What if the bravest thing we could do right now is slow down before our thoughts decide everything is already on fire?
A conversation that wanders on purpose — through parenting, anger, softness, and the quiet work of catching yourself before you spiral.
A few laughs.
A few realizations.
You can feel your shoulders drop.
💭 “Death in three steps” — how anxiety escalates faster than we realize, and the moment he learned to interrupt it.
🧠 Catastrophizing, clocked in real time — watching his own brain sprint toward worst-case scenarios.
🧸 Kids as emotional mirrors — the exact moment he recognized his own tone coming back at him.
🍞 The last piece of bread — when letting go of ceremony saved everyone’s nervous system.
🔥 Anger fatigue — why being mad about everything leaves nothing left for what actually matters.
🧊 Road rage revelations — realizing who’s really listening when you think no one is.
🛑 A well-timed pit stop — why rest isn’t quitting, it’s maintenance.
🌱 Masculinity without armor — softness, humor, and presence as an act of quiet rebellion.
🏠 Hygge in a small house — making warmth on purpose, even when the world feels loud and cold. T
his episode isn’t here to fix you.
It’s here to sit with you while things feel a little tangled, to slow the pace just enough that you can hear yourself think again. You don’t have to solve anything today. You’re allowed to notice. You’re allowed to rest in the middle of it.
We’re really, really glad you’re here. 💛
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/radical-joy-with-james-bullard--5644728/support.
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Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and breathe!
❤️🍊🟨💚💙💜🟤🖤❕❕ 🌹🧡🟡🌳🔷🟪🤎🖤❔
Got something on your mind? James never runs out of things to say, so tell us what you want to discuss!
Remember there is no shame in joy or for asking for what you need.
Leave a review, send us a screenshot, and we’ll mail you a sticker! See you next FRIDAY for another dose of Radical Joy.
James is not a therapist, but you’re not alone. If you're in crisis, call 988 for professional help.
For non-emergencies, Psychology Today can connect you with support and therapists who fit your needs.
This podcast and CLW Studios content are not therapy or a substitute for it. Guest opinions are their own.
We're here for insight and encouragement but always seek professional support when needed.
This episode was Produced and edited by Kerri J of CLW Studios