It's Only Up From Here

Aaron and Abel
It's Only Up From Here

A podcast where we discover life in our 20s and 30s through the lenses of money, relationships and the human condition.

  1. FEB 24

    36. Understanding People Who You Disagree With

    In this thought-provoking episode of It's Only Up From Here, hosts Abel and Aaron tackle the art of navigating difficult conversations in today’s polarized world. They dive into the challenges of engaging with differing opinions, exploring how biases, identity, and digital echo chambers shape our perspectives. From personal stories—like Abel’s journey of researching opposing views on vaccines and flat-earth theories—to practical strategies for fostering empathy, this episode is a deep dive into building meaningful dialogue. Abel and Aaron reflect on the psychological barriers to open-mindedness, such as tying beliefs to identity, and share insights on overcoming them. They discuss the power of "steelmanning"—giving the strongest possible interpretation to opposing views—and offer tips like the GCC framework (Goals, Content, Curiosity) to keep discussions constructive. Whether it’s debating politics, health, or relationships, they explore how curiosity and context can bridge divides without sacrificing authenticity. Listeners are invited to examine their own biases and consider how technology and social circles influence their worldview. With candid anecdotes and a dynamic exchange, Abel and Aaron not only entertain but also inspire critical thinking about communication in a digital age. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their conversation skills, understand others better, or break free from their echo chamber. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:29 Navigating Opposing Views 02:13 Personal Biases and Vaccination Debate 04:26 Exploring Controversial Topics 09:27 The Role of Identity in Beliefs 16:26 The Importance of Diverse Opinions 19:49 The Art of Communication and Negotiation 35:19 Relationships and Differing Beliefs 41:02 Building Connections Through Different Perspectives 45:26 Embracing Change and Being Wrong 48:55 Future Generations and Empathy 51:53 Handling Arguments and Combative Situations 57:42 The Nature of Manufactured Problems 01:01:43 Finding Your Voice in Media 🔗 Stay Connected: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52⁠⁠⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com⁠

    1h 10m
  2. FEB 17

    35. How to Pull Off the Perfect “First Date”

    In this enlightening episode of It's Only Up From Here, hosts Abel and Aaron dive deep into the realm of digital intimacy and the modern dating landscape. They explore the intricacies of courtship in the digital era, where first impressions often start long before the actual date via texts or online interactions. Throughout the episode, Abel and Aaron share personal anecdotes and engage in a candid discussion about the evolution of dating from mere interactions to meaningful connections. They discuss the psychological impacts of dating apps and how digital communication has transformed the way we perceive potential partners. From discussing the role of humor and presence in making a first date memorable to debating the nuances of how digital communication can either hinder or enhance the dating experience, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the complexities of finding love in a digitally dominated world. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own dating experiences and consider how technology might be shaping their expectations and relationships. Abel and Aaron's dynamic exchange not only entertains but also encourages listeners to think critically about the role technology plays in their personal lives. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:34 Welcome Back: Catching Up 02:08 Political Chaos and Sports Updates 06:18 Luka Doncic Trade Shock 13:15 The Art of the First Date 15:28 Courting Before the First Date 19:43 Selection Bias in Dating 32:39 The Anatomy of a Great First Date 36:35 Humor and Storytelling on First Dates 44:16 The Rule of Three for Dates 49:59 Charisma Types and First Dates 53:05 Terrible First Date Stories 58:38 Upcoming Wedding Plans 01:05:32 Valentine's Day Plans 🔗 Stay Connected:Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod ⁠⁠⁠⁠🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com⁠

    1h 8m
  3. FEB 10

    34. Mastering Creativity for the Non-Creative

    In this compelling episode hosts Abel and Aaron explore the expansive realm of creativity beyond traditional boundaries. They delve into how creativity is not confined to the arts but is a fundamental aspect of our human experience, influencing fields as diverse as finance and technology. Drawing from personal anecdotes and expert insights, the hosts discuss how creativity plays a crucial role in problem-solving and innovation in everyday life. They challenge the conventional view that creativity is limited to artistic pursuits, arguing that it is vital in areas like financial planning and even mathematics. From the surprising ways a financial planner uses storytelling to engage clients, to the creative applications of Excel in managing financial data, this episode reveals the unexpected ways creativity intersects with our professional lives. Abel and Aaron invite listeners to reconsider what it means to be creative, emphasizing that creativity is about combining existing ideas in new ways, rather than creating something from nothing. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:45 Defining Creativity 01:24 Storytelling in Sales 03:07 Creativity Beyond the Arts 04:09 Human Uniqueness and Creativity 06:05 The Role of Communication in Evolution 08:27 Creativity in Everyday Life 22:20 The Power of Fiction 26:56 The Importance of Silence and Reflection 31:49 The Art of Podcasting 34:57 The Eureka Moment 38:48 The Creative Process 45:47 Financial Literacy and Consumer Protection 50:31 The Value of Patience 54:04 Final Thoughts and Farewell 🔗 Stay Connected: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52 ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com⁠

    55 min
  4. FEB 3

    33. What Income Do I Need to Maximize Life Happiness?

    In this insightful episode, hosts Abel and Aaron delve into the complex relationship between money and happiness. They discuss the often misunderstood dynamics of how wealth influences our sense of well-being and contentment. Drawing from both personal experiences and broader philosophical debates, they explore whether money serves as a tool for happiness or merely amplifies our existing dispositions. From the surprising insights of comedians on life’s deeper truths to the rigorous analyses of economic psychologists, this episode unpacks the non-linear connections between our financial status and our emotional health. Abel and Aaron debate the psychological impacts of wealth, share their revelations on the limits of money's ability to generate happiness, and reflect on the essential differences between being happy and feeling satisfied. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:14 The Truth in Jokes 04:14 Relative Wealth and Happiness 08:16 Defining Satisfaction and Happiness 10:34 Calculating the Lower Bound of Satisfaction 13:41 The Anxiety Buffer 16:10 Status and Income 26:00 The Upper Bound of Happiness 36:06 The Comparison Trap 41:30 Income and Satisfaction 44:58 Evolutionary Programming and Contentment 47:15 Social Media and Inadequacy 52:23 Personal Reflections on Happiness 56:31 The Importance of Climbing Slowly 01:03:58 Winter Challenges and New Treadmilley and Bromance 🔗 Stay Connected: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52⁠⁠⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com⁠

    1h 11m
  5. JAN 27

    32. Is There a Cure for Modern-Male Loneliness?

    Delve into a profound discussion on the quest to overcome modern male loneliness in this insightful episode with hosts Abel and Aaron. They open up about their personal journeys and share expert advice on cultivating deep, supportive friendships, or "bromances," as a remedy for isolation. From initiating casual chats to forging bonds that challenge and nurture, this episode provides essential tips on how to create meaningful connections. Discover how to foster an environment where honest and impactful conversations thrive, and explore the transformative potential of friendship in addressing the silent epidemic of male loneliness. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:00 Intro 02:39 Contrasting Male and Female Friendships 05:36 The Evolution of Bromance 10:48 The Impact of Modern Masculinity 16:47 The Role of Activities in Male Bonding 23:18 The Loneliness Epidemic Among Men 34:06 The Importance of Emotional Vocabulary 39:33 Cultural Stigmas and Male Loneliness 41:26 The Impact of Loneliness on Health 45:45 Four Key Pillars of Bromance 48:49 Vulnerability in Bromance 51:04 The Hero's Journey and Bromance 01:10:10 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts 🔗 Stay Connected: Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52⁠⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠⁠ 🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com

    1h 11m
  6. JAN 23

    31. How to Have Life-Changing Conversations

    Dive into a profound exploration of life-changing conversations with hosts Abel and Aaron in this transformative episode. They share personal stories and expert insights on navigating discussions that can significantly impact one's life. From setting the stage with small talk to diving deep into subjects like personal finance, teaching experiences, and annual planning, this episode offers valuable strategies to foster meaningful interactions. Learn how to create an environment where open and impactful dialogues flourish, and discover the subtle art of turning everyday conversations into opportunities for significant personal growth. 🕒 Key Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:32 Catching Up: Office Life and Weekly Routines 01:28 Balancing Work, Social Life, and Sleep 06:05 Teaching Personal Finance: First Impressions 12:55 Life-Changing Conversations in Your Twenties 14:20 Defining Good vs. Life-Changing Conversations 16:48 The Role of Engagement and Vulnerability 31:07 Discovery: The Key to Excellent Conversations 39:07 Knowledge vs. Wisdom: Understanding the Difference 39:50 The Power of Life-Changing Conversations 41:01 Timing and Relationships in Impactful Conversations 42:42 A Personal Story: Career-Altering Advice 47:48 The Importance of Kindness in Conversations 53:06 Characteristics of Life-Changing Conversations 59:06 Enhancing Your Capacity for Great Conversations 01:14:48 The Anticipation of a Memorable Event 🔗 Stay Connected: Spotify: ⁠⁠open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod⁠⁠ 🌐 For more resources and extended content, visit: ⁠⁠ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com

    1h 19m
  7. JAN 6

    29. The Harsh Realities of our 20s (Season 2 Kickoff)

    Ep 29 of It's Only Up from Here: What your 20's are actually all about (Season 2 Kickoff) Join Abel and Aaron as they rekindle their podcast, "It's Only Up From Here," after a 17-month hiatus with their first-ever video episode! In this candid conversation, the duo dives into major life updates, including Abel's move to Montreal, Aaron's engagement, and reflections on personal growth over the last two years. They share their perspectives on navigating challenges, rekindling their passion for the podcast, and what listeners can expect from their upcoming episodes. Don’t miss the insights, laughter, and heartfelt moments as they explore life, relationships, and everything in between. Moments from the Show: 00:00 Intro 00:48 Reconnecting and Catching Up 01:58 Life in Montreal: A New Chapter 04:03 The First Video Episode 06:32 Big Life Decisions and Reflections 08:37 The Importance of Relationships 13:30 The Value of Intentionality 28:32 Navigating Post-Graduation Life 37:31 Financial Realities and Lessons 45:26 The Psychology of Money 46:50 Exploring Money and Personal Insecurities 48:10 The Importance of Financial Education 49:57 Personal Relationship Updates 52:33 Self-Discovery and Personal Growth 58:39 Defining the Human Condition 01:03:57 The Role of Satisfaction in Human Life 01:07:33 The Complexity of Consciousness 01:09:31 Podcast Goals and Future Topics 01:13:18 Interesting Weekly Discoveries 01:18:00 Sleep Patterns and Relationship Dynamics Follow and subscribe on all socials: open.spotify.com/show/1YbzCQFh1MpaHPVPnbgg52 podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/its-only-up-from-here/id1577199966 tiktok.com/@itsonlyupfromherepod instagram.com/itsonlyupfromherepod ItsOnlyUpFromHere.com

    1h 25m

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A podcast where we discover life in our 20s and 30s through the lenses of money, relationships and the human condition.

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