Mid-Life Mafia

Sometimes reinvention starts with something small… like your daughters convincing you to post on TikTok. In this episode, we sit down with Rita to talk about motherhood, social media, Italian family life, and what it really looks like to build a new chapter for yourself in midlife.Rita shares how her daughters pushed her into the world of TikTok, how that grew into a loyal online community, and why social media can be both rewarding and brutal. From internet trolls to hateful comments (especially when kids are involved), we talk honestly about navigating the online world while protecting your peace.We also get into the chaos and comedy of raising triplets, the dynamics inside big Italian families, and the very real favoritism that can happen when certain kids “get away with more”. There’s also plenty of parenting talk — including Rita’s clever “dipping trick” for getting kids to eat healthier foods — plus the surprising freedom that came when her daughters finally started school.And because midlife keeps showing up in unexpected ways, we talk about reinvention too. Rita opens up about dreaming bigger, creating a manifestation board, stepping into acting with My Big, Gay, Italian Funeral, and embracing new opportunities later in life.Of course, food comes into the conversation too — with Rita sharing her love for simple recipes that don’t take hours in the kitchen.Warm, hilarious, and full of real-life moments, this episode is about motherhood, identity, family, and proving it’s never too late to try something new.What’s inside:How Rita got started on TikTokBuilding the PizzaRita brand onlineInternet trolls and hateful commentsRaising triplets and surviving the chaos Italian family dynamics and favoritismBoys, namesakes, and family expectationsFeeding kids and introducing healthy foodsRita’s “dipping trick” for picky eatersThe freedom that comes when kids start schoolItalian husbands and mother-in-law storiesReinventing yourself in midlifeVision boards, manifestation & dreaming biggerSimple cooking tips and easy recipesRita’s children’s books👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share it with someone who loves real conversations, family chaos, good food, and stories about reinventing yourself at any age.Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Follow Rita 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cucinapalermo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cucinapalermo_rita/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575238815986&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=IHF9FeW07Pt3jnQr# Rita’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rita-Prisco/author/B0DFMDV638?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=4d06a616-2671-4299-92dc-a31670ccbab7 Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Candice Guardino, the force behind Italian Bred, to talk about the life experiences that shaped her — from growing up in a big, expressive Italian family to turning those moments into comedy, storytelling, and now a growing platform across stage, screen, and writing.Candice shares what it was like being raised in a home where everyone talked (and yelled) at once, and how her grandmother played a huge role in shaping her voice from a young age. That foundation now shows up in everything she creates — raw, honest, and deeply relatable.We also get into the more personal side of her journey. From her upcoming book Confessions of an Italian Bred Girl to her experiences with fertility struggles, IVF, and endometriosis, Candice opens up about topics that aren’t talked about enough — especially when it comes to women’s health and conception.There’s plenty of humour along the way too — from motherhood moments (including Disney trips and bug encounters 😅) to the realities of pregnancy, postpartum changes, and what it really feels like to be a mom. As she puts it, it’s the best kind of tired.From Pilates instructor to performer, writer, and creator, this conversation is about following your path, speaking your truth, and turning real life into something meaningful — and entertaining.What’s inside:Growing up in a loud, loving Italian familyHer relationship with her grandmotherTurning family dynamics into storytellingHer upcoming book Confessions of an Italian Bred GirlActing work and career journey (from Pilates to performance)Fertility struggles, IVF and endometriosisMotherhood realities — the good, the exhausting, the funnyDisney trips, mom life, and unexpected momentsPregnancy and postpartum changesParenting, family expectations, and “spoiling” your childWhat’s next for CandiceIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share it with someone who appreciates real stories, honest conversations, and a bit of humour along the way.Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Follow Candice 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cguardinoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/candiceguardino/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CandiceGuardinoOfficial/Italian Bred: https://italianbredshow.com/Website: https://www.candiceguardino.com/Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Some people cook because they have to, others cook because it’s part of who they are.In this episode, we sit down with Momma Jackie — the TikTok and Instagram creator known for her comforting Italian recipes — to talk about where it all started, how it grew and why cooking still matters in a fast-paced world.Momma Jackie shares how curiosity about making money online turned into something much bigger. Her videos might go viral, but at the heart of it all is something simple: feeding people, getting their reactions, sharing knowledge and keeping traditions alive. Plus, letting everyone know it’s not as hard as it seems!We talk about the real value of cooking at home (saving money as a bonus to that) and the must-have ingredients and spices every kitchen needs while being real all along the way - just like Momma Jackie is in her videos.We also touch on favorite dishes and the ones she’d happily never make — plus little details that make a big difference (like why lemon zest beats lemon juice every time).This one feels like sitting in the kitchen with someone who’s done it all… and still genuinely loves it.What’s inside:How social media (and curiosity about online income) got Momma Jackie startedViral recipes and building an audiencePassing cooking knowledge down to the next generationEssential ingredients every kitchen should haveCooking for Easter and family traditionsAdjusting traditional recipes for modern lifeFavourite dish… and the one she avoidsFamily time, cooking joy and creating a cookbookMaking Italian sauce from scratchIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like and share it with someone who loves food, family and a good story from the kitchen.Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Follow Momma JackieTikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@momma.jackie65Instagram https://www.instagram.com/momma.jackie65/Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

There’s something about spring that makes you pause… look around… and realise what needs a bit of sorting — in your home and in your life.In this episode, we talk about the shift that comes with a new season, the small annoyances (hello allergies and bugs) and the practical stuff (switching wardrobes, noticing those very dirty windows).We move from everyday moments to bigger conversations because spring brings a shift in mindset too. It feels like the start of a new cycle — a time to check in with yourself, take care of your body, and stay on top of the things that matter. From self-care to those important (and often delayed) appointments like mammograms and gynaecologist visits, this season has a way of nudging you back into looking after yourself properly. (As always, real talk about what this season brings when you’re in midlife.)Of course, we also get into the routines that come with spring like Easter preparations and gifts, birthdays, and even a bit of April Fool’s.What’s inside:Life updates and what’s been going on latelySpring wardrobe switch & unpredictable weatherSweating, seasonal changes, and real-life annoyancesSelf-care in spring (what that actually looks like now)The downside of spring: allergies, bugs, and allSpring break memories and school routinesThe moment you notice your windows are… not clean 😅Easter prep, gifts and traditionsClearing clutter physically and mentallyWomen’s History Month quizMenopause and hormone therapy conversationsBirthdays and how they feel at this stage of lifeA little April Fool’s funIf this episode felt a bit too relatable, hit subscribe, give it a like and share it with someone who’s also figuring out midlife one season at a time. Welcome to the family!Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Some episodes are deep, some are funny and some feel like sitting around the table swapping the things we wish someone had told us sooner.This one? It’s that. Tips for women by women.We’re sharing the practical stuff — the little tips and tricks that make everyday life smoother. Skincare routines, cooking motivation, the art of folding bed sheets, and yes… the ongoing saga of buying pants online.We also get into budgeting — eating out, subscriptions, and the quiet ways money slips through your fingers if you’re not paying attention.In the middle of it all, we take a moment for Women’s History Month and talk about Mary Anderson — the woman behind the windshield wiper. One of those inventions you never think about… until you really do.And we wrap it up with advice we’d give our younger selves. Some of it practical. Some of it honest. All of it real.Here’s what’s inside:Shower, skincare and feet care products and routinesCooking habitsLaundry, linen and bleaching done rightSmart budgetingA Women’s History Month spotlightThe advice we wish we’d heard soonerIt’s useful. It’s relatable. And it’s women sharing what works — without pretending we’ve mastered everything.If you picked up something helpful, don’t forget to like, share and subscribe.Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Some things in life just make you go…hmmm. You know, those little (and not-so-little) moments that make you stop, laugh, and sometimes shake your head in disbelief. From fashion quirks to city chaos, we’re spilling the tea on the everyday stuff that midlife throws at us.Elle shares her epic parking moment. Marietta weighs in with her tummy-tucking advice, because apparently some things are worth sharing. Kristy has a word or two about entitled people, especially when it comes to driving. And that’s just scratching the surface.Here’s a taste of what’s inside:Fashion experiments gone sidewaysCity chaos: driving, parking, snow not cleared and entitled people doing their thingHousehold mysteries: missing socks, shrinking socks, lost silverwareCelebrities’ clothes and their kids’ namesEveryday life hacks, fails and Marietta’s tummy-tucking wisdomJoin us for relatable rants, laughs and the delightful chaos that only midlife in the city can bring. Trust us, you’ll nod along, cringe a little and maybe even share your own hmmm moments. Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe!Follow us on all platforms 👇TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemafiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifemafiapodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MidLifeMafiaWebsite: https://midlifemafia.com/Podcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Welcome to our valentines day show special, in this episode "Valentines Day: Sweet or Scam" we discuss the sweet side of the hallmark holiday, and the scams that come with it. If you are someone who is looking for ideas on what to give or what not to give, or someone who simply does not care about valentines day and just want's to have a laugh then this episode is for you. In this episode we will be covering... What Valentines day means to us Holiday memories & family traditions Gifts Do's & Don'ts Date Ideas What do Single Ladies do on Valentines Day & much more! SO take a minute out of your busy schedule, and enjoy the show! Let us know what resonated with you the most, Don’t forget to subscribe and give us a thumbs up! Follow us on all platforms!TikTok: /midlifemafiaInstagram: /midlifemafiapodcastYouTube: /midlifemafiapodcastWebsite: midlifemafia.com

In this episode of the Midlife Mafia “Throwback Nostalgia” we dive into a conversation where we relive our experiences growing up as a kid in the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s and how it has shaped the grown ups we are today. We take a walk down memory lane and share our core memories that we know you can relate to as well. In this episode we cover: Fashion trends of our times Favorite Games and forms of Entertainment Life before cellphones Menopause Minute: Did people use hormone therapy in the 80’s? How was life like at home Our favorite places to eat Iconic commercials engraved in our brains Our favorite artists and songs

n this episode of Midlife Mafia, we go back in time to Growing Up in Brooklyn, the Bensonhurst edition. Kristy and Marietta share what it was really like growing up just blocks apart in a neighborhood where everyone knew your name, kids played outside all day, and your parents always knew where you were.We talk about how different it feels now, from safety and street life to how kids grow up today, and why we still miss the old Brooklyn community vibe. Plus, we get into all the Bensonhurst staples, the food spots we grew up on, the feasts we waited for every year, and the places that made the neighborhood feel like home.Join us in this episode where we cover:• Hanging out on corners and why it felt normal back then• How safety has changed and why fights felt different growing up• Playing outside all day with no phones, just kickball, manhunt, and stoop life• The Bensonhurst culture shift and how the neighborhood has evolved• Brooklyn food favorites, bagels, pizza debates, and non Italian staples• The 18th Avenue feast, block parties, and old school traditions• Why we wish our kids could experience the Brooklyn we grew up inIf you grew up in Brooklyn, we want to hear your stories. Comment your favorite spots, your best memories, and if you remember the woman in the wheelchair, tell us her name.Follow us on all platforms!TikTok: /midlifemafiaInstagram: /midlifemafiapodcastYouTube: /midlifemafiapodcastWebsite: midlifemafia.com

In this New Year’s Special of Mid-Life Mafia, we reflect on the past year, celebrate growth, and talk honestly about what it feels like entering new chapters in midlife. From motherhood transitions to hormone changes to simply trying to show up for the people we love, this conversation is real, warm, and deeply relatable.Join us in this Episode 24 New Year Special where we cover:• Transitioning into motherhood and now facing a new shift as kids grow up • Procrastination and why we need to stop waiting to see the people we love • How midlife resolutions hit different: calm over chaos, presence over perfection • Looking back on last year and actually completing the goal to start this podcast • Hormone imbalance, HRT, and understanding what our bodies are doing  • Entering 2025 with intention, connection, and more laughter than chaosIf you’re stepping into the New Year with gratitude, confusion, joy, hot flashes, hope, or all of the above — this episode is for you. Episode 24 is streaming now. Let’s start 2025 together. Follow us on all platforms!TikTok: /midlifemafiaInstagram: /midlifemafiapodcast YouTube: /midlifemafiapodcast Website: midlifemafia.com

She thought she was losing her mind. Crying spells, sleepless nights, mood swings, body pain... but no one ever said, “This is perimenopause.”.In this episode, we sit down with our soul sister Maria, who opens up about her personal hell navigating perimenopause — the decade-long hormonal chaos no one prepares you for. From hot flashes and brain fog to rage, frozen shoulders, and “Why am I crying over a dog?” moments… this is the midlife conversation every woman needs to hear..We get real about:• What perimenopause actually feels like• How women are still being dismissed, misdiagnosed, and ignored• Why so many of us think we’re just overwhelmed or “going crazy”• The emotional toll it takes on work, relationships, and identity• What helped Maria finally turn a corner — and what didn’t.This is the episode we all wish we heard before it started.You're not broken. You're not alone. You're just in it..🔗 Connect With UsInstagram → @midlifemafiapodcastTikTok → @midlifemafia.Subscribe— it helps other midlife women find us

A lot of people treat midlife like it’s the beginning of the end…But what if we told you it actually feels more like reaching the top of the hill — and finding out there’s a bar, a dance floor, and a whole party waiting for you? 🍸💃In this episode, the ladies reflect on what midlife really feels like — the growth, the surprises, the humor, and the moments no one prepares you for. From childhood birthday parties and rope-climbing chaos to realizing that “over the hill” is actually the best view yet… we’re redefining what this season of life looks like.👉 We’re destigmatizing midlife — one laugh, one story, and one dance-floor moment at a time.Grab your spot at the top of the hill… the party’s just getting started. 🎉.Join the family!Don’t miss new episodes every week — hit Subscribe and turn on Notifications so you never miss the midlife madness..🎧 Watch more + learn about us at:👉 https://www.midlifemafiapodcast.com

Remember when family TV time was the event of the week? When we all crowded around the big box in the living room — no streaming, no skipping — just laughs, snacks, and pure nostalgia.In this episode of The Mid-Life Mafia Podcast, the ladies dive into the TV shows and movies that shaped an entire generation — from Golden Girls and Cheers to Saved by the Bell and The Sopranos. They share the moments that stuck with them, the finales that broke them, and how family TV nights brought everyone together.🎙️ Join Kristy, Marietta, and Elle as they look back on the entertainment that raised us, shaped our humor, and defined our childhood memories — with plenty of laughs (and a few side tangents) along the way.👀 Watch if you’ve ever said:“You had to be there!”“We grew up on the best TV.”“They don’t make shows like that anymore.”💬 Tell us in the comments: What TV show or movie defined your childhood?Chapters:00:00 Intro – Remembering family TV time03:00 The shows we grew up watching06:45 Iconic finales we’ll never forget11:10 The family favorites and guilty pleasures34:00 Nostalgic throwbacks that still make us smile40:00 Share your favorite TV memories#MidLifeMafia #GenXWomen #Nostalgia #TVShows #Movies #PodcastMoments #group7 #foryoupage