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Explore every episode of the podcast Similarly Different

Dive into the complete episode list for Similarly Different. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Love After a Long Season of Being Single — What Nobody Tells You06 Aug 202600:25:00

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm opening up about something I've been quiet about this season. I'm in love — and after almost 10 years of not being in a committed relationship, two years of celibacy, and doing the real work on myself, this new chapter has brought up things I never expected. Things I'm actively working through in therapy right now.


I talk about what it feels like to experience firsts all over again, the difference between who I was in love at 25 and who I am now, why I didn't even realize how much I had normalized not being celebrated, and what it actually looks like to let someone in when your independence has become your whole identity.

If you've spent a long time on your own and you're somewhere between scared and hopeful about love — this episode will say the things you haven't been able to say out loud yet.


In this episode, we talk about:

  • What it's really like to step into a relationship after years of independence
  • How healing works differently when you're actually in a relationship vs. alone
  • Why small moments like New Year's hit differently than you expect
  • The patterns I noticed in myself that I didn't see before
  • Why hard conversations are something I actually enjoy now
  • What intentional dating looks like at 34
  • Learning the difference between love bombing and being put on a pedestal
  • Why every love is completely different — and why that's a beautiful thing
  • Reminders for anyone stepping into love after a long season of being single


šŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQ


šŸ”” Don't forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“² Let's stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

What Real Optimism Actually Means — and Why It Has Nothing to Do With Positivity ft. Dr. Deepika Chopra30 Jul 202600:50:40

In this episode of Similarly Different, Dr. Deepika Chopra is back — and this time she brought her book. The Power of Real Optimism is five years in the making, and in this conversation she opens up about what it really cost her to write it. From receiving a rare medical diagnosis for one of her children while writing a book on hope, to learning how to shift from "why is this happening to us" to "why not us" — this is one of the most vulnerable and honest conversations I've had on this show.


We also answer questions from our community of moms about staying optimistic when nothing feels okay, teaching kids resilience without faking it, and what to do when your life looks nothing like you imagined it would. If you've ever felt like optimism wasn't available to you — this episode will change that.


If you're going through something heavy right now, or you just needed someone to remind you that real optimism includes the dark — this one is for you.


In this episode, we talk about:

  • What real optimism actually is — and what it's not
  • Why "good vibes only" is doing more harm than good
  • Dr. Deepika's personal journey writing this book through a family medical crisis
  • The shift from "why is this happening to me" to "why not us"
  • How to stay present and hopeful when the future feels completely uncertain
  • Teaching kids optimism through modeling, not perfection
  • The strategic pause and other practical nervous system tools
  • Answering real mom questions about guilt, overwhelm, and survival mode
  • Why optimism is a skill — not a personality trait


šŸ“² Dr. Deepika Chopra Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/drdeepikachopra


šŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here:Ā https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQ


šŸ”” Don't forget:
āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them
āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“² Let's stay connected:
Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
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Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

The Honest Truth About Content Creation in 2026 — Apps, Income, and What Nobody Tells You23 Jul 202600:39:09

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm breaking down everything I actually use and do as a content creator in 2026 — the apps, the platforms, the income streams, and the things that genuinely nobody talks about. Like why downloading a template app is not going to make you a content creator. Or why a woman in her late 50s I met at a Kayali event is now one of the top TikTok Shop creators after three months of just being herself on camera.I've been doing this for over 10 years, and I'm still learning. But the one thing I know for sure is that the creators building longevity right now are not the ones going viral once. They're the ones building a brand, diversifying their platforms, and creating content that people actually want to come back to.This episode is your starting point if you've been waiting to begin — or your reset if you've been doing this for a while and feel stuck.In this episode, we talk about:• LTK vs ShopMy vs Amazon — which platform to use and when• TikTok Shop and how to use it without turning your house into an Amazon warehouse• The editing apps I actually use — CapCut, Adobe Premiere, Tezza, and more• How to repurpose one video into five pieces of content across five platforms• Why followers alone don't build careers anymore• The difference between chasing virality and building a brand• How to start creating content with what you already have at home• Why I am not here for the courses and workshops• Monetization beyond brand deals — affiliate marketing, subscriptions, and morešŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQšŸ”” Don't forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let's stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

The Jobs Before the Dream — Why Every Stepping Stone Actually Matters16 Jul 202600:26:14

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm going full big sister mode because this conversation needs to happen. Social media has sold a lot of us on the idea that success looks like one bold leap — quit your job, bet on yourself, and suddenly you've made it. That is not how real careers are built, and I want to talk about what it actually looks like.I've worked at a dentist office, a tanning salon, an insurance company, as a financial investor's assistant, in music management, at a label, and more — and none of it was wasted. Every single job taught me something I eventually needed when I started building for myself. Your stepping stone job is not beneath you. It's preparing you.If you've been frustrated that your dream hasn't happened yet, comparing your journey to someone else's highlight reel, or wondering if it's too late to pivot — this episode is exactly what you need to hear right now.In this episode, we talk about:• Why overnight success is not the reality most people experience• The nine-to-five and five-to-nine mentality for building your dream• What every job — even the unglamorous ones — actually teaches you• How to release ego and comparison when you feel behind• Why you need to become the best at where you are before you can grow• How to know when it's time to pivot out of a job or season• Answering: Can I build something while working another job? Is it too late to start in my 30s?• Why nothing you are doing right now is wastedšŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQšŸ”” Don't forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let's stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

From Sleeping in His Car to Kris Jenner's Makeup Artist ft. Etienne Ortega09 Jul 202601:01:33

In this episode of Similarly Different, I sat down with celebrity makeup artist and founder of Ortega Beauty, Etienne Ortega, and his story is one of those that genuinely reminds you that grit, vision, and showing up will always outlast talent alone. From doing his friends' makeup for $10 in high school, to working with Eva Longoria at 21, to being found by Kim Kardashian on Instagram — Etienne built one of the most respected careers in the beauty industry entirely on his own terms.We also get into things I didn't expect — his cancer diagnosis in 2022, the six years it took to launch Ortega Beauty, the investors that let him down, and why after all of it, he still showed up to work the day after chemo. This is not just a beauty episode. This is a conversation about legacy, identity, survival, and what it means to bet on yourself even when everything is working against you.If you've ever felt like you don't belong in the room, or you've been building something for years that nobody else can see yet — this one is for you.In this episode, we talk about:• Growing up Latino and navigating machismo in the beauty industry• How Etienne got his start and booked Eva Longoria at 21• How Kim Kardashian found him on Instagram• Imposter syndrome as a Latino immigrant in a celebrity world• His cancer diagnosis in 2022 and how he kept going• Six years of building Ortega Beauty through bad investors and setbacks• Why comfort is the killer of growth• What he wishes he knew before starting his brand• How to build a legacy in your own lane without comparing yourself to othersšŸ“² Etienne Ortega’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etienneortegašŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQšŸ”” Don't forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let's stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn — Understanding Survival Mode and How to Heal It02 Jul 202600:25:59

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm breaking down what survival mode actually is, why your nervous system stays on high alert long after the stressful situation has ended, and what's actually helped me — from somatic healing, to walking everywhere after surgery, to a tiny calendar habit that's stuck with me for years.

We talk about how trauma lives in the body, not just the mind, why rest feels so uncomfortable for so many of us, and why healing isn't a one-time breakthrough but a slow, ongoing process of small habits done consistently.

If your body still feels tense, anxious, or on edge even though logically you know you're safe — this episode will help you understand why, and what to actually do about it.

In this episode, we talk about:

• What survival mode actually is — fight, flight, freeze, and fawn

• Why your nervous system reacts even when the danger has passed• How trauma is stored in the body, not just the memory

• Somatic healing, breathwork, and movement as nervous system tools

• Why rest feels uncomfortable and how to give yourself permission

• Social media, overstimulation, and protecting your energy

• Therapy versus self-guided healing — and why you need both

• Big sister advice for anyone who feels stuck in survival mode


šŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQ

šŸ”” Don't forget:


āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes


āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)


āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them


āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬

šŸ“² Let's stay connected:


Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod


TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod


Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

What Is Hyper-Independent Codependency? A Therapist Breaks It Down ft. Alyx Allen25 Jun 202601:14:25

In this episode of Similarly Different, licensed marriage and family therapist Alyx Allen joins me to unpack a term I had never heard until recently — hyper-independent codependency. We talk about what it actually looks like, why high-functioning women fall into it, and how "I got you" can secretly be a need for control disguised as helpfulness.From there we get into anhedonia, the difference between healing and learning to live with what you've been through, why dating apps are killing real connection, and what it actually takes for men to open up about their insecurities.If you've ever wondered why you can't seem to slow down, why relationships feel harder than ever, or why you feel emotionally flat even when life looks good — this episode will give you language for what you've been feeling.In this episode, we talk about:• Hyper-independent codependency and how to spot it in yourself• Why "healed" might not be the right word for what you're looking for• Anhedonia, burnout, and feeling flat even when life is good• Compartmentalizing emotions — and why men and women do it differently• Why dating apps are draining our ability to actually connect• How to reset your nervous system in an anxious moment• Men's mental health, insecurity, and why they struggle to open up• Finding your own version of a non-negotiable self-care practice• When to walk away from therapy and when to stayšŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQšŸ“² Alyx Allen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theselfishcontract🌐 Website: https://www.tscbecomingher.comšŸŽ™ļø Podcast: How I Ended Up Here — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-ended-up-here/id1754056081šŸ”” Don't forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let's stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Starting Over Is Not Failure — It's the Beginning of Your Next Era18 Jun 202600:24:38

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm getting into something I think so many of us need to hear right now — starting over is not failure. Whether it's a career shift, the end of a relationship, a lifestyle change you didn't plan for, or just the feeling that who you were no longer fits who you're becoming, this episode is about giving yourself permission to pivot.


From my own divorce at 25, to hanging up my hosting dreams and pivoting to content creation, to finding my way back to storytelling through this podcast — I've lived this. And every single time, what felt like an ending turned out to be exactly where the next chapter began.


If you're standing in a moment of reinvention right now, feeling behind, scared, or unsure of what's next — this one is for you.


In this episode, we talk about:

• Why starting over is not the same as failing

• The courage it takes to pivot when life doesn't follow the plan

• Letting go of the timeline you thought was yours

• How to stop comparing your journey to someone else's blueprint

• The difference between quitting too early and knowing when to pivot

• Finding excitement in the uncertainty of a new chapter

• What reinvention looks like in your 20s, 30s, and 40s

• Big sister advice for anyone in a season of starting over


šŸŽ“ This episode is sponsored by National University, to find out more information see here: https://bit.ly/4vJfyKQ


šŸ”” Don't forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“² Let's stay connected:

Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious



Stop Comparing Your Real Life to Someone Else's Highlight Reel11 Jun 202600:24:44

In this episode of Similarly Different, I'm talking about the gap between the life people see and the life you're actually living — and why that gap creates so much unnecessary pressure for all of us. Whether you're the one watching or the one being watched, this episode is for you.From the quiet moments that nobody sees, to celebrating your wins without guilt, to why choosing privacy is actually a form of self-respect — I'm getting into all of it. Because every person you see online is living a life far more complex than what fits in a post.If you've ever felt the need to over-perform, overexplain, or felt guilty for being happy in the middle of a hard season — this one is for you.In this episode, we talk about:• The highlight reel vs. what's actually happening behind the scenes• Why success doesn't remove struggle• Celebrating your wins without minimizing them• The pressure of visibility and maintaining an image• Why some things don't belong on the internet• Creating healthy boundaries with social media• Protecting what you care about while still showing up• Staying grounded when life gets busy or visible• Why privacy can be a form of self-respectšŸ”” Don't forget: āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!) āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I'll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let's stay connected: Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Crash Outs, Trusting God, and Flowing Through the Scary Seasons with Jamie Lee Ruiz04 Jun 202600:54:18

In this episode of Similarly Different, I sat down with Jamie Lee Ruiz and we went places I didn't plan for. We talked about lease renewals and life decisions, but what it turned into was a really honest conversation about trusting God when everything feels uncertain, why crash outs almost always lead to breakthroughs, and how shame keeps us from receiving the support we actually need.From the fear of slowing down and shifting desires, to intuition, silence, burnout, and what it really looks like to surrender control — this felt less like a podcast and more like two women processing life in real time. Jamie is 40, I'm turning 35, and neither of us has it all figured out. And we're both learning that that's actually okay.If you're in a season right now where nothing feels figured out — this one is for you.In this episode, we talk about:• Crash outs, breakthroughs, and surrendering to God• Trusting the process when your desires start to shift• Burnout, hustle culture, and learning to slow down• The fear of pivoting careers, moving cities, and starting over• Why silence feels scary and how to sit with it anyway• Intuition, the clairs, and how God communicates with us• Shame, vulnerability, and finally letting people support you• Walking, journaling, and the practices that actually help• Navigating age, timelines, and the pressure of being "on time"• Why your season of uncertainty doesn't define youšŸ“² Jamie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameslee4šŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!) āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

The Eldest Daughter Syndrome: Healing, Boundaries & Letting Go of Control28 May 202600:22:16

In this episode, I open up about the reality of being the ā€œstrong oneā€ — the eldest daughter who had to grow up too fast, carry more than she should have, and learn how to survive before she could truly live.Ā 
I share my personal experiences with responsibility, emotional suppression, people-pleasing, and what it actually looks like to unlearn those patterns as an adult. This is a conversation about healing, boundaries, softness, and finally allowing yourself to be supported too.
If you’ve ever felt like you had to hold everything together, this episode is for you.


In this episode, I talk about:
• What ā€œeldest daughter syndromeā€ really looks like
• Growing up too fast and emotional parentification
• Why being the strong one can become a mask
• Learning boundaries without guilt
• Letting go of control and people-pleasing
• Allowing yourself to receive support
• Stepping into softness without losing strength
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:
āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them
āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬
šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:
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Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Finding Your Identity, Confidence & Purpose with Annie Gonzalez21 May 202600:41:06

In this episode, I sit down with Annie Gonzalez for a deep and honest conversation about identity, confidence, and navigating the entertainment industry without losing yourself.Ā 


We talk about staying grounded in who you are, even in spaces that constantly try to define you, and what it really looks like to build confidence from within instead of external validation. Annie shares how she’s navigated self-doubt, fear, and growth while continuing to show up fully as herself.


This conversation is about owning your path, trusting your instincts, and redefining success on your own terms.


In this episode, we talk about:

• Staying true to yourself in the entertainment industry

• Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome

• Redefining success beyond external validation

• Navigating fear and still showing up

• Confidence, identity, and personal growth

• The mindset shift that changes everything


šŸ”” Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā https://www.tiktok.com/@similarlydifferentpod

Submit a ā€œSimilarly Curiousā€ question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious


🤳 Connect with Annie Gonzalez:

Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/annieggonzalez

The Truth About Comparison, Social Media, and Feeling Behind in Life14 May 202600:21:13

Comparison is something almost all of us experience — especially in the age of social media.In this episode of Similarly Different, I talk about how comparison shows up in our lives, how it affects our mental health, and why it’s so easy to feel like we’re falling behind.I share stories from my own life, including the expectations I once had for where I thought I’d be by certain ages and how those expectations created pressure that wasn’t serving me.This episode explores how comparison can quietly shape our thoughts about success, relationships, and identity — and how we can begin to shift that perspective.In this episode, I talk about:• Why comparison feels heavier in the social media era• The pressure of life timelines and expectations• Relationship comparison and unrealistic standards• Why success looks different for everyone• The importance of defining your own path• Learning to celebrate your own milestonesšŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesāœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a "Similarly Curious" question:https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Danielle Robay on Love, Friendship & Finding Yourself07 May 202601:14:37

We're back for Season 4 of Similarly Different Podcast and I’m joined by Danielle Robay. A respected journalist, interviewer, and host known for her thoughtful conversations with cultural figures and icons, including Dany Garcia, Gwyneth Paltrow, Malala, and for being mentored by the legendary Larry King.
But in this episode, you get to meet Danielle in a different light.Beyond the accolades, the interviews, and the career she’s built, this conversation is about who she is as a woman, a friend, and someone navigating life, growth, and dating in her 30s in real time.
From building a respected career in media to prioritizing self-awareness through therapy, Danielle opens up about the balance between ambition and emotional connection and what it actually looks like to evolve while still figuring things out.
This episode feels like sitting in on a real conversation between friends. The kind where you talk about everything from purpose and pressure to relationships, identity, and becoming.
This conversation dives into career growth, emotional intelligence, therapy, modern dating in your 30s, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge and support you as you grow.In this episode, we talk about:
• Building a career with intention and credibility
• Danielle’s journey as a journalist and interviewer
• Dating in your 30s and evolving relationship standards
• The role of therapy and self-awareness
• Friendship, emotional support, and real connection
• Balancing ambition, identity, and personal life
• Navigating growth while still figuring things out
šŸƒ In this episode, we also played a round from Danielle Robay’s Question Everything card game, designed to spark deeper, more meaningful conversations.

Explore the cards here:https://questioneverything.us/collections/shop-the-collection/products/question-everything-card-deck-1šŸŽ™ļø

Danielle also hosts the podcast Question Everything, where she explores the power of curiosity through thoughtful interviews and conversations.


šŸ”” Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes

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āœ”ļø Share this episode with someone who needs it


šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:

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🤳 Connect with Danielle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellerobay/

Podcast: Question Everything

Rewriting My Narrative: Choosing Rest, Healing & Self-Trust for 202609 Dec 202500:25:27

For the Season 3 finale of Similarly Different, I’m opening up about the emotional landscape of my year—the grief, anger, joy, confusion, peace, burnout and beauty that shaped me. This episode is a real look at how emotional awareness has changed the way I understand my story.

I share the conversation that sparked this episode, why I stopped labeling emotions as ā€œgoodā€ or ā€œbad,ā€ and how I’ve started to see experiences as timelines and teachers rather than failures or successes.

I also talk about navigating heartbreak, shifts in friendships, burnout from hustle culture, and the permission I finally gave myself to rest, feel deeply, and evolve without apologizing for it.

✨ If you’re in a season of healing, this is meant to feel like a deep breath.

In this episode, I talk about:
• The emotional rollercoaster that 2025 was for me
• Why endings in relationships or work aren’t always failures
• Naming what I feel vs numbing or suppressing it
• The power of saying ā€œI don’t have the capacity for thisā€
• Protecting my peace while still being ambitious
• Why rest became non-negotiable this year
• How I’m preparing my heart for 2026

šŸ”” Support the show:
• Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s coming next
• Comment and share what you’re releasing before 2026
• Share this episode with someone in a healing season

šŸ“² Connect with Us:
Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
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Submit questions: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent

The Roots of Inner Healing with Mariah from Netflix’s The Ultimatum02 Dec 202500:41:35

In this episode of Similarly Different, I sit down with Mariah — creator, mental health advocate, and familiar face from Netflix’s The Ultimatum — for a raw conversation about mother wounds, abandonment, and rebuilding your sense of self.

Mariah opens up about growing up in and out of homeless shelters, being separated from her mom at eight years old, and how that shaped her identity, relationships, and sense of safety. We talk about codependency, chasing love through romantic partners, and what it really looks like to start healing patterns that began in childhood.

We also dive into her journey from social media marketing and reality TV to becoming a voice for mental health online, navigating therapy when it isn’t always accessible, and dreaming up a future ā€œhealing houseā€ for women and families who need what she never had.

✨ From abandonment and survival mode to honesty, healing, and vision — this is Mariah’s story.

šŸ’¬ We discuss:
• Growing up without her mom & navigating the ā€œmother woundā€
• How abandonment, depression & anxiety showed up in her teens and 20s
• Homeless shelters, generational trauma & seeing the ā€œhumannessā€ in our parents
• Why talk therapy wasn’t enough — and her interest in somatic & EMDR work
• Journaling, video diaries, nature & nervous system tools that actually helped
• Dating after trauma, finding her voice, and no longer shrinking herself
• Her dream to create a beautiful, non-sterile ā€œhealing houseā€ for women & youth
• Giving ourselves permission to reinvent as many times as we need to


šŸ”” Support the show:
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āœ”ļø Comment your biggest takeaway — we read them all
āœ”ļø Leave a ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø rating — it truly helps more people find us
āœ”ļø Share this with someone who’s healing their inner child or mother wound

šŸ“² Connect with Us:
Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok: @similarlydifferent
Submit a question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent


🤳 Connect with Mariah:
Instagram: @remnantsofriah
Project: Healing Is Hard

#SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #TheUltimatum #MariahUltimatum #MotherWound #AbandonmentHealing #InnerChildHealing #MentalHealthMatters #GenerationalTrauma #FaithJourney #HealingJourney #WomenInHealing

The Evolution of Muscle Lab: How Andy & Vatche Turned Pain Into Purpose18 Nov 202500:38:46

In this episode of Similarly Different, I sit down with Vatche Ourishian and Andy Treys — founders of Muscle Lab — the recovery studio trusted by athletes, celebrities, and everyday people who just want to feel better in their own bodies.
What started as two Pasadena kids bonding over basketball and 6 a.m. workouts has now become one of LA’s most in-demand wellness destinations. From cryotherapy and red light to biomechanics and movement therapy, Vatche and Andy share how they built Muscle Lab from the ground up — during the pandemic — without outside investors.
We talk about the real story behind their success: friendship, faith, risk-taking, losing everything and rebuilding, pivoting when plans fall apart, and building a culture that feels like family. This conversation is honest, hilarious, and packed with real lessons for anyone dreaming of starting something new.
✨ From childhood friends to wellness founders — this is the story behind Muscle Lab.
šŸ’¬Ā We discuss:
• How Muscle Lab began in Pasadena in 2020
• Why hands-on care beats flashy ā€œInstagram wellnessā€
• V’s journey from repeated injuries to physical therapy work
• Andy’s wild path from viral internet mogul to brick-and-mortar founder
• Bootstrapping multiple locations without investors
• How they balance friendship + business (and why it works)
• Creating an internship pipeline + future certification programs
• Faith, discipline & navigating the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship
• The sweet baby announcement they drop at the end 🄹

šŸ””Ā Support the show:
āœ”ļø Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations
āœ”ļø Drop a comment — let’s talk wellness, business & recovery
āœ”ļø Leave a ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø rating — it means the world
āœ”ļø Share this episode with someone dreaming of starting something new
šŸ“²Ā Connect with Us:
Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok: @similarlydifferent
Submit a question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent
 🤳 Connect with Muscle Lab + Founders:
Muscle Lab:Ā https://www.musclelab.la
Instagram: @musclelab
Andy Treys: @andytreys
Vatche Ourishian (Muscle Myths): @musclemyths
#SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #MuscleLab #AndyTreys #VatcheOurishian #RecoveryStudio #LAWellness #Entrepreneurship #FoundersStory #SportsRecovery #WellnessBusiness #FriendshipAndBusiness

From Pain to Power: The Heat Healer Story with Lauren Dovey11 Nov 202500:42:13

In this inspiring episode of Similarly Different, I sit down with Australian founder Lauren Dovey, the creator of Heat Healer and Cean — two brands redefining what it means to heal from the inside out.


Lauren’s story is one of transformation — from living with PCOS, inflammation, and chronic pain to creating accessible, science-backed tools for recovery and balance. We talk about how she turned personal struggle into purpose, bringing infrared heat, red light, and lymphatic therapy into homes worldwide — and making wellness wearable along the way.

This conversation dives deep into the emotional, physical, and spiritual sides of healing — from burnout and body image to entrepreneurship, motherhood, and creating something that genuinely changes how women feel in their own skin.


✨ From pain to power — this is the story behind Heat Healer and Cean.


šŸ’¬ We discuss:

• The origins of Heat Healer & Cean

 • Infrared, red light & lymphatic therapy explained

 • Healing through innovation — the science behind it all

 • Building a brand from personal struggle

 • Wellness, motherhood & staying grounded

 • The reality of entrepreneurship and self-belief


šŸ”” Support the show:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations

Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — let’s talk about healing & innovation

Ā āœ”ļø Leave a ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø rating — it truly means so much

Ā āœ”ļø Share this with someone on their own wellness journey


šŸ“² Connect with Us:

Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok: @similarlydifferent

Submit a question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent


🤳 Connect with Lauren Dovey:

Instagram: @laurenscottdovey

Heat Healer: https://www.heathealer.com

Cean: https://cean.com

Heat Healer Instagram: @heathealer

Cean Instagram: @feelceanĀ 


#SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #LaurenDovey #HeatHealer #Cean #InfraredWellness #WellnessYouCanWear #WomenInBusiness #HealingJourney #InfraredTherapy #LymphaticHealth #Entrepreneurship #WellnessTech #RedLightTherapy

The Fall Glow Guide: Lasers, Filler and What’s Worth It With Dr. Torkian04 Nov 202501:02:26

This week onĀ Similarly Different, I sit down with Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeonĀ Dr. Torkian — the only person I’ve ever trusted with my face — to talk about beauty, confidence, and the art of looking likeĀ yourself.From my first filler appointment to discovering PRF and regenerative aesthetics, this conversation goes beyond vanity. It’s about trust, restraint, and the balance between science and soul. We talk about the truth behind ā€œnatural results,ā€ the rise of regenerative beauty, and how the right hands — and heart — can change the entire experience of cosmetic care.


šŸ’¬ We discuss:
 • The emotional and spiritual side of ā€œfixingā€ what we see in the mirror
 • What ā€œnaturalā€ results actually mean (and why symmetry matters more than trends)
 • PRP vs PRF — and why regenerative beauty is changing everything
 • How to know when it’s time toĀ meltĀ filler or start fresh
• The difference between artistry and overuse in aesthetic medicine
• Why safety and communication matter more than any trending procedure


šŸ”” Support the show:
Ā āœ”ļø Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations
Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — let’s talk about confidence, beauty & faith
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø rating — it truly means a lot
Ā āœ”ļø Share this with someone curious about beauty that feelsĀ real

šŸ“² Connect with Us:
Ā Instagram | TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod
Ā Submit a question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent


🤳 Connect with Dr. Torkian:
Ā Instagram:Ā @TorkianAesthetics


#SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #BeautyPodcast #RegenerativeAesthetics #PRF #PRP #PlasticSurgery #NaturalResults #Confidence #BeverlyHills #FaithAndCulture

The Truth About the Copelands: Faith, Fame & Misconceptions with Courtney Copeland AcuƱa28 Oct 202500:48:22

In this deeply honest episode of Similarly Different, I sit down with my close friend and producer, Courtney Copeland AcuƱa — granddaughter of Kenneth Copeland — to talk about faith, family legacy, media narratives, and the weight of a last name that the world feels entitled to define.We discuss what it means to grow up in ministry under global scrutiny — watching miracles firsthand while also navigating public criticism, misconception, and church hurt. This conversation is for anyone who has wrestled with religion, misunderstood God because of people, or wondered whether they’re allowed to question the beliefs they were raised with.This is not about defending a brand — it's about humanizing a story the public thinks they already know.šŸ’¬ We discuss:• What ā€œprosperity gospelā€ actually means vs. what the internet says• Miracles she saw as a child — and how awe can turn to doubt• Her season of rebellion and reclaiming her faith for herself• Why she left ministry — and why she felt called back• Navigating public assumptions in a digital age• Church trauma + learning to separate God from people• What loyalty to God looks like when life doesn’t make sensešŸ”” Support the show:āœ”ļø Subscribe for more unfiltered conversationsāœ”ļø Drop a respectful comment — let’s talk about itāœ”ļø Leave a rating ā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļøā­ļø — it truly means a lotāœ”ļø Share this with someone who needs a different perspective on faithšŸ“² Connect with Us:

Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlydifferent🤳 Connect with Courtney: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtacunaKenneth Copeland Ministries: https://www.instagram.com/copelandnetwork


#SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #FaithConversation #ChurchHurt #KennethCopeland #ProsperityGospel #WomenInFaith #ChristianityExplained #HealingJourney

Building a Brand With Purpose: My Conversation With facile’s CEO, Danielle21 Oct 202500:37:53

In this episode ofĀ Similarly Different, host Yanina sits down withĀ Danielle Nadick Levy — the co-founder and CEO ofĀ facile — to unpack how a boutique clinic concept evolved into a skincare line now carried at Sephora. Danielle shares the bold pitch that started it all, the power of journaling and manifestation, why intention beats noise, and how motherhood reshaped her leadership without dimming her ambition.
We get real about launching in a ā€œcrowdedā€ market, moving with faith when the path isn’t linear, building products people actually need, and staying kind to yourself while you scale. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s room forĀ yourĀ idea, this conversation is your reminder: there’s always space for authenticity.šŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬
Ā 
šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:

Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious
🤳FOLLOW DANIELLEšŸ“ø Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/daniellenadick/
🤳FOLLOW FACILE:
🌐 Website: https://www.facileskin.com
šŸ›ļø Shop at Sephora:Ā https://www.sephora.com/brand/facile
šŸ“ø Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/facileskin
šŸŽ„ TikTok:Ā https://www.tiktok.com/@facileskin#SimilarlyDifferent #facile #WomenInBusiness #BeautyFounder #CleanBeauty #Entrepreneurship #Manifestation #Skincare #Sephora #FemaleFounders

My Most Honest Q&A Yet: Love, Healing & LA Dating Culture07 Oct 202500:22:16

This week on Similarly Different, I’m switching things up — my producer and friend Courtney flips the mic and interviews me! From my thoughts on love, success, and faith to the wildest DMs and the truth about LA dating culture, nothing was off limits.

We talk big feelings, healing after heartbreak, being misunderstood, and learning to find peace instead of pressure. It’s funny, deep, and probably the most honest conversation I’ve had on the podcast yet.


✨ This episode also features a special mention from National University — making it easier for busy adults to earn their degrees with flexible online classes and an opportunity to receive the Nuevo Futuro Scholarship up to $6,000/year. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this could be it. See what’s possible: https://bit.ly/432zJr9If you’ve ever felt like you’re growing through what you’re going through, this one’s for you. šŸ’›šŸ‘‰ Drop your own question for me in the comments — it might make it into the next Q&A!šŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!) āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Reality TV to Real Life: Natalie Mejia on Anxiety, Faith & Purpose30 Sep 202500:58:46

In this episode ofĀ Similarly Different, I sit down with pop star Natalie Mejia to talk about her journey from the spotlight to a more grounded life of faith and purpose. From her early start in girl groups and reality TV fame to the challenges of anxiety, body image, and public pressure, Natalie opens up about what it really felt like behind the scenes. She shares how becoming a mother, stepping back from the industry, and ultimately finding her faith transformed not only her career path but her identity. This conversation is about resilience, healing, and what it means to find joy and peace outside of other people’s expectations.
Listen to Natalie’s albumĀ Holy ExodusĀ on Spotify/Apple Music/Amazon Music, and follow her atĀ @NatalieNMejia.
Subscribe for more candid conversations on confidence, purpose, and growth—we’re moreĀ Similar(ly) DifferentĀ than we think.
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpodTikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

The Evolution of You: Career, Self, and Friendship Growth23 Sep 202500:22:34

In this episode ofĀ Similarly Different, I’m talking aboutĀ the bounce back effect—the powerful, messy, beautiful process of reinventing yourself after setbacks in career, self, and friendships. Bouncing back isn’t about returning to who you were before; it’s about coming back wiser, softer, smarter, and more aligned with who you’re becoming.
From my journey across industries—music, modeling, social media, consulting, podcasting—to navigating self-doubt, body image, and friendship breakups, I share why reinvention is not failure but an upgrade. We’ll talk about how to protect your energy, align your heart and brain, and give yourself permission to evolve as many times as you need.
šŸ’› In this episode, we cover:

  • Why setbacks are really upgrades and opportunities for growth
  • Reinventing your career multiple times and finding joy along the way
  • How to protect your energy and surround yourself with people who pour into you
  • Aligning heart and brain for self-awareness and healthier decision-making
  • Navigating friendship breakups, boundaries, and evolving relationships
  • Why you’re allowed to reinvent yourself as many times as it takes


✨ Keywords: personal growth, bounce back, reinvent yourself, career reinvention, self-evolution, friendship breakups, protecting your energy, heart and brain alignment, mindset, overcoming fear
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpodTikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

From Media to Beauty: Nora Addison on Creating Without Fear16 Sep 202500:45:45

This week I’m joined by my friend Nora—multihyphenate entrepreneur, co-founder of KeyTV with Keke Palmer, and now founder of CAZZA, a next-gen dry shampoo designed with textured hair in mind. We dive into the real dynamics of building with friends, why fear doesn’t get the final say, and what it looks like to be your own biggest fan when the world feels anxious. Nora reminds us that the story doesn’t stop—we’re so young, God already has a plan, and everything you’re building now is preparing you for the next thing.šŸ’› In this episode:- CAZZA’s origin story: the need for dry shampoo for diverse hair, designed ā€œinclusive by defaultā€- Friendship Ɨ business: trust, boundaries, and respect when roles blur- ā€œYou can’t be a leader if you’re a followerā€ (Denzel wisdom that still applies)- How to post through anxiety—and why joy and productivity come in seasons- Mentorship, manifestation, and knowing when you’re really ready vs. when you just think you are- Why the perfect storm (think Netflix, Jimmy Choo) is timing Ɨ preparation, not luckšŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!) āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“² Follow Nora: @noraraddšŸ“² Follow CAZZA Dry Shampoo on Instagram for updates + launch infošŸ“ Join the CAZZA Insiders waitlist šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:Instagram: @similarlydifferentpodTikTok: @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious

Growing Pains & Glow Ups: Jamie’s Guide to Entering a New Decade09 Sep 202500:40:30

This week, I am joined by my ā€œalmost-cohostā€ and forever fave Jamie Lee Ruiz for a raw, life-lately convo on transitions, turning 40, and choosing joy on purpose! We get honest about the difference between true misalignment vs. laziness, listening to intuition (without gaslighting yourself), and the courage it takes to let go without a safety net. Jamie also opens up about the friendships she’s released, how she’s practicing real-time boundaries, and what dating looks like entering a new decade!
šŸ’›Ā In this episode:
-Ā What ā€œmisalignmentā€Ā actuallyĀ feels like (and how to tell it from resistance)
- The retreat that changed everything: 10 days, no talking, 10 hours of meditation/day
- Why Jamie canceled a beloved class the night before—and felt instant peace
-Ā Trust & surrenderĀ when you don’t know the next step (rent still due!)
- TheĀ 40-Day Joy practiceĀ (small moments count) and how it raises your frequency
- Friendship endings with grace: accountability, people-pleasing, and speaking up sooner
- Dating in your 40s: clarity, standards, and saying ā€œnoā€ without drama
- Feminine flow Ɨ masculine container: holding all your expressions, safely
- Gratitude as a daily nervous-system reset (and why joy isn’t performative)
šŸ”—Ā Listen next:
Feminine & Masculine EnergyĀ (our most-saved episode)
https://youtu.be/kEtH5d0xlaQ
Valentine’s Day: Icks, Loves & Self-Lovehttps://youtu.be/7XNne0zn_Lw
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“² Follow Jamie:Ā 
https://www.instagram.com/jameslee4/?hl=en
šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

AI for Creatives: How QiushiĀ  Built Leyline to Empower Storytellers02 Sep 202500:26:48

In this week’s episode ofĀ Similarly Different, I sit down with QiushiĀ  — an innovative founder, creative, and tech leader from Silicon Valley who is buildingĀ Leyline, an AI-powered platform designed to help creators bring their stories and ideas to life without waiting on gatekeepers! From her early days chasing a dream in screenwriting to launching a startup at the intersection ofĀ AI, storytelling, and entrepreneurship, Qiushi shares her journey of resilience, leadership, and vision.


Together, we explore:
- How AI is reshaping the creative industry for filmmakers, writers, influencers, and entrepreneurs


- WhyĀ LeylineĀ was built to empower everyday creators (and how it works)


- The balance between human creativity and AI tools in art, business, and content


- What it’s like being a female immigrant founder in a male-dominated tech space


- The future of work, storytelling, and content creation in the age of AI


Whether you’re aĀ creator, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how AI will transform our lives, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the opportunities and challenges ahead!


#NUPartner Proud to celebrate #HispanicHeritageMonth all year long with @NationalUniversity šŸ’› Latinos show up with grit and heart every day for family, for future, for more. NU helps make those ANDs possible with flexible online courses + scholarships. Ready to build what’s next? Click here to learn more:https://tag.gs/Ay97x


šŸ“ŒĀ Connect with QiushiĀ & Leyline
🌐 Website: https://www.leylinepro.ai/mktp/


šŸ“± Follow Leyline on Instagram:Ā 

https://www.instagram.com/leyline_ai/

šŸ’¼ Connect with Qiushi:Ā 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/qiushi-z-37764511/Ā 


šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Facing Body Dysmorphia, Self-Worth & The Pressure to Be Perfect26 Aug 202500:18:33

Welcome back toĀ Similarly Different. This week’s solo episode is one I’ve been wanting to share for a while; a real, unfiltered conversation aboutĀ body dysmorphia. It’s something I’ve dealt with personally, and something I know so many of us silently struggle with. From comparing ourselves in the mirror to battling the highlight reel of social media, it’s time we talk about it openly!


šŸ’¬ In this episode:
- What body dysmorphiaĀ reallyĀ is (and why it’s not just ā€œvanityā€)
- My personal story of spiraling during a Vegas trip & how it shaped my self-image
- Why comparison culture and social media make this struggle louder
- How triggers can show up in the smallest everyday moments
- The tools I’ve used to manage dysmorphia: therapy, mirror work, movement, boundaries & self-talk
- Why your worth is never tied to your reflection
- Celebrities like Lana Condor, Kendall Jenner, and Jameela Jamil who have spoken openly about their own struggles
🧠 Similarly Curious Segment:
Q:Ā How do you rebuild self-worth when your biggest critic is yourself?
We dive into shifting the inner voice, learning to see yourself with grace, and why even the tiniest acts of self-compassion are powerful.
šŸ”” Don’t forget:
Ā āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
Ā āœ”ļø Share your story or tips in the comments — I love hearing from you
Ā āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬
šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:
Ā Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
Submit aĀ Similarly CuriousĀ question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ Ā 

The Honest Truth About Running a Beauty Brand with Stephanie Montes19 Aug 202500:48:16

In this episode of Similarly Different, I sit down with Stephanie Montes.Ā From starting out as a fashion design student to working atĀ AllureĀ andĀ The Zoe Report, Stephanie takes me through her inspiring journey from editorial to freelancing, and ultimately launching her own product line after spotting a gap in the market. We get real about what it’s like to build a brand as a one-woman show, balance work and motherhood, navigate postpartum depression, and learn to ask for help without guilt. Stephanie also opens up about staying true to your ā€œwhyā€ in business, resisting trends that don’t fit your brand, and overcoming the comparison trap!
šŸ’¬Ā In this episode, we talk about:
– How Stephanie went from editorial to entrepreneurship
– The behind-the-scenes of creating a more inclusive boob tape
– Juggling brand ownership, freelancing, and motherhood
– The reality of postpartum depression and how dance helped her find joy again
– Why knowing your ā€œwhyā€ is key to surviving business challenges
– Lessons she’s learned from five years of running Nue
šŸ“ŒĀ Connect with Stephanie & Nue:
Instagram:Ā @the_brand_new_nue
Stephanie’s Instagram:Ā @stephanie_montes
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Safe Love > Toxic ButterfliesĀ šŸ¦‹ 12 Aug 202500:24:44

In this solo episode, I’m spilling the tea about feeling safe, seen, and fully being in our feminine energy. I’m sharing how timing, emotional intelligence, and healed energy completely changed the way I show up in dating.


šŸ’¬Ā In this episode:
– Why I finally let my guard down after years of independence
– The difference betweenĀ anxious butterfliesĀ andĀ safe, calm butterflies
– How genuine friendship and emotional safety create space for true connection
– My journey into my soft girl era (and how to know if you’re ready for yours)
– Dating advice: When to cut things off vs. giving someone another chance
– Lessons on self-worth, intentional love, and staying authentic in relationships
Whether you’re healing, navigating new love, or just craving a fresh perspective on dating, this one’s for you!
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Valeria Maldonado: Resilience, Rejection & the Fight for Authentic Latina Stories05 Aug 202500:42:36

In this powerful episode ofĀ Similarly Different, Yanina is joined by the multi-talentedĀ Valeria Maldonado;Ā Mexican-American actress, writer, and producer of the heartfelt indie filmĀ Las Tres Sisters!Ā Vale pulls back the curtain on herĀ nine-year journeyĀ to bringĀ Las Tres SistersĀ to life, sharing how she and her co-creators fought to maintain ownership of their story while navigating the challenges of independent filmmaking. She opens up about the emotional highs and lows of acting, the struggle against Hollywood stereotypes, and why authentic Latina representation on screen matters now more than ever!
šŸ’¬Ā In this episode:

  • The behind-the-scenes story of howĀ Las Tres SistersĀ evolved from an idea to a full feature film
  • The sacrifices and persistence it took to self-fund and produce an indie project
  • Balancing multiple roles as actress, writer, and producer while staying true to the story
  • Breaking through stereotypes and advocating for authenticĀ Latina voices in Hollywood

  • Mental health and resilience: coping with rejection, staying grounded, and redefining success
  • How creativity, dance, and acting can be forms of self-therapy and emotional release
  • The importance of friendship, sisterhood, and collaboration in surviving a long creative journey
  • Advice for aspiring actors, filmmakers, and women navigating the entertainment industry


🌟 Follow Valeria Maldonado: @valemaldon 

šŸŽ„ WatchĀ Las Tres SistersĀ now onĀ Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, Google Play, and DirecTV.

šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Dating Non-Negotiables & Spicy Tea You NEED to Hear!Ā 29 Jul 202500:24:59

In this solo episode, I’m finally spilling the tea on my past dating life! The awkward first dates, emotional red flags, and the unexpected lessons that shaped the way I love today. You guys know I’ve talked about being married and divorced, maybe even having a crush or two… but you haven’t heard the full story... until now!
I’m sharing everything from a guy who pretended to be hisĀ twinĀ (yes, really), to the moments that made me rethink my deal breakers and non-negotiables. We’re talking emotional availability, spiritual alignment, hygiene, therapy, masculinity, and the kind of love that makes you feelĀ calm.

šŸ’¬ In this episode:
 – My most cringeworthy dates and why I gave second (and third) chances
 – My top deal breakers (bad hygiene and no belief in God make the list)
 – What emotional availability really looks like in a man
 – Healthy masculinity vs. toxic control and how to tell the difference
 – Why intentional effort > expensive gestures
 – What ā€œgreen flagsā€ look like for me now
If you’re navigating dating in your 20s or 30s, I hope this episode gives you some clarity, some laughs, and a reminder that it’s okay to want more. You deserve a love that feels safe, steady, and aligned with who you are!
✨ Let me know: What’s YOUR biggest deal breaker in dating?
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬

šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 
#SimilarlyDifferent #DatingDiaries #ModernLove #DatingNonNegotiables #SoloPodcast #LatinaPodcast #RelationshipStandards #RedFlags #GreenFlags #WomenWhoLoveDeeply #SelfWorth #EmotionalMaturity

Theron Thomas Gets Real About Songwriting, Success & Sacrifice22 Jul 202500:39:02

From the Virgin Islands to writing chart-topping hits, Theron Thomas has penned some of the most iconic songs of our generation. In this powerful and hilarious episode, we get real about the music industry, financial mistakes, fame, family, and the price of making it big! Join me as I sit down with the genius behind hits likeĀ ā€œLocked Away,ā€Ā ā€œWhen I Grow Up,ā€Ā ā€œSelfish,ā€Ā andĀ ā€œAbout Damn Timeā€Ā to talk about the highs, the lows, and the lessons that come with success.
šŸ’¬ In this episode:
 – The origin story of Teron Thomas: from sleeping on the floor to Grammy-level success
 – What it’s really like touring with Maroon 5 and navigating fame
 – The million-dollar mistake that changed his financial mindset
 – Being a dad, legacy, and raising a creative son in the business
 – Why ā€œfailureā€ is the best teacher and how discomfort breeds greatness
 – AI, songwriting strategy, and what it takes to write a hit today
 – His dream collab with Jay-Z — and the full-circle moment with Lizzo
šŸ”„ Whether you're a creative, artist, or just someone chasing a dream, this episode will leave you inspired, laughing, and thinking deeper about what successĀ reallyĀ means!
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 
šŸ“²Ā Follow Theron:
https://www.instagram.com/therontheron_/?hl=enĀ 

It’s Not You, It’s Your Screen: Burnout, Boundaries & the Digital Detox15 Jul 202500:28:53

In today’s personal solo episode, I’m unpacking the real effects of digital burnout, overstimulation, and the constant noise we absorb from our screens. If you’ve ever felt emotionally drained, creatively blocked, or justĀ not yourselfĀ after endless scrolling… you’re not alone! I’m sharing my own journey with screen fatigue, the signs you might be missing, and how I’m resetting with micro digital detox habits without quitting social media completely. Plus, I’m giving you aĀ 48-hour challengeĀ that could change your relationship with your phoneĀ andĀ your peace of mind.


šŸ“² In this episode:
 – The sneaky signs of digital burnout
 – Why you’re still tired after ā€œrestingā€ on your phone
 – Creative blocks, comparison traps & dopamine crashes
 – How to reset your nervous system (without quitting your job)
 – A real-talk challenge: 48 hours off social media
 – Boundaries that protect your peace AND your creativity
 – A love note to our parents: please stop sending 100 memes a day šŸ˜‚


šŸŽÆ If you’re ready to reclaim your time, your focus, and your sense of self, hit play. Your most present, peaceful self is waiting on the other side of that screen!


šŸ‘‡ Take the digital detox challenge with me and let me know how it goes!


šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ 

āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Cultivating Real Optimism, Not Toxic Positivity with Dr. Deepika Chopra08 Jul 202500:54:06

Today, I’m joined by the one and only Dr. Deepika Chopra — psychologist, scientist, and creator of the ā€œThings Are Looking Upā€ optimism cards. We’re talking about what itĀ actuallyĀ means to be optimistic (spoiler: it’s not about being positive all the time), and how to build emotional resilienceĀ without bypassing the hard stuff. From redefining toxic positivity to managing motherhood, burnout, and healing in real-time, this episode is filled with science-backed tools, honest reflection, and real talk about living with intention, not perfection!
šŸ’¬ In this episode:
 – What optimism really is (and why it’s a muscle, not a personality trait)
 – The difference between toxic positivity and grounded hope
 – How to regulate your emotions when life feels overwhelming
 – Small daily habits to rewire your brain toward joy
 – Why emotional neutrality is underrated (and powerful)
 – Finding meaning in chaos — from LA fires to life transitions
 – Balancing identity, motherhood, and ambition without losing yourself
 – The underrated magic of micro-moments, awe, and breathwork
✨ This one’s for my deep feelers, my recovering perfectionists, my moms, creators, and anyone learning how to stay soft in a sharp world!
šŸŽ™Ā Connect with Dr. Deepika Chopra (The Optimism Doctor):
Instagram:Ā @drdeepikachopra
Website:Ā www.drdeepikachopra.com
Shop the Cards:Ā thingsarelookingup.co
Upcoming Book:Ā The Power of Real Optimism – coming February 2026!
šŸ”” Don’t forget:
Ā āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them
Ā āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬
šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:
Ā Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
Ā TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod
Ā Submit a ā€˜Similarly Curious’ question: https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Living In Your Soft Girl Era01 Jul 202500:19:15

We’re back with another solo episode ofĀ Similarly Different — and this one’sĀ extraĀ personal. šŸ’Œ Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on my real-time dating journey (yes, likeĀ right now), and what it’s like to open up after a long season of beingĀ happily single. From rediscovering feminine energy to catching myself before I self-sabotage, we’re talking the fear, the hope, and theĀ giddy middle groundĀ that comes with catching feelings after being hyper-independent for so long!
šŸ’¬ In this episode:
 – The honest truth about dating again after being solo for years
 – What it means to feel emotionallyĀ safeĀ with someone (and why that’s so rare)
– Navigating crushes, fear, and survival mode in love
– How to shift from guarded to grounded — without losing your standards
– Why feminine energy doesn’t mean weakness, and how to stop doing everything alone
– TheĀ ā€œscreen door vs. wallā€Ā mindset when letting someone new in
– How to tell if they’re part of your next chapter… or just a detour
✨ This one’s for my soft girl era babes, my healed & healing girlies, and anyone relearning how to trust love again.
🧠 Similarly Curious Segment:
Ā Q:Ā ā€œHow do you know if a new crush is a part of your next chapter or a distraction from it?ā€
We talk about intentional dating, emotional safety, and why not every relationship needs to last forever to be meaningful.
šŸ”” Don’t forget:
Ā āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — I always read them
Ā āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬
šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:
Ā Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod
Submit a ā€˜Similarly Curious’ question:Ā Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co

Desi Perkins on Identity, Motherhood & Building an EmpireĀ 24 Jun 202500:58:49

In this raw and powerful episode, I sit down with the one and only Desi Perkins!Ā We talk about what itĀ reallyĀ takes to go from content creator to CEO, navigating imposter syndrome, letting go of perfectionism, and reclaiming joy through things as simple (and sacred) as gardening. She shares untold stories about infertility, leaving major brand deals behind, and the identity shift that comes with motherhood.
This conversation is about so much more than just beauty or business—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and choosing passion even when fear is in the room. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to be more, do more, or explain yourself… this one’s for you!
šŸ’¬Ā We discuss:
- Desi’s journey from artist to influencer to founder
- Building a brand beyond yourself
- Infertility, loneliness & sharing her story online
- From passion to empire: what changed everything
- Motherhood, identity shifts & redefining success
- Therapy, transference & growth off-camera
- What success means to her now
šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpodTikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycurious
🤳Follow Desi:
Instagram:Ā https://www.instagram.com/desiperkins/?hl=enĀ 
Dezi Skin:Ā https://deziskin.com/?srsltid=AfmBOophoqvXQauqaKPDUSmmYJJyTwWo_7dF8_1dElMSMvB6LZWXNO_aĀ 
Desi Eyewear:Ā https://www.instagram.com/dezi/?hl=enĀ 

The Power of Saying No: Boundaries, Burnout & Being Enough17 Jun 202500:20:45

In this solo episode ofĀ Similarly Different, I’m talking about the lifelong lesson ofĀ saying no without guilt, and the real work it takes to let go ofĀ people-pleasingĀ tendencies.
If you’ve ever felt the weight of being misunderstood, feared disappointing others, or constantly overcommitted to avoid uncomfortable conversations, this one’s for you! I open up about the messy middle of learning to set boundaries, why I used to say yes out of fear, and how protecting your peace isn’t selfish... it’s self-respect.
We also hear from a listener who asked about how to turn down a second date without ghosting or feeling like the bad guy. Spoiler: Honoring your gut is not mean, it’s necessary!
✨ Let me know in the comments: Where in your life do you need to say no more often?
šŸŽ§ Listen if you’ve ever struggled with:

  • Saying no without over explaining
  • People-pleasing and burnout
  • Guilt for protecting your peace
  • Feeling responsible for others’ emotions
  • Setting boundaries with friends, family, or work

šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:

āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes

Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā 

āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them

āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬


šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:

Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod

Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Fertility, IVF & DNA: The Future of Family Planning with Noor Siddiqui10 Jun 202500:28:35

In today’s episode ofĀ Similarly Different, I'm sitting down with Noor Siddiqui — founder of Orchid,Ā a groundbreaking company that's changing the way we think about genetics, fertility, and embryo testing. We dive into what Orchid is, how embryo screening works, and why Noor believes we’re entering a future where everyone will use genetic testing before pregnancy!Ā Whether you’re curious about having kids one day, actively trying, navigating IVF, or simply want to understand how genetics shapes our future... this episode is for you!
šŸ’” Highlights:

  • What is Orchid and what does embryo screeningĀ reallyĀ do?
  • Noor’s personal story and why she started this company
  • De novo mutations, inherited conditions & polygenic risk scores (explained simply!)
  • Why sperm health matters just as much as egg count
  • Stress, burnout, and lifestyle’s hidden effects on fertility
  • The controversial debate: science vs. spirituality in family planning

šŸ‘‡ Let me know in the comments: Would YOU want to know your embryo's risk for certain diseases before pregnancy?
šŸ”— Learn more about Orchid:Ā https://www.orchidhealth.com

šŸ””Ā Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodesĀ āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read themāœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬šŸ“²Ā Let’s stay connected:Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpodTikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpodSubmit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

#FertilityAwareness #IVFJourney #EmbryoScreening #GeneticTesting #OrchidHealth #NoorSiddiqui #WomensHealth #MensHealthMatters #FertilityEducation #SimilarlyDifferentPodcast #ModernParenting #ScienceAndSpirituality #PreconceptionPlanning #HealthTech #EggFreezing #SpermHealth #KnowYourDNA #FutureOfParenting

Stop Shrinking! Why Being ā€˜Too Much’ Is a Superpower03 Jun 202500:31:50

Fresh off my birthday, I found myself sitting in some heavy but honest reflections about identity, worth, and why so many women constantly question whether they’re too much or not enough. From feeling misunderstood in relationships to being judged in professional spaces, I open up about what it means toĀ take up space unapologetically… and how I’ve learned not to carry what was never mine to hold.
Let’s unpack it all! From societal double standards, to the real impact of criticism (especially from people we love), to how I’ve learned to set boundaries around what I choose toĀ receive. This episode is your reminder:Ā you are not too much and you are always enough!
šŸŽ§Ā Listen if you’ve ever struggled with:

  • Being ā€œtoo loud,ā€ ā€œtoo emotional,ā€ or ā€œtoo ambitiousā€
  • Rejection in friendships, dating, or career
  • Comparing yourself on social media
  • People-pleasing or overanalyzing your interactions
  • The pressure to tone yourself down to be accepted

šŸ“© Share this with a friend who needs to be reminded of their magic!

šŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them
āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬

šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:
Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 

Men’s Mental Health: Anxiety, Therapy & Breaking the Stigma with Charlie & Paloma27 May 202500:51:33

In honor of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode ofĀ Similarly DifferentĀ dives deep into the emotional, mental, and spiritual journey of healing with creative power coupleĀ Charlie and Paloma. From panic attacks and cultural stigmas to building a thriving relationship and business, this honest conversation covers everything men (and their partners) need to hear about mental health, vulnerability, and doing the inner work!
If you've ever struggled with anxiety, questioned therapy, or felt pressure to hold it all together... this episode is for you!
šŸ‘‰Ā Topics Covered:

  • What panic attacks really feel like
  • How therapy changed Charlie’s life
  • Mental health in the Latinx community
  • Working with your romantic partner in business
  • How to support a partner through anxiety
  • Breaking male stereotypes around vulnerability
  • Couples therapy and emotional maturity


šŸ“±Follow Charlie and Paloma:

⁠@charlieguerrero⁠

@⁠palomahecht⁠


šŸ””Ā SubscribeĀ for more raw and real conversations about self-awareness, relationships, and personal growth!
šŸ“ž If you or someone you love needs support, check out these mental health resources:
Ā https://www.nimh.nih.gov/Ā 
https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-healthĀ 
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.htmlĀ 
šŸ“± Follow us on social media for updates and more:
Ā Instagram: @similarlydifferentpod
Ā TikTok: @similarlydifferentpod

First Dates Aren’t That Serious: How to Date with Confidence & Curiosity20 May 202500:19:29

In this solo episode, I break down the modern dating scene—flirty, fun, and fear-free. Responding to a listener submission, I dive into the truth about firstĀ dates, what makes them worth it (even when they don’t go anywhere), and why they can be powerful tools for self-discovery! Whether you’re dating again after a break, terrified of putting yourself out there, or just wondering if ā€œhe has to check every box,ā€ this episode will help you reframe dating as a low-pressure, high-reward experience!
✨ Why first dates aren’t supposed to end in a love story
 ✨ How to use dates as market research for your heart
 ✨ Confidence, chemistry & checklists—what really matters?
 ✨ Real talk: Pressure, patience & personal pace in early dating
 ✨ Reclaiming your energy, magnetism & standards
This one’s for anyone navigating dating with curiosity, intentionality, and self-respect.
šŸŽ§Ā Listen in if you’ve ever wondered:
– ā€œWhat if I’m just not ready?ā€
– ā€œIs it okay to not feel sparks right away?ā€
– ā€œAm I taking this too seriously?ā€
– ā€œCan I date just for fun… and still be intentional?ā€
šŸ‘‡ Drop your thoughts in the comments, share with a friend, and submit your ā€œsimilarly curiousā€ questions below and follow @similarlydifferentpod on socials!

Sofia Reyes on Reinvention, Radical Honesty & Her "I Don't Give A Fck" Era13 May 202500:40:13

In this deeply candid and empowering episode, international pop star Sofia Reyes joins Yanina for a full-circle conversation over a decade in the making. From their early creative days together to now, they unpack how Sofia has evolved both as an artist and a woman. The two dive into everything from navigating the music industry, identity, age, femininity, heartbreak, self-worth, and her bold new creative chapter.
With her signature honesty and charisma, Sofia opens up about:

  • Her evolution from girl group to global solo artist
  • Letting go of labels and expectations in her career
  • How her 30s are ushering in freedom, authenticity, and play
  • The bold message behind her new singleĀ ā€œIDGAFā€Ā (and why she castĀ her ex’s new partnerĀ in the music video)
  • Dating post-breakup, red flags she avoids now, and why she’s done with narcissists
  • HerĀ realĀ thoughts on the music industry, trends, and what truly matters
  • Laugh-out-loud moments about online dating, cat mom life, and strawberry parasites (yes, seriously)

🌟 Featured Guest: Sofia Reyes

  • šŸŽ¤ Latin Pop Artist | šŸ‡²šŸ‡½ Global Chart-Topper
  • šŸ”„ New Single:Ā "IDGAF"Ā (coming soon)
  • šŸŽ¶ Also out now:Ā "Guaro con Ron"Ā ft. Alan Walker
  • šŸ“± Follow her: @sofiareyes


Whether you're an artist, a woman navigating growth, or just someone trying to trust your own path — this episode is a permission slip to stop playing small!

If you enjoyed this episode, screenshot it and tagĀ @similarlydifferentpodĀ and @sofiareyesĀ to let us know your favorite moment! Don't forget toĀ rate, review, and subscribe — it helps us grow and bring you even more incredible episodes!

Becoming Her: Growth, Change & Choosing Yourself First06 May 202500:19:23

We’re BACK with Season 3 ofĀ Similarly Different, and I couldn't be more excited to kick things off with a fresh set, a new vibe, and a whole lot of heart. šŸ’› In this solo episode, we’re catching up like old friends — think girl chat, family reunion, and therapy sesh all in one.✨ This season, we’re leveling up — from new visuals to iconic guests, deeper convos, and even more soul talk!

šŸ’¬ In this episode:- What’s new in Season 3: new set, mic boxes, and the ✨butter yellow ✨wall story
- Life updates since Season 2: navigating chaos, growth, and the gym girl era
- Mental health, emotional maturity, and dealing with low-effort energy in dating
- My current take on self-worth, transitions, and choosing peace over pressure
- A heartfelt response to aĀ ā€œSimilarly Curiousā€Ā letter about personal transformation
- Tools I'm using to track my growth (a peek at my 2025 Moments list šŸ“)
- A reminder that if you’re in theĀ ā€œin-betweenā€Ā stage — you're not alone šŸ’›
🧠 Similarly Curious Segment:

Q: How do you hold space for the version of yourself that’s dissolving while honoring the one that’s emerging?
We dive into how to navigate life’s liminal seasons, how discomfort leads to growth, and why even your ā€œsmallā€ wins are worth celebrating.

šŸ”” Don’t forget:āœ”ļø Subscribe for weekly episodes
Ā āœ”ļø Leave a rating & review (it helps more than you know!)
Ā āœ”ļø Drop a comment — IĀ alwaysĀ read them
āœ”ļø Tag me in your stories @similarlydifferentpod — I’ll repost! šŸ’¬

šŸ“² Let’s stay connected:
Instagram:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
TikTok:Ā @similarlydifferentpod
Submit a 'Similarly Curious' question:Ā https://www.youandmemedia.co/similarlycuriousĀ 
#SimilarlyDifferent #Season3 #PodcastCatchUp #WomenInPodcasting #LifeUpdate #ButterYellowEra #DatingAndHealing #EmotionalGrowth #LatinaPodcaster #GymGirlEra #MentalHealthMatters

For Your Younger Self: Becoming the Woman my Younger Self Needed 18 Mar 202500:41:01

In this season finale, I sit down with my younger self for coffee, Yanina 1.0, to make amends, reflect on my growth, the lessons I’ve learned, and let go of what no longer serves me. Yanina 1.0 sought validation in others, stayed in toxic relationships, and embraced burnout. As I embraced Yanina 2.0, I learned to trust myself, set boundaries, and take bold, intentional steps toward the life I truly want. Healing is freedom, and stepping into your next level means forgiving yourself first. Now, I’m leaning into my feminine energy, manifesting more travel, allowing myself to start dating - all while continuing to show love to myself and allowing myself to continue to heal at the same time. Embrace your 2.0 and stay beingĀ Similarly Different!Ā 

Behind the Scenes of Reality TV with Fatemeh11 Mar 202500:55:44

Fatemeh is a powerhouse in the reality TV world, having spent over 24 years casting and producing some of the biggest hit shows. She got her start as an intern at Bunim/Murray Productions and quickly climbed the ranks, eventually working onĀ Real World,Ā The Simple Life, andĀ The Challenge. She shares her most memorable moments in reality TV, wild travels, and favorite stars, including Kim Kardashian, Nicole Richie, andĀ The Challenge's Tina Barta. After navigating the chaos and burnout of reality TV, she’s now focused on creating new shows and might even write a book. We reflect on her incredible career path and how budding creatives and reality stars can make a name for themselves.Ā 

Brinn Nicole’s Journey From Choreography to Motherhood04 Mar 202500:53:07

Brinn Nicole has lived many lives—dancer, choreographer, and now mom of three. From touring with Snoop Dogg to becoming the go-to heels movement coach, she shares how confidence, spirituality, and fearlessness have shaped her life. Brinn opens up about redefining success as a mother, manifesting career goals, and making space for herself while staying true to what brings her joy.Ā 

This episode is sponsored by National University, for more information click here!


Romanticize Your Home & Living Solo25 Feb 202500:19:29

Romanticizing living alone is about creating a space you love. Don’t wait for a ā€œmaybeā€ to beautify your home, instead invest in small changes like mood lighting and thoughtful decor that can make your home feel more like you. Trust me, a peaceful and comfortable home can transform your mindset, especially when living alone.Ā 

Denise Vasi on Building a Brand, Motherhood & Taking the Leap18 Feb 202500:50:07

Actress, mom, and Maed Beauty founder, Denise Vasi, joins us to talk about reinvention, community, and the journey of building a clean beauty brand. From modeling and acting at a young age to launching her signature lip system and joining Sephora’s Accelerate Program, she highlights the power of small wins and persistence. Denise also shares how motherhood reshaped her approach to success and the importance a strong community holds. Get inspired to take the leap and go after what you want!


This episode is sponsored by National University, for more information click here: https://tag.gs/APjj

Romance, Self-Love & Manifesting with Intention ft. Jamie Lee Ruiz11 Feb 202500:56:17

This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating love in all its forms with returning guest, Jamie Lee Ruiz. From self-love to manifesting the right partner, we unpack dating with intention, love languages, and embracing your femininity. We also share our hot takes about Galentine’s Day and play a juicy round of Would You Rather. Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with your partner, friends, or solo, remember to pour love into yourself—you deserve it!

Ā© My Podcast Data Ā· Independent project Ā· Data from Apple & Spotify