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Second Thoughts

Second Thoughts

By Pia and Paula Cuerquis

Sisters Pia & Paula have a few thoughts in mind. Join this duo as they talk candidly about the realities of life in their 20s: with Pia working full-time as an influencer and Paula climbing the 9-5 corporate ladder. The two share their perspectives on life’s highs and lows—as first generation Asian Americans—through unsolicited advice and commentary on real and relatable experiences.
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Being Proactive and Planning For 2024

Second ThoughtsNov 28, 2023

00:00
45:11
Being Proactive and Planning For 2024
Nov 28, 202345:11
LDR: Friends & Family Edition

LDR: Friends & Family Edition

The holiday season is just around the corner, but it can be super tough to fully enjoy it if you're far away from your loved ones. And Pia and Paula totally understand the challenges of living in different states from each other and the rest of their family! In this episode, they share their experiences navigating long-distance with friends and family and split-family obligations with their partners. 



They reflect on past holidays and unpack their decision to spend Thanksgiving apart this year. They also talk about their excitement for their upcoming trip to visit their family in the Philippines and offer their tips for coping with distance, creating personal traditions at home, and embracing a "found family."

IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (11:47) The difference between distance with a partner vs. family/friends

- (15:51) Splitting holidays with partners 

- (22:18) Visiting family in the Philippines 

- (29:04) The challenges of long-distance relationships with friends and family 

- (35:04) Tips for dealing with loneliness during the holidays

- (39:51) The concept of a “found family” 

- (44:02) Why Paula is second-guessing her marathon

RESOURCES

- Book rec: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 

- Book rec: Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE

CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis

CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Nov 21, 202349:45
Reflecting On The Things We Take For Granted
Nov 14, 202335:42
I Pay Attention To Things That Most People Ignore

I Pay Attention To Things That Most People Ignore

Let's be honest... we're all a little nosy sometimes. In this episode, Pia and Paula dive into the latest trend on TikTok - "I pay attention to things most people ignore," inspired by Olivia Rodrigo's song, All American B*tch. They chat about the most popular TikToks on this topic, like Venmo requests between couples, the weird ways people interact with your significant other, and social media stalking or blocking. 

They also share what they pay the most attention to – Pia gets stressed out by how people use punctuation and emojis when texting, while Paula has a superpower for knowing exactly how people feel. 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (4:27) Venmo requests and financial equality between couples

- (8:51) Cutting people off vs. valuing opinions in conversation 

- (10:50) Dating habits and how people interact with your partner 

- (24:51) What they each pay attention to, like energetic intuition, texting styles, and sharing germs 

- (34:02) The universality and common interests found in this trend

- (35:02) Advice for leaving a toxic relationship, hookup culture, and today’s dating era 


RESOURCES

- Spotify Audio Books

- Book rec: The Killing Game by Kate Bold

- Book rec: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Nov 07, 202340:28
TMI: Oversharing Online and IRL

TMI: Oversharing Online and IRL

Social media has made it way too easy for people to share intimate details of their lives with their followers, and today, Pia & Paula reflect on their experiences with oversharing vs. keeping certain things private online and in real-life. They talk about the difference between relatable content, excessive oversharing, and providing personal stories that can be helpful or educational. 

The sisters discuss the importance of maintaining your privacy online and Pia explains how she balances being a relatable influencer while not oversharing. Plus, Paula gives her thoughts on how to deal with trauma dumping from friends or when you first meet someone. They also remind us of age-old advice, "think before you speak," and give their tricks for knowing when/ where you should/shouldn’t overshare. 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (8:07) What it means to overshare on social media 

- (10:39) Their individual perspectives on sharing or not sharing certain things 

- (20:50) Why influencers overshare details of their daily lives 

- (25:00) How oversharing can create a sense of community and understanding 

- (30:00) The difference between offering help and setting boundaries with trauma dumping

- (40:15) Advice for making the most of long-distance relationships


RESOURCES

- Check out Ken Eurich: @ken.eurich

- Check out Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper HERE

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Oct 31, 202345:12
Petty Behavior

Petty Behavior

Today, Pia and Paula are chatting all about being petty and being on the receiving end of petty behavior! Throughout the episode, the sisters share some personal stories about their experiences with pettiness in relationships, friendships, and family dynamics. They also talk about the nuances of being petty, the difference between playful and harmful pettiness, and how they respond to someone being petty towards them. Pia reveals her annoyance with people who respond to her texts with "lol", and Paula reflects on how pettiness plays a role in her relationship.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (8:47) The various ways they each exhibit or refrain from being petty 

- (14:15) Being petty in romantic relationships vs. friendships 

- (24:20) The consequences of engaging in petty behavior 

- (27:38) Ways that they each express their pettiness 

- (32:20) Tips for navigating situations when others are being petty towards you 

- (37:10) Advice on the best activities for a first date with someone from a dating app 


RESOURCES

- Wine rec: Ménage à Trois wine

- Chapstick rec: LANEIGE Gummy Bear

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Oct 24, 202342:43
How To Practice Detachment & Protect Your Peace

How To Practice Detachment & Protect Your Peace

Oct 17, 202344:34
Embracing Fall & Preparing For Seasonal Depression

Embracing Fall & Preparing For Seasonal Depression

The leaves are changing, the pumpkins are out, and the sweaters are on! Fall is here, and Pia and Paula couldn't be more excited. But as cozy as fall can be, they don't want you to get caught up in the seasonal blues. Today, the sisters share their tips for keeping your social calendar full of fall activities, making memories with your friends and family, and suiting up in those comfy cold-weather outfits. As winter approaches, they want you to take care of your mental health, stick to your routines, and soak up every second of sunshine. Don't let the weather get you down – snuggle up in a fluffy blanket, grab your favorite warm drink, and listen in! 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (9:15) Fall weather in Austin vs. Philly 

- (17:35) What they’ve been doing to settle into fall 

- (21:57) Fashion trends for cold weather 

- (27:03) Tips and tricks for combatting seasonal depression 

- (31:32) Prioritizing your nighttime, morning, and weekly routines 

- (36:11) The stereotype that Filipina women only date white guys 


RESOURCES

- Movie rec: Kelce Documentary 

- Podcast rec: New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce (Swifties' Version)

- Book rec: You're That Bitch: & Other Cute Lessons About Being Unapologetically Yourself

- Shoes rec: Nike Dunks

- Shoes rec: Birkenstock Boston Clogs

- Pia’s Bath & Body Works Partnership TikTok

-  Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Oct 10, 202345:13
Cheers To 25 Years

Cheers To 25 Years

As Pia's 25th birthday approaches, she and Paula are taking a moment to look back on all the amazing things that have happened before and during 24. They chat about why it's so important to prioritize self-care, health, and personal growth over partying and Netflix binges as you hit that quarter-life milestone. Moving into her mid-twenties, Pia is embracing what makes her unique and playing to her strengths rather than comparing herself to others she sees online. Paula questions whether certain life choices (like getting married or having kids) can impact your potential for success and growth. At the end of the day, they encourage you to find the bright side in every situation, trust the timing of life, and seize every opportunity that comes your way! 

IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (3:30) Pia’s initial thoughts and feelings about turning 25

- (15:58) The top five lessons Pia learned during 24 

- (24:29) Reflections on the last 10 years 

- (34:03) Words of wisdom for anyone hitting their mid-twenties 

- (36:39) Tips for moving out and keeping long-distance relationships strong


RESOURCES

- Book rec: The Crescent City Series

- Book rec: Fourth Wing

- Book rec: Happy Place

- Book rec: A Court of Mist and Fury

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Oct 03, 202345:06
Summer Reflections

Summer Reflections

As summer 2023 comes to a close, Pia and Paula are reflecting back on all the lessons they've learned. For the sisters, this summer was all about growth, self-discovery, and realizing that you can live life on your own terms. They chat about the importance of setting boundaries, finding supportive friends, and not giving in to societal pressures or expectations. Pia highlights embracing her adulthood while still having a hot girl summer (that isn't TOO hot). Paula reminds you to stay open to all the opportunities that come your way – including those friendly games of pickleball. Who says summer fun has to end when the leaves start to fall? The sisters want you to keep living life to the fullest, no matter the season! 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (11:30) Opening yourself up to every opportunity 

- (13:37) Why hot girl summers don’t need to be SO hot 

- (15:08) Learning to say no and making deeper friendships 

- (21:10) Not meeting everyone’s expectations 

- (27:17) Going at your own pace and staying true to yourself 

- (32:21) Summer doesn’t have to end

- (35:37) Advice for overcoming the fear of failure 


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠HERE⁠

- Listen on your favorite platform ⁠HERE⁠

- Shop Ignited Apparel ⁠HERE⁠


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: ⁠@sophiacuerquis⁠

On YouTube: ⁠@sophiacuerquis⁠

On TikTok: ⁠@sophiacuerquis⁠


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: ⁠@paulacuerquis⁠

On TikTok: ⁠@paulacuerquis⁠

Sep 26, 202339:52
Delulu, Lucky Girl Syndrome & Manifestation

Delulu, Lucky Girl Syndrome & Manifestation

Pia and Paula are here to remind you that there's nothing wrong with being a little delulu from time to time! Today, the sisters chat about the power of delusion, also known online as “being delulu.” They talk about how being delusional can be a good thing, especially when it helps you turn your passions into a career or as a way to stay optimistic in situations that are beyond your control. They also discuss the downside of being delusional, like when it leads to toxic relationships or unrealistic expectations. They touch on "lucky girl syndrome" and manifestation and share their own experiences with being delulu – Paula opens up about her past obsession with One Direction, while Pia explains how her delusion shaped where she is today.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (4:19) Life updates on fashion week & hiring an assistant 

- (12:04) What it means to be “delulu” 

- (18:35) Why being delusional can benefit you 

- (22:47) The negative aspects of being delusional

- (27:28) Deluluships, lucky girl syndrome & manifestation 

- (37:31) Advice for saving money and where to invest 


RESOURCES

- Episode 53: Managing Our Money: Spending, Saving, & Security

- Leave us a voicemail or text at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Sep 19, 202344:32
From Hot Girl To Soft Girl
Sep 12, 202340:00
A Rant About Modern Day Beauty Standards

A Rant About Modern Day Beauty Standards

Sep 05, 202339:21
Ask Us Anything!

Ask Us Anything!

Today's special episode is dedicated entirely to second-guessing and answering your burning questions. The sisters cover an array of topics, including their semi-traumatic childhood Target trips, why Pia couldn't keep her guinea pigs, and their goals for 2024. They also dig into deeper discussions about having kids in modern America, the advice they would give their younger selves, and the struggle of admitting when they're wrong. Make sure to follow Pia & Paula on Instagram for a chance to have your question answered next time!  


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (1:16) Core childhood memories 

- (7:31) Book recommendations 

- (10:17) The most Filipino things they do 

- (14:07) What to do when a celebrity isn’t who you expected them to be

- (15:39) Things they’ve done that go against what their parents wanted for them

- (18:03) Dream jobs and the worst parts of their current jobs

- (25:29) Goals for 2024 

- (28:38) How they’re mentally preparing for having kids 

- (33:55) Being too proud to admit when they’re wrong 

- (38:04) Advice for finding time to go out with friends and introducing your S.O. to the group 

- (41:00) What they would tell their younger selves


RESOURCES

- Follow Paula on GoodReads HERE 

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis
On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Aug 29, 202344:24
Managing Our Money: Spending, Saving, & Security

Managing Our Money: Spending, Saving, & Security

Pia and Paula admit they aren't financial experts, but they're more than happy to share some tips and tricks that have helped them manage their money in their 20s! In this episode, they offer advice to anyone looking to manage their finances wisely, find joy in their spending choices, and create a harmonious relationship between everyday luxuries and future security. 

The sisters reflect on how their upbringing in a middle-class family of nurses impacted their view on money. They also offer insights into how they navigate their individual spending habits and save money without sacrificing any serotonin. Paula shares her journey from binge buying to embracing a healthier relationship with money, while Pia opens up about how her career and how access to free products have influenced her spending patterns.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (8:26) The importance of salary transparency

- (14:04) How their childhood shaped their money mindset

- (17:01) Why you need to open credit cards and high-yield savings accounts

- (29:21) Tips for saving money and managing spending

- (37:42) Reviewing credit card charges and recurring subscriptions

- (48:02) Their experiences with personal reinvention 


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Aug 22, 202353:42
Making Friends in Your 20s
Aug 15, 202353:52
Family Vacations: A Survival Guide

Family Vacations: A Survival Guide

Family vacations are a rare time to slow down, relax, and bond with loved ones without any work-related or outside distractions. For the Cuerquis family, going on big family vacations is a tradition, and Pia & Paula have become professionals in the art of family travel! Today, they're sharing their pros, cons, and expert tips for making the most of family vacations.


Being in forced proximity with a ton of family members has its ups and downs, from seeing parents at their happiest and creating lasting memories to embarrassing matching outfits or stopping traffic for a family photo. The sisters also share their advice for choosing a vacation spot that suits everyone's style, age, and interests. Plus, Pia & Paula open up about their relationship when they were younger, sharing personal stories of sibling rivalry and how things took a turn for the better in their adulthood. 


If you’re the eldest daughter like Paula, turn to this Refinery29 article for some comfort.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:- (4:22) Why the Cuerquis family vacations are iconic 

- (10:14) What they love most about family vacations 

- (13:23) The cons of family vacations 

- (23:52) How to craft a vacation that everyone in your family will enjoy  

- (34:28) Tips for getting the most out of your family vacations 

- (38:54) Their relationship growing up compared to who they are now


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis
On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Aug 08, 202348:38
In Our Learning Era (A New Series)

In Our Learning Era (A New Series)

For Pia & Paula, learning is a never-ending process. With immigrant parents, they've had to figure out important US milestones like college applications, filing taxes, finding a doctor, and pumping gas (shout out to New Jersey) on their own. In this episode, the sisters share the obstacles they've faced in their young adulthood that no one bothered to teach them about sooner! 

Everyone is constantly learning, and it's totally okay not to have all the answers. Life is full of challenges, and Pia & Paula encourage you to embrace them! Pia shares her experience navigating the early stages of homeownership while Paula opens up about guiding her younger siblings through the FAFSA and SATs. They also touch on creating an LLC, the humble beginnings of this podcast, and the first steps to becoming an influencer.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (6:28) Adjusting to the culture shock of living in the US 

- (10:56) Transitioning from a pediatrician to a regular doctor

- (16:07) The finances of being an influencer, like brand deals and write-offs

- (22:38) All of the components that go into making the podcast 

- (26:07) The unexpected (and complex) aspects of buying a home 

- (30:38) Urgent care vs. emergency rooms

- (33:57) Tips for getting started as a digital creator 


RESOURCES

- Check out Pia’s new jewelry line HERE

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Aug 01, 202341:50
Jealousy Is A Disease, Get Well Soon!

Jealousy Is A Disease, Get Well Soon!

If you claim you don't get jealous, you're lying! Jealousy is a natural human emotion that everyone faces, but knowing how to handle it is essential for your personal growth journey. Today, Pia & Paula dive into how jealousy can sneak up on you in relationships, work, and friendships, especially in the era of social media. 

The sisters open up about the ways they experience jealousy, like craving an influencer's luxurious lifestyle or comparing themselves to picture-perfect couples. The sisters emphasize that self-awareness and acceptance are the key to overcoming jealousy and encourage channeling these emotions into motivation. Pia believes that when jealousy strikes, you need to hit that "unfollow" button ASAP. Paula suggests that you can use jealousy to your advantage and shares advice for getting to the core of your jealousy and using it as fuel to achieve your goals. 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (3:27) “Jealousy is a disease, get well soon.”

- (4:57) The impact of social media on jealousy and envy

- (9:23) How jealousy shows up in their lives  

- (19:02) Why Paula used to be jealous of Pia's job 

- (22:17) Ways to silence your self-doubt

- (27:25) Lifestyle and relationship envy

- (31:06) Tips for managing your jealousy 

- (36:43) Coping with a breakup and advice for moving on


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Jul 25, 202343:11
Green, Red, and Beige Flags

Green, Red, and Beige Flags

Jul 18, 202340:12
Birthdays: Parties, Gifts, Dinners & More!
Jul 11, 202337:30
Is Closure Really Necessary?
Jul 05, 202335:21
Navigating Balance, Burnout & Boundaries

Navigating Balance, Burnout & Boundaries

Between work, socializing with friends, house hunting, recording their podcast, traveling, creating TikToks, and spending time with family, Pia and Paula can hardly find moments to catch their breath! But the sisters are determined to manage everything without being overwhelmed by the stress. They believe finding balance is the key, and in this episode, the sisters dive into what balance means to each of them, how they carve out time for self-care, and their tips for preventing burnout before it’s too late. Their priorities shift week by week, but today, Pia is focused on purchasing her first house while Paula concentrates on her career growth. Plus, they share advice for overcoming procrastination because they know how tempting sitting on the couch can be!


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (4:08) What balance means for each of the sisters 

- (11:18) How to manage burnout and effectively set boundaries 

- (17:53) Being an introvert versus an extrovert 

- (23:50) The challenge of finding family time

- (27:21) Their top three priorities and ways they make time for them 

- (37:40) Advice for procrastination 


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Jun 27, 202345:18
How We're Finding Our Authentic Selves

How We're Finding Our Authentic Selves

What does it mean to live as your authentic self? Pia and Paula are still figuring it out! In this week's episode, they want to take you on their journey of self discovery! The sisters discuss the steps they're taking to find their authentic selves, compare the person they are now to who their younger selves wanted to be, and the ways they manage the opinions and perspectives of those who care about them. Paula talks about looking out for her best interest, even if it means occasionally disappointing others. Pia opens up about how her difficult decision to move away from her family opened the door for her to think more freely. Plus, Pia shares her early anxieties about establishing herself as a creator.


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (6:44) How moving away from her family forced Pia to be introspective 

- (10:13) The ways social media affects authenticity 

- (13:17) Different layers of self-expression 

- (18:41) Their experiences with code-switching 

- (23:50) Answering the question, “Would your younger self be proud of the person you are now?”

- (31:10) Navigating the stress of others' opinions, trusting intuition, and taking ownership of decisions

- (35:40) How Pia manages her anxieties as a growing creator


RESOURCES

- Check out The Defining Decade HERE

- Check out 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think HERE

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis
On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Jun 20, 202344:03
Our Origin Story

Our Origin Story

You may know bits and pieces of Pia and Paula’s background, but in today’s episode, they take a deep dive into their origin story! The girls go all the way back to their birthplace in the Philippines and open up about how they balanced a traditional Filipino upbringing with their New Jersey, All-American childhood. Paula gets real about finding freedom in college, and Pia talks about how, ever since she was little, she’s always felt happiest doing content creation. Make sure you stick around until the end of the episode to hear their second thoughts about alcohol. 


IN THIS EPISODE, PIA & PAULA TALK ABOUT:

- (1:46) The sisters’ experience moving from the Philippines to the US

- (4:38) The origins of the names Pia & Paula 

- (11:52) How the girls learned English

- (17:41) Why Paula wanted her mom to pack her sandwiches for lunch instead of Asian food

- (25:53) Their different experiences of college

- (34:47) Their newfound appreciation for their parents 

- (38:18) Pia & Paula compare the people they are now to who they were growing up 

- (49:48) How they respond when someone asks, “Where are you from?”

- (50:46) Second guessing alcohol 


RESOURCES

- Leave us a voicemail at (512) 827-8730 for a chance to get featured on the pod! Tell us what you’re second guessing.

- Follow the podcast on Instagram HERE

- Listen on your favorite platform HERE

- Shop Ignited Apparel HERE


CONNECT WITH PIA

On Instagram: @sophiacuerquis

On YouTube: @sophiacuerquis

On TikTok: @sophiacuerquis


CONNECT WITH PAULA

On Instagram: @paulacuerquis

On TikTok: @paulacuerquis

Jun 13, 202301:01:31
New Homes, New Bling, New Beginnings. WE’RE BACK!
Jun 06, 202340:08
Love & You (Valentine's Special: Part 2)
Feb 17, 202229:34
Love & Others (Valentine's Special: Part 1)
Feb 10, 202251:10
Intentions & Rules for 2022
Feb 03, 202249:09
Advice Column #4 (Holiday Gift Guides, Territorial In-Laws, & More)
Dec 16, 202142:54
Setting Boundaries
Dec 09, 202101:03:37
Is Love a Choice or a Feeling?
Dec 02, 202153:53
Winter Blues & Cuffing Season
Nov 18, 202155:30
Facing Your Fears
Nov 11, 202157:51
Advice Column #3 (Getting Out of a Funk, Peer Pressure, & More)
Nov 04, 202149:32
Unpacking Sibling Stereotypes
Oct 28, 202101:00:60
Building Your Best Self
Oct 21, 202152:18
Hypothetical Situations
Oct 14, 202146:58
Am I an Attention Seeker?
Oct 07, 202149:45
Advice Column #2 (Emotional Intelligence, Cheating BFs, & More)
Jul 01, 202138:12
Would You Rather?
Jun 24, 202139:09
Hot Girl Summer 101
Jun 17, 202146:41
Disability Inclusion & Awareness ft. Greg Wright
Jun 03, 202144:11
Growing up as a Filipino Immigrant ft. Farina Aguinaldo
May 27, 202150:33
Turning Burnout into Balance ft. Jaci Marie Smith
May 20, 202149:27
Paving Your Own Path ft. Christine Le
May 13, 202143:49
Advice Column #1 (Clingy Friends, Unsupportive Family, & More)
May 06, 202151:10
Fame, Love & Situationships ft. Edwin Honoret
Apr 29, 202156:52
Adulting is Hard ft. Katie Dombrowski and Victoria Bruno
Apr 22, 202156:13
Pursue Your Passion ft. Natalie Barbu

Pursue Your Passion ft. Natalie Barbu

Today we're joined by the amazing, versatile, boss babe...Natalie Barbu! Social Media Influencer, YouTuber, Podcaster, Entrepreneur, Consultant, Engineer—this girl does it all. In this week's episode, we sit down with Natalie to talk about her business ventures, best practices for motivation and productivity, and how you shouldn't let the fear of "what if" stop you from pursuing your passions. We also talk about imposter syndrome, Natalie's pivot from Corporate America to where she is now, and how to block out negativity. Natalie is super relatable and this episode will be sure to inspire you to get up off your feet and JUST DO IT—whatever your IT may be. 


Follow Paula & Pia on social at: @secondthoughtspod, @sophiacuerquis, @paulacuerquis

Follow Natalie Barbu on social at: @nataliebarbu, @webloomsocial, @therealreelpodcast, @rellasocial

Apr 15, 202145:01