Drinks with the Girls
Drinks With the Girls đ¸â | Real Talk for Women Over 40 Welcome to Drinks With the Girls, the ultimate podcast for women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s ready to live life unapologetically. đď¸ Hosted by empowerment coach Karen Shatafian and literacy consultant/special needs mama Lisa Corricello-McDowell, weâre two longtime friends sharing real conversations about everything that matters to women in midlife. From navigating loss and grief, surviving empty nest syndrome, and redefining relationships to tackling menopause, self-reinvention, and setting rock-solid boundaries â no topic is off-limits. We laugh, cry, reminisce, and celebrate the messy, magical journey of becoming our truest selves. If youâre craving honest midlife conversations, heartwarming nostalgia, empowering advice, and a reminder that youâre not alone â pull up a chair (and a cocktail or coffee) and join us. Cheers to midlife reinvention, women empowerment, mental health, and the beauty of female friendship. New episodes drop weekly! Subscribe for your weekly dose of midlife wisdom, self-care tips, boundary-setting inspo, personal development, and the kind of girl talk you didnât know you needed. đ đ§ Topics we spill the tea on: ⢠Midlife women empowerment ⢠Empty nest life + parenting adult kids ⢠Self-care, mental health, and boundaries ⢠Grief, loss, and healing ⢠Career reinvention and personal growth after 40 ⢠Friendship, laughter, and living life on your terms Your next chapter starts here. â¨
Episodes

Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Join us as we reflect on the joys and challenges that pets bring into our lives. In this heartwarming episode, Karen and Lisa dive into the emotional triumphs of having beloved animals by their side through life's ups and downs. They share personal stories of resilience, change, and the unexpected bonds formed with their furry companions. Discover the science behind why pets are more than just animals; they're part of the family, providing love and support, especially to those navigating midlife complexities.
Whether it's the companionship of a loyal lab or the quirky company of chickens, pets bring immense joy and occasional stress. As Karen and Lisa explore these heartfelt moments, they also discuss the real costs and emotional toll that come with owning pets, offering a raw yet hopeful perspective on why it's all worth it in the end.
Tune in to "Drinks with the Girls" and raise a glass to the furry, feathery, and scaly friends who make life a little sweeter and remind us that we're never alone on this journey called life.Â
*****************************************
Show Notes:
Vino Disco
Chicken Episode
Bravecto Flea and Tick Seizure issue
Pet Insurance Carriers
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Welcome to "Drinks With The Girls," where Karen and Lisa delve into the overwhelming stress of modern motherhood and how society's evolving expectations have left many parents feeling burned out. Join them as they discuss the latest findings from the U.S. Surgeon General on parental stress, share personal stories of navigating the emotional load, and pour insights into building support networks.
In this episode, they celebrate reaching their podcast milestone, explore how parenting has shifted through generations, and offer practical advice to lighten your parenting load. From delegating tasks and setting boundaries to prioritizing self-care and finding your community, Karen and Lisa guide listeners through surviving and thriving in today's parenting landscape.
Grab your favorite drink and listen in for an honest, heartfelt conversation that reminds all parents they're not alone in this journey. Discover how to transform burnout into empowerment and find laughter amidst the chaos of raising children.
*****************************************
Show Notes:
Wild Wonder Probiotic Soda
Lisaâs guilt water bottle
Energy Fizz Sticks (Strawberry is sold out sadly)
NYT Article: "Today's Parents: Exhausted, Burned Out, and Perpetually Behind", by Claire Caine Miller
Therapy episodeHoliday Episode
Book: "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness"Â by Jonathan Haidt
Pathological Demand Avoidance
Self-Care Episode
Lisaâs New Membership: Empowered Parent Collective
Sign up for the waitlist for the membership here Sign up for the free FB community here
Â
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Welcome to a new episode of Drinks With The Girls, where Karen and Lisa, moms and solopreneurs, dive into the invigorating topic of lifelong learning. Discover how embracing new hobbies and making transformative changes can energize us in midlife. Fear of failure or looking silly often holds many back, but learning is a powerful tool for staying sharp and excited about life.
Join us for an engaging dialogue about overcoming perfectionism, the joy of being a beginner, and practical tips to kickstart your journey into something novel and fun. With a blend of personal stories and scientific insights, we explore the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones to keep our brains active and young.
Tune in as we share vibrant conversations around connection, change, and the unshakeable support found in female friendship. Let this episode be your inspirational guide to embracing change, challenging your identity, and boldly rewriting the narrative of your life. Let's learn and grow together!
*****************************************
Show Notes:
Neurology Episode
Karen's Midlife Reclamation Guide
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*****************************************
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Welcome to Drinks with the Girls, where we dive into real conversations about the unique challenges and joys of women over 40. In this episode, Karen and Lisa explore the topic of decluttering, sharing their personal stories and insights on how letting go of physical clutter can lead to emotional freedom. From the sentimental value of cherished items to the overwhelming task of going through inherited items, they discuss the deep emotional ties we have with our belongings. Join Karen and Lisa as they tackle the steps to declutter both your space and your mind, redefining midlife with practical tips and heartfelt honesty. Whether you're holding onto the past or ready to make room for your future, this episode offers inspiration to embrace a clutter-free life filled with joy. Grab your favorite drink and let's dive in!
*****************************************
Show Notes:
Marie Kondo
Netflix Series
Mod Seattle - Organizer and Blogger
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
In this episode of Drinks with the Girls, co-hosts Karen and Lisa as they engage in a lively discussion on the significance of embracing therapy as a beneficial tool for women navigating midlife changes.
Join Karen and Lisa as they candidly share their journeys through therapy, highlighting how it helps in processing emotions, setting boundaries, and discovering self-worth. This episode addresses the stigma surrounding therapy, and how seeking help, whether from therapists or life coaches, can provide essential support through transitions such as career changes and empty nesting.
From discussing practical therapy options, including virtual solutions and specialized therapists, to offering tips on finding the right support, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone considering therapy. Listen in and feel encouraged to invest in yourself for a more fulfilled and connected life.
*********************************************
Show Notes
Pukka Green TeaMug Warmer PlateDela Calle Tepache Mexican Soda
Shrinking - Apple TV - Two Seasons
Holiday Episode
"Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression" by Brooke Shields
Resources to find a therapist:Psychology Today Therapist Referral Link
Therapy Den
Open Path Collective
AppsBetter Health
Talk Space
NPR Article on AI Therapy BotsÂ
International Coaching Federation
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.drinkswiththegirlspodcast.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
In this episode of "Drinks with the Girls," Karen and Lisa delve into the emotional roller coaster of navigating divorce, especially during the holiday season. They share personal stories and insights into how divorce can feel like a double-edged sword, bringing both heartache and the opportunity for a new beginning.
As moms and solopreneurs, Karen and Lisa provide a safe space to discuss the challenges women face in midlife, including changing relationships, menopause, and finding personal fulfillment. They emphasize the importance of seeking therapy and support from friends, highlighting that finding a supportive community can make all the difference during such a tumultuous life transition.
Listen in as they discuss the complexities of romantic relationships in midlife, providing tips on how to keep the spark alive in marriages that are worth saving and healing practices for those going through divorce. Whether you're contemplating a separation, navigating the turbulent periods post-divorce, or simply want to recharge your current relationship, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt support.
Â
*********************************************
Show Notes
QMixers
Karen's Divorce Coaching
Lisaâs Webinar: From Surviving to Thriving in 2025, December 30, 6pm PT/9pm ET, Register for webinar and recording above
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Welcome to another invigorating episode of Drinks With The Girls, where Karen and Lisa dive deep into redefining the concept of self-care as self-indulgence. In todayâs society, women have been conditioned to view self-care through the lens of obligation rather than indulgence. This episode unravels those misconceptions and explores how women over 40 can reclaim their joy through intentional self-indulgence.
Join Karen and Lisa as they share humorous personal stories, real-life experiences, and poignant insights into how self-indulgence, often confused with selfishness, is actually an essential practice for maintaining balance and joy in midlife. From taking restful naps to engaging in creative outlets and savoring moments of idleness, discover the liberating power of putting your own needs first.
In this episode, the duo also discusses the challenges women face in overcoming societal conditioning, the importance of community and friendship in self-care practices, and issuing a self-indulgence challenge to help listeners prioritize their desires and wellbeing.
Through laughter, candidness, and a supportive sisterhood, Drinks With The Girls isn't just a podcast; it's a movement encouraging women to embrace the art of self-indulgence unapologetically and vibrantly. Raise your glasses and tune in for an episode thatâs all about nurturing the mind, body, and soul during this incredible season of life.
*********************************************
Show Notes
Flying Embers Kombucha
Episode 18: Celebrating the Twins, Pt. 2: Breast Cancer
Cat vs Cucumber Videos
Episode 10: Chicks with Chicks
Episode 18: What Astrology Can Tell Us in Midlife
Â
Lisaâs Webinar: From Surviving to Thriving in 2025
December 30, 6pm PT/9pm ET
Register for webinar and recording above
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Welcome to an enlightening episode of Drinks with the Girls, where co-hosts Karen and Lisa, both mothers and solopreneurs, dive into the fascinating topic of neuroplasticity and brain health with their guest, Andrea Samadi, host of the acclaimed podcast, "Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning". In this engaging discussion, Andrea shares her journey into the world of neuroscience, highlighting the importance of continuously learning to enhance brain function, especially for women over 40.
Andrea brings a wealth of knowledge, discussing her experiences and the significant role our brain plays in midlife transformation. The conversation explores common issues like brain fog, the impact of stress and trauma, and provides actionable insights on how to improve your brain health by incorporating learning and stress management into daily life.
Lisa and Karen find deeper connections to personal growth as Andrea emphasizes the value of emotional well-being and self-compassion. Together, they explore how midlife doesn't have to be a crisis, but can be a powerful period of reclamation and growth. Tune in for an inspiring and hopeful conversation that empowers women to better understand and care for their brains as they navigate midlife changes.
*********************************************
Show Notes
Andreaâs Podcast: Neuroscience Meets SEL
HOP WTR
Brain Fact Friday on "Neurogenesis: What Hurts or Helps Your Brain Cells?" Episode 141
Dr. John Lief - "The Secret Language of Cells: What Biological Conversation Tells Us About the Brain-Body Connection, the Future of Medicine and Life Itself"
Brain Fact Friday on "Improving Mental Clarity by Understanding our Brain States, Brain Fog, and How It's Created" Episode 147
The Silva Method: Transforming Minds and Paving the Future with the Most Downloaded Series from 2023 Episode #322
Devices:
Whoop
Oura Ring
Fisher Wallace Stimulator
Brain Fact Friday âOvercoming Digital Addiction Using Neuroscienceâ Episode 157
"Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence" by Dr. Anna LembkeÂ
Brain Fact Friday on âTransforming the Mind Using Athletics and Neuroscienceâ Episode #277
Brain Fact Friday on âNeuroplasticity vs Neurogenesis: Whereâs the Controversy?â Episode #303
Brain Fact Friday âUsing Neuroscience to Change Our Perceptionâ Episode #244
Unveiling Exponential Intelligence with Masati: Transform Your Life by Shifting Frequencies
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com

Monday Dec 02, 2024
Monday Dec 02, 2024
Welcome to Drinks with the Girls, a podcast dedicated to empowering women over 40 to embrace their fullest potential. Join Karen and Lisa as they dive deep into the transformative power of goal setting, shedding light on how it can reignite purpose and build confidence in midlife.
In this episode, they candidly discuss the fears and challenges associated with setting goals, emphasizing the importance of setting 'stretchy' goals that inspire growth without overwhelming you. Drawing on scientific insights and personal anecdotes, they explore how writing down goals significantly increases the likelihood of achieving them.
While navigating lifeâs inevitable curveballs, discover how to break the cycle of self-doubt and boldly pursue your dreams. Whether itâs starting a new career, embracing entrepreneurship, or simply reconnecting with forgotten passions, this episode is your motivational guide to transforming aspirations into reality. Don't miss their invaluable advice for integrating accountability and celebration into your goal-setting journey.
Tune in to feel inspired and supported as you step into your next chapter with confidence and clarity!
*********************************************
Show Notes
"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol Deck"Atomic Habits" by James Clear
Karen's Goal Setting Group starting in JanuaryYour Next Best Step⨠- Permission to Live Your Best F*cking Life: A Group Program For Women Over 40
*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com
Â
Â

Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Join Karen and Lisa in this thought-provoking episode of Drinks with the Girls as they dive into the complexities of staying grateful during challenging moments in life. They discuss the difficulty of finding gratitude amidst struggles and share personal anecdotes on how they maintain a grateful mindset, even when life feels overwhelming.
In addition, the hosts candidly navigate the nuanced emotions tied to the holiday season, sharing strategies for maintaining joy and gratitude during these traditionally stressful times.
Perfect for women over 40 seeking authentic conversations and the camaraderie of shared experiences, this episode is a warm reminder that you're not alone in facing life's trials and triumphs. Pour yourself a drink and settle in for a heartfelt conversation that honors the ups, downs, and everything in between.
*********************************************
Show Notes80s episodes
The 80s, Part 1: More Than 16 Candles
The 80s, Part 2: Karen & Lisa's High School Reunion
âYou Are a Badass At Making Moneyâ Jen SinceroEnglish Rhyming SlangâSimple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joyâ âThe Simple Abundance Journal of GratitudeâBy Sarah Ban BreathnachThe 5 Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday CourageBy Mel Robbins IG: @melrobbinsâThe Bearâ "Fishes" S2 E6 on HuluJaime Lee Curtis IG: @jamieleecurtis*****************************************
Takeways - what do YOU think? Tell us in the comments here or email us at drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
Share your love for Drinks With the Girls with a friend and sign up for the PodSquad here. Youâll also get a free copy of our 30 Day Friendship Challenge!
IG: @drinkswiththegirlspod FB: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Pinterest: Drinks With the Girls Podcast Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.com
*********************************************Contact us!Email: drinkswiththegirlspodcast@gmail.comKaren Shatafian: Website www.karenshatafian.comLisa Corricello-McDowell: Website www.nextlevellifewithlisa.com
Â
Â

Drinks With the Girlsđ¸â
Karen Shatafian, an empowerment coach for women & empty nester joins forces with, Lisa Corricello-McDowell, literacy consultant, small business owner and special education mama. Together, they throw off the shackles and have real, raw conversations about the things that matter to women.This podcast centers the importance of true connection for women.
Our story starts before we were even born, through the deep and meaningful friendship of our moms. After growing up, losing touch and the passing of both of our mothers, itâs been serendipitous to reconnect through the miracle of social media and form our own special friendship as adults.
Iâm sure Renee and Patty are toasting to that right now. đĽ
We are moms and solopreneurs, stepping into our own, and diving into real conversations about the things that matter to women in midlife.
Weâre here to spill the tea on everything that affects women in their 40s and beyond: topics like loss and grief, changing relationships, launching kids, to reinventing ourselves in midlife, weâre here to tackle it all.
This podcast is a blend of our lived experiences, our friendship, the memory of our moms, plus a collection of real stories, honest conversations and engaging interviews that will make women over 40 feel seen and remind them that theyâre not alone on this journey called life.
Join us, two recently reconnected friends, who are living life on our terms.
So hit that subscribe button and buckle up for your weekly shot of drinks with the girls. A wild ride filled with laughter, tears and the kind of girl talk that leaves you feeling understood, inspired and a believer in the power of female friendship. Cheers!