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Solace and the City

Solace and the City

By Zoe Scurletis

Your guide to finding comfort in the chaos and feeling less alone.
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EP82: CHELSEA QUINT - Survivor Stories Part 1

Solace and the CityApr 05, 2021

00:00
01:12:55
EP144: NICK VIALL — We Create Our Own Chaos

EP144: NICK VIALL — We Create Our Own Chaos

I am so unbelievably excited and honored to be sharing this episode with you all. I have been a fan of his for years, so I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to record with the one and only Nick Viall! Nick is a former reality TV star (Bachelor Nation royalty) and host of The Viall Files podcast. In this episode, Nick talks about what led him to become the go-to relationship guru and how he became so good at giving advice. I later hit Nick with a couple of my dating hot takes, and he gives me his honest opinions. Not only is Nick a wonderful podcast host and guest, but he also would be such a great therapist. You can keep up with Nick by following @nickviall on Instagram and by listening to The Viall Files wherever you get your podcasts.
Mar 16, 202401:04:26
EP151: CHLOE VEITCH - Too Hot To Handle (Alcohol)

EP151: CHLOE VEITCH - Too Hot To Handle (Alcohol)

Today marks my first year of sobriety, and so it feels only fitting that I share a conversation with someone who was an integral part of my journey to recovery. Chloe Veitch is an icon -- not only is she a model, media personality, and popular host, but also a star on multiple Netflix shows including Too Hot To Handle, The Circle, and Perfect Match. At only 24 years of age, Chloe is wise beyond her years. In this episode, Chloe shares her journey to sobriety which began at a time of personal, professional, and global tumult. We chat about how the drinking culture in the United Kingdom compares to the American tendency to binge and where reality television comes into play. Chloe truly is as kind, funny, and charismatic as she appears on the screens. I could not be more grateful to her and all of the other people who have acted as beacons of light as I navigated the murky waters of sobriety over the past twelve months.

Jan 01, 202401:07:51
EP150: THAI RICHARDS - Rage and Release

EP150: THAI RICHARDS - Rage and Release

This week I am so excited to share my conversation with Thai Richards, the founder and creative director of Rage and Release! Rage & Release is a health and wellness community that empowers individuals to overcome adversity through a holistic approach. Rage and Release provides diverse experiences for the mind, body, and spirit, promoting unity and self-discovery. Their mission is to break negative stigmas surrounding cannabis through education, while also offering a space for personal growth without it. Through fitness and wellness, Rage and Release transforms life's challenges into opportunities, fostering healing and unity among all. Thai is the innovative mind behind Rage and Release. His performance as a canna-athlete, his professional modeling experience, and his social entrepreneurship are all driving transformation in the wellness sector. He is a trailblazer, working to dismantle the stereotypes associated with cannabis use and athletes. He is a strong advocate for the use of cannabis as a natural alternative for pain management, recovery, and overall wellness. Thai's experiences led him to create Rage and Release, a platform that combines fitness, cannabis, and mental health. The platform aims to educate people about the benefits of cannabis in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and to break down the stigma associated with its use. Through his work, he is not only changing perceptions about cannabis but also promoting a holistic approach to wellness. He believes that cannabis, when used responsibly, can be a powerful tool in managing pain, reducing stress, and improving overall health. His innovative approach to wellness is paving the way for a new era of health and fitness. You can learn more about Thai by following his personal Instagram, @_daddyshango_. To learn more about Rage and Release, follow @rageandrelease on Instagram or go to https://www.rageandrelease.com/.
Nov 28, 202353:16
EP149: ANDREW COLLIN - A Dog-Walking, Fish-Mongering, Bi-Coastal Comedian

EP149: ANDREW COLLIN - A Dog-Walking, Fish-Mongering, Bi-Coastal Comedian

I am so excited to be sharing my conversation with Andrew Collin! Andrew is a comedian, actor, and writer who I have listened to as a guest on one of my favorite podcasts for almost five years. In this episode, Andrew talks about his life before and after being introduced to the world of comedy. Andrew seriously has nine lives He's lived in LA, Miami, New York City, and St. Louis and has had a multitude of careers, from dog walking to fish mongering. Andrew became sober after noticing that the people whom he most looked up to in life refrained from drinking alcohol. Now, five years later, Andrew has slowly begun to incorporate alcohol back into his life and shares the good and bad parts of moderation. I hope you all enjoy!
To follow Andrew and his comedy, you can check him out on Instagram @andrewtcollin and listen to his podcast Puddles wherever you get your podcasts.
Nov 20, 202301:20:45
EP148: ARI BORINSKY - The Ketamine Craze

EP148: ARI BORINSKY - The Ketamine Craze

This week I am so excited to share my conversation with Ari Borinsky, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy! (That's a lot of words, so let's break it down). Ari graduated from Columbia and became passionate about alternative medicines after attending his first ayahuasca retreat in Peru. When he started his own private practice, he knew that he wanted to incorporate some of the techniques he had learned from his mentors into his work. Now Ari incorporates ketamine into his psychotherapy sessions with clients, helping them to connect with their subconscious in a safe environment.

I literally knew nothing about KAP (ketamine-assisted psychotherapy) prior to chatting with Ari. I am so grateful for his kindness and wisdom, and I can't wait to see how the future of psychedelics unfolds! If you are interested in working with Ari, check out Brooklyn Psychedelic Psychotherapy in Greenpoint! https://www.brooklynpsychedelicpsychotherapy.com/

Nov 06, 202301:25:36
EP147: HOPE WOODARD - Tis The Season For Sobriety

EP147: HOPE WOODARD - Tis The Season For Sobriety

The most-listened-to guest of Solace and the City is back and better than ever! I am SO excited to be sharing my second podcast conversation with Hope Woodard with you all. In this episode, Hope and I have a sobriety catch-up. When we first recorded back in January, I had been only 10 or so days sober, and Hope had been well over the year mark. Fast forward to this conversation, and I just hit my 300-day mark! Over these 300 days, Hope has been re-evaluating her relationship with alcohol and other substances. We talk about the real struggles that come with maintaining a soberish lifestyle and the importance of meeting yourself where you are. Hope shares her plans to be boy sober for the next year and explains her theory about jumping in and out of the wagon when it comes to her own journey cutting off substances. I really think you all will enjoy this episode, as Hope is truly amazing. Be sure to share it with your friends, follow @justhopinalong, and check out her new podcast Phone A Friend!

Oct 30, 202301:24:48
EP146: FELIX LEVINE — The Power of Podcasting
Oct 23, 202301:08:55
EP145: HANNA DICKINSON - Sobriety, STIs, Sexual Assault, and Solace

EP145: HANNA DICKINSON - Sobriety, STIs, Sexual Assault, and Solace

CW: This podcast contains content related to disordered eating and sexual assault. If at any point this episode becomes too triggering, please be sure to pause it and take some time to yourself. Furthermore, if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or is struggling after an incident of sexual assault, help is available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is 1-800-656-4673.

I feel incredibly honored to share this episode with NYC-based comic, writer, and actress, Hanna Dickinson. I first heard Hanna speak on one of my favorite female-led podcasts and was completely moved by her story. Most people go through one or two major traumas throughout their entire life. Hanna experienced multiple in the matter of months. In this episode, Hanna talks about what led her to become sober from alcohol and amphetamines. She talks openly about being abducted and raped on her 29th birthday in Los Angelos, as well as contracting an STI in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hanna's story is first and foremost a testimony of her resilience. Despite the many traumatic experiences that she has faced in her young adult life, Hanna keeps on fighting and finding the silver lining to push forward. She finds humor in even her darkest days and uses comedy as a therapeutic outlet to share her struggles. One of my favorite quotes from a guest of this podcast is, "laughter is the greatest disinfectant." Hanna embodies this quote more than anyone I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, and I truly hope everyone takes a listen to her tale. You can keep up with Hanna by following her @hansdickie on Instagram.

Oct 09, 202301:17:19
EP143: SOLO - 28 Lessons Learned By 28

EP143: SOLO - 28 Lessons Learned By 28

Welcome back to Season 5 of Solace and the City! I can't believe we are coming up on our fifth year of this show. For those who are new here, I launched Solace and the City back in October of 2019 on a complete whim. It's truly amazing to be here four years later looking back on all the incredible progress I have made no only on the show but also in my own life. In honor of my 28th birthday now behind me and the fifth year of this podcast quickly approaching, I decided to record an episode of 28 lessons that I have learned in my 28 years of life. This lists consists of a mix of pieces of advice I’ve been given, favorite quotes and sayings, tips and tricks from my therapist, and other lessons that I’ve been working on and will continue to work on in the years to come.

I am not easily able to talk about times when I am proud of myself, but there is one thing I am certain of - I am SO proud of this episode! It truly was a labor of love. It would warm my heart if everyone takes a listen, because I guarantee at least one of these lessons will resonate with you. Please feel free to share this episode with a friend, a partner, a roommate, a parent, or anyone else who you think could benefit from these tidbits of guidance.

Cheers to another year around the sun and many more to come! Love you all.

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This podcast is proudly sponsored by one of my swim and apparel favorite brands, LSPACE! Although summer is sadly behind us, LSPACE also has gorgeous and comfy sweaters for fall that I have been absolutely loving. You can click here to visit their website and use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first purchase!



Sep 25, 202301:08:01
EP142: NASH JENKINS - Solace in the Cosmos

EP142: NASH JENKINS - Solace in the Cosmos

This week I am SO happy to be sharing my conversation with Nash Jenkins! Nash is a fellow alum of Johns Hopkins and as in the Writing Seminars program. Although we only overlapped briefly, I was so excited to hear the news that he had published his debut novel Foster Dade Explores the Cosmos.
"When Foster Dade arrives at Kennedy, an elite boarding school in New Jersey, the year is 2008. Barack Obama begins his first term as president. Kanye West’s “Graduation” bumps from the newly debuted iPhone; teenagers share confidences and rumors over BlackBerry Messenger and iChat. The internet as we know it today is slowly emerging from its cocoon. So, too, is Foster emerging—a transfer student and lonely young man, Foster is stumbling through adolescence in the wake of his parents’ scandalous divorce and his own budding anxiety disorders. But Foster soon finds himself in the company of Annabeth Whittaker and Jack Albright, the twin centers of Kennedy’s social gravity, who take him under their wing to navigate the cliques and politics of the carelessly entitled.

Eighteen months later, Foster will be expelled, following a tragic scandal that leaves Kennedy and its students irreparably changed. But when a nameless student inherits Foster’s old dorm room, he begins an epic years long investigation into what exactly happened. Through Foster’s blog posts, playlists, text archives, and interviews with former classmates, and the narrator’s own obsessive imagination, a story unfurls—Foster’s, yes, but also one that asks us who owns our personal narratives, and how we shape ourselves to be the heroes or villains of our own stories.

Foster Dade Explores the Cosmos is about privilege and power, the pitfalls of masculinity and its expectations, and, most distinctly, how we create the mythologies that give meaning to our lives. With his debut novel, Nash Jenkins brilliantly captures the emotional intensities of adolescence in the dizzying early years of the twenty-first century."

Like myself, Nash as a new sophomore at a prestigious boarding school in New Jersey, and his time at Lawrenceville made an incredible impact on his life and his writing. In this podcast interview, Nash and I talk about the unique and complex nature of the boarding school experience, as well as the perfect and painful process of being a teenager with little sense of direction. I can honestly say that Foster Dade is one of the most beautiful and powerful books I have read in a very long time (and I have been reading a lot). To learn more about Nash and to buy his new book, you can visit:
www.nashjenkins.com/ and follow him on Instagram @pnashjenkins.
Jun 26, 202301:19:14
EP141: LEO MASSEY - Is It Cultural Or Is It Concerning?

EP141: LEO MASSEY - Is It Cultural Or Is It Concerning?

This week I am so excited to share my conversation with Leo Massey! Leo is also pursuing his Master's in Social Work at Columbia University, and we bonded over our shared fascination of psychoanalyzing our families. In this episode, Leo and I talk about the role that culture plays when it comes to mental health and the stigma surrounding it. Furthermore, because Leo previously worked in the entertainment industry, we discuss the power that the media has in representation of all forms. You can follow Leo and his journey towards become a licensed therapyt on Instagram @msw_leo.
Jun 13, 202358:44
EP140: BROOKE SIEM - May Cause Side Effects

EP140: BROOKE SIEM - May Cause Side Effects

This week I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to sit down with Brooke Siem, award-winning chef, writer, and author of the memoir May Cause Side Effects.
Brooke Siem was among the first generation of minors to be prescribed antidepressants. Initially diagnosed and treated in the wake of her father’s sudden death, this psychiatric intervention sent a message that something was pathologically wrong with her and that the only “fix” was medication. As a teenager, she stepped into the hazy world of antidepressants just at the time when she was forming the foundation of her identity. For the following fifteen years, every situation she faced was seen through the lens of brokenness. A decade and a half later, still on the same cocktail of drugs, Brooke found herself hanging halfway out her Manhattan high-rise window, calculating the time it would take to hit the ground. As she looked for breaks in the pedestrian traffic patterns, a thought dawned on her: “I’ve spent half my life—and my entire adult life—on antidepressants. Who might I be without them?”
Unfurled against a global backdrop, May Cause Side Effects is the gripping story of what happened when, after fifteen years and 32,760 pills, Brooke was faced with a profound choice that plunged her into a year of excruciating antidepressant withdrawal and forced her to rebuild her entire life.
My conversation with Brooke truly opened my eyes to the many issues with our medicated society and the perilous influence of Big Pharma. I would encourage everyone to take a listen to this podcast episode and to read Brooke's memoir. If you are considering waning of prescription medication, be sure to consult with your doctor. To learn more about Brooke, you can follow her on @brookesiem and check out her website:
www.brookesiem.com/
May 22, 202359:00
EP139: STELLA STEPHANOPOULOS - Philosophy on Love and Live from Two Greek Girls

EP139: STELLA STEPHANOPOULOS - Philosophy on Love and Live from Two Greek Girls

This week I have the pleasure of sharing a conversation with my amazing friend and fellow podcaster, Stella Stephanopoulos. My friendship with Stella was kismet, and I feel so incredibly lucky to have her in my life. Stella's unparalleled maturity is deceiving, because she is actually four years younger than I am (and five the wiser). For this reason, Stella and I decided to record an episode where we could discuss the lessons I would give to my 23-year-old self. The topics we covered stemmed from our opinions on love, life, success, and friendship. To learn more about Stella and listen to her podcast, you can follow @stellastephanopoulos and @everydayendorphins on Instagram!
May 15, 202355:18
EP138: MAKENA SAGE - Mean Girl Mentality and Recovering from Friendship Breakups

EP138: MAKENA SAGE - Mean Girl Mentality and Recovering from Friendship Breakups

This week I sat down with Makena Sage to talk about friendships. Makena is a life coach, business strategist, and "reinvention catalyst" who helps women step into who they are meant to be so they can live lives beyond their wildest dreams. Makena has been broke & hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt. She's made millions through her businesses. She's gone from crippling anxiety, panic attacks and burnout to living a life of pleasure, prosperity and fulfillment. She is on a mission to help women everywhere break free of the burnout cycle, make more money than they know what to do with, and create epic lives that are a 10 out of 10 in every area. I met Makena back in early February when I returned to Austin after a two month hiatus. We immediately hit it off after sharing our own stories about friendship fallouts and experiencing "mean girl mentality" while in our twenties. In this podcast episode, Makena explains how "mean girl mentality" manifests and provides advice for anyone going through a breakup with a friend. To anyone who is currently struggling with an experience like the one that Makena and I experienced, please know that you are not alone. To learn more about Makena, you can follow her on Instagram @makenasage or, if you would like to work with her in a coaching capacity, check out her website: https://www.followyouraliveness.com/
May 01, 202301:12:58
EP137: DR. SARAH CHURCH - How To Re-Evaluate Your Relationship With Alcohol

EP137: DR. SARAH CHURCH - How To Re-Evaluate Your Relationship With Alcohol

This week I spoke with Dr. Sarah Church, the founder and executive director of Wholeview Wellness. Dr. Church is a clinical psychologist who has more than 20 years of experience in research, program development and treatment of patients with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. Before starting Wholeview Wellness, Dr. Church served as the Executive Director of the Division of Substance Abuse at Montefiore Medical Center and as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine for 16 years.
She completed a predoctoral fellowship in addiction at the Yale University School of Medicine and a postdoctoral year at the Substance Treatment and Research Service (STARS) at Columbia University Medical Center after graduating from Fordham University with a doctorate in clinical psychology and from Columbia University with an AB in psychology.
Dr. Church was appointed by Mayors Bloomberg and De Blasio to the NYC-DOHMH Community Services Board and serves on the Board of the Coalition of Medication Assisted Treatment Providers and Advocates (COMPA). She is a Past President for the Division of Substance Abuse at the New York State Psychological Association (NYSPA). Internationally, she has provided consultation to the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for both Vietnam and Afghanistan as they develop medication assisted treatment centers in their countries.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found the following within American adults over the last year:

Nearly 67% drank alcohol within the last month;
28.6 million Americans were living with alcohol dependence; and
Less than 10% of people with past-year alcohol dependence receive any treatment.

National Alcohol Screening Day is April 6, a chance for to rethink your relationship with alcohol and its effects on your physical and mental well-being. Now is the time to dive in and help your audience learn more about the consequences of heavy drinking, screening tools available, and treatments available for those seeking help.
Apr 17, 202356:36
EP136: SOLO - 23 Things I Learned About Alcohol Once I Quit Drinking

EP136: SOLO - 23 Things I Learned About Alcohol Once I Quit Drinking

Today I am officially 100 days sober! I seriously can't even believe that I have this huge milestone to celebrate. It seems like just yesterday that I was hitting the three-week mark. I've been wanting to record this episode for a while now, because there are truly so many things I've learned about alcohol (and sobriety for that matter) since I stopped drinking. If any of this resonates with you, maybe consider taking a month, week, or even a day without consuming alcohol. If you choose to do so, let me know how it goes!
When I first stopped drinking, I re-downloaded the app "I Am Sober" to start tracking my sobriety journey and ensure that I had something to hold myself accountable. Each day when you make a pledge to refrain from alcohol, the app gives you a fun little quote for motivation. On January 1st, the prompt I received was, "Not all storms come to disrupt your life. Some come to clear your path." That quote has stuck with me over the past 100 days. I truly feel that the chaotic shit storm that was New Year Eve cleared a path to a new chapter of life. I'll be honest, whenever I used to hear my sober friends talking about how quitting drinking was the best choice they ever made, I used to think they were exaggerating. Now, I can confidently tell you that, if they feel the same way I do, they were 100% serious. I truly feel that I am a better friend, daughter, sister, and person without alcohol. Without a doubt, quitting drinking was the best decision I ever made for myself.
Apr 10, 202301:00:16
EP135: ARIELLA GROSSE - How to Find Your Therapist Soulmate

EP135: ARIELLA GROSSE - How to Find Your Therapist Soulmate

This week we're going back to basics with my friend and mentor, Ariella Grosse! I first met Ariella when I was looking into graduate schools for social work and was in desperate need of assistance in navigating the application process. At the time, Ariella was a first-year MSW student at the Columbia School of Social Work, and she was instrumental in my decision to apply and ultimately be accepted into this program! Now Ariella is a full-time psychotherapist at Prescott Psychotherapy and Wellness. Associates in New York City. In this episode, Ariella walks through the best way to find a therapist and explains the nuances between different types of mental health professionals (LCSWs, LMHCs, LPCs, LMSWs, etc.) as well as the various therapeutic modalities (CBT, DBT, ACT, etc.) She also provides advice on the best questions you should be asking your prospective therapist on that initial (FREE!) phone call consultation! If you're interested in learning more about Ariella and possibly working with her directly, you can follow her on Instagram @ariellagrosselmsw.
Mar 20, 202352:39
EP134: ANNIE GRACE - This Naked Mind

EP134: ANNIE GRACE - This Naked Mind

Today I am so excited to share my conversation with Annie Grace, who is the author of This Naked Mind, a science-based and compassion-led approach to reinvent your relationship with alcohol.
At 26, Annie Grace was the youngest Vice President in a multinational company’s history, and her drinking career began in earnest; by 35, she was in a global C-level marketing role, responsible for 28 countries. Drinking close to two bottles of wine a night became a ritual. Annie Grace’s professional success came at a personal price she no longer wanted to pay. She knew alcohol was no longer serving her. Yet, she didn’t want to suffer through life in a daily battle for sobriety, feeling deprived and constantly trying to avoid temptation.
Annie Grace revamped her own relationship with alcohol — she stripped it of its power and changed her beliefs about booze being a reward — and today she helps others across the globe do the same. Her approach helps people where rehabs have not. She’s created a brand new way to look at the role of alcohol in our lives, establishing a safe space for those who question their drinking but haven’t self-diagnosed as alcoholics stuck in denial of an incurable disease. Annie Grace preaches compassion, knowing its power over shame and blame is the best way to achieve lasting change. And, she offers a proven alternative to the largely ineffective recipe for so-called “success”—the one that says anything less than 100% abstinence is failure. Annie Grace doesn’t teach people how to be sober; she helps them quash their desire to drink in the first place.
You can learn more about Annie and the This Naked Mind Community by going to
thisnakedmind.com or following @thisnakedmind on Instagram!
Mar 13, 202354:28
EP133: JOANNE IRIZARRY - Nothing To Wine About

EP133: JOANNE IRIZARRY - Nothing To Wine About

She's back! When I decided to become alcohol-free, the first person to reach out and congratulate me was the one and only Joanne Irizarry. I met Joanne two years ago when I invited her to be a guest on my podcast and talk about A Safe Place Inside Your Head, a non-profit she co-founded to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Since then, Joanne has been a friend, a mentor, and a mother figure for me in Austin. With her deep-seated entrepreneurial spirit, no pun-intended, Joanne has decided to help share he knowledge of zero-proof wines with the Austin community. In this episode, Joanne and I try eight different N/A wines and give our honest opinions of them. Be sure to check out the YouTube video to see what the wines look like in real life! And don't forget to follow Joanne at @therealjoanneirizarry, @zeroproofatx, @thesocialclubatx, and @asafeplaceinsideyourhead.
Mar 06, 202352:25
EP132: SARAH LEVY - Blackouts, the Bachelor, and Aaron Burr

EP132: SARAH LEVY - Blackouts, the Bachelor, and Aaron Burr

This week I am so excited to share my conversation with Sarah Levy, a writer and author who explores sobriety, relationships, culture, and identity. Sarah has appeared in The New York Times, TIME, The Cut, Vogue, Glamour, Elle, Refinery29, and Cosmopolitan, among other publications. She just released her first book, a memoir called Drinking Games, where she discusses her journey to sobriety, among so many other things. Sarah's memoir resonated with me in a way that's difficult to even describe. I encourage EVERYONE to listen to this episode -- whether or not you are even considering going sober. I promise you will find solace in her words. You can follow Sarah on Instagram @sarahllevy and be sure to buy her book Drinking Games!
Feb 27, 202301:04:53
EP131: CARL RADKE - Alcohol's Leading Role in Reality Television

EP131: CARL RADKE - Alcohol's Leading Role in Reality Television

I am officially 50 days sober! And what better way to celebrate than by releasing a new episode with Carl Radke from Bravo's Summer House!
Summer House is a reality show featuring about ten professionals in their twenties and thirties who work in Manhattan and spend their summer weekends in a share house in Montauk. The show centers around the drama that inevitably unfolds over the course of the summer and the season. Carl has been a member of the cast since its 2017 inception, and the world has watched him go through numerous ups and downs. Perhaps one of the most heartbreaking of these intimate moments occurred in Season 6, when Carl discovered that his older brother had passed away from an overdose after a long battle with addiction and mental illness. The death of Carl's brother was a major reason why the reality TV star decided to reexamine his own drinking habits and eventually cut alcohol out of his life for good.
In this episode, I speak to Carl about his experience becoming sober after enduring such a tragedy. We also dive into other topics, including the invaluable role that alcohol plays in reality television. Be sure to listen to our conversation and then watch the newest episode of Summer House tonight at 9:00 PM EST. You can also follow Carl on Instagram @carlradke.
Feb 20, 202301:06:06
EP130: LINDSEY METSELAAR - We Met In Recovery

EP130: LINDSEY METSELAAR - We Met In Recovery

This week, in the spirit of Valentine's Day, I was so lucky to have Lindsey Metselaar BACK on the podcast. Lindsey is the host of one of my favorite podcasts of all time, We Met At Acme. Three years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Lindsey and talk about when and if we should disclose our mental health conditions while dating. (Check out the episode titled "We Met At Therapy" to hear the OG conversation). This week, Lindsey discusses her own journey to sobriety and answers some burning question I have about sober dating. Be sure to follow Lindsey and her podcast @lindzmetz and @wemetatacme, respectively. We Met At Acme has a new episode every Sunday!
Feb 13, 202345:03
EP129: ELIZABETH DOPP - Why Becoming Sober Is a Reward and Not a Punishment

EP129: ELIZABETH DOPP - Why Becoming Sober Is a Reward and Not a Punishment

I have officially hit my one month of sobriety milestone! For the first time in a really long time, I feel truly proud of myself for putting my mind to something and sticking with it. My conversation with Elizabeth was definitely a motivating factor to help me push through the tough days, and I am so grateful that she agreed to be a guest on Solace and the City. In this episode, Elizabeth talks about her previous life as a party girl and why she decided to stop drinking. We also talk a lot about the intersection between mental health and "alcoholism" (I am using quotes because I still haven't decided what this term means to me). Before she quit drinking, Elizabeth thought that she had some sort of mood disorder because of the way her temper would drastically change after a glass or two. Now, she realizes that alcohol was not so much a coping tool to deal with her mental health conditions but rather the cause of them. Be sure to check out Elizabeth on TikTok and Instagram @elizabethdopp and elizabeth_dopp, respectively.
Feb 06, 202301:01:21
EP128: CHRIS SHATEK - Sobriety Preserves Our Most Precious Resource

EP128: CHRIS SHATEK - Sobriety Preserves Our Most Precious Resource

I am officially 29 days sober! This is also an exciting time for me to share my conversation with Chris Shatek, a Life and Sobriety Coach for High-Functioning Drinkers.
Before becoming a life coach, Chris spent over 20 years in the radio business as an on-air personality. He entertained hundreds of thousands of people and met celebrities from Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Hulk Hogan, and Will Smith. While he loved his job in radio broadcasting, he wanted to do something that was more fulfilling. But before making this career switch, Chris had to overcome a 15-year habit of excessive drinking. Now he helps people find the peace that comes when alcohol is no longer running their lives. Chris works with people to change their relationship with alcohol, because what was once his weakness, is now his strength. You can follow Chris on Instagram and TikTok @sobercoachchris!
Jan 30, 202301:08:46
EP127: ALLY MCILWRAITH - Sobriety Gives So Much More Than It Takes

EP127: ALLY MCILWRAITH - Sobriety Gives So Much More Than It Takes

When I first started my sobriety journey, I spent hours scrolling through TikTok to not only search for potential guests, but also to find a sober community that I could lean on in the inevitable tough times that I would face down the road. And then I came across Ally, this beautiful, radiant, successful woman exuding a sense of confidence a self-assurance that I was striving to emulate. At the time, Ally only had one video on TikTok where she talked about her sobriety. However, because she spent the entire 3-minutes talking about all that was to be gained through sobriety rather than what would be lost, Ally was the inspiration I needed to jump into my new life without alcohol.
Without a doubt, my interview with Ally was one of my favorites to date. She shed light on all of the benefits of being sober, the ways in which the binge drinking culture has become so normalized in our society, and how removing alcohol from first dates has made dating so much more productive. (Don't worry -- we'll talk more about sober dating in episodes to come). I encourage everyone who has ever wanted to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol to listen to this episode. I promise you will NOT be disappointed!
Jan 23, 202301:19:16
EP126: CRISSY RODRIGUEZ - Finding Your Inner Child Through Sobriety

EP126: CRISSY RODRIGUEZ - Finding Your Inner Child Through Sobriety

I'm officially fifteen days sober! When I first decided to create this "Solace and Sobriety" series, I spent hours scrolling through TikTok to find the perfect guests. I came across Crissy's profile and was so inspired by her own journey and decided to take a leap and send her a DM. Within a few hours, Crissy agreed to come on the podcast, and I am overjoyed to be sharing our conversation with you all! In this episode, Crissy talks about the ways in which the alcohol industry has made it seem impossible to stop drinking, how being sober has made her a better mother, and how being a mother has taught Crissy to be kinder to herself. You can follow Crissy's journey on TikTok and Instagram @imcrisssyrodriguez. 

Jan 16, 202301:20:30
EP125: HOPE WOODARD - Finding Connection and Community Through Sobriety

EP125: HOPE WOODARD - Finding Connection and Community Through Sobriety

I am officially one-week sober! In this week's episode, I had the incredible opportunity of interviewing my friend Hope Woodard to learn more about her decision to cut out alcohol from her life. We talked about SO much, including Hope's views on the gray areas of sobriety, the ways in which meme culture has normalized binge drinking, dating while sober, how alcoholism leads to disconnection with oneself and one's friends, and so much more. A huge theme of this podcast episode can be summarized by a quote I recently heard from Dr. Brené Brown: "The opposite of alcoholism isn't sobriety. The opposite of alcoholism is connection." I left my conversation with Hope feeling a huge sense of serenity, relief, and, one might say, solace. You can keep up with Hope's life by following her on TikTok and Instagram @justhopinalong :)
Jan 09, 202301:16:13
EP124: SOLO - Sobering Thoughts

EP124: SOLO - Sobering Thoughts

New Year, New Beginnings? In this solo episode, I discuss a recent life choice that I have decided to make after months, even years, of reflection. To be completely honest, this may have been one of the most difficult recordings that I have ever released. However, I truly hope that sharing my thoughts with the world not only holds me accountable for my actions but also resonates with anyone who is going through a situation similar to my own.
2023 is going to be a year of implementing new habits, incorporating lifestyle changes, and learnings from incredible people who have accomplished something I have just begun to dip my toes in: sobriety.
Jan 02, 202314:44
EP123: SOLO - The Life Update That No One Asked For

EP123: SOLO - The Life Update That No One Asked For

...But maybe you'll listen? In this 22-minute episode I talk about my return to Austin, my new life as a graduate student, my intense field work placement, my part-time job, and many meltdowns I've had in the past two months. I hope to shed some insight into how I'm navigating a difficult time in my life and share that recovery from anything isn't linear. At the end of the episode, I ask for feedback on what I should be sharing on Solace and the City while I'm unable to have weekly podcast episodes. Anyways, I hope those who listen enjoy!
Oct 03, 202223:10
EP122: NATALIE MCMILLAN - The Baddest Bitches Do The Most Good

EP122: NATALIE MCMILLAN - The Baddest Bitches Do The Most Good

This week I had the incredible opportunity of interviewing eclectic jewelry designer and lifetime creative, Natalie McMillan! Natalie is the founder and sole creative behind her namesake lifestyle brand Natalie McMillan. Using her affinity for artistry, Natalie works across a number of mediums focusing on unique and slightly off-beat pieces. In this episode, Natalie walks me through her creative career which began in 2016 by handcrafting jewelry pieces in her hot, crowded garage in the Bay Area. She quickly built a deep connection with her customer base which encouraged her to expand her brand to include art, apparel, and fragrances.
Natalie creates as she lives- with an outpouring of fun, love, and kindness. Her passion for inclusivity emanates throughout her brand by manufacturing her products exclusively with women, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people of color. Natalie loves challenging the status quo in all aspects of life.
Towards the latter part of this episode, Natalie talks about her mental health journey and explains how battling Type 1 Diabetes has impacted her childhood and young adult life.
Natalie and her lifestyle brand have been featured in top publications such as Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Vanity Fair Hollywood, and Vogue where one beauty editor dubbed Natalie’s Blood Sugar Baby scent as their favorite perfume (and it’s been selling out ever since)! Puma Swim used Natalie’s jewelry line exclusively in their 2021 campaign.
Jul 25, 202257:14
EP121: KEAUNO (KEKE) PEREZ - Twentysomethings and the City

EP121: KEAUNO (KEKE) PEREZ - Twentysomethings and the City

This week I had the absolute pleasure of inviting my friend Keauno (also known as Keke) Perez to be on Solace and the City! You may know Keke from his appearance on the Netflix reality show called Twentysomethings in Austin that premiered in December of last year. I've gotten to know Keke personally by virtue of living in this fantastic city, so I was so excited when he agreed to share his story on the podcast! In this episode, I ask Keauno to talk about what led him to apply to be on a reality television show and how the experience lived up (or surpassed) his expectations. Keke goes on to talk about how transformative this past year was for him and what it was like to publicly come out on national television. In just six months, Keke has continued to blossom into a stronger and more confident version of himself, while continuing to be one of the kindest and most lovable humans I have ever met in my life. Be sure to follow Keke on Instagram at @keaunoperez !
Jul 11, 202255:32
EP120: DR. JULIA STEINBERG - Mental Health in a Post-Roe America

EP120: DR. JULIA STEINBERG - Mental Health in a Post-Roe America

This week I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Julia Steinberg, an Associate Professor of Family Science at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, to unpack the effect of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade on women's mental health.  Julia Steinberg received a PhD in social psychology in 2008 from Arizona State University and completed the Charlotte-Ellertson postdoctoral fellow in reproductive health from 2008 to 2011 in the Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Steinberg then was a faculty in the Department of Psychiatry at UCSF from 2011 to 2014. In January 2015, she joined the Department of Family Science. Steinberg's research is largely at the interplay of mental health and reproductive events or experiences. 

One line of research, which we talk about in depth, examines whether abortion causes or increases the risk of mental health problems. Another line of research we discuss looks at the role of mental health in unintended pregnancy.   Also, make sure to check out Aid Access, an organization that supports women, girls, trans men, nonbinary and all people with an unwanted pregnancy to access an abortion or miscarriage treatment -- https://aidaccess.org/en/

Jul 05, 202246:52
EP119: NATALIA OCHOA - We're All Psychic

EP119: NATALIA OCHOA - We're All Psychic

This week I have a very special episode for you all!  I sat down with Natalia Ochoa, a Psychic Medium and spiritual mentor, who talked about her profession and even gave me a reading at the end! Through her infinite curiosity in metaphysics, Natalia trained to develop her Psychic and Healing abilities to be able to  bring a spiritual and heart-centered spin to media and business.  Now she works with clients and companies to strengthen their intuitive power through metaphysical practices like psychic channeling, astrology, hypnotherapy, feminine embodiment and somatic therapy. Natalia's main mission is to to demystify spirituality and guide you towards your empowerment, intuition and self mastery.  Natalia began her professional career as an actress and evolved into a seasoned activist and intuitive healer. Through her work, she has lead people to create conscious and transformative change.  

This was by far one of the most interesting and unique conversations I have had on Solace and the City, and I am so excited to be sharing it with you all today!  To learn more about Natalia, you can check her out on Instagram at @natalia.ochoa_ or visit her website https://www.nataliaochoa.com/ 

Jun 27, 202201:05:20
EP118: PARKER FOSTER - Progress Starts with Conversation
Jun 20, 202201:02:24
EP117: GIGI ROBINSON - Sports Ill-ustrated

EP117: GIGI ROBINSON - Sports Ill-ustrated

This week I had the honor of speaking with Gigi Robinson, a digital artist, health & wellness advocate, current M.S. Candidate at the University of Southern California, and the first Sports Illustrated Model who openly battles a chronic illness.  In this episode, I speak with Gigi about the work ethic, ambition, and tenacity that helped her transition her photography skills into those that create an impact through storytelling.  Part of Gigi's story includes a chronic illness that she was diagnosed with at age 11.  Gigi suffers with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos, which causes her to have extreme pain and extreme fatigue. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of hereditary disorders that affect the body's connective tissues, like skin, joints, and blood-vessel walls. EDS can cause chronic pain, injury susceptibility, and slow healing, among other symptoms.  Despite all of the physical and psychological challenges that threatened the path to becoming who she is today, Gigi has challenged adversity and dedicated a majority of her life to become a master content creator, always keeping her values of creating positive and impactful messages to my diverse audience as a priority.  You can follow Gigi on Instagram and TikTok @itsgigirobinson and check out her new podcast on Spotify called "Everything You Need is Within"!
Jun 13, 202239:06
EP116: MADDY PRICE - Runner's Highs and Lows

EP116: MADDY PRICE - Runner's Highs and Lows

Maddy Price was born to two Canadian parents which allowed her to compete for the Canadian Team in Track and Field. Maddy is a 400 meter sprinter and 4x400 relay specialist who graduated from Duke University in 2018 and completed a Masters of Management Studies in 2019 while supporting the track and field team through volunteer coaching up until June 2021.
Maddy just barely missed the 2016 Canadian Olympic Team, the last race her dad ever saw, but then set her sights on Tokyo. Her road to Tokyo was filled with uncertainty, as she dealt with the passing of her dad from cancer, coming back from foot surgery a year before the Games, and navigating the global pandemic. Despite the odds, she made the Canadian 4x400 Olympic team and went on to run her fastest time ever in the finals with their team placing 4th. Far more important than the accomplishment of becoming an Olympian, is how she approached the process. With her family, and especially her dad, as inspiration, Maddy has always prioritized her relationships, staying present, and giving her best to everything she does. Maddy is an advocate and a mentor for the next generation of young female athletes through Voice In Sport, an advocacy platform providing resources and mentorship for girls in sport and through her work in 2020 with CAN Fund #150Women, a non-profit dedicated to helping Canadian female athletes be the best in the world.
In this episode with Maddy, we talk about her running career from childhood, to Duke, to a professional and now as an Olympian. We cover her emotional responses to the many steps in that process, and the mental habits that have allowed her to be successful. She is a ray of sunshine, and has so many nuggets about how to mentally approach sport and life. You can follow Maddy at @maddypriceless on Instagram and TikTok, and check out the video of Maddy’s journey to Tokyo here:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3xtzpqhdpg
Jun 06, 202240:43
EP115: JOANNE IRIZARRY - Do It Scared

EP115: JOANNE IRIZARRY - Do It Scared

We are BACK! After a brief hiatus, I am so excited to share the recording of our first live podcast with Joanne Irizarry of A Safe Place Inside Your Head. If you have been following Solace and the City since its inception, you may remember when I first met and recorded with Joanne during March of 2021. This past week, I had the privilege of speaking with Joanne again at Soho House Austin for an event honoring Mental Health Awareness Month. In this episode, Joanne reviews the mission of her mental health non-profit and updates me on all of the exciting things that she has been doing over this past year (including an exciting new app that will be launching soon!)
Joanne is such a special person, so I encourage everyone to listen to this episode and our previous conversation from last year. Make sure to follow @asafeplaceinsideyourhead to support the amazing work that she and Tanner are doing in the mental health community!
CW: This episode contains discussions about suicide and mental illness. I encourage everyone to listen, but be sure to pause the recording and take breaks if need be. Give yourself the grace you need and tune back in when you are ready.
May 31, 202240:06
EP114: EMILY AND LINDSAY STETZER - OCD and Me

EP114: EMILY AND LINDSAY STETZER - OCD and Me

First things first, I wanted to apologize for my two-week hiatus from posting episodes for Solace and the City.  I discuss the reasons for my absence in the intro, but ultimately I can only attribute this to the difficulties of balancing a full-time job with a self-run podcast!  Nevertheless, I am back with an incredible episode featuring the co-founders of Presently, Emily and Lindsay Stetzer.  In this episode, I speak with Emily and Lindsay about their history dealing with OCD and how the obsessions and compulsions that they each battle differ.  As someone who also suffers with OCD, I am able to share my personal experience and how it impacted my childhood and young adult life.  Emily and Lindsay certainly turned lemons into lemonade by creating a jewelry company that pulls from lessons they learned from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT.  You can check out their beautiful creations on https://www.thinkpresently.com/ and follow them on Instagram @thinkpresently.  Finally, I mention a YouTube video towards the end of the episode that had a major impact on my own personal growth.  If you are up for a cry session, check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnKZ4pdSU-s

Mar 14, 202257:47
EP113: ALEXIS HAINES - A Little Bit Alexis

EP113: ALEXIS HAINES - A Little Bit Alexis

This week I am so excited to share my conversation with Alexis Haines. Born Alexis Neiers, this former wild child grew up in the public eye and was involved in the scandal known as "The Bling Ring." Alexis got sober at nineteen years old after facing up to six years in the correctional system due to a burglary conviction. As the star of the E! Reality series Pretty Wild, Alexis became a media sensation after her public meltdown became a viral meme. Her firsthand experience with substance abuse combined with the explosive effects of social media storytelling turned her rock bottom into a reinvention tour; igniting a movement to eradicate shame around the stories that inevitably save us - if we are brave enough to share them with others. Now a mother, doula, wife, writer, and mental health advocate, Alexis knows that whatever your struggle looks like, you are worth the journey back to wholeness. You can learn more about Alexis and her journey by following @itsalexishaines and check out her podcast "Recovering from Reality" wherever you listen to your podcasts!
Feb 22, 202243:38
EP112: TALIA LICHTSTEIN - What If I Can't Love Myself?

EP112: TALIA LICHTSTEIN - What If I Can't Love Myself?

I am fangirling this week! I had the opportunity to virtually sit down with content creator and host of the new podcast called Bad Vibes, Talia Lichtstein! You probably have seen some of Talia's videos on TikTok, where she lists things that she doesn't like or stuff that annoys her. I have found myself gravitating towards Talia's videos due to the relatability of her content and her unapologetic hot takes on life. After being inspired by an episode of Euphoria, I knew she would be the perfect person to unpack a topic that I've long been meaning to discuss on Solace and the City: toxic positivity. In this episode, Talia and I break down the concept of self-love, specifically in how it can be used on social media to gaslight self-conscious consumers of content. In other words, Talia and I believe that if you are going through something difficult or you don't feel 100% confident about yourself, that is TOTALLY normal! Be sure to give Talia a follow @talialichtstein and make sure to check out her brand new podcast with Betches Media called Bad Vibes!
Feb 14, 202257:20
EP111: VANESSA REISER - What You Didn't Know About Narcissists

EP111: VANESSA REISER - What You Didn't Know About Narcissists

This week I had the honor to record with Vanessa Reiser, 2X Ironman, Ultra-Marathoner, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker focusing on Narcissistic abuse. Last May, Vanessa ran across the state of New York to raise awareness about narcissistic abuse - that's about 23 miles each day! In this episode, I ask Vanessa to provide some red flags to look out for that might indicate narcissistic tendencies, and she shares the story behind her epic 300-mile journey. Be sure to give Vanessa a follow @vanessareiserlcsw and check out her therapy practice at tellatherapist.net!
Feb 07, 202241:40
EP110: TORI PENTA - Wellness: Mindset or Merchandise?

EP110: TORI PENTA - Wellness: Mindset or Merchandise?

This week I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Tori Penta, a friend, colleague, and overall badass human being. Tori is a certified life coach and works with her clients to cultivate the best practices to maintain physical and mental wellness. I brought Tori on to help me unpack a topic that's been on my mind for a while. Wellness has grown from budding personal health concept to a $4.2 trillion global industry. My question for Tori is: how can we discern fact from fiction? At what point does the concept of wellness lose its authenticity? If you're interested in learning more about recent wellness trends that can actually HELP you with your daily routine, definitely tune into this episode because Tori has a ton of tips! You can also learn more about Tori by following her on Instagram @toripenta !
Jan 31, 202255:50
EP109: SARAH MERRILL HALL - Big Kid Solutions

EP109: SARAH MERRILL HALL - Big Kid Solutions

This week I had the incredible honor of speaking with Sarah Merrill Hall, the creator of the popular brand and podcast, Big Kid Problems! For those who don't know, @Bigkidproblems started as an anonymous Twitter account from the basement of Sarah's sorority house during her senior year of college. Applying for jobs and realizing that she was less-than-prepared for adult life, Big Kid Problems became an outlet and one of Sarah's favorite hobbies. Eight years and over 500k followers later, Big Kid Problems has been with Sarah through every step of her 20-something life. Much like myself, Sarah has endured bad roommates, tiny paychecks, horrible bosses, and sucky first dates. And much like Solace and the City, Big Kid Problems has taught Sarah that we are all together in the struggle of navigating adulthood. Make sure to check out The Big Kid Problems Podcast and Bottle Service, to learn more about Sarah and her journey as a soon-to-be mom!
Jan 17, 202247:51
EP108: STELLA STEPHANOPOULOS - Feeling 2022

EP108: STELLA STEPHANOPOULOS - Feeling 2022

Who here made some New Year’s intentions? (That’s right — not resolutions!) This week I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with my dear friend and fellow podcaster Stella Stephanopoulos. We talk about what we learned in the past year, what we want to leave behind, and what we want to bring into 2022! Stella is wise beyond her years, so be sure to take a listen to this episode, as there is so much to be gained! And be sure to check out Stella’s awesome podcast “Everyday Endorphins” wherever you listen to your podcasts!
Jan 10, 202201:06:01
EP107: SATC and TMM - Unpacking 2021

EP107: SATC and TMM - Unpacking 2021

Happy New Year, Solace and the City Family! This week we have a very special crossover episode with Schuyler DeBree and Kat Zempolich of The Mental Matchup! Together we took some time to reflect on this past year and some things that we learned from the various guests we brought on to our respective podcasts. We discuss the common threads between our missions, the topics that kept popping up, our thoughts on the mental health stigma and how everyone copes differently, some of our favorite episodes and guests, and our intentions for the new year. This episode does not merely showcase a reflection on our podcasts, but it also highlights the ways in which we all have changed as individuals over the past year, and how we plan to move forward in podcasting and in life. Make sure to follow @morgansmessage and @thementalmatchup on Instagram and listen to The Mental Matchup wherever you get your podcasts!
Jan 03, 202201:08:22
EP106: JACQUELINE TRUMBULL - Will You Accept This Trauma?

EP106: JACQUELINE TRUMBULL - Will You Accept This Trauma?

This week I had ANOTHER absolutely incredible conversation with Jacqueline Trumbull!  Jacqueline is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology at Duke University and was able to share her insight into some very important mental health topics.  Being that Jacqueline is both a psychology student and a Bachelor alum, she is able to speak to the ways in which the franchise commercializes vulnerability in a way that's unhealthy for all parties involved.  We discuss the differences between authentic vulnerability and oversharing and how these two forms of communication impact our platonic and romantic relationships.  Jacqueline also has a mental health podcast called A Little Help For Our Friends, where she offers advice on how to speak to and care for loved ones with mental illness.  To learn more about Jacqueline and her podcast, follow @Trumbullina on Instagram!

Please note, this podcast episode and any and all content or services available on or through this episode are provided for general, noncommercial informational purposes only, and do not constitute the practice of medical or any other professional judgment, advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered or used as a substitute for the independent professional judgment, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a duly licensed and qualified healthcare provider. In case of a medical emergency, you should immediately call 911. The information provided here is not a reflection of Duke University.

Dec 20, 202101:05:28
EP105: NIGEL ROXBURY - These Streets Will Make You Feel Brand New

EP105: NIGEL ROXBURY - These Streets Will Make You Feel Brand New

These past few weeks I have been home for the holidays, which means I have been spending a lot of my time in New York City. As some of you know, I started this podcast in many ways to help me find my place in the concrete jungle after a pretty lonely year of my life. Solace and the City was instrumental in bringing me out of my shell and helping me re-fall in love with New York. I truly never thought I would leave. Unfortunately, living in the city during the first year of a global pandemic brought back the feeling of all-consuming loneliness, and not even my podcast could make that go away. When I moved to Austin, I still had a feeling of anger and resentment towards a place that was once my favorite city in the world. However, these past few weeks have shed light on how much I truly missed New York and why I fell in love with the city in the first place. It's safe to say that being in NYC has truly allowed me to be home for the holidays.
This week I was so lucky to sit down with content creator and New York City enthusiast, Chris Murch (a.k.a. Nigel Roxbury.) Despite originally moving from Austin (Hook 'Em!), Chris has always been fascinated by the story behind the most interesting and historical city in the country. He thus started making Tik Tok content to share his knowledge about NYC, which has quickly made him one of the top New York Specific creators on the platform. His passion and love for the city is infectious, and I feel truly honored to have had the opportunity to learn from him. To keep up with Chris, you can follow him on Instagram or Tik Tok @nigelroxbury -- and be sure to check out his music as well!
Dec 13, 202149:16
EP104: ILANA DUNN - Dating Sucks (But It Doesn't Have To!)

EP104: ILANA DUNN - Dating Sucks (But It Doesn't Have To!)

I am TOTALLY fangirling, because this past weekend I got to sit down and record with the host of one of my favorite dating podcasts, Ilana Dunn!  Ilana is such a badass -- she went from a successful career in the music industry to working directly with Nick Jonas, and then ultimately she landed a job which essentially made her the face of Hinge. (Anyone heard of it?) Working for a dating app helped Ilana realize how much of an impact she could have by helping the hopelessly romantic navigate the murky, tumultuous waters of dating in NYC.  She opened up about her personal breakups and heartbreaks to help show people that they were not alone in their romantic struggles.  Now, Ilana channels her compassion for helping people into her awesome podcast, Seeing Other People!  You can check our Ilana on Instagram @ilana.dunn and listen to Seeing Other People wherever you find your podcasts!

Dec 06, 202158:38
EP103: INDIA OXENBERG - Nightmare at NXIVM

EP103: INDIA OXENBERG - Nightmare at NXIVM

This week, I had the privilege of speaking with India Oxenberg, activist, author, film producer, and former member of the NXIVM cult.  At age 19, India and her mother attended a session of lectures that were part of the "Executive Success Program."  Much like Sarah Edmondson, a former guest of Solace and the City, India had no idea that this program would change the course of her life forever.  During our conversation, India discussed the horrific manipulation tactics orchestrated by Keith Raniere and Allison Mack, which ultimately caused her to lose sight of reality and remain faithful to the NXIVM cult.  When she came across flash drives containing audio of Raniere masterminding DOS’s darkest details, India was finally able to see the light.  In October of 2020, India released a four-part Starz docuseries called Seduced that she executive produced.  The documentary gives audiences a more three-dimensional portrait of her, negating the media headlines that dismissed her as “a cult girl” or a “sex slave.”  India also wrote a book about her experiences that she titled Still Learning, which is available on Audible.

I had such an incredible time speaking to India, and I encourage you all to watch Seduced, listen to Still Learning, and follow India on Instagram. 

Nov 29, 202154:50
EP102: MITCHELL DAVIS - Keep Austin Wired

EP102: MITCHELL DAVIS - Keep Austin Wired

This week I had the opportunity to record with a local Austin musician, Mitchell Davis! I actually first met Mitchell when I was walking on the pedestrian bridge in downtown Austin. My friend Cole was about to propose to his girlfriend, so I asked Mitchell if he would be willing to play a song for them when he got down on one knee, and he agreed without hesitation! After such an incredible encounter, I obviously had to invite him to come on the podcast! In this episode, Mitchell and I talk about what motivated him to become a musician and how he has acclimated to the Austin scene. Make sure to listen to the end of the episode to hear Mitchell's incredible voice! To learn more about Mitchell, you can check him out on Instagram at @mitchelldavismusic.
Nov 22, 202147:47