Prologues

Meet Sarah - How many people you know have gone from the trading floor at Goldman Sachs to being published in Vogue in less than five years? Now you know at least one - Sarah Wood González is a freelance journalist, agency owner, joy soldier, and creative spirit I met shortly after moving to Scotland. She knows all about how to take a risk on yourself - her entire career has been built off of betting on her own ability to accomplish whatever she sets her mind to. Her story has inspired me since I met her, and I hope it inspires you as well. FIND SARAH:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahwoodgonzalez/?hl=enSubstack: https://limminal.substack.com/Her writing: https://www.sarahwoodgonzalez.com/ This episode is sponsored by LMNT. DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

Elon Musk recently went on the Joe Rogan Experience and said, "The fundamental weakness of Western civilization is empathy." And I thought, f*ck that. In a world increasingly plagued by irresponsible AI usage, unbridled exposure to dangers online, and mind-numbing brain rot content, I think empathy will actually be our savior - empathy is what connects us to the shared human experience, empathy is what drives us to consider other people, and empathy is what keeps our souls intact. Or something. This is a freewrite, after all. 81

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

The single girl mindset is all about prioritizing yourself, maintaining your independence, and being unafraid and unashamed to pursue your interests. I'm a firm believer that valuing your independence helps you show up as your best self in that relationship, and that the most important relationship you can ever have is with yourself. If you're enjoying Prologues, please consider giving the podcast a 5 star review wherever you get your podcasts <3 Find me:Instagram: @mary.cj.skinner & @theprologuespodcastTiktok: @mary_skinnerEmail: [email protected] 80

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

I will turn 27 in four months, and I don’t want to turn one more year older without doing some of the things I’ve always assumed I’ll just get around to eventually. So I’m focusing hard and committing to making some serious lifestyle changes between now and 27, and I’m bringing you along for every step of the way. EDIT: there appears to be a a gap of about 10 seconds of silence towards the end of the episode - not sure how that got there, but it doesn't appear to have affected the rest of the ep <3

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

I will turn 27 in four months, and I don’t want to turn one more year older without doing some of the things I’ve always assumed I’ll just get around to eventually. So I’m focusing hard and committing to making some serious lifestyle changes between now and 27, and I’m bringing you along for every step of the way. EDIT: there appears to be a a gap of about 10 seconds of silence towards the end of the episode - not sure how that got there, but it doesn't appear to have affected the rest of the ep <3 79

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

The spring equinox marks the pivot from the dark to the light half of the year. March means Daylight Saving’s Time, cherry blossoms, more plans with friends, new inspiration at work, and an increase in energy as our bodies naturally align with the rhythm of the seasons. If nature waits until the spring equinox to start waking up and taking action, I think we should too. That’s why I planned my 2025 goals to kick in only after a cozy, slow start to the year. It simply feels more natural to increase productivity only after the natural world does.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

I don't think I've ever been this excited for spring. It's just me and my antihistamines against the world right now. Anti-algorithmic fashion, flip flops, pistachio green, and CBK - welcome to a round-up of all the predicted trends for S/S 25, as told by the hours of fashion articles, videos, and pinterest scrolls that I consumed so you don't have to. Are you interested in any of the trends or are you skipping out this season?

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

Another new (old) (renamed) series! Welcome to Dialogues, the segment where you send in your queries, questions, and scenarios, and I respond with my personal, and sometimes dubious, advice. The name Dialogues was a collaborative effort between the Prologues instagram community, with listener Emily Searth suggesting the name, and the community as a whole voting for it (the other option was Letter to the Editor, which I fear is too good to not use for something....need a segment for that). xx 76

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

Introducing a new segment on Prologues: the Freewrite. We love book/writing-related puns around here. Freewriting is a writing technique that calls for stream-of-consciousness-style writing for a predetermined amount of pages or time. The goal is to kickstart your brain's creative juices by demanding that it produce words - any words, even nonsensical words, just as long as you don't stop physically writing until you hit the goal. Freewriting is effective because it helps you bypass your mental blocks and tap into deeper ideas. Sometimes, I have several episode ideas rolling around in my head, but I can't record them because I have a block. I have something else occupying space in my head and I can't talk about anything else until I talk about That Thing. Freewrite episodes are brain dumps of anything and everything that is taking up space in my head, so that I can get it out of the way and keep moving forward. This is the first of what I'm sure will be a frequent series on the podcast. 75

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

This week on Prologues, my friend Sierra is here to share her experience getting re-diagnosed as an adult and the importance of staying open in your healing journey. We also dug into our childhoods to reflect on the experience of growing up mentally ill, and what that means for the rest of our lives still to come. Honest conversations like this one help us all feel less alone in our own journeys - thank you, Sierra, for your vulnerability! FIND SIERRA: https://www.instagram.com/sierrainphotos?igsh=MXg2aGlmZG1ncG1lNg== https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/sierra-brittany-boudreaux9 https://www.tiktok.com/@averagesisi?_t=ZT-8uAs3P42CLL&_r=1

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

One of the keys to romanticizing your life, in my view, is developing an appreciation for everyday moments that make life more special. Although I love the big luxuries, it's the small ones that give me moments to look forward to each day 73

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

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Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

Say it with me: the only way out is through. This is one of my favorite sayings, because it serves as a reminder to me that if I want to truly process and move on from a difficult feeling, I have to actually.....feel it. So whether you struggle with "feeling your feelings," or you've just been told you're too self aware to benefit from talking about them, this episode is for you. 71

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

Long distance daughters, self-employed or small business owners, and anyone feeling stuck - this episode is for you. My friend Gabby from @scotlandmagic sat down with me to discuss her incredible journey moving 10,000 miles across the world and the self-reinvention and courage necessary to change your entire life. Gabby has dedicated her career and businesses to helping women find community, feel empowered, and reconnect with their childlike whimsy, and her story of risking it all to take the ultimate chance on herself is personally inspiring to me. This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Get a free sample pack of LMNT with the purchase of a drink mix powder only at DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner FIND GABBY: Instagram: @scotlandmagic @mccscotland Tiktok: @scotlandmagic Website and photography: www.scotlandmagic.uk 70

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

I've been in and out of therapy over the last decade, but the years I've spent with my current therapist have taught me more than all the rest combined. Over our sessions, I've noticed the same core principles and ideas coming up time and time again, so today I have compiled them into this episode. The top lessons I've learned in therapy - use these as journal prompts, bring them up in your own sessions, or simply have a think about them - they've helped me so much and I hope they help you. SOURCES: https://www.charliehealth.com/post/how-to-release-trauma-from-the-body https://cohesivetherapynyc.com/blog/5-trauma-release-exercises-you-can-try-at-home/ https://www.innisintegrativetherapy.com/blog/2017/5/2/how-exercise-helps-your-brain-heal-after-trauma https://www.moderneracounseling.com/7-trauma-release-exercises-you-can-do-right-now/ Follow Prologues on Instagram @theprologuespodcast. 69

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

68. If you have also been haunted for years by glamdemon2004 asking if you could name a hobby outside of media consumption...this episode is for you. But on a serious note, during my 3 month break from the podcast, I realized that I did not have enough offline hobbies filling my time, sparking my creativity and interest, exercising my brain, and enriching my life. I realized that in order to be an interesting person, you have to fill your time doing interesting things, and I just...wasn't. In today's episode I break down why I think we all need to prioritize hobbies in 2025, and I give 52 suggestions for hobbies you could pick up this year!

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

67. Three months later....welcome to Prologues Season 2! I hope you missed me as much as I missed you. What better time to enter into a new era on the podcast than now, at the start of a brand new year. I've spent the last three months getting serious with myself about what I'm doing - in my career, in my pursuits and hobbies, in my relationships, in life as a whole - and now I am back and so excited to start fresh. Tune in every Monday at 8am GMT / 3am EST / 12am PST for a new episode.

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025

66. After much time and consideration, Prologues is going on a temporary hiatus to allow me to not only rebrand and refresh the podcast, but also to allow me to take a sabbatical for personal growth. 2024 has proven to be a year of immense change, adjustment, and development for me, and I am excited that this break will allow me the chance to reflect, process, and settle in order to come back enthused and focused for Season Two. To everyone who has ever supported Prologues in any way, whether that be through listening, downloading, reviewing, sharing online, purchasing merchandise, etc: thank you. x

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2024

​This week’s episode is all about regrouping before the home stretch of 2024. I don’t know about you, but there are a few areas I feel my performance has dipped in this summer, and rather than wait til the exciting energy of the new year, I’d like to give myself a new start today. Although I kept the specific topics light, in this episode I shared my process for setting intentions and manifestations. INTENTIONS- performance review- Identify key areas- Break big tasks down into smaller actionable tasks MANIFESTATIONS- Work through your shit - Be honest about what you want - take aligned action This week’s episode is also the final regular episode before the hiatus. Next week I will share the official end of season one, my personal reasons for going on break, and my vision for season two. I hope you enjoy x

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024

64. In which I realized in real time that maybe my life isn't actually falling to pieces, maybe it's that new birth control I'm on... Girl Talk pt 6 is all about Volufiline, insomnia, decoding friendships, and how to layer your fragrances. Join for another lighthearted chat with the girls x Info on Volufiline: https://www.skin-iv.com/en/ingredients/volufiline-2/#:~:text=It%20promotes%20body%20volume%20with,it%20has%20no%20hormonal%20effects. https://www.whowhatwear.com/beauty/what-is-volufiline

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024

63. The tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTFenVMf1/ Icing your vagus nerve: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10573386/  https://www.theskimm.com/wellness/vagus-nerve-stimulation-anxiety https://psychcentral.com/anxiety/vagus-nerve-cooling-anxiety Completing the cycle: https://hr.uky.edu/news/2020-11-17/completing-our-bodys-stress-response-cycle https://teachingcommons.stanford.edu/news/stress-cycles-what-they-are-and-how-manage-them

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024

62. It’s finally the best time of year for food, temperature, holidays, and of course, fashion. I’ve spent hours pouring over the internet and watching the girlies on the streets to assemble this list of Fall 2024 trends, and my wishlist is already a mile long… AUTUMN TREND PINTEREST BOARD: This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Check out this link for free sample pack of LMNT with the purchase of a drink mix powder! https://www.DrinkLMNT.com/Mary Skinner

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2024

61. We've all seen the social media horror stories of fairytale romances turned sour because it turns out two people are incompatible living together - so what can you do before moving in with a partner to set your relationship and new living arrangement up for success? I moved in with my now-husband about three and a half years ago, and today's episode is about the 10 conversations we had beforehand to ensure our transition was as smooth as possible. I really credit these conversations with helping us both adjust to living with a partner.

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2024

60. Have you heard of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs? You've probably seen the diagram - a pyramid table with basic level needs on the bottom (food, shelter, community) and growth-based needs on top (purpose, fulfillment, self-esteem). In my constant quest for finding The Point of it all, I decided to sit down and flesh out my own personalized hierarchy of needs, and today I'm sharing with you!

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2024

59. Today's episode is special, because one of my best friends, miss Clara Peirce, is capping off her 11 day trip to visit me by coming on the pod. Two girls, one brain cell, and one microphone - this episode is a closer look into Clara's brain and into the side of me that giggles. I had so much fun recording and editing this episode, so we all need to tell Clara that she needs to come back on Prologues soon... WHERE TO FIND CLARA: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarapeirce/?hl=en - Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clararpeirce?lang=en - Website: https://clarapeirce.com/ - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clarapeirce WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2024

58. I recently rang in my 26th birthday, I'm having some big feelings....I have always looked forward to past birthdays because I've seen getting older as a pathway to more self confidence, growth, and knowing myself better. However, for whatever reason, this birthday has brought up a lot of conflicting feelings for me. I recorded this episode to serve as a sort of time capsule for the exact way I'm feeling in my life right now, because I know I will appreciate looking back on it when I turn 27. Prologues also hit 1 million plays last week, so I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who has ever listened, downloaded, shared, and rated this podcast. I hope this next year is better than ever! This episode is sponsored by LMNT. This link will get you a free sample pack of LMNT with any purchase of a drink mix powder! DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2024

57. Today we're finishing off the wedding reflections! WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2024

56. The listener-favorite Girl Talk series is back for the fifth installment, and the Prologues girlies delivered when it came to write-in suggestions. *Is* it bad to need academic validation? Do I have to break up with my boyfriend if I know I don't want to marry him? And what is orgasming good for, anyway? Pop your headphones in for a cleaning session or long walk and dive in with the girls. My Substack: https://maryskinner1.substack.com Tampon crisis: https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-5036484/tampons-heavy-metals-study https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/11/well/tampons-arsenic-lead-heavy-metals-toxic.html

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2024

#55. I've been making outfit videos online for over 3 years, and in that time, my style has gone through multiple evolutions - I've had some outfits I love, and I've also had some fashion tragedies as well. Over the last year and a half or so, I really feel like I've found my authentic style and have curated a wardrobe I'm in love with. Today I'm breaking that process down into 7 simple steps so you can hone your style as well! WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2024

Entry #54. If you have planned or are currently planning a wedding, you probably know how stressful and confusing it can be. From managing the opinions of others to navigating traditions and expectations to feeling pressured to make the day as Instagram-worthy as possible, weddings have the potential to turn from a day of celebration to a day of anxiety. When I was in my fiance era, I felt a lot of shame around my wedding anxiety, so today I'm opening up that conversation in the hopes that it brings a little relief to other anxious brides out there. If you're currently planning your wedding, congratulations!! WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2024

#53. It is officially one month since I moved to Scotland, and although I didn't expect it all to be sunshine and roses, I've still been surprised at how emotionally difficult I've found the process of settling in to be. Today’s episode is definitely a journal entry, but I do also share my therapist-advised action plan for getting out of my funk. This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Use this link for a free sample pack with purchase of a drink mix powder: DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner Info on LMNT's electrolyte ratios: https://science.drinklmnt.com/electrolytes/lmnts-electrolyte-ratios-explained/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hot&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5-uuBhDzARIsAAa21T9u6Q8CYjjEuIunJzRsyu0tn6PXMzArSa5Grcs2jZTJRACkWJDKgqwaAjNAEALw_wcB&_gl=1*1mzzelx*_ga*NzM4NjkzNTgzLjE3MDgzNzgxODY.*_ga_BKZV7MVXM7*MTcwODg5MDg2OC4zLjAuMTcwODg5MDg2OC42MC4wLjA. RESOURCES Effects of exercise on mental health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9902068/ Relationship between microbiome and mental health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10384867/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6882070/ 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2024

Entry #52. A few days ago I got a DM marveling at how smooth my international move was based off of the content I posted on IG and Youtube - dear reader, it was not. It was manageable, but I was STRESSED for a while there. Here's the story of my move to Scotland! This episode is sponsored by Bondi Boost. Code Mary20 gets you 20% off only on the Bondi Boost website, so here's any easy link:  https://glnk.io/y3o81/mary [glnk.io] You can also find Bondi Boost at Ulta Beauty! 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2024

Entry #51

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2024

Entry #50. For the people who can barely keep their eyes open every day, but still have important things to get done, here are 6 of my tried-and-true personal tips for maximizing productivity while struggling low energy (or mild-moderate depression). This episode is sponsored by Bondi Boost!! ♡ Use code MARY20 *only on the BB website* or stop by your local Ulta Beauty to pick up my holy grail products that encourage hair growth and health. My favorite is the HG shampoo, but I'm also a fan of the HG rinse, intensive spray, and miracle hair mask. https://glnk.io/y3o81/mary [glnk.io] code MARY20! 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2024

Entry #49. I can't help it, I'm just a girl, and I love everything about tailoring my outfits, makeup, and products to a new season. Today I'm sharing my favorite products, trends, techniques, etc for hot girl summer 2024. Let me know yours! This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Use this link for a free sample pack with purchase of a drink mix powder: DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner Info on LMNT's electrolyte ratios: https://science.drinklmnt.com/electrolytes/lmnts-electrolyte-ratios-explained/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hot&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5-uuBhDzARIsAAa21T9u6Q8CYjjEuIunJzRsyu0tn6PXMzArSa5Grcs2jZTJRACkWJDKgqwaAjNAEALw_wcB&_gl=1*1mzzelx*_ga*NzM4NjkzNTgzLjE3MDgzNzgxODY.*_ga_BKZV7MVXM7*MTcwODg5MDg2OC4zLjAuMTcwODg5MDg2OC42MC4wLjA. 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2024

Entry #48. Today we're tackling the age-old question that every single one of us has likely pondered.....do you like him? Or do you like the *idea* of him? In other words, girl talk is back! 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2024

Entry #47 - in which I fail to make a more upbeat, less depressing episode of this show lmao. Y'all, I KNOW some of you have been listening to TTPD and reliving religious trauma, so in this episode, I walk through a few of the most significant songs and lyrics to me. Also - I find I'm drinking a bit more than usual lately, which makes me want to re-evaluate again, and I'm also not sure if my drinking habits will change after I move? Finally, I share a few thoughts about the Tiktok news - what do YOU think is going to happen? INFO ON THE TIKTOK LEGISLATION: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/25/business/bytedance-denies-reports-selling-tiktok-intl-hnk/index.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2024/04/23/tiktok-ban-us-start-explained/ 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2024

Entry #46. Simply Balanced's Taylor Grasso is here to answer listener questions for a registered dietitian! I loved getting the chance to sit down and chat with Taylor, and I learned so much from this episode - like the importance of blood sugar balance, how to craft the perfect snack plate, and so much more. If you liked this episode, make sure to check out Taylor @simplyhealthyrd on Tiktok and Instagram, and listen to her podcast, Simply Balanced! This episode is sponsored by Bondi Boost. Use code MARY10 for 10% off your order, or stop in your local Ulta Beauty to pickup! Taylor just launched a new group program called Master Your Metabolism: Nourish Without Numbers, focused on teaching women how to eat for blood sugar balance, optimized metabolism, and supported hormones. She graciously made a code for Prologues listeners: MARY for 20% off the program!  *We recorded via a video call, and something went askew with my audio track. I apologize that my audio is poor quality - luckily, Taylor sounds great, which is most important! WHERE TO FIND TAYLOR: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyhealthyrd?igsh=MTk0czU3ZHZ4amxyeg== Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@simplyhealthyrd?_t=8litIpZp2GA&_r=1 Website: https://simplyhealthyrd.com 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2024

Entry #45. I know this might sound contradictory coming from an influencer and content creator, but I feel that social media addiction is a concerning problem in our current culture, and I believe strongly in learning how to practice healthy habits and mindful moderation when it comes to social media consumption. I've had an off and on struggle with social media addiction, and today I'm sharing my story and helpful (scary?) information I've found in various studies and articles online that pertain to how excessive social media consumption affects all of us. Also, why did no one tell me about Timothee Chalamet? And tell me I'm not the only one who pre-grieves, please. JOURNAL PROMPTS from addictioncenter: Do you spend a lot of time thinking about social media or planning to use social media? Do you feel urges to use social media more and more? Do you use social media to forget about personal problems? Do you often try to reduce use of social media without success? Do you become restless or troubled if unable to use social media? Do you use social media so much that it has had a negative impact on your job or studies? CITATIONS AND RESOURCES https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/social-media-addiction/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9707397/ https://www.calstate.edu/csu-system/news/Pages/Social-Media-Addiction.aspx https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306460320308297 https://www.addictionhelp.com/social-media-addiction/causes/ https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/the-addictiveness-of-social-media-how-teens-get-hooked 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2024

Entry #44

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2024

Entry #43. This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Use this link for a free sample pack with purchase: DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner Info on LMNT's electrolyte ratios: https://science.drinklmnt.com/electrolytes/lmnts-electrolyte-ratios-explained/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hot&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5-uuBhDzARIsAAa21T9u6Q8CYjjEuIunJzRsyu0tn6PXMzArSa5Grcs2jZTJRACkWJDKgqwaAjNAEALw_wcB&_gl=1*1mzzelx*_ga*NzM4NjkzNTgzLjE3MDgzNzgxODY.*_ga_BKZV7MVXM7*MTcwODg5MDg2OC4zLjAuMTcwODg5MDg2OC42MC4wLjA. Headspace code for 60 days free: MARY60D 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2024

Entry #41. ARTICLES MENTIONED Tiktok ban: https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/16/tech/congress-privacy-tiktok-meta-social-network/index.html https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/13/technology/tiktok-ban-law-congress.html https://www.npr.org/2024/03/13/1237501725/house-vote-tiktok-ban https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-53476117 Oil pulling: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9602184/ Bilateral movement for anxiety: https://www.newpathwaystherapy.com/blog/emdr-therapy-and-trauma https://bayareacbtcenter.com/how-bilateral-stimulation-works-to-reduce-anxiety/ https://balanceapp.com/blog/bilateral-stimulation#:~:text=Because%20of%20its%20relaxing%20benefits,alternating%20sounds%20in%20each%20ear. 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2024

Entry #40. Today I am joined by psychodynamic therapist Dr. Shelby Reep for a vulnerable conversation about mental health, trauma, and healing. Dr. Reep has a doctorate in clinical psychology and uses a trauma-informed approach to work with patients on a variety of topics, including religious trauma. As someone who has dealt with severe religious trauma, I was moved and encouraged by our conversation, and I hope this episode reaches anyone who may need it. Around the one hour mark, we also discussed listener FAQs, such as, "can therapists tell when their patient is the villain?" and, "what public perceptions surrounding mental health do therapists wish to correct?" This episode is raw, honest, emotional, and one of my personal favorites. I hope you enjoy. See you next Monday x FIND DR. REEP: Instagram: @ dr.shelbyreep  Website: presentmindcounseling.com Psychology Today:  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/shelby-reep-portland-or/1223768  30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2024

Entry #39. Today's episode is a fun debrief on what the Prologues girlies are spring cleaning out of their lives. I share about how I'm currently feeling an urge to take stock of my life and get rid of everything no longer serving me, and then we go through listener submissions to see what else just has to go. See you next Monday x 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2024

Entry #38. When I was younger, I struggled with getting swept away and losing parts of myself in my relationships. Multiple times, I fell into codependent habits, which proved detrimental to my mental health and the health of the relationships overall. It also wasn't fair on the past partners - nobody can be *everything* to somebody else. This is something I've spent years working on in therapy and out, and I am now in a place where I feel strong in my sense of self - which is obviously something that helps my marriage thrive. In today's episode, I am sharing my personal journey towards healthy independence in a relationship, why I think it's important, and also my struggle points. See you next Monday x This episode is sponsored by LMNT. Use this link for a free sample pack with purchase: DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner Info on LMNT's electrolyte ratios: https://science.drinklmnt.com/electrolytes/lmnts-electrolyte-ratios-explained/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hot&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA5-uuBhDzARIsAAa21T9u6Q8CYjjEuIunJzRsyu0tn6PXMzArSa5Grcs2jZTJRACkWJDKgqwaAjNAEALw_wcB&_gl=1*1mzzelx*_ga*NzM4NjkzNTgzLjE3MDgzNzgxODY.*_ga_BKZV7MVXM7*MTcwODg5MDg2OC4zLjAuMTcwODg5MDg2OC42MC4wLjA. Headspace code for 60 days free: MARY60D 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2024

37. At any given moment, I am within three feet of my journal or planner....but like actually. Journaling, planning, and list making are some of my favorite ways to order my thoughts, manage my productivity, regulate my emotions, and stay focused. I have been journaling and planning for years, so this week, I'm sharing my best tips and tricks for forming these new habits. See you next week x RESOURCES Foucault's Panopticon: https://www.cla.purdue.edu/academic/english/theory/newhistoricism/modules/foucaultcarceral.html Papier (current planner): https://www.papier.com/ Why journaling is good for you: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentID=4552&ContentTypeID=1 https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-journaling https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-of-journaling/ 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2024

Entry #36. Today's episode is particularly vulnerable, because I'm opening up about struggles I've had for months. I haven't been able to name it until now, but after a few recent sessions with my therapist, I've learned the name: emotional burnout. A result of steady stress over a long period of time, emotional burnout can happen to absolutely anyone, and it requires dedicated self care to heal from. I haven't started healing yet - I'm still in step one, which is realizing that I'm not okay. I hope this episode serves as both a marker in time and turning point for me, and also a wake-up call to anyone who may be listening who is experiencing the same thing. See you next Monday x SOURCES https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/emotional-exhaustion https://www.healthline.com/health/emotional-exhaustion#outlook https://www.choosingtherapy.com/emotional-burnout/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-upside-things/201908/how-deal-emotional-burnout?amp https://www.betterup.com/blog/emotional-exhaustion https://hbr.org/2020/04/how-to-refuel-when-youre-feeling-emotionally-drained *unsponsored* HEADSPACE code for meditation: MARY60D for 60 days free 30% OFF PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2024

Entry #35. No, you're not crazy for thinking your skin has gotten worse since getting a boyfriend. Girl Talk is back for a third round, and we're covering everything from feeling anxious in the gym to faking orgasms. Check out @theprologuespodcast on Instagram to hear from the group about topics like a best friend's husband admitting he was attracted to you, or whether you should delete old text threads from previous partners. See you next Monday x PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2024

Entry #34. See you next Monday x This episode is sponsored by LMNT. FREE SAMPLE PACK OF LMNT WITH PURCHASE: DrinkLMNT.com/MarySkinner They also have a zero-questions-asked return policy! ARTICLES: https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/still-feeling-good-the-us-wellness-market-continues-to-boom https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775/#:~:text=Facilities%20offering%20sauna%20bathing%20often,%2C%20stress%20management%2C%20and%20relaxation PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2024

Entry #33. This is one of my favorite episodes to date. I have been living with mental illness (bipolar II + ocd) for almost half my life, and it's something that feels present in my closest relationships. I've also supported loved ones through their own difficult times of depression. Today on Prologues, I'm combining both sides of that experience to offer thoughts and advice on loving someone through depression - both loving someone going through depression, and being a good partner to someone else when I'm depressed. I hope you enjoy this episode - if you like Prologues, it helps the show so much to give it a positive rating/review wherever you listen to your podcasts. See you next Monday x PROLOGUES MERCH: theprologuespodcast.com WHERE TO FIND ME: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mary.cj.skinner - Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprologuespodcast - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarySkinner - Business inquiries / submissions for upcoming Q&A episodes: [email protected]

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2024