Forever35 Podcast Episode 334: A Mulligan On Resolutions with Doree and Elise
Release Date: January 6, 2025
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu
Description: In this episode, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into personal stories from their recent holidays, including international travel and unexpected pet emergencies. They explore the concept of New Year's resolutions, offering a fresh perspective by introducing the idea of a "mulligan"—a second chance to set intentions. Additionally, they share exciting plans for upcoming themed series and engage listeners in setting weekly intentions for the year ahead.
1. Welcome and Catch-Up [01:31 - 05:25]
The episode begins with Doree and Elise greeting their listeners and mentioning that this is their first episode of 2025, opting for a guest-free format to allow for a more intimate conversation.
Notable Quote:
Doree [01:56]: "We have a lot to catch up on and it's the start of the year so we're going to catch you up on some intentions for the show. So let's just get cozy and have a little chat."
2. Elise’s Epic Trip to Taiwan [02:25 - 05:25]
Elise shares her vibrant experiences from a recent trip to Taiwan, highlighting the island’s rich culinary scene. She describes enjoying a variety of dishes, from hot pot to Japanese cuisine, and marvels at Taiwan's renowned railway system and its legendary marinated pork chop bentos.
Notable Quote:
Elise [02:39]: "Taiwan is full of ethnically Chinese people, but then just all sorts of different other mixing and matching of cultures."
She also touches on meaningful family moments, including a reunion with her extended family and meaningful interactions with her grandchildren.
3. A Scary Health Scare for Oscar [05:25 - 14:48]
Elise recounts a harrowing experience involving her puppy, Oscar, who fell ill shortly after their trip. Initially dismissing the vomiting as typical puppy antics, Elise later discovered a serious obstruction caused by an unchewed stuffed toy Oscar had ingested.
Notable Quotes:
Doree [07:13]: "You hadn't gotten around to getting him pet insurance yet."
Elise [08:32]: "On Monday, I was reluctant to spend $880 on it... But then, Oscar promptly regurgitated the treats."
The situation escalated to an emergency vet visit, culminating in a successful surgery to remove the toy. Elise reflects on the emotional toll and the financial strain, ultimately expressing relief that Oscar is recovering well.
Humorous Moment:
Elise [13:05]: "This is why I'm like, do I share this story? Because now I'm never going to get pet insurance. Like, nobody's going to approve us because he's too stupid."
4. Holiday Celebrations and Family Highlights [14:48 - 27:30]
The hosts discuss their holiday festivities, emphasizing family-centric activities. Elise shares heartwarming stories about her son's excitement for Santa and the joy of managing multiple gift-giving traditions, including Hanukkah.
Notable Quote:
Elise [21:22]: "He was like, my little clip on book light is dead... So, it was already, like, charged, you know, and, oh, my gosh, it was a kismet."
Doree adds anecdotes about her son's favorite gifts and their family game nights, painting a picture of a lively and affectionate household.
5. Rethinking New Year's Resolutions: The Mulligan Approach [27:30 - 34:04]
Transitioning to the New Year, Doree and Elise explore their philosophies on resolutions. They introduce the concept of a "mulligan," likening it to a second chance to set and achieve goals without the pressure associated with traditional resolutions.
Notable Quote:
Doree [29:06]: "I don't generally do New Year's resolutions, but I do look at the New Year as an opportunity for just sort of, like, reflection and renewal."
They discuss cultural perspectives, referencing the Jewish New Year in September and the Lunar New Year in February, suggesting that New Year intentions can be set multiple times throughout the year for better alignment and less stress.
Humorous Insight:
Elise [34:30]: "I often do resolutions like, 'I'm gonna spend the year 2004 spending up with an aggressive set of resolutions for 2005,' and just, like, keep punting it forward."
6. Upcoming Themed Series and Listener Engagement [35:15 - 40:15]
The hosts reveal plans for future themed series, responding to listener feedback. The upcoming "Friendship Series" is highlighted as a major focus for February, promising insightful conversations on making and maintaining friendships.
Notable Quote:
Elise [37:00]: "We have some exciting plans for the show or some ideas for the show for later this year."
They encourage listeners to submit questions and participate in shaping future episodes, emphasizing the community-driven nature of the podcast.
7. Setting Weekly Intentions [41:24 - 43:37]
Doree and Elise share their personal intentions for the week, offering listeners a glimpse into their goal-setting processes.
Doree's Intention:
Doree [41:32]: "I'm gonna try to finish the newsletter draft."
Elise's Intention:
Elise [42:33]: "My intention is gonna be a consistent bedtime. I need to get my sleep hygiene back in order after the events of late."
8. Acknowledgements and Closing Remarks [43:37 - 45:42]
The episode concludes with Doree and Elise expressing gratitude to their Patreon supporters, listing numerous names, and providing information about their production team and contact details.
Notable Quote:
Elise [45:42]: "We'll talk to you on Wednesday."
They wrap up by reminding listeners of their availability for questions and feedback, fostering a sense of ongoing engagement and community.
Conclusion
In Episode 334, "A Mulligan On Resolutions," Doree Shafrier and Elise Hu offer an intimate look into their personal lives, blending humor with heartfelt stories. From international adventures and family joys to unexpected pet emergencies, they navigate the complexities of the holiday season and the dawn of a new year. By introducing the concept of mulligans for setting intentions, they provide a refreshing take on personal growth and goal-setting. The episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect and engage, setting the stage for a year of meaningful conversations and community connections on Forever35.