The Harder to Breathe Podcast16 Dec 2025

Holiday Special: Aging, Family Triggers, & Finding Gratitude in the Chaos | Harder to Breathe

Feeling like the magic of the holidays is slipping away? Or maybe you're just growing up?

In our Season 2 finale, Ryan Dusick and co-host Brian "Duck" Maillard sit down for a candid, heartfelt reflection on another year gone by. From the bittersweet reality of aging parents to navigating family triggers during the holidays, this episode is all about finding grace in life's imperfections.

🎙️ In this episode, we dive into:

The "Grinch" Factor: Why the holidays can be triggering and how to navigate family expectations without losing your mind.
Aging with Perspective: How growing older shifts our definition of success—from chasing achievements to valuing connection and showing up.
The Power of Sentimental Gifts: Ryan shares a tear-jerking story about a baseball card from his dad that proves the best gifts have nothing to do with money.
Season 3 Teaser: Reflections on the growth of the podcast and what's ahead for the new year.

Whether you're dreading family dinner or savoring every moment, this episode is a reminder: holidays don't have to be perfect to be meaningful.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro
03:40 - The Reality of Aging: Shifts in career outlook and personal perspective
08:15 - Alanis Morissette & Artistic Growth: Lessons in evolving beyond accolades
16:40 - Redefining Success: Being the "glue guy" and a reliable friend
41:15 - Holiday Triggers & Family Dynamics: Balancing traditions, guilt, and peace
46:30 - Mother's Day Missteps: Creating meaningful family moments
1:07:45 - The Sandy Koufax Card: A story of reconnection and love

🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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#HarderToBreathe #Podcast #HolidaySpecial #MentalHealth #Aging #FamilyDynamics #Gratitude #SeasonFinale #Maroon5 #RyanDusick #HolidayStress

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