Both Are True

Both Are True, by Alex Dobrenko, juxtaposes humor with vulnerability in essays addressing addiction, parenting, technology, societal pressures, and the quest for meaning. It explores personal growth, the importance of authenticity, and the impact of art, while debating modern concerns like the digital obsession and consumerism.

Addiction Parenting Technology and Society Personal Growth Consumerism Creative Work Mental Health Digital Platforms Personal Identity Social Media

The hottest Substack posts of Both Are True

And their main takeaways

dancing with the brain demons: what artists really need (spoiler: each other)

65 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Community Expression Identity
  1. Artists often struggle with inner doubts and negative thoughts, which can be seen as 'demonic messages' that hinder creativity. It's important to recognize these feelings and understand they are part of the creative process.
  2. Balancing being an artist with helping other artists is a challenge, but creating supportive spaces for collaboration and interaction can be rewarding and impactful.
  3. Community is essential for artists; connecting with others can provide motivation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging that enhances the creative experience.

local man sends 2nd email after 1st only gets 3 responses

102 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Creativity Communication Self-reflection Community Personal Growth
  1. Sometimes, when reaching out, we can feel anxious if we don't get the responses we expect. It's normal to worry about how others perceive us.
  2. Sending a follow-up message can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity to express yourself honestly. You might be surprised by how good it feels.
  3. Being open about our imperfections can help reduce feelings of shame. It's better to be genuine than to strive for a perfect image.

due to sick, today's batwrite is cancelled

24 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Events Writing Community Creative Workshops
  1. Today's BATWRITE event is canceled because the organizer is sick. It's important to take care of health.
  2. You can register for the next two BATWRITE events happening on Wednesday and Thursday. This way, you'll get reminders and a link to join.
  3. By registering, it’s a good deal for everyone because it helps you remember and connects you to upcoming events.

the cure for shame is...

99 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Fitness Nutrition Self-care Personal Growth
  1. Tracking numbers can make us feel like our worth is based on data, like weight or followers. But this often leads to shame and obsession.
  2. There’s more to our value than just the metrics we obsess over. Personal experiences, feelings, and connections also matter a lot.
  3. It's important to talk about our struggles with shame and analytics because many people experience this but don’t discuss it openly.

can everyone please just shut the fuck up for a few minutes

248 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Entertainment Social Commentary
  1. There is too much noise and content in the world right now. It might be good for everyone to take a break and just quiet down for a bit.
  2. People often feel pressure to keep up or perform well with their work, especially online. It's exhausting to always be judged by numbers and reactions.
  3. Creativity should be about real expression, not just catering to what will get likes and shares. It's important to focus on speaking your truth instead.
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Doing Crimes w my dad

130 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Family Storytelling Humor Memory Relationships
  1. Spending time with family can lead to funny and memorable moments, like the bonding experience of removing an old TV together. It's special to share laughter and joy while doing something that feels a bit adventurous.
  2. Communication can shift between languages and cultures, as seen in the playful interactions between family members who speak different languages. It's a fun reminder of how language can bring us closer or create a divide.
  3. Inside jokes and shared laughter help strengthen family ties, making ordinary moments more meaningful. Humor can turn a simple task into a cherished memory.

no, they don't hate you

111 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Mental health Relationships Self-reflection Personal Growth Creativity
  1. People often worry that others hate them, but they might actually be feeling the same insecurity. It's a common cycle of doubt.
  2. Instead of assuming someone dislikes you, it's better to recognize that they might be preoccupied with their own fears and feelings.
  3. Understanding that both sides might be feeling misunderstood can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and improve relationships.

i failed vs. i'm a failure

161 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Self-help Mental health Personal Growth Community
  1. Saying 'I failed' focuses on a specific mistake and helps you move on, while saying 'I'm a failure' makes it feel like a part of your identity and can lead to shame.
  2. The 'failure bow' is a fun way to acknowledge mistakes and celebrate them, instead of feeling bad. It's okay to cheer for yourself and others when you fail!
  3. It's important to separate your actions from your self-worth. Just because you failed at something doesn't mean you are a failure as a person.

this is not a love poem

161 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Relationships Games Philosophy Literature
  1. Having fun together can be a nice break from everyday stress, like parenting. Playing games allows couples to connect without heavy discussions.
  2. Good food and the right atmosphere enhance the experience of enjoying games together. Choosing a cozy spot can make even a simple dinner feel special.
  3. Life can be tough, but small moments like shared games and laughter can bring relief. These simple joys help us cope with the challenges we face.

i know i should fix my toe fungus, and yet

152 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Health Self-help Wellness Mental health Lifestyle
  1. People often ignore problems even when they know they should fix them. For example, toe fungus is not pleasant, yet it can take time to seek help.
  2. Sometimes we feel frustrated when family members try to help us with our issues, even if we really need it. It's a common reaction to feel defensive instead of accepting support.
  3. Procrastination can lead to ongoing issues that become more complicated. Making a plan and actually following through is key to overcoming challenges.

prompts for human beings

71 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Expression Inspiration Workshops
  1. Prompts are meant for humans, not for AI. It's important to reflect on them personally and explore what's blocking your creativity.
  2. When you face a writing block, consider writing about the block itself. This can lead to discovering deeper insights and surprising outcomes in your writing.
  3. The element of surprise is crucial in good writing. Explore unexpected paths in your ideas to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

"we are perfect parents"

304 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
  1. It's normal for parents and kids to have misunderstandings and conflicts, often about important life choices. These disagreements can stem from different perspectives on what success and happiness mean.
  2. Acceptance of oneself and each other is essential in family relationships. Realizing that no one is perfect allows love and understanding to grow despite grievances.
  3. Feelings of sadness and love can coexist, especially when reflecting on family dynamics. It's important to cherish the moments shared, even if they're complicated.

why it's impossible to finish anything, especially the good things

245 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays Writing Creativity Parenting Personal Growth
  1. Distractions often keep us from finishing our ideas. When we start something, everyday things like parenting or chores can pull us away.
  2. The closer we get to completing a project, the more we might doubt its worth. It's common to think an idea isn't good enough as we work on it.
  3. Acknowledging our fears about sharing finished work is tough, but creating and putting it out there is essential. We have to be brave and share our creations, no matter the fear.

why isn't there an A24 for kids?

316 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Parenting Entertainment Media Art
  1. Kids' shows often lack quality and depth, making parents feel frustrated. There's a desire for children's entertainment to be more meaningful and engaging.
  2. There's a call for a new type of kids' entertainment, similar to the indie film vibe, that tackles real emotions and experiences. The idea is to create stories that aren't just light and fluffy.
  3. Finding good, classic content for kids can be a challenge. Parents want options that are both entertaining and enriching for their children.

Thank you, and remember, the universe is in your basement

298 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Creativity Philosophy Writing
  1. David Lynch believes everyone has creativity and happiness inside them. It's okay to be positive and embrace the good in life.
  2. Cinema can express emotions and experiences that are hard to put into words. It connects with our feelings in a unique way.
  3. It's important to just create and share your work, instead of always explaining why you're doing it. The act of creating speaks for itself.

This isn't what I wanted to write

282 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Personal Creativity Expression Anecdotes
  1. It's okay to feel unsure and doubt your writing. Everyone goes through that, and it's part of the creative process.
  2. There isn't a perfect way to express your thoughts. What matters is that you share your feelings and ideas, even if they aren't flawless.
  3. Taking action, like writing something, is better than doing nothing. Every piece of writing contributes to your growth.

2025 recap

329 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society Philosophy Art Literature Personal Reflection
  1. Time feels like it moves really fast, especially when we're busy. We often miss the little joys around us because we're too focused on our phones.
  2. Even though life is busy, the special moments we share with others exist outside of time. Those moments, filled with love, can feel infinite.
  3. Life has its ups and downs, and we often joke about it, but it's important to find happiness in the little things. We should appreciate the good stuff that makes life meaningful.

when the youtube motivational videos stop working

226 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Motivation Film Personal Growth Fitness Psychology
  1. Motivational videos can inspire workouts, but they may lose their impact over time. Sometimes you need something deeper, like an emotional connection to a story.
  2. True fulfillment comes from within, not from external achievements or recognition. It's important to know that your self-worth isn't defined by likes, numbers, or others' opinions.
  3. Feeling empty or seeking validation is normal. It's helpful to find healthy ways to express emotions, like writing or working out, instead of relying on outside sources for happiness.

hello anxiety, my old friend

223 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Anxiety Self-care Personal Growth Emotional Well-being
  1. It's normal to feel anxious while waiting for a response from someone. The uncertainty can make your mind race, imagining different scenarios.
  2. Even though anxiety can feel overwhelming, it's important to remind yourself that things are probably okay. It's just a part of life to face new worries.
  3. Realizing that anxiety may always be there can help you cope with it. Accepting it might make it feel less daunting.

was she born with it or was it god damn Maybelline?

192 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Music Media Identity Advertising
  1. Commercial taglines and songs from childhood can stick with us and shape our lives in unexpected ways. They often act like the 'gospels' we learn from as kids.
  2. It's okay to admit that you don't know something. Society often pushes us to have all the answers, but not knowing can be a valuable lesson too.
  3. High school often teaches us strange ideas about relationships and sex that can stick with us as we grow up. Many of these lessons come from silly or inappropriate sources.

if you drink enough coffee you start peeing coffee

155 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Parenting Writing Mental health Creativity Personal Growth
  1. It's okay to write about simple, everyday things, like kids or pets. Those topics can hold deep meaning, even if they seem easy.
  2. Children can remind us of the joy and love in life. They let us see the world differently and embrace our own innocence.
  3. Life doesn't have to be hard or complicated. Sometimes the best ideas come from a place of relaxation and simplicity.

forget thanksgiving its time for fearsharing

301 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays Social Issues Mental health Community Humor
  1. Acknowingging,voicing,orwritingdownforyogrownforyoggroforoforyogrodoforoforfoforyogroforofyogrofoffoyotfofffyoggygotfoforyogroforofyogrogrowgrowgrowingongrowing,ttttttor,orofoigroromoforyogroforofyogrofinotforyogroforyogrofooryogrofooryogroforyogrogrowoforyogroforyogroforofyogrogrowgrowingyogroforyogroforofyogrofinotforyogroforyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogrofrfromgrowinggrow,oroofororyofofoforoforyogroforyogroforyoyoyogroforygonogroforyogrofoffyogroforophyogroforyogroforofyogrocroforofyogrofinotforyogroforyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogro
  2. Tryingtoinovoforcityforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforyogroforofyogroforofyogrogrowytorogrofooftforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogro
  3. Obthmoth,modogroforyogroforyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogrofnnomnfyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogroforofyogrofororygorfrndforofyogroforyogroforofyogroforyoyorofyogroforyooforofyogroforyogroforofyogroforyoyorofyogroforyogroforyogroforofyogro

When You're Done with that Condom, Just Throw it Anywhere

183 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Identity Youth Society Tradition
  1. Condoms are often discarded carelessly in places like parking lots. This shows a lack of respect for the environment and the community.
  2. Kids can have misunderstandings about adult behaviors and items, which can create confusion and fear. It's important to explain things clearly to children.
  3. Feeling isolated or rejected during childhood experiences can have a lasting impact on someone. These moments can shape how a person views themselves in social situations.

hello, i love you, won't you pick up your phone???

229 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
  1. It's common for parents to worry excessively when they can't reach their children, often leading to frantic calls and texts. This kind of behavior might feel annoying but it's really just their way of showing care.
  2. When you become a parent, you might find yourself repeating the same anxious habits you observed in your own parents, even if you promised yourself you wouldn't. It's a cycle that's hard to break.
  3. The fear of losing loved ones can create intense anxiety, especially if you imagine worst-case scenarios when they don’t respond right away. Communication can ease this fear, but it’s important to understand our feelings of worry come from a place of love.

Babe wake up we’re sharing our fears

232 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. Sharing our fears can create a sense of connection and community. It's important to talk about what we're scared of with others instead of keeping it all inside.
  2. Many people, regardless of their background or beliefs, have deep fears about the future. Recognizing that we all share fears can help us understand each other better.
  3. Feeling scared in a society can affect everyone, and it's crucial to remember that our votes are about creating a more stable and less fearful environment for everyone.

crying in the coworking space that is our lives

195 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Personal narrative Social Commentary Emotional Wellness Work Culture Friendship
  1. It's normal to feel overwhelmed and sweaty during busy days, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities. Everyone has those moments of stress and anxiety.
  2. Talking to friends about your feelings can lead to emotional moments, and that's okay. Connecting over shared struggles can help lighten the load.
  3. It's important to embrace vulnerability and share personal stories, even if people sometimes criticize them. Those moments of honesty are what create real connections.

i interviewed a bunch of cool ppl and now it's a...print publication??!

217 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Conversations Creativity Humanity
  1. The author created a print and digital publication after interviewing inspiring people. It's called 'Whoa, Vol. 1' and includes deep conversations that aim to connect readers emotionally.
  2. Each interview tackles big questions about hope, authenticity, and making a living from art. These conversations helped the author find peace and understanding during tough times.
  3. Buying the publication comes with extra perks, like access to uncut interview content. The goal is to inspire readers and help them feel more human through shared stories.

and baby makes four???

770 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
  1. Having a baby can bring up fears about identity and self-worth.
  2. Social media can amplify feelings of pressure and anxiety around life events.
  3. Parenting experiences can vary widely, and it's okay not to feel joy all the time.

parenting as improv

180 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
  1. Parenting is like improv where you react and adapt to your child's actions. You have to go with the flow and find humor in the moments.
  2. Just like in improv, both parents and kids learn from each other through their interactions. You realize that the roles can switch, with the adult sometimes acting a bit crazy too.
  3. The core of this improvisation is love and support. It's about being there for each other when things get tough and asking for help when needed.

Being an idiot and writing your newsletter - an interview I did for Creator Spotlight

139 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
😂 Humor Stand-up Personal essays Writing Techniques Community Building
  1. Building a newsletter can be a journey of personal expression and growth. Being honest in your writing helps connect with your audience.
  2. Working with other creators and communities can really help you grow your audience and improve your content. Collaboration makes things more fun and effective.
  3. It's okay to not have everything figured out. Embrace mistakes and keep learning as you go. Just talk to people about your work and take it seriously, but also keep it light.

A running doc with my little thoughts

49 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Communication Personal Growth Creativity Experimentation
  1. Writing for an audience can improve your ideas and make them more engaging. It helps you see your thoughts in a different light.
  2. Keeping a log of your thoughts can be a great way to capture ideas that may turn into bigger projects later on.
  3. Sharing your ideas in a way that others can interact with can lead to interesting discussions and feedback.

A list of recs to get you through the anxious hell of the next 48 hours (or longer? longer??)

124 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Anxiety Media Technology Public Opinion
  1. Arc Browser lets you view two web pages side by side, which is really handy. It also has separate spaces for different logins, so you can switch between work and personal browsing easily.
  2. People are unhappy about the upcoming changes to Arc Browser, which has sparked a lot of online drama. This drama feels similar to the chaos surrounding political events, making it hard to focus.
  3. To cope with anxiety, it's helpful to find distractions like books, videos, games, and music. Engaging in these activities can help ease the stress of uncertain times, like elections.

be my (tired, aging) valentine?

484 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🍲 Food & Drink Holiday Design Aging
  1. Consider creating unique, age-appropriate gifts for the over-30 crowd during holidays like Valentine's Day.
  2. Traditional candies and gestures may not be as fitting for individuals in long-term relationships or older demographics.
  3. Personalizing gifts and celebrations based on age and life stage can make occasions more special and meaningful.

hello, i love you, won't you pick up your phone???

745 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
  1. It's common to worry about loved ones and overreact when they don't respond.
  2. Parents can sometimes have behaviors that irritate us more than we expect.
  3. As a parent, you may find yourself experiencing new and unexpected anxieties about your children.