Hey everyone, we have some bittersweet news to share, and we wanted to have this conversation face-to-face. Over the past nine months, we've poured our hearts and souls into Cats Chats and Coffee, creating a podcast that we are truly proud of. From the early stages of branding and crafting episode outlines to navigating the steep learning curve of equipment and editing, we've built a genuine passion for this incredible community. Season 1 has been a journey of growth, not only in the world of podcasting but also in discovering more about ourselves as women. Through moments of anxiety, tears, shared laughter, and the occasional bump in the road, we've had the opportunity to heal, share our stories, and uncover what truly brings us joy. It's with a heavy heart that we announce Liv's departure from the podcast. She has made the decision to pursue other passions and embark on new adventures. Liv's invaluable contributions as a co-host will be deeply missed, and we wish her nothing but love and success in her future endeavors. As for the future of Cats Chats and Coffee, the path forward may be uncertain at the moment. I, Alex, will be taking some time to readjust and reflect, but I hope to return and continue sharing my knowledge and stories with all of you. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who has been with us from the beginning, as well as those who have joined along the way. Your unwavering support and love for the podcast have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for the encouragement to carry on this adventure in the future. If you're interested in joining me as a co-host for an episode in Season 2, I would love to hear from you! Reach out to me at [email protected]. And don't forget to follow Cats Chats & Coffee on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee, as well as my personal account @alexandrias_xo for updates and future announcements. Thank you once again for being a part of our journey. Here's to sipping coffee and chatting together, embracing the unknown and continuing to grow. With love and gratitude, Alex & Liv

Welcome to Episode 13 of Cats Chats and Coffee: "Cosmic Connections: Decoding Your BIG THREE Astrology Signs.

In this captivating episode, we embark on a cosmic journey through the fascinating world of astrology. Join us as we explore the profound influence of the Sun, Moon, and Rising signs—the "BIG THREE" that shape our cosmic identity.

Discover the significance of these celestial forces in understanding yourself and others. We unravel the traits and characteristics associated with each sign, from the core essence and ego represented by the Sun Sign to the emotional landscape and subconscious patterns revealed by the Moon Sign, and the outward personality and first impressions influenced by the Rising (Ascendant) Sign.

Through engaging discussions and personal insights, we highlight the interplay between these signs, emphasizing the importance of considering all three to gain a holistic understanding of oneself. We also provide practical guidance on identifying your own Sun, Moon, and Rising signs, and share recommended astrology apps to deepen your exploration.

Join us on this enlightening cosmic exploration as we delve into the depths of astrology and its power to illuminate the path of self-discovery and personal growth.

Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts, and let the stars guide you toward a deeper understanding of your cosmic connections. Enjoy!

What we discuss:

• 00:10 - Intro

• 00:55 - Acknowledging the heroic efforts of the Nova Scotia firefighters and the recent tragic events of the fires

• 03:54 - Coffee feat: Mera Cafe + Bar & Apt. 3 Espresso Bar

• 10:23 - Introducing Astrology - What is the "BIG THREE"? Why is it important to us

• 16:06 - How to understand what your Sun, Moon, and Rising signs mean for you, discussing our own BIG THREE

• 20:03 - How to find your own BIG THREE

• 26:03 - Sun Signs: Going through all 12 signs and their positive & negative characteristics

• 57:30 - Moon Signs: Touching on how our Moon sign will show up in our lives

• 01:05:09 - Rising Signs: Touching on the planetary influence that was rising, i.e. on the Eastern horizon, when you were born

• 1:10:55 - What is the purpose of Astrology and why is it important to understand it

• 1:13:35 - Where can you find your birth chart: Co-star app & Cafe Astrology website

• 01:17:05 - Wrapping up with some final thoughts

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Looking for a good laugh or some relatable cringe? Then this week's podcast episode is for you! Get a glimpse into an unedited and unfiltered side of the girls, where they share some funny stories from their past dating experiences. From awkward encounters to downright disasters, we've got it all. Whether you're single, in a relationship, or just looking for a good story, you won't want to miss this episode. So grab your headphones and get ready to cringe along with us!

No seriously, the secondhand embarrassment in this one is real. We're talking about some of our worst dates, that funny enough take place in the woods. Although hiking can be a great way to spend time outdoors and a fun date idea, it is not always the best choice for a first date. Learn from our mistakes!

Join the laughter on this week's episode of Cats Chats and Coffee and be sure to share your worst date stories with us over on our Instagram @catschatsandcoffee! We would love to hear them!

Please Note:

This episode was recorded on Sunday, May 28th, the first date of the NS Wildfire tragedy. During recording, there are sirens that go off in the background but we were unaware of what was happening at the time and what would come for the days to follow. Our deepest condolences go out to those who were affected by these disasters and who have suffered unbearable loss and turmoil. After a scary few days of Alex, Xavier and Nora evacuating their home, we are happy to share that everyone is home safe and sound. A massive thank you to all the firefighters, first responders, volunteers and heroes who risked their lives doing the unimaginable. In these dark, heart-wrenching times, it is beautiful to see people come together and help those in need. Stay strong Nova Scotia.

What we discuss:

• 00:15 - Intro

• 00:29 - Things start off chaotic

• 02:05 - Introducing this week's coffee feature: Aroma Maya (Enfield location), chatting about donuts for a really long time

• 11:47 - Introducing the topic of today's storytime

• 15:37 - The girls finally stop chatting and Liv gets into the storytime

• 20:03 - Ick Alert!!

• 34:50 - A quick note on ghosting, wrapping up the story and chatting about the dating scene

• 40:17 - Pee break for the girls and Liv confesses to forgetting her date's name

• 43:34 - Alex shares more about her dating experience and a funny story with an ex-boyfriend (another hiking story)

• 53:20 - Reflecting on the episode, wrapping things up

• 56:00 - Final words and outro

• 56:23 - Bloopers

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Join us for a transformative journey as we delve into the depths of self-compassion and unravel the intricate nature of self-criticism in Episode 11 of Cats Chats and Coffee.

In Part 1, we explore the common reasons behind self-criticism, shedding light on societal pressures, perfectionism, and the detrimental power of comparisons. We confront the role of the ego, understanding its intentions and learning to befriend it rather than allowing it to fuel self-criticism.

In Part 2, we discover the profound benefits of cultivating self-compassion, from enhanced mental health to increased resilience and overall well-being. We delve into the power of reframing our thoughts and perceptions, unlocking the potential for positive self-fulfilling prophecies and banishing negative self-talk.

Part 3 brings us back to address the challenges of practicing self-compassion head-on. We confront ingrained patterns of self-criticism, combat resistance to self-compassion, and draw inspiration from the analogy of the blue hair. Together, we embrace growth and transformation, taking ownership of our feelings and overcoming the barriers that hinder our journey toward self-compassion.

To guide you on this path, we offer eight practical tips for cultivating self-compassion, including practicing self-compassionate mindfulness, challenging negative self-talk, cultivating self-awareness, and celebrating achievements. You have the power to change your world, change your perspective, reframe your mind, and take back control.

Join us on this empowering Cats Chats and Coffee episode, now streaming on all major podcast platforms. Let's embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-kindness, and self-compassion together. You deserve it. Enjoy!

What we discuss:

• 00:11 - Intro

• 01:36 - What we've been up to. Starting therapy, what's been present for us in our lives recently, Liv spills water on herself, the energy, astrology

• 07:59 - Introducing today's episode, exploring self-criticism, where we are seeing ourselves be extra critical

• 22.22 - Introducing the Ego and the story of the two wolves inside of us

• 28:33 - The power of self-compassion, victim mindset, becoming self-aware

• 36:26 - How do we reframe in moments of self-criticism, sharing a friend's story of their experience with reframing

• 45:07 - Overcoming challenges and embracing growth, how practicing self-compassion will change these negative patterns

• 51:04 - The blue hair analogy

• 54:07 - Key takeaways - 8 principles of self-compassion

• 01:10:05 - Final thoughts and outro

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Join us for episode 10 of Cats Chats and Coffee, where we explore the topic of self-sabotage and how it affects our lives. Starting with a light-hearted chat about our weekend shenanigans, we delve into the concept of self-defeating behavior patterns that often stem from past traumas or coping mechanisms.

Drawing from Brianna Wiest's book "The Mountain Is You," we discuss hitting the upper limits of happiness and how limiting beliefs, fears, and biases from others can hold us back from achieving our best selves.

We also provide insights on how to heal and take responsibility for our behaviors and beliefs that are impeding our progress. Tune in to learn about our recommended books that can help you overcome self-sabotage and embrace the life you are meant to live.

We hope you tune into this week's conversation with Alex and Liv. Episode 10 is now live on all podcasting platforms! Enjoy!

What we discuss:

• 00:30 - Intro

• 01:30 - What’s in our cup feat: uncommon grounds

• 04:55 - Talking about self-sabotage, but first, what we got unto this past weekend

• 11:18 - Diving into today's topic, self-sabotage and why it’s important

• 15:33 - Part 1: Self-sabotage is it self-hatred or a coping mechanism: breaking down what self-sabotage is, examples of how it can show up in our lives

• 36:06 - Part 2: Where self-sabotage comes from, and why does it manifest in us

• 46:43 - Part 3: How to overcome self-sabotage and the tools to turn self-sabotage into self-mastery

• 01:07:07 - Wrapping up & book recommendations

• 01:11:23 - Outro

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Cultivating and maintaining healthy friendships is essential for both our emotional and mental well-being. Having stable relationships helps us develop our social skills, expand our perspectives, and give us a support system and sense of belonging within the world. Friendships can bring joy, laughter, and positive experiences into our lives, making them an important aspect of our overall happiness and longevity in life.

In today's episode, the girls dive deep into friendships, their importance to our overall health, how to nurture and maintain them, and how to effectively resolve conflict. Episode 9 consists of answering big questions surrounding friendships and reflecting on how we've shown up in our personal friendships over the years and what we're doing differently now.

We know firsthand how lonely the world can feel sometimes, but it's important to remember that, in the end, we are all human, and it is in our nature to need connection and community. We deserve to experience love, joy, happiness and great friendships in this life, but we need to cultivate these experiences for ourselves.

So, grab your favourite beverage and tune into this week's conversation with Alex and Liv. Episode 9 is now live on all podcasting platforms!

What we discuss:

• 00:31 Intro from the girls

• 01:09 What's in our cup feat: Starbucks

• 06:10 Intro into today's episode on friendships and cultivating healthy connections

• 06:56 Why are friendships so important for our well-being?

• 21:46 Other significant others (OSO's) and platonic friendships

• 24:54 What are some ways we can actively nurture and maintain our relationships?

• 38:38 Reflecting on past friendships and how much we change and grow throughout these relationships

• 45:01 Story time about Alex and Liv's friendship

• 50:38 How can we effectively resolve conflict in our friendships?

• 01:02:20 Accepting our differences and reflecting on our friendship

• 01:07:05 Final note about introspection

• 01:11:11 Wrapping up today's episode

• 01:13:14 Silliness

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

In episode 8 of Cats Chats and Coffee, Alex and Liv sit down with a couple of mimosas to discuss something that plagues us all at some point in our lives - overthinking.

Alex was in charge of coming up with today's topic and realized how much she overthinks when it comes to her work, making this a timely and relevant conversation for us to have.

Join us as we share our own experiences with overthinking, explore the root causes, and mention some tips to conquer it. Whether it's relationships, self-worth, work, or just life in general, overthinking can prevent us from living in the present moment and enjoying life to the fullest.

So sit back, relax, and listen in as we dive into The Art of Letting Go: Conquering Overthinking on Cats Chats and Coffee. Enjoy!

What we discuss:

• 00:32 Intro chats about the weather

• 03:33 What's in our cup feat: Beanville Roastry

• 07:26 Intro in today's episode on overthinking

• 10:38 How does overthinking show up and feel for us

• 21:46 Where does overthinking stem from?

• 29:52 Why do we so desperately want to be like everyone else?

• 31:37 Reflecting back on why Alex chose today's topic

• 35:07 Getting the opportunity to practice the changes we want to see in ourselves and exposing additional insecurities

• 38:37 Advice to help overcome overthinking

• 42:32 Wrapping up - encouraging you to connect with us!

• 44:43 Being silly

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

This week’s episode is one from the heart. Liv felt called to touch on this topic after both girls shared stories of the tribulations they experienced to get them to where they are today. She surprises Alex with the topic of today’s episode, but that doesn’t keep the girls from having a real, raw conversation worth listening to.

Everyone has or will experience moments of feeling stuck, stagnant, and unsure of what to do next or what to do first. It can feel never-ending, lonely, and shameful, but please know you are not alone in these feelings. And although they may be heavy, our greatest experiences in life often come after our biggest setbacks.

In today’s raw chat, the girls touch on burnout, life after covid, imposter syndrome, and what it’s like to continue showing up for life despite hard feelings.

No coffee feature this week, but we encourage you to grab your favourite beverage, whether that be a caffeinated coffee, a glass of wine, or a hot cup of tea... sit back and enjoy this open and honest conversation!

Episode 7 of Cats Chats and Coffee is now live on all podcasting platforms! Thanks for being here.

What we discuss:

• 00:15 Intro

• 03:53 Sharing the topic of today's episode: Feeling Stuck

• 07:20 "What is the biggest thing holding you back from moving forward in life right now?" Our honest answers

• 10:40 Opening up about feeling broken and struggling with the mindset of needing to fix or improve ourselves

• 15:22 Touching on burnout, health issues, and self-sabotage

• 19:53 Life after covid: Life as we know it is not the same

• 22:46 When imposter syndrome arises

• 30:50 Chatting about what to do in these moments when we feel stuck, the tools we use, and what helps us most

• 38:04 Wrapping up the heart to heart

• 39:25 Last words: Next week's episode

• 40:25 Outro

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Looking for love in the digital age can be daunting, but fear not! In episode 6 of Cats Chats and Coffee, we're sharing all our Tips, Tricks, & Icks for Online Dating & Relationships. Whether you're swiping right for the first time or looking to spice up your dating game, this episode is for you.

Join us as we discuss the dos and don'ts of online dating, share some of our own personal dating stories, and reveal our biggest turn-offs. From crafting the perfect profile to nailing the first date, we've got you covered.

If you're already in a happy, loving relationship, don't worry, this episode isn't just for those who are single and ready to mingle. Stick around for the end where we play "Never Have I Ever" and share some funny and relatable moments. You might just learn something new about us and have a good laugh along the way.

So grab your coffee, get cozy, and join us for a light and fun conversation about the wild world of online dating. Don't miss out on episode 6 of Cats Chats and Coffee - streaming now on your favorite podcast platform! Enjoy!

What we discuss:

• 00:16 Intro

• 00:32 What’s in our cup feat. Pan e Circo

• 07:59 Intro to today’s juicy episode

• 09:13 The "dos" of setting up an online dating profile

• 16:43 The "donts" of setting up an online dating profile

• 25:35 Dating tips for the girls when dating

• 42:02 Dating tips for the guys when dating

• 50:01 Alex’s personal icks

• 55:36 Liv’s personal icks

• 1:02:32 The girls play “Never Have I Ever” and share some secrets

• 1:23:09 Wrap up - what's on the agenda for next week

• 1:24:46 Goofy Liv

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Email us: [email protected]

Although we can all agree it feels good to receive praise and recognition from others, it can also lead to a constant need for approval and a lack of self-confidence.

One of the downfalls to sharing your personal life on social media is that we open ourselves up to receiving constant attention and judgement. And it can be really difficult putting yourself in the spotlight.

In part two of “Embracing Change: Re-inventing Ourselves,” Liv opens up and shares some deep feelings about what it’s like to share parts of yourself on the internet while transitioning through different phases in your life and career.

Listen in on the conversation between Liv and Alex as they chat about external validation, learning to live for yourself, not others and embracing unexpected changes. Life is never what we expect it to be.

Be sure to tune in on your favourite streaming platforms to listen in on this week's conversation! Enjoy

What we discuss:

• 00:12 Picking up where the girls' left off from last week’s episode, Part 1

• 00:46 Liv starts chatting about external validation and what it's like to share your physical appearance online

• 03:33 How your physical appearance gives you worth

• 09:13 TW Liv opens up about a really low point in her journey where disordered eating habits were present

• 11:24 Unexpected changes, starting an online coaching

• 23:03 Quitting bodybuilding and leaving the fitness industry

• 25:35 The pressures of having a presence online

• 43:30 Chatting about the stigma around sex and OnlyFans

• 53:04 Where Liv is now, Alex shares some sweet words, wrapping up the conversation

• 1:04:55 Next week’s episode

• 1:05:55 Outro

• 1:06:12 Final note

Follow us on Instagram @catschatsandcoffee

Follow Liv on Instagram @livbryentonn

Follow Alex on Instagram @alexandrias_xo

Email us: [email protected]