In this episode of 11 Life Lessons from Stranger Things, Karen and Bill talk about the power of making your own rules — not breaking them, but creating a life aligned with your own values.

Inspired by Eleven’s evolution from following Hopper’s “Don’t Be Stupid” rules to defining her own path with Max, Karen explores how true empowerment means moving beyond templates and trusting your inner guidance.

They discuss mentors like Robert Holden and Brené Brown, who remind us that joy and success can’t be lived by someone else’s definition. From neighborhood golf courses to drag queens hiking in heels, this episode celebrates creative courage, “good trouble,” and the ripple effect of living authentically.

Making your own rules isn’t rebellion — it’s alignment. It’s how we stop playing small and start changing the world, one brave step at a time.