Today we discuss the book 'Theo of Golden' by Alan Levi, which explores the themes of kindness, community, and the impact of grief. This book is both heart wrenching and inspiring and illustrates how grief and loss shape our understanding of kindness. This book highlights the beauty of human connection. and we learn many important lessons learned through Theo's journey. There is a deeply spiritual component to this book that we both found deeply profound and comforting. This is a book we will read again and again.

Hiya Gorgeous Listeners!

Missy is back, musing about relationships in midlife. We had a lot to say and share on this topic, including a pivot to personality tests and love languages! We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

Hiya Gorgeous  Listeners! We are so proud to share today’s podcast. Our guest is Liz Minella, who many of you may already know and follow on Instagram. I

Liz Minnella is a new media strategist, digital organizer, and political fundraiser who helps politicians, organizations and everyday people understand and use their digital power. 

She rose to prominence in the advocacy space following the Fourth of July mass shooting in Highland Park, when her Instagram posts helped translate outrage into clear, actionable steps that helped fuel the grassroots push to pass the Illinois Assault Weapons Ban.

During the 2024 election cycle, Liz became a leading voice on how online influence actually moves voters. 

She founded Chicago Women for Harris, served as Finance Co-Chair of Women for Harris, and raised tens of millions of dollars for the campaign. 

She co-organized and emceed White Women: Answer the Call, a viral event that drew more than 200,000 viewers and crashed Zoom.

 She led weekly Women Wednesdays for Harris digital organizing calls and field efforts in the battleground states. 

Her work was featured on the front page of The New York Times and on CNN, highlighting how individuals were more successful at leveraging new media tools than most of the political establishment.  

In 2025, she founded Connect Forward, an organization building a new media ecosystem for liberal voices. She also hosts Demfluenced, a podcast on the intersection of social media and politics.

Follow Liz on Instagram at @lizaminella

and @connectfoward_org

and @demfluenced

and for Liz’s Voter Guide, go to 

Liz Minnella’s Voter Guide | Sway

Nina’s Share - Prequel Gleanser

Martha’s Share: 28 Days of Loving More Calendar

In a world where urbanization often overshadows the charm of rural life, Elawa Farm stands as a beacon of hope and community spirit. Martha and Nina talk with Laura Calvert the Executive Director of Elawa Farm, who revealed the inspiring journey of this community treasure. Join us as we explore the transformative power of farming, community, and love that resonates through the stories shared in this episode.

Laura shares her journey from a small-town upbringing to her role at Elawa, highlighting the farm's community impact, especially during the pandemic. The discussion covers the importance of inclusivity, workforce development, and the various programs offered at Elawa, including community dinners and educational classes. The conversation emphasizes the significance of volunteerism, supporting local farmers, and creating a unique dining experience, all while finding purpose and passion in their work.

Today we discuss the escalating violence and political climate in the United States, We have not opening discussed our politics on the podcast but recent events have left us feeling unmoored. We feel that this is the time for us to engage in the conversation. You may not agree with us on the correct answer and that is ok. We encourage our listeners to engage in the conversation and move from from feelings of anger to actionable steps for change,

Do what you can to make a change, even if it is uncomfortable

Shares:

⁠https://www.instagram.com/emilyinyourphone/?hl=en⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/lizaminnella/?hl=en⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/heathercoxrichardson/?hl=en

Today we discuss the escalating violence and political climate in the United States, We have not opening discussed our politics on the podcast but recent events have left us feeling unmoored. We feel that this is the time for us to engage in the conversation. You may not agree with us on the correct answer and that is ok. We encourage our listeners to engage in the conversation and move from from feelings of anger to actionable steps for change,

Do what you can to make a change, even if it is uncomfortable

Shares:

https://www.instagram.com/emilyinyourphone/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/

https://www.instagram.com/lizaminnella/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/heathercoxrichardson/?hl=en

Hiya Gorgeous Listeners!

In this conversation, we explore various themes surrounding trust. We discuss the Marble Jar metaphor introduced by Brene Brown, which illustrates how trust is built through small, everyday actions. 

Anatomy of Trust with Brene Brown

Stronger Ground, book by Brene Brown

Diary of a CEO podcast with guest Brene Brown

The Gottman Institute

Martha's Share: A Favorite Design

This week we talk with Kate Buckart, Adult Services Manager at Lake Forest Library, a vibrant community hub. Kate shares the library's innovative programs, resources, and future plans to enhance community engagement. The discussion highlights the library's efforts to foster connections among residents. We think the library is a great resource for people of all ages and we enourage our local listeners to visit the Lake Forest Libray soon. We also encourage listeners everywhere to visit your local library. You will be shocked to find out all the amazing services they offer!

Hiya Gorgeous Listeners and Happy New Year!

Today we share our words of the year. Words that we chose to guide us through 2026 and all we wish to do. Do you set a New Year's resolution? Do you choose a word or a theme to follow? Let us know!

Hiya Gorgeous Listeners!

Today, we reflect on where we find hope when it seems lost. We realize, being hopeful is a practice we can all cultivate. Please share some ways, places and people in which you find hope!

Kelly Corrigan Wonders

New York Times Realer Estate

Olivia Munn, BCRAT test

Brene Brown

Elewa Farm