In this episode of RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina unpack Season 1, Episode 3: “Fifteen Minutes.”

What does it mean to practice grief instead of avoid it? And what happens when everyone in the room is telling a version of the truth — but not the whole truth?

This week, we spotlight Jessica Williams and the layered brilliance she brings to Gaby as divorce, relief, and guilt collide. We explore the episode’s thread of unreliable narrators — from patients to therapists to friends — and examine Paul’s now-iconic “fifteen minutes” grief ritual.

We also discuss:

• Jimmy’s blurred professional boundaries
• Alice learning how to feel joy without betraying her grief
• The cost of hiding things — even from yourself
• Why “Resting Dead Wife Face” is both devastating and hilarious

_____________________________

Resources this week:

• For Veterans seeking help in a crisis for housing, you can utilize the National Call Center for Houseless Veterans by 

• Calling 988 and pressing 1

• Texting 838255

• Or use the 1-877-4AID-VET (424-3838) hotline

• Last week we met Wally, who suffers with OCD and we wanted to also share a few resources for that affliction as well: Resources for people with OCD include the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), https://iocdf.org/ which offers information, support groups, and treatment guidance. Other resources include the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Peace of Mind Foundation, https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-conditions/obsessive-compulsive-disorder/, and various peer support communities. These organizations provide access to professional guidance, therapeutic approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and is considered the most effective treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It involves confronting fears through exposure to triggers and resisting the urge to perform compulsive rituals. This helps individuals learn to manage intrusive thoughts and the anxiety they cause. There are online and in-person support systems.

Shrinking Season 1, Episode 2 — Fortress of Solitude dives straight into grief, avoidance, and what happens when the people who love us don’t know how to show up.

On this episode of RE:Shrinking, we focus on Harrison Ford’s Paul Rhoades—his guarded solitude, quiet regrets, and the unexpectedly tender way he steps in for Alice when Jimmy can’t. We unpack the episode’s funniest moments, its most devastating scenes, and the deeper emotional truth underneath them all: coping alone isn’t strength—it’s isolation.

We talk:

• Why Paul’s “Fortress of Solitude” is both protection and prison
• Jimmy’s unraveling—and the friends who failed him
• Liz, Gabi, Bryan, and the ripple effects of grief
• How honesty, vulnerability, and asking for help become acts of survival

Plus: Harrison Ford trivia, cringe moments, hot takes, and real-world resources for grief and PTSD.

NOTE: This episode had some sound issues around the 54m mark. We have addressed the issue for future episodes; but you may find that skipping that portion will make this more fun for you.

🎙️ If you love Shrinking, character-driven TV, or conversations about grief that are funny, human, and uncomfortably real—this episode is for you.

Welcome to the very first episode of RE:Shrinking! This week, Carina Cooper and Holly Hurley Feather dive into Shrinking Season 1, Episode 1 — “Coin Flip” — while spotlighting one of the show’s creators and co-writers, Brett Goldstein.

As we break down the episode scene by scene, we explore Jimmy’s messy unraveling, Alice’s grief-fueled honesty, and the ethical tightrope of “psychological vigilantism.” From late-night poolside chaos to a gut-punch ending at a soccer field, “Coin Flip” sets the tone for a series that balances zany humor with devastating emotional truth.

Along the way, we unpack Brett Goldstein’s creative fingerprints — from Ted Lasso to Films To Be Buried With — and examine how love, grief, and complicated humanity show up in his writing. We also touch on standout performances from Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, Harrison Ford, Lukita Maxwell, and more, plus behind-the-scenes trivia that makes this show even richer.

Regular segments include:
• Creative Spotlight
• Scene-by-Scene Breakdown
• Cringe of the Week
• Holly’s Hot Take & Carina’s Cold Water
• Resources for Real-Life Struggles

Because Shrinking isn’t just a comedy about therapists — it’s about grief, addiction, parenting, rage, and what it takes to climb out of the dark.

Next week: S1E2 “Fortress of Solitude” and a deep dive into the inimitable Harrison Ford.

If you or someone you love is struggling with grief or substance use, resources shared in this episode include SAMHSA’s treatment locator (findtreatment.gov) and other national support networks.

Subscribe, follow, and join us each week as we rewatch, rethink, and RE:Shrink.

RE:Shrinking the Podcast is a brand-new, casual podcast all about Shrinking on Apple TV+ — and we’re announcing it LIVE!

Join co-hosts Holly Hurley Feather and Carina Cooper as we talk about why Shrinking deserves its own podcast, what the show means to us, and what listeners can expect from upcoming episodes. From character-driven storytelling to the emotional honesty (and humor!) that defines Shrinking, this livestream is for fans of the series who want to go a little deeper — without taking things too seriously.

Whether you’re a longtime Shrinking fan or just discovering the show on Apple TV+, this is your invitation to hang out, chat, and celebrate a series that really hits home.

🎙️ About the Podcast
RE:Shrinking is a casual, thoughtful podcast dedicated to discussing Shrinking on Apple TV+, episode by episode — with heart, humor, and zero therapy credentials.

What's coming up for RE:Shrinking the Podcast after Season 1?

Carina and Holly announce the launch of their bonus series, "ShrinkRAP": A version of RE:Shrinking where we explore topics that relate to the show like Wardrobe, Storytelling, Psychology, and more!

These will begin intermittently over the break between Season 1 and Season 2 and continue as we have interesting topics and guests to share.

In the meantime, make sure you and your friends get caught up on all 10 Season 1 Episodes, so we can begin Season 2 together soon!

That's our time! See you soon on RE:Shrinking the Podcast!

It’s the Season 1 finale of Shrinking, and “Closure” pulls absolutely no punches. So this week, Holly and Carina discuss how Jimmy is trying to move forward—but grief doesn’t follow timelines. Alice is confronting the fear of losing pieces of her mom. Paul takes a huge emotional risk (and maybe his biggest win yet). And Gaby steps fully into her power—with a little backup when it counts.

We get into all of it: the difference between avoidance and healing, what panic actually looks like in the body, and how “closure” isn’t something you achieve—it’s something you practice. Jimmy’s panic attack, Alice’s memory gaps, and Paul showing up for both Meg and Gaby all highlight the same truth: growth requires vulnerability, not control.

We also talk about the ethics (and consequences) of Jimmy’s therapy style—especially as it collides with Grace’s storyline in a way that’s shocking, complicated, and hard to ignore. There’s a real conversation here about responsibility, harm, and what happens when “breakthroughs” go too far.

And then—there’s the wedding. The speech. The dancing. The connection. This episode somehow holds heartbreak, accountability, and joy all at once—and we’re breaking down why it works.

Plus:
– Gaby’s “big coochie energy” interview moment (and why it matters)
– Liz asking to be included—and what that reveals about vulnerability
– Brian and his dad (oof)
– Sean stepping into something new
– And yes… we need to talk about that final “boop”

Resources & Support:
If this episode brings anything up for you, you’re not alone—and support is available:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988. This is especially relevant this week if you - or someone you love - is considering harm to self or others.
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) – Tools, articles, and support for anxiety and panic
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Research-backed info on mental health conditions
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Mental health resources and treatment info

Free & accessible options:
• Meditation, yoga, and breathwork can help regulate anxiety and panic responses
• The Insight Timer app offers free guided meditations, exercises outlined by licensed therapists and sleep support (not an ad - nor a prescription - just something Holly likes and uses).

If you’re dealing with panic attacks, anxiety, or harmful thoughts, therapy and/or medication can be incredibly helpful—and there are options at many different price points.

This week on RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina break down Season 1, Episode 9 — “Moving Forward” of Shrinking — the episode where growth finally starts to cost something.
We spotlight the legendary Wendie Malick, whose decades-spanning career (from Just Shoot Me! to The Emperor’s New Groove) reminds us what it looks like to fully own your presence — on screen and off.
“Moving Forward” weaves together some of the most emotionally grounded moments of the season:

• Jimmy confronting life after Tia — and what it means to let go
  
• Alice reckoning with guilt, grief, and missed moments
  
• Paul risking vulnerability in a bold attempt to repair his relationship with Meg
  
• Gaby pushing for representation and recognition in her field
  
• Sean searching for purpose beyond survival
  

Because moving forward isn’t just about healing —
it’s about showing up anyway.
Even when it’s late.
Even when it’s messy.
Even when you’re not sure it will work.--------------------------------------------

Resources Mentioned This Week
This episode highlights the importance of representation, mentorship, and access in mental health care — especially for young people.
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)
A leading organization focused on supporting youth mental health and expanding the field of child and adolescent psychiatry.

Key takeaways:

• Child & adolescent psychiatry is one of the most underserved specialties
  
• There is a growing need for diverse providers and representation
  
• Mentorship and community are critical for entering and staying in the field
  
• Career paths can include clinical work, research, and community-based care
  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qo0qSGJNANoNew episodes of RE:Shrinking drop weekly as we revisit every episode of Shrinking — exploring therapy concepts, grief, relationships, and the messy, human process of growth.
Next week: S1E10 — Season Finale. 🎙️

This week on RE:Shrinking, Carina Cooper and Holly Hurley Feather break down Season 1, Episode 8 (“Boop”) of Shrinking.

Directed by Zach Braff and written by Wally Baram, this episode dives into what happens when avoidance stops working and accountability begins.

We unpack Jimmy and Alice’s emotional clash, Paul’s regrets as a father, and Gaby’s unraveling at Nico’s art show—all centered around one idea: disrupting unhealthy patterns. (“Boop,” anyone?)

Plus, we explore codependency, boundaries, and what it really takes to change—even when it’s messy.

🔑 Themes This Episode

• Disrupting unhealthy relationship patterns (“Boop”)

• Parenting through conflict and repair

• Codependency and emotional enmeshment

• Accountability vs. avoidance

• Grief and delayed healing

This week on RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina dive into Season 1, Episode 7 — “Apology Tour” of Shrinking — the episode where almost everyone owes someone an apology… and only some of them actually give one.

We spotlight Christa Miller, whose fingerprints are all over the emotional tone of the series. Known for unforgettable roles on Scrubs, The Drew Carey Show, and Cougar Town, Miller is also the music supervisor behind the iconic soundtracks of many Bill Lawrence shows — including Shrinking. If you’ve ever wondered why the music in these series hits so perfectly, there’s a good chance Christa Miller had something to do with it.

In this episode, the fallout from Jimmy’s disastrous party continues:

• Jimmy begins his “apology tour” after his performance at Brian's engagement party

• Gaby and Jimmy grapple with the consequences of their night together

• Alice and Sean struggle with the aftermath of a nearly crossed boundary

• Liz and Derek face the reality of retirement and independence

• And Paul’s attempt to reconnect with his daughter explodes into one of the most heartbreaking confrontations of the season

The episode asks a deceptively simple question: What makes a real apology?

Because saying “sorry” isn’t the same as taking responsibility — and sometimes the hardest apology is the one you never expected to have to make.

Along the way we also discuss:

• Harrison Ford’s devastating performance in Paul’s freezing scene

• Wally unexpectedly becoming the voice of emotional clarity

• Why Sean might secretly be the emotional backbone of the show

This week on RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina unpack Season 1, Episode 6 — “Imposter Syndrome” of Shrinking — the party episode that absolutely detonates.

We spotlight co-creator and star Jason Segel, tracing his evolution from Freaks and Geeks to How I Met Your Mother, from writing and starring in Forgetting Sarah Marshall to helping revive The Muppets — all leading to the beautifully messy, grief-stricken Jimmy we see here.

“Imposter Syndrome” forces everyone into the same room… and then forces the truth out:

• Jimmy’s PTSD-style flashbacks and spiraling grief

• Paul’s fear of losing autonomy after disclosing Parkinson’s

• Brian’s trauma-informed avoidance around proposing

• Gaby navigating post-divorce vulnerability

• Alice and Sean colliding at the intersection of grief and adolescence

What starts as a surprise engagement party becomes a reckoning. Flashbacks blur with the present. Old fights resurface. Vomit happens (so much vomit). And beneath the chaos is the real question:

If you help other people process pain for a living… what happens when you refuse to process your own?

This episode doesn’t just explore imposter syndrome professionally — it examines the emotional version:
Feeling like a fraud in your grief.
In your marriage.
In your friendships.
In your healing.

And yes — we also discuss Hall & Oates, piano serenades gone wrong, and whether Jimmy might secretly be an incredible drunk singer.

🧠 Resources Mentioned This Week

Because this episode centers on unresolved grief, flashbacks, and emotional avoidance, we’re highlighting support specifically for loss and trauma.

GriefShare
A free, nationwide grief recovery support program that runs in 13-week group cycles.
Note: GriefShare is faith-based. If that approach isn’t right for you, consider secular alternatives below.

Many local hospice and palliative care organizations also offer free grief groups — even for those whose loved ones were not treated by that facility. Check locally.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Provides mental health and substance use treatment referrals and information, including trauma support resources for veterans.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 (U.S.) for free, confidential crisis support 24/7.

If you are experiencing PTSD flashbacks, intrusive memories, or emotional dysregulation similar to what Sean describes in this episode, these resources can help guide you toward trauma-informed care.

NOTE from the casters: in this episode, Holly mentions being Overweight. We debated leaving it in the show, but - after discussions with our local experts - Holly wanted to keep it.

She wants you to know that she's a practitioner (not a master) of Body Neutrality and feels HOT in her own skin.

However, we both very much understand if this mention was difficult for you, and we wanted to provide a resource to begin your journey as well.

Here's a start: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/5-steps-body-neutrality/.

🎬 Fun Share from This Week

Holly and Carina also loved revisiting Harrison Ford’s appearance on
The Late Show with Stephen Colbert where he talks about working with Jason Segel — and appears surprisingly relaxed and delighted about it.

New episodes of RE:Shrinking drop weekly as we revisit every episode of Shrinking — exploring therapy tools, grief work, creative process, and the messy humanity underneath the jokes.

Next week: S1E7 — “Apology Tour.”

Songs Alice is sad to:

Casimir Pulaski Day⁠ by Sufjan Stevens

Bodybag by Charlotte Lawrence

This week on RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina break down Season 1, Episode 5 — “Woof” of Shrinking — the episode where everyone is avoiding something… until they aren’t.

We spotlight the Music Department and composer Tom Howe, whose work (also heard in Ted Lasso and The Great British Bake Off) turns this series into an emotional mixtape. From needle drops to tonal shifts, the music in “Woof” acts like its own character — underscoring grief, panic, risk, and breakthrough.

We also unpack the writing of Bill Posley (Cobra Kai, 9-1-1, GLOW), and how this episode weaves together:

• Sean confronting the weight of being called a “hero”
• Brian’s trauma-informed avoidance around proposing
• Gaby demanding mentorship that actually reflects her
• Alice and Sean making reckless choices
• And Paul finally choosing honesty about his Parkinson’s

This is the episode about risk — the dangerous kind (skipping school, hanging from water towers, emotional avoidance)… and the brave kind (telling the truth, proposing anyway, asking for help).

🎵 Music Mentioned: “Me” by The 1975

Plus the official Shrinking Season 1 playlists available on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify.

🧠 Resources Mentioned This Week

This episode centers on risk-taking behavior, particularly as it relates to trauma and PTSD.

Common risk-taking behaviors can include:

• Skipping school
• Substance use
• Unsafe sexual behavior
• Gambling beyond your means
• Dangerous driving
• Fighting
• Extreme dieting or overeating
• Deliberate self-harm

Risk-taking may be connected to:

• Thrill-seeking
• Peer pressure & social influence
• Substance abuse
• ADHD-related impulsivity
• PTSD and other mental health challenges

If you or someone you love needs support:

NAMI HelpLine (Free & Confidential) Call: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Provides emotional support, mental health information, and resource guidance.

To assess high-risk behaviors in educational settings: Safe & Supportive Learning – Assessing High Risk ⁠https://safesupportivelearning.ed.gov/training-technical-assistance/education-level/higher-education/assessment/assessing-high-risk⁠

Additionally, for information and support around Parkinson’s disclosure and relationship changes, major Parkinson’s foundations provide guidance for navigating diagnosis conversations with family members.

You can find some of these at Parkinson.org, or Caregiver.org under Parkinson's Disease and Caregiving.

This week on RE:Shrinking, Holly and Carina break down Season 1, Episode 4 — “Potatoes” of Shrinking — an episode packed with balcony confessions, apology bagels, hot tub confrontations, and one very uncomfortable dad awakening.

We spotlight Luke Tennie (Sean) — his performance, his Independent Spirit Award nomination, and how fatherhood mirrors the emotional growth of his character. We also dig into the writing of Rachna Fruchbom (known for Parks & Recreation and Fresh Off the Boat), and how this episode masterfully balances grief, ego, parenting panic, and Parkinson’s avoidance.

From Jimmy making everything about himself (again), to Paul delaying the hardest conversation of his life, to the undeniable truth that “teenage girls be… living their lives,” this episode asks:
Is it harder to face your kids growing up — or your own mortality?

We also talk:

• Exposure therapy gone wrong

• Whether Liz and Derek are actually okay

• Why Sean won’t open up (yet)

• Sugar Ray’s emotional chokehold on the late ’90s

🎵 Music Mentioned:
14:59 by Sugar Ray

Resources

If you don’t have your end-of-life documents in place — regardless of age or assets — this episode is your gentle nudge.

The National Institute on Aging provides free information and access to forms for:

• Advance Directive / Living Will – Outlines your wishes for medical care if you cannot communicate.

• Healthcare Power of Attorney – Appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.

• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order – A medical order declining CPR (if desired).

• HIPAA Release – Grants access to your medical information.

Find free guidance and state-specific resources here:
National Institute on Aging – Advance Care Planning Checklist
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/getting-your-affairs-order-checklist-documents-prepare-future

New episodes of RE:Shrinking drop weekly as we revisit every episode of Shrinking — exploring the therapy tools, relational dynamics, and real-life parallels behind the laughs.

Next week: S1E5 — “Woof.”