Just Getting Better

Every version of yourself is Every version of yourself is worth exploring. There’s always another branch waiting to be born. exploring. There’s always another branch waiting to be born. – Jane Bertch

Michelle and Julia sit down with Jane Bertch, the inspiring founder of La Cuisine Paris and author of The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris, One Lesson at a Time. Jane shares her transformative journey from her roots in Chicago to building a successful business in Paris, a city she has called home for nearly 20 years. This conversation is packed with candid reflections on embracing courage, navigating uncertainty, and celebrating the simple joys that life has to offer.

Jane Bertch is a native Chicagoan who has spent nearly 25 years living and working in Europe, with almost 20 years in Paris. She spent the first part of her French experience working in financial services for an American bank. In 2009, she founded La Cuisine Paris, a top-rated leisure cooking school in Paris.

Jane volunteers as a mentor, both formally and informally for the expat community, has lectured as a guest professor with International Educational Studies, ESSEC Business School, the University of Illinois, and works with many small entrepreneur groups to develop training and outreach programs.  

Jane’s inspiring and delicious memoir, The French Ingredient: Making A Life In Paris One Lesson At A Time, debuted in April 2024. 

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring discussion about courage, reinvention, and the joys of simple living. Subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to help us spread messages of empowerment and growth.

CONNECT WITH JANE:

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 for women who know life only gets richer with time.

Michelle and Julia sit down with Jane Birch, the inspiring founder of La Cuisine Paris and author of The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris, One Lesson at a Time. Jane shares her transformative journey from her roots in Chicago to building a successful business in Paris, a city she has called home for nearly 20 years. 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.

Inspired by the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona, Chic Barcelona Cava is a traditional method sparkling wine that can elevate any occasion. Fresh, crisp, and fun, it’ s perfect for toasts, pairing with hors d’oeuvres, or bubbly cocktails.

Made at a fourth-generation family estate, this lovely Chablis offers bright citrus and pair notes, plus an intriguing minerality from the region’s signature Kimmeridgian clay soils. A classy choice for holiday meals. 

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

Every version of yourself is Every version of yourself is worth exploring. There’s always another branch waiting to be born. exploring. There’s always another branch waiting to be born. – Jane Bertch

Michelle and Julia sit down with Jane Bertch, the inspiring founder of La Cuisine Paris and author of The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris, One Lesson at a Time. Jane shares her transformative journey from her roots in Chicago to building a successful business in Paris, a city she has called home for nearly 20 years. This conversation is packed with candid reflections on embracing courage, navigating uncertainty, and celebrating the simple joys that life has to offer.

Jane Bertch is a native Chicagoan who has spent nearly 25 years living and working in Europe, with almost 20 years in Paris. She spent the first part of her French experience working in financial services for an American bank. In 2009, she founded La Cuisine Paris, a top-rated leisure cooking school in Paris.

Jane volunteers as a mentor, both formally and informally for the expat community, has lectured as a guest professor with International Educational Studies, ESSEC Business School, the University of Illinois, and works with many small entrepreneur groups to develop training and outreach programs.  

Jane’s inspiring and delicious memoir, The French Ingredient: Making A Life In Paris One Lesson At A Time, debuted in April 2024. 

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring discussion about courage, reinvention, and the joys of simple living. Subscribe, rate, and share Just Getting Better to help us spread messages of empowerment and growth.

CONNECT WITH JANE:

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 for women who know life only gets richer with time.

We had the incredible opportunity this week to speak with Eleanor Allen, the dynamic founder and CEO of Catapult for Change. Eleanor’s journey from engineering and global leadership to entrepreneurship is filled with invaluable lessons on resilience, authenticity, and leading with purpose. 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.

Anseillan is an artful expression of the phenomenal Pauillac terroir of Lafite, a certified B Corporation stewarded by sixth-generation proprietor Saskia Rothschild — the first woman to ever lead the company! Powerful, yet elegant, it’s a wine worthy of special occasions.

Soalheiro established the very first brand of alvarinho in Portugal’s Monção & Melgaço, signaling a new dawn for the region. From certified organic vineyards, their flagship alvarinho has elegant tropical and mineral notes.

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.

In our latest episode, we’re joined by Eleanor Allen, the dynamic founder and CEO of Catapult for Change. Eleanor’s journey from engineering and global leadership to entrepreneurship is filled with invaluable lessons on resilience, authenticity, and leading with purpose.

In this episode, we discuss:

Eleanor’s impressive career includes roles as Lead Executive (CEO) of B Lab Global, CEO of Water For People, and Global Water Leader at Arcadis and Latin America Water Leader at Jacobs. Her contributions to the engineering profession led to her induction into the National Academy of Engineering in 2020. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Eleanor is passionate about coaching executives and leadership teams, advocating for workplace wellbeing and organizational flourishing, championing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles, and mentoring individuals in social change and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) professions

You’ll be inspired by Eleanor’s honest reflection on the challenges facing leaders today, including burnout and adapting to hybrid work structures. Her new venture aims to equip leaders with the tools they need to create engaged and inclusive workplaces that honor employee well-being.

We wrap up with Eleanor’s love for reading, wellness routines, and how she’s just getting better by starting each day with a grateful mindset and journaling simple moments of joy.

Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, and actionable insights that remind us of the importance of compassionate leadership and continuous growth.

CONNECT WITH ELEANOR:

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.

We had the incredible opportunity this week to speak with April Ryan, an esteemed White House correspondent, MSNBC political analyst, and DC Bureau Chief for the GRIO. April shared her insights on the current political climate, reflecting on her extensive experience covering the White House since the Clinton administration. 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.

From a 16th-century estate in the heart of France’s Loire Valley, Château de Montfort Vouvray is exactly the kind of wine locals love. Its vibrant green apple notes and subtle hint of minerality make it a lovely partner for cheese plates.

Founded in 2020, KT Winery is a Black-owned, female-led winery that aims to bring women together. With smooth, dark-fruit flavors, their cabernet is as deep as the conversations you’ll have while enjoying it.

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.

We had the incredible opportunity to speak with April Ryan, an esteemed White House correspondent, MSNBC political analyst, and DC Bureau Chief for the GRIO. April shared her insights on the current political climate, reflecting on her extensive experience covering the White House since the Clinton administration.

We delved into the challenges and exhaustion many face during this political season, particularly for Black women, who often bear the brunt of political and social turmoil. April emphasized the importance of self-care and shared her personal strategies for coping with the chaos.

April also opened up about her traumatic experiences with former President Trump, highlighting the dangers that come with being targeted by his rhetoric. She discussed the need for continuous engagement in politics beyond just voting, urging listeners to hold politicians accountable and stay active in their communities.

We explored the significance of representation in politics, particularly with Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign messaging, which shifts from individualism to a communal approach. April articulated the importance of supporting women in leadership roles and the need for society to recognize and uplift their contributions.

Towards the end of our conversation, April shared her personal journey of finding love again and the importance of setting standards in relationships. She also introduced her candle business, JARE Candles, which serves as a therapeutic outlet for her, stemming from her experiences with grief.

This episode was rich with wisdom, encouragement, and a call to action for our listeners to stay engaged, support one another, and prioritize self-care. We hope you find inspiration in April’s story and insights as we all strive to just keep getting better.

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.

Hosts Michelle and Julia kick off season 2 and dive into their summer adventures, favorite reads and a big announcement…

The wine writers turned friends reflect on their excitement for the upcoming season, including football, family time, and the return of the podcast after a break.

The episode concludes with a brief tasting of some fabulous wines, including a Chardonnay from Los Vascos in Chile and a Portillo Syrah Rosé from Bodega Salentine in Argentina. Michelle and Julia celebrate the beauty of these wines and the stories behind them, reminding ourselves that we are always just getting better.

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.

Just Getting Better Instagram: / justgettingbetternow

Michelle’s Instagram / mswilliamswinewriter

Julia’s Instagram: / juliaconey

In this final episode of Season 1, Julia and Michelle tackle a full range of topics from the Olympics, hot tv shows, politics, skincare trends and as always. the books and wines they’re currently crushing on.

EPISODE LINKS

READS: A Death in Cornwall by Daniel Silva| Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand |The French Ingredient, A Memoir by Jane Bertch | Democracy Awakening, Notes on the State of America by Heather Cox Richardson | The Atlantic: The Irony of The Sephora Tweens | The Today Show: Tweens are obsessed with skin care. As parents, should we be worried?

WHAT WE’RE DRINKING THIS WEEK: Two Wolves Semillon

BETTER HACKS: 

How Michelle Is Getting Better This Week

How Julia Is Getting Better This Week

DISCLAIMER: The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in Just Getting Better are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. This podcast should not be considered professional advice. Unless specifically stated otherwise, Just Getting Better does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this podcast, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. Just Getting Better assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in third party materials or on third party sites referenced in this podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein.

In this powerful episode, Julia and Michelle sit down with Dr. Akilah Cadet, a renowned leader in organizational development and author of White Supremacy is All Around: Notes from a Black Disabled Woman in a White World. Dr. Cadet shares her insights on navigating life as a Black disabled woman, discussing topics such as the importance of calling people in instead of calling them out and the impact of white supremacy on everyday life.

Dr. Cadet is the Founder and CEO of Change Cadet, an organizational development consulting firm that offers services that support embedding belonging into overall company culture, identity and strategy.

Dismantling white supremacy through storytelling is at the core of her work as a leader, speaker, creative director, producer, writer, editor, co-owner of the Oakland Roots and Soul soccer teams, and author of White Supremacy is All Around: Notes From a Black Disabled Woman in a White World.

Dr. Cadet discussed her experiences with white supremacy, intersectionality, and the importance of calling people in rather than calling them out. She highlighted the challenges she faces due to her rare condition, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and the constant need to navigate various aspects of life as a disabled person.

The conversation also dabbles into the world of fashion as Dr. Cadet shares expertise in styling and fashion, revealing her passion for helping others express themselves through clothing. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of representation, self-expression, and the ongoing fight against systemic racism and ableism. The complexities of identity, privilege, and the need for allies and accomplices in dismantling oppressive systems are explored.

The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of self-expression, advocacy, and the ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

ALL THINGS DR. AKILAH CADET: Website | Connect With Her On Social | Buy Her Book

READS: Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo| Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States  |G.I. Bill Did Not Benefit Black Veterans  | Books by Women of Color | 15 Major Benefits of Walking

WHAT WE’RE DRINKING THIS WEEK: Venturini Baldini Montelocco Lambrusco Rosso 

BETTER HACKS: Julia – How to turn “Do Not Disturb” on or off your phone | Michelle is just getting better by taking a mid-afternoon work pause to go for a 10-minute walk. 

DISCLAIMER: The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in Just Getting Better are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. This podcast should not be considered professional advice. Unless specifically stated otherwise, Just Getting Better does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this podcast, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. Just Getting Better assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in third party materials or on third party sites referenced in this podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein.