We Can Do Hard Things: Post-Election Family Meeting – Detailed Summary
Release Date: November 7, 2024
Hosts: Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle
Podcast: We Can Do Hard Things
Episode Title: Post-Election Family Meeting
Introduction
In the "Post-Election Family Meeting" episode of We Can Do Hard Things, hosts Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle gather to process and share their emotions following a significant and unexpected election outcome. Instead of relying on political analysis or expert opinions, the trio chooses to confront their feelings head-on, fostering an environment of honesty and mutual support.
Initial Emotional Response
Abby Wambach opens the conversation by expressing the group's initial hesitation to record their usual post-election discussion. She reflects:
"We actually plan to get on today and to have an expert on elections be on with us and to discuss what was going on and give you information. And then this morning we decided that perhaps more information is not what's needed right now."
(02:13)
Instead, they opt to simply "show up and be sad together," emphasizing the importance of shared vulnerability in times of uncertainty.
Shifting Perspectives on Community and Trust
Glennon Doyle delves into her personal journey from hope to disillusionment:
"I thought, this is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
(03:47)
Her optimism is shattered upon learning that a trusted friend voted contrary to her expectations. This revelation triggers a deeper examination of what community truly means. Glennon articulates a profound sense of betrayal:
"What is community if not to protect each other?"
(07:21)
She challenges the notion that the government or larger political systems can provide the safety and support traditionally associated with community, highlighting the persistent marginalization faced by Black women and other communities of color.
Historical Context and Present-Day Implications
The discussion shifts to the historical struggles of Black families, drawing parallels between past systemic injustices and current political climates. Glennon Doyle recounts:
"We're talking about poll taxes, we're talking about black kids being shot up in the streets... We're talking about, like, the actual compromise that is the founding of our country..."
(07:23)
She underscores the enduring resilience of Black communities, who have historically created their own safety nets in the absence of governmental protection. This historical lens reframes the current political divide as part of a long continuum of systemic oppression.
Hope, Resilience, and Redefining Community
Abby Wambach addresses feelings of shame and self-doubt among their listeners:
"Is like I feel so stupid for feeling hopeful and allowing that again and allowing myself to be crushed again."
(12:25)
She advocates for a redefined sense of hope—one not placed solely in political systems but in interpersonal relationships and community bonds. Abby emphasizes the necessity of building "honest communities" where trust and mutual support replace superficial ties.
Amanda Doyle adds her perspective, grappling with anger and confusion:
"I have extraordinary rage and confusion around why people hate women so much, even women."
(34:46)
Her passionate expression of frustration underscores the emotional toll of political divergence within personal relationships.
Accountability and Authentic Connections
Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach engage in a candid dialogue about the importance of accountability within communities. Glennon asserts:
"This is who you're married to."
(15:49)
They critique the concept of "decent people" who might not align with the community's values, advocating for deeper connections based on shared values and mutual protection rather than mere politeness.
Strategies for Coping and Moving Forward
The hosts offer practical strategies to navigate the emotional aftermath of the election:
-
Personal Boundaries:
Abby Wambach shares her approach to reducing anxiety by limiting exposure to social media:"I'm not letting that in my house. I'm gonna stay clear... I am sober from social media."
(58:02) -
Community Engagement:
Glennon Doyle encourages listeners to support organizations that align with their values:"Find places that are what you care about. That is your equal and opposite response. It isn't your rage, it's your dollars and your time."
(58:02) -
Embracing Nature and Inner Peace:
Abby Wambach highlights the restorative power of nature and inner sanctuaries:"There are two sanctuaries that I have right now, and they're the truest ones. One is deep inside of me... and there is one outside of me, and that is nature."
(58:02) -
Building Authentic Communities:
The hosts stress the importance of intentional and accountable communities where members actively support and protect one another.
Confronting Persistent Political Division
Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach critically examine the binary portrayal of politics as "good guys vs. bad guys," rejecting the oversimplification and acknowledging the systemic flaws within both major political parties:
"I do not think that there is any purity or rightness even at the center of either political party."
(48:26)
They emphasize that meaningful progress requires stepping beyond partisan identities to engage in genuine community-building efforts.
Closing Reflections and Calls to Action
In their concluding remarks, the hosts reiterate the necessity of personal and communal resilience:
-
Abby Wambach shares her practice of remaining present and finding peace beyond the chaos:
"There are two sanctuaries... feel the beauty that is consistent from the beginning of time."
(58:02) -
Glennon Doyle encourages proactive support through donations and community engagement:
"Find the places that are what you care about... these are national issues, but they are people."
(58:02) -
Amanda Doyle acknowledges the overwhelming emotions and the courage required to process them:
"I'm just trying to get through this one day... I just want to reach out to the people out there who need a second to just let this simmer."
(62:32)
Notable Quotes
-
Glennon Doyle:
"If you don't understand why your trans friend is scared right now, you don't have a trans friend."
(22:43) -
Abby Wambach:
"Hope is not the wrong idea. But we just have to be more wise about where we're putting our hope."
(12:38) -
Amanda Doyle:
"This is who we are married to. And I do know that from my recovery, that there is a power in being still with that for a bit like this."
(15:49)
Conclusion
The "Post-Election Family Meeting" episode of We Can Do Hard Things serves as a poignant exploration of grief, disappointment, and resilience in the face of political upheaval. Through heartfelt dialogue, Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle encourage listeners to redefine community, prioritize authentic connections, and cultivate personal sanctuaries of peace and support. Their candid reflections offer a roadmap for navigating the emotional complexities of political division, emphasizing that true safety and hope lie within our relationships and communities rather than external systems.
If this episode resonates with you, consider subscribing to We Can Do Hard Things on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audacy, or your preferred podcast platform. Join Glennon, Abby, and Amanda in their journey to live a little bit lighter, braver, and less alone.