How to Host Holiday Gatherings Without the Stress

If hosting the holidays leaves you overwhelmed, exhausted, or feeling like you’re “performing” instead of connecting, this episode will change everything.

In Episode 17, Susan shares the emotional roots behind holiday stress and perfectionism — and how one non-traditional Thanksgiving completely transformed the way she hosts. You’ll learn how childhood patterns, emotional caretaking, and the pressure to “make it special” shape our gatherings… and the simple mindset shift that helps you finally relax and enjoy them.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, a holiday dinner, or a simple family meal, this conversation blends storytelling, reflection, and practical tools to help you create gatherings that feel meaningful — not stressful.

If you want a calmer holiday season filled with connection instead of burnout, this is your episode.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How to host Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings without stress
• Why perfectionism shows up around hosting (and how to loosen its grip)
• The emotional roots of over-preparing and over-performing
• How to create meaningful connection without the pressure
• A simple mindset shift that makes hosting easier and more enjoyable
• How to stop doing everything yourself and let people contribute
• Why “good enough” gatherings actually bring people closer
• How to trust that you don’t have to earn love through effort

✨ Featured in This Episode

📘 Book Mentioned

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

💛 Julia Winter & Jewel Ya

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💛 A Moment to Reflect

Ask yourself:
“Where could I let go… just one inch?”
One inch less pressure.
One inch less control.
One inch more presence.

Small shifts create memorable holidays.