Gregory Powell brings his sharp wit and design expertise to the podcast, sharing the remarkable journey that led him from New York's television industry back to his hometown of Pittsburgh. What began as a simple complaint about facial pain during a family visit in 2018 quickly escalated to a life-changing diagnosis: stage four adenoid cystic carcinoma, an incredibly rare cancer affecting his salivary gland.

Rather than surrendering to circumstance, Gregory approached his hospital stay with characteristic flair—ordering Japanese kimonos, using vintage silverware for hospital meals, and creating a "creative deck" specifying acceptable flower arrangements for visitors. This refusal to surrender his identity perfectly encapsulates Gregory's perspective on life's challenges: "When they're telling you 'we have to fix this right now,' you don't have time to think 'why me?' You just go into action mode."

After recovering just as COVID hit in early 2020, Gregory pivoted professionally into design production for HGTV, where his ability to solve problems under pressure made him invaluable on shows like "Trixie Motel." He describes the delicate balance of managing reality TV production schedules against construction timelines, often requiring creative solutions when materials don't arrive on time.

Throughout our conversation, Gregory offers candid insights into dating in what he calls "the Paris of Appalachia," describing Pittsburgh's social scene as a "yearbook" where everyone knows everyone's history. His perspective on relationships at this stage of life is refreshingly mature—maintaining separate homes even in committed relationships, valuing independence alongside connection.

From naming his chickens after fashion icons to having his dog Louis upgraded to first class while he remained in coach, Gregory's stories blend humor with authentic reflection on creating a meaningful life after facing mortality. His journey reminds us that maintaining our personal style and humor through life's greatest challenges isn't just about survival—it's about thriving on your own terms.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
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Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Join us LIVE for a raw, unfiltered celebration straight from our studio! 🥂 After finally hitting 10,000 followers on Instagram (we did it!), we’re popping bottles (alcoholic AND non-alcoholic, because why not?) to mark this huge milestone!

Kelly's Dream Come True 🌾: From childhood dreams to reality, Kelly shares her journey of buying her very own homestead! Chickens? Ordered. Goats? On the waitlist. 🐓🐐 Plus, she's already planning vegetable gardens and berry patches — it's the farm life she’s always wanted.

Ryan’s Year of Sobriety & Butterfly Effects 🦋: Ryan dives into his evolving dating life after a year of sobriety, talking about the surprising butterfly effects and new connections he’s experiencing. Trust us, it’s not what he expected!

Real Talk on Birth Experiences 🤰: The conversation gets deep as Kelly opens up about her traumatic delivery stories, and we discuss the things society doesn't want us to share about childbirth and our bodies. It's time to get real about these tough topics that need more space.

Sober Socializing Tips 🍸: We’re answering YOUR questions on how to navigate social situations without alcohol, from bowling nights to outdoor adventures. Plus, we share our all-time favorite mocktail recipe (that Amethyst botanical spirit + Dirty Pelican’s spicy margarita mix? chef’s kiss).

And the best part? We’re here, full circle, embracing the messy, the vulnerable, and the authentic. This episode is all about celebrating evolution and reclaiming our truth—no more holding back, just real conversations. 💯

So, whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or just looking for more honest relationships with alcohol and yourself, this episode’s for YOU.

👉 Drop a comment below if you're on a similar journey. We're cheering for you every step of the way! 

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

What's the secret to staying positive and productive while juggling life's adventures? Join us for a rollicking ride through our latest escapades! Ryan kicks things off with tales of his sunny Tulum trip and Kelly's hilarious spray tan mishap aimed at banishing the winter blues. We get giddy over Too Turnt Tony's bold personality and his Two Turnt Tea, and Kelly's nostalgic over his college days with twisted tea. Ryan's sipping on a passion fruit and lime spritz from AF Cocktails as we chat about mindful drinking and share our thoughts on flavors and staying upbeat in the new year.

As Valentine's Day looms, we're exploring the tangled web of friendship, romance, and relationships. Kelly's balancing mom duties with fun nights out, complete with a laughable public urination fine story with Ryan. There's chatter about my husband’s mysterious Valentine’s gift and my best friend's romantic long-distance fling, navigated amid the sober lifestyle challenges. Finally, we share a moving story of love and resilience amidst an emergency surgery, leading to an engagement that reminds us of life's unpredictable beauty. Let's toast to gratitude and the love that surrounds us, as this episode wraps up with heartfelt discussions and a reminder of life's surprising twists.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Ever wondered what it's like to take a break from cannabis and rediscover its magic? Our guests, Michael Rozzi and Keisha, share their experiences of a tolerance break and how it led them to savor the unique flavors of cannabis-infused beverages like spicy mango and blueberry once more. Together, we journey to Honcho, a vibrant queer festival in Pennsylvania, painted vividly as a liberating adult summer camp where art, music, and uninhibited self-expression reign supreme. Michael and Keisha's accounts make you feel the rhythm of freedom, inviting you to embrace an atmosphere where acceptance is the norm and new adventures await.

In this episode, we also explore the intriguing shift from corporate life to the spiritual path of astrology. Michael and Keisha open up about how astrology grew from simple magazine horoscopes to a profound tool for self-awareness, enriching their personal journeys. Between tales of late-blooming habits like partying and smoking and humorous stories of awkward dating escapades, we ensure a blend of laughter and life lessons. From orgy confessions to the relatable chaos of drunk texting, we wrap things up with a Q&A segment full of fun viewer questions and a generous serving of humor and personal growth.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

What if your journey to self-discovery involved a little bartending flair and a lot of online creativity? Join us as Dominic Hill, our captivating guest, shares candid insights into his transformation from high school days to the confident performer and content creator he is today. With laughter and nostalgia, we revisit those formative years and the evolution of LGBTQ+ acceptance, celebrating Dominic's glow-up and his bold venture into OnlyFans, where art and allure seamlessly blend.

As we navigate the highs and lows of embracing one's identity, Dominic reveals the critical role of confidence and supportive friendships in pursuing a career in performance art. We explore societal perceptions of aging, particularly within the gay community, and discuss the liberating yet challenging process of being true to oneself. With heartfelt anecdotes, Dominic illustrates how fitness and friendships have empowered him to make bold career choices and highlights the importance of having a supportive network in realizing one's potential.

Ever wondered about the intricacies of adult content platforms? Dominic takes us behind the scenes, comparing OnlyFans and Just for Fans, and sharing the nuanced art of personal branding online. From navigating dating apps to collaborating with other creators, we dive into the challenges of maintaining boundaries while engaging followers with authenticity. Dominic's tale of a quirky keyboard scene and a special subscriber offer adds a playful twist to the complexities of creating content that resonates. Tune in for an episode that's as insightful as it is entertaining, celebrating the art of self-expression and the journey to finding one's true path.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Why would someone as powerful as Blake Lively tolerate unprofessional behavior on set? Join us as we tackle this question and many others in a rollercoaster episode filled with candid conversations and surprising twists. We celebrate our dear friend Ryan's incredible milestone—one year of sobriety—with laughter and a quest for the perfect non-alcoholic red wine. Just as the toasts and tales of triumph flow, an unexpected visit from Ryan's ex, Stephanie, spices up our celebration in ways we never anticipated.

The drama doesn't stop there. We confront pressing issues in Hollywood, discussing troubling allegations surrounding Justin Baldoni's behavior towards Blake Lively. Amidst this serious discourse, we touch upon the broader implications of power dynamics and unprofessionalism in the industry, drawing parallels with other high-profile relationships like Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Our reflections become personal as we share experiences with verbal abuse, highlighting the courage needed to navigate these challenging waters.

Nostalgia takes center stage as we reminisce about reconnecting with old friends and the impact of simple gestures like sharing forgotten photos. We explore how personal choices, like cutting out caffeine, can significantly affect well-being, drawing inspiration from pop culture figures and songs that resonate with our journeys. As we wrap up, we embrace the theme of personal growth, discussing topics from sauna benefits to navigating life changes. With heartfelt gratitude, we thank our listeners—or as we affectionately call them, our mocktailers and cocktailers—for their unwavering support and wish everyone a happy and fulfilling new year.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Ever received a lap dance with your best friend? We did, and let us tell you, it was an unforgettable experience that pushed our boundaries in the most unexpected ways. Our night at the strip club was more than just a wild adventure; it was a journey into the dynamics of comfort zones and friendship. As we navigated through initial nerves and embraced the surprises that came our way, we found ourselves laughing at the awkwardness and cherishing the growth of our supportive bond.

Obsessive jealousy, anyone? We're tackling “Rebecca Syndrome” — that intense, often irrational jealousy towards a partner's ex, as inspired by the 1938 novel "Rebecca." Through sharing our personal anecdotes, we unravel how unresolved childhood woes can manifest into this syndrome, creating unnecessary anxiety and tension in relationships. Alongside, we explore misunderstood defense mechanisms and highlight the importance of self-awareness and understanding these behaviors in maintaining healthy relationships.

Switching gears, we dive into the fascinating world of how our emotional states shape our music preferences and lifestyle choices. From discovering new music genres that eschew lyrical content to experiencing the benefits of taking breaks from alcohol, we discuss the positive changes that come with mindful living. As we invite you to share your own messy, hilarious stories, we promise to keep our community vibrant and engaged. So, grab your mocktails and join us, Ryan Frankofsky and Kelly Misgorski, on this fun-filled ride!

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Join Howard Mincone as he shares his incredible transformation from growing up in Pittsburgh’s steel city to making it in Hollywood. In this lively conversation, Howard reveals how he navigated his thick Pittsburgh accent, his unexpected path to beekeeping, and how these buzzing creatures became a source of healing—especially for veterans with PTSD. Along the way, he shares hilarious stories from his journey, including skateboarding, breakdancing, and performing on stage.

Tune in for a mix of Pittsburgh history, personal growth, and a lot of laughs. You won’t want to miss this inspiring and heartfelt episode!

#HowardMincone #PittsburghStories #Beekeeping #ComedyAndInspiration #HollywoodJourney #LifeLessons

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

This episode will have you contemplating the shift in seasons, the impact of daylight saving time, and how these changes can affect our moods and well-being. Jane shares personal stories about life transformations, including a journey to sobriety, and how commitment to self-care can be crucial, especially during the temptation-laden holiday season. We explore the transition from youthful indulgence to a health-focused lifestyle, celebrating small victories along the way, like reaching sobriety milestones.

As the days grow shorter and colder, we tackle the seasonal blues head-on by offering practical strategies to maintain a positive mindset. From consistent sleep routines and morning walks to the benefits of light therapy, there are countless ways to navigate the winter months. We also challenge common myths about alcohol and sleep, promoting therapy as a valuable resource. Our conversation takes a lighthearted turn as we discuss the allure of outdoor spaces and the human fascination with drama. Finally, we dive into intriguing listener stories, including haunted hotel mishaps and curious messages, inviting more of our audience to share their unique experiences with us.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Do you know what it means to truly embrace a "soberish" lifestyle? Join us as we chat with Jane, the dynamic brand ambassador for Amethyst, who shares her journey from the bustling liquor industry to becoming a passionate advocate for non-alcoholic alternatives. Discover how Amethyst, with its new watermelon lime flavor, is reshaping social gatherings with its botanical charm. Jane opens up about her personal evolution towards mindful drinking, weighing in on how a balanced approach to alcohol can transform energy levels and wellness. 

Our conversation takes a reflective turn as we recount personal stories of past drinking escapades that highlighted the need for a change. You'll hear about a birthday weekend that served as a catalyst for embracing moderation, leading to the discovery of alcohol-free options like Amethyst that offer confidence and inclusivity in social settings. Tune in to explore the broader trend of mindful drinking and how redefining your relationship with alcohol can lead to a more fulfilling social life. This episode promises to inspire those curious about the benefits of mindful consumption and the freedom found in choosing when and how to indulge.

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Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or Messy
Listen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot