8. The Problem with Platitudes & What to Say Instead

23/10/2025 37 min Temporada 1 Episodio 8
8. The Problem with Platitudes & What to Say Instead

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Episode Synopsis

Send us a textEpisode: “Platitudes Are the Wrong Way Forward” When life gets messy, why do we reach for lazy lines like “everything happens for a reason,” “it is what it is,” or “forgive and forget”? This week, Katy and Justin unpack why platitudes feel dismissive—and what to say instead when someone is grieving, stressed, or stuck. Katy shares the raw truth of losing her mom and the unhelpful clichés that followed; Justin opens up about a family loss and the comfort of honest, imperfect words. They dig into workplace versions of platitudes, offer practical swaps that show real empathy, and debate a wild etiquette dilemma involving an event manager with major nerve. Plus: a teaser on emotional support animals (ESAs), airport chaos, and why rules matter more than vibes. Send us the platitude you hate most: [email protected] / TakeawaysWhy platitudes land as dismissal—and how to respond with empathy insteadBetter alternatives to “call me if you need anything” and “what doesn’t kill you…”Grief talk: what helped, what hurtWorkplace truth-telling > “it is what it is”Teaser: ESA rules, airport standby drama, and reading the room👉 Like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Got a disastrously bad piece of advice you want them to dissect? Email [email protected](don’t forget your contact info).Podcast Music licensed by Wrong Way Forward Podcast and courtesy  OneRepeat