Flirtin After Forty

The last few weeks have been heavy. Work stress, co-parenting stress, emotional stress… just one of those seasons where it feels like everyone needs something from you while you’re quietly trying to hold it all together. And this week, I realized something about myself: I’m really good at surviving alone. But I’m terrible at asking for help. In this episode, I talk about what happened when I finally admitted, out loud, “I can’t do this right now,” and someone stepped in without judgment and simply said, “I got you.” We’re also talking about: why being “the strong one” gets exhausting learning to trust people enough to let them show up for you why I booked myself a reset trip and how my son’s basketball team accidentally became the motivational lesson I didn’t know I needed Because sometimes growth doesn’t look like winning. Sometimes it looks like showing back up after getting absolutely destroyed the first time. Also included: some truly horrifying dating profiles a man who proudly announced “I have a dick, I make the rules” and my concern that men never emotionally evolve, even at 69. It’s reflective, chaotic, funny, emotional… and honestly probably one of the realest episodes I’ve recorded in a while. Sign up to see the pics! www.flirtinafterforty.com 

In this episode of Flirtin’ After Forty, I’m catching you up on a heavy couple of weeks — co-parenting disappointment, the aftermath of calling out my ex-husband, and the sadness of realizing that J-Man and I are no longer together. I talk about what it feels like to advocate for your kids, stop protecting people from the consequences of their choices, and navigate the guilt that can show up when you finally say the hard thing out loud. I also get honest about the end of a relationship with a genuinely good man who still wasn’t my person. Because sometimes someone can be kind, willing, and wonderful — and it still doesn’t mean your heart is all in. This one is about trusting the truth, choosing yourself, learning to be okay in the quiet, and remembering that if it’s not a fuck yes, it’s a no. And yes, there is also a very important debate about basketball versus soccer. Obviously, basketball wins.

This week I’m talking about something that hit me harder than I expected: my son’s eighth grade continuation, the milestone moment, the packed gym full of families, and the empty seat where his dad should have been. I went into the day thinking it was just another school ceremony, but watching my son look for his dad — and realizing he wasn’t coming because he forgot — broke my heart. In this episode, I talk about co-parenting, divorce, the emotional labor that often falls on one parent, and why it is not my job to remind someone else to show up for their child. This one is honest, emotional, and maybe a little ragey — because our kids notice. They notice who is there. They notice who forgets. And they deserve people who show up for them. Plus, because we all needed a little relief, I end with a dating profile that somehow compares children to motorcycles. So yes, apparently third place is up for grabs. Hard pass.  Stay connected: Join the Flirtin’ List for podcast updates, card drops, and discounts 

This week came in swinging. My dad ended up in the hospital, work was frantic, my son had school stuff going on, I had bizarre dreams, a snake tried to move into my house, and somehow a barking dog at a job walk almost finished me off. I realized I’m really good in the middle of a crisis — I can make a plan, handle the facts, and keep moving — but the crash usually comes later. In this episode, I’m talking about what it feels like to be the strong one, the capable one, the “I’ve got it” one… until your body says, “Nope, we’re done now.” I also share a hard conversation with J-Man about needing comfort instead of questions, the reminder that girlfriends and ridiculous birthday parties can be medicine, and why sometimes the best therapy is a nap, a basketball game, and a week with absolutely no snakes.

This week, I’m talking about Mother’s Day, disappointment, mental load, and the tiny moments that make women wonder, “Why am I managing everyone’s common sense?” After a week with my mom in town, my kids home, and a very quiet house finally to myself, I realized how much I value my space — and how complicated the idea of living with someone again feels at this stage of life. I also share the Mother’s Day breakfast saga, where “go big” somehow turned into bagels, McDonald’s, and me still doing half the work. From there, I get into dating updates, the strange feeling of being with someone sweet while still wanting time for myself, and how maybe this podcast has become less about finding love and more about figuring out who we are in this season of life. And yes, we end with dating profile disasters — including one man who thinks women should meet a weight equation. Truly, the audacity came with a calculator.

This week felt like a weird mix of everything—snow days in May, finishing a home project I’ve been avoiding for eight months, and one of the most ridiculous dating profiles I’ve ever read. But really, this episode is about moms. With Mother’s Day coming up, I’m talking about the invisible load we carry, why this day actually matters (yes, it does), and how I’ve learned to make it special—even as a single mom. I’m also sharing one of my favorite traditions you can steal, a proud mom moment (my son made the team ), and of course… a couple dating profiles that will make you question everything. Including one man who compared women to used cars. Yep. We’re going there. It’s real life, it’s a little chaotic, and it’s exactly what dating—and parenting—after 40 actually looks like.

I had one of those days—running between nine projects, exhausted, getting hit with “what’s for dinner?” the second I sat down—and I almost lost it. But then I found something that completely flipped my mood… my very first dating profile. Like FULL novel-length, 20-prompts, oversharing-in-the-best-way dating profile. And honestly? She was confident. Hopeful. A little unhinged (in a fun way). And very, very me. In this episode, I read it out loud (yes, all of it), laugh at who I was, and realize something unexpected… I haven’t actually changed as much as I thought.

I didn’t record last week… and honestly, that kind of says it all. In this episode, I’m sharing a very real update—yes, I’m dating J-Man again. But it’s not a fairytale reunion. It’s complicated, it’s uncertain, and I’m asking myself some hard questions. He’s showing up differently. We’re communicating better. In a lot of ways, this is what I said I wanted—something safe, stable, and supportive. So why do I still feel unsure? I talk about the confusion of not knowing what love is supposed to feel like, the fear of wasting time, and the tension between building something with someone… or choosing myself. Plus, I go down a rabbit hole on how dating has changed (especially for our kids), and wow—it’s a lot. This one is messy, honest, and very much a “figuring it out in real time” episode.

I hit my limit this week—between disgusting teenage bedrooms, a middle-of-the-night smoke detector meltdown, and just… life piling on, I needed out. So I went to Vegas. Alone. And somewhere between early morning slot machines, winning $$$ playing Keno, and meeting the kindest strangers at a bar, something shifted. This episode is about losing your mind a little… and then finding yourself again. Why doing things alone is powerful, why small annoyances can push you over the edge, and why we need more people like Molly in this world. Also—yes, I recorded myself yelling at my kid. You’re welcome.

This week started with me feeling completely unmotivated… and ended with a big win I didn’t see coming. After weeks of waiting and assuming we didn’t get it, I got the call—and it was a yes. One of those moments where you realize the feeling you had all along? It was right. From there, I went down a rabbit hole on age-gap relationships (thanks, Netflix), and now I have questions. Like… how big is too big? Because the stats say one thing, but real life—and some of these couples—say another. I also share my own experience dating older, my thoughts on what actually works, and we take a quick detour into some truly horrifying dating profiles… because apparently people are out here saying anything. And to top it off, my kids remind me that age gaps hit very differently depending on where you are in life—because a sixth grader dating an eighth grader is, apparently, scandalous.

This week a calendar reminder informed me it’s been 16 years since I got engaged—which is not exactly the kind of notification a divorced woman expects to wake up to. That moment sent me thinking about old engagement rings, what to do with them, and how funny it is that some things from the past just… linger. I also share a few co-parenting moments from middle school basketball season that reminded me exactly why my ex-husband and I are better off divorced, plus a conversation with my son about navigating uncomfortable situations with kindness. And because the dating world never disappoints, I end the episode with a couple of truly horrifying dating-profile discoveries—including what may or may not be a murder van.

This week I’m feeling it — the moon, the exhaustion, the loneliness… all of it. In this episode I’m talking about the difference between being alone and feeling alone with someone, and why the second one might actually be worse. I miss J-Man, and not reaching out is harder than I’d like to admit. But I also know going back just because you’re lonely isn’t the answer. Then a simple text conversation with a potential date takes a sharp turn into what might officially be my first menopause rage spiral — complete with a political question, a canceled drink, and a few texts I maybe (definitely) overthought. It’s an honest, slightly unhinged reflection on loneliness, standards, and why midlife might be the exact moment when your tolerance for bullshit finally hits zero. Plus, Duolingo keeps teaching me how to say “my husband is lazy,” which feels… oddly specific for someone who is very much single.

I really loved him. And I really wanted it to work. But wanting something isn’t the same as it being right. After a tough fight, a dark weekend, and a long therapy session, I had to listen to the quiet voice I kept trying to override — my gut. In this episode, I talk about ending it (yes, over text), the difference between “nice” and “kind,” and why sometimes choosing your own peace feels selfish… but isn’t. It’s messy. It’s sad. It’s adult. And it’s what dating after 40 actually looks like.

In just one week, everything shifted. Season two launched, J-Man listened to the podcast, and somehow we’re cautiously trying again. This episode is about growth you don’t always see day-to-day — how much you’ve actually evolved, healed, and changed over time. It’s about not losing yourself in relationships, learning to fill your own bucket first, and asking the big question: do we need “our person”… or do we need to be our own? Plus: a 14-year-old’s take on breakups, a Valentine’s Day flag with teenage faces on it, and a man comparing women to Mercedes. Because dating after 40 is nothing if not entertaining.

Season two starts with me coming back to myself. In this episode, I talk openly about ending my relationship with J-Man — someone I deeply care about — and what it looks like to listen to your gut even when the decision hurts. This isn’t about blame or big drama; it’s about recognizing incompatibility, honoring your needs, and choosing not to ignore that quiet voice inside anymore. I’m sharing what this moment has taught me, how I’m navigating the sadness without spiraling, and why “back to me” feels like the right place to begin again.

This week’s episode is a heavier one. I talk about why I stepped back last week and how hard it’s been to process what’s happening in our world — especially when it stops feeling political and starts feeling deeply human. From ICE activity near my kids’ school to conversations with friends who “aren’t really paying attention,” I share how exhausting it can be to care when others have the privilege not to. I also open up about a fight with J-Man that wasn’t really about work — it was about feeling unseen, overwhelmed, and stretched thin while carrying the mental and emotional load of everyday life. When resentment, guilt, and intuition collide, it forces some uncomfortable questions about compatibility, partnership, and listening to that quiet voice in your gut. This episode is raw, emotional, and honest — about burnout, empathy, relationships, and what it means to keep showing up when you’re tired of fighting the good fight.

This week I’m not in crisis — but everything feels a little… smoky. From cringey dating-text advice I refuse to use, to Etsy hate mail over a $9 card (free shipping included, relax), to tech failures, bank chaos, and the never-ending mental load, it’s been one of those weeks where nothing is on fire — but everything is irritating. I talk about why asking for help feels so uncomfortable for independent women, how past letdowns train us to just do it all ourselves, and why “start small” might be the only way out of that pattern (even if it’s just asking someone taller to reach the top shelf). There’s also dating commentary, space in relationships, being weirdly okay with alone time, and a reminder that growth sometimes looks like resting instead of fixing. Honest, funny, a little ranty — and very much what dating and life in your 40s actually look like.

I found a good guy — and realized that wasn’t the ending, it was the beginning. In this episode, I’m sharing what happens when the honeymoon phase fades and real life steps in: a first big fight, a birthday that didn’t go as planned, and the uncomfortable work of navigating a healthy relationship after past toxicity. From a Costa Rica trip that brought both joy and clarity, to learning how much independence still matters to me, this is an honest look at dating in your mid-40s — the pressure to “make it work,” the flags (not red flags), and why unlearning survival patterns might be the hardest part of love. Messy, reflective, and very real — because healthy doesn’t mean easy.

I felt called to record one last episode before the year ended — from my bed, late at night, with a lot on my heart. This episode is about choosing my word for 2026 and why “receive” feels both right and wildly uncomfortable. We talk about letting go of force, stopping the uphill push, and trusting that you don’t have to chase what’s already finding you. I share why receiving isn’t quitting — it’s allowing — plus how music holds memories of people, not just moments, and the playlist I made called Songs That Make Me Think of Others. This is a quiet reflection on growth, trust, and entering the new year open instead of braced. If you have a word for the year, I’d love to hear it.

The holidays are here, my emotions are loud, and I’m showing up exactly as I am — messy moments included. After shelving a previously recorded episode that didn’t feel right, I open up about blended-family dynamics, holiday exhaustion, hormones, and how an innocent Uno game turned into a full-blown feelings spiral. It’s a candid reflection on wanting to be seen, carrying the mental load, and why Love Actually perfectly captures the complicated, imperfect love that defines this season.

I’m back after an unplanned two-week break filled with jello shots, favorite-food Thanksgiving, and a whole lot of rest. Things with J-Man are going so well it’s actually making me a little uncomfortable — apparently “safe and stable” is a new relationship skill I’m learning. And because the universe won’t let my life get too calm, the Colorado singles pages delivered absolute chaos: a man seeking a left-handed, light-eyed short Mexican unicorn, another claiming to make $300K a month, and a lineup of wildly inappropriate messages and bathroom-mirror crimes. It’s a mix of growth, gratitude, and the internet being... the internet.

This week, the universe threw me into a full-on cosmic spin cycle. Between opening a life-changing navigation center for the City of Aurora and navigating the Northern Lights energy, every man from my romantic archives decided to resurface — the one-date wonder, the post-divorce almost-relationship, even an ex’s ex-wife. Oh, and J-Man showed up for me in the sweetest way. It was emotional, bizarre, meaningful, and honestly… kind of magical. Join me as I unpack the chaos, the connections, and what happens when the universe decides to remind you exactly where you’ve been — and how far you’ve come.

I’m not stalking, I’m just researching — that’s my story and I’m sticking to it. This week I went down a LinkedIn hole, found out the lieutenant got married, and had one of those “holy sh*t” moments that makes you question everything. But don’t worry, I balance the heavy stuff with some of the most cringe-worthy singles posts you’ve ever heard — from men offering “stay pretty” allowances to guys describing themselves as ointment for your scars. You can’t make this stuff up.

This week, I’m getting real about the moment I accidentally told one of J-Man’s friends I might love him — and then completely spiraled. I started questioning what “I love you” really means and why my instinct was to retreat the second I felt vulnerable. It’s a story about fear, honesty, and learning to stay open even when it feels uncomfortable. Plus: burr baskets, Venmo stalking, and why overthinking might just be my love language.

You know it’s a full weekend when I meet the friends, get called by the ex’s name, and still end up fielding a drunk text from my former situationship. I’m navigating the highs of new-relationship milestones and the lows of late-night nonsense — all while reminding myself that boundaries aren’t ultimatums and that 1 a.m. is officially past my flirting hours.

From Boomers’ love letters to Gen Z’s video dates, I’m exploring how each generation finds connection — and what still matters most. Featuring a nod to Diane Keaton, a healthy relationship check-in, and a Denver edition of Love Is Blind gossip.

This week, I’m talking about that weird mix of joy and panic that hits when things start to feel too good to be true. From a dream breakup in Vegas to realizing I don’t have to follow anyone else’s rules for love or life, I’m learning what it means to build something healthy—my way. Oh, and just wait until you hear how my 13-year-old totally out-romanced me with a “boo basket.”

Sam’s late-night text proves some men never learn—if you can’t say sorry, don’t say anything. But this episode isn’t just about eye-roll moments. I also finish telling the hardest story I’ve carried: my time with the Lieutenant, the choices I made, and the assault that changed everything. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s part of why I value the kindness I have in my life now.

This week, I’m gushing (yep, full on gushing) about my weekend getaway with J-Man. From bad coffee shop vibes in Aspen to laughter that made my face hurt, it was easy, authentic, and fun—and it ended with a big milestone. Spoiler alert: I officially have a boyfriend. Oh, and the world’s most expensive cowboy hat.

This episode swings from light to heavy: I share how J-Man and I turned a not-so-great day into a fun night (hello, nachos and late-night talks) by learning how to ask the right questions. Then I dive back into the story I promised—my time with “the Lieutenant.” Think poly dating, awkward girlfriend/wife dinners, and the slow realization of how easy it is to shrink yourself in toxic relationships. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s exactly why I believe in sharing these stories—so none of us have to repeat them.

This week I share two sides of my story: the joy of feeling truly seen in a new relationship, and the courage to finally speak about a painful chapter from my past. For the first time, I’m opening up about an abusive relationship that changed me—and how therapy, friendship, and green flags have helped me reclaim my power.

From launching a business straight from my Jamaica daydreams to introducing J-Man to the kids (yeah, I did that), I’m all about bold moves this week. Spoiler: things are going really freaking well. Oh, and if you think your dating life is messy, wait until you hear the rant from a guy who’s mad about septum piercings, tattoos, and independent women. Bless his heart.

This week I’m spilling the tea on belly flop parties, surprise costumes, and what it feels like to finally date someone who plans the trip (and buys the Starbucks). Plus, I share why sticking your tongue out in dating pics is an automatic “nope” and laugh through the infamous “no-go” first-date list.

This week I’m juggling school drop-offs, fresh starts, and the wild idea that love really is about slowing down and actually knowing someone. Plus, I share a few laughable (and cringey) confessions from men about what they find ‘unattractive’—spoiler alert: it’s ridiculous. Grab your coffee, your backpack, and your sense of humor for this one.

Fan mail made my week, a coworker crush popped up on Hinge, and my brunch date ended with a dog fight (literally). Add in a matchmaker pushing a “randoms only” guy, a dating app ego the size of Texas, and the awkward reality of dating someone who listens to this podcast… let’s just say, it’s been a week.

This week, I’m giving an update on my latest date—because of course there’s a twist. Turns out, someone my date used to see also has history with my ex... and now she’s got opinions. Not only that—she’s apparently on a mission to find me. Cool, cool, cool. Also sharing a few funny and oddly insightful things I’ve seen from ChatGPT lately (shoutout to Alex, my most loyal digital companion). Dating after 40? It's never boring. Just a little chaotic, occasionally threatening, and almost always worth talking about.

You know dating is messy when your date casually mentions his ex—who turns out to be your ex-husband’s current love interest. I cannot make this stuff up. In this episode, I break down the wildest “small world” moment I’ve had on a date—and give you an update on how things are going with my last matchmaking setup.

This week I’m raising a glass to my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary (yes, FIFTY!) and reflecting on what half a century of love looks like. Spoiler: it’s not all roses, but it is pretty inspiring. I’m also spilling the tea on my very first matchmaking date—did sparks fly? Did I Google him mid-dinner? Tune in for all the updates, awkward moments, and a little perspective on love at every age.

What do you do when dating apps start to feel like digital doom scrolling? You hand your phone to your friend and let her take the wheel. In this episode, I talk about my friend’s attempt at becoming my personal matchmaker—swiping, messaging, and maybe even setting me up with someone who isn’t holding a fish.

In this episode, I’m fresh off vacation and even fresher off a few dating disappointments. From married men in miserable marriages to the eternal mystery of why men keep holding fish in their dating profiles—I'm talking about all of it. If you’ve ever swiped, sighed, and thought, “Is this really it?”—this one’s for you. Let’s vent, laugh, and maybe cry (just a little). Because dating after 40? It’s a wild, weird ride.

Curious about what really goes down at a sex club (besides the obvious)? In this episode, I pull back the velvet curtain and give you a no-holds-barred overview of what to expect—without actually participating (yet ). From the vibe and the rules to the rooms you definitely don’t want to accidentally wander into too soon, I break it all down with curiosity, humor, and just a hint of wide-eyed awe. Whether you’ve considered going or are just nosy like the rest of us, this peek behind the scenes might surprise you.

We’re not married anymore, but we’re still a family. In this episode, I reflect on a scary moment, how it brought clarity, and what it means to co-parent with grace and grit. It’s not always easy, but damn—sometimes it’s beautiful.

This week, I’m pulling back the covers—literally and figuratively—to talk about two loaded topics in today’s dating world: sneaky links and body count. (If you don’t know what those mean, don’t worry. I googled it so you don’t have to.) We’re diving into: What qualifies as a sneaky link (Is it just a late-night booty call with better branding?) Why the term “body count” needs to go back to action movies, not dating apps How women still get judged for having a past, while men get praised for having a roster And why you should never ask about someone’s number unless you’re ready to hear, “Mind your business.” This is a no-shame zone. We’re grown. We’ve lived. And if you’re still out here acting brand new about sexuality in 2025... well, I’ve got some stories for you.

No prince, no magic meet-cutes — just me, two kids, and way too many churros. This week, I’m recapping our Disney trip: the highs (character hugs, kid smiles, and a few quiet moments of joy), the lows (meltdowns — theirs and maybe mine), and the real talk about what it’s like to solo parent through the chaos of the “Happiest Place on Earth.” Spoiler: I’m exhausted, my feet hurt, and I’ll be sleeping for the next 3–5 business days.

It’s time we talked about the things that really matter when it comes to dating — expectations, accountability, and yes, sometimes size. Let’s get honest about what we say we want, how we show up, and why it’s not just about what someone has, but what they do with it. From awkward conversations to setting standards, I’m breaking it down with a little humor, a little heart, and a lot of real talk.

Things started off great — good vibes, good convo, and maybe a spark. But then… yeah, it took a turn. I’m sharing a story about a date that looked promising and quickly flipped into what the actual hell. Plus, a little Sam update (because of course there’s more), and a look at what it really means to reset after a handful of dates that don’t go anywhere. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Should I keep trying or take a beat?” — this one’s for you.

This week, I'm sharing the story of a man who went from cozy cuddles to total radio silence in 72 hours flat. One minute we’re having deep convos and sharing a bed—the next, I’m staring at my phone wondering if he joined the witness protection program. Spoiler: he didn’t. He just ghosted. So I did what any self-respecting woman with WiFi and self-worth would do: I blocked him. In this episode, we’re talking about why blocking isn’t petty, it’s powerful. Why silence after intimacy hits different. And why protecting your peace is always the right move. If you've ever questioned whether to block, mute, or just move on—this one’s for you.

Today we're cutting through the clichés, sis. 'Tall, funny, and has a job' might sound cute on a dating profile—but let’s be real, that’s the bare minimum. What we’re really craving? Depth. Safety. A man who can sit with emotions without trying to fix, flee, or make a joke out of it. In this episode, I’m breaking down what women say they want… and what we actually mean when we say it. Because we’ve done the work—and we deserve someone who’s done theirs too. Let’s talk emotional availability, real confidence, and the kind of joy that isn’t just surface-level. Grab your wine or your coffee—this one’s a truth bomb kind of day.

Ever gone through a phase where your give-a-damn is broken and your standards are... on sabbatical? Welcome to what I lovingly call the Smut Goblin Phase — a glorious, chaotic chapter where healing sometimes means making out with a stranger and reclaiming your body one bad decision at a time. No shame. No apologies. Just raw stories, real laughs, and the occasional reminder that your wild phase might just be your most honest one yet.