What happens when professional connections turn into real, life-giving friendships?In this special episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, co-hosts Kim and Rachel welcome their very first guest, their dear friend Melissa Crook, founder of the Embracing Layers Network and creator of the FEEL Framework (Finding Empowerment + Embracing Layers).This is a heartfelt, honest conversation about women’s friendships in midlife, the stories we’ve been told about competition, and the freedom that comes when we choose curiosity, kindness, and connection instead. If you’ve ever wondered how to make friends as an adult, how to navigate shifting seasons (empty nest, moves, career changes), or how to build relationships that feel safe and true, you’re in the right place.In this episode, we talk about:* How Kim and Rachel met Melissa through podcasting, and how that friendship grew into real sisterhood* Why women have been pitted against each other, and how we can rewrite that narrative* The difference between gossip and processing something with a trusted friend* Setting boundaries with “same complaint, different day” relationships* How friendships change over time, and why not every shift has to be a fallout* What it looks like to be a woman who connects women without forcing it* Raising strong daughters, unlearning old scripts, and choosing compassion over comparison* Building community and empowerment through the Embracing Layers Network and the FEEL FrameworkMelissa also shares the heart behind her work, including her podcast, panels, book, workshops, and resources that help women live “self-full” and show up healthier in every part of life.If you’re craving deeper connection, healthier friendships, and a more grounded way to show up as a woman in this season, we hope this conversation feels like an exhale.Connect with Melissa (Embracing Layers Network):Website: https://www.embracinglayers.comPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/28BAIs6taDllDEV96hGtdL?si=16ec97b0c10147fbInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/embracinglayers/Let’s keep the conversation going: What does friendship look like for you in this season of life? Have your friendships shifted as you’ve grown? Drop a comment and tell us what you’re learning.

In today’s episode, Rachel and Kim dive into a real-life conversation many women are having right now: What does it take to set up a second home, without stress, overspending, or filling it with “what if” clutter?Kim shares her experience as a snowbird spending winters in Florida, including the challenges of moving between homes, packing for three months at a time, and realizing just how many “everyday essentials” you don’t think about until they’re missing (pizza cutter, anyone?).If you’re buying a winter home, summer home, or second property, this episode will help you think through what matters most—especially when you want your new space to feel calm, comfortable, and truly like home.In this episode, we talk about:~ Snowbird life: living in Florida part-time~ What to bring vs. what to buy for a second home~ Kitchen must-haves and daily lifestyle essentials~ How to stock a condo without wasting money~ Being intentional with purchases and avoiding clutter~ Creating a cozy space for family visits, even in a smaller home~ Why “home” is emotional, not just logisticalWhether you're dreaming of a second home or happily renting someone else's, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, choose wisely, and create a space that supports the life you want to live.Like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who’s planning a move, buying a second home, or living the snowbird lifestyle.Have a topic you want us to cover next? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!#SnowbirdLife #WholeWomanPodcast #HomeEssentials #IntentionalLiving

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, Kim and Rachel dive deep into manifesting in 2026—not through hustle, resolutions, or empty affirmations, but through the intentional practice of choosing a Word of the Year.Together, they unpack how a single guiding word can shape boundaries, clarify calling, restore joy, and help women stop trying to be all things to all people. Kim reflects on her past words—Joy, Grow, and now Called—sharing how unchecked growth led to burnout and how discernment, pruning, and purpose are essential for the year ahead. Rachel brings her grounding perspective on Gratitude as a lifelong foundation and introduces Transformed as her word for 2026, marking the end of old patterns that no longer serve her.This episode explores:How choosing a word can support goal setting, emotional wellness, and spiritual growthWhy availability is not a leadership trait—and how boundaries protect joyThe impact of technology, overcommitment, and constant accessibility on modern womenWhy it’s never too late to reset your direction (your year doesn’t start on January 1)How a personal word can become a daily compass for focus, peace, and purposeIf you’re craving clarity, freedom from overwhelm, and a gentler way to manifest the year ahead, this conversation will help you slow down, reflect, and choose intention over pressure.

Are you exhausted by New Year’s resolutions that never seem to stick? You’re not alone.In this episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, hosts Kim Mosiman and Rachel Lavin have an honest, funny, and freeing conversation about why they’ve stopped making New Year’s resolutions—and what they’re choosing instead.From dieting culture and fitness pressure to smoking, weight loss, productivity, and “starting Monday,” Kim and Rachel unpack why resolutions often set women up for guilt, shame, and failure rather than growth and peace. Drawing on decades of experience as a nutritionist, personal trainer, gym owner, and organizational expert, they explore how intentions, goals, reflection, and self-awareness create lasting change—especially in midlife.This episode is for women who are ready to:~ Break free from punitive resolutions~ Stop repeating the same January cycle year after year~ Honor seasons of life, health changes, and real-world interruptions~ Choose peace, consistency, and purpose over perfection~ Enter 2026 with clarity, calm, and self-compassionInstead of asking “What do I need to quit?” Kim and Rachel invite you to ask:“What do I want to add to my life?”Topics include:~ Why resolutions often fail~ Diet culture, fitness guilt, and unrealistic expectations~ The power of reflection over restriction~ Goals vs. intentions vs. resolutions~ Protecting peace in midlife~ Letting go of numbers, shame, and comparison~ How to re-engage after life disruptions~ Creating a healthier relationship with changeIf you’re ready for a lighter, wiser, more sustainable approach to growth in the new year, this conversation is for you.Subscribe to The Whole Woman Podcast for weekly conversations about mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness for women in every season of life.

In this important season finale episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, Kim and Rachel issue a strong PSA, as they pull back the curtain on modern scams- how they work, why good people fall for them, and what you can do to protect yourself and the people you love.After someone close to Rachel was targeted by a devastating Amazon gift card scam, the conversation expands into the evolving world of fraud: fake emails from banks and credit card companies, church and pastor impersonation scams, romance scams, “grandparent” phone scams, fake law firms, IRS threats, and computer virus schemes. These scams prey on urgency, fear, trust, and generosity—especially during the holidays.You’ll learn:~ The most common red flags scammers use (urgency, fear, pressure, secrecy)~ Why gift cards, wire transfers, crypto, and Venmo are major warning signs~ What legitimate banks, credit card companies, and government agencies will never do~ How to verify messages safely without clicking links or calling fake numbers~ Practical steps to protect yourself, your parents, and older loved ones~ Why slowing down, even for a few minutes, can save thousands of dollarsThis episode is especially important for women, caregivers, older adults, and anyone who wants to stay informed in an increasingly digital and AI-driven world.Listen now and share this episode—it might protect someone you love.

In this warm, laughter-filled holiday episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, Kim and Rachel reflect on the beauty, pressure, nostalgia, and evolving traditions of Christmas. From childhood memories of over-the-top family celebrations to quieter seasons, blended families, and creating new rhythms, they explore what it really means to find joy during the holidays.

They talk Christmas traditions old and new, hosting without stress, mocktails vs. cocktails, decorating (or not), food memories, and the tender emotions that surface when expectations don’t match reality. Along the way, they offer gentle encouragement for listeners who may be navigating loneliness, grief, changing family dynamics, or a quieter-than-expected Christmas.

This episode is an invitation to release perfection, honor what’s been, and intentionally create meaning—whether that looks like a full house, a friends-only gathering, or a peaceful holiday for two. Because joy doesn’t require doing Christmas “right”—it simply asks us to be present.

Breakthroughs, boundaries, friendships in midlife, emotional evolution, and choosing peace- this episode of The Whole Woman Podcast goes deep.Join hosts Rachel Lavin and Kim Mosiman as they unpack what it means to grow, change, and experience major breakthroughs in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. From friendship dynamics to emotional resilience, from setting healthy expectations to embracing quiet morning rituals, this honest conversation offers practical wisdom for women who are ready to step into a healthier, more empowered version of themselves.Inside this episode, we explore:~ Navigating friendship shifts and unequal emotional labor~ Breakthroughs vs. boundaries (and why “breakthrough” feels better)~ The power of choosing peace over drama~ Letting go of old patterns that can’t come with you into the next year~ How midlife relationships evolve — and why that’s okay~ Being responsible for your own energy and reactions~ Building daily rituals that protect your joy~ Learning to stop taking things personally~ Becoming the woman you want to be, not the version others expectWhether you’re craving clarity, healthier relationships, or simply a reminder that you’re not alone in your growth… this episode will meet you right where you are.Perfect for women seeking faith-rooted encouragement, emotional wellness, personal growth, and real conversations about midlife transformation.If you loved today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a friend who is navigating her own breakthrough season.#thewholewomanpodcast #womenover50 #midlifebreakthrough #emotionalhealth #friendshipdynamics #womenempoweringwomen

In this upbeat, soul-nourishing episode of The Whole Woman Podcast, Kim and Rachel dive headfirst into Sagittarius season, birthday traditions, emotional tendencies, astrology traits, and the hilarious quirks that make December babies unforgettable.From woo-woo crystals to cutting off toxic energy, from sentimental birthday memories to the reality of having birthdays swallowed by holiday chaos, the two explore the heart, humor, and honesty behind their shared fire-sign identity.You’ll hear:~ Why Sagittarius women feel deeply, love fiercely, and learn obsessively~ How emotional growth, curiosity, and lifelong learning shape this fiery sign~ Birthday traditions, tender memories, relationship compatibility, and hilarious math mishaps~ Why it’s okay to try new things—and why Sagittarius energy hates being boxed in~ The emotional tug-of-war between sensitivity, boundaries, and people-pleasing~ The beauty and challenge of December birthdays (and why NO Sagittarius wants a combined Christmas gift!)~ Favorite birthday cakes, celebrations, milestones, and traditions that actually matterIf you love astrology, birthday stories, personal growth, or belly-laugh conversations, this episode is a warm, witty celebration of Sagittarius spirit, women’s friendships, and embracing every season of life.