Half Betty

Half Betty - Andrea Rathborne and Krista Gruen

Podcast founder Andrea Rathborne and the iconic Betty White share the same birth date - January 17th. In 2022, as Betty would have celebrated her 100th birthday, Andrea turned 50—Half Betty's age. This milestone sparked a powerful reflection: Betty White achieved more between 50 and 100 than in her first 50 years, suggesting that midlife is not an end but a bold, new beginning. Inspired by Betty's legacy, Andrea saw turning 50 as the gateway to a second, even greater life chapter - one full of possibility, reimagination, and purpose.

This vision gave rise to Half Betty, a bold and vibrant community where midlife women come together to feel supported, inspired, informed, and deeply valued. It's a space where the stories of their next chapter take shape and the extraordinary potential of their second scene unfolds.

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S2 · E15
Wednesday · 55 min
Mandy Balak - Enough Is Enough
"The more we chase enough, the further away it gets." -Mandy Balak Mandy Balak spent years building a life that looked successful from the outside. An entrepreneur, community builder and founder of The Gathering Festival, she had created the kind of life many of us are taught to want. And yet, somewhere along the way, she realized she was exhausted from maintaining a life that required her to abandon herself to keep it going. That realization became the beginning of a very different kind of success story. Mandy is the author of Chasing Enough, a book about something most of us are chasing without ever really stopping to decide what it means. How much is enough? How will we know when we get there? And why does "enough" seem to keep moving just when we think we've found it? In this episode, Mandy is in conversation with Krista and I about the ideas we carry about what a successful life is supposed to look like, how easy it is to get caught up in all of it, and what happens when we stop and ask ourselves what we actually want. We hear from Mandy about burnout, but also about that feeling of simply not having anything left to give. She talks about the difference between burnout as the crash and capacity as the math behind it. We talk about the patterns we inherit, and the ways achievement can become so wrapped up in who we think we are. We also talk about what happens when keeping everything together starts to cost us far too much. Mandy shares the deeply personal story of the moment she walked out of a football stadium during a difficult time in her marriage and, in her words, "walked into the most important work of my life". We talk about therapy, the stories we carry from childhood and the ways those stories can quietly become the blueprint for our adult lives. And then there is the idea of enough. Not as a finish line, and certainly not as giving up on ambition, but as something we get to define for ourselves as our lives change. Mandy's book is part memoir and part guidebook, inviting us to notice, let go and reimagine. And perhaps that is what this conversation is really about. Not becoming someone entirely new, but noticing the life we are living, questioning the parts we inherited and deciding what we want to keep. Because sometimes the life that looks perfectly fine from the outside is asking for a rewrite.And sometimes enough isn't something we find. It's something we decide. "Success used to look like a full calendar, and now it looks like how present can I be?" - Mandy Balak Book available in Canada starting September 22nd and in the the United States October 20th. Bio Mandy Balak builds communities where high-performance leaders think bigger and stay resourced. As President of The Gathering, she's building North America's most distinctive brand leadership community. It is a gathering place where 2,500+ CMOs, brand leaders and founders connect annually to lead with clarity, build legacies, and create competitive advantage. She's also the director of The Brand Hall of Fame, the first industry recognition program built on the principle that brands with the deepest devotion win. A 3x founder with a successful exit, Mandy has spent 18+ years advising executives on how to scale impact without burning out. Her first book, Chasing Enough: The High Achiever's Guide to Sustainable Success, launches fall 2026. It's a direct challenge to leaders building in a broken way - You can't build what lasts on empty. Mandy speaks on leadership, community, brand strategy, and the business case for well-resourced teams. Website: mandybalak.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandybalak/ Podcast: https://mandybalak.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mandy_balak/videos Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandybalak/ Chasing Enough book: enough.mandybalak.com Meet Mandy on her Book Tour: https://tour.mandybalak.com/ The Gathering: www.thegatheringfestival.com Brand Hall of Fame: www.brandhalloffame.org Substack: https://mandybalak.substack.com/ Mandy's Words - "Stop shoulding on yourself" References Vancouver Sept 26th book tour https://do604.com/events/2026/9/26/chasing-enough-live-tickets The 8 Questions my Husband and I Ask Each Other Every Sunday https://mandybalak.substack.com/p/the-3-questions-my-husband-and-i?r=22jdj0&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Mandy Balak Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy
S2 · E14
September 10 · 1 hr 7 min· Video
Tami Wong: Hair Loss Pride
"It does not determine your worth. It does not define your beauty. It is not why people love you. And you are enough with or without it." Tami Wong has lived with hair loss since she was 15. For more than two decades, she kept it largely to herself, hiding something that had become such a significant part of her life while trying, at the same time, not to let it become the story of who she was. There is something about the things we feel compelled to hide. They can become wrapped up in shame and in how we see ourselves and imagine other people see us. For Tami, that journey eventually found her telling her story and turning the pain of what she had lived through into something bigger - a way to help, advocate and create change for others experiencing hair loss. Today, she is the founder of Hair Loss Pride, a coaching and support community helping women and teens navigate the emotional journey of hair loss and alopecia. She is also an advocate for greater representation of women with hair loss in beauty, fashion and media, and the host of Shedding the Shame, a podcast exploring the stories women are often taught to keep hidden. In this episode, Tami is in conversation with Krista and I, sharing her own experience with hair loss, but really, we talk about so much more than hair. We talk about beauty and identity, shame and confidence, representation and the strange ways we can attach our sense of worth to something that was never meant to carry that much weight in the first place. And because we recorded this one together, in person, you'll be able to watch the conversation as well as listen to it (which feels especially fitting for an episode that is, in so many ways, about being seen). We talk about what it means to stop hiding, and what can happen when something we have carried with us for years becomes something we choose to talk about instead. For Tami, telling her story has become something much bigger than her own experience — a way to turn what she has lived through into advocacy, connection and change for other people experiencing hair loss. Because our hair can be part of our story, but it is not our worth, our beauty or why people love us. And sometimes, telling the story is where the real story begins. Bio Tami Wong is the founder of Hair Loss Pride, a coaching and support community helping women and teens navigate the emotional journey of hair loss and alopecia with confidence, connection, and compassion. After living with hair loss herself since the age of 15, she spent over two decades hiding in shame before choosing to share her story publicly and advocate for change. Today, Tami is on a mission to redefine what beauty looks like by increasing representation of women with hair loss in the beauty and fashion industries. She partners with brands to create more inclusive campaigns and works to ensure women with alopecia see themselves represented in the spaces where beauty standards are shaped. Before founding Hair Loss Pride, Tami spent more than 20 years in the healthcare industry, giving her a unique perspective on patient advocacy and the emotional gaps that often exist alongside medical care. She now bridges those worlds by supporting women beyond their diagnosis through coaching, education, community, and honest conversations about identity, confidence, and self-worth. Tami is also the host of the podcast "Shedding the Shame", where she explores the stories women are often taught to keep hidden. Through conversations about hair loss, chronic illness, infertility, menopause, mental health, and other stigmatized experiences, she helps women release shame, reclaim their voice, and realize they are never alone. Whether she's speaking on podcasts, sharing her story through television and print media, collaborating with brands, or building community, Tami's mission is simple: to create a world where women no longer feel they have to hide parts of themselves to be accepted, and where every woman can see herself represented in the spaces where beauty is defined. Website: https://hairlosspride.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairlosspride/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VEOWtuHZo0U3iqt8qXWo7?si=3f867234088a4bab YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hairlosspride Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tami-wong/ Tami's Words - Resilient, humour, loyal, uplifting, inclusive. References Sept 27th - Vancouver Strides of Support for Alopecia Areata HERE Tami's individual fundraising walk page HERE Canadian wig brands Tami loves: Bijoux, JE Salon, Flox Hair, and Madison US wig brands Tami loves: Collections by Kimberly, Radiant Hair Co. Global News Morning Sept.1 2026 - 4min watch HERE Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us: https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Tami Wong Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy
S2 · E13
August 21 · 51 min
Lynn Harris: We are all Golden
Lynn Harris S2 E13 Date: August 20th, 2026 Title: We are all Golden SummaryLynn Harris has spent much of her life making people laugh - finding the funny. As the founder of GOLD Comedy, a place where women and non-binary creators can hone their craft, find their people and build something of their own, Lynn has had no shortage of twists, turns and adventures in her own life. There was journalism, activism, book writing, politics and even a Tonya Harding lookalike moment (which is probably best explained by Lynn herself). And then, midlife. The chapter of change, where some things can feel lost, forgotten or set aside. But sometimes, what we thought was long finished shows up again. An old dream. A part of ourselves we haven't thought about in years. Something we thought we'd outgrown, only to realize maybe we hadn't. And maybe that's part of what midlife shares with us - the chance to find our way back to the dreams, visions, and joys that still matter. For Lynn, this has meant finding her way back to writing and performing. Back to comedy. Back to some of the parts of herself that may have been waiting patiently in the wings - the side of the stage. In this episode, you'll hear more about where Lynn came from, what shaped her, why she built GOLD Comedy, and what happens when the woman who has spent years helping other people find their funny starts listening more closely to her own. Because comedy can be a job, a business, a community and, sometimes, it can be a lens for looking at life that feels changed and recognizing that the community is still there, gathered, laughing and creating. And, maybe that is the Goldenest part of all. Bio Lynn Harris is a culture-shifting producer, award-winning journalist, and author/co-author of six books. Her comedy and campaigns for social justice and gender equity have changed laws and conversations from Capitol Hill to NASCAR. She is founder and CEO of GOLD Comedy - the comedy school, professional network, and content studio where women and non-binary creators grow their comedy careers, build powerful communities, and make themselves and their communities laugh. Harris co-created Breakup Girl (acquired by Oxygen), one of the first multiplatform internet success stories, and co-hosted, with Ginna Green, The Forward's A Bintel Brief: The Podcast. Lynn served as the first VP of Communications at Global Human Rights Group Breakthrough, where her blend of humour and advocacy powered some of the team's most effective U.S. campaigns. She has also worked as a Tonya Harding lookalike, which is another story. GOLD Comedy Instagram Facebook YouTube Linkedin Lynn's Five Words Collaborative Creative Impatient Salty Hungry References GOLD Comedy is a comedy school, professional network and content studio where women, non-binary creators can hone their craft, find their people and build something of their own. Through classes, community, shows and more, GOLD creates space for comedians to develop their voices and bring their work into the world - wherever and whomever they are. Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Youtube link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Lynn Harris Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E12
July 16 · 1 hr 21 min
Wisdom In Bloom: Five Words
We have always loved the way conversations wander. Not because they lose their way, but because they so often find something better. A story about a first job becomes a story about courage. A memory from childhood becomes a reflection on friendship. Someone mentions a woman named Alice, and suddenly you're talking about the people who quietly change the direction of our lives without ever knowing they have. It's exactly where this conversation with Denise and Kamesha from Wisdom in Bloom took us. Together, Andrea, Krista, Denise and Kamesha explore the stories that shape us—the unexpected turns, the friendships that carry us, the mentors who see something in us before we see it ourselves, and the courage it takes to begin something new. Denise and Kamesha share the story behind Wisdom in Bloom, a podcast created from their shared belief that women's stories and wisdom deserve to be heard. They reflect on friendship, creative partnership, and the ongoing journey of becoming. And, as every Half Betty conversation does, this episode eventually arrives at Five Words. What had originally started as a simple invitation for each guest to gather five words that feel true has become one of the most meaningful moments in every conversation. There is no right answer. No perfect combination. No expectation to arrive at them quickly. Just curiosity, honesty, and the bravery of reflecting on who we have been, who we are, and who we are becoming. For Denise and Kamesha, this reflection became something much bigger than a question at the end of an episode. They shared how these words will stay with them long after the conversation ends - a powerful declaration of self, shaped by the experiences, challenges, friendships and moments that have brought them here. Because stories help us make sense of our lives. Conversations help us hear those stories differently. And, Five Words help us remember who we are. Bio Denise and Kamesha are the co-hosts and creators of Wisdom in Bloom, a podcast and community celebrating women in midlife through honest conversations about identity, friendship, growth, resilience and the wisdom that comes from lived experience. Through their conversations, Denise and Kamesha create space for women to share their stories, reflect on the moments that shaped them, and embrace the ongoing journey of becoming. Their friendship and shared belief that every woman carries stories worth telling are at the heart of Wisdom in Bloom. References Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Denise's Five Words Nurturer, Grace, Brave, Resilient, Worrier Kamesha's Five Words Resilient, Kind, Figure-Outer, Evolving, Spirited Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us: Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Denise & Kamesha | Wisdom in Bloom Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E11
June 20 · 1 hr 27 min
Claire Fitzsimmons: Still Becoming
In this thoughtful and inspiring conversation, Andrea and Krista welcome their first UK guest to the Half Betty Podcast - writer, wellbeing curator, coach, and podcast host Claire Fitzsimmons. Claire is the co-founder of If Lost, Start Here, a wellbeing company supporting people as they navigate life's wilds with greater emotional honesty, clarity, and self-compassion. She is also the host of the podcast A Thought I Kept, where she explores the ideas, moments, and conversations that stay with us long after they happen. This episode marks more than simply Half Betty's first conversation with a UK guest; it feels like the beginning of a meaningful bridge between communities, cultures, and shared conversations around midlife, identity, growth and transformation. Together, Andrea, Krista, and Claire explore the cultural differences between North America and the UK when it comes to visibility in midlife, emotional expression, and conversations about women's evolving identities. They discuss the uniquely British tendency to soften discomfort with humour, the challenges of asking for what we need, and why so many of us are still learning how to articulate what we feel. Claire shares her personal story - from witnessing her mother's struggles with mental health in midlife to navigating her own experiences with anxiety and depression - and reflects on how these experiences shaped both her work and her understanding of whole and well-being. This conversation gently but powerfully challenges the modern obsession with wellness hacks, optimization, and the endless pursuit of self-improvement. Instead, Claire offers listeners a more compassionate and sustainable perspective that our health and wellness may not be something to chase, but something that we shape within the beautifully imperfect reality of everyday life. At the heart of this episode, there is a sense of unlearning of emotional courage and the moving truth that midlife is not a finished chapter, but an ongoing becoming. Sometimes being lost is not a signal that something has gone wrong. But. simply the beginning of a new chapter. And, for some, an entirely new book. Bio Claire Fitzsimmons is a wellbeing writer, coach, podcast host, and co-founder of If Lost, Start Here, a wellbeing company on a mission to help people find their way to a better place. As an ICF Associate Certified Coach and a certified Emotions Coach Practitioner, Claire works with women navigating change, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or an experience of feeling stuck. She helps people untangle what they're feeling, find clarity, and create a sustainable wellbeing practice that fits the shape of their everyday lives. Claire's writing on mental health, emotions, and midlife wellbeing has appeared in Happiful, Breathe, The Simple Things, and others, with features in Stylist, Red, and Psychologies. Her first book, If Lost, Start Here: Wellbeing for the anxious, disconnected or uncertain, co-authored with Amanda Sheeren, is available now. Claire is also the host of the podcast A Thought I Kept, where each week she speaks with guests from across creative, academic, business, and wellbeing fields about the ideas that stay with us for a lifetime. (Andrea was a guest on Claire's podcast with her conversation found here: A Library made of Moments ) Book If Lost Start Here - Wellbeing for the Anxious, Disconnected or Uncertain Created by Amanda Sheeren and Claire Fitzsimmons References Website https://www.ifloststarthere.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ifloststarthere Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ifloststarthere YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@AThoughtIKept Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-fitzsimmons-4130aa100 Podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2521342 Substack https://moregooddays.substack.com AND https://itsalotactually.substack.com Claire's Five Words Emotional Curious (thoughtful) Creative Loyal Tenacious Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Claire Fitzsimmons Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E10
June 4 · 1 hr 8 min
Dr. Kelly Kasteel: Thrive Instead of Survive
What happens when the career you've built no longer fits the life you want? This week, Andrea and Krista sit down with Dr. Kelly Kasteel—emergency physician, Mum, and founder of Emerge Wellness. After 17 years in emergency medicine, Kelly found herself facing burnout, questioning her identity, and navigating the very real challenges of perimenopause. She shares how the pressures of COVID, coupled with a traumatic workplace incident, became the catalyst for stepping away and reimagining her future. What started as an interest in aesthetics quickly revealed something much bigger: women in midlife (including herself) were struggling to find support, answers, and care. Determined to fill that gap, Kelly immersed herself in learning all the information she wasn't taught in medical school and now helps women navigate hormones, perimenopause, confidence, energy, and overall wellbeing. We dive into the symptoms so many women experience but rarely talk about, the evolving conversation around testosterone, and why self-advocacy is one of the most important tools we have. It's an honest, empowering conversation about reinvention, resilience, and taking ownership of your health—because, as Kelly reminds us, no one's coming to save you. Whether you're curious about hormones, feeling stuck in a season of change, or simply wondering if what you're experiencing is "normal," this episode offers practical guidance, reassurance, and plenty of reasons to keep asking questions. Bio Dr. Kelly Kasteel, MD, CCFP-EM, known as Dr. KK, is the founder of Emerge Wellness MD in New Westminster, BC, Canada. After 17 years in emergency medicine, she built one of the most in-demand aesthetics practices in Vancouver's Lower Mainland, the kind of place where you finally feel like you have a girlfriend who also happens to be your doctor. She's known for a boutique, natural-outcomes approach at accessible price points that leaves women looking like themselves, just better. She believes aesthetics and hormone health belong together, and her own perimenopause journey and testosterone therapy is what brought those two worlds under one roof. You can find her candid, evidence-based take on midlife women's health on her Substack, Dr. KK: Hot and Informed, and on Instagram at @drkellykasteel, where she shows up with the same warmth and radical honesty she brings to her clinic every day. Website https://www.emergewellnessmd.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drkellykasteel/ Substack https://substack.com/@drkellykasteel Dr. Kelly's words - Radically authentic, warmly disruptive, refreshingly real, unapologetically direct, brilliantly approachable Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Dr. Kelly Kasteel Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E9
May 17 · 57 min
Christina Jazzar: Whole Body Hugs
Some people find that their entire lives are about learning how to read a room. Christina Pitts Jazzar built a career learning how to care for the people inside of it. Long before she became an intimacy coordinator (IC) at 45 years old, Christina had spent years working as a performer, actor, and choreographer, instinctively attuned to the emotional energy, vulnerability and unspoken dynamics on both the stage and the screen. So when a friend suggested she explore the emerging field of Intimacy Coordination, something in her immediately and wholeheartedly responded. As Christina shares in this conversation, it was a full-body and resounding "yes". In this episode of Half Betty, we explore the deeply human work behind Intimacy Coordination and the growing importance of care, communication, consent, and emotional safety within storytelling. From scenes involving romantic intimacy to the tenderness between parents and children, friends, partners, or chosen family, Christina shares what it means to support actors and crews through moments that require trust, boundaries, clarity, and compassion. Together, we talk about midlife reinvention, advocacy, and what happens when the work you step into feels less like a pivot and more like an alignment with who you have always been. Christina also opens up about her family life, her marriage, motherhood, and growing up with a father who was hard of hearing and later vision impaired - experiences that profoundly shaped her understanding of communication, emotional awareness, and human connection. As film and television continue to evolve, Intimacy Coordinators like Christina are helping to redefine what safe, ethical, emotionally intelligent storytelling can look like, not just for actors, but for entire creative communities. This conversation is thoughtful, deeply grounded and such an important and beautiful reminder that the things we are naturally drawn toward often hold clues to the work we are meant to do. Bio With over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Christina Pitts Jazzar (she/her) is a celebrated Performer, choreographer, and Certified Intimacy Coordinator (IC). She has been at the helm of Canada's IC community with extensive training in Movement, Motion Pictures and Mental Health. When it comes to being an IC, Christina is a true collaborator. She has a fun, natural ability to put people at ease, focusing on Communication, Consent & Boundaries and Care. She creates inclusive, welcoming work environments for both cast and crew during sensitive and vulnerable content/situations. As a mother of two, caregiver, partner, and working creative, Christina stepped into intimacy coordination at the age of 45 - in the middle of a global pandemic - and quickly realized something important: productions need care, but so do the people doing the caring. That understanding led her to become a proud board member of the National Society of Intimacy Professionals (NSIP), as well as co-founder of ICU (Intimacy Coordinators United), a Collective prioritizing intimacy coordination as a holistic, sustainable, and community-centred practice. You can see Christina's work on Netflix, Paramount+, Disney FX, Hallmark, CBC and CBS with shows like FUBAR, Adults, Umbrella Academy, Miniature Wife, The WESTIES, Sheriff Country, Boston Blue, Devil In Disguise John Wayne Gacy, and The Way Home to name a few. And finally, a special thank you from Christina to Dani, for 25 years of love and support, and to Krista Gruen and Laura Adkin for her first intimacy coordination credit on their beautiful film Re: Uniting. If you haven't seen it yet, consider this your sign to add it to the list! Website Instagram IMDB Christina's words - Communication, Curious, Creativity, Collaboration, Capable Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Christina Jazzar Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E8
May 5 · 1 hr 12 min
Danielle Mika Nagel: Effort & Ease
We sat down with Danielle Mika Nagel for a conversation that moved dynamically between both reflection and clarity. A conversation that stayed with us long after it was over and, now, finds its opportunity to be shared with our listeners. At the heart of this episode is a phrase Danielle often returns to - "effort and ease". The idea that everything meaningful in life asks something of us, but not everything should feel like strain. And that learning the difference is often how she describes beginning to understand herself more fully. Danielle speaks to the earlier decades that shape us in ways we don't always notice at the time - learning boundaries, building courage, figuring out care, and sometimes finding our way back to who we truly are. And how those lessons don't ever end but simply evolve. Now in this midlife chapter, Danielle describes being in a season that feels both grounded and expansive - continuing her long-standing yoga practice, leading retreats, and deepening her coaching work. She also co-founded and co-hosts the podcast Coffee Unlimited with J&D alongside her friend Janelle Aaker - a space that reflects much of her honest, lived-in way of seeing the world. She also speaks to the practices that have supported her along the way - yoga, meditation, and staying in an honest relationship with herself. It's a conversation about what we carry, what we release, and what it means to keep choosing a life that fits. Bio Danielle Mika Nagel is a wellness coach with over two decades of experience weaving together yoga, Ayurveda, and leadership. A former Director of Leadership Development at lululemon and Vancity, she also spent 14 years as a lead educator with the Chopra Center. Today, she supports leaders to thrive across all areas of their lives through 1:1 coaching, workshops, and global retreats - bringing a grounded, integrative approach to how people live, lead, and sustain themselves over time. Website https://www.daniellemika.com/ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellemikanagel/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/daniellemikawellbeing/?hl=en YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@CoffeeUnlimitedwithJandD Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/6bwPMMAfs1wpbIJhp54MZq?si=8be2a07645e540df Danielle's Words - Student (learning), Flexibility, Bossy Guru, bougie Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Danielle Mika Nagel Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Alex McCarthy Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E7
April 17 · 43 min
Dr. Rachel Goldman: Pause
Last year, in a packed room at the Hello Sunshine Conference, Krista and I listened to Dr. Rachel Goldman speak. Afterward, we had a brief chance to meet her and share what we were building with Half Betty - a space for women navigating midlife, or what we often call centre life, and all that comes with it. She listened with a nod and what felt like immediate understanding - a kind of quiet recognition in the exchange. She spoke briefly about the work she was immersed in, including her upcoming book, and said she would be happy to support what we were building if the opportunity ever arose. And here we are. This conversation is part of something that began before we pressed record - and will continue long after it ends. We're so glad to welcome her here. Dr. Rachel is a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, and the author of When Life Happens (April 2026). Her work focuses on stress, body image, and sustainable behaviour change - grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and a deep understanding of how change unfolds in real life. Her perspective has been featured in TIME, The New York Times, CNN, and USA Today, and she has appeared on the TODAY Show alongside voices such as Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Mel Robbins. In this episode, we explore what it means when life doesn't follow the plan - how we respond, what we hold onto, and what we might be ready to shift. A conversation about the power of the pause. Website Instagram Linkedin YouTube Dr. Goldman's Words - Focus on what's in your control - Aligned - Grounded - Mom - Runner - Pause References When Life Happens - Book launched April 7th 2026 Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Dr. Rachel Goldman Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E6
April 3 · 1 hr 11 min
Half George w/Steve Pratt: Embracing The Weird
What began as an April Fools' idea has become something much more meaningful. Half George returns as a space for men to move into honest, open conversations about midlife alongside the stories we've been hearing from our guests on Half Betty. Co-hosts Chris Rathborne and Kyle Gruen are joined by their first guest, Steve Pratt - writer, entrepreneur, and self-described "weird, kind, creative, enthusiast, experimenter." At 50, Steve found himself in a strange and profound shift - leaving the company he built, becoming an empty nester, and questioning long-held definitions of success and identity. Instead of rushing to redefine and make sense of it all, he chose to experiment. Literally. Through his Midlife Field Guide, Steve approaches this mid-chapter as a series of real-life experiments - letting go of old metrics and beliefs and exploring what it means to live with more presence, curiosity, and intention. This conversation is thoughtful, funny, and very honest - touching on identity, purpose, connection, and the evolving nature of work and life in the midlife chapter. A reminder that this time isn't about having it all figured out, it's about staying open, staying curious, and, sometimes, embracing the weird. Bio, Steve Pratt Steve Pratt is our first Half George guest after our initial Half George episode in 2024 with co-hosts Chris Rathborne and Kyle Gruen. Steve is a midlife explorer navigating what this chapter of life has to offer with curiosity, courage, and a wicked sense of humour. Quirky, candid, and endlessly inventive, he has spent his career helping others find their voice and telling stories that matter. He is the author of Earn It: Unconventional Strategies for Brave Marketers and the founder of The Creativity Business, a hub for helping companies craft content, marketing, and messaging that actually earns attention. He's also writing the Midlife Field Guide, a Substack project in which he and his friend Geoff experiment with their own lives in public, trying to decode midlife, one adventure at a time. Steve co-founded Pacific Content, the world's first branded podcast agency, which he grew from the ground up in 2014 to work with global brands like Ford, Audible, BMW, Shopify, Adobe, and more - eventually being acquired by Rogers Communications in 2019. Before that, he ran a digital audio innovation lab at the CBC, launched one of the first legal music podcasts in the world, and built a highly engaged community for CBC Radio 3. He lives in Vancouver with his wife, Debbie, and their three kids, Cedar, Dawson, and Charlotte. Always experimenting, always learning, Steve describes himself with his five words, simply as: Weird. Creative. Kind. Enthusiast. Experimenter. Instagram YouTube Linkedin TikTok The Midlife Field Guide with Geoff Siskind Bio, Chris RathborneChris Rathborne has spent 25+ years in promotional marketing and branded merchandise, building and nurturing relationships, shaping programs, and delivering results for brands including 7-Eleven, A&W Restaurants, Pacific Salmon Foundation, Pepsico, Indigenous Health and more. At BAMKO, he helps clients turn ideas into meaningful branding experiences. Chris is also the co-host of Half George, where he explores midlife with honesty, curiosity, and humour. A sports lover, Vancouver history nerd, music and pop culture enthusiast and lifelong family man, he lives in New Westminster with his wife Andrea and their daughters Sophie and Bridget. Bio, Kyle GruenKyle Gruen is a product management executive with 15+ years of experience scaling products across startups and growth-stage companies. He blends strategy, data, and operational insight to create solutions that work and more importantly, last. Kyle co-hosts Half George, sharing thoughtful, systems-oriented reflections on midlife, ambition, and life's unexpected turns. He lives in Vancouver with his wife Krista and their twin sons, Weston and Foster. References Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Half George Guest: Steve Pratt Hosts: Chris Rathborne & Kyle Gruen Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E5
March 17 · 1 hr 6 min
Anar Ali: Beyond Boundaries
For this episode of Half Betty, Andrea and Krista are joined with Anar Ali an award-winning author, TV creator, and Executive Producer of CBC/NBC Universal's Allegiance (now on the tail end of Season 3), as she traces her path from Tanzania through small-town Canada, Mexico, the UK, and Toronto. Anar talks through guiding values like freedom over security, kindness as power, collaboration, compassion, and a curiosity that fuels wonder. She reflects on power amplifying character, "sharing it" through politics, incremental community change, and circular storytelling that honours ancestors. As well, the very raw and real moment she left her Procter & Gamble corporate life and first marriage to pursue writing a debut novel (Night of Power, Penguin Random House), as well as TV, sparked by CBC's Diverse Creators Program. Bio Anar Ali is the Creator & Executive Producer of the hit police drama, ALLEGIANCE (CBC/NBCUniversal), and a critically acclaimed short story writer and novelist. Her first book, BABY KHAKI'S WINGS, was a finalist for multiple awards including the Commonwealth Writers' Prize (Best First Book), and her debut novel, NIGHT OF POWER, was recently published internationally by Penguin Random House. She started her TV career when she won a development deal with CBC's Diverse Creators Program for her 1-hour serialized dramedy, RUBY'S TURN. Soon after, she was a writer on the hit medical drama, TRANSPLANT (Netflix/NBCUniversal/CTV). She left a successful career as a Business Development Executive at Procter & Gamble to pursue her dream of becoming a writer. Anar was born in Tanzania to Indian parents, grew up in small-town Alberta, has lived in Mexico and the UK, and now makes her home in Toronto. She's represented by Altas Literary and Atlas Artists. Instagram IMDB Anar's Words - freedom, kindness, collaboration, compassion, fearless, adventurous, curiosity and wonder. References Allegiance (Procedural) - A rookie agent working in Surrey, her hometown, who faces the limits of the judicial system as she battles to exonerate her politician father. Now in its third season and can be watched on CBC and NBC Universal. CBC IMDB Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Use the code HALFBETTY and receive 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guest: Anar Ali (Screenwriter/ Author/Executive Producer) Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E4
February 20 · 1 hr 8 min
Carolyn Hawes and Diane Brennan: The Devil, Betty & SPF
Andrea and Krista welcome not one, but two fantastic new guests to Half Betty - the duo behind the brilliant and fun The Devil Wears SPF podcast, Carolyn Hawes and Diane Brennan. In this episode, we hear from both women about the experiences that have shaped them, the lessons that landed them here, and their visions for full, vibrant, sun-protected futures. Carolyn and Diane explore themes of self-worth, agency, and the power of women, creating space for honesty and care. They share stories of resilience, transformation, and the courage it takes to live life on their own terms - navigating challenges, redefining freedom, and prioritizing health, joy, and purpose. Their podcast blends "Skincare and SoulCare," tackling topics including aging, self-love, wellness humour and insight. Looking ahead, they share dreams of exploring beauty rituals and cultural definitions of wellness around the world - a continuation of their journey together as friends and co-creators. This episode is a conversation about living intentionally, embracing change, and the ways women support and lift each other while navigating life's transitions. Bios Carolyn Hawes is a former editor and general contractor whose midlife journey led her to rethink health, work, and identity. After years of people-pleasing shaped by childhood and an early marriage that ended in divorce, Carolyn began the work of becoming "self-authored," learning to voice her own needs and opinions - both for herself and as a model for her daughter. In her late forties, menopause-related symptoms disrupted her ability to work and prompted a year-long pause to focus on healing and learning. With guidance from women's health specialists, she began rebuilding her health and, at 53, chose early retirement to design a life rooted in purpose, curiosity, and alignment rather than obligation. Today, Carolyn brings her lived experience, honesty, and humour to conversations about aging, self-worth, and what it means to choose yourself in midlife. Diane Brennan has always taken a nontraditional path, guided by independence, adventure, and a deep trust in her own instincts. She left Canada for the United States without a job to pursue citizenship and later embraced a life without marriage or children, navigating social judgment before arriving at a liberating "who cares" mindset. A pivotal experience with a cosmetic procedure that left her with permanent facial scarring led to a lawsuit and profoundly reshaped her relationship with beauty, aging, and self-advocacy. This moment deepened her interest in skincare and fueled her desire to help other women feel informed and empowered about their choices. Diane brings candour, wit, and compassion to conversations about self-worth, freedom, and redefining beauty on your own terms. Together, Carolyn and Diane are the co-hosts of The Devil Wears SPF, a podcast blending "Skincare" and "SoulCare" with humour and heart, inviting women to care for both their skin and their inner lives - without apology. Diane's Five Words Fun, Adventure, Learning, Loving, Laughing Carolyn's Five Words Self Authoured, Intuitive, Design minded, Strategic, Aesthetic, silly Links The Devil Wears SPF YouTube Instagram Dianne Brennan Instagram Linkedin Carolyn Hawes Website Instagram Linkedin Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Connect with Half Betty Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave us a voicemail (we love to hear your voices and your thoughts!) https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Guests Dianne Brennan & Carolyn Hawes Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E3
February 5 · 2 hr 3 min
Zanne Hollingshead: On Purpose
In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, Suzanne (Zanne) Hollingshead joins Andrea and Krista for an honest and moving conversation about loss, resilience, and finding purpose through life's hardest seasons. Zanne shares her experience of losing her mother as a child and her sister in midlife, and how navigating these profound losses became a catalyst for transformation. She talks about how her journey through grief led her to create supportive communities for motherless children, adults navigating loss, and women moving through perimenopause and menopause. Zanne's story highlights the power of facing grief with courage, building connection, and turning personal hardship into advocacy. This episode is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is support, understanding, and a path toward meaning and hope. Bio Zanne Hollingshead is a trauma-informed well-being advocate, certified life coach, and community-builder with a deeply personal connection to her work. Trained through Martha Beck's Wayfinder Life Coaching program and certified in Mother Loss Support through Claire Bidwell Smith and Hope Edelman's professional program, Zanne specializes in supporting individuals and groups navigating loss, grief, and the transitions that arrive with midlife. Her own experiences - losing her mother as a child, her sister in midlife, and dear friends along the way - inform her compassionate approach and the communities she has built. Zanne walks alongside her clients and participants with insight, care, and practical tools, helping them navigate life's challenges while creating space for healing, growth, and new beginnings. In collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Hope Edelman, Zanne co-facilitates weekly Motherless Daughters Community Calls and leads 12-week Support Circles for early childhood, adolescent, and young adult mother loss - programs she helped develop in 2023. Through her work, Zanne is dedicated to making sure no one facing grief or life transitions has to navigate them alone. Zanne Hollingshead Instagram Growingthroughit.lifemidlifemagic.community Motherlessdaughters.com Zanne's Five Words+ Rule Breaker On Purpose Multisensory People Connector Unstoppable Intuitive Soul-diver References We know the conversations in this episode may bring up strong emotions around grief, loss, and mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling, please know you don't have to face it alone. In Canada: You can reach out to the Talk Suicide Canada line at 1-833-456-4566 (available 24/7) In the United States: Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (available 24/7) If you're listening from another part of the world, we encourage you to seek out local support - whether that's a healthcare provider, community organization, or someone you trust. You are not alone, and reaching out for help is a brave and important step. Women's midlife health resources: Dr Lisa Mosconi PhD- Neuroscientist, Author of The Menopause Brain Tamsen Fadal - Journalist, Women's Midife Advocate, Journalist Dr. Kelly Casperson MD - Urologist, Women's Midife Physician Dr Kudzai Dombo MD - GYN, Women's Midlife Physician Dr Sharon Malone MD - Menopause Expert, Chief Medical Advisor Alloy Women's Health Online Medicine Platform Dr. Jayne Morgan, MD, Cardiologist and Vice President of Medical Affairs, at Hello HeartInstagram Hello Heart Midi Half Betty Sponsor Information Zaleska beautiful, size-inclusive jewelry Connect with Half Betty Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave us a voicemail (we love to hear your voices and your thoughts!) https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E2
January 17 · 46 min
Julie Kim: Unhinged
In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, Julie Kim, a top Canadian stand-up comedian, writer, and producer, joins Andrea and Krista for an engaging and honest conversation. Julie shares her journey in comedy, motherhood, cultural identity, and the unique challenges women face in the entertainment industry. She talks about her evolving comedic style, fueled by real-life experiences (including the highly annoying ones) and how it helps her connect with diverse audiences. The discussion highlights her impactful storytelling, growth as a comedian, and dedication to breaking barriers in comedy. Julie also shares upcoming plans, including live shows and her podcast 'Bothered.' This episode is filled with laughter, insights, and inspiration for women in comedy, and beyond. Bio Julie Kim is one of Canada's top stand-up comedians. Julie recently toured across North America doing 40 theatre shows with Ronny Chieng (Crazy Rich Asians, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah). She was a gala performer at the 2022 Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal and headlined four sold-out solo shows at Just for Laughs Toronto in 2023. Over the past decade, Julie has performed at all the major Canadian comedy festivals, including Just for Laughs Vancouver, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, and Halifax Comedy Festival (with multiple televised performances). She tours internationally and made her debut at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Julie has also been regularly featured on CBC's The Debaters. In 2023 Julie also debuted at both the Toronto Fringe Festival and Victoria Fringe Festival with her solo storytelling show called No One Special. Julie is also a Canadian Screen Award-winning writer and producer. Julie has contributed to the writing rooms of Kim's Convenience, Run the Burbs, and Still Standing. She has been part of the writing and creative consulting team at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival for the past three years. She was also a writer for Just for Laughs Montreal in 2022. Julie was a producer and writer for Simu Liu (Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) as he hosted the 2022 and 2023 Juno Awards. She ideated Liu's now well-known 'I am Canadian' monologue, which has gone viral on the Internet and social media. Additionally, in 2023, Julie was included on VIBE's list of POWER 60: Inspiring Asian-Canadians of Influence. Other notable honorees included Lilly Singh, Andrew Phung, and Russell Peters. Julie's mission is to spread happiness, lighten hearts, and unite through laughter. And no amount of 'mom-shaming' will stop her in this quest. Linkedin Instagram YouTube TikTok Website IMDB Julie's Five+ Words - food-loving (and also resentful), analytical, unhinged, random, adventurer References Link HERE to March 8th Women's Day Event at The Biltmore. Andrea and Krista will be in attendance! Come meet us and say hello! Sponsor Information Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry Enter code HALFBETTY for 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S2 · E1
January 5 · 58 min
Dr. Lucky Sekhon: The Lucky Egg
Welcome to Season Two of the Half Betty Podcast with Founder, Host and Producer Andrea Rathborne as well as Producer and Co-Host Krista Gruen. We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a board-certified OB-GYN, reproductive endocrinologist, and fertility specialist based in New York. In this episode, Dr. Lucky shares her story from her education at McGill University and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland to her practice at RMA of New York. She touches on her personal IVF journey, the vulnerabilities and challenges of motherhood, and how it influenced her professional path. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, community, and leveraging intuition. Dr. Lucky also talks about her book, 'The Lucky Egg,' which is available to purchase on January 13th 2026 and aims to be a comprehensive guide on fertility. Our conversation with Dr. Lucky explores the complexities of midlife, the pressure of balancing professional and personal life, and the impact of generational influences. Dr. Lucky's profound insights into self-advocacy, mental health, and her organic journey in medicine and social media inspire listeners to find their purpose and navigate their own paths. Bio Dr. Lucky Sekhon is a board certified OBGYN, Reproductive Endocrinologist, Infertility specialist and the author of THE LUCKY EGG - a comprehensive guide to understanding your fertility and how to get pregnant. Born and raised in Toronto, Dr. Lucky Sekhon earned her undergraduate degree at McGill University, her MD at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and completed residency and fellowship training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Now practicing at RMA of New York in New York City, she has guided thousands of individuals and couples through their fertility journey, combining cutting-edge science with compassionate care to help them overcome infertility, preserve their options, and build the families of their dreams. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two daughters. Linkedin Instagram YouTube TikTok Website Dr. Lucky's Five Words/Descriptions for herself - passionate, mission driven, caring, confident, knowledgeable, and 'owning it'. References Book The Lucky Egg Sponsor Information Zaleska - beautiful, size-inclusive jewelry Enter code HALFBETTY for 20% off your first purchase Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsor: Zaleska size-inclusive jewelry
S1 · E21
Dec 5, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
Karryn Ransom: Full Circle
Andrea and Krista welcome Karryn Ransom on this episode of Half Betty. Karryn was a cast member of Degrassi Jr. High and speaks about her time on the series and how it shaped her future as a teacher. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of parenting, professional journeys, and the transition to 'empty nesters.' They emphasize the importance of modeling a full life for their children, exploring new passions, and accepting the different changes that come with midlife, including menopause. Karryn shares her dynamic teaching journey, methods to engage students, and the joy of returning to art and theater. They discuss the idea of bridging generational gaps through shared stories and mentorship, aiming to create spaces for intergenerational dialogue and learning. The conversation ultimately underscores the value of loving oneself, fostering authentic relationships, and finding joy and purpose in every stage of life. Bio Educator, artist and actor, Karryn helps people find their voice. She is an educator specializing in high school French, a watercolour artist, and performs in local theatre productions. In the 1980s, she spent five years in a TV role in the original Degrassi High series. That early experience showed her that giving voice to ordinary experiences through storytelling can be transformative. This, along with her experiences as a parent, artist, and professional leader, continues to shape her teaching practice, where she creates space for others to express themselves with confidence. And now, in midlife, she's standing firmly in her own story with clarity and purpose. Linkedin Instagram Pinterest TikTok IMDB Karryn's Five Words - Passionate, Compassionate, Focused, Creative, Determined Sponsor Information Voes & Company We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit - from casual to chic - they're as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last - without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that's why we've partnered with Voes & Co to bring our subscribers 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host/Producer: Andrea Rathborne Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Voes and Company
S1 · E20
Nov 17, 2025 · 58 min
Jocelyn Pepe: Crossing Bridges
Andrea Rathborne and Krista Gruen join in conversation with Jocelyn Pepe, whose extraordinary journey - from moving through divorce and single motherhood to surviving a life-altering brain injury and ultimately becoming a global keynote speaker and bestselling author - reveals the power of grit, healing, and claiming your own mind. As a dedicated mother of three children, author of her first book, Claim Your Brain, and committed mental health advocate, Jocelyn emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, community support, and shifting the narrative from "me" to "we". Our conversation explores Jocelyn's pivotal life moments, her ongoing balance between personal growth and professional purpose, and the central role that both intuition and connection have played along the way. She also sheds light on the increasing mental health crisis shaped by modern pressures and emphasizes the urgent need for accessible resources and collective well-being. Bio Jocelyn Pepe is the author of Claim Your Brain, a book that brings science and soul together to help us understand our mental health in a way that feels genuinely human. She's also the founder of TrU, where she combines research, real-life experience, and meaningful coaching to help leaders and teams grow stronger, perform at their best, and live with more intention. Jocelyn has a master's in the psychology and neuroscience of mental health, along with multiple coaching designations - but what truly sets her apart is how she uses all of it with intuition and heart. She's reshaping how we think about mental health, not just at work but in everyday life, making it more accessible, compassionate, and relatable. Linkedin YouTube Instagram TrU Living Instagram personal Instagram Book Claim Your Brain Website TrU Living Jocelyn's Five Words - Mother, Visionary, Humanitarian, Deep, intuitive, Nurturing, References Book Claim Your Brain Sponsor Information Voes & Company We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit - from casual to chic - they're as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last - without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that's why we've partnered with Voes & Co to bring our subscribers 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Voes and Company
S1 · E19
Nov 5, 2025 · 49 min
Desiree Dupuis: A walk in her (Vegan) shoes
In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, Founder and Host Andrea Rathborne and Producer/ Co-host Krista Gruen connect across time zones - from Vancouver to Bali - with Desiree Dupuis, founder and vision-keeper of Voes & Co, a vegan fashion and design brand rooted in sustainability and soul. Desiree opens up about the wild, beautiful path of entrepreneurship - from leaving Vancouver to building a life and business in Bali, and what it means to find belonging far from home. She shares her honest reflections on growth, partnership, and the power of knowing when to invite others in. Through her story, we explore what happens when we stop believing we have to do it all alone and begin to trust collaboration, community, and intuition as the most essential parts of success. Enjoy this candid conversation about redefining strength, leading with heart, and staying grounded, in business, in life, and in the stories we tell ourselves along the way. Bio With over two decades of experience in brand development, storytelling, and purpose-driven marketing, Desirée Dupuis is a force for conscious change. As a social entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she is redefining industries through sustainability, ethics, and innovation. Desirée is the founder of Voes & Co, an iconic global vegan footwear brand on a mission to revolutionize fashion with next-generation materials - proving that style, comfort, and sustainability can coexist without compromise. Beyond business, Desirée is deeply committed to global impact and education. As Chair of Ruben's Shoes Society, an international NGO she co-founded, she helps provide high-quality education to over 600 students in the Dominican Republic, breaking the cycle of poverty through learning. A passionate vegan advocate since 2008, Desirée is on a mission to challenge the status quo, amplify conscious consumerism, and inspire others to create lasting change. She's the author of "Consciously Chic: A Playbook for Ethical Fashion" and is proud to share and discuss her thoughts about the future of fashion beyond animals and plastic. Desirée's insights, experience, and unwavering commitment to impact make her a guest you don't want to miss. Instagram Voes and Co Instagram Desiree Website Linkedin Desiree's Five Words - ambitious, kindhearted, fun, intuitive, and curious, intentional, loyal Sponsor Information Voes & Company We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they're as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that's why we've partnered with Voes & Co to bring our subscribers 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes Connect with us Website link here Instagram link here LinkedIn link here Facebook link here Leave a voicemail for us https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/ Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne Creative Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke Episode sponsors: Voes and Company
S1 · E18
Oct 17, 2025 · 36 min
Kate Green & Amber Orchard - Menopause: Coming in Hot
In this episode of Half Betty, Andrea Rathborne and Krista Gruen strike up a conversation with filmmakers Kate Green and Amber Orchard as they share the story behind their upcoming feature documentary Menopause: Coming In Hot! The film is set to have its World Premiere at the Whistler Film Festival this December, 2025. Directed by and starring Kate Green, the film captures her real-time journey through perimenopause with honesty, humour, and heart. Coinciding with World Menopause Day (October 18), Kate and Amber open up about the making of this empowering, insightful, and deeply relatable film that amplifies women's voices and sheds light on the menopause experience. The trailer for Menopause: Coming In Hot drops October 18th 2025 on World Menopause Day! Director: Kate Green Producer: Kate Green, Amber Orchard, Jessica Young and Olivia Fellows Writers: Tami Gabay, Jessica Young and Olivia Fellows Story Consultant: Kate Green Cinematographer: Kate Smith Editor: Erin Cumming Assistant Editor: Chloe Bottrell Menopause: Coming In Hot! When a strong-willed perimenopausal documentary filmmaker is told there isn't a lot of help available for her multiple symptoms, she goes on a mission to find out more about menopause, and finds herself on a quest that makes her relearn everything she thought she knew about aging. Bio Kate Green is an award-winning director and producer known for her cinematic storytelling and ability to connect deeply with audiences. A creative leader committed to telling vibrant, authentic stories by and for women, Kate brings a strong visual and emotional sensibility to every project. Her feature documentary Menopause: Coming in Hot (TELUS Originals) will premiere at the Whistler Film Festival. She is also releasing her WWII short drama Breakthrough (starring William B. Davis) in 2026. Kate created and directed the sci-fi series NarcoLeap (TELUS OptikTV, CBC GEM, Highball TV), which earned multiple Canadian Screen Award nominations, Writers Guild of Canada, and Leo Award nods, and international festival wins, including "Best Sci-Fi" at Miami Web Fest, Baltimore Next Media Web Fest, and Asia Web Awards. With over 300K views and 2.4M in social media reach, NarcoLeap Season 2 continued its success, winning Best Digital Series at the Blood in the Snow Festival. Her earlier documentaries Not a Stranger and Melting Stars received multiple festival awards, while her short film Murphy's Law (CBC, CBC GEM) won Best Horror Thriller at the Wild Bunch Film Festival. Kate has directed and produced factual and lifestyle programs for major networks, including Oxygen, HGTV, W Network, CBC, History, Discovery, Fuel TV, and Channel 4. Most recently, Kate contributed to the Challenge Department on Fear Factor: The Next Chapter alongside Johnny Knoxville. She is an alumna of Vancouver Island University, University of British Columbia, Women in the Director's Chair, the National Screen Institute, and the Reykjavík International Film Festival Talent Lab. Amber Orchard began her producing career at the age of nine on the school playground and has been driven by a passion for entertainment and storytelling ever since. For over 30 years, she has produced events across the non-profit, corporate, and private sectors, building a reputation for thoughtful, high-impact experiences. She also previously served as the Association Manager for Screen BC, supporting advocacy and industry-wide initiatives for British Columbia's film and television community. In 2020, Amber shifted her focus to screen production, joining Kate Green Productions as Production Manager on Murphy's Law (CBC), Co-Producing NarcoLeap Season 2, and, most recently, the documentary Menopause: Coming in Hot. Her screen credits have since grown to include Bush Wreck Rescue (Discovery), Pamela's Garden of Eden (HGTV), Million Dollar Secret (Netflix), and Extracted (Fox), along with several acclaimed short films. Most recently, Amber joined Industrial Light & Magic as Studio Operations Manager, bringing her production and operations experience to one of the world's most iconic studios. Instagram Film Menopause: Coming In Hot KGP Films Kate Green Website: Kate Green Productions Amber Amber Orchard IMDB Menopause: Coming In Hot For PR regarding the film please reach out to Callista Ryan at Coldwater Communications Five words Kate - confident, fun, loyal Amber - Resourceful, Fun, Loyal, Caring, Dependable, Positive, Organized References Janet Ko & Trish Barbato - Founders of The Menopause Foundation of Canada Menopause Works Here Campaign Article in Playback Magazine (Canadian trade publication covering the country's production, broadcasting and interactive media industries) announcing their world premiere. Sponsor Information Voes & Company We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they're as ve...
S1 · E17
Oct 2, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
The Desvarieux Sisters: Jessie's Girls
In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, Founder, Host, and Producer Andrea Rathborne and Producer and Co-Host Krista Gruen sit down with sisters Jess and Moonie Desvarieux. Once navigating careers in journalism and law, Jess and Moonie have pivoted to include comedy, screenwriting, and directing, letting their authentic voices shine. They discuss their award-winning web series Moonie, their feature script Butch Baby Mama, and their vision to honour their late mother, Jessie, by supporting education and healthcare projects in Haiti. The sisters share their journey through grief, revealing how humour became both survival and healing. Their work is sharp, funny, and unflinchingly honest, yet rooted in purpose: carrying forward their mother's legacy and creating opportunities for children and families to thrive. They explore ambition that defies convention, the courage to stay true to oneself, and the power of stories to inspire and rebuild communities. Amid laughter and heartfelt moments, Jess and Moonie remind listeners that joy and justice often go hand in hand, inspiring us to show up fully, authentically, and with purpose. Bios Moonie Desvarieux is a Haitian-American lawyer turned stand-up comedian, TV & Film writer, and actor. As a comedian, she has opened for D.L. Hughley & Bob the Drag Queen. She has also made it to the finals of Saturday Night Live's Kenan Thompson's National Comedy Competition and has performed several times in the New York Comedy Festival, The New York Queer Comedy Festival & The Black Women in Comedy Laff Festival. Moonie co-wrote the comedic screenplay, Butch Baby Mama, with her sister/creative partner, Jess Desvarieux. This movie was a finalist in Stage 32's Best Comedic Screenplay competition. Butch Baby Mama was also selected to partake in TIFF's 2024 Inside Out Finance Forum, where it was pitched to major executives at Netflix, NEON and A24, to name a few. Moonie is also the co-creator & lead actor in the award-winning episodic web series, Moonie, the Black, Queer version of "Seinfeld, " which has been selected and screened in over fifteen national and international film festivals. Moonie was also nominated for a 2023 Queerties award for Best Web Series. Jess Desvarieux is a former Time Magazine award-winning journalist and now a screenwriter and director based in Washington, DC. She is the co-creator, head writer, and director of the comedy web series MOONIE. The series was nominated for a Queerties Award for Best Web Series and screened in fourteen national and international film festivals. She co-wrote the screenplay, Butch Baby Mama, with her sister and creative partner, Moonie Desvarieux. This movie was a finalist in Stage 32's Best Comedic Screenplay competition, and they were selected to participate at TIFF's 'Inside Out' Finance Forum where they pitched to major executives at Netflix, Neon and A24, to name a few. The dynamic duo also have their own podcast called A Good Laugh - a podcast centred on how humour isn't just an escape but a path to healing and resistance. Website Phases of Moonie A Good Laugh Instagram Moonie Jess Desvarieux Moonie The Webseries A Good Laugh YouTube Moonie The Webseries Five words Moonie - powerful, loving and connected leader, entertainer, empath, and visionary Jess - brave, resilient, authentic, and compassionate References Momentum Education Stage 32 GLAAD Fav Quotes "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "It truly is a great paradox that death is the greatest teacher about life. No person or situation could ever teach you as much as death has to teach you. While someone could tell you, you are not your body. Death shows you. Though someone can remind you of the insignificance of the things that you cling to, death takes them away in a second. While people can teach you that we are all equal between the races and there is no difference between the rich and the poor, death instantly makes us all the same. The question is, are you going to wait until that last minute to let death be your teacher?" - Michael Singer Sponsor Information Voes & Company We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they're as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that's why we've partnered with Voes & Co to bring our subscribers 50% off any pair of shoes! 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