Episode 2: Am I the Only One Who Feels Behind?

Ever feel like everyone else has their life together—and you’re quietly falling behind? In this episode, hosts Jane Doerman and Jordan Johnstone name one of the most common (and isolating) spirals of adulthood: comparison. Joined by leadership coach Kristin Bartholomew, this episode explores why the “put-together life” is often an illusion, how rejection and detours shape our stories, and what actually helps when shame and comparison start to spiral. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it just me?”—this conversation is for you. In This Episode: Why feeling behind is more common than we admit The pressure of life timelines and unmet expectations Rejection, grief, and learning to reframe the story you’re telling yourself Practical ways to spiral less and lean into community Why confidence is built through courage, not certainty Plus, a round of Unqualified Advice, where we offer unsolicited wisdom on burnout, boundaries, parenting guilt, exhaustion, and everyday chaos—with zero credentials and full honesty. Learn more about Kristin and her work: Website: https://kmbcoaching.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momlife_balance/    We Want to Hear From You! Have a spiral, hot take, or “what even is this?!” moment? Email us: [email protected] Instagram: DM us your hot takes → https://www.instagram.com/thewhatevenisthispodcast/ Facebook: Join the conversation → https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587151132405  Your story may be featured in a future episode. About the Show: "What Even Is This?" is a podcast for women navigating adulthood in real time—working, parenting, believing, doubting, laughing, crying, and spiraling along the way. We’re not here to fix your life. We’re here to name the mess and talk about it honestly. Don’t forget to listen, follow, rate, review, share, and send this episode to a friend who’s also asking: What even is this?!