Hotter Than Ever

Have you missed us? We’re thrilled that Hotter Than Ever is back after an unplanned summer hiatus. Not only did Erin sell her house and move, but she’s also in the midst of launching a new business while solo parenting—no big deal. We’re returning with a bang and more real talk than ever, as Erin gets radically honest about navigating massive life transitions in midlife: letting go of old definitions of “success,” reimagining what home means, and choosing growth, even when it’s messy, expensive, and terrifying.Then, Erin sits down with relationship coach, non-monogamy educator, and founder of Passport to Pleasure, Ally Iseman, to explore how to live and love on purpose. In this episode, Ally helps us unpack the rules of monogamy women grow up with, and asks: what if, instead of defaulting to the one-size-fits-all model, we designed our relationships on our own terms? Join Erin and Ally as they discuss:The journey from serial monogamy to expansive, intentional relationship designCompersion, jealousy, and why feeling joy for your partner’s joy can be a gamechangerThe differences between boundaries, rules, and agreements and why most of us were trained to get them muddledWhat happens when you actually talk about your needs (spoiler: intimacy gets real!)Exploring play parties, and what they reveal about consent, courage, and communityHow to find your people and build community, whether you’re single, partnered, monogamous, or in the delicious unknownChoosing adventure, whether it’s relocating to Europe, reframing “failure,” or falling in love with yourself at 40+OUR GUEST: Ally Iseman is a writer, TV host, NCSF-registered Kink Aware Professional relationship coach certified by The Consent Academy, and Founder of the educational platform Passport2Pleasure.com. She has been a speaker, community organizer, and non-monogamy educator and practitioner since 2016. A sought after podcast guest, Ally is also a featured subject matter expert for The New York Times, Cosmo, Well+Good, Romper, PureWow, and Yahoo! and others and a contributing writer for Sexual Health Magazine.Want more Ally? Find her and her work online at www.passport2pleasure.com and access her free tools at the links below:Relationship Ratio: www.passport2pleasure.com/ratioBig Why: www.passport2pleasure.com/bigwhy Follow her and Passport to Pleasure on:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@passport2pleasure Substack: https://allyiseman.substack.com Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/passport2pleasure" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

“Adolescence isn’t the end of your close relationship with your child, it’s the beginning of the best one you’ve ever had.”For so many parents, the teenage years loom like a storm cloud, fraught with anxiety, conflict, and the fear of losing connection. But what if everything you think you know about adolescence is dead wrong? What if it’s not a time to dread or simply get through, but an invitation to lifelong closeness and understanding with your kids?In this episode we sit down with Megan Saxelby, founder of Wild Feelings, veteran educator, and reformed “middle school monster” on a mission to radically reframe how we all understand and approach adolescence. Drawing from 17 years in middle school classrooms and her pioneering work in dignity-based conflict resolution, Megan shares how these pivotal years can unlock the best, most meaningful relationships we’ll ever have with our kids. We discuss:Why the “doom and gloom” narrative about teens does everyone (kids and adults alike!) a massive disservice, and what actually happens when we expect more from themThe powerful science behind adolescent brain development (hint: ages 11–17 are just as crucial as birth to five—and why we need to stop checking out right when it matters most)How dignity-based conflict resolution can transform peer relationships, empower young people to speak up, and bring empathy and accountability into every hard conversationThe number one thing teens want: to truly MATTER, to belong, and to have agency—along with simple, actionable shifts you can use to support them (no matter whose kid they are)Real talk about parenting through change: whether that’s divorce, growing up, or just learning how to be your child’s anchor, not their peerPractical ways to help teens (and yourself) meet the chaos of growing up, especially in a world that makes belonging and inclusion feel more urgent (and more fraught) than everOUR GUEST: Megan Saxelby is on a mission to reframe adolescence as a time of growth and connection—not chaos. A veteran educator and founder of Wild Feelings, she brings 17 years of classroom experience and cutting-edge research to her work with parents. Megan has collaborated with thought leaders like Rosalind Wiseman and Dr. Donna Hicks, and helped develop core curriculum for #halfthestory, a leading digital wellness nonprofit. Through Wild Feelings, she offers practical, evidence-based tools that help parents navigate the teen years with confidence and compassion.Want more Megan? Find her online at https://www.wildfeelings.co/ and check out her parenting course here: https://www.wildfeelings.co/parents/ Follow her on Instagram at @wildfeelings.co and on Substack https://wildfeelings.substack.com/ Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper. Find episode transcripts at <a...

Divorce is often treated as the end of the story, but what happens after the separation, when the real work of navigating co-parenting begins? In this episode, we sit down with Christina McGee, renowned divorce parenting expert and author of Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids. With over 20 years of experience supporting families through change, Christina reminds us that divorce doesn’t make you a bad parent, it simply means you’re a parent navigating a tough chapter. Join us for an honest and deeply practical convo of what it means to redefine “family” when the old scripts of custody battles, “my time,” and visitation as a commodity, no longer serve us or our children. Erin and Christina dig into:Why terms like “custody” and “visitation” turn parenting into a transaction and how shifting to “parenting time” can center kids and reduce emotional strainHow kids come to take on the emotional burden of divorce, especially when parents get stuck on splitting time "equally"Why 50/50 custody isn’t one-size-fits-all and how to build a parenting plan that actually works for your childWhat to do when your values clash with your co-parent’s discipline style and how to respond with empathy instead of reactivityConcrete strategies for holding space for big feelings, validating your kid’s emotions, protecting their right to love both parents, and avoiding the blame gameHow to lean into your co-parent’s strengths (even if they’re not your strengths) so your child feels supported from all sidesOUR GUEST: Christina McGhee is a divorce-parenting expert who believes divorce doesn’t make you a bad parent—just a parent going through a tough time. For over 20 years, she’s helped families and professionals keep the focus on what matters most: the kids. She’s the author of Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids, creator of the Co-Parenting Specialist™ Certification Program, and Education Director for the SPLIT Outreach Project, which produced the acclaimed Split documentary films. Learn more at divorceandchildren.com or coparentingspecialist.com.Want more Christina? Find her online at www.divorceandchildren.com and www.coparentingspecialist.com. Check out her Book: “Parenting Apart: How Separated and Divorced Parents Can Raise Happy and Secure Kids” on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MK4Mya Follow her on: IG: @divorceandchildren Facebook: @divorceandchildren Linkedin: @christinamcgheeWant more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper. Find episode transcripts at <a href="http://www.hotterthaneverpod.com"...

“You are not alone.”We hear this phrase often—but truly feeling less alone is something else entirely. Real connection begins when we share our stories, speak our truths, and let ourselves be seen. Few people champion this idea more powerfully than today’s guest, Dr. Jessica Zucker. Jessica is a psychologist specializing in reproductive and maternal mental health, and is the author of “I Had a Miscarriage: A Memoir, a Movement”. After experiencing her own miscarriage, Jessica launched the now-viral #IHadAMiscarriage campaign—a deeply personal yet universal invitation for women to speak their truths on their own terms. Her next book, “Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives”, is out on April 22nd.In this episode, Erin and Jessica explore the silence, shame, and societal expectations around grief, body image, motherhood and many other fundamental aspects of women’s lives—and how sharing our stories can help dismantle them. We discuss:Why storytelling is an act of liberation—and how speaking openly about miscarriage and other stigmatized experiences builds healing and connectionHow silence around common women’s experiences like infertility, illness, menopause, and abortion perpetuates shame and isolationThe problem with comparative suffering—and why women often minimize their pain by telling themselves “others have it worse”How girlhood teaches us to self-silence and be “good,” and the long-term impact this has on authenticity and self-expressionWhy it’s essential to talk to kids early and openly about bodies, sexuality, and emotionsThe cultural cost of silence—and how creating space for women to share their whole truths can shift the narratives we’ve been taught to hideOUR GUEST: Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She’s been featured on NPR, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her new book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women’s Lives, is out April 22nd!Want more Jessica? Find her online at https://www.drjessicazucker.com/ and check out her books “I Had A Miscarriage” and “Normalize It” at the links below:https://www.drjessicazucker.com/i-had-a-miscarriage https://www.drjessicazucker.com/normalize-it Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihadamiscarriage/ Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the <a href="https://hotterthanever.substack.com/subscribe" rel="noopener...

"Our intuition does speak to us—it screams at us, if we really let it listen."For many women, motherhood is the most rewarding, purpose-driven, and all-consuming role we take on. But what happens when the kids grow up and fly the nest? How do you figure out what’s next for you? Turns out, this chapter is bursting with potential for reinvention and self-discovery—but it often starts with the daunting question: "Who am I now?" Jodi Silverman, empty nest advocate and founder of the Moms Who Dare community, joins us to peel back the layers of identity beyond motherhood.In this episode, Erin and Jodi dive into the exciting (and sometimes terrifying) journey of rediscovering yourself after your kids gain independence. They explore how to approach this transition with intention, curiosity, and a daring spirit. You'll hear about:Why embracing new experiences is key to building a fulfilling life beyond motherhood.How stepping outside your comfort zone—even when things don’t go as planned—helps refine what truly lights you up.The surprising power of starting with what you *don’t* want to get clarity on your next steps.The magic that happens when Moms put their fulfillment first—because when you thrive, so do your kids.Why maintaining your own interests shows your children that self-care and ambition matter at every stage of life.How making decisions based on how you want to feel can be the best guide to your next adventure.The power of reframing loneliness as an opportunity—to create new routines, deepen connections, and embrace this new season with excitement.OUR GUEST: Jodi Silverman is a coach and advocate for women in the empty nest phase, helping them reclaim their identities and build fulfilling lives beyond motherhood. Through The Moms Who Dare® community and her DARE Method, she empowers midlife women to embrace change, rediscover their passions, and step into this new chapter with confidence.Want more Jodi? Find her online at https://jodisilverman.com/ and listen to her podcast Beyond the Empty Nest Follow her on social media:IG: https://www.instagram.com/jodi_silverman/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/jodibsilverman/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/inthenestwithjodisilverman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodisilverman/ Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the <a href="https://hotterthanever.substack.com/subscribe"...

“Is it hot or is it just me?”It’s a question many women find themselves asking as they navigate perimenopause and menopause—often without fully understanding what’s happening to their bodies. Despite affecting every woman, perimenopause remains widely misunderstood, rarely discussed, and frequently misdiagnosed. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome menopause advocate Carin Luna-Ostaseski, founder of Hot Or Just Me, a resource and community dedicated to helping women navigate this life stage with curated wellness solutions and tailored products that actually address perimenopause and menopause symptoms.Join Erin and Carin as they unpack the misunderstood and often-overlooked experience of perimenopause—and why, despite its challenges, this phase of life can be one of the most transformative and empowering. We discuss:Carin’s journey from creative director to whiskey entrepreneur to menopause advocate—proof that reinvention is possible at any ageUnpacking perimenopause, its symptoms and why its underdiagnosed by medical professionals (Visit menopause.org to access a list of certified practitioners specializing in perimenopause and menopause)How increasing your libido can positively impact your experience of perimenopauseDefining Andropause–or menopause for men– how to navigate conversations about hormonal changes with your partnerHow menopause can be a catalyst for career shifts, self-discovery, and owning your next chapterPractical solutions and must-try products to ease perimenopause and menopause symptomsThe power of community in normalizing conversations around aging, menopause, and beyondOUR GUEST: Carin Luna-Ostaseski is the founder of Hot or Just Me?, an online resource and shop dedicated to empowering women through perimenopause and menopause with trusted products, expert advice, and a supportive community. Her personal struggle with symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, and insomnia inspired her mission to find solutions. A serial entrepreneur, Carin made history as the first American woman and Hispanic person to create a Scotch whisky, SIA Scotch Whisky, which gained recognition through a record-breaking Kickstarter campaign. She also founded the Entrepreneurial Spirit Fund, providing over $350,000 in grants to underserved entrepreneurs.Want more of Carin and her work? Check out https://hotorjustme.com/ and get 10% off your first purchase with code HOTTERFollow #HotOrJustMe on social media:Instagram: @hotorjustme Facebook: @hotorjustme TikTok: @hotorjustme Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper....

“Is monogamy normal? Is it our default? Is it healthy?”Have you ever had a conversation stop you in your tracks because it hits so close to home? That’s exactly what happened to Erin and producer Erica after our episode with Dr. Joli Hamilton late last year. Dr. Joli’s work to help people open their marriages sparked deep reflections on monogamy, marriage, and long-term relationships—not just for us, but for many of you, too. We knew we had to dive deeper.In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Erin and Erica get personal as they unpack their own relationship journeys and explore the shifting landscape of modern love. Whether you’re curious about alternative, non-monogamous relationship models or frustrated with the realities of modern dating, this episode is for you.Here’s what we’re diving into:Rediscovering independence after divorce and rethinking traditional relationship norms.Navigating the rising visibility and appeal of polyamory, open marriages, and ethical non-monogamy—especially for women.Decentering men from the narrative of women’s lives and finding personal fulfillment on your own terms.The challenges of meeting emotional and sexual needs in long-term relationships.Examining the purpose of marriage—whether as a stabilizing force or an ever-evolving agreement.Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper. Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com Follow us on:Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod Facebook: @hotterthaneverpod Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts - we’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and more! That way you’ll never miss an episode. We’d love to hear what you think about the show - it helps us know what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review!Mentioned in this episode:Broad CollectiveLearn more about Broad Collective and our membership network for midlife women entrepreneurs at broadcollective.com. Apply to join Broad Collective at https://broad-collective-co.mn.co/landing

“ Body image is an individual sport and it's healed in connection.”If you’re a woman, chances are you’ve had a moment (or many) of negative self-talk about your body. We’ve all been there. But what if the issue wasn’t actually our bodies at all? What if it’s a deeper emotional or psychological distress showing up in how we think and talk about ourselves? Enter Deb Schachter, a therapist, author and body image expert who’s helped countless women untangle the hidden layers of their body image struggles—and she’s here to help us do the same.In this episode, Deb joins Erin for a fascinating deep dive into the complex world of body image. From the stories we tell ourselves to the societal and familial messages we’ve absorbed, they explore how we can begin to rewrite the narrative and build a healthier, more compassionate relationship with our bodies. Tune in as we discuss:Why negative body image might actually be your mind’s way of flagging emotional or psychological distress—not a physical problem to fix.The impact of family messaging and conversations about body size, and how they can fuel harmful beliefs.Understanding why you want a “better body” is more important than chasing the “better body” itself.How true fulfillment comes not from achieving the ‘ideal’ body, but from nurturing your relationship with yourself and tuning into your inner voice.Practical ways to shift your self-talk from body criticism to observing and reframing your negative thoughts.The role of stories, relationships, and family dynamics in shaping how we see our bodies—and how we can break free to reclaim our authentic selves.Tips for creating a safe, judgment-free space for kids to share their thoughts on body image. Check out Deb's 9 Bullet Points for Parents.OUR GUEST: DEB SCHACHTER is recognized as one of Boston’s leading clinicians in the areas of body image and eating disorder recovery. She has spent her 30-year career helping people unpack their body’s story and all of the wisdom it has to offer. She brings authenticity, curiosity and compassion to her work and emphasizes the profound power that connection has in the healing process. She integrates humor and mindfulness into her workshops, individual and group work and is inspired by how unique the growth process is for each of us. She believes wholeheartedly that we all have great wisdom inside and has seen how her confidence in her clients translates into change. Deb also trains other therapists and health professionals on how best to approach body image with their clients and staff. Want more Deb? Find her and learn more about her practice with Whitney Otto, Body Image Inside Out, online at https://bodyimageinsideout.com/ and check out their book, “Body Image Inside Out ” https://bodyimageinsideout.com/booksFollow her on:Instagram: @bodyimageinsideout <li...