Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald - Finding Joy in Hard Times

Have you ever felt guilty for experiencing joy when life feels heavy? In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk Love, Robin sits down with trauma researcher, author, and coach Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald—affectionately known as MC—to explore how joy and grief can coexist, and why embracing joy in hard times isn’t just possible, but essential. Drawing from her transformative new book The Joy Reset, MC unpacks the neuroscience of joy, the impact of shame and emotional numbing, and the daily practices that can help us reconnect with wonder, reverence, and awe. Together, they explore how kindness supports collective healing, why choosing joy is an act of courage, and how we can retrain our brains to make joy and hope our default state. Whether you’re moving through grief, trauma, or simply navigating a difficult season, this conversation is a deeply human reminder that joy isn’t a distraction from pain—it’s a vital part of healing. In a world that often feels overwhelming, learning to hold space for both sorrow and joy is more important than ever. We want to hear from you! Have a relationship question you’d love expert insight on? Submit your (anonymous) question for a chance to have it answered on our Let’s Talk Love Podcast or during our weekly Ask the Experts Q&A on Instagram Live. 👉 Submit your question here Your question could help others too—let’s grow and learn together. Links: The Joy Reset: https://a.co/d/fFWVlnA Website: https://alchemycoaching.life/ FOLLOW DR. MC MCDONALD: INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK FOLLOW RLR: INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK