504. Being Joyful Anyway: A Conversation with Kate Bowler

Joy doesn’t always arrive when you expect it, and sometimes it shows up when life feels the hardest. In this episode, I talk about making space for joy with Kate Bowler, a professor at Duke University, 5x bestselling author, and host of the podcast Everything Happens. We discuss why happiness is overhyped, how microjoys and unexpected moments can interrupt your day, and why cultural narratives often make women feel like they are failing if life isn’t constantly “good.”

This conversation is a reminder that joy is not something you can control or manufacture. It shows up when you are paying attention, when you let your guard down, and when you allow yourself to be human. Listening will help you notice the small delights, accept life’s unpredictability, and welcome joy into your day, even when everything else feels messy or uncertain.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://schoolofnewfeministthought.com/504

Watch episodes over on YouTube: youtube.com/@karaloewentheilcoaching

Follow along on Instagram: instagram.com/karaloewentheil/

Learn more about Kate's work, books, podcast, and more here: https://katebowler.com/

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How to Ask for What You Want

Over five days, you’ll find out what’s keeping you from asking for what you want – and how to actually do it, even when your brain tries to stop you. Live Challenge: September 21-25, 2026 · 12 p.m. ET

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