journey

00:20 Mental Health and Medication

10:22 Navigating Life Changes

15:07 Hurricane Season Challenges

19:59 Pop Culture Roundup: Taylor Swift and More

24:17 Body Positivity and Weight Loss Choices

27:22 The Impact of Weight Loss on Perception

30:06 Love Island Drama and Accountability

34:24 Racial Dynamics and Support Among Women

37:06 Petty Awards and Cultural Commentary

42:20 Dating Expectations and Time Value

47:30 Driving Dynamics in Relationships

52:27 Chivalry and Love Languages

57:14 Embracing a Soft Life

01:03:50 Cultural Perspectives on Work and Identity

01:10:55 Navigating Masculinity and Relationships

01:22:55 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

In this conversation, Maddi and Gabi discuss various topics ranging from personal experiences in the restaurant industry to the impact of environmental issues in the Virgin Islands. They share insights on personal struggles, including tarot readings and astrological influences, while also diving into pop culture discussions about celebrities like Jenna Ortega and Justin Timberlake. The conversation touches on the creative processes of artists like MGK and the importance of therapist-patient boundaries. Finally, they explore the choices of high-earning women in relationships, emphasizing the desire for peace and independence. This conversation delves into the evolving roles of women in society, the challenges they face in relationships, and the impact of societal expectations on personal choices. It highlights the importance of emotional maturity and financial independence for women, while also addressing the male loneliness epidemic and the need for men to reflect on their behaviors. The discussion emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and the changing dynamics of modern relationships, particularly as women become more selective in their partners.

Takeaways

* Restaurant work can be unpredictable and chaotic, especially during busy times.

* Personal struggles can lead to seeking guidance through tarot readings.

* Astrological events can influence personal and romantic relationships.

* Environmental issues, like sargassum, can impact local communities and tourism.

* Pop culture discussions can reveal personal connections to media.

* Health issues can affect public perception of celebrities.

* Creative processes can sometimes lead to self-destructive behaviors.

* Therapist-patient boundaries are crucial for ethical practice.

* High-earning women are prioritizing peace over traditional relationship expectations. Women are often pressured by society to conform to traditional roles.

* The glass ceiling exists not only in the workplace but also in personal lives.

* Women who prioritize their careers tend to have more stable relationships later in life.

* Emotional maturity and financial stability are key factors in successful marriages.

* Men's expectations of women are often shaped by societal norms and media portrayals.

* The male loneliness epidemic is a result of men not taking accountability for their actions.

* Women are becoming more selective in their partners due to changing societal dynamics.

* The importance of self-reflection in relationships cannot be overstated.

* Cultural differences play a significant role in relationship dynamics and expectations.

* Confidence in oneself is more attractive than conforming to societal standards.

Chapters

00:00 Technical Difficulties and Weekend Recap

00:16 Work Experiences and Restaurant Challenges

01:39 Personal Struggles and Tarot Readings

07:31 Astrological Insights and Manifestation

09:55 Environmental Issues in the Virgin Islands

12:46 Pop Culture Roundup: Jenna Ortega and Wicked

20:22 Justin Timberlake's Health Struggles and Public Perception

25:13 The Impact of Celebrity Expectations on Mental Health

33:34 The Artistic Process: Sacrificing Personal Life for Creativity

38:04 Chris Hemsworth's New Series and Positive Living

40:46 High-Earning Women Choosing Independence Over Relationships

42:05 Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women's Struggles in Society

49:40 The Shift in Women's Priorities: Career vs. Love

58:08 The Impact of Societal Changes on Relationships

01:11:35 Understanding Male Loneliness: A Reflection on Behavior

01:15:26 The Decline of Birth Rates and Male Loneliness

01:18:03 Understanding Male Loneliness and Mental Health

01:20:58 The Impact of Pornography on Male Expectations

01:21:31 Navigating Relationship Expectations and Communication

01:32:57 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

In this conversation, Maddi and Gabi discuss various personal updates, community news, and the impact of economic challenges on local businesses. They reflect on the closure of Sage Sanctuary, a unique spiritual space, and share their experiences with grief and loss following the passing of a close friend. The discussion also touches on the complexities of relationships during times of emotional turmoil and concludes with a pop culture roundup, highlighting recent music and entertainment news. In this conversation, Madi and Gabi explore various themes surrounding relationships, emotional manipulation, and the complexities of friendship dynamics. They discuss the impact of racial sensitivity, the emotional toll of betrayal, and the importance of self-reflection and healing. The Let Them Theory is introduced as a method for letting go of control in relationships, while also addressing the nuances of infidelity and emotional abuse. The episode culminates in a discussion about a listener's dilemma regarding emotional abuse in her relationship, emphasizing the need for boundaries and self-respect.

Takeaways

* Obfuscate means to render obscure or unclear.

* Technical issues can disrupt conversations but can be resolved.

* Local businesses are struggling due to high rents and economic downturns.

* Sage Sanctuary is a unique spiritual space facing closure.

* Grief can manifest in various ways, including anger and sadness.

* Exclusion from significant events can be emotionally challenging.

* Pop culture can provide a sense of connection and nostalgia.

* Navigating relationships during times of grief can be complex.

* Community support is vital during difficult times.

* Understanding different perspectives on grief and loss is important. Friendship dynamics can be competitive and manipulative.

* Navigating relationships requires clear communication and boundaries.

* Racial sensitivity is crucial in discussions about language and behavior.

* Racial slurs have a significant impact and should not be tolerated.

* Reality TV relationships often blur the lines between authenticity and performance.

* Colorism can affect interpersonal relationships and self-perception.

* Betrayal in relationships can lead to significant emotional turmoil.

* Healing can be facilitated through music and self-reflection.

* The Let Them Theory encourages letting go of control in relationships.

* Emotional abuse can manifest in many forms, including verbal insults and manipulation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

00:28 Economic Landscape and Business Challenges

03:19 Sage Sanctuary and Community Impact

07:58 Personal Reflections and Grief

12:08 Funeral Experiences and Cultural Reflections

22:55 Understanding Anger: A Path to Healing

25:51 The Let Them Theory: Navigating Relationships

26:15 Pop Culture Roundup: Music and Rumors

30:15 Nostalgia in Reboots: Boy Meets World and Beyond

30:26 Celebrity Relationships: Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau

32:21 Love Island Drama: Breakups and Betrayals

38:03 Racial Dynamics in Relationships: A Deeper Look

45:29 Healing from Betrayal: The Emotional Toll of Breakups

51:19 Healing from Infidelity: Understanding Self-Worth

01:01:30 The Let Them Theory: Embracing Acceptance

01:12:43 Navigating Relationships: Emotional Maturity and Boundaries

01:22:57 Podcast Intro (Video).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

In this conversation, Gabi and Madi navigate through various life challenges, including emotional struggles, discrimination, grief, and family dynamics. They share personal experiences related to their love lives and the impact of social media on their identities. The discussion also touches on pop culture events and a restaurant controversy that highlights the importance of respect and communication in the service industry. Ultimately, they reflect on how societal perceptions of body image influence interactions and relationships. In this conversation, Gabi and Madi explore the complexities of body image, beauty standards, and the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships. They discuss their own experiences with insecurities, the cultural differences in beauty perceptions, and the challenges of navigating friendships and romantic relationships in a world that often prioritizes appearance. The dialogue also touches on the representation of women in pop culture, the resurgence of eugenics in beauty standards, and the loneliness epidemic among men, ultimately emphasizing the importance of emotional health and understanding in relationships.

Takeaways

* Life can be chaotic and unpredictable.

* Emotional challenges can arise from discrimination and grief.

* Navigating family dynamics during loss is complex.

* Personal growth often comes from difficult experiences.

* Pop culture events can reflect societal issues.

* Respect and communication are crucial in the service industry.

* Social media can amplify personal narratives and influence careers.

* Body image affects how individuals are treated in social situations.

* Men often respond differently to women based on attraction.

* Understanding one's worth is essential in relationships. Insecurities can lead to projecting feelings onto friends.

* Cultural standards of beauty vary significantly between locations.

* Body dysmorphia affects individuals regardless of body type.

* Pretty privilege exists and impacts social interactions.

* Men and women experience beauty standards differently.

* Emotional availability is crucial in relationships.

* Toxic friendships can stem from insecurities.

* Reboots in pop culture can bring up past issues.

* Eugenics influences modern beauty standards.

* Men's loneliness epidemic is tied to societal expectations.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Life's Chaos

04:39 Grief and Family Dynamics

10:40 Pop Culture Roundup and Reality TV Insights

21:48 Pop Culture Reflections

27:30 Influencer Drama and Restaurant Etiquette

34:23 Body Image and Treatment in Society

48:23 Nostalgia and the Impact of Reboots

54:26 The Evolution of Beauty Standards

01:19:40 PureTifa Podcast Video (800 x 800 px).mp4

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

On this episode we covers a range of topics from personal struggles and creative endeavors to cultural discussions surrounding K-Pop and reality TV.

Gabi and Maddi explore the complexities of relationships as portrayed in reality TV, particularly focusing on the dynamics of manipulation, boundaries, and accountability. They discuss the 'ick' factor in relationships, the impact of public scrutiny, and the importance of disagreements in fostering healthy friendships. The dialogue highlights the different experiences men and women face in relationships and emphasizes the need for open communication and respect for personal boundaries. There is also a mention of K-Pop Demon Hunters rise to fame, and cheating scandal at the Coldplay Concert.

Tensions run high, words were exchanged, chaos ensued.

Takeaways

* Reality TV often manipulates situations for drama.

* Participants in reality shows may not act authentically due to pressure.

* Boundaries in relationships can be misused as a form of control.

* Public relationships face scrutiny and pressure from fans and media.

* Disagreements in friendships can lead to growth and understanding.

* Men and women may have different experiences in relationships.

* Accountability is crucial in recognizing one's own faults.

* Manipulation can occur in both romantic and platonic relationships.

* Public cheating scandals can impact personal relationships significantly.

* Healthy relationships require open communication and respect for boundaries.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe

Summary

In this episode, Maddi and Gabbi explore the complexities of grief, mental health, and the importance of support systems during difficult times. They share personal experiences, discuss the impact of loss on relationships, and emphasize the need for open conversations about mental health. The episode highlights the various ways individuals cope with grief and the significance of community in the healing process.

Takeaways

* Everyone should be listening to the podcast.

* It's hard to watch yourself on video.

* Rereading old work can be difficult.

* Grief is a process that takes time.

* People often don't know how to help those in distress.

* It's okay to be sad for as long as you need.

* Grief doesn't have a set timeline.

* Support can come in many forms, not just financial.

* It's important to have open conversations about mental health.

* You are not alone in your struggles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Dynamics

03:21 Navigating Personal Reflections and Creative Challenges

06:11 Understanding Cultural References and Fan Reactions

08:33 Dealing with Loss and Mental Health

10:56 Accidents and Life's Unexpected Turns

21:09 The Weight of Loss and Self-Blame

22:06 High Functioning Depression and Societal Expectations

24:39 The Struggle for Support and Understanding

26:23 The Complexity of Grief and Emotional Processing

28:19 Navigating Memories and the Impact of Loss

30:28 The Burden of Grief and Its Lingering Effects

32:02 The Prison of Depression and Isolation

34:51 The Challenge of People-Pleasing and Self-Validation

36:58 Friendship Dynamics and the Pain of Separation

39:53 The Evolution of Relationships and Identity

42:42 Funerals and the Narrative of Grief

45:58 The Importance of Honoring Memories

50:15 Celebrating Life and the Complexity of Mourning

52:46 Navigating Grief and Relationships

55:20 The Complexity of Sadness and Healing

58:57 The Impact of Grief on Mental Health

01:01:58 Support Systems and Emotional Availability

01:14:07 Finding Personal Healing Strategies

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit blakegabrielle.substack.com/subscribe