What She’s Having | Midlife Women, Wellness & Reinvention

In today's episode of What She's Having, Jen & Brit roll into full best-friend energy — catching up on life, travel plans, set design wins (and disasters), parenting realities, and the hilariously dramatic origin story of Winston the Whippet, the unofficial mascot of the show.

From prenups and money wounds, to remodel stress, favorite local restaurants, kids' homework meltdowns, adult-child relationships, losing luggage in Italy, and the petty food crimes that should end friendships… this episode is cozy, chaotic, honest, and SO Season 2.

Plus: pet peeves, parenting lessons, behind-the-scenes stories, and what's really happening in their lives right now. Grab a glass of wine, a blanket, and have what we're having. 💕

00:00 – 03:20: Season 2 energy & why this season hits different

03:20 – 11:30: Guest reflections + prenups, money conversations & immigrant-family dynamics

11:30 – 17:20: Set design accidents that turned into design opportunities

17:20 – 22:50: The legend of Winston the Whippet: how he was "rescued"

22:50 – 30:00: Jen's remodel chaos, Canadian cabinets & unexpected design wins

30:00 – 38:45: Restaurant recs: Yumi Sushi, We Vino, Red O & hospitality done right

38:45 – 48:30: Travel talk: Italy, France & the infamous lost luggage in Rome story

48:30 – 57:25: Packing struggles, simplifying travel, moms vs. kid trips

57:25 – 1:05:20: Parenting, homework meltdowns, long division trauma & school expectations

1:05:20 – 1:14:10: Raising older kids, supporting passions & Sam's big Viper Room show

1:14:10 – 1:21:30: Family dynamics, sibling relationships & watching kids grow up

1:21:30 – 1:29:45: Pet peeves rapid-fire: slow drivers, ASMR, door manners, mascara clumps, dessert etiquette

1:29:45 – End: Cozy future episodes, listener questions, and how to reach us

Instagram:
@officialwhatsheshaving
https://instagram.com/officialwhatshesheshaving

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Want to be a guest or collaborate?
DM us on Instagram or email: 📩 [email protected]

In this episode we dive deep with Dr. Etel Leit into love, relationships, intimacy, self-work and the patterns that keep us stuck. We explore how acceptance (not change) is the heart of love, why we keep attracting the "same partner" in different bodies, how to heal childhood wounds and nervous-system patterns (fight/flight/freeze/fawn) that block connection, and how desire evolves over time in long-term relationships. Dr. Leit also shares her own story of transformation, the 3 V's of soulmate relational alignment (Vibe, Values, Vision), and practical tools for couples and singles alike to deepen intimacy and create relationship that actually feels good.

Highlights:

• The difference between transactional vs reciprocal love

• Why saying "Thank you" often matters more than "I love you"

• The meaning of acceptance in partner love

• How your partner reflects what you still need to heal

• Nervous-system survival responses in relationships (fight/flight/freeze/fawn)

• How to shift from self-blame and "monkey talk" ("he did this… she did that…") to owning your reflection

• The "3 V's" of relationship alignment: Vibe, Values, Vision

• How desire and sex evolve after kids, mid-life, and long together

• Tools: Eye-gazing exercise, holding space without performance, from mother-mode back to woman/sensual mode

• Her personal journey: from a home of chasing love, near-death experience, divorce, deep inner work, and then finding a love that felt real

• Advice for singles, second marriages, parents, high-achieving professionals.

0:00 – Introduction & welcome
2:30 – Guest background: Dr. Leit's journey into love-work
6:15 – Growing up in a home of "chasing love" and what that taught her
10:40 – What is real love vs transactional love
14:20 – How acceptance transforms relationships
18:55 – Why we keep attracting the same partner in different bodies
23:30 – Nervous-system survival responses (fight/flight/freeze/fawn) in relationships
28:10 – How long does healing take? "God is not wearing a watch."
32:00 – The 3 V's of healthy partner alignment: Vibe, Values, Vision
36:45 – Sex, desire, role play, and sustaining intimacy after kids
42:50 – Exercise: eye-gazing for 2 minutes & other non-sexual intimacy tools
46:30 – When staying in a relationship because of the kids vs choosing each other
50:10 – Final pearls of wisdom: "It's not how much you love — it's how much you allow yourself to be loved."
52:30 – Rapid-fire listener questions / audience questions
57:00 – Closing remarks & thanks

Resources/Recommended Links:

• Dr. Etel Leit's website: dretelleit.com

• Follow her on Instagram: @dretelleit

• Book her for speaking/events: [email protected]

• Book: UnAddicted to You (and other books)

We're confessing our late-night scrolling habits—the instant buys, the "saved for later" graveyard, and the surprisingly life-changing under-$50 finds. From hypochlorous spray and "Nippie" covers to the jewelry cleaner we now gift everyone—plus a few epic fails (dog steamer, we're looking at you). Grab a coffee and come judge our carts. 🛒✨

Chapters:
00:00 Cold open: "We are the ultimate consumers"
02:12 The "to-buy" folder hack vs. instant gratification
06:05 Magic Molecule hypochlorous spray (skin & kid-safe) – HIT
08:40 Flint mints (saliva savers for recording) – HIT (spicy!)
11:10 The "fishing-wire" tank + Nippie Skins – HIT combo
14:05 Velvet phone case + matching chain & MagSafe charger – HIT
17:10 Bag organizers (Birkin/Kelly inserts): idea HIT, model MISS
19:30 Diamond Drunk jewelry cleaner – GIFTING GOLD
22:45 Bōken canvas tote (lightweight, travel-friendly) – HIT
25:10 Faux-Birkin market bag – cute but $$ – MAYBE
27:00 Cellulite/thigh smoother tool – MISS
28:30 Manuka honey (why we actually use it) – HIT
31:00 Retinol hand cream (packaging you'll love) – HIT
33:20 Dog "steamer" brush – EPIC MISS
35:10 Underarm sweat pads (save your sweaters!) – HIT
37:00 Viral stain remover: works… after washing – QUALIFIED HIT
39:05 "Hand filter" cream (frankincense vibes) – HIT (scent alert)
41:00 Gen C liquid shadows (Rosewater/Linen) – HIT
43:10 Pink under-eye corrector (why pink works) – HIT
45:05 Callus removers: flimsy MISS vs. serious HIT
47:20 Kids' punch-ball headbands – MISS
49:10 Our definitive host-gift bag (what to bundle)
51:00 Wrap + where to watch/listen

Links/Products Mentioned (non-affiliate placeholders):
– Hypochlorous spray (aka "Magic Molecule")
– Flint mints
– "Fishing-wire" tank + Nippie Skins
– Velvet phone case + chain + MagSafe charger
– Bag organizers (Birkin/Kelly)
– Diamond Drunk jewelry cleaner
– Bōken canvas tote
– Faux-Birkin market tote
– Manuka honey (glass jar)
– Retinol hand cream (pump)
– Underarm sweat pads
– Stain remover ("Mrs. Mouth" type)
– "Hand filter" cream (frankincense)
– Gen C liquid eyeshadows (Rosewater, Linen)
– Pink under-eye corrector
– Heavy-duty callus remover

🎧 Listen everywhere podcasts live.
📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube.
📲 IG: @officialwhatsheshaving

https://www.whatsheishavingpodcast.com/

Kiki Tobar — extension specialist and founder/owner of Kashmir Extensions in West Hollywood — joins Jennifer and Britney to demystify luxury extensions. We get into consultation-to-install workflow, flat/"genius" wefts vs. hand-tied/machine-tied, why method ≠ damage (technique + aftercare do), realistic pricing and maintenance, and how Kiki built a high-touch salon culture and premium hair line. Plus: the "Jen Weave" technique, leg-compression booties during long appointments (game-changer!), and why great hair can make you feel ten years younger.

Key takeaways

• Extensions done right protect (and can even improve) your hair's integrity; the installer and home care matter most.

• Kiki stocks hair in-house for same-day custom color, blend, and install — no "come back when the hair arrives."

• Starter (factory-colored Indian) vs. Luxe (Russian virgin) options: invest once, then rotate/refresh; maintenance every 6–8 weeks.

• Favorite "cocktail": rows + a sprinkle of keratin bonds to finesse hairlines and fill where needed.

• Salon culture = systems, kindness, and standards; clients who expect excellence make artists better.

• 00:00 – Cold open & intro: "queen of extensions" energy; why hair = your #1 everyday accessory

• 03:30 – Confidence & identity shifts with great hair; the "living, breathing" approach to extensions

• 08:15 – Kiki's booking model: limited, high-touch client roster; 4-hour new-set workflow

• 12:20 – One-stop service: color, cut, custom color on wefts, install, finish — in one visit

• 16:00 – Methods 101: beaded rows; flat/"genius" wefts vs. hand-tied/machine-tied; thickness without bulk

• 21:30 – Who's a candidate? When hair is too thin/short (topper/crown systems; post-chemo considerations)

• 25:10 – Maintenance cadence (6–8 weeks), moving rows, scalp breaks, rotating hair vs. buying new

• 29:45 – Cost clarity: Starter (Indian) vs. Luxe (Russian) install ranges; why "buy once, keep a year" can win

• 34:40 – Quality talk: factory "textile-dyed" hair vs. premium raw/virgin sourcing; color-fade & sunscreen issues

• 40:20 – Supply chain + QC: the $10K lesson, factory partnerships, transparency, upcoming factory tour

• 45:05 – Salon culture: kindness-only policy, firing for fit, building a systemized, fun creative shop

• 49:30 – Motherhood, grit, and timing: entrepreneurship through life transitions

• 55:00 – Rapid-fire: sew-ins, volume vs. length (volume in LA), monthly maintenance, dry shampoo = "careful"

• 58:30 – What's trending for 2025: keratin bonds (with the right texture match), single-drawn Russian virgin

• 1:02:00 – The "perfect cocktail": rows + targeted bonds; why it saves time and looks most natural

• 1:05:00 – Pro education: Cashmere classes, password-protected pro portal; the "Jen Weave" technique

• 1:09:00 – Closing: gratitude, confidence, and having "what she's extending"

• Instagram (Kiki): @kikimamaoriginal

• Salon Instagram: @kashmirextensions — "Text to book" & consultation info in bio. 

• Booking / Contact page: 

  • 1481 Havenhurst Dr, West Hollywood, CA 90046

  • (310) 340-1053

  • [email protected]

What's it really like to live life at the top of LA real estate? 🏡💼 Join hosts Jennifer Cataldo and Britney Semler as they sit down with Jay Luchs — luxury realtor, investor, and all-around force in fashion, art, and real estate — for a raw, funny, and inspiring conversation about success, burnout, and the energy it takes to stay on top.

Jay opens up about his signature work ethic, how he stays grounded in a high-stakes industry, and what it means to redefine success beyond the next deal. Expect plenty of laughs, insight, and a few surprises from one of LA's most recognizable agents.

✨ In this episode:

• How Jay balances intensity and intuition in business

• The art of connection in luxury real estate

• Staying authentic in a world obsessed with image

• The power of energy, discipline, and genuine relationships

0:00 – Intro
0:36 – The brand that's killing it right now
2:30 – Routine, discovery & staying relevant
3:10 – The business of "cool"
7:20 – Building the Jay Luchs brand
10:20 – The deal that changed everything
13:00 – LVMH, Louis Vuitton & the Beverly Hills evolution
18:00 – A love letter to Los Angeles
20:20 – Food talk
24:20 – The Malibu fires & comeback
28:00 – Cross Creek Ranch Malibu
36:30 – California Incline the brand
43:10 – Celebrities, Call Her Daddy & organic success
45:30 – Jay's L.A. essentials
46:00 – Best business advice ever given
48:30 – The power of luck, love & longevity
49:45 – Acting roots & lessons from Taylor Sheridan
52:10 – Hollywood memories
54:00 – Rapid-fire round
57:20 – Favorite escapes & guilty pleasures

🎧 New episodes of What She's Having drop every Wednesday — where women over 40 are living louder, laughing harder, and leveling up on their own terms.

👉 Subscribe for more episodes and behind-the-scenes clips: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatShesHaving
📸 Follow us on Instagram: @officialwhatsheshaving

FOLLOW JAY LUCHS

IG: @jayluchs

Website: JAYLUCHS.COM

California Incline Website

• Lily's Malibu – iconic local spot known for its breakfast burritos

• Dan Tana's – classic old-school Italian restaurant in West Hollywood

• Craig's – celeb-favorite dinner destination in West Hollywood

• In-N-Out Burger – Jay's go-to landing meal after trips

• Reddi Chick (Brentwood Country Mart) – beloved casual chicken stand

• Pura Vida (Miami) – lifestyle café expanding with an LA vibe ✱

• Clark's Oyster Bar – opening soon at Cross Creek Ranch Malibu

• Madeo – famed Italian restaurant (potential Malibu tenant)

• Breadhead – LA-based bakery concept coming to Malibu

• Malibu Kitchen – longtime local favorite returning after the fires

• Cha Cha Matcha (mentioned as "Chitchat Coffee & Matcha") – for matcha lattes & coffee culture

• Wally's – upscale restaurant and wine bar coming to Malibu

#JayLuchs #WhatShesHaving #LuxuryRealEstate #LosAngeles #Podcast #WomenOver40 #RealEstateLife #SuccessMindset #JenniferCataldo #BritneySemler

Today we're sweating (and sipping) with one of our favorite people on earth — our trainer, nutritionist, and friend Bobby Levsey, founder of Platinum Athletics. Bobby's the results-driven coach behind our complete body transformations, and in this episode, he breaks down everything women over 40 need to know about getting strong, sculpted, and feeling incredible.

From split-schedule training and macro tracking to why "lifting heavy" won't make you bulky (promise), Bobby shares the real science behind changing your body — and keeping your results without living in the gym. We talk strength vs. cardio, protein myths, the secret to staying toned on vacation, and even how to drink champagne and still hit your goals.

It's a crash course in body recomposition, self-discipline, and confidence — with plenty of laughs, sour gummies, and champagne math along the way.

• Why "split schedule" weight training actually changes your body shape

• How to find your calorie deficit (and when to reverse it)

• The truth about macros, carbs, and protein for women 40+

• Why cardio isn't the fat-burning hero you think it is

• The 48-hour calorie-burn effect of strength training

• How alcohol really fits into your fitness plan

• Real talk on "skinny fat," body composition, and muscle memory

• Quick fire with Bobby: weights or cardio, coffee or matcha, Netflix or nature walk?

• 00:00 – Welcome + Why Bobby Works
  Results over vibes: why split training and macros changed our bodies.

• 02:18 – "Bulky" Myth for Women
  How lifting heavier tightens (doesn't thicken) when paired with fat loss.

• 05:06 – Split Schedule 101
  Monday legs, Tuesday arms, Wednesday legs… why structure beats "winging it."

• 07:42 – Progression = Results
  4–16 week window, week-over-week load increases (hello, glute bridges).

• 10:10 – Calorie Deficit vs Surplus
  Why legs "look bigger" if you build muscle without fat loss.

• 12:58 – Macro Basics (Protein/Carb/Fat)
  Personalized targets; why tiny women can't copy tall men's plates.

• 16:25 – Tracking That Actually Works
  MyFitnessPal, Bobby's Platinum Athletics app, and scanning champagne (lol).

• 18:47 – Peanut Butter, Granola & Other Sneaky Calories
  Simple swaps that moved the needle for our families.

• 21:09 – Deficit Isn't Forever
  Cutting, maintaining, reversing—how to eat more after you lean out.

• 23:40 – "I Blew It" Spiral (Don't)
  One big night ≠ 2 lbs of fat; water, carbs, and 72-hour bloat explained.

• 26:55 – Strength vs Cardio for Fat Loss
  EPOC 101: why lifting boosts burn for up to 48 hours.

• 30:18 – Vacation & Time Off
  Two weeks off won't erase muscle—consistency across the year wins.

• 33:02 – Women 40+: Bone Density & Hormones
  Why weights protect bones (Jen's perfect DEXA), and how often to lift.

• 36:20 – The "Skinny Fat" Fix
  Less cardio, more protein, more weights = tone and shape.

• 39:05 – Carbs Are Not the Villain
  Pre/post-workout carbs for performance; fruit fear, be gone.

• 42:12 – Alcohol: Champagne Math & Hidden Pours
  Serving sizes, 7 cals/g, and how drinks crowd out your food budget.

• 46:30 – Flexible Dieting (80/20)
  Keep your chocolate or tacos—just hit the numbers.

• 49:44 – Real Transformations
  Husbands at 60, 35 lbs fat lost, and why accountability is everything.

• 52:26 – Rapid Fire with Bobby
  Weights vs cardio, Pilates, squats, long walks, coffee, favorite snacks.

• 55:03 – Parting Pep Talk
  The plan, the patience, the payoff—plus our love letter to glute day.

Bobby Levsey — Trainer, Nutritionist, and Founder of Platinum Athletics
Known for transforming clients through customized strength and nutrition programs, Bobby's philosophy combines science, accountability, and balance. His approach has changed hundreds of bodies (including ours!) — without extreme diets or burnout.

Follow Bobby on Instagram → @bobbylevsey
Learn more → Platinum Athletics

Follow the show → @officialwhatssheshaving

🎧 Listen anywhere you get your podcasts
📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube
💌 Love the episode? Like, subscribe & drop us a comment — we'd love to hear your thoughts!

Jennifer and Britney sit down with sonographer and clinic owner Jasmine Khorsandi to demystify breast screening. Jasmine explains why dense breast tissue can hide cancers on mammograms, how SonoCine automated whole-breast ultrasound (AWBUS) captures 3,000+ images (including lymph nodes), and what that means for people with breast implants. They cover baseline screening ages, family history/BRCA, rupture detection, and why creating a soothing, human experience matters. Jasmine also shares her integrated approach—Reiki, 528 Hz sound baths, stress reduction—and a prevention toolkit from hormones to sunscreen choices. The convo ends with a soul-nourishing riff on self-love, friendships that fuel health, and being the CEO of your own health.

Disclaimer: This episode shares personal experiences and opinions. It is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for your own care.

• 00:00 – Welcome + how Jen & Jasmine met (tech anxiety, "click-click-click" fear)

• 03:10 – Why Jasmine built a calmer clinic (tea, conversation, holding space)

• 06:05 – Dense breasts 101 & mammogram blind spots ("snowball in the snow")

• 09:00 – What is SonoCine AWBUS? (3,000 images, lymph nodes, sesame-seed tumors, no radiation)

• 12:40 – Mammogram vs ultrasound: do you need both? (Jasmine's cadence recommendation)

• 15:05 – Lymph nodes & armpit imaging

• 16:40 – Implants: seeing behind them, rupture risk, what ultrasound can pick up

• 21:00 – Who should start when? (baseline at ~30; earlier with strong family history/BRCA)

• 24:30 – A 24-year-old case & why prevention saves lives

• 28:15 – Reiki & sound healing in the clinic (how Jasmine senses energy; empath care)

• 33:10 – Epigenetics, thoughts as medicine, "Zen and the Art of Happiness"

• 38:20 – At-home tests, high-risk assessments, hormones in your 20s

• 42:30 – Sound baths as "frequency medicine" (528 Hz, Unplug, benefits)

• 47:20 – Sunscreen, sun time, zinc, circadian rhythm; seed oils

• 52:10 – Friendship hygiene: "If it's not a hell yes, it's a no."

• 56:00 – Takeaway: Be the CEO of your health + where to find Jasmine

• SonoCine Automated Whole-Breast Ultrasound (AWBUS) robot

• Book: Zen and the Art of Happiness (Shawn Achor's is different—this one is by Chris Prentiss)

• Meditation/Sound Baths: Unplug (studio referenced)

• Sunscreen: Van Man — beef tallow + zinc (clean, minimal-ingredient formula)

• Frequency: 528 Hz (heart-chakra frequency used in sound baths)

• "Basic Brand" clean home supplies (as mentioned in convo)

Sono Breast Wellness Clinic:
Owner/Lead Sonographer: Jasmine Khorsandi
Services: Automated whole-breast ultrasound (SonoCine), lymph-node mapping, thyroid ultrasound (nodules/Hashimoto's screening), pelvic/ovaries ultrasound (incl. endometrial thickness), Reiki, 528 Hz sound healing.
How to book:

• Website: https://www.sonobreasts.com/

• Instagram: @sonobreasts

• Phone: 424-238-6429

In this deeply emotional and groundbreaking episode of Heal 2 Feel, hosts Liat Gerszt and Mercedes "MJ" Javid introduce their newest segment, Dare to Heal — where healing happens in real time. Joining them are world-renowned healers Shinka, a gifted psychic medium and life coach, and Joe Tabbanella, clinical hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner.

Their first guest? NBA champion Lamar Odom, who opens up like never before. From surviving 12 strokes and 6 heart attacks after being poisoned, to grieving the loss of his mother, father, son, and best friends, Lamar shares how faith, forgiveness, and purpose have carried him through.

Through live channeling and energy work, messages from Lamar's late parents and son come through with compassion, clarity, and love. Together, the group explores addiction as a spiritual wound, the courage to forgive yourself, and how grief can be transformed into service and connection.

This episode is raw, vulnerable, and truly transcendent — a reminder that healing is possible when we dare to feel.

Featuring:

• Lamar Odom – Former NBA star, author of From Darkness to Light

• Shinka – Psychic Medium, Life Coach, and Healer

• Joe Tabbanella – Clinical Hypnotherapist & NLP Trainer

• Hosts: Liat Gerszt & Mercedes "MJ" Javid

Topics Covered:

• Near-death experiences and divine intervention

• Healing grief and addiction through spirituality

• Messages from loved ones in spirit

• Forgiveness and self-compassion

• Finding purpose beyond pain

• 0:00 Intro: Dare to Heal Begins

• 0:35 Meet Lamar Odom & the Healers

• 2:21 Facing Loss, Faith & Survival

• 3:45 "Some Things You Just Give to God"

• 5:37 Near-Death Experience & Divine Intervention

• 7:51 Messages from the Other Side

• 10:21 A Mother's Love & Words of Worthiness

• 13:23 Forgiveness from His Father

• 19:34 Breaking Addiction & Finding Purpose

• 22:04 A Message from His Son in Spirit

• 25:22 New Beginnings Beyond Basketball

• 31:14 Proof of Life After Death

• 39:12 Healing, Sobriety & Second Chances

• 47:34 Creating a Spiritual Brand for Recovery

• 1:05:01 Legacy & Self-Forgiveness

Connect with Heal 2 Feel:
Instagram: @H2Fpod
Watch full episodes on YouTube
Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
Subscribe, rate, and share to support the show 💫

Connect with Shinka / My Spiritual Healings:
Instagram: @myspiritualhealings
Website: https://www.myspiritualhealings.com/

Connect with Joe Tabbanella:
Instagram: @joetabbanella
Website: https://www.thetabbtechnique.com/

Today on What She's Having, we're popping the cork — and maybe tearing up a few contracts — with our fabulous friend and powerhouse family law attorney, Melanie Mandles. She's the woman behind some of the smoothest splits and fiercest fresh starts in Southern California — and trust us, she's seen it all.

From courtroom drama to pre-nups and post-nups, Melanie shares her expert insight on how to navigate love, money, and modern marriage with clarity and compassion. We talk about:

• The truth behind prenups and postnups (and why they don't have to be scary)

• The biggest myths about divorce, custody, and the "10-year rule" in California

• How to protect your peace — and your children — during emotional transitions

• Why a great lawyer can be as essential as a great therapist

• How to build strong, fair partnerships (and the importance of keeping your cool)

Melanie also opens up about her 28-year career, what it's like to represent high-profile clients discreetly, and why sometimes the best legal strategy is grace under pressure.

If you've ever wondered what really happens behind closed doors in family law — or you just want to protect your future with more wisdom and confidence — this episode is a must-listen.

Because today, we're having what she's serving: Freedom, fresh starts, and fierce representation.

Timestamps):
00:00 – Cold open & intro: Freedom, fresh starts, fierce representation
02:10 – Meet Melanie Mandels + why she's Jen's "secret weapon"
05:30 – How Melanie chose family law + career origin story (UCLA to Century City)
09:45 – Calm under pressure: experience vs. emotion in high-stakes cases
14:20 – CA basics: community vs. separate property, inheritance, and co-mingling
20:05 – Prenups done right: the 7-day rule, 2–3 month timeline, and why good prenups can strengthen marriages
27:40 – Postnups: when you ran out of time pre-wedding (pros/cons)
31:15 – Debunking "10-year" myths: support duration, prenup "expiration," and property
36:50 – CA vs. other states: high spousal support, child support through high school
40:30 – Resilience stories: rebuilding after divorce & a powerful recovery moment
46:20 – Custody misconceptions: 50/50 isn't automatic, kids > convenience, parenting vs. childcare
52:10 – Your "divorce success team": attorney, forensic accountant, co-parenting counselor
56:45 – Misappropriation & reimbursements: affairs, big gifts, gambling, and community funds
1:01:00 – Date of separation, reconciliation, and financial ripple effects
1:05:20 – Courtroom culture: why settlement-first wins (and a judge's hallway moment)
1:10:40 – Before marriage: talk money, kids, where to live, and how you'll build wealth together
1:13:30 – Considering divorce: referrals > Google; try therapy first; protect the kids
1:17:00 – Keep your identity, passion, and intimacy (yes, scheduling can help)
1:21:30 – Wrap & gratitude

Connect with Melanie Mandels
Firm: Wasser, Cooperman & Mandels, LLP
📍 Based in Century City, CA
🌐 www.wcmfamilylaw.com
📧 [email protected]
📞 (310) 277-7117

Connect with What She's Having
🎧 Listen anywhere you get your podcasts
📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube.com/@WhatShesHaving
📸 Follow on Instagram & TikTok: @officialwhatsheshaving
💌 For guest inquiries or collaborations: [email protected]

Season 2 is here! We took a strategic break to regroup, build our own studio, and get crystal clear on our mission: real conversations about beauty, wellness, friendship, travel, and life over 40—done our way. In this kickoff, we talk about creative control, learning through criticism, letting go of perfection, and why sometimes stepping back is how you leap forward. Plus: a hilarious Hamptons "stolen car" mix-up, and an unexpected family-adventure love letter to Iceland.

• Why we paused Season 1 and rebuilt with intention

• Owning your business (and your tech) so you're not "hands-off" on the important stuff

• Vulnerability on camera and taking feedback without losing yourself

• Friendship as a superpower: balancing different personalities, priorities, and schedules

• Summer highlights: St. Tropez, Nashville, Miami, the Hamptons story you won't believe

• Iceland surprises: hot springs, caves, geysers—and the most memorable family trip

• Health rabbit holes we're curious about (enzymes, high-pH washes, parasites—presented as personal experiences, not medical advice)

• Motherhood, identity, and creating something that's truly yours in your 40s+

• A season-opening toast to friendship, big dreams, and doing it bold

• 00:00 — Welcome back: Season 2 and our brand-new studio

• 01:10 — Why we took a break: business, budget, purpose

• 02:25 — Vulnerability on camera & growing through criticism

• 04:29 — Finding our real voice (and keeping the fun)

• 06:51 — Summer chaos & "best-friend marriage" vibes

• 09:10 — The Hamptons: accidentally driving the wrong Range Rover 

• 11:25 — Owning the mistake (and why it made great TV in our heads)

• 13:44 — What actually mattered: the parking pass (and mom life logistics)

• 16:00 — Trip of the summer: falling in love with Iceland

• 18:11 — Whale watching, waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs—doing it all with kids

• 20:35 — Food talk: lamb wins, fermented shark… not so much

• 22:52 — Health curiosities we're exploring (enzymes, high-pH rinses)

• 25:13 — New fears, new boundaries, and the algorithm listening 

• 27:39 — Lessons learned: take ownership of your platform

• 30:05 — Motherhood & identity: creating something that's yours

• 32:25 — Partnership magic: "2 + 2 = 10"

• 33:27 — Tequila toast to Season 2 (and a party trick reveal)

• Watch full episodes + clips on YouTube

• Listen wherever you get your podcasts

• Follow along on Instagram & TikTok: @officialwhatsheshaving

• Rate & review on Apple Podcasts —your reviews help Season 2 reach more women