Episode 42: The Courage To Keep Trying with Vicki and Wynne

In this episode, Wynne Leon is with co-host, Dr. Vicki Atkinson, and we are talking about the courage to keep trying. We open the podcast with some laughter about some silly stories with my kids where I’ve made mistakes. And it paves the way for a deep conversation about risk-taking, trying new things, and the journey to be vulnerable to others. I share with Vicki some of the disappointment that I felt on her behalf when reading her book, “Surviving Sue” because Sue never saw her. We talked about how she armored up from an early age with Sue because of the mismatch between words and deeds coming from her mom. But even through the low expectations, Vicki kept on showing up in order to care for Lisa and for Sue. So what did she learn about armor, vulnerability, and control? Vicki shares with us the wisdom of her toolkit for surviving disappointment, regardless of the source, by following her body cues and knowing that she can take back control. We talk about all the lessons we’ve learned the hard way – and that the take-away is while it feels natural to try avoid being hurt, we opt for continuing to take risks. We dig in to the question of “what if I don’t?” that can be a great motivator. And Vicki turns the tables on me for taking on the risk to talk with my dad about spirituality and faith. I open up about how my fear that if we talked about those things, knowing I didn’t see them the same way he did, that I risked feeling like my dear dad was disappointed in me. But Vicki gives me the gift of a great a-ha that positive regard that is based on assumptions, vagaries, or pretense isn’t really regard at all. In this episode, we talk about how to switch out of disappointment by focusing on compassion for others. Risk – disappointment – vulnerability – big topics but we have a feel good conversation full of compassion for ourselves when we are disappointed, or for when we don’t want to take the chance, and appreciation for the opening that happens when we do take risks. Disappointment isn’t easy but when you know that others have gone through it and see you, it makes the trip so much easier. Please risk a half hour of your time – you won’t be disappointed! In fact, we know you’ll love it. P.S. The mention of Cooper in this episode refers to Wynne's new puppy. Episode 42 show notes Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith