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Hotter Than Ever Episodes

January 9, 2025

Looking Back at 2024 and Hell Yes to 2025!

Happy 2025, Hotties! 🍾✨ We made it through 2024, and it's time to reflect on what a transformative year it has been. Did you lean into the intentions you set for yourself? Spark connections that brought joy and meaning? Tune into your intuition and embrace the power of saying no?

 

Join Erin in this deeply personal and introspective solo episode as she uncovers the lessons, challenges, and triumphs of the past year, offering insights that may inspire you to reflect on your own journey.

December 19, 2024

Your Body Image Has Something Deeper to Tell You with Deb Schachter

If you’re a woman, chances are you’ve had a moment (or many) of negative self-talk about your body. We’ve all been there. But what if the issue wasn’t actually our bodies at all? What if it’s a deeper emotional or psychological distress showing up in how we think and talk about ourselves? Enter Deb Schachter, a therapist, author and body image expert who’s helped countless women untangle the hidden layers of their body image struggles—and she’s here to help us do the same. In this episode, Deb joins Erin for a fascinating deep dive into the complex world of body image. From the stories we tell ourselves to the societal and familial messages we’ve absorbed, they explore how we can begin to rewrite the narrative and build a healthier, more compassionate relationship with our bodies.

December 12, 2024

How to Take a Career Break and Avoid Burnout with Laura Nguyen

Have you ever felt the urge to hit pause on your career without walking away entirely? Or maybe you’re ready to quit but wondering how to plan a break that works financially while setting yourself up for what’s next? This week’s guest, Laura Nguyen, knows exactly how to navigate these crossroads. After stepping back from her role as a marketing executive to take a career break, Laura founded Solle Solutions, her own marketing consultancy. Now a passionate advocate for career breaks, she’s on a mission to help people—especially women—redefine their relationship with work and reclaim their time. Join us for an insightful discussion as Erin and Laura as we delve into the nuances of career breaks, combating burnout, and giving yourself the green light to prioritize your own needs.

December 5, 2024

What It Takes to Open Your Marriage with Dr. Joli Hamilton

Have you ever wondered if you and your partner are truly compatible? Or struggled to express your needs, feeling lost in a sea of unmet expectations? Whether you’re exploring non-monogamy, redefining relationship norms, or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode is for you. Our guest, Dr. Joli Hamilton, is a relationship coach, sex educator, and co-host of the “Playing with Fire” podcast.  She’s on a mission to help people design non-monogamous partnerships that align with their authentic selves—no more shrinking, pretending, or hiding.

 

Join Erin and Dr. Joli as they delve into what it means to truly know and communicate your needs within a relationship, whatever form it takes. 

November 28, 2024

Saying Yes To Inspiration with Daily Show Co-Creator Madeleine Smithberg

As the co-creator of “The Daily Show”, an Emmy and Peabody award-winning producer, and the talent behind “Mad in the Kitchen” (among many many other shows), Madeleine has experienced the dizzying highs of professional success. Yet, she’s also faced deeply personal struggles, including challenges in her personal life and a grueling battle with cancer. Through it all, Madeleine’s unwavering creativity, sense of humor and resilience have guided her to new purpose and opportunities at every stage of life. In this rich conversation, Erin and Madeleine explore the realities of navigating life’s highs and lows, from professional reinvention to personal resilience, and acting on inspiration to create new opportunities.

November 21, 2024

Getting Unstuck with Deanna deBara

“A period of stuckness always precedes a period of serious growth.”

So many of us find ourselves grappling with the overwhelming feeling of being stuck, especially as we navigate midlife. Weighed down by societal expectations and self-imposed narratives, we can struggle to align our lives with what we truly value and desire. Enter Deanna deBara, writer and host of the “Season of Stuck” podcast, where she shares her journey of overcoming "stuckness" and offers practical tools to help others do the same.

 

In this episode, Erin and Deanna explore how to shift from a place of stagnation to a state of thriving, and the transformative power of giving oneself permission to change and grow.

November 14, 2024

How To Manage Career & Personal Change with Dr. Keri Ulrich & Kelly Guenther

Is entrepreneurship truly a solo journey, or would you rather start a business with a friend?  For Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther, co-founders of the leadership and HR consultancy the Abbracci Group and co-hosts of “The Breakout” podcast, the answer is clear: collaboration is key. Together, they’re on a mission to help women and entrepreneurs navigate both professional and personal changes, big and small. Their book, “Whatever the Hell You Want”, is a guide to identifying the “boxes” that confine us, creating a roadmap to break free, and living a life of choice and freedom. In this episode, Erin, Keri & Kelly dive into themes of change, growth, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

November 8, 2024

Nurturing Your Intimate Relationships with Vanessa & Xander Marin

Sexuality and intimacy can be sensitive topics, especially in long-term relationships. But what if these conversations could be transformed into pathways to deeper connection and more fulfilling, mutually satisfying sex? In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome our first couple(!) to Hotter Than Ever: Vanessa and Xander Marin. Vanessa, a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of experience, and her husband, Xander, bring their unique perspectives together to foster honest, vulnerable discussions around sex and intimacy. 

 

Join us for an illuminating conversation on the essential ingredients for a rewarding sex life and on dismantling long-standing misconceptions about intimacy.

October 31, 2024

Producing Your Best Life: Movies and Motherhood with Feigco's Laura Fischer

If you’ve ever wondered why stories of women in midlife are so rare in movies and TV, you’re not alone.  In a landscape where male-centered narratives often take center stage, Laura Fischer stands out as a force for change. In partnership with the iconic comedy director, Laura champions films anchored by funny women (think Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy and Leslie Jones) and helps showcase the work of diverse creators while balancing the complexities of family life and career with remarkable grace and determination. Join us as we delve into issues impacting women today, from societal expectations to the untapped potential of stories about older women, all through the lens of Laura’s inspiring career.

October 24, 2024

Straight Talk About Libido Over 40 with Dr. Maureen Slattery

Ever wondered why some women experience low libido and what can be done about it? Or what orgasms look and feel like for different women? These questions often go unanswered, but Dr. Maureen Slattery—a board-certified OBGYN specializing in sex and menopause—is here to change that. A leading advocate for women’s sexual health, Dr. Slattery joins us in this episode to share her mission of empowering women through education and enhancing sexual well-being during perimenopause and menopause.

Join Erin and Dr. Maureen as they dive deep into the complexities of women’s sexual health, exploring how reclaiming pleasure and purpose can be a transformative experience in midlife.

October 17, 2024

How Do You Measure Your Value?

"I think our value and our values get all kinds of conflated and mixed up."

We often hear about self-love and its pivotal role in creating a joyful life. But defining self-love is subjective and multifaceted. It involves caring, self-respect, boundaries, and counteracting our harsh inner critic. Today, Erin delves beyond self-love to examine the societal and personal metrics we use to gauge our worth.

Join Erin as she questions the conflation of material wealth, career success, physical appearance, and external approval with our intrinsic value. She asks us to reconsider what true value means in our lives and how our values may have been skewed by societal norms.

October 10, 2024

How Astrology Just Might Help You Succeed with AstroTwin Ophira Edut

Long-time listeners of Hotter Than Ever know Erin tends to be a skeptic when it comes to anything ‘woo’. So, it might come as a surprise that today’s episode dives deep into astrology. But after hearing from astrologer Ophira Edut, even the most doubtful minds might find themselves intrigued, if not completely converted. Ophira, along with her sister Tali, form the AstroTwins, the long-standing resident astrologers for Elle magazine, authors of over 20 books, and frequent faces on TV. Together, they’ve created a practical, digestible approach to astrology that goes beyond the stars and into your everyday life. Join Erin and Ophira to learn more about how astrology is a powerful framework to help navigate life’s challenges, and opportunities in the second half of life. 

October 3, 2024

Exploring Non-Monogamy and Getting Kinky with CJ

To mark our 100th episode we’re thrilled to present an extraordinary conversation with CJ.  CJ isn’t just a kink and non-monogamy coach; she’s an inspiring guide helping Gen X women embrace erotic evolution and neuro-expansion as they age. With certifications as a sex coach, life coach, and cuddle facilitator (!), CJ’s transformation from living a conventional life to embracing a kinky, non-monogamous lifestyle that meets her sexual and emotional needs is a great example of what is possible when we learn and pursue what we want. 

 

Get ready for an eye-opening and liberating discussion on sexual expression, breaking free from conventional relationship molds, and reclaiming your desires in the second half of life. 

September 26, 2024

What The Golden Girls Teaches Us About Aging Well with Dr. Maria Carpiac

It’s no secret that our culture often presents aging in a negative light, particularly for women, leaving many of us uncertain or even fearful about life beyond 40, 50 or (god forbid), 60. But one iconic sitcom has challenged these stereotypes with humor, heart, and authenticity: The Golden Girls. For Maria Carpiac, a professor of Gerontology at California State University, Long Beach, and an advocate for healthy aging, The Golden Girls offers a shining example of how we can view aging with optimism and a sense of humor. In this episode, Erin and Maria explore the complexities of aging, highlighting the importance of community, jou, and adaptability in leading a fulfilling life, with insights from The Golden Girls. 

September 19, 2024

Getting Practical About Money

As “Hotter Than Ever” nears its 100th episode, we’re reflecting on the impact this podcast has had since launching a year and a half ago, and the steps needed to elevate its vision to new heights.

 

Join Erin as she candidly shares the realities of transitioning from a financially stable corporate life to the entrepreneurial hustle. This episode is about peeling back the layers of how Erin is supporting the show, the internal struggles she faces as an entrepreneur, and the financial realities that come with following your passion.

September 12, 2024

Finding Success in Business and Love in Your 40s with Osea's Melissa Palmer

If you’re searching for proof that our most successful chapters can unfold in midlife, look no further than Melissa Palmer, co-founder and CEO of the skincare brand Osea. While Melissa and her mother launched Osea 28 years ago, it wasn’t until year 20 that their business truly skyrocketed. And as her career soared, Melissa also found the most significant relationship of her life, showing us that midlife can truly be a time of profound rewards and joy. In this episode, we dive into Melissa’s unique entrepreneurial path and the empowerment that comes with embracing change. It’s a reminder that age doesn’t put a limit on reinvention, personal growth, or love.

September 5, 2024

Men, Divorce, Anger and Designing Our Ideal Lives with Producer Erica

“I’m in a phase of my life where I want to f*cking shine. I do not want to shrink.”

 

Sometimes we just need to admit we’re mad.  While society may not always make space for women's anger, when we reflect on the challenges we face today,  it can be hard not to feel it. Why do women still carry the heaviest load of care in relationships? Why are we still criticized for our ambition and judged for maintaining our independence?

 

In today’s conversation, producer Erica joins us as we dive into these questions and more. We’re not holding back, and we’re definitely in our feels.

August 29, 2024

How to Light Your Brain Up with Pleasure with

Dr. Nan Wise

When Dr. Nan Wise had a panic attack at just 21 years old, it sparked her lifelong fascination with the brain. Today, as a seasoned behavioral neuroscientist and sex therapist, Dr. Nan is at the forefront of research exploring the deep connection between sex, pleasure, and brain health, particularly as we age. Her studies have uncovered the vital role that orgasms play in boosting oxygen flow to the brain, underscoring the critical role pleasure plays in our overall well-being. Join Erin and Dr. Nan for an eye-opening conversation about the transformative power of pleasure and how it can help us cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships with ourselves and others as we grow older.

August 22, 2024

Making Room for Women's Voices in Hollywood with Melissa Silverstein

If you’ve ever paid attention to female representation in Hollywood or the push for more women filmmakers in entertainment, you’ve likely encountered the work of Melissa Silverstein. As the founder of Women and Hollywood, one of the pioneering platforms advocating for gender diversity in the film industry, Melissa has been a driving force in this movement, has dedicated decades to elevating women's stories, and is now turning the page to focus on her own creative journey. Join Erin and Melissa as they delve into the importance of creating spaces that spotlight women’s stories and explore the opportunities that arise from challenging the status quo—especially the patriarchy. 

August 15, 2024

After The Rubble: Inventing Your Next Chapter with Producer Erica

In this episode, we’re bringing Hotter Than Ever producer, Erica, out from behind the scenes for a candid conversation with Erin about the podcast's journey and it’s future. Inspired by thoughtful feedback from our hottie listeners and Erin’s reflections during this ‘slow-roll summer,’ we’re diving into Erin’s evolving views on midlife, personal transformation, and the unique challenges and opportunities facing women over 40 as we navigate this uncharted chapter of life. 

 

Join us as we discuss the themes and ideas that have shaped this podcast and will drive its next evolution.

August 8, 2024

Everything is a Love Problem and Only You Can Solve It with Sheri Salata (Re-Air)

As part of our ‘slow roll summer’ on Hotter Than Ever, we’re revisiting one of our favorite early conversations with Oprah dynasty legend, author, producer and transformation doula Sheri Salata.


In this episode, we explore self-love and renegotiating what life looks like after you’ve achieved your wildest dreams (hint: it’s not over!). We unpack what it means to focus on yourself beyond your work, and what happens when we choose to step out from behind the curtain and into the spotlight.

August 1, 2024

Inner Beauty and Aging in Hollywood with Makeup Artist Molly R. Stern

In a world where beauty standards are constantly evolving and societal pressures can feel overwhelming, makeup artist Molly R. Stern brings a refreshing perspective to the conversation. With a career spanning over two decades and a client list that includes some of Hollywood's most iconic faces, Molly has witnessed firsthand the struggles women face with self-perception and the impact of the beauty industry on mental well-being. In this candid and insightful episode Erin and Molly dive deep into the complexities of beauty, aging, and self-love. Join us for an eye-opening discussion as Molly shares her wisdom on navigating the beauty industry while staying true to oneself. 

July 25, 2024

Getting Good at Handling Change

“The job of life is to get good at change, because it never stops.”

Why do so many of us resist change instead of embracing it? For our host Erin, life over the past few years has become almost unrecognizable, but in the best way possible. In this episode, she takes us through her journey of navigating and thriving through these shifts. From battling COVID to a complete lifestyle overhaul, Erin explores the evolving landscape of her life and what it means to fully embrace change.

 

Join Erin as she recounts her experiences of significant personal and professional changes, emerging stronger, more self-assured, and more connected to her desires.

July 18, 2024

4 Ways That Covid Changed Absolutely Everything with Lori Hamilton 

The Covid-19 pandemic was a watershed moment of change for everyone, reshaping both personal and professional lives. But what major trends emerged post-pandemic that are now influencing how we navigate our next chapters—midlife and beyond?

 

To explore this, we’re joined by Lori Hamilton, an award-winning writer, director, performer, and insights expert. In this episode, Lori delves into her research, highlighting how the pandemic prompted a reassessment of our relationship with work, redefined our notions of success, and emphasized the value of authentic connections. 

July 11, 2024

Juggling Creative Careers and Motherhood with comedian Ophira Eisenberg 

Navigating modern life as a working mother and a creative professional is no small feat. In this episode, we dig deep into comedian and Mom Ophira Eisenberg's journey through comedy, storytelling, and podcasting. Ophira, a multi-talented comic, storyteller, and host of the podcast "Parenting is a Joke," shares her captivating story with humor, and recounts the diverse roles she has embraced to carve out a meaningful career all while juggling motherhood and beating back toxic positivity culture, one post-it note at a time.

July 4, 2024

Your Authenticity is Your Secret Weapon with Kim Rittberg

In a world that often values polished presentations and corporate facades, finding and maintaining authenticity in professional and personal settings can feel like a daunting task. Yet, it's precisely this authenticity and vulnerability that can create genuine connections and drive impactful change. Kim Rittberg, a former media executive who took the brave step to become her own boss, joins Erin in this episode to dive deep into the power of bringing your authentic self to every situation. Join us for an insightful and candid conversation as Kim and Erin how embracing vulnerability and being true to oneself can lead to richer, more meaningful interactions and greater professional success.

June 27, 2024

How To Attract Epic Love with Lilli Bewley 

If you've been tuning into Hotter Than Ever, you know that while our host Erin offers plenty of dating advice, especially for those re-entering the scene after a marriage, her aim isn’t necessarily to find love herself. But regardless of whether you're skeptical about love or seeking it with all your heart, you'll enjoy this conversation with Lilli Bewley. Lilli is a dating coach, teacher, author and host of the Lilly Bewley podcast, with a mission to help 1 million people find true love in their lifetime. In this episode, Erin and Lili delve into the complexities of modern dating through the empowering lens of the goddess archetype, transforming how women view themselves and their relationships. Join us as we explore embodying confidence, self-love, and actionable steps every woman can take to attract epic love. 

June 20, 2024

Advertising for Women Over 40, Made By Women Over 40! with Katie Keating 

Despite the fact that women make 85% of household buying decisions, the majority of women over 40 report feeling largely overlooked by the advertising industry. Even more striking, 82% of women in a recent survey felt cooler, stronger, and sexier than they ever expected at this age—so why aren’t advertisers targeting them? Enter Katie Keating, the founder and Co-Chief Creative Officer of Fancy LLC, a 100% women-owned advertising agency.  Join us for an enlightening and empowering conversation as Erin and Katie delve into reshaping how women are viewed and spoken to in the world of advertising, and embracing their power as consumers and entrepreneurs

June 18, 2024

Advice: How Do I Juggle Dating Several Guys at the Same Time?

“Are you being compulsive and chasing that dopamine hit of likes and matches like you're one of Pavlov's dogs?” 

 

Dating apps can be exhilarating, especially when exploring new connections for the first time after leaving a marriage. But what if swiping has left you with so many matches that managing them feels overwhelming? In this episode, Erin responds to a listener’s dilemma of balancing multiple matches, by offering practical advice on managing dating app usage, staying honest with matches, and not worrying about losing the "good ones" as the right connections will stick.

June 13, 2024

Why We Need Adult Sex Ed with Dr. Kelly Casperson 

For many women who’ve never had an orgasm, it’s easy to feel like there’s something wrong or that they’re broken, a sentiment shared by many of Dr. Kelly Casperson’s patients. However, as urologist and star podcaster Dr. Casperson explains in our latest episode, the issue isn’t with women—it’s our lack of good sex education. This lack hinders women’s ability to experience pleasure, which is why over 10% of women report never having had an orgasm. Join us as Erin and Dr. Casperson guide you through your own adult sex ed class, busting myths about female sexuality, diving into hormonal balance, discussing how to express your sexual needs, and showing you how to reclaim your sexual health and well-being at any age.

June 11, 2024

Advice: Should I Give This Guy a Second Chance? 

Getting your needs met is hot. What’s not hot is when your emotional or physical needs (or both!) are neglected.  One listener is grappling with this issue, questioning whether to give a man a second chance after a real first date fail, especially as she navigates dating after a sexless marriage.

In this episode, Erin is drawing from her own experiences and shares the importance of prioritizing our own needs and self-worth in casual dating, and to avoid settling for less than you deserve. 

June 6, 2024

How to Feel Less Exhaustion and More Joy with Victoria Albina 

“It's only when we come into the body that we can start to see our thoughts.”

In the age of the internet and social media, we're constantly bombarded with pseudoscientific wellness trends that promise quick fixes for every aspect of our mental well-being. Beneath the noise, there exists a grounded, science-based, and holistic approach to wellness, exemplified by Victoria Albina. Victoria is a family nurse practitioner, breathwork meditation guide, life coach, and host of the "Feminist Wellness Podcast." Her mission is to empower women to become their own best healers, enabling them to break free from codependency, perfectionism, and people-pleasing, and to reclaim their joy. 

June 4, 2024

How I Learned to Flirt 

Are you a natural flirt, or do you consider yourself clueless when it comes to flirting or recognizing when you’re being flirted with? Our host Erin has experienced the entire spectrum, from being oblivious to flirting—both as a single and married woman—to embracing it as a powerful form of self-expression and connection post-divorce. In this episode, Erin shares how flirting has transformed the little moments in her life, whether she’s at Trader Joe’s or the DMV, making her feel more alive, seen, and engaged with the world.

Join us for fun stories and advice on letting your own light shine through flirting,

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May 30, 2024

Choosing Mediation over Divorce When You Know It's Over with Paulette Rigo

Half of marriages these days end in divorce, but did you know that 73% of divorces are initiated by women? In today’s episode we’re joined by Paulette Rigo, a credentialed private mediator and certified divorce coach, whose mission is to help couples avoid court and navigate their divorces more amicably.  Paulette endured a grueling divorce litigation process that spanned nearly 10 years. Now, she is determined to use the insights from her experience to ensure no one else gets trapped in a similar situation. Join us as Erin and Paulette take an honest and hard look at the evolving landscape of marriage and divorce for women in midlife, offering a compassionate and comprehensive guide to navigating divorce.

May 28, 2024

'The Idea of You' is Midlife Rom Com Candy

“Thank God for representations of real sex on screen.”

 

A 40-year-old woman and an unbelievably hot 24-year-old man get together for an unexpected, steamy romance? Sign us up! It’s no wonder why everyone has been asking Erin what she thinks of the new movie “The Idea of You”, released earlier this year. In this episode, Erin breaks down the film and shares her thoughts on why this story, and the representation of romance between an older woman and a younger man, matters in today’s cultural landscape.

 

Join us as we explore the emotional truths the film reveals about love, vulnerability, and the enduring allure of a good love story.

May 23, 2024

How To Have Hot Sex for Life with Susan Bratton 

It’s no secret that many women don’t enjoy having sex. But the problem isn’t the women: it’s the sex we’re shown in the media and porn, which is dominated by patriarchal ideas and largely ignores women's pleasure. Amidst this dearth of sexual satisfaction for women emerges Susan Bratton, an intimacy expert and advocate for lifelong intimacy and passion. Susan has helped countless clients and readers of all ages and across the gender spectrum transform sex into passion, proving that we can all embody being Hotter Than Ever. In today’s episode, Susan shares her valuable insights on transforming sexual experiences, maintaining sexual health and enjoyment as we age, embracing authenticity in intimate relationships, and more.

May 21, 2024

Vulnerability Is So Hard!

“I am willing to take on the uncomfortable feelings that it takes to be vulnerable. Are you?”

When you’ve been raised as a fiercely independent Gen X-er and have been hurt by men in relationships (who hasn’t?), everything tells you not to be vulnerable. But in reflecting on her personal journey post-divorce, Erin shares how her efforts to become more emotionally open have transformed her relationships. In this episode, Erin is renewing her commitment to break free from old patterns and embrace vulnerability, even if it means facing discomfort and potential heartbreak. Whether you’ve had your heart broken or have built up emotional defenses over the years, this episode is a reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. 

May 16, 2024

You're Not Too F***ing Old! with Jen Marples 

When Jen Marples found herself unable to muster the energy to get out of bed, it was a stark wake-up call. A true go-getter, she had carved out a stellar career in marketing and PR, even launching her own thriving business, all while married with three children. Yet, amidst all of the success and achievements, she realized she had neglected one crucial thing: herself. From this moment of realization, Jen embarked on a journey of transformation, emerging as a beacon of empowerment for women navigating midlife.

 

In this episode, Jen shares insights on reclaiming identity and rediscovering purpose in midlife for women. 

May 14, 2024

My 52 Year Old Body 

What is your relationship like with your body? Feeling disconnected from our bodies is a common experience, and in today's digital age, it's often exacerbated by the constant barrage of fitness fads and wellness trends flooding our feeds. But as we navigate midlife, ignoring our bodies becomes less of an option. In this episode, Erin dives deep into her own journey of body rediscovery at 52. 

 

From childhood struggles with weight to a disconnected relationship with her physical self in adulthood, Erin shares the pivotal moments that sparked her radical reinvention. Join us as we explore the tough questions about body image, self-care, and well-being, and uncover actionable steps to embrace a freer, happier, healthier life

May 9, 2024

Are You Wired to Love a Narcissist? with Michelle Roberts PhD

Have you ever found yourself in a relationship with a narcissist? Or maybe you were raised by one? Whatever the relationship might be, there’s a chance