On Our Best Behavior

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The dynamic mother-son duo has returned for an incredible fifth season, and the growth is remarkable. MacDog, once our seventh-grade podcast rookie, now navigates the complex world of eleventh grade with his signature blend of sarcasm, wisdom, and teenage nonchalance.

This season premiere captures the essence of what makes this relationship so special – authentic conversation that ranges from academic frustrations to major milestones. MacDog's recent driver's test success marks a significant shift in independence, though his description of the D and V as "a shit show" reminds us that some experiences remain universally frustrating across generations. The excitement of driving to McDonald's and Target solo represents that beautiful, terrifying moment when parents begin loosening the reins.

The junior year academic experience comes alive through MacDog's candid classroom rundown. His struggle with cabinetry class ("the machines are confusing"), half-remembered Spanish phrases, and passionate hatred for graphs in Algebra 2 paint a vivid picture of high school challenges. Meanwhile, family connections remain strong through weekend barbecues, dinner outings for pulled pork sandwiches, and trips to Minnehaha Falls complete with Italian ice tastings.

What truly shines is their unfiltered banter – from the would-you-rather game involving awkward public nudity versus unfortunate bathroom accidents to a string of groan-worthy dad jokes that only a mother could love. Their easy back-and-forth captures the special dynamic that has made this podcast a favorite for parents navigating the teenage years.

As they wrap up with confused Spanish phrases and promises of "more stories MacDog doesn't want shared," listeners are left eagerly anticipating what junior year will bring. Subscribe now to join this journey through the triumphs, embarrassments, and everyday moments that make the teenage years simultaneously maddening and magical.

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What happens when you combine a prodigal bunny's homecoming, Minnesota State Fair planning, and a first-time psychic experience? This episode delivers a perfect blend of everyday chaos and profound reflection that will have you nodding along one minute and contemplating life's bigger questions the next.

When Kelli welcomes guest host Emily to the podcast, their natural chemistry immediately shines through as they trade stories about everything from the dramatic return of a runaway bunny named Dixie to their detailed strategy for conquering the Minnesota State Fair. Their fair planning conversation—complete with debates about church bus shortcuts and the merits of personal cooling fans—captures that uniquely Midwestern determination to enjoy summer traditions despite rising costs and practical challenges.

The conversation takes several delightful detours, including Emily's experience at a Savannah Bananas baseball game (described as "the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball"), candid discussions about physical comfort in public spaces, and an unexpectedly deep dive into the HBO show "Hunting Wives." Their willingness to embrace both the ridiculous and the profound makes for a listening experience that feels like eavesdropping on two friends who've forgotten anyone else is in the room.

Perhaps most compelling is Emily's reflection on her first psychic reading as she approaches the one-year anniversary of losing her close friend Patrick. Her honest account of seeking connection beyond the physical realm resonates whether you're a believer or skeptic. The episode concludes with a gentle wisdom about grief—that perhaps those we've lost aren't constantly watching over us but are "living their own life now," allowing us permission to continue ours.

Subscribe to hear more authentic conversations that seamlessly blend everyday observations with life's bigger questions, all delivered with warmth, humor, and zero pretension.

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The prodigal son returns! After a lengthy absence, Maccoy finally rejoins Kelli on the podcast, and the chemistry is immediate. "I'm not saying my ratings depend on him," Kelli jokes, "but let's be honest. This is either about to skyrocket or crash and burn spectacularly."

What follows is a whirlwind catch-up of summer adventures, unexpected encounters, and the kind of conversations that only happen when these two get together. Maccoy shares the saga of his Amazon e-bike's untimely demise (and resurrection), while Kelli recounts their successful garage sale weekend that netted her over $600 – though Maccoy only managed to earn a meager $44 from his contributions. The stories take a delightful detour when their recording is interrupted by news that their escape-artist bunny Dixie (aptly nicknamed "the prison breaker" and "Damnit Dixie") has been captured by a neighbor and returned home.

Their summer escapades continue with tales from the Anoka knife and gun show, where Maccoy volunteered to get zapped by a stun gun demonstration, and their visit to the Safari Zoo in Brainerd where they fed giraffes and Kelli fell in love with alpacas again. Meanwhile, Kelli shares her latest psychological thriller recommendations from authors Lucinda Berry and Minka Kent, though Maccoy quickly clarifies he's "not a reader." The episode wraps with a hilarious debate over whether it's better to give up showering or internet for a month, with Maccoy's solution being to simply "Febreze himself" rather than bathe.

Join us for this reunion episode filled with laughter, unpredictable tangents, and the undeniable chemistry that makes this podcast impossible to predict but always entertaining. Follow us on all social platforms and subscribe to never miss an episode – because with Maccoy back in the co-host chair, who knows what might happen next!

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What happens when the veil between worlds grows thin enough to glimpse what lurks beyond? Bob Dominguez, seasoned Bigfoot researcher and paranormal investigator, takes us on a mind-bending journey through the shadowy realm where cryptids and the supernatural converge.

Ever wondered why Bigfoot bodies are never found? According to wildlife biologist John Benderneagle, "If a Bigfoot doesn't want to be found, it's not going to be found." These elusive giants combine animal-level senses with human intelligence, vanishing into vast wilderness or—as some witnesses claim—stepping into interdimensional portals that swallow them whole.

The conversation ventures into electromagnetic phenomena that connect both paranormal activity and cryptid sightings. Bob shares his groundbreaking theory that Bigfoot may actually weaponize electromagnetic fields found along power line right-of-ways, intensifying fear in witnesses who encounter them. This could explain why people often flee in terror rather than documenting their experiences.

From the Mothman prophecies of Point Pleasant to government conspiracy theories involving MK-Ultra experiments, we explore how cryptid encounters might be manufactured, genuine, or something far stranger. The mysterious figure Indrid Cold—a "smiling man" in anachronistic clothing who appeared before tragedy struck—raises questions about entities that exist outside our normal understanding of reality.

Most fascinating are accounts suggesting Bigfoot and other cryptids might be more than flesh and blood. Native American wisdom holds these creatures as spiritual beings, while multiple witnesses report seeing them disappear into thin air or step through portals leading to arctic environments. Even psychics who help with paranormal cases often refuse to assist with alien encounters, believing these beings exist outside normal temporal constraints.

Whether you're a skeptic wanting to understand the psychology behind these phenomena or a believer seeking validation, this episode challenges everything you thought you knew about what lurks in the shadows. Subscribe now and join us as we venture beyond the boundaries of the known world—just remember to look behind you when searching for Bigfoot, because the one you see might just be the distraction.

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When Kelli's son Mac ditches the podcast for summer fun, she brings in the "slightly unhinged" Emily as guest co-host for an episode that careens between book recommendations, serious social commentary, and hilarious tangents.

The conversation opens with a deep dive into psychological thrillers, including "Phantom Limb" by Lucinda Berry—a novelist who draws from her experience as a child trauma psychologist. This leads to a fascinating discussion about childhood resilience and the profound impacts of early trauma. The hosts explore the complexities of mental health conditions like OCD and autism, offering thoughtful perspectives on how neurological differences affect both those diagnosed and their loved ones.

In a standout segment, Kelli delivers a passionate PSA about birth control misconceptions, emphasizing that "pulling out is Russian roulette" and that condoms, vasectomies, and tubal ligation all count as legitimate birth control methods. The conversation shifts to the complex topic of elective abortion, with both hosts expressing concerns about how political polarization has created dangerous conditions for healthcare workers.

The episode lightens up with a hilarious breakdown of newly announced Minnesota State Fair foods (mostly disappointments), debates about the meaning of "doozy," and a surprisingly practical discussion about a post-intimacy hygiene product called the "drip stick." Throughout it all, Kelli and Emily's chemistry shines as they navigate both heavy topics and lighthearted banter with equal authenticity.

Whether you're looking for book recommendations, candid conversations about reproductive health, or just want to hear two friends dissect bizarre fair foods with brutal honesty, this episode delivers with warmth, humor, and zero filter. Listen now and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts on these topics!

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What happens when the dating pool shrinks but your standards don't? In this refreshingly candid conversation, Kelli welcomes special guest co-host Robert "Bigfoot Bob" Dominguez for an unfiltered look at dating in later life and the courage it takes to stay true to yourself while navigating romantic possibilities.

Robert shares his personal journey of remaining deliberately single while fielding well-intentioned matchmaking attempts from friends and family. He articulates something many of us feel but rarely admit: the desire to experience that unmistakable "bolt of lightning" connection rather than settling for comfortable companionship. His story about backing out of a date with his fourth-grade crush reveals the complexity of timing, chemistry, and knowing your own heart.

The conversation weaves through dating app hesitations, relationship red flags (speaking negatively about family members), and green flags (consideration for others) that signal compatibility. Robert's perspective has been profoundly shaped by his health challenges, giving him a unique appreciation for life's simple pleasures – from walking on gravel to taking showers independently – while making him thoughtfully selective about who he might share his life with.

What emerges is a powerful narrative about contentment, patience, and the underrated value of waiting for the right connection rather than forcing relationships that don't feel aligned. Robert's loyalty, self-awareness, and willingness to admit when he's wrong highlight qualities that make for lasting partnerships whenever the timing is right.

Whether you're actively dating, taking a break, or happily coupled, this episode offers wisdom about honoring your instincts and finding fulfillment regardless of relationship status. The question isn't just whether you've been together for decades – it's whether you still like each other after all that time.

Ready to rethink your approach to relationships? Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more authentic conversations about navigating life's complexities with humor and heart.

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The Minnesota Mini State Fair wrapped up, and this episodic adventure with guest co-host Emily Hince captures all the chaotic goodness you'd expect from two friends let loose among food vendors and craft booths. From the moment we arrive, we're on a mission to indulge in every essential fair experience.

Our culinary journey begins with the mandatory Mouth Trap cheese curds - a unanimous favorite - before discovering the heavenly combination of warm mini apple pie topped with cinnamon ice cream. We share a passionate plea to ice cream manufacturers everywhere: why isn't cinnamon a standard flavor option? The food sampling continues with Tot Boss loaded tater tots and nachos and slushies, all strategically shared to maximize our tasting potential without falling into a complete carb coma.

Between bites, we encounter memorable fair moments including a particularly eyebrow-raising sight of a woman simultaneously breastfeeding while downing a 16-ounce beer (and ordering two more to go). The people-watching at these events truly remains unmatched, rivaled only by our own misadventures - breaking a wine glass at a vendor's booth and later spending 20 minutes desperately searching for a bright blue car in a sea of seemingly identical vehicles.

Shopping becomes another highlight as we continue our annual tradition of getting permanent bracelets, marveling that last year's still look pristine. The Better Goods booth captures our attention with irresistible animal-themed clothing, including a chicken-patterned sweatshirt that I simply couldn't walk away from, inadvertently starting a shopping trend among fairgoers behind us.

As our conversation shifts to recent entertainment picks, we dive into discussions about the Timberwolves playoffs, Ginny and Georgia's latest season, compelling documentaries about the Titan submersible tragedy, and book recommendations featuring psychological thrillers by Lucinda Berry and Lisa Regan. We wrap up celebrating Emily's recent graduation and the strange feeling of finally completing a long educational journey.

Grab your favorite fair snack, settle in, and join us for this quintessential Minnesota summer experience that has us already counting down to the main State Fair - though we're definitely not counting the exact 63 days, because who would do that?

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What does it mean to step up when tragedy strikes? In this deeply personal episode, Kelli welcomes her first guest co-host, Robert "Bigfoot Bob" Dominguez from the Bigfoot Club podcast, for a conversation about unexpected parenthood and the profound journey of raising someone else's child.

When Robert's beloved sister Sandra died from cervical cancer, her final wish was for her brother to raise her son Stephen. Already a significant male figure in the boy's life, Robert transitioned from fun uncle to full-time parent overnight, navigating his own grief while helping his nephew through the same devastating loss. "I couldn't yell at him because he lost his mom, which was his only parent, and I lost my favorite sibling," Robert shares, revealing the delicate balance of discipline and compassion required in their situation.

The conversation explores how Robert made Stephen his absolute priority, even ending romantic relationships when partners couldn't accept coming second to his nephew's needs. Kelli relates with her own experiences as a single mom following divorce, and together they discuss the practical challenges and emotional complexities of single parenthood. There's particular poignancy when Robert describes watching Stephen become a father himself, completing a beautiful cycle of care and commitment.

Beyond the specifics of their stories, this episode offers profound insights about chosen family, sacrifice, and unconditional love. It's a testament to the truth that parenting isn't defined by biology but by presence, commitment, and the courage to step up when needed most. Whether you're raising your own children solo, caring for someone else's child, or simply interested in stories of remarkable human connection, this conversation will touch your heart and perhaps change how you think about what makes a family.

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Sometimes life throws you curveballs that force you to adapt on the fly. In this candid solo episode, Kelli opens up about navigating recent mental health struggles while managing her homestead, podcast, and day job as a single mom. When you're feeling overwhelmed, who shows up for you? Kelli shares how her inner circle rallied around her birthday celebration despite her uncharacteristic lack of enthusiasm this year.

Ever wonder what happens when chickens go broody without a rooster? Kelli takes us through her delightful "Three Hens and a Baby" situation—where three maternal hens collectively care for a single hatched chick after she introduced fertilized eggs. But homestead life isn't all baby chicks and sunshine; she's now dealing with her first-ever possum and raccoon sightings threatening her animals.

The episode delves into powerful personal growth concepts from Mel Robbins' "The Let Them Theory," exploring how releasing our need to control others' actions can lead to greater peace and emotional freedom. Kelli shares how the simple mantra "let them" has transformed her daily interactions and perspective on boundaries. She also offers book recommendations, Netflix suggestions, and updates on her plans to declutter her extensive Pyrex collection.

While Maccoy takes a break from podcasting during this summer season, Kelli announces upcoming guest co-hosts including her best friend Emily and Bigfoot Bob. Could a podcast rebranding be in the future? Tune in to this authentic, unfiltered conversation that feels like catching up with a good friend over coffee—complete with homestead drama, mental health insights, and the real-life balancing act we're all trying to master.

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Sunshine, wild rabbits, and teenage attitude collide in this refreshingly authentic episode that captures the beautiful chaos of family life. Kelli opens up about her unexpected new role as a rehabilitator for a tiny wild bunny that fits in the palm of her hand, promising adorable photos for followers willing to join this rescue journey on social media.

The Minnesota weather takes center stage as Kelli candidly shares how dramatically the lack of sunshine affects her mood, creating what she calls her "weather mood disorder" - a relatable struggle for anyone who's experienced seasonal blues. Her excitement about upcoming warmer temperatures reveals how these small environmental changes can dramatically impact our everyday outlook.

The true heart of this episode emerges through the unfiltered mom-son dynamic between Kelli and Mac. Their back-and-forth banter during fifth-grade trivia questions, teenage slang translations, and "would you rather" scenarios perfectly captures the complexity of parenting a teenager. When Kelli directly addresses Mac's recent "struggle bus" behavior - from avoiding chores to showing attitude - listeners get a genuine glimpse into the challenges and frustrations of raising adolescents without the sugar-coating often found in parenting content.

Between these authentic family moments, Kelli shares a thoughtful review of Mary Ellen Taylor's new book "After Paris," explaining how it surprisingly captivated her despite historical fiction not typically being her preferred genre. Her enthusiasm for the dual-timeline narrative and emotional depth demonstrates how the best books can transcend our usual preferences.

The episode wraps with playful threats to "dead leg" each other, showcasing how humor often becomes the safety valve in family relationships. For parents navigating the complex teenage years or anyone who appreciates unfiltered conversations about family life, this episode offers both comfort and comic relief in knowing you're not alone in these everyday struggles.

Ready to hear more authentic conversations that make you feel seen? Subscribe now and join our growing community of listeners who appreciate real talk about family life.

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