The Champagne Girls’ Guide to Living the Life You Love Podcast-logo

The Champagne Girls’ Guide to Living the Life You Love Podcast

Women

Each Sunday, Bonnie, Lauren, and Beth get together on one of their historic porches and discuss how they are creating lives they love on the other side of divorce. Visit BonnieHHurst.com for episode notes.

Location:

United States

Genres:

Women

Description:

Each Sunday, Bonnie, Lauren, and Beth get together on one of their historic porches and discuss how they are creating lives they love on the other side of divorce. Visit BonnieHHurst.com for episode notes.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Champagne Split 8: Top 10 Positive Consequences of Divorce

5/2/2024
Join our candid conversation about breaking free from toxicity and rediscovering the essence of life after a divorce. This episode elaborates on the top 10 positive consequences of divorce that our hosts have personally experienced, leading to self-empowerment, self-discovery, and overall personal growth. Learn about the importance of self-love, the newfound confidence in embracing financial independence, the liberty to make choices that serve one's interests, the luxury of valuable time to explore new hobbies and passion, and the freedom to lead life according to one's rhythm. Plus, get insights into the massive transformation in relationships and attitude towards life that arises post-divorce, including building healthier relationships, embodying resilience, and adopting a positive outlook towards life. This conversation is filled with heartwarming insights, encouraging messages, and actionable advice to navigate what may be a difficult phase for many people. The positivity and prominent self-realization in each shared experience ensure listeners will feel empowered and inspired to find their own silver linings amidst the fog of a life-altering event like divorce. So, whether you've personally experienced a breakup or just need a little pick-me-up, this awe-inspiring conversation will help you appreciate life's ups and downs and the many beautiful opportunities they present. Cheers to life's little wins that accumulate to create the inspirational story of your life!

Duration:00:14:10

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Episode 39: Reconnect with Old Friends

4/25/2024
The hosts dive into personal journeys of reconnecting with old friends during and after a divorce. Sharing their engaging narratives and life lessons, they bring to the fore the pivotal role friendships play during the challenging times of personal trials. They reflect on the reconnection, redefinition of self, and the emotional rescues their friends have offered during the hardships that come with a divorce. What shines through is the profound understanding these friendships have, undeterred by daily expectations or phases of life. From grade school friends to college buddies who turned into soulmates, each relationship brings unique insights and valuable lessons to their lives. The hosts highlight the concept of friends as mirrors to your past and present soul, guiding you to reflect on your dreams and aspirations and rediscover your future. A poignant part of this heartfelt conversation revolves around reminiscing about instances when the warmth and support of these friends helped navigate through the entangled emotions of divorce. These vivid discussions serve as a comforting reminder for listeners to value and seek support from their circle of friends, flipping the narrative from personal trials to finding strength and happiness through friendships. Listen in for an enlightening conversation, infused with shared experiences, valuable lessons, and an infectious dose of optimism as they illustrate the quintessential balance between personal and professional lives. Brace yourself for an episode that goes beyond personal struggles, underscoring the power of friendship as an unlikely yet potent source of strength.

Duration:00:32:14

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Episode 38: How do you figure out what you want?

4/18/2024
In this captivating episode of our podcast, we present a heartwarming discussion featuring three accomplished women. They engage in an open and meaningful conversation about life, purpose, and happiness. Join us in exploring the highs and lows of their personal journeys, as they share how they navigated through life's hurdles including career changes, dealing with empty nest syndrome, facing divorces, overcoming addictions, and more. Dive deep into their insightful reflections on the pivotal question of, "How do you figure out what you want in life?" Learn how they discovered their paths towards inner happiness, going through distinct career choices in education and nursing, and building joyful post-divorce lives centered around fun and meaningful connections. Discover how these resilient women navigated post-divorce life, stressing on the power of self-belief, the value of constant learning, and the importance of personal growth. Learn about their experiences with personality tests that served as tools for self-discovery and a roadmap to a deeper understanding of their true selves. Explore the phenomenal power of friendship that formed amidst challenges and listen to the speakers share experiences about shared passions for food, music, and more. Embrace the encouraging reminder that it's never too late to find happiness, and be inspired by the stories of resilience, self-discovery, and the beauty of genuine friendships. As the episode unfolds, our speakers delve deeper into life, personal achievements, interests, and future goals. They share personal anecdotes along with valuable insights that may guide you on your personal journey and help you refine your approach to attain your desire from life. Tune in to be a part of this exciting exploration of life stages and the concept of "improving oneself". You will hear the speakers encourage you to surround yourself with people who share common passions and exert a positive influence on your life. Be a part of their journey as they share plans for maintaining work-life balance. Listen and be inspired to redefine your life goals and reshape your journey ahead.

Duration:00:29:21

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Champagne Split 7: Living Life to the Fullest

4/10/2024
In this profoundly touching episode, the speakers delve into the heart of what it means to live life to the fullest. Through sharing personal narratives about finding pleasure in the ordinary, cultivating a nurturing home, and valuing relationships, they unfold their unique conceptions of a fulfilled life. The discussions journey through the twisted trails of tribulations such as divorce, bereavement, and heart-rending experiences, offering perspectives on how life's harsh lessons shape one’s viewpoint on living fully. The pivotal role of mental and emotional health is underscored, alongside treasuring the comforts of home and populating our surroundings with elements that bring joy. The conversation focuses on the philosophy of thriving rather than just merely surviving. By highlighting their talks with vivid and inspiring anecdotes, precious moments of everyday life emerge - from the joy of refreshing blossoms to relishing a coffee on a backyard swing - all contributing to a life lived fully. The narrative is punctuated with a heartwarming tale from Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, and the story of a friend's 'Year of Yes', inviting listeners to embrace new experiences by saying "yes" more frequently. The discussions celebrate the individuality in each of us, encouraging us to indulge our passions, wander into unknown territories, and capture sources of joy in daily life. The speaker emphasizes the beauty of living in the present and advocates for steering clear of 'futurizing'. By sharing her experiences, she underscores the importance of undertaking necessary tasks, irrespective of them seeming dull, leading to a productive life. She also talks about maintaining a sense of calm, staying focused on present tasks, and finding contentment in the subtler aspects of life. The narrative winds down with a discussion about the decision to trust the process. The speaker acknowledges the discomfort in embracing simplicity in life but puts forth an affirmative argument about not setting conditions on happiness. The episode concludes by reminding listeners to seize the day, capturing the essence of living in the present, and cherishing individual moments.

Duration:00:18:45

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Episode 37: Carpe Diem

4/4/2024
In this enlightening episode, we delve into the psychology behind choosing happiness and the profound impact it can have in one's life. Steeped in the insights of Harvard Professor, Arthur Brooks, this episode urges you to explore the power of 'acting how you want to feel'. We touch upon often overlooked ideas such as 'faking it until you make it' and talk about the potential pitfalls of excessive positivity. We also explore the connection between our reactions to life's trials and our future, discussing themes of worry, fear, and anxiety and how to convert these into positive contexts. Not only do we provide thoughtful discussions, but we also share personal anecdotes about optimism, tackling crises, achieving success through visualization, and more. We offer renewed understanding to long-standing wisdom and delve into philosophical classics. We connect with listeners through sincere conversations about daily life, reinforcing the idea that choosing happiness is not just an option but a lifestyle. The episode also interestingly looks into 'faking it until you make it' in the context of personal dreams and challenges. We discuss how altering personal spaces can bring in a fresh wave of energy and positivity. Through intimate talks circling around acceptance, attracting positivity, the power of neurodiversity, managing expectations and more, we promote the might of a positive mindset. In a deep-dive into choosing happiness, we share insights about decluttering life, fostering joy and prioritizing human connections. Shedding light on the link between external chaos and inner turmoil, we draw from personal experiences of overcoming life's obstacles with gratitude and positivity. The talk closes on an encouraging note reminding listeners to prioritize happiness above all else. Tune in to this heartwarming episode to discover the true art of choosing happiness.

Duration:00:42:50

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Champagne Split 6: Top 10 Staycation Ideas

3/29/2024
Gearing up for a staycation? Looking to transform your day-to-day into a riveting retreat without actually retreating? In this episode titled "Maximizing the Fun: Top 10 Spring Break Staycation Tips!" journey with us as we explore unique, affordable, and thrilling staycation ideas! Enjoy the leisure and relaxation of a getaway without the pricey tickets or strenuous travel. Get started with our picks, where we discuss binge-watching a new series, experimenting with new recipes, and treating yourself to luxurious dining experiences in local hotspots. Discover how you can maintain an active lifestyle at home, learn yoga or start any exercise regime you've been procrastinating on. Turn this leisure time into a productive period by decluttering, organizing your home, and finally dealing with things that have been bugging you forever. Pair this with some good reading, staying organized, prepping for obligations and you've got the perfect staycation! Finally, don’t forget to explore the hidden treasures within driving distance in your hometown. Our last - but not least - tip is a fun one, responsibly enjoy a leisurely day-time drink! Remember, a staycation is a vacation. Listen to us navigate this delightful space of relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation within the comfort of your homes. Join us in this spirited and bubbly episode and make the most of your staycation this spring break! Tune in next week for more exciting ideas and engaging discussions. Happy staycation, and cheers to Champagne Sundays!

Duration:00:08:20

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Episode 36: Support needed - divorce is not taboo, it just is

3/21/2024
In this insightfully candid episode, our hosts delve deep into the emotionally-charged subject of divorce and its aftermath. Using their own personal experiences as a backdrop, they contemplate on societal views on divorce, the self-recrimination, and profound life changes that ensue such a transformative event. Beyond just impacting the individuals directly involved, they encourage listeners to understand the broad-reaching impact it has on those around them. Join us in this powerful discussion that peels back the layers on this taboo topic. In the journey through divorce, from the initial awkwardness to facing a plethora of personal and financial challenges, the hosts highlight the invaluable power of supportive friendships. They discuss the tricky social dynamics that twist and tremble in the wake of divorce, stressing on the potential transformative power of empathy and acknowledgment. The episode advocates for dispelling the stigmas surrounding divorce and underlines the importance of acceptance and non-judgmental support in times of upheaval. Sharing raw emotional aspects and real-life narratives, the discussion extends to co-parenting post-divorce, and the unique challenges it brings. It's a call to be more compassionate as friends and to extend grace and forgiveness during these challenging times. Listen to the heartwarming instances of unexpected support, unanticipated kindness, and unwavering solidarity that serve as lifelines amidst the struggles. Concluding with the empowering roles that families can play in this healing journey, and the life lessons learned from this whole ordeal, the episode leaves listeners with a resounding message. Amid the trials and tribulations surrounding divorce, it implores each one of us to become more empathetic and extend a hand of support. Be part of this profound journey of resilience, healing, and mutual support, shining a comforting light on the darkest hours of our lives.

Duration:00:45:22

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Episode 35: Closure - do you really need it?

3/14/2024
In this thought-provoking discussion, the focus lies on the importance of closure in relationships. Exploring the individual interpretations of closure and its prominent influence on the healing process after a relationship ends, this episode examines whether they truly need closure for recovery or find healing without a definite end to emotional journeys. Through stories of unfaithful partners and addiction struggles in loved ones, it uncovers the yearning for closure and debunks the myth of closure's dependence on the other party in a relationship. In the heart of the conversation, the revelation takes center stage that closure is a manifestation of self-love and dignity. It embodies the journey of self-worth recognition, self-respect, and realizing when a relationship chapter needs closure, no matter the involvement or lack thereof of the other party. Engaged deeply in this discourse of closure, you will find yourself reassessing your understanding and approach to closure in your relationships. Empowerment in Closure: Personal Stories of Healing and Moving On In this emotionally potent episode, speakers share their personal experiences of disintegrating marriages, the tough pathway to closure, and the setbacks from their partners that made ending relationships a challenging and painful process. Topics of attempting to salvage failing marriages, handling infidelity, forgiving, and finally accepting precede an illumination of the emotional journeys these individuals have traversed. The speakers articulate their periods of self-realization, emphasizing their significant role in bringing closure. They reflect on their exhaustive efforts to "fix" their relationships and express the relief in deciding to prioritize personal happiness and tranquility. By reclaiming control and making the difficult decision to move on from their past, they highlight the significance of learning self-love and setting boundaries in relationships. A strong narrative emerges from these personal stories about living life on one’s terms, notwithstanding heartbreak and betrayal. This raw and honest sharing of their experiences aims to inspire and support others navigating similar situations. The episode concludes on a hopeful note, with a discussion about their future plans, affirming a commitment to leading a fulfilling and love-filled life.

Duration:00:30:04

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Episode 34: The Rule of 100

3/7/2024
In this empowering episode, we dissect the wonders of 'Jay Bonacolta's Rule of 100' and its impact on our growth in various disciplines. Discover how dedicating just 18 minutes a day to a particular task can put you ahead of 95% of the world in that field. This all revolves around the crux of consistency and devotion. Unearth the ways in which daily investment of time can transform you into an expert in your desired domain. Dive deep into the discussion about 'body doubling' - a highly effective technique for overcoming Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) paralysis, and a mysterious productivity booster. Hear about how incorporating 'Bonacolta's Rule of 100' has dramatically changed our abilities, impacting areas as varied as art and physical fitness. We candidly talk about our own goals and which activities we're choosing to dedicate our 100 hours to in the year ahead. We stress the importance of meeting oneself where they're and taking intentional steps towards growth. Join us as we share our experiences with this rule in different arenas, be it office organization, painting, or even physical fitness. Listen in as we reflect on previous projects, evaluating their worth in terms of the coveted 100-hour investment. In this journey of creativity and self-improvement, we ponder upon our own struggles to find focus and dedication in our creative pursuits. Sharing a practical guide to exploring your creative instincts, we discuss particulars of drawing, painting, and trying out new mediums of art. Want to learn ice-skating, or dreaming of picking up a foreign language? Find inspiration to transform these fleeting thoughts into consistent actions. Relish in the beauty of new experiences, whether it's playing tennis or composing music. Understand the role of choosing your most productive time slots to channel your creativity. We invite you on this path of exploration and self-discovery. Embrace the challenge of balancing demanding day jobs with nurturing your personal creativity. With sneak peeks into varied lives - from motherhood and teaching, to directing plays and planning weddings, you might find pieces that deeply resonate with you. Ignite your curiosity about incorporating consistency into your creative journey. Consider this episode as your starter pack, let's commit to dedicating productive time each day to our passion projects.

Duration:00:32:51

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Episode 33: Bad Reviews

2/29/2024
In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the intricate world of divorce, exploring the misconceptions, judgments, and unjust narratives that often accompany the challenging process. We share personal experiences of dealing with countless misconceptions and debunk prevalent assumptions. The episode sheds light on the transformative journey from a married to a single individual, providing insights into the emotional aftermath, the struggles of navigating newfound biases, and the personal growth it often ignites. We delve into heart-rending first-hand experiences, from dealing with infidelity to struggling with the judgment that follows divorce. The episode considers the challenges of navigating parenthood amidst divorce and the profound effects an ex-spouse's struggles with alcoholism can have on a family. We underline the significance of healing, personal accountability, and nurturing honest communication after separation. The episode further explores the damaging ripple effects of 'bad reviews', amplified through the community and personal relationships after a breakup. Yet, amidst this adversity, we emphasize resilience, truth, and the courage to fight for personal happiness and well-being. We further discuss the fear, misunderstandings, and miscommunications that can lead to these 'bad reviews'. The episode highlights the importance of focusing on personal actions as we cannot control the reaction of others. We touch upon the essence of being unapologetically confident, discussing the power of self-awareness and the courage to rise above societal expectations. Through introspective discussions on self-care, balancing work, family, and personal interests, the episode advocates for a fulfilling life. Concluding with engaging discussions on introversion, extroversion, loyalty, betrayal, and personal growth, this episode is a wholesome dissection of the peaks and valleys of life following divorce.

Duration:01:04:56

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Champagne Split 5: Yes my monkeys, yes my circus - surviving when we are over committed

2/22/2024
In this insightful episode, we delve deep into the labyrinth of single motherhood, exploring the unending challenges of striking a balance amidst work pressures, children's schedules, household chores and the exhaustion that tags along. We highlight the occasional desperation faced in the battle against time, trying to be everywhere at once while keeping up with relentless work schedules and mounting demands. This riveting conversation boldly turns the spotlight on the importance of seeking help when needed and the indispensable role played by self-care in keeping sanity afloat. Through personal anecdotes and sharing of valuable self-care routines, we highlight how sometimes, the simple pleasures such as morning coffee and consistent bedtime routines serve as rejuvenating rituals. Join us as we share our personal struggles, victories and insights on thriving amidst the chaos of single parenthood. Discover the art of maintaining peace, productivity and personal well-being despite the odds. Striking the Balance: Teachers Juggling Daily Routines, Work and Personal LifeIn this enlightening conversation, three teachers candidly discuss the art and science of managing daily routines, juggling work, and maintaining balance in personal life. We delve into the fine details of morning routines and work arrangements - the benefits of rising early, preparing for the day, and even adopting 'uniforms' for an easier start to the day. Further, the discussion intriguingly touches upon the historical practices of 'second sleep' and our teachers' individual sleep needs and schedules. The struggle is real when it comes to managing busy schedules packed with deadlines, appointments, and the fear of missing out on tasks. From calendars to timesheets and reminders, hear about the numerous strategies deployed to stay on top of the game. In an eye-opening revelation, we also hear about the challenges of living with unmedicated ADD and strategies for effective functioning. In the concluding part of this insightful episode, our teachers share delightful snippets of their personal lives – from school theater plays to art projects. Be sure to tune in for this relatable glimpse into managing modern lifestyle demands while keeping room for enjoyment.

Duration:00:29:49

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Episode 32: Happy Valentine, or Galentine, or Me Time!

2/11/2024
Join us as we delve into the subject of celebrating Valentine's Day while being single. With engaging banter and refreshing frankness, we debunk the clichéd narrative that Valentine's Day is a 'single woman problem', while discussing the importance of self-loving, embracing personal growth, and the joyful aspects of singlehood. From the AI writer - The discourse emphasizes recognizing and celebrating love in all its forms beyond the standard romantic perspective, inclusive of familial bonds, friendships, and personal well-being. Personal anecdotes colour the dialogue, featuring tales of failed Valentine's surprises, revisiting past Valentine's Day memories, and even an unconventional proposal story. The episode sends a strong message of self-sufficiency and underscores resilience, encouraging listeners to view life's obstacles not as setbacks but opportunities for growth. Diving deeper into personal experiences, pressing topics such as divorce, self-discovery, and the powerful choice of joy are explored; valuing each as integral in reframing our perception of life and our place in it. In sharing their intimate life experiences, the participants shed light on struggles, toxicity, and their paths to peace after divorce. Discussions also touch on lesser talked about facets of divorce like loneliness, grief, and the quest for intimacy. This episode works to illuminate the painful yet necessary journey of mourning a failing relationship, yet holding onto hope. As the theme converges on Valentine's Day, it ventures to challenge societal norms around relationships and the importance of celebrating love, not just on one designated day but in varied forms and throughout the year. Each speaker's candid account serves as a source of inspiration and a beacon of resilience for those grappling with similar experiences. The episode's conclusion is as uplifting as it is profound, promoting joy in life's small moments, the bond of family, and the making of cherished memories. This episode, fundamentally, is a deep dive into the themes of struggle, resilience, and transformation, offering listeners refreshing insights, heartfelt stories, and shared experiences. Listen in and join us as we dismantle societal norms, bare our souls, and rise stronger amidst adversity.

Duration:00:32:41

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Episode 31: Being Relentless in the New Year

2/2/2024
Join us as we delve into the candid experiences of Beth, Lauren, and Bonnie focusing on the mental, emotional, and financial challenges one faces during and after divorce. This intimate conversation inspires listeners to live fearlessly, demonstrating the cessation of fear-based decision-making and the triumph over financial anxiety. Discover how essential fitness, mental health, and self-care are in coping with divorce, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize oneself amidst chaos. We shift the usual perception of self-care from being an indulgence to being critical for resilience and personal growth. Through real-life testimonies and reflections, we expose the significant effects of divorce on mental health and underscore the liberating journey of self-discovery and aspiration redefinition. Professionally or personally, unexpected life changes dramatically alter our paths. We shared candidly about our past experiences with anxiety and found unparalleled strength in open discussions, helping to alleviate the mind's burdens. In this heartfelt episode, we also navigate through the diverse landscapes of post-divorce life, the importance of therapy, and the revealing experience of reclaiming oneself and one's genuine happiness. A work-life balance and healthy living are other critical areas we touch upon. The discussion identifies the struggle of integrating a balanced diet and physical exercise while managing busy schedules, emphasizing the impact of health on overall well-being, mobility, and mental balance. With notable instances, we advocate the significance of resting days to recharge and reset. Bearing humor and positivity, we persevere towards our personal goals, striving to concentrate on the brighter facets of life and disregard any negative distractions. We also reflect on our collective experiences post-divorce, the importance of letting go, fostering hope and optimism, and initiating fresh beginnings. As the conversation culminates, we raise a cheerful toast to embracing life's unpredictability and to an upcoming fulfilling week.

Duration:00:43:42

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Episode 30: The unexpected - that week ice forced us to stay home for a week

1/21/2024
The unexpected - this past week we were forced to stay home due to an ice storm. We live in the South, this weather is not a normal part of our winter. As single women we were responsible for our homes and making sure we had food in the house for us and the kids. We found ourselves resting more and sometimes stressing more. Listen in and hear how we dealt with this unexpected time stuck in our homes.

Duration:00:29:46

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Episode 29: New Year blahs . . .

1/14/2024
Do you find January a season of blah? Join us as we discuss feeling the January blues and how we have tried to embrace the season and turn it into a time of positive reflection.

Duration:00:41:48

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Champagne Split 4: Single Woman Probs - Parallel Parenting

1/1/2024
In this episode we discuss parallel parenting - parenting on your own without cooperation or communication from your child's other parent. We discuss being the best example we can be for our kids, focusing on what we can control, and setting boundaries where we can.

Duration:00:30:42

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Champagne Split 3: Holiday Edition - Our top 15 things to do if you are spending the holidays on your own

12/14/2023
Join us on the porch as we discuss spending the first holiday after divorce on our own without the kids. We talk about 15 ways we can spend our time to combat the loneliness of a Christmas season on our own.

Duration:00:11:41

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Episode 28:Breaking up the monotony

12/3/2023
Welcome to Champagne Sunday! Today we discuss breaking up the monotony of the every day things - how do we feel like we are really living when we are also bogged down in the monotony of the things that must be done? Join us on the porch and listen as we talk about it!

Duration:00:42:07

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Episode 27: Don’t be a hero

11/28/2023
This Sunday we discussed the concept of NOT being a hero - allowing ourselves to not be the best at everything while we take much needed time for ourselves to heal and grow and reset.

Duration:00:40:40

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Champagne Split 2: Single Woman Probs Episode 1

11/12/2023
Join us as we discuss a single woman problem - what do you do when your car won't start?? Lauren experienced just this thing this week.

Duration:00:10:43