Are We Doing This?

This week, the Laurens sit down with Niki Froman, licensed clinical social worker and owner of Inner Shell Therapy in Fort Collins. What starts as an interview quickly turns into a mini therapy session—covering everything from what it’s really like to work in the mental health field, to the mental toll of perimenopause, to the connections between sleep, trauma, and ADHD. Lauren B gets personal as she asks Niki about her own interest in making a career change into mental health, while Lauren P digs into the challenges women face during hormonal transitions. Honest, supportive, and packed with wisdom, this conversation feels like a warm hug and a wake-up call at the same time. Every woman will walk away with something valuable from this episode.

Follow Niki on social media:

Instagram @innershelltherapyllc

FB: facebook.com/innershelltherapy

innershelltherapy.com

Keywords: mental health, career transitions, women's health, perimenopause, self-care, therapy, neuroscience, hormonal changes, collaborative care, emotional well-being, ADHD, perimenopause, mental health, sleep, community support, women, therapy, career in mental health, coping mechanisms, emotional well-being

Takeaways

Mental health is crucial during career transitions.

Identifying your passion can guide your career path.

Personal experiences shape professional insights in mental health.

Hormonal changes significantly impact mental health.

Self-care and boundaries are essential for mental health professionals.

Collaborative care models enhance patient support.

Understanding hormonal shifts can aid in managing mental health.

Therapy is becoming more normalized, but stigma remains.

Experience-based learning is vital in becoming a therapist.

Practical strategies can help manage mental health effectively. ADHD symptoms can overlap with perimenopause symptoms.

Finding a good provider is crucial for mental health.

Sleep patterns significantly affect mental health.

Community support is essential for women during transitions.

Therapy can provide validation for emotional experiences.

Sleep training techniques can be applied to adults.

Mental health careers require strong boundaries.

Peer support roles can provide valuable experience.

Therapists often face emotional challenges in their work.

Understanding trauma can redefine personal experiences.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health and Career Paths

06:26 Niki's Journey into Social Work

13:00 Exploring Career Changes in Mental Health

15:29 The Importance of Personal Experience in Therapy

19:51 Breaking Stigmas Around Therapy

22:27 Collaborative Care Models in Mental Health

25:41 The Importance of Collaborative Care

29:00 Navigating Women's Health Transitions

30:22 Understanding Hormonal Changes and Mental Health

33:53 The Impact of Neurotransmitters on Well-being

38:11 Exploring ADHD and Perimenopause Connections

42:45 Navigating Women's Health Challenges

45:59 Understanding Emotional Responses and Trauma

49:55 The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health

53:05 The Importance of Community and Support

57:05 Lessons in Therapy and Boundaries

58:34 The Challenges of Being a Therapist

59:54 Navigating Clinical Responsibilities and Safety

01:01:07 Exploring Career Paths in Mental Health

01:03:30 Volunteering and Gaining Experience in Mental Health

01:06:04 Understanding the Role of Peer Support

01:06:59 The Importance of Practical Experience in Training

01:13:27 Future Topics and Closing Thoughts

ARE we okay? Honestly, back-to-school season has us feeling a little unhinged—and that’s before you add freelancing, imposter syndrome, and planning milestone birthdays into the mix. This week, we talk about the anxiety of starting something new (hello, freelance life), the surprise of realizing when romance writing gets too personal, and why we’re done being embarrassed about throwing ourselves 40th birthday parties.

We also dive into parenting chaos, celebrate tiny wins, and process our shocked-to-our-core reactions to Netflix’s Unknown Number. Basically, it’s a little therapy session, a little business pep talk, and a lot of “Are we Okay?” energy.

Check out our new baker friend at KupcakeKonnoisseur.com !

Follow us:

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

This week’s episode took an unexpected turn when Lauren B got a FaceTime call mid-recording from our friend Ashley—who came bearing the BREAKING NEWS that Taylor Swift is engaged! Naturally, Ashley hopped on the pod and she and Lauren B went full fangirl mode (yes, there were tears).

Once we finally recovered from the Swiftie meltdown, we dove into our current obsessions:

• Lauren B is all about Taylor’s new album (and now upcoming nuptials), the hilarious We Do Not Care Club trend, and Tyler Childers’ hauntingly good track The Bitin’ List.

• Lauren P couldn’t stop raving about the Magic Mike movies as the ultimate girls’ night pick, plus her love for the twisty novel The Compound (fueled by her reality TV obsession).

• And both Laurens shared their hype for the epic K-pop demon hunters movie that totally stole their hearts.

It’s equal parts fangirl frenzy, fun recs, and genuine laughter—aka classic “Are We Obsessed?”

Helpful links:

Taylor Swift's Breaking News!

https://www.instagram.com/p/DN02niAXMM-/?img_index=1

Magic Mike Dance Scenes you Don' want to Miss:

https://youtu.be/9FoM9JHXCWQ?si=VrDe1cj9x2tgBNTn

https://youtu.be/TCdwW9zE2Mc?si=-mb1z2vThjc_tFpu

https://youtu.be/dr6i4em2YQ4?si=tn-psuGRCtW9dMKA

Melani Sanders of the "We Do Not Care Club"

https://www.instagram.com/justbeingmelani

Ashley Judd Video - We Do Not Care Club

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMavbVes_F0/?igsh=bzVwY245bGIwNDN1

LP's Book Rec - The Compound

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218460337-the-compound

Tyler Childers Bitin' List Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydoSpHB7KiE

You can watch this episode on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠!

We made it—25 episodes! In this one, we look back at how far we’ve come and spill about what’s next. Think: summer chaos, the sudden shift to fall routine, family-life juggling acts, and our very important reactions on Taylor Swift’s new album announcement. We get honest about career curveballs, wrestling with imposter syndrome, and finding community in unexpected places. Plus, one of us shares the latest twists and turns in her short story draft (character teasers, plot challenges, spicy scene details and all). It’s part reflection, part pep talk, and very much us—figuring it out as we go. Join us! 

Follow us:

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

Fresh off a 3-day girls trip to Vegas, Lauren and Lauren are back—and they brought souvenirs in the form of stories, laughter, and just a few rum-soaked Dole Whips. In this episode, we’re recapping the unforgettable weekend we spent with our college besties, Joy and Ashley—from getting way too into the Magic Mike show (no regrets), to living our best lives in a cabana at the Bellagio pool, and of course, losing our voices at the ICONIC Backstreet Boys concert at the Sphere.

We’re also sharing a very special segment recorded from our hotel bed (in pajamas, obviously): Pillow Talk Confessions from Vegas. The four of us get nostalgic about how we met, reflect on how we’ve kept our friendship strong for 20 years, and share some heartfelt, hilarious, and possibly embarrassing truths.

This one’s for the girls, the group chats, and the friendships that stand the test of time (and tequila).

Watch this episode on YouTube!

In this "Are We Best Friends Now?" episode, we sit down with Kimberly Page—a former entertainment insider turned romance author—for a candid chat about what it really takes to write, publish, and put your heart on the page. Kimberly opens up about the wild ride of launching her books, the creative sparks behind her characters, and how feedback from readers and editors shaped her work. We dive into favorite tropes, the ups and downs of the publishing world, and why building a social media presence isn’t just a “nice to have” for authors today. Plus, Kimberly shares honest advice for aspiring writers and reflects on the surprising ways storytelling can change you—and connect you with your readers.

Follow Kim

IG @iamkimberlyjpage

TikTok @iamkimberlyjpage

Kimberlyjpage.com

Follow Us

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

Keywords

writing, publishing, romance novels, author journey, entertainment industry, character development, editing process, personal growth, challenges, book release, writing, romance, parenting, tropes, spicy content, character development, book recommendations, writing process, aspiring authors, personal journey

In this Are We Obsessed? episode, the Laurens dive into their latest fixations—because when they love something, they really love it. Lauren P reveals how a spicy little Ali Hazelwood novel yanked her out of a six-month reading slump (12 books in one month, y’all!) and shares her newfound love for old-school porch hangouts with neighbors while the kids run wild in the street like it’s 1993. She also sings the praises of living in a neighborhood where all the kids' friends are within five minutes—it takes a village, but like, a close one.

Meanwhile, Lauren B is obsessed with Phoebe Robinson’s Substack, Thots and Prayers, and is on a mission to enjoy summer with her kids rather than white-knuckle her way through it. (We see you, moms hiding in the pantry with the boxed wine.)

If you’re looking for laughs, book recs, community feels, and a nudge to go sit on your dang porch—this episode’s for you.

Helpful links:

Phoebe Robinson's Substack Thos and Prayers:

https://dopequeenpheebs.substack.com/

Ali Hazelwood's New Book, Problematic Summer Romance

https://amzn.to/4kcCqvX

Keywords

summer, parenting, reading, community, slumber parties, family fun, creativity, porch hangs, adventures, podcast

Takeaways

• Summer brings a unique set of parenting challenges.
• Slumber parties can be a fun way for kids to bond.
• Reading can help unlock creativity and joy.
• Community connections are vital for family life.
• Porch hangs foster relationships among neighbors.
• Summer adventures create lasting family memories.
• It's important to savor the good moments in parenting.
• Planning spontaneous trips can lead to great experiences.
• Building a supportive community is essential for parents.
• Finding joy in simple summer activities is key.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Summer Challenges

03:42 Navigating Slumber Parties and Parenting

06:42 Overcoming Reading Slumps

09:31 Creative Inspirations and New Obsessions

12:38 Phoebe Robinson and Social Commentary

15:56 Cultural Reflections and Movie Discussions

16:36 Exploring New Movies and Cultural References

17:40 The Importance of Community and Porch Hangs

26:24 Summer Adventures with Kids

30:02 Planning Family Getaways and Road Trips

(Edited with improved audio!)

In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Are We Doing This?, Lauren and Lauren dive into the chaos and comedy of summer parenting. They swap stories about teaching their kids to ride bikes, surviving splash pad birthday parties in the rain, sunset paddle board picnics, and letting daughters get bangs and purple highlights.

The conversation turns to their June movement challenge—Wall Pilates and daily activity—and their confessions about how much (or little) they actually stuck to it. They reflect on what worked, what didn’t (looking at you, glitchy app), and how “cheating” on your challenge might still count as growth.

Lauren B then unveils her July challenge: to actively explore a career pivot. She’s feeling the pull away from digital marketing and toward something more fulfilling—like coaching, therapy, or facilitation—and lays out her plan to research new paths, reconnect with her strengths, and take the first step toward what’s next.

Meanwhile, Lauren P (who, by the way, is a little wine drunk during this recording) dives into her next creative challenge: writing a romance novella. She's already 800 words in on a story about a woman who’s a social media manager for a celebrity chef. Think: love, kitchen chaos, and content strategy.

It’s raw, real, and full of laughs and "me too" moments for any listener trying to juggle personal growth, parenting, and summer chaos.

Follow us

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

Keywords

summer parenting, wall pilates challenge, daily movement, fitness habits, bike camp, splash pad birthday, paddle board picnic, kids with bangs, purple hair dye, Crocs, short story writing, creativity, career pivot, coaching, therapy exploration, informational interviews, mom guilt, ADHD tendencies, StrengthsFinder, career change, balance, self-discovery, movement motivation, BetterMe app, working moms, flexibility, life after 40

Takeaways

• The importance of balancing summer activities with parenting responsibilities.
• Celebrating children's milestones can be a joyful experience for parents.
• Birthday parties can be fun, even with unexpected weather challenges.
• Engaging in outdoor activities like paddle boarding can enhance family bonding.
• Fitness challenges can motivate individuals to stay active and healthy.
• Finding a balance between work and family life is a common struggle for parents.
• Exploring new career paths can lead to personal fulfillment and growth.
• Coaching and counseling roles can be fulfilling career options for those seeking change.
• It's essential to prioritize self-care and personal interests amidst parenting duties.
• Creating a supportive community can help navigate the challenges of parenting. Exploring career aspirations can be daunting but rewarding.
• Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common feelings when considering a career change.
• Support from others can provide encouragement and motivation.
• Setting small, achievable goals can help in navigating career transitions.
• Self-reflection is key to understanding one's strengths and interests.
• Creative outlets can unlock personal growth and fulfillment.
• Writing can be a therapeutic way to express thoughts and emotions.
• It's important to research and understand different career paths before committing.
• Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights into new careers.
• Embracing the creative process can lead to unexpected and fulfilling outcomes.

In this episode of our Are We OK? series, Lauren and Lauren dive into the emotional whiplash of living in America right now—covering everything from the administration's immigration tactics to the hope sparked by the No Kings protests. They explore how activism and community help ease feelings of helplessness, especially when current events feel overwhelming.

The conversation also takes a personal turn, with candid reflections on mental health, parenting struggles (hello, summer chaos), and the surprising impact of social media on health awareness. Lauren P shares her journey of possibly having Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome after seeing relatable TikToks and opens up about how baking brings her both creativity and joy. Meanwhile, Lauren B discusses her own “wait, do I have ADHD?” moment, and a parenting strategy that’s helping her respond to her kids with more kindness during stressful moments.

It’s messy, real, and filled with heart—just like life.

Helpful Links

Climbing the Walls Podcast

https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/climbing-the-walls

The Ehlers-Danlos Society

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/

Together Rising

https://togetherrising.org/

Keywords

mental health, current events, activism, parenting, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, emotional well-being, social issues, community support, kindness, personal growth, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, health awareness, social media, ADHD, healthcare challenges, cake baking, creativity, women's health, autoimmune disorders, diagnosis

Takeaways

• It's important to check in on our mental health regularly.
• Current events can significantly impact our emotional well-being.
• Finding ways to take action can help combat feelings of paralysis.
• Activism can provide a sense of community and hope.
• Parenting during challenging times requires balance and self-care.
• Summer can bring unique challenges for parents and children alike.
• Practicing kindness towards our children can improve relationships.
• Understanding personal health issues can lead to better self-care.
• It's okay to seek help and support from others.
• Finding joy in small moments can help counterbalance negativity. Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can provide context for various health issues.
• Social media platforms like TikTok can raise awareness about health conditions.
• Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially for women.
• Adult ADHD is often underdiagnosed, particularly in women.
• Baking cakes has become a fulfilling creative outlet for Lauren.
• Feedback from customers can boost confidence in creative endeavors.
• It's important to seek a diagnosis for health concerns to understand them better.
• The joy of creating something tangible can be incredibly rewarding.
• Finding a supportive primary care doctor is crucial for health management.
• Exploring new hobbies can lead to unexpected opportunities and income.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Episode 20: Mental Health Check-In

03:28 Current Events: Discussing Mental Health and Societal Issues

06:31 Taking Action: Finding Ways to Help and Support

09:27 The Fear of Current Events: Navigating Safety and Community

09:46 Finding Community in Chaos

11:48 The Need for Leadership and Organization

13:37 Normalization of Troubling Times

15:39 The Impact of Kindness Amidst Turmoil

16:40 Taking Action in Difficult Times

17:31 Navigating Parenting Challenges

23:33 Creating a Positive Home Environment

26:56 Navigating Daily Frustrations

28:32 Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

34:12 The Impact of Social Media on Health Awareness

41:15 Exploring ADHD in Adults

44:47 Understanding ADHD in Women

52:39 The Journey of Cake Making

01:01:29 Reflections and Future Challenges

In this "Are We Obsessed?" episode, the Laurens catch up on what they’re currently loving—from go-to products and comfort-first fashion to new TV obsessions and what’s on their bookshelves. They swap weekend updates, talk through recent fitness ups and downs, and share how they’re trying to stay on track with health goals while still enjoying life.

The conversation winds through everyday essentials like anti-chafe shorts and the perfect bralette, the surprising joy of permanent jewelry, and how they’re navigating perimenopause and experimenting with adaptogens. There’s a little talk about keto, a lot of talk about reality TV, and plenty of honest moments about what’s working—and what’s definitely not.

LP: 

Waterproof/Sweatproof Necklace

https://atoleajewelry.com/products/rope-chain-necklace-women

Flat Back Earrings

https://amzn.to/3Zs7P6h

Cooling Shorts

https://amzn.to/3FH9I8v

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives

https://www.hulu.com/series/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-58cd73be-408d-4eed-8e3d-82339f3f93e2

LB: 

Bralette (Also available in a regular/non curvy version!) 

https://www.meundies.com/products/curvy-feelfree-ruched-bralette-black

Ashwagandha Supplements

https://a.co/d/8N8WexZ

Your Friends & Neighbors 

https://tv.apple.com/us/show/your-friends--neighbors/umc.cmc.74o37kzay0yuuub8iumddjsg

The Wedding People

https://a.co/d/hkfjF2k

Follow us:

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

Keywords

obsessions, products, TV shows, books, personal growth, fitness, baking, concert experiences, recommendations, fashion, perimenopause, adaptogens, jewelry, TV shows, reality TV, book recommendations, keto diet, lifestyle, wellness

Chapters

02:53 Weekend Catch-Up and Life Updates

05:47 Fitness Challenges and Personal Growth

08:51 Concert Experience with Neon Trees

13:42 Baking Adventures and Cake Creations

19:38 Exploring New Products and Recommendations

21:25 The Comfort of Undergarments

24:15 Finding the Right Fit: Anti-Chafe Solutions

31:47 Navigating Perimenopause: The Role of Adaptogens

35:35 Jewelry Hacks for Everyday Elegance

39:18 Entertainment Recommendations: New Shows to Watch

40:59 The Downfall of a Character

44:07 The Allure of Trash TV

47:15 Book Recommendations and Literary Insights

50:09 Navigating Keto and Social Life

54:51 Final Thoughts and Future Topics