• *BONUS* Childfree by Choice: Breaking free of societal norms to build the life you want
    Nov 29 2024
    This week we're having an important conversation about living child-free with special guest Paulette Erato. We're breaking away from societal expectations and exploring the empowering decision to live life on your own terms. This episode will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of traditional norms bearing down on their shoulders. It’s about reclaiming your right to choose your path, embracing your authentic self, and finding joy in the freedom that comes from living childfree. About Paulette: As the host and creator of the biweekly Spanglish-language podcast La Vida Más Chévere de Childfree Latinas, Paulette Erato aims to dismantle the many toxic ideas perpetuated by Latinidad and American culture. There's nothing wrong with being proud of one's heritage, but that comes with a responsibility for combating and healing the unsavory or even dangerous parts of it, too--all so we can live our best lives! Connect with Paulette: Instagram and TikTok: @pauletteerato YouTube: https://youtube.com/@LaVidaMasChevere Connect with Katie: https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/ Join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • 61: Radical Life Design: How to Move Abroad and Create a Life You Love with Richelle Gamlam
    Nov 22 2024
    Hey party people! In this episode, I chat with founder of Move Abroad Coach Richelle Gamlam, about international moves and designing a life you love. As someone planning a move to Europe, this conversation really hit home for me. Richelle shares her journey of living abroad, what it means to create a fulfilling life on your own terms, and how to tackle the logistics, fears, and mindset shifts that come with big life changes. What We Touched On: Richelle shared how her move to China, including an initial rough start, led her to develop her coaching business. Connect with Me: Instagram @ditchtheickpod -> https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod Join our facebook community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick Connect with Richelle: Follow Richelle on Instagram: @moveabroadcoach -> https://www.instagram.com/moveabroadcoach Check out the Move Abroad Coach Podcast -> https://open.spotify.com/show/7r5mTbobi6ssNWfbXxNVt9 Start your move abroad journey with Richelle’s Move Abroad Crash Course at moveabroadcourse.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • 60: Amplifying Your Voice: Navigating Politics, Power, and Personal Stories in an Unprecedented World
    Nov 15 2024
    I’m back with a solo episode where we’re getting real about speaking up and navigating life when things feel a bit, well, wild. I might not be the loudest voice in the room, but I’m here to get vocal about the things that matter – setting boundaries, getting involved, and staying true to yourself when the world wants you to shrink. Key Takeaways: • Finding & Using Your Voice: Speaking up isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. I’m sharing how to use your voice effectively, whether it’s at work, with friends, or out in the community. Change doesn’t happen if we stay silent. • Boundaries, But Make It Real: Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” – it’s about knowing what you stand for and holding firm even in tough conversations. I’m breaking down how I keep things real with people who see the world differently. •Local Change, Big Impact: Want to make a difference? Start small. I talk about the power of getting involved locally, supporting causes that align with your values, and why small actions matter more than we think. •The Magic of Storytelling & Listening: It’s not all about shouting from the rooftops – sometimes it’s about sharing your story and truly listening to others. I explore how personal experiences can inspire change and build connection. • Self-Care While Speaking Out: No one said making a difference was easy. I get into why taking care of yourself while you’re out there speaking up is crucial. Because burnout? We’re not doing that. •Community is Key: Remember, you’re not doing this alone. Connect with Me Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheick for more relatable takes, and a community that’s all about real talk and real change. Let’s keep it going! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    26 mins
  • 59: Disney Effed My Love Life: How Disney movies have impacted how our generation views love and relationships
    Nov 8 2024
    Disney movies taught us to dream big about love—but did those dreamy storylines secretly mess us up? This week, Ditch the Ick dives into how Disney’s fairytales may have warped our expectations for real-life relationships. AND we have a special guest back on the mic: my bestie, Jersey! Together, we’re peeling back the layers of “happily ever after” to figure out what Disney got wrong (and maybe what it got a little right). Highlights: The Disney Effect: How movies convinced us that love should be instant, magical, and oh-so-easy. Unrealistic Standards: Why expecting a Prince Charming might have us missing out on real, messy love. “Happily Ever After”: Why the fairytale ending is the biggest myth and how to embrace reality. Red Flags in Disney: Revisiting some classic characters (Prince Eric, we’re talking to you) to see how Disney skipped over some serious relationship icks. Why You’ll Love This Episode: If you’ve ever found yourself disappointed that love doesn’t look like it does in movies, this one’s for you! Jersey and I are here to ditch the ick and help you reclaim a healthier, more realistic view on love. Follow me on instagram @dithctheick and Join our facebook community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • 58: From Pancake Fiascos to Soulmates: Real-Life Dating Disasters and Happy Endings
    Nov 1 2024
    Just because Halloween was yesterday doesn't mean spooky season is over. Today’s episode is loaded with dating horror stories—from pancake fails to soulmate wins! Think your dating life’s a circus? Trust me, you’re not alone! Get a sneak peek at upcoming episodes, including an interview with a romance author! And next Friday, Jersey’s back for a Disney-style dating disaster special you won’t wanna miss! Want more? Join our https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick for community, support, and all things love and life! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Girl Fall Book Club, where we're diving into romance reads that’ll keep you turning pages all season long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 mins
  • 57: Tough Love & No Bullshit: Sex Education, Relationships, and Empowerment with Dakota Ramppen
    Oct 25 2024
    This week, I sat down with sexuality educator Dakota Ramppen to talk about all things relationships, empowerment, and sexuality. Dakota opens up about her journey from teaching sex-ed to pre-teens to working with adults, and why she believes that empowering parents can create a lasting, positive generational impact. We dive deep into the awkward but crucial world of sex education, discussing why communication, mutual understanding, and self-discovery are at the heart of any strong relationship. Dakota also sheds light on the importance of exploring fantasies and desires with your partner—no shame, no fear. Key Takeaways: The evolution of Dakota’s career from teaching kids to empowering adults Navigating love, sexuality, and relationships through tough love and honesty Why self-discovery and open communication are key in relationships Exploring fantasies and desires in relationships without fear or judgment CTA: Join us in the Ditch the Ick Facebook Group for more real talk and community support! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Fall Girl Book Club—we’re reading Flawless by Elsie Silver. Tune in on October 31 at 7:45 PM EDT for our next discussion. Let’s dive into these swoon-worthy fall reads together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • 56: Is It Worth the UTI? Navigating Feral Girl Fall and Dating Abroad with Paige Mitchell
    Oct 18 2024
    Join the Feral Girl Fall Book Club! Dive into some smut with the Ditch the Ick Community! Head to www.ditchtheick.com to stay up to date. This episode: I’m joined by returning guest and fearless adventurer, Paige Mitchell, as we dive into ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the realities of dating while traveling. We candidly discuss embracing our sexuality, navigating short-term relationships, and finding balance between fun and lasting connections while on the move. What We Covered: Embracing Our Feral Girl Fall: Paige and I talked about how our ‘feral phase’ is more about self-discovery and personal exploration rather than seeking validation. Dating Abroad with Safety in Mind: Paige shared her experiences of dating abroad and we dove into important safety tips for dating while traveling. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Relationships: We discussed the challenges and rewards of forming short-term connections while traveling, and how those experiences differ from the deeper bonds we’re looking for in long-term relationships. Balancing Feminine and Masculine Energy: Paige and I explored how we balance our feminine and masculine sides in both casual dating and serious relationships. This balance has been a key factor in shaping our romantic and personal experiences. Ready to embrace your own ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the world of dating abroad? Tune in to this episode and follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for more tips, stories, and advice on dating, relationships, and self-discovery. Don’t forget to keep up with Paige Mitchell and her adventures by following her on Instagram @beachbabepaige Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 mins
  • 55: Celebrating one year of Ditch the Ick and Feral Girl Fall Kick Off
    Oct 11 2024
    Welcome to the one-year anniversary special of Ditch the Ick! I’m taking a bit of a back seat in this episode as my best friend, Jersey, hijacks the show to put me in the hot seat. She’s ready to embarrass me while we celebrate a wild, unforgettable year. From navigating the ups and downs of podcasting to creating this incredible community, it’s been a feral, fun ride, and I can’t wait to reflect on it with all of you. Jersey and I go way back—we’ve had plenty of adventures together, You know this episode is going to be full of laughs, some cringey memories, and maybe even a few heartfelt moments. Whether you've been with me from the start or you’re a new listener, this is an inside look at how Ditch the Ick has grown and what’s coming next! Key Takeaways: Celebrating a year of Ditch the Ick My personal growth and lessons from podcasting The hilarious dynamic between me and Melissa A look back at the best moments of the past year CTA: Catch the full story by listening to this special episode! I’d love for you to join me in celebrating this milestone—listen now and share your favorite Ditch the Ick memories with me instagram @ditchtheickpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 8 mins