Episodes

  • Sofa Talk: Unexpected Encounters, Fame's Facade, and Hilarious Hypotheticals
    Nov 14 2024

    Ever bumped into someone you know in the most unexpected places, like a patient at Disney or a buddy on a TV show? Join us as we kick off with our quirky tales of recognizing familiar faces out of the usual context—it's as funny as it is strange! We also stumble upon a lively conversation about Mormon culture and the unexpected intersections between personal and professional worlds. From elevator-awkward to laugh-out-loud moments, our chat promises a delightful mix of humor and reflection you won't want to miss.

    Shifting gears, we navigate the glitzy yet precarious terrain of fame, power, and wealth. The entertainment industry’s darker side comes to light as we ponder the moral pitfalls when stars are surrounded by yes-people. We touch on the uncanny world of AI technology mimicking celebrity voices—imagine Justin Bieber in your living room! Anticipate some eyebrow-raising revelations about the realities behind celebrity glamour and the hidden truths that fame can often mask.

    For a lighter twist, we indulge in hilarious "Would You Rather" scenarios, exploring bizarre hypotheticals that reveal our quirkiest sides. Whether it’s dreams that take a creepy turn into sleep paralysis, tales of embarrassing nights, or the art of blame-shifting those unexpected farts, we cover it all with laughter and candid anecdotes. And yes, we’ve all had those cringeworthy social media moments. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as we tackle life's awkward, strange, and downright amusing middle-age-ish adventures.


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    51 mins
  • Inauguration of Season 3: Lisa for President
    Nov 6 2024

    What happens when the joys and challenges of middle age collide with summer adventures? We share the laughs and heartfelt moments of our post-summer reunion, swapping stories of sleep schedules and life updates. From Trisha's bittersweet farewell to her son heading off to the Air Force Academy to Pam's delight in her daughter's spirited cheering at UGA, our anecdotes paint a vivid picture of life's transitions.

    Ever wondered why sorority rush feels like a pressure cooker compared to fraternity recruitment? We unpack the intense expectations that young women face, driven by social media and parental pressures. It’s a conversation that questions the sustainability of these standards and the materialistic culture it fosters. We dive deep into the implications for mental health, urging a shift towards valuing inner happiness over superficial metrics, and share insights on how this mindset could lead to a more fulfilling life.

    As the episode progresses, we tackle themes of entitlement and politics with a touch of humor and candidness. Our light-hearted musings on running for president transition into a poignant reflection on September 11, 2001. We share personal stories of that day, honoring the heroism and unity that emerged from the tragedy. These memories serve as a reminder of the profound impact of courage and compassion, inspiring us to seek understanding and unity in today's divided world. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of life’s complexities and the bonds that hold us together.


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    43 mins
  • Sofa Talk: Mother's Day Dilemma, Gynecology Giggles, and Rodeo Revelations
    May 29 2024

    Ever thought about moving Mother's Day to a quieter month? Join us as we kick off this episode with a lively debate on this very topic, reflecting on the chaos of May with its school events and graduations. Ashley makes a triumphant return after solving some AC issues at her fitness studio, and Trisha and Pam celebrate their graduating seniors. With a mix of heartfelt moments and puppy antics, this segment captures the bittersweet journey of parenthood and the transition to becoming empty nesters.

    Have you ever accidentally hugged your nurse practitioner while partially dressed? If so, you’re in good company! We share some hilariously awkward moments from Lisa’s recent gynecologist visit. We also take a lighthearted jab at the gender disparities in medical procedures, pondering why men don’t face similar discomforts. Blending humor with honest reflections, this segment is a candid look at the realities of women's health check-ups.

    Teachers make a world of difference, and we pay tribute to extraordinary educators like Ms. Monica Thomas. Reminiscing about school events and quirky traditions, we also share our love for "Modern Family" and brainstorm the possibility of adding video to our podcast. And who knew discussing rodeos could be so entertaining? From bull riding to spotting cute cowboys, we dive into the cultural significance of these events while engaging in a spirited debate about phonetics and accents. It's an episode brimming with laughter, heartfelt stories, and engaging conversations that you won't want to miss!


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    39 mins
  • The Subtle Art of Dealing with Annoying People (and Introspection) with Ilene Marcus
    May 15 2024

    Are you dealing with annoying people in your life? Ilene Marcus, celebrated author of "Managing Annoying People," joins us for a candid conversation on turning the mirror inwards to deal with the daily grind of office irritants. We navigate the complexities of reflecting the behavior you desire to see, the distinct coaching needs of men and women in the workspace, and fostering self-awareness for growth. Ilene's seasoned perspective is a guiding light for anyone seeking to create a more harmonious work environment by first mastering the art of self-management.

    Communication is a dance, and sometimes we step on toes—especially in the workplace. This episode uncovers the transformative power of reflective listening and the careful choreography of thoughtful conversation. Relive with us a personal tale that escalated into an HR dilemma, underscoring the importance of measured responses. You'll also discover the 'secret smile' among other tactics to keep your cool and collect wisdom amidst dialogue. Moreover, we open up about our approach as hosts, sharing our philosophy of short, sharp interventions to remedy entrenched corporate challenges.

    Lastly, the generational chasm in workplace philosophy comes under the microscope as we contrast the mindset of millennials with that of baby boomers. Through Ilene's lens, we delve into personal habits that breed annoyance, such as excessive talking, the need for explanation over assertion, and the recognition of our historical hysterical triggers. Embracing the journey of self-improvement and mindfulness, we uncover how these efforts not only polish our daily interactions but also make space for what's sincerely significant in our lives.


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    44 mins
  • Sofa Talk: Celebrating Life's Highlights: Proud Parenting, Fashion Quandaries, and Embracing Middle Ageish
    May 8 2024

    When Lisa recounted her pride in her son's graceful finale at the World Dance Championships, it struck a chord in all of us who've watched our kids achieve greatness. Meanwhile, Pam's delight was palpable as she shared her daughter’s leap into the University of Georgia cheerleading team. Our latest Middle Ageish Podcast episode is brimming with the pride and warmth of these parenting milestones, and we can't wait to share these stories with you, along with our reflections on relationships, adorable puppies, and the poignant desire for life's 'pause button.'

    We all know life isn't just about the big moments—it's also about the little things, like picking the perfect grandmother name or debating the practicality of sweatpants versus the sass of stilettos. This episode isn't afraid to weave through the intricacies of daily life, from the thrill of finding the right pair of shoes to the nostalgia of '80s movies. We even take a cultural detour, discussing the charm of kilts and our media consumption habits in a world teeming with digital distractions. It's all about finding balance, laughter, and connection in the middle age-ish years.

    Pour a cup of your favorite drink and settle in as we wrap up shop with a candid chat about the pace of life and the beauty of middle ageish. The journey of motherhood and personal growth never ends, and we're here to share it—one heartfelt conversation, one reflective insight, and one fit of laughter at a time. Get ready to nod along and maybe see a bit of yourself in our tales, because this episode of the Middle Ageish Podcast is all about embracing the vibrance of our shared experiences.


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    40 mins
  • Weaving Bonds of Resilience: Emer Halpenny's Tale of Love, Loss, and Reunion
    Apr 25 2024

    When the threads of our lives unravel, it's the power of human connection that weaves them back together, stronger and more vibrant than before. Emer Halpenny's story, which we're honored to share with you, embodies this truth. Her tale of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit begins with a decision that could shatter a heart - the decision to place her baby boy for adoption in 1988. Her journey didn't end there; rather, it continued through silent years that eventually blossomed into healing, and a narrative that she bravely unfolds with us. Emer's courage to voice her past not only served as her catharsis but paved the way for an unexpected reconnection with her son, reinforcing the unbreakable bond of family.

    Our conversation with Emer turns the pages of her life, revealing the complexities of a reunion decades in the making. The candid recount of her son reaching out, the role her daughters played in bridging their communication, and the gradual transition from tentative exchanges to regular, comfortable interactions, offers a heartfelt look into the delicate dance of rebuilding relationships. Emer's experience is a testament to the idea that our choices do not define us; rather, it's how we grow from them and the love we share that truly shapes our legacy.

    Finally, we reflect upon the societal and familial tapestries that backdrop stories like Emer's. We recognize the courage required to face and share such personal narratives. Emer's openness provides a guiding light for anyone traversing the path of adoption and reunion, especially in an era where social media can bridge the divides of time and distance. Join us and our incredible guest, Emer Halpenny, as we celebrate the joyous revelations of life coming full circle and the remarkable endurance of love through the trials of time.

    https://www.emerhalpenny.com/


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    40 mins
  • Sofa Talk: Irish Dance Triumphs, Nickelodeon's Dark Side, and the Power of the Pause
    Apr 10 2024

    Life's a dance, and sometimes it's Irish! Lisa's kids have been leaping and jigging their way through the competitive world of Irish dancing, and it's led us all the way to the World Championships in Scotland. But beneath the tartan and trophies lies a conversation that needs to be had about the pressures these young dancers face. So, buckle up as we celebrate Ellie's awe-inspiring 10th place world ranking and take you behind the scenes of the intensity and passion of the dance community. And let's not forget Jack, who's gearing up to give his own performances everything he's got. Pam also has exciting news to share about her son Kylan and his recent dance awards!

    Turning away from the stage, we sat down for a deep heart-to-heart sparked by the "Quiet on Set" documentary, unpacking the troubling tales of abuse within the walls of Nickelodeon. It's a tough topic, but one that needs the light of day, not just for the kids in the spotlight but for their parents navigating the treacherous waters of showbiz. We also tackle our collective addiction to the screen - from the grip of binge-watching to the otherworldly fascination with reality TV, like the unconventional lives in "Sister Wives." Strap in for a ride through the real-life drama that unfolds both on and off-screen.

    Lastly, we're all about the nuance of the unsaid in the art of communication, and the 'power of the pause.' Ever write an email only to leave it unsent? There's healing in those unsent words and a wisdom in waiting that we're learning to embrace. We also bring the laughter with a round of "would you rather," where we debate the lesser of two quirky evils. And because a trip down memory lane is always a hoot, we reminisce about past trends that had us in stitches. Join us for this rollercoaster of emotions, from reflective to riotous, as we explore the beautiful mess that is Middle Ageish.


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    49 mins
  • Asserting Boundaries and Building Strength with Rebecca Griffin
    Mar 28 2024

    Have you ever felt your heart pound with unease while walking to your car at night? We have, and it's prompted a crucial conversation about women's self-defense that we couldn't wait to share with you. Joining us on the Middle Ageish Podcast is Rebecca Griffin, who shares her empowering journey into Brazilian jiu-jitsu and how earning her pink belt changed her life. We tackle the serious subject of personal safety with candid discussions about confidence, boundary setting, and the sobering realities that make these skills necessary.

    During our engaging chat, Rebecca unpacked strategies that go beyond physical defense—like 'stop, block and frame'—to assertively communicate personal space. We confront the societal pressures that often silence women's instincts to prioritize safety over politeness. It's not just about knowing how to react but also about changing how we prepare and educate our children, especially boys, on respecting boundaries. The stories we exchange are real, raw, and a testament to why self-defense is an essential skill for women today.

    Wrapping up the episode, we explore the unfortunate truth about bystander apathy and its implications for personal responsibility. So, whether you're new to the concept or looking to reinforce your skills, this episode promises to be an eye-opener on the importance of being prepared for anything life might throw your way.

    Click Here for more information on the Women Empowered® - Pink Belt Qualification Course


    Connect with us!

    Visit our website: https://www.middleageish.com

    Instagram: @middleageish

    TikTok: @middleageish

    Facebook: @middleageishpodcast

    YouTube: @middleageishpodcast

    Twitter: @middleageishpod


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    46 mins