Episodes

  • 66: Toxic Positivity

    66: Toxic Positivity
    Jan 10 2025
    Welcome to the first episode of Ditch the Ick in 2025! After taking a much-needed break, we’re kicking off the year by tackling an important and often misunderstood topic: toxic positivity. We’re unpacking what toxic positivity really is and why the “good vibes only” mindset can do more harm than good. I also share my personal journey with embracing emotions—both good and bad—and how adopting a mindset of realistic optimism has helped me feel more grounded and confident. Plus, we touch on actionable tips for managing emotions, setting boundaries, and showing up for others in a healthy way. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - What toxic positivity is and why it’s so damaging. - The subtle ways it can show up in daily life (e.g., “Just stay positive!”). - Signs you might be experiencing or perpetuating toxic positivity. - The benefits of realistic optimism and why it’s a better approach. - Actionable phrases and habits to replace toxic positivity with authentic support. Resources Mentioned: - Why Toxic Positivity Can Be Harmful by Kendra Cherry, MSeD: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-positivity - Realistic Optimism by Chris Loper: https://becomingbetter.org/realistic-optimism/ - Submit your anonymous questions or storie https://www.ditchtheick.com/ask-us-anything - Email: mailto:ditchtheickpod@gmail.com - Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    20 mins
  • 65: It’s Now or Never: How Caitlin Moss Left Purity Culture Behind and Found Her Voice in Romance Novels

    65: It’s Now or Never: How Caitlin Moss Left Purity Culture Behind and Found Her Voice in Romance Novels
    Dec 27 2024
    Today’s episode of Ditch the Ick is one for the books—literally! 🎉 I’m sitting down with Amazon bestselling romance author Caitlin Moss to talk about her journey from purity culture to writing the spicy stories we all know and love. Caitlin dives deep into the unlearning of shame, the reclaiming of pleasure, and how books (yep, including the steamy ones) can empower us to understand our bodies, our desires, and ourselves. We’re unpacking: ✨ Growing up in purity culture and how it shaped our mindset (and icks) ✨ Why romance novels are more than just smut—they’re freeing, fun, and female-centered ✨ The shame, the rebellion, and the “now or never” moment that got Caitlin writing ✨ Toys, taboos, and the beauty of learning to embrace pleasure (yes, girl, we go there) If you’re ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe add a few books to your Kindle library, hit play and let’s ditch the ick together. ✨ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheick for more relatable content from the pod! Where to Find Caitlin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlinmossauthor TikTok: @caitlinmosswrites Books: Available on https://www.amazon.com/ (Kindle Unlimited included!) and through local indie bookstores. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • 64: Stay feral, my friends: A single woman's guide to navigating the holidays

    64: Stay feral, my friends: A single woman's guide to navigating the holidays
    Dec 20 2024
    The holidays are here, party people, and it’s time to lean ALL the way into your feral side. This week’s episode is your ultimate holiday survival guide, specifically for single, child-free women who are constantly fielding those unhinged questions from boomer family members. Whether it’s “Why are you still single?” or “When are you having kids?”, I’ve got you covered with both hilarious and practical comebacks to keep everyone on their toes. But at its core? This episode is about reclaiming the holiday. I also share some wild voice notes from a dear friend who lived through these exact scenarios—and let me tell you, the stories are bananas. In This Episode: Hilarious, wrong-answer-only responses to intrusive family questions. How to handle “Why are you still single?” without breaking a sweat. Wild intergenerational stories that will have you screaming, “Same, girl, same!” Practical tips for setting boundaries and surviving family gatherings. The importance of self-care and building new traditions for yourself. Love this episode? Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! Don’t forget to follow on Instagram @ditchtheickpod and slide into the DMs to share your unhinged holiday survival stories. Have a story to share? Email me at ditchtheickpod@gmail.com or visit ditchtheick.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins
  • 63: Fax, No Printer: Dropping Facts About Life, Work, and Burnout with Sarah Jones

    63: Fax, No Printer: Dropping Facts About Life, Work, and Burnout with Sarah Jones
    Dec 13 2024
    What’s up, party people? This week, I’m joined by my longtime friend and burnout buddy, Sarah Jones, to unpack all things toxic workplaces. From our McKinsey days to corporate chaos, we’re getting real about red flags, micromanaging bosses, and why being single with no kids doesn’t mean you have unlimited free time (looking at you, out-of-touch managers). I’m sharing my own horror stories (yes, I’ve cried in the car post-work) and some hard-earned wisdom on setting boundaries, spotting the signs of burnout, and knowing when it’s time to GTFO. Sarah and I also talk about how to advocate for yourself, sprinkle in a little snark about corporate buzzwords, and dish out advice for surviving the hot mess that is today’s job market. If you’ve ever questioned your sanity after a meeting or had to Google “FMLA,” this one’s for you. Check out the new art of Ditch the Ick and follow me on IG @ditchtheick for more laughs, real talk, and updates! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • 62: New Hair, New Me, and The End of my Rom Com with the Scotsman (Yes, THAT Scotsman)

    62: New Hair, New Me, and The End of my Rom Com with the Scotsman (Yes, THAT Scotsman)
    Dec 6 2024
    I’m back from Thanksgiving with a fresh pixie cut, some press-on nails, and a whole lot to catch you up on. Let’s just say it’s been a week. In this episode, I’m sharing all about my breakup with the Scotsman—yes, that Scotsman—and how I’ve been navigating the emotional rollercoaster of it all. I’ll take you through the highs, the heartbreak, and the self-reflection that’s come out of it. I’ll also fill you in on what I’ve been doing to take care of myself (hello, support system!) and how I’m keeping my eyes on the prize—aka my big move abroad. Scotland may be off the table (for now), but don’t worry, the dream is still alive and thriving. Plus, I’ve got some exciting news about changes coming to the podcast—think fresh vibes and a broader focus that fits where we’re all at right now. Let’s chat: Ever had to walk away from something (or someone) that wasn’t serving you? DM me or drop a comment @ditchtheick —I’d love to hear your stories. Grab your favorite cozy blanket and tune in. This one’s real, raw, and maybe even a little cathartic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 mins
  • *BONUS* Childfree by Choice: Breaking free of societal norms to build the life you want

    *BONUS* Childfree by Choice: Breaking free of societal norms to build the life you want
    Nov 29 2024
    This week we're having an important conversation about living child-free with special guest Paulette Erato. We're breaking away from societal expectations and exploring the empowering decision to live life on your own terms. This episode will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of traditional norms bearing down on their shoulders. It’s about reclaiming your right to choose your path, embracing your authentic self, and finding joy in the freedom that comes from living childfree. About Paulette: As the host and creator of the biweekly Spanglish-language podcast La Vida Más Chévere de Childfree Latinas, Paulette Erato aims to dismantle the many toxic ideas perpetuated by Latinidad and American culture. There's nothing wrong with being proud of one's heritage, but that comes with a responsibility for combating and healing the unsavory or even dangerous parts of it, too--all so we can live our best lives! Connect with Paulette: Instagram and TikTok: @pauletteerato YouTube: https://youtube.com/@LaVidaMasChevere Connect with Katie: https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/ Join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • 61: Radical Life Design: How to Move Abroad and Create a Life You Love with Richelle Gamlam

    61: Radical Life Design: How to Move Abroad and Create a Life You Love with Richelle Gamlam
    Nov 22 2024
    Hey party people! In this episode, I chat with founder of Move Abroad Coach Richelle Gamlam, about international moves and designing a life you love. As someone planning a move to Europe, this conversation really hit home for me. Richelle shares her journey of living abroad, what it means to create a fulfilling life on your own terms, and how to tackle the logistics, fears, and mindset shifts that come with big life changes. What We Touched On: Richelle shared how her move to China, including an initial rough start, led her to develop her coaching business. Connect with Me: Instagram @ditchtheickpod -> https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod Join our facebook community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick Connect with Richelle: Follow Richelle on Instagram: @moveabroadcoach -> https://www.instagram.com/moveabroadcoach Check out the Move Abroad Coach Podcast -> https://open.spotify.com/show/7r5mTbobi6ssNWfbXxNVt9 Start your move abroad journey with Richelle’s Move Abroad Crash Course at moveabroadcourse.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • 60: Amplifying Your Voice: Navigating Politics, Power, and Personal Stories in an Unprecedented World

    60: Amplifying Your Voice: Navigating Politics, Power, and Personal Stories in an Unprecedented World
    Nov 15 2024
    I’m back with a solo episode where we’re getting real about speaking up and navigating life when things feel a bit, well, wild. I might not be the loudest voice in the room, but I’m here to get vocal about the things that matter – setting boundaries, getting involved, and staying true to yourself when the world wants you to shrink. Key Takeaways: • Finding & Using Your Voice: Speaking up isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. I’m sharing how to use your voice effectively, whether it’s at work, with friends, or out in the community. Change doesn’t happen if we stay silent. • Boundaries, But Make It Real: Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” – it’s about knowing what you stand for and holding firm even in tough conversations. I’m breaking down how I keep things real with people who see the world differently. •Local Change, Big Impact: Want to make a difference? Start small. I talk about the power of getting involved locally, supporting causes that align with your values, and why small actions matter more than we think. •The Magic of Storytelling & Listening: It’s not all about shouting from the rooftops – sometimes it’s about sharing your story and truly listening to others. I explore how personal experiences can inspire change and build connection. • Self-Care While Speaking Out: No one said making a difference was easy. I get into why taking care of yourself while you’re out there speaking up is crucial. Because burnout? We’re not doing that. •Community is Key: Remember, you’re not doing this alone. Connect with Me Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheick for more relatable takes, and a community that’s all about real talk and real change. Let’s keep it going! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    26 mins