Trial & Error & Error Podcast

Trial & Error & Error Podcast

Two work besties thriving in their late 20s, (or attempting to). Relationships, work, family, society expectations... And the return of Lindsay Lohan. You know what they say: ”3rd time’s the charm!” Our goal is to make ”Fetch” happen.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    30. Breaking with Routine: How to make life more fun

    🎙️ Breaking with Routine: How to Make Life More Fun Feeling stuck in the same loop? Life feeling a little… flat? You're not alone. In this episode, we're diving into why your brain craves novelty, how autopilot mode is quietly draining your joy, and most importantly — how to bring fun back into your everyday life without needing a personality transplant or a spontaneous move to Bali. ✨ We'll explore the psychology behind why fun matters (hint: it's not just a nice-to-have), share a practical 14-day plan to break the monotony, and remind you that fun isn't a reward for surviving your life — it's a condition for feeling alive in it. 🌟 In this episode, you'll discover: 🧠 Why your brain gets bored (and what that does to your mental health) 🔄 How routines keep you safe but stuck — and why novelty is the antidote 🎨 The difference between pleasure and fun (and why fun is more powerful) 📅 A realistic 14-day plan to inject joy back into your week 💡 Small, intentional ways to break the loop — no dramatic life overhaul required ✨ Why treating fun as a practice (not a personality trait) changes everything This isn't about becoming someone you're not. It's about rediscovering the person you've always been — the one who lights up when life feels alive, not just productive. 💛 So grab your headphones, take a different route today, and let's talk about how to make your life feel less like a to-do list and more like an adventure. 🎧 💬 We'd love to hear from you! What's one tiny novelty you're adding to your day? Tag us on Instagram @tee.podcast or drop us a DM! 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — and don't forget to subscribe! 📚 Resource List Below are all the sources, articles, and references mentioned or alluded to in this episode: https://express.converia.de/custom/media/ESRI_2021/Verplanken__Roy____Whitmarsh__2018_.pdf https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2000_RyanDeci_SDT.pdf F. A. Huppert, N. Baylis, B. Keverne, Barbara L. Fredrickson; The broaden–and–build theory of positive emotions. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 29 September 2004; 359 (1449): 1367–1377. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2004.1512 Mazzucchelli, T. G., Kane, R. T., & Rees, C. S. (2010). Behavioral activation interventions for well-being: A meta-analysis. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 5(2), 105–121. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760903569154 González-Cutre, D., Romero-Elías, M., Jiménez-Loaisa, A. et al. Testing the need for novelty as a candidate need in basic psychological needs theory. Motiv Emot 44, 295–314 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11031-019-09812-7 Podcast episodes we loved:  The Novelty Rule: How To Use My Neuroscience Hack That’s Changing Millions Of Lives - Liz Moody How To Make Your Life Exciting Again Give Yourself Permission to Have More Fun With Dr. Mike Rucker

    41 min
  2. 28 JAN

    29. Is Dry January the best way of assessing my relationship to alcohol?

    In this episode, we dive deep into the science behind alcohol consumption, explore why humans have been drinking for centuries, and question whether going cold turkey for a month is actually helpful—or just another New Year's resolution waiting to fail. We discuss the real effects alcohol has on your body and brain, the social dynamics that make drinking so appealing, and why younger generations are choosing sobriety. But most importantly, we explore a better approach: curiosity over fear, gradual change over extreme challenges, and self-reflection over self-judgment. If you've ever wondered about your own drinking habits or felt pressured by sober trends, this episode is for you. We're not here to tell you what to do with your body—we're here to help you understand it better. 💭 ⚠️ Important Note on Alcohol Addiction & Support While this episode explores our relationship with alcohol in a social and cultural context, we recognize that for some, alcohol consumption is a serious health concern. Alcohol addiction is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it's nothing to be ashamed of. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependency, please know that help is available. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don't have to face this alone. International Resource: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a global fellowship with meetings in over 180 countries. Their website offers resources, online meetings, and a meeting finder to help you connect with local support groups. If you're in crisis or need immediate assistance, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis helpline in your country. 🎧 Episode Overview What alcohol does to your body – From acetaldehyde toxicity to increased cancer risk, we break down the science Why we drink – The social and psychological reasons behind alcohol consumption Is Dry January a test or a trap? – Why strict resolutions can backfire and create stronger cravings A better approach – How curiosity, small changes, and self-awareness can lead to lasting transformation What does alcohol mean to you? – Reflective questions to help you understand your own relationship with drinking 📚 Resources & References Note: While specific sources were referenced in the script content, no explicit URLs or article titles were provided. Below are general topics discussed that listeners may want to explore further: Health effects of alcohol consumption (acetaldehyde, liver disease, cancer risks, dementia) Studies on alcohol and social bonding Trends in alcohol consumption among younger generations Gradual behavior change vs. cold turkey approaches Social norms and drinking culture evolution

    35 min
  3. 21 JAN

    28. Ex Files: How Your Past Lovers Built (and Broke) You

    🎙️ Ever wonder how your exes shaped the person you are today? In this episode of Trial & Error & Error, we dive deep into the psychology of past relationships—exploring how breakups disrupt your sense of self, why some people ruminate while others rebound, and how your attachment style influences your healing process. We'll discuss the science-backed concept of the "Anti-Wishlist"—using past relationship experiences to clarify what you absolutely don't want in future partners—and share practical strategies for turning emotional pain into personal growth. 💡 Episode Overview: 🧠 How breakups disrupt your identity and self-concept 💔 The psychological impact of losing a romantic partner 🔄 Rumination vs. meaning-making: which helps you heal? 🔗 How attachment styles (anxious vs. avoidant) shape your breakup experience 📝 The "Anti-Wishlist" exercise: turning red flags into boundaries ✅ Science-backed strategies for moving forward without getting stuck 🚫 Why no-contact might be better than staying "friends immediately" 📱 The hidden cost of digital footprints after a breakup Whether you're healing from a recent split or reflecting on relationships from your past, this episode offers evidence-based insights and real talk about how your exes built (and broke) you—and how you can use those lessons to date smarter. 🎧 New episodes drop every Wednesday. Subscribe now and follow us @tee.podcast! Resources . Who am I without you? The influence of romantic breakup on the self-concept Erica B. Slotter Wendi L. Gardner Eli J. Finkel Northwestern University Psychosocial Effects of Romantic Breakups During Emerging Adulthood: A Systematic Review Joana G. Fernandes, Carina Santos, Mariana V. Martins

    48 min
  4. 14 JAN

    27. "My metabolism isn't what it used to be"

    Ever feel like your metabolism just isn't what it used to be? 🤔 In this episode, we're diving deep into the truth about metabolism, aging, and why those aggressive diets you see all over TikTok are doing more harm than good. We break down the science behind Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE), explain why your body fights back when you restrict calories too aggressively, and reveal the real reasons your metabolism might feel "slower" as you get older (spoiler: it's not magic, and you're not broken! 💪). From debunking viral diet trends to understanding the difference between weight loss and fat loss, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you approach your health from a place of self-love and care — not punishment. Whether you're curious about metabolism, tired of yo-yo dieting, or just want to feel your best in your own skin, this episode is for you! 🎧✨ 🔬 What is metabolism? Understanding TDEE and its four key components (BMR, PA, NEAT, TEF) ❌ Why aggressive diets fail: How extreme calorie restriction triggers your body's survival mechanisms 💡 The key difference: Weight loss vs. fat loss — and why muscle matters 🎭 Debunking TikTok trends: What I eat in a day videos, metabolism boosters, 10k steps, electrolytes, and more 💪 The real solution: Building and maintaining muscle while fueling your body properly 💖 Approach from self-love: Fat loss should come from caring for yourself, not punishing your body 🌟 Focus on performance: What can your body achieve? How strong, fast, or flexible can you become? Note: This episode references general fitness and nutrition science principles. For specific health concerns, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional. Follow Us: Instagram: @tee.podcast New episodes every Wednesday on your favorite podcast platform 🎧

    34 min
  5. 7 JAN

    26. New Year, New Me

    In this episode of "Trial & Error & Error," we dive deep into the age-old tradition of New Year's resolutions. 🎉 Why do we set them? Why do we fail at keeping them? And more importantly, how can we actually make them stick? 💪 Join us as we explore the fascinating history of New Year's resolutions, from ancient Babylonian promises to the gods to modern-day gym memberships. We'll unpack the psychology behind the "fresh start effect" and discuss why temporal landmarks make us feel like we can finally get our lives together. ✨ We'll also get personal, sharing our own resolutions from 2025 and revealing what we're committing to in 2026. 📋 From finishing PhDs 🎓 to mastering pull-ups 💪, from improving finance literacy 💰 to simply being more present 🧘‍♀️—we're covering it all. Finally, we'll share practical, tried-and-tested tips for setting realistic and achievable goals that actually align with what YOU want for your life (not what society expects from you). 🌟 Because let's be honest—the best time to start becoming your best self isn't January 1st. It's right now. ⏰ Tune in for honest reflections, research-backed insights, and a healthy dose of motivation to seize the moment and make 2026 your year! 🚀 Follow Us: Instagram: @tee.podcast New episodes every Wednesday on your favorite podcast platform 🎧 📚 Resources & Links Research & Articles: The Fresh Start Effect: Temporal Landmarks Motivate Aspirational Behavior – Management Science journal article on how temporal milestones influence motivation and goal-setting behavior Books Mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear – Referenced for the "make it obvious" principle and habit formation strategies Quotes & Concepts: "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with" – Motivational concept popularized by Jim Rohn

    29 min
  6. 31/12/2025

    25. HAPPY NEW YEAR

    Ring in the new year with us as we explore the wildest, weirdest, and most wonderful New Year's traditions from around the globe! From eating twelve grapes at midnight in Spain 🍇 to throwing plates at friends' doors in Denmark 🍽️💥, from jumping waves in Brazil 🌊 to getting booped by an onion in Greece 🧅 — this episode is packed with fascinating rituals that prove humanity knows how to celebrate. But it's not just about the quirks. We dive deep into the why behind these traditions — exploring the anthropology, psychology, and emotional significance of New Year's celebrations. Why do we love a fresh start? What makes midnight so magical? And are resolutions even worth it anymore? Join us for laughs, reflection, and maybe some inspiration for your own New Year's ritual. Whether you're a grape-eater, a chair-jumper, or a couch-prosecco-sipper, this episode will remind you that every tradition — no matter how strange — is really just an act of hope. 💫 Perfect for: Culture lovers 🌍, trivia enthusiasts 🤓, anyone who wants to feel globally connected as they countdown to midnight ⏰. What you'll learn: Unique New Year's traditions from over 15 countries 🗺️ The anthropology and psychology behind ritual celebrations 📚 Why humans love symbolic fresh starts 🔄 Fun lightning-round questions to spark your own reflection ⚡ Tune in, tag us with your traditions, and let's leap into the new year together 🎆 — same vibes, new intentions. 🎧💜 Articles / Academic Reads Marking the New Year Around the World – Human Relations Area Files (Yale) Cosmological Renewal: An Anthropological Analysis of New Year Celebrations in the Andes as a Rite of Passage – ResearchGate Five New Year’s Rituals of Renewal – Sapiens.org New Year’s Traditions Around the World – EBSCO Research Starters Podcasts / Videos “Unusual New Year Traditions” – Leonardo English Podcast “New Year Traditions & Celebrations Around the World #148” – LearnAboutPod “Folklore Friday: New Year’s Eve History” – Podbean “20 Strange New Year’s Traditions From Around the World” – YouTube Fun Source Links Travel.Earth – 10 Unusual New Year’s Eve Traditions AFAR Magazine – 14 New Year’s Traditions From Around the World Oxford Summer Courses Blog – New Year’s Eve Traditions Around the World Greenvelope.com – New Year’s Traditions

    32 min
  7. 24/12/2025

    24. A CHRISTMAS CAROL: The ghosts of Alcohol, Food and Family Drama

    Christmas as an adult hits different. The magic is still there, but so is the stress, the spending, the family negotiations, and that nagging voice asking, "Did I do enough this year?" In this episode of Trial & Error & Error, we're unwrapping the complicated reality of Christmas in adulthood. From the financial pressure of gift-giving to navigating family traditions across cultures and relationships, we're getting real about what makes the holidays both wonderful and overwhelming. We discuss: ✨ How Christmas changes when you become the one organizing it 💸 The biggest holiday stressors (spoiler: money and expectations top the list) 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Juggling partner families and building your own traditions 🍷 Food, drink, and letting go of holiday guilt 📆 The end-of-year review spiral and how to survive it Whether you're dreading December or desperately trying to keep the festive spirit alive, this episode is your survival guide to enjoying the holidays without losing your mind — or your bank account. Tune in for honest conversations, practical tips, and a reminder that you're not alone in finding Christmas both magical and exhausting. 🎧 New episodes drop every Wednesday. Follow us on Instagram (@tee.podcast) and share your holiday survival stories — we want to hear from you! Articles & Studies: American Psychological Association (2023) - Holiday Stress Survey: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2023/holiday-stress Additional Resources: Tips for managing holiday stress and maintaining healthy eating habits during the festive season Strategies for budgeting and financial planning during Christmas Mindfulness and self-care practices for the holiday period

    39 min

About

Two work besties thriving in their late 20s, (or attempting to). Relationships, work, family, society expectations... And the return of Lindsay Lohan. You know what they say: ”3rd time’s the charm!” Our goal is to make ”Fetch” happen.