Banter and Beyond

Natalie and Brandi are back! After a little summer break, they’re catching you up on all the things — summer fun, art projects, writing, life changes, and the messy in-between. In true Banter and Beyond fashion, they invite you back into the chat for laughter, reflection, and an honest summer recap

The chaos continues! In Part 2 of the garage sale adventure, Natalie and Brandi are back with more laughs, fun friends who visit the sale, and a few questionable haggling decisions. Did the infamous bath mat finally sell? Did Natalie actually survive the madness? Tune in to find out what garage sale-ing together was really like. 

This week, Natalie decided to join Brandi's annual multi-family neighborhood garage sale and—spoiler alert—she immediately freaked out. While Brandi and her family were in chill, seasoned-pro prep time, Natalie was spiraling with questions like “Do you really have room for all this stuff?” and “How are you not stressed, I feel overwhelmed by what's happening over there?” So the ladies decided to break it all down in this episode: how Brandi and her crew prep, price, stay organized-ish, and keep the chaos fun. It’s a little all over the place, just like the sale itself—but what's Banter and Beyond (or a garage sale) without a little mess right?

Welcome to the group chat! In this super fun episode, Natalie and Brandi dive into all the group chats — from Instagram to Marco Polo, Messenger to text threads. Whether you thrive in a buzzing group chat or exit them every chance you get, you’re sure to relate to this one. Plus, you listeners brought in some hilarious responses that sent the ladies  into full-on laughter mode. Tune in, mute if you must (you won’t want to though)  — just don’t leave the group chat!

Ever wondered what it’s like to take off on your own, with no plus one, no packed itinerary for someone else, just a little brave curiosity? In this solo episode (fittingly!), Natalie is reflecting on the beauty of solo travel, what it taught her, and why it might be exactly what you need, too. From chasing art history in Rome to swimming solo in the South of France, to realizing that moving abroad might not be so far-fetched after all, this is a love letter to independence, intuition, and the power of going alone.

In this episode of Banter and Beyond "We Asked"...a lot of questions. In this raw conversation Natalie and Brandi showed up with little to no preparation—just meaningful questions and open hearts. The goal? To speak from the moment and answer with whatever was on their minds. From serious to thought-provoking, with a touch of silliness (because of course), this episode is a reminder that sometimes the best conversations happen when you don’t have a plan—and this one definitely proves it.

This week Natalie and Brandi dive into the delicious and sometimes hectic task of feeding our families. Brandi comes in hot with her tried and true ways of prepping  while Natalie keeps it real on the "I don't really do much prepping" side of things...or so she thought. Together with input from their loyal listeners they cover everything from the "I don't" meal planner to the organized weekly planning moms. Whether you're a seasoned Sunday weekly prepper or flying by the seat of your grocery list at all times - there's something in this episode for you.  

After the last episode was taken over by the Red Robin Fiasco (Ep. 25 - Drinky Drinks Gone Wrong) Brandi and Natalie are back to the banter with all the recent things happening in their lives. From travel updates to lip stains, hiding at the gym and stupid commercials, they cover it all and more in this episode. Be sure to  tune in and try to keep up! 

So much for going out for drinks with your hosts of B&B! What started as a girls night out quickly turned into a lesson in boundaries, perception, and how our past experiences can impact the way we react to uneasy situations. After being bothered by a drunk man at a bar, Brandi felt anxiety, fear, and frustration, while Natalie—seeing things differently—felt almost numb to the invasion, worry for Brandi, and compassion for whatever this man may (or may not in Brandi’s opinion) be dealing with. Though this episode stems from an uncomfortable situation, the banter is filled with laughter from your hosts. Grab a drink (or maybe don’t) and join us for Drinky Drinks gone Wrong.  

This episode is intended for mature audiences only and broaches a number of topics that are sensitive in nature. In this two-part conversation Brandi and Natalie welcome a special guest to dive into the realities of marriage, divorce and finding yourselves after life takes an unexpected turn. From childhood trauma and beliefs they took into their marriages to moments they thought they found a forever love, these ladies show strength and vulnerability while sharing their stories. The courage these two have carried through their struggle and their healing is truly empowering. Whether you’ve been through a divorce or held a friend’s hand through it this episode is sure to speak to you.

This episode is intended for mature audiences only and broaches a number of topics that are sensitive in nature. In this two-part conversation Brandi and Natalie welcome a special guest to dive into the realities of marriage, divorce and finding yourselves after life takes an unexpected turn. From childhood trauma and beliefs they took into their marriages to moments they thought they found a forever love, these ladies show strength and vulnerability while sharing their stories. The courage these two have carried through their struggle and their healing is truly empowering. Whether you’ve been through a divorce or held a friend’s hand through it this episode is sure to speak to you.” 

Well, Brandi and Natalie had intentions of starting off the new year with organized thoughts and a clear vision for 2025, but PLOT TWIST, reality had other plans! In this episode the ladies bounce from topic to topic, barely keeping their thoughts straight - and honestly, it's a mess. If you've ever felt overwhelm at the start of the year you'll definitely appreciate the unfiltered honesty in this episode. And if "Off The Rails" sounds messy, just remember - life is messy too and Natalie and Brandi are here for it! 

In this special anniversary episode Brandi and Natalie reflect on an entire year of podcasting. From laughter to tears and everything in between, they have a candid conversation about the growth, challenges, and joy that have come with creating Banter and Beyond. To make this milestone even more meaningful, they listen to voice memos from YOU, their loyal listeners. Get ready for all the feels as Brandi and Natalie hear about your favorite episodes and memories from the first year of the podcast. 

In this episode of Banter and Beyond Natalie and Brandi talk all things Christmas traditions, best and worst gifts and share some listener write ins as well. From Christmas PJs and Books to Virginia Slims and Squatty Potties you’re sure to get festivity and laughter from this one. 

In this episode  Natalie and Brandi dive into the milestone of turning 40 and all the emotions that come with it. Brandi shares the unforgettable way she celebrated while Natalie looks ahead to a gallery night featuring her artwork. They share  listener responses about turning 40 making this episode an engaging and fun conversation about heading into this next chapter of our lives. 

In this two-part episode, Brandi and Natalie explore the importance of boundaries, what they are and are not, and where they are needed. They discuss the challenges of putting boundaries in place and the beauty of doing so. Rooted in personal experiences, this candid chat between friends reminds us that boundaries create a space for self care, growth and safety in relationships. 

In this two-part episode, Brandi and Natalie explore the importance of boundaries, what they are and are not, and where they are needed. They discuss the challenges of putting boundaries in place and the beauty of doing so. Rooted in personal experiences, this candid chat between friends reminds us that boundaries create a space for self care, growth and safety in relationships. 

Brandi and Natalie are trying to get ahead as we all enter the most busy season of the year. In this episode they chat about how they can organize the chaos in their lives by reintroducing some of their tried and true systems and seeking out new ones to implement. Their focus will be striving for less overwhelm and more self-care. Can they get a handle on it before the wave of holidays try to drown them? We’ll see! 

Join Brandi and Natalie for a 20 minute chat about the chaos that is fall and how they are struggling to juggle it all. Get a real and raw glimpse into what it’s like trying to coordinate all the things and why this week’s episode is a 20 minute call between friends instead of a lengthy intentional conversation with more depth. 

In this episode of Banter and Beyond, Brandi and Natalie reunite to recap their eventful summer vacations; sharing stories of travel and the big life changes that came after. They also dive into each of the solo and guest episodes they hosted, reflecting on the uniqueness that each brought while the other was away. Tune in for a heartwarming reunion full of laughter, insight, and summer fun! 

After a minor technical issue we present to you (better late than never) another guest episode. While Brandi was on her dream Alaskan cruise with her family, Natalie thought to invite long time listener Melissa on the podcast to start the conversation about raising and parenting young adult and adult children. We broach this chapter in our momma hearts that mark the end of one chapter and a beginning of a beautiful new relationship with our once babies. This is Part 2 of a 2 Part Episode. 

After a minor technical issue we present to you (better late than never) another guest episode. While Brandi was on her dream Alaskan cruise with her family, Natalie thought to invite long time listener Melissa on the podcast to start the conversation about raising and parenting young adult and adult children. We broach this chapter in our momma hearts that mark the end of one chapter and a beginning of a beautiful new relationship with our once babies. This is Part 1 of a 2 Part Episode. 

Join Brandi for her most raw and vulnerable episode yet. She dives into how she came to learn about Letters from Love (thank you Elizabeth Gilbert and the We Can Do Hard Things Podcast.) and shares her unedited letter. In her attempt to explore the messages hidden within this letter, Brandi’s solo episode opens a window for us to learn more about her beautiful story.

Join Natalie and Brandi as they have a candid conversation about fashion and all the frustration and fun that come with it. How Brandi came to terms with wide legged jeans and how Natalie embraced a crop top for a week and fell in love with how she felt! No fashion expertise here, just two friends trying to find what works for them. 

Join Natalie and Brandi as they dish out the latest in their hilarious and chaotic lives! In this “Catch Up, Not Ketchup” episode, they recap the last few months of madness and what’s sizzling this summer. While Brandi’s been juggling the kids' end-of-year chaos and preparing for their epic family Alaska cruise… Natalie’s been tackling her fear of heights by painting murals, and dealing with a deer-induced car disaster—all while planning a surprise trip to Europe and battling endless weeks of illness. It’s all the drama, laughter, and real talk you love. Don’t miss it!

In this episode Brandi and Natalie dive into a topic many of you have asked for….Self Love! In recording and editing this episode we realized that this just a start for more conversations to come on body image, worthiness, self esteem and acceptance. Join us for a raw chat on a topic that deserves more time and attention in upcoming episodes. 

We did it friends! Today we are celebrating 10 episodes of Banter and Beyond! Join us as we laugh, reminisce, talk about our favorites and set goals for the next 10 episodes! Be sure to let us know what goals you'd like us to reach for and how we can connect with you more as we continue on this podcast journey. 

In Banter and Beyond’s first ever guest episode you’ll get to “meet” Danie and Stephanie; two of Brandi’s childhood best friends. In this 2 part episode Brandi, Steph and Danie dive into their experiences of the heartbreak of losing their mamas. Vulnerability meets a safe space in this raw conversation between 3 women who have walked through grief with each other decade after decade, time after time, and whose friendship has only strengthened along the way. 

In Banter and Beyond’s first ever guest episode you get to “meet” Danie and Stephanie; two of Brandi’s childhood best friends. In this 2 part episode Brandi, Steph and Danie dive into their experiences of the heartbreak of losing their mamas. Vulnerability meets a safe space in this raw conversation between 3 women who have walked through grief with each other decade after decade, time after time, and whose friendship has only strengthened along the way. 

Scrapbooks, Swingers, Sea Urchins OH MY! You asked, and we have answered. Tune in to our first Listener Questions episode where we dive into friendship stories, why we create and what might be coming soon to the podcast. If your question didn’t get answered this time, don’t worry; we will definitely answer it on our next Listener Question episode. 

In this reflective episode, Natalie and Brandi revisit the intentions they set at the beginning of the year. They engage in candid conversations about how they have both hit the mark and missed it. More importantly, they emphasize the grace they've extended to themselves along the way. They remind each other of their dreams and underscore the importance of rest and rejuvenation in pursuit of those dreams.

Join Brandi and Natalie as they dive into why they decided to combat people pleasing and how they are navigating the process of trying to recover from it. This is Part 2 of their conversation. Part 1 was published at an earlier date where they discussed what people pleasing is and how it shows up for them. 

Join Brandi and Natalie as they dive into what people pleasing is, signs you might be a people pleaser and how people pleasing shows up for them in their day to day lives. This is Part 1 of their conversation. Part 2 will drop at a later date where they discuss why and how they have combated and continue to work towards recovering from people pleasing. 

International Women's Day is March 8th and in honor of this beautiful day, Brandi and Natalie explore the history of the holiday and our experiences with it. Natalie shares her cultural experience with the holiday growing up and Brandi shares a love letter to the women in her life.  This episode is full of heart and the realness of the strength and beauty of women, and we hope you'll share it with a woman you love! 

Come laugh with us as we share the random and little things we love, guilty pleasures that bring us joy, and how we view and make space for self love in our lives. 

Join Brandi and Natalie as we dive into why we are saying "No" to New Year's Resolutions and how we plan to navigate 2024 with intention. 

Get to know Brandi and Natalie a bit more as we share how Banter and Beyond Podcast came to be.  Hear some fun name ideas we had, why we are creating this together and how we hope this crazy idea evolves.  Join us as we push aside that "Fake it Till You Make it" phrase while we actually "Do it Till We Make it!" as we  work to figure out this Podcaster thing. 

Welcome to Banter and Beyond's first episode; where we introduce ourselves and dive into the imposters we really are. 

Introducing Banter and Beyond Podcast