In this lively episode of The So What Now Podcast, Carla and Dex tackle everything from neighborhood drama to the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood. Carla shares her escalating battle with the local "cat lady," sparking a hilarious yet relatable discussion about boundaries and suburban chaos.

Meanwhile, the duo dives into mom guilt—whether it's Carla juggling life with a toddler and a grown daughter or Dex navigating communication in a long distance relationship with her daughter.

With raw honesty and a touch of humor, the hosts reflect on burnout, personal growth, and finding unexpected joys (like crafting and ginger beer).

It's a heartwarming reminder that life's challenges may leave us wondering, "So what now?"—but with the right mindset, a good laugh, and maybe a glue gun, we'll get through it together.

4 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

💡 Mom Guilt is Real (and Never Ends): Carla and Dex open up about their personal experiences with mom guilt, whether it's raising a toddler or navigating life as an empty nester, and how they're learning to let go of unrealistic expectations.

🔥 Burnout Isn't Just Work-Related: Dex shares her journey of uncovering the deeper layers of life burnout while Carla offers insights on creating boundaries and finding joy amidst chaos.

🌱 Parenting Evolves, So Should We: From toddler meltdowns to adult children's independence, the duo reflects on how their parenting styles have changed and how they're redefining what it means to be a "good mom."

🎉 Finding Joy in the Small Things: Whether it's crafting, cooking, or just sipping ginger beer, Carla and Dex discuss how leaning into simple joys helps them recharge and stay grounded.

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CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

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This Thanksgiving episode is all about reflecting on what we're thankful for, finding balance with gratitude and ambition and also Miracle babies. Carla and Dex kick things off by honoring Jenna as Woman of the Week.

In the Motherhood segment,we're diving into the controversial tale of a miracle baby conceived by two Miami Dade inmates who passed semen through a vent. Should they face additional charges? Listen in for the full discussion!

In the Womanhood segment, we talk about being thankful for the small moments, the lessons, and the people in our lives—even if we don't always follow traditional holiday norms. We explore how gratitude plays into both parenting and personal growth— Do our kids owe us gratitude? Dex also opens up about her struggle to balance gratitude with ambition. Can you be grateful for what you have and desire to strive for more? And how do we navigate the negative self-talk that holds us back from our own potential.

Plus, Carla shares a feel-good moment of the week: her skydiving adventure!

Tune in for laughs, reflections, and some much-needed reminders that we're all on a journey, and it's okay to hold space for both gratitude and ambition.

SO WHAT NOW? TAKEAWAYS

Remember: You don't have to partake in holiday activities you don't want to—and that's okay!

Our children learn gratitude by seeing us model this behavior.

Be thankful for the journey and enjoy it along the way.

From an early age, we're often taught to be grateful. While these lessons were well-meaning,the lessons can sometimes make us feel like it's wrong to experience negative emotions when we have so much to be thankful for. If this resonates with you, you're not alone. Over time, we can internalize beliefs that limit our emotional range. Reframing our understanding of gratitude to focus on our skills or attributes rather than the external objects can allow space for complex feelings.

You've earned and/or deserve all the good things in your life. Don't let people with limiting beliefs or negative self talk stop you from going after what you truly desire.

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

In this episode Carla and Dex discuss raising emotionally intelligent children—what it really takes to help kids develop self-awareness, empathy, and strong communication skills. We dive into the tools and practices for fostering emotional intelligence. How do we know if we're doing it right? We'll explore how EQ impacts behavior and relationships, and why it's essential for kids' long-term success.

Next, we switch gears to talk about the power of saying no. We discuss the importance of setting boundaries—whether in relationships, work, or personal life. Carla shares her journey from employee to boss and how setting boundaries has changed her life, while Dex talks about her struggle to set boundaries with herself, especially when it comes to work. We'll explore how learning to say no confidently can protect our time and well-being.

It's an honest conversation about parenting, personal growth, and taking control of your life. Tune in!

SO WHAT NOW? TAKEAWAYS

The Power of Boundaries: Setting boundaries is essential in friendships, work,and family relationships to maintain mental well-being and respect.

Emotional Intelligence in Parenting: Carla and Dex discuss the value of teachingchildren emotional intelligence by modeling self-awareness, empathy, and self-regulation.

Self-Care as a Boundary: Dex shares her struggle with setting work boundariesfor herself, reminding listeners that self-care is a crucial form of respect.

Learning and Growth through Therapy: The hosts explore the importance oftherapy, especially tools like the "feelings wheel," to identify and process emotions moreeffectively.

Navigating Friendships with Honesty**: They reflect on a challenging time in theirfriendship, showing that sometimes setting tough boundaries can ultimately strengthenrelationships

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

In this episode, Carla and Dex share their raw reactions to the 2024 Presidential election. With no outline or segments, it's a heartfelt, off-the-cuff conversation as they process the results and how they're personally navigating the aftermath. From coping with the outcome to confronting the challenges of moving forward in a divided world, this episode is a rollercoaster of feelings and reflections.

Tune in for a real and honest discussion, as Carla and Dex work through it all—together.

SO WHAT NOW? TAKEAWAYS

Election Shock and Disappointment: The hosts express disappointmentover Trump's re-election, with surprise that his controversial policiesand divisive rhetoric did not prevent his victory. They voice concernabout the country's future and the social divides it highlights.

Representation Matters: One host discusses the emotional impact ofseeing Kamala Harris, a woman of color, in a leadership position, whichgave her a sense of visibility and pride. However, there is alsofrustration that gender and racial biases may have hindered Harris'ssupport.

Frustration with Social Media and Misinformation: The hosts criticizehow misinformation spread on social media influenced people'sopinions, especially around topics like abortion, LGBTQ rights, andhealthcare.

Importance of Local Politics: Beyond the presidential election, the hostsemphasize the significance of local issues, such as marijuanalegalization and education funding, urging listeners to remainpolitically active and informed at all levels of government.

Self-Care and Emotional Processing: In coping with the electionoutcome, the hosts discuss the importance of processing feelings in asupportive environment rather than engaging in social media debates,aiming to foster resilience and stay involved in the political processdespite setbacks.

Role of Women and Bias: There is a shared feeling of rejection amongthe hosts, particularly regarding gender bias in leadership. They notethe resistance against women, especially women of color, holdingpowerful roles, which feels like a societal setback.

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

In this episode, we're diving deep into the impact of social media on motherhood and how it's shaping our children's lives. We'll share our personal beliefs about kids and social media, exploring how it influences their upbringing and our parenting choices. From parents who make a business out of sharing their kids' lives to the balance of protecting privacy and staying connected in a digital world, we're talking all about it.

Next, we dive into how friendships change after motherhood. Dex reflects on her evolving friendships as her child grows into adulthood, while Carla talks about juggling her younger child and the need for a babysitter again. We also touch on the importance of maintaining strong connections with other women, despite the challenges of friendship fatigue.

Lastly, we talk about navigating identity shifts in our 30s and 40s—how we redefine ourselves beyond our roles as mothers and professionals. It's an honest, real conversation you don't want to miss!

SO WHAT NOW? TAKEAWAYS

Parenting with Awareness in the Social Media Era: Carla and Dex discuss how toset boundaries on social media for kids and navigate privacy challenges to create a safeenvironment online.

Importance of Balance: Balancing work, personal passions, and family time iscrucial, especially when transitioning between careers or creative pursuits.

Honest Communication: Maintaining open communication with friends and familyis essential to prevent misunderstandings and strengthen relationships.

Gentle Parenting Insights: The hosts offer lighthearted advice on modernparenting methods, showing the value of intentional language and mutual respect.

Social Media Humor and Reality: They humorously address the ups and downs ofsocial media's influence on family life, from silly trends to the challenges of maintainingauthenticity

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

Guess who's back?! Yep, it's us—Carla and Dex—and we're kicking off a new chapter with a fresh start. In this episode, we're opening up about what the podcast means to us as we navigate some big life transitions and, let's be honest, try to figure out what the heck is next.

First, we're diving into motherhood, picking up right where we left off in 2018. Carla's juggling two kids at very different stages of life, while Dex is adjusting to parenting from a distance (aka, "My kid is gone, and I'm not sure how to feel about it!"). We'll share our current parenting struggles, wins, and everything in between.

And of course, we can't ignore the inevitable: womanhood. We're getting older, and with that comes a whole new approach to our bodies, health, and the joy of aging. Spoiler alert: "aging gracefully" is a lot harder than it looks when you're bombarded with perfect celebs on Instagram. Body image issues? Oh yeah, we're talking about it.

Tune in for an honest, funny, and totally relatable conversation about where we are now and what's next in this wild ride called life.

SO WHAT NOW? TAKEAWAYS

Reconnecting Through Life's Journeys: The hosts openly share the trials ofadulthood, the complexity of parenting adult children, and navigating unexpected lifestages.

Rediscovering Identity: They explore the importance of self-reflection and self-care when life shifts, especially after milestones like children leaving home.

Embracing New Phases: The podcast reflects on finding strength and newpassions in different life phases, offering inspiration to those adapting to big changes.

The Power of Friendship and Collaboration: Carla and Dex emphasize theimportance of friendship, boundaries, and communication, even as they work togetheron a creative project.

Balancing Fun and Responsibility**: Amid humor and lightheartedness, the podcasttackles serious themes, showing that it's possible to have fun while staying grounded inone's responsibilities and values.

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

Get ready for laughs, life lessons, and all the vibes! Hosted by best friends Carla and Dex, So What Now? dives into the messy, magical, and maddening moments of motherhood, womanhood, and everything in between. With Carla juggling entrepreneurship and new motherhood, and Dex stepping into life as a new empty nester with her quick wit and real talk, this podcast is your go-to for fresh takes on life's biggest (and smallest) moments.

Tune in for raw conversations, endless laughs, and a reminder that none of us really have it all figured out—but that's half the fun!

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

CARLA WILMARIS | DEX

📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thesowhatnowpodcast/

📱TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@seethethingispod?lang=en

🎙ADVERTISE WITH US: https://www.sowhatnowpod.com/

This week on Pivot with Purpose, we're getting into the Halloween spirit! I'm joined by two of my favorite people, Dexty and Ariel B, to relive the thrills of my recent Halloween bash. From spooky stories to a few terrifyingly hilarious fashion throwbacks, this episode promises all the laughs and chills you need. Tune in for a hilariously spooky time you won't forget!

Watch Full Episode and Subscribe on YouTube

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• McDonalds
• BetterHelp - Get 10% off your First Month www.betterhelp.com/pwp
• Idea to Launch Podcast -
• Get $100 Off our signature course using code 'PIVOT' - LAUNCH YOUR PODCAST IN 30 DAYS

____________________

Follow Carla Wilmaris on social media:

Instagram @carlawilmaris

Twitter @carlawilmaris

TikTok @carlawilmaris

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Email the show to get advice and questions answered

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Audition Template: Stereo Session with no tracks. 44.1k, 24 bit, Stereo Master.

As we prepare for the hurricane here in Florida, I'm taking a moment to reflect on my powerful experience at this year's Women Evolve conference. The event was filled with unforgettable moments, inspiring connections, and wisdom shared by incredible speakers.

Two speakers, in particular, deeply impacted me—Nona Jones and Dr. Anita Phillips.Their messages on 'The Gift of Rejection' and 'Healing from Mother Wounds' resonated with me in profound ways, pushing me into a new season of service and personal growth.

In this episode, I share the beauty that can be found in pain and how embracing positivity and faith can transform your life.Tune in to discover how speaking life over yourself and leaning into your faith can lead you through even the most challenging seasons.

Watch Full Episode and Subscribe on YouTube

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• McDonalds
• BetterHelp - Get 10% off your First Month www.betterhelp.com/pwp
• Idea to Launch Podcast -
• Get $100 Off our signature course using code 'PIVOT' - LAUNCH YOUR PODCAST IN 30 DAYS

____________________

Follow Carla Wilmaris on social media:

Instagram @carlawilmaris

Twitter @carlawilmaris

TikTok @carlawilmaris

‌

Email the show to get advice and questions answered

[email protected]