Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered

It's not goodbye, it's see you later. Diane and Natalie reflect on their two years working on the podcast together and discuss the bittersweet nature of “pressing pause” on the podcast in 2022.

In this conversation, Diane and Natalie chat with Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist Judith Ruskay Rabinor, the author of the book, “The Girl in the Red Boots: Making Peace with My Mother.” Both Diane and Judy wrote about their experiences with their mothers and how they impacted their lives—both negatively and positively. Listen as they dive deep into a discussion about understanding their mothers and learning to forgive them.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [1:00] How Diane is feeling about her book release [4:09] Learn more about Dr. Judith Ruskay Rabinor [6:16] What changed in Judy when her mother died [7:36] How psychology opened up Judy's eyes [11:02] Can a mother be both loving and selfish? [17:15] Reacting to their own life experiences [24:51] The trend of humanity is humanity [29:10] Look to the love in your life Resources & People Mentioned BOOK: The Girl in the Red Boots Connect with Judith Ruskay Rabinor Judy's Website Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Diane and Natalie https://MothersAndDaughtersUnfiltered.com Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on LinkedIn Follow Diane on LinkedIn Follow Diane on Twitter Follow Diane on Pinterest Follow Natalie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts Audio Production and Show notes by PODCAST FAST TRACK https://www.podcastfasttrack.com

A week after Diane's 16th birthday, her mother announced that she was leaving—and moving into the house next door. She planned to start a whole new life that happened to include a plethora of hot college students she had rented the home to. The shocking revelation changed the trajectory of Diane's life.  Diane's book, “My Mother Next Door” is an exploration of their unusual relationship (and what led Diane's mother to make the choices she did). In this episode of Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered, Diane and Natalie discuss the transformational journey of writing a book and what she learned about her mother—and herself.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [1:33] What is “My Mother Next Door” about? [3:38] Diane's mindset while writing the book [9:30] Writing a book is the hardest thing Diane's ever done [14:55] The relationship between mother and daughter [16:10] The context of My Mother Next Door [23:26] How Diane's experience influences who she is as a mother  [25:54] Natalie's perspective of “My Mother Next Door” [29:50] The message Diane hopes readers will take away [33:43] How to get a copy of Diane's book Resources & People Mentioned Preorder Diane's Book: My Mother Next Door Connect With Diane and Natalie https://MothersAndDaughtersUnfiltered.com Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on LinkedIn Follow Diane on LinkedIn Follow Diane on Twitter Follow Diane on Pinterest Follow Natalie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts Audio Production and Show notes by PODCAST FAST TRACK https://www.podcastfasttrack.com

In this special episode, Diane shares a test recording of the introduction to her soon to be released narrative memoir, My Mother Next Door. Get a taste of the book and learn about some of the reasons she felt compelled to write it. 

What is the impact of having a child on your brain and body? How do you navigate postpartum depression? What are some things you should know about pelvic floor dysfunction? These topics aren't covered as often as they should be by medical professionals. So in this episode of Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered, Diane and Natalie chat with Dr. Amanda Fisher and Denielle Finkelstein about these important topics.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [5:48] How Dr. Amanda fisher got into her specialty [14:37] Start the discussions about postpartum expectations early [19:51] The mental and physical impacts of giving birth [28:17] Need-to-know information about pelvic floor dysfunction [32:58] The average length of time it takes to recover from birth [41:22] The struggle of returning to the workplace Resources & People Mentioned Episode #3 with Denielle Finkelstein Shop The Organic Project (TOP) products on toporganicproject.com Connect with Dr. Amanda Fisher and Denielle Finkelstein Empower Your Pelvis Connect with Dr. Amanda Fisher on LinkedIn Connect with Denielle Finkelstein on LinkedIn Connect With Diane and Natalie https://MothersAndDaughtersUnfiltered.com Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on LinkedIn Follow Diane on LinkedIn Follow Diane on Twitter Follow Diane on Pinterest Follow Natalie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts Audio Production and Show notes by PODCAST FAST TRACK https://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Diane wanted to record an episode about the dynamic relationship between step-moms and step-daughters and even interviewed a number of them. But as she finished writing her book, “My Mother Next Door,” Diane felt that she should be doing this episode with her very own stepdaughter. One of the topics in Diane's upcoming book is blended families, so she felt that it would be more authentic to share her—and her stepdaughter's experience—while being interviewed by her biological daughter. This episode is their story of overcoming the odds and connecting as one big family. 

Our last trip before COVID hit was to Cartagena, Colombia. We were extremely lucky to have taken the trip and made it back into the USA before the borders were closed. In this episode of Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered, we have a conversation with our host and guide while we were in Columbia, Natalia Naranjo. She shared her home, restaurants, markets, and gave us a good sense of her culture. This episode shines a light on the differences in our cultures and relationships. It's a peek into life in Columbia from the perspective of a Columbian Millennial woman. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [1:00] Life in Columbia from the perspective of a Millennial woman [3:26] Learn more about Natalia Naranjo [5:26] Relationships in the United States vs. Columbia [12:00] The diversity, culture, and history in Columbia [17:54] How college differs in Columbia vs. the US [19:24] The American perception of Columbia [21:25] The family system in Columbia [30:55] Natalia's challenge to Americans Connect with Natalia Naranjo Connect on Instagram Connect With Diane and Natalie https://MothersAndDaughtersUnfiltered.com Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on LinkedIn Follow Diane on LinkedIn Follow Diane on Twitter Follow Diane on Pinterest Follow Natalie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts Audio Production and Show notes by PODCAST FAST TRACK https://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Did fashion die out in COVID? According to Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk of “The Style That Binds Us,” people dressed very intentionally—even during COVID. Clothes were still serving a purpose: to soothe. People wore big fluffy robes and slippers or soft sweaters and sweatpants. They choose pieces of clothing that cocooned them in safety and comfort. The world needed comfort in a time where everything was frightening.  But what about Post-COVID? In this episode of Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered, Diane and Natalie chat with this mother-daughter duo about the future of fashion. The ladies also talk about how “The Style That Binds Us'' was created, why they feature certain brands, and how you can create the perfect core wardrobe. Don't miss this fun fashion-filled episode! You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [1:50] The genesis of The Style That Binds Us [6:58] Fashion icons they look up to [10:25] The reemergence of fashion post-COVID [14:19] The “less is more” concept of dressing [17:32] Finding up and coming designers [23:05] A conversation with a fashion historian [25:13] Don't be afraid to get things tailored [28:49] The styles emerging out of COVID [32:25] The one thing a woman should invest in [39:45] What Delia and Alison have learned about each other Resources & People Mentioned Build your own core wardrobe with this checklist Connect with Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk The Style that Binds Us Podcast Follow on Instagram Watch on YouTube Follow on Twitter Connect With Diane and Natalie https://MothersAndDaughtersUnfiltered.com Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on LinkedIn Follow Diane on LinkedIn Follow Diane on Twitter Follow Diane on Pinterest Follow Natalie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts Audio Production and Show notes by PODCAST FAST TRACK https://www.podcastfasttrack.com

Let's talk about periods. In conversation with The Organic Project (TOP) Co-Founders, Thyme Sullivan and Denielle Finkelstein, the ladies talk candidly and laugh often about an experience all women share but few talk openly about. Learn about what's in your tampons and why organic is so important; how you can skip the cardboard and cup while still “saving the planet”; and, when and how you can start the period talk with your daughter.

In this episode of Mothers and Daughters Unfiltered, Diane and Natalie speak with Anjali Tamang and Sarah Symons, two women working to fight human trafficking and severe gender violence. Sarah founded Her Future Coalition to fight human trafficking and gender violence. Anjali shares a perspective from the other side of the spectrum—she was trafficked from her home in Nepal to Calcutta, India. 

In their first episode back, Diane & Natalie, speak to humanitarian mother-daughter duo, Maryam & Skylar Montague about feminism, the societal pressures of being a woman in Morocco and the characteristics of true empowerment as brought to life through nonprofit, Project Soar.

The say hindsight is 20/20... so join the mother-daughter duo themselves to rehash their experiences. Diane & Natalie reflect on their personal lives, year one of the podcast together, and the broader cultural effects of the year we will never forget -- 2020.

Who are the women in America's correctional institutions? What does it look like behind bars in 2020? Hear from a Correctional Nurse about the realities female inmates are facing and how she chooses to show up with empathy, compassion and humanity.

In the wake of a historic election, resulting in the first ever female vice president elect, Diane & Natalie visit the story of how women gained the right to vote just 100 years ago with children's book author, Mary Morgan Ketchel, and her mother, Senator Marsha Blackburn. 

Let's discuss the Likability Conundrum: why are women in power portrayed as "aggressive"? Why are outspoken little girls called "bossy"? The ladies dive in with "Bias" documentary filmmaker, Robin Hauser and her daughter, Holland Reynolds.

In Episode 21 we explore ‘unconscious bias' with filmmaker Robin Hauser, producer of the documentary ‘Bias,' and her daughter Holland Reynolds. Implicit bias: we all have it, so why and how does it define us on a daily basis and impact our relationships at home, in workplaces and in society? We unpack what we learn about our own biases, discuss what we can do better and ask—can humans de-bias their brains?

The ladies talk about weddings—the stressors, family dynamics, finances and staying connected to what's important—with mother-daughter duo, Lucy & Cat and NYC wedding planner, Ashley Douglass. 

The women discuss how we move through the grief of a losing one's mother—and how we can keep their memory alive—with Dara Kurtz, author of “I Am My Mother's Daughter: Wisdom on Life, Loss, and Love.” Together we acknowledge the importance of allowing ourselves to grieve, moving through pain, honoring our emotions, and embracing the lessons and traditions passed down from our mothers.

Explore how we can better care for new mothers with Ayurvedic Doula & Prenatal Yoga Instructor, Megan Cassamas. In this episode, we dive into the role of the doula, the prevalence of postpartum depression and the ways the ancient science of Ayurveda can nurture the mind, body and soul.

The discussion about antiracism with PhD Student and Diversity & Equity Facilitator, Victoria Alexander, continues as the group covers where to start when broaching conversations around race and racism with friends and family.

In conversation with PhD Student and Diversity & Equity Facilitator, Victoria Alexander, Natalie and Diane learn about and discuss what it means to be antiracist versus “not racist.” In the first of a two part conversation series, Victoria breaks down misconceptions around terminology including racism, white supremacy and color blindness.

Serial entrepreneur, Adrienne Arieff, imparts wisdom for all stages of life and all environments (COVID-19 and otherwise!) around how to stay on top of your game both personally and professionally. In episode 15, we explore ambition, being present so we can be open to opportunities, the juggling act of the working mother, mentorship, and recreating yourself for the 21st-century job market. All of that and more with our girl crush, Adrienne Arieff!

In discussion with proud Cartagena tour guide and Afro-Caribbean researcher, Marcella "March" Diaz, Natalie & Diane discuss and learn about the history of liberation and enslavement of Africans in Colombia, the true definition of the word “Champeta” beyond a musical genre, and racial identity as a self-described “mulatta” woman.

In the 4th installment of the Mother Daughter Diaries: COVID-19 series, Diane & Natalie gather perspective from two teenagers, Addy (16) and Chloe (13) and their mother, Christine. The group discusses the role of technology, staying connecting with friends, the future of education and how they are coping with the "new normal" as a family.

As COVID-19 slogs on and international response diverges, we have invariably seen female-led countries lead the way in their proactive and compassionate responses to the pandemic. With a pulse on the advancement and equity of women in the workplace and across the globe, Shelley Zalis, CEO & Founder of The Female Quotient, offers her perspective on feminine versus masculine leadership. Join Diane, Natalie & Shelley in The Time for Feminine Leadership is Now to learn about Shelley's journey to becoming “Chief Troublemaker”, the family values that molded her and insight into the future of feminine leadership. Psssst - the time is now!

This episode balances the longing to travel again with the realities and potential silver linings in the global tragedy at hand. Featuring “wellness tourism” pioneer and co-creator of Escape to Shape, Erica Gragg, Episode 11 of Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered unpacks what the pandemic will mean for the travel industry and explores the opportunities some of us may have to unleash our personal superpowers in this trying time.

The third episode in Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered's series, Mother Daughter Diaries: COVID-19, brings together mother-daughter duos that are taking the challenges of COVID-19 in stride and transforming them into opportunities. Twenty-one-year-old, Rennie Lembo, details the 3D printing masks project she has embarked upon with her community college to keep our health workers safe as her mother, Laurel, “walks the talk” as an owner of an “essential business.” New business owner, Alex Aitchinson, thinks creatively about pivoting her business as her mother Deb offers wisdom on how to keep an even keel through it all.  We hope you are enjoying this series and would love to hear your stories too. If you would like to be featured on an upcoming episode please submit an audio or written blurb via email to natalie@mdunfiltered.com or direct message us on Instagram at @motherdaughterunfiltered.

The second installment of Mother Daughter Diaries: COVID19 compares the experiences of two young women forced to return home from abroad due to COVID-19 in late March 2020. Diane & Natalie interview two mother-daughter duos about the experience coming home and their perceptions of the response in countries they left; Victoria, returning from her job placement in Singapore with her mother Nancy; and Fiona, returning from her graduate degree in Public Health in London with her mother Hazel.

This is the first episode of Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered's timely series, Mother Daughter Diaries: COVID-19. This collection interviews mother-daughter duos across the country and world to gain perspective on how the pandemic is affecting all of us. In the first installment, Diane and Natalie talk with Connecticut-based, Pamela (mother) and Charlotte (daughter), about the realities of returning home as a young adult - for both sides. The group gets real about boundaries and mental health and laughs about new hobbies and our fur family.

With the onslaught of COVID-19, the world has changed overnight. Social distancing, shelter-in-place and quarantine have become the new norm and our ways that we connect with one another on a daily basis are shifting. In conversation with Martha McBride, community builder at the Neighborhood Project, we discuss the ways that we can come together during and after the global pandemic.

In celebration of Women's History Month, Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered brings trusted money expert and self-proclaimed feminist, Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, on the podcast to discuss her mission to end inequality through financial wellbeing. Learn about everything from values-based saving to the 30-Day Money Cleanse and Money Parties. Let's dance, ladies!

Buckle up for laughs and some real talk about every modern day single's favorite topic -- online dating. Diane moderates as Natalie is joined by single friend, "Ashley", and divorcee duo, "Helen" & "Vanessa" for some raucous debate on which apps to use, ghosting and more! Keep this one for the grown-ups only ;)

During this episode mother, Diane, interviews daughter, Natalie... cue dramatic music *dun dun dun*. Join us as we dive into our intentions for the new year, core values for the podcast and lessons learned from mother to daughter.

Join us and mother-daughter pair, Ann & Hailey Brown, to laugh and learn from one another about our experiences living and working in the Big Apple today versus the late 80s, early 90s. Explore topics including the social currency of being busy, FOMO and the notorious NYC metro.

Join us to explore the relevance of the Golden Rule in the 21st century with Reboot the Future Foundation's co-founder, Kim Polman. In a time when the world's challenges can feel insurmountable, explore how small changes in our behavior can have large effects on the world around us.

Get to know co-host and mother, Diane, a little better as interviewed by daughter, Natalie. Discover why we created this podcast and how we will be structuring our conversations.

Welcome to Mothers & Daughters Unfiltered , an intergenerational dialogue between mother, Diane Danvers Simmons  and daughter, Natalie Simmons. This short trailer will give you a taste  of what's to come on our show. We created this podcast because we realized that we whether we're 26 or 56 we all seem to be affected by the same things and by sharing our stories, our knowledge, we can build a strong community and learn so much more. Our first two episodes ,Getting to know Diane and Is the Golden Rule Still Relevant will launch January 22nd on Apple , Stitcher and wherever you listen to your podcasts.  Please subscribe, rate and review us so we can continue the conversation - unfiltered. Love your hosts, Diane and Natalie