Ep 79: Undermining Urgency

Send us Fan MailMarch 10, 2026Love You MoreEp 79: Undermining UrgencyEpisode summary:Jen reflects on the quiet but persistent sense of urgency that can shape our days without us fully realizing it. She shares how constant input from phones, messages, podcasts, and the everyday rhythm of parenting and work can keep the nervous system activated. Even small pockets of potential stillness often get filled automatically. Jen begins experimenting with simple shifts such as letting space remain empty, delaying the impulse to respond or order something right away, and allowing moments of boredom, quiet, or daydreaming to unfold.As she notices how urgency feels in her body, Jen explores the deeper desire behind these changes, which is cultivating more inner calm and spaciousness. She reflects on the pull of productivity and the identity that can form around always being responsive. The conversation closes with a reading from The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo and a gentle reminder that when everything feels urgent, slowing down may be exactly what we need.Favorite Quotes:“There’s lots of actual opportunity for white space in my day, but I never let it be white space. I always fill it.” “There’s opportunity that presents for stillness, for quiet, for calm, but I don’t really give myself that chance.” “I’m just so tired of being run around by productivity.” “I’m wanting more inner calm. I’m wanting more inner stillness.” “The mind is always scanning, always scanning, like what should you be doing?” Resources Jen's Instagram Jen's Substack Sober Sisters in St Louis Substack Sober Sisters in St Louis Website McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Instagram McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Website Past Podcast Episodes Book: The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo Book: Solitude: A Return to the Self by Anthony Storr Spring Fling: Style, Silence & Understanding Urges 2026 Silent Retreat Support the show