Billy Donnelly - Podcast Details

Shows

Getting Old Quickly157. The PainterIn Episode 157, Billy Donnelly shares his latest hobby: painting (or spray paint art, to be more specific). He discusses where he first was exposed to it and how long he's been waiting to give it a try. And, after buying the supplies and putting himself on the hook to not back out, he dove headfirst into giving it a shot -- finding that it's both relaxing and incredibly enjoyable. The larger point he makes from this experience though is that we need to find ways to get to "yes" for ourselves, as opposed to throwing up all the excuses...2023-04-2425 min

Getting Old Quickly132. Oops!... I Did It AgainIn Episode 132, Billy Donnelly talks about a recent road trip to Washington D.C. and a new set of worries and concerns in taking such a long car ride after the incident of Episode 130 - The Emergency Poncho. However, after getting there without a problem, one would later arise during a drive to a dispensary, which was being made in an effort to possibly find something to help alleviate some of the GI issues that have been flaring up as of late. Billy lays out the details of the situation -- which occurred while in the car with his...2022-10-3136 min

Getting Old Quickly98. Paper TableIn Episode 98, Billy Donnelly reflects upon a lost weekend of trying to connect with his 12-year-old preteen son and having it go awry pretty quickly. He explains the difficulties, frustrations and hurt feelings he faces with just trying to communicate and bond, only to wind up dissociating in order to protect his own mental wellbeing. 2022-03-0732 min

Getting Old Quickly97. Stuck On The HookIn Episode 97, Billy Donnelly actually wonders if he is doing the best he can, or if that's an convenient excuse to try letting himself off the hook for not meeting his own expectations. That's the dilemma explored on this show, as he looks at the lack of grace and forgiveness he grants himself, holding onto all his shortcomings and mistakes as punishment for not hitting the marks he believes he should be hitting. He once again discusses his incredible fear of failure and how he perceives letting himself off the hook as an acceptance of failure. As a result...2022-02-2828 min

Getting Old Quickly96. We Need To TalkIn Episode 96, Billy Donnelly stresses the importance of open and honest communication - communicating your wants and needs, communicating your feelings, communicating your thoughts, etc. He takes a look at the various reasons why we are often too afraid and/or reluctant to talk with others, whether it's avoiding feelings of discomfort or worrying about being judged, while also examining how detrimental it can be to then craft a reality in your own mind that is based entirely around assumption. He discusses his own path to being more communicative over the years, and also explains how that factors into...2022-02-2129 min

Getting Old Quickly95. NumbIn Episode 95, Billy Donnelly explains how he doesn't have much to talk about this week as he privately deals with a number of issues in his life while feeling numb to just about all of it. 2022-02-1408 min

Getting Old Quickly94. Right In The GutIn Episode 94, Billy Donnelly talks about his struggles with ulcerative colitis. He discusses how he became diagnosed with this chronic condition and the frustrations he's felt since then, including feeling embarrassed to talk about it and feeling like a burden to those around when in a period of flare-up. However, he talks about the revelations that came to light when he recently discussed prep for an upcoming colonoscopy and the openness of others it seemed to prompt in regards to the process and procedure. He found it interesting that this thing we all are recommended to have done is...2022-02-0735 min

Getting Old Quickly93. When We Were YoungIn Episode 93, Billy Donnelly talks about the recent announcement of the When We Were Young music festival. He discusses the initial wave of excitement surrounding the show and all the bands tapped to play, and then he dives into how that optimism quickly turned to cynicism and doubt about how and when the other shoe would drop on it. He ponders how and why we have become so pessimistic in all areas of our lives, and how that leads to us constantly saying "No" in an effort to protect ourselves from any bit of disappointment. He talks about the...2022-01-3133 min

Getting Old Quickly92. I'm Feeling 42In Episode 92, Billy Donnelly recounts his recent birthday - turning 42 - and what the age number actually means to him. However, he does talk about the wealth of Happy Birthday wishes and sentiments that came his way as a result and discusses how they carry so much more meaning and impact than we'd readily admit. He discusses what it feels like to be seen on this special day and why we should try to do more of this to brighten the days of others than less. Overall, he dives into why it just feels good to be recognized by...2022-01-2431 min

Getting Old Quickly91. Birthday SurpriseIn Episode 91, Billy Donnelly talks about the birthday surprise he received this year for his 42nd, in the form of an out-of-town visitor. He discusses how the feelings that accompanied this surprise ran counter to how he felt last year (which can be heard in full on Episode 39: Turning 41) when his birthdays felt overlooked and under-celebrated. He also dives into the importance of both showing and telling those that matter to us and that we care about how we feel about them, and that it doesn't have to be either/or... it really needs to be a marriage of...2022-01-1731 min

Getting Old Quickly90. I Like It Like ThatIn Episode 90, Billy Donnelly stresses the importance of doing the things you like, regardless of other people's opinions/judgment. He talks about why we need to find those things that bring us joy or allow us to express ourselves or give us the opportunity to try something new, and how the unsolicited opinions of others can be detrimental to that process. He ponders why people feel the need to run down things that are different or that aren't for them rather than commending others on making bold choices or leaning into their unique tastes. However, he talks about the...2022-01-1035 min

Getting Old Quickly89. We Don't Need No ResolutionsIn Episode 89, Billy Donnelly rings in the New Year by laying out his case against New Year's resolutions, particularly why they mostly don't stick and are set up for the bad kind of failure. He discusses how identifying aspects of your life that you want to change are a good thing, but it's all about how we go about implementing those improvements that makes all the difference. He points out that New Year's Day shouldn't be some magical pill that we think will automatically instill growth in our life, and that we can try to make changes at any...2022-01-0336 min

Getting Old Quickly88. Deuces, 2021In Episode 88, Billy Donnelly bids farewell to the year that was 2021 and talks about making it through the struggles of this particular year and how it was a different sort of difficult from the horrors of 2020. He also emphatically talks about the pride he has in the growth, learning and progress he's made in a number of areas this year as well. 2021-12-2726 min

Getting Old Quickly87. Home For The Holidays... AgainIn Episode 87, Billy Donnelly talks about his plans for the holidays this year, including the annual road trip to visit family for the holidays. He revisits what happened last year during the pandemic to make things less than ideal (you can hear it in full with Episode 37 - Home for the Holidays), and hopes that things go a lot smoother this time around, with less worry and concern plaguing him and far more comfort in things working out for the best. He discusses his fondness for Christmas and what it has meant to him over the years, dating back...2021-12-2028 min

Getting Old Quickly86. Finding Some MotionIn Episode 86, Billy Donnelly starts feeling a little bit better than he has in recent weeks and discusses how important finding the slightest bit of motion in his life may have helped in that. He talks about how setting minor goals for himself and getting them done led to incredible feelings of accomplishment, which in turn had him feeling good about himself. He touches upon how just finding something away from the monotony and routine that you can do can make a world of difference and have you feeling like you're moving forward out of a place of being...2021-12-1331 min

Getting Old Quickly85. Down The Rabbit Hole I GoIn Episode 85, Billy Donnelly talks openly about some recent struggles, but really hones in on how quickly things can turn negative for him emotionally/mentally with the introduction of some unforeseen trigger. He discusses how easily it is for his mind to travel down a rabbit hole while trying to make sense of any situation, where the conclusions still almost always end up with him placing blame on himself for how things have played out. Once again, he talks about why he beats himself up and/or punishes himself for past mistakes and transgressions that he believes he must...2021-12-0637 min

Getting Old Quickly84. The Hype ManIn Episode 84, Billy Donnelly talks about his latest road trip: hitting up a family wedding leading up to Thanksgiving. After wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, he discusses his apprehension about being in a situation surrounded by lots of people, with his COVID fears still very prevalent in his mind. However, he talks about what helped him get to a certain place of comfort with his decision to ultimately attend and what the experience was like for him to see friends and family that he hadn't seen in nearly 2 years. In addition, he talks about the most meaningful memory he...2021-11-2933 min

Getting Old Quickly83. Trying To Get Back Out There AgainIn Episode 83, Billy Donnelly hits the road again, this time for a wedding, but, in doing so, details a lot of the struggles he's faced in trying to return to "normal" and get back out there doing things in the outside world again. He talks about the worry, anxiety and fear he deals with on a daily basis as he tries to keep himself and his family safe from COVID. However, a recent tweet thread he came across that touched upon a superiority complex built around following the rules" hit him hard and pushed him to reconsider his thought...2021-11-2234 min

Getting Old Quickly82. All The Judgment & Outrage In The WorldIn Episode 82, Billy Donnelly decides he wants to talk about all the judgment and outrage he's been seeing exhibited by people more and more over time. He tries to examine where all of this judgment towards other people is coming from and why people as a whole refuse to acknowledge of accept any sort of nuance or the complexity of the human condition. He ponders on why some insist on perfection from others, which is an unrealistic expectation for anyone to meet. At the same time, he wonders whether or not human beings can ever truly be happy, or...2021-11-1534 min

Getting Old Quickly81. Dealing With DepressionIn Episode 81, Billy Donnelly has a few things he wants to get off his chest. He starts on a positive note by giving a bit of a recap on his recent road trip to Michigan and the relief it was to do something new for a change. However, he also speaks on the regret he has sometimes that the podcast isn't more uplifting and fun and can often feel like a bit of a bummer, given his mood and headspace. With that said, he transitions into talking about his current bout with depression and how so much of his...2021-11-0837 min

Getting Old Quickly80. Road Trippin'In Episode 80, Billy Donnelly lets us all know he's not actually here at the moment. Instead, he's on a road trip for the Halloween weekend, but brings us up to speed on where he's going, what he's doing, why he badly needed this time away from home and how important it was for him to have something to look forward to as of late. 2021-11-0118 min

Getting Old Quickly79. Communication Is KeyIn Episode 79, Billy Donnelly stresses the importance of communication, particularly when it comes to our feelings. Coming out of a depressive episode, he felt incredibly awful and, at times, very alone in his struggles. However, he began to feel a bit better after having an honest conversation with his wife where he was able to lay out what he was dealing with, the emotions running through his head and have a sounding board he felt comfortable talking to, so as to not carry all of the weight by himself any longer. He discusses the emotional barrier he has created...2021-10-2529 min

Getting Old Quickly78. I Am Not Feeling GoodIn Episode 78, Billy Donnelly talks a little bit about where he's at mentally and emotionally as of late, which, to him, is not a particularly great place. He reveals his lack of motivation even to record this episode but expands on why he feels it's important to talk openly and honestly about these struggles as they happen rather than avoiding them or pretending they're not happening. He briefly discusses the cause of these current emotions and touches a bit on his frustration with not having answers as to how to fix it or make it better. However, he stresses...2021-10-1816 min

Getting Old Quickly77. Where Is This Anger Coming From?In Episode 77, Billy Donnelly is at a loss, as he tries to make sense of his outbursts of anger and what is behind them. He shares a couple of recent stories that resulted in angry feelings, but explains why he feels the appearance of anger in each was justified. However, of bigger concern to him is the moments that he cannot seem to explain away and why there are times he just feels angry a lot. He cannot put his finger on a source or a cause and is frustrated himself that he doesn't have any answers. However, he...2021-10-1146 min

Getting Old Quickly76. Let's Talk About SexIn Episode 76, Billy Donnelly decides that this is the point to finally talk about sex - mainly the role it has played over the years for him as a tool to seek validation and to boost his self-esteem. He talks about how not-so-healthy relationships when he was younger really dealt a big hit to his feelings of being wanted and desired as he got a little older. As a result, he developed a not-sustainable model of trying to fill those voids through sex and hook-ups. He discusses feelings of loneliness and using physical pleasure as a temporary subsitutute, which...2021-10-0434 min

Getting Old Quickly75. A Better Life For The ChildrenIn Episode 75, Billy Donnelly deals with the pressures of parenthood, namely the concern of failing your children. He discusses the hope that our children will have a better life than our own and the expectations we place upon ourselves to try ensuring that happens. However, Billy comes to terms with the fact that while we can exhibit influence over our children to an extent, we do not have control over their choices and ultimately how they live their lives. As a result, the blame we may put on ourselves for certain things that happen in their lives as a...2021-09-2734 min

Getting Old Quickly74. The Vulnerability of Insecurity, Part 2In Episode 74, Billy Donnelly adds onto a previous episode to further discuss our struggles with insecurity and the vulnerable position it leaves us in when we admit the very existence of our own. He talks about the importance of admitting our insecurities are there and the dangers that come from looking for or expecting quick-fix solutions to make them go away. He discusses the idea of others selling us a magic bean to solve our problems, in an attempt to capitalize on both our insecurities and our vulnerability, and why we need to be on the look out for...2021-09-2034 min

Getting Old Quickly73. Always The VictimIn Episode 73, Billy Donnelly makes an important breakthrough for himself and his long-standing embrace of a victim identity. Prompted by a reading of Mark Manson's book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Billy begins to question enough about what he knows and believes to wonder if he's trapped himself in victimhood over the years after a number of experiences for a variety of reasons, starting with an ideal for justice and fairness, followed by a fear of what his life would be like not being the victim and ending up with a loss of identity...2021-09-1344 min

Getting Old Quickly72. Inspiration Level EventIn Episode 72, Billy Donnelly is feeling pretty good and once again finds himself struck by inspiration to create. As a result, he talks about the difference he has found between ideas where he has expectations as to where things might lead or how something might be received and those he is doing simply to please himself and satisfy his own excitement. He also discusses how easy it is to back away from our enthusiasm and find excuses or reasons not to do something, primarily out of fear. However, he really champions finding the time or energy or space to...2021-09-0636 min

Getting Old Quickly71. John Cena Teaches A Lesson On Positive Impact That You Can SeeIn Episode 71, Billy Donnelly once again ventures into the world of professional wrestling, connecting on a deep level with a video of John Cena making a positive impact on the lives of others without knowing it. He details a video he came across on Twitter telling a story of a boy whose mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and how a simple act of kindness by John Cena majorly affected them in that moment. Billy talks about the lessons he took away from hearing this story (while sobbing), particularly to do our best to be kind to one another...2021-08-3036 min

Getting Old Quickly70. The Renewed Passion of CM PunkIn Episode 70, Billy Donnelly decides to talk a bit about professional wrestling and, more specifically, the return of CM Punk and his introduction into AEW (All Elite Wrestling). He discusses CM Punk's 7-year absence from the squared circle and the circumstances that led to him walking away from his passion. However, from CM Punk's long journey back to this world he loved for quite some time, Billy tries to lay out a number of lessons that can be taken from this entire story - be it self-care, or setting boundaries, or creating space, or somehow finding a spark that...2021-08-2331 min

Getting Old Quickly69. The Vulnerability of Insecurity, Part 1In Episode 69, Billy Donnelly decides to talk a bit about insecurity, namely some of his own which he's struggled with over the years. In addition to his worries about being good enough as a dad - and the pressure of trying not to inflict long-term damage on one's kids - as well as whether he's good enough at any of the things he's passionately done over the years (podcasting, writing, etc.), he aims to figure out where these insecurities are born, what might help reduce them and how we do our best to work through them.2021-08-1641 min

Getting Old Quickly68. Into The UnknownIn Episode 68, Billy Donnelly explores quite a bit of his anxiety as it relates to the recent upswing in Covid cases and the rapid spread of the Delta variant. He discusses the survival instincts that are baked into our anxiety and how our past experiences and always-increasing base of knowledge informs how we react and respond to the signs for what lies up ahead. He also talks about how normal it is to feel worried, apprehensive, concerned and/or afraid of what's happening in the world around us. He also brings up how the lack of a calming presence...2021-08-0934 min

Getting Old Quickly67. The Twisties & The DeltaIn Episode 67, Billy Donnelly has feelings of frustration he wants to get out in regards to how too many people negatively reacted to Simone Biles' Olympics withdrawal on account of a mental issue. He discusses the still-very present stigmatization that exists around mental health, even as more people keep talking about their mental health advocacy and its importance. He wonders why physical issues are more acceptable for others to understand whereas mental struggles are more easily dismissed, and how that can affect others who are looking for a safe place to come forward with what they're dealing with. Plus...2021-08-0238 min

Getting Old Quickly66. Angry Young ManIn Episode 66, Billy Donnelly decides to talk about anger, and, more specifically, the anger of young white men. Provoked by the idea introduced in the Woodstock '99 documentary that young white men have nothing to be angry about, he attempts to unpack where this very legitimate anger comes from, how society only encourages it to get worse, what we need to do to try to address it and how we grow from it. He discusses where toxic masculinity and unrestrained aggression can factor in, but he focuses very much on the lack of empathy that seems to exist for...2021-07-2643 min

Getting Old Quickly65. Dealing With My TriggersIn Episode 65, Billy Donnelly talks about one of his triggers being activated this week and the struggle he had in trying to work through it. He tells the story related to this trigger's creation and spells out the longstanding anger and resentment that still feels fresh anytime this particular association is recalled. He tries to figure out what we're supposed to do to handle these incidents better, since it's impossible for them to just go away, and wishes others would just acknowledge the pain we go through in these moments. 2021-07-1940 min

Getting Old Quickly64. DaughterIn Episode 64, Billy Donnelly has difficulty wrapping his head around some of the struggles his daughter has been having coming out of the pandemic, particularly with heightened anxiety, and the helplessness he feels in trying to help her deal with it. He ponders what role he has had to play in contributing to it, with his own Covid worries and concerns, and he talks a lot about his fears for her future and its limitations if she only views things through a worst-case-scenario lens. 2021-07-1241 min

Getting Old Quickly63. Pushing Past The Comfort ZoneIn Episode 63, Billy Donnelly talks about the creation of our comfort zones, particularly why they exist in the first place, and the limitations they place on how we live our lives. Using a few recent examples of pushing past the boundaries of his own status quo, he attempts to figure out how to press past our anxieties, fears, concerns and worries in order to be able to try new things, meet new people and have new experiences. He talks about constantly testing the limits of our safe bubbles and expanding our comfort zones to make room for new additions...2021-07-0549 min

Getting Old Quickly62. I Feel GoodIn Episode 62, Billy Donnelly keeps riding the wave of feeling good that he's been experiencing the last few weeks. As a result, he talks about some of the breakthroughs he's had lately, in regards to certain fears and anxieties that were only made worse during the pandemic. He discusses the levels of calculated risks he's been taking recently and the degree of comfort he is now starting to feel due to getting back out into the world and starting to do things again. He also touches upon how his recent swing of productivity and purpose has begun affecting his...2021-06-2834 min

Getting Old Quickly61. Drewpies TakeoverIn Episode 61, Billy Donnelly ventures out into the outside world for the first time since the start of the pandemic for a road trip to see Drew DeFour and Kin Curran headline a set of Dueling Pianos shows at Bobby McKey's and meet a group of internet strangers in real life who were integral in helping him get through the past year of quarantine/lockdown. Throughout the episode, Billy lays the foundation for meeting Drew and Kin, how their shows were a stable constant during a time of extreme instability in the world and how an organic community of...2021-06-211h 03

Getting Old Quickly60. I Coulda Been A ContenderIn Episode 60, Billy Donnelly explores the idea of Has-Beens and Never-Wases and tries to process his reality as one of the latter. He talks about the sadness he feels in constantly trying to measure up and have his moment, only for it to feel like he is constantly making his situation worse. He discusses his understanding of the Has-Been's plight, as they are being forced to leave behind a life they don't want to leave, but he dives further into the frustration of never having your shot at the title, of never being able to attempt proving yourself in...2021-06-1437 min

Getting Old Quickly59. Why Won't You Let Me Help You, Kid?In Episode 59, Billy Donnelly tells a recent story of trying to help his son make YouTube videos and the difficulties, resistance and frustrations he encountered along the way. He details some of the lessons and takeaways he was able to grab from the experience, as he tries to come to terms with his inability to assist others who just don't want the help and the whys that surround it.2021-06-0740 min

Getting Old Quickly58. How Do YOU Want To Be Remembered?In Episode 58, coming out of Memorial Day Weekend, Billy Donnelly ponders questions about our legacies and how we want to be remembered. He discusses how these ideas start to become a bit more important to us as we get older and the things that are important to others after we're gone in how they write our posthumous stories and carry on our memories. 2021-05-3132 min

Getting Old Quickly57. This Parenting Thing Is HardIn Episode 57, after struggling with focus throughout the week, Billy Donnelly decides to talk about parenting, and namely the difficulties that arise in trying to do the best job you possibly can for the benefit of your kids. He discusses some recent interactions with his kids that had him feeling a bit down, and the trade-offs that come with that in aiming to raise decent human beings. He talks about the toughness in striking to find the right balance in providing proper guidance for them as they grow and develop while also not creating any unnecessary trauma for them...2021-05-2441 min

Getting Old Quickly56. With No Responsibility Comes Great AnxietyIn Episode 56, Billy Donnelly talks about the recent rise in his anxiety levels, as brought on by the CDC's new Covid guidelines and people's rush to get back to "normal." He discusses his concerns over the new honor system approach to mask-wearing, in addition to increased capacity and social distancing everywhere, while discussing his worry for how it affects people who cannot be vaccinated yet, particularly children. He then veers into different territory altogether, prompted by some recent Facebook memories, in which he confronts feelings about a pair of acquaintances that faded from his life in very different ways...2021-05-1740 min

Getting Old Quickly55. Am I Holding Myself Back?In Episode 55, Billy Donnelly tries to answer the question of whether or not he is holding himself back (and by extension, this podcast) due to his fear of failure. He looks at the way he throws himself into chasing success (and the reasons why), in addition to the imbalance often created by this approach. He brings up a past situation that did not turn out well and the lessons he learned from it, while also trying to re-frame what success actually means, particularly in reference to our creative endeavors. Ultimately, he figures that his answer ultimately comes down to...2021-05-1035 min

Getting Old Quickly54. The Fine Line Between Success & FailureIn Episode 54, Billy Donnelly examines the fine line that seems to exist for him between success and failure, and how it has often acted as an obstacle in moving ahead on a number of ideas, projects, etc. He discusses his history of failure and how that has fostered such an extreme dichotomy between the two sides, and he ponders why exactly he hasn't been able to get over the hump of bouncing back from failure in his life when he's been able to move past other hurt he's experiences. He also lays out where the line between the two...2021-05-0342 min

Getting Old Quickly53. Am I Worthy?In Episode 53, Billy Donnelly explores questions of worthiness after finding some difficulty in receiving compliments from others. He tries to figure out why we find these interactions awkward and often downplay the praise that surfaces within them. He discusses ideas of hero worship and putting people on pedestals, while also talking the conflict that exists between his need for validation and affirmation and his discomfort with compliments that reflect upon him personally. He discusses various areas of praise and why some seem easier to stomach than others, in addition to examining our own comfort in expressing negativity more than...2021-04-2639 min

Getting Old Quickly52. Year One ReflectionsIn Episode 52, which marks the 1-year anniversary of Getting Old Quickly's launch, Billy Donnelly looks at the various lessons, discoveries and takeaways he has managed to find in the first year of doing the show. 2021-04-1943 min

Getting Old Quickly51. The Dangerous Game of ComparingIn Episode 51, Billy Donnelly explores the dangerous game of comparing yourself to others and the toll it can take on your mental health. He discusses why we do it and what contributes to that type of mindset. But he also takes it one step further by raising a different level of comparison that he's struggled with lately, and that is of comparing against his potential and the best version of himself. That avenue opens up all sorts of examinations about past choices, past failures, past regrets, etc. In the end, he tries to find the best way to limit...2021-04-1233 min

Getting Old Quickly50. Learning From Others How Not ToIn Episode 50, Billy Donnelly discusses how valuable other people can be in teaching you how not to do something. He talks about the various ways he tries to observe others and, in doing so, gets a better feel for who he doesn't want to be, how he doesn't want to act and how he doesn't want to behave, so he can forge a path forward that is more aligned with what he does want. He talks about how we often try to learn from the success stories of others, but their failures can often unlock just as many lessons...2021-04-0534 min

Getting Old Quickly49. People Are Not BrandsIn Episode 49, Billy Donnelly discusses the idea of individuals as brands and the mental health toll it can take in eyeing yourself as a company rather than just as a human being. He explores the purpose of a "brand," in relation to a company's goals, and how that often runs in contrast to how we behave and act as people. He talks about the commodification of people and the problems that occur as a result of removing our humanity from everything we say and do in order to better serve the brand. He questions why we now want to...2021-03-2935 min

Getting Old Quickly48. Where Have All My Smiles Gone?In Episode 48, Billy Donnelly opens up about his difficulties finding joy and happiness as of late and wonders where exactly his once-present ability to laugh, smile and generally have a good time has disappeared to. In talking through his feelings on the matter, he further dives into struggles of wanting to be liked and accepted as well as his own worries about how others perceive him as he navigates potentially finding a reason for this happening. He discusses imprisoning parts of his own personality in efforts to further exhibit control in those areas and the new issues that then...2021-03-2237 min

Getting Old Quickly47. The Little League StoryIn Episode 47, Billy Donnelly travels back in time 30 years to revisit a period of his life playing Little League baseball and relay a particular story that he believes serves as a source point for a number of future struggles. He examines how issues of self-confidence, self-belief and self-doubt may have been created in one decision made by someone else when he was 12 years old and how it all factors into where he stands now with validation and affirmation from others. 2021-03-1551 min

Getting Old Quickly46. Social Media Self-CareIn Episode 46, Billy Donnelly discusses the negative impact social media has had on his mood and mindset as of late, laying out his history with platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram over the years. However, recently he went ahead and did a thing: creating a TikTok account, and has found an incredible amount of positivity and enjoyment in both using it and creating on it that he hasn't found in other spaces. He details the lessons he has taken away from his entry into the TikTok space and what it means for him personally in regards to his own...2021-03-0836 min

Getting Old Quickly45. Alone. Lost. Frustrated.In Episode 45, Billy Donnelly goes in-depth on three core emotions he has been battling as of late: feeling alone, feeling lost and feeling frustrated. He talks about his mindset after realizing he is very rarely asked what he needs. He details his lack of response when actually faced with that question recently, in addition to the feelings of isolation he has by not wanting to burden others with everything he is working through and, as a result, shouldering that load by himself. He also explores his struggles with finding his tribe and fitting in in a new setting, which brings...2021-03-0145 min

Getting Old Quickly44. We’re All Doing The Best We CanIn Episode 44, Billy Donnelly stresses that, no matter what struggles or issues you are working through right now, you are doing the best you can. He talks about the various things that keep popping up and sticking him in a negative thought space, but he implores you (and himself) to keep fighting, keep trying to find progress, keep putting in the work needed to be better overall. It's all about progress, not perfection, as he reiterates, and we need to seek to find improvement, regardless of how tiny, because staying stagnant in a place that's not all that great to...2021-02-2228 min

Getting Old Quickly43. Fake Famous w/ Director Nick BiltonIn Episode 43, Billy Donnelly welcomes director Nick Bilton to the show to discuss his HBO documentary Fake Famous, which attempts to turn three individuals into "famous" social media influencers. Through their talk, Billy and Nick dive into the idea behind the film's social experiment, lessons learned about why people seek fame through social media, the dangers of relying on social media platforms for personal validation, the presence and importance of bots in establishing one's social media presence, the economic system that allows a rigged social media system to persist, the amount of work that goes into a social media's...2021-02-1549 min

Getting Old Quickly42. I'm A Loser, BabyIn Episode 42, Billy Donnelly talks about some recent reflections that have him stuck in negative thoughts of feeling like a loser. He discusses his feelings that the universe is working against him and that, no matter what, he can't seem to catch a break, and the impact that has on self-esteem over time. He dives into his frustration of seemingly and repeatedly ending up back in the same bad endings, no matter how much he changes things or tries to learn past mistakes, and lays out the scenario of being stuck in a maze that refuses to let you...2021-02-0839 min

Getting Old Quickly41. Lack of Validation Feels A Lot Like RejectionIn Episode 41, Billy Donnelly details another recent bout he had dealing with his validation struggles. This time around, he discusses how an absence of Words of Affirmation and a lack of outside validation feel an awful lot like rejection. He talks about how the structures of social media and their algorithms factor into feelings of irrelevance, in particular when posts/tweets/photos are met with silence and/or no reaction whatsoever. He dives into the crises of self-doubt that begin to creep in during these downswings, as we are denied the doses of dopamine that make us feel worthy...2021-02-0141 min

Getting Old Quickly40. The Curse of Self-AwarenessIn Episode 40, Billy Donnelly talks about the curse of self-awareness and the emotional toll that comes with recognizing and acknowledging your feelings. He discusses the burden that results in traveling down the rabbit hole of your mind for a better understanding of your emotions, experiences, etc. He recognizes the short-term pain that results to find longer-term gains of growth and self-improvement, but he also brings up the "Ignorance is bliss" mentality that one could adapt instead and the negative ramifications that surely come from just pretending everything is always okay. In addition, he offers an update on his colonoscopy...2021-01-2539 min

Getting Old Quickly39. Turning 41In Episode 39, Billy Donnelly talks about turning 41 years old this week and some of the emotional baggage that comes with never really having had a big deal made out of his birthday. In addition, he talks a little bit about his fear of a coming colonoscopy, namely worries about the procedure itself but also anything that might be found wrong with him as a result. 2021-01-1834 min

Getting Old Quickly38. This Is AmericaIn Episode 38, Billy Donnelly attempts to express and process his emotions surrounding the riots and insurrection in Washington, D.C. at the U.S. Capitol. 2021-01-1138 min

Getting Old Quickly37. Home For The HolidaysIn Episode 37, Billy Donnelly discusses his trip home for the holidays to see family, which included an agreed-upon plan to quarantine and have everyone in a good position to gather for Christmas. However, with a potential Covid breach compromising the whole situation, he lays out all the changes that went into effect, in addition to the last-minute scenario that put immense pressure put on him to make a decision with everyone's health in mind. He details all the thoughts that ran through his head while contemplating whether to proceed as planned or change course, plus his struggles with guilt...2021-01-0450 min

Getting Old Quickly36. Deuces, 2020In Episode 36, Billy Donnelly says farewell to the awfulness of 2020 (Good riddance). However, he also looks at all the positive things he can take from the year as we move forward into 2021, while setting proper expectations for what the turn of the new year means and surely what it doesn't. 2020-12-2822 min

Getting Old Quickly35. The George Bailey StandardIn Episode 35, Billy Donnelly responds to his recent viewing of the film IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE by examining James Stewart's character George Bailey in it and the standards for his fictional life that we should aspire to have in our own very real ones. In addition, he talks about why this year's watch of one of his annual holiday traditions hit him a lot harder this time around, detailing the various aspects of George's journey through the movie that resonated with him deeply and brought forth all types of emotions. 2020-12-2157 min

Getting Old Quickly34. Lack of ConfidenceIn Episode 34, Billy Donnelly discusses his lack of confidence and how, when stacked with fear of failure and self-imposed pressure, it creates a three-headed monster of struggle for him to try to overcome. He talks about what his lack of confidence is rooted in and why it's so difficult to shake loose from it to get the confidence tide flowing in the other direction. 2020-12-1432 min

Getting Old Quickly33. Under PressureIn Episode 33, Billy Donnelly looks at the amount of pressure we put upon ourselves and how, for himself, it often feeds off his fear of failure. He talks about unrealistic expectations of perfection we place upon ourselves and discusses a recent situation and the accompanying breakdown that occurred with it afforded him the opportunity to examine how much pressure he had been putting upon himself on his journey of self-improvement. He examines where these emotions come from, but also begins to adapt a more "Progress, not perfection" mindset in measuring strides that are being made. 2020-12-0738 min

Getting Old Quickly32. Fear of FailureIn Episode 32, Billy Donnelly starts examining his very own fear of failure. He tries to figure out where it started, going back to his days as a student in a gifted program and not having the tools to handle things not always coming so easily to him. He details a number of situations over the years where he did put himself out there in the hopes of creating opportunity, only to be met by rejection and/or failure. He talks about having to reconcile one's view of "success" and "failure," and essentially redefining those terms for yourself in order...2020-11-3054 min

Getting Old Quickly31. Find Your GratitudeIn Episode 31, Billy Donnelly decides to reflect upon a number of things he's grateful for in an otherwise difficult year. With Thanksgiving upon us, he chooses to give time to the positive rather than dwelling on the negative, showing love to the various parts of his life that have meant a lot as he's struggled and dealt with all emotions of the pandemic. In addition to calling needed attention to those elements outside of himself that have really made a difference in 2020, he also turns inward to list the attributes and qualities of himself that he is grateful for...2020-11-2353 min

Getting Old Quickly30. Burnt OutIn Episode 30, Billy Donnelly details a number of contributing factors in his life that is leading him to feel burnt out as of late. He discusses the come down he's feeling from having worked so intensely on the Presidential campaign and what it feels like when the stop hits so abruptly. In addition, he talks about the mental exhaustion that still exists on a daily basis with the less-than-ideal state of the country and the world and how constant exposure to that feeds the burnout. He also brings up another recent PTSD episode he experienced as a result of...2020-11-1645 min

Getting Old Quickly29. Oh, What A ReliefIn Episode 29, Billy Donnelly talks about the incredible relief he's experienced the past several days as a result of the 2020 Presidential Election results. He details the feelings he's had about everything that's transpired over the last 4 years and discusses his emotions now that Americans chose a new path for the country moving forward. However, he also talks about the idea of considering the feelings of others who have been less than considerate in that same time span, and why respect needs to be a two-way street. In addition, he expands upon the positive experience he had volunteering for the...2020-11-0945 min

Getting Old Quickly28. You Can't Carry Around All Them Sins ForeverIn Episode 28, Billy Donnelly looks back at a fateful weekend in June 2007 that involved a trip to Washington, D.C., to meet his future wife's best friends to discuss guilt and carrying the burden of your sins from the past. He discusses his role in the crumbling of their friendship and the blame he placed on himself over the years for being at the heart of it... or so he thought. After a recent conversation, he received more perspective on what really happened during that visit and a ton of missing context for things surrounding it that led him...2020-11-0258 min

Getting Old Quickly27. Learn To Accept Your BlameIn Episode 27, Billy Donnelly wants to talk about the importance of learning to accept your blame. As he points out, it is very easy for us to constantly point the finger at others for our imperfect lives or things not going our way. However, he stresses the need to reflect on our roles in things panning out that way in the choices that we have made along that path. In addition, he also talks about consequences of our actions and understanding that we have a hand in how things often shake out, and that while we find it easier...2020-10-2643 min

Getting Old Quickly26. The Story of JerryIn Episode 26, Billy Donnelly takes a trip down memory lane to talk about Jerry, his best friend from college. During this episode, Billy shares stories of their friendship in school and the good times they shared with one another, but he also discusses where the cracks in their friendship began to show and ultimately how their friendship fell apart. By reflecting on those memories, he shares regrets about how things were handled, the lessons he's taken away from what happened and the potential ramifications that resulted over time from this fallout.2020-10-1952 min

Getting Old Quickly25. The Struggle Is RealIn Episode 25, Billy Donnelly is very clear that the struggle is real. It never goes away; it's a constant battle for us on a daily basis to cope and manage. However, he offers some positivity and reassurance that we are not in this alone, and there are resources available to us to aid us in our fight. He emphasizes that this is not the area in your life where you need to go it alone or try proving that you can handle things by yourself. We all need to be ready, willing and able to ask for that necessary...2020-10-1231 min

Getting Old Quickly24. What Goes Around...In Episode 24, Billy Donnelly explores the ideas of Karma and "what goes around comes around." He discusses the premise that we are taught throughout our lives that we need to be rewarded for our good behavior and deeds, be it organized religion or Santa Claus, rather than just because it's the right thing to do. However, as a firm believer in justice, he also believes we need to hold people accountable for their errors and mistakes by making them pay a price in order to learn from their actions and not repeat them. For if there is no deterrent...2020-10-0544 min

Getting Old Quickly23. We're Living In An Overwhelming World Right NowIn Episode 23, Billy Donnelly gets into his feelings of being overwhelmed by the events and state of the world right now. With 2020 showing no mercy whatsoever, he discusses his struggles with anxiety as things seemingly get worse and worse, and we're left with no time at all to process our experiences as yet another bad new thing gets thrown at us. He talks about the feelings of isolation and loneliness that surface when trying to make sense of a nonsensical world, especially with the larger spread of disinformation and conspiracy theories in these times. And he touches upon the...2020-09-2843 min

Getting Old Quickly22. Everybody HurtsIn Episode 22, Billy Donnelly discusses the normalcy of feeling sadness and explores the importance of allowing yourself to process these emotions rather than ignoring them and/or pretending they are not present. Often people try to unsuccessfully force happiness within themselves when they feel down or depressed, and Billy stresses the need to be in the moment with these feelings in order to try finding a way forward. He talks about the idea that "everybody hurts" (thanks, R.E.M.) and that it's the ability to acknowledge these so-called "negative feelings" that makes us human.2020-09-2133 min

Getting Old Quickly21. The Cult Is RealIn Episode 21, Billy Donnelly veers a little off-course in order to talk about cults and their recent spread, namely how they operate and why people are consistently lured into them. He uses examples such as NXIVM, QAnon and even the 9/11 and Sandy Hook truthers, factoring in how conspiracy theories are also moved through these cult-like mindsets, to show how otherwise intelligent people abandon logic and reason in order to fully buy in to the cause. He looks at some of the warning signs that cults exhibit and what we can do personally to identify and walk away from their...2020-09-1442 min

Getting Old Quickly20. Self-Care Isn't An Option; It's A MustIn Episode 20, Billy Donnelly addresses the need for self-care. He explains why it's so important and the benefits you'll find in practicing it. He lays out the difficulties you may run into some times in trying to make this common practice in yourself - both self-inflicted and from the resistance of others. However, he stresses the reasons for you being able to have time and space for yourself - your feelings, your emotions, your ability to escape and decompress, etc. - and the difficulties he had along the way in arriving at that place. 2020-09-0732 min

Getting Old Quickly19. Silence Is ComplicityIn Episode 19, Billy Donnelly discusses the very real idea that silence is complicity. After being challenged about speaking up about his prior work environment in a previous episode, he started thinking about why others would rather silence themselves and not get involved, even if that means improvement to their situations or greater change beyond that. As a result, he talks this week about standing up and finding your voice to defend what you know is right against what you see that is bad and/or wrong, both on a macro and a micro level. He believes that you shouldn't...2020-08-3141 min

Getting Old Quickly18. Kristy The NarcissistIn Episode 18, Billy Donnelly details his experience dealing with a narcissist from one of his most recent work environments. He lays out the history of their working relationship, how they eventually became friends (or so he thought) and how she eventually turned on him. He explains how he came to learn more about narcissism and narcissistic behavior in order to better understand stand what had happened to him and, in depth, he discusses three strategies - triangulation, cognitive dissonance & idealization, devaluation and discarding - that narcissists use in order to exploit others, using his story in order to show h...2020-08-241h 03

Getting Old Quickly17. Forget The AlamoIn Episode 17, Billy Donnelly talks about his time working at the Alamo Drafthouse, following the release of an investigative report of further toxicity within the company's venue and corporate culture. He discusses a bit about his experience there and some of the ridiculousness he witnessed as staff at one of their theaters. In addition, he hits on the expectations one should have to not work within an environment as such, including proper treatment and respect by co-workers and management, while also touching upon the toll it takes for the institutions and structures you rely on to protect you and...2020-08-1745 min

Getting Old Quickly16. Fake It Till You Make ItIn Episode 16, Billy Donnelly discusses others' outward perceptions that everything with you is fine, when, in reality, it is a product of "fake it till you make it." This leads him to examine the various reasons why people portray things as being okay publicly while they struggle with issues of depression, anxiety, etc. internally. He talks about his own dealings with "fake it till you make it" - specifically not wanting to be treated as being different - and the unwanted sympathy and pity that typically comes with revealing vulnerabilities of that type. He looks at the ways in...2020-08-1034 min

Getting Old Quickly15. The Horrors of My High School ExperienceIn Episode #15, Billy Donnelly revisits his time in high school - four years of his life that he absolutely hated and was miserable in living through. He details his struggles with fitting in and being accepted by an ecosystem where everyone's ambition is to be cool and/or popular. He talks about his reluctance to just do what everyone else was doing in order to fit in. He discusses his toxic romantic relationship from those years and how it exacerbated his problems during that time, and he reveals his lowest point during it all, which led to a cry...2020-08-0346 min

Getting Old Quickly14. Part of Your WorldIn Episode #14, Billy Donnelly tackles the idea of gatekeepers - those who determine who is included or not included as a part of a club, social circle, etc. He tells of his own experiences dealing with gatekeepers, and how much it has negatively stuck with him over the years as he tried his damnedest to be a part of various film groups during his writing days and was rejected. He explains why it means so much for people to be embraced and accepted, and when they're not the self-doubt being left out creates. He also relays a recent experience...2020-07-2735 min

Getting Old Quickly13. Send In The ClownIn Episode #13, Billy Donnelly struggles with the identity he feels he's used most over the years in the hopes of fitting in and being liked - the clown. He discusses the easiness of being the person who makes everyone laugh and provides a good time in the company of others, but also details the taxing struggles of having to be that guy all the time and not being taken seriously when it comes time to move beyond those moments. He tells an early story of using these tactics to be accepted at a young age, but also coming to the...2020-07-2040 min

Getting Old Quickly12. Crisis of Self-IdentityIn Episode #12, Billy Donnelly struggles with his own crisis of self-identity, which is a direct result from his natural desire to want to be liked. After putting himself out there so long as this persona he believed made it easier for him to be accepted and embraced by others, he is having a hard time answering the question "Who am I really?" He ponders where one's true self ends and the person we publicly put into the world begins, as he examines his lack of self-confidence in allowing who he believes he is to be enough for others. He...2020-07-1333 min

Getting Old Quickly11. The Intoxication of ValidationIn Episode #11, Billy Donnelly examines his need for validation and the problems this addiction of sorts has created in his life over the years. After discovering his Love Language - Words of Affirmation - it seemingly explained so much of his behavior as it relates to what he needs back from his relationships with other people. However, over time, validation becomes like a drug of sorts where what you have is not good enough and you are constantly chasing the high of someone else's approval. Billy looks at recent work situations, in addition to his own relationships at home...2020-07-0649 min

Getting Old Quickly10. Let's Speak Love LanguagesIn Episode #10, Billy Donnelly lays the groundwork for future conversations by introducing the concept of Gary Chapman's Love Languages: Quality Time, Physical Touch, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service and Words of Affirmation. Throughout the show, Billy explores what each language entails and how each may fulfill the needs of those who fit into each category. He explains the importance of understanding each, in order to better communicate what we need to feel loved as well as what we may need to give for others to feel the same. Furthermore, he dives into his primary love language and how it...2020-06-2942 min

Getting Old Quickly9. The Toxicity In Our MasculinityIn Episode 9, Billy Donnelly decides to answer a question he was asked about anxiety, depression and, in general, mental health being so taboo amongst men. That leads to a deeper discussion about toxic masculinity: what it is, how it affects those issues and how we begin to address it. He talks about the misconceptions of toughness, strength, weakness and vulnerability that become problematic for mental and emotional growth, in addition to the pushback a man is likely to face when trying to open up about their emotions. He looks at our ideas of what we think a man is...2020-06-2240 min

Getting Old Quickly8. And Then The PTSD Showed UpIn Episode 8, Billy Donnelly tells of a recent bout with PTSD. Throughout the show, he dives into the story of his dismissal from a prior workplace (Ain't It Cool News) and the mistreatment he experienced on the way out. He explores all the feelings he went through as a result and thought that he'd been able to move on. That is until a name from the past resurfaced in the last few weeks, bringing with all sorts of negative feelings about that ordeal and re-opening the wound. He then discusses the prevalence of PTSD in our everyday lives and...2020-06-1545 min

Getting Old Quickly7. I Got All Lives Matter'd By A Longtime FriendIn Episode 7, Billy Donnelly has to deal with the fallout of a longtime friend dropping "All Lives Matter" on him. He examines the disappointment of being hit with such a revelation from someone he thought he knew. He also looks at the idea of being colorblind to race, namely where the idea came from and why it's proven to be quite problematic over time. In addition, he talks about challenging the graduating class of his high school, particularly those who drape themselves in the greatness of the school while conveniently ignoring one of the school's core principles - social j...2020-06-0858 min

Getting Old Quickly6. #BlackLivesMatterFor Episode #6, Billy Donnelly decides to postpone the originally-planned show in order to discuss his feelings surrounding the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the resulting protests/riots in Minnesota and across the country. He talks about his support for the Black Lives Matter and the skin he has in the game in fighting for racial equality and against racial injustice. He gets into our need for understanding and empathy as we aim to listen and learn from the experiences of black people during these times, in order to contextualize what has led to various forms of protest...2020-06-0153 min

Getting Old Quickly5. Making Amends For Those Stupid Kid DaysIn Episode #5 of Getting Old Quickly, Billy Donnelly talks about his fondness for those younger days when he felt accepted by his peers. However, that doesn't mean he was an angel as a kid and carries with him some guilt over all this time for actions and behaviors towards others from his childhood. Here, he details how he has tried to make amends over time to those he may have wronged, how those interactions have played out, what he hopes to get out of it and the results of a recent conversation he had with the last person he...2020-05-2543 min

Getting Old Quickly4. Your Work Does Not Define YouIn Episode #4, Billy Donnelly explores the role of work in people's lives, and ultimately arrives at the conclusion that you are not your work. Your work is not what defines you. You are more than what you put into a company during your shift, and it's now more important than ever to focus on the things that are truly important in your life... because, while work may help give you a sense of purpose, there is so much more that reflects who you are as a person that your productivity, efficiency and output. 2020-05-1835 min

Getting Old Quickly3. I Get By With Very Little Help From My FriendsIn Episode 3, Billy Donnelly begins to dig into the type of friendships that exist within his life, and what he finds lacking in the quality relationships he continues to seek. The importance of two-way friendships is discussed, in addition to the difficulties of making friends as an adult and the loneliness that comes from those struggles. 2020-05-1134 min

Getting Old Quickly2. You Can Only Control That Which You Can ControlFor Episode #2, Billy Donnelly really dives into the main core value of Getting Old Quickly: you can only control that which you can control. Unfortunately, we cannot control the actions or behaviors of others. We can only handle what it is that we do, and, once we put that into perspective for us, it's a lot easier to find a degree of peace.2020-05-0435 min

Getting Old Quickly1. Allow Me To Introduce MyselfEpisode #1 of Getting Old Quickly gets off the ground with host Billy Donnelly laying out what the purpose and mission of the show is meant to be. It’s explained that this podcast is less about “back in the day” and much more about self-improvement, mental health and learning from our experiences to find some perspective as we get older.2020-04-2029 min