On this episode of After Reality, Reality Steve joins me to dig into the latest Bachelor Nation drama — starting with Taylor Frankie Paul’s headline-making turn as the new Bachelorette. We get into why her casting is shaking up the franchise, the early behind-the-scenes tea, and what this shift says about the future of the show.

We also tackle a few current Bachelor Nation headlines — yes, including a certain podcaster’s recent mom-shaming blunder (looking at you, Nick Viall). Consider this our friendly reminder that if you don’t have something supportive to say… maybe don’t say it on a podcast with millions of listeners.

Plus, I’m sharing my updated take on Mel Owens and Peg — because I’ve officially changed my tune, and I’m prepared to eat a little humble pie over it.

@Realitysteve

https://patreon.com/realitysteve

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of After Reality, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics as a recovering people-pleaser: the nervous system. I’m joined by somatic practitioner Kallie Klug (aka Kallie Somatics), host of the Your Own Medicine podcast, who breaks down what really happens in our bodies when we shift into fight, flight, freeze… and the response almost no one talks about: fawn.

If you’ve ever apologized to keep the peace, said “yes” when you meant absolutely not, or shut down in conflict just to survive the moment, you might actually be fawning — a biological survival strategy wired for protection, not politeness. Kallie explains how fawning differs from everyday people-pleasing, how these patterns get formed, and why “just speak up!” doesn’t stick when your body doesn’t feel safe.

We talk nervous system triggers, how trauma shapes behavior, and why so many of us feel tired, resentful, and burned out from being “good” all the time. Kallie also shares practical somatic tools for boundary-setting (especially during the holidays) and we get into her upcoming book, Tired of Being "Good": A nervous system map for reinhibiting your body after a lifetime of fawning.

IG: @kali.somatics

Your Own Medicine Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-own-medicine-podcast/id1584877807

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s that time of year again — the After Reality Holiday Gift Guide is here! Before we get swept up in the sparkle (and stress) of shopping, I’m starting with something that truly makes gift-giving easier: the five love languages. Once you know how your people feel most appreciated, choosing the right gift suddenly becomes… dare I say… fun?

In our house, we’re leaning more into experience gifts over “stuff.” Don’t get me wrong — I still love a gorgeous kitchen gadget, personalized accessories, and a chic, elevated loungewear set that can survive drop-offs and all-day errands. But the older my kids get, the more I’m realizing that tickets to the zoo or a year-round membership last way longer than the toy that’s played with twice and turns into clutter.

This year, I’m sharing my favorite picks across every category — from high-quality cookware to cozy little splurges for moms, dads, in-laws, teachers, and that impossible person who claims they “don’t need anything.”

I even phoned in backup from Papa Robertson. He came through with unexpectedly genius, budget-friendly ideas: magazine subscriptions, practical staples like flashlights (yes, flashlights), and timeless classics like books and digital photo frames. Leave it to Dad to keep it simple and smart.

This episode is all about thoughtful gifting without overdoing it — choosing items that bring joy, create memories, or simply make life easier. Whether it’s a Dyson vacuum you’ll use forever or a family outing they’ll never forget, let’s make this season meaningful instead of overwhelming.

PEUGEOT Salt & Pepper Mills CODE Courtney10

CUTS CLOTHING https://shop.cutsclothing.com/COURTNEY

LOOPY CASES COURTNEY10

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.