Talk with Kristen (with an e)

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode, Kristen reflects on the TV and movie characters who quietly helped shape the woman she became.From Punky Brewster’s fearless individuality and fierce loyalty, to Mary Richards’ quiet confidence in a male-dominated workplace, to Elle Woods’ unapologetic femininity and determination, and Felicity’s willingness to follow her own path, each character left a lasting imprint on how Kristen sees herself today.She shares personal stories about confidence, identity, career growth, and why she refused to change who she was just to be taken seriously, including the story behind becoming “the girl in the sparkly shoes.”This episode is a nostalgic and heartfelt look at the role models we grow up with, the lessons we carry into adulthood, and the ways confidence is built over time.Kristen invites listeners to reflect on their own story: Which character shaped you? ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen sits down with returning guest Emily to talk about burnout and the version that often goes unnoticed: hidden burnout.They explore what it looks like to keep showing up, performing well, and checking all the boxes while feeling emotionally exhausted, disconnected, and flat on the inside. From Sunday scaries and overwhelming to do lists to the pressure of being the go to person at work and in life, this conversation breaks down how burnout can build quietly over time.Kristen and Emily share personal experiences with high functioning burnout, including moments of withdrawal, reduced motivation, irritability, and that unsettling feeling of going through the motions. They also unpack how anxiety, people pleasing, and control can fuel burnout without us even realizing it.Throughout the episode, they reflect on subtle signs like mental fog, lack of fulfillment, and emotional numbness, along with how burnout can show up in relationships, work, and self perception.They also talk through practical ways to manage it, including setting boundaries, letting go of control, delegating tasks, and creating space to rest without guilt. Plus, the soda analogy you didn’t know you needed to finally understand what burnout actually feels like.If you have ever felt like you are doing everything right but still feel off, this episode is for you. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailKristen is joined by returning guest Alexis for a long overdue deep dive into Kristin Hannah and her unforgettable books. After teasing this conversation in a previous episode, they finally sit down to talk all things Kristin Hannah, from how they first discovered her to the books that completely wrecked them in the best way.They share their personal reading journeys, including early favorites like Firefly Lane and newer hits like The Four Winds, plus the emotional impact of stories like Night Road and The Great Alone. There is also an honest conversation about the hype around The Nightingale and why not every popular book hits the same for everyone.Along the way, Kristen and Alexis explore why Kristin Hannah’s books resonate so deeply, how different readers connect to different stories, and how timing in life can shape what becomes your favorite book. They even break down their personal rankings, hot takes included.While this episode leans into book lover territory, there are plenty of relatable takeaways for anyone even remotely interested in reading. From getting out of a reading slump to finding stories that actually make you feel something, this conversation is full of honest reflections and real talk.If you love emotional, character driven stories or are just looking for your next great read, this one is for you. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen is joined by Alexis for a relaxed conversation about books, reading goals, and rediscovering the joy of reading. One year after setting their reading goals, they look back at the books they loved, the ones that surprised them, and a few that did not live up to the hype.Kristen and Alexis also talk about the pressure that can come with tracking reading goals and why sometimes the best approach is simply reading for enjoyment. They share favorite books from the past year, discuss popular book tracking apps like Goodreads and StoryGraph, and talk honestly about reading slumps.As they look ahead to 2026, they share new reading goals, books they are excited about, and why reading for joy matters more than hitting a certain number of books. If you love book recommendations, reading challenges, and honest conversations about reading habits, this episode is for you.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this vulnerable and thought provoking conversation, Kristen and returning guest Emily explore what it means to treat competence like a costume. They unpack the pressure to be the good girl, the teacher’s pet, the high achiever, the boss who has it all together. From childhood validation to adult imposter syndrome, they reflect on how performing confidence and capability can slowly disconnect someone from their authentic self.They discuss identity fatigue, burnout, fear of failure, social media personas, and the hidden exhaustion that comes from always being “on.” Kristen shares a powerful story about being told she gave an Oscar winning performance at work and why it felt strangely affirming. Together they examine how high functioning can mask stress, how perfectionism limits growth, and why learning to fail may be the most freeing goal of all.If you have ever felt drained from being the strong one, the responsible one, or the happy one, this episode will help you feel seen and understood. It is a deep dive into authenticity, boundaries, self awareness, and what it takes to finally take off the mask. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Talk with Kristen (with an e), Kristen and returning guest Alexis explore boundaries in parenting and how they shift across different seasons of motherhood. While boundaries are often discussed in professional settings, this conversation focuses on parenting boundaries, mom guilt, and the mental load that so many mothers carry.Alexis shares what boundaries look like in her large homeschooling family, from structured quiet evenings to protecting personal reset time during the day. Kristen reflects on raising a teenager and navigating independence, shared family time, and the fear of not doing enough.Together, they unpack motherhood burnout, extracurricular overload, financial boundaries, and the tension between putting children first and maintaining your own identity. They also discuss how social media pressure can amplify feelings of guilt and comparison.This episode is a reminder that setting boundaries with your kids does not make you selfish. It helps you show up as a healthier, more present parent. Every family looks different, and finding what works in your home matters more than meeting someone else’s standard. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn the first episode of Season Three, Kristen reflects on what she has learned from the first two seasons of the podcast and how those lessons are shaping the next chapter. Through personal stories and honest reflection, she revisits recurring themes like burnout, boundaries, self acceptance, friendship, resilience, and learning to let go of comparison.Kristen shares how the mantra peace over chaos became a guiding principle at work and in life, helping her step back from urgency culture, manage expectations, and make more intentional decisions. She also opens up about her evolving relationship with her body, weight, aging, and appearance, including choosing to dress for the body she has, embracing authenticity, and letting go of long held judgments about herself.The episode touches on meaningful adult friendships, vulnerability, social media boundaries, and what it looks like to build deeper connections later in life. Kristen reflects on resilience from a new perspective, including stepping into a role she did not expect and learning to trust herself through change.This episode sets the tone for Season Three as a space for growth, self reflection, confidence, and choosing what truly supports well being. It is an invitation for listeners to take stock of where they have been, release what no longer serves them, and move forward with clarity and intention. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen is joined by returning guest Emily for a thoughtful conversation about redefining the new year without resolutions. Instead of chasing surface level goals, they explore intentional living through personal ins and outs for 2026.Emily shares her creative approach to goal setting with a year long bingo board, along with mindset shifts around overconsumption, thrifting, cooking at home, supporting others, and prioritizing meaningful experiences. Kristen reflects on body acceptance, exercising for mental and physical well being, reducing doom scrolling, and being more intentional with screen time.Together, they unpack what they are choosing to leave behind in 2025 as they move into 2026, including negative self talk, people pleasing, drinking to cope with stress, working out for weight loss alone, and worrying about other people’s opinions. The conversation also dives into choosing peace over chaos, setting healthier boundaries at work and in life, and making day to day choices that support long term well being. This episode invites listeners to consider what truly adds value to their lives, what might be quietly draining their energy, and how small mindset shifts can create a more grounded and intentional year ahead.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailAs Season 2 comes to a close, Kristen opens up about unmet expectations, creative pauses, and the emotional weight of feeling like she fell short. She reflects on why fewer episodes did not mean less impact, shares stories of connection with listeners, and offers encouragement to anyone leaving a year that did not turn out as planned. This episode is a reminder that growth is not always about pushing harder and that adjusting goals can be an act of courage. Kristen also shares what is ahead for the podcast as she prepares for Season 3 in 2026. Want to watch this episode? Go to YouTube to see it live now!  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen welcomes back Alexis to talk all things planning, goal setting, and making the most of everyday life. They dive into strategies for achieving personal and professional goals, the importance of meal planning, and finding balance amidst chaos. Alexis shares her unique approach to goal setting, from reflecting on the past year to using a planner as a tool for focus and perspective. They also discuss how unexpected life events, like job changes, can lead to surprising opportunities and growth. Kristen and Alexis offer practical advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by planning, including how to start small, stay flexible, and prioritize what truly matters. And of course, no episode would be complete without Kristen sharing her heartfelt admiration for Mark Daigneault and her excited persistence to get him as a guest on the podcast someday.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt solo episode, Kristen opens up about a recent moment of disappointment in her family and reflects on what resilience really looks like in real life. Using stories from her son’s basketball tryouts and lessons from her own career journey, she explores how to face rejection, process the emotions that come with it, and move forward with confidence and compassion. Kristen shares personal reflections and past writing about promotion setbacks, growth, and perseverance, reminding listeners that resilience is not perfection but the courage to keep showing up even when the answer is no.This episode is an honest, hopeful reminder that setbacks do not define us and that we can grow stronger by choosing to keep going. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this warm and reflective episode, Kristen reunites with returning guest Caity for a conversation that feels like your favorite fall sweater — comforting, familiar, and full of meaning. Together they explore seasons in every sense: the shift into fall, the natural cycles of friendship, and the personal growth that comes from learning to embrace change.They share stories about wardrobe swaps and capsule closets, reminisce about Florida’s “seasonless” life, and laugh about scrapbook retreats and “nowhere to wear this” parties. But as always, their conversation deepens into gratitude and reflection with what it means to grow where you are, to appreciate the stage you’re in, and to measure your moments by love and connection rather than milestones.Inspired by the song “Seasons of Love,” Kristen and Caity invite listeners to reflect on their own seasons of change and to find beauty in the growth happening right where they are. ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this thoughtful and funny conversation, Kristen welcomes back Caity for a real-talk episode about boredom, overstimulation, and what it actually means to “touch grass.” Together they explore how our phones have quietly become both comfort and curse - feeding anxiety, stealing stillness, and numbing curiosity.The two swap childhood road trip stories, talk about the lost art of just staring out a window, and unpack how silence once sparked imagination and creativity. Caity shares how, during a major life transition, boredom unexpectedly led her to trail running, solitude, and self-discovery.From echo chambers and endless scrolling to rediscovering our senses outdoors, this episode asks a simple but powerful question: what happens when we finally stop refreshing our feeds and start refreshing our minds? ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this candid conversation, Kristen and guest Caity reflect on their social media journeys  -- from the nostalgic days of MySpace and Xanga to the algorithm-driven feeds of today. They explore the shift from authentic connection to curated personas, and Caity opens up about her recent decision to permanently delete Instagram after more than a decade. Together, they unpack the pull of doom-scrolling, the hidden costs of “free” platforms, and how stepping away from constant online noise can open space for creativity, connection, and self-reflection. This episode offers listeners both a heartfelt walk down memory lane and a thought-provoking look at the role social media plays in our lives today.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen shares how her first job at an ice cream shop became the foundation for the way she leads today. Earning just $5.25 an hour, she learned lessons far more valuable than her paycheck about accountability, empowering others, building trust, and the importance of consistency. Alongside the leadership insights are moments of nostalgia, a few ice cream secrets (like why vanilla is the ultimate test flavor), and stories that prove wisdom often shows up in unexpected places. Kristen shows how the simplest jobs can teach us the most lasting truths about work, people, and leading with integrity.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn the season two premiere, Kristen warmly welcomes listeners back after an extended summer break, sharing a personal update and reflections from her “pause and playback” time. She recounts a summer filled with relaxation, growth, and memorable experiences, including a transformative book club trip, family vacations, concert adventures, pool days, and an impressive reading list. Kristen reflects on the lessons she learned about authenticity, people-pleasing, and intentional social media use. Looking ahead, she introduces the focus for season two: personal growth, leadership, burnout, and following one’s passions. With plans for topic-focused months and engaging guest stories, Kristen sets the stage for an inspiring and thoughtful season, encouraging both new and returning listeners to join her journey.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn the final episode of Season One, Kristen reflects on the journey so far and invites listeners into a summer of rest, joy, and gentle reset. With her signature warmth and honesty, she shares what “pause and playback” means to her through book club retreats, unplugging from social media, revisiting childhood favorites (hello, Klondike bars), and soaking in the little things that spark joy.She also revisits a few quotes from her 1999 journal that still resonate today including one that captures the heart of this podcast: “I may never be who they want me to be, but at least I’m who I want to be.”Part thank-you note, part summer sendoff, this episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and make space for what truly matters. Season Two returns in August.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this cozy, solo second-to-last episode of Season One, Kristen reflects on the journey so far using the classic journalist’s lens: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How. From humble beginnings and a spark of curiosity to building confidence, community, and connection -- this episode is part memoir, part love letter to the listeners who’ve come along for the ride. Kristen shares behind-the-scenes reflections on launching the podcast, lessons learned, favorite moments, listener impact, and what’s coming next in Season Two. Think of this one as your guided pause before the next big leap.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this cozy and candid episode, one of the final three of Season 1, Kristen shares her current top ten obsessions just like you’d swap recommendations with a close friend over coffee or on a sunny afternoon by the pool. From TV shows and beauty faves to NBA playoff talk and bookish adventures, it’s a peek into the little things bringing joy, comfort, and connection lately.She opens up about the not-so-guilty pleasures (hello, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives), her go-to YouTube travel fix (Downie Live), and her undying love for pool days and cottage cheese (don’t knock it ‘til you try it). She also dives into why author events have her heart, what it means to wear whatever the heck you want, and why the OKC Thunder aren’t just her favorite team but a masterclass in leadership worth learning from.Whether you're out on a walk, folding laundry, or soaking in some golden hour sunshine, this episode is an invitation to slow down, smile, and maybe find a new favorite thing of your own.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt conclusion to the virtual book club series, Kristen is joined by Kelly and Alexis for one final conversation around Perfect Is Boring (and Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston. Together, they unpack the book’s poignant epilogue and dive into the publisher’s reflection questions, exploring themes like vulnerability, community, and radical self-acceptance.From the power of saying "me too" to building your own table and inviting others in, the episode celebrates the beauty of imperfection and what it means to live authentically. With thoughtful commentary and a few standout quotes (including one that feels like it was written just for Kristen), this wrap-up feels more like a cozy coffee chat with friends than a formal book review.Whether you read the book or not, listeners will walk away encouraged to embrace their quirks, champion others, and find joy in being their real, unfiltered selves.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this empowering episode, Kristen welcomes Tiffany for a powerful conversation about financial health, abundance, and breaking free from the old narratives around women and money. Tiffany shares how society has conditioned women to play it safe with their finances while encouraging men to take risks, and why it's time to change that. They dive deep into the good girl mentality around spending, the guilt women often feel investing in themselves, and how to step boldly into financial empowerment without shame or apology. Tiffany reminds listeners that they are the blueprint for abundance, legacy builders, and cycle breakers who are worthy of every dollar, dream, and desire. This episode is an inspiring call to stop shrinking, start owning their power, and redefine what wealth looks like on their own terms.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this installment of the Perfect Is Boring (And Tastes Like Kale) virtual book club, Kristen is again joined by Kelly and Alexis to unpack the last few lies from Jess Johnston’s book. From feeling like a junior varsity adult to the fear of messing up publicly, they get real about showing up, taking up space, and challenging the pressure to have it all together. Even if you didn’t read the book, this one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Am I really the adult here?”   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this vibrant and empowering conversation, Kristen welcomes her friend Emily to talk about what it means to take up space: sparkly shoes, glittery eyeshadow, bold choices, and all. They explore how society often teaches girls and women to shrink themselves, and how they've intentionally broken free from those expectations to live more authentically. Kristen and Emily share stories about embracing their individuality, balancing independence with openness, and encouraging others to show up fully in all corners of life. From body glitter memories to fixing garbage disposals, this episode is a joyful reminder that life isn’t about hitting every perfect step; it's about having fun, being proud of your journey, and letting your light shine.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this second installment of the Talk with Kristen (with an e) virtual book club, Kristen welcomes back guests Kelly and Alexis to continue their heartfelt dive into Perfect Is Boring (And Tastes Like Kale) by Jess Johnston. Together, they unpack Part Two of the book, exploring Lies 6–9—like the belief that rejection will destroy us, that our job is to make everyone happy, and that asking for help means weakness.The trio reflects on how these lies impact real connection, sharing personal stories of moving, maturing, and learning to trade performance for belonging. With vulnerable and relatable insights about people-pleasing, social media traps, and redefining friendship, this episode invites listeners to reconsider what true connection really looks like—and to let go of the pressure to be perfect.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen welcomes her friend and sister-in-law, Kelly, for an honest conversation about the power of slowing down. After reaching a point of burnout at the end of 2024, Kelly shares how she began to mentally and emotionally reset by adjusting her routines, setting clear boundaries with work and family, and reconnecting with simple pleasures like coloring. Together, Kristen and Kelly explore the societal pressures that equate busyness with fulfillment, the sensitivity required when asking personal questions about life choices, and the true meaning of self-care. Listeners are encouraged to embrace small, manageable changes to create a more mindful and balanced life.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn week two of the virtual book club, Kristen is joined again by Kelly and Alexis to dive into the first five lies from Perfect is Boring (And Tastes Like Kale). Their conversation blends laughter, deep reflection, and candid truth-telling as they unpack relatable struggles with perfectionism, comparison, invisibility, and emotional exhaustion. The group reflects on how Jess Johnston's storytelling makes listeners feel seen—like they're talking with a friend who truly gets it. Together, they explore how women, especially those juggling work, parenting, and societal expectations, internalize unrealistic standards and carry invisible burdens. The episode touches on everything from the false sense of connection through social media to the power of real friendships, validating that no one is alone. This raw and honest discussion offers encouragement and a gentle nudge toward self-compassion.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen reconnects with Amber and Paige—two best friends who’ve been through just about everything together. Their friendship kicked off in an airport on the way to bootcamp back in 2011, and what followed was a deep, sister-like bond built on shared experiences and showing up for each other through all of life’s curveballs. From surviving military training and sharing a tiny apartment to navigating surprise pregnancies and raising sons born just two weeks apart, these two have stayed side by side through it all. Their kids are now carrying on the legacy, growing up as best friends themselves. This conversation is full of laughter, reflection, and real talk about what it takes to maintain meaningful, lasting friendships—even when life gets messy.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the very first episode of our Virtual Book Club! Kristen, Kelly, and Alexis sit down to dive into Perfect Is Boring and Tastes Like Kale by Jess Johnston — a heartfelt and hilarious look at embracing our imperfections and finding connection through authenticity. We share what drew us to this book, our early reactions, some standout quotes, and a few personal stories about perfectionism, insecurity, comparison, and wishing life was more like a musical (spoiler: we really do). If you've ever struggled with feeling "not enough" or just want permission to show up messy and real, this conversation is for you. Grab your copy, tune in, and let's kick this off together!   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailSometimes, the best friendships are the ones you never saw coming. In this episode, Kristen chats with her friend Emily about how a casual connection through a dance class turned into a meaningful friendship—despite a 16-year age gap. From running (and sometimes walking) 5Ks together to swapping life updates over coffee, their story is a reminder that friendship doesn’t have a rulebook. You can find your people at any stage of life, in the most unexpected places. Because when values, interests, and authenticity align, age becomes just a number. If you've ever felt unsure about where or how to make new friends as an adult, this cozy conversation is for you.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailMaintaining friendships across time zones and life changes can be challenging, but some connections withstand the distance. In this episode, Kristen sits down with Kelly to explore the realities of long-distance friendships—how they begin, evolve, and sometimes fade. Kelly shares personal stories of childhood friends moving across the world, college friendships that didn’t last, and the deep bonds that have endured despite the miles. Together, they discuss what makes a long-distance friendship thrive, the natural seasons of relationships, and the importance of shared experiences in strengthening connections. Whether friendships last for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, this conversation sheds light on the ways people stay connected, no matter where life takes them.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailMaking friends as an adult isn’t always easy—it can feel a lot like dating, filled with awkward introductions, unspoken expectations, and the occasional heartbreak. In this episode, Kristen sits down with Dana to talk about the complexities of adult friendships, from navigating mom groups to figuring out where true connections lie. They reflect on how their own friendship began, the challenges of finding belonging versus just fitting in, and the lessons learned from friendship breakups and personal growth. With insights from Brene Brown, Mel Robbins, and How to Win Friends and Influence People, this conversation dives deep into how friendships evolve, the role of self-awareness, and why approaching friendships with curiosity and openness makes all the difference.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this heartwarming and relatable episode, Kristen is joined by her friend and sister-in-law,Kelly, to dig into the nuanced world of adult friendships. Together, they unpack everything from the unrealistic expectations we sometimes carry—like searching for a friend who’s basically a clone of ourselves—to the vulnerability it takes to actually make and maintain connections as grown-ups.They share honest stories about moving to new places, navigating friend groups where you feel like the outsider, and how building community often requires a level of intentionality that doesn’t always come naturally. Kristen opens up about her fear of rejection (yes, even now), while Kelly talks about pushing past her comfort zone to invite people over and create the kind of community she craved for her family.From workplace friendships to church pew hellos turned dinner invites, this episode reminds us that making friends as adults is hard—but worth it. Whether you’re longing for deeper connections or just need encouragement to send that "Want to grab coffee?" text, this one's for you.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this special bonus episode, Kristen introduces the podcast’s upcoming Friendship Series, exploring why making and maintaining friendships as an adult often feels more challenging than in childhood or college. She reflects on the evolving nature of friendships, the impact of social media, and common struggles in building meaningful connections. She also shares a sneak peek at the series’ topics—ranging from long-distance and age-gap friendships to navigating friendships at work—while announcing the podcast’s first-ever virtual book club launching in May, featuring Perfect Is Boring (And It Tastes Like Kale).  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode, Kristen and Alexis explore the challenges and joys of adult friendships. Reflecting on their own experiences, they discuss the pressures of maintaining large social circles and what it truly means to find and nurture meaningful connections. They normalize the idea that having just one or two close friends is more than enough, emphasizing that quality matters more than quantity. This episode kicks off a friendship series that is both authentic and validating.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailThis episode takes a nostalgic dive into the golden age of beauty blogging with special guest Arielle. Together, she and Kristen reflect on their experiences in the beauty blogging world of the early 2010s, a time when written blogs and YouTube tutorials dominated the scene. They discuss how they got started, the lessons they learned, and how the industry has evolved. From the early days of Pinterest to Sunday Twitter chats and a much kinder internet, this conversation is a fun throwback for anyone who loves makeup, blogging, social media nostalgia, and the evolution of online beauty communities.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailKristen and Alexis dive into their experiences growing up in the height of purity culture—also known as the True Love Waits movement. From youth group pledges to fear-based messaging that framed sex as the ultimate sin, they explore how these teachings shaped their views on relationships, intimacy, and self-worth. They also reflect on the lingering effects of shame in marriage and discuss what healing and reclaiming a healthier perspective on sex looks like. Whether you grew up in a conservative church or just want to understand the impact of purity culture, this conversation is real, raw, and full of personal insights.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to completely transform daily habits and mindset? In this episode, Tayler shares how a spontaneous decision to start the 75 Hard challenge in 2023 led to a profound lifestyle shift. She opens up about her past struggles with drinking and smoking, the routines she once believed were unbreakable, and the discipline it took to make lasting changes. From saving thousands of dollars to stepping into new career opportunities with confidence, Tayler’s story highlights the power of commitment and self-discovery. This conversation explores the challenges, victories, and surprising rewards of choosing a healthier path.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailMany women find themselves stuck in survival mode, longing to thrive but unsure how to get there. In this episode, Kristen welcomes Tiffany Patterson, a certified natural health professional, transformational life coach, and angelic reiki master teacher, to discuss the path to true alignment. Tiffany shares her expertise in helping women break free from exhaustion, societal expectations, and self-sabotage to step into a more embodied and fulfilling life. They explore the impact of chronic stress, the ways women unknowingly keep themselves in fight-or-flight mode, and the small but powerful shifts that lead to lasting change. Tiffany also unpacks the role society plays in keeping women overwhelmed—and what can be done to break the cycle. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to reclaim their energy, confidence, and sense of self. Reach out to Tiffany via email: [email protected] or her website https://sacredwellnessjourney.us/Get her *free* ebooks: Thrive From Within and Unapologetically Abundant   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this candid and thought-provoking episode, Kristen and Alexis dive into the complexities of beauty, aging, and self-acceptance. They discuss everything from hair transformations (including some dramatic ones), societal expectations around women’s appearances, and the internal debate over whether to embrace gray hair or keep up with the upkeep. The conversation also explores the pressure to alter one’s body through plastic surgery, the influence of beauty standards, and the importance of finding confidence in one’s natural self. Through humor, honesty, and personal stories, Kristen and Alexis challenge listeners to rethink what it truly means to feel beautiful—on their own terms.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailWho are you at your core? Beyond the labels and roles, what truly makes you you? In this episode, Kristen takes a reflective journey into the experiences and relationships that have influenced her identity, using a playful and relatable lens: her eclectic taste in music. From oldies with her mom to emo and indie rock via past relationships, Kristen unpacks how much of her personality stems from others’ influences versus her own choices.This introspective episode dives into the delicate balance between adapting to connect with others and staying true to yourself. Are we just mosaics of the people we meet and the experiences we have? Kristen invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, uncover the people and moments that shaped them, and celebrate the unique patchwork of influences that make us who we are.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen chats with Alexis about the power of books as an escape from the chaos of life. From ditching doom scrolling to finding solace in historical fiction, romance, fantasy, and even post-apocalyptic zombie novels, they share their reading journeys and favorite reads. They dive into the art of DNF (Did Not Finish) and why it’s okay to walk away from a book that doesn’t spark joy. Along the way, they recommend must-reads like Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, The Love of My Afterlife, The Seven Year Slip, and The 100 Years of Lenni and Margot, perfect for anyone looking to laugh, cry, or simply get lost in a good story. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just getting back into books, this episode will leave you inspired to pick up your next great read.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kristen dives into the topic of body image, reflecting on how societal standards, media influences, and personal perceptions have shaped her relationship with her body over the years. From the skinny ideals of the late '90s and early 2000s to the complexities of adulthood and the body positivity movement, she shares candid journal entries, magazine clippings, and heartfelt anecdotes. Kristen explores the disconnect between how we see ourselves and how others may see us, as well as the struggle to balance self-acceptance with the desire for change. This deeply personal episode is an invitation to reflect on your own journey with body image and consider how our past continues to shape our present. Notes: I mention in the episode that Google wasn't around in 1996. Which is true as it wasn't available for the public, but the first version was released on the Stanford website in August, 1996. (according to Google and Wikipedia)Trigger warning: This episode mentions body dysmorphia and eating disorders.   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailKristen and Laura tackle the challenge of setting and maintaining boundaries in both personal and professional spaces. They explore how boundaries can alleviate workplace burnout, improve relationships, and create a healthier balance in life. Laura shares her journey of discovering mindfulness tools like 10-Minute Mindfulness to aid her boundary-setting process, while Kristen emphasizes the importance of respecting others’ boundaries, especially during time off.The episode dives into practical tips, such as managing email with structured checks, staying present, and resisting the urge to overextend. Tune in for relatable stories, actionable advice, and a reminder that boundaries are essential for a more mindful and intentional life.  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this first Dear Diary segment, Kristen shares journal entries from her 16-year-old self, revisiting a short-lived high school crush full of notes, Skittles, and a sweet cappuccino moment. Through the nostalgia and drama, she reflects on how teenage insecurities—like the fear of rejection and caring too much about others’ opinions—still resonate today.Join Kristen for laughs, insights, and a trip down memory lane as she explores how the past shapes us. Plus, share your own stories: What insecurities have stayed with you, and which ones have you overcome? Let’s talk about it!  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailBurnout isn’t just workplace exhaustion—it’s a full-body and mind experience. In this episode, Kristen and Laura define burnout, explore its impact on personal and professional lives, and discuss how to recognize the signs before it's too late. Laura shares her personal journey with burnout, how therapy illuminated the stressors affecting her marriage and work-life balance, and the transformative concept of the "stress bucket."Kristen and Laura dive into the physical and emotional toll of stress, the importance of identifying triggers, and strategies to release pressure before it overflows. From emotional responses like tears to physical signs like a stress rash, they uncover how the body communicates the need for self-care. Tune in to gain insights on managing stress, finding balance, and navigating burnout with intention and awareness.Article mentioned in episode: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracylawrence/2024/12/10/running-on-empty-how-corporate-cultures-fuel-burnout/  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailIn this introductory episode, Kristen (with an E) shares the heart behind her podcast, blending personal quirks, a love for nostalgia, and her journey of self-discovery. Learn what inspired her to create a space for real conversations about friendships, people-pleasing, burnout, and more. Whether you’re here to laugh, think, or connect, this podcast is your new place for relatable stories and thought-provoking chats—because it’s cheaper than therapy. Her favorite nostalgic Instagram content creators: retr0avocado, jennaabarclay, overthemoonfaraway; shinypretties  ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Talk with Kristen (with an E): because it’s cheaper than therapy. This podcast is your new space for real conversations about life, friendships, burnout, people-pleasing, and everything in between. Join Kristen as she blends humor, self-discovery, and nostalgia to create a comforting, relatable, and thought-provoking listening experience. Whether you're here to laugh, reflect, or connect, this is the place for you. Let’s talk it out!   ✨ Connect with Kristen: Instagram | Email