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Two Noras and a Mic

Kids & Family Podcasts

Oh hello! We’re Nora and Nora and we’re glad you’re here! From parenting and local faves to current trends and recipes, we are two Noras discussing it all with a whole lot of laughter along the way. As we raise our families in the west suburbs of Chicago we invite you to listen weekly as we dish about all the highs and lows and ridiculous amount of tomfoolery that ensue on this journey. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts as we check out new local spots, interview all sorts of interesting people, and catch up with each other! It’s like inviting two friends over to visit and catch up with without all the hassle of getting ready for company. Leave the entertaining to us and be sure to tune in for a new episode each Monday.

Location:

United States

Description:

Oh hello! We’re Nora and Nora and we’re glad you’re here! From parenting and local faves to current trends and recipes, we are two Noras discussing it all with a whole lot of laughter along the way. As we raise our families in the west suburbs of Chicago we invite you to listen weekly as we dish about all the highs and lows and ridiculous amount of tomfoolery that ensue on this journey. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts as we check out new local spots, interview all sorts of interesting people, and catch up with each other! It’s like inviting two friends over to visit and catch up with without all the hassle of getting ready for company. Leave the entertaining to us and be sure to tune in for a new episode each Monday.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Whoops...Plot Twist

2/23/2026
Send a text Ever plan a tidy theme and watch real life kick the door in? That’s the ride today, and it’s a good one. We open with Love Your Pet Day, a 7:07 adrenaline wake-up, and the delicate art of salvaging a morning when the dog, the kids, and the treadmill all conspire against your plans. From there we careen into a viral classic: a UPS driver outmaneuvering wild turkeys, narrating his escape with pure comedic honesty. It’s ridiculous and revealing—about work, grit, and laughing when the internet is watching. Money enters the chat with grocery store price rankings, including why Whole Foods sits high, warehouse clubs sit low, and how Target occasionally sneaks in with cheaper pantry staples. We trade practical takeaways on unit prices, store vibes, and buying only what you’ll actually use. Pop culture stirs the pot: Chapel Roan’s Grammys look and the strange allure of prosthetics for shock value, followed by a debate on American Girl’s shift toward modernized classics. We ask what made those dolls powerful in the first place—context, history, and questions that teach kids how to think, not just dress up. Connection threads it all together. New NYC supper clubs sell tickets to home-cooked dinners for strangers craving offline conversation, a post-COVID solution that feels both brave and bizarre. Our highs and lows bring the human scale back: a 126-pound Wayfair box with wrong instructions, a neighbor named Karen who saves the day, a teen’s simple “you’re a really good mom,” and a DJ friend who composes the perfect event playlist in minutes. It’s messy, funny, and full of those small moments that keep the big stuff moving. Hit play for laughter, real talk, and a reminder that the best plot twists often show up when the outline doesn’t. If this episode made you smile, share it with a friend, tap follow, and leave a quick review—what was your favorite moment? Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:35:55

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Jeans

2/16/2026
Send a text A $180 stadium burger with a literal bone, Olympic medals popping off ribbons mid-celebration, and a woman who blends and snorts her meals—this week’s ride is as wild as it sounds, and somehow it all lands on one timeless comfort: jeans. We start with the Super Bowl hangover and the kind of concession prices that make you nostalgic for a plain hot dog, then pivot to an oddly compelling launch—wild cherry Pepsi lip gel with SPF 30. It’s equal parts marketing fever dream and practical pocket win, which is exactly why we can’t look away. Sports drama keeps the energy high as we unpack an alpine crash that had us wincing and a medal design flaw that turned victory laps into repair tickets. Between empathy for the athletes and side-eyes at the hardware, there’s a real conversation about how big moments should be built to handle big emotions. Then we dive into the strangest headline on our screens: five years of nasal dining. We cringe, we question, we set a hard boundary for straws and grits. Our main thread pulls everything together: denim that fits real life. We talk about the evolution from flares to skinnies to relaxed and wide-leg, how shoes shift with hems, and why the right pair can reset your whole day. We also break down the price-to-quality gap—100% cotton, tighter weaves, and stitch density make a difference—and share practical care tips. Spoiler: your jeans don’t want a spin after every wear. Air them out, spot clean, and reserve the wash for when the “knee test” says it’s time. By the end, you’ll have laughs, fresh takes, and a smarter way to treat the hardest-working thing in your closet. If you enjoyed the ride, tap follow, share with a friend who loves their denim, and leave a quick review telling us your favorite jeans era—we’ll feature the best replies next week. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:26:40

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Pillow Talk

2/9/2026
Send us a text Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:37:31

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90s for the Win!

2/2/2026
Send us a text A cozy robe, a household mystery, and a headline you can’t unsee set the tone for a wide-open conversation that lands right where our hearts live: the 90s and the art of patience. We start with unclaimed underpants in the guest room and a family group text that gets way too real, then veer into a "chilling" cautionary tale about a port-a-potty, the rule of hovering, and why some stories go instantly viral. From there we geek out on everyday tools—erasable pens, grip grooves, and why the right pen can make or break your to-do list—and dig into hair perfume, scent layering, and how teenagers turned fragrance into a hobby. Fresh air becomes a theme when we talk about “burping” the house, a simple German habit of opening windows to clear stale air that doubles as a reset ritual. That sparks a conversation about respect and labor inspired by a couple who hid 100 toy ducks to “test” their cleaner. We call for generosity with people and discipline with our environments, then pivot to a surprisingly wholesome craze: kids trading tiny acrylic animals with “CEOs,” money guys, and security staff guarding their playground empires. The second half turns full nostalgia. We remember 90s optimism, TRL, Pop-Up Video, AOL dial-up, answering machines, and regional fashion that existed before algorithms collapsed taste. We talk TV and rom-coms, mixtapes and burning CDs, the spontaneity of walking into whatever movie started next, and how patience shaped who we are. Along the way, you’ll hear our highs and lows—disintegrating boots, a sick but recovering pup, the bliss of a long-overdue haircut—and a quiet defense of paper lists, planners, and the small tools that keep us grounded. If 90s culture, everyday productivity, and warm, funny storytelling are your jam, hit play, subscribe, and leave a review with your most vivid 90s memory. What would you bring back: the mixtapes, the answering machine, or the patience? Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:35:37

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Oodles of Pools and the most Disgusting Chip Ever

1/26/2026
Send us a text We kick off by unpacking Denmark’s approved name lists and the cultural logic behind banned or protected names. It’s part language, part legacy, part gatekeeping. We share the odd, the sensible, and the eyebrow-raising examples. From there, we shift to a case that rattles any listener with a heartbeat: a young woman pronounced dead, later found alive at a funeral home. The term “Lazarus syndrome” surfaces as a legal defense, and we explore what’s rare but real, how errors unfold, and what accountability looks like when systems fail. We recalibrate with a list of America’s favorite franchise restaurant brands—sweet surprises and coffee-led loyalties included—and then dive headfirst into a taste test catastrophe. “Old hot dog dust” becomes the phrase of the day as a $1.99 bag of novelty chips teaches a harsh lesson about product development and common sense. Beauty talk follows with “slugging,” the petroleum jelly seal that promises glow while threatening pillowcases everywhere; we trade practical tips and harmless skepticism without the hype. Finally, we wade into pools: childhood swim teams, community pool realities, adult pool party etiquette, and the modern twist of renting private pools by the hour through Swimply. It’s equal parts nostalgia and negotiation—about safety, cleanliness, time, and what counts as summer joy. We wrap with personal highs and lows: a printer saga that turns into a small win, neighborly saves that make a week easier, and the pure delight of communion dress shopping. Hit play for a smart, warm, sometimes messy tour through the rules we live by, the risks we navigate, and the comforts we chase. If this episode made you think or laugh, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—we read every one.

Duration:00:40:48

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Dresses but also Deodorant, Caviar, and 6-7

1/19/2026
Send us a text The kind of week where you fix a broken deodorant with sheer will, crawl back onto the Peloton, and somehow end up at a house party with caviar pie and pigs in blankets is exactly our tempo. We’re juggling four-kid calendars, long drives to the wrong gym, and those quiet late-night moments when a red eye and a to-do list won’t quit—and we still manage to squeeze in a laugh (or ten). We dive into everyday myths and trends that shape our lives more than we admit. SPF isn’t “hours of protection,” no matter what your sister says. A Florida baby named "Six Seven" sparks a real talk about names, identity, and how choices age. The Bears-Packers game delivers a live lesson in sportsmanship for our kids, reminding us that community often shows up when the score doesn’t. Then it’s style time: poet core gets a vote, turtlenecks earn side-eye, loafers get love, and the universal joy of dresses with pockets becomes nonnegotiable. We share fit hacks—adjustable straps for uneven shoulders—and that electric nostalgia of wedding and communion dresses, petticoats and all. Work culture is changing too. After-work happy hour is fading as hybrid schedules and sober curiosity rise, but mentorship and camaraderie don’t have to disappear. We talk better replacements—mocktails, coffee walks, bite-size gatherings that build trust without pressure. And yes, we go full foodie: Noma’s $1,500 LA pop-up and its free table for young hospitality pros, plus our own kitchen courage, trying a classic caviar pie and admitting what we liked. It’s comfort, curiosity, and a little chaos stitched together by humor, heart, and dresses that let us breathe. If this blend of real life, style smarts, and culture shifts hits home, tap follow, share with a friend who loves pockets, and drop a review to tell us your unexpected high this week. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:37:51

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That's the Ticket!

1/12/2026
Send us a text We dive into tickets—how prices balloon with fees, why scarcity makes some seats legendary, and how to time your buy without gambling away the experience. Along the way, we detour through Denmark’s street fireworks, the great pizza-and-ranch candle controversy, and a laugh-out-loud reel of rejected vanity plates that somehow says everything about the internet’s sense of humor. We get honest about family logistics and the cost of memories: when to splurge on theater, why football’s price curve stings more than most, and how digital tickets removed paper headaches but also erased the small joy of a torn stub tucked into a scrapbook. We traded hacks on picking seats, gifting shows without a physical ticket, and the pros and cons of resale roulette. Then it’s the real world of friction: red-light cameras that bill your mailbox, a passport errand that turns into a lesson in patience, and the relief when technology works as promised—like choosing movie seats in advance and breezing to the middle of the row. What ties it all together is the pursuit of the moment. Whether you’re chasing Broadway, playoff energy, or a comedian under the summer lights, the value comes from who you share it with and how present you feel once you find your seat. Hit play for wit, warmth, and practical takeaways that help you save money, save time, and maybe save a stub or two in spirit. If this episode resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves live events, and leave a quick review—what’s the one ticket you still want to score this year? Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:37:23

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Ringing in 2026!

1/5/2026
Send us a text The holidays are over, the house is quiet, and the batteries—literal and social—need a recharge. We open the door on that in-between mood: the relief of wrapping paper cleared, the small panic when a favorite tool (hi, Dyson) dies, and the surprising joy of a new coat, fresh socks, or a perfect iced tea cup that makes winter feel a notch warmer. From there, we zoom out. We compare reading goals to the comfort of nightly word games and design a plan that doesn’t pit pleasure against growth. We talk boundaries through the lens of “social battery” science, spotting early signs of burnout and choosing better exit ramps before you’re tapped out. Our take on stress flips the script, favoring meaningful action—movement, helpfulness, tidy wins—over retreat-only self-care. You’ll leave with practical, low-friction ways to feel better without waiting for motivation to strike. We also have fun with New Year rituals around the world and the ones we can craft at home: color-coded intentions, wish confetti, plates in Denmark, waves in Brazil. And yes, we detour into iguanas “freezing” in Florida and the chaotic charm of local countdown TV before landing on what really makes a reset stick—consistency with heart, goals that fit your real life, and rituals that make ordinary days feel new. If this conversation made you smile or gave you one idea to try tonight, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Your notes help more people find the show and keep this community growing. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:32:36

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Wrapped And Ready

12/22/2025
Send us a text The shortest day of the year brought big energy: we kicked off with solstice coziness, then plunged into a Chicago adventure that ended with a minivan reversing down Lower Wacker so we could make the Nutcracker! We trade laughs and real talk about value and scarcity—from wild penny auctions to a color-of-the-year that didn’t quite land—before landing on the joyful noise of a kid-made song that refuses to leave our heads. From there, we zoom into practical habit science and why Wednesdays are a smarter start line than Mondays. It’s a lighter lift, faster wins, and a better shot at keeping momentum through the holidays without the guilt spiral. Then we unwrap the good stuff: how to wrap gifts that wow without overspending. We share where to find sturdy paper that doesn’t tear, why wire ribbon changes everything, and how to make playful pom-pom toppers from leftover scraps. We dig into the psychology of presentation (yes, wrapping changes how a gift is received) and the surprising history of modern wrapping thanks to the Hall brothers. We also debate unwrapped wedding showers and how to honor givers whether you display gifts or open them live—gratitude is the key either way. We close with our highs and lows—eye drama, laundry fails, Nutcracker magic—and the traditions that make Christmas morning stretch longer. If you want a warm, witty guide to making this season feel intentional, beautiful, and actually doable, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves a big bow, and tell us: tags or stickers for your gifts? We’re taking votes. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:29:48

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Let it Snow!

12/15/2025
Send us a text December hits different when the lights go up early and the shopping falls behind. We open with that honest tension—trees trimmed, carts half‑filled—and a little serendipity: Sidewalk Surfer, the skate shop Nora grew up admiring, just landed on a NY Times national “best stores” list. From there we steer into language shaping our timelines, decoding Oxford’s “rage bait,” the hype around “biohacking” and “aura farming,” and why Cambridge’s “parasocial” feels uncomfortably familiar. The words aren’t just trends; they’re a map to how we prod, posture, and sometimes get pulled into scams that exploit our need to belong. Food brings levity and nostalgia. We laugh at the Cheez‑It crusted turkey leg on a bowl‑game menu and turn it into a practical kitchen win: oven‑baked Cheez‑It chicken tenders with panko crunch, kid‑approved and weeknight‑friendly. It’s a reminder that December rewards low‑lift comfort, especially when schedules run hot and daylight runs short. Then snow takes the mic. We admit we love the first clean blanket and the all‑clear of a true snow day, even if driving is dicey and parking lots become slush quarries. Along the way we trade memorable stats—from Mount Baker’s jaw‑dropping totals to Chicago’s legendary 1967 blizzard—and talk about staying safe, staying sane, and letting the weather give us permission to slow down. The heart of this conversation lives in small rituals: carols on repeat, hot chocolate under winter lights, kids asking Santa for sweaters, and a seven‑year‑old’s band called The Hot Coco debuting an outrageously catchy track named “Reconciliation.” These moments don’t erase the chaos; they anchor it. If you’ve been craving a pause, a laugh, and a nudge to choose warmth over noise, you’re in the right place. Listen, share with a friend who needs a snow‑day vibe, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:31:53

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Our Topic was Skating...but our Brains Had Other Ideas

12/8/2025
Send us a text The first big snow didn’t drift in; it dropped like a hammer. We swap white‑knuckle drives and holiday detours, laugh about leaves buried under ice. Then curiosity takes over: a Japanese “human washing machine” promises micro-bubble bliss, London falls for Trader Joe’s totes, and a beauty headline reignites the parasite cleanse debate. A canned sparkling “Proscato” becomes our most honest taste test yet—more kid champagne than prosecco—and somehow the gateway to better bubbles, French 75s, and the idea that tiny, low‑stakes experiments can rescue a dark afternoon. From there we glide into skating: roller rinks in unfinished basements, first crushes with wallet chains and Stüssy, and the jump from rollerblades to ice. We dig into the history, from bone blades on frozen lakes to the Dutch metal revolution, and why hockey is double talent—edge control plus puck sense—in a sport that rewards grit and grace. The emotional center lands with our highs and lows: the churn of family life, the longing for even ground, and a blissful surprise spa night with hot pools, cold plunges, and one unforgettable massage miscommunication. It’s a winter survival guide disguised as a hang with friends—part science, part nostalgia, and a lot of heart. If you’ve ever tried to keep a house feeling like Christmas while the snow stacks and schedules wobble, this one’s for you. If you smiled, learned something, or felt seen, tap follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review. Your notes shape the show and keep this cozy corner of the internet warm. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:41:00

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Talking turkey...and bears and backs

11/24/2025
Send us a text A bear behind a dollar store counter isn’t how most holiday chats begin, but that’s where ours goes—straight into the absurd, the timely, and the surprisingly useful. We start with a lightning round of cultural curiosities: a 17-year-old who turned cozy hoodies and dreamy unboxing into a booming brand, the mystery of National “Have a Bad Day” Day, and the Midwest-made story of Sweetest Day. Then we poke at Heinz’s “leftover gravy,” asking whether it’s a real condiment or just a novelty container dressed in nostalgia. From there, we pull the chair closer to the table and carve into turkey. We explore how turkey became the Thanksgiving centerpiece—from Sarah Josepha Hale’s relentless advocacy to the practicality that made the bird a staple—and why so many of us love a thin-shaved turkey sandwich yet shrug at the holiday roast. We share smart planning tips to cut food waste, talk stuffing without the sage wars, and lay out the case for spatchcocking: a faster, flatter, crispier path to juicy meat that any butcher can prep. For a dose of wonder, we add wild turkey facts—25 mph sprints, short bursts of flight, color-changing heads—and a simple Mylar trick to keep them away from your porch. Hosting this season? We offer clear, kind scripts that nudge RSVPs without nagging and set firm boundaries without sending a Venmo request for pastries. We untangle the “Nona” décor trend and land on a warmer idea: curate what actually sparks joy, skip the rest, and protect your peace. We close with real life—back twinges from hair-whipping and yard work, a street finally repaved, and a kid’s birthday dinner that turns into pure laughter with older friends and no screens. That’s the point of the season: fewer perfect moments, more true ones. If this conversation made you smile, think, or rethink your turkey plan, hit follow, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Tell us: spatchcock, classic roast, or team sides all the way?

Duration:00:36:05

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All Cleaned Up!

11/17/2025
Send us a text The best conversations start with a small spark, and ours begins with World Kindness Day before ricocheting through weather whiplash, missed northern lights, and two jaw-dropping world records: 374 bagpipers blasting ACDC and a PE teacher drilling 1,516 three-pointers in a row. From there we wander into a modern folklore lesson on Jeep “ducking,” why tiny rubber ducks on dashboards are a rolling chain of goodwill, and a surprisingly competitive taste test pitting Trader Joe’s PB&J pockets against the classic Uncrustables. Then we roll up our sleeves and get truly sudsy. Soap hasn’t always been a given; it was once taxed as a luxury and arrived in our homes far later than most of us realize. We trace the arc from ancient fats-and-ash recipes and Roman oil scrapers to the rise of industrial soap, the late bloom of liquid hand soap in the 1970s, and the everyday culture wars of bar versus body wash. Along the way we dig into scents, skin sensitivity, antibacterial labels, and why foam pumps win with reluctant hand washers. We swap stories about public bathroom nostalgia, the pitfalls of using body wash as shampoo, and a little DIY curiosity—plus a reminder that the best hygiene habit is the one you’ll actually keep. It’s a cozy, curious tour of how small rituals shape home life: a bottle by the sink, a seasonal scent, a kid who defaults to sanitizer, a parent who says “soap and water.” We share practical tips, laugh at our own mishaps, and find meaning in the mundane. Press play for a kind, funny, and unexpectedly informative ride through records, rubber ducks, and the science of clean. Enjoyed the episode? Follow, rate, and share with a friend. Tell us your go-to hand soap and whether you’re team foam or team gel—we’ll read the best takes on the show. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:33:04

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Yuck

11/10/2025
Send us a text Apple pie mac and cheese. You made a face, didn’t you? We did too—and that knee-jerk reaction became our door into a bigger, funnier, and surprisingly useful conversation about comfort, boundaries, and what our ick tells us about how we live. We start with fall’s realignment: darker evenings, earlier bedtimes, and the happy ritual for one Nora of swapping sundresses for sweaters. There’s joy in textures and layers, but also a strategy—keep what you’ll actually wear, let go of what won’t make the cut. From there, comfort food goes off the rails with dessert-flavored mac, and we unpack why that combo feels wrong even as curiosity tempts a taste. A palate cleanser follows: Monopoly turns 90, the British Mint celebrates with a charming 50 pence coin, and we geek out on how nostalgia and play can bring people together without feeling corny. Then we dive into the science of disgust versus dislike—how cockroaches, sweaty sports bags, hair in restaurant food, loud chewing, and public-bathroom sock runs trigger ancient alarms about contamination. We trade practical rules for modern life: never put a suitcase on a hotel bed, crack the car windows after sneezes, wear shower shoes at the gym, and tame laundry chaos with a behind-the-pillow pajama system. We close with highs and lows that ground the season: holiday photos locked in early, a personal “sweater draft,” and the reality that dark evenings can fog your brain unless you plan around them. Across laughs and light shudders, one theme sticks—fall is when we curate. We choose what feels warm, what feels safe, and what deserves a place in our day. If this mix of cozy and candid made you nod, laugh, or gag just a little, tap follow, share it with a friend who has strong opinions about pickles, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find us. What’s your biggest ick—and your favorite sweater story? Tell us. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:27:53

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Superstitions...and Penny Problem Solving

11/3/2025
Send us a text A stubborn cold, a cursed bottle cap, and a Halloween cape with a thousand wrinkles set the stage for a conversation about the tiny beliefs that steer our choices. We laugh our way through dubious trends like “hot chocolate” electrolytes and the red-wine-on-ice-cream craze, then stop cold at a time capsule from 1916: a message in a bottle penned by two Australian soldiers on their way to war. That letter, hopeful and human, unlocks the real heart of the episode—why we cling to rituals when life gets unpredictable. From there, we chart how yesterday’s taboos became today’s habits: no shoes on the bed, avoid ladders, toss salt, knock on wood. We trace ladders back to Egyptian sacred geometry, salt to ancient protection rites, and tapping wood to tree spirits that once stood in for luck. Along the way, we own our personal rituals—phone solitaire during turbulence, pre-show handshakes that flip nerves into focus—and talk about the moment a superstition helps rather than rules. Then we go global: Sweden’s no-keys-on-the-table rule, Turkey’s no gum at night, Japan’s tucked thumbs by graveyards, Australia’s “rabbit rabbit” for monthly luck, and feng shui warnings about mirrors facing the bed. Each one is a window into how cultures turn uncertainty into something you can hold. We even discuss the recent penny shortage! If pennies cost more than they’re worth to mint, do they disappear—and does a lucky find still count? Whether it’s a coin on the sidewalk or a whispered Hail Mary when sirens wail, we’re all trying to stitch meaning into the noise. Hit play for stories, history, and a clear-eyed take on when superstition is wisdom in disguise. If this conversation made you smile, nod, or text a friend “rabbit rabbit,” follow the show, leave a quick review, and share your favorite superstition with us. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:33:53

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Trick-or-Treating: From Soul Cakes to Snickers Bars

10/27/2025
Send us a text A weekend full of music and family sets the stage for a bright, candid tour through Halloween as it really happens: costumes that may not arrive, kids sprinting between porches, and parents juggling logistics with a smile. We kick off with the pure joy of a Paul McCartney concert—ukulele tributes, Lennon harmonies, and the kind of encore that sticks with you—before pivoting to birthday games, school calendars, and the chaotic charm of spooky season. From there we dive into the strange lure of dirty sodas, balancing curiosity with common sense, and land on an actually useful hack: an AI-powered Lego sorting service that turns mixed bricks back into buildable sets. We test Aldi’s “Crustless” PB&J as a surprisingly solid Uncrustables dupe, talk candy economics, and share simple systems that keep the sugar rush from swallowing the week—think gallon bags, donations to schools or troops, and smart swaps for diabetic needs. We pull the camera back to explore Halloween’s roots, from Celtic Samhain and soul cakes to mumming, Guy Fawkes Night, and the postwar boom that made trick-or-treating a kid-first ritual. Then we get tactical: apartment-building routes for bad weather, safety rules for new drivers, and why putting Halloween on a Friday would save teachers, parents, and sleep. It’s warm, practical, a little nerdy, and fully committed to the neighborhood magic that makes this night feel like a tiny, glowing holiday in the middle of autumn. If you loved this conversation, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s planning costumes at 11 p.m., and leave a quick review with your best candy trade tip. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:31:10

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Noras of the Rings

10/20/2025
Send us a text A snack aisle scuffle turns into a masterclass on design, trademarks, and how a crimped edge can be worth millions. We unpack the Uncrustables vs Trader Joe’s lawsuit with equal parts curiosity and skepticism, comparing packaging, shapes, and the subtle cues that make shoppers loyal—or confused. Then we veer delightfully off-road: a Tennessee baby that tips the scales at nearly 13 pounds, a Half Moon Bay pumpkin that pays like a side hustle, and a pumpkin spice car wash that dares you to open the windows. Spoiler: some of us would rather smell nothing than ride in a latte-scented sedan. Pets bring the chaos and the comedy. A foster cat plops a mouse into a pot of soup like a twisted cooking show cameo, and we draw the only sane conclusion: lids are cheap insurance. From lizards that give little love to bunnies that nibble wires, we weigh what different pets give back and why “low maintenance” doesn’t always mean low cost. The through line is the way small choices compound into big stories we’ll retell for years. We end where meaning lives: rings. Olympic rings link continents and colors so every nation sees itself in the emblem. Engagement and wedding bands carry histories—lost stones, designer phases, surprise bands that grow into daily favorites. Class rings evolve from one catalog to personal pieces blessed for tradition. Even record-breaking jewelry raises a good question: is it for wearing or for wonder? Come laugh with us, learn something you can use, and leave with a few stories of your own. If you smiled, shared a nod, or yelled “no” at the pumpkin car wash, tap follow, send this to a friend, and drop a quick review—what moment stuck with you most? Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:36:09

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Nailed it!

10/11/2025
Send us a text This week has flown by...From that joyful chaos, we zoom into the strange and delightful: a Taco Bell 50K where hundreds run 31 miles and eat at nine fast-food stops, and a science-backed case for why dancing might be the brain’s favorite reset button. It all leads to a surprisingly rich deep dive on nail polish—how a simple ritual holds time together, why acrylics and press-ons are both art and obstacle, and how names like OPI’s can turn a shade into a story. We also explore why four in ten younger adults watch TV with subtitles even when the sound is on—captions as a focus tool, an accessibility win, and a habit shaped by social video. Then we bust a few household myths: polish doesn’t belong in the fridge, batteries either, and your most reliable results come from a cool, dry cabinet and a little common sense. Nail shapes spark debate too: coffin, squoval, trapezoid—how language frames taste—and we land in a cozy palette for fall with moss greens and warm neutrals that pair with sweaters and pumpkin bread. Our highs and lows keep it real: drivers blocking grocery pickup spots, a lawn saga starring sod, seed, and a silent sprinkler system, and the proud glow of a freshman who found his footing at homecoming. If you’ve ever found calm in a manicure, clarity on a dance floor, or comfort in a perfectly named shade, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a laugh and a little science, and leave a review with your fall nail color pick—we’ll read our favorites next week. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:23:41

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Let There Be Light!

10/6/2025
Send us a text A candy collaboration, a robot named Dot, and a light switch you control from bed—today’s ride is all about the small levers that quietly shape a calmer life. We start with a straight-talking taste test of the Reese’s x Oreo mashup, separating hype from flavor and calling out why the PB-filled Oreos delivered more joy. From there, we take a sharp turn into Phoenix, where bright red DoorDash delivery robots share the road at 20 mph. Cute? Yes. Frictionless? Not quite. We weigh privacy perks against road safety, tampering risks, and the big question of whether convenience is worth the headaches in real neighborhoods. Sleep becomes the anchor. We break down why steady bed and wake times beat weekend sleep-ins, how circadian rhythm sets the tone for energy, and the three pillars that make better rest stick: align with the 24-hour cycle, stay awake long enough to build sleep pressure, and create a real wind-down. Then we click over to lighting—the overlooked habit shaper. Think smart bulbs on timers, warm dimmers that shift with sunset, and color cues that help kids read or relax. We swap stories from theater light design to street lamps, touch on the “City of Light” monikers for Paris and Buffalo, and geek out over the 124-year-old Livermore bulb still burning at four watts. By the end, it’s clear: small systems do heavy lifting. Choose treats that actually taste good, set your lamps to support your nights, and pick a sleep routine your brain can trust. We wrap with honest highs and lows—injuries, coughs, a brand-new driver, and a pizza-truck feast—because real life is where these tweaks matter. If you smiled, learned something, or rethought a habit, follow the show, share with a friend, and leave a quick review so more curious listeners can find us. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:32:55

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Leaf It to Us!

9/29/2025
Send us a text When the leaves start changing color, something magical happens to our environment and our spirits. We dive into the fascinating science behind autumn's spectacular color show, revealing Mother Nature's specific recipe for vibrant fall foliage: a wet summer, dry fall, sunny days, and cool nights. The process responsible for this transformation—abscision—is when trees essentially seal off their leaves as winter approaches, creating those breathtaking displays that define the season. We explore the remarkable diversity of leaves around the world, from the Rafia palm's astonishing 80-foot leaves to tiny specimens barely visible to the naked eye. These natural "solar panels" do far more than just look pretty—they're essential components of our ecosystem and have woven themselves into human culture in countless ways. From the symbolic four-leaf clover to the fig leaf's historical significance, leaves have shaped our language, traditions, and even family expressions. Our conversation takes delightful turns through culinary applications (are you team mint-in-mojito or do you prefer your drinks leaf-free?), the fascinating biology of fig trees, and how certain plants like aloe vera have served humanity for generations. We share personal highlights of the season—open windows, perfect temperatures, and the therapeutic crunch of leaves underfoot—while contemplating how these seemingly simple structures mark time's passage in such profound ways. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the changing seasons, this episode celebrates the underappreciated wonder of leaves and why they deserve our attention beyond their fleeting autumn display. Listen in, then take a moment to appreciate these remarkable structures that transform our world every year. Mike Haggerty Buick GMC Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Duration:00:32:33