"I feel like my friendships are pretty easy and stress-free... my friendships are really just a source of joy and support for me in my life." — Alex Cooper
"We were more up in our friends' business than college... we feel like we're adults and we feel like we really know Who we are and what our friends should be doing and it's like that's just not the case." — Alex Cooper
"When a friend comes to you with a problem ask them Do you want me to just listen while you vent your fucking ass off or Do you want my actual advice because I'm telling you they probably even if they say they want your advice something I've learned is With a grain of salt." — Alex Cooper
The host discusses the significant shift in her friendships as she has matured. She contrasts the deeply intertwined and often judgmental friendships of her college years, where friends felt entitled to critique each other's relationship choices, with the more evolved and supportive friendships she experiences now. This evolution is attributed to a greater self-awareness and a conscious decision to respect individual autonomy, recognizing that friends can make their own decisions without negatively impacting the friendship.
The conversation delves into the nuances of healthy friendships, particularly among women, highlighting the tendency for female friendships to be intense and complex. The host advocates for a shift from being overly critical or directive to becoming supportive listeners, emphasizing that while expressing concern is valid, aggressive judgment can be detrimental. She suggests asking friends directly if they seek advice or simply a listening ear, and stresses the importance of setting boundaries to ensure friendships remain a source of support rather than a platform for unsolicited opinions.
Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own friendship dynamics, to be mindful of their judgmental tendencies, and to strive for reciprocal, loving relationships. The host shares personal anecdotes and offers a framework for addressing these issues, emphasizing that mature friendships require continuous effort and a willingness to adapt as individuals grow.