A Lapointe Life Podcast - Let's Chat: Family, Travel & Life as 80s Babies

If you’ve been wondering whether Wonder of the Seas is still worth sailing in 2025, this episode will help you make that decision with confidence. We walk through what it’s really like onboard now that the ship has been sailing for a few years. From the neighborhoods and entertainment to dining, stateroom layouts, and how it feels for families, we break down our honest experience so you know exactly what to expect.

Whether this is your first cruise or you’re deciding between ships for your next big vacation, this conversation gives you a clear look at what still shines on Wonder of the Seas and what feels a little different today.

Show Notes

Full ship overview and layout

Updated features and amenities in 2025

Entertainment options and how they compare to newer ships

Dining experiences for couples and families

Pools, neighborhoods, and activity areas

Family-friendly highlights across the ship

Our favorite moments onboard

What didn’t quite meet expectations

Honest pros and cons for 2025 travelers

Our final take on whether Wonder of the Seas is still worth it

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Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

If you’ve ever wondered what life would really look like raising your family in the Philippines, this conversation will give you a clear, honest picture. We sat down with Danny, who has lived in the Philippines her whole life, to talk through what parents need to understand before packing up and moving. She walks us through the true cost of living, what school options look like, how transportation actually works on a daily basis, the weather patterns families should be prepared for, and the pace of everyday life from a local perspective.

Whether you’re curious about Cebu, Manila, or simply exploring the idea of raising kids abroad, this episode offers a grounded look at family life in the Philippines.

Show Notes

Top cities for expat families including Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Siargao

How transportation works day to day with Grab, tricycles, and other options

Breaking down the cost of living from housing to groceries

What parents should know about public, private, and international schools

A look inside the daily school schedule from morning drop-off to late afternoons

Understanding private school costs and how they compare to the US

Weather patterns including heat, rainy seasons, typhoons, and monsoons

Health and safety considerations including bugs and dengue

What weekends look like for families including malls, arcades, and skating

A snapshot of local field trips and cultural influences

Why the Philippines attracts a diverse group of expats

College expectations, tuition insights, and long-term opportunities

How holidays and Christmas traditions shape family life

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Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

The True Cost of Living in Portugal: Family Housing, Private Schools & What to Expect

Are you considering moving to Portugal with your family? We give you a full breakdown of the Portugal Cost of Living 2025 — with a special focus on what families really need to know.

We explore what it costs to rent a three-bedroom apartment in five of Portugal’s most popular areas for families:
🏠 Lisbon
🏠 Porto
🏠 Braga
🏠 Cascais
🏠 The Algarve

Whether you’re budgeting for a big move or just starting to explore your options, we break down current rental prices and how they compare across cities — all based on Portugal Cost of Living 2025 data.

We also dive into the cost of private schools in each of these areas, including:

📚 School types available (international, bilingual, etc.)
📚 What families should consider when choosing schools in Portugal

Beyond the numbers, we touch on Portugal’s climate, the feel of everyday life, and how welcoming each area is for families looking to relocate.

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Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

In this episode, Jason and Brizette share the heart behind their Giving Bag tradition, a simple way to turn an extra suitcase into an opportunity to bless families while traveling abroad. From conversations with housekeepers in Costa Rica to helping parents and kids in the Caribbean, they explain exactly how families can pack gently used clothing, kid items, school supplies, and household essentials to give privately and respectfully. This episode helps parents teach gratitude, model kindness, and travel with purpose.

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Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

PROS and CONS of Living in Thailand

In this episode, we break down the Thailand cost of living 2025 for a family of three including apartment prices, tuition for private school, and day-to-day expenses.

We also dive into the Thailand cost of living in 2025 across different cities like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok sharing what it’s really like to live in each place. Plus, we chat about the climate, seasons, and what to expect weather-wise if you plan to move here.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Thailand with kids or how far your budget can stretch, this is for you.

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Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

Think you remember your favorite 90s TV shows? We’re putting our memory to the test in this Rapid Fire 90's TV Trivia Challenge — and trust us, it gets real nostalgic, real fast.

From Beverly Hills, 90210 to Moesha, The Nanny, Boy Meets World, Full House, Sister, Sister, and even Seinfeld — we’re tossing questions at each other to see who really knows their 90s TV roots. Favorite characters? Iconic episodes? Plot twists we’re still talking about? It’s all on the table.

Whether you were rooting for Cory and Topanga, quoting Moesha’s journal, or cracking up at Uncle Jesse’s “Have mercy!” — this one’s for you.

This episode is packed with laughs, debates, and “Wait… that happened?” moments that’ll have you shouting answers at the screen.

Drop your favorite 90s show (or character) in the comments — we want to hear which ones shaped your childhood. And don’t forget to hit that Like if you’ve ever rushed home to catch TGIF!

#90stvshow   #90ssitcoms   #retrotv   #tgif  #tvtrivia   #90sthrowback   #guesstheshow   #classictvshows   #90spopculture   #90svibes  


00:00 Introduction to the Game
00:20 Explaining the Game Rules
01:29 First Show: Beverly Hills, 90210
02:37 Second Show: Will and Grace
04:33 Third Show: Moesha
07:09 Fourth Show: The Nanny
09:09 Fifth Show: Boy Meets World
13:09 Sixth Show: Full House
16:17 Seventh Show: Keenan and Kel
16:30 Eighth Show: Smart Guy
16:43 Discussing ‘Smart Guy’ and Favorite Episodes
17:43 Nostalgia for ‘Blossom’ and Its Characters
19:34 Reminiscing About ‘Sister, Sister’
22:31 Debating 90s Cartoons and TV Shows
24:28 Fond Memories of ‘Friends’
27:53 The Timeless Appeal of ‘Seinfeld’
31:15 Reflecting on ‘Gilmore Girls’
33:09 Final Thoughts and Viewer Interaction

If you’re a true 90s kid or just love classic TV, hit that subscribe button and tell us—what show would you have aced in this challenge? Drop your top 3 90s sitcoms in the comments, and let’s see who remembers the golden age of television best!

💼 📷 🎥Want to know what I use to film these videos? 
Check my full gear list below!
*These links are associated with our Amazon Associate account. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*

My Gear List: 
Gimbal: Ronin RS2: https://amzn.to/4cH71P2

Cameras:
BlackMagic Pocket 6k: https://amzn.to/4br1Mlx
Canon R5: https://amzn.to/4bAi9fO
Canon R: https://amzn.to/4cLtE4K

Vlogging Gear:
Osmo Pocket Mobile 3 Creator Edition:  https://amzn.to/4cofqap
Insta 360 Ace Pro: https://amzn.to/3xG2P38

Microphones: 
Rode Pod Mic: https://amzn.to/3XLP2m8

Sound Mixer:
RodeCaster Duo: https://amzn.to/3VPe3KB

Lighting:
https://amzn.to/40p9OJY

Standing Desk:
https://amzn.to/3C9OLRq

Disclaimer:
The Copyright Laws of the United States recognizes a “fair use” of copyrighted content. Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act states: “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phono records or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

What made The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air more than just a 90s sitcom? In this episode, we dive deep into how the show reshaped Black representation on TV, gave us a fresh take on family, and sparked conversations that still matter today. From breaking stereotypes to celebrating Black excellence and generational wealth, this show did it all—with heart, humor, and unforgettable characters.

We unpack what made the dynamic between Will, Uncle Phil, Carlton, and the two Aunt Vivs so powerful—and why these portrayals still resonate. Whether it was laughter, tough love, or moments that made us tear up, Fresh Prince taught a generation how to show up with both authenticity and vulnerability.

If you grew up on this show or you’re just discovering it now, join us as we reflect on the legacy, the lessons, and why this cultural icon still speaks loud in 2025.

Topics Covered:
The legacy of Fresh Prince and its impact on Black TV
Uncle Phil’s fatherhood and what he meant to our generation
Will Smith’s growth—from West Philly to global icon
How the show blended comedy with real-world conversations
Why the themes of identity, family, and success still hit today

Call to Action:
Tap in with us and drop your favorite Fresh Prince moment in the comments—because this show didn’t just entertain us… it raised us.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Impressions
00:23 Discussing the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
00:53 The Wealthy Black Family Representation
02:12 Character Dynamics and Aunt Vivs
03:46 Will Smith’s Influence and Cultural Impact
08:42 Lessons from the Show
12:58 Facing Uncomfortable Situations
13:19 Balancing Authenticity and Adaptability
13:57 Embracing Emotions and Vulnerability
14:48 The Impact of Father Figures
16:21 Cultural Representation and Aspiration
19:04 The Role of Jeffrey the Butler
21:11 Carlton and the Nerdy Side
22:21 Hillary and the Valley Girl Persona
23:10 Will’s Influence on the Family
25:08 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Loved this episode? Tap that subscribe button and share your favorite Fresh Prince moment in the comments. Whether it was a funny Carlton dance or a tearjerker with Uncle Phil, we want to hear your thoughts. Stick around for more conversations that blend nostalgia with powerful reflections on family, culture, and growth.

#freshprinceofbelair  #willsmith  #90stvshows    #blacktvshows    #blackexcellence    #90snostalgia    #unclephil   #blackculturematters   #classictv   #throwbacktv 

💼 📷 🎥Want to know what I use to film these videos? 
Check my full gear list below!
*These links are associated with our Amazon Associate account. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*

My Gear List: 
Gimbal: Ronin RS2: https://amzn.to/4cH71P2

Cameras:
BlackMagic Pocket 6k: https://amzn.to/4br1Mlx
Canon R5: https://amzn.to/4bAi9fO
Canon R: https://amzn.to/4cLtE4K

Vlogging Gear:
Osmo Pocket Mobile 3 Creator Edition:  https://amzn.to/4cofqap
Insta 360 Ace Pro: https://amzn.to/3xG2P38

Microphones: 
Rode Pod Mic: https://amzn.to/3XLP2m8

Sound Mixer:
RodeCaster Duo: https://amzn.to/3VPe3KB

Lighting:
https://amzn.to/40p9OJY

Standing Desk:
https://amzn.to/3C9OLRq

Disclaimer:
The Copyright Laws of the United States recognizes a “fair use” of copyrighted content. Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act states: “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phono records or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

What if the answer to your stress, control issues, and burnout was hidden in the Let Them Theory?

In this episode, we explore how the Let Them Theory, popularized by Mel Robbins is helping us let go of control, find peace in parenting, and stop micromanaging other people’s choices. Whether you’re running a business, raising kids, or navigating tough relationships, the Let Them Theory offers a breakthrough mindset shift that hit both of us hard.

Jay opens up about stepping back from the pressure of being the fixer, especially in business, and how embracing the Let Them Theory helped him protect his energy. Brizette shares a raw, emotional story about motherhood, expectations, and what it really means to release control when your heart’s still invested.

We also talk about how the Let Them Theory can calm the weight of comparison, ease resentment in friendships, and help you reconnect with yourself again.

If you’re tired of doing everything for everyone and still feeling empty, the Let Them Theory might just be the mindset reset you’ve been searching for.

Topics Covered:
How the Let Them Theory helps you stop controlling what isn’t yours to manage
The hidden cost of trying to “hold everything together” and how the Let Them Theory breaks that cycle
Why comparison isn’t the enemy—resisting the Let Them Theory might be
What to do when friendships fade and how the Let Them Theory sets you free from guilt
How the Let Them Theory gives parents permission to breathe, let go, and still lead with love

If something in this episode hit home, share it with someone who’s trying to carry too much. The Let Them Theory isn’t just a trend—it’s a mindset shift that can release burnout, restore peace, and remind us we don’t have to fix everything. Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments and don’t forget to subscribe. Someone needs to hear this message: embrace the Let Them Theory… and just let them.

#mindsetshift   
#personalgrowth   
#familylife   
#selfimprovement   
#emotionalintelligence   
#parentingtips    (if you mention kids or family scenarios)
#mentalwellness 
#melrobbins   #letthem   #bookreview    #couplegoals2025   #bookreviews #letthemtheory

💼 📷 🎥Want to know what I use to film these videos? 
Check my full gear list below!
*These links are associated with our Amazon Associate account. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*

My Gear List: 
Gimbal: Ronin RS2: https://amzn.to/4cH71P2

Cameras:
BlackMagic Pocket 6k: https://amzn.to/4br1Mlx
Canon R5: https://amzn.to/4bAi9fO
Canon R: https://amzn.to/4cLtE4K

Vlogging Gear:
Osmo Pocket Mobile 3 Creator Edition:  https://amzn.to/4cofqap
Insta 360 Ace Pro: https://amzn.to/3xG2P38

Microphones: 
Rode Pod Mic: https://amzn.to/3XLP2m8

Sound Mixer:
RodeCaster Duo: https://amzn.to/3VPe3KB

Lighting:
https://amzn.to/40p9OJY

Standing Desk:
https://amzn.to/3C9OLRq

Disclaimer:
The Copyright Laws of the United States recognizes a “fair use” of copyrighted content. Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act states: “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phono records or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

We were told our first child might be born with Down syndrome. Then, after our second, I almost died in the hospital. This is the story behind why we stopped at two kids, and it changed everything.

Parenting has brought us so much joy, but it’s also pushed us to the edge in ways we never expected. In this deeply personal episode, we open up about the moments that nearly broke us, from terrifying birth complications to the emotional toll of postpartum depression, breastfeeding struggles, and dealing with the pressure of having more kids.

This isn’t just a birth story. It’s about choosing peace, trusting God through uncertainty, and making decisions that some people won’t understand, but were necessary for our survival.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:
🔹 Why we waited until 30 to start a family
🔹 The unexpected diagnosis that shook us during pregnancy
🔹 A near-death experience after childbirth
🔹 Postpartum depression, and the pressure to breastfeed
🔹 Why we knew our family was complete with two

Whether you’re a parent, planning for kids, or navigating your own family story, we hope this video gives you peace, clarity, and encouragement that you’re not alone.

💬 We’d love to hear from you. What’s one parenting moment that changed everything for you?

🔥 If this resonates with you, don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more honest family conversations.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
00:48 - The First Test
02:40 - The Phone Call
06:45 - The Second Test
09:12 - The First Ultrasound
10:55 - The Amniocentesis
12:22 - Early Contractions
16:40 - Induction Process
20:23 - Struggling with Breastfeeding
24:15 - Baby #2 Journey
28:00 - The Last Straw
31:00 - Carter’s Birth Story
37:44 - Journey After Bringing Home Carter
41:26 - Returning to Work
43:46 - Take Back Your Power
47:29 - Future Family Plans
51:34 - Be Careful What You Say
52:54 - Outro

#childbirth  #postpartum #familyvlog  #birthtrauma  #birthjourney  #momvlog 

💼 📷 🎥Want to know what I use to film these videos? 
Check my full gear list below!
*These links are associated with our Amazon Associate account. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*

My Gear List: 
Gimbal: Ronin RS2: https://amzn.to/4cH71P2

Cameras:
BlackMagic Pocket 6k: https://amzn.to/4br1Mlx
Canon R5: https://amzn.to/4bAi9fO
Canon R: https://amzn.to/4cLtE4K

Vlogging Gear:
Osmo Pocket Mobile 3 Creator Edition:  https://amzn.to/4cofqap
Insta 360 Ace Pro: https://amzn.to/3xG2P38

Microphones: 
Rode Pod Mic: https://amzn.to/3XLP2m8

Sound Mixer:
RodeCaster Duo: https://amzn.to/3VPe3KB

Lighting:
https://amzn.to/40p9OJY

Standing Desk:
https://amzn.to/3C9OLRq

Disclaimer:
The Copyright Laws of the United States recognizes a “fair use” of copyrighted content. Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act states: “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phono records or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/

Is Lisbon the Right City for Families? Our Kids STRUGGLED, and We Didn’t Expect It

We thought Lisbon would be the perfect destination for our family, but stepping into the city center with two kids opened our eyes fast. In this video, we’re sharing our unfiltered first impressions of Lisbon, Portugal — the sounds, the pace, the crowds, and how it all feels when you’re not just passing through, but wondering if you could ever live here.

From a chaotic washer and dryer experience and surprise Airbnb realities to honest reactions from our boys, Chase and Carter, this isn’t your average travel vlog. We compare Lisbon’s big-city vibe to New York, reflect on what worked and what didn’t for our family, and break down what it really costs to enjoy this part of Portugal without falling into tourist traps. And yes, we rode first class from Lisbon to Porto and explain why it was 100% worth it.

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, thinking about relocating, or just curious what it’s really like to travel abroad as a family, this video’s for you.

Watch to find out:
What Lisbon is really like for families,
Whether kids can enjoy big city life abroad,
How Portugal compares to Thailand for warmth and family friendliness,
What surprised us most about the cost, the culture, and the commute.

Don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe for more family travel stories, and let us know in the comments — could you see your family living in Lisbon?

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro: First Class Train Ride to Porto
00:55 - What Lisbon Reminds Us Of (Hint: NYC Vibes)
02:30 - Is Lisbon Too Busy for Kids?
04:18 - The Airbnb Reality (Space, Kitchen, Laundry Struggles)
06:05 - Comparing City Life vs Suburbs for Families
07:22 - Carter & Chase’s Reactions to Lisbon
09:18 - Centra vs Lisbon: Which City Fits Better for Family Life?
10:15 - Lisbon vs Bangkok: How Do the Cities Compare?
11:48 - How Expensive Is Lisbon Really? (Food, Rides, Airbnb)
13:36 - Tourist Traps vs Local Pricing Tips
15:00 - Lisbon Safety and Uber Tips
16:33 - Would We Move Here? Honest Talk About Relocation
17:43 - Final Thoughts + Subscribe for More Family Travel

 #familytravelvlog   #travelportugal  #travelwithkids   #familyadventures    #trainvlog   #highspeedtrain  #familytime  #familyfirst  #alfa

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want smoother family trips? Grab our free Family Travel Checklist: The 10 things that make traveling with kids easier, happier, and way less stressful. 

Download it here 👉🏼 https://travelguide.alapointelife.com/