The Things We Know

In this episode, Lisa and Kari  share real talk about setting boundaries with the people who know us best—and often push us hardest. They explore why boundaries with family can feel especially charged, what healthy limits actually look like, and how to hold them without spiraling into guilt, burnout, or people-pleasing. With expert insights, personal stories, and real-world scripts you can use tod...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari sit down with their radiant friend Rebecca Sang—writer, herbalist, teacher, and truth-teller—to explore what it really means to live with ADHD as a woman in midlife. Through laughter, insight, and soul-deep reflection, Rebecca shares how neurodivergence has shaped her parenting, creativity, healing, and pace of life. From emotional depth to executive dysfunction, fro...

Kari and Lisa sit down with Kari's longtime friend and disability rights advocate Coleen Carey for an honest, urgent conversation about inclusion—what it really means, why it matters, and what's at risk for the disability community right now. From the personal to the political, Coleen shares her powerful journey from tech executive to full-time advocate and mother, offering insight into the system...

Fresh off the Plot Twist Getaway Retreat in Chandler, AZ, Kari and Lisa hit record from their hotel room for a real-time reflection on a weekend they won't forget. In this spontaneous episode, they celebrate the unforgettable group of women who showed up open-hearted, each bringing something uniquely powerful to the retreat. The energy was electric, the transformations deep—and yes, there was laug...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa dive into the power and cost of women speaking out—especially when they challenge injustice, broken systems, or long-held norms. They highlight real-world examples of women who've used their voices in powerful ways and reflect on the courage it takes to stand up, often in the face of backlash, judgment, or dismissal. With honesty and nuance, they explore the ripple e...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa attempt to understand the rise of the "tradwife" trend—women embracing ultra-traditional gender roles in the name of choice, femininity, and fulfillment. They unpack how the seemingly harmless aesthetic of domestic bliss on social media can carry deeper political and cultural implications. Referencing articles from The New Yorker, Ms. Magazine, Mother Jones, and more...

In this episode of The Things We Know Podcast, Lisa and Kari sit down with Alisa Johnson, a woman whose journey is defined by courage, transformation, and relentless curiosity.  Alisa is proving that personal evolution never stops—earning a Master of Theology at 68, researching the white church's role in slavery, navigating life as the mother of a transgender son, and deconstructing her conservati...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari explore why compassion and kindness matter now more than ever, especially in a world that often feels overwhelming. Drawing from research by Dr. Ian Weisberg and Florence Scialom, they break down the difference between empathy and compassion, how small acts of kindness create a ripple effect, and why showing up for others is also an act of self-care. They also dive i...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari sit down with Monaye Marcia, a Certified Trauma Coach, author, and international speaker, to explore the power of reinvention and the importance of embracing joy and pleasure at any age. They discuss why so many women struggle to let go of old identities, how societal conditioning makes pleasure feel like a luxury rather than a necessity, and the ways self-betrayal k...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari sit down with Carin Luna-Ostaseski, founder of Hot or Just Me?, to have a candid and much-needed conversation about menopause and perimenopause—a phase of life that every woman experiences but is still surrounded by confusion and misinformation. From the physical, emotional, and relational shifts to advocating for yourself, talking to your doctor, maintaining intimac...

This week, we're bringing you Part Two of our fascinating conversation with Monica Lynne, AASECT-certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, on sensuality and sexual vibrancy through different life stages. Picking up where we left off, Monica dives into the 30s, 40s, and beyond, exploring how career demands, motherhood, shifting priorities, and changing bodies impact libido, intimacy, and connection...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari sit down with Monica Lynne, AASECT-certified Sex and Relationship Therapist, for an open and insightful conversation about sensuality and sexual vibrancy through different life stages. Spoiler alert—it's not about checking off milestones or fitting into stereotypes; it's about knowing yourself, what you love, need, and want first, and embracing vulnerability and open...

In this episode, Lisa and Kari dive into what it takes to raise boys who grow into confident, kind, and socially conscious men. They explore how what society sold as "traditional masculinity" discourages vulnerability, why avoiding conversations about race reinforces privilege, and how to help boys build deep, meaningful friendships that ultimately inspires empathy. Drawing from books like Better...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa explore the subtle difference between being self-critical—a constructive approach that fosters growth—and self-deprecating, which can erode confidence and self-worth. Drawing on insights from Esther Apoussidis, Vaishali Patel, Heather Jones, and Trudy Horsting, they examine how discomfort with praise, fear of appearing arrogant, and ingrained social norms can lead to...

In this thought-provoking episode, Kari and Lisa delve into the contentious world of inclusion, exploring why initiatives aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have sparked significant backlash. Starting with the question, "Why is inclusion bad?" they examine divisive buzzwords, unpacking their origins and the reasons behind their polarizing nature. As the conversation unfolds,...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa delve into the art of building friendships and creating meaningful community as adults—a challenge many face in a world that prioritizes productivity over genuine connection. Touching on the limits of our social circles and referencing work from experts, they explore why organic friendship opportunities dwindle with age, how busy schedules and fear of rejection can h...

Join us for a deep dive into why "facts" feel more elusive than ever in our politically divided era. We'll explore how memes, viral hashtags, and 24/7 partisan news have contributed to a world where echo chambers and filter bubbles are the norm. Using real examples—from "alternative facts" to late-night comedy bits—we'll unpack how social media algorithms, mistrust in institutions, and identity-dr...

Join us for this illuminating conversation with social entrepreneur and founder of The Agenda, Alyx Coble-Frakes. We dive into the often-overlooked power of cycle syncing—what it is, why it matters, and how it can help women at every life stage regain balance and vitality. Alyx breaks down practical steps for getting started, shares poignant breakthrough moments from her own journey, and explains...

Are we in the midst of a "Misogyny Renaissance"? This episode takes a closer look at old tropes—unbelievability, suspicion, backlash—roaring back. We dig into Blake Lively's "We can bury her" allegations, Kate Beckinsale's disturbing echoes of retaliation, and the House of Representatives now having no women chairing any committees for the first time in two decades. It's a look at how quickly the...

Join us for the launch of Season 3 as we raise a glass to the new year, explain why we're calling this episode "Buckle Up," and reveal why neither of us believe New Year's resolutions actually work—but what we do find more effective. We'll talk about practical ways to protect your mindset, cultivate genuine joy, and brace yourself for life's unexpected turns. Plus, get a sneak peek at the fun thin...

Join us as we celebrate our 100th episode, raising a glass to the end of 2024, wrapping up Season Two, and looking ahead to new horizons. We take you back to how The Things We Know began—born from a spark of connection, a shared vision, and a desire to help women step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence. Listen in as we share wisdom gained through unexpected twists, the delight of...

In this episode of The Things We Know , Lisa and Kari explore the concept of living life to the fullest. Inspired by Kari's beloved nephew Stephen, who embraced a bold and curious approach to life, they discuss the concept of living life to the fullest, the barriers that hold us back—like fear, anger, and stress—AND how letting go can create space for joy, connection, and deeper meaning. They shar...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa share their reflections on doing life with adult children, a stage of parenting filled with humor, growth, and immense joy. They share how fortunate they feel to savor this time, as their adult kids have become some of their favorite people to hang with!   While challenges like stepping back and trusting them to navigate tough times are real, they focus on the beauty...

In this episode, Kari and Lisa discuss loneliness, a feeling that often creeps in during the holiday season and winter months. They discuss how the feeling of loneliness often stems from disconnection—from ourselves, others, or what lights us up—and share practical ways to reframe it as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. Flipping the script, they invite listeners to see loneliness as a...

In this episode of The Things We Know , Lisa and Kari discuss the challenge of living more in our bodies instead of staying stuck in our heads. They explore how modern life—filled with distractions like phones and constant news—disconnects us from what we truly need. Drawing on personal experiences and insights from mindfulness practices, they share practical tips for cultivating awareness, ground...