EBBS & FLOWS with Erin

What Are You Watching? & Why It Matters: How Reality TV, Podcasts & Fictional Stories Heal Us

Erin Episode 54

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0:00 | 41:48

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In this episode, I’m talking about why reality TV, podcasts, fictional TV shows, movies, and even books can all be healing in their own way. We’ll explore why reality TV can feel so comforting when we’re overwhelmed, why podcasts often feel like safe companionship, and why fictional storytelling can feel either deeply nourishing or completely inaccessible depending on where we’re at.

I share my own journey of moving through years of reality TV and podcasts, then slowly finding my way back to fictional stories - and what that shift reflected about my healing, emotional capacity, and nervous system regulation. 

This is a conversation about:

  • Why comfort shows aren’t “mindless”
  • How storytelling supports us in different seasons
  • Why starting a new show or movie can feel overwhelming
  • Letting go of judgment around what you consume
  • Trusting that what you’re reaching for is meeting a real need

There’s no hierarchy here. No good or bad. Just information, awareness, and a reminder that whatever you’re watching or listening to right now is allowed.

Connect with Erin!
Follow on Instagram:@ebbsandflows222
Send me an Email: erinebbsandflows@gmail.com
Book a Reiki Session With Me!

Products:
I Published a Dream Journal! Available on Amazon 

Key Takeaways
The media we consume reflects the state of our nervous system
Reality TV offers low emotional risk and familiarity.
Podcasts provide a sense of companionship and comfort.
Fictional storytelling allows for deep emotional immersion.
Escapism can be a healthy way to process emotions.
New stories require emotional availability and can be overwhelming.
We have privileged access to diverse storytelling today.
Connecting over shared media experiences can foster healing.
There is no right or wrong in media consumption

Chapters
00:00 My Evolution of Media Consumption
07:35 Reality TV: Comfort and Reflection
15:14 The Healing Power of Podcasts
21:33 Fictional Storytelling: Emotional Immersion
31:03 Navigating New Shows and Movies
35:54 The Importance of Escapism and Balance