Almost Normal Podcast

Rita Aldridge
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join me, Rita, as I dive into the messy, beautiful, and often challenging realities of life in your 20s and beyond. In each episode, I explore topics that hit close to home-whether it’s navigating career doubts, managing anxiety, or battling procrastination. Together, we’ll unravel what it means to be human, from the pressures of time passing too fast to the relentless pursuit of satisfaction. Expect honest conversations, personal stories, and insights on issues that matter-from the sexualization of female bodies and online censorship to the everyday struggles that shape who we are. This is a space for anyone seeking to understand themselves better, embrace their imperfections, and find solace in shared experiences. Subscribe and join the conversation as we explore the ups and downs of modern life with authenticity, empathy, and a touch of humor.

  1. 05/31/2025

    Replacing substances with shopping and nicotine

    💸 Rita didn’t realize she had a problem… until she hit rock bottom. Shopping was once a source of excitement, but it quickly spiraled into an uncontrollable habit. In this episode of Almost Normal Podcast, Rita opens up about her experience with shopping addiction, impulse buying, and the emotional highs and lows of retail therapy. From the thrill of spending to the regret that followed, this episode dives into the psychology behind shopping addiction and the steps she’s taking to regain control.

    40 min

  2. 05/31/2025

    The Dark Side of Body Positivity

    In this episode, Rita dives into the controversy surrounding body positivity, weight loss, and women’s right to choose what they do with their own bodies. Why are women shamed for losing weight? Is body positivity about self-love or rigid rules? And how does this connect to broader issues like pro-choice rights and the societal obsession with policing women’s decisions? From beauty standards to abortion bans, this conversation unpacks the double standards that dictate how women are "supposed" to exist.

    30 min

  3. 05/31/2025

    How Not to Cry on Your Birthday

    Birthdays aren’t always happy, and in this episode, Rita dives into the birthday blues—why they happen, where they come from, and how to deal with them. She shares her own experience of feeling down on her birthday, reflecting on the pressure to have a "perfect" day and the emotions that come with getting older. Rita talks about ways to reframe birthdays, from practicing gratitude to recognizing even the smallest achievements—like taking a shower on a tough day. She explores the idea of self-compassion, letting go of expectations, and focusing on personal growth rather than external milestones. If you've ever felt sad, anxious, or reflective on your birthday, this episode is for you. Join Rita as she unpacks the mental health side of birthdays, how to shift your mindset, and why you should be proud of yourself—no matter where you are in life.

    28 min

  4. 03/07/2025

    The Pressure To Define Yourself

    In this episode, Rita dives into the self-imposed pressure many young women feel to define themselves—and stick to it. From style to personality to career, there’s this overwhelming expectation to choose one version of yourself and commit to it. But why does it have to be that way? Rita shares her personal experiences with identity struggles, including her battles with "Phyliss"—her inner critic who constantly changes her mind and keeps her questioning every choice. Whether it’s wondering if she’s “punk enough,” “feminine enough,” or even “a real artist,” she unpacks the internal and external pressures that make embracing all the sides of who we are so difficult.

    33 min

  5. 03/04/2025

    In Sweats and No Makeup? Go To The Party Anyway!

    In this episode, Rita explores the idea that women are meant to experience life, not simply be experienced by others. Drawing from her personal experiences, she examines how societal pressures have shaped the way women are conditioned to look and act in order to gain external validation. Using insights from Women Living Deliciously by Florence Given, Rita discusses how women can break free from these expectations and embrace a more authentic, fulfilling way of living. This episode offers a thoughtful and relatable take on rejecting outdated norms and redefining joy and self-worth.

    40 min

  6. 03/04/2025

    A New Years Message

    In this episode, Rita explores the pressure that comes with New Year’s resolutions and why she’s letting go of the tradition altogether. She reflects on how these resolutions can create unnecessary stress, especially when life decisions still feel unclear. Instead of rigid goals, Rita discusses embracing growth, self-discovery, and enjoying the new year without the weight of unrealistic expectations. 🌟✨ For anyone who feels overwhelmed by the “New Year, New Me” mindset, Rita offers her personal insights, reflections, and alternative ways to approach 2025 with clarity and kindness. This episode is all about progress over perfection and making space for self-acceptance and meaningful change. 💭💕

    8 min

  7. 03/04/2025

    Finding Happiness in Everyday Moments this Christmas

    In this episode, Rita shares the small joys that bring her happiness, from getting her nails done to visiting her favorite donut shop and spreading kindness by giving out sweet treats. She also compares Christmas in America to Christmas in the UK, explaining why she believes the UK does it better—no Thanksgiving means all the focus goes into the holiday season! Finally, Rita opens up about the issue of over-prescribed medications in America, sharing her personal experiences and her decision to reduce the number of pills she’s on. Tune in for a festive, thoughtful, and honest conversation about self-care, holiday traditions, and taking control of personal health.

    33 min

  8. 03/04/2025

    Confessions Of A Lost 20 Something Year Old

    Feeling like you’re falling behind in your 20s? Same. In this episode, I get real about how I’m NOT the 'aesthetic girl' you see all over TikTok. I don’t wake up at 5 a.m., do elaborate skincare routines, or live some perfectly curated lifestyle. If I could, I’d wake up at 12 p.m., go to bed early, and skip the pressure to 'glow up' every single day. I realized I’ve spent too much time trying to be someone I’m not instead of letting people see and appreciate the real me. Let’s chat about embracing your authentic self, finding joy in your own habits, and why it’s okay to just be YOU. 💕✨

    33 min
See All (29)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Join me, Rita, as I dive into the messy, beautiful, and often challenging realities of life in your 20s and beyond. In each episode, I explore topics that hit close to home-whether it’s navigating career doubts, managing anxiety, or battling procrastination. Together, we’ll unravel what it means to be human, from the pressures of time passing too fast to the relentless pursuit of satisfaction. Expect honest conversations, personal stories, and insights on issues that matter-from the sexualization of female bodies and online censorship to the everyday struggles that shape who we are. This is a space for anyone seeking to understand themselves better, embrace their imperfections, and find solace in shared experiences. Subscribe and join the conversation as we explore the ups and downs of modern life with authenticity, empathy, and a touch of humor.

Information

  • Creator
    Rita Aldridge
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Almost Normal Podcast