Small Steps to Sustainable Living We’re talking about the small, eco-friendly steps we’ve taken over the past year and revisiting our interview with Trace Zero Waste owner, Mala Persaud. Learn about simple swaps like bamboo washcloths and cloth napkins, along with the challenges and triumphs of minimizing paper towel use. The episode also explores innovative sustainable products and eco-friendly cleaning methods. Inspired to make a difference? Let us know how you’re reducing waste one small step at a time! Key Points: Importance of reducing waste Debunking recycling myths Personal eco-friendly swaps (bamboo washcloths, cloth napkins) Challenges and solutions for reducing paper towel use Innovative sustainable products (bamboo dental floss) Eco-friendly cleaning methods Links and Resources, some may be affiliate links Mala Persaud Episode 160 CBS Sunday Morning EPA Drinking Water Standards Clean People Toto Bidet Blueland Toilet Bowl Cleaner Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Earth Day Reflections: Reducing Waste and Sustainable Living 00:00 Opening Banter: Fashion Faux Pas 00:40 Introducing the Podcast and Today's Theme 00:51 Recapping Earth Day Episode with Mala Persaud 03:48 Reflecting on a Year of Sustainable Changes 04:17 Deep Dive into Sustainable Living Practices 05:17 The Bidet Revolution: A Personal Journey 09:09 Expanding Sustainable Practices Beyond the Bathroom 19:22 Reflections and Future Goals for Sustainability 20:51 Closing Thoughts and Invitations 21:20 Outtakes and Bloopers

Are you experiencing glimmers or triggers? In the he aftermath of a lost recording, Terri & Melissa share their experiences with technology mishaps, and introduce the concept of 'Glimmers'—positive experiences that contrast with triggers, often associated with negative emotions. They explain the psychological benefits of recognizing glimmers, drawing from an article in Real Simple and videos on TikTok. If you're in Vienna, VA, make sure to check out Royal Nepal Bistro & The Mixx Delight TikTok Talk/ GlimmerTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTUdx4/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTPPrp/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTfnqa/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTAKfk/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTBxv9/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDThnEq/ Real Simple Article on Glimmers Weekend Watch: 3 Body Problem Ripley Curb Your Enthusiasm Extraordinary The Diplomat The Regime Poor Things 00:00 Opening Banter and a Lost Episode 00:15 The Tale of the Deleted Recording 02:04 Tech Woes and the Fear of Losing Work 03:27 Exploring Glimmers: A Journey of Joy and Connectedness 04:52 The Challenges of Finding Glimmers 08:35 Melissa's Book Binding Adventure and Glimmer Moments 11:51 A Glimmer of Connection Through Photography 15:07 Exploring Cultures Through Food: A Journey of Connection 15:54 The Eclipse Experience: A Reflection on Connectedness 17:38 Chasing the Glimmer: Finding Joy in the Little Things 18:44 What We're Watching: A Dive into Current Shows and Movies 21:28 Extraordinary Finds: Discovering Unique Shows and Movies 24:24 The Power of Originality: Celebrating Unique Film Concepts 25:49 Closing Thoughts: The Pursuit of Glimmer

Transforming Midlife Through Weightlifting: Kim Rahir’s Journey from MS to Master Athlete In this episode of 'Mixing Up Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa explore the power of physical strength and mental resilience with their guest, Kim Rahir. Kim is a 60 year old mother of three who was diagnosed with MS 10 years ago and decided to ignore her doctor's advice and muscle her way back to a happy life. This year she became European Champion in Masters Weightlifting in her age and weight category. Her journey inspired her to leave her career in journalism in her 50s and become a health coach for middle aged women - with a big focus on reactivating and rebuilding muscle. Today, she helps women tap into an abundant source of vitality by reactivating and maintaining their muscles, while ditching diet culture conditioning to actually eat to nourish and flourish. 00:00 Welcome to Mixing Up Midlife: Introducing Kim's Inspiring Journey 00:58 Kim's Battle with Autoimmune Diseases: From Diagnosis to Recovery 09:53 Embracing Strength: Kim's Transition to Weightlifting 15:52 From Gym Sessions to Olympic Weightlifting: Kim's Competitive Ascent 16:24 The Journey into Weightlifting: Challenges and Triumphs 17:52 Embracing the Weightlifting Community and Overcoming Age Stereotypes 19:21 The Transformative Power of Weightlifting on Mind and Body 25:35 Empowering Midlife Women Through Tailored Strength Training Find Kim: Website Facebook Instagram Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube

TikTok has made it easier than ever to find new hobbies to try. Melissa doesn’t want more stuff, but Terri went down a paperback to hardcover book binding rabbit hole and is now obsessed. We have 4 News Items that women over 50 might be interested in and the Weekend Watch. Executive Order on Women’s Midlife Health Older Models at Paris Fashion Week Anne Hathaway The Idea of You Earlybirds Club Would you go to an event that starts at 6 and ends at 10Pm? Weekend Watch Huge in France 3 Body Problem The Gentleman Constellation 00:00 Kicking Off with Casual Banter and News Discussion 12:06 Exploring the World of Bookbinding 16:15 Exploring New Hobbies and the Joy of Crafting 22:00 Weekend Watch: Diving into Weekend Watch Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Sources and Resources- Some may be affiliate links Bookbinding: Hollanders Amazon Cutting Mat Rulers Bone Folder Silicone Brush PVA Glue End Papers/ Decorative Card stock Headbands Mull/Super Cloth Chipboard Book Press Book cloth Cricut Maker 3

In this episode of 'Mixing Up Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa welcome Cori Myka, the founder of Calm Within Adult Swim and the creator of the Foundations of Change Learning Method. Cori shares her insights on the transformative power of learning to swim as an adult, addressing common fears and obstacles. The discussion explores Cori's approach to teaching swimming, which emphasizes a mindset-first methodology and breaking down learning into small, manageable steps. Cori also discusses the importance of understanding individual differences in buoyancy and responses to water. The episode delves into the offerings of Cori's program, including online modules and retreats designed to help adults feel comfortable and confident in water. Despite a technical glitch that cuts Cori's participation short, Terri and Melissa wrap up by summarizing Cori's key points and sharing how listeners can find more information about Cori's courses and retreats. Find Cori: Website Facebook Instagram Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok 0:00 Calm Within Adult Swim: Overcoming Hurdles and Embracing Tiny Adventures with Cori Myka 00:05 00:05 Welcome to Mixing Up Midlife: Diving into Adult Swimming 00:15 Meet Cori: The Adult Swim Guru 01:03 The Journey of Learning to Swim as an Adult 01:16 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Tiny Adventures 02:56 The Unique Challenges of Adult Learners 05:44 Cori's Innovative Approach to Teaching Swimming 05:49 Cori's Approach: Mindset Over Skills 10:17 Breathing: The First Step to Conquering Swimming Fears 10:53 Exploring the Online Swimming Lessons Frontier 11:59 Personalizing the Swimming Experience 12:24 Understanding Buoyancy and Body Mechanics 12:39 Understanding Buoyancy and Body Mechanics in Swimming 14:25 The Science of Buoyancy in Swimming 15:08 The Future of Swimming: Online Learning and Beyond 15:21 The Evolution of Learning to Swim 16:05 Breaking Down the Online Swim Program 18:06 Overcoming Fear with the Learn to Swim Program 18:41 Personal Experiences and the Importance of Calm 19:54 Wrapping Up and Exploring Cori's Programs 22:52 Mixing Up Midlife: Challenges, Bingo, and More

We’re celebrating our beloved 'Mixing Up Midlife' since we just hit a HUGE milestone- our 200th episode! It's been a wild ride filled with adventures, curiosity, and, well, some unexpected steamy book moments. Fourth Wing had us blushing a bit! If you haven’t read it, it's like 'Hunger Games' but with dragons, a touch of magic, and a whole lot of steaminess. Melissa and Terri have finally launched the Ageless Adventure Bingo Card- it’s all about making goal-setting fun and gamified - think of it as a nudge to try new stuff in a playful way. We share some past episodes that stayed with us, our latest TikTok obsessions, a few weekend watches and some puppy antics Here's to 200 episodes - and who knows, maybe we’ll even hit 400!

In this episode of 'Mixing a Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa explore the adventure of a lifetime with their special guest, Joanne McGinley, who shares her experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of 55. Joanne, a former stay-at-home mom who later built a fitness community and survived the challenges of COVID-19 with her studio, embarked on this journey as part of fulfilling her bucket list. The conversation touches on Joanne's motivations, preparations, and the physical and mental challenges she faced during the climb. It also delves into the importance of strength and mobility training for such an endeavor, alongside the value of embarking on adventures that push one's limits. The episode touches upon the logistics of the climb, and underscores the deep personal growth and confidence gained from stepping outside one's comfort zone, especially in midlife. Joanne's narrative about climbing Kilimanjaro underlines the transformative power of adventure and the importance of pursuing one's desires regardless of age. 00:48 Joanne's Journey: From Fitness Instructor to Adventurer 02:02 Joanne's Decision to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro 04:44 The Journey to Kilimanjaro Begins 10:09 The Preparation and Training for the Climb 16:50 Reflecting on the Journey and the Summit 20:26 The Importance of Mobility and Strength 26:38 The Freedom of Being Off the Grid 27:19 The Future Adventures and Bucket List 32:43 The Importance of Taking the Leap 34:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information FInd Joann: Instagram Youtube TikTok Website Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Mentioned: Thomson Safaris

Terri is turning 60 and we’re celebrating! In this emergency podcast episode, Terri & Melissa talk about marking this milestone, the significance of turning 60 and some of the challenges. Terri calls BS on herself and is determined to live more adventurously by doing more of the things she and Melissa encourage others to do. The episode includes a fun Turning 60 trivia quiz, a TikTok that’s a masterclass in story telling and a new weekend watch. 00:00 Introduction and Birthday Celebrations 00:46 Self-Reflection and Future Plans 06:48 Fun Trivia and Quiz Time 13:33 The 60-Year-Old Fact Master Quiz 14:21 Dreams, Podcasts, and TikTok Stories 21:15 The Art of Storytelling and Future Plans Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

Step into the world of Dungeons and Dragons with Terri and Melissa on the latest episode of the 'Mixing Up Midlife' podcast! Join them for a dose of midlife fantasy fun as they delve into this beloved role-playing game from the cozy confines of their Empty Nest. Listen in as Terri and Melissa share their initial confusion and subsequent fascination with D&D, discussing how they believe playing this game could expand their creativity and imagination. Mentioned on the episode: Listen to Your Mom and Dad Watch Your Mom and Dad Play Dungeons and Dragons Libby Library Fourth Wing We may receive a small commission for products linked Try It or Buy It OPI nailpolish tiktok OPI infinite shine Weekend Watch Fargo Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Theme 01:19 Exploring the Intrigue of Dungeons and Dragons 02:29 The Connection Between Fantasy and Creativity 03:36 Personal Experiences and Perceptions of Dungeons and Dragons 06:04 The Appeal of Role-Playing Games 06:33 The Challenge of Imagination and Storytelling 06:48 Exploring the Possibility of Playing Dungeons and Dragons 10:27 The Potential of Dungeons and Dragons in Popular Culture 13:10 Invitation to Listeners and Conclusion 14:33 Discussing Dark Comedies 15:09 Exploring Sci-Fi and Fantasy 16:05 Diving into Audiobooks 17:20 The Romance of Reading 20:00 Exploring TikTok Trends 21:01 Try It or Buy It: Nail Polish Edition 21:39 Life Updates and Future Plans 23:52 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

Have you been searching for the perfect retirement location, but aren't quite sure where that is or how to find it? Today's guest, Margaret Vandergriff, founder of Your Place Finder is here to help! Drawing on 30+ years of prospect research, strategic planning, and consulting/coaching experience, Margaret created the Spark System to guide retirees and almost retirees from deciding to move (or not), to finding their perfect retirement location, to smoothly navigating their move and transition to life in their new location. 0:00 Where to Retire with Margaret Vandergriff 00:03 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:01 Margaret's Personal Journey and the Birth of 'Your Place Finder' 06:43 The Spark System: A Methodical Approach to Finding the Perfect Place 18:00 Understanding the Assessment Process 18:48 Exploring Potential Locations 25:16 Finalizing the Move and Post-Move Reflection Find Margaret & Your Place Finder: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Pinterest Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

Terri and Melissa are transported into the world of Romantasy on today’s episode. Terri shares her long-time love for the genre, highlighting its role in offering complete escapism and its evolution from conventional romance narratives. Terri and Melissa consider how the genre has grown thanks to social media and the popularity of BookTok and have some starter romantasy book recs . They chat about other facets of pop culture like Taylor Swift's Grammy win and the Super Bowl. 00:00 Introduction to Romantasy: A New Genre? 00:24 Romantasy Isn't New 03:38 Exploring the World of Romantasy: From Twilight to Sarah J Mass 14:54 Book Club and Reading Habits 16:52 Super Bowl and Pop Culture Weekend Watch: Quarterback on Netflix Dance Life on Amazon Prime Books: Fourth Wing Twilight A Court of Thorns and Roses House of Night Series Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok We may earn a small commission on links we provide.

Join hosts Terri and Melissa as they candidly discuss life in their fifties and beyond, particularly focusing on the 'empty nest' stage of life. They mull over questions like 'When do we stop parenting our adult children?' and 'How to balance personal interests and a career while making space for enjoyment in retirement?' The discussion also includes their personal fun facts and an invitation to listeners to share their own. They touch upon reality TV shows like 'Love on the Spectrum' and 'Bachelor', mention a few others they have been enjoying plan a potential book club,. They end the podcast with their 'badass woman of the week' segment, and invite listeners to leave voicemails with their own fun facts about themselves. Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Meet the Hosts: Terry and Melissa 01:39 New Year Reflections and Resolutions 02:07 Parenting Adult Children: When Does It End? 02:26 Personal Stories: Kids, Cars, and Responsibilities 08:12 The Endless Nest: A New Perspective 11:51 Balancing Work and Personal Life in the Empty Nest 14:12 Balancing Work and Leisure 15:01 The Love for Podcasting 15:29 Exploring New Revenue Streams 16:00 The Coffee Connection 17:15 Reality TV Insights 20:40 Fun Facts About Ourselves 22:34 The Challenge of Self-Promotion 24:13 TV Show Recommendations 25:52 Badass Women of the Week 26:27 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

Mixing Up Midlife is a weekly show for women in their 50's and beyond who want to explore this incredible age by being more adventurous and more curious. Each week Terri and Melissa talk about what matters most to empty-nesters and mid-life women. Part reality show, part audio diary and part cocktail hour, these life long best friends never run out of things to say and have a lot of laughs along the way.

Can astrology help women over 50 find their purpose? In this episode of the 'Mixing Up Midlife' podcast, hosts Terri and Melissa interview intuitive tarot reader and astrologer, Mary Jo Cranmore aka MJ. MJ shares her journey from a television news producer to an astrologer, her spiritual awakening and provides insights about astrological houses, North Node, South Node and how they relate to one's purpose in life. She also provides guidance on how to interpret this information to guide decisions and personal growth. Additionally, Mary Jo delves into the Japanese concept of 'Ikigai' and how it intersects with astrology when deciphering one's life purpose. Because there was so much “good stuff” we’ve made this a two-parter. Find MaryJo and Soulful Revolution: Soulful Revolution Website Soulful Revolution YouTube Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:40 Guest's Career Transition Journey 01:17 Spiritual Awakening and Life Changes 02:46 Decision to Quit and Start Anew 03:22 Beginning of a New Chapter 05:35 Starting a YouTube Channel 07:15 Success and Growth on YouTube 09:42 Understanding Astrology and Tarot 10:55 Personal Experiences with Astrology 12:44 The Process of Creating YouTube Content 16:04 Understanding Astrological Signs 17:30 Finding Purpose and Manifestation 18:42 Introduction to the Japanese Art of Happy Life 19:05 Understanding Purpose and Mission in Life 20:02 Astrological Tools for Finding Purpose: The North Node 20:22 Understanding the North Node in Astrology 20:55 The Role of Skills and Talents in Fulfilling Purpose 21:12 The Concept of Comfort Zone in Astrology 21:40 Interpreting the North Node in Birth Charts 22:19 The Importance of Birth Time in Astrology 23:07 Understanding the Influence of Planetary Movements 24:40 Interpreting the North Node: A Practical Example 26:00 The Role of Intuition in Understanding Astrological Charts 26:52 The Importance of Flexibility in Pursuing Purpose 27:08 Understanding the Houses in Astrology 33:40 The Role of Risk in Pursuing Purpose 35:54 The Importance of Growth and Expansion in Astrology 39:25 Astrology and Tarot Classes Offered 40:09 Conclusion and Contact Information Sources and Resources Cafe Astrology

We're back together for the first time since December and we've got updates! Melissa went to Colorado, hiked Garden of the Gods and came home with her new fur baby. We ask if it's crazy that we both got puppies as empty nesters. Our answers may suprise you. We're going to be gamifying our 2024 goal setting by making bingo cards! What do you think? Let us know by shooting us an email or leaving us a voicemail! Weekend Watch: Golden Bachelor Wedding Bodies Books: Hamnet Court of Thorns and Roses Middlesex

Living A Bodacious Life: Seasonal Work For Women over 50 with Dawna Jarvis In this episode, Terri and Melissa of 'Mixing up Midlife' podcast speak with Dawna Jarvis in an enlightening conversation about pursuing an adventurous life post-age 50. Dawna shares her journey of taking a divergent route in her empty nesting life, leaving the corporate world behind, and embracing the adventures of seasonal work. From working as a front desk staff to tour guide, her seasonal jobs have taken her around the country from Arkansas, Alaska to Colorado. She also provides some practical suggestions, do's and don'ts for those interested in this type of lifestyle. This insightful conversation explores freedom, independence, and adventurism for women over 50, proving that it's never too late to 'dream big' and craft a unique, fulfilling lifestyle. 00:00 Introduction and Dawna's transition to seasonal work 00:15 Exploring different seasonal jobs and experiences 01:03 Overcoming hurdles and finding healthcare options 01:22 Learning from experiences and travelling around the country 13:44 Words of wisdom for those interested in seasonal jobs 38:10 Conclusion and an open invitation to live a bodacious life Find Dawna Here: Instagram TikTok YouTube Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok coolworks.com

It's the last episode of 2023 and we went off the rails a bit...Today's episode is a bit of everthing...A squirell story, a COVID Christmas, A new arrival and a Try it or Buy it. HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND WE'LL SEE YOU IN 2024 (we might get a tiny commission for these): Ulike Air 3 Labigo Electric Spin Scrubber Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok YouTube

It's the annual holiday episode! Today we're sharing what makes our holidays special and we're sharing some of our past podcast episodes, especially the ones that could help you with your holiday shopping! From books and skincare products to eco-friendly stocking stuffers and unique travel experiences, there's something for everyone! We also touch on topics like solo travel, sustainable lifestyle changes, and support for female entrepreneurs. We hope you are celebrating the season by creating joy for yourself and pursuing what makes you happy. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:16 Reflecting on the Podcast's Journey 00:51 Holiday Planning and Traditions 01:44 Discussing Favorite Holiday Movies 03:59 Holiday Decorations and Personal Preferences 07:55 Real vs. Fake Christmas Trees 08:58 Highlighting Past Podcast Guests and Their Products 09:53 Skincare Talk and Product Reviews 12:58 Promoting Sustainable Living Through Stocking Stuffers 13:43 Switching to Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents 14:21 Exploring Different Types of Washing Machines 15:11 Using Natural Pellets for Clothes Washing 15:46 Gift Ideas: Eco-Friendly Household Items 16:33 Choosing Useful and Appreciated Gifts 17:20 Wine and Champagne Recommendations 19:03 Book Recommendations and Where to Buy Them 21:20 Traveling Solo and Finding Accommodation 21:57 Working with a Travel Advisor for Unique Experiences 24:35 Buying a House in Italy: A Unique Adventure 27:28 Reflecting on the Year and Spreading Love 28:33 Wrapping Up the Holiday Gift Guide Scrooge 1970 musical Joel Wood on TikTok The Skintessa Amy Wall and Timelight Beauty Skincare system Episode 173 Mala Zero Waste Store Episode 160 Marilee Bramhall Iola Wine Episode 186 The Reading List episode 149 Lessons In Chemistry episode 157 Anatomy of A Story John Truby, Episode 176 Katherine Leamy Dare to Travel Solo episode 154 Sue-Anne Mayne Sister Stay episode 119 Pat Ogle Collins Expedition Travel Episode 163. The Amateurs Abroad Buying a Home in Sicily episode 168 Clean People Laundry Sheets 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:16 Reflecting on the Podcast's Journey 00:51 The Importance of Planning for Holidays 01:49 Holiday Movie Discussion: Love Actually 03:07 Favorite Holiday Movies 07:52 Holiday Decorations: Real vs. Fake Trees 08:58 Holiday Gift Ideas from Podcast Guests 09:53 Skincare Talk: Products and Routines 12:58 Reducing Waste: Eco-friendly Stocking Stuffers 13:43 Switching to Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents 14:21 Exploring Different Types of Washing Machines 15:11 Using Natural Pellets for Clothes Washing 15:46 Gift Ideas: Eco-Friendly Household Items 16:33 Choosing Useful and Appreciated Gifts 17:20 Discussing Wine and Champagne from Iola Wines 18:21 The Importance of Supporting Female Winemakers 18:57 Book Recommendations and the Idea of a Book Club 20:05 Exploring the Idea of Buying Pre-Read Books as Gifts 21:20 Traveling Solo and Using Sister Stay 21:57 Working with a Travel Advisor for Unique Experiences 24:35 Considering Buying a House in Italy 27:28 Reflecting on the Year and Spreading Love 28:33 Wrapping Up the Holiday Gift Guide

For the first time in the show's history, we've got a twenty something on as our guest! We're joined by Melissa's Gen Z daughter, Alison, who gives us her thoughts on The Golden Bachelor, explains what "Porch Era"is and talks about what she liked about the show. Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:11 Special Guest Introduction: Allison 00:46 Golden Bachelor Finale Discussion 01:56 Allison's Initial Reaction to the Golden Bachelor 03:47 Comparing Golden Bachelor to Other Seasons 05:07 The Unexpected Finale: Opinions and Reactions 07:08 Post-Finale Speculations and Theories 09:49 The Hollywood Reporter's 'Hit Piece' on Jerry 12:58 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up 17:02 Watching the Show: A Unique Experience 17:29 Discussing Gary's Actions 18:56 Choosing Safety Over Adventure 20:04 Love at Different Ages 22:10 The Golden Bachelor: Final Thoughts 22:13 Reality TV: A Love-Hate Relationship 26:08 The Future of the Golden Bachelor Participants 28:52 The Possibility of a Golden Bachelorette 29:53 Wrapping Up the Discussion

In this episode, hosts Melissa and Terri sit down with Marilee Bramhall, the passionate founder of Iola Wines. Marilee takes us on a sensory journey, sharing her adventures in the wine business and her dedication to elevating the work of women in the wine industry. From virtual wine tastings to her deep-rooted connection to Old World wines and the influence of women in its production, Marilee's innovative approach and unwavering commitment to sustainability and women empowerment shine through. Join us as we uncork the conversation, celebrating women in wine with Marilee Bramhall. About Marilee: As the founder of Iola Wines, Marilee is doing her part to change the wine world's status quo. Although up to 80% of wine purchases in the U.S. are made by women; only 15% of the winemakers worldwide are women. Her company, Iola Wines, champions women vigneronnes who are every bit as talented as their French and Italian brethren by sharing their wines through the Iola Wine Society Clubs. About Iola Wines and Iola Wine Society Clubs: Iola Wines Website Iola Wines on Instagram Iola Wines on Facebook Iola Wines on Youtube Iola Wines on TikTok Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube