The Guilt Girl

Latest Episodes:

Debt Is Naughty With Mattie G. Part 1 Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guild Girl, host Grace Bithell engages in a candid conversation with Maddie G about the often stigmatized topic of debt. Maddie shares her personal journey of accumulating over $60,000 in credit card debt due to a failed entrepreneurial venture and subsequent unemployment. The discussion highlights the emotional weight of debt, the societal pressures to maintain appearances, and the importance of open dialogue about financial struggles. Maddie emphasizes that debt is not inherently evil but can be viewed as a tool when managed correctly. The conversation also touches on the need for community support and understanding in navigating financial challenges, as well as the misconceptions surrounding different types of debt.

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takeaways

Debt is not an innately bad thing just a hard one; it's a common struggle.
Emotions play a significant role in how we perceive and manage debt.
Societal pressures can lead individuals to hide their financial struggles.
Open conversations about debt can reduce shame and foster community support.
Debt can be viewed as a tool when managed correctly.

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Books That Changed My Life, Some Of Them Are About Shame Jan 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode Grace shared the books that have changed her life, both personal and clinical, the most. Grace emphasizes the importance of literature in navigating trauma and cultural awareness, ultimately inviting listeners to reflect on their own transformative reading experiences.

The following books were mentioned

The Unselected Journals Of Emma M. Lion https://www.amazon.com/The-Unselected-Journals-of-Emma-M.-Lion-8-book-series/dp/B08S1T8GTT

Lost Connections: https://a.co/d/24SQa5O

Throne of Glass: https://a.co/d/0eJVlWk

What My Bones Know: https://a.co/d/4Kn9K4i

The Posionwood Bible: https://a.co/d/0sF5fwz

Sponsor:

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I Hit A Car: Ramblings On Self Punishment Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Grace Bithell shares a personal story about hitting a car, which leads to a broader discussion on the themes of accountability, self-punishment, and the importance of emotional health. She reflects on the impact of media representations, particularly in the context of cultural narratives, and shares insights on balancing work and family life. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the rejection of self-punishment as a response to mistakes. She also gives her take on heated rivalry and why she likes the show.

takeaways

Self-punishment does not help in resolving mistakes.
Accountability is essential for personal growth.
Cultural representation in media can shape perceptions.
Balancing work and family requires intentionality.
It's okay to feel bad about mistakes, but don't dwell on them.

Finding joy after making a mistake is important.
Sharing personal stories can foster connection and understanding.
We should strive for kindness towards ourselves in difficult situations.

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New Year, New Failures Jan 07, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Grace Bithell discusses the complexities of New Year's resolutions, particularly the pressure to achieve perfection and the guilt that often accompanies unmet goals. She advocates for embracing partial efforts and celebrating progress, regardless of the outcome. Grace encourages listeners to shift their focus from rigid goal-setting to exploring feelings and desires, promoting a more compassionate approach to self-improvement. Ultimately, she suggests that instead of traditional resolutions, we should aim for 'New Year's vibes' that prioritize enjoyment and personal values.

Show Sponsor: https://airdoctorpro.com use code GUILT for up to $300 off

takeaways

Guiltaholics often struggle with New Year's resolutions.
Partial effort is valuable and should be embraced.
Progress should be celebrated, even if it's not perfect.
It's okay to fail at goals; it can lead to growth.
Life is too short to pursue perfection.
Goals should focus on feelings rather than strict outcomes.
New Year's resolutions can be replaced with 'New Year's vibes.'
Enjoying the journey is as important as the destination.
Recognizing small achievements is crucial for motivation.
Self-acceptance is key to personal growth.

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Only Criminals Dislike Motherhood. Oh Wait... That's Just Normal Women Jan 05, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Grace Bithell explores the complexities of struggling to enjoy motherhood, addressing the guilt and shame that often accompany the experience. She shares her personal journey of wanting to be a mom while grappling with her feelings towards children. Grace discusses the importance of childcare for social development, the messy realities of parenting, and the impact of comparison with other mothers. She emphasizes that motherhood is a relationship rather than a series of tasks and encourages embracing imperfection in parenting. Ultimately, she advocates for recognizing the unique parenting styles that contribute to raising diverse children.

Show Sponsor: https://airdoctorpro.com use code GUILT for up to $300 off

takeaways

Motherhood can bring guilt and shame.
It's okay to not enjoy every aspect of parenting.
Childcare is beneficial for children's social development.
Comparison with other mothers can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Motherhood is more about the relationship than tasks.
It's normal to have hard days as a parent.
Embracing imperfection is key to parenting.
Every child is unique, and so is every parent.
You can still be a good mom even if you don't love every moment.
Diverse parenting styles are essential for raising diverse kids.

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Boundaries For Guiltaholics Dec 31, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Grace Bithell explores the complexities of boundaries, guilt, and relationships. She shares personal anecdotes, particularly about cultural quirks in Utah, and delves into how guilt and people-pleasing affect our ability to set healthy boundaries. She talks about how to set boundaries gently and in a connection oriented way and how to not feel crippling guilt after. Grace emphasizes the importance of aligning boundaries with personal values and the necessity of accepting distress as a natural part of life.

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My Dumb Mental Health Diagnosis Dec 29, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Grace Bithell reflects on the shame people feel over mental health diagnoses. She explores the societal perceptions of mental health, the stigma surrounding diagnoses, and the impact of mental illness on personal identity and relationships. Grace emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health as a challenge rather than a deficit, advocating for compassion and acceptance in navigating relationships affected by mental health issues.

takeaways

Mental health diagnoses can carry stigma and shame.
Society has made progress in accepting mental health issues.
Diagnosis can be both validating and burdensome.
Mental illness should be viewed as a challenge, not a deficit.
Disability encompasses a wide range of experiences and should be accommodated.
Output should not define a person's worth or value.
Relationships can be strained by mental health challenges.
Compassion and understanding are crucial in supporting loved ones.
It's important to recognize the complexity of mental health diagnoses.
Everyone deserves love and acceptance, regardless of their struggles.

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Merry Guiltmas Dec 22, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this Christmas episode, Grace Bithell discusses the guilt and pressure many women feel during the holiday season. She explores the societal expectations surrounding Christmas, the emotional challenges that arise, and the importance of reframing the holiday experience to focus on rest and self-care. Grace emphasizes the need for boundaries and encourages listeners to create their own holiday magic, reminding them that it's okay to not feel happy and that simplicity can lead to meaningful experiences. She also talks through her christas meal of funeral potato croquettes, tater tot poutine, and crab rotolo

takeaways

Many women feel guilty for not enjoying Christmas.
Societal expectations place pressure on women to create holiday joy.
It's okay to feel sad during the holidays; emotions are valid.
The word 'should' can create unnecessary guilt and pressure.
Christmas should also be a time for rest and relaxation.
Simplifying holiday traditions can lead to more meaningful experiences.
Setting boundaries during the holidays is important for mental health.
Self-care is essential; it's okay to prioritize your own joy.
Creating holiday magic for yourself is important.
Kids benefit from seeing their parents take time for themselves.

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So High School... But In A Cringe Way Not A Cute Way Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Grace Bithell explores the often cringeworthy experiences of being a teenager, discussing the embarrassment and awkwardness that many face during high school. Through personal anecdotes, she emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting these moments as part of adolescent development. You are dumb because you are supposed to me. Grace encourages listeners to embrace their past selves and recognize that the challenges of teenage years are essential for personal growth. She also offers insights for parents on how to navigate their teenagers' messy journeys of self-discovery.

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You're Going To Hell<3 Dealing With Religious Guilt And Shame Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Grace Bithell explores the complex interplay between religious beliefs, shame, and guilt, particularly from a Christian perspective. She delves into the concept of religious trauma, the impact of moral systems, cognitive distortions, and the development of self-worth in relation to religious teachings. Grace emphasizes the importance of understanding boundaries, the role of fear in religious contexts, and the potential for healing from religious guilt. Throughout the discussion, she advocates for a compassionate approach to faith that allows for imperfection and personal growth.

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takeaways

Religious trauma can stem from harsh teachings and fear-based control.
Moral systems in religion can lead to perfectionism and guilt.
Cognitive distortions often create an all-or-nothing mentality in believers.
Identity development is closely tied to self-worth in religious contexts.
Boundaries are essential for mental health and should not be seen as selfish.
Fear-based teachings in religion can hinder personal growth and happiness.
Healing from religious guilt is possible and can coexist with faith.
It's important to challenge the narratives imposed by religious teachings.
Shame thrives in secrecy and can be alleviated through openness.
A loving God would not want us to feel bad about ourselves.

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