Hot flashes. Mood swings. Rage cleaning your kitchen at midnight. If menopause has you questioning your sanity, this episode is your warm hug and wake-up call. We're joined by Ayurvedic practitioner and menopause coach Karen Baskett, who shares how holistic tools like herbs, food, and lifestyle changes can actually reduce menopause symptoms—without judgment, shame, or one-size-fits-all advice.

We dig deep into how Ayurveda helps balance the body’s energies (aka doshas), why your gut is holding more than just bloat, and what really happens when estrogen takes a hike. From sleepless nights and night sweats to midlife reinvention and shedding old expectations, this conversation is both healing and empowering.

Whether you’re perimenopausal, postmenopausal, or wondering if this is finally the reason you forgot what day it is—this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

What Ayurveda is and how it supports women in midlife

Why menopause symptoms are deeply connected to gut health

The role of stress, trauma, and “overdoing it” in hormone imbalances

How to talk to your doctor when you’re not being heard

The power of journaling your symptoms—and trusting your inner healer

Karen's bold move to Belize and what it taught her about choosing herself

✨ Plus: Our signature blend of sarcasm, sisterhood, and solutions—served with herbal tea or Olipop, depending on the night.

*****************************************

Special Guest:

What is Ayurvedic Medicine ?

Arbonne Pear Energy Fizz

Episode 12: Menopause: True Lies

Dr. Nancy Longsdorf, Author & Ayurvedic physician

Tamsen Fadal, Menopause advocate, author & speaker

Dr. Mary Claire Haver, Creator of the Galveston Diet & hormone health expert

*****************************************

Need help remembering what we talked about? Join the Pod Squad (our email list!) for direct links, show notes, and more midlife goodness delivered to your inbox. 💌

👉 Subscribe Here 

We want to hear from you! Drop your thoughts in the comments, or send us an email at [email protected]. Whether it's a story, a laugh, or a “yep, been there”—we love hearing how our episodes land with you.

Follow, like, and join the conversation:

Got a question, idea, or just want to say hi? We’re all ears.

Connect with your hosts:

Dinner Without the Drama: Quick, Real-Life Hacks to Make Cooking Less Stressful

Why is figuring out dinner every single night the hill we have to die on? In this episode of Drinks With The Girls, Karen and Lisa are joined by guest Lisa Potter — a home cook, working mom, grandmother, and part-time caterer — for a real, hilarious, and super helpful convo about the never-ending dinner grind. Whether you're cooking for picky kids, a partner with “texture issues,” or just yourself (hello, cheese and crackers), this episode is packed with tips, tools, and sanity-saving strategies for midlife mealtime.

From burnout in the kitchen to rediscovering joy through sourdough, we're dishing up:

Simple weeknight meal hacks that don’t involve 47 ingredients

Kitchen tools that actually make your life easier

How to plan meals without losing your mind (hello, Cozi and Plan to Eat apps)

Why grocery delivery is a midlife miracle

The secret magic of a well-stocked pantry

Tips for cooking for one (or two) that don’t involve cereal for dinner — unless you’re into that

We also talk about the emotional labor of always being the one to decide what’s for dinner, why “just ask them to help” actually works, and how to bring a little fun (and wine) back into the kitchen.

Resources + links mentioned are in the show notes — including our favorite apps, pantry staples, and how to get your hands on that sourdough starter.

Whether you’re an empty nester, feeding a full house, or somewhere in between — this one's for you, listeners. Grab a glass, put your feet up, and let’s tackle the dinner dilemma, one shortcut at a time.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Here are the links, tools, recipes, and apps we mentioned in the episode, all in one place for you to browse while pretending to meal plan (we see you).

Home cook, sourdough whisperer, and co-founder of a catering business with her son (yes, seriously).

🗓️ Cozi Family Organizer – Create a shared calendar, grocery lists, and store recipes in one spot

🍴 Plan to Eat – Imports recipes, builds grocery lists, and keeps everything organized

Want to start baking sourdough without losing your mind? We got you.

🧺 Sheet Pan Dinner Template – The ultimate weeknight dinner hack

Keep these on hand and dinner practically makes itself (okay, almost):

Rice & Pasta

Canned Tomatoes / Tomato Sauce

Canned or Frozen Veggies

Cream of Celery / Cream of Chicken Soup

Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder, Paprika

Roasted Red Peppers

Kalamata Olives

Artichoke Hearts

Bouillon Cubes (Beef, Chicken, Veggie)

🥬 Tastes Better From Scratch by Lauren Allen

🥛 Raw Milk Locator

🍅 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)

🥩 Oregon Valley Farms

🥓 ButcherBox (for national meat delivery with sustainable practices)

🍎 Imperfect Foods – Discounted groceries that are slightly “imperfect” but perfectly delicious

🍐 Misfits Market – Similar to Imperfect, depending on where you live

The real MVPs for fast, no-fuss cooking:

✅ Instant Pot – Weeknight lifesaver

✅ Digital Kitchen Scale – For no-mess baking and sourdough

✅ Sharp, High-Quality Knife – Game-changer (get it sharpened regularly!)

✅ Microplane – For garlic, ginger, nutmeg, citrus zest, and more

✅ Wooden Corner Spoon – Flexible, non-scratching, forever favorite

Share it with a friend who's over being the default dinner decider

Screenshot and tag us @drinkswiththegirlspod

And don’t forget to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review — it helps other women find our show!

Need help remembering what we talked about? Join the Pod Squad (our email list!) for direct links, show notes, and more midlife goodness delivered to your inbox. 💌

👉 Subscribe Here 

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

YouTube: Drinks With the Girls Channel----more----

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

Feminism, Fillers, and Facelifts: Exploring Self-Love, Societal Pressure, and the Freedom to Age Your Own Way

With their signature blend of wit, warmth, and honesty, the hosts tackle the tangled web of beauty standards, internalized ageism, and the judgment women face—from society and from each other. From personal stories to cultural commentary, this episode invites listeners to reflect on where empowerment ends and pressure begins.

Whether you’re considering your first filler or fiercely embracing every wrinkle, this is a judgment-free zone—and a celebration of choice, autonomy, and aging out loud.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Guiness Nitro

Episode 37: Brook Shields - Book Review

“Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed To Get Old” by Brooke Shields

Renee Zellweger Plastic Surgery Controversy

Not active on Social Media

Demi Moore nude with paint

Episode 17 : Breast Reduction

Lisa’s Breast Reduction Vlog

Lisa’s Vegan Collagen Builder - Arbonne Skin Elixir

Alex Light - Body Confidence

Pamela Anderson 

IG: Pamela Anderson

CALL US Pamela!📲

The Last Showgirl

Linda Evangelista Controversy

IG:

Episode 3: Aging Disgracefully, Pt 1

Episode 4: Aging Disgracefully, Pt 2 

Tyra Banks

Naomi Campbell

Beverly Johnson

Iman

Cynthia Erivo

Simone Ashley

CALL US Simone!📲

Charithra Chandran

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Join the Podsquad and get all the episodes delivered right to your inbox every week! Easy to listen, easy to share! You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge. Sign up here now!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

In this empowering episode of Drinks with the Girls, hosts Karen and Lisa sit down with special guest Natasha Kolehmainen to explore what it truly means to age authentically—especially for women over 40. From embracing gray hair to challenging unrealistic beauty standards, this candid conversation dives into the silver hair movement, midlife self-acceptance, and the power of aging on your own terms.

Natasha shares her personal journey of going gray as a conscious rebellion against the pressure to “stay young” and the costly, time-consuming routines pushed by the beauty industry. Together, the trio opens up about letting go of outdated norms, embracing natural beauty, and confronting the double standards women face compared to men as they age.

Whether you're considering ditching the dye or redefining what aging means to you, this episode offers real talk, inspiration, and actionable encouragement. Discover why going gray is more than a style choice—it’s a radical act of self-love.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Guest:

Natasha Kolehmainen is a certified Life and Health Coach helping GenX women who want to release the clutter in their lives, embrace simplicity, and create space for the work, activities and experiences they truly desire. Living an authentic, aligned life is the true GenX flex! 

You can sign up for her waitlist for information about future courses and workshops here

You can follow her on Instagram here

Or check out her website here

Natasha’s previous guest appearance on the podcast:

Vino Disco

Episode 37: Brook Shields - Book Review

“Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed To Get Old” by Brooke Shields

Episode 3: Aging Disgracefully, Pt 1

Episode 4: Aging Disgracefully, Pt 2 

Pamela Anderson IG: Pamela Anderson - CALL US Pamela!📲

Episode 17 : Breast Reduction

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

In this powerful episode of Drinks With The Girls, hosts Karen and Lisa sit down with renowned psychic medium Sally Anne to explore how women can reconnect with and trust their intuition—especially after 40.

Too often, women are conditioned to second-guess their inner knowing. But what if tuning into your gut instinct is the key to clarity, confidence, and personal growth? Sally Anne shares her journey into psychic mediumship, how she developed her intuitive abilities, and what it means to connect with energies beyond the physical world.

Together, we discuss:

Why intuition tends to get louder in midlife

The societal pressures that teach women to ignore their instincts

How psychic readings can offer validation and guidance

Practical ways to nurture and trust your own inner voice

Stories that will make you think, laugh—and maybe get a little chill down your spine

Whether you’re spiritual, skeptical, or just a little curious, this episode is a must-listen for any woman navigating midlife changes, personal reinvention, or simply wanting to feel more in tune.

So pour your favorite drink, settle in, and join the conversation about intuition, connection, and female friendship after 40.

✨ Because trusting yourself is not woo—it’s wisdom.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Guest: Sally Anne, Professional Psychic Medium

Facebook

Email

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Drinks with the Girls! Today, we're diving deep into a topic that resonates with so many women: health, fitness, and wellness after 40. Join hosts Karen and Lisa as they chat with Kelly Curtis, a seasoned health and fitness expert, about navigating perimenopause, menopause, and the unique challenges women face in midlife.

From the importance of strength training after 40 to the benefits of a high-protein diet and HIIT (high-intensity interval training), this conversation is filled with practical tips and expert advice on how to take control of your health and feel stronger than ever.

Learn how balanced nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes can help manage hormonal shifts, boost energy, and improve overall well-being. Plus, we explore the power of community and accountability in staying motivated on your fitness journey.

Whether you're just beginning to prioritize your health or looking to level up your current routine, this episode is packed with motivational insights to help women over 40 thrive. So grab a drink, get comfy, and join us for a real, relatable conversation about midlife fitness, menopause wellness, and taking charge of your body and mind after 40.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Little West Juices

Arbonne Dream Tea

Cayenne Cleanse Kombucha

Guest: Kelly Curtis

Fitness & Wellness Coach

Need help getting all that protein in? These are fantastic tasting vegan protein shakes and each serving is 20 grams of protein: Essential Meal Protein

My Fitness Pal App

Infrared Saunas

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

In this powerful episode of Drinks with the Girls, hosts Karen and Lisa tackle the widespread issue of bullying—proving it doesn’t end after childhood. From workplace intimidation to online harassment, they explore how bullying affects women over 40 and beyond. Through real-life stories and expert-backed insights, they discuss setting boundaries, handling toxic behavior, and leveraging emotional intelligence to stand strong. With practical strategies and a focus on community support, this episode empowers listeners to navigate and overcome bullying at any stage of life. Tune in for a candid, eye-opening conversation on creating a culture of respect and resilience.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Arbonne Green Synergy Elixir

Recess

Neuroscience Episode with Andrea Samadi

Athletic Brewing Non-Alcoholic Beer

The Empowered Parent Collective Launches March 11th - Founders Membership open only through March 18th! 

First Episode: Drinks With the Girls - An Introduction

Mean Girls

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

Buckle up, listeners—this episode is salty, sassy, and straight-up necessary. We’re diving deep into Brooke Shields’ latest book, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old, and let’s just say she is speaking our language. From the ridiculousness of the anti-aging industry to the way society treats women over 40 like they’ve expired, we’re breaking down all the ways this book had us yelling, “YES, THANK YOU.”

We’re talking about confidence, reinvention, and the patriarchal BS that’s been trying to keep us in line since we were eight years old. (Spoiler: It’s not working anymore.) Brooke’s in her “F-it” era, and frankly, so are we.

Plus, we share some of our own midlife revelations, talk about what it means to truly step into our power, and maybe, just maybe, start a grassroots campaign to get Brooke to notice us.

Grab your drink of choice and get ready—this episode is all about owning your next chapter and making damn sure nobody puts midlife women in a corner. Cheers! 🥂

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Arbonne ImmunityFizz  Vitamin C Fizz Sticks - Rosemary Fig Flavor

“Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed To Get Old” by Brooke Shields

IG: Brook Shields - CALL US BROOKE!📲

The Good Girl Myth: Why Midlife Women Are No Longer Buying It

Song: “Confident” by Demi Lovato

Episode 27: Divorce, Dating, and Relationships in Midlife

Commence - Brooke’s Hair Care Line

“Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression” by Brooke Shields

“Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields” Documentary

“There Was a Little Girl: The Real Story of My Mother and Me” by Brooke Shields

Episode 5: The 80s, Part 1: More Than 16 Candles

Episode 6: The 80s, Part 2: Karen & Lisa's High School Reunion

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

In this empowering episode of "Drinks With The Girls," we delve into the complex world of parenting children with unique needs. Hosts Karen and Lisa share candid, heartfelt stories and insights from their own experiences as mothers of children with unique needs. They explore the multifaceted roles parents must assume—therapist, advocate, and emotional coach—while managing their own lives.

Join Karen and Lisa as they tackle the challenges, isolation, and societal judgments faced by parents, while also celebrating the small but significant accomplishments that make the journey worthwhile. This episode offers a supportive community space for parents who feel overwhelmed, providing reassurance that they're not alone. Whether you're in the thick of it or seeking understanding, this conversation is a beacon for those navigating the unpredictable journey of raising kids with special, unique, and tough needs.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Vino Disco

Join the Empowered Parent Collective Waitlist and get more info here!

Join my free Empowered Parent Collective Community here

Decluttering Episode Part 2

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************

In this insightful episode of Drinks with the Girls, hosts Karen and Lisa engage in a compelling conversation with certified coach Natasha Kolehmainen, who shares her transformative journey of decluttering her home and life. Join us as Natasha reveals the emotional impact and freedom that comes from letting go of clutter, and the profound shift in mindset that follows.

Natasha takes us through her personal experience of feeling suffocated by her living space, leading to the decision to embrace the "nuclear option" and radically simplify her environment. Through vivid storytelling, she highlights the importance of understanding our relationship with possessions and how decluttering can pave the way for personal growth and new beginnings.

Listeners will discover practical strategies for purging unnecessary items, the science behind how clutter affects our mental well-being, and the steps to maintain a clutter-free, restorative home. Natasha also shares valuable tips on navigating decluttering with family members who may have different perspectives on clutter. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights to help you create a space that truly supports your life journey.

*****************************************

Show Notes:

Guest:

Natasha Kolehmainen is a certified Life and Health Coach helping GenX women who want to release the clutter in their lives, embrace simplicity, and create space for the work, activities and experiences they truly desire. 

You can sign up for the waitlist for the Midlife Purge course, find out more about her Zen Your Den workshop and check out all her juicy details here!

And, you can follow her IG here!

Smith College

Previous Decluttering Episode:

The Art of Letting Go: Decluttering the Decades

Carrie Powell - Method Seattle IG Account

*****************************************

Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at [email protected]

Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. You’ll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!

IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod

Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com

*********************************************