Shows
Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsReconnecting with FriendsHave you lost contact with a friend and you want to reconnect? If so, this episode is for you! Alysa discusses why reconnecting is a good idea, what keeps us from reconnecting, and what to do to reconnect. Check it out! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson Sources https://www.bustle.com/wellness/ways-to-reconnect-with-a-friend-you-lost-touch-with 2023-07-1421 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsStranger Things Season One Pt. 1In the first episode back from hiatus, Alysa dives into one of her favorite TV shows, Stranger Things, to discuss all things friendship. Her friend, Maya, joins her to analyze and chat about the “Core Four” friendship of Dustin, Lucas, Mike, and Will and what it’s like when El joins the group when Will goes missing. There’s so much to discuss that this is Part One with another episode coming out about the other friendships! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = ...2023-06-1652 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriends Do Cool Things - Read TarotOur friends do really cool things so why not learn about all these cool things? In a new series of episodes, Alysa interviews those friends doing the coolest of things. In the first episode, Alysa’s friend and fellow podcaster, Amy, joins her to talk about reading Tarot. Follow Amy on Instagram! www.instragram.com/thestarlingcreative Check out Amy’s web page! Starling Art Studios Check out Amy’s podcast! Starling on Apple Podcasts Tarot 101 Book Amy Recommends! Tarot 101: Mastering the Art of Reading...2022-09-091h 02Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSinglehood with Dr. Alex FisherAlysa has been waiting for years to have this very important conversation and it happens in this episode! She welcomes social psychologist, Dr. Alex Fisher, to the podcast to discuss her research on singlehood and friendship. So come single folks and attached folks…everyone could learn more about the diversity of singlehood! Check out Dr. Fisher’s web page! Alexandra N. Fisher, Ph.D. (alexnfisher.com) Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art...2022-09-0749 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPocket FriendsMany of us have friends right there in our pockets! That’s right, we connect with people via social media, like Twitter, and have all sorts of friends on our phones. Alysa’s pocket friend, Dr. Liz Faber, joins the podcast to chat about the meaning, the joy, the fun (and sometimes the blocks) of having friends in our back pockets. Follow Liz Faber on Twitter! https://twitter.com/LizWFab?s=20&t=WqcQDym6rJabMAmd2FQZUw Follow Liz Faber on Instagram! What Professors Wear (@whatprofessorswear) • Instagram photos and videos Share Your F...2022-07-2943 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHarry Potter & the Order of the PhoenixIn book five of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix, things are getting serious - the danger, the control, and the angst. In this episode, Alysa’s friend, Haley, joins her to talk about how the friendships are changing as the Wizard World is also changing. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson ...2022-05-211h 05Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsChosenAt a certain point in our lives, we begin to choose our friends. Sometimes it’s an easy choice, and sometimes we may wish we had more options. And, when we’re lucky, we choose our friends who are our family. In this episode, Alysa explores friendships and the idea of choice. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Special Promo Art Work for this Episo...2022-04-2938 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSecrets Pt. 1Friends and secrets go together like peanut butter and jelly. In this part one episode, Alysa talks about what secrets are, the types of secrets we experience, and how secrets can help and hurt our friendships. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Complete the Secrets Survey Here! https://forms.gle/AD6hLDNm7mcXrx2u9 Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Special Promo Art Work for this...2022-04-2235 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBattle of the Besties - The Parent TrapBattling friends can be fun and help friends bond so out of this born a new series of epsiodes called, Battle of the Besties: Where our Bests have the Worsties! Yes, it’s time to go head-to-head on our hout takes. In this first episode, my friend, Meredith, joins me to talk about The Parent Trap movies. Alysa thinks the version 1961 is superior while Meredith has full support behind 1998. So, who wins? Have a listen! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/fr...2022-04-1542 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHarry Potter & the Goblet of FireElaborate plans to bring Voldemort back and to end Harry Potter take hold in the fourth book in the series, Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire! Podcast favorite friend, Claire, returns to talk to Alysa about how the golden friendship of Harry, Hermoine, and Ron is not so sunshine-y, but that friends and connections will be critical to fight Lord Voldemort when he returns to his full power! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate...2022-03-181h 24Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFerris Bueller's Day OffHave you ever wanted to skip school and have the best day ever with your best friend? Of course, and that’s what John Hughes captures so well in the 1986 movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Alysa’s friend, Rachel, from Rachel’s Reviews and Hallmarkies Podcast joins her to talk about the friendship among Ferris and Cameron, why they took the day off, and so much more. Life moves pretty fast so be sure to check out this episode! Follow Hallmarkies Podcast = www.twitter.com/HallmarkiesPod Follow Rachel’s Review = www.twitter.com/rachel_reviews2022-03-111h 05Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendishIs your hair stylist your friend? No? But do you enjoy chatting with them and look forward to those interactions? Yes? You might not be friends, but friendish. In fact, we need these casual ties with others because there are high rewards for us and our well-being. In this episode, Alysa will talk about this concept of “weak-tie” relationships coined by Mark Granovetter in 1973 and what it means for us today, especially during a pandemic. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/frien...2022-03-0436 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHarry Potter & the Prisoner of AzkabanIn the third installment of episodes analyzing Harry Potter books through a friendship, new Harry Potter fan and friend, Rachel, talks with Alysa about the third book, Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban. With this book, some of the friendship examples are similar to the first two books and some are different, with a need to talk about conflict, secrets, mischief, and pranks! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Follow Rachel and Knight Bus Lost & Found...2021-12-101h 33Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAlysa Watches TV - Teen Witch (1989)Happy Halloween! Alysa drops a bonus episode, Alysa Watches TV, usually only available for patrons. Alysa talks about the movie Teen Witch (1989) with her friend, Sarah, and this may be the deepest dive on this cult movie ever. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Special Promo Art Work for this Episode by Kate Cosgrove Theme Music by Trevor Wilson Sources2021-10-311h 22Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsGhosting 2.0Two years ago for Halloween, Alysa covered ghosting in friendships and it certainly feels like the hauntings of relationships, when we just want closure, may be even worse now as continue to experience a global pandemic. So, gather around the campfire yet again to hear a spooky tale about ghosting. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Special Promo Art Work for this Episode by K...2021-10-2931 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPut on Your FaceHalloween season got Alysa thinking about all we do to dress up for the big day – elaborate outfits, make-up, and masks. And wouldn’t you know we wear masks on days that don’t have to do with ghosts and goblins! In this episode, Alysa discusses the “face” work of Erving Goffman, which helps us understand how we present our public self with “face,” wear “masks” to hide some aspects of ourselves, and how friends can help support our “face.” Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Aly...2021-10-2240 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsOld Friend, New TricksBest Forevers Podcast has reached 150 episodes and, to celebrate, Alysa talks about the four lessons she’s learned about friendship since starting a podcast about friendships. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson 2021-10-0832 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHarry Potter & the Chamber of SecretsHow important is friendship to Harry Potter when he’s told not to go back to Hogwarts because of the danger ahead? Critical. Alysa’s friend, Crystal, joins her to talk about the book, Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets, through the lens of friendship. In this epsiode, they discuss whether or not Harry still has friends and enemies, how the fame continues to impact Harry’s life, the role of animals and creatures as friends, and the true start to mentorship with Dumbledore. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com L...2021-10-041h 25Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsI'm a Bad FriendSometimes we feel like a bad friend and, in this episode, Alysa explores five valid and common reasons one might have this experience. And, then she provides ways to kick that feeling. Please share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #FeltLikeaBadFriend or email her with experiences at friendswithalysa@gmail.com. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson ...2021-09-2436 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship Breakups Pt. 3In the third episode of this multi-episode series on friendship break ups, Alysa talks about how to do the “break up,” whether it’s ghosting, changing the relationship, or having the difficult conversation about ending the relationship. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson Sources “Understanding Aversiveness: The Journey of Friendship” Lauren’s Dark Side paper https...2021-08-1346 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHarry Potter & the Sorcerer's StoneFriendship is magical, right? Well, in the world of Harry Potter it is! Join Alysa and her dear and Harry Potter nerdy friend, Alisun, to discuss the first book in the series, Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone! In this epsiode, they discuss how being an orphan and a celebrity impacts Harry’s ability to make friends, how he meets friends, Ron and Hermoine, and how he meets his enemy, Draco. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Ar...2021-07-301h 19Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship Breakups Pt. 2In the second episode of this multi-episode series on friendship break ups, Alysa explores the reasons why we may call it quits on a friendship. Specifically, she talks about three assessments we can do for ourselves, our friendship, and dealbreakers to help us make decisions about ending a friendship. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson Sources “...2021-07-2335 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsCruel SummerFreeform’s popular TV show, Cruel Summer, demonstrates what happens when friendships change, when friends betray you, when one is desperate for a certain friendship, and what happens when just a little friendship is all one needs during dark times. Alysa’s friend, Amanda, stops by the podcast to talk about the twists and turns of friendship of the characters, Jeanette Turner and Kate Wallis. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http...2021-06-251h 15Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship Break Ups Pt. 1Friendship break ups are not widely acknowledged or talked about but are often much more painful than romantic break ups. Understanding the process of a friendship break up is important in being able to lead a happy and healthy life with supportive friends by your side. In the first episode of this multi-episode series, Alysa takes a deep dive into romantic relationship development and how it applies to friendship. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Friendship...2021-05-2859 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriends FirstAfter being inspired by an article in The Atlantic, Alysa explores the idea of what life would be like if friends, instead of romantic relationships, were our focus. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = friendswithalysa@gmail.com Listen to & Follow Friends with Alysa = https://linktr.ee/friendswithalysa Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8cosgrove.blogspot.com Theme Music by Trevor Wilson Promo from this Episode! The Reference Desk Podcast = https://thereferencedeskpod.com Sources https://www.theatlantic.com/family/arc...2021-05-1449 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsLittle ThingsIn this episode, Alysa talks about little things she has done to stay connected with others. Alysa Watches TV = https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1L4j1RmaNgYh5-PAKzLkHa3FAy9MdJDk4-SPPXHhBBQs/edit?usp=sharing Hallmarkies Podcast = https://www.hallmarkiespodcast.com Episode on Parasocial Relationships = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/parasocial-relationships Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Ask Questions or Share Stories and Tips for future Understanding Loneliness episodes here = https://forms.gle/eoixgXDnE5jYKnav5 Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! ...2020-08-2827 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsMaking Friends Pt. 1Making friends can be hard so, in this episode, Alysa starts with the question, “Are you ready for friendship?” She talks about steps one can take to prepare to make friends. Related Episodes Can You Hear Me Now? (about listening) = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/can-you-hear-me-now Friendship Matters = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/friendship-matters Hello, My Name Is (about conversations) = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/hello-my-name-is Making Friends is Hard = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/making-friends-is-hard Self-Disclosure = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/self-disclosure Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! As...2020-08-0735 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsUnderstanding Loneliness Pt. 2In the second installment of understanding loneliness, Alysa explores the ways we can recognize our feelings of loneliness including a deeper dive into factors that we may need to consider like FOMO, social comparison, social insecurity, and more. Need Help? National Suicide Prevention Lifeline = https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org SAMHSA = https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline Episodes Discussed FOMO = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/fomo Hello, My Name Is (about conversations) = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/hello-my-name-is Social Comparison = https://bestforeverspod.libsyn.com/social-comparison Share Your Friendship S...2020-07-3141 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPsych Friends Forever! You Know That's Right!Alysa and her friend, Courtney, from the Spoop Hour podcast talk about their favorite friendship, Shawn and Gus, from the TV series, Psych. In this second of two episodes, they discuss the five reasons why the friendship has some problems, but, overall, why it works nonetheless. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instragram/bestforeverspod Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon...2020-07-2459 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsC'mon Son, It's Psych!Alysa and her friend, Courtney, from the Spoop Hour podcast talk about a favorite friendship, Shawn and Gus, from the TV series, Psych. In this first of two episodes, they talk about the show, some of their favorite moments, if we would be friends with Shawn and Gus, and the five reasons why they have an amazing friendship. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instragram/bestforeverspod Twitter = https...2020-07-181h 07Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsUnderstanding Loneliness Pt. 1In honor of Cheer Up the Lonely Day, Alysa begins the discussion of loneliness – what it is, evidence of it as an epidemic, and why we should care about understanding loneliness to help ourselves and others. Need Help? National Suicide Prevention Lifeline = https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org SAMHSA = https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Ask Questions or Share Stories and Tips for future Understanding Loneliness episodes here = https://forms.gle/eoixgXDnE5jYKnav5 Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod!...2020-07-1044 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred Spirits1st to DieIn this episode of the Best Forevers Book Club series, Alysa and Claire read the book, 1st to Die, from the series that got Alysa through college, the Women’s Murder Club by James Patterson. We discuss friendships in the workplace, the dangers of crossing boundaries, and the joy of women supporting women. Note: This episode focuses on friends who have jobs that help solve murders. Topics and language may be less appropriate for young children than usual. Book Club Book 1st to Die by James Patterson = https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13137.1st_to_Di...2020-07-031h 25Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsI'm Friends with a PerfectionistMany of us our perfectionists or we have friends who are perfectionists, but do we understand the impact perfectionism can have on our friendships? In this episode, Alysa explores what perfectionism is, what it might do to friendships, and what we can do to manage our perfectionist friends (or, coping with being the perfectionist friend). Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page = www.alysalucas.com Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Ins...2020-06-2654 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsWine FairiesYour doorbell rings. Are you answering the door or you wondering why someone would ring your doorbell? In this episode, Alysa covers the wine Facebook group, Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine, where women, known as wine fairies, drop wine on your door, ring the doorbell, and dash. Alysa interviews, Colette, who started the spin-off group and they discuss what the group is and how it’s helped build connection during the quarantine. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.co...2020-06-1237 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsCelebrating Friends in QuarantineWe’re experiencing unprecended times and even more it seems like we should celebrate as much as we can. In this episode, Alysa talks about the 10 ways we can make our friends special days even more special. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Fo...2020-05-2933 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFlaky FriendsWe’ve all canceled plans on friends and been the friend that canceled, but why do we flake on others? In this episode, Alysa explores the negative reputation of flakiness, why we may do it, and how we can handle it. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod...2020-05-2232 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBeastie BoysIt’s a “Dear Diary” moment for Alysa as she talks about her favorite music group of all time, Beastie Boys, and what we can learn about friendship from them. Beastie Boys Story https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCyqR2RXoQU Beastie Boys web page https://beastieboys.com Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/Bes...2020-05-0131 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsCan You Hear Me Now?One of the primary qualities we look for in friends is someone who is a good listener, but are we any good at listening? In this episode, Alysa talks about listening, in general, her favorite listener (spoiler: it’s Gareth Reynolds), the role of listening in friendship, and tips for becoming better listeners for our friends. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/...2020-04-1739 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBe the Friend You Wish You HadWe often can list the qualities we look for in friends, but do we consider the qualities we have to offer our friends? In this episode, Alysa talks about being the friend you wish you had. The most common qualities for a good friend are discussed with through the lens of whether or not we enact the same qualities with are friends. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook...2020-04-0332 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSummer SistersIn this episode of the Best Forevers Book Club series, Alysa and Claire read the listener chosen book, Summer Sisters, by the Queen Judy Blume. We discuss a friendship of a lifetime and how the two friends shape each other’s worlds as well as complicated friendships, casual betrayals, and handling secrets. This is more explicit in nature because of the book we discuss so not appropriate for all ears. Book Club Book Summer Sisters by Judy Blume = https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22695.Summer_Sisters Recommendations Lock Every Door = https://ww...2020-03-201h 27Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsStay ConnectedAs we experience unprecedented social distancing and isolation, Alysa talks about the importance of staying connected and provides suggestions for how to do so. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon = www.patreon.com/bestforeverspod Merchandise = https://b...2020-03-1332 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAlone Time & FriendshipAfter being forced into social isolation because of the flu, Alysa explores how alone time – chosen, forced, or excluded – impacts us individually and our friendship. Suggestions to navigate alone time are offered. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon = www...2020-03-0633 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSelf-DisclosureAlysa talks about self-disclosure and how can it help us make friends. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon = www.patreon.com/bestforeverspod Merchandise = https://bestforeverspod.threadless.com Art Work by Kate Cosgrove = http://k8c...2020-02-2833 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsI Love You, FriendHappy Valentine’s Day! In this episode, Alysa talks about the importance of telling your friends you love or care about them as well as sharing examples of how some people already do this. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! ...2020-02-1428 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriends with PizzaWith Valentine’s Day upon us, many people turn their focus to romance and so, in this episode, Alysa explores when friendships may dip into sexual components through friends with benefits relationships. She defines the relationship as well as covering the motivations and problems with this unique relationship. Finally, she discusses the rules that may help friends with benefits partners have a successful relationship. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! ...2020-02-0742 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsWorkplace FriendshipsWhen we spend the majority of our lives in the workplace, we absolutely need good friends to make it a fun and sane place to be. In this episode, Alysa explores these friendships with a focus on why we need these friends and what happens when we’re solo in the office. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://ww...2020-01-3138 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsCamp ConfidentialIn this episode of the Best Forevers Book Club series, Alysa reads one of Claire’s books by Melissa J. Morgan, Camp Confidential #3: Grace’s Twist, from 2005. We discuss camp friends, the quantity vs. quality of friendships, bullying, and defending yourself. Book Club Book Camp Confidential: Gracie’s Twist = https://www.amazon.com/Graces-Twist-Confidential-Melissa-Morgan/dp/0448438755 Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/gro...2020-01-241h 10Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSlam BooksFriends, are you ready for a blast from the past? In this week’s episode, Alysa talks about slam books, especially made popular in the 1980s, and how they could’ve helped, but, instead, destroyed friendships. She explores why people participate in slam books, the consequences of slam books, and how slam books operate in 2020. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ In...2020-01-1738 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHygge with FriendsGet cozy, friends, because it’s time to talk about the hygge lifestyle. Hygge is a Danish word that describes “creating a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying good things in life with good people (Pinterest).” So, in this episode, Alysa explores what it means to be hygge and provides suggestions for how friends can be hyggeligt throughout the year. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/gr...2020-01-1041 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSocial ComparisonIn this episode of Best Forevers, Alysa explores the risks associated with social comparison focusing on concerns for the individual and their friendships. Tips for overcoming these experiences are offered. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon= www.patreon...2020-01-0343 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship ClosenessClose relationships bring us a lot of benefits, but do we know closeness is and what it feels like? In this episode, Alysa discusses a core concept of friendship, closeness, which may have an impact on us developing, maintaining, and terminating friendships. The episode includes a definition of closeness, how to measure closeness, how to request more closeness, and why closeness matters. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook...2019-12-2043 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsTrust in FriendshipWe know when we trust a friend and when that trust has been broken, but can we put trust into words? In this episode, Alysa explores the concept of trust and the four “shoulds” of trust in friendship. Tune in to learn more about trust, or the lack thereof, as the core to friendships that are long-lasting and short-lived. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com...2019-11-2834 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriend, Love Languages, & the HolidaysWith the holiday season upon us, it can get so busy and stressful that we might not make time for our friends. In this episode, Alysa explores the five love languages and how they can be applied to “friending” from Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https...2019-11-2240 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship LessonsIn celebration of 100 episodes, Alysa explores friendship lessons learned with the help of friends, students, colleagues, and more. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon= www.patreon.com/bestforeverspod Merchandise = https://bestforeverspod.threadless.com Art W...2019-11-0842 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsScary Friendship StoriesIt’s the spookiest time of year so this week Alysa reads some of the scariest friendship stories from listeners and the internet! The stories produce many topics of friendship that we likely fear and need to discuss further so stay tuned for future episodes on many of these topics! National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233)= https://www.thehotline.org RAINN (1-800-656-4673) = https://www.rainn.org Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gma...2019-10-3152 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAsk Me Anything #2Alysa continues to celebrate the two-year podiversary and the upcoming 100th episode of Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred Spirits by answering your many questions! People asked her anything and she answered. Join the fun! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa = bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod!2019-10-1853 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAsk Me Anything #1Alysa is celebrating the two-year podiversary and the upcoming 100th episode of Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred Spirits by answering your many questions! People asked her anything and she answered. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ Instagram= https://www.instagram.com/bestforeverspod/ Twitter = https://twitter.com/BestForeversPod Support Best Forevers Pod! Patreon= www...2019-10-1148 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsIs Honesty the Best Policy?Alysa is joined by long-time student, Lauren, to discuss the question, “Is honesty always the best policy?” For some individuals, the answer is yes, especially when it comes to friends. However, honesty and deception in friendships may be far more complicated. Have a listen to hear about how honesty fits into the description of friendship, how the “ideology of openness” may not always work well, how lies may operate in friendship, and how to be honest with a friend. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys2019-09-2059 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsI'm Friends with a NarcissistNarcissists may actually seem to be a lot of fun when you first meet them, but then, over time, it becomes tiresome to be friends with them. We can only spend so much time ONLY talking about them, hyping up their brilliance, and managing veiled insults toward ourselves. So, in this episode, Alysa talks about what it means to be narcissist, how to recognize if our friends are narcissistic, and what we can do if we want to stay or leave. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.b...2019-09-1342 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHello, My Name IsWe can all agree that making friends can be difficult, but if we’re in the position socially to meet and make new friends, initiating and maintaining conversations can be just as difficult. This week, Alysa talks about how to have conversations in a more effective way when you meet new people or trying to make connections with new people. Check out the tips and put yourself in situations to practice because the more you talk with others the easier it becomes! Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www...2019-09-0656 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPassive Aggressiveness & FriendshipsPassive aggressive examples may evoke a good eye roll and some laughing, but not if you’re the victim of passive aggressiveness, right? Overall, it seems like passive aggressive behaviors, although may be ambiguous, are frustrating and annoying. So, why would anyone participate in passive aggressiveness? Join Alysa as she defines passive aggressiveness and discusses what it means for friendships as well as how to manage such behaviors in your relationships. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com...2019-08-2353 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsNancy Drew & Secrets Can KillIn this episode of the Best Forevers Book Club series, Alysa introduces Claire to the glorious world of Nancy Drew, written by ghost writer Carolyn Keene! We get into how Nancy, an amateur detective, uses friendships and maintains her friendships while solving crimes. Join us while we detail the discuss, discuss themes of friendship, and what it means to be the girl everyone looks up to! Carrot Top Paper Shop = https://www.etsy.com/shop/CarrotTopPaperShop Book Club Book The Nancy Drew Files #1 = https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/067174674X/ref=ppx_yo_d...2019-08-161h 35Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsVeronica Mars Season Four & More with Courtney from Spoop HourIn this Bonus Episode, Courtney from Spoop Hour joins Alysa to discuss Veronica Mars Season Four and to play Veronica Mars-themed games, including a very Neptune “Would You Rather” and putting each Team to the Test (e.g., Would you support Team Weevil?). Listen to Spoop Hour! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spoop-hour/id1291131312 Follow Spoop Hour! Instagram = www.instagram.com/spoophour Twitter = https://twitter.com/spoophour Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys 2019-08-091h 12Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAsking for a Friend #2Alysa continues the series of episodes focusing on answering listener questions about friendship because often when we need help, we ask the question and then say, “Asking for a Friend.” In this episode, student, Jordan, joins Alysa to answer questions related to labeling friendships, what to do when you feel excluded by friends, and how straight and gay friends can successfully talk about their relationships together. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod...2019-08-0251 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsVeronica Mars Season ThreeMarshmallows, we’re so close to the release of Veronica MarsSeason Four on Hulu, but, until then, let’s head to Hearst College and see how our pal, Veronica, handles college life and friendships! So, join Alysa and her friend, Maya Rosman, as they break down the mysteries and friendships of Season Three! Learn More About Veronica Mars! Season 3 = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veronica_Mars_(season_3) Season 4 Trailer = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt0QuaQ0huk Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for...2019-07-191h 36Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPeople Pleasers with Ashley from Make it ModernAll people pleasers unite! Add this episode to your three-page “To Do” list and get to listening! Ashley from the Make it Modernpodcast joins Alysa this week to discuss people pleasers and friendship. We take a people pleaser quiz, share friendship scenarios that can help or hurt your friendships, and advice for all of us people pleasers out there. Listen to Make it Modern Podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/make-it-modern/id1434441101 Follow Make it Modern Podcast! Facebook= https://www.facebook.com/MakeItModernPodcast/ Instagram= www.instagram.com/mim_podca...2019-06-2853 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsDesperate for Friends“Desperation and bad decisions go hand and hand.” Have you ever experienced loneliness and, as a way to decrease those feelings, you would be friends with just about anyone? This quote, then, demonstrates that we may participate in questionable behaviors when trying to make friends. We’ve all felt lonely and have been in situations when we are desperate to make friends, but, unfortunately, desperation isn’t helpful in making connections with others. Join Alysa as she talks about loneliness and desperation, and how to go about making friends in a more effective, especially when you feel lonely. Share...2019-06-2153 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSlumber Parties with Spoop HourIn a very special birthday and Flag Day episode, Alysa is joined by her fun pod friends, Courtney and Sasha, from Spoop Hour to talk about all things slumber parties and to “do” friendship through some favorite slumber party games! You’re invited to join us so bring your cootie catchers, favorite PJs, and cookie dough! Listen to Spoop Hour! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spoop-hour/id1291131312 Follow Spoop Hour! Instagram = www.instagram.com/spoophour Twitter = https://twitter.com/spoophour Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! V...2019-06-141h 24Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsDeclaration of Friendship Love with The CutawaysAlysa is joined rom-com podcasters from The Cutaways Podcast, Ashley and Justine, to hear about how they met, how they integrated in one’s romantic partner, and how one bad ass Maid of Honor speech that truly captures the love story of a friendship! Throughout their story, we learn more about the markers that make friendship so critical: love, support, understanding, and, of course, trust! Listen to The Cutaways Podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cutaways-podcast/id1018986461 Follow The Cutaways Podcast! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/CutawaysPodcast/ Ins...2019-06-071h 15Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBooksmartAlysa finally sees the movie all about friendship, Booksmart, and now she’s here to talk about why she cried with joy throughout the entire movie. Join her to discuss the movie, friendships, and why we need more of movies like Booksmart! BOOKSMART! http://booksmart.movie http://annapurna.pictures http://picturemill.com/gloria-sanchez-productions/ See BOOKSMART! BOOKSMART= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0Mb6BgnhS0 Seriously, see BOOKSMART! 98% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes! BOOKSMART Reviews= https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/booksmart Share Your Fri...2019-06-0148 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsThe Iron ThroneAlysa and her friend, Haley, discuss their thoughts and feelings about the complete season 8 and series finale of Game of Thronesas well as discuss the theory about friendship being key to the occupant of the Iron Throne. Their predictions were laid out in episodes 75 and 76 so join the discussion in this episode to see if they were right or wrong. Long live friendship? Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Fa...2019-05-241h 10Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriend PoachingIt seems natural to want to bring different friends together, but what happens when friend sharing becomes friend poaching? Although friend “snatching” may be unintentional (and, sometimes intentional), it can produce a number of negative feelings one needs to manage. Alysa explores the idea of friend poaching, the various players involved, and questions to consider when you have that experience. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebo...2019-05-1745 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsThe CliqueClaire is back to share one of her favorite young adult books, The Cliqueby Lisi Harrison, for another Best Forevers Book Club series episode! So, are you IN or are you OUT? Join us while we detail the story, discuss themes of friendship, and what it means to be in-group and out-group when you’re in middle school. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/gro...2019-05-101h 27Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHello Summer, Hello FriendsSummer is upon us, friends! And, this is a great time of the year to reflect on our friendships and to plan ahead for friendship fun during the summer months. Join Alysa as she uses information and tips discussed with her friends in previous episodes to get ready for summer! Best Forevers Summer Music Playlist! Spotify (Alysa Lucas)= https://open.spotify.com/user/alysa.ann/playlist/7wMLb5cBzlxUSH8mYJp8iB?si=R6CC1uJKTzi4dIeu_91vtQ Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.c...2019-05-0334 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPen Pals with Renee PowersRenee Powers from the Feminist Book Club Box + Podcast joins Alysa to talk about her experience with pen pals including how she came to have pen pals, the experience of writing to pen pals, and how she now has mail subscription box that provides a complete feminist experience. Tune in to hear the joy of pen pals and let inspire you to send mail to your friends! Join the Feminist Book Club! https://www.feministbookclub.com Listen to the Feminist Book Club Podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/feminist-book-club-the-podcast/id12718551352019-04-1946 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBlizzard of FriendshipSometimes becoming friends is simply fate and that’s the case for friends, Ben and Jordyn. In this episode, Alysa chats with these friends about their blizzard of a friendship, and what their whirlwind friendship has meant to them. We talk about how they met, their conflicts over spending time together, doing homework at the bar, and the value of friendship in graduate school. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics = www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Fa...2019-04-0558 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsGossipDid you hear about so and so? Oh, yes, gossip is the way we get all the juicy details on the people in our lives, and, although gossip is viewed as negative, many of us participate in this interpersonal activity because it often starts so innocently during conversation. Have a listen to this episode as Alysa discusses gossip in friendship, including defining gossip, breaking down gender gossip stereotypes, and discussing both the positive and negative nature of gossip. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys2019-03-2943 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAsking for a Friend #1For the love and necessity of friendship, we should be talking about the problems, issues, and concerns people experience in their friendships. Alysa often discusses the ways in which friendship often takes the back seat to other relationships, which then leads, potentially, a neglect to answering the questions folks have related to improving and maintaining their friendships. So, Alysa launches a new series of episodes focusing on answering listener questions about friendship because often when we need help we ask the question and then say, “Asking for a friend.” Best Forevers Episodes Discussed! Friendship Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes= http...2019-03-011h 03Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendliness vs. FriendshipThis week, Alysa considers previous episode topics, a listener letter, and her own experience to explore the difference between being friendly with someone and being friends with someone. Can we be friendly to others without being friends? Alysa tries to answer this question as well as considering the advantages and disadvantages to being friendly. Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Email Alysa= bestforeverspod@gmail.com Follow Best Forevers Pod! Facebook = https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestforeverspod/ ...2019-01-2540 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendsgivingHappy Thanksgiving! And, maybe more importantly to this podcast, Happy Friendsgiving! As we all celebrate Turkey Day, continue to enjoy those leftovers, and look forward to upcoming holidays, Alysa considers the role and impact of Friendsgiving holiday with her friend Tierney! They chat about why Friendsgiving has become a more common event, favorite drinks and pies to eat at said events, and what they’re thankful about this year. Alysa also provides advice for enjoying friends and holidays when celebrating together is difficult or not possible. So, grab some stuffing and come join in on the friendship fun! ...2018-11-2346 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsHauntedOne day you're friends and, then…poof, they’re gone. Have you ever been ghosted? In this episode, Alysa explores listener stories, academic research, and advice across the web for understanding and coping with being ghosters and ghostees. So, settle in for the spookiest friendship topic Alysa could think to consider this Halloween. Ghosting can be absolutely devastating, but ‘tis the season to creep it real because how can we move on if we cannot talk about it? Share Your Friendship Stories with Alysa! Visit the podcast web page for topics= www.bestforeverspod.com/surveys Em...2018-10-261h 08Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsDomestic Violence MonthAs a relational communication teacher, Alysa is often asked by students what they should do if they believe their friend is in an abusive relationship. So, to build awareness during Domestic Violence Month, Alysa sits down with, Brooke, Director of Central Michigan University’s Sexual Aggression Services, to learn more about domestic violence and what friends and loved ones may expect if someone they love is being abused. Warning:The content may be a trigger for some listeners so please decide if listening to this episode is best for you. Follow CMU’s SAPA on Twitter! SAP...2018-10-051h 17Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriendship Matters with Dr. Bill RawlinsAlysa celebrates one year of Best Forevers by interviewing passionate and influential friendship communication researcher, Dr. Bill Rawlins. The two chat about his research focusing on tensions in friendships, what he’s learned in his extraordinary forty-year career dedicated to understanding friendship, and about the reach of friendships. Come to learn more about the largest scholarly influence on Alysa’s career and podcast, but also to take a deep dive into what truly matters in a well-lived life: friendships. Learn more about Dr. Bill Rawlins! https://www.ohiocommstudies.com/people/rawlins/ Check out Dr. B...2018-09-281h 24Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBosom Friends“My greatest wish, apart from staying at Green Gables, is to have a bosom friend.” L.M. Montgomery’s beloved character, Anne Shirley, from the Anne of Green Gablesbooks describes her dream and hope to have a friend in her life. For Alysa, these books and the1985 TV series of the same name imprinted the love for friendship and kindred spirits on her heart and provides the strong foundation for the Best Foreverspodcast. In this episode, Alysa shares the TV series with Claire and they discuss this cherished story and it’s representation of kindred spirits. Check out Anne...2018-09-141h 16Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsInfectedHave you ever been in a joyful mood, but it completely changed by the emotions your friends were experiencing? Simply put, do you consider how your emotion impacts other people and how other’s emotions impact you? Lance Bennett, from the University of Iowa, is back to chat with Alysa about his research on emotional contagion and how it relates to relationships, like friendships. The lively, yet nerdy discussion focuses on Lance’s plan for research and Alysa asking questions and providing scenarios for Lance to tackle! Because emotional contagion is an infection that is unlikely to go away, it i...2018-09-071h 15Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBest Forevers Book Club - Girl, You Lack DecorumIn the third installment of the Best Forevers Book Club, Alysa makes Claire read another book from her childhood and, this time, it’s all about clean scandal and lack of decorum! We discuss Ann M. Martin’s best-selling series, The Babysitter’s Club, with a dive into the first book, Kristy’s Great Idea. Clubs may help bring friends together, but how do you power through and maintain friendships when there’s conflict, puberty and hormones, potential liars, and witches that live next door to the kids you’re babysitting? Although these are the type of books most parents woul...2018-08-171h 23Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriend-FriesAlysa chats with super cool linguists and fry friends, Carrie and Megan, from The Vocal Fries about their podcast focusing on linguistic discrimination and how they came to be friends. So, come listen to Alysa, who loves communication, geek out over linguistics chat, but, even more, come listen to this friendship based in linguistics and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, among other things. Truly, we can be great friends and make impactful changes when we share common interests and common goals. Check out The Vocal Fries! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vocal-fries/id1260191014?mt=2 2018-08-1056 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsLet's Talk About SexWhat do you talk about in your close friendships? Everything and anything? Or, do you have hard boundaries? In this episode, Alysa describes her research focusing on sexual communication in college-aged friendships. She details how she come to study the topic, what she’s learned so far including research conducted with the support of an Early Career Grant, the importance of studying this topic, and what else we need to know about sex talk among friends. Let’s talk about sex, but what is meant is “Let’s talk about sex talk!” So meta! Note: This episode is not explicit b...2018-07-1343 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsLike Attracts LikeHave you ever introduced a friend to your best friend and they become friends too? In this episode, Alysa is joined by her friend, Sarah, and Sarah’s best friend, Jen, and it’s like friendship inception (or, maybe just network expansion)! As Jen points out, if you support your friends and their decisions, you are likely to think their friend choices are also pretty awesome! Before Alysa gets a chance to geek out over this amazing idea, her mind is also blown by secret hash tags and dream teams as well as that these friends can navigate through, lite...2018-07-061h 38Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsLet’s Leave This Hipster Bar To See Winter SoldierAlysa is excited for all the summer movies, so she’s acquired a Movie Pass and interviewed friends, Sarah and Kelly, from the Bad Feminist Film Club podcast about their friendship, their favorite movies, and the role of the feminist lens in watching movies. Kelly and Sarah have an easy and fun friendship peppered with amazing Comic Con and movie stories and male and female celebrity crush lists. Come enjoy their friendship and get involved with our discussion of guilty pleasure movies like The Fast & the Furious and feminist films like Mad Max: Fury Road. It’ll definitely get you i...2018-06-2259 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsAge Ain't Nothing But a NumberAge ain’t nothing, but a number, right? Alysa turns 40 and, in celebration, she begins exploring the ways in which age impacts the development and maintenance of friends. In this episode, Alysa chats with her older, wiser, and more efficient friend, Bia, about their friendship origin story, Bia’s friendship experiences, and the role of age in friendship. They discover everyone needs friends of the same age, younger friends, and older friends. And, then, Bia gives advice to Alysa about tackling year 40 in the best way! Check Out Bia’s ESTY Shop! https://www.etsy.com/sh...2018-06-151h 13Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsWe All Have That One TeacherWho is the person that has impacted you the most? Often, we may report that it was a teacher or a mentor that helped guide us, shape us, and or changed our lives. Therefore, in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, Alysa gives a Best Forevers shout-out to teachers, coaches, mentors, and advisers by talking about the teachers who impacted her, sharing listener letters about their favorite teachers, and interviewing the Director of Academic Advising at University of Southern Florida, Cayla Lanier, and professor friends K. Sue Young and Howard Travis from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania. Specifically, Cayla and Alysa...2018-05-041h 38Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsThe Chick to Her DuckSometimes we meet friends who open doors for us and our world becomes wider and richer because of their interests, investment, openness, and support. This is certainly the case for Alysa and her dear friend and work spouse, Tara. In this episode, the two detail their friendship origin story, which originates in graduate school and includes avocados, Ludacris, Gilmore Girls, traveling, and college basketball as major highlights. But, even more than shared life and friend experiences, Alysa and Tara continue to work as colleagues conducting research about friendship disclosures of sexual stressors. Thus, the friendship origin story leads them...2018-04-201h 22Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsMaking Friends is HardMaking friends when we were kids seemed so easy, but making friends as adults is hard! In this episode, Alysa is joined by her friend, Margeaux, to discuss why making friends can be such a chore and to suggest ways to make connections with others. Besides making new friends, Alysa talks to Nate Woo, a Ph.D. student from University of Arizona, about using social media sites to maintain our already existing friendships. Alysa also shares a listener’s Friendship Origin Story that gives hope that friends can be made anytime, anywhere, and in, pretty much, any way! Start th...2017-12-291h 16Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsPassing Notes #1In this episode, Alysa Lucas welcomes her PR intern, Maria Abu-Joudeh, to the podcast team and they read your letters about friendship in the first episode solely dedicated to listener stories. If you have a friendship story to share, please send those stories to Alysa at bestforeverspod@gmail.com or visit the podcast web page, www.bestforeverspod.com, and click on the Surveys tab to respond to various topics related to friendships. Alysa and Maria also talk about #2PodsADay, the Nothing Rhymes with Murder podcast, and the Happily Ever Aftermath podcast. www.twitter.com/2podsaday2017-12-2249 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsBest Forevers Book Club: Dot Dot DotWhat did you learn about friendships from your favorite books as young adults? Let’s find out in the Best Forevers Book Club series! In these episodes, Alysa Lucas will make her student, Claire Stevenson, read a book from her childhood about friendships (and vice versa). In the first episode of the series, they read and analyze, Secrets, the amazingly 80’s awesome book from the Sweet Valley High book series created by Francine Pascal. This book, from Alysa’s childhood, is a little too hot to handle with all the wild nights, gossip, manipulation, revenge, and secrets, but perhaps there...2017-12-0852 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsMurderino FrienderinosThe latest episode of Best Forevers is a love letter written for kindred spirits, Georgia Hardstark and Karen Kilgariff, hosts of the ever-popular true crime and COMEDY podcast, My Favorite Murder (MFM)! Alysa Lucas explores the bonding power of podcast communities and those moments when you FINALLY find your “people” who like the same weird things you like. Murderinos, fans of MFM, detail their stories of friendships and the impact the podcast and hosts have had on their lives over the last two years. So, stay out of the forest, lock your doors, grab some cookies, and enjoy the swee...2017-11-101h 39Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsSiblingshipsAlysa Lucas interviews her older brother, Michael, about his friendships and what friends mean to him before the two put all their childhood “beef” on the table to determine if siblings can be friends. www.bestforeverspod.com 2017-10-2752 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsEpisode 1 Needs a FriendIn Episode 2, Alysa Lucas spends time giving shout-outs to her best forevers and reading letters from listeners about their friends including a few “Dear Friend” letters and an epic One Direction-focused Friendship Origin Story! www.bestforeverspod.com 2017-10-1335 minBest Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred SpiritsFriends at First SightAlysa Lucas introduces Best Forevers: A Podcast for Kindred Spirits and a movement to love more on our best friends, bros, and bosom buddies. After giving background on her love and appreciation of friendships, she talks to her Best Forever, Kate Cosgrove, about their friendship Origin Story. www.bestforeverspod.com www.katecosgrove.com 2017-09-3032 min