it's cool, us too

What does it actually mean to be a girl’s girl in 2025? In this episode, Cole and Meag dive deep into the heart of female friendships – through the lens of their own stories, struggles, and sisterhood.

They open up about online criticism, the growing pains of friendships shifting from your twenties into your thirties, and why tough conversations are the real love language. From weekend adventures to skin care flops, from TikTok trends to emotional support systems – this is a candid, cozy chat about the beauty and complexity of showing up for your people and yourself.

You’ll hear them unpack:

• How self-care rituals can help with burnout and emotional fatigue

• The evolving definition of a “girl’s girl” in a hyperconnected world

• Why communication, trust, and emotional safety matter more than ever

• Why being a good friend means celebrating each other, even when life looks different

Whether you're in a friendship glow-up or navigating growing pains, this one’s for you.

In this weeks episode, Cole and Meag get real about the quiet ache for connection so many women feel in their 30s. They unpack how romantic comedies shaped our earliest ideas of love—and the gap between those dreamy meet-cutes and today’s swipe culture.In a world where we’re always connected but rarely truly connecting, this episode explores what it means to crave small, meaningful moments of romance. From emotional intelligence to spontaneous sparks, they talk about what we’re really looking for: tenderness, effort, and the kind of connection that makes us feel alive again.If you’ve ever felt disillusioned with modern dating or found yourself missing the magic, this conversation will feel like a warm hug and a gentle nudge toward hope.Takeaways:

• Celebrating milestones with friends can bring unexpected joy.
• Romantic comedies have shaped unrealistic expectations of love.
• The importance of vulnerability in modern relationships is emphasized.
• Hyper-connectivity has led to a lack of genuine connection.
• Friendship and support are crucial during personal milestones.
• Romance is often found in spontaneous moments of connection.
• Dating apps have created a paradox of choice that can hinder genuine connections.
• It's important to be open to interactions that may not lead to anything significant.
• Setting boundaries is crucial in dating, but so is being open to new experiences.
• Emotional intelligence in relationships is often lacking, yet highly desired.
• Women should create opportunities for romance rather than waiting for it to happen.
• Fleeting moments can bring joy and excitement, even if they don't lead to lasting relationships.
• The portrayal of romance in media often sets unrealistic expectations for women.
• Being present and approachable can lead to unexpected romantic encounters.
• Compliments and kindness can enhance the romantic atmosphere in everyday life.

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In this week's episode, Meagan and Nicole dive into the now-viral conversation between Steven Bartlett, Logan Ury and Scott Galloway on the crisis facing young men today—and how it impacts modern relationships and women. From the decline of male role models to the challenges of emotional connection, we explore the “lost boys” phenomenon through a lens of empathy, economic realities, and dating dynamics.

As women in our 30s navigating the highs and lows of modern dating, we reflect on how shifting gender roles, post-pandemic social changes, and a growing disconnect between men and women are reshaping what we want—and need—in a partner. Whether you're dating, parenting, or just curious about the state of masculinity today, this episode offers nuanced insights, personal reflections, and practical thoughts on how we can build stronger relationships based on communication, vulnerability, and core values.

Takeaways:

• The episode discusses the struggles of young men in today's society.
• There is a lack of male role models for young men.
• Empathy for men's issues is essential for understanding their struggles.
• Community and connection are vital for young men's well-being.
• Societal structures need to change to support young men.
• The podcast's focus on men's issues can be frustrating for women.
• Parenting dynamics are influenced by changing gender norms.
• The conversation around masculinity needs to include actionable solutions.
• Understanding the data on young men's struggles is crucial for empathy. Understanding the nuances of modern dating is essential.
• Does economic viability play a significant role in male desirability?
• Women prioritize core values like integrity and kindness in relationships.
• Empathy is crucial in understanding the dating experiences of both genders.
• Men often date based on immediate attraction, while women consider potential.
• Communication and vulnerability are key in building strong relationships.
• Women are increasingly economically independent, changing dating dynamics.
• Social interactions have evolved post-pandemic, requiring new approaches.
• Grace and awareness in dating can improve connections.
• Engaging in societal issues and voting is important for change.

In this episode of it's cool, us too, we sit down with Kate McKenna, producer of the digital series Mom Life Crisis, to talk honestly about the raw realities of motherhood. From navigating friendships and the unequal mental load of parenting to finding moments of flow amid the chaos, Kate shares her journey with authenticity and grace. We dive into how COVID-19 shaped the parenting experience and why honest conversations are crucial for maintaining mental health and community support. Whether you're a mom, thinking about becoming one, or just curious about the realities of motherhood, this episode offers a fresh, unfiltered perspective.

Tune in for a candid chat about self-discovery, friendship dynamics, and giving ourselves grace—even when life gets messy. Plus, Kate’s advice on how to support friends through motherhood and beyond.

Want more?

• Follow Kate @kmckenna77
• Watch Mom Life Crisis
• The episode of the social that started it all

Takeaways

• Kate McKenna discusses her journey as a producer and mother.

• The transition to motherhood can be unexpectedly challenging.
• Many women feel pressure to balance work and motherhood.
• COVID-19 has significantly impacted the parenting experience.
• Honest conversations about motherhood are crucial for mental health.
• Jealousy can indicate what you truly desire in life.
• Maintaining friendships can be difficult after having children.
• Communication is key in friendships, especially during life changes.
• The emotional ups and downs of motherhood are common and valid.
• Community support is essential for new mothers. Navigating long-distance friendships requires effort and grace.
• It's important to give each other grace in relationships.
• Support during motherhood can come in simple forms, like grocery shopping together.
• Authentic conversations can lead to deeper connections.
• Friendship dynamics change significantly during motherhood.
• The mental load of parenting often falls unequally on women.
• Men also experience challenges in parenthood but may lack outlets to express them.
• The transition into motherhood can feel like a loss of one's previous self.
• Self-discovery is a continuous journey through motherhood.
• Finding small moments of flow can enhance daily life.

We started 'it's cool, us too' from our bedrooms during Covid. I know many of us struggle to remember what Covid even felt like (I think in the biz they call that a "trauma response") but one thing we do remember is just how much we needed a shake-up. We were feeling worn down, uninspired, and lonely. And we wanted to feel connected to a community of women who were grappling with what their 30s should look like just like us. ⁠⁠To anyone who has listened to an episode, written in to give us feedback, liked or saved a post, or sent us a little bit of love...we love you. Thank you for being our favourite part of every week.

Takeaways

• The podcast has been a journey of personal and professional growth.
• We reflect on the challenges of launching the podcast and overcoming fears.
• The dynamic of our friendship has been crucial to the podcast's success.
• We discuss the balance of roles in podcast production.
• The significance of memorable episodes and the impact on listeners.
• Navigating dating while having a podcast can be complex.
• Trying new things can lead to personal growth.
• Podcasting has improved our communication skills.
• Creative formats can enhance listener engagement.
• Social media is a learning curve for us.
• Memorable episodes often reflect personal experiences.
• Authenticity is key in our content creation.
• Conflict can strengthen friendships when addressed.
• Reflecting on past episodes reveals personal growth.
• Living well means being present and grateful.
• Openness to change is essential for personal development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

02:57 Health Challenges and Career Pressures

06:03 Exploring Fertility and Health Management

08:48 Navigating Life Changes and Future Plans

11:59 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

14:54 Favorite Moments and Lessons Learned

26:58 Embracing Growth Through Uncertainty

29:33 Creative Podcasting: Engaging Formats and Listener Connection

31:12 The Learning Curve: Social Media and Audience Engagement

36:03 Reflecting on Memorable Episodes and Personal Growth

40:40 Navigating Personal Challenges and Authenticity in Content

44:18 Conflict and Resolution: The Dynamics of Friendship

49:54 Living Well: Perspectives on Growth and Gratitude

⁠To the next 100 episodes <3

In this conversation, Dr. Aisling Lanigan, a naturopathic doctor, discusses the multifaceted aspects of fertility, emphasizing that it is not solely a woman's issue. She outlines the various factors influencing fertility, including egg and sperm quality, age, and lifestyle choices. The discussion also covers the importance of egg freezing as a proactive measure for women considering future pregnancies. Dr. Lanigan highlights the significance of dietary choices, particularly the Mediterranean diet, in optimizing fertility outcomes. The conversation aims to empower listeners with knowledge about fertility and the steps they can take to enhance their reproductive health. In this conversation, Dr. Aisling Lanigan discusses the importance of nutrition and supplementation in enhancing fertility, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches to testing and treatment. She highlights the role of naturopathy in supporting fertility treatments and the significance of empowering women with knowledge about their reproductive health. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of egg freezing and the importance of asking the right questions during fertility appointments. Dr. Lanigan shares her personal perspective on living well and maintaining health through comprehensive assessments and a supportive healthcare team.

Takeaways

• Fertility is influenced by egg, sperm, and combined factors.
• Age affects fertility for both men and women.
• Egg freezing is a valuable option for women.
• Lifestyle changes can significantly impact fertility.
• The Mediterranean diet is beneficial for reproductive health.
• Alcohol consumption should be limited to two drinks per week.
• Smoking negatively affects fertility and should be avoided.
• Comprehensive lab tests are essential for fertility assessment.
• Weight management is crucial for both men and women.
• Environmental factors, like endocrine disruptors, can impact fertility. Increasing fiber is crucial for fertility.
• Vitamin D is essential for optimal reproductive health.
• Most Canadians are deficient in vitamin D.
• Individualized care is key in fertility treatments.
• Healthy lifestyle choices can slightly improve AMH levels.
• Egg freezing should be viewed as an insurance policy.
• Naturopathy can enhance the effectiveness of fertility treatments.
• Women should ask questions during fertility appointments.
• Living well involves feeling great and having energy.
• A supportive healthcare team is vital for health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fertility and Naturopathy

01:36 Understanding Factors Influencing Fertility

06:37 The Role of Age in Fertility

09:29 The Importance of Egg Freezing

12:32 Lifestyle Changes for Optimizing Fertility

20:11 Dietary Recommendations for Fertility

28:11 The Mediterranean Diet and Its Impact on Fertility

30:48 Nutrition and Supplementation for Fertility

34:05 Individualized Approaches to Fertility Testing

35:28 Understanding Egg Freezing and Hormonal Health

41:32 The Role of Naturopathy in Fertility Treatments

44:45 Empowering Women with Knowledge for Fertility

52:26 Living Well: A Personal Perspective on Health

If you'd like to learn more about Aisling's clinic, visit https://flourishyourhealth.com.

In this week's episode, Meagan shares her recent trip to Mexico City, reflecting on personal growth and the joy of exploring new places alone. The conversation highlights the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and embracing spontaneity. In this engaging conversation, Meagan and Nicole explore the nuances of solo travel, particularly in vibrant Mexico City. They discuss the cultural richness of the city, the challenges of navigating language barriers, and the personal growth that comes from stepping outside one's comfort zone. The conversation also delves into practical advice for budgeting, prioritizing safety, and the importance of self-discovery in one's 30s. Through their experiences, they highlight the beauty of embracing new adventures while also acknowledging the complexities of traveling alone.

Takeaways

• It's important to have a safe space to vent.
• Winter can significantly affect social interactions.
• Solo travel can be empowering and therapeutic.
• Being comfortable with discomfort is crucial for growth.
• Traveling in your 30s is different from your 20s.
• Romanticizing travel can help appreciate the experience.
• Mexico City is a vibrant and happy place.
• Planning is essential, but spontaneity can lead to magic.
• Daily routines can become monotonous; travel breaks that cycle.
• Finding joy in small things, like cooking, can be fulfilling. Mexico City is a vibrant and diverse city that encourages creativity.
• Traveling alone can push you out of your comfort zone and lead to personal growth.
• Language barriers can create challenges in social situations but can also be overcome with effort.
• It's important to prioritize safety when traveling alone, especially in unfamiliar places.
• Investing in experiences that excite you can enhance your travel experience.
• Finding a local connection can provide a sense of safety and familiarity while traveling.
• It's okay to take time for yourself and not feel pressured to do everything while traveling.
• Self-discovery is a key aspect of traveling alone and can lead to greater resilience.
• Understanding your own needs and preferences is crucial for a fulfilling travel experience.
• Living well in your 30s involves knowing and accepting yourself.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Daily Life

04:58 Navigating Winter Challenges and Social Fatigue

10:06 The Impact of Solo Travel on Personal Growth

19:56 Empowerment Through Solo Travel Experiences

22:57 Reflections on Mexico City and Its Joyful Atmosphere

24:28 Exploring the Vibrancy of Mexico City

26:30 Navigating Cultural Differences and Language Barriers

30:36 Embracing Solitude and Personal Growth

33:42 Investing in Experiences: Travel Budgeting Tips

36:45 Prioritizing Safety While Traveling Alone

41:04 Advice for Aspiring Solo Travelers

44:18 Living Well in Your 30s: Self-Discovery and Acceptance

This week we're joined by Jenny, a fitness influencer that is a self-proclaimed "joyologist". And you'll get it as soon as she hits your ear drums. Jenny shares her journey from a competitive cheerleader to a fitness influencer, discussing the emotional challenges of retirement, her reflections on turning 30, and the importance of community. She opens up about her experiences on reality TV, the identity shifts that come with it, and the recent challenges she has faced, including a concussion and car accidents. Jenny emphasizes the significance of being true to oneself and the journey of personal growth. In this conversation, Jenny shares her profound experience of navigating trauma after her best friend's severe accident. She discusses the emotional turmoil she faced, the importance of community support, and how she learned to choose joy amidst adversity. Jenny emphasizes the significance of showing up for others in times of need and reflects on her personal growth as she transitions into her 30s, focusing on self-care and setting boundaries.

Takeaways

• Fitness has been a part of Jenny's life for over 15 years.
• Retiring from cheerleading was a significant emotional transition.
• Turning 30 is seen as a new chapter rather than an end.
• Jenny shares her life challenges to build community and connection.
• Navigating identity shifts after major life changes can be difficult.
• Reality TV experiences can be transformative yet isolating.
• Jenny values authenticity in her social media presence.
• Health and wellness are crucial to Jenny's self-care routine.
• Recent accidents have impacted Jenny's health and wellness journey.
• Building a sense of belonging is essential for personal growth. Jenny's best friend suffered a traumatic brain injury, leading to a deep emotional journey for Jenny.
• Experiencing panic for the first time highlighted the gravity of the situation.
• Jenny learned to shift her mindset to support her friend during recovery.
• Community support played a crucial role in helping Jenny cope with her feelings.
• Celebrating small victories became a vital part of Jenny's coping strategy.
• Choosing joy is a conscious decision that can help navigate difficult times.
• Understanding that everyone has different needs in times of crisis is essential.
• It's important to show up for others without expecting anything in return.
• Jenny emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries as she enters her 30s.
• Living well in her 30s means trying her best without pressure.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jenny LaViolette

01:25 Jenny's Journey in Fitness and Cheerleading

04:51 The Emotional Impact of Retirement

05:43 Turning 30: Reflections and Expectations

08:31 Navigating Life's Challenges and Building Community

13:47 The Experience of Reality TV and Identity Shifts

22:15 Recent Challenges: Concussions and Accidents

24:15 Navigating Trauma and Friendship

30:01 The Power of Community Support

37:30 Choosing Joy Amidst Adversity

44:29 Showing Up for Others

51:54 Living Well in Your 30s

In this episode, Nicole and Meagan share personal updates, including Meagan's three-week solo trip to Mexico City and Nicole's reflections on her recent anxiety. They discuss the joys and challenges of living in different environments, the importance of friendship, and how to navigate feelings of comparison and anxiety. The conversation transitions into strategies for personal growth, setting intentions, and fostering gratitude, emphasizing the need to focus on one's own journey rather than comparing it to others. In this conversation, Meagan and Nicole explore the themes of personal growth, the impact of comparison and jealousy, the importance of friendship and grace in sensitive situations, and the practice of gratitude. They discuss how shifting perspectives can change experiences, the nuances of celebrating friends' successes, and the significance of finding joy and purpose through service. The episode concludes with practical tips for cultivating gratitude in daily life.

Takeaways

• Sometimes, you just gotta dance it out.
• Mexico City is a great escape from winter.
• Food and drink in Mexico City are exceptional.
• It's important to have local friends when traveling.
• Anxiety can hit unexpectedly, but reflection helps.
• Celebrating small joys can lead to a perfect day.
• Setting intentions can help overcome feelings of comparison.
• Chasing joy is essential for personal fulfillment.
• Creating micro habits can lead to significant changes.
• Social media fosters comparison, but we can choose gratitude. Invest time in yourself without losing your sense of self.
• Shifting the narrative around experiences can change your perspective.
• Comparison can lead to negative feelings; focus on gratitude instead.
• It's important to give friends space to process their feelings.
• Celebrate your friends' successes genuinely to foster good karma.
• Finding joy in service can lead to personal fulfillment.
• Practicing gratitude can help combat feelings of jealousy.
• Being intentional about gratitude can enhance your well-being.
• Disconnecting from technology can help you appreciate life more.
• Cultivating gratitude can be a daily practice, not a chore.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

08:02 Exploring Mexico City: Meagan's Experience

14:05 Navigating Anxiety and Personal Growth

17:49 Setting Intentions and Overcoming Comparison

19:47 Shifting Perspectives on Dreams and Goals

22:21 Navigating Comparison and Jealousy

25:11 Understanding the Nuances of Friendship

28:46 The Importance of Grace in Sensitive Situations

30:16 Cultivating Gratitude and Joy

33:39 Finding Purpose Through Service

34:44 Practicing Gratitude in Daily Life

In this episode, the hosts engage in a deep conversation about the dynamics of friendship and romantic relationships, particularly for women in their 30s. They explore the societal pressures that prioritize romantic connections over friendships, the challenges of maintaining friendships as life gets busier, and the internal conflicts many face regarding their desires for romantic partnerships. The discussion highlights the importance of friendships and the need for a balanced perspective on relationships. In this conversation, Meaghan Wray and Nicole discuss the complexities of dating, the importance of self-care and hobbies, and the future of romantic relationships. They explore how personal growth and community engagement can enhance one's dating experience, while also addressing the challenges posed by dating apps and ghosting. The discussion culminates in reflections on what living well means in the context of friendships and personal fulfillment.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Friendship and Romance

02:50 The Value of Friendship vs. Romantic Relationships

09:35 Societal Pressures on Relationships

16:31 Navigating Friendships in Your 30s

21:48 Desires and Conflicts in Romantic Relationships

24:27 Navigating the Dating Landscape

30:14 The Importance of Hobbies and Self-Care

36:29 Rethinking the Future of Dating

43:41 Living Well: Personal Reflections and Future Plans