Season 5 

The Friendship Season

In this series, The Couch Next Door dives deep into friendships, exploring all the different types of friends that shape our lives. No matter if your in a friendship drought or your cup is full, there is so much encouragement in these episodes.

Episodes

  • 1

    Soulmate Friendships

    My three best friends from high school join me today to talk about our long standing friendship.  We have had ups and downs in our friendship but one thing we can all agree on is that we can count on each other no matter what!   You’ll hear in this episode what conflict has looked like in our relationship and how low maintenance doesn’t mean low effort.  I will warn you there are tears but most of all lots of laughter. 

  • 2

    Fire Wives

    When your partner is a firefighter, or a first responder of any kind, life looks a little different. But one thing that makes it easier? Friendship. In this episode, we’re diving into the incredible bond between fire wives—the sisterhood that forms when you share the unique challenges of fire life. 

    This episode is not ONLY for those in the first responder lifestyle but is also an encouragement to all of us to not let our own unique circumstances get in the way of finding connection within our community.  

    Join us as we hear from Sarah, Darlene, Rachel, and Amber chatting all about their experiences finding friendship in the midst of a consistently inconsistent lifestyle.  

  • 3

    The Friendship TEA with Jazmin Crookes, LPC & Karen Jennett, LPC

    In this episode, I’m joined by therapists-turned-podcasters Jazmin Crookes and Karen Jennett of Therapy Tea podcast, as we dive into the beauty and complexities of friendship. What started as a friendship of convenience for them blossomed into something deep and meaningful—though not without its challenges.

  • 4

    Friends in Singleness

    In this episode, we’re joined by Bridgett Blood, a certified Connection Codes coach, podcasting from Nashville, TN. Bridgett helps Christian singles process sexual shame and connect with their desires without compromising their core values. She’s here to prove that you can live a life that’s both hot AND holy—and she shares some of the ways she coaches and encourages others in this space.

  • 5

    Friends like Family

    In this episode, we’re diving into the beauty of friendships that go beyond just good company, they become family. Nurturing friendships with individuals that are already built into your life can be a true lifeline.  Susie Stewart and Megan Peña join me to share how they have formed a community of neighbors that feel like family.  

    Life is better when we have people who truly see us, support us, and walk with us not just for the adults but also for our kids.  So, let’s celebrate those friendships that feel like home!

  • 6

    Golden Girls

    In this episode, we’re talking about the beauty and importance of friendship during the golden years. While life changes—whether through retirement, family shifts, or even loss—one thing remains constant: the need for deep, meaningful connections.  Val, Donna, and Sheila are here to tell us it’s never too late!  There’s so much wisdom in this episode to encourage all of us no matter what season of life we are in. 

    Whether you’re in your golden years or you have loved ones who are, this conversation is a reminder that friendship is timeless and essential to a full, vibrant life.

  • 7

    Work Friends

    You can walk away from a work day feeling lonely and isolated, or you can look around and form bonds outside of the 9-5p.  In this episode, we dive into the friendships that start at the workplace but go beyond office hours. Lyndsey, Amanda, and Amaya walk us through how the connection they found with one another has been meaningful and encourages us all on how to take steps to cultivate deep friendship with those we work with.   

  • 8

    Neurodiversity & Friendship

    In this episode, I talk with  Amber Olson,  a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who works with individuals and families in the neurodiverse community. We explore the intersection of neurodiversity and friendship—how neurodivergent individuals experience social connections, the unique strengths they bring to relationships, and how friends can support each other with empathy and understanding. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or have neurodivergent friends, this conversation will provide insights, tips, and personal stories to deepen your understanding and enhance your friendships. 

  • 9

    Dude Friends

    In this episode, we’re talking about something that's often overlooked but deeply important: friendship between men.  Why is it that so many men struggle to maintain close friendships over time?  What elements play a part in building friendship and what creates barriers? 

    You heard from Susie Stewart and Megan Peña in episode 5, and now we get to hear from their counterparts--Reagan Stewart and Chris Peña on what it's like to be a dude in close friendship. 

  • 10

    Friends of a Different Stage

    In this episode, we dive into a heartfelt conversation between two friends—Kristen and Laura—who developed and maintain friendship in different seasons of life. These two friends remind us that friendship doesn’t require matching life circumstances. In fact, it’s often the differences that add richness and depth. You are invited to take what you hear today and let it challenge you: seek out someone in a different season of life, be curious, be intentional—and see how that connection can bring unexpected encouragement and value into your world.

  • 11

    Friends through the Years

    In this episode, we talk to Kamden Ross and Beau Cervantes about the tight bond that originally formed through the game of basketball. However, it’s become so much more than that.  Growing up together, on and off the court, you’ll get to hear about the loyalty, unspoken trust, and mutual respect that has made this friendship last through the years.

  • BONUS

    Young Voices (Friendship Season BONUS)

    In this heartwarming BONUS episode,  kids were asked what friendship means to them—and their answers will make you smile and feel a sense of connection to the next generation.  Kids reveal the simple, honest truths about what it takes to be a good friend.  Lean in as you hear remarkable wisdom and encouragement from these YOUNG VOICES.   

  • 12

    Friendship Season Recap (featuring Jason Fraser)

    We're closing out the Friendship Season with a very special guest—the one and only hubs, Jason Fraser! 

    In this heartfelt and honest episode, we dive into the complexities of friend breakups, the ways we each approach friendship differently, and what we’ve learned about friendship throughout our life. From the big takeaways to the small moments that matter most—we're bringing it all together.

    Expect real talk, behind-the-scenes stories, and yes... a surprise guest (hint: another Fraser joins us!).

    Whether you’ve been riding with us since the very first episode or just found your way here, this finale is for YOU. Let’s celebrate the magic of connection and everything we’ve uncovered together.

     Tune in, reflect, and maybe even laugh a little—because friendship is worth talking about.