Episode 21 - The Myth of Independence: Why Self Reliance Isn’t What It Used to Be

We’ve glorified independence for generations — the lone wolf, the self-made success, the one who never asks for help. But where did that story actually come from, and is it still serving us?

In this episode of Midlife Mud, we explore the roots of American individualism — from frontier survival to the modern hustle — and unpack the benefits and the hidden costs of this deeply ingrained value. From aging and isolation to the illusion of control in a world run by AI, Amazon, and Uber, we’re asking: is true independence even possible anymore… or have we been sold a myth?

Whether you’re wrestling with what it means to “do it all,” or just starting to question the pressure to go it alone, this conversation might shift how you see strength, self-reliance, and success.