We all want community. We search to belong, but we don’t always want the messy parts that come with it. In this episode, we explore a simple but powerful truth Kathie read on an Instagram post by therapyforwomen: “Annoyance is the price you pay for community.”

When we long for frictionless relationships, we actually rob ourselves of growth. Real community means learning to live with differences, the quirks, interruptions, and small frustrations that stretch our patience and deepen our empathy. A “perfect” group, where everyone thinks and acts the same, might sound peaceful, but it creates an echo chamber that limits learning and connection. The only other option to some friction is isolation, and that is good for no one.

But there is an antidote to ease some of the friction. Tune in to find out.