This Girl Podcast

In today’s episode of This Girl Podcast, Daisy sits down with new friend Fran Azel to talk about a season of life so many of us are navigating — midlife and empty nesting.

From the bittersweet quiet of a house once filled with kids, to the courage it takes to try something new (yes, pottery and even camping) Fran shares her personal journey of self-discovery, friendship, and embracing change.  This conversation is an invitation to see midlife not as an ending, but as a season of possibility, growth, and joy. We laugh, we reflect, and we remind ourselves of the beauty of girlfriends who walk alongside us through it all.

Fran opens up about her journey from librarian to fitness coach, through parenting shifts, personal development, and even pottery and mountain retreats. Together, Daisy & Fran explore how women can embrace this stage as a transformation rather than a crisis.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How to embrace empty nesting as a fresh chapter instead of a loss
• The role of friendship and sisterhood in navigating life transitions
• Why trying new things — (like pottery or travel)— can spark joy
• Stories of resilience, humor, and redefining what midlife looks like today
• Why retreats, girlfriends, and learning new skills are lifelines in midlife.

You’ll laugh, nod in recognition, and walk away with fresh ideas to reframe midlife as your halftime show—messy, beautiful, and full of possibility.

If this episode sparked something within you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend, tag us in your stories, and DM Daisy @pocketfulofdaosy to learn more about the upcoming episodes or any story idea that the world needs to hear about.

 

Resources & Links:

• Follow Fran Azel IG: @pocketsize_Fran

• Follow Daisy: @pocketfulofdaisy

• Want to learn more about the Glamping retreats: : https://www.franazel.com

Episode Timeline

• 0:00 – 2:00 | Daisy’s intro: creating pause, community, and connection.

• 2:00 – 4:00 | Meet Fran Azzel: the story behind “Pocket-Sized Fran.”

• 5:00 – 8:00 | Midlife + empty nest: identity, silence, and the “Now what?” moment.

• 9:00 – 12:00 | Tools for rediscovery: fitness, community, and personal development.

• 13:00 – 15:00 | Marriage in the spotlight: communication and resilience.

• 16:00 – 26:00 | Pottery, cracks, and learning new skills as life lessons.

• 27:00 – 38:00 | Retreats, nature, and girlfriend trips as healing spaces.

• 39:00 – 44:00 | Fun Fire Round: wine vs. coffee, sunsets, songs, and self-care rituals.

• 45:00 – end | Gratitude, blessings of midlife, and Daisy’s closing reflections

What if planning for the inevitable could actually be an act of LOVE? 

In Episode 70 of This Girl Podcast, Daisy sits down for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Lori Friedman, founder of The Love Policy, to discuss the importance of legacy planning, estate planning, and life insurance. Together, they explore how transforming the often-avoided topic of death into an open conversation about love can bring peace, comfort, and confidence to those you leave behind.

Daisy and Lori dive deep into the emotional side of end-of-life planning, the stigma around talking about death, and how reframing these discussions can offer peace of mind, financial security, and emotional comfort for your family during the hardest moments. Lori’s goal is to not only help families prepare practically, but to also transform the industry narrative — making planning for the inevitable feel less like a burden, and more like the best act of LOVE and beautiful final gift.

Lori shares her personal journey from decades in the insurance industry to creating The Love Policy Box, a simple yet powerful tool that helps families organize legal documents, prepare essential financial information, and ensure loved ones are fully supported after a loss. They dive into why life insurance is an act of love, how to start difficult conversations about end-of-life planning, and why proper preparation can save families from financial and emotional stress.

Whether you're looking to learn more about lestate planning for beginners, or how to protect your family’s financial future, this episode provides actionable advice and emotional insight to help you take the first step.

Resources & Links:

• Follow Lori Friedman IG: @thelovepolicy

• Follow Daisy: @pocketfulofdaisy

• Want to order The Love Policy Box: www.thelovepolicy.com/box

If this episode sparked something within you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend, tag us in your stories, and DM Daisy @pocketfulofdaosy to learn more about the upcoming episodes or any story idea that the world needs to hear about.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps

00:00 – Intro: Why we need to talk about life, death & legacy 01:25 – Meet Lori Friedman, founder of The Love Policy 03:00 – Why we avoid end-of-life planning (and why that’s dangerous) 06:07 – Breaking the stigma: how The Love Policy helps families start the conversation 07:05 – The Love Policy Box: what it includes & how it helps loved ones 09:00 – Legacy isn’t just for the rich — it’s for everyone 10:00 – Lori & Daisy share personal stories of loss and how planning could have helped 12:48 – A powerful real-life story from Lori’s friend that inspired The Love Policy 15:05 – How Lori’s father inspired her life’s mission: “I sell love.” 17:12 – Lori’s personal journey to purpose after retirement 19:51 – The underserved communities Lori is passionate about reaching 21:06 – Simplifying complicated information: The Love Policy's educational approach 23:31 – When you’re ready to buy life insurance: Lori’s advice 25:42 – Daisy’s own insurance experience: how confusing policies can be 26:39 – The importance of simple, accessible education for every family 29:23 – The bigger mission: changing lives one family at a time 30:00 – Closing: The ultimate act of love is planning ahead 

👉 Learn more: thelovepolicy.com

She’s back—and this time, she’s daring us to grow. In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Caroline de Posada returns to This Girl Podcast to share the evolution of her personal journey where she DARED—from lawyer and speaker to transformational coach—and the launch of her newest transformative project: the D.A.R.E. coaching program.

Daisy and Caroline share an enlightening conversation inspiring you to dive deep into you dreans ad living with intention.  Caro introduces her new 6-week “adult summer camp” designed to help you reconnect with your core pirnciples, take aligned action, and reignite a dream—big or small. Caro walks you through her personal story, the inspiration behind the framework, and how you can step into a season of bold growth.

If you’re ready to shift and grow, this episode will give you the permission—and the plan—to take that step in becoming an even better version of yourself!

Sign up by June 2nd at carolinedeposada.com/dare Use code DAISY for 10% off!

Resources & Links:

• Follow Caroline De Posada on IG: @carolinedeposada

• Follow Daisy: @pocketfulofdaisy

• Want to Sign up to DARE coaching program: www.carolinedeposada.com/dare

If this episode sparked something within you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend, tag us in your stories, and DM Daisy @pocketfulofdaosy to learn more about the upcoming episodes or any story idea that the world needs to hear about.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps

• [00:00:00] Welcome & Rewind of Returning Guest Caroline De Posada

• [00:04:00] Caroline’s Career Shift: From Lawyer to Legacy Builder

• [00:10:00] Taking Small Steps & Honoring Her Father’s Work- Joaquin De Posada

• [00:16:00] Discovering Her Own CORE: Clarity, Organization, Resilience, Emotional Intelligence

• [00:22:00] The Birth of CORE During COVID & Online Community Building

• [00:25:00] Embracing Coaching & Accountability

• [00:28:00] The D.A.R.E. Framework: Dream. Aligned Action. Release. Enjoy.

• [00:30:00] https://carolinedeposada.com/dare/ Program Details: What to Expect from the 6-Week DARE Coaching Experience

• [00:32:00] How to Join, Special Offers & Final Reflections| www.carolinedeposada.com/dare

• [00:38:00] Empowerment, Transformation & Personal Invitations

Episode 68: "Hats Off to the Hustle" with Cecie Mestre of Theme Dresser

Hello, sunshine! In this feel-good, fashion-forward episode of This Girl Podcast, I sit down with the one and only Cecie Mestre, founder of Theme Dresser—a woman who turned hand-painted hats into a full-blown fashion business.

We go back to where it all started: a single hat, a spark of creativity, and Cecie’s leap of faith from styling out of her living room to running one of South Florida’s most unique boutiques. From curating collections with designers around the world to helping women rediscover their style, Cecie proves that passion, resilience, and a killer outfit can take you anywhere.

We talk:

• How she started her brand with zero inventory and pure intuition

• Her biggest mindset shifts as a single mom and entrepreneur

• Styling tips to elevate your look without breaking the bank

• What every woman really needs in her closet this summer

• Why the hat is more than just an accessory—it’s a statement 👒

 If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own thing, felt stuck in your style, or just need a dose of bold, beautiful energy—this episode is your sign.

Cecie brings the inspiration and the sparkle. Trust me, you’ll want to hit play and maybe even... shop a little after.

 

Resources & Links:

• Follow Cecie on IG: @theme_dresser

• Follow Daisy: @pocketfulofdaisy

• Online Shopping and Private Styling with Cecie Mestre:www.themedrsser.com

If this episode sparked something within you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend, tag us in your stories, and DM Daisy to learn more about the upcoming episodes or any story idea that the world needs to hear about.

 

If this episode inspired you, made you smile or turned your day a little brighter; leave a review and share this with your favorite fashionista!

00:00 Welcome to This Girl Podcast | Special Guest Cecie Mestre 00:53 Introducing Cecie Mestre and Her Fashion Journey 01:55 The Birth of Theme Dresser 03:52 From Instagram to International Pop-Ups 04:54 The Hat Epiphany in Mexico 07:05 Opening the Boutique: A Dream Come True 09:29 Empowering Women Through Fashion 12:14 Styling Tips and Trends 14:38 Curating Unique Collections 19:29 Breaking Fashion Rules 20:07 Packing Challenges and Solutions 21:45 The Importance of Shoes 24:36 Wardrobe Essentials 26:32 The Legends Hat Collection 30:38 Social Media and Personal Branding 33:34 Final Thoughts and Inspirations

In this insightful comeback episode, Daisy reconnects with her audience and welcomes empowerment coach Jennifer Warren to discuss how we can all reconnect with our inner selves. Together, they dive deep into the wellness-based, transformative program Ignite the Light Within, co-founded by Jennifer Warren  and Dr. Laura Alfonso. The conversation touches on life transitions, personal growth, the five pillars of transformation, and the power of community. This episode is a heart-forward invitation to reflect, grow, and reignite your spark.

[00:00] Welcome back! Daisy reintroduces the podcast with a renewed mission to inspire deeper connection and to pause and be present.

[02:15] The spark of friendship: how Daisy met Jennifer Warren at a lacrosse game and their full-circle moment today.

[04:30] Jennifer shares her journey into empowerment coaching and the origin of "Ignite the Light Within."

[07:40] Why the answers we seek are within us—not outside of us.

[10:20] Reflecting on Covid as a global invitation to "be" rather than "do."

[12:00] Daisy discusses how stillness shaped her personal growth and podcast pause.

[14:05] The difference between being forced and being invited to pause—and reclaiming our power.

[17:10] Introducing the Ignite the Light Within program and why it was created now.

[19:30] Common struggles: loneliness, anxiety, and the power of choosing your mindset.

[22:00] The importance of community and the ripple effect of personal development.

[24:10] Overview of the four programs: Masterclass, Pillar Workshops, Ignite Sessions, and Growth Forums.

[26:30] Deep dive into the 5 Pillars of Transformation:

• Mindset

• Intentional Awareness

• Adaptability

• Personal Power

• Community

[35:00] Why adaptability and flexibility are teachable superpowers.

[37:40] The power of learning and self-awareness: "The more you learn, the more you see."

[39:45] Personal Power: How we stand in our truth and stop people-pleasing.

[42:15] Understanding the role of community in mental and emotional well-being.

[44:20] The societal shift post-Covid and the renewed hunger for connection.

[47:10] How community lowers stress and boosts longevity (Daisy's dream to become a centennial!)

[50:00] Explaining each program format and the flexibility they offer.

[56:30] The power of combining a coach and therapist for total transformation.

[01:00:15] Defining "somatic work" and why it's essential for emotional regulation.

[01:04:30] Who is this program for? Spoiler: Everyone in transition or looking to grow!

[01:07:00] Daisy invites listeners to a special Ignite Session happening at the end of April in Miami.

[01:09:15] Listener gift: Download Jennifer's "3 A's of Change" handout (DM @pocketfulofdaisy for access)

Resources & Links:

• Visit: https://ignitethelightwithin.me

• Follow Jennifer on IG: @ignitethelightwithin.me

• Follow Daisy: @pocketfulofdaisy

• Private Coaching with Jen: https://jenseekingempowerment.com

If this episode sparked something within you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend, tag us in your stories, and DM Daisy to learn more about the upcoming Ignite Session in Miami. Let’s bloom together.

#ThisGirlPodcast #IgniteTheLightWithin #WomensEmpowerment #WellnessJourney #TheMoreYouLearnTheMoreYouSee #DoesofDaisy #DaisyDownloads

It is the beginning of the year, and as you create your goals for the year, most people are seeking ways to grow their wealth towards financial freedom; and women need to be in these conversations!

While there are many women as real estate agents, there are relatively few females as real estate investors, and Daisy wants to change that! This Girl, Daisy brings you some very interesting insight into the vast opportunities women have in real estate investments. 

In episode 66, Daisy has an informative conversation with Natasha Falconi, Founder & President of Falconi Capital, a real estate investment firm specializing in multi-family real estate.

With over 20 years of experience as an investor, property manager, Chair of a bank and most recently Founder of her own real estate company, Natasha is in a position to empower women to participate as investors in real estate.  Natasha is on a mission to get more women to invest in real estate, given that only 3% of women currently invest in commercial real estate, so much room for growth! 

She highly recommends that woman need to simply get informed and get started; and the mulit-family investments is an easy way to begin diversifying your portfolio.

Best advice: Just get started.  Get her free download at https://www.falconi-capital.comor just pick up the phone and call her.

Natasha is offering a FREE download to get you started:  An Insider’s Look at Multifamily Real Estate Investment: A 5-Step Plan to Minimize Risk and Maximize Return

Girls we all need to start investing in real estate!

When investing in real estate Natasha reminds us: Do not WAIT to invest in Real Estate, Invest in Real Estate and then wait!

If this podcast was helpful to you and inspired you –  write Daisy a 5-star review so that she can grow in the ranks!  Rate & Review it is simple and that’s how This Girl podcast continues to bloom and bring you the stories that matter to YOU!

For More details about This Girl podcast, visit Daisy Blanchard or check out her "Dose of Daisy" on Instagram @pocketfulofdaisy 

 

Do you feel like you are all over the place with an endless to do list? Or are you frustrated that your child leaves things at school and you have to remind him to do his work 100 times?  Then this episode is for you… This Girl podcast host Daisy has a REAL informative conversation with Nicole Santamaria, Founder, OT for Real Life about what is Executive Functioning (EF) and how-to best to approach this in order to get things done!

Nicole has more than 20 year’s experience with a no nonsense – straightforward approach helping parents, kids and teachers providing them the “real life” strategies and right intervention – since she is a true believer that we can all DEVELOP these skills!  Daisy and Nicole have a very candid conversation since Daisy very vulnerably shares her personal struggles with EF, so their conversation hit home.  Nicole offers unique approach to finding EF solutions since she believes in looking for the strengths before the weakness. Nicole suggests a strengths-based approach that helps identify the individual’s natural talents vs. depicting all their faults. In this episode, Nicole summarizes 3 ways you can begin to improve Executive Function in your life or your child’s.  She discusses the first step is to know your EF profile and provides a FREE cheat sheet - find out your EF strengths with this EF Guide https://learn.nicolesantamaria.com/ef

Nicole’s resources are fun and user friendly, log on today:

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING HELPS YOU LAUNCH TO INDEPENDNCE

• Hop over to my website: All the tips, tricks, and strategies to guide you through your child’s developmental journey. 
• Follow me on YouTube:  Weekly video content with interviews, inside scoops, and helpful actionable and easy-to-follow tips. 
• Check out the Organization Strategies Workshop:If you want to hit the EASY button on this executive functioning skill, so that your child can get things done, save time and chill out! 

Follow Nicole for updates:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/miamihandwri... Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/OTforRealLife

Or 📧 Send her an email with any questions or schedule a consultation - [email protected]

In this episode, Daisy invites you to tap into your spirit and join a movement of sacred sisterhood that will promise to awaken the goddess within.  Daisy hosts Maria Marshall, CEO & Founder of Gaia Goddess Lifestyle.  Daisy and Maria share an intuitive conversation reminding women the importance of self-care and nourishing their spirit.

Besides Maria being a Reiki Master and holistic healer, she is a conscious creative who utilizes social entrepreneurism, storytelling, and community building to inspire, heal and empower women.  Her spiritual journey has led her to the launch of Gaia Goddess Lifestyle, a movement where women can come together to nourish their souls.  Gaia Goddess Lifestyle is built on 4 pillars: education, healing, community, and empowerment.  This spirited led movement invites women to let go of ancestral narratives and paradigms in order to release the past, and elevate their souls. 

Maria shares with Daisy that her spiritual journey was not without pain, in fact, she says… “you got to feel it to heal it!”  They both give insight into hard times in their lives where it was spiritual awakenings and community that were the elixirs to healing.  She shares that during this process of healing, one of the modalities that she really found effective was Barbara Carrellas’ guided meditation, breath and energy orgasm. (spoiler alert! not sexual but spiritual release)

https://barbaracarrellas.com/breath-and-energy-orgasms-meditation/

Daisy reminds us that your “vibe attracts your tribe”, and invites you to join Gaia Goddess movement. For a limited time, FREE MEMBERSHIP, sign up today to elevate your spirit:

https://gaiagoddesslifestyle.com/pages/memberships

Gaia Goddess membership is designed to sustain lasting connections and provide on-going support. Join the Gaia Goddess ever evolving sacred Sisterhood community. You will enjoy access to our free library featuring a wide array of exclusive online content: https://gaiagoddesslifestyle.com

Instagram @gaiagoddesslifestyleyou will enjoy access to our free library featuring a wide array of exclusive online content.

If this podcast was helpful to you and inspired you –  write Daisy a 5-star review so that she can grow in the ranks!  Rate & Review it is simple and that’s how This Girl podcast continues to bloom and bring you the stories that matter to YOU!

For More details about This Girl podcast, visit Daisy Blanchard or check out her Dose of Daisy on Instagram @pocketfulofdaisy  

In this episode, Daisy welcomes once again, Caroline De Posada, life coach & motivational speaker focused on all things wellness, mindset and relationships.  They engage in lively conversation about fasting and the importance that this “reset” can have on your body, mind and spirit.

 With the holiday season upon us and the temptations increasing, both Caroline aka “Caro” and Daisy want to equip you with the right mindset.  Caro explains what is fasting? Why fasting is beneficial and the different types of fasting.

 In particular, Caroline takes a deep dive into “Rejuvafast” a 5-day fast which is a whole-body approach that incorporates the latest scientific research on fasting and anti-aging, fundamental lifestyle principles; along with a supportive community to improve your health and wellness. 

Caroline shares the story how she partnered with Dr. Virgilio Sanchez, Board certified Family physician with a deep passion for natural and integrative medicine.  Together they developed a 5-day fast challenge that they administer quarterly throughout the year.  Rejuvafast was created to scientifically activate autophagy in your cells, rejuvenate internal system and reset healthy habits.

Caroline outlines the offerings of Rejuvafast:

o   5-day fast scientifically designed to renew cells 

o   Live access to experts - Personal Development Life Coach & Integrative Medicine Doctor

o   Grocery List

o   Supplements

o   Bonus: RejuvaHacks Masterclass on how to protect yourself from junky foods. This Masterclass will teach participants how to minimize indulgences and stay super intentional through the holidays and beyond.

Caro will be offering the final Rejuvafast of 2022 – Oct. 23- 28

Sign up - https://rejuvafast.com

Looking for a life coach, wellness community or motivational speaker – Get to know Caro:  https://carolinedeposada.com

If this podcast was helpful to you and inspired you –  write Daisy a 5-star review so that she can grow in the ranks!  Rate & Review it is simple and that’s how This Girl podcast continues to bloom and bring you the stories that matter to YOU!

For More details about This Girl podcast, visit Daisy Blanchard on Instagram @pocketfulofdaisy or http://www.pocketfulofdaisy.com

In this episode, Daisy makes sure you add more "tools" in your branding toolbox as she invites branding expert and communications strategist, Katie Cabanas to not only “talk shop” since communications are both their “jam” and expertise; but more important to inspire other women and entrepreneurs to invest in themselves in order to make a greater impact with the POWER of their words and messaging.

With more than 25 years of branding and communication experience, Founder & CEO, Cabanas Consulting, Katie Cabanas, share her tips and outlines her easy to implement communications framework to master your message.

Daisy and Katie have a straight-to-the-point but insightful conversation about guiding you on some simple steps to improving your messaging and communicating your brand.  In today’s digital era and constant instant gratification, you only have a few minutes or seconds to send a message… so it is critical that you know how best what to say and how to say it!

Tune in and hear all about Katie’s top 3 C’s in communicating your brand:

1. Clarity - clarify the goal and or the issue at hand
2. Craft - the strategy based on your target audience
3. Connect - brand strategy is all about connecting with your community 

Daisy has no doubt you are going to want MORE, so Katie generously offered for the first listener that DMs her, that she would gift a consulting session.  Katie is one of Daisy’s favorite “Girls” since Katie also believes in #womencollaboratingwithwoman!

Both Daisy and Katie want you to SHINE at your next interview, podcast or presentation, therefore, visit her at her website to get FREE worksheet on how to master your message, visit:https://www.cabanas-consulting.com/gift

Katie will also be hosting a FREE webinar on October 19th at 1PM (Est):

Be a "WOW-WORTHY” presenter: 5 keys to prepare your next powerful panle, podcast or presentation 

Follow Katie on her instagram: @cabanasconsullting

Stay connected, informed and inspired – Rate & review 

If this podcast was helpful to you and inspired you –  write Daisy a 5-star review so that she can grow in the ranks!  Rate & Review it is simple and that’s how This Girl podcast continues to bloom and bring you the stories that matter to YOU!

For More details about This Girl podcast, visit Daisy Blanchard on instagram @pocketfulofdaisy or new website: https://www.daisyblanchard.com