Abbey Normal
SamfunnYou’re weird. That’s normal. Join an exploration of all the ways we feel abnormal, from homeroom to the boardroom.
Siste episoder av Abbey Normal podcast
- PREVIEW: Welcome to the Hinge (00:26:03)
After a quiet 2025, Abbey has a new show! You get a preview of the first episode- Welcome to the Hinge- of The Faithful Resistance show. Those who have been hurt by the Church have a role to play in what happens next with Christianity in America. We are in a “hinge” period- a time for reformation- where the old fades away and new forms of religious community are birthing. We don’t know what will be transitory and what will stick. But the brave are paving new paths; resilient communities popping up like mushrooms across the country. This episode you’ll meet host Abbey, raised Evangelical; and others with similar backgrounds who are looking to create authentic Christian community. If you feel let down by the mainstream Christian church, or if you’re curious about church planting, or are interested in what it means to create a spiritually inclusive space, join us! This show will challenge everything we thought we knew about spirituality, community, and ourselves, on a journey toward a faith that truly resonates. The Faithful Resistance show Music: Kim Taylor: Like a Woman Can
- 116. Crash Landing (Rerelease!) (00:36:17)
Have you ever felt like life hit you with everything all at once? Well, grab a cup of coffee and meet my friend Tamera. She faced the chaos of deployment in the midst of her marriage falling apart. You'll hear her journey from college student with hippie dreams to becoming an Air Force Major. She opens up about what motivated her to step into the military right after 9/11, and then drops us into a heart-stopping tale of her plane crash in Afghanistan. She emerged with humor intact (and maybe a bit more appreciation for OtterBox), plus an unmatched ability to compartmentalize her life. Yet, through all the turmoil? Therapy shines as a beacon, guiding her to a mentally healthier place by the end of it all. Originally aired March 30, 2020
- 115. VM: He's Not a Bad Man, But He's a Bad Man (00:15:18)
Ruminations and ridiculousness for your holiday listening enjoyment! This short "VM" episode highlights "cut" topics from Abbey's convo with Stephanie and MaiLee (ep. #114). This one's got it all! Starting out thoughtful - Who do we dress for and do stable romantic relationships produce contentment with our bodies? And ending with a family dinner that takes a surprising R-rated turn. Bonus: meet-cute tale involving puppies and skateboarding. 💕
- 114. Bodies, Beauty, and Botox (01:14:48)
Abbey, Stephanie, and MaiLee discuss why Gen Xers look hella good. It started out rough for us, growing up in the Cruel Kid Era. But things got better and now we have access to the miracle of botox. Abbey knows nothing about beauty products. So Stephanie shares her skin health trials and skin care routine. And, 20+ year clinical aesthetician, MaiLee educates us on what Botox is, what it does, and what the pros and cons are. We talk candidly about what makes us feel good in our bodies, why body neutrality may be an okay approach, and whether there's a moral line in pursuing body modification. MaiLee offers the myth of Pygmalion to guide us. Eventually we get to an issue that isn't exclusive to Gen X - body dysmorphia and disordered eating. Join the conversation alongside friends who are willing to get real about our aging bodies, including a nightmare perimenopausal symptom: Proctalgia Fugax.
- 113. I Am Boy (01:02:59)
As a little one, Grey confidently told their parents they were a boy. Yet, in a Pentecostal family in the 1980’s, this was not okay. This episode Abbey and her book club buddy, Grey, explore the intersection of body and spirit. Grey offers insights from a life marked by severe depression and addiction, to one of self-devotion, freedom, inner safety and belonging. Tune in to hear their story, woven with the beautiful words of author Lore Ferguson Wilbert, and interspersed with Abbey's clumsy questions and levity. Guest: Grey Doolin, M.Ed. is a trauma-informed somatic coach, mentor, facilitator, and speaker who supports queer and trans folks to be magnificently themselves. You can find more of their work on Instagram @grey_doolin or www.greydoolin.com Book Club book quoted: The Understory by Lore Ferguson Wilbert Abbey Normal Podcast on Instagram
- 112. Long Lost Sisters (00:38:41)
Just when Jenene thought all the family secrets had been revealed, a bombshell dropped. Along comes Michelle, the sister she never knew existed. Michelle is just as surprised by this twist as Jenene is. Together they embark on a journey to understand their birth Mother's life, bring the truth to light, and understand their own identities. Join us to hear Michelle's story, beginning with her adoptive Mom's escape from Nazi Germany, through the life they created in America, and finally, to Michelle's special bond with her newfound sister. This is a story of resilience, connection, and the power of family, no matter how it’s formed. Plus, tattoos. This is Part Two. For Part One go to Jenene's story: "Heart Puzzle". Hyperdrive Kittens Abbey Normal Podcast on Instagram
- 111. Heart Puzzle (00:28:06)
Lead singer of The Hyperdrive Kittens, Jenene thrives in the spotlight. So when she got an offer to meet her Dad for the first time, on television, she jumped at the chance. This fateful meeting launched a series of revelations that rocked her world, and changed everything one family knew to be true. Join us for a rollercoaster of laughter and tears as we put together Jenene's "Heart Puzzle" and navigate the complexities of family and identity. This is Part One of Jenene's story, tune in to Part Two: Long Lost Sisters for the conclusion! Hyperdrive Kittens
- 110. The Evil Trifecta (00:50:18)
There is a lot of fear swirling around sharing injectable-related weight loss, which leads to secrecy within our relationships. So, where does the judgement come from and is it possible to break free from the negativity? Even if it's coming from your Mother? With knowledgeable guest, Maureen, Abbey explores the disconnection from our food sources. Our relationship with food has spiraled out of control in just a generation and a half. And the Evil Trifecta keeps us eating junk that is neither nutritious or satisfying. (And is probably making us sick.) Tune in for some actionable tips on how to reclaim your power, act local, educate yourself, and cook meals that make you feel better!
- 109. Skinny Minnie (00:46:13)
Ever felt like society's got a million opinions about how you should look and the right way to arrive at their ideal? Lately, Maureen has been receiving compliments, including the particularly grating, “Wow! Skinny Minnie!”. We're going to explore the root of those "compliments", and reflect on the emotional tightrope we walk- caring for yourself, while grappling with patriarchal beauty standards imposed on all of us. Maureen shares her decades-long medical rollercoaster; diets, diagnoses, medication, and a hot new injectable. Join us for a real “before” and “after” and “here we go again” story. We’re unzipping one bag of body baggage to gain a better understanding of ourselves, self-forgiveness, and how to break free from the toxic body shaming cycle. “You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin.” -Barbie Movie (2023). Blue Note Sessions Music: FasterFasterBrighter Spek Stephi Feeling Fine Hensteeth
- 108. Changing the World from Within (00:34:47)
How can we enact social change, alleviate systemic oppression, and foster a more just and equitable world? Our guest, Dawn, says it all begins with self-connection, our relationship with ourself. This episode we focus on self-connection strategies in the realms of emotions, vulnerability, and beliefs. Dawn encourages us to attune to the data in our bodies, understand where our beliefs come from, and navigate the discomfort of new ideas. She shares stories and insights, from the impact of self-separation on global issues to the everyday challenges of staying calm with our kids. Grab a comfy seat and join this exploration into the micro and macro impacts of self-connection. Let's dare to dream of a world where we all feel safe, valued, and empowered to create positive change. Guest: Dawn Bulchandani, our insightful guide, has a wealth of knowledge, including three master's degrees and a nearly completed PhD in embodied validation. She's also a passionate advocate for Gaza, emphasizing the importance of moving from self-connection to compassionate social change. Music- Blue Dot Sessions: Heartland Flyer Felt Lining Inessential Brass Buttons In the Box
- 107. Self-Connection & Social Change (00:37:41)
Dawn Bulchandani is a speaker, writer, and PhD student with three master's degrees (yep, you read that right). She’s currently taking a hiatus from her PHD to focus her efforts on advocating for Gaza. Part of that advocacy includes her passion- leading people from the micro of self-connection to the macro of social change. Join this inspiring convo to explore how we lose connection with ourselves and how we can return to our humanity. From humming in the grocery store, to sitting on the roof, we ponder the moments that may help us reconnect with ourselves. Does living our fullest, wildest life also create a more equitable world? Let’s push the envelope and find out. To hear more about Dawn’s advocacy work, find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnbulchandani Music- Blue Dot Sessions: Heartland Flyer Felt Lining Inessential Brass Buttons In the Box
- 106. VM: Body Tawk Intro (00:06:48)
Hey friends! We're introducing a new series of episodes focused on The Body. Please don't be scared, we're not going to rehash old bullsh*t or make you feel bad (worse). This intro gives you an idea of what's coming up. We're going to hear diverse experiences and dive into how society shapes our view of self, the expectations to conform, and the importance of reconnecting with all of ourselves. Stay tuned for some eye-opening insights and relatable experiences. Let's figure out together how to live more authentically and healthily in our own skin.
- 105. Pee Your Pants Scary (00:34:58)
Dawn and her housemates made a pact to never speak of what happened in their flat. From day one they were plagued by eerie incidents, escalating to an unexplainable, horrifying encounter. One they wanted to leave behind forever. Prepare yourself for a spine-chilling tale that will make you reconsider what you believe to be real. This is not just a ghost story; it's a journey into the heart of fear, belief, and the supernatural. Welcome to the haunting on Noriega Street.
- 104. Phantom Friend or Foe? (00:34:48)
Dare to venture into a semi-professional paranormal investigation of Dawn's 1940's-era abode. With our very own Medium in tow, this four-level house seemingly weaves its own tale, subtly revealing the possible presence of phantom friends. Yet, there seem to be challenges surrounding historic norms of 'wifely duties', that make us wonder- Is this a Phantom Friend, or Foe? This investigation sparks an array of questions about life after death and the unknown. It's an exploration that blends the ordinary with the extraordinary, the comical with the somber, and the earthly with the otherworldly. Music: Blue Dot Sessions Delicates Sun Spots Desmontes New Crescent Email us: AbbeyNormalPodcast@gmail.com
- 103. Sexy Paranormal Moment (00:44:45)
With special guests, Stephanie and Dawn, Abbey takes a peek into the supernatural world with a fresh lens. In a profoundly spirited discussion, this episode explores the intriguing world of paranormal investigations and empathic abilities. Our guests recount eerie, paranormal experiences beginning at childhood. Stephanie sheds light on her personal journey developing mediumship skills, and brings forth the crucial aspect of drawing boundaries between “normal” life and the distracting unseen world. This conversation, for skeptics and believers alike, is sure to widen your perspective and evoke curiosity about the unexplained. Music: Blue Dot Sessions Delicates Voyager Sun Spots Entrap Overlook Cherie's Polvo Email us: AbbeyNormalPodcast@gmail.com
- 102. Car NOT For Sale (00:34:37)
This episode delves into the significance of acquiring your driver's license and the celebration of a first car. Enjoy an engaging conversation with Liz, a friend who found the path to independence in her iconic pink 'Rambler’. Weaved throughout are the family ties that shape our lives, ultimately leading to that first car and brand new experiences. It's a lively testament to how a car can be more than just an object but a pivotal part of our growing up story. A case in point, the twist in the story when a stranger shows interest in buying Liz's beloved Rambler, brings to light the important role of unexpected encounters in shaping our lives. Rediscover your formative experiences as this episode reminds you of the thrill and charm of teenage life. Join us and bask in the shared joy of our weird and wonderfully ordinary lives.
- 101. One Hundred and One Ums (00:48:39)
In celebration of 100 episodes (and at least 101 "um"s recorded), Abbey shares the triumphs and tribulations of podcasting. What she's learned in four years of creating this show, the advice she ignores, and the moments that make it worth it. Tune in to hear some of the most memorable episodes, and un-released cringey stories from the cutting room floor. Follow Abbey Normal Podcast on Instagram Email us at AbbeyNormalPodcast@gmail.com
- 100. The Square Peg (00:50:34)
Abbey’s middle school Bible teacher was a square peg. An introverted goth, artist, musician, and long-term Christian school educator. He never followed the “normal” path in life, which made him an outsider in his own religious community. Abbey gets the dish on how he landed in this conservative environment, and how he survived it. And she asks an important question: “Was I your most annoying student?”
- 99. De-escalation Dee Dee (00:38:54)
As a youngster, Dawn experienced injury at the hands of other kids (and her own clumsiness). Some of it is hilariously ridiculous, and some is the stuff of Gen X legend. And along the way she learned how to handle herself. Channeling her fight/flight mechanism towards creative de-escalation of tricky situations. Is it enough to keep her safe? And at what cost? Music: Blue Dot Sessions Vernouillet We Collect Shiny Things Fifteen Street Desmontes
- 98. Dear Dee Dee (00:48:50)
“I never felt at home in my body." Dee Dee’s notes and diary are full of misadventure, cringey exploration, and the drama of french kissing. Yet, in the margins of those stories are lessons about how to manage other people's reactions to your body, (ie. Boys, Men, and your own Mother). Listen in, laugh along, and commiserate. Love, Dawn W. Music- Blue Note: Peacoat Crumbletown Glass Runner La Marais Long Time Rye Monder Sebring
- 97. Girl On Girl Crime (00:23:10)
Mean Girl stories, we've all got em. We're going back to Abbey's notes from middle school to explore these "girl conflicts" and what they do to our psyches. Including how we respond to these horrible feelings of exclusion now- as grown adults.
- 96. Forever a Rescuer (00:50:31)
Becoming a lifeguard at 16 years old, you unknowingly make a lifelong commitment to be a First Responder. In what other ways does this "first job" impact your life and career trajectory? Tune in to hear what we did after pool guarding: bay and beach guarding, white water rafting, and teaching Doctors how to do CPR. [This episode describes medical emergencies, and mentions death.] Fresno's Mason-Dixon Line The Atlantic Music- Blue Dot Sessions: Let Go Gecko Kevin MacLeod: Maccary Bay, Easy Jam
- 95. No Video Evidence (00:36:34)
Cruise into the afterhours lifeguard scene, complete with pirate costumes, reggae, swims under the moonlight, and running from the cops. Lifeguard parties started at hire- at 16- so we also explore the weirdness of partying with your Coach or Boss, and the awkward (and important) transition from High School to College-age Person in Charge. [This episode describes near-drowning experiences.] Music: Blue Dot Sessions- Hash Out Highway 430 Arizona Moon Plum King Ivory Pillow The Sermon The High Decibels- Cut Loose Spiedkiks- Freckles Hairslides
- 94. Welcome to Aquatics Culture (00:31:13)
Lifeguarding is part of the "very naked" sports, where you have to get used to being exposed (and cold) all the time. So, what is it like to work in a swimsuit all day every day? Do you feel weird? Are you grossed out or turned on all the time? And what about all the touching inherent in the job? We're gonna answer all those questions, plus share the flirting and hookups that may have come along with it. Music: Blue Dot Sessions Crumbtown Le Marais Setting Up Apple Spice Hash Out
- 93. Best Job Ever (00:43:25)
Lifeguarding is weird- especially the fact that sixteen year olds do this job. But it might be the BEST JOB EVER. Discover what a day in the life of a community lifeguard is like- dominos, blood, Code Browns, and "saves". [This episode mentions the existence of near-drowning experiences.] Music: Blue Dot Sessions- Calmion Hash Out Bonbadore Powder Room Vernouillet Via Verre