Skirts Up!

So much love today! Samantha shares updates about her pets, including a new 3-year-old sulcata tortoise named Tag and Linus the unusually calm and giant “dream puppy.”Melissa gets a hair fixed by stylist, Caroline, at Salon Pure in Flowery Branch after a big hair dye mistake. (You must see the before and after. GOLD) Melissa was unable to make the recording for this episode so Samantha drops hits about what's to come. Come to find out it sparks a fun core memory between Melissa and her brothers growing up! Laughter Yoga!Cathy Nesbitt from Canada, a worm advocate and laughter ambassador, joins the show, explaining how Toronto’s 2002 landfill closure motivated her to promote indoor vermicomposting for people in condos and small spaces. Kathy describes worm-bin setups (stacked trays or totes), how aerobic composting avoids odor, how worms and microbes process scraps and paper into nutrient-rich “black gold,” and how classrooms can use worm bins as hands-on science projects. She also explains laughter yoga—started in 1995 by an Indian medical doctor—as laughter and deep breathing for health and stress relief, discusses online laughter clubs begun during COVID, and invites listeners to her free Tuesday 9:30 a.m. ET Zoom club at kathysclub.com.Work with Cathy for you Laughter Yoga needs

This is one for ALL listeners but particularly our male audience needs to hear what our dear friend DJ has to say.We interview DJ Logory, creator of “Be That Guy,” who helps young men build confidence through action, accountability, and community.This is one for ALL listeners but particularly our male audience needs to hear what our dear friend DJ has to say.We interview DJ Logory, creator of “Be That Guy,” who helps young men build confidence through action, accountability, and community.DJ describes his version of powerful affirmations via an audio narrated by his 90-year-old self. In other words, manifestation on steroids. One of our favorite words of DJ wisdom was changing beliefs by collecting evidence! It is liquid gold for any of us. It was for us as we navigate a bit of imposter syndrome.Dj leaves us with amples of tips, tricks, and quotes that will keep you motivated to set your goals and track your habits (collecting evidence of progress). He pulls from the words of Matthew Mcconaughey, Tony Robins, David Bayer, Mark Devine, Jason Van Camp and many more.This conversation hit on the amount of failure you can run into on your way to a breakthrough and that all you have to do is keep going."Dreams are more often crushed by fear than failing."Follow Skirts Up on social media!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessGet your dose of empowerment from Dj Logory, Be That Guy

Kristan Swan, creator of the guided journal Spaghetti on the Wall, discusses how journaling can evolve across life stages—from childhood “emotion dumps” to adult reflection practices—and why a journal can be a safe, nonjudgmental place to say the “scary” or “ugly” things without harming relationships. The hosts share barriers to journaling, including fear someone will read it and the challenge of not knowing what to write, and describe how Kristen’s journal provides simple prompts that make daily journaling tangible and quick (about 12–15 minutes). Kristan explains the journal’s structure: a nonjudgmental observer section to record events, and an “experience evaluator” to identify highs, lows, moments of alignment, and “not so much” experiences—designed to reduce reinforcing negative self-talk that can happen with free-form journaling. She shares personal context (being on her third marriage and earlier choices driven by longing for stability, external answers, and fear of self-knowledge) and how journaling can both document progress and, if filtered through self-criticism, entrench shame. She describes creating the first edition about 10 years ago for business-coaching clients to help awareness “bubble up” when conversations felt like repetitive loops. Post-COVID exhaustion led her to question business coaching, earn a Master’s in Education, realize academia bureaucracy wasn’t a fit, and reflect on “human doing” patterns, over-saying yes, self-worth, self-reliance, and learning to ask for help. The conversation also explores authenticity in professional identity, shedding rigid expectations, and adopting a creative mindset that welcomes not-knowing, curiosity, and possibility. Kristan emphasizes that getting still and reflecting daily helps people trust themselves, make choices that do less harm to self and others, and reconnect with what genuinely matters. Follow Skirts Up on social media!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessGet your beginner friendly, spaghetti on the wall journal, by visiting Kristan Swan online.

The hosts interview Bev Middleman, a relationship and attachment trauma practitioner and founder of Securely Loved, about how attachment styles shape self-esteem, self-trust, emotional regulation, and relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and romantic partners.Bev explains attachment as learned behavior formed in childhood patterns of giving and receiving love, and emphasizes it can be unlearned and relearned. She outlines two broad categories—secure vs. insecure attachment—then details the three insecure subtypes: anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and disorganized (fearful-avoidant).Secure attachment develops from predictable emotional attunement, helping children identify emotions, regulate the nervous system, and communicate needs with boundaries. Insecure attachment exists on a spectrum and is not gendered. Bev describes anxious-preoccupied attachment as driven by an abandonment wound, people-pleasing (fawn) then fighting in conflict, low self-worth, and difficulty with boundaries. Dismissive-avoidant attachment is linked to emotional neglect or stoic/high-demand environments, detachment from emotions, retreating to isolation to self-regulate, and fear of engulfment. Disorganized/fearful-avoidant attachment combines anxious and avoidant traits, is associated with chaotic or abusive upbringings, centers on betrayal wounds, and often shows hot-and-cold intimacy, anger, rage, and hypervigilance.The conversation connects attachment to stress physiology (fight/flight/fawn/freeze), cortisol, and health. Be sure to take her free quiz at securelyloved.com that provides primary and secondary attachment styles.Check out all of Bev Mitelman's offerings and follow her on social media!Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteVisit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul Wellness

Harnessing Intimacy and Energy for Creativity and Healing with Hani Chang In this episode, we delve into the world of intimacy, healing, and creativity with expert Hani Chang. Known for her bestselling book, 'You Only Live Once: Life and Business and Innovation Style,' Hani shares her transformative journey from business and health coaching to intimacy coaching, drawing from her deep roots in Taoism and Tantra.We discuss the concept of sex magic, not just as a sexual experience but as an energetic practice for creativity and healing. Hani elaborates on her Sensual Liberation Program, a comprehensive system designed to remove blockages to our inner sensuality, enabling full-bodied energetic orgasms and deep personal healing.We explore the importance of intention, breathwork, and embracing emotions like grief and anger during intimate moments as a means of achieving alignment and congruence. Hani also emphasizes the significance of safety, communication, and ritual in fostering deep, intimate connections, offering practical tips inspired by Taoist and Tantric practices.Whether working alone or with a partner, this episode is a guide to harnessing inner energies for a more fulfilling and balanced life.If this resonates with you, try the Sensual Liberation Program with Hani Cheng.Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteVisit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul Wellness

The hosts, kick off with an idea spurred by todays episode about dating and introspection. The girls discuss the possibility of setting Melissa up on blind dates but decide to postpone until she's more financially and emotionally ready. They also explore the balance between personal growth and opening up to new relationships.They introduce Evan Marc Katz, a dating coach for smart, successful women, who emphasizes that understanding human behavior is key to successful dating. Katz stresses the importance of marketing oneself honestly, establishing high standards, and navigating the complexities of online dating with an effective screening process. (Which may or may not include dating multiple men at once).The conversation dives into the importance of confidence, setting healthy boundaries, and the balance between emotional and logical decisions in dating. Katz shares insights from his Love U program designed to help women find fulfilling relationships. The episode ends with Katz offering a special quiz for the Skirts Up Squad on his website for those curious about if they've been wasting time on the wrong men.Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteListen to Evans Marc Katz podcast, follow him on on social media, or join the Love U program all from his website!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul Wellness

Samantha and Melissa introduce exciting changes for their podcast, featuring pop-in co-hosts from past popular episodes. With both lady's reaffirming that the integrity and essences of Skirts Up will remain the same.Today centers on an inspiring conversation with Christine Lindebak, founder of 'Sewing in the City'(yes the name was spawned from the famous TV show Sex and The City) and fashion line, LindyLindy found in stores around New York.Christine shares her lifelong passion for sewing, starting from age five, and her journey from working in fashion in New York to creating a successful sewing business. Despite facing moments of wanting to quit, Christine's passion for sewing fueled her perseverance, confirming the 'three to survive, five to thrive' business model. She also speaks candidly about taking a year off for intentional rest and resetting, proudly listing it on her resume, which highlights the value of prioritizing mental health. Something us women are often times ashamed to do. Why?Her stories of upcycling old garments into new, unique pieces reflect her creativity and innovative spirit.The episode encourages listeners to embrace their passions, persist through tough times, and recognize the importance of self-care and intentional downtime.Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteFollow Christine Lindebak on social media!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul Wellness

Samantha discusses her struggles with launching a perfect mental health practice and realizes that embracing imperfections makes her relatable.Todays guest, Linda Grizzly, a financial educator and motivational speaker, who developed the 'Me Money Framework' to help people manage personal finances without guilt. Linda shares her journey from financial planning to creating online courses, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual money personalities.She outlines five money personalities—Saver, Spender, Avoider, Security Seeker, and Risk Taker—and explains how understanding these can lead to better financial choices.Bonus insights include naming your money personality and tips for setting up separate accounts to manage expenses. This episode promises to change how you see your finances and inspire you to make money work for you.Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteMore Me Money and financial tips with Linda GrizelyTake a listen to Linda's podcast, Real Money, Real Life!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Have you seen the Cameron Diaz movie, The Other Woman? This was nearly a true depiction of Kalie Nitzsche's life and she is making NOISE to make sure it doesn't happen to you, too.Kalie Nitzsche left her cushy corporate job to create an identity verification system that will eliminate false representation of businesses, news, and everyday people. She pitched her story and product on the Tv show, Elevator Pitch, where she landed a huge investment deal that is working hard to bringing security into hands, where ever you go, for free.In our world now powered by AI, fraud and online deception is running rampant but there is something that you can do to keep your kids and yourself safe. Get. Fuzzy. Verified.Find out how Fuzzy works and who is already using it in this fascinating episode by a true boss babe.Lear more about us on our Skirts Up websiteListen to Kalie’s podcast , Just Lookin’ OutProtect yourself AND your kids, become Fuzzy Verified!Visit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

This episode is just as fun as it sounds. So *WARNING* If you pee a little when you laugh too hard.... You've been warned.Samantha and Melissa dive into their latest adventures, touching on topics like Sam's cooking mishaps (go figure)to Melissas embarrassing hotel ordeal turned into a feel good moment just by telling the truth.This guest may go down as a top 3 favorite. Erin Snow introduces her innovative venture—Seacoast Listening Lounge—a unique space for women to vent and be heard without judgment. Erin shares her inspiration, derived from personal experiences and a desire to offer an alternative to traditional therapy.The conversation is filled with laughter, from the worst time to ever have a menstrual cup fail to first bikini wax experiences.This conversation showcases the power of genuine human connection and the importance of emotional support. But also serves as your personal reminder that its ok to start something that's never been done.Lear more about us on our Skirts Up websiteCheck out Erin at Seacoast Listening LoungeVisit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Happy New Year!!In this heartfelt New Year's episode, Samantha and Melissa reflect on their two-year podcasting journey with Skirts Up, discussing the highs and lows they've experienced.They delve into how podcasting has influenced Samantha's personal growth and career paths, both sharing how conversations with past amazing guests have enriched their lives. Samantha opens up about her transition to self-employment in the mental health industry including a hint hint to how she's trying to make history. She also reveals her success in unintentionally achieving many of her life goals documented in her Life Mastery Planner.Melissa, on the other hand, reveals her need to focus on self-care and personal goals. An AMAZING solo trip through the mountains brought the realization that she needs to learn how to "fill her cup" to be her best self. She's on a mission to do just that.The episode ends with the duo discussing the future of Skirts Up, leaving listeners in suspense about what comes next.Filled with passion, self-discovery, and a sense of gratitude, this episode is a deep dive into the evolution of both their personal and professional lives.Lear more about us on our Skirts Up websiteVisit Samantha’s new mental health business, Sweet Soul WellnessRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Merry Christmas ya Filthy Animals!Samantha and Melissa discuss the highs and lows of the holiday season, emotional overwhelm, and the challenge of addressing mental health feelings that are hard to define. Transitioning into a personal narrative, Samantha shares her nerve-wracking experience passing a significant final exam for her RTT course and the emotional turmoil that followed. The duo also discusses balancing personal and professional life, highlighting Melissa's adventurous solo trip to North Carolina!!Dara joins the conversation, detailing her 20-year career with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, her deep dive into global health, and her inspiration to create clean, functional gummy vitamins (Sam and Leo) targeting teens' mental and physical well-being. Dara emphasizes the importance of social-emotional learning, recounting her personal journey and the transformative impact of a specialized school on her son.Throughout the talk, Dara and Melissa exchange thoughts on sustaining self-care amid busy schedules, the pressures of success, and finding joy in simple, mindful practices. They conclude with Dara's product launch, Sam and Leo, her commitment to giving back to mental health organizations, and the hope of instigating broader conversations about teen wellness.Sam and Leo Vitamins are found online and in wholefood stores near you!Learn more about us on our Skirts Up websiteLearn More about Sam and Leo products!Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

The fairy who likes to say 'fuck', Morgana Rae, a renowned financial mentor and author takes the mic. The interaction kicks off with initial pleasantries and humorous exchanges about Morgana's quirky persona. Morgana, known for her book 'Financial Alchemy,' shares her unique perspective on money and personal growth. She recounts her journey from financial struggle to becoming a successful coach, attributing her turnaround to a transformative realization: viewing money as a loving relationship rather than a source of fear. Following a low point in her life, Morgana developed a six-step program that redefines individuals' relationships with money. Key steps include personifying money as a lovable figure and addressing deep-seated fears. Morgana insists that viewing money as an abstract concept helps align the subconscious mind with one's conscious goals. She emphasizes that change happens at the speed of safety and encourages people to make what they want in life safe to achieve rapid transformation. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, client success stories, and actionable advice, Morgana blends humor and wisdom, making a complex subject both accessible and entertaining.Lear more about us on our Skirts Up websiteFind your Money Honey with Morgana RaeRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Dr. Sue McCreadie returns!! Dr. Sue delves into Samantha and Melissas year-long journey of personal development, focusing on patterns, breakthroughs, and challenges they faced. Sue introduces the 'soulful assessment' which looks at various life stressors to identify patterns. They explore numerology and tarot to understand each other's life paths and energies, finding that both hosts share the number nine, symbolizing elevation and humanitarian efforts. The discussion includes readings of specific tarot cards like The Hermit, The Empress, Emperor and The Hierophant, aligning their personal growth and shared mission. They also cover the significance of life seasons and the importance of embracing imperfections. Overall, the episode is an insightful and fun exploration of numbers, patterns, and personal development.

At the mic today we have Dr. Sue McCready, a practicing pediatrician turned holistic practitioner and midlife transformation expert. As Samantha navigates through some humorous behind-the-scenes bloopers, the conversation quickly shifts to Dr. Sue's remarkable journey. From her extensive background in pediatrics to her transformative coaching for midlife women, Dr. Sue covers her holistic approach in helping women navigate life's complexities. The discussion spans various coaching techniques, including the use of tarot, numerology, and archetypes like the visionary mama, giver mama, and detail mama to foster personal growth. Dr. Sue also emphasizes the importance of inner work, especially for midlife individuals, to induce lasting positive change and healing. The conversation is rich with personal insights, intimate revelations, and practical advice that empower listeners to embark on their journey of self-discovery and transformation. This episode promises to be a trailblazer for anyone seeking motivation, tools for holistic healing, and a deeper understanding of their life's journey.Lear more about us on our Skirts Up websiteGet guidance by Sue McCready Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Samantha and Melissa wish the happiest of Thanksgivings to all their listeners! This year they hit hard on the importance of surrounding yourself with loved ones (particularly the family you choose), and personal growth. Melissa shares the emotions her divorce journey has led to and how she’s been finding positivity amidst challenges. Samantha reveals the impact their podcast guests have had on her career and personal growth. And somehow they fall into the rabbit hole of turning feelings of jealousy into admiration through self work. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with honesty, challenges, laughter, and a peek at their unending journey of self-discovery and support.Side note: Are we Valley Girls?Become a Squad member to get FULL recordings with our guestRequest to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Samantha and Melissa reflect on the joy and challenges of hosting this years charity event, highlighting concerns if next year they plan to continue the tradition. Shoutout to performers Carey and the Feel and headliner, Clejan.Shifting gears, they introduce Katharine Giovanni, an expert on forgiveness who shares a comprehensive system to achieve true forgiveness. Katharine explains the process while establishing its ok to be selfish. It's ok to forgive for self-healing and removing accumulated negative energy. She discusses steps for forgiving others, oneself, and even money. Katharine also explores past life impacts on present challenges, revealing insights on how unresolved issues traverse lifetimes. The conversation culminates into underscoring that true forgiveness can open doors to freedom, joy, and ultimately becoming the person one is meant to be.You'll be thankful you heard this one right before the holidays.Become a Squad member to get FULL recordings with our guestStart your journey of forgiveness with Katharine Giovanni .Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

Today Samantha and Melissa share a captivating conversation with Dr. Carolyn Taylor, author of Whispers of the Mind and a neurologist with intimate experiences and profound insights into the complexities of neurology and trauma. The discussion touches on Samantha's experience of being diagnosed with non-epileptic seizures and the emotional connections to such conditions. Dr. Taylor delves into profound examples of patients exhibiting functional neurological symptoms due to stress and past traumas, such as a man developing paralysis and a woman going blind. The role of therapy animals, like Dr. Taylor's dog Prancer, takes center stage in highlighting their intuitive capabilities. This amazing conversation concludes with Dr. Taylor's tips for effectively advocating for oneself in medical settings, emphasizing the importance of being listened to and the significance of second opinions. The episode is both educational and touching, aimed at helping listeners understand the intricacies of neurological and psychological health.Become a Squad member to get FULL recordings with our guestWant more fascinating stories from Dr. Taylor? Whispers of the Mind.Donate to Canine AssistantsGet your tickets to see Clejan in Athens, Ga!!!Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

In this vibrant episode the hosts delve deep into astrology with special guest Laura Alyn, an accomplished host and scientist. Laura deciphers the intricate details of astrology, explaining how it goes beyond mere sun signs to a fascinating mix of planets, houses, and elements. The conversation reveals the cosmic influences behind the podcast as the hosts learn about their chart positions and what they signify. They discover that their intuitive and nurturing nature, paired with a drive to tackle taboo subjects, aligns perfectly with their mission. Fascinating insights include how this propels them to explore uncharted territories, shedding light on their transformative effects on listeners. This episode is a blend of astrological wisdom, personal revelations, and fun-filled interactions, making it an engaging and enlightening experience.What do you think we're doing that's never been done before? We're still hung up on that one!Become a Squad member to get FULL recordings with our guestWhat do the stars and planets say about you? Laura Alyn.Donate to Canine AssistantsGet your tickets to see Clejan in Athens, Ga!!!Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch

In this engaging and lively episode, the hosts introduce Nikki Allen, a talented songwriter and author who shares her deeply personal journey through domestic violence and how she used music as a creative outlet during difficult times. Nikki discusses her song 'Loved You, Hate You,' originally released in 2006, which inspired her book addressing domestic violence. The conversation delves into Nikki's upbringing, including the challenges of being the only Black family in an affluent neighborhood. She also warmly recalls her mother's unwavering support, from fighting for her to play the flute to inspiring her career in music. Nikki opens up about her relationships, both past and present, and shares the heartwarming story of how a one-night stand turned into a long-lasting relationship. The episode touches on themes of self-love, resilience, and the importance of transparency with loved ones. Listeners get a sneak peek into Nikki's upcoming music project titled 'This Cathedral Is Mine,' focusing on self-love and empowerment. Amidst technical glitches and light-hearted banter, the episode wraps up on an inspiring note, highlighting Nikki's ongoing journey of growth and healing.Become a Squad member to get FULL recordings with our guestFollow Nikki Allen's Journey.Donate to Canine AssistantsGet your tickets to see Clejan in Athens, Ga!!!Request to be on the show. Join our Network, Podmatch