Erik’s dad being able to just answer your question so thoroughly about whales makes me want a new Relax segment where you call him and he gives all just a quick lesson or random fact of the week. I truly learned something new and I could’ve listened to him talk for another hour lol
Flynn gets his brain from his Grandpa. Flynn holds so much information in his brain about trucks and construction trucks and I was always so amazed by how he just KNEW this information. Grandpa sounds like he is the same
You guys were not kidding when you said Eriks dad is brilliant. I LOL'ed when he said when I taught myself calculus. I could sit and listen to Mr. Stocklin for hours. Does he have a POD cast?
ERIK. As a non therapist my advice is to get blue light blocking glasses or to put your phone into nighttime mode as a compromise. They say the blue light is what causes your brain to be active at night so it’s worth a shot! That way you can still enjoy your technology
i agree! i came to a compromise with my therapist where i was allowed to only play solitaire on my phone (no social media apps before bed) and i use blue light glasses which i feel like work
“Some of the best & smartest people I ever saw were on the back porch or at a kitchen table.” 😭 I’M SOBBING and claiming him as my dad too. I’m never going to forget that tbh
We have a lot of ADHD people in the family I married into. I used to joke they just weren’t born with a time piece in their brain. (Im the exact opposite). I always had to give a false time of whatever we did. My husband finally said, “give me the actual time and I’ll try harder”. After nearly 40 years, we finally are in sync on times. There’s still hope for guys. ❤
Hi Colleen and Erik!!! Can you guys pleaseee consider doing a live podcast one day?? I think it would be so fun to be able to see send both live questions so you can answer… just a thought, lots of love 🤗🩵🩵🩵
So cool to hear Erik’s dad on the podcast! Really enjoyed hearing about the science of breathing when it comes to Cetaceans. It would be such a blast to see y’all with both your parents together on the podcast sometime!
I am having a rough day. Been crying all day. My bf was cheating on me for months, I just found out and he broke up with me last night. 😢😢 I definitely needed this video to distract me this is the first thing that I have watched all day.
It’s going to be ok Hayley, I promise. You’re worthy of unconditional and faithful love and respect. I’m 59 years old and just recently my 25 year marriage ended because of cheating . The wonderful thing about being strong women like we are , is that we have this amazing ability to reinvent ourselves and live our best lives. So just know you are not alone , I’m right here with you , and if you need to chat , I will lend an ear. Sending you love and hugs ❤
Please make sure Erik's dad knows we love him! He should be on jeopardy! Also, do either a full podcast or a recurring segment where we ask questions and he answers them off the cuff!
Colleen, you absolutely need a massive chair that swallows you like Erik’s does because seeing the camera pan to Erik in his chair and then to you is so funny lol. I know you’re looking for the perfect one, but the camera going back and forth just makes his chair look so much bigger 😂
I’ve always been into science and Mr. Stocklin just re-awakened the passion I have for it. I swear this made my whole day to hear what he knows about whales. I am so here for it
Don’t usually comment but I just want to say that it is so very nice to have you two back ! Thank you 💗 As someone who moved away from my country/family to be with my wonderful amazing husband, you two brought a lot of comfort to me in a way I can’t put into words. It brings me to tears just thinking about it and I am so thankful for this podcast 💗
Erik’s dad is beyond fascinating to me! I could listen to him talk about the things he knows for hours! The things he knows and the stories of how he came to know all of those things is so interesting! He said “my first masters degree”…. Implying he has more than one…. That is soooo impressive! Yet, with all of this, he still seems so down to earth and sweet-hearted! I can totally see how Erik came to be the man he is, wonderful, kind, gentle yet strong, and so insightful! Love you both!!!!
Sleep is difficult for me too. I have learned to put my brain in a playpen so to speak. At bedtime I turn on an audio book or sitcom series with no laugh track, like The Office, that I have heard many times. My brain can focus on that while it’s not interesting enough to hold my attention and keep me awake
For anyone that suffers insomnia: Magnesium Glycinate before bedtime, good protein dinner with big lettuce salad (calms the nerves), no tomatoes/paprika/anything that has vitamin c after 4pm, regular metal breaks/relaxation during the day, lots of fresh air/exercise before 12pm
Hey Erik! I had sleep issues for many years. Although what your therapist suggested is ideal, I’m in the same boat - that’s my wind down time and I haven’t been able to go cold turkey on screens either. For me, the happy medium was - for the last hour or so before bed- having lights more dimmed (this is huge for your body’s natural melatonin production), doing a basic bedtime routine (washing face, etc.), having my phone & computer settings change to reduce or eliminate blue light after sundown (these are easy settings changes), diffusing or putting drops of lavender (or other relaxing) essential oil on, etc…. Then when I do watch some TV before bed, I always 1) wear blue light blocker glasses and 2) only watch shows that are relaxing, not stimulating at all. And if it’s really time to fall asleep and I’m not asleep yet, I’ll put some a show I find comforting but very light or even boring & predictable. Or even older shows that I enjoy- like Frasier, Gilmore Girls, etc.- are very calming for me and I just watch until I can’t stay awake any more, then turn off the TV and go to sleep. I tried pharma sleep meds for years (I do not recommend them at ALL), as well as melatonin, and they didn’t solve the problem. For me, falling asleep to a relaxing show- with blue light blocker glasses on- is what did it for me. It relaxes my mind and gives me something to focus on that doesn’t feed anxious thoughts. Another couple of things that have worked for me in the past- laying in the dark listening to a relaxing & boring podcast (hey, Relax! 😉), like Garrison Keillor’ A Prairie Home Companion- I never made it all the way through any of those episodes without falling asleep. I also used CDs (which I burned to MP3 back in the day) called “Deep Sleep With Medical Self Hypnosis.” Those were also super helpful when I had the hardest time falling asleep and I highly recommend. In my case, those would not actually put me into a deep sleep, but would get me into a light sleep, so that - when it changed tracks, I would come out of the light sleep enough to turn off my iPod at the time, and then go right back to sleep and then fall into a deep sleep shortly after that. Those are some things that worked for me after struggling with years of insomnia. Nowadays, it’s the sleep deprivation of being a mom of young kids 😆 combined with winding down to relaxing TV shows with blue light blockers that does the trick for me. I’m sorry you’re struggling with that - it’s the worst! I hope you find something that works for you really soon.
Awe!!! The Hartford Whalers moved to North Carolina (Carolina Hurricanes). Last week they wore the Whalers jersey during a game to pay tribute to their Hartford roots. I was so excited when you said something about the Whalers because I just learned all this last week. Go Hurricanes! (I’m from NC)
If part of a screen free bedtime routine sounds like it might work but 1-2 hours (wow) is too much, start with 5 mins and build on it each night until it is a timeframe you are happy with and still get the results you are looking for. Habit stacking has been a great tool for me when I need to start something new.
We definitely need a fact of the week from dad. It was fun learning something new. I am so glad the podcast is back. You got me through lock down and I missed you.
I was born, raised, and am currently raising my family in Metro Detroit. Needless to say, I've had my fair share of Lions related heartbreak. Everyone was so excited to root for them. Businesses had special promotions and signs were up all over cheering for them. I just wanted this so badly for my home state. Erik described being a Lions fan perfectly. The loyalty and hopefulness followed by the inevitable disappointment. Also, I'm pregnant with my second child and was VERY emotional after the loss...almost to an embarrassing extent 😆 We're all happy they made it so far and cannot wait for the next season!
I am just in the beginning of the podcast, and you and Erik are talking about silence. I also do not like silence, and your video/podcast is what fills my silence, so thank you 😊
Thank you for reading my comment on the podcast today. I love how Colleen found beauty at the beach that is so wonderful. I can see how you both love each other so much, and it's life goals!
I have never been able to fall alseep easily. One of the things that I have found that has helped me best is watching Turner Classic Movies or a movie that you have seen so many times that you love. It allows me to turn off my brain as I watch an old movie that brings me comfort and I do not have to stay awake because I have watched it so much. It is crazy how it allows me to stop thinking because I know what is coming. So my brain is distracted and my body relaxes and I natrually fall asleep. Also, I am now 53 and old and am on pain med and muscle relaxers because I have 5 herniated discs. That could be the reason I sleep now. hahaha Best wishes sleeping y'all.
Erik is so amazing! What a man! He is such an emotional intelligent human. With such a good heart...so patient n just all around a good human. You got really blessed Colleen with this man. Plus SUPER SUPER HANDSOME 😊
Thank you for sharing so much of your life. There are many things in regards to our mental health issues that we share. I think the word that you were looking for at the beginning of this video is “closure.” I totally understand what it’s like to need to talk things out loud and get it all completely settled. My nearly 25 years old daughter likes to tell me that I need to feel like I’m in control and I don’t disagree with her. I just want everything to go smoothly and for there not to be anybody upset or frustrated in anyway. I cannot do negative today. Positive vibes! Positive vibes! Positive vibes!💛 from Michigan
As someone who also did not care or know anything about football whatsoever before meeting my now-husband, sharing in his love of football and other sports has been such a fun and exciting bonding experience and, even when we lose, seeing games in person are such a great time
Imagine how much my heart is exploding already having been a Travis fan and separately a Swiftie. They are both giants in their own worlds. Travis is such a gentleman that Taylor deserves and it’s beautiful to witness. ❤
I want to comment on the sports talk bc I was NEVER a sports girly either, just like Colleen. I thought it was silly to be so passionate about sports bc it’s just grown men fighting or hitting each other. But then I met my husband lol, he is obsessed with sports and says it’s his biggest earthly passion. So we started going to games together of his favorite teams (none of them local to where we’re from, like Erik) and it became some of the BEST memories. I have fallen in love with so many sports like football and baseball! And guess what… we even chose to move 4.5 hours away from our families to settle down in Cincinnati, where our favorite baseball and football team are. We love it here even though it’s very different from where we grew up. Sports are really amazing! ❤
Oh my gosh I wish I could meet Erik's dad. He seems like the sweetest and coolest person ever. I legit teared up at the end of your conversation with him.
Actual therapist here!! Please remember that no one thing works for everyone. You need to find a combination of things that works best for you and your schedule/life. There are lots of little things that therapists will often recommend (cut down caffeine, take a shower before bed, go for a walk/exercise, turn off screens, read, etc.)…some of these may work for you and some may not. But I’d be way more interested in understanding your WHY. Sometimes people who have no down time to decompress throughout the day (especially those with little ones) do a lot of scrolling on their phones at night because there is no other time to do it. It’s important to fill up your own cup in a healthy way for you to be able to decompress. If not that, is there anxiety that is surfacing at night? If so, that should be addressed at the root. Or, maybe it’s just a physical issue…are there any vitamin deficiencies? Does your body release enough melatonin and at the right time? Maybe screens are ok but the blue light is a problem and glasses to block it will help. It’s also a huge ask to go from screen time right before bed to cutting it for two whole hours before bed!! That goal sounds nearly impossible. Maybe a shorter amount of time (even 10-15 minutes) to start would be easier and then could be built upon over time. Ultimately it may take some time to figure out the root issue underneath what’s going on and in turn, the best way for you to address it to meet your specific needs. I hope that as you continue to work with your therapist you can find something that works for YOU! Don’t be afraid to tell your therapist if something is not working for you. They will adapt their approach to meet your needs, but they won’t know what works/doesn’t work if you don’t communicate that with them. Give it time and give yourself grace as this is not an easy fix. Best of luck!! :)
This was one of my favorite episodes. Loved Grandpa Yoda on the pod. He is soo interesting. I loved the therapy talk, loved learning more about Erik. Love you both. ❤
My husband has ADHD, and he has the same issue with time but HIS is past tense time. He can talk about his day and talk about this day a month later like it just happened. It’s crazy.
I love Erik's story about how he became a Lion's fan. From what I know about him as a person, it makes sense he would want to root for the underdog. I relate to Erik on many things and I alwaaaaays root for the underdog no matter what I'm watching. My mom was a Lion's fan growing up so I know the pain of watching their games😂
regarding how Erik became a lions fan - i myself am a "lions Fan" and reason i put it in quotations is because the reason behind becoming a fan - i liked the logo lol back story - my sister and my husband are big sports fans (the are in multiple fantasy leagues) and one night during COVID they were testing my team logo knowledge with NHL teams which i did pretty good know. she then switched to NFL teams and i had zeeerrroooo idea of which was which (very similar to colleen knowing nothing about sport prior to this) so in that moment we decided i should pick a team and again my thought process was "which logo do i like??" and i picked Detroit and now its an ongoing joke to this day! after the last game there when they lost, my sister immediately message me and said "sorry about your lions". my plan this year is to secretly learn how football works and really keep up with them 😊😊hoping itll through my sister off but also make her laugh and we can bond ❤❤ ps: so glad you are back colleen (you too erik) - i really missed you!!!
I’m from MA and this is true. But I also had 2 brothers and a dad who loved sports and as the only girl I think my dad really encouraged this from me. Pick a team and root for them. So I say this as a 29 yr old wearing a packers sweater as I watch this. I just loved Bret Favre and never left the team.
I’m in nursing school!! & an idea for sleeping better with natural supplements is chamomile tea, magnesium supplements, melatonin although that can cause tolerance. Screens cause people to stay awake because of the blue light, turn on the night shift on your phone so that it is set to a timer and turns on automatically every night. All should help too!
So, I also struggled to sleep until I developed a pre-sleep routine. The bedtime routine is very helpful for training your brain to sleep. I have 7 specific tasks that I do just before bed. When those are done, I hop into bed, read for 20 to 30 minutes, and then I NEED to sleep. Even my dog responds to this concept. The key is to do the routine JUST before you get into bed.
Technology bedtime has been a staple in our home since my now adult children were small. TV, phones, iPads, etc all powered down 2 hrs before bed. Now as a retired 59 yr old- I still follow this. My exception is that I I allow myself music and on certain occasions, I listen to books on Audible. Just no “looking” at the screen (I turn the screen down on the table/ bed etc. I also do a long bath/ shower time, a relaxing skincare session, a great snack / glass of wine, sometimes I look through old photo albums, diaries etc also. There are times I bake a snack, take an evening walk, or just spent time playing with my dog. Give yourself time to find alternatives to screens.. they are available, we just are so used to them that our brains have forgotten what to do without them!
I have ADHD and anxiety and what has helped me quiet my brain at nights is actually Magnesium and Melatonin. It took a good 3 weeks for it to start working but now I swear by it.
Erik - I too struggle with sleep and stay up way too late after my kid for alone time (even when I feel exhausted all day). Some things that help me (when I remember): cut back alcohol, try taking a Magnesium glycinate supplement in the evening. I’ve also found CBD isolate oils, specifically with CBN as well, taken about 4 hours before I want to be asleep knocks me out. Zaturals is a reputable brand for the CBD oils.
I am not a sports fan, but in college I studied international studies and one of the most interesting topics I had was how soccer played a role in bringing South Africa back together after the apartheid ended. After yours and Erik's comments about being besties with other Lions fans, I think you'd both find that bit of history fascinating. Sports definitely play a role in communities but also international politics.
As a theater girlie, I grew up with a single mom who only put football, sports, or news on our tv.... she is still obsessed. Our only connection media wise was Christmas... and musicals .... white christmas forever ❤ learning the rules is hard. Basketball too... I still can't stand baseball.. .. but ill say being there in person is all the fun! 50:50
Colleen I NEED you to see this comment. Merch of a vertical narwhal underwater that says “Whales Sleep Like Moms” with half the brain asleep and half the brain awake NEEDS to be a thing. I’d buy it. That is all. 🐳💙
I’m like Eric I need to have tv or my phone to relax my brain. If I don’t have that to focus on thoughts circle. Ideally something I have seen so I can listen and no watch but it keeps my brain busy and distracted. Definitely do what works for you.
Erik the only thing that help me fall asleep most of the time are sleep podcasts. Like where they tell story’s while saying like breath deeply and relax your jaw and then make you feel like your in Mexico or something. Not always but usually when I try hard I can focus on that and fall asleep. A lot of times I need multiple through the night but hey at least it helps sometimes!
Haha 😅 just watching lucifer and season 4 episode 6 just seen Erik in a pool. I didn’t know he was in lucifer. ❤ couldn’t believe my eyes. So talented and both beautiful humans.
Agree with Erik! I loOove comfortable silence. I hated to talk on the phone because it felt forced until I met someone else who didn’t mind comfortable silence 😂 I also work at a small flower shop where I’m the main florist, I never have the radio on. Occasionally podcasts when a new ep is out. And I also need noise to fall asleep. I have a playlist of light music.
Colleen!! I was so excited for you and Erik to play that “What would I be game” and you didn’t 💔😢 I have literally been playing it at family gatherings and people learnt that people can get offended by telling them what item you think they are 😳 I’m so good at it though!! Please, I need you both to play more games like that. 💜
💯 I have to externalize my thoughts to process them. In addition to the KNOWN benefits of writing things down helping with learning, remembering, and processing; for some people verbalizing is the same or an additional way to process information. I am constantly talking to myself, using my own name, to redirect my brain to the moment and what I’m trying to focus on. Also, often my brain is too full and verbalizing my thoughts frees up brain space and is essentially a release valve for my mind. ❤
I think Erik’s dad should have a spot in the podcast every week so we can hear him educate us all. Also I’m a falcons fan and we went to the Super Bowl one year and was winning until after the halftime And we got beat so I understand the feeling Erik feels. It sucks! The lions played amazing and I was going for them just for Erik. Now the question is who is Erik rooting for in the Super Bowl?
Loved this podcast especially learning about whales!!! I want to say 2 things that need to relax are swollen feet (I'm not pregnant, i just work long hours standing up... p.s. sorry pregnant women, swollen feet are the worst! 2nd relax is DOORS! When i get home late after work and try to be quiet doors are my worst enemy; front door creaks, fridge door is loud, and my pet gate clicking shut even scares me when i know its about to happen. Fr doors need to calm down!!!
Ok so Erik! I’m not psychologist, but my armchair psychologist’s take is to add healthy habits to your routine rather than take things away. Keep watching your favorite show before bed… AND journal every night, or read every night, or meditate, or some other de-stressing, low stimulation activity. Best of luck to you!
I’m late to the party but what’s helped me SLEEP is taking Magnesium and Vitamin D supplements together every evening around 7pm. Hope this helps! (I’m not a doctor or therapist, just someone who also suffers from ADHD & anxiety at night).
Colleen I’m so like you! My thoughts go from thing to thing and I want to learn about it all! You’re so funny wondering about going on and on and bothering Erik- oh that is so me! Bless you, we’re just happy thinkers who want answers to what we wonder about! Great learning experience! I’m headed to cruise ship tiktok!❤
I think i remember colleen saying you snore/stop breathing in your sleep too. If so, go for a sleep study! It could be contributing If you don't already try sleeping with a loud fan/white noise, helps drown out the thoughts to allow sleep too
Erik’s dad being able to just answer your question so thoroughly about whales makes me want a new Relax segment where you call him and he gives all just a quick lesson or random fact of the week. I truly learned something new and I could’ve listened to him talk for another hour lol
What an incredible guy. I am glad Erik has such a great father. That is probably why he is a great dad to his kids.
It's a Drummer thing. Erik's dad is a Drummer 😅
I said the same thing, he’s fascinating!
Please... If you see ANY comment... HAVE MR.STOCKLIN ON THIS PODCAST. I could listen to that man teach me ANYTHING. He is such a an intelligent man!
Can we give some love to Mr. Stocklin for telling Colleen she's smart and there is a difference between "smart" and just needing to educate on facts.
I thought that was so sweet of him to say. What a lovely guy, you can see why Erik is so amazing.
Yes, this....❤
Flynn gets his brain from his Grandpa. Flynn holds so much information in his brain about trucks and construction trucks and I was always so amazed by how he just KNEW this information. Grandpa sounds like he is the same
Can somebody start a petition to have Grandpa Yoda join the podcast regularly and viewers can submit random questions for him?
Came here to say we need a regular segment each podcast with him! I second your request!!
Yes, I felt like Colleen was on Who wants to be a Millionare and had just called her lifeline!😂 Definitely would love a Q&A segment with Grandpa ❤❤❤
In Australia we have this he's called Dr Karl 🥰 and he just knows everything
Please❤❤❤❤
We NEED him to pass on all of his knowledge to the pod.
Oh. My. Gosh! Erik’s dad is the BEST! Brilliant. Humble. Introspective. Wise. No wonder Erik is such a great guy.
Wait…I think Erik’s dad is my favorite human, he needs a permanent spot on the pod!
You guys were not kidding when you said Eriks dad is brilliant. I LOL'ed when he said when I taught myself calculus. I could sit and listen to Mr. Stocklin for hours. Does he have a POD cast?
“Give her a second, she’s learning sports” - the most adorable and hilarious statement! ❤❤
ERIK. As a non therapist my advice is to get blue light blocking glasses or to put your phone into nighttime mode as a compromise. They say the blue light is what causes your brain to be active at night so it’s worth a shot! That way you can still enjoy your technology
i agree! i came to a compromise with my therapist where i was allowed to only play solitaire on my phone (no social media apps before bed) and i use blue light glasses which i feel like work
“Some of the best & smartest people I ever saw were on the back porch or at a kitchen table.” 😭 I’M SOBBING and claiming him as my dad too. I’m never going to forget that tbh
I could listen to him for hours...your so lucky to have him in your life. You should have him on the pod cast.
We have a lot of ADHD people in the family I married into. I used to joke they just weren’t born with a time piece in their brain. (Im the exact opposite). I always had to give a false time of whatever we did. My husband finally said, “give me the actual time and I’ll try harder”. After nearly 40 years, we finally are in sync on times. There’s still hope for guys. ❤
Eriks dad is the Hank Green of this podcast. This needs to be a segment. What doesn’t he know….
That’s the name of the segment right there too “what doesn’t he know”! 😂
Hi Colleen and Erik!!!
Can you guys pleaseee consider doing a live podcast one day?? I think it would be so fun to be able to see send both live questions so you can answer… just a thought, lots of love 🤗🩵🩵🩵
I'm so glad the close-up cameras stopped working. I love seeing both of your faces/reactions at the same time.
I agree, I've really missed this!
As a stoner and definitely not a therapist maybe Erik SHOULD give cbd a try! It's one of the very few things that has helped my anxiety and depression
Agreed
I have a feeling he’s tried cbd AND thc before lol
So cool to hear Erik’s dad on the podcast! Really enjoyed hearing about the science of breathing when it comes to Cetaceans. It would be such a blast to see y’all with both your parents together on the podcast sometime!
I am having a rough day. Been crying all day. My bf was cheating on me for months, I just found out and he broke up with me last night. 😢😢 I definitely needed this video to distract me this is the first thing that I have watched all day.
It’s going to be ok Hayley, I promise. You’re worthy of unconditional and faithful love and respect. I’m 59 years old and just recently my 25 year marriage ended because of cheating . The wonderful thing about being strong women like we are , is that we have this amazing ability to reinvent ourselves and live our best lives. So just know you are not alone , I’m right here with you , and if you need to chat , I will lend an ear. Sending you love and hugs ❤
Please make sure Erik's dad knows we love him! He should be on jeopardy! Also, do either a full podcast or a recurring segment where we ask questions and he answers them off the cuff!
Colleen, you absolutely need a massive chair that swallows you like Erik’s does because seeing the camera pan to Erik in his chair and then to you is so funny lol. I know you’re looking for the perfect one, but the camera going back and forth just makes his chair look so much bigger 😂
Yes! If she had a similar chair ..I wld feel more comfortable 😂!!
Colleen, you just need to be comfortable. I don’t care what your chair looks like. Hope you find something you love 💕
I’ve always been into science and Mr. Stocklin just re-awakened the passion I have for it. I swear this made my whole day to hear what he knows about whales. I am so here for it
Don’t usually comment but I just want to say that it is so very nice to have you two back ! Thank you 💗
As someone who moved away from my country/family to be with my wonderful amazing husband, you two brought a lot of comfort to me in a way I can’t put into words. It brings me to tears just thinking about it and I am so thankful for this podcast 💗
Erik’s dad is beyond fascinating to me! I could listen to him talk about the things he knows for hours! The things he knows and the stories of how he came to know all of those things is so interesting! He said “my first masters degree”…. Implying he has more than one…. That is soooo impressive! Yet, with all of this, he still seems so down to earth and sweet-hearted! I can totally see how Erik came to be the man he is, wonderful, kind, gentle yet strong, and so insightful! Love you both!!!!
Sleep is difficult for me too. I have learned to put my brain in a playpen so to speak. At bedtime I turn on an audio book or sitcom series with no laugh track, like The Office, that I have heard many times. My brain can focus on that while it’s not interesting enough to hold my attention and keep me awake
I like the "playpen" concept!
For anyone that suffers insomnia: Magnesium Glycinate before bedtime, good protein dinner with big lettuce salad (calms the nerves), no tomatoes/paprika/anything that has vitamin c after 4pm, regular metal breaks/relaxation during the day, lots of fresh air/exercise before 12pm
I myself am not a big football fan, but i have throughly enjoyed hearing both Colleen and Eric’s passionate Lions conversations
“Questions for Eriks dad” needs to be a segment on this podcast!
I can't express enough how happy I am that colleen is back. For the first time ever can my brain be expressed. Finally someone SOO like me. ❤
Hey Erik! I had sleep issues for many years. Although what your therapist suggested is ideal, I’m in the same boat - that’s my wind down time and I haven’t been able to go cold turkey on screens either. For me, the happy medium was - for the last hour or so before bed- having lights more dimmed (this is huge for your body’s natural melatonin production), doing a basic bedtime routine (washing face, etc.), having my phone & computer settings change to reduce or eliminate blue light after sundown (these are easy settings changes), diffusing or putting drops of lavender (or other relaxing) essential oil on, etc…. Then when I do watch some TV before bed, I always 1) wear blue light blocker glasses and 2) only watch shows that are relaxing, not stimulating at all. And if it’s really time to fall asleep and I’m not asleep yet, I’ll put some a show I find comforting but very light or even boring & predictable. Or even older shows that I enjoy- like Frasier, Gilmore Girls, etc.- are very calming for me and I just watch until I can’t stay awake any more, then turn off the TV and go to sleep. I tried pharma sleep meds for years (I do not recommend them at ALL), as well as melatonin, and they didn’t solve the problem. For me, falling asleep to a relaxing show- with blue light blocker glasses on- is what did it for me. It relaxes my mind and gives me something to focus on that doesn’t feed anxious thoughts.
Another couple of things that have worked for me in the past- laying in the dark listening to a relaxing & boring podcast (hey, Relax! 😉), like Garrison Keillor’ A Prairie Home Companion- I never made it all the way through any of those episodes without falling asleep. I also used CDs (which I burned to MP3 back in the day) called “Deep Sleep With Medical Self Hypnosis.” Those were also super helpful when I had the hardest time falling asleep and I highly recommend. In my case, those would not actually put me into a deep sleep, but would get me into a light sleep, so that - when it changed tracks, I would come out of the light sleep enough to turn off my iPod at the time, and then go right back to sleep and then fall into a deep sleep shortly after that.
Those are some things that worked for me after struggling with years of insomnia. Nowadays, it’s the sleep deprivation of being a mom of young kids 😆 combined with winding down to relaxing TV shows with blue light blockers that does the trick for me. I’m sorry you’re struggling with that - it’s the worst! I hope you find something that works for you really soon.
Erik's dad is wonderful. What a kind, understanding, interesting person. ❤
Awe!!! The Hartford Whalers moved to North Carolina (Carolina Hurricanes). Last week they wore the Whalers jersey during a game to pay tribute to their Hartford roots. I was so excited when you said something about the Whalers because I just learned all this last week. Go Hurricanes! (I’m from NC)
Awe I love Erik's dad. I lost my dad 11 years ago and it was nice to hear that conversation. Made me miss mine. He always had the answers too.
Erik’s dad sounded awesome. You are both so lucky to have such an incredible family around you. Love you guys 💕💕
If part of a screen free bedtime routine sounds like it might work but 1-2 hours (wow) is too much, start with 5 mins and build on it each night until it is a timeframe you are happy with and still get the results you are looking for. Habit stacking has been a great tool for me when I need to start something new.
I love this
We definitely need a fact of the week from dad. It was fun learning something new. I am so glad the podcast is back. You got me through lock down and I missed you.
I was born, raised, and am currently raising my family in Metro Detroit. Needless to say, I've had my fair share of Lions related heartbreak. Everyone was so excited to root for them. Businesses had special promotions and signs were up all over cheering for them.
I just wanted this so badly for my home state. Erik described being a Lions fan perfectly. The loyalty and hopefulness followed by the inevitable disappointment.
Also, I'm pregnant with my second child and was VERY emotional after the loss...almost to an embarrassing extent 😆
We're all happy they made it so far and cannot wait for the next season!
WHAAAATT ?? erik's Dad is a literal GENIUS!! and he's so sweet TOO ? Omg love this man ❤
Colleen's facial expressions when Erik's dad talks about whales 😂
Just to be clear… you guys got me back into football after 10+ years being over it. Love you guys!
I am just in the beginning of the podcast, and you and Erik are talking about silence. I also do not like silence, and your video/podcast is what fills my silence, so thank you 😊
Thank you for reading my comment on the podcast today. I love how Colleen found beauty at the beach that is so wonderful. I can see how you both love each other so much, and it's life goals!
I have never been able to fall alseep easily. One of the things that I have found that has helped me best is watching Turner Classic Movies or a movie that you have seen so many times that you love. It allows me to turn off my brain as I watch an old movie that brings me comfort and I do not have to stay awake because I have watched it so much. It is crazy how it allows me to stop thinking because I know what is coming. So my brain is distracted and my body relaxes and I natrually fall asleep. Also, I am now 53 and old and am on pain med and muscle relaxers because I have 5 herniated discs. That could be the reason I sleep now. hahaha Best wishes sleeping y'all.
Erik is so amazing! What a man! He is such an emotional intelligent human. With such a good heart...so patient n just all around a good human.
You got really blessed Colleen with this man.
Plus SUPER SUPER HANDSOME 😊
Thank you for sharing so much of your life. There are many things in regards to our mental health issues that we share. I think the word that you were looking for at the beginning of this video is “closure.” I totally understand what it’s like to need to talk things out loud and get it all completely settled. My nearly 25 years old daughter likes to tell me that I need to feel like I’m in control and I don’t disagree with her. I just want everything to go smoothly and for there not to be anybody upset or frustrated in anyway. I cannot do negative today. Positive vibes! Positive vibes! Positive vibes!💛 from Michigan
Wait, Erik’s dad learnt Maths via the respiratory system of whales?!
As someone who also did not care or know anything about football whatsoever before meeting my now-husband, sharing in his love of football and other sports has been such a fun and exciting bonding experience and, even when we lose, seeing games in person are such a great time
Imagine how much my heart is exploding already having been a Travis fan and separately a Swiftie. They are both giants in their own worlds. Travis is such a gentleman that Taylor deserves and it’s beautiful to witness. ❤
Oh my god, please please please do more segments with Mr. Stocklin I LOVE THIS
I want to comment on the sports talk bc I was NEVER a sports girly either, just like Colleen. I thought it was silly to be so passionate about sports bc it’s just grown men fighting or hitting each other. But then I met my husband lol, he is obsessed with sports and says it’s his biggest earthly passion. So we started going to games together of his favorite teams (none of them local to where we’re from, like Erik) and it became some of the BEST memories. I have fallen in love with so many sports like football and baseball! And guess what… we even chose to move 4.5 hours away from our families to settle down in Cincinnati, where our favorite baseball and football team are. We love it here even though it’s very different from where we grew up. Sports are really amazing! ❤
OMG I absolutely love Erik’s Dad. Your kids so take after him!!!! Please have him back for his own special segment. ❤❤❤❤
Erik’s episode was really good. And the ones with Christopher and Rachel were very good too. We all love you Erik 😊
We need a weekly segment with Erik’s dad. 100%
Oh my gosh I wish I could meet Erik's dad. He seems like the sweetest and coolest person ever. I legit teared up at the end of your conversation with him.
I absolutely LOVE Eric's dad!!!! We need a science segment with him on the regular!!!!!! 🙏
Actual therapist here!! Please remember that no one thing works for everyone. You need to find a combination of things that works best for you and your schedule/life. There are lots of little things that therapists will often recommend (cut down caffeine, take a shower before bed, go for a walk/exercise, turn off screens, read, etc.)…some of these may work for you and some may not. But I’d be way more interested in understanding your WHY. Sometimes people who have no down time to decompress throughout the day (especially those with little ones) do a lot of scrolling on their phones at night because there is no other time to do it. It’s important to fill up your own cup in a healthy way for you to be able to decompress. If not that, is there anxiety that is surfacing at night? If so, that should be addressed at the root. Or, maybe it’s just a physical issue…are there any vitamin deficiencies? Does your body release enough melatonin and at the right time? Maybe screens are ok but the blue light is a problem and glasses to block it will help.
It’s also a huge ask to go from screen time right before bed to cutting it for two whole hours before bed!! That goal sounds nearly impossible. Maybe a shorter amount of time (even 10-15 minutes) to start would be easier and then could be built upon over time.
Ultimately it may take some time to figure out the root issue underneath what’s going on and in turn, the best way for you to address it to meet your specific needs. I hope that as you continue to work with your therapist you can find something that works for YOU! Don’t be afraid to tell your therapist if something is not working for you. They will adapt their approach to meet your needs, but they won’t know what works/doesn’t work if you don’t communicate that with them. Give it time and give yourself grace as this is not an easy fix. Best of luck!! :)
This was one of my favorite episodes. Loved Grandpa Yoda on the pod. He is soo interesting. I loved the therapy talk, loved learning more about Erik. Love you both. ❤
My husband has ADHD, and he has the same issue with time but HIS is past tense time. He can talk about his day and talk about this day a month later like it just happened. It’s crazy.
This was such a beautiful episode, I feel like I have a new outlook on so many things after this
Love this podcast and I love you both. Keep going! ❤
Erik sitting there looking proud like yup thats my dad 🤣
Whalers moved to NC and are now the Hurricanes! Lots of people wear vintage Whalers gear and even have some nights themed to only Whalers gear
Soooo glad you called Erik’s Dad!!
I love Erik's story about how he became a Lion's fan. From what I know about him as a person, it makes sense he would want to root for the underdog. I relate to Erik on many things and I alwaaaaays root for the underdog no matter what I'm watching. My mom was a Lion's fan growing up so I know the pain of watching their games😂
regarding how Erik became a lions fan - i myself am a "lions Fan" and reason i put it in quotations is because the reason behind becoming a fan - i liked the logo lol back story - my sister and my husband are big sports fans (the are in multiple fantasy leagues) and one night during COVID they were testing my team logo knowledge with NHL teams which i did pretty good know. she then switched to NFL teams and i had zeeerrroooo idea of which was which (very similar to colleen knowing nothing about sport prior to this) so in that moment we decided i should pick a team and again my thought process was "which logo do i like??" and i picked Detroit and now its an ongoing joke to this day! after the last game there when they lost, my sister immediately message me and said "sorry about your lions". my plan this year is to secretly learn how football works and really keep up with them 😊😊hoping itll through my sister off but also make her laugh and we can bond ❤❤ ps: so glad you are back colleen (you too erik) - i really missed you!!!
Omg I want him to be a part of every podcast!!! I love you guys but man I could listen to him speak about anything and everything!! That’s awesome 🤩
I’m from MA and this is true. But I also had 2 brothers and a dad who loved sports and as the only girl I think my dad really encouraged this from me. Pick a team and root for them. So I say this as a 29 yr old wearing a packers sweater as I watch this. I just loved Bret Favre and never left the team.
I’m in nursing school!! & an idea for sleeping better with natural supplements is chamomile tea, magnesium supplements, melatonin although that can cause tolerance. Screens cause people to stay awake because of the blue light, turn on the night shift on your phone so that it is set to a timer and turns on automatically every night. All should help too!
So, I also struggled to sleep until I developed a pre-sleep routine. The bedtime routine is very helpful for training your brain to sleep. I have 7 specific tasks that I do just before bed. When those are done, I hop into bed, read for 20 to 30 minutes, and then I NEED to sleep. Even my dog responds to this concept. The key is to do the routine JUST before you get into bed.
To be completely honest I must say I enjoyed this episode a lot more without the closeup cameras! It felt like the good old Relax again ❤
I could listen to Eric's dad ALLL day
Shout out to Erik's dad and his special interests.
Technology bedtime has been a staple in our home since my now adult children were small. TV, phones, iPads, etc all powered down 2 hrs before bed. Now as a retired 59 yr old- I still follow this. My exception is that I I allow myself music and on certain occasions, I listen to books on Audible. Just no “looking” at the screen (I turn the screen down on the table/ bed etc. I also do a long bath/ shower time, a relaxing skincare session, a great snack / glass of wine, sometimes I look through old photo albums, diaries etc also. There are times I bake a snack, take an evening walk, or just spent time playing with my dog. Give yourself time to find alternatives to screens.. they are available, we just are so used to them that our brains have forgotten what to do without them!
We need more of Erik’s dad!!!! I feel so much smarter after listening to him 🤓
I have ADHD and anxiety and what has helped me quiet my brain at nights is actually Magnesium and Melatonin. It took a good 3 weeks for it to start working but now I swear by it.
Erik - I too struggle with sleep and stay up way too late after my kid for alone time (even when I feel exhausted all day).
Some things that help me (when I remember): cut back alcohol, try taking a Magnesium glycinate supplement in the evening. I’ve also found CBD isolate oils, specifically with CBN as well, taken about 4 hours before I want to be asleep knocks me out. Zaturals is a reputable brand for the CBD oils.
I am not a sports fan, but in college I studied international studies and one of the most interesting topics I had was how soccer played a role in bringing South Africa back together after the apartheid ended. After yours and Erik's comments about being besties with other Lions fans, I think you'd both find that bit of history fascinating. Sports definitely play a role in communities but also international politics.
As a theater girlie, I grew up with a single mom who only put football, sports, or news on our tv.... she is still obsessed. Our only connection media wise was Christmas... and musicals .... white christmas forever ❤ learning the rules is hard. Basketball too... I still can't stand baseball.. .. but ill say being there in person is all the fun! 50:50
Colleen I NEED you to see this comment. Merch of a vertical narwhal underwater that says “Whales Sleep Like Moms” with half the brain asleep and half the brain awake NEEDS to be a thing. I’d buy it. That is all. 🐳💙
Colleen’s face when Erik’s dad was explaining whales sleeping vertically was my exact reaction! WHAT THE HECK! He really is a genius
I’m like Eric I need to have tv or my phone to relax my brain. If I don’t have that to focus on thoughts circle. Ideally something I have seen so I can listen and no watch but it keeps my brain busy and distracted. Definitely do what works for you.
I believe the fans have spoken!!! Mr.Stocklin must be part of the podcast ask Granpa
Stocklin is a must he is fantastic
Processing out loud is an extrovert thing so Colleen is just extroverted whereas Erik is introverted
Erik the only thing that help me fall asleep most of the time are sleep podcasts. Like where they tell story’s while saying like breath deeply and relax your jaw and then make you feel like your in Mexico or something. Not always but usually when I try hard I can focus on that and fall asleep. A lot of times I need multiple through the night but hey at least it helps sometimes!
Haha 😅 just watching lucifer and season 4 episode 6 just seen Erik in a pool. I didn’t know he was in lucifer. ❤ couldn’t believe my eyes. So talented and both beautiful humans.
Agree with Erik! I loOove comfortable silence. I hated to talk on the phone because it felt forced until I met someone else who didn’t mind comfortable silence 😂 I also work at a small flower shop where I’m the main florist, I never have the radio on. Occasionally podcasts when a new ep is out. And I also need noise to fall asleep. I have a playlist of light music.
NGL. Eric explaining how he became a Lions fan is the saddest thing I’ve ever heard. I need Prozac. Love you Eric.
Colleen!! I was so excited for you and Erik to play that “What would I be game” and you didn’t 💔😢
I have literally been playing it at family gatherings and people learnt that people can get offended by telling them what item you think they are 😳
I’m so good at it though!!
Please, I need you both to play more games like that. 💜
💯 I have to externalize my thoughts to process them. In addition to the KNOWN benefits of writing things down helping with learning, remembering, and processing; for some people verbalizing is the same or an additional way to process information. I am constantly talking to myself, using my own name, to redirect my brain to the moment and what I’m trying to focus on. Also, often my brain is too full and verbalizing my thoughts frees up brain space and is essentially a release valve for my mind. ❤
I think Erik’s dad should have a spot in the podcast every week so we can hear him educate us all.
Also I’m a falcons fan and we went to the Super Bowl one year and was winning until after the halftime
And we got beat so I understand the feeling Erik feels. It sucks! The lions played amazing and I was going for them just for Erik. Now the question is who is Erik rooting for in the Super Bowl?
Loved this podcast especially learning about whales!!! I want to say 2 things that need to relax are swollen feet (I'm not pregnant, i just work long hours standing up... p.s. sorry pregnant women, swollen feet are the worst! 2nd relax is DOORS! When i get home late after work and try to be quiet doors are my worst enemy; front door creaks, fridge door is loud, and my pet gate clicking shut even scares me when i know its about to happen. Fr doors need to calm down!!!
Ok so Erik! I’m not psychologist, but my armchair psychologist’s take is to add healthy habits to your routine rather than take things away. Keep watching your favorite show before bed… AND journal every night, or read every night, or meditate, or some other de-stressing, low stimulation activity. Best of luck to you!
the single camera showing you both is better!! i will never shut up about itttt
3:32 I stopped listening and was immediately looking out the window like “who’s that… what are they doing…”
Great memories you'll always remember.
I’m late to the party but what’s helped me SLEEP is taking Magnesium and Vitamin D supplements together every evening around 7pm. Hope this helps! (I’m not a doctor or therapist, just someone who also suffers from ADHD & anxiety at night).
Love you both! love the podcast...but we neeeeed daily facts with Eriks dad! He sounds like such a great guy! ❤
Colleen I’m so like you! My thoughts go from thing to thing and I want to learn about it all! You’re so funny wondering about going on and on and bothering Erik- oh that is so me! Bless you, we’re just happy thinkers who want answers to what we wonder about! Great learning experience! I’m headed to cruise ship tiktok!❤
Erik- try a sleep cast! My partner has always had trouble sleeping and this has been a game changer for her!!! She uses the one of headspace ! ❤
I think i remember colleen saying you snore/stop breathing in your sleep too. If so, go for a sleep study! It could be contributing
If you don't already try sleeping with a loud fan/white noise, helps drown out the thoughts to allow sleep too
I also learn by asking questions. Ppl think I'm nuts, but I genuinely have these questions because I want to know!!