Similarly Different

Step into the world of Sonia Ramos—beauty industry maven, influencer, and mom of four who is confidently embracing a new phase of life. As one of the first over-40 beauty creators on TikTok, she quickly gained recognition for her authentic beauty reviews, landed on the Sephora Squad, and built a career around empowering women to love the skin they’re in. Now in her “soft girl era”, she’s embracing life on her own terms, balancing new found freedom and independence with motherhood and dating. Whether Sonia is dishing out no-BS anti-aging skincare advice or reflecting on life lessons, this episode highlights that you’re never too old to start a new chapter.

Today’s solo episode is all about what it means to be a “girl’s girl” while navigating adulthood and self-discovery. I share my journey from marriage and divorce in my 20s to finding confidence in my womanhood and building beautiful, God-centered friendships in my 30s. Being a true girl’s girl is about creating a space where you can both be your authentic selves, celebrating each other’s successes, and showing up for one another through the good and the bad. The takeaway? Find the women that uplift you and let you be your silly self around without judgement! 

Today I’m joined by the beautiful Melissa Molinaro—singer, actress, mom, and viral dancing sensation. From chasing her dreams in LA to creating her transformative “Moves by Melissa” fitness program, she shares how she has been able to effortlessly reinvent herself while staying true to her passions. We also chat about the growth that happens outside of your comfort zone, overcoming imposter syndrome, and Melissa’s approach to parenting in a social media-driven world. This episode is all about owning your 20s and 30s and going after your wildest dreams! 

This episode was not easy for me to record but felt the need to speak from the heart on this devastating situation. I delve into the traumatic experiences surrounding the recent LA fires. From the unexpected and devastating wind-driven blazes to the overwhelming feelings of survivor's guilt, this episode uncovers the layers of trauma faced by the community. I discuss the challenges of processing the devastation, the impact on people's mental health, and the incredible outpouring of support. This episode is a raw and personal reflection on finding compassion, extending help, and the struggle to maintain hope in the midst of crisis. Join me as I share my journey of navigating this turmoil and offer a message of love, empathy, and resilience.

Happy 2025! This episode is all about easing into the new year with intention and elevating into your 2.0 self. I chat about how to implement new healthy habits, curate the perfect vision board, stick to a digital detox, and time block for your self-care routine. Plus, join my 21-day reset challenge starting January 6th for journal prompts, outdoor walks, and daily actions to help you cultivate a more intentional mindset. By celebrating mini-wins and focusing on small, impactful steps, you’ll set the foundation to make 2025 your best year yet!

vision board guide: https://www.theleap.co/creator/andreacasanova/mini-course/vision-board-mini-course

Today, I’m joined by Pamela Zapata, the inspiring CEO of my management company, Society18, to explore the influencer marketing landscape, what it takes to break into entrepreneurship, and the behind the scenes of working with a management team. With features in Forbes and Business Insider, Pamela shares how she built a leading influencer management agency focused on highlighting diversity and creator development. We chat about the intricacies of bringing on a manager—from asking about usage terms and commissions to their brand relationships and trial periods.  Whether you’re a creative, influencer or entrepreneur, this conversation highlights the importance of trusting yourself, building meaningful relationships, and how to thrive in the ever-evolving creator economy.

In today’s solo episode, I explore how to reinvent yourself and create a new identity, both in your life and your closet. I share my tips for finding your personal style, dressing for your body type and curating the perfect staple wardrobe. Sometimes it’s the little things—like wearing cute matching pajamas or going for walks with a good Audible book—that help you step into your elevated self. I also talk about the importance of embracing newness by building new habits, trying new hobbies and staying disciplined. I hope this episode inspires you to embrace change and reinvent yourself, becoming your ideal version in every sector. It’s never too late to meet the 2.0 version of yourself!

In this episode, I chat with Velissa Vaughn, the PR IT girl behind JXP Collective and the iconic WNBA fashion tunnel. From her days as a D1 basketball player to making her mark in fashion PR alongside icons like Law Roach, Velissa shares how she’s built a powerhouse network, crafted viral moments, and pursued her dream career. She also voices the importance of manifesting and trusting your journey to beat out imposter syndrome. Velissa’s success proves that when you follow your passions and treat people well, you can make it big. 

In this solo episode, we’re unpacking the ups and downs of friendship—the ride or dies, the shifts, and the ones we outgrow. It’s healthy to have different levels of friends for different seasons of your life, from the social friends you see on Friday nights to core friends you can reveal your secrets to. I also talk about outgrowing childhood friends, recognizing when to let go of friendships that no longer serve you, and how to set boundaries for yourself. Plus, we have another Similarly Curious audio submission asking about how to deal with friends that cause anxiety. Friendships should be beautiful, light and fun!

Today, I sit down with the inspiring Jamie Lee Ruiz, former Miami Heat dancer, reality show contestant and now, spiritual life coach, to discuss her journey from the spotlight to self-love. After moving to LA, Jamie danced her way through competitive auditions, facing insecurities and anxiety along the way that challenged her confidence, but a pandemic-forced pause sparked her journey into self-love, healing, and embracing her feminine energy. Now as a life coach, Jamie reveals how leaning into authenticity, balancing energies, and intentional dating has helped her relationships with others and herself thrive. Listen in for Jamie’s insights on how to manifest, find true self-love and tap into those things that let your flourish!