FAMILY. This thing of ours is more than a slogan on a t-shirt. “Officially Fenner" is an ongoing discussion, engaging all who join in the conversation on how to best do this family thing. No family conversations are off limits, from kids to kitchens, great moments to bad habits. If it happens in the family, we talk about it.
Send us a textWelcome to "The Barbershop", where real men have real conversations - uncut, unfiltered and unapologetically honest. It's the spot in our Agile Always podcast where we pull up a chair, talk life, health, and everything in-between, from the deeply personal to the universally important. Pat Riley once said, "You have to be an active participant in your own rescue." These words perfectly capture the urgent message at the heart of this powerful episode of Officially Fenner/Agile Alway's new "Barbershop" segment, where host Rudy brings authentic men's health conversations out of the barbershop and into the open.Rudy, joined by his brother Greg (a prostate cancer survivor turned advocate) and son-in-law David (representing a younger perspective), this multigenerational discussion tackles the staggering reality that 80% of men who live to 80 will develop prostate cancer—with even higher rates among African American men. Yet countless men avoid the simple PSA blood test that could save their lives.The trio explores the complex reasons behind men's reluctance to seek medical care: historical distrust of the healthcare system, the masculine tendency to "tough it out," and fears about procedures and potential sexual dysfunction. With remarkable candor, they share personal experiences that illuminate how early detection dramatically improves both outcomes and treatment options.Family history emerges as a crucial but often overlooked factor. As Greg powerfully states, "If you have had prostate cancer and you have a son, you're putting his life at risk not telling him." The conversation moves beyond detection to treatment decisions, with insights on everything from "active surveillance" (which Greg compares to "a stick of dynamite with a fuse") to radiation therapies and surgical options.Whether you're approaching 40 or well beyond, this conversation could literally save your life or the life of someone you love. Listen, learn, and become an active participant in your own health journey. What's your PSA number?Thank you for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and learned something new along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy This presentation and its multimedia recording and all its contents including all text, graphics, sounds, audio, and video content are protected by copyright and are the intellectual property of Fenner Productions, LLC. All rights reserved. This recording contains material that is protected by internationally valid copyright. No part of this recording or associated handouts may be reproduced, transmitted, publicly posted, or transcribed without the express written permission of Fenner Productions, LLC. Fenner Productions, LLC rejects any claims that transcend the clauses of the guarantee rights. Fenner Productions, LLC does not undertake any liability for the correctness of the content of the presentation. The contents of the presentation may be changed without prior notice. All trade names and trademarks are the property of the respective owners. The trademarks mentioned here are named for information purposes only.
Send us a textAs we continue our journey into 2025, many of us are looking for ways to feel better, move more, and make healthier choices—without feeling overwhelmed. But what if getting healthier didn't require drastic changes? What if a few small shifts could make a big impact on your well-being?That's exactly what we explore in the latest episode of the Agile Always Podcast: "Simple Shifts to a Healthier You."In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Atkins, a certified holistic nutritionist and nutritional health coach, who shares her personal journey from health struggles to transformation. Together, we break down four simple, yet powerful, changes you can make right now to feel your best this year. · Cut back on processed foods – Learn how small swaps in your grocery cart can lead to better digestion, more energy, and improved long-term health.· Balance your blood sugar – Discover why pairing carbs with protein and healthy fats can help you avoid energy crashes and weight gain.· Move your body daily – No need for intense workouts—simple, joyful movement goes a long way in boosting both physical and mental well-being.· Manage stress effectively – Practical strategies like deep breathing and mindfulness can help you take control of stress before it takes a toll on your health.Ryan doesn't simply provide a list; she talks through how you can take steps to start on this path – no matter when you start. Her insights will leave you feeling inspired, not intimidated, and ready to take control of your health—one simple step at a time.Listen to the full to the full episode now, and be ready to write down ALL of her suggestions!You can connect with Ryan on Instagram @ https://www.instagram.com/ryathegirl/ or https://www.instagram.com/rya_eats Here's to small shifts, big wins, and a healthier, happier you in 2025! Thank you for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and learned something new along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy This presentation and its multimedia recording and all its contents including all text, graphics, sounds, audio, and video content are protected by copyright and are the intellectual property of Fenner Productions, LLC. All rights reserved. This recording contains material that is protected by internationally valid copyright. No part of this recording or associated handouts may be reproduced, transmitted, publicly posted, or transcribed without the express written permission of Fenner Productions, LLC. Fenner Productions, LLC rejects any claims that transcend the clauses of the guarantee rights. Fenner Productions, LLC does not undertake any liability for the correctness of the content of the presentation. The contents of the presentation may be changed without prior notice. All trade names and trademarks are the property of the respective owners. The trademarks mentioned here are named for information purposes only.
Send us a textOfficially Fenner is starting a new chapter in 2025! First, we stand in solidarity with those impacted by the devastating California fires. We especially feel the weight of it with our granddaughter who's in college in Los Angeles, and send love and support to the people and communities who were impacted. We are also grateful for the first responders and organizations that are working constantly to help people work their way through this disaster. For those who are new here, we kickoff season four of the podcast by reflecting on 2024 which was a very full year filled with family visits, another home project, an anniversary celebration (#45!), celebrations around the jersey retirement of NFL Hall of Famer and our brother-in-law Darrell Green, and work with a client which is challenging and that I enjoy. In this episode of Officially Fenner, we reflect on the past year, and celebrate the joy of multigenerational living in Northern Virginia. Through all of life's ups and downs, strengthening family bonds has remained our foundation.Looking ahead, we're embracing the power of AI and community engagement—especially after the success of a 2024 health fair that we participated in, which was a moment of education and learning for so many, including us. Our experiences have deepened our passion for promoting proactive health and wellness.Most exciting of all, in 2025, we talk about our launch of Agile Always—a movement to inspire and connect people in new ways, both online and in real life. Agile Always will feature not only physical health, but mental wellness, eating well, relationships, and everything that it takes to live vibrant and stay agile! We have some great guests lined up to join us. The best part is the we want YOU to be an active part of this as we set new goals, and dance through 2025 with optimism, energy, and open hearts. Beyond health, we'll also have fun exploring personal style and storytelling, because of course. Rudy will share some unforgettable moments over the years—including encounters with legends like Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen!We hope you enjoy Episode 1 of Season 4 of Officially Fenner. Follow us here and give us a like...tell your friends and family too! Together we'll make 2025 our best year yet! Thank you for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
Ever sparked a heated debate over a favorite TV show? That's exactly how we, Robin and Rudy Fenner, stumbled into the theme of our latest podcast episode. From our own playful squabbles to the intricate dynamics of "Suits," we're unpacking the complexities of family, fame, and fictional legal drama. We're also tipping our hats to football great Darrell Green, and diving into the moral flexibilities of Mike Ross, served with a side of pop culture musings on icons who've etched their mark on our hearts. Picture a world where Shonda Rhimes and Tyler Perry set the stage for the future of digital storytelling—this is where our conversation leads, exploring the seismic shifts in content distribution that are rewriting the rules for creators and audiences alike. As "Suits" itself adapts from cable to streaming, we scrutinize the implications for how we might soon be cheering on our favorite sports teams. We're pulling back the curtain on the industry's evolution and its ripple effects, from the boardroom to your living room. Strap in for a ride that's not just about consuming media but living it, as we dissect the servant leadership and complex team dynamics mirrored in our beloved series "Suits." We're not just talking character arcs and plot twists; we're examining how the show's intricacies resonate in our own careers and relationships. With a nod to the visionary creators like Aaron Korsh and the talents like Patrick Adams who bring these stories to life, join us for a conversation that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
The busyness of life forced us into an unintentional pause! We're good, but wow! Come take a stroll down memory lane with us back to summer 2019, when music festivals and carefree drives with the top down were the norm. In our latest podcast episode, we're diving into a mix of nostalgia and resilience, reflecting on how we've coped with everything from a global pandemic to personal battles like cancer. While we might miss the old normal, we're also finding hope in the chance for fresh starts.Our podcast isn't just about big-picture stuff; it's also about the little moments that ground us, like the relationships we cherish. While we're bummed about missing out on a chat with our Jared Green and his wife Joanna, we're grateful for the deep connections we've made in other interviews. From historical royal romances to modern-day fairy tales like Harry and Meghan's, love and family prove to be timeless themes.But we're not just talking about other people's stories; we're sharing bits of our own too. From tackling home renovations to debating TV characters, each moment adds to our family's journey. And as we navigate the ups and downs of marriage and parenting, we're learning that staying healthy is about more than just hitting the gym—it's a mental game too. Through it all, we're reminded to cherish every moment and the people who make them special.We hope that in listening to us, this inspires You might want your listeners to come away from this podcast episode feeling inspired to appreciate the past while embracing the potential for renewal and change. Here are a few takeaways that we hope you discover:1. Recognize your own strength in overcoming challenges, much like the stories we share in this episode.2. Value and deepen the relationships that matter most to you, and consider the importance of connections in YOUR life.3. See every challenge as an opportunity for growth, whether it's through personal projects like home renovations or navigating the complexities of family dynamics.4. Be more present each day and appreciate the small moments and the big milestones. Recognize the importance of mental well-being along with physical health.We hope that by sharing our stories we inspire our listeners to look at their own lives with a new perspective, finding beauty and opportunity in both the trials and the triumphs!Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
Ever wonder how life's decisions impact our family dynamics? In our latest series, 'It's a Wonderful Life,' we unravel this, exploring the ripple effects of our decisions on multiple lives. From our own journey of relocating within the DMV area (Washington, D.C. /Maryalnd / Virginia), to our guests, David and Kelly's experiences of shifting homes - we tread on this journey of discovery together.David, our son-in-law and part of our multi-generational household, shares his unique insights on acclimating to new neighborhoods and cultural landscapes. He candidly discusses the profound effect these changes can have on one's sense of identity and humor. Kelly, our daughter, sheds light on her experiences of adjusting to new environments. As we talk about our own experiences of adjusting to fresh surroundings, we delve into the ways they shape our parenting styles and decisions on moving with our own families. We also reflect on the cultural adjustments when moving from a diverse "salad bowl" community to one that was more of a "melting pot" and the effects of that on our family. While we as parents wanted a different neighborhood and easier commute, we also found challenges in advocating for our children in an unfamiliar school system. The kids had to navigate friendships as they tried to form their new community.Lastly, we emphasize understanding the value of a different place and how it can enrich our lives. We also look at the balancing act of agreement and disagreement within the parent-child relationship, and the importance of providing a nurturing environment where kids can express their thoughts and feelings without fear. So, tune in as we navigate through our lives' transitions and comprehend the impact they can have on family dynamics.Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
Calling fans of Netflix's 'Bridgerton' and specifically those of 'Queen Charlotte, a Bridgerton Story', you won't want to miss this. On this podcast, we explore this fictional story based on the real King George III and his wife, Queen Charlotte, and the similarities between the show and what we've been talking about in terms of modern relationships and how to successfully build lives together. We found a number of similarities between what we've covered in previous episodes, and what was portrayed in "Queen Charlotte", and thought it worthy of a conversation: How did their introduction affect their relationship? Was Charlotte a "trench girl" (a term Rudy uses refers to the partner who is always in the trenches with you, even in the toughest times)? How did her choices impact their marriage and how can her actions be applied to modern relationships?We also cover the the ebb and flow of leadership in relationships. Witness Queen Charlotte's unwavering assertiveness with her mother-in-law and her dynamic with King George, highlighting the unpredictable nature of life's seasons. Can one be both a leader and a follower? Can you thrive in your current role? The scene where George gives Charlotte the choice to go over the wall was powerfully sets the stage for their relationship. Suppose he had forced her to do what he said? Here we uncover the importance of choice and its profound impact on relationship dynamics.Finally, we take a look at the closing scene - where Queen Charlotte sits beside King George, a visual tapestry of their enduring bond - and uncover the nuances it reveals about their relationship, and the depths of their connection.Shonda Rhimes' telling of this story as both a Bridgerton prequel and sequel, is genius.Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
Join us as Rudy and I reflect on how we got married at 21 and have survived 43 years of marriage!One of the things we talked about before was the influence that our family and friends had on our relationship! We didn't realize it then but the people who know you best can see the qualities each of you have that either mesh or don't. Ours wasn't an arranged marriage per se, some of the people who were closest to us saw things that they thought would make us a good match. What can also happen is that as a couple grows closer, time with friends is reduced. As we spent time together we found that there were experiences in each of our lives that the other hadn't experienced. When you're merging lifestyles you have to figure out what part of you are you willing to sacrifice or expand to accommodate the other person. Ideally, in the dynamics of a relationship that you're building together, you get to know someone and then respond to what you know. This includes observing and then responding to what you observe. Rudy shares a story about giving Robin a radio for her office (back in the day of course!) so she could listen to her favorite soap opera which at the time was "All My Children". Last year, after he completed treatment for cancer, their kids banded together and planned a family trip to Disney World for one of Rudy's favorite events, to celebrate that milestone. Know what people like and then act on it. You'll also be setting an example for your kids. Rudy says that "Observe and be quiet long enough to understand what that person likes. Then incorporate that into what you're going to do to communicate your love and affection for them.As our relationship we grew, other relationships took a back seat for a while and some people didn't like that. It wasn't so much that they didn't like one of us for the other' they thought we were two young for such a serious commitment. We later learned that at our wedding some people bet that we wouldn't last three years!There may have been some truth to that when you consider who and what you're really called to be. Rudy had a dream to be a singing superstar, and encountered and worked with names you know - Lionel Richie (when he was with the Commodores), Michael Jackson, Casablanca Records, and more. Robin envisioned living in Malibu in a white mansion by the ocean. In this podcast, they dissect letting go of a dream in THAT business, and realizing that people have to have a purpose that involves love, affection, and caring, not celebration and worship. Even though Rudy had a burning desire to pursue a career in music, there are things that you give up of yourself as you take on new roles.As we reflect (we call it therapy while you listen :), we realize the value of taking that time for our relationship. We figured out what we had in common and navigated our way. We know that had we embarked on a music trajectory at that time, we probably would not have stayed together and would not have had the family that we have. We are where we're supposed to be.Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
When we got married, we were so young we didn't think about these key building blocks! We WERE best friends, loved spending time together, and were very attracted to each other. We just ASSUMED we would last forever. But staying together for 43 years takes a lot more than that. So, we're breaking down some of the things that we figured out and can now better articulate for others to focus on...things like trust. How do you build trust? It's not just what you say, it's what you do. How do you communicate? (Hint: it's not just talking, but also listening.) How intentional are you about your relationship? Listen in as we dissect how we figured some of this out. Talking about this is therapy for us, lol, but you get to benefit!Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
We celebrated our 43rd wedding anniversary last summer. We have a lot of fun but no one has a roadmap for marriage that's absolute. Each relationship is totally unique. We don't know how we got here. We think there are some common threads so this ispart one of a series called "A Marriage That Lasts". Starting with how do you find the right person, in this episode we talk about how we met and what made for interesting challenges in their relationship. We realized the qualities that we liked in each other - things like how mindful someone is of who you are. What are the things that we found in common that we enjoy doing? What are his/her values? Throw in what we call "The Rock n' Roll Era", when Rudy emceed for concerts with artists like Bill Withers, Michael Jackson, The Commodores (with Lionel Richie), Smokey Robinson and so many others....and our dates weren't the same as going to McDonald's on Friday nights. They're fun stories but lead us to what we learned about loyalty and dependability. And then consider what's important. It's not what someone says but what they actually do that tells you what someone believes in. Do you inspire each other? Do you free each other? Do you balance each other? How do you help each other through tough times? Get ready to laugh along with us in this episode, (but take a few notes just in case you're trying to figure out if he or she is "the one"!).Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said, and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!A special thanks goes to @yancylott for producing, editing, and creating the music for our podcasts!xo,Robin & Rudy
We tried to eat well in the past and thought we were doing okay. But there were major challenges with what Rudy could digest. After his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, we committed to being more intentional about eating in a healthier way, AND we found a way around Rudy's challenges! Our daughter Courtney led the charge by creating new recipes, many of which included more plant-based ingredients. On the road to eating more plant based, there are three things that we learned to get started: 1. Meet people where they are 2. Each person's plan will be different 3. Experiment with different foods and new ways of prepared them There is a debate about whether sugar leads to cancer or its growth. We're not medical professionals and can't answer that question. But what we HAVE learned, and makes sense to us, is that too much sugar CAN lead to other conditions that in turn, may lead to cancer. Reduce Sugar One of the first things that we did was to start counting the grams of sugar in each serving of our food, and limited it to 36g a day for Rudy, and 24g a day for Robin. We found that adding seasonings and spices really helped to replace some of the flavors that we associate with the sweetness of sugar. Reduce Processed Foods We also further reduced processed foods, including processed meats! Yes, we kept some things like canned beans, but in general we made a conscious effort to reduce food that can stay on the shelf for months. As our doctor says, if you can't pronounce all of the ingredients, it's probably not good for us to eat it. Eat More FreshOkay, THIS had been the hitch for more than 40 years. As a child, Rudy ate some bad watermelon and since then, he was unable to digest any fresh fruits and vegetables. Even many that were cooked to some degree, caused problems for him. These foods – many of them known to have cancer-fighting nutrients – were a non-starter and he really wanted to eat them! This was so unusual that it was a mystery to his doctors. Rudy says that as people we need to be in community, and learn about each other's experiences. Once his sister really understood his issues, she suggested that he might have an enzyme deficiency that was preventing my digestion of these foods. He found a plant-based enzyme that has been life-changing. And today he can eat ANY fruit or vegetable that he wants. Other Changes We're Making We rarely have fried, grilled and roasted foods anyway, but learned that those should be minimized. And we're looking at the Mediterranean diet and learning more about Blue Zones – areas of the world where people typically live longer and healthier lives, much of which is due to the way that they eat. The Results so Far We've both lost weight and are in healthy BMI ranges. People often think that when you work out, you should have a lot of bulk. However, a body mass calculator may tell you differently. Your BMI is calculated based on your age, gender, height, and weight. Here's a link to a BMI calculator but there are also others - https://www.calculator.net/bmi-calculator.html. It's helpful for setting a baseline and following your progress!Thank you so much for spending time with us today! We hope you enjoyed our conversation, related to something we said and laughed along the way. Please give us a like and subscribe to our podcast, so you don't miss ANYTHING! Follow us on all of our social media via linktr.ee/officiallyfenner!xo,Robin & Rudy
The past 12 months have been a whirlwind for us. One of the biggest changes that we've had is seeing our first granddaughter leave for college. Our relationship might be closer than some families because Malani and her mom lived in our home for most of her formative years. We were lucky to have that time together and were involved in supporting her as she prepared for this transition. We know things have changed in the 20 years since our daughters went to college, but it was really fascinating how much! Back when our girls were doing this, they wrote their own essay or two, toured some schools and with fingers crossed, applied to state colleges and universities with the hopes (at least ours as parents) of benefitting from in-state tuition and a two-hour ride from home. Preparing for the college application process starts earlier than ever. College consultants can assist students and parents in the application process, writing multiple essays, the common application, FAFSA forms, staying on schedule and so much more. Hint: If you're thinking about this kind of service, look for the person you want to work with while your teen is in the 10th grade. The best ones will be booked early We definitely learned a lot during this process and in this episode of the Officially Fenner podcast, we're going to begin a conversation about what we call "The Real Kollege Knowledge", because...it's a different world!We're talking about the options that young adults have as they plan for post-high school life, the investment of time, patience and resources, planning, research and creating your tribe of support including family and yes, our college consultant, who I now refer to as Malani's Fairy Godmother :)This is episode one of a series on the road to college. If you are a parent, or grandparents like us of a soon-to-be high school graduate, tune in as we share what worked for us, and be sure to subscribe so that you don't miss upcoming episodes. We'll cover choosing the right school, paying for college, ways to save on the cost, things that we didn't expect, and the things we found that were really helpful as Malani prepared to leave.Resources mentioned in this series include: College Consultant - @Geanine Thompson - http://www.thecollegeguru.com Kollege Knowledge: A Grrl's Guide to Surviving the First Year - https://www.amazon.com/Kollege-Knowledge-Girls-Guide-Surviving/dp/B0196YKTZ6@GrownandFlown#college #offtocollege #collegeknowledge #highereducation #collegecounseling #collegeready #collegeadmissions #higheredResources mentioned in this series include: College Consultant - @GeanineThompson - http://www.thecollegeguru.com Kollege Knowledge: A Grrl's Guide to Surviving the First Year - https://www.amazon.com/Kollege-Knowledge-Girls-Guide-Surviving/dp/B0196YKTZ6@GrownandFlown
The summer's one of our favorite times of the year with warm weather, longer days, concerts and more. However this summer has been very different: Rudy has been dealing with an unexpected health challenge that's actually taken us back to things we talked about in our Fitness Roadmap series (Season 1) - LIFE. IS. COMING! We can't control everything that happens to us but we CAN control how we prepare ourselves so that whatever we face, we're in the best possible position. In this episode of our podcast, we share Rudy's recent cancer diagnosis - one that nearly took our breath away. He's fit, eats well, and doesn't smoke, drink or engage in behaviors that you might associate with this kind of diagnosis. But like so many others, here we are.Thankfully, we have an amazing medical team and as always, we're leaning on God to bring us through.The road isn't easy but fortunately, the outlook is very promising. Rudy done very well and is almost done with treatment. We look forward to good results when he is finished. We think there may be some things that we're experiencing that will help others, so we're sharing story here. Music and Production by @yancylott
Have you or your family ever found yourselves itself in the midst of something and then realize, “This is bigger than us”? That is an attempt to describe this Officially Fenner podcast.When our 7-year-old granddaughter asked, “When are we going to see the new Spider Man movie?”, it was such a Deja vu moment! That's because I said the same thing about Morbius! Our 17-year-old granddaughter said the exact same thing about Dr. Strange's Multiverse, and our son-in- love who's thirty-eight has said that about several Marvel movies. We thought about it and realized how the MCU (aka the Marvel Cinematic Universe) consistently captivates audiences that span generations. So we invited David (our music and technical producer) and Malani (one of our granddaughters) as our guests, so you really get the multigenerational perspective!What is it about a franchise based on superheroes that receives few critical accolades, but rose from the ashes to become the biggest movie franchise in history? Why do we spend so much time dissecting characters, plot points, and what's next? What is it about Marvel? We decided to talk about this in our own multiverse…the Officially Fenner podcast… and we invite you to listen in and let us know what you think! And what do YOU think is the underlying theme that ties us all together?Be sure to subscribe and follow us so you don't miss Part 2 of this conversation!
As we noted in our first episode on this topic, Marvel productions drive a lot of our dinner table conversations. Who knew that the Marvel franchise would be this generation's "Andy Griffith", "Fresh Prince", or even "Modern Family" in way that it draws families of all ages together to enjoy movies and shows, and continue to talk about them later? In this episode, we're continuing our exploration of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and its impact across generations. Today's guests are Marvel aficionados, our son-in-law David (@yancylott), and our granddaughter Malani, who help to round out Marvel perspectives from different generations. We're sharing ideas on what's the best way to watch this franchise, favorites, highlights, why Marvel doesn't seem to get love from thefilm industry awards, comparisons to D.C., and more! Whether you already love the MCU, or wonder what the heck is the big deal, you won't want to miss this fun conversation as we break it down right here. Tell us what you think! What are your favorite movies, characters, and actors and why? And as always, thanks for checking us out. Please be sure to like and follow!
In the first two episodes of the "Kitchen Chronicles" series, we shared our recent experience with our kitchen renovation. Today, we have the pleasure of introducing our guests, Janice Harvey of Janice Harvey Designs, and Shereen Farahani of Premier Floors and Home, who worked with us on this project! In this conversation Shereen and Janice share how they started working in design and what makes a renovation like this work so well. They also explain how trusting the innovation of your team can result in a genuinely individualized space. You won't want to miss hearing them discuss some of the creativity and trends used in home renovations and how one of the things that made our experience go so well is the working relationship they have with each other.Thank you so much for listening! To see the bonus “Before and After” photos of our project, please visit our “Officially Fenner” channel on YouTube. The images are at the end of the conversation.To keep up with us between podcasts, follow us here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallyfenner/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/officiallyfenner To talk to Janice and Shereen about YOUR next project, reach out to them here: Janice HarveyJanice Harvey Designs, LLC Linktree: https://linktr.ee/janiceharveydesignsShereen FarahaniPremier Home Center45714 Oakbrook Ct #140Sterling, VA 20166 Phone: (703) 421-4339 Products used: Cabinets - @designcraftcabinetry and @waypointlivingspaces Dishwasher - @mieleusa Refrigerator - @dacorkitchen Microwave - @lgusa Double Oven - @geappliances Sink - @kraususa Faucets @kraususa Cooktop - @fulgormilano_na Floors – Lexington
Our recent kitchen reno was a big job that a lot of people can relate to, so we decided to start with a mini-series that we call The Kitchen Chronicles.In our last episode, we talked about why we renovated the kitchen, what we were up against in terms of time, our pain points with the old kitchen, and figuring out whether we would piece-meal the work on hire a full contractor.Here, in episode 2, we cover "Living Through Construction". Yep, we didn't have access to that space for over five weeks, during Covid, with a slow supply chain, and a six-person household, which included a new baby!We couldn't move out, so we had to figure out how to create and live in very limited part of the house when our primary space wasn't available. We also had to think about meal prep beyond takeout, cleanup, having a dog with all of the commotion, and deal with other inconveniences.Our family of 6 was so patient, but there was still stress, especially when time was lost making corrections so we could pass inspections. There are extra things to budget for too, like periodic lunches for the crew which are nice to offer to the team that's working super hard in your home.But we made it through and here we're sharing what strategies worked!Please watch and be sure to give us a thumbs up and "Subscribe" so you don't miss anything! You can also follow us here!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallyfenner/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/officiallyfenner
When people listened to our Fitness Roadmap podcast during the past year, some heard more than fitness stories – they heard about us as a couple and suggested that we expand our conversations beyond fitness. We thought about it and decided to do just that! We've renamed this space “Officially Fenner” to share more of our personal lives. We've been married for 42 years, with three adult children, sons-in-law (including David, our producer!), and 4 adorable grandchildren. We've been working parents trying to figure out life, ourselves as individuals, each other, marriage, parenting and more. I'm sure you can imagine that there's a lot that can happen in 42 years! It's not that we have it all figured out, but we hope to share some things that might be helpful to others who are navigating life. “Officially Fenner" is an ongoing conversation on doing the family thing. No conversations are off limits, on, from kids to kitchens, great moments to bad habits. If it happens in the family, we talk about it. Like our fitness conversations, we'll talk about what's worked or hasn't worked so well in sustaining these relationships! AND, we're not taking fitness off the table because it's really part of our lifestyle. So, you'll still hear about that too.We're kicking Season 2 off with a three-part series called “The Kitchen Chronicles”. If you've been following our social media lately, you probably saw that we just fully renovated our kitchen, in a three-generation household, that includes a new baby...during Covid. How did it go? Start by checking out Season 2, Episode 1!Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss anything!Follow us here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallyfenner/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/officiallyfenner
We're a three generation family living together that just survived a total kitchen remodel, with a new baby in the house...during Covid (and supply chain shortages)? What made us do THAT?In this episode we talk about our "why", and the pain points of our old kitchen. Then we had to balance what we wanted vs. what we could afford (and there was a big list!).Before deciding we looked around and saw brand new homes with many of the features that we imagined for ours. And we explored different ways to approach the project: Should we source things ourselves or find a contractor who could do everything.Listen to this episode to hear how we began the design process and created a space where our whole family of 10 could share meals in the same space whenever we're together.Please subscribe so you don't miss anything!Follow us here!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallyfenner/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/officiallyfenner
We train to be our best - to be physically and mentally sharp - and to avoid and prevent health challenges that are inevitable as we age. But training itself results in stress on the body that requires recovery. That stress can mean fatigue and soreness, resulting in less-than-optimal physical performance.With strength training, the muscle fibers you damaged must be repaired. Along with this repair, the muscle rebuilds itself to become stronger and more capable.Cardiovascular workouts stress your system too. In response to training, your body releases stress hormones and you lose fluid and electrolytes. In this episode we talk about two types of exercise recovery: passive recovery where your body is at rest, and active recovery that use low intensity exercises. We also talk about recovery options within these areas, the downsides to inadequate recovery, plus what you can do before exercising so that you feel better afterwards.#exercise #exerciserecovery #passive recovery #active recovery #wellness #fitness #health
The use of apps, tools, equipment, monitoring, and wearables that bring together your fitness and digital lives – also known as connected fitness – has exploded during the Coronavirus pandemic. Even though many of us are back in the gym, a lot of us are combining those workouts with work we found we could do outside of a gym. This can make your routine, well…feel like less of one. And it can certainly make it more challenging. Looks like this trend is here to stay!In this episode of “The Fitness Roadmap” we're diving into examples of connected fitness, how we can benefit from it, and what's next in the future of exercise.Thanks to David Lottahall @yancylott for the music!
Fitness options have exploded recently, especially during Covid! Join us as we break down high-end workout equipment and smart gyms, at-home fitness experiences, including equipment you can use in small spaces, apps and more.Rudy weighs in on holistic recovery products and mind-body connections, and we round it out with a focus on virtual training apps, active video games, and solo fitness activities. No excuses - there is definitely something for everyone.Finally, we answer questions that we received from followers! Take a listen.
Join us for this episode of "The Fitness Roadmap" as our daughter Kelly Lottahall talks about working out during her recent pregnancy. Can you believe that it used to be that medical professionals didn't recommend that women work out when pregnant?! Now everyone sees the benefits and it can be part of expectant mamas' routines. Note that we understand that there may be circumstances where a mom-to-be may be limited because of medical conditions. As always we want everyone to be safe before embarking on a workout routine. We advise expectant mamas especially to check with your doctor first and get her/his approval!With her first pregnancy, Kelly didn't work out much, but the second time was a different ballgame! She wanted to make sure that she was fit and could keep up with both kids. Along the way, Kelly wound up being a role model for her 7 year old, who began to work out with her. Listen in to see how Kelly found a great fitness plan by @Rachel Attard and made it work for her. The way that she switched things up and her dedication to self-care during her pregnancy make her another "Fitness Hero" for us!Thank you @yancylott for your music and production.
It's impossible to talk about fitness after Covid without talking about LIFE after Covid. Fortunately, numbers of Covid cases have come down significantly! However, as we continue to re-enter the world, many of us are still dealing with the after-effects of the pandemic and grappling with many questions as we resume life's activities. In this episode, we give you a chance to do some self-assessment: WHERE are you and HOW are you? And then, where are your workouts? We also offer some resources that might help get you and keep you on track as we all move forward together!Here are the resources that we mentioned this espisode.MENTAL HEALTH and STRESSCDC - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/stress-coping/ POST COVID-19 RECOVERY AND REHABILITATIONINOVA - https://www.inova.org/patient-and-visitor-information/covid-19-advisory/post-covid-19-recovery-and-rehabilitation THRIVING DURING THE PANDEMIChttps://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/22/some-americans-are-thriving-during-the-covid-pandemic.htmlCOMING OUT OF QUARANTINEhttps://acendahealth.org/life-after-quarantine/ DESIGNING YOUR LIFE AFTER COVID-19https://januaryterm.virginia.edu/designing-your-life-after-covid-19 (Note that this was offered in January 2021. Be sure to check whether it will be offered in the future.)LIFE AFTER COVID-19: Get Ready for our Post-Pandemic Future - https://www.coursera.org/learn/life-after-covid-19-get-ready-for-our-post-pandemic-future GRIEF AND LOSSCDC - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/stress-coping/grief-loss.html Grief and COVID-19: Mourning our Bygone Lives - Https://apa.org/news/apa/2020/04/grief-covid-19Thanks to David Lottahall @yancylott for music and production.
Injuries are SO disappointing! Not only do they set your routine back; bouncing back from them can create a real mental challenge. Just THAT can make your recovery longer.In this episode we talk about what to do before you work out to prevent injuries and, how to recover from breaks, strains and surgeries so you can...come on back! Thanks to David Lottahall @yancylott for music and production. #menshealth #womenshealth #wellness #fitnessroadmap #fitnessjourney #fitness motivation
Have you taken a break from your fitness routine? We get it!In this episode of The Fitness Roadmap, we talk about bouncing back, the latest that you can expect from Covid's effects on fitness, new experiences to look for when you return to the gym, and how you can create your very own gym right at home. Here are links to resources we mention on some easy and cost-effective ways you can put together your very own home gym!From Thrillist, "7 Budget-Friendly Essentials You'll Need to Create a Home Gym", https://www.thrillist.com/shopping/nation/exercise-at-home-how-to-create-the-best-home-gym-on-a-budgetFrom Home Gym Resource, "10 Home Gym Essentials: Basics Checklist", https://homegymresource.com/10-home-gym-essentials-basics-checklist/Thanks to David Lottahall @yancylott for music and production.
As hard as we try, we just don't get everything we need from our food intake. So we incorporate vitamins and other dietary products to supplement our health. Some have been recommended by our doctor and through our own additional research, we've discovered others that work for us. In this episode of “The Fitness Roadmap” we talk about it all – the things that keep us going, why we use them and what we found to be their benefits. As always, before taking medications or supplements, be sure to do your research and check with your health care professional, to make sure that you're doing what's best for YOU.Thanks to David Lottahall @yancylott for music and production.
In this inspirational success story Rashida Green shares her "why" and tells us how she lost 60 lbs. and went from a size 22 to a size 14 in 4 months! She's open and authentic in describing how her weight loss journey has changed her life. Now Rashida coaches people who want to lose weight and be healthier. You won't want to miss her story.Music & Production by David Lottahall @yancylott
As we age, our muscle mass naturally decreases. But it doesn't have to stay that way! In this episode we're unpacking the benefits of strength and weight training, and how it helps your body work beyond your workout! Imagine having stronger bones, easier weight management, and sharper thinking skills, not to mention a sculpted body! Watch here to find out some of the critical components needed for success!Music and production by David Lottahall @yancylott.
Running, walking, swimming, playing basketball and soccer are just a few examples of cardiovascular training. But cardio isn't just for athletes; activities like these enhance your ability to perform everyday activities...chasing kids, moving furniture, running for the metro and more. In this episode we discuss the multiple benefits of including cardio in your routine.
READY.SET.GO? If you drive a car and turn out the lights and navigation system, you probably won't know where you're going. Preparing before you start an exercise program can be a similar experience. What is your personal health situation? What kind of injuries or limitations might impact what you can do? What's in your family history that you should consider? What kind of time do you realistically have to work out? Today Rudy and Robin talk about how being armed with this information and more, will help you develop a successful routine that works for YOU! Download our Fitness Roadmap checklist here so you can plan your own fitness journey!
Husband and wife team Robin and Rudy discuss making the decision to embark on a plan for those who want to get in shape. Rudy has been a trainer for over 20 years. Robin was the reluctant participant until she dipped her toe in the water and began to see the results in her health and appearance. This is their story and together they provide inspiration and tips on how to adopt a healthier lifestyle! In this episode, Robin and Rudy help you address the first question, "what's your why?" Download your checklist and start putting together your own journey to fitness journey.Music production, audio and video recording, and editing by David Lottahall @yancylott.Note: Robin and Rudy are not medical professionals and encourage all viewers to consult their doctor or health professional to assess their situation before beginning an exercise routine, or implementing other changes that could impact their health status.