Things No One Tells You

The Art of Hats with Milliner Christine A. Moore and Blake Seidel

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever watched the Kentucky Derby, you’ve seen the gorgeous hats. What you may not realize is the level of thought, storytelling, and emotion that goes into each one.

In this episode, I sit down with Christine Moore and Blake Seidel, the couple behind CAM Hats, the brand that has become part of the Derby tradition. From their beginnings in theater to building a thriving business together, their story is full of creativity, resilience, and honest insight into what it takes to grow something meaningful.

We talk about how Christine designs with intention, how they navigate working together as a couple, and one of the biggest lessons no one tells you about leadership in the arts.

What You’ll Hear:

Christine’s early inspiration in theater design (00:16)
The meaning behind Derby fashion traditions (13:50)
The realities of running a business together (20:00)
Why criticism in creative work is so delicate (22:27)
Lessons learned from years in the fashion industry (25:26)

This conversation is about more than fashion. It’s about how we show up, how we communicate, and how we help others feel seen.

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share it with someone who would love it, too.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QY85N1sq09U

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/blake-seidel-and-christine-a-moore-44

Check out more from Christine A. Moore:

Check out Christine’s website and her Spring 2026 collection: https://www.camhats.com/

Follow Christine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camhatsnyc/

Mentioned in the Episode:

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/christina-stembel-34

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

Navigating the Impact of Addiction with Stable Recovery - Encore Episode

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

This month is my cousin Alex’s birthday, and it’s also when Stable Recovery hosts their spring gala. It felt like the right time to revisit this powerful conversation I had with Christian Countzler of Stable Recovery, along with my aunt and uncle, Alex’s parents, Sandy and Dave Schimizzi.

When I first visited Stable Recovery, I knew something meaningful was happening there: not just treatment, but transformation. In this episode, Christian shares his journey from addiction to building a place designed to remove the barriers he faced when trying to get well. You’ll also hear from my aunt and uncle, who speak openly about losing their son and the heartbreaking gaps they encountered while trying to help him.

Together, we talk about the individuality of addiction, the pressures families aren’t prepared for, and the moments that make long-term recovery so difficult without real support. This is an emotional episode, but it’s also hopeful, a reminder that change is possible when communities, not just individuals, show up.

What You’ll Discover:

Christian’s story and the origins of Stable Recovery (08:46)
Alex’s journey and early emotional struggles (12:54)
The fear and uncertainty families live with daily (20:55)
The depth of despair people can experience (24:09)
The limitations of sentencing and current treatment options (24:42)
Why it’s important to not give up on loved ones (25:34)
The critical need for purpose and follow-up care (26:22)

This conversation doesn’t offer easy answers. But it does offer truth, the kind that helps people feel less alone.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8QlHl7iDrVk

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stable-recovery-43

Check out more from Stable Recovery:

See their website: https://www.stablerecovery.net/

Follow Stable Recovery on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stable_recovery/

Donate today: https://www.stablerecovery.net/make-a-difference#Donate

Learn more about Lindsay’s visits to Stable Recovery from these videos:

Horses Hold the Power on Path to Lasting Sobriety

The Healing Power of Horses ‘Putting People Back Together’

Mike Lowery’s Passion for Horses and Gratitude for a New Lease on Life

Read more from Christian Countzler about navigating sobriety during the holidays with his article: “If you’re navigating sobriety during the holidays, know you’re not alone”

If you are in the US and need immediate help, connect with treatment and mental health referrals near you by:

Calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Texting your zip code to HELP4U (435748)

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

Building a Career Without Compromising Your Voice with Ani DiFranco

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

If you had told me as a student at James Madison University that one day, decades later, I'd be waiting to go onstage for a conversation with Ani DiFranco, I would've NEVER believed you.

Her songs were on repeat on our playlist. Somehow, as my roommates and I danced to her music in our dorm or as I listened through my headphones making my way across campus, I felt like her lyrics were intended specifically for me. Turns out that’s exactly how all of her fans have felt for decades. That ability to connect through vulnerability is what has always made Ani DiFranco so special as an artist.

This live conversation with Ani started as a look at her journey and new book, The Spirit of Ani, but it quickly turned into an impromptu talk about her views on life after death, her longstanding fight against the patriarchy, and yes, even donkeys. The powerful connection within the room was palpable from the moment she took her shoes off to sit cross legged at the start of our conversation. It felt like we were at a sleepover with 150 plus of our closest friends listening in and that vibe was certainly because of her ability to be so present in the moment.

Many thanks to the Westport Library and Verso Studios for creating the environment to have such a memorable evening and for hosting this conversation as part of VersoFest 2026.

We spend so much time thinking about where we’re going. We rarely stop to ask if we’re already where we need to be. Ani DiFranco has spent decades doing exactly that, choosing presence over pressure, connection over convention.

Ani reflects on building a career rooted in independence, turning down the traditional music industry, and learning to trust her instincts from a young age.

What I loved most is how honest she is about the process. The exhaustion, the doubts, and the realization that fulfillment isn’t waiting somewhere ahead, it’s in the moment you’re in.

What You’ll Discover:

How vulnerability became Ani’s superpower (00:09:56)
Being on her own at 15 and finding her path (00:22:05)
Turning down record labels and choosing independence (00:25:29)
What success meant early in her career (00:30:36)
The moment Ani realized music connected people (00:31:03)
Why presence is everything (00:32:45)

This conversation is about more than music. It’s about identity, intuition, and the courage to choose your own way, even when it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.

If you’re enjoying these conversations, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review, and share this episode with a friend. It helps us keep bringing these conversations to you.

This live event interview was recorded at Verso Studios in the Westport Library as part of VersoFest 2026.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3C6891Vpvf4

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/ani-difranco-42

Check out more from Ani DiFranco:

Follow Ani DiFranco on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/anidifranco/

Check out Ani DiFranco’s label Righteous Babe Records https://www.righteousbabe.com/

Discover Ani DiFranco’s last book The Spirit of Ani: Reflections on Spirituality, Feminism, Music, and Freedom https://www.akashicbooks.com/catalog/the-spirit-of-ani-reflections-on-spirituality-feminism-music-and-freedom/

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

Being Shatterproof, Not Just Resilient with Dr. Tasha Eurich

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

We’ve all been told that resilience is the key to getting through hard things. Keep going. Don’t break. Handle it all. But what if that’s only part of the story?

In this episode, I sit down with organizational psychologist Tasha Eurich, who shares why resilience, while helpful, isn’t the full solution. Through years of research and real-world coaching, she found that resilience keeps us from falling apart, but it doesn’t necessarily help us build a life that feels fulfilling.

We talk about the pressure so many of us feel to hold everything together, and the simple, science-backed shifts that can help us move beyond just coping. Tasha shares a different approach, one rooted in understanding our core needs and making small, intentional shifts that can change how we experience our daily lives.

What You’ll Discover:

Coaching leaders and building strong cultures (03:53)
Why resilience doesn’t predict growth (13:53)
The three core human needs we all share (21:27)
Micro “need crafting” in everyday life (24:45)
Letting go of perfection with the 10% buffer (27:56)

This conversation is a reminder that thriving isn’t about doing more. It’s about understanding what you actually need, and giving yourself permission to meet those needs.

If this episode resonated with you, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Things No One Tells You. It helps more people find these conversations.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BWiL9ZnqEbc

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/dr-tasha-eurich-41

Check out more from Dr. Tasha Eurich:

Dr. Tasha Eurich is inviting our listeners to discover her tools to dive deeper into becoming shatterproof:

First, her Resilience Ceiling Quiz, a FREE, 5-minute assessment to see how close you are to your own resilience limits: https://www.resilience-quiz.com
And her Shatterproof Workbook, practical tools and exercises to move from barely getting by to thriving in chaos.: https://www.shatterproof-book.com/Workbook

Discover Dr. Tasha Eurich’s website: www.tashaeurich.com

You can follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tashaeurich/

And on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashaeurich/

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

YouTube ID code: Y0BYHHE5QW91KEA3

Second Acts After an NFL Career with Vernon Davis

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

When you think about making it to the NFL, you probably picture success, stability, and being set for life. But what you don’t always see are the challenges that come with that journey.

In this episode, NFL former tight end Vernon Davis shares a side of his journey that most people never hear. Vernon opens up about the parts of success that don’t get talked about. The relationships you have to navigate when your life changes. The financial mistakes that can happen when no one teaches you how to manage what you’ve earned. And the way grief can cloud your judgment in ways you don’t expect.

There are so many take-aways from this conversation, but what stood out most to me is how Vernon reframes failure: he sees failure not as something to avoid, but as something necessary. Something that shapes you, sharpens you, and ultimately moves you forward.

What You’ll Hear:

The pressure of being the one everyone watches (12:53)
How grief can cloud your judgment (14:10)
What no one tells you about making the NFL (20:05)
The power of failure and growth (31:43)
Taking risks beyond football (35:02)

There’s something really powerful about hearing someone say the quiet parts out loud. That success can be fragile. That grief can shift everything. That failure might actually be the thing that moves you forward. What Vernon shares here isn’t just about football. It’s about paying attention, learning as you go, and giving yourself the space to grow through what you didn’t expect.

If this one stayed with you, make sure you’re following along. Subscribing, rating, and sharing the show with a friend helps our community grow.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XIZooQ1Atgk

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/vernon-davis-40

Check out more from Vernon Davis:

Discover The Next Role Show hosted by Vernon https://www.youtube.com/@TheNextRoleShow

Follow Vernon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vernondavis85

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

Saying Yes Before You Feel Ready with Joan Lunden

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

For nearly two decades, Joan Lunden welcomed millions of viewers into their morning routines as the longest-running female host of Good Morning America. But behind that familiar presence is a story filled with unexpected turns, bold decisions, and a lot of learning on the fly.

I was honored to be asked to speak with Joan about her new book; a conversation recorded in front of a live audience at Verso Studios in the Westport Library. I am thrilled to share that talk with you now on this episode of Things No One Tells You. Joan reflects on how she stumbled into television at a time when women were barely represented in the newsroom and how what began as a chance opportunity quickly turned into a career that would help reshape the industry.

Joan shares the difficult lessons she learned breaking into a male-dominated field, the mindset that helped her grow into one of television’s most trusted voices, and why sometimes the best career advice is simply to say yes before you know how it will work out.

We also talk about the deeper moments that shaped her life beyond the studio, including motherhood, resilience, and how facing breast cancer changed her perspective.

What You’ll Discover

Joan’s early career and unexpected start in TV (10:30)
The challenges women faced in journalism in the 1970s (11:24)
Why saying yes before you're ready can change everything (17:21)
The power of having a co-host who is the right fit (29:34)
Advocacy opportunities beyond the Good Morning America years (35:44)

From breaking barriers in television news to reflecting on the lessons that have made an impact along the way, Joan Lunden’s story is both inspiring and deeply human. Conversations like this are exactly what Things No One Tells You is all about. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the show and take a moment to share it with a friend.

This live event interview was recorded at Verso Studios in the Westport Library.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HPbjx3kc1K8

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/joan-lunden-39

Check out more from Joan Lunden:

Follow Joan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/therealjoanlunden/

Discover Joan’s books, including her new memoir https://joanlunden.com/books/

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

From Rock Bottom to Daily Wins with Michael Chernow

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

We talk a lot about transformation. We don’t talk enough about what it takes to sustain it.

Michael Chernow thought he was going to die at 24. After years of addiction and a near-fatal overdose, he didn’t believe he could stop. He couldn’t imagine a different life. What changed everything was structure after hitting rock bottom. A mentor who gave him an hour-by-hour plan. Small wins he could control.

In this episode, Michael opens up about addiction as a disease, the fears and misconceptions of sobriety, and how fitness and nutrition became the tools that rebuilt his confidence. He shares the story behind Kreatures of Habit and why he created Sober Fit Dude to help other men find mission and community in recovery.

What You’ll Hear:

The overdose and the turning point (15:43)
Why asking for help felt impossible (22:57)
The discipline that built confidence (27:00)
Entrepreneurship after sobriety (33:14)
The daily habits that matter (59:19)

This is a conversation about rebuilding from scratch, about turning chaos into structure, and about what’s possible when you commit to the long game.

If this episode spoke to you, be sure to follow the show and leave a rating so others can discover it, too.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/seEn8c-9COI

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/michael-chernow-38

Check out more from Michael Chernow:

Follow Michael Chernow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchernow/

Follow Kreatures of Habit on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kreaturesofhabit/

Discover Kreatures of Habit’s website: https://kreaturesofhabit.com/

Check out SoberFitDude: https://www.soberfitdude.app/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Navigating the Impact of Addiction with Stable Recovery https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stable-recovery-28

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

What It Really Takes to Win Gold with Angela Ruggiero

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

I’ve become increasingly curious about the actual “moments” when someone realizes a dream. In the case of an Olympian, from what I’ve been told, the moment you win gold is quickly followed by the realization of everything that got you there. In many cases, according to those who have been there, it’s like an actual floodgate opens… and the emotions just flow.

In this episode, I sit down with one of those Olympians - my friend Angela Ruggiero, four-time Olympic medalist (including gold in 1998) and Hockey Hall of Famer. We talk about what it really feels like when everything comes down to one final moment. We were together broadcasting women’s hockey during the winter Olympics, and being beside her as the United States women played Canada in the gold medal game was unforgettable. The biggest hockey rivalry and overtime? Forget it!

We talk about nerves that never fully go away, the weight of representing your country, and what it takes to help build a league and a future for the next generation. We also discuss how women’s hockey is entering its most powerful era yet - oh, and how Angela became the prolific athlete and leader she is today.

What You’ll Discover:

Seeing the champions up close in Milan (03:18)
Belief vs. self-defeat (16:29)
Leaving home to chase a dream (24:28)
From Olympian to entrepreneur (43:09)
The inequities that still remain (53:23)

Angela’s story is about belief, not just in yourself, but in what’s possible when a community shows up around you. That’s what I love about these conversations. The part behind the highlight. The mindset inside the moment.

If this episode resonated with you, make sure you’re subscribed to Things No One Tells You so you don’t miss what’s next. And if you loved what you heard, share this episode with a friend.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u19KyvZjfqY

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/angela-ruggiero-37

Check out more from Angela Ruggiero on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/angela.m.ruggiero/

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

Broadcasting the Winter Olympics

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

I’m still pinching myself thinking about my experience over the past few weeks covering the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. I’ve been so grateful for every opportunity to cover the games but this time, I found myself with a unique window into some incredible, historic storylines that impacted Team USA; specifically hockey - both the men’s and women’s teams.

Watching both teams go for gold and doing so alongside analysts who have experience on that very stage really highlighted for me how the Olympics aren’t just about showing up every few years and trying to win a medal. The Games are about mindset and meeting the moment; about a lifetime of sacrifice and dedication culminating in an opportunity to achieve on the worlds biggest sporting stage.

In this special post-Olympics episode, I sit down with my producer Ashley to answer your questions and to reflect on what it felt like to step inside the Olympic world once again, this time covering live events throughout the games from the USA network studios in CT.

We talk about the pressure athletes face, the power of preparation and routine (including my own - with a few fun glam tips along the way), and what it’s like working to develop chemistry quickly - for both athletes and broadcasters - working as part of a larger team. I share what surprised me most, what moved me, and what I’m still processing now that the lights have dimmed.

What You’ll Discover:

A day in the life of broadcasting during the Games (05:20)

Staying grounded when adrenaline runs high (12:17)

The team dynamic that makes live TV work (15:31)

Learning from athletes under immense pressure (26:26)

The evolution of Olympic storytelling (20:40)

The lessons I’m taking home (01:03:25)

This episode isn’t just about sports. It’s about the human experience inside the once in a lifetime moments. It’s about what pressure reveals. What teamwork teaches. What happens when expectations collide with reality. And what we can learn from those athletes who beat the odds that seemed to make their dreams impossible.

If you’re walking through your own high-stakes season, I hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not alone. If it did, take a moment to subscribe and rate Things No One Tells You, and share this episode with a friend. That small act helps us keep these honest conversations going.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JquehuOP6xk

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/winter-olympics-36

Mentioned in episode:

Ralph Lauren Purple Label

Nars Blush - Thrill

Cashmere Hair Extensions

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

YouTube ID code: YCCEWADKSTUEFTBXY

What Really Matters in Youth Sports with Jeff Francoeur

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

I’ve been around sports my entire life. I’ve covered some of the biggest games on the biggest stages. But there’s something uniquely intense, and uniquely tender, about youth sports. Because when it’s your child out there, everything feels different.

Jeff Francoeur knows that shift firsthand. Jeff has seen the game from every angle: 12 years in the majors, a World Series appearance, and now a career in broadcasting. But the most revealing perspective? Watching his own daughter look toward him after a strikeout.

In this episode, Jeff opens up about youth sports culture, early burnout, and the mental side of athletics we don’t talk about enough. He shares the moment his daughter told him he crushed her confidence, and how that changed everything about the way he coaches. Jeff also shares about how these experiences led to Pure Athlete and a passion for helping others focus on what matters in youth sports.

We talk about travel teams, unrealistic expectations, the pressure parents feel, and why middle school is a pivotal turning point. Most of all, we talk about letting kids develop a love for the game before layering on performance.

What You’ll Discover:

Watching your own kid step to the plate (07:54)
What kids actually want from sports (11:16)
The three stages of youth sports development (13:28)
Why passion has to come first (27:07)
The “hat off” rule for the car ride home (29:02)
Jeff’s thoughts on specializing in youth sports (47:38)

At its core, this episode isn’t just about baseball or youth sports. It’s about protecting joy. It’s about perspective. It’s about remembering that the goal isn’t just raising strong athletes; it’s raising confident, resilient humans.

If this episode makes you rethink your next sideline moment, share it with a fellow parent. And if you’re loving these honest conversations, subscribe, rate, and review Things No One Tells You.

Check out more from Jeff Francoeur and Pure Athlete:

Follow Pure Athlete on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pureathleteinc/

Follow Pure Athlete on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pureathleteinc

Subscribe to their show on Apple Podcast and Spotify

Check their website: PureAthlete.com

Follow Jeff on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefffrancoeur/

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SBBYDyYLQlI

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/jeff-francoeur-35

TNOTY Episodes Mentioned in Interview:

“Staying Grounded in the NFL Spotlight with Colts QB Daniel Jones” https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/daniel-jones-23

“Winning the Indy 500 with Álex Palou” https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/alex-palou-03

Creating Something That Lasts with Christina Stembel of Farmgirl Flowers

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0400

From the outside, Farmgirl Flowers looks like an overnight success. Beautiful arrangements, a recognizable brand, and a company that’s lasted 15 years. But as Christina Stembel shares in this conversation, the reality was far slower, and far harder, than most people realize.

Christina shares what no one talks about when you build a company without investors, without a pedigree, and without a backup plan. From growing up on a farm in Indiana to teaching herself how to design flowers she’d want to receive, her journey is rooted in grit and creativity.

We also talk about creativity born from constraints, how women buying flowers for other women reshaped Christina’s business, and what it means to build something sustainably instead of chasing fast growth. This is a conversation about patience, resilience, and redefining success on your own terms, especially when the timeline doesn’t go the way you planned.

What You’ll Hear:

Why flowers became a business problem to solve (06:55)
Bootstrapping without investors or a safety net (15:17)
The reality of perishable margins and slow growth (29:24)
When quitting felt logical (34:59)
Redefining success on her own terms (46:07)

If you’ve ever built something quietly, questioned how long it was taking, or wondered if it would all be worth it, Christina’s story isn’t just inspiring; it’s validating. Christina’s story is exactly why Things No One Tells You exists, to share the parts of success that don’t make the highlight reel. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Things No One Tells You wherever you listen.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6thbYEYvSx8

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/christina-stembel-34

Check out more from Christina Stembel:

Discover Christina’s website: https://farmgirlflowers.com

Follow Farmgirl Flowers on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmgirlflowers

And follow Christina on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinastembel

The Science of Love with Marisa Cohen

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

We love to talk about romantic love like it’s magic or fate. You either feel the spark or you don’t. But according to relationship science, attraction and long-term connection aren’t nearly as mysterious as we think.

In this episode, I sit down with Marisa T. Cohen, a relationship scientist and licensed marriage and family therapist, to explore what really drives romantic attraction, chemistry, and lasting connection. From why proximity matters, to how shared experiences and adrenaline can heighten attraction, Marisa breaks down the science behind love in a way that actually makes sense.

We also dive into one of the most common challenges couples face: communication. Marisa explains why so many disagreements escalate, what’s really happening beneath the surface, and how validation and timing can completely change the outcome of hard conversations.

What You’ll Discover:

What drives romantic attraction and chemistry (05:53)
Why shared experiences intensify connection (08:38)
How communication patterns quietly erode relationships (21:57)
Why validation matters more than being right (25:12)
Tools for repairing conflict and emotional safety (38:41)

Whether you’re dating, married, or trying to reconnect with your partner, this episode offers insight you can actually use, especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner. If this episode resonates, I hope you’ll subscribe, share it with someone you care about, and come back each week for more conversations like this one.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/84_Y6RU59Yg

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/marisa-cohen-33

Check out more from Marisa Cohen:

Discover Marisa’s website: https://www.marisatcohen.com/

Follow Marisa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marisatcohen/

Support this podcast:

Follow Things No One Tells You on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thingsnoonetellsyoupod/

Stay connected with Lindsay https://www.lindsaycz.com/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lindsaycz/

Subscribe to my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz

The Pressure to Have It All Figured Out with Britney Eurton

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Confidence doesn’t always arrive when you think it will. In this episode, Britney Eurton shares what it really feels like to work at the highest levels of sports broadcasting while still questioning yourself behind the scenes.

We talk about imposter syndrome, live TV nerves, and the fine line between confidence and humility. Britney opens up about saying yes to opportunities that scared her, the thrill of live television, and why asking questions is never a weakness.

Britney also opens up about marriage, travel, and what it looks like to build a partnership with someone who truly understands her world.

What You’ll Discover:

Balancing imposter syndrome and confidence (06:34)
Saying yes despite fear (08:24)
The adrenaline of live TV (17:18)
Marriage, travel, and balance (11:34)
Learning new sports and staying curious (24:43)

This conversation is thoughtful, honest, and full of perspective for anyone navigating ambition and self-doubt at the same time. Tune in to discover more about saying yes to opportunities and building confidence while learning.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_99aIPVB8RI

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/britney-eurton-32

Check out more from Britney Eurton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britneyeurton/

The Questions That Change Everything: Season 2 Premiere

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We’re excited to kick off season 2 of Things No One Tells You with a look back and a preview of what is to come. Season one of TNOTY wasn’t about headlines; it was about the moments behind them. In this episode, I’m looking back on the conversations that defined the first season and sharing what surprised me most along the way.

From athletes and actors opening up about imposter syndrome to parents navigating the emotional shift of raising older kids, I’m considering the common threads that keep showing up: pressure, growth, connection, and the courage to ask questions, even when we think we should already know the answers.

This episode is also a preview of what’s ahead in season two, including conversations about Olympic pressure, youth sports, addiction, relationships, and the science behind how we love.

What You’ll Discover:

Why this show exists (01:15)
Lessons from season one conversations (02:45)
Coaching, parenting, and being present (04:45)
The importance of asking better questions (06:07)
What’s coming in season two (07:07)

Whether you’ve listened to every episode or are just joining the community, this is a moment to pause, reflect, and look forward together.

I’m glad you’re here and am excited about season two! If you’re loving the show, be sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-HaxMlqiXRQ

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/the-questions-that-change-everything-31

Making the Most of a Power Pause with Neha Ruch - Encore Episode

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

As we wrap up 2025, I wanted to revisit this powerful conversation I had with Neha Ruch during one of the first episodes of TNOTY. We'll be taking a short pause of our own, and we'll be launching Season 2 of TNOTY later in January! Follow us on Instagram to keep up with the latest.

About the episode: I’ve talked to a lot of women about their careers—but what Neha Ruch said about “nailing the dismount” when leaving a job? That stuck with me, and I knew I wanted to learn more.

In this episode, Neha, the founder of Mother Untitled and author of The Power Pause, opens up about the quiet grief of stepping back from work, the invisible expectations placed on modern mothers, and the mindset shifts that helped her, and thousands of others, reclaim their career and life narrative on their own terms. She and I dive into the real stuff: the pressure to “lean in,” the fear of losing your spot, the quiet guilt that follows moms into daycare pickup lines and exit interviews.

Neha shares the practical strategies and hard-earned insights that help women take intentional pauses from work, stay connected to their ambition, and return with clarity, confidence, and strength.

What You’ll Discover:

Why Neha traded a dream job for a different kind of fulfillment (18:30)
How to talk about being “on pause” in a way that feels strong and self-defined (25:09)
Why women need to start “nailing the dismount” when stepping back from a job (28:11)
How motherhood can spark, not stifle, creativity and reinvention (38:01)
Practical tools for navigating finances, identity shifts, and career pivots (47:18)
Neha responds to listener questions about how to approach a pause (53:04)

Whether you’re a parent navigating your own pause, a partner trying to understand it, or simply someone rethinking what success looks like—this conversation is a guidepost. Neha's groundbreaking work is shifting how we view, understand, and talk about career pauses.

Neha doesn’t just talk about redefining ambition. She shows us how it’s done.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dMf4v5Ah4Dk

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/neha-ruch-30

To connect with Neha Ruch, check out:

The Power Pause site: www.thepowerpause.com

Find Neha on Instagram @neha_ruch

The Moments That Stay With You: 2025 TNOTY Highlights

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Before we turn the page on the year, I wanted to pause and look back at some of the conversations from this season that lingered with me the most. This year-end highlights episode brings together some of the most memorable moments from Things No One Tells You, the ones that sparked reflection, surprise, and honest self-examination.

Across these clips, a few themes kept surfacing: confidence that wavers, pressure that doesn’t always show on the outside, and the question of who we are after the milestone moment passes or when we’re on shifting ground.

What You’ll Hear:

Losing confidence right after success (03:18, Stephanie Szostak)
Mentorship as a stabilizing force in high-pressure rooms (08:24, Kadi Lee)
The importance of relationships in high pressure situations (17:03, Daniel Jones)
The emotional reality of climbing the mountain, then staying there (22:46, Craig Melvin)
Scrappiness and meeting the moment when it matters most (26:03, Aliett Buttelman)
How faith can play out during intense moments in the NFL (35:15, Len Vanden Bos)
A powerful reminder about what our kids need from us (42:09, Bridget KerMorris)
What it looks like when you bet on yourself (47:40, Brooke Baldwin)

These conversations are a reminder that behind every highlight reel is a human story. If you’re heading into the new year with questions, hopes, or a little uncertainty, you’re not alone.

We’re looking forward to kicking off Season 2 of TNOTY in the new year! Follow Lindsay and TNOTY on Instagram to keep up with the latest.

To watch or listen to the full episode for any of the highlighted clips in this 2025 Highlights episode, click on the blog links below.

Tough Love with SOUL ON FIRE Actor Stephanie Szostak: Ep 18

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stephanie-szostak-18

Things No One Tells You About Creating a Conscious Brand with Kadi Lee: Ep 7

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/kadi-lee-07

Staying Grounded in the NFL Spotlight with Colts QB Daniel Jones: Ep 23

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/daniel-jones-23

Things No One Tells You About The Work Behind the Spotlight with Craig Melvin: Ep 6

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/craig-melvin-06

Things No One Tells You About Glitter Freckles and Grit with Aliett Buttelman: Ep 8

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/aliett-buttelman

Faith in Football with the Buffalo Bills: Ep 16

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/buffalo-bills-16

What Our Kids Need More Than Rules with Bridget KerMorris: Ep 21

https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/bridget-kermorris-21

The Unraveling That Changes Everything with Brooke Baldwin: Ep 5 https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/brooke-baldwin-05

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3mOTBsOPPfs

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/tnoty-highlights-29

Navigating the Impact of Addiction with Stable Recovery

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

When I first visited Stable Recovery, I knew something meaningful was happening there: not just treatment, but transformation. In this episode, founder Christian Countzler shares his journey from addiction to building a place designed to remove the barriers he faced when trying to get well. Alongside him are Sandy and Dave Schimizzi, my aunt and uncle, who speak openly about losing their son Alex and the heartbreaking gaps they encountered while trying to help him.

What You’ll Discover:

Christian’s story and the origins of Stable Recovery (06:25)
Alex’s journey and early emotional struggles (11:57)
The fear and uncertainty families live with daily (23:01)
The critical need for purpose and follow-up care (27:44)
The depth of despair people can experience (57:09)
The limitations of sentencing and current treatment options (72:19)
Why it’s important to not give up on loved ones (80:05)

This conversation doesn’t offer easy answers. But it does offer truth, the kind that helps people feel less alone.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PKllImyOOlo

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stable-recovery-28

Check out more from Stable Recovery:

See their website.

Follow Stable Recovery on Instagram.

Donate today.

Learn more about Lindsay’s visits to Stable Recovery from these videos:

Horses Hold the Power on Path to Lasting Sobriety

The Healing Power of Horses ‘Putting People Back Together’

Mike Lowery’s Passion for Horses and Gratitude for a New Lease on Life

Read more from Christian Countzler about navigating sobriety during the holidays with his article: “If you’re navigating sobriety during the holidays, know you’re not alone”

If you are in the US and need immediate help, connect with treatment and mental health referrals near you by: Calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Texting your zip code to HELP4U (435748)

Turning a Hobby into a Business with Craig Melvin

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

What struck me in this conversation with my husband, Craig Melvin, was how creativity shows up in the most unexpected corners of our lives. For Melvin, candlemaking isn’t about building a brand or launching a product. It is about finding quiet moments in the middle of busy days and having something that doesn't depend on deadlines or breaking news.

In this episode, Melvin shares the early missteps, the science he had to learn from scratch, and the almost meditative rhythm of getting each detail right. But beneath that is something deeper: the memories tied to fragrance, the mission to support cancer organizations close to our hearts, and the courage it takes to create something that feels personal.

We also talk about what happens emotionally when you share that creation with the world: the nerves, the hope, and the moments you wonder if it will resonate.

What You’ll Discover

How candlemaking started in therapy and landed in our kitchen (08:55)
Why giving back is built into the mission (13:20)
A crash course in wax, wicks, and what can go wrong (14:50)
The fear of releasing something personal into the world (21:36)
Lightning round questions for Melvin (42:54)

Melvin’s story is about more than launching a candle company. It’s about finding a place to land when life feels unrelenting, honoring the memories that shape you, and trusting that creativity can open a door you didn’t expect. If you’ve ever felt the pull to follow a creative pursuit, this one is for you.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3mrwI3ca_fQ

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/craig-melvin-27

Check out more from Craig Melvin and Melvin Made:

Browse the candles: https://melvinmade.com/

Follow Melvin Made on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melvinmadeco

Check out this article to learn more: https://people.com/how-craig-melvin-turned-his-hobby-into-a-family-business-benefiting-cancer-exclusive-11857057

Follow Craig Melvin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigmelvinnbc/

Building a Family Business From Scratch with Lauren Dudley Stephens

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When I sat down with Lauren Stephens of Dudley Stephens, what struck me most was how many beginnings sit inside her story: the career she thought she’d have, the infertility journey that shifted her path, and the unexpected moment she realized she had an idea worth betting on.

In this conversation, Lauren shares how she launched a family business before she felt ready, and why signing a formal agreement early on became one of the smartest decisions they made.

Lauren also opens up about the parts no one prepares you for: managing people for the first time, staying steady when customers or employees aren’t happy, and learning where to draw boundaries so the business doesn’t swallow the rest of your life.

What You’ll Hear

The moment life forced her to rethink everything (00:00)
Bringing her mom and sister into the idea (01:21)
Why clear roles and ownership matter (11:32)
How cozy-at-home culture fueled unexpected growth (20:07)
Hiring lessons and learning to lead (24:51)
Different phases of motherhood and how evolving careers (36:24)

Lauren’s story is about more than entrepreneurship. It’s about listening to the quiet nudge that tells you to begin, trusting your own pace, and allowing the hard seasons to shape the ones that follow. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “ready” to start something new, this one is for you.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/A_0BsOeWAno

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/lauren-dudley-stephens-26

Check out more from Lauren and from Dudley Stephens:

Visit www.dudley-stephens.com. Take advantage of 30% off sitewide until December 2, 2025 using the code HOLIDAY30.

Check out the new Manchester pullover that Lauren wore during the episode.

Keep up with the latest on Instagram: @dudley_stephens

Connect with Lauren on Instagram: @laurendudleystephens

Finding Yourself in Your Family Stories with Grandma Vee

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This season always pulls me back to the voices and moments that shaped me most. This week, we’re bringing back a special conversation from a couple of years ago, one that feels especially meaningful during the holidays. It’s a visit inside my Grandma Vee’s home in western Pennsylvania, where three generations sat down to talk about life: my grandmother, my mom Terri, and me.

What unfolds is a warm, funny, deeply personal look at family stories, the lessons that stay with us, and the unexpected moments that help us understand who we are. My grandma talks about building a life from scratch, raising kids in a one-bedroom house, finding her own strength after loss, and the quiet bargains she made with herself to stay grounded.

From coal-mining memories to the quiet strength of a 95-year-old woman reflecting on love, loss, and presence, this episode is all heart.

What You’ll Hear:

Growing up in a coal-mining town and the resilience it built (06:54)
How a young couple built their home, literally, board by board (10:25)
Motherhood across three generations (16:07)
The stories that reveal who we become (23:09)
Grief, strength, and learning to stand on your own (54:16)

Tune in to hear how our generational past impacts our present lives. This is the kind of conversation that reminds you to ask the questions, hold the moments, and take in the stories right in front of you that shape who you are.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z0ULjUXmBHI

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/grandma-vee-25

Building a Career by Being Real with Allison Kuch

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

If you follow Allison Kuch online, you probably know her for her humor, her honesty, and the way she makes real life feel a little less lonely. She’s an influencer, podcast host, interior designer, and NFL wife whose career grew from one simple idea: tell the truth.

In this episode, Allison and I talk about the stories behind the highlight reel: what it feels like when your husband loses his job in the league, how motherhood has changed her, and why she keeps sharing even when she’d rather log off.

From marathon training to postpartum depression, Allison opens up about the tension between gratitude and exhaustion, love and growth, public life and private moments.

What You’ll Hear:

Life as an NFL wife, and what fans don’t see (06:45)
Building community through honesty (12:09)
Marriage, money, and identity in transition (19:18)
Postpartum truths and new boundaries (25:37)
The marathon of balancing work, motherhood, and self (33:22)

Tune in to hear Allison share about how she and her husband, former NFL defensive end Isaac Rochelle, have learned to navigate big changes together, from sudden team moves to new seasons of parenthood.

If you’ve ever wondered how someone can stay grounded while living such a public life, this one’s for you. Allison’s story is a reminder that authenticity is powerful, community is built through honesty, and sometimes success looks like giving yourself permission to be real.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/r8cgSusCNJA

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/allison-kuch-24

Check out more from Allison Kuch:

Follow Allison on Instagram

Check out Allison’s TikTok

Don’t miss Allison’s recent exciting announcement!

Staying Grounded in the NFL Spotlight with Colts QB Daniel Jones

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

When the Colts shocked the NFL world by trading for All-Pro corner Sauce Gardner, quarterback Daniel Jones found out like the rest of us, on his phone, between meetings. Shortly after the news broke, he sat down with me to talk about what that moment meant inside the building.

In this episode, Daniel opens up about what big moves like that say about a team’s belief in itself, and how he’s learned to lead through constant change. From the chemistry he’s building in a new locker room to the art of resetting after both wins and mistakes, this is a candid look at Daniel’s composure, leadership, and belief.

What You’ll Hear:

Reaction to the Sauce Gardner trade (02:32)
Adjusting to Indianapolis and new teammates (06:04)
How Daniel stays even-keeled through ups and downs (09:24)
Building chemistry off the field (11:26)
The power of relationships in the locker room (14:02)
Belief, composure, and focusing on the next play (24:56)

Tune in to hear Daniel share about how he builds relationships and why they matter, what life is like from week to week in the NFL, and how his mindset shapes the work he does. This one is for anyone who wants to know what it feels like to stay calm in the spotlight.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TVdyL41jLqg

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/daniel-jones-23

Mentioned in the Episode

Faith in Football with the Buffalo Bills from Episode 16

Check out more from Daniel Jones:

Follow Daniel Jones on Instagram

Check out the Indianapolis Colts on Instagram

Being Behind the Scenes of TNOTY with Lindsay Czarniak

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee?

In this behind-the-scenes episode, Things No One Tells You producer Ashley Dickson-Ellison turns the mic toward me for a candid Q&A. Ashley asks me some audience questions including how the concept of TNOTY came to be, who the women are behind it, and what imposter syndrome really feels like when the cameras stop rolling.

From the Super Bowl to family life, Ashley asks me audience questions about the moments that have had an impact on me. I share a little bit about what I’ve learned about confidence: it isn’t pretending to belong. It’s daring to ask.

What You’ll Hear:

How Things No One Tells You was born (03:25)
Lessons from women supporting women in media (08:10)
Why asking questions is a superpower (14:00)
Parenthood, purpose, and giving back (24:30)
What’s next for TNOTY (24:30)
3 things no one knows about me (52:12)

If you’ve ever wondered how this podcast comes together, or needed a reminder that confidence grows one question at a time, this one’s for you.

Subscribe wherever you listen, and catch full video episodes on YouTube.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P-GRUk7gpdg

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/behind-the-scenes-tnoty-22

Connect with the TNOTY team:

Connect with podcast producer and strategist Ashley Dickson-Ellison on LinkedIn or Instagram, check out her Unabridged podcast, or learn more about Unabridged Digital Media Solutions through Ashley’s website ashleydicksonellison.com.

Connect with brand manager and strategist Sarah Walsh on LinkedIn or Instagram, follow her on Substack, or learn more about Next Era Influence through Sarah’s website nexterainfluence.com.

Connect with audio engineer and video editor Samantha Archuleta on LinkedIn or Instagram, check out Something More Human, or learn more about Sam’s audiobook narration and production services here.

What Our Kids Need More Than Rules with Bridget KerMorris

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever heard “just survive the middle school years,” this conversation will make you rethink that advice. Bridget KerMorris is a parent coach and relational therapist who believes these middle years can actually strengthen connections, as long as we learn how to listen differently.

She walks us through her Steady + Connected Parenting framework and shares simple, science-based ways to stay grounded when kids start pushing for independence. From screen-time battles to those late-night heart-to-hearts, Bridget offers language that helps parents move from fear to steadiness.

What You’ll Hear:

The myth of disconnection in middle school (00:00)
How parents’ own fears shape their rules (05:45)
Repairing relationships in both directions (10:30)
Bedtime as a window into their inner world (14:14)
Anchoring tech rules in family values (26:05)
Being compassionate with ourselves as parents (57:05)

Bridget’s reminder is simple but powerful: connection doesn’t disappear when kids grow up. It just changes shape. This episode is a gentle nudge to stay curious, stay steady, and trust that calm is the most contagious thing we can bring into a room.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sJB2PvxS--k

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/bridget-kermorris-21

Check out more from Bridget KerMorris:

You can follow Bridget on Instagram: @bridget.parentcoach

On her website, grab her Freebie 50 Ways I'm Staying Close to My Middle Schooler.

Discover her course Middle School Tech Safety ToolKit, how you'll keep your middle schooler safe online without checking their devices.

The Real Life of a Rockstar with Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

You probably know Chris Barron as the frontman of the Spin Doctors, the band behind iconic songs like the anthems “Two Princes” and “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong.”

But in this conversation, Chris opens up about the life behind those songs: what it feels like to perform them decades later, how his relationship with music has evolved, and why he still finds magic in the moment the lights come up.

Chris joined me at home along with my neighbor John Nunziato, a branding and creative‑strategy expert. Together we talked about staying creative, the parallels between art and business, and what it means to love the work more than the fame.

What You’ll Hear:

How the Spin Doctors keep music fresh night after night (04:15) 

 What early fame really felt like (13:28)

 Art, branding, and the secret to staying relevant (23:05)

Why creative joy beats chasing algorithms (27:56) 

The real definition of staying relevant (31:50) 

Reflections on joy, friendship, and creative purpose (40:00) 

It’s a fun, reflective, and surprisingly relatable conversation about creativity, longevity, and loving the long game. Tune in to hear the latest from rockstar legend Chris Barron.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZFxDEqXrSzs

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/chris-barron-20

Check out more from Chris Barron:

You can follow Chris Barron on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thechrisbarron_ or check out his website http://thechrisbarron.com/

See more about the Spin Doctors’ latest album, their touring dates, and other band updates on their website: https://www.spindoctors.com/

Real Life Behind Royal Headlines with Journalist Kristin Contino

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

You’ve seen the photos. The dresses. The headlines. But what is it really like to report on the royals for a living?

In this TNOTY episode, Kristin Contino, senior royal and celebrity editor for Marie Claire, joins me to talk about the surprising realities of royal journalism. Kristin shares about balancing public interest with palace access to what it’s like to pitch royal stories when the royal family is on vacation.

Kristin and I get into the careful choreography behind press coverage, Kristin’s take on Princess Kate’s most emotionally resonant moments, and the power of fashion to tell a story.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

The complexities of reporting on Meghan and Kate with nuance (13:39)
Kristin’s favorite Princess Kate look of all time (17:48)
How royal fashion sparked a career pivot (20:34)
Surprising behind-the-scenes work done by the royals (32:38)
Writing novels, covering royal events, and pitching stories daily (39:37)

If you’ve ever been drawn to a world that feels just out of reach, or wondered what it takes to tell stories about the people living in it, this episode is for you. I loved this conversation with Kristin because it reminded me that there’s always more to the story, especially when we take the time to look closer.

Tune in, share it with a friend, and let me know what resonated most.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rO75OP8bLk0

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/kristin-contino-19

Learn more from Kristin Contino on Instagram: @royallykristinc

Check out Marie Claire's royal section: https://www.marieclaire.com/celebrity/royals/

Tough Love with SOUL ON FIRE Actor Stephanie Szostak

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Stephanie Szostak has played unforgettable roles on screen, but in her newest film Soul on Fire coming out October 10, she steps into a true story about a mother whose tough love helped save her son’s life. It’s a story that hit home for Stephanie, not only as an actress, but as a mom.

Stephanie opens up about the moments when love has meant letting go or taking a risk, whether in parenting, friendship, or even in her own journey of becoming an actor at 29. She shares about the teachers who pushed her, the mentors who challenged her, and the delicate balance between comfort and courage.

What You’ll Hear:

Things no one tells you about tough love (03:56)
The story behind her new movie Soul on Fire (04:18)
Acting lessons that began with brutal honesty (13:23)
Finding mentors who deliver the hard truths (20:17)
Beginning again at 29 and discovering acting (26:26)
The surprising ways tough love can lead to growth (27:57)

Stephanie’s story is a reminder that the hardest words can sometimes be the most loving, and that those moments of tough love often plant seeds we don’t see until years later.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ay3Q__fDA3w

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/stephanie-szostak-18

Check out more from Stephanie Szostak:

Watch Soul on Fire Trailer - In Theaters October 10

Follow Stephanie on Instagram

Get Stephanie's workbook: Selfish: Step Into a Journey of Self-Discovery to Revive Confidence, Joy, and Meaning

Saving Lives by Being Seen with Marisa Peters

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When you meet Marisa Peters, her energy fills the room. She’s a mom of three boys, a performer, and now the co-founder of the Be Seen Foundation. But behind that brightness is a story of survival that changed everything.

At 39, while still nursing her youngest, Marisa learned she had late-stage colorectal cancer. What followed was months of treatment, a body she barely recognized, and the constant challenge of being present for her kids while fighting for her life. She’s honest about the hardest nights, the fear that never fully disappears, and the humor that sometimes kept her family afloat, like naming her tumor “Earl” so her kids had language to understand what was happening.

This is a story about illness, yes. But it’s also about marriage, music, and the ways we find ourselves again after everything has been stripped away.

What You’ll Discover in this Episode:

How early symptoms were missed for years (14:19)
Finding community through “poop parties” (22:04)
Talking to kids about cancer with honesty (36:12)
The reality of chemo’s hardest days (42:24)
The mental weight of scan anxiety (53:59)
Reclaiming old dreams in a new chapter (57:22)

Marisa’s story is a reminder that survival isn’t just about medicine; it’s about family, purpose, and the courage to keep living with intention. If you’ve ever wondered how to face life when everything changes overnight, this episode is for you.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qlxDL9mS5cY

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/marisa-peters-17

Check out more from Marisa Peters:

You can learn more about Marisa on her website

Or you can listen to her podcast, From Carpools to Chemo

If you feel called to it, you can give to Marisa’s foundation

Follow Marisa on Instagram

Faith in Football with the Buffalo Bills

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Some of the most powerful moments in sports happen away from the playing field. That’s what struck me in this conversation with Buffalo Bills team chaplain Len Vanden Bos and linebacker Lorenzo Alexander. I became really interested in learning more about the role faith plays in the NFL because I started to observe things on the sidelines, after games, and during the course of the weekly schedule covering NFL teams in Miami and Washington, D.C.

I noticed that some players were displaying their spirituality openly around the facilities and also after games meeting at midfield to kneel and pray with their competitors, I also was introduced to the concept of the team chaplain and saw that work in full force in 2007 when Washington safety Sean Taylor was killed and his teammates leaned on each other and Pastor Brett Fuller through grief and healing.

When Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin suffered a life threatening cardiac event on the field in January 2023, I was watching at home like millions of other football fans as the team and the nation seemed to be collectively praying for a miracle. During shots the cameras were getting on the sidelines, I caught a close up shot of the Bills’ team chaplain Len Vanden Bos praying alongside a player on the bench. That moment made me want to understand more about how faith and belief might play more of a role in the sport than we think, and that’s when I decided I wanted to reach out to Len in hopes he would share his story. Here we are a couple years later. I’m grateful Damar Hamlin is back playing, and I’m grateful the Buffalo Bills were open and helped share this story. I appreciate Lorenzo Alexander for being willing to sit with us and share a player's perspective as well as his personal story about the impact of the death of his friend, star safety Sean Taylor.

In this episode, Len and Lorenzo open up about what belief really looks like in the NFL, and why it matters.

We talked about how faith shapes the locker room, steadies players in moments of tragedy, and builds a kind of brotherhood that lasts long after the season ends. Len and Lorenzo shared about how the spiritual fabric of a team can be just as important as its playbook.

What You’ll Discover:

The role of faith inside an NFL locker room (04:44)
Len on why the Bills created a full-time chaplain role (07:30)
Lorenzo on what shifted after Sean Taylor’s death (16:56)
Why belief builds brotherhood beyond the scoreboard (36:30)
Faith as a foundation during tragedy and crisis (47:11)

As I listened to Len and Lorenzo share their experiences, I was reminded of how faith can give athletes a way to steady themselves when the stakes feel impossibly high. Tune in to hear how NFL players’ lives can be impacted because of the community and fellowship surrounding them.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jG9wjXTqfqs

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/buffalo-bills-16

Check out more from the Buffalo Bills:

Follow the Team on Instagram.

For more from Lorenzo Alexander, you can follow him on Instagram.

Building Community through Pilates with Olivia Santelli

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Sometimes a community starts with just one person showing up. For Olivia Santelli, a whole community movement started with a simple invitation in Chicago: bring a mat to the shore of Lake Michigan for a free Pilates class. Twelve people came. Then hundreds. Then thousands. That single invite grew into Rise Pilates Club, a thriving community rooted in connection, consistency, and care.

Now, Olivia is also building Within, a digital platform offering tools for both physical and mental wellness. In our conversation, she shares the lessons of following your spark, how she stays grounded while leading others, and why saying yes before you feel ready can change your life.

What You’ll Hear:

The first Rise class at Lake Michigan (08:10)
Saying yes before you’re fully ready (15:25)
Building community by showing up consistently (22:15)
Mental health practices that extend beyond the mat (29:30)
The mental health tools that anchor Olivia’s work (38:50)

Olivia opens up about the courage it takes to start before you feel ready, the power of consistency, and the role mental health plays in her life and work. If you’ve ever had a whisper of an idea you couldn’t shake, Olivia’s story will inspire you to follow it.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a8dDwN4kfe8

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/olivia-santelli-15

Check out more from Olivia Santelli:

Connect with Olivia on Instagram: @Olivia.Santelli or follow the @risepilatesclub.

You can also see the upcoming events of the Rise Pilates Club HERE. Or check out the Within platform HERE

Rise Pilates feature on the Today Show: “How a Free Pilates Class in Chicago Went Viral on Social Media”

Mentioned in the Episode

Glitter Freckles and Grit with Aliett Buttelman from Episode 8

The Pressure of Live Sports with Rebecca Lowe from Episode 12

From Sidelines to Storylines at the US Open with Elise Hart Kipness

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Elise Hart Kipness knows the rush of live TV: the countdown, the red light, the adrenaline. For years she reported from press rooms and sidelines, covering everything from the NBA lockout to the U.S. Open. But when she stepped away to raise her kids, the quieter lifestyle felt overwhelming.

What Elise didn’t expect was that silence would lead her to something new: thrillers. Today, Elise is a USA Today bestselling author whose Kate Green series takes readers deep into the worlds she once covered.

In this conversation, Elise shares what it really means to reinvent yourself midlife, how she found courage in being a beginner, and why a pause can sometimes be the doorway to a bigger purpose.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Giving up the adrenaline rush of live TV (00:00)
The identity shift of leaving a big career (11:26)
Writing as a way to find purpose again (19:04)
Real behind-the-scenes details woven into her novels (25:22)
Why reinvention can be even more fulfilling than the first act (45:01)

Tune in to learn about Elise’s journey from sideline reporter to bestselling author and the behind-the-scenes moments that fueled her thrillers. Discover the quiet courage it takes to step back, and then leap forward into something new.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ELGobEHRAYs

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/elise-hart-kipness-14

Check out more from Elise Hart Kipness:

Learn more about Elise on her website: https://elisehartkipness.com/ and stay connected through her instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisehartkipness/

When NFL Glory Meets Personal Grief with Alex Okafor

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When you think of a Super Bowl champion, you probably picture confetti, rings, and a perfect ending. But for Alex Okafor, the story was much more complicated.

There’s a part of Alex’s story that gave me chills. It happened during the national anthem at the Super Bowl. He wasn’t suited up. An injury had taken him out of the game. But in that moment, sitting with his family, Alex’s mom wrapped her arm around him and reminded him that he’d already helped his team get there. Months later, she was gone, taken suddenly by leukemia.

In this conversation, Alex talks about what it’s like to go from the highest high to the lowest low in the span of weeks. He opens up about the uncertainty of draft day, the grind of an NFL career, and the grief that nobody really prepares you for. And he shares how he’s taken that pain and turned it into purpose: mentoring kids, serving his community, and helping families impacted by blood cancer.

What You’ll Discover:

How Alex’s dream shifted from basketball to football (10:00)
The lessons in culture and swagger from the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run (26:43)
How an injury shifted Alex’s perspective and his seat in the stands (31:30)
The last gift of time Alex got with his mom (37:13)
Why nobody tells you what grief is really going to feel like (45:16)
How Alex is carrying his mom’s legacy forward through service (50:56)

This is a story about football, but it’s also about faith, family, and finding your footing after life changes in an instant.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hnRlMTt4mGg

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/alex-okafor-13

Connect with Alex Okafor

Follow Alex on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexokafor/

Learn more about Alex’s work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: https://bloodcancerunited.org/

To read Alex’s article that he shared in Player’s Tribune, click here.

The Pressure of Live Sports with Rebecca Lowe

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

You may know Rebecca Lowe as the sharp, unflappable voice of Premier League mornings on NBC. But what struck me most in this conversation wasn’t just her broadcasting skill; it was her candor about what it really feels like to sit in that chair, live, with millions watching.

Rebecca opens up about mom guilt, nerves, and the kind of preparation that doesn’t always silence self-doubt. She’s been at the center of some of sports’ biggest stages, yet she’s refreshingly honest about the pressure, the mistakes, and the ways she’s still learning to breathe through it all.

What You’ll Hear:

The path from London to hosting live sports in the U.S. (04:12)
The surprising ways mom guilt shows up in Rebecca’s career (15:03)
Behind the curtain of Premier League mornings (22:41)
How Rebecca handles mistakes in real time (34:18)
The quiet discipline that keeps her sharp on camera (42:10)
What Rebecca wants her son to know about her work (52:47)

Rebecca’s story is a reminder that even the pros who seem calm under the brightest lights are still human: navigating nerves, balancing family, and finding their voice in real time. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to perform live, this episode is for you.

You can also watch this conversation on YouTube. https://youtu.be/Ntt9qLZtltA

Check out our blog post for a full transcript and more. https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/rebecca-lowe-12

Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Things No One Tells You wherever you like to listen.

Check out more from Rebecca Lowe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccalowetv

Being the First Female Coach in the NFL with Jen Welter

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I’ve told a lot of stories over the years, but watching Jen Welter tear up while reading a handwritten note from one of her linebackers? That one stuck with me.

Jen was the first woman to coach in the NFL, but what makes her story unforgettable isn’t just that milestone. It’s what it took to get there. No guidebook. No road map. Just a clear plastic bag, a heart full of determination, and the guts to cold call the Arizona Cardinals.

She opens up about the good, the gritty, and the completely unexpected parts of being “the first”—and why those handwritten notes might’ve mattered more than any play she called.

What You’ll Discover:

Why a simple handwritten note made national headlines (06:20)
What it really felt like to step onto that NFL sideline (10:35)
The power and pressure of being “the first” in a locker room with no precedent (23:04)
How one cold call changed the course of her life (27:22)
Building trust one conversation, one linebacker at a time (41:42)
Why women in leadership need true advocates, not just mentors (57:13)

There’s something about Jen’s journey that stays with you. The behind-the-scenes moments that don't make it into the highlight reel. The quiet decisions. The handwritten notes. The way she just kept showing up with no rulebook to follow. The quiet courage it takes to be the first. Jen’s story is a master class in showing up fully—even when the playbook doesn’t exist yet.

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep showing up when the path isn’t clear, this one’s for you.

To watch the video version on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/1g34SPXKy4s

To see the full transcript and much more, check out the blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/jen-welter

Connect with Jen Welter

Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welter47/ or check out her website: https://www.jenwelter.com/.

Check out this ESPN article celebrating 10 years since Jen Welter was hired: “How Jen Welter's hire 10 years ago opened NFL to more women”

To see the iconic photo and read more about the handshake moment between Jen Welter and Sarah Thomas, check out this article.

Staying Steady in the Spotlight with Eric Church and Chase Elliott

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

You may know Eric Church as a country music icon and Chase Elliott as a NASCAR champion, but what happens when two high performers sit down to talk, not about the spotlight, but about what keeps them steady behind the scenes?

Because rising to the top is one thing. Staying there? That takes a different kind of strength: the habits, the anchors, the quiet choices no one sees.

In this episode, I revisit one of my favorite conversations, which was originally recorded during my Lunch with Lindsay podcast series in partnership with FamilyMade. I joined Chase Elliott and Eric Church at Eric’s writer’s cabin for a special conversation.

Eric and Chase may seem like an unlikely pair, but sit with them long enough, and you’ll see the parallels run deep. Both have built careers in high-pressure arenas. Both have learned to tune out the noise. And both know the challenge of staying grounded when the stakes are sky high.

Chase and Eric open up about the moments that changed them, the pressures of being seen, and the quieter choices that shaped their careers. From Chase’s early days trying to outrun expectations to Eric’s defiant decision to tour solo after getting kicked off the Rascal Flatts stage, this episode is a deep dive into identity, legacy, and the kind of grit that can’t be taught.

What You’ll Hear:

Eric’s surprising creative outlet: chainsaw therapy (03:28)
Why Chase prioritizes fun off the track (06:45)
Eric’s career-defining decision to go solo (14:09)
Chase on separating passion from pressure (18:44)
Why Eric stopped chasing charts, and found peace (20:23)
The power of real connection in high-profile lives (31:49)
The way both industries are changing over time (50:26)

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to stay steady in the spotlight, this one’s for you. Be sure to stay tuned for the special surprises Eric and Chase have for each other at the end of the episode.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kvpVqCsbtlU

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/eric-church-and-chase-elliott

Connect with Eric Church and Chase Elliott:

For more from Eric Church, you can follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericchurchmusic/

And for more from Chase Elliott, you can follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaseelliott9/

Making History in the Winner’s Circle with D. Wayne Lukas and Jena Antonucci

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When I think about the people who shaped the world of horse racing, D. Wayne Lukas is at the top of the list. But what struck me most in this conversation wasn’t the trophies; it was the tenderness. And the truth-telling. In this special moment, recorded in June of 2024, I sat down with the Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne alongside Jena Antonucci, the first woman to win a Triple Crown race, for a conversation that spanned decades of horse racing history, personal transformation, and powerful mentorship.

D. Wayne opens up about what it really takes to be great, and how powerful it is to open the door for someone else. Jena shares what she has learned about how actions outpace words every time. We talk about what it really takes to build a lasting legacy, how to know when someone’s got what it takes to really make it, and why making space for others is just as important as crossing the finish line first.

What You’ll Discover:

• What Jena learned from D. Wayne outside the spotlight (08:40)

• How mentorship changed the course of Jena’s career (12:15)

• The difference between toughness and trust (15:44)

• What it means to show up, especially when no one’s watching (20:55)

• Reflections on legacy, loss, and leadership (27:38)

• Why this sport still has so much to teach us (34:02)

If you’ve ever had someone see something in you before you saw it in yourself, this episode will stay with you.

As we mourn the loss of Mr. Lukas and remember his impact, I’m honored to share this never-before-seen interview with you. For more from D. Wayne Lukas, be sure to tune into our previous episode where I shared part of my conversation with him at the 2025 Kentucky Derby (around 41:18), and check out this special blog post to see Mr. Lukas’s poems.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9_lksvamvhY

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/d-wayne-lukas-and-jena-antonucci

For more from Jena Antonucci, you can follow her on Instagram.

Things No One Tells You About Glitter Freckles and Grit with Aliett Buttelman

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I’ve talked to a lot of people who’ve built something from scratch, but few have done it quite like Aliett Buttelman with Fazit. From modeling as a teenager to launching a beauty brand with a tiny budget and a bold idea, Aliett is the definition of scrappy, creative leadership.

What started as an experimental product line born in a WeWork has grown into a viral beauty brand, Fazit. Aliett shares about a game-changing moment when Taylor Swift showed up wearing glitter freckles at an NFL game, and what she did to make the most of that moment.

In this episode, Aliett opens up about the grit it took to go all in, the clarity that came from rejection, and the powerful lessons she’s learning now as a young CEO at the center of a cultural wave.

What You’ll Discover:

Why early rejection was the best crash course in resilience (05:00)
The story behind launching a brand with no plan B (06:23)
How glitter freckles ended up on Taylor Swift’s face (21:00)
What it really felt like to watch everything change overnight (24:00)
The scrappy media blitz Aliett pulled off in 48 hours (25:00)
What leadership looks like when you’ve never had a boss (41:00)
The advice Aliett gives every aspiring entrepreneur (44:47)

From dorm room dreams to national headlines, Aliett’s story is a masterclass in trusting your gut to build something that feels like you, even when the road is unclear. If you’ve ever had a wild idea that wouldn’t let go, this one’s for you.

Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xWyCH0ZluuI

For a full transcript and blog post, click here: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/aliett-buttelman

Connect with Aliett and Fazit on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fazitbeauty/

Things No One Tells You About Creating a Conscious Brand with Kadi Lee

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

You may know Kadi Lee’s work, even if you don’t recognize her name. Her artistry as a colorist is behind some of the most iconic hair in Hollywood (yes, that Julia Roberts transformation). But what moved me most about this conversation was her honesty about what it took to build something of her own.

From Jamaica to Connecticut to California, from salon chairs to supper clubs, Kadi’s story is about building something that reflects your values, holds space for others, and still leaves room for rest. Kadi is candid about what it’s really like to grow a beauty business while staying grounded in her purpose, and she talks with me about what no one tells you about being the first to do it.

What You’ll Hear:

• The path from blog to beauty brand  (05:45)

• How Kadi’s childhood shaped her journey (08:49)

• Building a peaceful, intentional space for gathering (24:52)

• The moment Julia Roberts changed everything (30:27)

• What no one tells you about launching a product line (42:17)

• The quiet signs of stress that show up in our hair (01:06:15)

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a business that reflects your values, or wondered what happens when success still doesn’t feel like ease, this episode is for you.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vhiwaDGSfLM

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/kadi-lee-07

Check out more from Kadi Lee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highbrowhippie

Things No One Tells You About The Work Behind the Spotlight with Craig Melvin

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Craig Melvin is no doubt a familiar face on one of TV’s most popular morning shows. In this episode, he shares what it’s like behind the scenes.

Some of the most common questions I get since he took the seat of Today Show co-host in January are what is it like, and how has it changed for him? Melvin and I talk about that and more, including the weight of visibility, the emotional demands of the job, and the unexpected peace he’s found through a hobby that has nothing to do with headlines.

From the Today Show to his garage candle studio, Melvin shares what he’s still learning about ambition, identity, and finding meaning in daily life.

What You’ll Discover:

The surprising workload beyond the show itself (08:33)
What it really takes to stay prepared under pressure (14:02)
Protecting your peace while living publicly (14:33)
Why Melvin values interviews with everyday people most (19:44)
The emotional cost of ambition, and how he’s reframing it (21:29)
A surprising new passion for candle-making (31:42)
How creativity is helping Melvin reconnect with what matters (34:44)

This is a powerful reminder that even at the top, people are carrying invisible weight. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to keep it all together, Melvin’s honesty might just offer the permission you didn’t know you needed to find your own groove.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5pESGLeecaU

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/craig-melvin-06

Connect with Craig Melvin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigmelvinnbc/

The Unraveling That Changes Everything with Brooke Baldwin

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When Brooke Baldwin lost her dream job, she didn’t expect to lose her sense of identity along with it. What came next wasn’t a clean pivot or a perfect plan. It has been a slow, deeply personal process of figuring out who she is without the title, the platform, or the external validation.

In this episode, Brooke talks with me about the shock of a career ending abruptly, the power of being cracked open, and how she finally gave herself permission to stop striving. I really appreciated how honest and open Brooke was about what she has learned and what she is still discovering.

What You’ll Hear:

What it really felt like to walk away from CNN (06:50)
The power (and pain) of being cracked open by loss (08:42)
Why Brooke kept saying yes… until she finally had to say no (10:55)
Navigating identity after a longtime career unraveling (16:10)
Learning to see the signs, and to follow them (30:40)
How Brooke found her way back to joy (34:55)

Brooke reminds us that you don’t have to have it all figured out, and how sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is stop chasing and start listening.

This is a conversation about trusting your gut, finding the courage to pause, and choosing a different kind of success.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/04a-kW__hvM

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/brooke-baldwin-05

Connect with Brooke Baldwin

Check out Brooke’s book Huddle: How Women Unlock Their Collective Power

Brooke’s Substack Unraveling - unravelingwithBrooke.Substack.com

Find Brooke on Instagram: @brooke_baldwin

Read the Vanity Fair article referenced in the episode

Learn more about the American Woman with Brooke Baldwin project: https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2018/01/entertainment/american-woman/

Making the Most of a Power Pause with Neha Ruch

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I’ve talked to a lot of women about their careers—but what Neha Ruch said about “nailing the dismount” when leaving a job? That stuck with me, and I knew I wanted to learn more.

Neha shares the practical strategies and hard-earned insights that help women take intentional pauses from work, stay connected to their ambition, and return with clarity, confidence, and strength.

What You’ll Discover:

Why Neha traded a dream job for a different kind of fulfillment (18:30)
How to talk about being “on pause” in a way that feels strong and self-defined (25:09)
Why women need to start “nailing the dismount” when stepping back from a job (28:11)
How motherhood can spark, not stifle, creativity and reinvention (38:01)
Practical tools for navigating finances, identity shifts, and career pivots (47:18)
Neha responds to listener questions about how to approach a pause (53:04)

Neha doesn’t just talk about redefining ambition. She shows us how it’s done.

To connect with Neha Ruch, check out:

The Power Pause site: www.thepowerpause.com

Find Neha on Instagram @neha_ruch

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Cibt65CEbzc

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/neha-ruch-04

Winning the Indy 500 with Álex Palou

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

After Álex Palou won the Indy 500, I watched through the glass that separates the broadcast booth with victory circle, as Álex and his racecar were lifted up to the celebratory stage where professional photographers snapped countless rounds of images of Álex and his team celebrating the moment that no doubt changed their life.

I loved watching his wife Esther hand over their daughter Lucia to celebrate with her dad and I found myself wondering what he would do next – after this portion of pomp and circumstance was over. What would his reaction be behind closed doors? I knew he’d be exhausted, rolling in on a couple hours of sleep if he was lucky, but I was so grateful to sit down with Álex the next morning; hours after winning the Indy 500, I expected adrenaline and exhaustion. What I didn’t expect was how much heart he’d bring into that conversation and what his answer to the “thing no one tells you” highlighted about his family commitment.

This episode is about more than speed. It’s about the quiet sacrifices. The money burned on tires and fuel, the long days chasing a dream across continents, and the people who made it possible.

From the stands inside Indianapolis Motor Speedway packed with Spanish flags to the emotional moment his father ran toward him on the track after his win, Álex opens up about the power of team, tradition, and staying level in the moments that matter most.

🎧 What You’ll Hear:

Why winning the Indy 500 changes everything, even for a three-time champion (12:14)
The emotional celebration that started with a run down the track (13:17)
Álex’s family's sacrifice and what it really took to get here (19:03)
What no one tells you about the hard seasons behind the podium (18:15)
Lessons in pressure, presence, and not getting too high or too low (25:23)
The surprising habits that keep Álex sharp (24:13)
Bonus sneak peek into fascinating red carpet conversations (26:14)

Álex gives us a rare glimpse into the life of a champion, and the grounded perspective that might just keep him winning. He reminds us that greatness doesn’t just happen on the track. It’s built over years of figuring out how to show up day after day, amid failures and setbacks, even when no one is watching.

This one is for anyone who wants to know more about the moments that don’t make the highlight reel; check out Álex’s inspiring story.

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0K4zv9MBGvQ

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/alex-palou-03

Check out more from Álex on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpalou/

Making Waves in Country Music with Cooper Ramsey

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I’ve seen a lot of talent in my career. But meeting 16-year-old Cooper Ramsey at an Operation Homefront event? That moment stuck with me.

Cooper’s already performing on big stages, releasing original music, and capturing fans across the country. But what makes her story unforgettable isn’t just her rising career. It’s the courage behind the spotlight. The decision to leave her hometown. The quiet moments when the dream felt scary. The way she’s learning to trust her voice. And use it.

She opens up about ambition, anxiety, friendship, and what it’s really like to grow up chasing something big.

What You’ll Discover:

What it means to know your dream by age 10 (00:10:59)
The decision to move to Nashville and leave everything behind (00:21:04)
Behind the scenes of building a music career at 16 (00:26:23)
OCD and anxiety as part of her story, not the whole story (01:03:15)
Using songwriting to connect and create space for others (00:42:56)
The truth about friendship, loneliness, and staying grounded (00:33:00)

There’s something about Cooper’s story that reminds me how brave it is to be young and clear-eyed about who you are. Her voice, her presence, and her heart…it all shines.

If you’ve ever chased something that felt a little too big, a little too fast, and absolutely worth it anyway, this one’s for you.

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/cooper-ramsey-02

To watch this conversation, check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hyhXQMRe0Do

Connect with Cooper Ramsey

Find Cooper on socials @cooperramseymusic

Check out Cooper’s website: CooperRamsey.com

Listen to Cooper’s music on Spotify

Life After Winning the Kentucky Derby with Brian and Jamie Hernandez

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

You’ve seen the finish lines. The photos. The trophies. But I’ve always been curious about what no one tells you about the time after the spotlight fades.

That’s why I wanted to sit down with Brian and Jamie Hernandez. Brian had just pulled off one of the biggest wins of his career—but what stuck with me wasn’t the race. It was everything that came next. The drive home. The shift from jockey to dad. The way he and Jamie navigate a life built around fast horses, full calendars, and a deep commitment to each other and their family.

In this conversation, Brian and Jamie opened up about the emotional highs, the everyday tradeoffs, and the behind-the-scenes partnership that makes it all work. It’s a story about staying grounded while chasing something big—and building a life that matters even more than the win.

What You’ll Discover:

What it actually felt like to win the Derby… and then head home to real life (10:37)
Jamie’s view from the home front, and what she wishes more people understood (18:14)
How they’re raising kids with a rhythm shaped by both racing and presence (19:40)
The invisible labor behind the public spotlight (22:05)
What keeps them connected while chasing something big (37:10)

There’s something about Brian and Jamie’s story that reminds me of all the quiet, unsung moments that happen off-camera. The balancing acts. The family dinners. The deep love that doesn’t make headlines.

If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded while chasing something big, this one’s for you.

Connect with Brian

Follow Brian on Instagram

Bonus Feature: D Wayne Lukas

Also, do not miss a special clip (41:18) with the horse trainer whose name has become synonymous with greatness, D. Wayne Lukas. And to see more about the special part of his life he revealed to me in when we talked, check out this amazing blog post made possible by his wife, Laurie, who shared with some of Lukas’s work with us.

If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded while chasing something big, this one’s for you.

See More about D. Wayne Lukas

Check out my blog post, “Horse Trainer D. Wayne Lukas’s Unexpected Poetry and Perspective.”

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/brian-and-jamie-hernandez-01

To watch the video version on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/FKSZ875cbKs

Introducing Things No One Tells You with Lindsay Czarniak

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I’ve spent years telling stories from the sidelines and the studio. But the ones that stick with me? They’re the moments that happen off camera. The stuff no one prepped for. The things no one tells you.

This podcast is about those moments.

Things No One Tells You is where we talk about what it really feels like to live through the big stuff: dream jobs, family life, addiction, grief, reinvention. I’ll be sitting down with athletes, entertainers, experts, and friends to have the conversations we often save for behind closed doors.

Join me every Thursday, starting June 12th, for stories that are honest, a little messy, and deeply human.

You can follow me on Instagram @lindsaycz to keep up with the latest. To watch this trailer, check it out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DdkoN6ilxRQ. You can also follow my YouTube channel to watch the interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@lindsaycz.

Subscribe to Things No One Tells You wherever you listen to podcasts to join us. This is just the beginning, and I’m thrilled to have you on this journey with me.