Ep. 09: The Art of Loosening Up with Jay Knowles
Ep. 09: The Art of Loosening Up with Jay Knowles
In the same way that a great melody is as much about space as it is about notes, Grammy nominated hit songwriter, Jay Knowles, has mastered emphasizing the things about songwriting that have nothing to do with the actual writing part.
He makes sense in nonsensical ways. He says more by saying less. He achieves by not trying to achieve.
I consider Jay Knowles a mentor of mine. He has taught me so much about creativity and lyric writing just by being in the room with him. No doubt, he is one of my favorite songwriters on the planet. Alan Jackson, George Strait, Harry Connick, Jr., Jack Ingram, Lainey Wilson and others agree because they’ve all cut songs written by Jay and made them hits that you probably sing along to in your car.
In Episode 9 of Happiest Hour, Jay dig in about his what it’s like to have hits by giant artists like George Strait, and I ask him some detailed questions about his writing process. If you are a songwriter, aspiring to be, or want to tap deeper into your creativity, this is absolutely a conversation you don’t want to miss.
We also cover:
His favorite song he’s written that others might not like
Why his Jack Ingram hit, “Love You,” almost never got recorded
What he feels like is his best asset as a songwriter and how he approaches new ideas
His hilarious and poignant Substack newsletter, Song Friends
How being at the GRAMMY Awards is an ego booster and an ego buster at the same time
Advice to aspiring songwriters
… and much more. In fact, our conversation got so deep that we will be rolling out a bonus episode with Jay about the particulars of songwriting. Click here to make sure you are receiving emails from me so that you can get alerted to when that episode rolls out!
As always, we pair this episode with 2 delicious recipes — because it’s not the Happiest Hour without great food to go with our great conversation, right?!
In true Jay Knowles fashion, he put his own quirky spin on how to make the best cup of black coffee… ever. And a nostalgic childhood favorite only the way his mom could make it: peanut butter and brown sugar sandwich. Keep reading to learn how to make these yummy recipes while you enjoy our conversation!
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Connect with Jay here!
Join Jay’s Song Friends community on Substack (seriously, if you are a creative — and everybody is whether you realize it or not — you don’t want to miss this)!
Listen to Jay’s discography of hits.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Clever Coffee
Becky Knowles’ Peanut Butter & Brown Sugar Sandwich
More Happiest Hour…
S'mores Dip
No campfire needed! This quick S’mores Dip recipe could not be easier. Just throw a couple of ingredients into a skillet and bake!
Over Christmas break, my family met dear friends in Breckenridge for a joint family ski vacation. I made this dessert dip after dinner one night at the house and it was a HUGE hit! I mean, if a snow ski trip doesn’t make you think “S’mores,” I don’t know what will.
The best part, you don’t need a campfire to get your chocolate and marshmallow fix. This quick dessert recipe could not be easier. Just pour a few ingredients into a skillet, bake and you’re done!
I originally found a recipe similar to this on Pinterest years ago, but I’ve tweaked it slightly for a gooey, delicious treat every time.
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try the Drink…
Iced French Toast Latte
My guest in Ep. 08, Risa Binder, brought over this yummy French Toast Latte. It’s dairy free (although you can make it with any milk you’d like), and can be served cold or hot. We made an iced version and it was so delicious! The spicy cinnamon and creamy oat milk mixed with slightest sweetness from honey. Yes please. Get yourself this decadent drink here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 08 - Living with Purpose with Risa Binder
Iced French Toast Latte
A dairy-free iced latte with cinnamon, espresso, and a drizzle of honey. Serve it hot or cold — we made the iced version and it's a homerun. Your mornings just got better.
My guest on Ep. 8 of Happiest Hour, Risa Binder, brought in this delicious dairy-free recipe. Inspired by a local coffeeshop, Risa makes the French Toast Latte at her home all the time. I’m so glad she brought it to share with us!
A drizzle of honey adds a little sweetness to spicy cinnamon notes and rich espresso. You can make this latte with your milk of choice and serve hot or cold. We made an iced version together and sipped on it from this adorable blue canning jar. Just the right amount of rustic meets comfort (and caffeine).
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Now you can make this iced latte at home!
Recipe
Iced French Toast LatteDairy-free
Ingredients
Brewed espresso, cooled
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup oat milk
Ice
Directions
Brew espresso and set aside to cool.
Stir cinnamon and honey into cooled espresso.
Fill a glass with ice and pour in oat milk.
Top with espresso mixture and stir well.
Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top to serve.
Looking for more things I actually use every day? I finally wrote them all down in one place.
Try the Dessert…
S’mores Dip
We paired this super simple dessert dip with the French Toast Latte on Ep. 8. I made this for friends over Christmas break and it was a huge hit. Just throw a couple of ingredients into a skillet and bake. Viola! No campfire needed! Get the recipe here.
Catch the episode!
Ep. 08 - Living with Purpose with Risa Binder
Happiest Hour Podcast
More This Way…
Ep. 08: Living with Purpose with Risa Binder
The synchronicities abound with Risa. That’s not surprising once you meet her in our upbeat conversation and feel her good energy.
Risa Binder has opened for legends, such as James Taylor and Ronnie Milsap. She hosts her own YouTube series and podcast. She is a recording and touring artist, a songwriter and she is releasing brand new music this spring! Oh… and did I mention she is also a mom??
In Episode 08 of Happiest Hour, Risa shares with us what it means to live her purpose, how she balances being a creative entrepreneur and a mom, and so much more.
Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch the live interview on YouTube!
Ep. 08: Living with Purpose with Risa Binder
I’ll never forget getting the call from my music publishers that a song I wrote called “Burning Down the Dark” was being cut by an artist named, Risa Binder. That song always felt special to me, so I was thrilled it found a home!
Fast forward, my publishers set Risa and I up to write. But before that date came around, I bumped into Risa in a church pew one Sunday morning. Then, we realized one of my co-writers of “Burning Down the Dark,” by complete coincidence, was from her hometown and they had mutual friends.
The synchronicities abound with Risa. That’s not surprising once you meet her in our upbeat conversation and feel her good energy.
Risa has opened for legends, such as James Taylor and Ronnie Milsap. She hosts her own YouTube series and podcast. She is a recording and touring artist, a songwriter and she is releasing brand new music this spring! Oh… and did I mention she is also a mom??
In the episode we talk about:
✨Her first experience at The Bluebird Cafe and falling in love with the songwriter’s heart
✨How her grandmothers and mom influenced her life philosophy
✨ How a broken heart lead her to a Mariachi band in a subway (that was a funny story! Around minute 11:03)
✨Why it’s important to “tell the story” as a creative
✨How she fulfills here heart’s desire while being a busy mom
✨Her favorite beauty products when she’s hitting the road on tour
✨ What she hopes to leave behind
That’s not all! My guests and I always pair each episode with 2 delicious recipes. You do NOT want to miss the incredible “French Toast Latte” Risa brought to this episode. Seriously, this latte is life-changing. I threw in my favorite S’mores hack you can make in any weather, sans campfire. I swear, it will be a go-to treat all year round in your home.
Scroll down to get them below!
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Connect with Risa here.
Listen to Risa’s music!
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Iced French Toast Latte
S’mores Dip
More Happiest Hour…
Homemade Matcha Latte
When I asked my guest, Victoria Banks, to choose a recipe to pair with Episode 07, she suggested a homemade matcha latte.
Even though matcha has been a buzzy trend in the food world for a while now, I’ll be honest, I just never jumped on the train. No reason in particular. I just never ordered it or knew much about the green powder.
So, I was pleasantly surprised when Victoria made this warm, cozy, frothy deliciousness for us to enjoy while we chatted about all things music, mom life and overcoming perfectionism in Episode 07.
Whip you up this nourishes mug of tea and check out my conversation with Grammy nominated hit songwriter, Victoria Banks. The recipe card is below, and a link to Victoria’s episode is available if you keep scrolling down!
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Try the Side Dish…
Sharon’s Classic Pimento Cheese
This classic recipe is a fan submission from Sharon. I love a good pimento cheese and I thought it would pair nicely with a hot cup of matcha latte while we wait out these cooler months. Get the pimento cheese recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 07 - From Guts to the GRAMMYs with Victoria Banks
Ep. 07: From Guts to the GRAMMYs with Victoria Banks
How did a Canadian zoologist who, initially, didn't have the guts to pursue music become a Grammy nominated hit songwriter and CCMA-winning artist in her own right?
Victoria Banks' story takes lots of twists and turns. In Episode 07 of Happiest Hour, Victoria shares with us how it took losing her job in Canada to finally begin chasing her dream of being a songwriter, and so much more.
Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch the live interview on YouTube!
Ep. 07: From Guts to the GRAMMYs with Victoria Banks
How did a Canadian zoologist who, initially, didn't have the guts to pursue music, become a Grammy nominated hit songwriter and CCMA-winning artist?
Victoria Banks' story takes a lot of twists and turns. In Episode 07 of Happiest Hour, Victoria shares with us how it took losing her job in Canada to finally begin chasing her dream of being a songwriter in Nashville.
We also cover:
• How she went from writing songs for other artists to becoming a Canadian Country Music Award (CCMA)-winning Artist of the Year
• What it was like juggling her hit songwriting career in the U.S. and a hit recording career in Canada
• The benefit of pivoting in life
• How her favorite cut as a songwriter almost didn't happen -- and then led to a GRAMMY nomination
• Her family life organization strategies
🍵 Don't forget, we pair each episode with a delicious beverage and easy weekend recipe! This week, Victoria introduced me to homemade matcha latte. I paired the latte with a fan-submitted recipe for classic pimento cheese. Scroll down to get them below!
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Connect with Victoria here.
Listen to Victoria's music
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Homemade Matcha Latte
Sharon’s Classic Pimento Cheese
More Happiest Hour…
Louise's Baked Apples
This is a super simple, comforting dessert that my grandma used to make for me when I was little. We spent a lot of time together. Both of my parents worked, so she often picked me up from school and I loved spending the night on the weekends.
The weekend sleep overs is when this dessert would make an appearance. My grandma had a McIntosh apple with her every where she went. I’m not exaggerating. That woman loved McIntosh apples! She had them in her car, on her desk at the store (my family’s small business). at home.
I have such fond memories of her placing several McIntoshes in a casserole dish, baking the apples, then pouring cream over them before we dug in.
I hope this recipe might transport you back in time to a wonderful memory. The warm spices and sweet raisins make this the perfect way to cap off the night.
Try the Drink…
The Sparkling Jewel
My guest in Ep. 06, Cyndi Thomson brought over this yummy grapefruit-forward cocktail. This sparkling glass of goodness is the perfect thing to end your night, make a party or enjoy on the back patio. Get the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 06 - When Walking Away Means Walking Towards Something Bigger with Cyndi Thomson
The Sparkling Jewel Cocktail
When I asked Cyndi Thomson if she had a drink recipe she’d want to pair with Episode 6 of Happiest Hour, this was literally the email response I received:
“My new fave drink is so yummy! A little (sometimes a lot) grapefruit vodka, a little Italian grapefrut soda (Trader Joe’s) and fresh lime juice on ice. Sometimes I add a little lime Lacroix!”
I mean, why complicate a good thing? Eyeball these delicious ingredients and enjoy a simple yet satisfying craft cocktail!
But, just in case you’re more of a rule follower (me 🙋🏻♀️), I added some measurement guidelines in the recipe card below.
Don’t forget to scroll down to get the easy dessert recipe we also paired with this recipe.
Cheers!
Try this Simple Dessert…
Louise’s Baked Apples
This week, I’m sharing a fond memory from my childhood; a dessert my grandma used to make me when I’d sleep over. Her baked apples covered with cream was one of my favorite dishes. Get the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 06 - When Walking Away Means Walking Towards Something Bigger - with Cyndi Thomson
Ep. 06: When Walking Away Means Walking Towards Something Bigger with Cyndi Thomson
Today, you see Cyndi Thomson's luxury jewelry dripping off superstars like Lizzo, Lauren Alaina, Natalie Hemby (of the Highwomen) and Kimberly Paisley. Did you know that Cyndi was on the verge of superstardom herself with a hit radio single and gold album, My World?
Cyndi made the difficult decision to walk away from the music business as her star was on the rise. In this episode, we talk about how walking away from one thing means walking towards something else. And what a beautiful, big life she walked into!
Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch the live interview on YouTube!
Ep. 06: When Walking Away Means Walking Towards Something Bigger with Cyndi Thomson
Today, you see Cyndi Thomson's luxury jewelry dripping off superstars like Lizzo, Lauren Alaina, Natalie Hemby (of the Highwomen) and Kimberly Paisley. Did you know that Cyndi was on the verge of superstardom herself with a hit radio single and gold album, My World?
Cyndi made the difficult decision to walk away from the music business as her star was on the rise. In this episode, we talk about how walking away from one thing means walking towards something else. And what a beautiful, big life she walked into!
In this episode, we cover:
How the songs from her iconic gold record, My World, continue to make an impact
Where music fits in her life now -- and if we can expect more music from her in the future
What life has looked like between walking away from a hit music career and starting her hit luxury jewelry business, Haybelle Co.
Finding balance as a wife, mom, musician, small business owner
Her marriage secrets (married 20 years after only dating a few months!)
What she hopes to leave as her legacy
🍹 We paired this episode with a delicious grapefruit vodka cocktail that Cyndi loves and I share a super simple dessert that my grandma used to make. Scroll down for the recipes!
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Join Cyndi on Instagram
Shop her every day jewelry and luxury pieces at Haybelle Co.
Listen to her iconic hit country album, My World.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
The Sparkling Jewel
Louise’s Baked Apples
More Happiest Hour…
French 75 Cocktail
For Episode 5 of Happiest Hour, my guest, Mary Helen Yarbrough brought in two delicious recipes. They pair great together, so after you make the cocktail, make sure you scroll down to grab the side dish.
A French 75 is such a classic cocktail. Mary Helen mixed us up a batch and gave me a few pointers along the way.
First of all, the says the secret to any great cocktail is lots of ice! So, she filled up the shaker with ice cubes before shaking the lemon juice, simple syrup and gin.
It hopefully goes without saying, but you want you shake those ingredients together first and pour them into the champagne flute. Then, top off the glass with champagne. Never shake the champagne — unless a bubble explosion is what you’re going for (insert sneaky grin here).
Another trick: peel a long singular strip of skin from the lemon. Express the lemon peel by holding it close to the rim of the champagne flute and twisting it with the skin down towards the glass. Then, you can twist it and put it on the rim or in the drink for added color and flavor.
Who knew gin and champagne went so well together? Make yourself a drink, then come join the conversation with Mary Helen and myself for Episode 5 of Happiest Hour! Scroll down for access to the episode.
Try This Quick & easy Side Dish…
Mary Helen is famous for this spicy and delicious shrimp dip. It’s the perfect side dish for any holiday or celebration! And best of all, it’s super quick and easy to make. It’s waiting for you here!
Mary Helen’s Shrimp Dip
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 05 - Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life with Mary Helen Yarbrough
Mary Helen's Shrimp Dip
This is a dish Mary Helen is known for in her family and friend group. And I am SO glad she chose to share it with us because, if you make this for your family, you’re going to be famous for it, too. If you like shellfish and spicy food, this super quick and easy side dish is out-of-this-world good!
A note on spicy: Mary Helen likes this dish with a kick. I’m glad about that because I absolutely love horseradish. So, here’s the thing: most prepared horseradish cream sauces won’t have a really good kick. To make this dish really shine, it’s important to use a high quality horseradish.
Mary Helen is a fan of Silver Spring Foods, which you can generally find at Publix, Kroger and possibly other grocery stores, or Atomic (find online).
Full transparency, my grocery store didn’t have these brands, so I did end up getting a prepared horseradish cream sauce by Boar’s Head, and even Mary Helen was impressed! We were surprised. It had a KICK!
This dish is versatile for holidays and celebrations all throughout the year. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto a red plate for Christmas, silver platter for New Years, or choose your favorite dish for a birthday. The green onions and lemon peel bring beautiful color to the presentation. This shrimp dish is a crowd pleaser in both taste and looks.
Bonappetite!
Try the Drink…
French 75 Cocktail
My guest in Ep. 05, Mary Helen Yarbrough, brought over this classic cocktail recipe, which pairs beautifully with the shrimp dip you just made! She also shared a few insider secrets about how to make the best drinks. It’s all waiting for you here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 05 - Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life with Mary Helen Yarbrough
Ep. 05: Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life - with Legendary Fitness Instructor, Mary Helen Yarbrough
A teacher of mine once told me, “To the extent you experience darkness, you will have the capacity to experience that same degree of light.”
Have you ever heard something like that?
Well, let me tell ya, Mary Helen Yarbrough is no stranger to darkness. She experienced profound losses in her teen and young adult years that sent her life into a spiral.
So, maybe that explains why she is one of the most authentically positive and inspirational people in my life (and in many others’ lives, as well).
In Episode 5 of Happiest Hour, we don’t hold back. Mary Helen tells her story of loss and pain, as well as sharing her life philosophy that makes her life tick, and so much more.
Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube!
Ep. 05: Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life - with Legendary Fitness Instructor, Mary Helen Yarbrough
A teacher of mine once told me, “To the extent you experience darkness, you will have the capacity to experience that same degree of light.”
Have you ever heard something like that?
Well, let me tell ya, Mary Helen Yarbrough is no stranger to darkness. She experienced profound losses in her teen and young adult years that sent her life into a spiral.
So, maybe that explains why she is one of the most authentically positive and inspirational people in my life (and in many others’ lives, as well).
If you have followed me for a while, you know that I am not shy about sharing how much I love taking Jazzercise from Mary Helen. She was recently featured on our largest news station where our star news anchor, Tracy Kornet (who also attends our Jazzercise class) called her a, “legend.” I will second that!
We don’t hold back in this episode. Mary Helen tells her story of loss and pain, as well as sharing her life philosophy that makes her life tick.
In this conversation, we also cover:
Her story of loss that made her who she is today
Where she got her work ethic
How weekly Happy Hours led her to discover Jazzercise
How she built her legendary (yes, legendary!) Nashville fitness business over 40 years ago as a busy wife and mom
Debunking the 80’s stereotype of Jazzercise (no, we don’t wear leg warmers)
Why her classes feel fun, inclusive and safe
Her secret to success for maintaining relationships and a strong business
The choice she makes daily that makes her so impactful to others
Spoiler alert: we get into some heavy conversation, including mental health and mention of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that 24 hour support is available to you by simply dialing 988 from your phone.
Something else you’re going to want to know about Mary Helen: she is a fabulous cook! And her husband is retired from the liquor industry, so this woman knows how to mix a dang good cocktail.
Make sure you check out the 2 recipes Mary Helen brought to pair with this episode!
Get your recipes and show notes right here:
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Want to try a Jazzercise class with Mary Helen and me? If you are local to Nashville, then click here!
If you are not local to Nashville, but would like to try Jazzercise in your area (or On Demand), visit https://www.jazzercise.com/
You can also find Mary Helen on Instagram.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
French 75 Cocktail
Mary Helen’s Shrimp Dip
More Happiest Hour…
The Very Best Shepherd's Pie
My college besties, Kelly and Kelsey, and I used to make this dip all the time when we had an off-campus apartment. So, when Ashley from The Wildcards recommended something similar to pair with our podcast episode, I was super excited!
I’ll be honest, I eyeball everything in this recipe. Just sprinkle the herbs and spices to your taste. You can’t mess this up.
We didn’t add heat with jalapeno, but you certainly can if you like a little kick. Or use a can of Rotel instead of tomatoes.
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go!
Try the Drink…
Home-made Spiced Chai
My guest in Ep. 04, Cindy Landham brought over this recipe for warm and cozy homemade spiced chai latte. This cup of magic will make you want to curl up under a blanket with a good book. Get the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 04 - Being Well is an Inside Job with Cindy Landham
Homemade Spiced Chai Latte
For Episode 4, my guest, Cindy Landham, brought over a recipe for homemade chai tea. The condensed milk in this recipe makes it so creamy and delicious! The aroma of cinnamon, cloves and other spices will make your house smell incredible while it simmers on the stove. Sipping this sweet mixture just make you feel cozy, calm and nourished.
So, curl up with a good book, cuddle under a blanket and try this recipe for yourself!
Try this One Pot Supper…
The Family Wash is a restaurant/music venue that has moved locations and taken on several iterations over the years here in Nashville. Their shepherd’s pie is famous in this city! I hacked the recipe at home and it tastes pretty dang similar. Here’s the recipe for a one pot dinner that will be a hit with your family and last you a few days in left overs. Enjoy!
The Very Best Shepherd’s Pie
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 04 - Food is Not Your Problem, Dieting is Not Your Answer with Cindy Landham
Ep. 04: Food is not your problem, Dieting is not Your Answer - with Cindy Landham
Have you ever felt guilty about eating something? I'm talking, really guilty. Maybe it even sent you down a shame spiral. Do you ever sneak food, or avoid food all together because it's just too hard to control? After you over indulge, do you exercise harder than usual to balance the "damage" you've done? Do you vow to "do better" tomorrow (or when Monday rolls around)? Have you lost and re-gained the same pounds over and over again?
Then, listen up! Most American adults have experienced these thoughts and feelings. I know I sure have. If this sounds like you, too, then this episode is for you.
Before you set your New Years Resolutions around your health for this coming year, please listen to this episode of Happiest Hour with my guest, Liberated Eating Coach, Cindy Landham.
Ep. 04 Food is Not Your Problem, Dieting is Not Your Answer with Cindy Landham
Have you ever felt guilty about eating something? I'm talking, really guilty. Maybe it even sent you down a shame spiral. Do you ever sneak food, or avoid food all together because it's just too hard to control? After you over indulge, do you exercise harder than usual to balance the "damage" you've done? Do you vow to "do better" tomorrow (or when Monday rolls around)? Have you lost and re-gained the same pounds over and over again?
Then, listen up! Most American adults have experienced these thoughts and feelings. I know I sure have. If this sounds like you, too, then this episode is for you.
Here's the good news: there is a path to freedom from obsessive thoughts surrounding food, exercise and body shaming.
Here's even more good news: this path doesn't involve dieting, shakes, pills, pre-packaged food, counting points and calories, or even joining a gym.
Before you set your New Years Resolutions around your health for this coming year, please listen to this episode of Happiest Hour with my guest, Liberated Eating Coach, Cindy Landham.
It could change your life. I know, that's a bold statement, but she sure has changed mine.
In this episode, we cover:
• Why diet culture is failing us
• Traditional thinking vs. liberated thinking around our health and wellness
• When parents are the food police
• What loving your body really means
☕️ Whoa! All foods fit from Cindy’s perspective, so you better bet we paired this episode with two delicious recipes! Check out Cindy's homemade, made-from-scratch spiced chai latte. This tea will leave you feeling so comfy, warm and nourished.
And I'm sharing the shepherd's pie recipe that has become a tradition for my husband and me during the holidays.
Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
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Get to know Cindy by visiting her at her website and on Facebook.
If you can’t wait for the results of the book drawing and want a copy of Cindy’s book now, you can snag a copy here!
Get Cindy’s Book!
Get a copy of Cindy’s book and get started on your liberating journey!
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Homemade Spiced Chai
The Very Best Shepherd’s Pie
More Happiest Hour…
Cowboy Caviar
My college besties, Kelly and Kelsey, and I used to make this dip all the time when we had an off-campus apartment. So, when Ashley from The Wildcards recommended something similar to pair with our podcast episode, I was super excited!
I’ll be honest, I eyeball everything in this recipe. Just sprinkle the herbs and spices to your taste. You can’t mess this up.
We didn’t add heat with jalapeno, but you certainly can if you like a little kick. Or use a can of Rotel instead of tomatoes.
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go!
Try the Drink…
Merry Margarita
My guest in Ep. 03, The Wildcards and I made this delicious craft cocktail together. This variation of a margarita is the perfect idea for the holidays and pairs well with the Cowboy Caviar dip! Grab the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 03 - Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Merry Margarita
Two words sum up The Wildcards: Good Vibes.
As their party anthems can attest, Ashley and Andrea know how to have a good time. When I asked them what drink they’d like to pair with their episode, I knew they’d have something great to share. They did not disappoint!
This variation on a margarita is subtle and super delicious. We used Elderflower Liquor (aka St. Germain) instead of orange flavor. The liquor elevates this cocktail making it perfect for the holidays!
So, pour you a glass of this yummy marg and join us for Ep. 03!
Cheers!
Try this Easy Side Dish…
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this Cowboy Caviar dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go! Here’s the recipe for the easy weekend recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode. Give it a try for yourself!
Cowboy
Caviar
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 03 - Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Ep. 03: Jumping in the Driver's Seat with The Wildcards
In Ep. 03 of Happiest Hour, my guests are Ashley Gearing and Andrea Young -- collectively known as the critically acclaimed duo, The Wildcards. You've heard about this electric duo through American Songwriter, CMT and on stages opening for superstars like Joe Nichols and Chris Lane. We chat about how they are taking control of the creative process, why they jumped into the producer seat for their latest music releases and so much more!
Ep. 03 Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Welcome to Episode 03 of Happiest Hour! My guests are Ashley Gearing and Andrea Young -- collectively known as the critically acclaimed duo, The Wildcards.
You've heard about this electric duo through American Songwriter, CMT and on stages opening for superstars like Joe Nichols and Chris Lane. In today's episode, we chat about how they are taking control of the creative process and why they jumped into the producer seat for their latest music releases.
We also cover:
• Creating the ✨ "Friday Night Feeling" ✨ for their fans
• What it's like being a part of Fox's new hit drama, Monarch
• Why it's so important to be a good hang on the road
🍹 We paired this episode with a Merry Margarita -- the traditional tequila classic you love with a little extra “jingle jangle.”
Don't forget to check out our easy weekend side dish: Cowboy Caviar! It's the perfect companion to that margarita. My college roommates and I used to make this all the time, so when Ashley suggested it, I was excited! We put our own spin on this super simple dip.
Get your recipes below!
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Catch The Wildcards' good vibes by following them on Instagram and listening to their music on Spotify.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Merry Margarita
Cowboy Caviar Dip
More Happiest Hour…
Ep. 02: The Importance of Keeping it Super Real - Jenny Gill
In episode 2 of Happiest Hour, my guest is film director, recording artist, and daughter of country music royalty, Jenny Gill. Jenny is one of the most hilarious and authentic people I know. Listen in as she talks about forging her own path in TV and film, finding work/life/mom balance and why she thinks it so important to keep her social media super real.
Jenny Gill could make anyone laugh — and usually does.
In Episode 2, my guest is film director, recording artist, wife and mother of two, Jenny Gill. She might as well add “comedian” to her bio because she is one of the most hilarious people you’ll ever meet. In this world of highlight reels and social media, she is determined to keep her humor and authenticity front and center.
Jenny and I chat about why it’s so important to her to keep her social media, and her life, super real. We also cover:
• What being the daughter of country music royalty has taught her
• Finding her own path in life
• How to balance career, friendship and motherhood… or not.
Follow along Jenny’s hilarious Instagram feed and enjoy her music on Spotify.
Enjoying this? I wrote a letter I wish someone had sent me at 35 — plus a playlist to go with it. Both are yours, free. Grab them here.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Bourbon Cowboy Twist
Bourbon Vanilla Apple Cider Donuts
More Happiest Hour…
Bourbon Cowboy Twist Cocktail
When I asked my guest in Ep. 02, Jenny Gill, if she had a special drink she’d want to share with us, she shot me back a text super quick with an entire recipe. It turns out her husband, Josh, created his own bourbon cocktail that they sip at home and can’t get enough of. Now we get to enjoy it for ourselves! (Thanks for sharing your magic elixir with us, Josh!)
Jenny and I made this delicious craft cocktail together. I can attest: it is delicious. You bourbon lovers out there are gonna love this one.
So, dust off your rocks glass and get ready to embibe with us!
Cheers!
P.S. Did you know that every week when I launch a new episode of the Happiest Hour, I release an Instagram reel of my guests and me making our recipes? Check out Jenny and me mixing up the Bourbon Cowboy Twist here!
Try this Easy Dessert…
Trust me on this: you don’t need a lot of culinary skill to master these delicious donuts. If I can do it, YOU can do it. These were a big hit with my in-laws on Thanksgiving. They might just become our family’s new fall tradition! Here’s the recipe for the easy weekend recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode. Give them a try for yourself!
Vanilla Bourbon Apple Cider Donuts
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 02 - The Importance of Keeping it Super Real - Jenny Gill
Today, you see Cyndi Thomson's luxury jewelry dripping off superstars like Lizzo, Lauren Alaina, Natalie Hemby (of the Highwomen) and Kimberly Paisley. Did you know that Cyndi was on the verge of superstardom herself with a hit radio single and gold album, My World?
Cyndi made the difficult decision to walk away from the music business as her star was on the rise. In this episode, we talk about how walking away from one thing means walking towards something else. And what a beautiful, big life she walked into!
Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch the live interview on YouTube!