We're announcing the "sundowning" of our current podcast as we prepare for a complete rebrand, launching on May 6th. After realizing our audience is primarily women in midlife, we're embracing this direction with deeper, more focused content about relationships in all forms.

• Started discussing a podcast idea back in 2018 before life and the pandemic delayed our plans
• Finally launched in 2023 after Jules suggested the timing was right
• Discovered our audience is primarily women 40+ despite trying to reach a broader demographic
• Working with podcast marketing coach Whitney Gardner (our "young Yoda") to refine our focus
• New podcast will focus on relationships in all forms - with ourselves, others, family, and friends
• Same hosts, new name, and deeper discussions targeted to women in midlife
• Will continue to bring our authentic experiences and hard-earned wisdom

Join us on May 6th for our rebranded podcast launch! We'll be sharing teasers on our social media channels in the weeks leading up to the big reveal.

What happens when a fitness model and IFBB professional athlete who volunteered for Mothers Against Drunk Drivers finds herself arrested for a DUI? Elise Morgan's powerful, candid journey reveals the unexpected twists life can take with just one decision.

With raw vulnerability, Elise takes us through every humiliating step – from field sobriety tests and handcuffs to overnight jail stays and courtroom appearances. The emotional and financial aftermath ($10,000+ in legal fees) transformed her life in ways she never imagined. Forced to install a breathalyzer in her vehicle for a year, Elise faced daily reminders of her mistake while driving her children to activities.

Yet what begins as a cautionary tale evolves into something profoundly inspirational. Through mandatory alcohol education classes, Elise discovered her passion for helping others transform their lives through mindset work – launching her current career as a life coach, author, and podcast host. Even more remarkably, a breathalyzer mishap during a date led her to meet the man who would become her husband!

This conversation goes beyond simple warnings about drinking and driving to explore deeper questions about redemption, purpose, and finding unexpected gifts in our darkest moments. Michele, Jules, and Elise discuss generational shifts in attitudes toward alcohol, the prevalence of "wine mom" culture, and the simple wisdom of planning ahead with rideshare services. Their authentic exchange reminds us that while we all make mistakes, with the right mindset, our lowest moments can become the foundation for our greatest growth.

What happens when you bring together two veteran educators with a combined 85 years of classroom experience? You get a masterclass in how American education has evolved—and what remains fundamentally unchanged.

Barb Houschel (entering her 49th year of teaching) and Angie share their journey from Catholic school classrooms with limited resources to navigating the complex landscape of modern public education. Their candid conversation reveals how teachers have become much more than instructors—they're advocates, counselors, and sometimes second parents to their students.

The discussion takes us through pivotal shifts in educational priorities, from the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to the chronic underfunding that leaves teachers constantly fighting for adequate resources. These educators don't hold back when addressing how "gentle parenting" trends and technology have transformed classroom dynamics, often creating new challenges in social skill development that became glaringly apparent after pandemic disruptions.

Perhaps most enlightening is their perspective on sex education curriculum—dispelling widespread misinformation with their firsthand experience implementing age-appropriate, systematic instruction with strong parent communication. Their thoughtful approach reveals how effective teachers build trust with both students and families when handling sensitive topics.

Despite the growing demands and diminishing support for educators, both teachers share the profound rewards that have sustained their lengthy careers: seeing former students grow into incredible adults, knowing they played some small part in that journey. As Barb beautifully states, "When I lay my head on the pillow at night, I know that I've spent my life in an endeavor that is worth doing."

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about the future of education, this conversation offers valuable perspective from those who've dedicated their lives to shaping generations of young minds. Subscribe, share, and join the conversation on our social channels @BlondeBrunetteandaMic.