We are excited about airing our TENTH episode! Wow, time flies when you’re having fun! And it’s only getting better! However, we know that we couldn’t have made it to “EP10” without the support, feedback, and encouragement of some of our amazing friends turned listeners! Thank You really isn’t a big enough word…but we hope it will suffice for now! We’re calling out Aimee, Alison, Tiffanie, Brandi, Layron, Phyllis, Kemba, Adam, Mary, Rosetta, Wesmo, Julianna, Lindsey, and Orie for being incredibly connected and in touch with us so far! We know there are so many others who are rooting for us and we love and thank you too! 

So what have we been up to since last week? Well, Irene took in the sights, sounds, and foods of Memphis, while Shells braved Spirit Airlines for the first time and enjoyed a whirlwind weekend in Atlanta.

There are only 2 points of business for Ellen this week. First, she’s moving her talents to the big screen by producing the adaptation of the novel “Uprooted” by Naomi Novik. Secondly, we still need your help to make the #IreneEllenDanceBattle happen. Irene has upped the ante by declaring that the dance battle will be to a MJ song. So, be sure to tweet & Facebook @TheEllenShow & @FSGPodcast and use #IreneEllenDanceBattle.

This week’s would you rather is fun (we think, lol). Would you rather “Hakuna Mata” or “YOLO” [as your life’s philosophy]. Let us know what you would choose! #FSGWYR

Here’s a few things to chat about around the water-cooler: A teenage pool party was ruined by an out-of-control, power hungry, pistol pulling police officer in McKinney, TX. Thankfully, there was video of the incident and no kids were seriously injured. “Officer” Michael Slager has been indicted on murder charges for the death of unarmed Walter Scott in April, and the Scott family will move forward with a wrongful death suit against the city of North Charleston. To further illustrate the magnitude of broken-ness in our justice system, Kalief Browder was sent to Riker’s Island for 3 years without a trial after being accused of stealing a backpack at the age of 16. The young man sadly committed suicide this past weekend, and it’s nearly impossible not to connect his wrongful imprisonment with his subsequent psychological and mental struggles that may have led to his death. The US government announced this week that there was a data breach (suspected to be orchestrated by the Chinese government) that impacted more than 4 million current and former government employees.

On a much lighter note, American Pharaoh won the Triple Crown. This is the first Triple Crown since 1978 and the jockey is the oldest and first Latino to win. Irene might not care about horse racing, but it is a current and historic event that might come up … at some point… maybe. Lastly, if Pandora, Spotify, and Tidal weren’t enough, Apple has decided to throw its iHat in the music streaming ring w...

Welcome, welcome, welcome, good people…to episode 9. As always, we are so happy that you’re joining us.

Over the week, Shells may have missed an opportunity from the Universe to be a savior to someone in need. Irene is officially a cyclist and (apparently) a daredevil. And then there was the story of the most conspicuous ghost writer ever.

The Ellen Show will air new episodes through the summer (longer than usual), because it’s going to be her “Biggest Summer Ever”. If you’ve never watched the show, Ellen loves to scare her guests. It’s hilarious and she’s been showing some of her favorite scares recently. One of our favorites is Nicki Minaj. Last, but not least, our girl made the Forbes World’s Most Powerful Women list. We’re not surprised, but so happy for E.D. But not as happy as we’ll be when the #IreneEllenDanceBattle happens..and.it.will.happen.

This week’s Would You Rather is to live one life that last 1,000 years or ten lives that last 100 years each? Irene gets a little sentimental this time (wait for it).

At the watercooler, we talk about the devastating floods in Texas, the FIFA scandal that is drawing international scrutiny, a few notable mentions on The Forbes World’s 100 Most Powerful Women list, Tracey Morgan’s his first interview since the fatal car accident, the 19 Kids & Counting molestation investigation is growing and may impact the political scene, and the 2015 Scripps National Spelling reminds us that “smart kids do things”. Finally, we discuss the NBA finals…sorta. Mostly, we try to talk through the current unfavorable feelings that Irene holds for Lebron James…it’s a Miami Heat thing (Shells doesn’t get it :-/ )

This week, we talk about the growing trend of the commercialization and visibility of celebrity athletes and their children and/or parents. Most recently, there is the rising star and toddler sensation that is Riley Curry. There’s also a Speed Stick commercial featuring the collegiate basketball player/NBA draft candidate, Jahlil Okafor…and his dad.

Our conversation about chivalry from last week has spilled over into Irene’s Beats this week with the melodic tunes of Trevor Wesley. Check him out. And Shells wraps up the show with a suggestion about 3 simple hobbies that can help you find happiness and balance in your life.

As always, you can stay in touch with us here on our website, on Facebook, and Twitter. And if you don’t mind… rate us and write a (legit) review on iTunes! 🙂

We’ll see you next week!

-Irene & Shells

 

 

We’re EIGHT episodes in and we, like little kids, are sooooo excited about it!! 🙂

What’s happening in our lives, you ask? Well…Irene is the proud new owner of a bike and plans to race her way through the DMV. Shell’s is looking forward to Memorial Day weekend with family and is oddly excited about an upcoming Color Vibe 5K.

Ellen is putting her thumbprint on yet another network: this time it’s HLN with her wildly popular and entertaining game Heads Up! That should be fun! Ellen is also starting a movement by encouraging viewers to #JustKeepDancing in the name of Pediatric Cancer Awareness. This gives Irene two very important reasons to dance, since the #IreneEllenDanceBattle continues to be our goal. Ellen’s also highlighting achievements around the world … like the US innovation of an OG breadstick sandwich! #YUM #CuttingEdge #TheAmericanWay

To relive the past or foresee the future, that is the question!!!  This week we’re discussing if we would rather have a time machine that only went forward in time or back in time. This one get’s a little heavier than usual…but it’s a good one. Let us know what you would rather. #WYRFSG @FSGPodcast

There’s a lot of entertainment stuff happening around our watercooler. Here it is: The Billboard Awards were sponsored by C.Breezy’s red suit and black hair, Taylor Swift’s pantsuit and journey to womanhood, and Kanye *insert ball of light and moments of silence*. Jay-Z’s B-side concert was semi-exclusive to Tidal subscribers and the reunion of Roc-a-fella was…interesting. Janet Jackson is finally returning to the music scene and it’s amazing news, as far as Irene is concerned. Killer Mike made an impressive and informative appearance (not performance) on Bill Maher. Rest in Peace to BB King, who passed away at 89 years old.  And after 8 years, the Mad Men series is over.

Tyrese posted a very public expression of admiration for Janelle Monae, and we Talk About It! Irene finds it creepy… Shells isn’t that put off by it. We want to know what you think… Is this a demonstration of chivalry or  is it going too far?

New artist, Tink, is in Irene’s Beats this week. This budding singer & rapper is produced by Timbaland and her first major single is a nod to Aalyiah’s One in a Million. In the spirit of time machines and public display of affection, Shell’s Eye Spy Inspiration is about staying connected or reconnecting to those you love. And a very special guest closes out our show this week! 🙂

Remember, you can get and stay in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter, or on our webpage! See ya next week!

We are here again! The most exciting things to happen in our lives since last week can be summed up in two words: Fitbit & Softball. Exciting, right? Indeed.

Ellen continues to bless the world with her kindness. Peck Elementary School was awarded an amazing amount of money, in addition to a very special gift given to their hard-working and optimistic principal. Irene is practicing for the #IreneEllenDanceBattle. When it happens (and it will happen), it’s going to be an epic meeting of 2 dance machines: @fsgpodcast and @theellenshow.

This week, our Would You Rather is a debate of public accommodations – restroom versus transportation. The co-hosts do not agree, but what would you do? Tweet us @fsgpodcast #FSGWYR

Your Watercooler News: First, there was the deadly Amtrak Train 188 derailment, then a freight train derailed in Pittsburgh 2 day later, Verizon is courting AOL, and Tom Brady was suspended & the Patriots fined for “Deflategate”. So there’s that.

Are there certain words or phrases that make you cringe? We talk about some things that we hate to hear and unfortunately that includes some of Raven-Symone’s recent comments.

The mysterious and very talented Sia is in Irene’s Beats this week, and Jane Fonda (who recently appeared on Ellen) is responsible for today’s Eye Spy inspiration.

Until next week, we want you to keep in touch, here’s how:

Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, or email us at [email protected].

Hope to hear from you soon!

-Irene & Shells

Welcome back, good people!

We kick things off by catching up since our last show. In that time we’ve had Irene’s birthday and Shelley’s Mother’s Day celebrations.

Then there’s our boo, Ellen! In front of the camera, Ellen blessed a studio full of expectant moms with gifts galore! She also had a week filled with fun guests, including Kristen Wiig and Jamie Foxx. Behind the scenes, Ellen’s all about the kids and it shows. She’s working on a new clothing line, GapKids x ED, and a children’s variety show with Steve Harvey, “Little Big Shots”. Both projects are coming this summer. Annnndddddd…. the mission to make the dance battle  happen continues. #IreneEllenDanceBattle @fsgpodcast @theellenshow

We talk about superpowers for Would You Rather… the power to fly or to become invisible. Which would you rather?

Do you need something to chat about around the water cooler? Try this: MayPac: the fight of the century…or was it? President Obama announced the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative. Wells Fargo is stealing your hard earned money. Apparently, “all the black people” are leaving a graduation in Lilburn, GA and that’s just an observation. Believe it or not, it is possible to have twins from 2 different fathers. And the candidate pool is filling up for the 2016 Presidential election.

So, have you ever sung a song even when you don’t know all of the words. Or worse, you’ve sung a song loud and wrong for the long time before you realized you were wrong… No? It’s just us? Oh, okay…well, we’ll talk about it.

We wrap the show up with an understated, but hugely talented songtress and musician in Irene’s Beats and Shelley’s encouragement give to others but never sacrifice yourself.

We’ll see you next week! Until then, let us know what you think about the show…

While we’ve been away… Thanks to Irene, we have an addition to the family (soooo excited!!!) and when is the last time you had to take a written driving exam?! Shells knows that they still happen.

Before we can get into new business, we have to clear up a couple of things from last week’s episode. As the old folks used to say, “Charge it to our heads and not our hearts”. 🙂

In the wonderful world of Ellen, congrats are in order for her outstanding wins in awards and the Matt Lauer prank wars. Irene is ready to up the ante in inviting Ellen to the battle dance. Help us make it happen! #IreneEllenDanceBattle @FSGPodcast @TheEllenShow

This week’s Would You Rather looks at perception and/or reality. Would you rather live a great life but people think your life sucks or live a horrible life but people think your life is amazing? Let us know what would you rather #WYRFSG.

Around the water cooler, we are talking about the devastating earthquake that rocked Nepal and surrounding areas, Jay-Z is speaking up for Tidal, #BaltimoreUprising, and Mexico aired the #MayPac fight for free.

Speaking of perception and reality, we really talk about the exclusive 20/20 special with Bruce Jenner.  Some 17 million people tuned into this revealing conversation with Bruce and Diane Sawyer …how can we not talk about some of the highlights of the conversation and “HER”?!?!

What’s in Irene’s Beats this week?? Here’s a few hints: He’s Nigerian-American, he’s on Wonderland Records, and his sound is classic! In terms of inspiration, Shells encourages you remember that life is about more than just “gritting and bearing” it…enjoy it, you deserve it!

Irene had a weekend in NYC highlighted by Springcoming and meeting the awesome hosts of The Poplife Podcast (thepoplifepodcast.net). Meanwhile, Shelley is adjusting to her new Midwest, suburban life, is a bit intimidated by the city life and apparently needs to use Google Maps.

This week’s Would You Rather is about saying what’s on your mind or saying nothing at all. And for the very first time, the hosts disagree…FINALLY! What would you rather? Let us know #FSGWYR.

Ellen has some great people around her and we’ll talk about them too. This week, it’s the wonderful and unassuming production assistant, Ari. Then Ellen gives us an informative and entertaining explanation of the Women on 20s campaign (www.womenon20s.org). Check out her monologue for yourself, here. As usual, the mission continues … #IreneEllenDanceBattle. Stay focused.

What can you talk about at the Water Cooler this week? Pakistan airstrike, Loretta Lynch’s appointment makes history, there’s that #KylieJennerChallenge, Verizon’s build-your-own cable option, the Tidal struggle is real, and another tragedy with the death of Freddie Gray.

Let’s Talk About…OURSELVES!! It’s just a little chat about a few loves of our lives, just for shits and giggles.

There’s something a little ratchet in Irene’s Beats this week, and Shelley’s eye spy inspiration is dedicated to the amazing people doing amazing things, including our very own linesister, Lauren Grant (http://www.thegrantaccess.com).

In this episode, we address some real shit: the narrative about police brutality and shootings, and the growing list of black victims, including Walter Scott. Our Would You Rather question is appropriately about the fine line between liberty and justice.

We were joined by a very special guest, Phillip Agnew who is Mission Director of the Dream Defenders (http://www.dreamdefenders.org). It was important that we elevate the conversation beyond our raw emotions of anger, frustration, and helplessness, and Phillip did exactly that. We talk about the history of police violence, the systemic roots that support prejudice behavior and the devaluation of black and brown lives, and how conscience-ness, empathy, and contribution can shift the narrative and positively impact the cultural dynamic.

While we do address a very serious issue, there’s still some gigglin’ going on! In true FSG fashion, we give you your weekly update on Ellen and another plug for #IreneEllenDanceBattle! There’s a little update on the Water Cooler News regarding the APS Testing Scandal. No matter what’s going on, there’s always something playing in Irene’s Beats and this week it’s inspired by current events, and the quote for the really sums up the entire episode.

…and then there were 3, eps that is!

Welcome back!!!! Just for Shits and Giggles, Shelley wants faux locs and Irene’s looking for custom gold orthodonics…six gold teeth to the bottom! #JudgeYaMama

Ellen’s nominated for 10 Day Time Emmy Awards. Of course she is- she’s Ellen!!!!! And Irene is serious about this dance battle.

Water Cooler News…Tidal, Corrupt US Senators, and some other shit.

In this week’s edition of “Let’s Talk About It”, Irene and Shells discuss Iyanla’s “therapy session” with Karreuche Tran and we get into the underlying issues that many men and women deal in unhealthy relationships have to deal with…Karreuche, you are not alone. *MJ voice*.

Check out what’s in Irene’s Beats. And take in Shelley’s Eye Spy Inspiration. Oh, and of course, there’s a lot of random giggling going on.

We’re here!!!! Welcome to the official FIRST episode of For Shits and Giggles…it’s a podcast!!! In this week’s episode, Irene and Shelley introduce you to the world of FSG: Seriously, why do we love Ellen Degeneres so much? Shells hits us with a little “would you rather?” to break the ice. We’ll give a little taste of what’s happening in the world- you know, so you can sound somewhat intelligent to your family, coworkers, and friends. We ask the question: what’s really good with social media and human being’s general social skills…or lack their of? We HAVE to touch on #TweetLikeDameDash. Oh Damon…smh. And Irene shares with us what’s she’s listening this week. We hope you enjoy it! @fsgpodcast