PODCAST · education
The Experiment
by Carrie Hopperstad, Maribeth Thomas
Changes in life can be challenging! From major events - like a cross-country move, to small adjustments like using a new face cream... we take the perspective that all change in life can be viewed as an experiment. We are Carrie and Maribeth, and we hope that you'll come experiment with us!
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Episode 53: Sprouts and Baby Showers!
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her experimenting with growing sprouts, as well as using AI to help her get back into her exercise routine. Carrie talks about throwing a baby shower for her first grandchild (🤯) and being vulnerable with recent writing on her Substack and how it's turning into a type of therapy.
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Episode 52: With Special Guest Ryan Thomas
It's the AI episode! In this episode, we are joined by Maribeth's husband Ryan, who shares his recent experiment with making music using AI. Carrie talks about her new coaching program called The Lighter Life Project. And Maribeth talks about using AI to maximize her supplement protocol.The program Ryan talks about is called Suno.
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Episode 51: Digging in the Dirt and an Allergy Update
In this episode, Maribeth gives an update on her gardening experiment, and Carrie talks about a one-year experiment with an allergy product. And there is so much more! Find out about Maribeth's windowsill rainbow rock piles and Carrie's first time panning for gold.
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Episode 50! With Special Guest Cara Cynkar
Today we talk with our friend and colleague Cara Cynkar. In her professional life, Cara is a Wellbeing Industry leader. In her "extra time" she is a fellow mom to young adults, judges dancing competitions and is in the process of earning her MSW. Phew!Cara talks about her experiment with deleting social media from her phone. Hear about the benefits she has noticed. Maribeth talks about her experience at a wellbeing event she attended at Simplicity Studios in Polson, MT. And Carrie shares her recent experimenting with hunting for precious gemstones (like the Ellensburg Blue Agate) in the Cascade Mountains.
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Episode 49: Mantras, Mountain Bikes, and Bongos, with Special Guest Sheeba Menon
This week we have a great conversation with Maribeth's longtime friend Sheeba Menon. Sheeba shares her new experimentation with mountain bike riding! Maribeth talks about her experimenting with a new spirit guide mantra that leads to a group introspection into how we intentionally choose to show up for others. Carrie is experimenting with bongos. Keep listening to hear how each of us is getting out of our comfort zones and finding joy!Spirit Guide Mantra post
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Episode 48: With Special Guest Pennie Christensen
In this episode, we welcome Maribeth's mother-in-law and best friend Pennie! All three talk about experimenting with filling their time with satisfying, creative projects. Listen to hear how each of them is spending their time!
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Episode 47: Puzzle Competitions and Tretinoin Cream
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her recent experiment at a jigsaw puzzle competition. Is it something she'll try again? Carrie has been using a prescription anti-aging skin cream that she got from an IG ad. Does she think it's working? Tune in to find out!
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Episode 46: With Special Guest Suzanne Hite
In this episode of The Experiment, we’re joined by Carrie’s longtime friend Suzanne Hite, an experienced yoga teacher and physical therapy assistant for a conversation about what it looks like to make small, intentional shifts in everyday life.Marybeth shares about experimenting with space, navigating the transition now that basketball season has ended and noticing what opens up when a full schedule suddenly slows down. Carrie reflects on a small but telling experiment: upgrading on a flight home from Florida, and what it stirred around worthiness, comfort, and receiving. Suzanne talks about her current experiment with a macro-focused eating plan, exploring how reducing it to a math equation creates structure and awareness.Together, we explore how seemingly practical experiments—food, travel, time, routine—often uncover something deeper about identity, balance, and self-trust.
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Episode 45: Coming off Lexapro and Re-reading Journals
In today’s episode of The Experiment, we turn inward and reflect on change over time—both the kind we choose and the kind we slowly grow into.Carrie shares about her recent journey of coming off Lexapro and what it’s been like to experience a fuller emotional range again—the beauty, the intensity, and the uncertainty of feeling more on both ends of the spectrum. Marybeth talks about revisiting old journals and the surprising perspective that comes from reading your own past words, noticing patterns, and recognizing how much can shift gradually, almost quietly, over the years.Together, we explore what it means to witness yourself with compassion, to see growth in hindsight, and to stay present with emotions that don’t always fit neatly into “better” or “worse.” This conversation is about becoming more acquainted with who we are now—and gently honoring who we’ve been along the way.Shout-outs:Kyley CaldwellParul Karwasra
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Episode 44: Experiments in Care with Adam Riehl
In this first episode of our newly expanded Experiment, we’re joined by yoga teacher, sound and reiki healer, and fellow podcaster Adam Riehl, for an honest, intimate conversation about what we’re each experimenting with right now.Adam shares how he’s been paying closer attention to his cortisol habits and exploring microdosing psilocybin at night to support deeper sleep and recovery. Marybeth talks about experimenting with a new guided journaling practice that looks backward with compassion and forward with intention. And Carrie explores an unexpected experiment of her own: allowing herself to enjoy and reflect on music created with the help of AI, and what that brings up around creativity, authenticity, and meaning.Together, we slow down and sit with the questions underneath the experiments—how we care for our nervous systems, how we make sense of our past, and how we stay open to new forms of expression. This episode marks a shift toward deeper, more relational conversations, and we’re grateful to Adam for helping us begin this next chapter.Mentions:Adam Riehl Healing"The Professor" Nick Harrison's album Art Official Soul, Vol. 2Tasty Sounds Audio LollipopYear Compass
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Episode 43: A New Experiment for The Experiment!
For the past two years, The Experiment has been about trying things—stretching ourselves, stepping outside our comfort zones, and noticing what happens. This season, we’re going deeper. We’re exploring what it means to experiment in relationship: intimacy, being seen, and the quiet moments that shape how we connect with others and ourselves. Sometimes that will be just the two of us; sometimes we’ll invite guests into the experiment—but always with more presence, honesty, and heart.
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Episode 42: Infared Sauna & Self Hair Cutting
It's Christmas Eve, and Maribeth is experimenting with a new infared sauna (hear how it's helping her father-in-law!). Carrie is trying out cutting her own hair.
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Episode 41: Amazing Face Mask and Moving
In this episode, Maribeth shares her experiment with a new face mask that she loves, and Carrie talks about the experimentation with her move into a new house.A couple of product mentions: Quasi Face MaskSunday Riley Good Genes
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Episode 40: Yoga and Intentions
Check out our latest episode! Maribeth has joined a new yoga studio, and Carrie is experimenting with intention setting.
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Episode 39: Goat Yoga and Creative Cooking
In this episode, Maribeth talks about her recent experiments in making soups, and Carrie extolls the amazingness that is Goat Yoga!
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Episode 38: Slowing Down and Car Cymbal (and Poetry and Palm Reading)
First thing to get out of the way before you listen - Carrie is now aware that the John Mayer 'prancercize video' is actually the official music video for Paper Doll. Watch it in all its glory here. And then watch it again and again.In this episode, Maribeth shares about experimenting with slowing down after twisting her ankle. You also get to hear her read her own poetry!!Carrie talks about her obsession with her car cymbal, and her experience with a palm reader.The artist Maribeth mentions is Flora Bowley, and her
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Episode 37: Travel and Drums
In this episode, Maribeth talks about experimenting with travel as she is currently in Vienna. Carrie shares about her brand new experimentation with the drums!
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Episode 36: Kion and Chinese Foot Massage
In this episode, Maribeth shares about a new supplement she is taking called Kion. Carrie talks about an ongoing experiment with Chinese Foot Massage.
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Episode 35: Rootless and Labor Dave Weekend
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her experimentation with a hormone supplement called Rootless. Carrie talks about a long weekend experiment camping at the Gorge for the Dave Matthew's Band annual Labor Day weekend shows.
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Episode 34: Jingle Bells and AI Sound Therapy
On this episode, Carrie and Maribeth are both experimenting with different sound experiences. Carrie has picked up a new instrument, the jingle bells, and Maribeth uses Chat GPT to recommend sound therapy to help with her joint pain. Stay tuned toward the end for a conversation about the Franti-versy.
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Episode 33: New People, New Loaves
In this episode of The Experiment, Maribeth and Carrie explore what it means to try new things—both socially and in the kitchen. Maribeth opens up about the vulnerability and excitement of expanding her social circle at a certain age, and what it feels like to show up as a beginner in new friend groups. Meanwhile, Carrie shares her latest experiment: sourdough bread making. From bubbling starters to rustic loaves, she dives into the patience, process, and small joys of learning a hands-on craft. LISTEN to Simon Sinek on the Modern Wisdom podcast.
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Episode 32: Bathing Suits and Acupuncture
This week, Carrie explores her new experimentation with bathing suits, and Maribeth has signed up for acupuncture.
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Episode 31: Bouncing & Painting
In this episode, Maribeth talks about finding major joint pain relief by bouncing on a mini trampoline. Carrie continues her experiment with watercolor painting.
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Episode 30: Good Vibrations and AI Experimentation
in this episode, Carrie experiments with sound bath positions and how the vibrations can enter more than just your ear holes! And Maribeth experiments with Chat GPT to create something exciting!
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Episode 29: Habits and Hormones
Take a listen to this week's episode, and learn what new habit Maribeth is experimenting with, and Carrie's experimentation with hormones.
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Episode 28: Yuka App & an Experiment Revisited!
In this episode, Maribeth experiments with an app that tells you how clean (or not) your products are—and the impact that cleaning up ingredients has had on her health. Carrie revisits one of the first experiments she shared on the pod and how it's evolved over time. Carrie also reveals the recent experience that had her feel the most "out of her comfort zone" in her life!
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Episode 27: Weighted Vest and Singing Bowls
In this episode, Maribeth shares from Costa Rica about her experiment with wearing a weighted vest, and Carrie talks about her new experiment with singing crystal bowls.
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Episode 26: Acupressure Mat & Phish
This week, Maribeth and Carrie have a lot to talk about! Maribeth is experimenting with an acupressure mat - you know the ones with all the little spikes on them? Carrie shares about experimenting with a live Phish show for the first time in 25 years! They also both share ways they've been getting out of their comfort zones recently.
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Episode 25: Tattoos and IV Therapy
In this episode Carrie talks about experimenting with tattoos, and Maribeth shares her experiment with intravenous therapy.
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Episode 24: EFT Tapping and Fantasy
In this episode (our 1 year anniversary!), Maribeth explores EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique). Carrie talks about a visit to a Fantasy/Cosplay market. As real life is, this episode gets a little messy with some internet issues but don't worry, it's worth the listen!
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Episode 23: Botox and Planting
In this episode, Maribeth talks about planting seeds for this summer's gardens, and Carrie talks about experimenting with Botox. The friends also talk about the discomforts of night sweats and coaching high school basketball.
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Episode 22: Experimenting and Ax Throwing
On this episode, Maribeth gets meta and experiments with experimenting. Carrie talks about her experimenting with ax throwing.
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Episode 21: Cocooning, Breathwork/Soundbath/Reiki
In this episode, Maribeth is cocooning in the middle of her Montana winter. Carrie shares about her experimenting with a soundbath incorporating breathwork and reiki.
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Episode 20: Music and Prose
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her experimenting with trying new chill music recommended by an IG influencer. Carrie talks about her new experiment with customized haircare Prose. (Not a sponsor, but totally open to it!) Follow us @theexperimentpod Maribeth talks about @undonebypaige in this episode. Carrie talks about @prose
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Episode 19: Yoni Steaming and Haircuts
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her new hair experiment, and Carrie talks about her experience with Yoni Steaming.
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Episode 18: Spanish and Air Purifiers
In this episode, Maribeth talks about her new experiment learning a new language. Carrie talks about her new air purifier and her ongoing saga with allergies. They both share how they've been getting out of their comfort zones lately, AND they've added a new question to ask each other!
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Episode 17: IG Recipes, Women's Circles and the Sinus Ninja
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her experimenting with recipes she has seen on Instagram, along with her experience in a women's circle. Carrie talks about her most recent experiment visiting The Sinus Ninja as well as a year-end reflection and vision process she is experimenting with. IG Mentions: @satoriholistichealing @drtonibest @sinusninja @adamriehlhealing
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Episode 16: CGM and Weight Lifting
In this episode, Carrie talks about experimenting with a Continuous Glucose Monitor, and Maribeth shares her new strength training routine.
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Episode 15: Book Club and Eyeliner
In this episode, Maribeth talks about the book she is "reading" for the new book club she belongs to, and about the start of coaching a new season of girl's basketball. Carrie shares about the very serious business of eyeliner, and excitement around her upcoming Fire & Ice workshop. Mentions: Soul of Travel: Women's Wisdom and Mindful Travel JRB Facebook Live recording
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Episode 14: Imposter Syndrome and Experiment Updates
In this episode, Carrie talks about working through imposter syndrome, and Maribeth catches us up on some experiments she has been working on!
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Episode 13: Naps and Plant-based Medicine Sound Bath
In this episode, Maribeth talks about her era of napping. Carrie talks about her experiment at a cannabis-infused guided meditation and sound bath. For more information about sound baths with Adam, check out his website.
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Episode 12: Breathwork and Travel
In this episode, Carrie talks about a recent experience at a breathwork ceremony, and Maribeth shares about her experiments living in difference cities for a month each fall. Carrie mentions the book Peace is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh. Carrie also mentions a workshop at @fyresauna led by @wholeselflindsay Don't forget to follow us on Instagram, @theexperimentpod
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Episode 11: DopaMenus and Going Without Alcohol
In this episode, Carrie shares her latest experiment with the Dopa-Menu (what's that, you wonder? Listen to find out!) And Maribeth talks about taking a month off from drinking alcohol for Sober October. Also - follow The Experiment on Instagram! We'll share visuals of all the fun (and not so fun) experiments we are up to! @theexperimentpod
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Episode 10: CBG and Spontaneity
In this episode, Maribeth and Carrie catch up for the first time since their in-person visit. Carrie talks about her experimenting with CBG, and Maribeth reflects on how being spontaneous during Carrie's visit made it even more fun!
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Episode 9: Chest Masks & Self-Coaching
In this episode, Maribeth shares her secret to a wrinkle-free chest, and Carrie talks about experimenting with coaching herself.
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Episode 8: Toe Spacers and Walking Backwards
in this episode, Maribeth shares why she is walking backwards, and Carrie explains why she has started using toe spacers. They also continue to discuss the challenges and rewards of parenting adult children!
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Episode 7: Mantras and Face Yoga
In this episode, Maribeth shares about her experiment with mantras, and Carrie talks about experimenting with face yoga. They also both explore about how they've been getting out of their comfort zones recently. Carrie mentions her obsession with an Intuitive Facial provider. Her name is Lawranne Estrella, and you can find her on IG at lawranne.estrella and she provides her facials at Beone Yoga in Kirkland, WA.
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Episode 6: Tallow and Joy
In this episode, Carrie shares about her new obsession with tallow based skincare, and Maribeth is experimenting with .... you have to listen to find out!
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Episode 5: Zentangles and Poppin' Tags
In this episode, Maribeth shares why she has been experimenting with Zentangles and Carrie dives into thrifting and discusses the phenomena known as the "TJ Maxxative effect."
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Episode 4: Colors and Rebounding
In this episode of The Experiment, Carrie talks about experimenting with her colors, and Maribeth shares how she has been experimenting with a new form of exercise.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Changes in life can be challenging! From major events - like a cross-country move, to small adjustments like using a new face cream... we take the perspective that all change in life can be viewed as an experiment. We are Carrie and Maribeth, and we hope that you'll come experiment with us!
HOSTED BY
Carrie Hopperstad, Maribeth Thomas
CATEGORIES
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