Shows
That's FunThe Shame Spiral of Saying Yes to HelpNikki and Damaris dive into the surprisingly emotional topic of asking for help—why it’s so hard, what it brings up (hello, childhood wounds and perfectionism!), and how it might be the thing that’s been standing between you and the social life you actually want.
They unpack the mental gymnastics of turning down help, the guilt of accepting it, and the wild idea that maybe—just maybe—people actually want to support you without needing something in return. Nikki gets real about a birthday party meltdown (and a breakthrough), while Damaris shares how learning t...2025-07-2832 minThat's FunPinterest Can Kiss My Mismatched Plates: Real Talk on Kids' Birthday FunNikki and Damaris finally tackle the topic they meant to cover last week: kids' birthday parties—and why some have become more elaborate than most weddings.
They dive into the awkward dance of trying to say "no gifts" while knowing people will bring them anyway, and why opening presents at the party might actually be making a comeback. Nikki shares her strategy for surviving twin birthday parties without going broke, while Damaris drops truth bombs about asking friends for help instead of trying to be the Pinterest-perfect host mom.
From bouncy houses to thank-you notes, th...2025-07-2135 minThat's FunWe Were Gonna Talk Kid Parties…But Got Deep About Staying Wild (Not Jaded & Old)This episode was supposed to be about kid parties. Instead, Nikki and Damaris take a detour into the weird world of getting older—and how life’s little thrills can start to fade when the big choices (like partners, careers, and routines) are all settled.
They swap stories about missing the reckless thrill of being 20, carving out tiny joys (like impromptu dinners with girlfriends or staying out way too late on a Tuesday), and why sometimes the best way to keep life exciting is to not spend every night with your partner.
It’s a funny...2025-07-1432 minThat's FunIrritable? Same. Let's Talk About It.“I’m so grumpy all the time. Help.”
Honestly? Same.
In this episode, Nikki and Damaris dive into the hot, cranky underworld of everyday irritability—the kind that creeps up when you’re overtired, overscheduled, overstimulated, and just generally over IT.
From the low-key chaos of muffin deliveries in 100-degree heat to the strange comfort of eating frozen grapes, they explore the many unglamorous reasons you might find yourself short-tempered with your partner, your kids, or literally everyone breathing too loudly near you.
What unfolds is part confessional, part coping strategy: a funny, h...2025-07-0733 minThat's FunThe Fun of Opposite-Sex FriendshipsIn this episode of That’s Fun, Nikki and Damaris get into the fascinating nuances of having opposite-sex friendships while in long-term relationships—where the line is, who gets to draw it, and what happens when it blurs.
They talk about emotional intimacy outside of marriage, navigating “gut feelings” about certain friendships, and why trying to be “the cool wife” sometimes leaves you feeling anything but cool. Nikki opens up about past experiences that challenged her trust and identity, while Damaris reflects on how evolving boundaries have reshaped her own views.
This episode isn’t about...2025-06-3032 minThat's FunWe Read "All Fours." It Got Deep...But Was It Fun?In this episode of That’s Fun, Nikki and Damaris start their unofficial two-person book club with a deep dive into All Fours by Miranda July.
The book explores themes like perimenopause, creative stagnation, marriage, sexuality, and midlife restlessness—prompting the kind of honest, layered conversation Nikki and Damaris do best. From questioning the default structure of relationships to reflecting on how it feels to age out of the endless possibilities of your twenties, they unpack the ways women often renegotiate identity in their 40s and beyond.
Damaris shares how All Fours became a ju...2025-06-2332 minThat's FunThe Joy, The Stress, The FUN in FashionThis week, Nikki and Damaris take on the often-overlooked truth about personal style: liking fashion and liking shopping are not the same thing.
Some people love the hunt. Others love the styling. And a lot of us? We’re just trying to make getting dressed feel a little less stressful—and a little more fun.
They explore why shopping can be so overwhelming (hi, childhood pressure to pick the “perfect” outfit), how style evolves through different life phases, and what actually makes it easier to experiment, express yourself, and enjoy the process—without blowing yo...2025-06-1631 minThat's FunThe Return of the House PartyNikki and Damaris are throwing it back—to the heyday of house parties. From vintage entertaining cookbooks to scruffy hosting in real life, they explore why having people over has become so rare…and how to bring it back, without the pressure of perfection.
They share real talk about what holds us back (hi, broken towel rack and kids’ clutter corner), plus simple ways to host without the stress—think soup parties, potlucks with purpose, and themes that spark conversation.
If you’ve ever said “we should really have people over” but never do…this one’s for you. I...2025-06-0930 minThat's FunExercise is Fun?Nikki and Damaris ask the eternal question: Is exercise ever actually fun—or just something we’ve all agreed to tolerate?
In this episode, they dig into the complicated, sometimes inconsistent relationship they have with working out.
But they’ve also both had moments of genuinely enjoying movement—and they’re here to talk about what made the difference. From half-marathon training to hot yoga to neighborhood walks with kids in tow, they cover:
How accountability, community, and just a hint of competition can make workouts stickWhy your workout doesn’t need to be extrem...2025-06-0229 minThat's FunNikki + Damaris's Food Festival PlaybookNikki and Damaris answer a question from Helen in Atlanta: Are food festivals really fun—or just crowded, overpriced chaos?
They break down everything they’ve learned from years of attending (and working at) festivals like South Beach Wine & Food and NYCWFF, including:
How to pick the right festival for your vibe (and diet)Why comfortable shoes matter more than cute onesThe different types of events—walk-around tastings vs. multi-course dinners—and how to know which one’s for youAnd the #1 most important factor: going with the right person
They also swap stories about hidi...2025-05-2631 minThat's FunFun with Personality TestsNikki and Damaris dive into the surprisingly entertaining world of personality quizzes—yes, the ones all over your Instagram feed. From love languages to attachment styles, they unpack what’s fun, what’s useful, and what might just be low-key therapy in disguise.
Along the way, they break down the Big Four:
Love LanguagesMyers-BriggsEnneagramAttachment Styles
Which ones actually help you understand yourself (and your partner)? Which ones feel like homework? And why does one of them always lead to a little emotional unraveling?
As always, they kick things off with their “fun things of the w...2025-05-1931 minThat's FunCan Cleaning Chores Be Fun?Nikki and Damaris tackle a listener-(un)favorite topic: chores. From dishes and laundry to dusty corners and chaotic closets, they share how small mindset shifts—and a few surprisingly easy (and helpful!) strategies—can make even the most dreaded tasks feel a little lighter. Think cleaning parties with friends, ten-minute timers, and books-on-tape ;) that double as motivation and reward.
As always, they kick things off with their "fun things of the week"—Nikki shares a game-changing period product discovery (yes, it involves a disc), and Damaris reveals her surprisingly effective tampon freebie system.
Plus: the po...2025-05-1233 minThat's FunCan Sobriety Be Fun?Nikki and Damaris respond to a question from Sam in Pittsburgh: Can you still have fun without alcohol?
They dive into the rise of the sober-curious movement, the cultural pressure to drink, and how it all shows up in real life—from work events to weddings to Wednesday night cocktails.
Damaris shares how choosing not to drink has become second nature (but not always easy), while Nikki gets honest about how bartending shaped her relationship with alcohol—and how pregnancy was her first real experience of opting out. They also share how they’ve lea...2025-05-0534 minThat's FunFun at Home: Can You DIY Joy?Nikki and Damaris tackle a question from Fred in Atlanta: Is it possible to have fun at home—or is that just code for “we’re trying to save money?” From board games and soup nights to scavenger hunts and themed movie marathons, they share the small rituals that make “staying in” feel joyful instead of just practical.
Nikki introduces the concept of “radical acceptance”—and how it’s helped her reclaim energy from daily frustrations—while Damaris explains why she stopped judging her husband’s date night plans and started embracing what actually works.
Plus: popcorn hack...2025-04-2833 minThat's FunFine Dining: Worth the Splurge?Nikki and Damaris dig into the world of white tablecloths, prix fixe menus, and $59 glasses of champagne (yes, really). Listener Louise from Buffalo wants to know: is fine dining actually fun—or just something we’ve all convinced ourselves is worth it?
Nikki and Damaris answer by unpacking what makes a restaurant experience memorable (and what absolutely kills the vibe)—from overly quiet rooms to overpriced wine that just doesn’t deliver. Nikki shares her go-to move for making upscale spots feel more relaxed, and Damaris drops tips for turning a fancy dinner into something that act...2025-04-2134 minThat's FunMuseums: Boring or Brilliant?This week, Nikki and Damaris tackle a question from Carla in Minneapolis: Are museums actually fun…or just something we’re all pretending to enjoy?
From iconic art museums to bizarrely specific collections (looking at you, Museum of Jurassic Technology), they unpack what makes some museum visits magical—and others just a long walk in silence.
Damaris shares how her museum pro of a husband taught her to gamify the experience (would you buy this painting for your mom?), while Nikki reveals the one sculpture she almost dropped $32K on.
And as alw...2025-04-1430 minThat's FunAll Inclusive Resorts vs. CruisesNikki and Damaris dive into the world of all-inclusive vacations—from tropical resorts to cruises and everything in between. They tackle a listener's question about whether all-inclusives are worth the hype, sharing their own stories of dreamy escapes, hilarious mishaps, and the occasional not-so-glamorous experiences (looking at you, closing-weekend Club Med!).
From private island cabanas to tips on setting vacation boundaries (and not blowing the budget), this episode is packed with laughs, practical advice, and a little J-Lo-level fantasy.
Plus, they discuss how to spot a good all-inclusive or cruise, why reviews matter (ev...2025-04-0730 min
Writer's Voice with Francesca RheannonForrest Gander, MOJAVE GHOST & DaMaris Hill, A BOUND WOMAN IS A DANGEROUS THING9
Episode Summary
This is the first week of April and April is Poetry Month. So we are so pleased to feature two conversations with poets who use their genre as a vehicle for historical witness and spiritual transformation.
First, we talk with poet, geologist and translator Forrest Gander about his novel in poetry Mojave Ghost. It’s a lyrical journey through the arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert that interweaves ecological awareness with personal loss.
First, we talk with poet, geologist and translator Forrest Gander about his novel in poetry Mojave Ghost. It’s a...2025-04-051h 08That's FunFamily Gatherings: Renting vs. HostingNikki and Damaris tackle the joys and chaos of family reunions. From managing 25 relatives under one roof to navigating the sometimes not-so-fun realities of planning for adults who don’t read the e-vites, they share personal stories, tips, and hilarious moments about bringing everyone together.
Nikki talks about hosting the ultimate Dinki family gathering (with air mattresses galore), while Damaris dives into her experience organizing a multi-house reunion for her 16 cousins. The two explore the art of managing expectations, setting boundaries, and finding joy in the quieter moments, like late-night wine chats and s’mores by the fire...2025-03-3131 minThat's FunStaycations: Treehouse vs. Fire IslandThis week on That's Fun, Nikki and Damaris dive into the world of staycations. Whether it’s staying in a treehouse, biking through Fire Island, or booking a quirky "unique stay" (from an artist-designed apartment to a hobbit house), they share the charm and occasional chaos of these mini-adventures.
Nikki recounts her family’s staycation struggles navigating a shared vacation home with in-laws (pro tip: bring blackout curtains and patience), while Damaris highlights the magical moments of sleeping under the stars—on a treehouse platform, no less. They also explore the pros and cons of pools vs. RVs, h...2025-03-2427 minThat's Fun"Experiences": Rainy Bouncy House vs. Bridgerton BallNikki and Damaris tackle the growing trend of "experience" attractions — from the world's largest bouncy house to Instagram-sold pop-ups like the Trolls Experience or slime museums. Are these activities worth the price tag, or should you pivot to something more memorable?
Nikki shares her rollercoaster adventure (literally AND figuratively!) with a rain-soaked bouncy house, wet socks, and varying fun levels. Meanwhile, Damaris looks forward to an over-the-top Bridgerton Ball and explains why the lead-up to an event — crafting costumes and prepping with friends — can sometimes be the most enjoyable part.
Plus, they offer tips for famili...2025-03-1729 minThat's FunSpa Day: Hard-Core Results vs. Pure RelaxationNikki and Damaris dive into the world of self-care, exploring pampering techniques that are fun, not-so-fun, and downright questionable. Nikki recounts her less-than-relaxing facial experience, while Damaris passionately defends the joys of monthly facials and the magic of dermaplaning (“We all have fur!”). They also debate massages, laser treatments, and whether silence during a spa treatment is a blessing or a curse.
The duo takes a listener question from Lori in Savannah, who’s planning a budget-friendly bachelorette spa day. Nikki and Damaris share creative and cost-effective ideas like DIY nail stations, experimental beauty tools (jade rollers, dry br...2025-03-1027 minThat's FunOld School Games vs. Jigsaw PuzzlesNikki and Damaris dive into the joys (frustrations?) of games, puzzles, and playful adventures.
Damaris shares her board game escapades with the fabulous Carla Hall, revealing their secret LA hangout where board game lovers and D&D fans unite for $5 all-day fun. Nikki reflects on her own love-hate relationship with puzzles, thanks to a well-intentioned but questionable gift from her husband.
The duo also tackles a listener question about family-friendly games. They share their top recommendations for adults, kids, and everyone in between, explaining why quick, creative, and laugh-out-loud games are the key to bringing...2025-03-0328 minThat's FunTicks vs. PaddleboardsNikki and Damaris tackle the great outdoors, sharing their thoughts on camping, bugs, paddleboarding, and yes—pickleball. Damaris recounts her rustic camping trip gone wrong and Nikki chimes in with her own bug-related horror story, leaving everyone scratching (literally) as they weigh the pros and cons of camping culture. Spoiler: They’re not sold.
On the flip side, Nikki shares a surprisingly empowering experience trying paddleboarding for the first time, proving that sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to newfound strengths—and a lot of laughs (especially when your husband falls off).
Finall...2025-02-2429 minThat's FunVending Machine Bubbles vs. Cutting GardensOn this episode of That's Fun, Nikki talks about her recent family vacation, where she successfully blended kid-centered fun with small, intentional moments for herself, proving that family vacations can have a touch of luxury.
Meanwhile, Damaris recounts her misadventures in creating a cutting garden with her husband, reflecting on the challenges of teamwork, communication, and the not-so-fun aspects of gardening—only to remind us that the eventual payoff makes it all worth it (mostly).
The hosts also tackle a listener question about making work travel more enjoyable, offering practical tips on finding solo adventures, pl...2025-02-1731 minThat's FunHigh School Feelings + SingingIn this deeply relatable and inspiring episode of That’s Fun, Nikki and Damaris explore the power of rediscovering old passions and finding fun in vulnerability. Nikki opens up about her emotional first singing lesson, where nostalgia, self-doubt, and unexpected encouragement led to tears—and a rekindled dream of embracing musical theater. Meanwhile, Damaris shares her own courageous (and hilariously awkward) journey of joining a singing group filled with former high school singing stars, stepping back in time to face her insecurities head-on.
The hosts also tackle a listener question about finding fun on a budget, sharing crea...2025-02-1027 minThat's FunBob Ross vs. BasketballDamaris recounts a hilariously disastrous date night featuring a poorly executed Bob Ross paint-along class, complete with mismatched brushes and comically bad paintings. Meanwhile, Nikki dives into the emotional journey of adjusting to her kids getting older, touching on the unspoken pressures of "looking put together" at school events and the bittersweet realization of losing the raw, carefree moments of parenting younger children.
The duo also tackles listener questions about navigating life without alcohol, sharing practical tips and lighthearted solutions—like creating fun mocktails and embracing sober socializing.
With their trademark humor and relatability, Nikki an...2025-02-0333 minThat's FunColonoscopy vs. SequinsIn this delightfully unpredictable debut episode of That’s Fun, Nikki and Damaris dive headfirst into the hilariously awkward and occasionally enlightening realities of adulthood. From Damaris’s unfiltered recounting of her colonoscopy prep (complete with bathroom humor and IV mishaps) to Nikki’s dazzling tale of wearing sequins and a purple fur coat to a reunion that felt part funeral, part high school throwback, the duo masterfully turns the mundane into the entertaining.
Expect plenty of laughs, relatable moments, and surprising nuggets of wisdom about health, personal growth, and owning your fabulousness—even when life feels less tha...2025-01-2733 minThat's FunThat's Fun with Nikki Dinki & Damaris Phillips coming SOON!Big news, everyone! 🎉
We're thrilled to announce that "That’s Fun with Nikki & Damaris" is launching soon! If you're ready for a podcast that mixes laughter with a healthy dose of real talk, this one's for you.
Join us as we dive into life’s adventures, share some personal stories, and, of course, have a ton of fun along the way. Stay tuned—your new favorite podcast is just around the corner! 🌟2025-01-1500 min
Food Network ObsessedDamaris Phillips, Host of Outrageous PumpkinsDamaris Phillips reflects on how her Southern and Midwestern roots shaped her culinary style, with family playing a key role in her passion for food. She reminisces about learning to cook biscuits with her grandmother, revealing why biscuits and gravy remain her ultimate comfort food. Damaris shares her creative approach to hosting Kentucky Derby events with fun, themed outfits, like "Clown Couture" and "Animal Print Power Clash." As a passionate advocate for female friendships, she opens up about the importance of girls' trips and how her bond with fellow Food Network Star contestant Nikki Dinki blossomed into a lifelong...2024-09-2055 min
You're So CreativeHobbiesDo you have a hobby? Multiple hobbies? And do they spark your creativity--or exhaust it?
Join us as we talk with Food Network’s Damaris Phillips about how her multiple hobbies bring her joy and allow her to play—something she doesn’t necessarily get from her work.
And hear about Host Nikki Dinki’s experience trying out a brand-new hobby!
This episode is for anyone who’s been struggling to find a hobby, worrying their hobby takes away from their work, or just likes listening to podcasts…as a hobby. ;)
Follow us on...2024-04-2926 minYou're So CreativeSocial Media 101Social media, is it important for creatives? YES!!!!!!!!!!
We're talking to Food Network's Damaris Phillips and Actor Natalie Knepp about how social media has changed their brands and businesses.
And host Nikki Dinki is giving you real tips and tricks to nail the Instagram game.
Whether you are or want to be an influencer or are looking to promote your small business, brand or art form, this episode is going to help you grow!
Follow us on Instagram: YOURESOCREATIVEPOD2023-11-2742 min
fiction/non/fictionThe Country Roads Ahead: Julia Elliott and DaMaris B. Hill Consider the Future of Rural WritingNovelist Julia Elliott and poet and writer DaMaris B. Hill join hosts Whitney Terrell and V.V. Ganeshananthan to consider the writing and face of rural America—particularly as it might look 30 years from now. First, Elliott talks about growing up as an outsider in her own South Carolina hometown, and reads from her debut novel The New and Improved Romie Flutch. Then, Hill, who was born in West Virginia, speaks to the diversity of rural spaces and reads a historical poem, “Beloved Weirdo,” from her forthcoming poetry collection Breath Better Spent: Living Black Girlhood. Hill also speaks about judgin...2021-10-211h 07
Mindfully Integrative ShowMothers Day Episode Mindful Chat with Nicole Croes-Integrative MAMA Marketing Strategist, Natural Gourmet Chef, Editor, WriterSend us a textIntegrative Mama, Natural Gourmet Chef, Writer, Editor & Marketing Strategist Expert Linked In- https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-croes-b0462515Integrative Food Alternative Options Gluten & Dairy FreeGhee Lactose-Free _ Butter Options -https://amzn.to/2QfEviDCheese Alternative & B12 Nutrients - Bragg Nutritional Yeast https://amzn.to/3cK3KBlGluten-Free Flour-https://amzn.to/38ySvKDGluten-Free Panko https://amzn.to/3tiZhfrGluten Free Pasta https://amzn.to/2PU7NTCGluten Free Bread https://amzn.to/3eEeQu22021-05-0922 min
Full Audiobook: Your Gateway to Knowledge and EntertainmentRich: A Dyamonde Daniel Book Audiobook by Nikki GrimesListen to this audiobook in full for free onhttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 312413
Title: Rich: A Dyamonde Daniel Book
Author: Nikki Grimes
Narrator: Nikki Grimes
Format: Unabridged
Length: 00:43:07
Language: English
Release date: 04-26-05
Publisher: Full Cast Audio
Genres: Kids, General
Summary:
Dyamonde Daniel's best friend, Free, thinks he's poor. So when their teacher announces a big poetry contest, Free decides to enter - partly because he likes to rhyme, partly because he wants to be famous, but mostly because of the hundred dollar prize. Soon he's driving Dyamonde nuts with his crazy rhymes.
Free is not the only kid in...2005-04-2643 min
Full Audiobook: Your Gateway to Knowledge and EntertainmentHalfway to Perfect Audiobook by Nikki GrimesListen to this audiobook in full for free onhttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 312381
Title: Halfway to Perfect
Author: Nikki Grimes
Narrator: Nikki Grimes
Format: Unabridged
Length: 00:57:17
Language: English
Release date: 04-26-05
Publisher: Full Cast Audio
Genres: Kids, General
Summary:
When Dyamonde Daniel's friend Damaris suddenly becomes a picky eater, it doesn't take Dyamonde long to figure out the problem: Damaris is secretly dieting because some mean girls teased her about her weight. Dyamonde can't let her friend go on this way. But how can she make Damaris see that she is perfect just the way she is?
It turns out...2005-04-2657 min