TheGoodLifeGirls podcast

On his podcast, On Purpose, Jay Shetty shared his 20 lessons learned in 2020 and challenged others to share their lessons learned too. We took you up on the challenge Jay! Michelle and I each made our own top 10 list for ourselves, and took turns sharing them on this episode of the podcast to get to 20 collective lessons learned from us this year. Maria’s list: Don’t wait for things to be perfect, they never will be. Communication is everything  Tell people you appreciate them. Genuine compliments are always welcome and most adults don’t get enough recognition. Breaks and quiet time are necessary. Self care is more than a face mask, although those are great too. Do things for fun, for your mental health. Community is important. When you can’t be “together” find ways to connect and be with people in other ways that are meaningful. Find joy in other’s successes - you expand your own joy and elevate others in the process. When the world feels like it’s crumbing we come back to what we know and what we can control  There is no point where you say OK now I have solved myself and now I can serve. Vulnerability is powerful. No one has it together, everyone feels like they’re doing their best and imposter syndrome from time to time. Michelle’s list: Normal, just like perfection does not exist. It is what you need, when you need it. Life is short. Make the most of each and every damn day. Pandemic or otherwise - good and bad things happen period. Learning and growing in these pivotal times, that is what is important. This podcast has become a new way for people to stay connected to us. I “survived” an unintended sabbatical and job searched successfully in a pandemic. Cooking is therapeutic, so is cooking from the heart.  Nature is full of gifts, grateful for the time to explore some of the best WI state parks. Hormonal acne and “mask-ne” are treated completely different than the acne of our teens/20’s. EVERYTHING happens as it is “supposed to” and in good time, sometimes better than how you expect. Love, is everything. I learned to embrace it rather than fight it. Catch Jay’s top 20 podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-purpose-with-jay-shetty/id1450994021?i=1000503477113  We’d love to hear which lessons resonated with you most, and what YOUR most valuable lessons learned this year have been! Please share! #goodlifegirls #podcast #lessonslearned #2020 #top20 #lifelonglearners #JayShetty #OnPurpose  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom  

Episode 26: Thanksgiving Eats and Memories Thanksgiving is two weeks away! Have your plans on how to celebrate changed this year? Ours sure have! With the pandemic surging in many places having a plan A and possibly B might be helpful this year (thanks a lot Covid...). We share some of our favorite Thanksgiving memories and foods that go with those memories. We’d love to hear from you: What are your favorite Thanksgiving memories? Do you travel (will you this year)? Is it a large celebration or on the small side? What are your favorite thanksgiving foods? #goodlifegirls #podcast #thanksgiving #thankful #grateful #blessed #gobbletillyouwobble #dressing #stuffing #turkey #allthefixings #itstheholidayseason #Friendsgivingiscanceledthisyear Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

We thought we’d take some time to share what podcasts we’re listening to - besides recording ours. Maria uses podcasts to enhance learning on business and personal growth. How I Built This, The New Corner Office and On Purpose are three that she really enjoys. Michelle listens to podcasts for entertainment and really has been enjoying Smartless; Terrible, Thanks for Asking; and Girls Gotta Eat (this one is best listened to with airpods if children are around its of a more personal nature). We want to know - what do you listen to (besides us)? What are you enjoying about our podcast? Are there topics you want us to cover? If you like what you are listening to we’d love you to share us with others and give us a review, too. Post recording one additional podcast was shared with us The Happiness Lab; especially the coronavirus bonus section. This content is from Yale University, Dr. Laurie Santos who teaches “Psychology and the Good Life.” #goodlifegirls #podcast #whatwelistento #whatareyoulisteningto #business #personalgrowth#entertainment #sharesomelove Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

When the pandemic started it seemed “novel” to return to cooking and preparing more meals at home. Cook with the family, have some fun. Well, fast forward to fall, and we are still at home more than going out; and if you have kids at home it seems like they still eat all.the.time. We figured out that each week is 42 meals (if you eat 3 a day, not counting snacks) on top of work and everything else - who has time for it all???  In today’s episode we talk about what we have been making and some resources that are “go to’s” for us. Do you need a recipe to follow or can you walk into the pantry and just find things to experiment and make? Michelle’s secret to the latter is Google & Pinterest. Type what you have and search for what comes up and scroll until you find something you like. Michelle’s goal has been not to make the same thing twice. Not as easy as it sounds!  Wanna make “Move in With Michelle” Mushroom Ragu and Polenta? https://www.thekitchn.com/polenta-mushroom-ragu-22982166 The chicken dish Michelle ended up making the night this was recorded: https://realsimplegood.com/korean-bbq-chicken/ Our tip for cauliflower rice is to prepare ½ cup brown or white rice as the package suggests (subbing broth of any kind for water for more flavor in rice). Heat a skillet with olive oil until it shimmers and some fresh minced garlic (at least a clove) and frozen cauliflower or grated fresh cauliflower “rice” & season with salt and pepper. Cook until it has some golden color and mix with rice.  What are your tips and tricks for cooking? Any great recipes you have found? Favorite sites? Do you plan meals out or are you spontaneous? We’d love you to share your tips and tricks with us and our listeners. Especially since winter feels like it is going to be long! #goodlifegirls #podcast #livefromthekitchen #mealplanners #spontaneouscooks #everyonecancook #pandemiccooking #whatscookinginyourkitchen #cookingisfun #trynewthings  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

Children are mesmerized by videos of others opening presents and mail online. Know what? Adults are too! It's a hole that we can all fall down, right? In the before times, before Corona, this was a show topic that we had and now that corona isn’t going anywhere - and we are doing ALL the online shopping, this topic is even more relevant! Our Mission with The Good Life Girls is to share life hacks that bring you more fun, joy, and fulfillment. And this one is joyful for sure!  Full disclosure, Maria and Michelle both work for a company that rewards us well for hard work and we get some really cool mail, on the regular. Maria for years has been sharing her “mail” and unboxing on the social channels with hundreds and thousands of views per video, and we dove in for the behind the scenes on how this goes down. Does anyone get “real” mail (not bills or advertisements) anymore? We would love to know what favorite things you’re getting delivered?We unboxed the BRAND NEW Redefine set for anti-aging skincare together. If you’re interested in trying it, or seeing what’s right for you, check out Michelle’s Solution Tool for more info: https://michellerector.myrandf.com/solution-tool We’re all aging, all the time, and we don’t have to look it!  #goodlifegirls #podcast #whatsinyourmail #unboxing #live #livevideos #socialmarketing #sidehustle #gottawerk #werkwerkwerk #turnbacktime Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

 It’s the middle of October 2020 as we bring you this episode. Our minds are on things to distract from the current climate of politics and pandemic. As we roll into fall, we’re in the midst of holiday decorating “season” - technically the window between Fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, Winter. We got to wondering: how do you decorate? Just outside? All your rooms or just specific ones? Where do you get your ideas and inspiration? Do you decorate for you? The kids? Since the chances of hosting large events this year are likely non-existent, are you going to do more in your home to feel festive? Maria and Michelle share some of our ideas in this episode and we’d love for you to share ideas with us & and our listeners. We are better when we all come together to share ideas and inspiration to keep us all going! Through October 23, 2020 we invite you to head to the Good Life Girls Facebook page and share photos of your Halloween/Fall Decor on our giveaway post for a chance to win a fun fall tumbler. We can’t wait to spoil one of YOU!   #goodlifegirls #podcast #holidaydecor #itsfallyall #pumpinksandspiceandeverythingnice #home #decor #contest #giveaway #showusyourdecor

As a long-awaited follow up to our last episode, life has been crazy as we adapt to a new school year (virtually), numbers rising for covid in WI, job searching and surgery/recovery in our worlds. Stress is everywhere. Nothing is “normal.” We know you all are dealing with this too. Today we welcome Life Coach Jonny Richard from Cause & Effect Coaching. As you will hear, Jonny is Maria’s personal and business coach. You’ll hear how he walks Maria and Michelle through his easy to use Cause & Effect Model to better understand and frame the story you’re telling yourself with reality. We really focus on reframing self talk on job searching and virtual learning specifically today, but this model can apply to any struggle you’re facing! We know that his approach can help you too, if you want to dig in further, his framework and a free tutorial are available at www.causeandeffectmodel.com.  We left the session with Jonny feeling better equipped to manage how we show up and our feelings, giving us more control over situations we face regularly. If only we could solve the world's problems, too! But what we CAN do is give you a valuable tool to help yourself right now. Connect with us - We’d love to know from you, what is one thing that really sucks right now; and one thing that is super awesome? Want to find out more about our guest Jonny Richard? Want to work with him or learn more about his Cause & Effect Model? Head to his website: www.causeandeffectmodel.com or you can connect with Jonny on LinkedIn or Facebook. Kindra Hall’s book storytelling that Jonny referenced can be found here (we highly recommend it!): https://amzn.to/33uXGJe #goodlifegirls #podcast #specialguest #whoisJonny #causeandeffectmodel #lifecoach #lifeskills #showup #findthegood #pandemiclivingisnteasy #bekind #findthegood #nopoopsandwiches Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom  

Episode 20: Celebrate Every Day, Covid Edition x2 We believe in celebrating all things, so cheers to 20 episodes! No topic today just a cheers to the fact that while we had great plans, we adapted to the changing world when we decided to launch. We had great episodes lined up but in the covid world we now live in, they don’t feel right.  While we aren’t experts we both have grieved big losses - Maria her dad, Michelle her husband, mother and father in law (three years apart) and right now it seems like the world is in one big grieving process - what was, is, and will be are all different. We are even struggling because it is hard to deal with so much!  But yet, there is good. Time to slow down, appreciate where we are in a new way, and create new plans and goals. So a virtual cheers with coffee and n/a sparkling orange juice to you and us. Thanks for sticking with us. We would love to know what is in your cup? How do you like your coffee?  What do you want to hear us talk about? How can we help one another through this new “normal?” After this episode was recorded - Michelle accidentally broke the glass that the orange juice was in; just as randomly as a wine glass broke the night before. In consulting “Google University” she discovered it is actually a good luck sign if a glass breaks on accident… hmm, let’s hope for some great corona good luck in the coming weeks! Want the “Not Today Satan” shirt that Maria references at the beginning of the show: http://www.evie-alec.myshopify.com #goodlifegirls #podcast #cheers #celebrateeverything #butfirstcoffee #liquidsunshine #caffeine #creamsugarorblack    Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

What is there to DO this summer??? Many families have had to cancel vacation plans and trying to figure out how to entertain children (and adults) amidst a pandemic can be overwhelming. Maria and I have both taken to being “tourists” in WI and planning day trips and outings within the region. We discussed many of these options today and thought we would compile links and tips to help all the friends because summer is long…  First a shout out to Go Valley Kids https://govalleykids.com/ What a great site that has compiled so many awesome things to do: Mural Hunt in downtown Appleton, Places for a Sunday Drive, Summer Bucket List, 60 Spots for Ice Cream in Northeast Wisconsin, a day trip to Waupaca, Beaches, if you aren’t following this page you should. Their facebook page is filled with so much information - right at your fingertips. Maria took her kids and some of the kids in their “bubble” tubing on the Wolf River. http://wolfrivertrips.com/ has everything you need to know about taking your own trip. Who doesn’t want to float on the river for a few hours? Maria and Michelle both visited the Paine Art Center and Gardens recently and were quite impressed with the levels they are going to to keep everyone safe. Reservations in advance are required (pay at the door) and the garden gnome hunt is such a fun way to spend a few hours in the mansion and gardens https://www.thepaine.org/events/admissionreservations/ Why not hit an outdoor patio at Fox River Brewing Company, Beckets or Mahoney’s after, go on a mural hunt downtown or get some custard from one of the many places in Oshkosh Carmel Crisp, Rhapsodies, Leon’s or Ardy and Ed’s.  Michelle is finding things to do between Wausau and Oshkosh with her sisters and nephews. JoJo’s Jungle https://www.jojosjungle.org/ a park for all abilities in Wausau; Stevens Point Sculpture Park http://stevenspointsculpturepark.org/ and a trip to Belts Ice Cream or a trip to the Neenah Splash Pad in Washington Park https://www.ci.neenah.wi.us/departments/parks-recreation/splashpad-washington-park/ (and ice cream) are on the short list of things to do. State and County Parks are always a fun trip, car ride, walking, picnic, maybe stop for a treat lots of fun for everyone and every ability. Parks are also fun for all well into fall, with color change and more. Some of our favorite parks: High Cliff State Park https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/highcliff/ Dave’s Falls https://gowaterfalling.com/waterfalls/daves.shtml Fronferek Glen https://www.browncountywi.gov/community/parks-department/general-information/ Dells of the Eau Claire River https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=109 Newport State Park https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/newport/ Peninsula State Park https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/peninsula/ Cave Point County Park https://www.doorcounty.com/experience/cave-point-county-park/ Roche-A-Cri State Park https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/rocheacri/ KohlerAndrae State Park https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/kohlerandrae/ The drive in movies and mini golf/go carts are another thing fun for all ages two of our favorite places to check out are: Field of Scenes Drive-in: https://www.fieldofscenes.biz/ Badger Sports Park for mini-golf and go-cart outdoor fun: https://badgersportspark.com/ And for adults why not take out from your favorite local business and eat at a local park if you don’t feel like eating at home. Or turn on a baseball game and grill and do an at home tailgate. Mondo and Rye are offering fun dining out options in Appleton, popular in Oshkosh at Planet Perk in the Grind are picnic lunches by local food trucks https://www.facebook.com/PlanetPerkinTheGrind and https://www.facebook.com/newfoodtruckmashup has great offerings in Oshkosh and Appleton. We’d love you to join the conversation, what are your favorite regional places to visit? Day trips within the state? How are you keeping yourselves and family busy this summer? How can we help one another out?  #goodlifegirls #podcast #summerfunforall #hotfuninthesummertime #travelwisconsin #explorestateparks #touristsinyourownbackyard #staycation #covidvacation  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/

What do you do when you don’t know what else to do? COVID sure has done a number on everyone’s mental health in some way, shape, or form. Lots of anxiety about what we should do, what is best for our families. Roles in families are even different now because of how work is done for partners. Maria is new to meditation, Michelle has been doing regularly since her world changed in 2017. Neither of us are experts. Just trying to figure out how to live our best lives and if we are honest - we were both doing that pretty nicely before COVID came along. Both of us will say that if you find yourself sobbing on the bathroom or shower floor - try a meditation after, it may help you reset your mood and manage the emotions around the episode a bit.  Meditation requires nothing other than a quiet space and the ability to focus on breathing and body and to train your mind to the different thoughts in your mind and just let them pass rather than focus on each and every one. You can be seated with feet on the floor or lie down, some people stand or sit on the floor. Find a way that works for you and go with it There isn’t a right way to incorporate the practice into your life. There are several apps on the market that are free that offer great options to try and get started. Two we both have used are Calm and Headspace which have options for in app yearly subscriptions. Michelle does a daily meditation or body scan just to “get centered” for the day & even to fall asleep at night when the head is too full. One feature of the calm app is the breathing cycle - when really upset or frustrated - the act of breathing in, holding it and breathing out can bring the emotions into check. Add a “cocktail” of essential oils and mood management can feel otherworldly. Maria’s newly a fan of the guided meditations in the Peloton app. Has your communication style changed since COVID began - do you find yourself more “ragey” with all that you have to manage and unsure how to find your voice to communicate clearly? Have you tried or do you meditate? Do you have an app or a practice you love? What works for you? How are you managing your family differently because of COVID? How can we help each other out? #meditationformoodmanagment #meditate #dailyom #lifehacks #mentalhealth #momsmanageallthethings #whoismanagingmom #lookingforanadultyadult  Join us on Headspace: https://www.headspace.com/invite/LTJOh Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

As we continue to battle, or rather, try to avoid Covid-19 exposure, we’re limited in the activities we can pursue. One activity that many people are revisiting is camping. Great for natural social distancing, and getting fresh air, people are heading into the great outdoors in droves. Maria’s NOT a camper - but she’s found ways to meet her family where they’re at in having fun, and that’s glamping - fancier camping.  Take a listen to our top 10 tips for a great camping experience! We make some special shout outs, one to Untitled Art Brewing, who are making beer that’s both incredibly visually appealing, but also delicious. Maria’s not a beer drinker, but is a huge fan of Untitled Art’s Mango Pineapple Imperial Smoothie beer, Zanzibar Chocolate Ice Cream Stout, and Pineapple Mango Seltzer (and yes, we plan to try all of the seltzers soon!). Michelle, will drink beer, and has discovered Fox River Brewing Company White Bobber and Leinenkugel Spritzen Grapefruit to beat the heat this summer. Also what is camping or any gathering without dip & chips? Wanna try a dip for doritos (they don’t need a dip but we’ve never said no to one either).  Combine 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 8 oz sour cream; 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies; ⅓ cup bacon bits (in the grocery store meat section you can find pre-cooked bacon bits, I promise it is better than the bacos-bacon bits) and ¼ tsp garlic powder (adjust to taste). Let chill for min 3 hours, serve with doritos, veggies, etc. Are you a camper or a glamper? What makes camping great for you? Share your tips, recipes, fav camping drinks, we want to hear it all! #glamping #camping #roseallday #socialdistancing #safefamilyfun #goodlifegirls #podcast #family #familygoals #boardofdirectors #bettertogether #familyfirst #lifebydesign  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/ 

We are the first to admit that we are two women of privilege. The topic of race is a messy one for us, we want to be good humans who raise (or influence) good humans. We both want to do better, we want to seek to understand. On May 8, 2020 runners (and walkers) of the world started a movement #irunwithmaud in honor of Ahmaud Arbery. He was out jogging near his home on a Sunday afternoon in Brunswick, GA on February 23, 2020, when two white supremacists, chased him down, shot and killed him. May 8, 2020 would have been his 26th birthday, his life deserves justice, his life mattered. What we both know and feel is that a life ended tragically short. It was senseless, the ripple effect of loss of life is far reaching, we feel for his mother who had to spend Mothers’ Day without her son just days after a first birthday, and all the other firsts yet to come. We’d love to continue a conversation, what books have you read on white privilege or race? How can we continue to do more beyond a hashtag? It’s all our responsibility to overcome racism. We are in this together.  http://runwithmaud.com A book that Michelle referenced in the show is Waking Up White: And Finding Myself in the Story of Race by Debby Irving. Oshkosh had a nonprofit FIT Oshkosh, sadly COVID is listed as one of the reasons it closed. In the short time it existed there was great work done to engage the community in conversation regarding race.  #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #realife #itsmessy #whiteprivilege #blacklivesmatter #alllivesmatter #seektounderstand #IRunWithMaud Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

Today we had Maria’s daughter join us to talk about the “board of directors” meeting; this episode is a follow up to the process and a peek at the outcomes of the meeting. We were excited to see that we had similar themes emerge; we want more time together as a family and more fun, and we took steps to implement these priorities together.  We also were careful to make sure the kids felt included and engaged in the process, we really wanted to hear them and have them feel important. Especially for young girls, they need to learn how to formulate and express opinions of their own. Did you go through any of this with your family, yourself, or your partner? We are dying to know how it went if you did! What questions do you have on the process? Ideas for improvement to share? We’re all ears! This all comes down to communication, and we’re working hard to get better at this all the time. We record in real-time as real life happens so Michelle wasn’t in her typical recording spot and we had some background noises and comments from those not on camera. #goodlifegirls #podcast #family #familygoals #boardofdirectors #bettertogether #familyfirst #lifebydesign #dontlettheglassballfall Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

Maria refers to her family as the “board of directors”, because they meet to review family goals, what is working, and what they can do better and improve upon. Major family decisions are made with the input of the kids, because they’re teaching life skills and helping them learn how to make good decisions. We got to talking about this concept and decided it was podcast worthy. Every family is different, but goal setting and input from all members - works great for some companies, so why can’t the same concepts be applied to families and other relationships? We share some ideas in this podcast on what works with Maria’s family; it may not be right for everyone, but there might be things we share that help someone. What is your family looking to achieve? Do you do goal setting with your family? Do you have family meetings? What are the outcomes you have had? #goodlifegirls #podcast #family #familygoals #boardofdirectors #bettertogether #familyfirst #lifebydesign #dontlettheglassballfall Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

In the blink of an eye in WI we went from having a plan to “renter” the world from shelter in place (Badger Bounce Back) to good luck - we are open! What does that mean, how do you prepare when you were used to rules and guidelines? This means places are slowly opening - restaurants are opening for indoor dining (safely social distanced at less capacity), outdoor patios are open, playgrounds and other things are open at your own risk, even malls are starting to open. In WI life is slowly returning to our “new normal” and we took some time to talk thru our feelings about the reopening (non political) because for some this means a return to jobs and others it means that life is still moving at a slower pace because the world isn’t quite ready for the work that we do. Maybe the right choice is a patio drink, dust off the summer clothes and give thanks to those that gave it all so that we have all these decisions to consider. What are you wearing? Will we ever get dressed again?  #goodlifegirls #podcast #celebrateaholidayweekend #grateful #thankful #respectforthosethatgaveall #girltalk #worldrentry #newnormalsarehard #whatareyouwearing #willweevergetdressedagain Need a fabulous red lipstick in your life? Nars Power Matte Lip Pigment in Don’t Stop is the red that worked for all the different skin tones on our Grecian Adventure.  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

As we continue to create content and generate a following we believe it is wise to every so often reintroduce ourselves in creative ways. Today we found a “deep” Q&A and thought we’d share our answers with you. We’d love to have you join in the fun, we’re posting the questions we answered and we’d love to hear your answers to any and all!  What’s an ideal life for you? What makes you feel accomplished? Are you religious? What’d you like to change about yourself? What is one thing you are afraid to do? Do you believe in second chances? What are you most thankful for? What made you change your mind? Made by @Glammtemplates for @Typical _Amelyn Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom #goodlifegirls #podcast #introductions #buildingafollowing #deepquestions #whatdoyouwanttoknow #gettoknowus #wewanttogettoknowyoutoo

We’ve all been home for a loooong time now. How do you stay connected? Beyond video chats, Zoom meetings, texting/Facetime, how do you stay in touch and show people you care? In today’s episode, we talk through celebrating Michelle’s birthday in quarantine and how we’re helping people feel special. Here’s our list of ideas: Birthday parade Unicorn Gram Flowers! In Oshkosh we love https://www.houseofflowersonline.com/ and in Appleton we love https://branchingoutco.com/. Not local? https://farmgirlflowers.com/ is AMAZING! Edible arrangements www.ediblearrangements.com (make sure you listen to the story on this, OMG) Wine or spirits! www.wine.com  We want to know what you’ve tried? What would you love someone to do for you? #goodlifegirls #podcast #cheers #celebrate #connect #feelspecial #spoil #shoplocal #shopsmall #quarantinebirthdays #stayconnected Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/thegoodlifegirlss-podcast https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/spotify https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/deezer https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiopublic https://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/radiodotcom

Episode 10: Celebrate Everyday - COVID 19 Edition We have made it to double digits, ten episodes. Before COVID this may have meant meeting for drinks or dinner to celebrate this accomplishment. Instead we decided to enjoy a glass of wine supporting our favorite local places and talk, without any planned topics. It just so happens we both have been unable to sleep restfully, have life on our minds and just are “over” some of our current pandemic situation. We are not ungrateful, we are both in different circumstances: Maria is running a business and managing family and home schooling, balancing family 24/7. Michelle has already built her “Option B” rebuilding life after losing a spouse, and now, doing this safer at home thing alone, recognizing that alone is different than lonely. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs reminds everyone that right now, all we are able to do is be sure that our most basic needs - physiological (food, water, warmth, rest) and safety and security are all that we really can handle right now. No one is living #theirbestlife at self actualization right now and that is more than okay. Deep breaths and give ourselves high fives for being here, dealing with each day and knowing that tomorrow the day won’t be today.  We ask you to enjoy a glass of your favorite beverage while enjoying this episode. Tell us, what are you drinking? What do you recommend of feel we need to try?   Shout outs to our local small business friends David and  at Mondo Winbar and Retail, https://www.mondowinebar.com/ Juile, Adam and John at Gardinas Kitchen Bar + Market https://www.gardinas.com/ and Gary’s Old Fashioned Mix https://www.garyspremiumcocktails.com/   #goodlifegirls #podcast #cheers #whatareyoudrinking #whatshouldwebedrinking #bottleofred #bottleofwhite #wine #oldfashioned #oldfashy #shoplocal #supportlocaloshkosh #downtownappleton   Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/ 

Episode 9: What’s Cooking in Our Quarantine Kitchens We find ourselves cooking at home more (if you have kids at home with you they need to eat all the food and snacks!) and that means we want some variety in our meals and routine.  Anyone else FINALLY cooking all the things we’ve pinned on Pinterest, or saved on Facebook or found on the internets? There have been some hits…some misses…and many adaptations in our kitchens for sure! Teaching kids to cook is teaching them life skills (along with good home economics lessons if you throw in conversations on budgeting, meal prep, planning and grocery shopping). We both are thankful that we can do a mix of cooking meals and doing takeout from our favorite restaurants. We can’t wait for the day when we can go to places (again)!What are you cooking in your quarantine kitchen? What are your favorite recipe sources? We’d love you to share photos and recipes for what you are making and eating with us! Add them in the comments here on YouTube, or on Facebook or Instagram! Here’s that fancy bread Michelle made: https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/swirled-garlic-herb-bread?fbclid=IwAR2WWI3j9Hra4_x5xOMZZBspju3-sfjs15sfX47-EmfQ0K8earqz3PmNYFg Michelle’s Lentil Salad: Cook lentils according to package directions, you can add flavor depth by using some broth along to the water that is called for. Add roasted veggies at room temp (or chilled)  Roasted veggies like onion, potato, peppers, brussels sprouts, squash, zucchini, etc whatever you are into. Add salt, pepper, herbs to taste.  Any cold veggies work - I have done this with cucumber, tomato, kalamata olives, feta, pickled red onion.  Toss with a vinaigrette, I like any of these: https://cookieandkate.com/how-to-make-vinaigrette-plus-variations/ Maria’s Lemon Chicken Soup: https://laurenslatest.com/lemon-chicken-quinoa-soup/ Shout out to our favorite local meat markets: Niemuth’s Southside Market in Appleton, WI http://niemuths.com/ Prime Choice Meat Market Eagle River, WI http://prime-choicemeats.com/ Wagner Market in Oshkosh, WI https://wmgrocer.com/ Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  Listen to us here: http://thegoodlifegirls.libsyn.com/ #goodlifegirls #podcast #whatscooking #breakfast #lunch#dinner #brunch #allthesnacks #eathealthy #giveusallthefood #sharetheloveoffood #pinspired

Episode 8:  Love your Local Restaurants, Covid 19-Edition.  We love food! The good thing about living in two cities in Northeast WI is our ability to highlight different restaurants to try…that was our plan before COVID-19. Everyone is missing out on dining out, and we are so grateful that many places quickly flipped from dine in experiences to doing takeout and delivery in a short timeframe with no instruction manual - just determination to keep going. Today our friend Larry, one of the owners of Appleton’s Basil Cafe, has the honor of being our first guest.  He’s sharing his thoughts on how to support local restaurants now - and after this pandemic.   Larry’s short list: Cash is always king, especially if you don’t need change. Gift cards are great, they get funds to restaurants now, for redemption later...which can feel like robbing Peter to pay Paul. The purchases are greatly appreciated, but please don’t use your gift cards now! Use them down the road when we’ve returned to normal!   Tip the staff. Eating out right now is a luxury. Yes it is takeout, however most restaurants are operating with a skeleton staff to make sure every order is prepared to the standards we all expect and that each order gets to the proper person. Tips, even if just rounding up, are always appreciated. Share the love - meaning write reviews, share food posts on social media (yours and the restaurant’s), in local groups like Fox Cities Restaurant Take out and Oshkosh Takeout & Delivery https://www.facebook.com/groups/foxcitiesrestauranttakeout/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/238898023910335/ Call or message ahead to place an order, if possible. 4-7pm is a hot time every day, especially Thursday-Saturday; if you know where you want to order from call to arrange pickup or delivery for later in the day. Maybe consider ordering out on a less busy day, like Tuesdays to spread the love out. Most places have one person dedicated to the phone and messages for orders, and each call does take a few minutes to complete the order, take payment, etc., so please be patient and keep trying!   Avoid 3rd Party Delivery Apps (when possible). They do charge business up to 30% of the sales from those deliveries. They also charge you, the consumer, a higher price for their service. And the tips you provide get paid to that service - NOT the staff preparing the food, and in many cases they aren’t familiar with the menu, which means there is more room for error or orders taking longer. We are grateful to the Basil Cafe crew, and all the other regional local restaurants that are staying open to provide us all with the comfort food we love right now.  Want to give Basil Cafe a try? https://www.facebook.com/basilcafepho or (920) 830-6741 Tell us your favorite restaurant, and better yet, show us a picture of your food! We foodie girls LOVE it!  #goodlifegirls #podcast #localrestaurants #locallove #delivery #takeout #supportsmall #foxcitiesdining #oskoshtakeout #eatallthefood #firstguestinterveiw #tips #BasilCafe

Episode 7: Is a Side Hustle for You? Everything in the world flipped when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, including how and why we work. Many are questioning who they want to be in control of their financial livelihood and how hard they want to work for someone else. This seems like a good time to talk about the concept of side hustles and if they might be a good fit for you? Maria has vast knowledge in the area of side hustles and shares some of her experience with us today, piggy backed with that are the very real concerns Michelle faces as a travel consultant in this tumultuous time. Whether you want a shoe fund and retail therapy money, or extra income to expand your household budget, there are pros and cons to all decisions when it comes to work and finances. We want to know from you do you have a side gig (or have you had one)? What is (was) your experience like? Do you have places you wish to travel when it is time to do that again? If you could go tomorrow, where would you go? How are you going to make it happen (financially and otherwise)?  Interested in connecting with Maria on her Rodan + Fields business? Message her or check out the details here: https://mariamyers.myrandf.com/enrollment/why-r-and-f or here: https://soundcloud.com/maria-myers-85478974/smart-business-for-smart-people-1/s-hKSdZ Interested in connecting with Michelle on travel? Please reach out via email: mrector@travelleaders.com #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #worklife #whatsyourgig #sidehustle #everyoneishustling #whatareyouworkingfor #wheredoyouwanttogo #travel #dreams #plansintoaction #beyourownboss #makeyourownmoney  Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube Channel, like us on Facebook and Instagram for more entertainment and helpful life tips. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/

Prior to the Safer at Home measures we were both very committed to our daily workout routines that involved going to places to workout. Since the safer at home measures have been put in place we find ourselves struggling a bit with workouts due to lack of equipment, classes, and workout friends motivation. This also had us both reminiscing of the times each of us separately, and before we knew one another, got stuck in sports bras. This cannot have only happened to us, right? We want to hear from you; have YOU gotten stuck in a sports bra? How did you get unstuck? Tell us all the details so we can also enjoy this memory and know we’re not alone! What are you doing for at home workouts? Do you have any tips and tricks to motivate yourself? Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #walk #run #athomeworkouts #sportsbras #essentialworkoutwear  Follow the links below for items referenced in this episode: Maria’s fabulous sports bra isn’t available anymore, this is the closest thing that VS carries https://www.victoriassecret.com/vs/bras-catalog/victoria-s-secret-maximum-support-bra-1116736300?brand=vs&collectionId=b1415b55-1f44-437d-90ff-1bcae8926f78&limit=180&productId=9d245ca2-84e6-4fca-ba18-daac67396054&stackId=f814b127-65d1-4cf6-8cd4-b23391b9ed2a Similar option on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3eqT8Hx Michelle’s favorite sports bra: https://amzn.to/2V8MDRQ Michelle’s at home Tabata Workout: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/08/a2/2e/08a22e64a5026bb1e99dbc56a83205fb.jpg You can get access to Crunch Live for FREE for 45 days! Here’s the link to sign up: https://crunchlive.com/  Here’s the link to Maria’s awesome fabric workout bands that don’t slip: https://amzn.to/3cr7XIm

Episode 5:  Craft Your Cares Away We have been finding ourselves turning to mediums long put aside for the busy lifestyles we kept up. Drawing, painting, coloring, latch hook, counted cross stitch and puzzles have been some of the things we have returned to in an effort to keep the mind busy and feel productive. Teaching children these skills is a way of passing a part of you on to them. Projects are great to give as gifts or keep for yourself. What have put aside hoping to return to it? Are you getting crafty? We would love to hear what projects you are working on! Show us pictures we’d love to cheer you on. Have you gotten stuck or do you have tips and tricks to help? Let’s have some fun with this, because crafting is cool! We have linked to some projects that are available as kits to order and get started.   Connect with us here, on facebook or instagram and let us know what sorts of crafting projects you are working on.  Follow the links below to projects we reference in the podcast.   Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #craft #create #color #paint #puzzles #scrapbook #draw #crossstitch #latchhook #craftyourcaresaway #selfcare Maria’s Owl Project https://amzn.to/3b4iZ60  Michelle’s Teacups https://amzn.to/34zTAP5  Don’t Give Uphttps://amzn.to/2Rz9sMh  These are hilarious and guaranteed to lift your spirits https://amzn.to/2ydV6Ks  For all our plant loving friends https://amzn.to/2XE6t9v  Be Badass https://amzn.to/2yeXgK8  Great Resources for supplies, kits, coloring books, puzzles, etc https://www.amazon.com/ https://www.etsy.com/c/craft-supplies-and-tools?ref=catnav-562 https://www.joann.com/ https://www.michaels.com/ https://www.barnesandnoble.com/ http://www.target.com http://www.walmart.com http://www.hobbylobby.com http://twohandspaperie.com/cavallini-products/cavallini-co-puzzles/ Fabric for creating sassy face masks: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Spoonflower?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=613045365

Have your views on productivity changed since the world we are currently living in changed?  Should they? What counts as enough right now? So many people are struggling with working from home, suddenly homeschooling, and being “on” all day. Maybe flipping the switch on to do lists and productivity needs to change too? Our done list philosophy allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment without feeling like you are putting more on your plate.  What are you struggling with getting done? How can we help? What is working for you? Connect with us here, on facebook or instagram and let us know what if you try the Done List strategy and how it works for you, or if you have other ideas on how you manage your productivity and mindset.   Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #donelist #productivity #fliptheswitch #bekindtoyourself #weareallinthistogether

In times of quarantine or any other time - how do you know what you need?  How do you ask for it? Taking risks to put yourself out there does not show weakness, it does the opposite.  People don’t know what you need help with unless you ask for it. How are you using this time to figure out what you need and ask for the help?  What results are you getting by asking for help? Our intention is to create a conversation on our social platforms around this topic.   Connect with us here, on facebook or instagram and let us know what you need in times of struggle.   Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  If you want to visit Ian’s happy place: https://www.travelwisconsin.com/state-parks-forests/newport-state-park-204233 We’d love to hear where your happy place is. #askforwhatyouneed #wereallinthistogether #spreadkindness #checkin #leanin #sayyes #thegoodlifegirls #podcast #travelwisconsin #wistateparks #newportstateparkwi

We’ve been friends for years, but really became close when we took a leap of faith and adventure and traveled to Greece with 6 other women, only half of whom we knew. It was an incredible adventure. As we’re quarantining and yearning for adventure, we reminisce on one perfect day we had on our 14 day trip. Every day was exceptional if we’re honest, but THIS day was perfection. The perfect beach is Rossos at the Davari White Beach. Pylos is the town where we had lunch that day, it’s a dream.  Want to take this amazing trip to Greece yourself? Or just follow Michelle and get great travel tips? Connect with her here: https://www.facebook.com/travelleadersoshkosh/  Check out pics from this perfect day on our other social channels: Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast  Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/  #podcast #adventure #thegoodlifegirls #travel #blog #fun #friends #lifebydesign #lifeiswhatyoumakeofit #sayyes

We had this great plan to launch a fun podcast with well thought out ideas on how to life your best life, create great experiences, and all these great life hacks...and then Coronavirus happened. Before we knew it, we were quarantined just like you, and our plans pushed aside. After feeling all the feelings for a few weeks, we've decided to live life anyway. Launch this podcast project anyway. Why not? We have good ideas to share regardless, and we could all use some fun and entertainment in our lives - especially right now. So here we go!  Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodLifeGirlsPodcast Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifegirlspodcast/ #podcast #adventure #thegoodlifegirls #travel #blog #fun #friends #lifebydesign #lifeiswhatyoumakeofit #sayyes #trynewthings #leanin