Flipflops Podcast

Rakia Reynolds is the Founder and Executive Officer of Skai Blue Media. Celebrity clients include Serena Williams, Ashley Graham, Glennon Doyle and Jenna Lyons. Corporate clients include Amazon, Dell and Uber. I met Rakia when she knocked my socks off at the Female Founder Collective in LA. Rakia is a mastermind of creativity and innovation. We chat about her life story; from a child who disrupted the classroom, to becoming the adult who disrupts industries. Rakia shares what creativity means for her, and how she supports the space for optimal brainstorming sessions. You can find Rakia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/rakiareynolds/ and Skai Blue Media: https://www.instagram.com/skaibluemedia/ Flipflops Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/ Angelique Gay: https://www.instagram.com/angelique_d_g_/ ❤️ ❤️❤️ You can support Glennon Doyle's Together Rising here: https://togetherrising.org

You know actor, singer and writer Jake Epstein from TV shows like Degrassi: The Next Generation, Designated Survivor, Suits and The Umbrella Academy. Jake has had an illustrious career on the stage, most notably on Broadway as Spiderman. Jake is now on tour performing his one man show Boy Falls from The Sky.  He shares his story - from child actor to Broadway star - at the Segal Centre through December 10th. I attended Opening Night and I loved this honest, unique and personal comedy so much, that I had to find out more about the writing process. From hot dogs, to meeting your heroes - to what it feels like to fly on Broadway (in the most expensive show ever with music by U2) - to how funny it is to rise and fall. We talk BTS and find out the hilarious genesis of the show. Tickets: https://tickets.segalcentre.org/TheatreManager/1/login&event=1970&lang=en Jake on IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialjakeepstein/ Flipflops on IG: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

Welcome to a new series where we celebrate sisterhood. Our biological sisters, and the ones who show up and carry us through life. We celebrate the timeless and invisible bonds that mysteriously tie us together. Liz Plank and Emile Plank are both writers. Liz Plank is a journalist and an award-winning author. You know her from MSBC, the Man Enough Podcast with Justin Baldoni and Race to 35 with Monica Padman. (BTW – Liz and Monica just announced that they are starting a new podcast where they will answer your questions, so be sure to send them one here: https://hello243414.typeform.com/to/GE5qpufa?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email!) Emilie Plank is a teacher and recently published her first children's book: Les Galettes de grand-maman. I wrote about it on Mitsou Magazine and called it The Kid's Book Making the Adults Cry. I, like many adults, got very emotional reading the book. It's a diamond. It's about a wolf cub who immigrates to Canada and faces discrimination. Ultimately, it's a book about empathy. I wanted to talk to Liz and Emilie about their childhood, how they made each other who they are, and how they inspired each other to become authors. You can purchase Les Galettes de grand-maman here: https://www.quebec-amerique.com/collections/jeunesse/3-ans-et-plus/albums/les-galettes-de-grand-maman-10594. Read The Kid's Book Making the Adults Cry here: https://mitsoumagazine.com/en/culture/the-kids-book-making-adults-cry/ FOLLOW: Liz Plank: https://www.instagram.com/feministabulous/ Emilie Plank: https://www.instagram.com/emilie.plank/ Flipflops Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

Sarain Fox is a storyteller who amplifies indigenous voices. Sarain is an activist, a dancer, an award-winning filmmaker and an ambassador. During the pandemic when elders were at their most vulnerable, Sarain was compelled to document her Aunty Mary's story about her experience as a residential school survivor. This deeply moving documentary called Inende was just nominated for a Canadian Screen Award. We talk about the documentary, why having children is a revolutionary act and her hopes for the future. Sarain is a rare gift. She has been a Tedx speaker, a guest judge on Canada's Drag Race, and has been featured in Vogue, Nylon and The New York Times to name a few. She sheds light on her community as an ambassador for brands like Nike, Sephora and Canada Goose. As we spoke, Sarain was nursing her newborn son in the hotel where she filmed Inendi. She had just celebrated her Aunty Mary's 87th birthday. Sarain Fox is an Anishinaabekwe storyteller, host of RISE | Future History | Activist | Artist | Content Creator | Goose Person | Art Design | Director #indigiqueer Watch: TEDx Talk "The power of honest introductions" https://www.ted.com/talks/sarain_fox_the_power_of_honest_introductions RISE (Viceland) https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Season-1/dp/B01N9X709H Inendi (CTV Gem) https://www.cbc.ca/shortdocs/shorts/inendi Watch out for VeraCity's Indigiqueer which premieres Sunday, March 26 at 10/9c, only on Citytv. https://toronto.citynews.ca/video/2023/03/13/veracity-indigiqueer-preview/ Follow and support: Sarain Fox IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarainfox/?hl=en Aysanabee IG: https://www.instagram.com/_aysanabee_/ Autumn Peltier IG: https://www.instagram.com/autumn.peltier/ The Bear Head Sisters IG: https://www.instagram.com/allie_bearhead/?hl=en Roberta Anderson IG: https://www.instagram.com/robertaanderson.designs/ Travis Shilling IG: https://www.instagram.com/otterartclub/?hl=en Digging Roots IG: https://www.instagram.com/diggingroots/ Chief Lady Bird IG: https://www.instagram.com/chiefladybird/ Case Critical Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Case-Critical-Social-Services-Justice/dp/1771133112 Only Child Handicrafts IG: https://www.instagram.com/onlychildhandicrafts/ SECTION 35 IG: https://www.instagram.com/sectionthirtyfive/ Theland Kicknosway IG: https://www.instagram.com/the_landk/ Amanda Rheaume IG: https://www.instagram.com/amandarheaume/ Manitobah Mukluks IG: https://www.instagram.com/manitobah/

Every time I sit down for a meal with Abeille and Na'eem, I am in awe of their constant evolution and support for one another. Their curiosity and connection is inspiring. I am always struck by how they operate from a place of passion, heart, curiosity and spirituality. I am so thrilled to share our chat about their partnership, transition into parenthood, and how they navigated a pandemic that paused both their careers - and inspired a rebirth. Where they have ended up, is nothing less than incredible. Abeille Gélinas is a sought after DJ, mother and goddess. Na'eem Adam is an entrepreneur on the cutting edge of where food, community and technology meet. This chat is so rich, generous and thoughtful, it makes me fly. They are lovers of life and their joy gets deep under your skin. Enjoy! RESOURCES: ANATHA FEST: https://anathafest.com/ ABEILLE: https://www.instagram.com/abeillegelinas/ and https://linktr.ee/abeillegelinas and https://abeillegelinas.com/ NA'EEM: https://www.instagram.com/naeem.adam/ and https://naeemadam.com/ RISE SISTER RISE: https://rebeccacampbell.me/rise-sister-rise-order/ SAHARA ROSE: https://iamsahararose.com/ BEING RAM DASS: https://shop.ramdass.org/products/being-ram-dass CLAYTON CHRISTENSEN: https://claytonchristensen.com/

I first discovered Sara who runs Sarora Knots while reading Simple Things Magazine. I was so drawn to her calm presence and glow, that I cut out her photo and added it to my inspiration board. She has that thing that makes you want to know more. Her eco-planters have been featured in Harper's Bazaar and House Beautiful. She recently held a pop-up shop at Anthropologie in Chelsea, London. I wanted to hear her story, and get some tips and tricks on how to run a successful small business. We talk travel, inspiration, sustainability, plants, and why creativity is so important for our mental health. I adore her! SHOP: https://www.saroraknots.co.uk/plant-hangers Sarora Knots IG: https://www.instagram.com/sarora_knots/ Flipflops Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

When stars like Jennifer Aniston and Michelle Pfeiffer come to Montreal, they train with PUMP fitness creator Val Desjardins. Val Desjardins founded The Studio Mtl and PUMP Digital Studio with her wife Jennifer Pregnolato, the creator of SCULPT NATION™️. We celebrate their love story, relationship evolution, transition into parenthood and get their insights on how to find motivation during uncertain times.  Their contagious energy and passion will fire you up! Enjoy! LINKS: PUMP Fitness IG: https://www.instagram.com/pumpfitnessmtl/?hl=en The Studio Mtl: https://www.instagram.com/thestudiomtl/?hl=en Jennifer Pregnolato IG: https://www.instagram.com/jen_mtl/?hl=en The Studio Mtl: https://linktr.ee/TheStudioMTL Flipflops Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

Michelle V. Wolf is an LA-based transformational coach, wellness warrior, podcast host and mother of three. Michelle tells us how a health crisis changed her definition of success. She shares how she learned to realign her values and set boundaries. Why do women lose themselves once they become a mother? We talk about self-esteem, confidence, and how to find our way back home. I ask her how the pandemic has shifted our perspective, and how to get through our daily overwhelm. I love her rich insights. EMPOWHER PURPOSE WEBSITE: https://www.empowherpurpose.com/ EMPOWHER IG: https://www.instagram.com/empowher_la/ Flipflops IG: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/ RECOMMENED READING: Passages: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/passages-predictable-crises-of-adult/9780345479228-item.html?ikwid=passages+gail+sheeh&ikwsec=Home&ikwidx=0#algoliaQueryId=c2ebb48648fa628b8ca91da89cbb5e4d

Sarah Rebecca is a singer and songwriter who was born in Mississippi. She currently lives in Paris, France. Her music generates 1.4 million  listeners each month on Spotify alone. Sarah shares the spiritual practices she attributes to her abundance. We chat about how shifting focus changed her life. In a transcendent act of generosity, Sarah sings for us. We also talk about where she believes humankind is headed, and how she takes control of her own destiny. This is not your typical podcast episode, this is a wild ride. Get out your sunglasses, because Sarah is pure light. Listen: Sarah Rebecca's Gems: https://alterk.lnk.to/SarahRebecca-Gems Sarah Rebecca Deluxe https://alterk.lnk.to/SarahRebeccaDeluxeVersion Links: Sarah Rebecca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahrebeccamusic/ Flipflops Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

It's time to connect with my creative soulmates! We are trying out a new format where we surprise each other with a "mystery guest" à la Smartless podcast. Today, we are joined by writer and stand-up comedian: Rebecca Kohler. She has written for television shows like Working Moms, Schitt's Creek and Kim's Convenience. Rebecca shares how she paved her way through the comedy industry. We also talk about her days as a chocolate thief, why she is addicted to making people laugh, and get her thoughts on "And Just Like That". 40% Facts began as an inside joke on a girl's road trip to NYC. This series features four creative women, who we like to say, each bring 10% to the table. In alphabetical order; Annabelle Agnew is a wedding & portrait photographer. Suzanne Bateman is a streetstyle and glamour photographer. Emeline Villedary is a landscape painter. I'm Angelique Gay, a writer and podcast host. ___________ Rebecca Kohler's website: https://www.rebeccakohler.com/ “When not writing for television, Canadian Comedy Award winner, Rebecca Kohler, takes to demolishing stand-up stages in both Canada and the US. Balancing an innate benevolence with a tongue like an acid attack, Rebecca has the ability to dissect the darkness of life's truths while maintaining a cheeky adorability. With a focus on connecting as humans and an aversion to low-hanging fruit, Rebecca Kohler's stand-up will educate, comfort and eye-open all while inducing laughter. If you find yourself groaning while watching her, Rebecca asks you to remember that she is not offensive, but that life itself is offensive.” ----------------- For the facts on representation of women over 50 on the screen, read this: Geena Davis Institute on Women Over 50: The Right to be Seen on Screen: https://seejane.org/research-informs-empowers/women-over-50-report/ ----------------- INSTAGRAM LINKS: Rebecca IG: https://www.instagram.com/rebkoh/ Annabelle IG: https://www.instagram.com/annabelleagnew/?hl=en Suzanne IG: https://www.instagram.com/suzannebatemanphotography/ Emeline IG: https://www.instagram.com/emelinevilledary/?hl=en Flipflops IG: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/?hl=en Angelique IG: https://www.instagram.com/angelique_d_g_/

Elin Hilderbrand named bestselling author Jamie Brenner "the gold standard of summertime escapism". Full of emotional realism and set in dreamy locations, her books feature the women we want to be. I have read and loved every single one. We talk about why she made the leap from literary agent to writer, where her ideas come from, how she turns to art to escape and her favorite New York moments. Every word out of her mouth is like a sip of champagne. Her new book Gilt comes out on June 21st, 2022. Jamie reads us an excerpt, and we are transported to a Manhattan book launch party right out of the hit show Younger. This episode is pure joy! ____________________________________________________________________________ Jamie Brenner Book Club and Pre-Order Gilt: https://linktr.ee/JamieBrennerWrites Jamie Brenner's Website: https://www.jamiebrenner.com/ Jamie Brenner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiebrennerwrites/ Flipflops Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

I met steamy romance novelist Jane Harvey-Berrick three years ago in Paris when I was there to interview authors at the Festival of New Romance. Hosted by the French Publishing House Hugo & Cie, it was an impressive event. I met Anna Todd (After series), Christina Lauren (The Soulmate Equation, Roomies) and I got to meet Jane and her enigmatic writing partner Stuart Reardon. Stuart is a pro rugby player turned male model. The duo drew quite a crowd. Jane and I would run into each other at breakfast and chat about her life. I felt a kinship, and stayed in touch. Jane and I chat about how all roads have led to writing, how her characters make themselves heard, and how in 2020 she learned to accept help from friends when she suffered a series of heart-breaking losses.  “If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more.” - Jane Austen SHOW NOTES: Jane Harvey-Berrick's Website: http://janeharveyberrick.co.uk/ Jane Harvey-Berrick's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jharveyberrick/ Flipflops Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/ MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES:  https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19/loss-grief-and-healing

Yeah! It's time to reconnect with my creative soulmates! We talk bravery hangovers, the quiet headlines that matter, we do a creativity check-in and we celebrate magic. What is magic? What does it feel like? How can we get more of it? And...does it even matter? We also discuss the unsung hero: patience. 40% Facts started as an inside joke on a girl's road trip to NYC. This series features four creative women who each bring 10% to the table. In alphabetical order; Annabelle Agnew is a wedding & portrait photographer. Suzanne Bateman is a streetstyle and glamour photographer. Emeline Villedary is a landscape painter. I'm a creative writer, aspiring painter and podcast host. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ RESOURCES: Four Liberating Questions (https://thework.com/2017/10/four-liberating-questions/) Is it true? Can you absolutely know that it's true? How do you react when you believe that thought? Who would you be without the thought? Ray of Light (https://www.tammisalas.com/community) Annabelle IG (https://www.instagram.com/annabelleagnew/?hl=en) Suzanne IG (https://www.instagram.com/sewze/?hl=en) Emeline IG (https://www.instagram.com/emelinevilledary/?hl=en) Flipflops IG (https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/?hl=en)

Vivianne Lapointe is CEO of Pepper (https://thisispepper.com/), the LA-based full-service creative agency. Pepper evolved out of LiveFAST (fashion, art, sex & travel), her on-line publication that took the fashion and art world by storm. It became synonymous with the travel series #BabesOnTour that took Vivianne and her crew of young artists around the world as they created epic content and brought brands along for the ride. Vivianne and I worked together in TV production back in the day. What a thrill to catch up. She shares the details of her creative pilgrimage from Montreal, to New York, and finally to Los Angeles. She shares how she made it all happen, how an idea changed her life, and her evolution from hungry shark to boss. We talk super powers, success in today's world, aging, and how having an intellectual mother shaped her. We discuss one of her favorite travel spots, the perfect day in LA, and how to get back in touch with your true self. Vivianne just launched SWEETS, "a unique loungewear essentials label made in good taste for forward-thinking seekers of all things sartorial. All of goods are designed and Made in Los Angeles in partnership with local apparel artisans." Shop SWEETS at https://sweetslosangeles.com/ Every word out of her mouth is akin to that hot fudge sundae you enjoy on a hot sandy beach. Sit back and enjoy. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ INSTAGRAM Vivianne at https://www.instagram.com/ladyshark/ Pepper at https://www.instagram.com/peppermade/ Pepper Artists at https://www.instagram.com/pepperartists/ SWEETS at https://www.instagram.com/sweetslosangeles/ Vivianne's Stylist at https://www.instagram.com/whitstreet/?hl=en Madonna Inn at https://www.instagram.com/madonnainn1958/?hl=en Bar lis at https://www.instagram.com/barlisla/ Flipflops Podcast at https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

I discovered writer Caroline Donofrio through Cup of Jo, one of my favorite blogs (well, let's be honest, a favorite for millions around the world). Her writing has the unique ability to make me think deeply and laugh out loud. She was the editor of Cup of Jo for a number of years, and is now a contributing writer. She devotes her time to ghostwriting Celebrity New York Times Best Sellers and her poignant NEW newsletter. Caroline lives in Brooklyn with her partner and beloved pup. Caroline tells us how she discovered her calling and she shares her favorite New York City haunts. We explore the process of ghostwriting with celebrities, the surprising way she approaches decorating and she reads her writing to us. The more you get to know her, the more curious you get about this cool girl. This is a rare moment in time, a moment of magic, and one of my favorite chats to date. Go on your favorite walk, or sit by the fire. Don't rush this gem. Show Notes: Sign up for her newsletter Between a Rock and a Card Place here: https://carolinecala.substack.com/ Book: When Things Fall Apart, by Pema Chödrön Here's a link to Caroline's beloved yoga teacher, Yogi Charu: https://www.yogicharu.com/#Mental-Hygiene "He currently offers online classes on a pay-what-you-can basis, and his meditations are wonderful. The Yoga Nidra is my favorite — life changing stuff." Thank you for sharing Caroline. xx ________________________________________________________________ Follow Caroline on IG here: https://www.instagram.com/carolinecala/ Follow Flipflops on IG here: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/ Follow Angelique on IG here: https://www.instagram.com/angelique_d_g_/

Catherine Connors went from Academia (Sessional Lecturer at University of Toronto) to Disney Executive (Head of Content and Editor In Chief of Disney Interactive). I have shivers as she shares her story. We talk about why myths and stories matter. Is the Disney Princess Good or Evil? This is a complex question for so many reasons, but all I can say is that she changed my mind. Catherine writes the Her Bad Mother blog (named one of TIME's Top 25 Blogs of 2012.) She co-authored The Feminine Revolution with Amy K. Stanton (who I interviewed a few episodes ago.) I could listen to Catherine talk All Day Long. Her Bad Mother has been featured in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, the American Prospect, the London Times, and sundry other publications, as well as on CNN, ABC, CBC and the BBC online. Catherine has made appearances on most major media outlets, including CNN, NPR, and Good Morning America, addressing all variety of topics related to motherhood, feminism, media, and femininity — sometimes all at once. Show Notes: Her Bad Mother Blog http://herbadmother.com/ The Feminine Revolution Buy here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1580058124/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=herbadmother-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1580058124&linkId=f02e3b38324282e3fc3f94721f48e0f6 The CSI Effect https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=5593372&page=1 This Changes Everything (2019, On Netflix) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPGwJmSMoPs History of Cinderella https://www.vox.com/2015/3/15/8214405/cinderella-fairy-tale-history Follow Catherine at: https://www.instagram.com/herbadmother/ Follow Flipflops at: https://www.instagram.com/flipflops_podcast/

I first "met" Leslie Stephens when she 24 years old and newly hired at the lifestyle blog Cupcakes & Cashmere. She was introduced to us readers as an adventurous person with a multitude of interests. During her time at C&C, she created "The List" that came out every Monday. It became a must-read for recipe, music, movie, podcast and tv show recommendations. She organized events that connected the audience to the team at C&C. She also created the sponsored content that helped grow the brand.  In August, Leslie announced she was leaving her role as VP Content at Cupcakes & Cashmere to pursue her Master's Degree. "The List" has since evolved into her NEW newsletter "Morning Person", which is what you are missing in your inbox.  I have been fortunate enough to create a personal relationship with Leslie through my interview with the brilliant writer Thao Thai. (listen to our chat here!) When that episode came out, I shared it with Leslie. In a massive act of generosity, she volunteered to help me with this podcast. This act of generosity is a great example of her character, and testament to the fact that she is fueled by helping others. In this episode, we talk about why she left C&C to go back to school to study psychology, and how she is navigating all the feelings that come with such a huge career pivot. She shares why she decided to study social media addiction and eco-psychology through a social justice lens. We also talk about what she learned at C&C, capsule closets and what is currently on her nightstand. Show Notes: Sign up for Morning Person here at www.morningpersonnewsletter.com Follow Leslie on Instagram @LeslieSteph Follow me on Instagram @flipflops_podcast Leslie's Recommendations: Amor Towles Jia Tolentino Sex Education The Alpinist On The Verge

You know Rafferty's dad as "Richard from Texas" from the book Eat, Pray, Love written by Elizabeth Gilbert. The book took the world by storm when Liz (and later Richard) appeared on "The Oprah Winfrey Show". The popularity of the book propelled Gilbert into the international spotlight. Richard nicknamed her "Groceries" and gave Liz the wisdom to find inner peace, using his signature sense of humor. Richard could break down even the most esoteric spiritual guidance, into bite-sized treats. Sadly, Richard passed away in 2010. Rafferty has his father's wit and humble charm. We chat about how meditation and yoga saved his life. He breaks down his spiritual practices, and shares how he and his dad repaired their relationship. We talk about how he digests the media and approaches life during uncertain times. I was so moved by his powerful words and life force that I didn't even ask him about meeting the stars of the movie, but maybe that will be for another day. Show Notes: Rafferty's Guru and his yoga programs.  Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev Isha Foundation You can find Rafferty on IG @meat_raff You can find me @Flipflops_podcast Thank you Jennifer Ettinger for this very special introduction. xx

When I grow up, I want to be this woman. Amy K Stanton owns a PR agency that promotes female athletes. She co-authored the book The Feminine Revolution. She is a TEDx speaker. She was the first-ever chief marketing officer (CMO) for Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. She has travelled the world. She is the coolest, most laid-back powerhouse I've ever met. We talk transitions, finding our super powers, and why she wrote a book about femininity. We also talk about the passions that saved her during the pandemic. I salivate while we talk about her life in Venice and NYC. Amy recently co-authored The Feminine Revolution with Catherine Connors, challenging the idea that femininity is weak, and encouraging women to redefine and embrace their feminine qualities as sources of power. Everyone from People to Cosmo to Ms. Magazine liked it (yes, Cosmo AND Ms. Magazine.) Buy it here. Follow Amy K Stanton on IG @Amykstaton Follow Angelique on IG @Flipflops_podcast Dance teacher Kiari Kirk (Kiki)

To say this conversation went to an unexpected place is an under statement. Jennifer has had a magic carpet ride of a career while remaining grounded and generous. She shares her story that starts in New York City and goes all the way to the Oscars red carpet. From her health struggles, insecurities, and crisis, she shares it all and inspires us to share our backstage experience. Jennifer leads by example - be authentic, and step into your power. What does all of that actually mean? Listen, and find out. She definitely changed how I see my current situation.  Jennifer amplifies brand voices and shares the 3 secrets she has successfully used to connect to, and grow an audience.  Follow Jennifer at Fit Your Style  Follow Pink Dreams at Pink Dreams.Inc Follow Flipflops at Flipflops_podcast Follow me Angelique D G

LA-based podcaster, chef and mother of two, Lauren Lobley is a savvy ambitious entrepreneur. I discovered her podcast The Mom Feed while doing research on Cassandra Troy Walker for my Creative Couples series. Lauren's ease behind the microphone makes her feel like a long-time friend.  I chat with Lauren about her transition into motherhood, and her journey from boxed cake maker, to red velvet cake baker to Barbra Streisand. We talk about why Lauren is on a mission to provide support to millions of mothers. I also pick her brain about how she is growing her audience, and what she has learned after one year of podcasting. Her fearless desire to share her raw emotions that come with motherhood makes me laugh, cry and share like we are besties. Lauren's extensive research on the topic of motherhood makes her a teacher and a necessary resource. Lauren is a mother of 2 on a mission to support other mamas in this enduring journey through motherhood! A certified health coach, published cookbook author and yoga studio co-owner of 5 Point Yoga in Malibu, CA, Lauren's world was rocked off its axis when she became a mom in 2016 to her daughter, Madison Grace. She knew it would be challenging, but she wasn't prepared to be met with feelings that didn't seem welcome: resentment, anger, fear, a deep sense of loss and grief over her identity pre-child, and a sense of confusion as she tried to navigate who she was now. She identified an inexcusable lack of support by her care providers as a new mother and after the birth of her second child, Liam Edward, in 2019, she decided she wanted to be a part of a movement to change that. The Mom Feed Podcast was born just 6 months after her son was, and with it came raw, honest conversations with experts in all fields pertaining to motherhood and parenting. With new episodes every Thursday, The Mom Feed aims to be the virtual village that every mother needs as she steps into her role and navigates the inevitable transitions that come with motherhood. You can follow Lauren Lobley at The Mom Feed blog and on IG at The Mom Feed Podcast. You can follow me on IG and Flipflops on IG.

I jumped off the couch when I saw Mark O'Brien walk onscreen in Marriage Story starring Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver. I had interviewed Mark back in 2018 when he was fresh off the set of the Oscar-nominated Arrival, starring Amy Adams, and I've been following his career ever since.  Mark plays the unstable Jimmy Ryan in the Ben Affleck/Matt Damon produced City on a Hill starring Kevin Bacon and Aldis Hodge. Georgina also has a recurring role in the Boston-based drama, but I truly fell for her in Baker and the Beauty. She plays Piper, best friend to Noa (Nathalie Kelley) in the Netflix show that rated number 1. She is pure light. It was such a joy chatting with them about their marriage story, their hilarious proposal mix-up, and the trick they played on their wedding guests. We talk parenting, red carpets, A-list Hollywood parties and skincare hacks Georgina picked up from Nathalie Kelley.  Mark wrote and directed his first film THE RIGHTEOUS, which will make its World Premiere at Fantasia Festival August 15 & 18th 2021. Get info and tickets here. Mark is also upcoming in the highly anticipated feature BLUE BAYOU (opposite Alicia Vikander and Justin Chon). The film made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival this summer and will be released in the US on September 17th. BLUE BAYOU is a moving and timely story of an American family fighting for their future. Mark plays Ace, a police officer, whose moral compass drives the film's central conflict- choosing between family or what he's legally bound to do.  Mark's performance in this film is incredibly moving and some of the most gut-wrenching and impactful moments. Watch the trailer here. CSI: Vegas is set to debut on CBS on October 6, 2021 so stay tuned! Follow Georgina and Mark on IG. Follow Flipflops on IG. Follow me on IG.

Toni Purry ran a successful LA-biased PR company for 10 years during a recession. After about 8 years, the PR rock star fell out of love with her company, but didn't know why. After she shut down her business, located in a gorgeous space in LA, she felt like "the biggest loser". Inspired by a documentary on Mohammed Ali, she took two days to write down all her life wins. The process was life-changing. Toni decided to write "My Hype Book', a motivational guided journal that will change the lens through which you see yourself. The book helps readers give themselves much needed grace in a world that pushes us to constantly chase arbitrary carrots. She ran a successful Kickstarter campaign that funded the printing of the book. Toni has generously offered 5$ off the book to us! (Use the code: FLIPFLOPSHYPE when you buy the book here.) Toni and I talk about why she fell out of love with her business, how she robbed herself and her employees by not celebrating their wins, and how she suffered in silence when she was uncertain about whether or not to make a career pivot. Toni shares how journaling through her book will not only shift your mindset by turning your perceived failures into wins, but help you surrender to the journey, instead of constantly setting the barre so high you exhaust yourself, and lose sight of how amazing you are. Toni is one of the warmest women I have had the chance to speak to. She is a Positioning & Visibility Strategist available to speak at events, facilitate workshops, and work one-on-one with clients who need strategic help hyping their brand. You can purchase the book here. Just use the code FLIPFLOPSHYPE to receive 5$ off. Toni Purry IG My Hype Book IG Flipflops IG

I love this woman! Formerly a Hollywood Marketing Executive, Celebrity Chef Katie Chin pivoted her career when her mother reintroduced her to cooking (and eating!) Together they wrote a cookbook and had their own PBS cooking show filmed in Hawaii. Sadly, her mother passed but Katie kept going. She started her own catering business called Wok Star Catering and has cooked for Cyndi Lauper, Nate Berkus, Anna Sui, Sandra Oh and a host of other celebs. She has been a judge on Iron Chef! She has cooked at the White House and met the Obamas. (What a cute encounter she had with them!) In March of 2020 when the pandemic hit and events stopped, Katie started a virtual cooking show with her daughter on a whim. This led to a whole new business. Katie has written 5 cookbooks. Her latest "Katie Chin's Global Family Cookbook" just came out on June 22nd. The book is a celebration of diversity and inclusion with food. I can't wait for you to hear her story and find out what she has learned along the way. SHOW NOTES: Katie Chin Website Katie Chin Instagram Buy "Katie Chin's Global Family Cookbook" Flipflops Podcast IG

Ever since I saw Andrew Walker and Cassandra Troy Walker post that they succeeded in getting their juice company Little West into the fridges at Whole Foods, I have wanted to chat with them about their story. Andrew and Cassandra live in LA but they met in Montreal, Canada. Andrew is a successful actor and a Hallmark movie star who has been living in LA since he was 20 years old. He is also an entrepreneur who whips people into a frenzy with his ideas and passion. Cassandra is an equally magnetic entrepreneur and a passionate foodie. Both are the epitome of an approachable healthy lifestyle. This episode is the first in a new series I am launching called Creative Couples. I want to celebrate romance, marriage and real partnership. We have all had a challenging time the last year and a half, so let's all pat ourselves on the back for getting through! We talk about how they met, their engagement and wedding story, Cassandra's transition to LA, why they spontaneously decided to open a juice bar and why Little West is so special. They also make a HUGE announcement that I am so excited to share with all of you. We also talk about why their marriage works, and the meaning they both derived from the pandemic experience. Little West juice is an Ultra Premium Cold Pressed Juice. Farm to Bottle in 48 Hrs. 2-4 lbs of Raw Produce per Bottle. No Added Sugar or Preservatives. SHOW NOTES: Little West Juice Company Big Green Learning Gardens Eco Drive Build On  Andrew Walker IG Cassandra Troy Walker IG Little West IG  

It's time to gab with my creative soul mates about the plague of shame, using fear as a guide, the importance of respecting your own boundaries and defining success for yourself. It's also about how exploring questions can sometimes be more important than having definitive answers. This episode is therapeutic and liberating. 40% Facts is comprised of four women and we each bring 10% to the table. In alphabetical order, Annabelle Agnew is a wedding & portrait photographer. Suzanne Bateman is a streetstyle and glamour photographer. Emeline Villedary is a landscape painter. I am a creative writer. Annabelle IG Suzanne IG Emeline IG Flipflops IG Read: Love Warrior for more on boundaries

I am honored to be chatting with Documentary Producer Jyoti Sarda who conceived of and produced “And She Could Be Next” with Ava DuVernay. The New York Times describes the film as a “two-part documentary, which follows the campaigns of several female politicians of color (including Stacey Abrams) and the communities that rally with them”. The film “shows what a systemic shift actually looks like.”  Before becoming a producer, Jyoti enjoyed comfortable positions as VP Marketing at Paramount Pictures and Executive Director at Twentieth Century Fox. We discuss why she took the leap to producer, and what it felt like to transition through that identity shift.  Jyoti has interviewed Gloria Steinem and mingled with powerhouses like Stacey Abrams and Kamala Harris, but what I find most impressive about her, is that she devotes her time to mentoring other women and paying it forward. This podcast may not have come to light without her, and for that I am forever grateful. RESOURCES: Jyoti Sarda Bio  "And She Could Be Next" New York Times article  And She Could Be Next site Take The Lead I met Jyoti through an EmpowHer event 

As soon as I saw Liz Plank and the jewelry brand Litzi share their collaboration on Instagram, I wanted to have them on this podcast. Liz Plank is a huge inspiration to me as a journalist, as a writer and as a human being. I love the two women behind the jewelry brand Litzi. Lynda Guy and Alice Usiskin celebrate feminism, their lineage and create androgynous, emblematic pieces that suit everyone. I also adore their friendship story. On this episode, we get into how they are coping during isolation, the cheesy things that help them stay sane, and the meaning they've pulled from the global pandemic. We also discuss Liz's book For The Love of Men, and why the trio created two lines of jewelry. The first (worn by Kristen Bell and Shawn Mendes!) is the "Let Boys Cry" line and the second is the "Empathy" line. Liz shares how she is transitioning away from the codependency propagated by idealized masculinity when men are trained to numb their feelings and women are left to do the emotional labor. This chat is one of the highlights of my career and a personal treasure. Enjoy! The Jewelry: Liz x Litzi The Book: For The Love of Men The Inner Compass Cards Liz Plank IG Litzi IG Angelique Gay IG Flipflops IG

Recording this episode was a pinch-me moment. I discovered writer Thao Thai through one of my favorite blogs called Cupcakes & Cashmere. Her writing is exquisite. Thao also works part-time for Cubby, a weekly newsletter for busy parents at home with their kids from the editors of Apartment Therapy & Kitchn. Thao shares her first memory, how she gets unstuck, and her biggest takeaways from her MFA. We talk about how motherhood changed her relationship to writing, and how she discovered a new calling to help other moms. We talk about navigating big career changes and parting ways with other people's expectations in order to honor our true self. Thao generously agrees to read to us from some of her essays on keeping her name, her coffee ritual and what microaggressions feel like. Social Media: Thao Thai IG Angelique Gay IG Flipflops Podcast IG

Brooklynite Shani Silver has become the authority on changing the conversation around singlehood. She asks: Why are single men called "playboys" and single women labelled "pathetic"? We talk about how she is using self-forgiveness as a balm during the pandemic, and how she got unstuck and finally embraced her authentic career. She shares how she uses her anger towards injustice to fuel her creativity. We also get into fun stuff like candles, 90's movies and baking. This is a fun one! Shani Silver is a freelance humor essayist, podcaster and editor of Atta Girl on Medium. Shani has built a unique community that empowers singles in a world that embraces the shadows of dating apps. Shani is also a writing coach. You can book a session with her here. RESOURCES: Shani Silver's series on Refinery29 Shani Silver's A Single Serving Podcast Shani Silver on IG A Single Serving Podcast on IG

Welcome to a new series called 40% Facts. Born on a girl's road trip from Montreal to New York, this idea for a show has been in my head for years. It wasn't my idea, but once I heard it, I vowed to make it happen.  Annabelle Agnew, Emeline Villedary, Suzanne Bateman and myself have been friends for many years. Today we talk about our relationship history with creativity, we redefine "failure", and share how motherhood fuels our work. We also talk about the importance of risk-taking, dormancy periods and how sometimes all our answers for the future, lie in revisiting the past.  Or not, this is 40% facts after all. 100% Facts: “The sculpture is already complete within the marble block, before I start my work. It is already there, I just have to chisel away the superfluous material.” ― Michelangelo Emeline refers to this article: https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-how-pollock-picasso-and-6-other-iconic-artists Annabelle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annabelleagnew/ Emeline's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emelinevilledary/ Suzanne's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sewze/ Angelique's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelique_d_g_/

This is a very personal episode where I get vulnerable - so be warned! I chat with life coach Yan Martin about self-imposed pressures, reframing "weakness" and demystifying meditation. Yan shares his experience with depression and anxiety. Yan Martin jumped from the top of the corporate ladder over to running his own business as a wellness ambassador two years ago, and he has been tremendously helpful to me. RESOURCES: Transitions: Making Sense of Life's Changes written by William and Susan Bridges 10% Happier: How I Tamed The Voice In My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, And Found Self-help That Actually Worked - A True Story written by Dan Harris Yan Martin's Profile linkedin.com/in/yanmartin4 Website yanmartin.com (Personal Website) You can find me at https://www.instagram.com/angelique_d_g_/ REMEMBER: I remember telling someone that I needed help, and they directed me to this website, where they had received the help they needed. (https://www.ordrepsy.qc.ca/) What struck me was how she said it, easy breezy, like it was no big deal. Now I get it, and I'm passing it on. No biggie. As we quarantine, please remember to take care of your mental health. xx

I reach out to healer and joyful full-time mother Oana Silaghi-Bedikyan. We talk about the surprising tools she is using to cope during the pandemic, how to reframe boredom, and the unimaginable gifts we could receive as a species if we opened ourselves up. RESOURCES: BOOK: The Wim Hof Method: Activate Your Full Human Potential Walt Whitman on Democracy and Optimism as a Mighty Form of Resistance https://www.brainpickings.org/2018/07/26/walt-whitman-specimen-days-democracy/ Art and the Human Spirit: Olivia Laing on What the Lives of Great Artists Reveal About Vulnerability, Love, Loneliness, Resistance, and Our Search for Meaning https://www.brainpickings.org/2021/02/25/olivia-laing-funny-weather-art/ A Buddhist Mantra To Start Your Day With gratitude I remember the people, animals, plants, insects, creatures of the sky and sea, air and water, fire and earth, all whose joyful exertion blesses my life every day. With gratitude I remember the care and labor of a thousand generations of elders and ancestors who came before me. I offer my gratitude for the blessing of this earth I have been given. I offer my gratitude for the measure of health I have been given. I offer my gratitude for the family and friends I have been given. I offer my gratitude for the community I have been given. I offer my gratitude for the teachings and lessons I have been given. I offer my gratitude for the life I have been given. Oana on IG @oanasilaghi Angelique on IG @angelique_d_g_ Message

Welcome to the Flipflops Podcast!