Best A witty take on all things life Podcasts (2025)

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Season 3, Episode 9: Chaos to Consistency: Building SOPs That Save You Hours 15:50

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12h ago15:50

15:50

In this episode of the Virtual GM Podcast, Cody & Meagan tackle one of the least glamorous—but most powerful—tools in hospitality: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). SOPs may not sound exciting, but they are the backbone of consistency, efficiency, and guest satisfaction. We break it all down: Segment 1: Why SOPs Matter for Small Hotels Segment …

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Mindful Eating in a Noisy World 41:49

22m ago41:49

41:49

Ever wonder why some people can leave half a cookie untouched while others can't stop thinking about it? That difference isn't just willpower—it's about the relationship we've built with food, and the good news is that relationship can change. Our conversation dives deep into the journey from disordered eating to food freedom. We explore how the "n…

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A Lantern for Others in Dark Spaces: Jen Hatmaker on Sharing Her Most Tender Story 1:05:39

2d ago1:05:39

1:05:39

Description: The day has finally arrived—Awake is officially out in the world. In this episode, Jen Hatmaker opens up about a story she's held tightly for years, a story she's finally ready to share. Jen takes us behind the scenes of writing Awake—a memoir told in vivid vignettes and written in real-time, as if each scene was recounted the very day…

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Season 3, Episode 8: Revenue Without the Rush: Simple Strategies to Boost Boutique Hotel Profitability 19:54

6d ago19:54

19:54

In this episode, Cody and Meagan reveal Vibrant’s proven secrets to revenue success in boutique hospitality. Segment 1: The Boutique Revenue Mindset – how independent hotels can thrive without competing like the big brands. Segment 2: Hidden Revenue Streams – think late check-out/early check-in fees, in-room add-on packages, and curated experiences…

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Protein-Packed Strategies for Everyday Meals 25:11

6d ago25:11

25:11

Looking to maximize your protein intake without the confusion? We're flipping the script on how we measure nutritional value by examining protein content per calorie rather than by weight—giving you a practical framework for making smarter food choices. Egg whites emerge as the surprising champion with a whopping 22 grams of protein per 100 calorie…

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I’ll Have What She’s Having: Power, Purpose, and Perimenopause with Tamsen Fadal 56:54

9d ago56:54

56:54

In this episode, we're joined by Emmy Award–winning journalist and fierce midlife advocate, Tamsen Fadal, who has become a trusted voice for women navigating the complex — and often misunderstood — journey of menopause. Through her work and her new book, How to Menopause: The Essential Roadmap to Resilience and Empowerment in Midlife and Beyond, Ta…

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[Encore] Revolutionary Relationships: Loving Others Through Tension and Disagreement with Rozella Haydée White 1:06:48

14d ago1:06:48

1:06:48

Description: Have you ever found yourself at odds with someone you deeply care about—unable to agree on something that really matters? Is it possible to stay connected, even when your beliefs clash? This seemed like an important question to answer, so we decided to go back into our archives to bring forward this 2021 conversation about one of the m…

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We're not approved and that's perfectly fine. 50:11

13d ago50:11

50:11

What happens when the hosts become the guests on their own 100th episode? A wildly entertaining journey through the unexpected origin story of In Moderation. Mike takes the hosting reins as Liam and Rob reflect on how their paths first crossed through videos debunking health misinformation (it always comes back to Bobby). From Liam's background in …

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 7 — Our Favorite Vacation Spots 21:42

13d ago21:42

21:42

In this fun and travel-packed episode, Meagan and Cody share their all-time favorite vacation spots — the destinations that keep them inspired, relaxed, and always ready for their next adventure. From luxury resorts to scenic escapes, these are the places we can’t stop talking about. We cover: 🏨 Luxury Resorts We Love — Arizona Biltmore (Website), …

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I Love You and I Need To Go: Elizabeth Gilbert Takes Us On A Journey All The Way To The River 1:16:34

16d ago1:16:34

1:16:34

Description: As a luminary in contemporary literature, Elizabeth Gilbert’s writing has shaped the zeitgeist through adventure, spiritual exploration, creativity, and what it means to live a life of integrity. Her work consistently resonates with a global audience, prompting introspection and inspiring personal journeys of self-discovery. In this ep…

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August 2025: Catherine Newman’s Sandwich 1:04:51

20d ago1:04:51

1:04:51

Description: Today’s episode is an absolute treat. Catherine Newman, the beloved author of both fiction and nonfiction writing, known for her sharp wit, emotional resonance, and profound insights into everyday life, sits down with Jen to talk about our August JHBC selection, Sandwich, which quickly gained national attention for its honest, tender, …

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 6 — Room to Remember: How Hotel GMs Can Elevate the In-Room Experience 20:32

20d ago20:32

20:32

In this episode, Cody and Meagan dive into one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, areas of hospitality — the in-room guest experience. As hotel GMs, creating spaces that guests remember (and rave about) can be the ultimate driver of loyalty and revenue. We cover: 1️⃣ First, Get the Basics Right — Cleanliness, comfort, and functionality are…

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Food Minutes: How Your Diet Adds or Subtracts From Your Life 32:27

20d ago32:27

32:27

How long will that hot dog cost you? According to groundbreaking research from the University of Michigan, about 35 minutes of your life. But don't worry – that PB&J sandwich you love adds 36 minutes back! In this fascinating deep dive, we explore the surprising science behind how specific foods either add to or subtract from your lifespan. The fin…

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Listener Lowdown: The Good, The Great, and the 'Wait, What?' 1:06:48

23d ago1:06:48

1:06:48

Description: In this episode, we open the mic to our incredible podcast community, spotlighting the diverse feedback and personal stories from our listeners that have shaped our discussions. Hear firsthand accounts of the impact our guests and their insights have had. Listeners Melinda, Tracy, Joanna, Erin, Kelly, Laura, and Sarah share a wide rang…

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 5 — Do More with Less: How Small Hotels Can Operate Like Big Brands — Without the Overhead 20:33

27d ago20:33

20:33

In this episode, Cody and Meagan break down how small hotels can punch above their weight and deliver big-brand guest experiences without bloated costs or layers of management. We dive deep into: 1️⃣ The Reality of Running Lean — Why small hotels must embrace efficiency to stay competitive. 2️⃣ Core Systems That Create Freedom — The technology stac…

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Interlude with Mike Pridgen - What You Really Need (And Don't Need) To Lose Weight 36:05

28d ago36:05

36:05

Ever feel like your wallet is getting skinnier faster than you are on your weight loss journey? Mike and Rob dive deep into the money pit of fitness marketing, exposing what you actually need to spend on—and what's just clever marketing. The duo tackles the premium pricing of products like Fairlife milk (spoiler: you're paying triple for just 4g mo…

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Putting Out Fires and Dancing Among the Flames: Austin Channing Brown on the Work and Joy of Being “Full of Myself” 1:10:52

1M ago1:10:52

1:10:52

Description: Today, Jen has a discussion with her longtime friend, brilliant thought-leader and activist, Austin Channing Brown. You probably know Austin from her viral first book, I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness, which flew off shelves in 2020 following the murder of George Floyd, as we were witnessing worldwide protest…

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 4 — Brewing Innovation with Ted Ayliffe, CEO of Coulee Coffee 23:25

1M ago23:25

23:25

🎙️ Season 3, Episode 4 — Brewing Innovation with Ted Ayliffe, CEO of Coulee Coffee In this episode, Cody is joined by Ted Ayliffe, the visionary CEO behind Coulee Coffee — a coffee company that’s changing the way hospitality delivers quality, consistency, and an unforgettable guest experience. Cody and Ted first crossed paths at BITAC Owners earlie…

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In Moderation After Dark 23:16

1M ago23:16

23:16

Ever found yourself stuck at a rest stop, staring at rows of fast food options and wondering if there's any hope for your nutrition goals? Fear not! This episode tackles the eternal challenge of eating well while traveling. We dive deep into practical strategies anyone can use on the road. From the magic of pre-portioned nut packs to the underrated…

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Gird Your Loins: Dr. Celeste Holbrook Delivers the “Sex Talk” You Never Had but Deserved 1:05:14

1M ago1:05:14

1:05:14

Description: Today’s conversation might have you clutching your pearls and purity rings. Jen and Amy sit down with Dr. Celeste Holbrook—sexologist, educator, and author of Missionary Position: A Slightly Irreverent Guide to Sex After Purity Culture—for the candid, hilarious, and healing “sex talk” you never had but always deserved. From busting pur…

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[Encore] Stop Lying to Yourself: Dr. Sara Kuburic Wants You Take Ownership of Your Choices for True Happiness 1:03:26

1M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

It’s time for another beloved encore presentation and this time we are bringing back this powerful podcast therapy session for your benefit and enjoyment. Dr. Sara Kuburic, an existential psychotherapist and author behind The @Millennial.Therapist, offers profound insights into taking ownership of our lives. Dr. Kuburic champions the idea that we a…

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 3 — BITAC Owners, HOTEC, and the Coolest Coffee Company Ever 13:55

1M ago13:55

13:55

In this episode, Cody shares highlights from his recent hospitality event double-header — kicking things off at BITAC Owners in Tucson, Arizona, held at the stunning JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass, and wrapping up with his first-ever HOTEC at the iconic Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. These events were packed with incredible people, fresh ideas, and u…

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Earwax, Cockroaches, and Other Things That Go Bump In Your Canal 53:12

1M ago53:12

53:12

Have you ever wondered why your ears hurt on airplanes, what causes that annoying ringing, or why Q-tips aren't actually recommended for cleaning your ears? Wonder no more! This episode features a professional audiologist (who happens to be a Twitch streamer known as Average Girl Games) diving deep into the fascinating world of ear health and heari…

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“You’re So Brave”: Tyler Merritt Turns the Tables on Jen in Part 2 of Their Vulnerable Conversation 42:27

1M ago42:27

42:27

Description: In Part 2 of this episode, we push even deeper — into the personal, the creative, the brave, and the sometimes scary places we go when we dare to tell the truth. This time, Tyler Merritt has turned the tables on Jen and he’s asking the questions! We talk about what it’s like to be seen, judged, misunderstood — and still choose honesty.…

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🎙️ Season 3, Episode 2 — Behind the Scenes: How We’ve Created 100+ Episodes with BlueForm Media 36:35

2M ago36:35

36:35

Ever wondered how we’ve managed to consistently produce high-quality podcast content week after week? This week, Cody is pulling back the curtain to reveal the secret sauce behind our success: BlueForm Media 🎥🎬 In this special episode, Cody sits down with Blake Norton, co-founder of BlueForm Media, to talk about the power of content creation, the i…

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The Science Behind Autopsies: More Than Dead Bodies in Basements 1:30:35

2M ago1:30:35

1:30:35

Ever wondered what really happens when a forensic pathologist investigates death? Forget everything TV shows have taught you about dark basements and creepy examiners. The reality involves bright laboratories, extensive medical training, and meticulous scientific procedures designed to uncover truth. In this candid conversation, forensic autopsy te…

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Whales, Boats, and Vulnerability w/ Tyler Merritt Part 1 50:59

2M ago50:59

50:59

Recorded live from the Oregon coast on the final day of MeCamp, this special two-part conversation between Jen and her partner Tyler Merritt is the perfect blend of hilarity, heart, and honesty. In Part 1, Jen and Tyler share stories from their MeCamp adventures — including a whale-watching excursion that got a little too close for comfort, and a n…

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July 2025: Chris Whitaker’s All The Colors of the Dark 52:33

2M ago52:33

52:33

Chris Whitaker didn’t come to writing the usual way. His path began with a series of harrowing experiences in young adulthood that left him searching for tools to process trauma and find peace. As a boy, he’d found comfort in libraries, and it was there he discovered a book on writing-as-therapy that encouraged him to fictionalize his pain and set …

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🎉 Season 3, Episode 1 — Welcome Back! The Top 5 Most Downloaded Episodes of Season 2 15:04

2M ago15:04

15:04

We’re back! 🎙️ It’s hard to believe we’re already kicking off Season 3 of the VGM Podcast — and we’re so excited to have you along for the ride. To celebrate, Cody is flying solo in this episode to recap the Top 5 Most Downloaded Episodes from Season 2. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just joining us, these five episodes were the fan favorit…

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When Your Coach Is Actually A Robot With A Six Pack 46:52

2M ago46:52

46:52

Ever wonder if your fitness coach is actually a sophisticated AI program pretending to be human? In this eye-opening conversation, we pull back the curtain on the growing problem of influencers using artificial intelligence to sell "personalized" fitness plans to hundreds or even thousands of clients simultaneously. Mike from "Mike Needs a Plan" jo…

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Mary Katherine Backstrom On Finding Peace and Goodness in the Quiet of the Wilderness 1:03:13

2M ago1:03:13

1:03:13

Description: What happens when the faith you were raised with no longer fits? Join us as we explore faith deconstruction and what it looks like to hold on to what matters while letting go of harmful narratives. Our guest, Mary Katherine Backstrom, knows this journey well. Once rooted in evangelical certainty, her world began to unravel—her marriage…

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Episode 52: Season 2 Finale — Cody Answers Your Top 5 Questions 13:25

2M ago13:25

13:25

To close out an incredible Season 2, Cody is flying solo and answering the top 5 questions from our listeners this year: What were the biggest takeaways or lessons from this season? What episode or guest had the biggest impact—and why? What was your favorite part of the season? What do you hope listeners learn from the VGM Podcast? What can we expe…

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Cheap Eats: From Struggle Meals to Survival Dinners 21:20

2M ago21:20

21:20

Ever wondered what people eat when money is tight or cooking enthusiasm is at an all-time low? This episode dives deep into the fascinating world of "struggle meals" - those budget-friendly dishes that keep us alive when times get tough. From the humble can of chili (which gets our highest rating, especially when topped with avocado) to questionabl…

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No Filter, Just The Mirror: Trisha Yearwood on Reinvention, Songwriting & New Seasons 1:00:26

2M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Description: We’ve got an absolute legend in the house. She's a country music powerhouse, a Grammy winner, a TV star, a best-selling cookbook author, and honestly, probably the only person who could out-sing you and out-cook you on the same day — we’re talking about the one and only Trisha Yearwood. You know this queen’s voice from classics like 'S…

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas on Ambition, Chasing Our Dreams, and Our Brave, Beautiful Yeses 59:24

2M ago59:24

59:24

Priyanka Chopra is an award-winning actor, producer, and humanitarian—and one of the most recognizable faces in the world. In this 2021 conversation, she reflects on her memoir Unfinished, sharing her journey from India to the U.S. and the lessons she’s learned about identity, ambition, and reinvention. Priyanka talks about the power of perseveranc…

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🎙️ Episode 51: Our Secret Revenue Management Strategy 16:46

2M ago16:46

16:46

In this episode, Cody and Meagan pull back the curtain on Vibrant’s proven approach to revenue management—but here’s the catch: We’re not giving anything away in the show notes. No teasers. No hints. If you want to hear how we consistently drive revenue, maximize occupancy, and make strategic pricing decisions across our properties, you’re going to…

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Transforming America's Favorite Foods into Healthier Meals 31:20

2M ago31:20

31:20

The comfort foods we grew up with don't deserve their bad reputation. From cereal and hamburgers to mac and cheese and fried chicken, America's favorite dishes can actually be part of a balanced diet with some thoughtful modifications. Breakfast becomes a nutritional powerhouse when you add fresh fruit to cereal, use high-protein milk, or mix in fi…

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A Rebellion of Care: Poet David Gate on Words as a Lifeline During Difficult Times 1:14:53

2M ago1:14:53

1:14:53

Jen has been a quiet superfan of David Gate ever since discovering one of his poems on Instagram and instantly texting it to six friends. A British-born poet, writer, and visual artist, David explores themes of care, community, and spiritual resilience. Today, he joins Jen and Amy to talk about his latest work, A Rebellion of Care—a powerful blend …

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🎙️ Episode 50: The 6 Tools You Need to Get Started in Hospitality 30:16

3M ago30:16

30:16

In this episode, Cody and Meagan break down the six most essential tools every aspiring hotelier, property manager, or vacation rental owner needs to launch and run a successful hospitality business. Whether you're opening your first boutique property or scaling your short-term rental portfolio, this episode covers the foundational systems and serv…

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Money-Saving Grocery Hacks That Actually Work 47:46

3M ago47:46

47:46

With SNAP benefits facing cuts and grocery budgets tightening across America, our deep dive into money-saving grocery strategies couldn't be more timely. Armed with a Buzzfeed list of 35 budget grocery shopping tips, we evaluate each recommendation on a scale from 1-10, separating genuinely helpful advice from less practical suggestions. The stando…

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I Choose Me: Jennie Garth on Midlife, Reinvention & Owning Your Next Chapter 1:03:30

3M ago1:03:30

1:03:30

Jennie Garth is best known to Gen-Xers for her iconic role playing Kelly Taylor on the megahit television series Beverly Hills 90210. Fans of the show may remember Kelly’s pivotal “I Choose Me” episode (airing thirty years ago this past May) when she stood between dreamboats Brandon and Dylan and declared that she was choosing herself. Jennie shape…

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June 2025: Sophie Cousens’ Is She Really Going Out With Him? 51:15

3M ago51:15

51:15

Description: As a former TV producer turned novelist, Sophie Cousens’ books have been published in over 20 languages. Her previous novels—including This Time Next Year and Before I Do—have delighted readers around the world with their warmth, humor, and honest portrayal of love in all its messy, beautiful forms. Today, we sit down with Sophie to di…

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Episode 49: From Dishwasher to Icon – Rick Ueno on Hospitality Leadership & the Independent Hotel Show Miami 28:11

3M ago28:11

28:11

In this exciting episode, Cody sits down with Rick Ueno, the legendary General Manager of W South Beach, to talk all things hospitality, leadership, and the upcoming Independent Hotel Show Miami happening September 17–18 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. 🎧 Listen in as Rick shares: His incredible 39-year journey from dishwasher at The Westin Se…

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From Fire Department to Fame: ScottyKFitness' Remarkable Path 55:46

3M ago55:46

55:46

Remember that mustache guy who made you spit out your coffee laughing about beef jerky and HOA disputes? Scotty K returns to the podcast where it all began, bringing us along for the wild ride his life has become since our last conversation. From quitting his firefighter job to reaching nearly 4 million TikTok followers in just over a year, Scotty'…

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Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde Asks Us, ‘What Is The Faithful Task Before Us Today?’ 1:12:51

3M ago1:12:51

1:12:51

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde is a leading voice in modern faith leadership and the first woman elected to serve as Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, a role she’s held since 2011. While the job isn’t always glamorous, she says, the sacred moments in the public eye matter deeply—and she treats them with care. Bishop Budde gained national a…

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Episode 48: Hotel Design Deep Dive – HD Expo Recap & Creative Inspiration with Cody 17:38

3M ago17:38

17:38

In this solo episode, Cody dives into one of his favorite parts of the hospitality world: hotel design 🎨🛏️ Fresh off his trip to HD Expo in Las Vegas (link), Cody shares insights, trends, and takeaways from one of the biggest design events in hospitality. Whether you're opening a new property, refreshing a space, or dreaming about your next renovat…

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Oops, All Chemicals! A Candid Chat About Health Influencer BS 49:08

3M ago49:08

49:08

Ever wondered why your feed is filled with extreme transformations and diet challenges? In this candid conversation, we pull back the curtain on social media algorithms that reward controversy while burying genuinely helpful health content. The discussion takes a fascinating turn as we explore the phenomenon of fitness influencers presenting carefu…

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Megababe Founder, Katie Sturino, on Resilience, Risk-Taking, and Saying Yes to Something New 50:30

3M ago50:30

50:30

Description: Katie Sturino is one of those people who makes you feel instantly braver just by being in the room. With her bold fashion choices, unfiltered honesty, and joyful presence online, the powerhouse founder of Megababe, style influencer, and unapologetic voice for body confidence has inspired so many of us to rethink how we see our bodies a…

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Encore: Growing up Evangelical and Gay with Jonathan Merritt 1:22:36

3M ago1:22:36

1:22:36

Description: Today, we’re revisiting a pivotal conversation that changed the course of Jen’s life and career. In 2016, during what was expected to be a routine interview with journalist Jonathan Merritt, Jen found herself speaking publicly for the first time about her views on abortion, politics, and LGBTQ+ issues—beliefs she had been wrestling wit…

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Guessing Games, Protein Champions, and Fiber-Rich Discoveries 35:23

3M ago35:23

35:23

Ever wondered what nutritionists actually recommend for protein and fiber? In this laugh-out-loud food guessing game, we challenge each other to identify the top protein and fiber sources while sharing practical nutrition wisdom you can actually use. The protein showdown reveals some expected champions (lean beef and chicken breast) alongside surpr…

A Witty Take On All Things Life Podcasts