Forever35 Podcast Episode 337: What To Do When Your Mom Gets Dumped with Hallie Bateman
Release Date: January 27, 2025
In Episode 337 of Forever35, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into the intricacies of self-care and creative expression with special guest Hallie Bateman, a renowned writer and illustrator. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of personal trauma, artistic collaboration, and the healing power of humor and creativity.
Introduction to Hallie Bateman
At [16:39], Doree introduces Hallie Bateman, highlighting her long-standing admiration for Bateman's work and her excitement about Bateman's new book:
Doree Shafriar: "She was someone that I've followed for like over 10 years. And it was so great to talk to her and remind me just how great she is."
Self-Care Practices
The conversation begins with self-care practices, a staple topic for the Forever35 podcast. Hallie shares her current self-care routines, especially in the context of personal and environmental stressors:
Hallie Bateman ([17:17]): "One of them is reading comics... the last couple nights I've just been picking up like graphic novels. It's gentler and easier to dip into even if you're not able to read anything else."
She also discusses setting boundaries in personal interactions:
Hallie Bateman ([18:22]): "...saying no when they want to weigh you at the doctor's office."
Exploring "What To Do When Your Mom Gets Dumped"
The heart of the episode centers around Hallie's latest project, a graphic novel titled What To Do When Your Mom Gets Dumped, co-authored with her mother. Doree and Elise commend the book's ability to blend humor with deep emotional themes:
Elise Hu ([19:41]): "Even though the topic seems like a downer, the way that you drew it made it actually full of heart, I thought."
Hallie provides insight into the collaborative process between her and her mother, especially given the personal nature of the book:
Hallie Bateman ([21:33]): "It was a funny place to be in... working on this book with my mom was really different because it's so personal."
Creative Process and Emotional Healing
Hallie elaborates on the inspiration and emotional journey behind the book, detailing how her mother's sudden divorce after 30 years of marriage served as the catalyst:
Hallie Bateman ([22:09]): "My dad left my mom very suddenly for an ex-girlfriend after 30 years of marriage... the grief was overnight, your whole world just exploded."
She discusses the unique approach of using graphic storytelling to navigate and heal from such profound personal loss:
Hallie Bateman ([27:03]): "This spread is called 'Blame, If You Must.' It's about who the person is when you're divorcing them and who they started as... it's not always that simple."
Incorporating Humor into Trauma
One of the standout elements of the book is its humor amidst tragedy. Hallie explains how laughter serves as a coping mechanism in the face of dark subject matter:
Hallie Bateman ([30:42]): "Our whole family has kind of a dark sense of humor... being able to laugh about them."
Doree adds her appreciation for this balance, emphasizing the relatability and emotional depth it brings:
Doree Shafrier ([32:46]): "There were so many parts of the book where I was like, oh my God, this is so dark, but it's so funny."
Transformation Through Art and Motherhood
The discussion shifts to how motherhood has influenced Hallie's creative process. She shares how becoming a mother has unlocked new levels of creativity and diminished her self-doubt:
Hallie Bateman ([43:25]): "I feel something has unlocked... I don't think there's some imposter syndrome anymore."
Hallie highlights the symbiotic relationship between parenting and creativity, noting how her experiences with her twins inspire her artwork:
Hallie Bateman ([40:12]): "I've filled eight sketchbooks... it's been magical to have my babies and have my art-making follow me into this."
Final Thoughts and Where to Find Hallie Bateman
As the episode wraps up, Hallie reflects on her growth and the ongoing transformation of her mother through their collaborative work:
Hallie Bateman ([36:31]): "I see her blossom, step into a new... she's really a lot more herself."
The hosts express their gratitude and provide listeners with information on how to connect with Hallie and purchase her book:
Hallie Bateman ([46:06]): "You can find me on Instagram... and find our book anywhere books are sold."
Notable Quotes
- Hallie Bateman ([17:19]): "Reading comics... it's gentler and easier to dip into even if you're not able to read anything else."
- Elise Hu ([19:41]): "Even though the topic seems like a downer, the way that you drew it made it actually full of heart."
- Hallie Bateman ([27:58]): "Each page is like that... it’s a mother-daughter collaboration coming out of a lot of conversation and squabbling."
- Hallie Bateman ([30:42]): "Our whole family has kind of a dark sense of humor... being able to laugh about them."
Conclusions and Insights
This episode of Forever35 masterfully intertwines discussions of personal trauma, creative expression, and the therapeutic power of humor. Hallie Bateman's candid conversation about her collaborative work with her mother underscores the profound impact that artistic endeavors can have on healing and personal growth. The episode serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the vital role of creativity in navigating life's most challenging moments.
Connect with Forever35:
- Website: forever35podcast.com
- Instagram: @revver35podcast
- Patreon: patreon.com/Forever35
- Shop: shopmy.us/Forever35
- Newsletter: forever35podcast.com/newsletter
- Contact: Call or text at 781-591-0390 or email at forever35podcast@mail.com
Follow Hallie Bateman:
- Instagram: @HallieBateman (Note: Replace with actual handle)
Purchase Hallie Bateman's Book:
- Available at major bookstores and online retailers.