Listen now (54 min) | Welcome to the first-ever episode of cosmic cheer squad! We (Chris and Bee) kick things off by introducing ourselves and the magnetic, messy, beautiful energy that brought this podcast into being. In this episode, we share what led us to each other, how we’ve navigated neurodivergence, burnout, and identity over the years—and why we’re building this space for radical honesty, soft rebellion, and cosmic-level care. The hosts of cosmic cheer squad: Bee Mayhew (she/they) Anarchist housewife, lyrical wild card, and neurodivergent shapeshifter. Fiercely tender, cosmically grounded, and here to say the quiet parts out loud. Founder of pragmagination. Chris Wells (they/them) Writer, mystic, and catalyst for transformation. Explorer of inner worlds and compassionate guide through what hurts and heals. Co-host of Positive Disintegration.
I love the feel of this conversation. Like sitting around a campfire. It feels very good and I can't think of another podcast that feels like this. And the words about - if you're cool with the status quo/so comfortable it's not bothering you, this isn't the podcast for you ... we're supposed to be fucked up by how weird shit is ... these bits had a surprising impact on me and the episode as a whole as well. I felt a release of tension that made me realize how much more stressed I was than I knew and this conversation felt like home. Definitely cried a bit! Big thanks for your amazing work!!!
The campfire analogy fits… a great way to frame such a far-ranging episode. There is no specific “agenda” for a campfire. It’s spontaneous, organic, and all connected at the same time. It has a delightful and engaging flow. These are parasocial relationships for many at this point. And that can be a good thing… we know you to a certain extent. And this measured relatability makes for an engaging experience. You don’t want to leave the fire ring because it’s so engaging. By sharing the paths you’ve walked before is immeasurably helpful… it lets us social creatures know that we are not alone in our perceived weirdness and otherness.
She said it in a observant and reverent way, as if I were relatable to her 11 year old self 🥰😆 still cracked me up though! And now these two want to do a “podcast” for their next project submission ;) I think having our kids want emulate us is about the highest compliment available yeah?!
Adding on to my thoughts from earlier today: I finished listening to the episode. What Chris (and also Bee) related in the latter half taps into something I sense people have a hunger for. That is, to hear more about others’ stories and journeys. In the TPD podcast, we hear elements of Chris and Emma’s journeys in addition to those of the guests. And there is massive value in hearing them. We hear others’ stories and can see how they resemble or could possibly resemble our own struggles. And that provides a means to hope and a way to find healing, wholeness and thriving in this life. Brené Brown’s definition of hope is that it’s composed of a goal, a pathway, and the agency to walk that path. This is what it feels like you are working towards providing. And that promises be powerful and beautiful. It already is.
I’m about halfway in. Came in not knowing quite what to expect. I’m getting it and am engaged. You are talking about a range of big vast elements. And doing it beautifully.
Love this: “We’re holding everything loosely and not being attached to how things have been.“ Or as 38 Special sang, “Just hold on loosely, but don’t let go.” 😸
I’ve been seeking more light, joy, and hilarity in these times. All the while, avoiding the pitfalls of spiritual bypassing. Sunbeams and shadow define each other, after all.
I’ve come to such a place. Thank you for the vision to create it. 🙏🏻
I don't think we still don't know what to expect 😂 but I think the “light, joy and hilarity without spiritual bypassing” is a solid byline and goal to keep embroidered on a funky pillow on the sofa of our shared vision 🛋️ Thanks for hanging out with us!!
Plans include to increase the number of bathrooms, redo 70's kitchen. It could easily sleep six right now, and I can imagine hosting larger within a year
One thing that came to mind is my house in northern calif could possibly be an airbnb for the future. Part of the vision I have for it is occasional group use
we also laugh. A LOT.
And cuss
I'm actually out of words right now 😂 thank you so much for this, Eric 🙏🏼💗
I love the feel of this conversation. Like sitting around a campfire. It feels very good and I can't think of another podcast that feels like this. And the words about - if you're cool with the status quo/so comfortable it's not bothering you, this isn't the podcast for you ... we're supposed to be fucked up by how weird shit is ... these bits had a surprising impact on me and the episode as a whole as well. I felt a release of tension that made me realize how much more stressed I was than I knew and this conversation felt like home. Definitely cried a bit! Big thanks for your amazing work!!!
Thank you, Jen! 🙏🏼May tension continue to release or at least be held with some tenderness in these times!
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
The campfire analogy fits… a great way to frame such a far-ranging episode. There is no specific “agenda” for a campfire. It’s spontaneous, organic, and all connected at the same time. It has a delightful and engaging flow. These are parasocial relationships for many at this point. And that can be a good thing… we know you to a certain extent. And this measured relatability makes for an engaging experience. You don’t want to leave the fire ring because it’s so engaging. By sharing the paths you’ve walked before is immeasurably helpful… it lets us social creatures know that we are not alone in our perceived weirdness and otherness.
Oh, Bee. I never heard your voice before; it's great listening!
My Maddie told me that I sound like I'm 15 and I'm squeaky. Whew. Critics, I tell ya!
A lot of folk would kill for 15 and squeaky!
She said it in a observant and reverent way, as if I were relatable to her 11 year old self 🥰😆 still cracked me up though! And now these two want to do a “podcast” for their next project submission ;) I think having our kids want emulate us is about the highest compliment available yeah?!
It’s definitely one of them!
💜💜💜💜
Adding on to my thoughts from earlier today: I finished listening to the episode. What Chris (and also Bee) related in the latter half taps into something I sense people have a hunger for. That is, to hear more about others’ stories and journeys. In the TPD podcast, we hear elements of Chris and Emma’s journeys in addition to those of the guests. And there is massive value in hearing them. We hear others’ stories and can see how they resemble or could possibly resemble our own struggles. And that provides a means to hope and a way to find healing, wholeness and thriving in this life. Brené Brown’s definition of hope is that it’s composed of a goal, a pathway, and the agency to walk that path. This is what it feels like you are working towards providing. And that promises be powerful and beautiful. It already is.
I’m about halfway in. Came in not knowing quite what to expect. I’m getting it and am engaged. You are talking about a range of big vast elements. And doing it beautifully.
Love this: “We’re holding everything loosely and not being attached to how things have been.“ Or as 38 Special sang, “Just hold on loosely, but don’t let go.” 😸
I’ve been seeking more light, joy, and hilarity in these times. All the while, avoiding the pitfalls of spiritual bypassing. Sunbeams and shadow define each other, after all.
I’ve come to such a place. Thank you for the vision to create it. 🙏🏻
I don't think we still don't know what to expect 😂 but I think the “light, joy and hilarity without spiritual bypassing” is a solid byline and goal to keep embroidered on a funky pillow on the sofa of our shared vision 🛋️ Thanks for hanging out with us!!
Plans include to increase the number of bathrooms, redo 70's kitchen. It could easily sleep six right now, and I can imagine hosting larger within a year
One thing that came to mind is my house in northern calif could possibly be an airbnb for the future. Part of the vision I have for it is occasional group use
Not sure what I expected but this is so good, so needed.
I am electing my self into your squad. Getting to episode 2 later today and More to say when my thinking coheres.
Welcome to the squad, Julie! Thank you for listening and sharing this feedback with us. ✨