The Shimalayas

The Shimalayas

By Shulaya GenustellaSociety & CulturePlaces & Travel
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The Shimalayas episodes

  • Back to School, Back to Saving

    It’s officially time to get back into a routine!

    This week on The Shimalayas, we’re talking about getting back to school, getting back to saving, and finding routines that make everyday life a little less chaotic. From bedtime routines and getting your day started on the right foot to creating systems that actually work for your family, we’re sharing what we’ve changed and how those routines have helped us create a better balance.

    Then we’re taking a trip to Yolk Indianapolis CityWay location for a breakfast food review! We’re talking about their menu, including cinnamon roll French toast, sausage, eggs, bacon, avocado toast, blackberry waffles, their signature hot sauce, and what stood out about the experience.

    We’re also talking money and the importance of having a financial system that keeps you on track. From bill accounts and spending accounts to children’s savings and high-yield savings accounts, we’re breaking down how having multiple accounts can help with consistency, automate your savings, and keep your spending in check.

    And with back-to-school season in full swing, we’re asking one of those parenting questions that can definitely spark a conversation: uniforms or no uniforms? We’re talking about our own experiences with school uniforms, whether they actually help with bullying prevention, and where we stand on the debate.

    From family routines and parenting to saving money, personal finance, local food, and preparing for a new school year, this episode is all about creating systems that help you live better while still enjoying the journey.

    21 min
  • House to Home

    What does it really mean to turn a house into a home? 🏡

    This week on The Shimalayas, we’re talking about the real-life journey of making a house feel like home—one project, one room, and one budget-friendly decision at a time. From bathroom renovations and choosing tile to decorating, decluttering, and figuring out what’s actually worth spending money on, we’re embracing the process instead of waiting for everything to be perfect.

    Then we’re taking a trip to Joe’s Sandwich Shop in downtown Lima, Ohio, for a local food review. We’re talking about the food, the atmosphere, the service, and whether this longtime Lima staple is worth the visit.

    We’re also taking a moment for a mental health check-in. When was the last time you really asked yourself how you’re doing? We’re talking about recognizing your growth, being proud of how far you’ve come, giving yourself some grace, and knowing when it’s time to make a change.

    And finally, we’re getting ready for one of our favorite times of year—fall! 🍂🎃 Pumpkin patches, cardigans, cooler temperatures, haunted houses, and all the cozy vibes have us ready for the season. But the real question is: pumpkin patch or haunted house?

    From home renovation and budgeting to local food, mental health, personal growth, and fall activities, this episode is all about enjoying the season of life you’re currently in while continuing to create a life—and a home—you love.

    18 min
  • We Are Literally Just Girls!

    This week we're keeping it real about the things that make girlhood, well, girlhood.


    In Motherhood Moments, we're talking self-care as a mom — why you have to come first, even when getting ready, and protecting your mental health. This mindset saved me after two pregnancies: me first, then the girls immediately after. It's okay to choose you first — everything else will get taken care of in due time.


    We're also sharing our latest restaurant obsession: Casa Lu Al (Lima, Ohio). We are head over heels for this comeback — the spaghetti, carrot cake, and cocktails are always a banger. Easily one of our favorite date night go-to's!


    Then we're getting into soft life + femininity: why choosing yourself fuels getting back to your soft life era, and how staying there depends on how often you choose you. Find the things and the people around you that let you live that way — and stay there.


    And a fun one to think about: with all the automation in the world, how are you finding what you like these days — the search bar or your For You page? I've found direct searches (hello, Pinterest) more reliable lately than some For You pages. What are you guys using to figure out what you like or find new products? Tell me!


    New episodes every Monday. Follow, rate, and share with a friend who needs to hear this 🤍

    18 min
  • Take Care

    Life has been a little different lately, and in this episode of the Shimalayas, I’m bringing you along for the real-life update.

    We’re talking about what it’s been like being away from home for a lead abatement project, navigating life in an older home, and adjusting to being displaced while making sure our family is safe and our house gets the updates we’ve been putting off.

    Then we’re getting into one of my favorite parts of life: food! 🍲 I’m sharing my easy taco soup recipe made with leftover taco meat, Rotel, beans, corn, beef broth, and plenty of seasoning. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for making the most of what you already have at home.

    And finally, we’re talking about soft-life living, warm food, self-care, and skincare. From making time to actually sit down and enjoy a warm meal to sharing what has been working for me in my skincare routine, this part of the conversation is all about slowing down, paying attention to yourself, and finding small ways to feel cared for.

    This episode is a reminder that taking care of yourself can look different in every season of life. Sometimes it’s handling the hard stuff at home. Sometimes it’s making a comforting meal. Sometimes it’s giving yourself a little extra time in your routine.

    Come hang out with me for another honest conversation about homeownership, family life, cooking at home, self-care, skincare, and finding a little softness in the middle of real life.

    13 min
  • For The Love of Travel

    Mental Health, STK Chicago & Eating Outside Your Routine

    In this episode of The Shimalayas, we’re talking about mental health, self-care, and the reality of choosing convenience when life gets busy. We’re also giving our take on STK Chicago, discussing cooking at home vs. eating out, and why traveling is the perfect excuse to step outside your normal food routine.

    From protecting your peace to trying new restaurants and enjoying foods you don’t normally have access to, this episode is all about balance, experiences, and giving yourself permission to enjoy life.

    🎧 Tune in and come hang out with us!

    17 min
  • Be Happy In life, Date Your Partner!

    How do you keep your marriage strong after the excitement of the engagement fades? In this episode of The Shimalayas, we’re diving into the importance of dating your spouse after marriage, prioritizing quality time, and building a healthy, lasting relationship through intentional connection. Whether you’re newly engaged, newly married, or have been together for years, we’re sharing practical ways to keep the romance alive and strengthen your relationship.

    We’re also bringing another food review to the table as we try the viral birria pizza from El Cazador. Is this Mexican-Italian fusion worth the hype? We break down the flavors, texture, and whether it deserves a spot on your must-try food list.

    To wrap up the episode, we’re talking about birthday travel ideas and why celebrating with experiences instead of gifts has become one of our favorite traditions. From weekend getaways to unforgettable birthday trips, we’re sharing tips for making every birthday feel special.

    If you love conversations about marriage, relationships, date night ideas, food reviews, family life, travel, and creating meaningful memories, this episode is for you.

    In this episode:

    • Why you should keep dating your spouse after marriage
    • Relationship advice for engaged and married couples
    • Our honest review of El Cazador’s birria pizza
    • Birthday travel inspiration and celebration ideas
    • Building stronger relationships through shared experiences
    18 min
  • Busy and Soft Lives

    Life has a way of keeping us busy—but are we actually living, or just surviving?

    In this episode, we dive into the reality of juggling packed schedules, chasing goals, and trying to make room for the people and moments that matter most. We talk about embracing our soft life era without giving up ambition, finding joy in the little things, and redefining what balance really looks like.

    We’re also sharing our latest grocery store haul, favorite finds, and the everyday routines helping us simplify life while staying within budget. Plus, we have an honest conversation about how difficult it can be to build genuine connections in a world filled with social media, busy calendars, and surface-level interactions—and why authentic friendships and community are more important than ever.

    Whether you’re trying to slow down, romanticize your everyday life, or simply feel a little less alone in the chaos, this episode is for you.

    In this episode, we cover:

    • Navigating busy seasons of life
    • What the “soft life” really means (and what it doesn’t)
    • Grocery haul favorites, budget shopping, and meal inspiration
    • Building authentic friendships and meaningful relationships
    • Finding peace, balance, and joy in everyday moments


    If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a five-star review, and share it with someone who could use a reminder that slowing down is okay.

    21 min
  • Warmth At Home

    Motherhood is made up of the little moments—the messy ones, the sweet ones, and the everyday routines that shape our families. In this episode, we’re sharing honest motherhood moments, the realities of balancing family life, and the small choices we make to create healthier and happier homes.

    We’re also diving into a fresh and flavorful favorite: agave fruit salad! From choosing seasonal fruits to finding ways to enjoy fresh produce without overspending, we’re talking about realistic grocery budgeting, making nutritious choices, and how to prioritize quality ingredients while staying within a budget.

    Plus, we’re exploring the conversation around artificial versus natural sweeteners. What options are we reaching for, what are we avoiding, and how do we make informed choices for ourselves and our families without feeling overwhelmed by all the opinions out there?

    Whether you’re a parent navigating busy days, someone trying to make healthier food choices, or just looking for a relatable lifestyle conversation, this episode is filled with real moments, practical tips, and honest discussions.

    In this episode:

    • Real motherhood moments and family life updates
    • Making time for healthier habits as a busy parent
    • Agave fruit salad and fresh recipe inspiration
    • Budgeting for fresh fruits and vegetables
    • Grocery shopping tips for nutritious meals
    • Artificial sweeteners vs. natural sweeteners
    • Finding balance between health, convenience, and budget

    Tune in for another real-life conversation on The Shimalayas—where food, family, lifestyle, and the everyday moments that connect us all come together.

    20 min
  • Social House

    In this heartfelt comeback episode, I’m sharing where I’ve been, what’s changed, and why I’m finally returning to creating content after welcoming a new baby. I’ll open up about my postpartum journey, how motherhood has reshaped my perspective, and what you can expect from this new chapter of the podcast.

    Then we’re diving into a delicious review of Social House, where I’m breaking down everything from the stuffed mushrooms and fried green tomatoes to the pulled pork mac & cheese, Cajun pasta, strawberry beignets, and cocktails. Was it worth the hype? You’ll find out.

    We’ll also talk about postpartum self-care beyond bubble baths—covering massages, pelvic floor therapy, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and the importance of investing in your healing after birth.

    To wrap things up, we’re tackling an unpopular parenting opinion: cosleeping. I’ll share my personal experience, discuss cosleeping versus bassinets, explain the safe sleep practices that worked for our family, and open the conversation for respectful discussion—because every family’s journey looks different.

    Whether you’re a new parent, a foodie, or simply looking for honest conversations about motherhood and life, this episode has something for you.

    In this episode:

    • Returning to content creation after postpartum
    • Life updates and embracing motherhood
    • Social House restaurant review
    • Postpartum self-care and recovery
    • An honest conversation about cosleeping and safe sleep


    Grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and join me for a candid conversation about food, healing, motherhood, and finding your way through a new season of life.

    21 min
  • Noodles Now, CDs Later

    We’re taking a cozy, real-life walk through Columbus, starting at the iconic North Market where the food is just as bold as the conversations. From ramen noodles and comfort eats to exploring how everyday spending connects to long-term financial goals like CD accounts, this episode blends lifestyle, food, and money talk in a relatable way.

    5 min

About The Shimalayas

From the publisher's feed

Come journey with me into the Shimalayas! A mom, wife, millennial finding her way through life. One moment, day, experience at a time.