Besties Unfiltered

It’s my birthday week, besties 🥳 and you know what that means…time to get a little unfiltered.In this episode, I’m reflecting on another trip around the sun - what I’ve learned, what I’m still figuring out, and why getting older feels weirdly beautiful and completely exhausting at the same time.So grab your coffee or cozy blanket, and let’s have a little birthday heart-to-heart!! 💛🎉 Tell me your birthday wisdom and follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie☕ Celebrate with me → http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie🎤 Be interviewed on the podcast → https://forms.gle/Xs2b56fiyAjqWETX8

Okay besties… you ever make a plan, feel so proud of yourself, and then life is like “lol nope”? Same. This week we’re chatting all about what happens when plans don’t go as planned - because honestly, it happens way more than any of us admit.I’m spilling some real stories (hello, kids getting sick, chronic illness flare ups, and military life throwing curveballs), plus sharing how I try to pivot without totally losing my mind. We’ll talk about why “perfect planning” is kind of a scam, how to scale back when things go sideways, and little ways to make peace with Plan B (or Plan Z).If your week felt nothing like your planner, pull up a chair — you are in very good company here.And hey, I’d love to hear your best Plan B stories. DM me on Instagram @ms.elizabeth.gillie and maybe I’ll share a few in a future episode.---I want to interview you for the podcast - submit your info here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAkDZ6barWDr-kLZFtwWaKyVPcSxDRMMRrIOj2aPYtOE9j7A/viewform

Welcome to the very first Hypes & Gripes episode of Besties Unfiltered!In this fun, chatty catch - up, I’m sharing the things I’m absolutely hyped about right now - from my current favorite lip combo and a new skincare routine to my reading goal progress and unexpected reality TV obsessions.And of course, the gripes: Mormon influencers making general conference feel like an ad campaign, the exhausting political climate, and Target’s sneaky price tag situation.This one feels like a cozy voice note from your bestie—full of unfiltered favorites, flops, and a little venting. Let’s make this a series! Send me your Hypes & Gripes so I can share them in a future episode.Links You Might Need!Products Mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3D7ZMLHL52TJE?ref_=wl_shareFollow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie/Submit your story here: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcast

Do you ever highlight a quote in a book and then… never look at it again? Same, bestie. In this episode, I’m sharing how I mark up my books in a way that actually helps me remember what I read. From simple tools and little symbols to quick reflection rituals, I’ll walk you through my book-nerdy system. And because chronic illness and brain fog are part of my world, I’m also spilling how I keep annotation gentle and doable when energy is low.Links you might need:Be interviewed on the podcast: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcastAnnotating inspiration: https://pin.it/9R8RTTbX7Annotating products: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3D7ZMLHL52TJE?ref_=wl_share

Back-to-school season is here, and with it comes the chaos, fresh starts, and all the emotions. In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz shares simple resets for home routines, tips for carving out time as a mom, and a gentle pep talk for letting go of “perfect.”Links you may need:Moms Demand Action - https://momsdemandaction.org/about/chapters/Follow on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie/Share your story on the podcast - https://forms.gle/DQdB7ii3yDGcovwHASupport the podcast - http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie

Links you may need:CES Letter - https://cesletter.org/Podcast Amy mentions (Mormon Stories) - https://www.mormonstories.org/Free mom hugs website - https://freemomhugs.org/Share your story: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcastFollow Liz on IG @ms.elizabeth.gillieFollow Amy on IG @amysuelaneEpisode Summary:In part two of this heartfelt episode, Liz and Amy delve into the transformative power of empathy and the importance of community building. Through personal stories and candid conversations, they explore how understanding and supporting one another can lead to profound personal growth and stronger connections. Join them as they share insights on navigating life's challenges with compassion and the impact of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that underscores the beauty of coming together to uplift and empower each other.

Join Amy and Liz as they chat about the ups and downs of dealing with cultural and religious expectations. Amy opens up about her life in a Mormon family, sharing stories about trying to fit in, finding her own style, and the journey to self-acceptance. It's a candid conversation about modesty, being true to yourself, and how growing up with certain beliefs shapes who you are. Grab your favorite drink treat (Liz loves a latte and Amy goes for Dr. Pepper) and tune in for some real talk!Links you might need: Connect with Amy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amysuelane/Ask us anything anonymously on Liz's IG stories: https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie/Share your story on the podcast: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcastSupport the podcast here: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieMormon Lingo explained:Sister/Brother – A title used to address other members of the church (e.g., Sister Jones, Brother Smith). It reflects a sense of spiritual family.The Church – Shorthand for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Members usually just say “the Church,” assuming everyone knows which one they mean.Stake – A regional group of congregations (wards). Think of it like a “diocese” in Catholicism.Seminary – A daily religious class for high school students, often held early in the morning before school.Ward – A local congregation of the church, usually organized by geographic boundaries.Go to the temple – Attending a Mormon temple (different from regular church buildings) to participate in sacred ordinances, such as marriages, baptisms for the dead, and endowment ceremonies.Bishopric – The bishop (local lay leader of a ward) and his two counselors who help oversee the congregation.Stake President – The lay leader in charge of a stake (a collection of wards). Comparable to a regional pastor.Relief Society – The women’s organization of the church, focused on service, teaching, and community.Temple Recommend – A wallet-sized card that members must have to enter the temple. To get it, they go through worthiness interviews about belief, obedience, and lifestyle.Garment – Special religious underwear worn by temple-endowed members as a reminder of covenants they’ve made.Bishop’s Council - A meeting of local leadership to discuss the needs of the ward members

In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz Gillie shares her journey of using AI to craft a personalized workout plan that accommodates her unique health conditions. Discover how ChatGPT has become an integral part of her fitness routine, offering tailored exercise strategies that prioritize safety and adaptability. Whether you're navigating chronic illness or seeking a sustainable fitness approach, Liz's insights on leveraging AI for health support are both inspiring and practical. Tune in to learn how technology can help you find the right plan for your body and lifestyle.Share your story: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcastSupport the podcast: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieChatGPT Prompt:You are an experienced, empathetic and results-driven obesity management coach with expertise in exercise physiology. You approach combines scientific knowledge with compassionate support. Instructions:- Begin by gathering essential information. Current health status and weight goals, lifestyle constraints, support systems and potential barriers- Provide personalized recommendations focusing on appropriate exercise routines, stress management techniques, and sleep optimization.- Maintain a non-judgement, body-neutral approach- Focus on overall health improvement rather than just numbers- Avoid promoting anything extreme or crash diets

In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, we're talking makeup and skincare for when you're tired, busy or maybe all of the above! I'll break down what products I'm using and why I'm loving them! My routine is linked below.I want to hear your story! Submit your name to be interviewed here: https://forms.gle/Xs2b56fiyAjqWETX8Support the podcast here: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieLiz Morning Routine:Quick rinse of water. I don't cleanse unless there's somehow leftover makeup from the night beforeA couple drops of Eminence facial recovery oilA drop of OTP F83 Vitamin C SerumA drop of OTP F86 Hyaluronic AcidLoreal Paris Glow lotionLiz Evening Skincare Routine:Emenince Stonecrop Cleansing OilEmenince Manoi Anti-aging CleanserEminence Facial Recover OilA couple drops of OTP F82 Green Retinol ElixirA drop of OTP F86 Hylauronic AcidOTP F08 Cell Active Face CreamLiz Makeup Routine:Revision tinted sunscreen or Olive Rose tinted serumCurrently test driving a k-beauty foundation stick with spf 50Milani baked blush in pink dolche or luminosoLoreal telescopic mascara in brown-blackLoreal Lumi Highlighter (glass)Maybelline Lifter LipglossSeint eyeshadow brush & Seint Blush+Bronzer brush to apply everythingExtras I love:OTP F76 Honey Enzyme MaskEminence Stonecrop MaskOTP F85 Acne SOS Drops (I use it on myself and my pre-teen)OTP F75 Lip Balm (great for gift giving too)Links Galore!!Eminence Skincare: https://emstore.com/collections/eminence-organic-skin-careOlive Tree People products I use: https://kyrstiegillie.olivetreepeople.shop/cart/55090360Olive Tree People Skincare quiz: https://us.olivetreepeople.com/pages/olive-brain-regime?referral=kyrstiegillieOlive Rose Skin Tint: https://us.olivetreepeople.com/collections/olive-rose?referral=kyrstiegillieMakeup: https://amzn.to/3J0M4VFBrushes I use: https://gillie.seintofficial.com/en/shop/office/category/177/en

I want to share your stories on the podcast! Submit your name here: https://forms.gle/Xs2b56fiyAjqWETX8Join Liz as she candidly shares the highs and lows of July, from navigating healthcare challenges and dealing with heat intolerance to celebrating tiny wins like family trips and personal discoveries. This episode is a raw and honest reflection on life's complexities, offering listeners a space to connect and reflect on their own journeys. Tune in for real talk, relatable struggles, and the beauty of small victories.Love the podcast? Support Liz here: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie

Want to be interviewed? Click here: https://forms.gle/bRfmArz7J6bwPB9D8Support the podcast: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieConnect with Liz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie/In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz Gillie shares her personal journey with minimalism, emphasizing a practical and cozy approach rather than a Pinterest-perfect aesthetic. She discusses how minimalism has provided her relief from clutter and anxiety, especially as she navigates parenting and chronic health issues. Liz outlines her current decluttering strategies, focusing on ease and intention, and invites you to join her in creating lighter, more functional homes.

In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz gets honest about the reality of summer as a mom—and it’s not all sunshine and slow days. From personal stories to real listener submissions, this episode is full of low-lift, sanity-saving ideas that actually work.Whether you’re exhausted, overbooked, or just trying to make it to nap time, this one’s for you. Plus, Liz shares her favorite digital tool that’s helped keep her family on track this summer—with a special discount code just for you.What You’ll Hear:A personal update on life in transitionReal-life summer hacks from fellow moms in the Besties communityLiz’s favorite kid-friendly activities and routinesHow the Skylight Calendar keeps her family saneA reminder that you're not alone—and you’re doing better than you thinkMentioned in this Episode:Skylight Calendar - Get $20 off your Calendar by using code FRIEND-QVWQBQ3 - https://www.skylightframe.com/products/skylight-calendarDuolingo App: https://www.duolingo.com/Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program: https://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025-BN-Kids-Summer-Reading-Journal.pdfLinks you need:Follow Liz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ms.elizabeth.gillie/Share your stories, questions or suggestions here:Support the show: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie

In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz explores the profound importance of female friendships, sharing personal stories and insights on building connections as adults. She discusses the challenges women face in making friends, the science behind the benefits of these relationships, and practical tips for nurturing and celebrating friendships. The conversation emphasizes vulnerability, community support, and the power of sisterhood in overcoming loneliness and fostering meaningful connections.Links:Tell or ask me anything: https://forms.gle/DQdB7ii3yDGcovwHASupport the show: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieFollow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/besties.unfiltered.podcast/Sources:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9520295/?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://womensbrainhealth.org/think-tank/think-twice/ucla-study-on-friendship-among-women?utm_source=chatgpt.com

In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, we explore the emotional journey of Nesta from A Court of Silver Flames, focusing on themes of healing, growth, and the importance of female friendships. Through Nesta's struggles with grief, anger, and isolation, Liz highlights how connection and support from friends can lead to resilience and self-acceptance. The conversation emphasizes that healing is not linear and that true worth comes from within, not from others' perceptions. This episode also teases the next episode, which will delve into the health benefits of female friendships and practical strategies for building meaningful connections as adult women.Submit your friendship stories, tips and thoughts here: https://forms.gle/KyX8gnL71uXzU1qv7DM me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/besties.unfiltered.podcast/Support the show here: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie

Keywords: Mormonism, faith deconstruction, leaving religion, personal journey, community, relationships, parenting, belief, spirituality, LDSIn this episode, Liz shares her deeply personal journey of leaving the Mormon faith, exploring the emotional and spiritual challenges she faced during her deconstruction process. She discusses the significance of community and the complexities of navigating relationships after leaving a religious organization. Liz reflects on her current beliefs, parenting without a religious framework, and the peace she has found outside of organized religion. Through her story, she aims to provide validation and support to others who may be experiencing similar struggles and to give new perspective to those who are still in the Mormon faith and want to better understand those who leave.Submit questions/thoughts/stories here: https://forms.gle/DQdB7ii3yDGcovwHAShop limited-edition merch: http://bonfire.com/store/besties-unfiltered-podcast/Support the show and Liz here: http://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillie

Here's a sneak peek inside of a very real, very raw conversation that we'll be having this coming Tuesday! We left Mormonism and I'm ready to answer some of your questions! Be sure to subscribe to Besties Unfiltered so you don't miss it! Submit any questions you have here: https://forms.gle/TTffAN5xd8fQVmgSA

In this solo catch-up, Liz shares what’s been going on behind the scenes—moving updates, how her health is really doing, work changes, and end-of-school-year emotions. It’s honest, cozy, and totally unfiltered.✨ Limited edition merch is live through June 15!📝 Submit your thoughts on motherhood & adult friendship☕ Want to support the show? Buy Liz a coffee!Links you need: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcastThanks for being here, besties 💛

Summary: In this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz and Jimmy dive into a variety of hot takes and unpopular opinions submitted by listeners. They discuss topics ranging from Mother's Day and mental health to pop culture phenomena like Disney and food preferences. The conversation also touches on deeper issues such as organ donation, the value of college degrees, and the intersection of Mormonism and Christianity. With humor and candidness, they explore what it means to hold differing opinions and the importance of kindness and understanding in everyday life.Frozen theory, organ donation information and books mentioned will be saved in the highlights bubble of the podcast Instagram account @besties.unfiltered.podcastSubmit your thoughts & questions on motherhood and/or adult friendships here: https://linktr.ee/bestiesunfilteredpodcast Support the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/lizgillieKeywords: hot takes, unpopular opinions, Mother's Day, mental health, Disney, organ donation, pets, food opinions, college degrees, Mormonism, Christianity, language, Bible

In this episode, Liz Gillie shares her personal experiences with using ChatGPT as a tool to navigate various aspects of her life, particularly in managing chronic illness, mental health, and daily tasks. She discusses the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into her routine, emphasizing its role in providing medical insights, therapeutic support, and organizational assistance. Liz also invites listeners to engage with her community and share their own experiences with AI tools.Listener Submissions: https://forms.gle/KyX8gnL71uXzU1qv7My Link in Bio: https://www.instagram.com/besties.unfiltered.podcast/Skylight Calendar: https://www.skylightframe.com/products/skylight-calendar/?srsltid=AfmBOorXBnVg-LCINCxY1bOFHkRkByWrOjzOBt_bcA8THUwmpO30g2tgKeywords: AI, ChatGPT, mental health, chronic illness, meal planning, therapy, organization, parenting, technology, self-care

In this engaging conversation, Liz Gillie and Marie discuss the transformative journey of motherhood, self-discovery, and embracing the empty nest phase. Marie shares her experiences of navigating relationships, personal growth, and the joy of new hobbies. They explore the impact of pets on life, the importance of quality friendships, and the wisdom that comes with aging. Marie offers heartfelt advice for women transitioning into new life phases, emphasizing the significance of joy and self-acceptance.Follow Marie on Instagram @simplymarieiris

Trigger Warning: mention of miscarriage in passing at 6:07 - 6:20Summary: In this episode, Liz and special guest, Lindsey, explore their favorite books, the importance of female friendships, and the healing power of literature. They discuss the nuances of fantasy and romance genres, character development, and the emotional connections that readers form with characters. The conversation also touches on the role of spice in storytelling, the impact of characters like Nesta from the ACOTAR Series, and the significance of relationships in fantasy narratives. As they share their reading habits and TBR lists, they reflect on the comfort that books provide and the dream worlds they wish they could visit.Keywords: books, reading, fantasy, romance, character development, female friendship, healing, literature, emotional connections, TBR

In this conversation, Tawny Paino shares her journey as a millennial mom of three, discussing the challenges of motherhood, her authentic online presence, and her transition from Catholicism to a non-denominational Christian faith. She emphasizes the importance of community, the influence of her faith journey on her parenting, and her experiences as a teacher. Tawny reflects on the dynamics of family and faith, the inherent goodness of children, and her exploration of new career opportunities while still teaching. In this conversation, Tawny and Liz explore the multifaceted journey of teaching, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating change. Tawny shares her experiences as an educational consultant, the importance of authenticity in teaching, and the impact of social media on self-perception. They delve into the complexities of identity, motherhood, and the journey of adoption, emphasizing the significance of integrity and living authentically. The discussion highlights the importance of embracing change and the lessons learned through personal experiences.Follow Tawny on Instagram @Tawny.Paino and on TikTok @tawnypaino

Summary: In this conversation, Liz Gillie discusses her experiences with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a form of dysautonomia. She explains the symptoms, challenges in diagnosis, and the lack of effective treatments. Liz shares her personal journey, including her struggles with fatigue, air hunger, and the impact of POTS on her daily life. She also highlights the importance of patient advocacy and the need for better awareness and understanding of POTS among healthcare providers.Takeaways:POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome.Symptoms of POTS can vary widely among individuals.Fatigue in POTS is often debilitating and different from regular tiredness.Diagnosis of POTS can take years and often involves multiple doctors.There is no approved medication specifically for POTS.Increasing fluid and sodium intake can help manage symptoms.Compression garments can aid in circulation for POTS patients.Exercise can be beneficial but must be approached cautiously.Personal advocacy is crucial in navigating healthcare for POTS.Community support and sharing experiences can help raise awareness about POTS.

SummaryIn this episode of Besties Unfiltered, Liz Gillie introduces her podcast, sharing her experiences as a military spouse, mother of three, and someone living with chronic illness. She emphasizes the importance of real talk about life's challenges, including parenting, health struggles, and personal identity shifts. Liz invites listeners to join her on this journey of honesty, humor, and healing, creating a community where women can support each other through the chaos of life.TakeawaysLiz Gillie introduces her podcast, Besties Unfiltered.The importance of real talk and community support is emphasized.Listeners are encouraged to engage and share their stories.The podcast will feature solo episodes and guest conversations.Follow the Podcast on Instagram at @besties.unfiltered.podcast

Hey there, besties! ❤️ Welcome to Besties Unfiltered, the podcast where real women share real stories. I’m Liz, and every week, I’m bringing you the unfiltered conversations we all need—no fluff, just connection, truth, and a little fun along the way.In this quick intro, I’m sharing what Besties Unfiltered is all about, what you can expect, and why this space is made for YOU. We’re celebrating the highs, navigating the lows, and keeping it real—together.So, grab a coffee, get cozy, and hit that subscribe button. Let’s dive in! 🎙️Let’s connect!📲 Follow me on Instagram: @ms.elizabeth.gillie💌 Have a story to share? DM me or email [email protected]⭐ Excited for more? Subscribe & leave a review—it helps more besties find us!