Just Call Me Viv

They turned cafecito and conversation into a sold-out community — and they're doing it for us.In this episode of Just Call Me Viv, I sit down with Elizabeth Colon and Marisel Melendez, the co-founders of Boricua Talks, a speaker series celebrating Puerto Rican women and their stories. We talk about building community in the diaspora, what it really takes to start something from nothing, and what it means to finally have a space where you belong — no apologies, no explanations.If you've ever felt like you're not Puerto Rican enough, not Latina enough, or just not enough, this one is for you.Topics we cover:- How Boricua Talks started over coffee and grew into a sold-out movement- Building real friendship as an adult woman- What the diaspora is missing and how these two women are filling the gap- Entrepreneurship, grit, and getting out of your own way- Raising daughters who are proud of their cultureWhy community is the cheat code nobody talks about

Vivian shares her encounter with a supportive and collaborative woman, Andy Lyons, who embodies the spirit of making space for others. She reflects on the importance of recognizing those who support and uplift, and encourages listeners to embrace collaboration over competition.TakeawaysCollaboration over competitionRecognizing those who support and make space for you

The conversation explores the experience of feeling like an outsider in social settings and the value of depth in connections. It delves into the concept of being an 'otrovert' and the process of outgrowing spaces and relationships as part of personal growth and reinvention.TakeawaysThe value of depth in connections over social breadthThe process of outgrowing spaces and relationships as part of personal growth and reinventionChapters00:00 The Prom Dance Floor06:14 The Otrovert Concept

The conversation with Lizbeth Perdomo covers her journey from Berklee to building a community, navigating challenges, and building resilience. It explores the lessons learned from running a studio, balancing business and parenting, recognizing the need for change, and the birth of Que Mami through manifestation and belief in self. The discussion also highlights the process of starting Que Mami and the pivotal moments that led to its creation. The conversation covers the themes of supporting local businesses, building trust and authenticity, purpose-driven business, inner work and alignment, and spiritual growth and courage. It emphasizes the power of community and the importance of being authentic in business endeavors.TakeawaysGrit and tenacityBuilding community Supporting local businessesThe power of community and authenticityChapters00:00 Starting Que Mami and Pivoting32:12 Building Trust and Authenticity38:01 Purpose-Driven Business43:15 Spiritual Growth and Courage

Vivian addresses the fear of taking the next step and emphasizes the importance of embracing fear as part of the change process. She encourages consistency, honesty, and compassion as key elements in navigating change and starting something new.TakeawaysEmbrace fear as part of the change processConsistency, honesty, and compassion are essential for navigating change

The conversation delves into the themes of reinventing identity, navigating responsibility and rebellion, and pursuing passion and entrepreneurship. It explores the experiences of two women who were once 'cool nerdy girls' and how they have evolved over time. The influence of upbringing, the impact of responsibility, and the pursuit of passion are central to their stories. The conversation covers the journey of Francesca, an artist, and her vision for the Tropical Home Fine Art Gallery. It delves into the themes of resilience, embracing change, empowerment, and recognition through art. Francesca's evolution, transition, and the permission to evolve and inspire are also highlighted.TakeawaysReinventing identityNavigating responsibility and rebellionPursuing passion and entrepreneurship Resilience through ArtEmbracing ChangeChapters00:00 Choosing Oneself and Pursuing Passion29:57 Art as Activism and Social Justice35:02 Art as Reflection and Recognition42:16 Living a Fulfilling Life

The episode discusses the unreliability of motivation and the importance of structure and consistency. It emphasizes the role of identity-based habits, normalizing the dip in long-term effort, and reconnecting to the reason for starting as key strategies for maintaining motivation.TakeawaysMotivation is unreliable and spikes with noveltyAnchor effort to identity, not emotion

The episode discusses the normalcy of slow progress and the importance of consistency. It explores the competence curve, zone of proximal development, process-based thinking, and earning ease through repetition.TakeawaysSlow progress is normalConsistency is key

The conversation delves into the recognition of the need for change, the impact of burnout, navigating stress and dysregulation, and the transformational power of yoga as a practice and way of being. Katelyn's journey from burnout to self-discovery through yoga and the impact of the education system on well-being are explored in depth. The conversation delves into the themes of flow-based living, re-parenting oneself, and choosing a substance-free lifestyle. Katelyn Skerry Notice shares insights on living in flow, the impact of re-parenting oneself, and the transformative effects of choosing a substance-free life.TakeawaysSurviving burnout and finding purposeThe impact of education on well-being Flow-based livingRe-parenting yourselfSubstance-free livingChapters00:00 Recognizing the Need for Change07:30 Navigating Stress and Dysregulation24:41 Yoga as a Transformational Practice45:43 Choosing Substance-Free Living

The episode discusses the experience of losing self-trust after a setback and provides insights on rebuilding self-trust and trusting one's adaptability. Vivian shares practical steps and psychological perspectives to help listeners navigate through this challenging experience.TakeawaysLosing self-trust is a common experience after a setback.Rebuilding self-trust involves separating judgment from information, recognizing moments of integrity, understanding the role of the nervous system, and making small promises to oneself.

The episode explores the psychology of second-guessing and provides strategies to overcome it. It delves into the reasons behind second-guessing and offers practical steps to interrupt and redirect this behavior, ultimately empowering listeners to make decisions with confidence.TakeawaysUnderstanding the psychology of second-guessingStrategies to overcome second-guessing

Starting something new can be mentally exhausting, and the fatigue experienced is a result of cognitive load and adaptation. Consistency and pacing oneself are key to managing this exhaustion and building new habits.TakeawaysCognitive load and adaptation contribute to the mental fatigue experienced when starting something new.Consistency and pacing are essential for managing exhaustion and building new habits.

The conversation explores the neurological basis of confidence, the process of building confidence with purpose, the importance of repetition and evaluation, and the significance of recording evidence for confidence. Takeaways include the understanding that confidence is built through habituation and that short exposure reduces threat and increases follow through.TakeawaysConfidence is built through habituationShort exposure reduces threat and increases follow through

The conversation delves into the career evolution and inspiration drawn from personal experiences, the challenges and triumphs faced, and the navigation of high-pressure environments. It also explores the journey of building something of one's own, the aspects of leadership and decision-making, and the relational work involved in the career path. The conversation delves into the identity shift in starting a firm, overcoming fears and financial planning, redefining ambition and sustainable success, the power of storytelling and cultural influence, building a legacy and redefining success, defining success on your own terms, letting go and seeking help, lessons in growth and transition, and parting words and final thoughts. Key takeaways include the importance of passion in business and the value of emotional connection in business.TakeawaysCareer EvolutionIdentity and LeadershipChallenges and Triumphs Passion in businessEmotional connection in business

Overthinking is a threat response loop in the brain, driven by the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. It leads to circular, urgent, and exhausting thoughts. Practical steps to stop overthinking include identifying the threat, separating the decision from identity, and taking action to calm the nervous system.TakeawaysOverthinking is a threat response loopSeparate the decision from identityTake action to calm the nervous system

The conversation explores the impact of apologizing and the use of empowering language in communication. It emphasizes the need to replace sorry with affirming statements and highlights how apologizing weakens one's position in conversations.TakeawaysReplace sorry with affirming statementsApologizing weakens your position

The conversation focuses on the importance of preparation for confidence and the power of clarity in communication. Vivian shares her personal experiences and provides actionable advice for effective communication in meetings and leadership roles.TakeawaysPrepare for confidenceClarity creates preparation

Conquering your fear of starting something new and unfamiliar.

Vivian and Liz discuss the importance of authenticity in social media and the significance of midlife friendships. They explore Liz's approach to social media, her passions and identity in midlife, the evolution of friendships, navigating friendship loss and breakups, and the challenges of making new friendships in midlife. They also delve into the fear of rejection and the process of filtering friendships in midlife. The conversation explores the importance of embracing vulnerability and authenticity in friendships, creating space for emotional vulnerability and connection, and deepening friendships over time. It highlights the significance of supporting friends in their endeavors and the role of diverse friendships in personal growth and understanding.TakeawaysAuthenticity in Social MediaMidlife Friendships Embracing vulnerabilitySupporting friends in their endeavorsChapters00:00 Introduction and Reconnecting with Liz08:06 The Evolution of Friendships in Midlife16:21 Challenges of Making New Friendships in Midlife21:18 The Fear of Rejection and Filtering Friendships29:34 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity in Friendships36:08 Deepening Friendships Over Time

Getting comfortable in front of the camera isn't about confidence, it's about finally being seen.

High-achieving women aren’t tired because they’re weak — they’re tired because they never stop choosing everyone else.

Before the goals.Before the resolutions.Before choosing a word for the year.There’s a question many women haven’t asked themselves in a long time:What do I actually want?In this final episode of the year, Viv creates space for the part of you that still desires something even if you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or unsure what that something is.Midlife can train us to prioritize duty over desire, responsibility over self. Wanting can feel selfish or dangerous. But research and lived experience tell a different story: desire is not indulgence. It’s your inner compass.In this episode, you’ll be guided through a simple, five-minute practice to reconnect with your desires in a way that feels grounded and doable no pressure, no fixing, just listening.If you’ve forgotten what wanting feels like, this episode is your gentle invitation to begin again.

Reconnecting with the Things you Desire in the next year.

This video is a gentle reflection on what you’re not bringing into the next season of your life — not out of anger, but out of self-respect. We talk about release without guilt, emotional boundaries, and how to stop carrying what was never meant for you. If you’ve been thinking, “I don’t want another year like this,” this space is for you. At the end, I share a simple, science-backed tool to help you let go in real time — and an invitation to join a small accountability circle for women choosing themselves.

Before you start planning the new year… take a moment to tell the truth about the year you just lived. Not the polished version. Not the version you share at holiday dinners. The real one — the one your body remembers. In this episode, we talk about why reflection is one of the most important tools you have as a woman in midlife. Research from Harvard and the University of Texas shows that honest reflection reduces stress, increases clarity, and improves long-term decision-making — which means you have more power and direction than you think. This isn’t about judgment or resolutions. It’s about clarity. It’s about supporting the woman you’re becoming.

I learned that confidence isn't something you are born with, it's an action.

In this episode, Viv delves into the emotional impact of silence and ghosting in relationships. She explores the feelings of confusion and rejection that come with emotional withdrawal and offers insights into how to cope with these experiences. Viv encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and love, even when faced with the fear of being hurt.

In this episode, I’m reclaiming Jamona as a celebration of confidence, freedom, and feminine power. We’ll talk about how this Puerto Rican term, once used to shame unmarried women, is becoming a symbol of independence, choice, and self-love. Because we’re not expired , we’re "seasoned." We’re not waiting , we’re choosing. And yes, these cubs? They’re out here looking for us anyway. Join me as we redefine aging, desirability, and what it really means to live fully in our "Jamona Era." Tell me in the comments: What does being in your "Jamona Era" mean to you? Shop the Collection: In My Jamona Era tees + hoodies https://just-call-me-viv.printify.me/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts: Just Call Me Viv 📩 Subscribe to my newsletter: www.justcallmeviv.com

Rest was never meant to be something we “earn.” Somewhere along the way, many of us learned to tie our worth to movement, to productivity, to being everything for everyone. In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story about guilt, rest, and the uncomfortable stillness so many women feel when we finally slow down.

This episode dives into the roots of trust issues , where they begin, how they shape our relationships, and what it takes to rebuild trust in ourselves and others.

In this reflective episode, Viv explores what it means to being unmarried in midlife and why more women than ever are redefining what love and fulfillment look like. Through data, compassion, and personal reflection, this episode challenges outdated narratives about marriage and celebrates the quiet beauty of women choosing themselves. Mentioned Data Sources: Pew Research Center – Record share of 40-year-olds never married (2023) BGSU National Center for Family & Marriage Research – Geographic variation in midlife never-married adults (2021) Pew Research – Rise in unmarried adults ages 25–54 (2021) PMC Marriage Trends Study (2022) Reflection Prompts: What has being unmarried taught you about yourself? How do you define partnership, now that you’ve lived a little? What would it look like to design your life without waiting for “someday”?

Be honest , do you have a “type”? Most of us do. Maybe it’s the charming guy, the creative dreamer, or the one who looks great on paper but never shows up when it counts. The problem? Sometimes our “type” isn’t really our match it’s our pattern. In this episode of Just Call Me Viv, I’m wrapping up my dating series with a candid conversation about breaking free from those patterns and tearing up the checklist. Because what if the best relationship for you isn’t the man you’ve always gone for… but the one who shows up differently? I talk about why it’s okay , even necessary , to date outside your “type,” why letting go of familiar cycles opens the door to something better, and the kind of partner I’m looking for at this stage in life: the one who makes me feel safe, cared for, and yes… just a little obsessed with me. If you’ve ever caught yourself saying, “Why do I keep dating the same kind of guy?” , this episode is for you.

We’ve all been there, the text that pops up out of nowhere: “I miss you.” Three little words that can flip your heart upside down. But what does it really mean when someone reaches out like that? Do they want another chance—or are they just looking for comfort? In this episode of Just Call Me Viv, I break down why “I miss you” isn’t always about love, commitment, or readiness. I’ll share the truth I’ve learned about mixed signals, what those words often mean, and how to protect your peace when someone pulls you back in but can’t show up for you. You’ll walk away with: The difference between missing you and choosing you Why actions matter more than words A mantra to carry when you’re tempted to respond to that text Remember: Missing me is not the same as choosing me. I deserve more than memories, I deserve presence.

Dating should feel exciting, not draining. In this episode of Second Act Romance, we’re talking about the foundation of it all: your safety, your sanity, and your boundaries. From handling ghosting and rejection, to practical safety tips, to knowing when to take a break, I’ll guide you through dating with strength and self-respect. You’ll also learn how to create your own “post-date debrief” so you can check in with yourself, stay grounded, and date without losing your sense of self. Get Your Second Act Romance Dating

Starting a conversation after matching can feel awkward—what do you say beyond “Hey”? In this episode of Second Act Romance, I’ll share how to turn matches into meaningful connections with curiosity, intention, and confidence. We’ll talk about what actually works (and what doesn’t), how to spot green flags, and the best time to take things from chat to a real-life meetup. Whether you’re diving back into dating in midlife or just looking for a fresh approach, this is your guide to sparking conversations that don’t fizzle out.

Your profile isn’t about impressing everyone , it’s about opening the door just enough for the right person to see your light. In this episode, Viv shares how to choose photos that feel like you, write bios that spark curiosity, and set boundaries that protect your safety. Plus, she introduces her Dating App GPT, a tool to help you brainstorm and polish your profile with ease. https://stan.store/JustCallMeViv/p/the-dating-guide-gpt

Welcome to Just Call Me Viv, the podcast where we get real about life, love, work, and everything in between. I'm Viv, mom, storyteller, lawyer, therapist, and sometimes blogger, and always a work in progress. This is a space for reflection, reinvention, and those honest conversations we don't always get to have.

Dating apps can feel overwhelming, but they’re just doors, and you get to choose which ones to open. In this episode, Viv walks you through Match, Hinge, and more, sharing insights on how each platform works and which might fit your goals. With her signature warmth, she reminds you: the apps don’t define you, they’re simply tools you carry your compass into.https://stan.store/JustCallMeViv/p/your-internal-compass-worksheet

Why do some endings hurt so much? In this episode, I share my story of recent heartbreak. If you’re healing after heartbreak, this is your reminder that you deserve honesty, devotion, and real love.

Before you even swipe, you need a compass. In this episode, Viv helps you build your internal guide — clarifying your values, non-negotiables, and the wisdom you’ve earned from past relationships. With gentle prompts and reflective questions, she shows how your scars can become your map toward love that feels aligned and true. Please find my free Internal Compass Worksheet below: https://stan.store/JustCallMeViv/p/your-internal-compass-worksheet

Dating in your 30s 40s and beyond isn’t a restart it’s a reframe. In this episode of second act mindset, they’ve explores the mindset shift from chasing milestones to aligning with what truly matters. With warmth reflection, she shares while your second act is a powerful place to begin again and introduces her core philosophy me before we.