R U O'Cake?

⭐ Theme 8: The Online World ⭐ In this episode, May goes solo and dives into something she's been wanting to talk about for a long time: the rise of AI in mental health treatment. Join her as she unpacks: What AI actually is and how it works How technology has already changed mental health care What the research says about AI's role in early detection, personalised treatment, and accessibility Th...

⭐  Theme 8: The Online World ⭐ In this duo episode, Ebony and May trade stories about their surprisingly late introductions to technology, starting from hand-me-down Nokia brick phones. Raised in a Steiner school that championed screen-free weeks and made them sit through fear-inducing tech documentaries, neither of them saw the digital lives they lead today coming. Now? One is a content creator...

⭐  Theme 7: The Side Quest Chronicles ⭐ Today's episode follows May’s rejection‑therapy journey from Manila, Philippines. She unpacks the psychology behind the viral TikTok trend, debunking myths while citing the evidence . Drawing from evidence‑based therapy and theory, May explains why rejection hurts so deeply and how rejection therapy can serve as a powerful exercise for self-growth. She the...

⭐  Theme 7: The Side Quest Chronicles ⭐ . Ever held back from asking for something because you were scared of hearing " no " ? In this solo episode of R U O'Cake? , Ebony dives headfirst into the world of rejection therapy , in other words, the practice of intentionally putting yourself in situations where rejection is possible, all in the name of growth . From cold-DMing a cafe owner she admire...

⭐ Theme 7: Side Quest Chronicles ⭐ What if the most meaningful chapters of your life weren't planned at all? In this episode of R U O'Cake?, Ebony and May are unpacking the magic of side quests : those spontaneous , curious , delightfully random adventures that exist outside your main game plan. From defining what a side quest actually is to sharing their own wildly eclectic lists , they make th...

⭐  Theme 6: Family By Choice ⭐ In this special episode, hosts May and Ebony are joined by Joshua Santos (NARRA) and an incredible panel of multicultural youth voices for an honest, unscripted conversation exploring what it really takes to build friendships across cultures . Recorded on 14 March 2026 during a live virtual meet-up, this episode was produced in collaboration with NARRA Coop to supp...

⭐ Theme 6: Family By Choice ⭐ Can girls and guys really just be friends? In this solo episode, May dives into the deeply nuanced world of cross-gender platonic friendships , unpacking the social pressures , gender stereotypes , and cultural expectations that shape how we connect with people outside our own gender. Drawing from her unique upbringing in a Steiner school, her multicultural identity...

⭐  Theme: Family by Choice ⭐ Recorded on Ebony's birthday! 🎂 This episode is a deep dive into the decade-long friendship between hosts Ebony and May. From how they met to unforgettable school memories, they reflect on the journey that brought them here - and why they believe the people you choose to keep close are truly family by choice . They get real about the challenges and unexpected joys o...

⭐ Theme 5 : Food for Thought ⭐ ⚠️ Content Warning : This episode contains detailed discussions of eating disorders. Please listen with care and prioritise your wellbeing. If you need support, contact your local mental health services or eating disorder helplines. Professional help is available, and recovery is possible. Join us for a deeply personal and educational conversation with May as she s...

⭐ Theme 5: Food for Thought ⭐ In this solo episode, Ebony takes us behind the scenes of starting her own cake business at just 15 years old. From baking in her family kitchen to running market stalls, learning how to market a product, and finding her purpose through food. 💗 Ebony shares: - How her love of baking began and turned into a business idea - The challenges of being a young entrepreneu...

⭐ Theme 5: Food for Thought ⭐ 🍽️ This week, Ebony and May serve up something special—a heartfelt exploration of how food shapes who we are. From childhood comfort meals to family traditions that anchor identities, they dive into the beautiful, complex relationship we all have with what's on our plates. From "kitchen therapy" sessions to the deeper meaning behind their podcast name, Ebony and May...

⭐ Theme 4: Big Sister Advice ⭐ . ⚠️ Today's episode addresses sensitive topics related to mental health and suicide. If you find these subjects difficult or triggering, please prioritise your wellbeing and consider listening at another time or with support available. Your mental health comes first. In this game-changing episode, May shares her most powerful big sister advice for mastering your m...

⭐ Theme 4: Big Sister Advice ⭐ Do you struggle with feeling insecure or worrying about what others think? You're not alone. In this powerful episode, Ebony shares her personal stories of navigating insecurity - from being mocked for her appearance in high school to facing doubts in her business ventures. She dives deep into the psychology of why we care so much about others' opinions, and provid...

⭐ Theme 4: Big Sister Advice ⭐ In part 2 of this episode, Ebony and May dive into what it’s really like growing up as the eldest daughters in their families. From childhood memories to the pressures of being a role model, they unpack the best moments and realisations they found that come with the title of “eldest daughter.” Tune in as they share: • How being the eldest daughter shapes relationsh...

⭐ Theme 4 : Big Sister Advice ⭐ In this episode, Ebony and May dive into what it’s really like growing up as the eldest daughters in their families. From childhood memories to the pressures of being a role model, they unpack the best moments and realisations they found that come with the title of “eldest daughter.” Tune in as they share: - Thoughts on the idea that eldest daughters are seen as t...

⭐ Theme: People & Places ⭐ In this solo episode, Ebony takes us inside her amazing journey of studying abroad in the UK. From exploring London and traveling across Europe to navigating the highs and lows of living away from home, she reflects on the experiences that shaped her and the lessons she’ll carry forever. Join Ebony as she shares: - What it’s really like to study abroad in the UK vs...

⭐ Theme: People and Places ⭐ Ready for a fresh perspective on cultural differences? Join May as she shares genuine insights from her month living in the Philippines as an Australian. This episode goes beyond surface-level observations to explore the deeper cultural forces that shape how we live, eat, and connect. What you'll discover: • DRESS CODE – How culture, religion, and climate influence f...

⭐ Theme 3: People & Places ⭐ In this episode, Ebony and May launch their new theme by asking the big question: Is university worth it in 2025—or just a waste of time? They surveyed 66 university students to uncover the real reasons people go to uni and share surprising insights about university life, friendships, career opportunities, and global experiences. Join them as they explore: • Maki...

⭐ Theme 2: Lifelong Learning ⭐ 🇵🇭 Mabuhay Philippines 🇵🇭 This episode marks May's exciting new chapter as she begins her life in the Philippines! What is Lifelong Learning? Join May as she explores what lifelong learning truly means, diving into the psychological mechanisms behind this transformative concept and sharing practical strategies for cultivating a growth-oriented learning mindset. In...

⭐ *Theme 2: Lifelong Learning*⭐ For this week’s conversation, Ebony dives deep into the powerful mindset shift from academic learning to *lifelong learning*. She reflects on her personal journey—sharing stories, quotes, and valuable insights on how embracing curiosity has transformed her academic success, career path, and personal growth. 🎓 We spend years in traditional education chasing grades...

⭐ Theme 2: Lifelong Learning ⭐ In this episode, Ebony and May kick off the week by diving into their own educational journeys and exploring the fascinating world of Steiner Education. Join them as they unpack: • The origins and philosophy behind Steiner education • How it compares to traditional schooling in Australia • Common myths and misconceptions—debunked! Whether you're curious about alter...

In today’s chat, Ebony opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of living out her lifelong dream of moving abroad. She takes you through the highs and lows of learning to live independently and carving out a new life in an unfamiliar city. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll discover: • A deep dive into the emotions of transitioning to a new country • How Ebony is learning to embrace challeng...

In this solo episode, May reflects on her childhood goals and aspirations and how they have influenced her as an adult. This is her perspective on this month's theme, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" She discusses: - Mental vs physical health - The significance of sport in childhood identity - How childhood dreams have shaped her current goals and values. Enjoy a deep dive into this reflecti...

Welcome to the first episode of R U O'Cake! In this episode, we explore the pivotal question we all thought about as children: "What do I want to be when I grow up?" We'll share: • Our childhood dreams and goals, and whether our current realities have lived up to those expectations • How we're thinking about goals and aspirations for our 30s • A deep, vulnerable conversation about the pressure and...