Carson Kressley, the king of style and sass, graces our podcast with tales that span from his "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" escapades to his latest hush-hush venture. He's not just a fashion guru; Carson is a storyteller whose life experiences—be it the wisdom from his parents' work ethic or the kindness learned at Ralph Lauren—have shaped him into the beloved personality we see today. Revel in the nostalgia of his career beginnings, chuckle over his anecdotes from the treacherous world of celebrity dating, and get an inside look at his leap of faith into television, which came with a surprising safety net from his old boss.

Strap in for a game of "Mock Or Mess", where Carson and us playfully speculate on the drinkers or the mocktailers of our favorite stars, from the legendary Elton John to the illustrious Jenner sisters. It's a riotous ride through the mocktail and cocktail landscapes of Hollywood, sprinkled with Carson's personal run-ins with celebrities his deep connection to his new horse, War Eagle.

As the conversation winds down, we touch on the profound impact of Saddlebred horses and the importance of finding a supportive tribe, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. We also take a heartfelt journey back to Pittsburgh, reminiscing about Carson's early days there and how the city has transformed over the years. Our parting words brim with warmth and gratitude for Carson's presence, as we invite you, our dear listeners, to continue this journey with us. Come along for what promises to be an exciting next chapter of adventures.

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

Pull up a chair and join the banter as Kelly Mizgorski and Ryan Frankowski, serve up a hearty mix of humor and insight on Mocktails Or Messy. The clink of glasses sets the stage as Kelly sips her cherished Chardonnay and I pour myself a riveting glass of non-alcoholic Lights van Goet. But our conversation isn't just a tipsy journey—it's a deep dive into the heart of workplace culture with psychological safety on the agenda. We're unwrapping the layers of what it means to speak your mind without the fear of retribution, in a world where your voice isn't just heard, it's valued.

As the drinks flow and our chat heats up, we switch gears to the gut-wrenching topic of postbiotics. Ever wondered what probiotics leave behind? Kelly schools us on the fascinating aftermath of these beneficial bugs, and how the leftovers might be the unsung heroes of gut health. She's not just talking out of her... well, you know—she's bringing the science to the table with a nod to the game-changing effects of fecal transplants. So, top off your glass, get comfortable, and raise a toast to explosive learning—without any of the mess. Cheers to not being a peasant in knowledge or in spirit!

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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

As the sands of time slip through our fingers, we welcome the effervescent Jackie Flanagan to muse over the present moment, love, and the serendipitous detours of life. Our conversation is a kaleidoscope of experiences, spanning Jackie's leap from the allure of the non-profit world to embracing her true vocation. We traverse the landscape of emotional growth, touching on dating escapades and the tongue-in-cheek notion of seeking the next trip "across the pond" all the while sipping on the citrusy zest of a "Madras" cock & mock. These stories, laced with laughter and vulnerability, are a testament to the unpredictable journey that shapes Jackie's existence.

Whisked away by the charm of New Orleans, I recount the days that have etched a permanent joy in my soul. From slinging drinks at a bustling gay and lesbian bar to the pivot toward meaningful nonprofit work, these narratives celebrate the power of connection and the pursuit of passions. It's a homage to the cultural mosaic of the Big Easy, the unbreakable bonds of friendship that have been forged, and the fulfillment found in advocating for what truly matters. These shared memories reveal the vivid threads woven into the tapestry of my life's work and the communities I hold dear.

Amidst the laughter, we confront the sobering realities of divorce and the subsequent quest for identity. The raw honesty of my personal saga, from marrying at the twilight age of 60 to facing the stigmas of separation, underscores the complexities of life's second acts. We navigate the humorous prospect of reality TV romance, the dynamics of dating across age lines, and the reverberations of change on one's sense of self. With candor and camaraderie, we toast to the strength drawn from our collective experiences, lifting our spirits as we continue to grow and flourish within the embrace of our podcast family.

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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

Embark on a sartorial journey with Fernando J. Garcia, the visionary behind Monste and co-creative director at Oscar de la Renta, as he weaves a narrative of ambition, culture, and creativity. From the architectural halls of Notre Dame to the vibrant energy of New York City's fashion scene, Fernando's tale is a testament to the power of passion and the influence of roots. Underneath the shimmer of sequins and swish of silk, we uncover a story of hard work, family values, and the drive that propels someone from dreaming to doing. Fernando's insights offer a look behind the curtain of Fashion Week's whirlwind and the intricate dance of bringing a collection to life.

Strap in for a masterclass in personal style and the transformative power of clothing, as Fernando champions the art of dressing to express. Forget the fleeting whims of trends; here, it's all about clothing that sings to your soul and steps that stride with confidence. We also mix it up with a discussion on mocktails and the evolving relationship with alcohol, stirring a cocktail of thoughts on lifestyle balance and cultural idiosyncrasies. Shifting to the psychological palette, Fernando paints the challenges of new environments and upbringing, crafting an intimate portrait of the influences that shape our very fabric of being.

In the creative kaleidoscope of fashion, we discover the rainbow that is collaboration and the shades of artistic vision against the canvas of commerce. Fernando opens up about the synergy of criticism and growth, sharing the spotlight with those who push us to refine our craft. And sprinkled throughout are anecdotes of friendships that glisten like gems in a cityscape, the unexpected joys of apartment hunting in NYC, and the liberating power of shared vulnerabilities. Come for the fashion, stay for the profound reflections on creative careers, the delicate balance of work and personal life, and the strength found in embracing our fears.

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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 found yourself caught in the crossfire of a friendship complicated by one too many drinks? We've all been there, and in our latest podcast episode, we crack open the complex world of social dynamics. Join us as we swap stories about the trials of maintaining boundaries with a friend's tipsy spouse, and the fashion faux pas that's actually a win for breastfeeding moms. Our conversation may start with the comforts of cabin retreats and cozy flannels, but it quickly dives into the deeper waters of media's role in shaping our beauty standards.

But wait, there's more than just heart-to-hearts and style tips! Remember when drinking water from a plastic bottle left in the sun was a rite of passage? We take a trip down memory lane to laugh over the evolution of  the water bottle and how hydration became chic. And if you think TV hosts are just smiling faces on your screen, think again. We're chatting encounters with celebs like Kelly Ripa and debating the charm of daytime TV legends. To top it off, we'll have you questioning your own memories with our Mandela Effect musings, before leaving you on the edge of your seat with our own 'Home Alone' style break-in scare in London. It's a rollercoaster of emotions and revelations here on "Mocktails Or Messy," where every sip and story is served with a splash of the unexpected. So, come for the laughs, stay for the camaraderie, and leave feeling like part of the family. Ciao bella!

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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 had one of those moments when you're sipping on a mocktail and suddenly find the humor in life's absurdities? Join us, Kelly Mizgorski and Ryan Frankowski  as we clink glasses of de-alcoholized Cabernet and swap stories that'll have you chuckling at the quirks of personal perception and the unexpected curveballs life throws. We're all about embracing the 'P brain' moments and not letting snarky comments ruffle our feathers. With candid tales that range from Super Bowl shenanigans to the unexpected romantic mash-ups in Tinseltown, we're toasting to our genuine selves—flaws, Gemini dualities, and all.

Now, picture this: a world where high-energy dogs hijack the conversation and fashion trends spark debates about celebrity crushes. We've traversed the landscape of attraction, from the allure of Alicia Keys to the magnetic charm of "Selling Sunset" stars, all while putting a non-alcoholic Cabernet to the test for your health-conscious pleasure. And if you're pondering love and self-discovery, we've got the lowdown on the wisdom found in Jay Shetty's "The Eight Rules of Love." So whether you're navigating the single life or deepening the connection with your better half, let's celebrate the pursuit of self-love and the joy it brings to every aspect of our lives. Cheers to that!

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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

When life gives you mocktails, make a podcast episode that's as refreshing and invigorating as a gulp of the latest plant-infused concoction. Join friends Ryan Frankowski, Kelly Mizgorski and guest Russ Cersosimo Jr.  at Optimal Reach Media Studios for a spirited session where we spill the tea on plant-based indulgences like Feel Free, a trailblazing tincture of Kava and Kratom, and Hemp Synergistic's groundbreaking cannabis oil. We're not just mixing mocktails; we're stirring up a conversation on the future of consumer products and the burgeoning love affair between the cannabis industry and everyday goods.

Astrology skeptics, prepare to have your stars aligned as I recount my cosmic journey from doubting Thomas to bona fide believer, with Freddie Mercury's flamboyant spirit as my celestial guide. The universe has a sense of humor, and it's written in the stars—discover how Earth signs became the bedrock of my social circle, and the cosmic comedy of discovering I share more than just a birthday with Queen's legendary frontman. Our musical musings don't stop there; 'The Pyramid Incident' band's mystical encounter reveals how a simple shape can tune the strings of creativity, proving that sometimes, life's greatest symphonies begin with a single note—or pyramid.

Wrap up your auditory adventure with a walk down memory lane, where I trade magic tricks for sales pitches, and the raucous revelry of Bourbon Street for the introspective path of veganism and detox. From learning the art of persuasion from sales titans and a magician father to the transformative impact of a plant-based lifestyle, every anecdote is a stepping stone to understanding the power of personal change. Whether we're talking tuning into the right frequency for a killer pitch or syncing up with the rhythms of '90s and early 2000s tunes that shaped our very souls, this episode is a medley of laughter, wisdom, and the kind of heartfelt stories that resonate long after the final note fades.

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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

Facing health battles that test the limits of one's spirit can reshape everything we thought we knew about resilience. This episode features Alex Simmons, whose journey through kidney failure and the gift of life from his sister's transplant offers a powerful narrative on the essential nature of internal health. We navigate the transformation of his existence, uncovering how Athletic Brewing Company's non-alcoholic beer became a beacon of enjoyment in a lifestyle no longer including alcohol. Alex's candid recounting provides us with a vivid tableau of the changes and challenges he's conquered, a sobering reminder that the strongest muscles often lie within.

Our conversation traverses the remembered corridors of Pine Richland High School, stirring a blend of nostalgia and the stark contrast to the wider world we encountered post-graduation. Threads weave through the importance of sports and family, underscoring the delicate art of guiding the next generation. Through Alex's eyes, we're privy to the raw truths behind bodybuilding's shiny facade, offering a glimpse into the demanding yet often unseen preparation that belies the sport's glamour.

As the discourse unfolds, we brush against the profound impact technology has on our lives—from AI's surprising incursion into content creation to the quirky tales behind our online identities. We honor our personal endeavors: mine, to elevate the Pittsburgh community; to chart a path in an alcohol-centric society. Raising a glass—of non-alcoholic beer, of course—we celebrate growth, both individual and communal, heralding the everyday moments that become the milestones of our journey.

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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 how the transition from a carefree, single life to the whirlwind of motherhood affects a woman's sense of self? Grab a mocktail or messy cocktail  and join us in an honest exploration of a sober-curious lifestyle, the evolution of parenthood, and the beauty found in the chaos of raising tiny humans. Ryan & Kelly  reminisce about the days before children—how pregnancy prompted Kelly to put the wine glasses down and how our adventures have shifted from solo exploits to family escapades. We're toasting to milestones and sharing personal anecdotes, like the time a champagne cork made a surprise attack during our recording, all while affirming the enduring bonds of friendship that have only strengthened since our middle school days.

Life throws curveballs, and they don't always miss. When a breakup brings our world crashing down, we're right there in the trenches together, unpacking the messiness of separating lives entwined both personally and professionally. From family squabbles to career consequences, we're diving into the resilience it takes to start over and the invaluable role a solid support network plays in the healing process. Expect a few laughs too, as we recount those moments that make you double-take, like bizarre requests from a med student oddly fascinated with feet and the unexpected health tips that emerge in the most unlikely conversations.

The journey doesn't end with the laughter, though. We're opening up about my battle with postpartum depression and anxiety, contrasting my vastly different experiences with both children. We celebrate being better equipped the second time around and emphasize the importance of preparedness and support in navigating these challenges. So, as we wrap up this episode of "Mocktails are Messy," we're raising our non-alcoholic glass & traditional alcoholic for the normies to the power of friendship, the courage it takes to rebuild, and the warmth that comes from mutual support. It's not just about the mess—it's about finding the joy and humor in every spilled drink and unexpected spill of life.

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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

When you're at a social gathering, your choice of drink can be as telling as the attire you wear. Dan Burda of Studio Raw Elite joins us to discuss the social and personal significance behind our selections of cocktails or mocktails. Our conversation whirls around Dan's affection for the Black Russian, the depth of his family history, and the ways we can ensure everyone's glass is filled with something that suits their journey, be it due to health, pregnancy, or personal preference. We're blending the stories behind our beverages with the authenticity and inclusivity that should be at the heart of every toast.

Transforming a hair salon into a sanctuary that draws parallels with the electric buzz of a nightclub, we traverse the path of overcoming obstacles with strength and grace. Dan shares with us the fiery trials of bouncing back from the ashes of a salon fire, weaving in the heartfelt tale of navigating the loss of a treasured life & business partner. Our discussion is a tapestry of resilience, the nurturing of young talent, and the embrace of self-love, proving that human connections can defy the myth that people are inherently negative yet can be positive forces in our lives.

Wrapping up with a reflection on life's poignant narratives, we celebrate Josh Kroll's triumph over a heart transplant and his career as a firefighter, a testament to living with purpose. We muse over the complexities of growing a business, 'people shopping' for lifelong companionships, and the importance of setting powerful intentions for the future. So, grab your favorite drink, be it a spirited cocktail or a thoughtful mocktail, and join us for this episode that promises to stir your soul and perhaps inspire a new outlook on your own life's story.

Watch on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ap6iEYX4wzE

Send us a text

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