A Fresh Story

This episode answers the question: What are some simple ways my partner and I can connect on a deeper level? We chatted with Aurisha Smolarski, a therapist specializing in couples' relationships, to explore simple ways to create deeper connections with your partner. In this episode, we discuss the importance of leaning into discomfort and vulnerability to foster intimacy. Aurisha shares several ti...

This episode answers the question: How do I make a rental feel like home? We chatted with DIY Expert and Licensed Contractor Kat Christie, owner of She Fixed That, LLC, about how to transform a rental space into a home that feels cozy and inviting. Kat highlights the importance of lighting, window dressings, and adding texture to create a warm atmosphere. She shares practical tips like using curta...

This episode answers the question: What is hypnosis and how can it help me feel less crappy in life? We chatted with Julie Costa, a certified master clinical hypnotherapist, about the transformative power of hypnosis to help us feel better in life. Julie explains that hypnosis is a relaxed state that allows access to the subconscious mind, where limiting beliefs can be reprogrammed. She shares how...

This episode answers the question: What are some tips for enjoying parenthood and not feeling so stressed all of the time? We chatted with Conscious Parent Coach Jenn Wert, who shared practical tips for enjoying parenthood while reducing stress. Jenn highlights that mindset is essential for finding joy amidst the exhaustion, encouraging parents to practice gratitude and self-compassion. She discus...

This episode answers the question: How do I start feeling comfortable in my grown up body? We chatted with Kate Sisk, founder of Hidden Intimates, about navigating body changes as we age and finding comfort in our grown-up bodies. Kate opened up about the challenges many women face with body image, emphasizing the importance of deconstructing negative thoughts and questioning size labels that ofte...

This episode answers the question: How can I use astrology to strengthen the relationships in my life? We chatted with astrologer Alice Smith about how astrology can be a powerful tool for strengthening relationships in both personal and professional settings. Alice shared insights into how understanding astrological placements can improve communication, bridge misunderstandings, and foster genuin...

This episode answers the question: How can I meet someone without using dating apps? We chatted with relationship coach Dr. Susan Trotter about the challenges and joys of online dating, as well as the benefits of meeting people in real life. Susan shared her expertise on creating a fulfilling life as a foundation for intentional dating, emphasizing how a positive mindset, confidence, and self-refl...

We chatted with Korean American writer Suzanne Park about her incredible journey from a corporate marketing job to becoming a successful, prolific author. Suzanne opened up about the challenges of promoting her books, connecting with readers, and the perseverance it takes to revise manuscripts and make them marketable. She shared her experiences of balancing book tours with personal time, emphasiz...

We chatted with Erica Anenberg, a visionary entrepreneur who shared her inspiring journey from creative beginnings to thriving success in the construction and tech industries. Erica opened up about her drive for financial independence, how family dynamics and a love for freedom influenced her early path, and the bold pivots she made from fashion design to construction. Through this journey, Erica...

This episode answers the question: How do I build a budget without feeling like I am living a small life? In this episode, we chatted with Financial Expert and Fresh Starts Expert Jen Reid, who shared her insights on how to build a budget without feeling like you’re living a small life. Jen emphasizes that a budget isn’t about restriction but about gaining control over your cash flow and making in...

In this conversation, Olivia speaks with Liuba Grechen Shirley, founder of Vote Mama , about the importance of having mothers in political positions. They discuss Liuba's journey as a political mom, the challenges faced by women running for office, and the structural barriers that need to be addressed to empower more women to participate in politics. Vote Mama aims to support and endorse women can...

Episode trigger warning for anti-semitism and abusive language. On August 7th, 2024, Olivia tweeted: "Can my husband find out who I am voting for in the Presidential Election?" We've been getting this question a lot, so we rounded up some helpful facts.” This one tweet became a national conversation, and a lot of people had a lot of things to say about it. Olivia and Jenny sat down to talk about h...

Elizabeth almost died of an ectopic pregnancy. The only reason she survived? Because she was is in New York. In this conversation, Olivia and Elizabeth discuss the critical state of women's health in America, focusing on Elizabeth's personal experiences with ectopic pregnancies and the emotional and physical challenges that accompany them. They explore the lack of adequate healthcare and aftercare...

In this episode, Olivia chats with IBMA award winning musician Jim Hurst about the evolving political landscape in the United States since 2016. Jim reflects on his experiences as a musician in Nashville, noting how COVID-19 has shaped political conversations among his peers. They dive into the challenges of navigating political discourse in a polarized environment and explore the importance of ma...

What if I make a mistake on my ballot? *this is not legal advice, but we wanted to share some general information In person voting with a paper ballot: If you make a mistake on your ballot you can and should totally ask for a new ballot! Do NOT try to cross out or cover up the mistake, just pop over to the poll worker and let them know you made a mistake and need a new ballot. In person voting on...

*this is not legal advice, but we wanted to share some general information Early voting is a great choice for a number of reasons - given the extended nature of early voting the lines are usually shorter and voting becomes an easy, fast activity that fits into your schedule. Additionally, if you can vote on an alternate day (early) it relieves the polls on day of voting, meaning people who can onl...

We chatted with Meecham Whitson Meriweather, a culture writer, screenwriter, and soon-to-be author whose work has been featured in outlets like Vulture, New York Magazine, Men’s Health, and more. Meecham shares his journey from studying architecture to becoming a prominent voice in pop culture, diving into topics like the evolving nature of modern dating, the impact of celebrity relationships on p...

If you are a first time voter, you may have questions about what the process is like, what you need, and how to set yourself up for success in voting. On this quick episode, we are helping any first time voters figure out what they need to vote! We’re answering the question, what do I need to know if it is my first time voting? Learn more here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/blog/what-ifi-am-...

What if there are confusing voting rules I need to know? A lot of states have introduced laws around polling locations and they can be confusing - we don’t want anything to disenfranchise you. Your vote is your own, we want you to use it. So make sure to brush up on the laws in your voting locale! Learn more here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/blog/what-ifthere-is-some-confusing-rule-i-dont-...

What if you didn’t send your absentee ballot in? Well, we have answers! This is one of those “depends” answers — you might be able to vote in person even if you received a ballot in the mail, every state has different rules so check your location out ! If you can’t find the information you’re looking for call your local election board . Learn more here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/blog/wha...

What if the polls close while I am in line waiting to vote? *this is not legal advice, but we wanted to share some general information If the polls close while you’re in line to vote don’t leave. Don’t step out of line. If you are already in line when the polls close, stay in line until you get the chance to cast your ballot. You have the right to vote. Just hang in line until your time comes.

What if I want to wear my candidate’s name to vote? Bit of bad news for you on that one — you can’t appear to be endorsing a candidate or campaigning at the polls. The distance from the polling location to where one is allowed to campaign and/or endorse vary state to state so it’s better to ditch your candidate’s name and rock some red, white and/or blue or wear a shirt that simply promotes voting...

What if I don’t know if I need identification to vote? Voter ID laws vary [wildly] state to state. Luckily the government has made this handy table with ID laws for each state . Some states need no ID, some states require any government issued ID and some you can even use a utility bill. If you DO need your ID make sure it is current and not expired. Make sure you know where your ID is and it’s re...

Practice run, baby! If you’re a nervous parker or get anxious about going to new locations, do a practice run! You might be limited on time on election day, so go take a quiet Saturday and go scope out the site. Polling locations are often public spaces like schools, community centers or fire houses— look up your polling site , grab a coffee and check it out. Map a few parking spots, clock the ent...

Kids can totally come vote with you and come into the booth with you until they are 18! Some states DO have some restrictions around how many children you can bring into the booth with you, so contact your local board of elections if you need to bring more than 1 child in the voting booth with you. Talk to your child about who you are voting for and why you vote. Voting is an exceptionally importa...