Shows
you single?Spilled Juice, Spicy Toddlers & IVF Truths: A Belated Mother's Day ChatSend us a textThis special BELATED Mother’s Day edition of Midlife Uncensored is a raw, hilarious, and moving celebration of modern motherhood. With Poppy out, E holds down the fort alongside two incredible guests—Sasha and Maura—who get real about what it’s like to become a mom today. From handprint crafts and potty-training fails to fertility struggles, miscarriages, and the mental load no one warns you about, they cover it all.This episode dives into the unfiltered truths of IVF, pregnancy loss, people-pleasing parenting, the invisible labor of motherhood, and why n...2025-06-0654 min
you single?Planned Breakups, Sex Positivity, and the Modern Dating Circus (feat. Jill & Katie)Send us a textWhat happens when your breakup has a calendar date? In this raw, hilarious, and unfiltered episode, Poppy and E are joined by guests Jill and Katie for a roundtable on dating in your 30s and 40s—where planned goodbyes, casual hookups, deep friendships, and honest conversations about sex and expectations collide. From the heartbreak of wanting different things to the thrill of “just getting laid last night,” this episode dives into the messy, beautiful, contradictory truths of modern dating. Plus, we talk love bombs, sex drives, orgasms (or lack thereof), friends with benefits, and wh...2025-05-231h 11you single?Molly Higgins and Gary Steadman are Why Modern Dating Is Exhausting!Send us a textIn this episode of You Single? Let’s Mingle, Joel and E unpack the chaos of modern dating with a real-life story you won’t believe: a woman who ghosted Joel not once, but twice, suddenly resurfaces months later with a heartfelt—and wildly overthought—text asking for another chance… and dinner.From that emotional boomerang, the conversation opens up to bigger questions: Why do we overthink dating? Are we more intolerant now? Is dating app burnout killing real connection? And why do we keep chasing people who don’t know what the...2025-05-0654 minyou single?How to Show Interest Without Looking Desperate (Or Creepy)Send us a textIn this episode, Joel and E keep it real and hilariously awkward as they unravel the mystery of how people show (or fail to show) romantic interest. From giggles over feet pics and Wisconsin dairy propaganda to dating psychology and the art of giving your number without looking like a weirdo, they touch on it all.The duo gets into:Why Mondays suck and feet pics might be a hustle.Subtle signs of interest like eye contact, body language, and leaning in.Why giving your number is bold—but also co...2025-04-1746 minyou single?The Hangover Edition: Were We Really Double Fisting High Noon's Last Night?Send us a textStill reeling from a wild Two Birds Fit March Madness pub crawl, your favorite friendly Sasquatch and E dive into dating app disasters, Poppy meets another sasquatch in the wild, and the fine art of mingling. There’s wine. There’s wisdom. There’s a vending machine full of questionable choices. Buckle up for this hungover-but-hilarious ride through real-life dating, event recaps, and future podcast shenanigans. How to Engage with Us DM us on Instagram yousinglepod Follow Joel on IG jpoppert Follow Emanuela on IG emanuela5683 or accountability_with_e...2025-04-0333 minyou single?Floodlighting and How We Make Up "Conditions" to Avoid Dating Defeat, plus Cougar ConfessionsSend us a textBuckle up, because this episode of You Single? is an absolute rollercoaster. Your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Poppy, and his fiery co-host E are back with a mix of hilarity, unfiltered opinions, and a whole lot of hot takes on modern dating.From volunteering at the Food Bank (where Poppy might have found his next crush, except she is a teacher) to getting hit by a golf ball at a PGA tournament, this episode is packed with stories. But the real debate? Are we all overanalyzing dating? The duo dives into the...2025-03-2048 minyou single?New Name, Same Chaos: Welcome to You Single?Send us a textWe’ve rebranded… again. Welcome to You Single?, where your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Joel Poppert, and the fiery and fabulous Emanuela Messineo (aka E) navigate the wild world of single life after 30. In this first official episode, we talk about why we’re ditching The Love Laugh Lounge for a fresh start, how You Single? fits into our podcast universe, and why we’re leaning all the way into middle-aged dorkiness.We also brainstorm questionable t-shirt ideas, discuss why dating apps feel broken, and plot ways to meet more single people IRL—spoi...2025-03-1349 minyou single?Another One Bites the Dust: The Dating Struggle ContinuesSend us a textDating in midlife is a trip, and in this episode of Midlife Uncensored, we’re unpacking yet another fresh dose of rejection. E shares her latest “I got dumped” moment—because nothing says modern dating like a sudden “let’s just be friends” call right before a planned date. Meanwhile, Joel and E dive into the bigger question: why does dating feel like an endless cycle of excitement, letdown, and back to the drawing board?But don’t worry, we’ve got solutions. Kind of. Joel pitches a revolutionary new dating strategy: custo...2025-02-2741 minyou single?Ditch the Apps & Break a Sweat: Dating IRL with Two Birds Fit's Karen RichardsSend us a textForget awkward small talk and endless swiping—what if finding love was as easy as working out in the park or running into someone (literally) at the grocery store? This week, Poppy and E sit down with Karen Richards, the mastermind behind Two Birds Fit, a unique speed-dating-meets-fitness community in Denver.From speed-dating walks to singles mixers, Karen shares how her passion for fitness, matchmaking, and social connection led to a movement that’s getting people off the apps and into real-life connections. They talk about the chal...2025-02-2049 min
you single?The Conversations that Divide Us: Egos, Politics, Religion, Gender RolesSend us a textWelcome to episode 49 of Midlife Uncensored! We’re nearly a year into this wild ride, and for this episode, we’re bringing back one of our favorite guests, Uche, for a no-filter conversation that started with the male ego… but went off the rails and way deeper than any of us expected.We dive into everything from the shifting dynamics between men and women, the confusion around traditional roles, the impact of social media on relationships, and the ripple effects of ego—both fragile and inflated. We touch on dating, chivalry, modern m...2025-02-131h 11you single?The Love Laugh Lounge Takes on Dating Apps (Again)Send us a textWelcome back to The Love Laugh Lounge—the Festivus of Dating, where we air our grievances, roast our own love lives, and dish out completely unqualified advice.In this episode, Poppy and E dive deep into the world of online dating—again—because let’s face it, the apps are the gift that keeps on giving… headaches. From Hinge's hidden inbox mysteries to the oddly specific clichés in women’s profiles (why does everyone love clean sheets and sushi?), we’re unpacking the weird, the frustrating, and the occasionally hilarious reality of mode...2025-02-0657 min
you single?From Italy to NyQuil Dreams: Banter and Big ChangesSend us a textIn this lively and raw episode of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E dive into the chaos of midlife reflections, recent adventures, and hilarious tangents. From recapping their year in podcasting to tales of E's Italian escapades (including a stolen phone and a fabulous fur coat), this episode is equal parts heart and humor. They explore how aging changes hobbies, travel preferences, and social priorities, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments along the way. Poppy even recounts a bizarre NyQuil-fueled dream about E crashing a school bus into a Denver trench—dream analysis, anyone?...2025-01-1639 min
you single?Goals, Giggles, and Casa Bonita: Planning for 2025Send us a textIn this candid and humorous episode of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E dive into their personal goals for 2025—ranging from serious entrepreneurial pursuits to quirky bucket-list items (hello, Casa Bonita!). From formal goal-setting techniques and masterclasses to the chaotic beauty of juggling a million ideas at once, this episode is equal parts motivational and wildly relatable.Expect unfiltered banter about New Year routines, the struggles of working from home during winter, and the art of balancing personal ambition with enjoying life’s little pleasures. Whether you’re looking to revamp your own go...2024-12-3138 minyou single?Dog Tongues and First Date Sushi : Another Midlife Dating Download on The Love Laugh LoungeSend us a textWelcome back to the Love Laugh Lounge, where dating disasters and midlife musings collide! In this episode, Joel and E dive into the chaos of dating apps, their strategies (and frustrations), and the evolving world of meeting people IRL. From dissecting cringe-worthy dating profiles to recounting hilariously bad first dates, they serve up their trademark blend of humor and honesty.Topics include:Why being "friends first" is a red flag for menThe unspoken rules of profile picturesHow social media and dating coaches might be ruining the dating poolThe pros and...2024-12-2441 minyou single?What Men and Women Need to Know About Each Other (But Never Learned) ft. Relationship Coach Justine BaruchSend us a textIn Episode 44 of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E welcome back relationship coach and therapist Justine Baruch for an unfiltered and insightful discussion on relationships, dating, and personal growth. With nearly 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of love, communication, and emotional well-being, Justine dives deep into the tools and strategies that can heal, enhance, and transform relationships.From understanding the biological differences between men and women in stress and communication to unpacking the magic of connection through appreciation and curiosity, this episode offers something for everyone—whether yo...2024-12-101h 09you single?Trust Issues Unpacked: Navigating Betrayal and Healing in our Relationships ft. Blake Roberts, LPC, MA.Send us a textDiscover how to rebuild trust and foster healthier relationships, especially during midlife, with insights from our esteemed guest, licensed therapist Blake Roberts, LPC, MA. When trust is compromised, it can feel like the foundation of your relationship is crumbling. Together with Blake, we confront the complex interplay between trust, insecurities, and betrayal, discussing how cognitive distortions and past experiences shape our perceptions. Blake shares personal anecdotes, offering a unique perspective on trusting oneself and understanding the limitations of controlling others.Navigating trust issues isn't just about identifying problems; it's about self-awareness...2024-12-0357 min
you single?Thankful for Life, Love, and Giving Less F*cksSend us a textJoin Poppy and E on this special pre-Thanksgiving episode of Midlife Uncensored! This week, we’re serving up a heaping plate of middle-aged wisdom with a side of laughs as we reflect on the art of not giving a f*ck and the many blessings we’re grateful for. From Friendsgiving antics and awkward first dates to hilarious dive bar reviews and egg salad horror stories, we keep it real while finding humor in the chaos of midlife.We dive into personal growth topics, like setting boundaries, overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, and navi...2024-11-2653 minyou single?Swipe Again? A Discussion About the Reality of Dating Do-OversSend us a textIn this laugh-out-loud episode of Midlife Uncensored, your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Poppy, and the ever-sassy E dive into the chaotic world of second chances in dating. Are they worth it, or should you leave the past in the past? Hear Poppy and E share awkward stories of failed re-dates, Tinder déjà vu, and unexpected run-ins with past flames.But it’s not all heartstrings and hindsight—prepare for some wild tangents! Poppy perfects his Thanksgiving turkey call, dishes on his sleep struggles, and drops hilarious anecdotes about old-school car features (map li...2024-11-1935 minyou single?Love, Trauma, and Ghosting: Real Talk on Modern Romance in the Love Laugh Lounge ft. UcheSend us a textWelcome back to The Love Laugh Lounge, where Poppy and E are joined by special guest Uche for a candid, laughter-filled, and sometimes sobering dive into the ups and downs of midlife dating. In this episode, they discuss everything from red flags on dating apps to real-life ghosting nightmares, unpacking how these experiences can shape—and sometimes sabotage—our future relationships.Uche opens up about the role of past relationship trauma, sharing how old wounds can affect our reactions, expectations, and communication in new relationships. Together, the trio dives into the comp...2024-11-091h 37
you single?What is Midlife and Why so Many People Avoid the Topic all TogetherSend us a textEver wondered what truly defines being "over the hill"? Is it just another number or something more profound? In this episode of Midlife Uncensored, Joel Poppert and Emanuela Messineo, also known as "Amalfi Pie," tackle this provocative question with humor and candor. From dining escapades at new local hotspots to volunteering with adorable Great Danes, our journey through midlife is anything but mundane. We invite you to challenge the stereotypes and embrace the wisdom, authenticity, and humor that come with this transformative stage of life. Buckle up for a ride that promises laughter...2024-11-0543 minyou single?From Cuffing Season Kick-off to Surviving Family Politics during the HolidaysSend us a textIn this episode of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E are back with a lively chat about everything fall— from cuffing season dates and Halloween parties to the ever-dreaded family holiday politics. Joel recaps his adventures at the latest Two Birds Fit mixer, where he networked (and maybe flirted) his way through the crowd. The duo dives into some great fall date ideas, from scenic walks in the park to cozy indoor cooking sessions.But it’s not all fun and games—what happens when holiday gatherings turn into political battlegrounds? An email...2024-10-291h 01
you single?Midlife Gripes: Road Rage, Gluten, and Waxing WoesSend us a textIn this laugh-out-loud episode of Midlife Uncensored, your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Joel (aka Poppy), and the unapologetically funny Emanuela (aka E, the self-proclaimed Sausage Queen), dive into the messy, ridiculous, and hilarious realities of midlife. From waxing nostrils gone wrong to navigating the minefield of online dating and catfishing, no topic is off-limits.Joel opens up about his Halloween costume dilemmas (Disco Dan or Cheerleader?), while E contemplates becoming the Sausage Queen for Halloween. Together, they tackle midlife gripes like gluten intolerance, road rage, and the ongoing battle with body hair...2024-10-2253 minyou single?Rethinking Love: One Size Never Fit AllSend us a textIn this episode of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E (aka "the Sausage Queen) dive headfirst into the evolving world of relationships and challenge the idea that love has to follow a predefined path. From navigating cuffing season to questioning the norms around marriage, monogamy, and cohabitation, this episode asks the bold question: What if traditional relationship models just don’t fit anymore?Joel and E explore alternative approaches to love and commitment, discussing everything from living separately while staying connected, to the rise of open relationships, and the freedom that comes wi...2024-10-1557 minyou single?Can Men and Women Really Just Be Friends?Send us a textIn this episode of Midlife Uncensored, Joel "Poppy" Poppert and his co-host, Emanuela "E" Messineo, dive headfirst into the age-old debate: Can men and women really just be friends? Sharing their own personal stories—including how their friendship blossomed after meeting on a dating app—they tackle the complexities of platonic friendships between the sexes. From navigating societal expectations to handling jealous partners, they leave no stone unturned.Get ready for candid conversation, sprinkled with humor, as Poppy and E explore how friendships evolve in midlife, the pressures from the outside worl...2024-10-0859 minyou single?Bermuda Blessings, Wisconsin Weddings, and More Dating DiscussionsSend us a text In this episode of Midlife Uncensored, Poppy and E face the classic "Can you hear me now?" tech struggle while recording remotely. They dive into recent travels, from Bermuda work trips to nostalgic family gatherings in Wisconsin, offering some hilarious and heartfelt reflections on midlife and reconnections. The duo also tackles the rollercoaster that is modern dating, discussing single parents, casual flings, and the complexities of "no attachment to outcome" in relationships. Along the way, they share funny stories, including awkward dates, impromptu "fortune-cookie" encounters, and Poppy’s upcoming guy's weekend in the mou...2024-09-2542 min
you single?Welcome to Midlife Uncensored: Real Life Discussions from Over the HillSend us a textEver wondered what it feels like to navigate midlife with fewer inhibitions? We’re kicking off the newly rebranded "Midlife Uncensored" with a fresh approach to real-life discussions that blend humor, honest emotions, and genuine connections. From the unavoidable midlife crises to the perplexing reality of slowing metabolisms, we’re keeping it real for all our midlife peers. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or living the suburban dream, we promise candid conversations filled with laughter and a touch of vulnerability.Curious about the foods we grew up with compared to today's choi...2024-09-181h 05
you single?Insecurities Part III: Moving Forward by Living with our Insecurities or Overcoming ThemSend us a textIn this episode of The Owning Alone Podcast, your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Joel, and co-host Emanuela dive into a pivotal shift as they announce a rebrand of the podcast. After some laughs about Joel’s wardrobe malfunction and reflections on personal quirks, the duo shares the exciting direction of their new podcast name and vision. As part of their ongoing "Insecurities" series, Joel and Emanuela explore how insecurities manifest in midlife, from overcoming personal doubts to embracing aging bodies. They also share their own experiences of navigating imposter syndrome, body image, and financial an...2024-09-101h 08
you single?Insecurities Part II: Facing Insecurities through Awareness and Emotional EQSend us a textIn this engaging episode of The Owning Alone Podcast, your favorite Denver Sasquatch, Poppy, and co-host Emanuela Messineo, E, dive into part two of their Insecurities Trio. Picking up from where they left off, they focus on understanding insecurities with an emphasis on gaining awareness. The duo shares personal stories, explores the impact of childhood experiences on adult insecurities, and discusses the importance of self-acceptance and emotional awareness. Poppy and Emanuela also touch on the challenges of navigating relationships, the pitfalls of attachment styles, and the significance of setting boundaries in both personal...2024-09-031h 07you single?Sharts, Sass, and Single Dads: Tales from Love Laugh LoungeSend us a textJoin your favorite friendly Sasquatch, Joel, and his lively co-host Emanuela in this hilarious and unfiltered episode of the "Love Laugh Lounge." In true Festivus fashion, they dive headfirst into the dumpster fire that is modern dating, sharing their own grievances, war stories, and more.In this episode, Joel and Emanuela dissect her recent plunge back into the dating scene, with all the awkward, cringy, and downright weird moments that come with it. From the perils of online dating profiles to the bizarre tale of a date gone wrong at the...2024-08-271h 13
you single?Insecurities Part I: How They Impact and Play a Role in our Lives and RelationshipsSend us a textCan insecurities really shape our lives to the extent that they determine our mental health, relationships, and even career paths? Join us as we confront this provocative question head-on in our three-episode series on insecurities and their profound effects. We kick things off by acknowledging that everyone, from the seemingly confident to the openly vulnerable, battles with insecurities. From the fear of abandonment rooted in childhood to appearance-related worries amplified by social media, we dig deep into how these insecurities can spiral into anxiety, depression, and self-isolation, revealing the importance of awareness and...2024-08-1543 min
you single?Keeping Friendships Alive Across the Miles, Plus Buttless Chaps and Slinging Hot DogsSend us a textBrace yourself for laughs and unexpected twists in episode 28 of The Owing Alone Podcast! We kick things off with Emanuela, or E, who regales us with her latest escapades and a hilarious gig slinging hot dogs at Home Depot and Poppy's sidesplitting stories about a quirky hypothetical of meeting potential dates while shopping at Target or daydreaming of yard work in buttless chaps in affluent neighborhoods. Join us as we peel back the layers of maintaining long-distance friendships, sharing heartfelt personal anecdotes and practical tips. We dive into how our social c...2024-08-1049 minyou single?The Dating Game, Appropriate First Date Conversations and Silly Saturday ShenanigansSend us a textEver wondered if playing hard to get really works in the dating world? Join us on this lighthearted "Silly Saturday" episode as Poppy and E, share their latest escapades—from Game of Thrones marathons to making new friends at Pilates class. Laugh along with us as we explore the quirky social perks of fitness classes and debate whether the right workout attire can indeed spark new friendships. Our discussion smoothly transitions into the age-old question of dating strategies—do they truly help in attracting a partner, or are they just outdated advice?...2024-07-3156 min
you single?The Art of Owning Alone: From Mid-Life Crisis to Self Awareness and DiscoverySend us a textLife’s challenges often lead us to profound self-awareness and growth. In this episode, Joel and Emanuela check back in on the history "owning alone," and what it truly means. We open up about our personal journeys, discussing how Joel's midlife crisis and the solitude that follows major life changes can lead to deeper self-understanding. Hear a candid story about overcoming loss and divorce, and how these experiences reshape our approach to life and relationships. As we reflect on the significance of internal and external awareness, we share insights into building healthier, more fu...2024-07-2052 min
you single?The Art of Lettings Things Go, Letting Be and Living Free!Send us a textDo you find it challenging to "let go" and allow things to unfold naturally without trying to control every situation? Join us for this post-4th of July episode, where Joel and Emanuela (E) delve into the lessons from Mel Robbins' "Let Them" philosophy and Mark Manson's "Let It Go" approach. We'll discuss how these philosophies can help you release control, foster healthier connections, and let go of unhealthy ones without the usual stress and anxiety.In this episode, we explore how not taking others' actions personally can reduce stress and...2024-07-071h 03