This week on The Walk-In Club Podcast, we get real about what it means to not be okay—and how that can be... well, okay. From the push-pull of needing solutions to the deeply human mess of just sitting with hard feelings, we explore the not-so-linear path of emotional growth. We go around the table checking-in while we begin recording for the first time from The Combine in Oakland, hosted by the incredible Alex Hooper - even squeeze in a few pushups (obviously), and had some play time. The heart of this episode? A vulnerable, unscripted conversation about mental health, discomfort, and how we don’t have to have it all figured out to keep showing up between friends sharing their personal experiences and thoughts, and by no mean are experts. We talk therapy, community, the trap of always seeking solutions, and how important it is to feel safe being seen, and when to seek a professional for help. Also: 6 cartwheels, a pigeon drinking from a dog bowl, carsickness (for friendship!), and the big question—what do we call The Walk-In community?
We recorded our very first Monday Pod outside the usual studio— from The Combine in downtown Oakland (huge thanks to Alex Hooper!). Ashley checks in after a week of choosing softness and staying close to her “why,” Alex returns from a fun show at Red Rocks, and Nick shares a weekend that didn’t go to plan—but still landed as a win.
From there, we get into what it means to not be okay, and how hard it is to sit in the in-between without rushing to fix it. We get real about discomfort, friendship, therapy, and the small moments that help us move through heaviness.
From there, we dive into:
We wrap with six cartwheels (Petaluma, we see you!), a creative challenge featuring a very specific pigeon, and big gratitude to The Combine for hosting our first remote Monday pod.
Friendly disclaimer: We’re not professionals—just friends having honest conversations, sharing our personal experiences in hopes of opening up space for others. If you're struggling or need someone to talk to, we strongly encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional and please know, you’re not alone.