Just Getting Better

Season 2 flew by, didn’t it?

In this special finale, Michelle and Julia reflect on an incredible season filled with empowering conversations, amazing insights from an all-star lineup of guests, and as always, plenty of laughs. From embracing the “soft life” to setting meaningful goals for the year ahead, they dive into the power of self-care, supporting small businesses, and staying curious about what’s next. This episode feels like a cozy chat with friends, offering warmth, wisdom, and inspiration for your own journey.

“Every season brings lessons, challenges, and opportunities to just keep getting better.”

The Joy of “Soft Life”:
Michelle and Julia break down what it means to embrace ease and boundaries without losing sight of ambition, offering personal takes on how they’re redefining success and self-care.

Mapping Out Support:
The duo shares their commitment to supporting small, women-owned businesses throughout the year and how intentional actions create meaningful impact.

Unplugging for Mental Clarity:
In a world of constant notifications, they reflect on the importance of turning off and tuning into what truly matters.

Music, Books, and Beyond:
From Beyoncé’s hopeful tour announcement to their love for F1 racing and book recommendations, they share what’s fueling their creativity and joy right now.

Looking Ahead with Intention:
Whether it’s embracing quarterly goals or choosing a word to define the year, Michelle and Julia discuss their strategies for staying grounded, growing intentionally, and making space for joy in 2024.

Thank you for an incredible Season 2! Take a moment to reflect on your own journey this past year and how you’ll embrace growth and ease in 2024. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast to help us spread the message of empowerment and community. Until next season, keep just getting better!

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE & JULIA:

RESOURCES:

How an Empty Internet Gave Us Tradwives and Trump – Tressie McMillan Cottom

Ronan Farrow discusses his new HBO documentary ‘Surveilled’

Women’s F1 Academy

Susie Wolff, Managing Director, F1 Academy

Books Discussed In This Episode:

Reflective Questions For The New Year:

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.

Skincare is a reflection of self-care, growth, and continuous improvement—just like the journey of getting better as women. Taking care of your skin is a way to honor yourself and evolve with the seasons. This week, Michelle and Julia were joined by skincare expert and founder of Elo Skin, Lacy Yamaoka, for an enlightening and engaging live conversation about achieving your best winter skin. Tune into the episode here.

With every episode, you’ll have an opportunity to meet two new fabulous wines to explore.

This season, we’re excited to introduce you to the global portfolio of wines by Palm Bay International.

An authentic, world-class collab between Sarah Jessica Parker and Invivo Wines, this mouthwatering New Zealand sauvignon comes from top Marlborough vineyards and brims with vibrant tropical fruit flavors.

The Pfaffl family were instrumental in the designation of Weinviertel as Austria’s first Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC). Vom Haus is their “house wine” — crisp, elegant, and bursting with classic white pepper, apple, and herb notes.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.

Skincare is a reflection of self-care, growth, and continuous improvement—just like the journey of getting better as women.

Taking care of your skin is a way to honor yourself and evolve with the seasons. As Season 2 nears its end, we bring you a very special live episode! Michelle and Julia are joined by skincare expert and founder of Elo Skin, Lacy Yamaoka, for an enlightening and engaging conversation about achieving your best winter skin.

“Healthy skin is about balance and consistency—not perfection. Small, thoughtful changes can lead to big improvements over time.” – Lacy Yamaoka

Season 2 is winding down, but there’s one more inspiring episode before the finale! Tune in next week for another engaging conversation filled with actionable insights and motivation to keep evolving and growing.

Lacy Yamaoka is a licensed esthetician and the founder of Elo Skin, a Dallas-based skincare studio offering personalized treatments and expert guidance. With years of experience and a commitment to helping clients achieve radiant skin, Lacy is known for her science-driven approach and her ability to tailor skincare regimens to each individual’s unique needs. Learn more about her philosophy and services at Elo Skin.

CONNECT WITH LACY:

RESOURCES:

Elo Skin

Biologique Recherche

Recommended Products: Cleansers, P50 toner, and oil serums for winter (shop at Elo Skin).

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.

How do you stay focused and lead with impact when the world around you feels uncertain?

Michelle and Julia sit down with Karen Boykin-Towns, President and CEO of Encore Strategies LLC and Vice Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, for a powerful conversation on leadership, purpose, and perseverance.

Karen brings her decades of experience in advocacy, policy, and strategic leadership to discuss critical issues like the backlash against DEI initiatives, the power of grassroots civic engagement, and the enduring importance of organizations like the NAACP in advancing racial equity and justice. Tune into the episode here.

With every episode, you’ll have an opportunity to meet two new fabulous wines to explore.

This season, we’re excited to introduce you to the global portfolio of wines by Palm Bay International.

The #1 selling Gattinara in the world, loved for its impeccable quality and Insta-worthy bottle shape. It’s crafted by the Travaglini family, pioneers in Gattinara for five generations. 

From fifth-generation winemaker Marie Doyard and certified HVE-3 vineyards, this luxe Champagne has incredible depth, complexity, and a persistent, creamy mousse. Perfect for special occasions.

How do you stay focused and lead with impact when the world around you feels uncertain?

Michelle and Julia sit down with Karen Boykin-Towns, President and CEO of Encore Strategies LLC and Vice Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, for a powerful conversation on leadership, purpose, and perseverance.

Karen brings her decades of experience in advocacy, policy, and strategic leadership to discuss critical issues like the backlash against DEI initiatives, the power of grassroots civic engagement, and the enduring importance of organizations like the NAACP in advancing racial equity and justice.

“We’ve been here before, and we’ve overcome. We’ll keep advancing because there’s no other option.” – Karen Boykin-Towns

The DEI Backlash:
Karen breaks down the current landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate America, sharing why some companies are rebranding their efforts but continuing the work internally—and why inclusion remains essential for business success.

The Power of Civic Engagement:
From school boards to city councils, Karen emphasizes the importance of local government and how policies at this level directly impact our communities.

The Legacy and Work of the NAACP:
Karen provides a deep dive into the NAACP’s mission, history, and ongoing efforts to protect civil rights, hold leaders accountable, and empower communities through grassroots advocacy.

Staying Resilient and Informed:
With honesty and optimism, Karen shares how to avoid feeling overwhelmed by chaos, focus on what matters, and keep advancing the work of justice and equality.

Tune in to hear Karen Boykin-Towns share her insights and strategies for navigating today’s challenges. Be inspired to use your voice, get involved, and make a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to amplify stories of resilience and progress.

Karen Boykin-Towns is the President and CEO of Encore Strategies LLC, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the NAACP, and a distinguished leader in policy, advocacy, and strategic change management.

In her 22-year career at Pfizer, a Fortune 50 global biopharmaceutical company, Karen held leadership roles in government relations, policy, and human resources. In her last position as vice president of corporate affairs for Pfizer’s $34 billion innovative medicines business, she supported then-global president Albert Bourla, now company chair and CEO, in ensuring breakthrough medicines were available to patients worldwide.

Currently, Karen is president and CEO of Encore Strategies LLC, a strategic public affairs consulting firm providing informed guidance to corporations, not-for-profits, and individuals. She has served a range of clients who are at the forefront of innovation, such as DKMS, an international organization dedicated to fighting blood cancer; Zoetis, the world’s leading animal health company; and the city of New York, as it explored progressive initiatives for economic development.

As vice chair of the board of directors for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization, Karen brings to the board her dual perspective as a veteran business leader and a seasoned community advocate. With her strategic voice and future-focused approach, she has been instrumental in modernizing and mobilizing the legacy organization – from diversifying revenue streams to developing compelling content for social media platforms and leveraging relationships for greater impact.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

RESOURCES:

NAACP: NAACP.org

ACLU: ACLU.org

Action tools like Color of Change and Vote.org

Karen’s Fitness Coach – Nicole Sanders

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.

Amanda Jones, the 2021 National School Librarian of the Year and author of That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America, joins Michelle and Julia this week to share her journey from advocate to target in the fight against book bans.

Amanda shares her harrowing experience of standing up against censorship at a local library board meeting, which ignited a targeted campaign of harassment and threats against her. This candid conversation unpacks the rise of book banning in America and its impact on free speech, diversity, and education. Tune into the episode here.

With every episode, you’ll have an opportunity to meet two new fabulous wines to explore.

This season, we’re excited to introduce you to the global portfolio of wines by Palm Bay International.

“Les Girelles” Picpoul de Pinet: The Colombo family is one of the most respected in France’s Rhône Valley. Fresh and lively, “Les Girelles” takes its name from a local Mediterranean fish. An ideal aperitif or tasty match for seafood, naturally!

Coste Rubìn Barbaresco DOCG: Fontanafredda crafted the first bottle of nebbiolo labeled as “Barolo” — but they also make exceptional nebbiolo in the neighboring Barbaresco region. Barrel aged for one year, Coste Rubìn is well-structured, complex, and an impressive partner for holiday roasts.

What happens when you stand up for what you believe in, even when it feels like the world is against you?

In this week’s riveting episode, Amanda Jones, the 2021 National School Librarian of the Year and author of That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America, joins Michelle and Julia to share her journey from advocate to target in the fight against book bans.

Amanda shares her harrowing experience of standing up against censorship at a local library board meeting, which ignited a targeted campaign of harassment and threats against her. This candid conversation unpacks the rise of book banning in America and its impact on free speech, diversity, and education.

Amanda’s story is a testament to the strength it takes to fight for what’s right, even when faced with overwhelming adversity. With thoughtful insights and a call to action, Amanda sheds light on the broader cultural challenges of misinformation, mob mentality, and the critical role of libraries in fostering inclusion and intellectual freedom.

The Cost of Speaking Out:
Amanda recounts her experience of addressing book bans at a public library board meeting and the personal attacks that followed, highlighting the real-world consequences of standing up against censorship.

Understanding the Rise of Book Bans:
The hosts and Amanda discuss how dark money groups and extremist ideologies are fueling a resurgence in book banning, particularly targeting LGBTQ+ and BIPOC stories.

Navigating Harassment with Resilience:
Amanda shares how she found strength in her faith, community, and a commitment to lead by example, even as she faced targeted harassment and threats to her safety.

The Role of Libraries in Democracy:
This discussion emphasizes why libraries are essential for intellectual freedom, inclusion, and democracy, and how book bans undermine these principles.

A Call to Critical Thinking:
Michelle and Julia explore the need for critical thinking in today’s media landscape, urging listeners to question sources, reject mob mentality, and value nuanced discussions.

Listen to this impactful episode to better understand the fight against censorship and the role we all play in preserving intellectual freedom. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to amplify stories of courage and resilience.

Amanda Jones has been an educator for 22 years and is the President of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians. She was the 2021 School Library Journal Co-Librarian of the Year, 2021 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, and 2020 Louisiana School Librarian of the Year. Amanda is a sought-after keynote speaker at national and international conferences. Amanda co-founded the Livingston Parish Library Alliance to defeat censorship attempts in her community and is a founding member of the Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship, which fights against censorship efforts across the state. She lives in Livingston Parish, Louisiana

CONNECT WITH AMANDA:

RESOURCES:

Amanda Jones’s book: That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America

PEN America report on book bans in U.S. schools

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Check out this season’s delicious wine picks here.

Menopause isn’t the end—it’s the start of a new chapter where we can thrive like never before. – Dr. Jessica Shepherd

In this empowering episode, we sit down with Dr. Jessica Shepherd, board-certified OBGYN and author of Generation M: Living Well in Perimenopause and Menopause. Together, we explore the myths, challenges, and truths surrounding menopause and midlife transitions. Dr. Shepherd shares her expert insights on why menopause isn’t the end but rather a new beginning—and how embracing this life stage with knowledge and intention can lead to empowerment and growth.

From cultural stigmas to the physical and emotional effects of hormonal changes, we dive deep into the experiences that shape how women navigate this chapter of life. Plus, practical tips for prioritizing health, managing symptoms, and redefining what it means to age well. Whether you’re approaching midlife or want to better understand this natural transition, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to thrive.

Understanding Menopause Through a New Lens:
Dr. Shepherd explains the phases of menopause, from perimenopause to post-menopause, and clarifies common misconceptions. She emphasizes that midlife isn’t a decline—it’s an opportunity for reinvention.

The Intersection of Culture and Menopause:
As a Black woman and menopause expert, Dr. Shepherd shares how cultural norms impact the way women experience and discuss midlife health, highlighting the importance of breaking down barriers to candid conversations.

Building Blocks for Thriving:
Drawing from her book, Dr. Shepherd discusses practical “building blocks” women can implement to navigate menopause, including lifestyle adjustments, body awareness, and cultivating resilience.

Redefining Aging and Empowerment:
The conversation shifts to redefining aging as a vibrant, intentional journey. Dr. Shepherd encourages listeners to view midlife as a time to focus on long-term health and create a thriving future.

The Role of Mindset in Wellness:
Dr. Shepherd underscores the power of mindset in shaping how women experience health and wellness in midlife, offering insights into fostering positivity and confidence during transitions.

Breaking the Silence:
Michelle, Julia, and Dr. Shepherd discuss the importance of normalizing menopause conversations and the need for accessible resources for all women to navigate this life stage.

Dr. Jessica Shepherd is a board certified gynecologist and women’s health expert that specializes in menopausal health and is also the founder of Modern Meno Health. Her holistic practice Sanctum Med + Wellness in Dallas, has created a place for patients to explore their holistic journey in optimizing health and has been featured in Self Magazine and Women’s Health Magazine. Her release of her book “Generation M”  this year will also create more buzz in the menopause world.

Dr. Shepherd is an engaging and well known media personality that is seen regularly as an expert on Good Morning America, The Today Show,  CNN, MSNBC and CBS News.  She is on the Advisory Board for Women’s Health Magazine, Women’s Health.org. and the Society for Women’s Research.

Listen in to this inspiring episode to learn how to navigate menopause and midlife with strength, grace, and confidence. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to help spread empowerment and positivity.

CONNECT WITH DR. SHEPHERD:

RESOURCES:

Dr. Shepherd’s new release: Generation M: Living Well in Perimenopause and Menopause

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Michelle and Julia are joined by the remarkable Sarah Armstrong, Vice President of Global Marketing Operations at Google and author of The Art of the Juggling Act: Bite-sized Guide for Working Parents. With an impressive career spanning roles at Coca-Cola, McKinsey, and now Google, Sarah reflects on her journey from excelling as a collegiate volleyball player at Georgetown University to leading global teams across industries, all while navigating the challenges of parenthood and personal growth. Tune into the episode here.

With every episode, you’ll have an opportunity to meet two new fabulous wines to explore.

This season, we’re excited to introduce you to the global portfolio of wines by Palm Bay International.

Made at one of Sicily’s most respected family wineries, this lovely nero d’avola has vibrant plum, cacao, and spice notes. Perfect for pasta night.

A beautifully mature, finely structured Brunello Riserva from one of Tuscany’s oldest and most renowned estates (who’ve been shortlisted for European Winery of the Year in this year’s Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards!). Will age gracefully for years to come.

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatabl

“Boundaries take courage, but they’re a muscle you can build.” – Sarah Armstrong

Michelle and Julia are joined by the remarkable Sarah Armstrong, Vice President of Global Marketing Operations at Google and author of The Art of the Juggling Act: Bite-sized Guide for Working Parents. With an impressive career spanning roles at Coca-Cola, McKinsey, and now Google, Sarah reflects on her journey from excelling as a collegiate volleyball player at Georgetown University to leading global teams across industries, all while navigating the challenges of parenthood and personal growth.

The conversation goes beyond professional achievements, delving into the heart of what it means to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. Sarah opens up about the foundational support she received from mentors, the lessons she’s learned about setting and resetting boundaries, and the courage required to pursue new challenges—whether it’s leading in the boardroom or authoring books that inspire others.

Together, they explore actionable strategies for managing life’s demands, including the transformative power of outsourcing, the nuances of building confidence, and the significance of defining balance on your own terms.

Sarah Madden Armstrong is the author ofThe Art of the Juggling Act: A Bite-Sized Guide for Working Parents, vice-president of Global Marketing Operations at Google and proud mom of Grace, now approaching her senior year of college

Prior to joining Google, Sarah was a partner at McKinsey & Co. and worked at The Coca-Cola Company in global marketing for twenty years, where she led Worldwide Agency Operations across 200 countries. Sarah started her career at Leo Burnett (Chicago) in Media. Her work has been recognized around the world, resulting in her being named one ofAd Age’s “Women to Watch” and included in Ad Age’s Book of Tens (“Top Ten Who Made Their Mark”)

Sarah loves traveling the world and has been fortunate to travel to 55+ countries. She enjoys exploring new cities and spending time with Grace whenever possible. Sarah lives in San Francisco, where she loves walking along the water and enjoying the city’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re a working parent or simply looking for ways to manage life’s many demands, Sarah’s insights will leave you inspired and ready to take action.

CONNECT WITH SARAH:

RESOURCES:

Sponsored by Palm Bay International, Season 2 is all about celebrating growth—because getting better deserves to be acknowledged with a toast. Whether we’re having a good laugh or diving into deeper conversations, each Just Getting Better episode is filled with candid moments, practical insights, and relatable stories.