Clotheshorse with Amanda Lee McCarty - Episode 226: How To Be Okay

Release Date: February 10, 2025
Host: Amanda Lee McCarty (she/they)
Podcast Description: Amanda Lee McCarty decodes and demystifies the fashion and retail industries, tackling topics like consumerism, workers' rights, personal style, and the intersection of fashion with capitalism.

1. Introduction: Navigating a Chaotic World

Amanda Lee McCarty opens Episode 226 by drawing an elaborate metaphor using her love for cooking to illustrate the complexities and multitasking involved in managing daily life amidst global chaos. She emphasizes that while activities like cooking, gardening, or maintaining an aquarium are often touted as relaxing, they are fundamentally forms of work that engage our brains in different ways.

Amanda (00:00): “Cooking isn't relaxing per se. It's work. And sure, when it comes to cooking, the stakes are lower than most projects... Fire is very scary.”

2. The Metaphor of Cooking: Balancing Multiple Tasks

Amanda delves deeper into her cooking routine, highlighting how it serves as a brain break from her primary work but also underscores the inherent stress and potential for disaster, paralleling the broader societal pressures faced in 2025.

Amanda (04:30): “The pad Thai is burned to all hell. So this week, we're going to talk about how to be okay.”

3. The Overwhelming News Cycle

Transitioning from her cooking metaphor, Amanda discusses the overwhelming nature of the 24-hour news cycle, particularly in 2025, where rapid changes and conflicting information exacerbate feelings of powerlessness and anxiety.

Amanda (16:45): “We are experiencing a time where the news cycle is crazy fast. Things can change within 12 hours... It's hard to be okay right now.”

4. Doomscrolling: The Vicious Cycle of Negative News

Amanda explores the concept of "doomscrolling," defined as the excessive consumption of negative news, and its detrimental effects on mental health. She explains how social media algorithms prioritize upsetting content due to higher engagement rates, creating a feedback loop that feeds anxiety and fear.

Amanda (22:10): “Doomscrolling exacerbates anxiety, fear, sadness, and it even leads to destructive behaviors like substance abuse, shopping addiction, gambling...”

5. Strategies to Manage Information Overload

To combat the negative impacts of excessive news consumption, Amanda offers practical strategies:

• Control Your Intake: Use apps or devices to limit social media access.
• Curate Your Feed: Engage with positive and inspiring content to shift the algorithm's focus.
• Seek Reliable News Sources: Encourage listening to reputable news outlets outside of social media platforms.

Amanda (28:50): “If you have the financial means, support mutual aid groups and fundraisers... Every one of us has an important role to play here. Every one of us matters.”

6. Embracing Positive News and Community Building

Highlighting the importance of balancing negative news with positive developments, Amanda shares encouraging updates such as the introduction of the Fashion Act in California and New York, aimed at regulating fast fashion and promoting sustainability.

Amanda (44:15): “The Fashion Act is going to get passed in California. This year can be transformative. Good stuff is happening around us all the time.”

7. Navigating Online Interactions: Avoiding Conflict and Building Understanding

Amanda provides insights on handling online disagreements, especially regarding contentious topics like fast fashion. She advises against using blamey language or ultimatums, emphasizing the importance of empathy, collective language ("we" and "us"), and maintaining respectful discourse.

Amanda (68:40): “Don't start the conversation with like sort of othering or blamey language. Instead, use 'we' and 'us' to foster a sense of collective responsibility.”

8. Actionable Steps to Foster Resilience and Positivity

In the latter part of the episode, Amanda outlines a comprehensive list of actions listeners can take to cultivate a sense of control and contribute positively to society:

• Vote and Advocate: Participate in elections, reach out to representatives, and support legislation like the Fashion Act.
• Engage in Community Support: Volunteer, assist neighbors, and join local groups focused on sustainability or social justice.
• Promote Ethical Consumption: Support sustainable businesses and avoid companies that perpetuate harmful practices.
• Foster Creativity and Self-Care: Engage in artistic activities, prioritize mental health, and create joyful experiences.

Amanda (99:55): “Change is inevitable when you're working alongside thousands and millions of other people. We're going to get through this together.”

9. Conclusion: A Message of Hope and Solidarity

Amanda concludes the episode with a reaffirmation of her belief in humanity's ability to overcome challenges through unity and collective action. She encourages listeners to stay informed, connected, and proactive in making meaningful changes.

Amanda (105:10): “We are going to get through this together. Every one of us has an important role to play here.”

Notable Quotes:

• Amanda (00:00): “Cooking isn't relaxing per se. It's work. And sure, when it comes to cooking, the stakes are lower than most projects... Fire is very scary.”

• Amanda (16:45): “We are experiencing a time where the news cycle is crazy fast. Things can change within 12 hours... It's hard to be okay right now.”

• Amanda (22:10): “Doomscrolling exacerbates anxiety, fear, sadness, and it even leads to destructive behaviors like substance abuse, shopping addiction, gambling...”

• Amanda (28:50): “If you have the financial means, support mutual aid groups and fundraisers... Every one of us has an important role to play here. Every one of us matters.”

• Amanda (44:15): “The Fashion Act is going to get passed in California. This year can be transformative. Good stuff is happening around us all the time.”

• Amanda (68:40): “Don't start the conversation with like sort of othering or blamey language. Instead, use 'we' and 'us' to foster a sense of collective responsibility.”

• Amanda (99:55): “Change is inevitable when you're working alongside thousands and millions of other people. We're going to get through this together.”

• Amanda (105:10): “We are going to get through this together. Every one of us has an important role to play here.”

Conclusion

Episode 226 of Clotheshorse with Amanda Lee McCarty serves as a profound guide for listeners navigating the complexities of modern life rocked by incessant negative news cycles and societal pressures. Through personal anecdotes and strategic advice, Amanda empowers her audience to regain control, foster community, and take actionable steps towards a more resilient and positive existence.

If you enjoyed this summary, consider subscribing to Clotheshorse with Amanda Lee McCarty for more insightful discussions on fashion, sustainability, and personal well-being.