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

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

tyranasoraus recs

111 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Humor Art Writing Society Philosophy
  1. Life is full of surprises, and sometimes we face losses that feel tough, like not winning an election. It's important to keep going and learn from the experience.
  2. Every day, we have the chance to be new and different from who we were yesterday. Our thoughts and feelings can change, even if our routines stay the same.
  3. When it comes to big events, like elections or competitions, what happens in the past can really shape the outcome. Success doesn’t just come from one moment; it’s built over time.

Lost iPhone videos, actually random music, the secret history of crosswords

83 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Music Literature Art Technology History
  1. Remembering lost iPhone videos can be a fun walk down memory lane, capturing moments from 2009 to 2012. It's like finding a treasure chest of forgotten memories.
  2. Discovering new music doesn't have to be hard; there are playlists that refresh daily to keep your tunes exciting. It's a great way to keep your listening experience fresh and interesting.
  3. Crosswords played a surprising role in American history, helping people during tough times. They aren't just games; they connect us and have meaning beyond just fun.

more recs than an old school camera store

118 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Essays Art Literature Inspiration Recommendations
  1. It's important to have a starting point when exploring an author's work, like Joan Didion's essays. They can really help you get to know her style and themes.
  2. Setting rates for your work can be tricky, especially when friends are involved. It's good to find a balance so you feel valued but also maintain your relationships.
  3. Sharing interesting cultural recommendations can help you connect with others and stand out in social situations. Plus, it makes gatherings way more fun!

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.

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.

forget thanksgiving its time for fearsharing

568 implied HN points • 23 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Holiday Humor Comedy
  1. The post suggests a new holiday called Fearsharing where instead of being thankful, people share their fears.
  2. Fearsharing is described as a time to openly discuss fears, such as fear of failure, death, and even being cancelled.
  3. The author expresses gratitude towards readers and acknowledges the importance of the audience in their writing journey.

The meet-cute (rom com, Act One)

344 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Film Industry Relationships Entertainment
  1. Rom-coms are not dead, they are alive and thriving, often reflecting real-life moments of love and connection.
  2. Relationships can have quirky and unique beginnings, like meeting on the set of a film and starting a flirtatious interaction through a phone prank.
  3. Love stories often have unexpected twists, like the moment of realization and confession that sets the stage for the next act in the romantic journey.

i was a murder mystery dinner theater actor

357 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Acting Entertainment Performing
  1. Participating in a murder mystery dinner theater can be a thrilling and unique experience, blending acting with interactive storytelling.
  2. Stepping into a different persona at work or in social situations can bring a sense of liberation and freedom from societal expectations.
  3. Embracing the opportunity to be whoever you want to be every day can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling existence.

What's the one thing we all hate but can't stop doing?

543 implied HN points • 07 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Technology Self-care Productivity Addiction
  1. Many of us hate being constantly on social media but find it hard to stop.
  2. Our constant need for achievement and validation online can lead to anxiety and a sense of never doing enough.
  3. Taking breaks from social media and setting boundaries with technology can help regain self-control and focus on other fulfilling activities.

i think my son hates me

295 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
  1. Parenting can be tough and full of ups and downs. It's okay to experience feelings of rejection or failure as a parent.
  2. Modeling emotional vulnerability and resilience is important when raising children. Kids learn from how you handle difficult emotions.
  3. Building a strong relationship with your child takes time and effort. Moments of connection and love amidst challenges are what truly matter.