Shawna and LaLa: Life Beyond The Mic

It’s gift-guide time! Shawna and LaLa break down their favorite holiday picks.  Green Pan, EaZyHold, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and the Echo Flask, and why these finds deserve a spot under your tree. Shawna also chats with bergenPAC Executive Director Alexander Diaz about their performing arts school, inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities, and the excitement of working with talent from all over the world.

Bryan James sits down with Shawna and LaLa for a raw and emotional conversation about the chaos surrounding the upcoming movie Reckless and his fractured relationship with co-star Max Ehrich. Bryan opens up about their recent arguments, the behind-the-scenes drama, and what he says has really been going on with Max, and the social media spiral that has shocked fans.  Bryan shares his own experiences, private conversations, and his perspective on the situation, including the heated exchanges and the struggles he says he witnessed firsthand. This interview was originally threatened with legal action, but we believe in transparency and giving guests the space to speak in their own words.  We also discuss the viral clips circulating online, including audio footage originally published by TMZ that has fueled even more public conversation.

In this fun and feel-good episode, Shawna and LaLa chat with the legendary Macy Gray, who’s celebrating 25 amazing years in the music industry!  Macy opens up about her journey, her upcoming tour stop at Bethel Woods on November 8th, and gives fans a sneak peek at her new album that’s currently in the works. The episode takes a nostalgic turn as Shawna and LaLa travel back to the 90’s, reliving the music, memories, and moments that defined a generation. Meanwhile, Shawna admits she’s not thrilled that it’s getting cold out—and that Christmas is only 71 days away! She’s been keeping warm (and healthy) thanks to her new Clearlight Sauna, which she says has made a huge difference in her migraines, muscles, and sleep.And of course, LaLa brings the laughs with her outrageous story about an Amazon delivery driver who “Free Willy’d” it through his truck window after spotting her dog, Cayman.

LaLa shares a wild story from a local dance party she attended with Giulina, where a total stranger walked up and asked her to hold her baby then disappeared. Neither LaLa nor anyone else had any clue who this woman was, but she trusted LaLa with her child! Shawna still can’t get over it.  Also in this episode, Shawna and LaLa sit down with Ken Dabrow, who is a 95-year-old voiceover artist and author of Age My Ass. Ken brings his wit, wisdom, and perspective to the mic, leaving the girls (and listeners!) with some incredible life advice.It’s an episode full of laughs, surprises, and lessons you won’t want to miss!

This week on Life Beyond The Mic, Shawna and LaLa get brutally honest about sleepless nights, school beginning, and the heaviness of today’s world. LaLa breaks down in tears while talking about the heartbreaking stabbing of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska, and in a shocking twist, the girls learn live while recording that activist Charlie Kirk had been shot. (This episode was recorded before news broke of his passing. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife, children, family, and friends. 💔)Shawna opens up about her own health scare—what should have been a routine trip to the cancer center for iron infusions turned into a nightmare when she was overdosed on iron, leading to a severe reaction. The girls use this moment to stress the life-saving importance of advocating for yourself in the medical system.The episode also features a powerful interview with Chelsie Hill, CEO of The Rollettes and a trailblazing disability influencer, who shares her inspiring journey and message of empowerment for the disability community.Of course, it wouldn’t be Shawna & LaLa without some laughter. On a lighter note, LaLa spills the details on her new Cannoli Cart business, which is already taking off! From private parties to a surprising request for a Jewish baby bris, the girls dissolve into laughter as Shawna hilariously explains what a bris is… and the two can’t stop joking about how cannolis kind of look like… well… you know.  This episode is raw, emotional, funny, and real—covering everything from grief and resilience to entrepreneurship, disability advocacy, women’s health, mental health, and the power of laughter.

In part two of our Nashville adventure, hosts Shawna and LaLa dive deeper into the city's vibrant culture, from luxurious stays to unforgettable nights out.First, they check into the stylish Holston House Hotel Nashville, an Art Deco masterpiece in the heart of downtown Nashville. They explore why this Nashville hotel is a standout, offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury with its rooftop pool and prime location near all the major attractions.  Next, it's time for some friendly competition! The duo heads to Puttshack Nashville for a unique night of high-tech mini-golf, incredible food, and delicious cocktails. They'll give you the inside scoop on this elevated Nashville mini-golf experience and the delicious bites that make it the ultimate night out.  The episode also features an exclusive interview with rising singer-songwriter Mary-Clair. The Nashville native shares her journey, the story behind her debut album Enough, and her unique sound that blends contemporary pop with her faith-based influences, making her a compelling voice in the Nashville music scene.Finally, Shawna and LaLa take you inside Nashville Underground, the iconic bar and restaurant owned by brothers Gavin and Joey DeGraw. They explore the six floor venue, famous for its rooftop views, live music, and authentic honky-tonk atmosphere, giving you a true taste of Nashville nightlife.  Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of one, this episode is your ultimate guide to the best of Nashville travel, Nashville restaurants, and entertainment.

What was supposed to be a fun night out in Nashville nearly turned into a true crime podcast story. Shawna and LaLa share how LaLa’s terrifying encounter with a creepy “Dexter” type stranger was stopped thanks to two heroic men who came to her rescue.  After the chaos, the hosts shift gears and dive into the Nashville music scene, spotlighting Hudson Valley talent making waves in Music City and chatting with rising indie artist Coey Redd. And because no girls’ trip is complete without a little downtime, Shawna shows off her Popilush one-piece swimsuit—proving it’s the perfect poolside look for curvy women, especially those “blessed in the chest.”Tune in for a mix of true crime twists, travel stories gone wrong, Nashville music discoveries, women’s safety, body confidence, and artist interviews—all in one unforgettable episode of Life Beyond The Mic.

LaLa shares how her family trip to Florida took a scary turn when her daughter had a severe allergic reaction to mosquito bites and ended up in the ER. Never heard of Skeeter Syndrome? Parents, you’ll want to pay attention.  Back home, chaos continues as LaLa juggles last-minute packing for Nashville and gets pulled into a neighbor’s impromptu BBQ. Her kitchen lifesaver? The Seal Vax, which helped her marinate chicken in half the time without sacrificing flavor.  LaLa’s Nashville recovery plan included one item: Coaqua Coconut Water.  And next up? LaLa’s hitting the road again to check out Sesame Place which is one of the most ADA-accessible theme parks in the country.

This week on Life Beyond The Mic, Shawna and LaLa unpack one of the most talked-about viral video from Coldplay’s concert.  Is there more to the story?  Shawna shares a personal health update that  she’s been diagnosed with a hernia and is preparing to meet with a surgeon. She opens up about how she’s feeling, what’s next, and how she’s navigating it all.  Meanwhile, LaLa introduces the newest visitor in her life...  A baby squirrel she rehabbed who keeps coming back to say hello. Plus, pet parents will want to hear about the Four Leaf Rover supplement she’s using to help Cayman’s ongoing skin and yeast issues an,d why it’s working.

This week, Shawna and LaLa unpack the heartbreaking floods in Kerrville, Texas that devastated a girls' camp and left many kids missing or worse. They also vent about the endless rain in New York. LaLa prepares for a trip to Florida and asks listeners—do you eat at chain restaurants on vacation or keep it local??  Plus, the girls tackle adult internet trolls and why some people just can’t scroll on. Shawna shares a must-hear review of Combat Ant Bait and how she finally may be winning the war. And if you’ve ever wondered if the Litter Robot is worth it—especially with a disability—Shawna has the scoop.

In this inspiring episode, Shawna and LaLa explore the deeper meaning behind the question: Are you hauling rocks or building a cathedral? They reflect on how sunny summer days have boosted their mental health and share powerful life lessons they wish they knew in their 20s, like following your dreams and proving naysayers wrong.The episode also features an exclusive interview with Elisa Gilbert, founder of Vivienne Charles Jewelry. Elisa shares her family’s four-generation legacy in jewelry-making, revealing how the craft and industry have evolved over the years.

This week, Shawna and LaLa discuss the never-ending rain, school memories that still linger, and their best summers filled with adventures in the woods, family trips, and AOL IM chats. Don’t miss LaLa’s review of the educational Lingo Kids app and why Tom from MySpace gets under her skin!

This week is a rollercoaster ride! Shawna talks about her frightening late-night encounter when her Vivint security system alerted her to a possible break-in, and LaLa shares her frustration over Shakira’s concert being canceled due to a crushed stage. The girls turn the focus to the fun as they attend Whoopi Goldberg’s "Whoop-Tea" launch party, rubbing elbows with Genesis Infused founders Faye Coleman and Priscilla Wynn, hip-hop artist Kosha Dillz, radio star Kiki Monique, actress Elea Clair, and director John Keller.  Despite forgetting the batteries to their mic and Harlowe light, Shawna and LaLa embrace the chaos, proving it’s okay not to have it all together.Use code LBTM10 for 10% off your order from Harlowe.

Shawna’s Memorial Day birthday might’ve been cold, but this episode is bringing the heat! Shawna spills on her birthday weekend woes, and the debate of the century: Would your partner be mad if you vacationed solo while they worked? Head over to our Instagram and let us know what you think in our poll!LaLa opens up about the mom guilt that comes with raising a teenager, while Shawna dives into the unique guilt of juggling work and family time as a single woman. Things heat up when LaLa introduces the lifesaving Facebook group “Are We Dating The Same Guy?” and Shawna shares jaw-dropping stories about men from dating apps. Let’s just say some guys are thinking with everything but their brains.  Plus, LaLa recounts a terrifying DM that sounds like it’s straight out of a horror movie, and Shawna reviews the new Litter Robot—a game-changer for cat moms, especially those with disabilities.

From dreamy cruise getaway to total disaster — LaLa spills all the tea on her Bermuda-bound trip that took a wild turn (and let’s just say, it’s anything but smooth sailing). Will she ever cruise again?Meanwhile, Shawna opens up about her latest health journey and how Eat Clean To Go is changing the game for her diet. Plus, she shares a must know solution for post-surgery hair loss.spoiler: Musely’s Hair Solution might just be a miracle in a bottle. And if you’ve seen that viral TikTok hack — DON’T try it until you hear what happened when LaLa did!  Oh, and we’re also shouting out The Harlowe — a shining star you need to know about.Real talk, hot takes, and life beyond the mic,  this episode has everything. Tap in now and share with your ride-or-dies.

In this episode, LaLa opens up about her rising anxiety as she prepares for a new cruise, reflecting on the terrifying storm she encountered during her first one.  Shawna and LaLa also dive into the fascinating world of red light therapy with Clearlight's Marketing Manager, Melissa Van Riper, who explains the science behind it and its incredible benefits for health and wellness.  Next, they sit down with Sarah Sparks, author of The Monsters on Mill Street children's book series. Sarah shares her inspiring journey of overcoming her disability to become a successful author and discusses the impact her books have on young readers.  Finally, the duo continues their Mother’s Day segment with must-haves for moms, including Graco’s EasyTurn 360 car seat, Force of Nature’s eco-friendly cleaning solution, Tarte Cosmetics, St. Pierre’s bakery treats, and the snack lover’s paradise, Nuts.com.

In this episode, Shawna opens up about her ongoing health struggles, sharing her journey through weeks of uncertainty, endless tests, and the importance of advocating for yourself in today's ever-changing medical field. The girls reflect on how the healthcare system has evolved and why speaking up for your own well-being has never been more crucial.With Mother's Day just around the corner, Shawna and LaLa share their top gift ideas for the moms in your life.  LaLa is gearing up for her upcoming vacation and gives listeners a peek into her suitcase! She’s raving about her Cupshe collection, Jessica Simpson jeans, and her trusted Kuru sandals – perfect for comfort and style on the go. Plus, she reveals how her new nightly routine with Goodness Lover's Magbiotic and Clear Light Red Light tower has transformed her sleep.  And for a dose of laughter, LaLa recounts her hilarious squirrel rescue mission gone wrong, with a surprise twist involving her daughter Giulina and a very unsuspecting husband.Shawna and LaLa have a 10% discount code for listeners for Clear Light: SHAWNALALA10

Shawna and LaLa are back after being under the weather! Shawna shares her frustrating health journey, ending in an ER visit where she was finally diagnosed with a GI tract infection and a UTI—proof that self-advocacy is key! Plus, they dive into Easter fun with Good Pops, a tasty dairy-free treat for kids, and LaLa gives an update on Giulina’s potty training success. And you won’t believe what one mom asked for in a parenting group—a prank that sounds more like a total setup!

Shawna shares the chaos of her MRI contrast allergy and her mom’s spine surgery recovery, while LaLa brings the heat with a chilling online threat against her children. They’re also taking on schools, digital dangers, and why parents need to stay sharp in today’s world.

In this episode, Shawna and LaLa tackle two pressing issues: disaster preparedness and the alarming decline in modern manners. They explore doomsday prepping essentials while highlighting troubling trends like kids bringing their parents to job interviews, the rise of laziness in today’s workplace, and poor customer service experiences. LaLa shares her frustration with a staggering $1300 electricity bill, a concern shared by many across the country facing similarly astronomical charges. Joining them is Frank DeRaffele, Executive Director of BNI Hudson Valley, who reveals how building strong professional networks can help you navigate and thrive in any crisis.