Life Happens Laugh Anyway

Episode 188: "Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom: Wedding Week Woes and Wisdom

Welcome back, humor consumers, to the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast! In this special episode, Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host, Cathrine, dive into the exciting and often stressful world of wedding planning. With Cathrine's daughter getting married this weekend, the duo shares personal stories and insights on being the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom.

From navigating dress choices and managing stress to embracing the joyous moments, this episode is packed with heartfelt advice and humor.

Plus, they welcome a new sponsor Amy D. and discuss the importance of focusing on what truly matters – the marriage itself. Tune in for laughs, love, and life lessons!

P.S. Love the podcast? Become a Humor Contributor by donating $5 per month. Click here to go to Tracy's website to help us offset the cost of bringing weekly episodes for your binging pleasure and personal growth. ;0) 

P.P.S. WE LOVE YOU. Thank you so much. 

Tracy and Cathrine

 

 

 

Episode 187: The Joys and Challenges of Houseplants

Welcome back, humor consumers, to the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast with comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her bestie co-host, Cathrine. In episode 187, Tracy and Cathrine celebrate their podcast journey and delve into the world of houseplants.

This episode covers everything from the benefits of having houseplants, the easiest plants to grow indoors, and the occasional plant murders committed by our hosts. They discuss their personal experiences with different types of plants, including the resilient pothos and the challenging Monstera. You'll also learn about some handy tools and resources to help you become a better plant parent.

As always, the episode concludes with an inspirational message pointing you to Jesus and the word of God, along with a call to action encouraging you to support your local floral shop and bring home a new plant.

Join Tracy and Cathrine for a fun and informative discussion that will make you appreciate the beauty and complexity of houseplants. Happy growing!

P.S. Love the podcast? Become a Humor Contributor by donating $5 per month. Click here to go to Tracy's website to help us offset the cost of bringing weekly episodes for your binging pleasure and personal growth. ;0) 

P.P.S. WE LOVE YOU. Thank you so much. 

Tracy and Cathrine

 

 

 

Celine Dion's Battle with Stiff Person Syndrome and the Power of Resilience

Welcome to episode 186 of the Life Happens, Laugh Anyway podcast with comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host Cathrine. In this episode, Tracy and Cathrine dive into the documentary "I Am: Celine Dion," available on Amazon Prime, which explores the renowned singer's journey with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare and debilitating disorder.

They provide an overview of the documentary, sharing insights into how this syndrome has affected Celine Dion's life and career. They also discuss other individuals who have faced similar challenges, losing their extraordinary gifts due to illness, and how they coped with these life-changing experiences.

Tracy and Cathrine share their own personal stories of loss and resilience, offering encouragement and hope through scripture and a heartfelt call to action. Don't miss this touching and inspiring episode that celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering power of faith.

P.S. Love the podcast? Become a Humor Contributor by donating $5 per month on Patreon. Your gift helps to offset the cost of bringing weekly episodes for your binging pleasure and personal growth. ;0) 

P.P.S. Want to give a one-time gift of any amount? Do that here. Tracy and Cathrine are always dreaming and setting growth goals to reach more people with humor and truth. Adding video to the podcast is one of those lofty goals and it costs money to create a set, purchase equipment, and get training. Your gift of any amount will help in those efforts. Thank you so much. 

 

 

Episode 185: Embracing Assertiveness: Empowering Women Over 50 to Speak Up

Welcome back, Humor Consumers, to the Life Happens, Laugh Anyway podcast. I

In episode 185, comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her bestie co-host, Cathrine, delve into the intriguing topic of assertiveness, particularly focusing on women over 50. Join them for a 45-minute conversation that promises to be both enlightening and entertaining.

In this episode, Tracy and Cathrine explore...

• what assertiveness truly means and why it matters
• insights from psychotherapists
• personal anecdotes
• practical strategies to help you communicate more effectively and assertively

Whether you're looking to improve your relationships at work, home, or within your community, this episode offers valuable takeaways. Plus, as always, there's a sprinkle of humor and a touch of scripture to keep you inspired.

Don't miss out on this transformative episode! Tune in and learn how to speak your truth with kindness and respect, and maybe even change your life in the process.

Click this link to watch the YouTube video that Cathrine and Tracy mentioned. It is Dr. Jordan Peterson giving a lecture to college students on the topic of agreeableness (linked to assertiveness and the lack there of). It's great. He talks fast and he's super smart, so prepare yourself. 

P.S. Love the podcast? Become a Humor Contributor by donating $5 per month on Patreon. Your gift helps to offset the cost of bringing weekly episodes for your binging pleasure and personal growth. ;0) 

P.P.S. Want to give a one-time gift of any amount? Do that here. Tracy and Cathrine are always dreaming and setting growth goals to reach more people with humor and truth. Adding video to the podcast is one of those lofty goals and it costs money to create a set, purchase equipment, and get training. Your gift of any amount will help in those efforts. Thank you so much. 

Episode 184-Unoffendable

Greetings Humor Consumers!

Do you want to have thicker skin? Want to be less offended? Tune into Episode 184 of the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast where co-hosts Tracy DeGraaf and her bff Cathrine talk about….

 * Brant Hansen’s book “Unoffendable”
 * Why we are so easily offended 🙃
 * Tips to stop being so offended 👍

Tracy will share a little from her experience as a performer and speaker when others have given their “two cents” worth of unsolicited advice. Yep. That’s the part that brought her to tears….cuz people are people. 😭😭😭

Scripture: Proverbs 19:11 and Matthew 5:38-39

CTA: Get the book, read the book, do it the tips.

Have a great week!

P.S. Love the podcast? Become a Humor Contributor by donating $5 per month on Patreon. Your gift helps to offset the cost of bringing weekly episodes for your binging pleasure and personal growth. ;0) 

P.P.S. Want to give a one-time gift of any amount? Do that here. Tracy and Cathrine are always dreaming and setting growth goals to reach more people with humor and truth. Adding video to the podcast is one of those lofty goals and it costs money to create a set, purchase equipment, and get training. Your gift of any amount will help in those efforts. Thank you so much. 

Episode 183-Hillbilly Elegy & Addiction

Hey Humor Consumers...

This week on the Life Happens Laugh Anyway Podcast we are covering "Hillbilly Elegy and the affects of addiction." Tune in here: https://tracydegraaf.com/podcast

SPOILER ALERT….WE ARE GOING TO TELL YOU WHAT THIS MOVIE IS ALL ABOUT. 

Here's what you can expect from listening today...

1. Review of 2020 Netflix Ron Howard film Hillbilly Elegy, the true life story of now Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance.
2. Our thoughts on addiction
3. How we can improve our situation right now in regard to addictions

CTA: Just keep going. Don’t give up.

Inspirational Close: Hebrews 12:1-2

"Where we come from is who we are but we choose every day who we become." J.D. Vance

Notable Scenes:

1. When the dark side of Papaw was revealed and showing flashback of him in a drunken rage and Mamaw starting him on fire. 😳
2. When Beverly tried to KILL JD in the car
3. The way in which the Appalachian people honored the dead.

**Thank You Humor Contributors**

Special thanks our Patreon supporters who support us with a recurring $5 per month. Valerie,  Sarah, Wendy, Jess, Jessica, Katie, Colleen, Ursula, Nancy, Kenny, Karren, Muffin, Darlene, Courtney and Joan. Also, a big thank you to our one-time gift supporters: Linda, Janine, Carla, Beverly and Jackie.

Your generosity helps keep this podcast going. To support, click here for a $5 monthly contribution or here a one-time gift.

**Additional Highlights**

Tracy’s comedy special "Condemned Bakery" is now available online. Click here to watch.

**More About Tracy DeGraaf**

Tracy is a Chicago-based comedian, author, and breast cancer survivor. She performs nationwide, blending humor with Christian faith and cancer awareness. Her podcast with Cathrine was born during the Covid shutdown and continues to offer weekly entertainment and spiritual encouragement.

For more, visit Tracy’s website or follow her on social media:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Twitter

 

Episode 182-How To Prepare For A Storm

Join comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host and bestie Cathrine in episode 182 of the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast "How to prepare for a storm."

Thee takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Cathrine and Tracy will share their own experiences from the recent derecho storm that came through the Chicagoland area. (Cathrine from her mom's assisted living facility and Tracy from her crawlspace.)
2. Tips on how to prepare right now for the next storm
3. WHY we MUST take action immediately

Inspiration: Isaiah 4:5-6

Call to Action: Get prepared!

p.s. The little phone charger thingy Cathrine recommended was called a "Halo Bolt." 

**Thank You Humor Contributors**

Special thanks to ALL $5 monthly contributors and one-time supporters. Your generosity helps keep this podcast going. To support, click here for a $5 monthly contribution or here a one-time gift.

**Additional Highlights**

Tracy’s comedy special "Condemned Bakery" is now available online. Click here to watch.

**More About Tracy DeGraaf**

Tracy is a Chicago-based comedian, author, and breast cancer survivor. She performs nationwide, blending humor with Christian faith and cancer awareness. Her podcast with Cathrine was born during the Covid shutdown and continues to offer weekly entertainment and spiritual encouragement.

For more, visit Tracy’s website or follow her on social media:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Twitter

Emotional Mastery: Balancing Feelings with Faith

Join comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host and bestie Cathrine in episode 181 of the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast as they dive into the world of emotions.

Thee takeaways from today’s episode:

1. Discover insights from Dr. Charles Stanley's book, "Emotions: Confront the Lies, Conquer with Truth," and learn how to harness your emotions for good.
2. Explore the pros and cons of trusting your emotions.
3. Gain practical tools for maintaining emotional balance.

Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with humor, wisdom, and a touch of spirituality.

**Thank You Humor Contributors**

Special thanks to ALL $5 monthly contributors and one-time supporters. Your generosity helps keep this podcast going. To support, click here for a $5 monthly contribution or here a one-time gift.

**Additional Highlights**

Tracy’s comedy special "Condemned Bakery" is now available online. Click here to watch.

**More About Tracy DeGraaf**

Tracy is a Chicago-based comedian, author, and breast cancer survivor. She performs nationwide, blending humor with Christian faith and cancer awareness. Her podcast with Cathrine was born during the Covid shutdown and continues to offer weekly entertainment and spiritual encouragement.

For more, visit Tracy’s website or follow her on social media:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Twitter

Episode 180: Tackling Control Freaks and Embracing Humility

Welcome to the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast! In this exciting 180th episode, comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host and bestie, Cathrine, take you on a hilarious and insightful journey. Join them as they broadcast from their pod lab, preparing to add video content in 2024!

In today's episode, Tracy and Cathrine dive deep into the world of control freaks. They discuss the characteristics of a control freak, share personal anecdotes, and offer practical tips on how to outsmart one, especially in the workplace. They also explore the roots of controlling behavior and how to deal with it effectively.

But it's not all serious talk! Tracy and Cathrine bring their signature humor and relatable stories to the table, making this episode both informative and entertaining. Plus, they share a bit of spiritual inspiration and a call to action to help you reflect on your own behaviors.

Don't miss out on this engaging episode that combines laughter, wisdom, and practical advice. Tune in and learn how to navigate relationships with control freaks while keeping your sanity intact!

Episode 179-Relaxation and Stress Management Techniques

Welcome back, humor consumers, to the Life Happens Laugh Anyway podcast. In this episode, comedian Tracy DeGraaf and her co-host and bestie, Cathrine, celebrate a milestone of over 19,000 downloads! They reflect on their podcast journey, the joy of connecting with listeners, and a delightful bridal shower they recently hosted.

As they dive into the main topic, Tracy and Cathrine explore various relaxation and stress management techniques. From the 5-4-3-2-1 method to progressive muscle relaxation, they share practical tips and personal stories to help you find peace amidst life's chaos. They also discuss the benefits of gratitude, scripture memory, and even some unique relaxation practices from around the world.

Join them for an episode filled with laughter, insights, and actionable advice to help you de-stress and relax. Plus, they share comforting scripture verses and a call to action to seek God for true peace and comfort. Tune in and take a step towards a more relaxed and joyful life!

**Thank You Humor Contributors**

Special thanks to Valerie, the newest Humor Contributor, Valerie and ALL $5 monthly contributors and one-time supporters. Your generosity helps keep this podcast going. To support, click here for a $5 monthly contribution or here a one-time gift.

**Additional Highlights**

Tracy’s comedy special "Condemned Bakery" is now available online. Click here to watch.

**More About Tracy DeGraaf**

Tracy is a Chicago-based comedian, author, and breast cancer survivor. She performs nationwide, blending humor with Christian faith and cancer awareness. Her podcast with Cathrine was born during the Covid shutdown and continues to offer weekly entertainment and spiritual encouragement.

For more, visit Tracy’s website or follow her on social media:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- Twitter