Are We Doing This?

Fresh off a 3-day girls trip to Vegas, Lauren and Lauren are back—and they brought souvenirs in the form of stories, laughter, and just a few rum-soaked Dole Whips. In this episode, we’re recapping the unforgettable weekend we spent with our college besties, Joy and Ashley—from getting way too into the Magic Mike show (no regrets), to living our best lives in a cabana at the Bellagio pool, and of course, losing our voices at the ICONIC Backstreet Boys concert at the Sphere.We’re also sharing a very special segment recorded from our hotel bed (in pajamas, obviously): Pillow Talk Confessions from Vegas. The four of us get nostalgic about how we met, reflect on how we’ve kept our friendship strong for 20 years, and share some heartfelt, hilarious, and possibly embarrassing truths.This one’s for the girls, the group chats, and the friendships that stand the test of time (and tequila).

Watch this episode on YouTube! In this "Are We Best Friends Now?" episode, we sit down with Kimberly Page—a former entertainment insider turned romance author—for a candid chat about what it really takes to write, publish, and put your heart on the page. Kimberly opens up about the wild ride of launching her books, the creative sparks behind her characters, and how feedback from readers and editors shaped her work. We dive into favorite tropes, the ups and downs of the publishing world, and why building a social media presence isn’t just a “nice to have” for authors today. Plus, Kimberly shares honest advice for aspiring writers and reflects on the surprising ways storytelling can change you—and connect you with your readers.Follow KimIG @iamkimberlyjpage TikTok @iamkimberlyjpageKimberlyjpage.comFollow Us⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Keywordswriting, publishing, romance novels, author journey, entertainment industry, character development, editing process, personal growth, challenges, book release, writing, romance, parenting, tropes, spicy content, character development, book recommendations, writing process, aspiring authors, personal journey

In this Are We Obsessed? episode, the Laurens dive into their latest fixations—because when they love something, they really love it. Lauren P reveals how a spicy little Ali Hazelwood novel yanked her out of a six-month reading slump (12 books in one month, y’all!) and shares her newfound love for old-school porch hangouts with neighbors while the kids run wild in the street like it’s 1993. She also sings the praises of living in a neighborhood where all the kids' friends are within five minutes—it takes a village, but like, a close one.Meanwhile, Lauren B is obsessed with Phoebe Robinson’s Substack, Thots and Prayers, and is on a mission to enjoy summer with her kids rather than white-knuckle her way through it. (We see you, moms hiding in the pantry with the boxed wine.)If you’re looking for laughs, book recs, community feels, and a nudge to go sit on your dang porch—this episode’s for you.Helpful links:Phoebe Robinson's Substack Thos and Prayers:https://dopequeenpheebs.substack.com/Ali Hazelwood's New Book, Problematic Summer Romancehttps://amzn.to/4kcCqvXKeywordssummer, parenting, reading, community, slumber parties, family fun, creativity, porch hangs, adventures, podcastTakeawaysSummer brings a unique set of parenting challenges.Slumber parties can be a fun way for kids to bond.Reading can help unlock creativity and joy.Community connections are vital for family life.Porch hangs foster relationships among neighbors.Summer adventures create lasting family memories.It's important to savor the good moments in parenting.Planning spontaneous trips can lead to great experiences.Building a supportive community is essential for parents.Finding joy in simple summer activities is key.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Summer Challenges03:42 Navigating Slumber Parties and Parenting06:42 Overcoming Reading Slumps09:31 Creative Inspirations and New Obsessions12:38 Phoebe Robinson and Social Commentary15:56 Cultural Reflections and Movie Discussions16:36 Exploring New Movies and Cultural References17:40 The Importance of Community and Porch Hangs26:24 Summer Adventures with Kids30:02 Planning Family Getaways and Road Trips

(Edited with improved audio!) In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Are We Doing This?, Lauren and Lauren dive into the chaos and comedy of summer parenting. They swap stories about teaching their kids to ride bikes, surviving splash pad birthday parties in the rain, sunset paddle board picnics, and letting daughters get bangs and purple highlights.The conversation turns to their June movement challenge—Wall Pilates and daily activity—and their confessions about how much (or little) they actually stuck to it. They reflect on what worked, what didn’t (looking at you, glitchy app), and how “cheating” on your challenge might still count as growth.Lauren B then unveils her July challenge: to actively explore a career pivot. She’s feeling the pull away from digital marketing and toward something more fulfilling—like coaching, therapy, or facilitation—and lays out her plan to research new paths, reconnect with her strengths, and take the first step toward what’s next. Meanwhile, Lauren P (who, by the way, is a little wine drunk during this recording) dives into her next creative challenge: writing a romance novella. She's already 800 words in on a story about a woman who’s a social media manager for a celebrity chef. Think: love, kitchen chaos, and content strategy.It’s raw, real, and full of laughs and "me too" moments for any listener trying to juggle personal growth, parenting, and summer chaos.Follow us⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Keywordssummer parenting, wall pilates challenge, daily movement, fitness habits, bike camp, splash pad birthday, paddle board picnic, kids with bangs, purple hair dye, Crocs, short story writing, creativity, career pivot, coaching, therapy exploration, informational interviews, mom guilt, ADHD tendencies, StrengthsFinder, career change, balance, self-discovery, movement motivation, BetterMe app, working moms, flexibility, life after 40TakeawaysThe importance of balancing summer activities with parenting responsibilities.Celebrating children's milestones can be a joyful experience for parents.Birthday parties can be fun, even with unexpected weather challenges.Engaging in outdoor activities like paddle boarding can enhance family bonding.Fitness challenges can motivate individuals to stay active and healthy.Finding a balance between work and family life is a common struggle for parents.Exploring new career paths can lead to personal fulfillment and growth.Coaching and counseling roles can be fulfilling career options for those seeking change.It's essential to prioritize self-care and personal interests amidst parenting duties.Creating a supportive community can help navigate the challenges of parenting. Exploring career aspirations can be daunting but rewarding.Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common feelings when considering a career change.Support from others can provide encouragement and motivation.Setting small, achievable goals can help in navigating career transitions.Self-reflection is key to understanding one's strengths and interests.Creative outlets can unlock personal growth and fulfillment.Writing can be a therapeutic way to express thoughts and emotions.It's important to research and understand different career paths before committing.Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights into new careers.Embracing the creative process can lead to unexpected and fulfilling outcomes.

In this episode of our Are We OK? series, Lauren and Lauren dive into the emotional whiplash of living in America right now—covering everything from the administration's immigration tactics to the hope sparked by the No Kings protests. They explore how activism and community help ease feelings of helplessness, especially when current events feel overwhelming.The conversation also takes a personal turn, with candid reflections on mental health, parenting struggles (hello, summer chaos), and the surprising impact of social media on health awareness. Lauren P shares her journey of possibly having Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome after seeing relatable TikToks and opens up about how baking brings her both creativity and joy. Meanwhile, Lauren B discusses her own “wait, do I have ADHD?” moment, and a parenting strategy that’s helping her respond to her kids with more kindness during stressful moments.It’s messy, real, and filled with heart—just like life.Helpful LinksClimbing the Walls Podcasthttps://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/climbing-the-wallsThe Ehlers-Danlos Societyhttps://www.ehlers-danlos.com/Together Risinghttps://togetherrising.org/Keywordsmental health, current events, activism, parenting, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, emotional well-being, social issues, community support, kindness, personal growth, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, health awareness, social media, ADHD, healthcare challenges, cake baking, creativity, women's health, autoimmune disorders, diagnosisTakeawaysIt's important to check in on our mental health regularly.Current events can significantly impact our emotional well-being.Finding ways to take action can help combat feelings of paralysis.Activism can provide a sense of community and hope.Parenting during challenging times requires balance and self-care.Summer can bring unique challenges for parents and children alike.Practicing kindness towards our children can improve relationships.Understanding personal health issues can lead to better self-care.It's okay to seek help and support from others.Finding joy in small moments can help counterbalance negativity. Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can provide context for various health issues.Social media platforms like TikTok can raise awareness about health conditions.Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially for women.Adult ADHD is often underdiagnosed, particularly in women.Baking cakes has become a fulfilling creative outlet for Lauren.Feedback from customers can boost confidence in creative endeavors.It's important to seek a diagnosis for health concerns to understand them better.The joy of creating something tangible can be incredibly rewarding.Finding a supportive primary care doctor is crucial for health management.Exploring new hobbies can lead to unexpected opportunities and income.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Episode 20: Mental Health Check-In03:28 Current Events: Discussing Mental Health and Societal Issues06:31 Taking Action: Finding Ways to Help and Support09:27 The Fear of Current Events: Navigating Safety and Community09:46 Finding Community in Chaos11:48 The Need for Leadership and Organization13:37 Normalization of Troubling Times15:39 The Impact of Kindness Amidst Turmoil16:40 Taking Action in Difficult Times17:31 Navigating Parenting Challenges23:33 Creating a Positive Home Environment26:56 Navigating Daily Frustrations28:32 Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome34:12 The Impact of Social Media on Health Awareness41:15 Exploring ADHD in Adults44:47 Understanding ADHD in Women52:39 The Journey of Cake Making01:01:29 Reflections and Future Challenges

In this "Are We Obsessed?" episode, the Laurens catch up on what they’re currently loving—from go-to products and comfort-first fashion to new TV obsessions and what’s on their bookshelves. They swap weekend updates, talk through recent fitness ups and downs, and share how they’re trying to stay on track with health goals while still enjoying life.The conversation winds through everyday essentials like anti-chafe shorts and the perfect bralette, the surprising joy of permanent jewelry, and how they’re navigating perimenopause and experimenting with adaptogens. There’s a little talk about keto, a lot of talk about reality TV, and plenty of honest moments about what’s working—and what’s definitely not.LP: Waterproof/Sweatproof Necklacehttps://atoleajewelry.com/products/rope-chain-necklace-womenFlat Back Earringshttps://amzn.to/3Zs7P6hCooling Shortshttps://amzn.to/3FH9I8vThe Secret Lives of Mormon Wiveshttps://www.hulu.com/series/the-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-58cd73be-408d-4eed-8e3d-82339f3f93e2LB: Bralette (Also available in a regular/non curvy version!) https://www.meundies.com/products/curvy-feelfree-ruched-bralette-blackAshwagandha Supplementshttps://a.co/d/8N8WexZYour Friends & Neighbors https://tv.apple.com/us/show/your-friends--neighbors/umc.cmc.74o37kzay0yuuub8iumddjsgThe Wedding Peoplehttps://a.co/d/hkfjF2kFollow us:⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Keywordsobsessions, products, TV shows, books, personal growth, fitness, baking, concert experiences, recommendations, fashion, perimenopause, adaptogens, jewelry, TV shows, reality TV, book recommendations, keto diet, lifestyle, wellnessChapters02:53 Weekend Catch-Up and Life Updates05:47 Fitness Challenges and Personal Growth08:51 Concert Experience with Neon Trees13:42 Baking Adventures and Cake Creations19:38 Exploring New Products and Recommendations21:25 The Comfort of Undergarments24:15 Finding the Right Fit: Anti-Chafe Solutions31:47 Navigating Perimenopause: The Role of Adaptogens35:35 Jewelry Hacks for Everyday Elegance39:18 Entertainment Recommendations: New Shows to Watch40:59 The Downfall of a Character44:07 The Allure of Trash TV47:15 Book Recommendations and Literary Insights50:09 Navigating Keto and Social Life54:51 Final Thoughts and Future Topics

This week, the Laurens are back with updates on their fitness challenge—and let’s just say things escalated quickly. Wall Pilates is no joke and Lauren B accidentally found herself in a HIIT cardio class that nearly ended her. Spoiler: she survived, but barely.Then, they sit down with the incredible Jen Gayden, the creative force behind Vivian James Events in Fort Worth. Jen shares how she blends her love of event planning, photography, and florals into one stunning business—all while raising two kids and staying (somehow?) sane. She spills the tea on why flowers can be ridiculously expensive, and why having a mentor is a total game-changer when launching a business.Don’t miss this episode full of laughs, inspiration, and a little post-workout regret. And be sure to tune in next week for the Are We Obsessed episode when the Laurens dive into their current faves—products, shows, and whatever else is living rent-free in their brains.Follow us:⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Follow Jen: https://www.instagram.com/vivianjameseventshttps://www.facebook.com/vivianjameseventshttps://www.tiktok.com/@jen_vivianjamesevents Keywordsbusiness, entrepreneurship, floral design, event planning, photography, side hustles, work-life balance, creative passions, client education, logistics, floral design, entrepreneurship, photography, business challenges, mentorship, creative parties, floral parties, event planning, small business, women in business

This week, the Laurens are back with a wild mix of firsts, fails, and future plans. Lauren P recounts her shocking near hole-in-one during her very first golf outing—and her dream of assembling a glam golf crew for a weekend of cute outfits and cocktails. Meanwhile, both Laurens took on the challenge of watching all 10 Academy Award Best Picture nominees (well… almost all), and they’re not holding back on their hot takes. (The Substance = yes. Emilia Perez = hard no.)They also get real about their struggle to find joy in working out—and what they’re doing about it. Lauren B is diving into a ChatGPT-generated 30-day movement challenge (think: brushing your teeth while doing calf raises), and Lauren P was influenced by TikTok (again) to try the 28-Day Wall Pilates Challenge.Plus, a sneak peek at next week’s guest: Jen Gayden of Vivian James—Petals, Portraits, and Parties. You’ll want to hear her story!Follow us:⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Keywordspodcast, parenting, field day, gardening, golf, Academy Awards, challenges, motherhood, routines, chaos, workout routine, motivation, fitness challenges, Pilates, exercise, health, women, personal trainer, accountability, movementChapters00:00 Late Night Vibes and Wine02:49 End of School Year Chaos05:50 Field Day Fiasco08:51 Parenting Challenges and Bodily Fluids11:39 Gardening Adventures14:35 Embracing New Experiences15:44 Family Golf Adventures20:24 Challenge Accepted: The Academy Awards32:30 Looking Ahead: New Challenges33:14 Struggles with Workout Routines35:15 The Impact of Life Changes on Fitness38:07 Chasing the Workout High41:08 Finding Joy in Physical Activity50:17 Embracing Movement: A New Approach to Fitness55:59 Setting Goals: The Importance of Accountability in Fitness Challenges59:44 Exploring New Fitness Trends: Wall Pilates and Beyond01:03:24 Upcoming Guest: A Journey into Event Planning and Entrepreneurship

In This Episode:Lauren P debates whether competitive soccer is the right fit for her son—especially if it means giving up her beloved Soccer Saturdays with friends. Meanwhile, Lauren B tries Pilates for the first time, shows up late, and accidentally does the entire class on the hardest setting thanks to some reformer confusion.The Laurens also unveil an exciting new structure for the podcast! Each month will now feature four themed episodes:Are We Really Doing This? – Trying new things and stepping out of our comfort zonesAre We OK? – Honest convos about what’s on our mindsAre We Obsessed? – Books, shows, and products we can’t stop talking aboutAre We Best Friends Now? – Guest interviews that go deep and make us laughPlus, they share their Summer Survival Plans for getting through the chaos of summer with two young kids each. Spoiler: snacks, screen time, and low expectations might be involved.Keywordssummer, parenting, fitness, soccer, podcast, family, challenges, routines, survival strategies, motherhood, parenting, summer activities, screen time, routines, kids independence, family meals, summer learning, outdoor play, family bonding, summer plansTakeawaysSummer is approaching, leading to parenting anxiety.Weekend activities include birthday parties and family outings.Field trips can be both fun and exhausting for parents.Physical fitness challenges are a common struggle for busy moms.Deciding on competitive sports for children can be challenging.Summer routines need to be planned to keep kids engaged.Balancing screen time and outdoor activities is essential.Podcast format is evolving to include more relatable topics.Moms often feel overwhelmed during summer break.Community and support from other parents is invaluable. Managing screen time can be challenging for parents.Creating a structured summer learning routine is beneficial.Morning routines help kids start their day positively.Balancing work and family activities is essential during summer.Encouraging kids' independence fosters confidence.Outdoor play is crucial for children's development.Utilizing school lunch programs can ease meal planning.Planning simple summer lunches can reduce stress.Daily snack management is important for healthy eating.Creating a family summer bucket list can enhance family bonding.Chapters00:00 Summer Countdown and Survival Strategies02:40 Weekend Shenanigans and Family Activities05:41 Field Trip Adventures and Nature Exploration08:37 Fitness Journeys and Challenges11:31 Soccer Struggles and Competitive Decisions14:26 Crawfish Boil and Family Gatherings17:20 Podcast Evolution and Future Directions20:24 Connecting with Guests and Community23:23 Balancing Work and Family Life26:26 Lunch Planning for the Summer27:28 Encouraging Independence in Kids28:25 Final Thoughts on Summer Strategies36:51 Kitchen Independence for Kids37:57 Snack Management Strategies39:57 Summer Plans and Activities42:11 Creating a Family Summer Bucket List44:23 Exploring Outdoor Adventures46:07 Summer Camps and Learning Opportunities48:09 Nostalgic Plans: Backstreet Boys in Vegas50:56 Seeking Summer Survival Tips

In this episode, LB and LP get real about motherhood, money, and the elusive search for balance. From Mother’s Day reflections to summer survival strategies with kids, they cover it all — with detours into the world of film (Wicked, Conclave, and A Complete Unknown), podcast rabbit holes, and a possible kid cameo. LP spills the financial details of her cake biz — and that one time a reality TV producer slid into her DMs. LB keeps chasing that ever-elusive sweet spot gig, and together, they tackle fame, nostalgia, and figuring it all out one messy moment at a time.Follow us:⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠YouTube⁠Keywords:podcast, motherhood, movies, challenges, family, traditions, Mother's Day, Wicked, Conclave, Bob Dylan, nostalgia, film performance, cake business, work-life balance, parenting strategiesTakeaways:The podcast introduces a new audio-only format due to personal circumstances.Mother's Day reflections highlight what we REALLY wantListeners are encouraged to share their podcast preferences between audio and video.The discussion of the movie 'Wicked' reveals differing opinions on its appeal and themes.'Conclave' explores the complexities of choosing a new pope and the moral dilemmas involved.'A Complete Unknown' raises questions about fame and the struggles of artists.The conversation touches on the societal pressures faced by public figures.The pressure of instant communication can be overwhelming.Performance in film can evoke strong opinions and feelings.Running a cake business involves both creativity and financial strategy.Work-life balance is a constant negotiation for parents.Summer presents unique challenges for working parents.Finding the right income balance is crucial for family dynamics.Personal fulfillment in work is important for mental health.Exploring new career paths can be daunting but necessary.