Shows
The Mariah EffectMe, But Make It ThrivingIn this episode of The Mariah Effect, I’m opening up about some of the big changes happening in my life like moving through grief, encouraging growth in myself, and reshaping the direction of this podcast. I’ve been learning to put my own needs first and make decisions based on what I want (not what others expect). I also touch on what I’m most excited about as I step into this new season (including bringing video into the mix!). I hope this episode of The Mariah Effect inspires you and reminds you that growth is alwa...2025-05-1341 min
The Mariah EffectThe Give and Take of GriefGrief doesn’t just show up after someone is gone—it begins in the waiting, in the witnessing, and in the quiet moments in between. In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of my grief as I walk alongside the final days of Roland Merrill, a man who was not my biological father, but who loved me and showed up for me like a dad.I talk about what it means to grieve while someone is still here, how hospice changes time, and what it feels like to navigate love, loss, and family dynamics that make grief even...2025-03-2835 min
The Mariah EffectHot Takes & Questionable TV ChoicesAfter surgery left me with way too much downtime, I turned to my favorite coping mechanism—watching an unreasonable amount of TV. In this episode, I’m diving into the absolute chaos of my recent watchlist, from nostalgic teen dramas to crime shows I never thought I’d be into, and of course, my many thoughts on Squid Game Season 2.I break down my reactions to The O.C. (why did I ever think Seth Cohen was the dream guy?), my surprising new appreciation for Law & Order: SVU, and my frustration with Squid Game's latest cliffhanger. If you love overanalyzing TV as...2025-03-1832 min
The Mariah EffectStarting Fresh: A New ChapterAfter a long break, The Mariah Effect is back! In this episode, I open up about why I stepped away, what made it hard to come back, and why now feels like the perfect time to return. From struggling with technical issues and self-doubt to managing my health while working part-time, it’s been a lot. But after another transplant and a new diagnosis of partial remission (!!), I’m stronger, working full-time again, and ready to make this podcast sustainable in a whole new way.I’m sharing what’s been going on behind the scenes, how I’m structur...2025-03-1422 min
The Mariah EffectHarmony In Our Differences: Part TwoJoin Mariah and her brother Lucas for part two of their engaging conversation in this episode of The Mariah Effect. In this installment, they dive into their shared love for music, discussing artists like Labyrinth and Finneas. Mariah talks about her need to connect emotionally to music to enjoy it, while Lucas shares his different perspective and why he doesn't connect with musicals.They also reflect on their fun but lopsided experiences playing video games together, including a memorable camping trip where Lucas's superior gaming skills became evident. Despite Lucas's teasing, he admits he can't think of any negative attributes...2024-07-0935 minThe Mariah EffectHarmony In Our DifferencesTune in with Mariah and her brother Lucas in the first of a special two-part episode on *The Mariah Effect* as they explore the rhythm of their sibling relationship and the transformative power of music. Despite being seven years apart and Lucas being a twin—a phenomenon that gives Mariah a serious ick—they’ve grown remarkably close over the past few years. In this fun and candid conversation, they delve into their unique bond, highlighting their shared interests and the differences that make their relationship dynamic. Central to their discussion is the pivotal role that music has played in both...2024-06-2832 min
The Mariah EffectPatrickJoin Mariah in this heartfelt episode of The Mariah Effect as she finally shares the story about her beloved little brother, Patrick. After 4.5 attempts to get it just right, Mariah dives into their unique sibling bond, exploring her role in his life and the deep love she holds for him. She touches on the concept of "sonder" and reflects on the bittersweet reality of siblings growing up and forging their own independent paths. Tune in to hear Mariah's emotional journey and her hopes for their future relationship.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast...2024-06-1436 min
The Mariah EffectEmerging Stronger: Season Two BeginsWelcome back to The Mariah Effect – Season Two is finally here! Get ready to dive deep into the raw and unfiltered world of Mariah as she spills the beans on all the juicy changes coming your way. With Jason taking a backseat, Mariah's ready to take the wheel and steer the show in a whole new direction. Expect shorter, punchier episodes hitting your ears every Tuesday and Friday at 7 am – perfect for your morning commute or that midday pick-me-up. Mariah's laying it all out on the table, sharing her triumphs, struggles, and everything in between.So buckle up, folk...2024-06-1121 min
The Mariah EffectThe Mariah Effect Returns: Family, Fitness, and FutureIn this highly anticipated episode of The Mariah Effect, Mariah returns from a month-long hiatus, eager to share her exciting adventures and personal reflections. She takes you on a whirlwind journey through her recent escapades, from the scenic landscapes of Park City, where she spent quality time with Jason, to the tranquil shores of Bear Lake, where family bonds were strengthened. Mariah's candid storytelling invites you into her world, as she discusses her newfound commitment to fitness, embarking on gym sessions with her brother Lucas.Yet, amidst the joys of her travels and fitness journey, Mariah shares the vulnerable...2023-10-0639 min
The Mariah EffectBoulder Bound: A Cinematic EscapeJoin Mariah in this reflective episode as she recounts her recent escape to her friend's restaurant in Boulder, Utah. With a sense of liberation akin to a bird out of its cage, Mariah shares the sheer joy of breaking free from routine and immersing herself in a different world. Her journey takes a cinematic twist as she discusses her visit to the theaters, where she watched both "Oppenheimer" and the new Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie, accompanied by the same friend who hosted her in Boulder. Mariah opens up about her thoughts on both films, delving into the unique perspectives...2023-09-0153 min
The Mariah EffectPerfectly Imperfect: Life Through Mariah's LensDiving into the depths of self-reflection, Mariah bares her journey as a self-professed perfectionist at 26. Join her on a poignant episode as she contrasts her youthful ideals with the realities of life, reflecting on her high school struggles and grappling with mental health challenges. Through heartfelt revelations, Mariah's candid narrative delves into the complexities of perfectionism, the highs and lows of growing up, and the resilience that comes from embracing imperfections. Tune in for a candid conversation that resonates with anyone navigating the intricacies of self-discovery, mental health, and the evolution of aspirations.Become a supporter of this...2023-08-2548 min
The Mariah EffectTaste of Triumph: Healing Progress and Culinary ConversationsIn this weeks episode, Mariah and Jason embark on a conversation centered around Mariah's exciting news regarding her treatment journey. Tune in as Mariah shares her dedication to a new nutritional lifestyle, illuminating the profound role that food plays in her life. Delving into intriguing topics, they explore the fascinating link between food intolerance and ethnicity, shedding light on the diverse ways our bodies interact with nourishment. Prepare to be entertained as they unravel the curious conundrum of sourcing fish in landlocked states, offering insights into the quirks of culinary exploration. With a touch of nostalgia, Mariah opens up about...2023-08-1149 min
The Mariah EffectGetting To Know Us: Part TwoIn this candid part two to the Unfiltered Conversations, join Mariah and Jason as they unveil new things about each other. From each other's birthdays to their worst fears. Using questions from Mariah's "Me Journal" questionnaire, they peel back the layers that most people never see past. This second part provides insight into Mariah's problem with birds and Jason's punch to the face he will never forget. Listen in and don't forget to tell us what you think!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-mariah-effect--5832015/support.2023-08-0433 min
The Mariah EffectUnfiltered Conversations: Getting To Know UsIn this special two-part episode, join Mariah and Jason as they embark on an intimate journey of self-discovery and laughter. Using probing questions from Mariah's "Me Journal" questionnaire, they dive into a wide range of topics, from profound thoughts on resting places to lighthearted favorites like curse words. This first part offers an authentic glimpse into their inner worlds, as they share candid responses and foster a deeper connection. Stay tuned for the next episode, where the exploration continues with more intriguing questions and heartfelt revelations from this engaging recording session.Become a supporter of this podcast: https...2023-07-2845 min
The Mariah EffectFacing Gun Violence: Innocence LostIn this compelling episode, Mariah bravely opens up about her firsthand experience with the Aurora Movie Theatre Shooting and its impact on her life. Sharing her limited views on gun violence and how literature shaped her understanding, she offers a personal perspective on the tragedy. With heartfelt reflection, Mariah delves into the profound emotions of being a teenager amidst such events and contemplates the unimaginable reality of parents fearing for their children's safety. Join her as she shares her journey of grappling with the aftermath and her evolving views on gun violence, shedding light on the lasting effects of this...2023-07-2150 min
The Mariah EffectEmbracing Change and Watching Steven UniverseJoin Mariah and Jason in this empowering episode of The Mariah Effect as they discuss Mariah's decision to explore alternative treatments and lifestyle changes in her cancer journey. Discover the importance of building healthy relationships, inspired by the beloved show Steven Universe. Tune in for an episode filled with resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of overall well-being.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-mariah-effect--5832015/support.2023-07-0741 min
The Mariah EffectFinding Hope in Awareness: The Sound of Freedom and the Fight Against TraffickingJoin Mariah and Jason in this powerful and emotionally charged episode of The Mariah Effect. As Mariah shares her recent camping trip with her family, she delves into the importance of storytelling as a means of connecting with loved ones and creating lasting memories. However, the conversation takes a serious turn as Mariah discusses an upcoming movie, "The Sound of Freedom," set to release on July 4th. The film tells the extraordinary true story of Tim Ballard and his relentless efforts to rescue children from the harrowing world of sex trafficking. Mariah passionately describes the movie's plot and the...2023-06-3051 min
The Mariah EffectSam And Mariah: Funny, Fabulous and ForeverGet ready for a hilarious and heartwarming episode of The Mariah Effect! Join Mariah, her co-host Jason, and their special guest star Samuel Pierce III as they dive into a lighthearted exploration of their teenage years and the wild journey of their friendship. Get ready for laughter as they share comical anecdotes and reminiscences from their youthful escapades. From crazy adventures to embarrassing mishaps, this episode is filled with moments that will have you in stitches. But amidst the laughter, they also touch on the profound experience of Samuel coming out to Mariah and the incredible impact it had on...2023-06-2357 min
The Mariah EffectWhat Is A Father?In this poignant episode of The Mariah Effect, Mariah takes center stage as she opens up about the significance of Father's Day and the father figures in her life. Join her on a deeply personal journey as she candidly shares her longing to find her father, yearning to embrace her cultural heritage and strengthen her connection to her history. With vulnerability and introspection, Mariah delves into the emotional challenges she faced while searching for her father, and the profound impact it had on her sense of self. She also explores the complexities of making difficult medical decisions and the weight...2023-06-1650 min
The Mariah EffectAccelerating towards Self-Compassion: Mariah's Unforgettable DateIn this week's episode of The Mariah Effect, join Mariah and Jason as they explore the complexities of managing stress and the pursuit of self-compassion. Mariah opens up about her doctor's prescription for "no stress" and the immense challenges it presents for someone grappling with anxiety. Discover the strategies Mariah has found to destress and find solace, while Jason shares his own valuable tactics. The episode takes an intriguing turn as Mariah recounts an "unforgettable" experience during a second date that involved a car accident, a traumatic brain injury, and memory loss. This incident becomes a pivotal moment, pushing Mariah...2023-06-0952 min
The Mariah EffectThe Beauty of Compassion: A Heartfelt Conversation with Patti MerrillIn this remarkable episode of The Mariah Effect, we are honored to have Patti Merrill, who is, for all intents and purposes, Mariah's mother, as our esteemed guest. Mariah and Patti delve into the profound impact of their first meeting, a transformative experience that taught Mariah the importance of not judging a book by its cover and instilled in Patti a sense of self-compassion. Together, they explore the power of responding to negativity with kindness and love, emphasizing the value of understanding others rather than engaging in conflict. Jason contributes valuable insights by discussing how our behavior can reflect the...2023-06-0248 min
The Mariah EffectFrom Fiction to Reality: Finding Ourselves in Fruits BasketIn this captivating episode of The Mariah Effect, Mariah and Jason delve into a heartwarming week filled with cherished moments spent with loved ones, all while navigating the challenges of Mariah's ongoing chemotherapy treatments. They dive into Mariah's favorite anime, Fruits Basket, and explore how the characters, despite being supernatural or mythical, grapple with real-life struggles. Mariah draws parallels between herself and the main character, finding solace and inspiration in their shared experiences. The episode delves into a specific story arc within the anime that triggers a profound shift in Mariah's self-perception, prompting her to see herself through a different...2023-05-2649 min
The Mariah Effect"When Worlds Collide: Instacart Hiccups and Bel-Air Serendipity"In Episode 2 of The Mariah Effect, Mariah and Jason delve into a captivating conversation revolving around a challenging week filled with unexpected turns. Mariah shares a personal story about a mishap with an Instacart order that left her feeling overwhelmed. They explore the difficulties of managing expectations in an unpredictable job, highlighting the pressures and frustrations that can arise. Amidst the chaos, Mariah finds solace and a glimmer of joy when she realized she was delivering the order in Bel-Air. This unexpected connection to a beloved TV show brings a touch of light into an otherwise dark day. Together...2023-05-1946 min
The Mariah EffectFrom Negative Thoughts to Metaphorical Hotdogs: A Journey in PerspectiveIn Episode 1 of The Mariah Effect, Mariah and Jason delve into a meaningful discussion about managing negative thoughts and expectations. Mariah opens up about her week, sharing her personal experience with chemotherapy. She then recounts a powerful encounter in New York where they came across an unhoused individual, revealing how it profoundly impacted her perspective on managing expectations from others and causing Jason to have a unique perspective of his own. Together, they debunk myths surrounding the unhoused community and shed light on the importance of empathy, understanding, and breaking down societal stereotypes. This episode offers insight for navigating...2023-05-1243 min