Cynthia and Josie's Unmentionables

Join Cynthia and Josie as they reflect on their recent live podcast, personal challenges, and societal issues. They explore topics like mental health, relationships, masculinity, and societal expectations, offering honest insights and engaging stories.   Keywords:  mental health, OCD, relationships, masculinity, societal expectations, personal growth, podcast reflections  sound  bites "OCD is thoughts that ruminate and scare you." "Believe all women can be potentially dangerous." "Choosing to stay in a marriage is unmentionable." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Live Podcast Experience 02:21 Understanding OCD and Personal Struggles 08:30 Support Systems and Community 10:47 Exploring Male Vulnerability and Bromances 13:03 Navigating Weight Concerns in Friendships 16:01 The Complexity of Believing Women 20:11 Reassessing Career Goals and Life Choices 24:47 The Unmentionable Choice to Stay in Marriage

  On May 8, 2026, we did our very first live podcast event at The Rec Room as part of the Departure Festival  and honestly, we had no idea what to expect. We showed up nervous, convinced there was a chance nobody would come, and instead almost sold the place out. The energy in the room was unbelievable from the second the night started. Huge thank you to Derek from The Social (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=2) for getting the crowd going before we hit the stage, and thank you to every single person who came out and made the night feel so special. We also gave away some incredible prizes and want to send a massive thank you to Naughty NorthOtherShip  and Fairmont Royal York  This episode is the full unedited live podcast from that evening. We hope you have as much fun listening to it as we did being there. We honestly cannot wait to do it again.

Join Cynthia and Josie as they host a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Josie mom, exploring their life as a successful businesswoman, a dedicated mother, and her experiences with health challenges. This episode offers valuable lessons on education, resilience, and the importance of life skills, all wrapped in a warm family story.  Cynthia's mom also joins in from out of town to send some motherly advice and wisdom.  

Cynthia and Josie explore the fascinating world of sex toys, sharing personal stories, industry insights, and practical advice. Featuring Carolyn Eagle, co-owner of Naughty North, the discussion covers innovative products, misconceptions, and the role of sex toys in enhancing intimacy for individuals and couples.keywordssex toys, vibrators, intimacy, sexual health, adult products, sex education, toy safety, couples' intimacy, sex toy innovations, stigma reduction Link To Naughty North:  Naughty North

When it comes to marriage, understanding your partner can make all the difference. Have you ever thought about what questions you should of asked your spouse before taking that big leap? In today’s podcast, we explore 10 essential questions that can help you uncover important insights into your partner’s background, beliefs, and values. 

  This episode explores vulnerability, social dynamics at events, and creative ways to reconnect with community.  One of us stole some money and has absolutely zero regrets!       keywords community, burnout, vulnerability, social events, mental health, connection, podcast     TICKETS TO LIVE PODCAST

Join Cynthia and Josie as they navigate personal stories, anxiety management, and parenting challenges, sharing practical tips and heartfelt insights. Keywords anxiety, parenting, mental health, mindfulness, family travel, coping strategies, podcast Key Topics Anxiety management techniques Parenting children with disabilities Travel planning and anxiety relief Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Departure Festival 02:51 Anxiety and Family Dynamics 06:03 Coping with Anxiety and Mindfulness Techniques 08:51 Challenges of Parenting a Child with Disabilities 12:01 Navigating Mental Health and Medication 14:38 Community and Support for Families 17:36 Exploring Spirituality and Anxiety 20:25 Finding Solutions and Resources 23:40 Conclusion and Call for Suggestions Resources Merlin Bird ID App - https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/  

Join Cynthia and Josie as they share hilarious stories from their recent festival adventures, discuss the challenges of social media, and explore themes of confidence, vulnerability, and the nostalgia for the 90s. This episode is a candid look at life, love, and the importance of staying true to oneself.     Keywords:, comedy, life stories, confidence, social media, nostalgia, 90s, mental health, authenticity,  Juno's Juno's and hangover experiences The impact of social media comments and online hate Women’s confidence and default humility Nostalgia for the 90s and cultural trends Balancing authenticity and privacy in sharing stories   Sound Bites "Guess which one of us is hungover" "People comment on how you look in those outfits" "Music was everything to me in the 90s"       DEPARTURE TICKETS: Our first live podcast!!!!!! Departure Tickets

Dr. Jen Gunter- OB/Gyn and New York Times bestselling author of The Vagina Bible and The Menopause Manifesto - joins us to cut through the noise around midlife health. From hormones and peptides to weight gain to desire and everything in between, we unpack what’s real, what’s hype, and what women actually need to know. If you’ve been feeling confused (or quietly skeptical), this episode is your no-nonsense guide to midlife clarity. Subscribe to Jen’s Substack, The Vajenda: https://vajenda.substack.com  

We were too busy passing a cold back and forth to record, so this one’s arriving a little late. Sorry (not sorry). This week: a shopping standoff when we both want the same thing (who gets dibs?), another instalment of Cynthia’s ongoing sauna saga, and your questions about meeting your heroes and screen time for kids.   It’s chaotic, it’s meandering, and it’s exactly where you want to be.   Hold Me Tight:======  HOLD ME TIGHT BOOK

Cynthia and Josie as they navigate personal stories, relationship dynamics, health journeys, and pop culture, offering insights and humour along the way.   key topics The impact of couples therapy on communication and understanding Parenting challenges and strategies for cooperation Health journeys and weight management insights Pop culture reflections and conspiracy theories Personal stories of growth, resilience, and humour    

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are everywhere, there in doctors’ offices, group chats, and comment sections. For some, they’re life-changing. For others, they raise uncomfortable questions about body image, privilege, and the pressure to be thin at any cost. But what doesn’t get talked about enough is what happens when you stop. In this episode, Brianne Cail opens up about her decision to start Ozempic and Mounjaro for health reasons and followed when she had to come off them. From the financial strain to the physical and emotional impact, we unpack the realities people don’t always share out loud. Because the truth about weight, money, and medical choice? It’s more complicated than a before-and-after photo. Ozempic, Monjaro, weight loss, body image, food noise, health, personal journey, societal standards, emotional impact, medication THE KIT ARTICLE    

 Cynthia and Jose catch up on their lives, discussing everything from Cynthia's new bangs to the challenges of parenting and anxiety. They reflect on the pressures of caregiving, the inevitability of grief, and the cultural perceptions of aging and desirability. The conversation takes a turn towards conspiracy theories, particularly focusing on the Epstein files, and raises concerns about AI and personal safety. They also share humorous anecdotes about home renovations and personal life, including a funny story about sex toys. The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and questions.   parenting, anxiety, grief, aging, attraction, conspiracy theories, Epstein, AI, home renovations, sex toys   LINKS: Josie Shoots A Gun  Epstein Files: Making Sense Of The Conspiracy Theories

Have you ever heard  of mindfulness in the bedroom?  If your body is having sex your mind should come to the party as well.    Dr. Lori Brotto is a researcher, psychologist and also the author of Better Sex Through Mindfulness: How Women Can Cultivate Desire.  Dr Brotto discusses how mindfulness practices can enhance sexual desire and arousal. Links: BETTER SEX THROUGH MINDFULNESS Mindfulness recordings:RECORDINGS

In this conversation, Cynthia and Josie talk to Dr. Corinne Low and explore the challenges women face in balancing work, family, and personal fulfillment. Dr. Low shares her personal journey of burnout and the systemic issues that contribute to gender inequality in the workplace and home. They discuss the importance of redefining success, the economic implications of traditional family structures, and the need for women to invest in their careers while navigating modern relationships. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of agency and strategic decision-making in achieving personal and professional goals Takeaways Cynthia shares her story of burnout and transformation. Dr. Low discusses the gendered experience of work and home. Women often do more housework and childcare, even as breadwinners. Marriage may not be beneficial for successful women. Women need to be strategic about their careers and workplace contributions. The traditional family structure has not evolved with women's roles. Economic insecurity is a significant concern for women leaning out. Investing in education and career is crucial for financial independence. Redefining success is essential for personal fulfillment. The conversation around men's roles in relationships needs to shift.   "Your job is never gonna love you back." "We need a partner, not just a paycheck." "I want to lie down, not lean in."  

In this episode, Cynthia and Jose explore the chaos of recent snowstorms, the turbulence of American politics, and how we can find hope amid uncertainty. Join us for a candid conversation about current events, societal divisions, and small acts of resistance.   Key Topics:   The impact of the snowstorm in Toronto and the personal stories around commuting and hotel stays The political unrest in the United States, including police violence, protests, and media narratives How social media shapes perceptions of real-world events and their influence on public opinion The importance of psychological resilience and taking breaks from overwhelming news cycles The role of global issues like Iran, Gaza, and conflicts in the Congo in global consciousness and personal coping How economic actions, such as consumer boycotts, could potentially influence political change The significance of supporting Canadian businesses and mindful consumption Reflections on cultural icons like Prince and the power of music in social movements The importance of community gatherings and quiet revolutions in times of crisis   Timestamps:   00:00 - Introduction: coping with Toronto's #Snowmageddon and personal snow stories 02:34 - Hotel stays and human connections during winter storms 04:36 - Managing city chaos: snow and emotional resilience 09:02 - Political unrest: Police violence, media narratives, and public reactions 10:37 - The symbolism of George Floyd and ongoing racial tensions 13:30 - Global crises: Iran, Gaza, and the challenge of processing worldwide suffering 14:57 - The power of consumer activism and boycotts as protest tools 16:25 - Music and culture as catalysts for social movements 17:12 - Community vigils and hope for change in turbulent times 21:00 - Personal fears about immigration policies and staying safe 22:28 - The importance of unshakable stance when confronting political bullies 23:09 - How media platforms and public discourse influence political power 25:13 - Supporting Canadian businesses and mindful shopping strategies 26:29 - The idea of quiet revolutions and collective hope 26:52 - The upcoming discussion about "Heated Rivalry" and the importance of cultural narratives   Resources & Links:   [Heated Rivalry - Show](https://www.netflix.com/title/801(episode-specific link)) Prince - The Revolution The New York Times Podcast on US Police Violence Canadian Resiliency Network The Daily Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-daily/id1200361736?i=1000746678634 Nurses Union statement: https://nursesunions.ca/statement-on-the-killing-of-minnesota-nurse-alex-pretti/ Buy Canadian!! https://buycanadiangroup.ca Connect with Cynthia Loyst:   LinkedIn Twitter   Connect with Jose:   Twitter Personal Website Stay informed, stay safe, and remember to take breaks from the chaos with moments of quiet reflection.            

The episode delves into various aspects of sex and relationships, including discussions on intimacy, dating trends like "Shrekking," and personal anecdotes about maintaining a healthy sex life.  We share candid stories about intimacy, dating, while also exploring new dating terms and trends.   Keywords perimenopause, relationships, intimacy, social media trends, dating, sex life, Shrekking, modern love, personal stories, intimacy tips

In this podcast episode, Josie and Cynthia discuss the importance of 'shooting your shot' in various aspects of life, including personal relationships and career opportunities. They reflect on their own experiences with taking risks, the role of confidence, and the balance between luck and skill in achieving success. The conversation also touches on the significance of encouragement and belief from others, as well as the importance of aligning one's life with personal values. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with the podcast.   Link To Values Article: Click Here   Inconsistency in podcasting can be challenging but is part of life. Shooting your shot means taking risks in relationships and career. Confidence can lead to opportunities, but it can also be misplaced. Luck plays a significant role in success, often more than skill. Reese Witherspoon's career choices highlight the importance of believing in oneself. Encouragement from others can propel you forward in your career. Understanding your core values is essential for authentic living. You can't rely on others for your future; take charge of your path. Aligning your life with your values leads to greater satisfaction. Engaging with your audience can enhance the podcast experience.  

If you have a closet full of clothes, but “nothing” you ever want to wear, you’re going to want to listen to this episode. Stylist Suzanne Colmer (owner of Your Shop Girl, teaches us how to uncover our personal style profile, how to build a wardrobe that actually works for us, why we should resist falling for all the sales right now, and so much more. Let’s help you get rid the (fashion) skeletons in your closet to kick off the new year.    Where To Find Suzanne Colmer: WebsiteInstagram

This week on Cynthia and Josie’s Unmentionables, we get real. Cynthia shares what it’s been like carrying grief through the holidays and how loss has a way of showing up when you least expect it. We talk honestly about grief, what helps, what doesn’t, and how you keep going when things feel heavy. And because this is our show, it’s not all serious. Somehow the conversation drifts into relationships, intimacy, and yes, even lesbian sex, proving that humor and connection can exist right alongside hard moments. It’s thoughtful, heartfelt, a little unexpected, and very us. If you’ve ever needed a reminder that laughter and healing can coexist, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Cynthia and Josie’s Unmentionables, we speak with award winning journalist and TSN reporter Rick Westhead about Canadian hockey culture and the systems that shape young boys in sport. Rick Westhead is the journalist who broke the 2022 Hockey Canada World Junior sexual assault allegations story. His book, We Breed Lions Confronting Canada’s Troubled Hockey Culture, examines junior hockey in Canada, locker room dynamics, hazing rituals, and the lack of accountability that has allowed harmful behaviour to persist. We discuss how hockey has become deeply tied to Canadian identity, particularly in Ontario, Toronto, and communities across Canada, and why questioning hockey culture can provoke such intense backlash. Rick also reflects on social media harassment, power, masculinity, and the personal cost of investigating sport at the highest levels. The conversation explores how minor hockey and elite junior leagues operate, how secrecy and humiliation are normalized, and why real change has been so difficult. At the same time, Rick highlights programs in Hamilton Ontario and across Canada that are teaching consent, healthy masculinity, and leadership through sport. Proceeds from We Breed Lions support organizations including the London Abused Women’s Centre, the Toronto Rape Crisis Centre, and Canadian Tire Jumpstart, helping combat gender based violence and improve access to sport. This episode is essential listening for parents, coaches, athletes, and anyone invested in the future of hockey in Canada.

Cynthia and Josie sit down for an honest, feel-good conversation about parenting, growth, and figuring it all out as they go. They share stories about big kid emotions, favourite mantras, and lessons from the past year; plus why empathy, reflection, and soaking up time with loved ones matter more than ever. It’s real, relatable, and full of heart.   Takeaways Cynthia's son expressed a profound realization about time and relationships. Listening to children during moments of distress can lead to meaningful conversations. Mantras can serve as guiding principles in life. Confusion does not equate to being lost or behind in life. Reflecting on the past year can reveal unexpected accomplishments. Teaching children about empathy and giving is crucial. Conversations about difficult topics can strengthen parent-child relationships. Personal growth often comes from navigating grief and loss. Finding joy in everyday moments is essential for happiness. The importance of self-awareness in managing ambitions and expectations. Questions To Ask Yourself: 1. If this past year was a movie, what was the genre and what was the basic synopsis? 2. What moments in 2025 made me feel most alive? 3. Where did I grow the most? 4. How did I really spend my time and energy? 5. Who shaped this year with me? 6. If I had to name the one thing I’m most proud of this year, what would it be and why? 7. On a scale of 1-10...how would I honestly rate my happiness or sense of contentment this year and what influenced that number most? 8. What surprised me the most this year? 9. As I look toward the year ahead, what would be the highest, wisest use of my talents and attention?

In this episode, we sit down with W5’s Avery Haines to talk about her powerful investigation into a global online network of men who secretly drug, assault, and film their own partners and then share that abuse with others. Avery walks us through how she infiltrated this hidden world, what she uncovered, and the shocking truth about predators operating in plain sight.   Links: W5 CTV NEWS

TIFF season means red carpets, champagne, and… high school flashbacks? We spill on the not-so-glam side of “exclusive” parties, social awkwardness among celebs, and why we’re fine never being the cool kids, because you can always sit with us. SEO keywords: celebrity events, TIFF, influencer life, red carpet stories, social anxiety


Recently, The New York Times profiled a woman who fell in love with her ChatGPT persona - a charming digital guy named Leo. Which got us thinking: are frictionless AI relationships the future? Meanwhile, we’re over here navigating very real relationship friction. So we’re sharing our best (and weirdest) strategies to smooth things out - including why treating your partner like a tiny child might actually… work? We can’t wait to hear what you think. Link to NYT article: NYTIMES ARTICLE 

According to Self magazine, work should only take up 25% of our time. Cute idea… but how does that actually work for ambitious people like us? Is it possible to hustle with intention? Or do we all just need a full-on ambition detox given the state of… well, everything? In this season four kickoff, we explain why it’s taken us so freaking long to come back, how you can reclaim your 5–9, and yes - we’re also talking about the Blue Jays (because balance).

Recently actress Jamie Lee Curtis shared some pretty strong feelings she has regarding cosmetic interventions that have become increasingly prevalent among women of (practically) all ages. So we decided to share our thoughts on what we will or won’t do, and whether these advancements are progressive or regressive. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this!

  As many of you know, we had a hard time putting this podcast out…first Josie got hit by a rogue baseball and ended up with a concussion. When she was finally feeling okay, we sat down together and somehow ended up in a conversation about the state of the world. If you’re feeling heavy and unsure about how to help in these complicated times, we are right there with you.   Here are some places we are donating to:   Save The Children: https://donate.savethechildren.ca/site/Donation2?3580.donation=form1&df_id=3580&mfc_pref=T&s_src=google_pmax&s_subsrc=gaza_pmax_ad&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=21020103255&utm_term=&utm_content=gaza_googlepmax&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22665097113&gbraid=0AAAAADyLAB-QbBmjmVP6-Ho3j9sg-nxmu&gclid=CjwKCAjwqKzEBhANEiwAeQaPVf7LGP-y4_MW2cFKvit2iqAn-vdM0CJf3kvBLVXTYLR_TrwwHtWkmBoCNdMQAvD_BwE   The Palestine Children’s Relief fund: https://www.pcrf.net/about-us   World Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/news/gaza-update-7-25?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwL4QRlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp-8FpzIaa-FzEP7h0B2qZ8M9reMuEyZkmaeZQLFCh-xJkAM9I3mviSiagyae_aem_XUQVnX44lCxu7RXW8lTbqQ   Beyond Borders: https://beyondborders.ie/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwL4Qe5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp3EgF8whYRkFQwNphR2d7Ga8SJlNQSX31EKTrKl69SG5OodPPlSPwGvhFqmY_aem_d7M6UXWe7Bp6UTaBs6-jCg.   Donate To Plan International

If you’re like us, you’re probably thinking about time in a big way these days. If you are juggling midlife and aging children/parents - rest assured you are not alone. In this episode we discuss how our attempts at trying to make everyone else happy leaves us feeling deeply unsatisfied, whether or not marital crushes are a deal breaker, and why it’s not too late to figure out what you want the rest of your year (and life) to feel like.  

Yes the world is on fire and on top of that we are in the heat of perimenopause. In the episode, we talk about premenstrual mood swings, random weight gain and that feeling that you are becoming invisible (until someone randomly hits on you). We also analyze Josie’s claim that she’s “face blind” (is that a thing?). It’s a rambling/meandering episode that we hope feels like we are sitting in your living room with you.    Link to Trevor Noah talking about the village  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKbuxcBIze1/?igsh=YjB4bTNyd2NwdWht     Sit Test https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ghuq5AMt7vc

You know him from The Kids In The Hall, or his work on SNL, or from his adorably weird live shows. He is gloriously unhinged and quietly profound… and completely Canadian. We chat with Bruce McCulloch about his career, the challenges of working in comedy today, cancel culture and so much more. Links: For more info on Bruce and his upcoming shows visit:https://bruciomcculloch.com If you want to revisit some Kids In The Hall: The Daves I Know https://youtu.be/8nvzEqsZIGo?si=Ymyn67mAFf4ZcVU-   Running F****t https://youtu.be/b-TtfMLGnok?si=949d9h5ASnfgghvG   My pen https://youtu.be/yQ1pO-tZbYA?si=nfJ1RqySh3J42Dkd Love & Sausages:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ChvxsVgT8c Each day we work:Kids In The Hall - Each Day We Workyoutu.be Kathy the secretary:Kids in the Hall - Secretaries - Is he?youtu.be Stalking - a film by Bruce on SNLhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEEqjnl3Z1I Bulges is on Crave:   ST BULGES DAY | Full Episode | Streaming Now on Craveyoutu.be Lisa Gilroy :Most Liked Scenes From Fans - Jury Dutyyoutu.be

We’re not sure if it’s because we are getting older or because the world feels really off its kilter right now but we’ve been thinking a lot about our belief systems and what happens…after this all ends. The interesting thing is that more and more science is supporting ideas that were once considered the realm of weird. From telepathy to past lives to visions of Buddha, we can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this one!   In notes: Sailing Around The World With His Cat:  @Sailing_with_phoenix The Telepathy Tapes: Telepathy Tapes

Toronto's own Cynthia and Josie dive deep into the pain, chaos and unexpected gifts of breakups, the kind that leave you crying in your car, texting your ex, or googling soulmate signs at 3am.  In this raw and honest episode, we talk: Why breakups feel like grief Should you wallow in the saddness How to move on Breakup rules we live by How to come out ahead Whether you're in ti, over it, or bakc in bed with them again, this one is for you.  

Shannon lost her entire adolescence after enduring years of sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather. In this deeply moving episode, Shannon opens up about her painful past, her path to recovery, and how she turned her experiences into a driving force for advocacy and empowerment. All parents need to listen to this episode.   To follow Shannon Burns on social media @itsshannonburns.   A guide for sexual assault survivors - Canada.ca   Resources for survivors | Define the Line - McGill University

f you're raising a tween or teen right now, chances are someone in your orbit has mentioned Adolescence — the British four-part drama that follows the fictional story of a 13-year-old boy accused of stabbing a teenage girl. At its core, the series asks a chilling question: could any boy be pulled into the world of online radicalization and incel culture? This episode, we unpack the show’s provocative themes and the cultural conversations it’s sparked — from fears about the manosphere to whether we’re in the middle of a new teen panic, or just the latest iteration of one. We also talk honestly about what it’s like raising boys in a world that feels increasingly angry and confusing. And we really want to hear your thoughts, too.   For more information about “Adolescence”: https://time.com/7267884/adolescence-netflix-explained/   Send us your thoughts and feelings on Instagram @cynthiaandjosie or email us at hello@cynthiaandjosie.com

In this episode, we’re getting real about navigating long-term relationships with a little help from couples therapy. From dealing with the daily irritations to keeping the spark alive, we share practical tips on how to communicate better without sounding like you’re reading from a manual. If you’re in a long-term relationship (or thinking about it), tune in for some honest, relatable advice on how to survive—and thrive—together.     **Please note: we think therapy with real humans is best but if you can’t afford or just want some instant advice, check out: https://deepai.org/chat/relationships   If you loved this episode or any others, please send to your friends and tell them to subscribe to our podcast!! :)   Also, we love hearing from you! Send your comments, questions and queries to hello@cynthiaandjosie.com.    And we hope you will follow us on IG @cynthiaandjosie.

Josie had a work trip to a gorgeous Bahamian resort, and of course, Cynthia tagged along as her ‘plus one’ (because who wouldn’t?). What followed was a perfect mix of sun, sand, laughter, tears, and enough snoring to make the ocean sound like a lullaby.   For more information on where we stayed, visit Sandals Royal Bahamian       We were also one of the featured podcasts on @applepodcasts grid for #internationalwomensday2025. Let’s keep celebrating women all month long by supporting more female led podcasts!! We would love it if you share your favourite episodes with a friend :)   Also follow us on social media @cynthiaandjosie and if you feel compelled to write us an amazing review, click here and scroll to the bottom!   Click Here To Leave A Review

  A decade ago, lifestyle expert and bestselling author Debbie Travis swapped her fast-paced career as a television host for a quieter life in a crumbling 13th-century farmhouse in Tuscany, where she now hosts transformative wellness retreats. In this episode, we dive into her latest book, Laugh More—a hilarious, heartfelt collection of real-life stories—and explore themes of following your dreams, trusting your intuition, and taking bold risks in pursuit of your passions.   For more information on Debbie, her books and her retreats, visit : https://debbietravis.com/  

One ordinary morning, radio personality Taylor Kaye was getting ready for her day when her husband suffered a sudden stroke. In a matter of hours, everything changed—he could no longer walk or speak. In this episode, Taylor shares the moment she realized what was happening, her journey through the healthcare system, the challenges of raising her daughters while her husband is in a care home, and the lessons she’s learned along the way—including what she wishes she had known before.   If you want to contact Taylor, message her at taylorkaye.com   Thank you so much for listening.  Don't forget to message us at Hello@cynthiaandjosie.com

  Ready to level up your love life in 2025? Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we give you a totally non-scientific and completely arbitrary list of what’s “in” and what’s “out” in the world of sex this year. From hand jobs to mindful sex – if you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your v-day – this is the episode for you.  Hit play now and share this episode with a friend who needs a spicy Valentine's upgrade!  What's your take?  Do you agree with our INs and OUTs?  Drop your thoughts in the comments or DM us at @cynthiaandjosie     Thanks so much for listening Canada, if you know anyone in the US...send this along.      Recorded in Toronto/Product of Canada 

We’re so grateful for you! Thank you for your patience and for tuning in. If you ever have feedback or thoughts, feel free to reach out to us at hello@cynthiaandjosie.com. Just a small favour: before hitting “send” on anything heated or full of vitriol, take a deep breath—our nervous systems thank you in advance for that!   If you’re feeling generous, we’d absolutely love it if you left us a positive review on Apple Music! It’s super easy—just click here (APPLE) and scroll to the bottom.   And for those of you in the GTA, if you’re curious whether you’re more of a Josie or a Cynthia at Othership, they’ve kindly shared some discount codes for us to pass along:   OTHERSHIP • Discount code: PLEASURE 11% off intro 2 week, intro 3 pack, single drop-in, 5, 10, 25, and 50 class packs. Can be used once per person, applicable at the Toronto locations.• 2 for 1 Offer: OFFER Offer for first timers; two visits for the price of one, applicable at the Toronto location• 1 month free Othership breathwork app: APP     Thank you for listening, thank you for being patient.  WE ARE BACK FOR SEASON 3!

If you’ve noticed more urine leaks and accidents since you hit (peri)menopause, you are definitely not alone. Declining levels of hormones, especially estrogen, can affect your continence. The impact can range from an inconvenience to a devastating effect on quality of life. But it doesn’t have to!  In honour of World Menopause Month we are answering all your questions all about incontinence during menopause with Dr Sheila Wijayasinghe.  Please Note: - All opinions and recommendations are Dr. Sheila’s - TENA is not offering medical advice - The content we shared is for informational purposes only, you must always consult your physician for recommendations and treatments adapted to your specific needs To learn more, visit www.tena.ca

Well we made it!! Thanks for sticking with us and sharing all of your wonderful thoughts during this season. We need a bit of a break but we hope you will enjoy this last episode of the season where we answer all of YOUR burning questions.  Topics range from parenting challenges to relationship challenges to everything in between. **IMPORTANT NOTE: If you heard the episode "If It Can Happen To Her, If Can Happen To You" then you know Shannon's story.   We recently learned that Shannon's son had a severe bike accident. It has been a complete emotional collapse for her family and a catastrophic life change for her son.   Please open the link below and support or share if you can. https://gofund.me/9a075c59.   Our hearts are with her and her family.   xoxo This is the last episode of Season 2.  We will be back.  Thank you for listening and being part of our lives every single week.   We are taking a much needed break but we can't wait to talk again soon. In the meantime stay tuned to our social media pages. With Love, Cynthia and Josie  P.S. A tiny treat for people in Toronto or in the surrounding areas: Cynthia's favourite place, Othership is offering our community, 11% off the 2 week intro offer as well as the 3 pack, single drop-in as well as class packs.  It can be used one time per person and is for the Toronto locations only. Cynthia highly recommends the 2 week all you can use offer (CODE IS: PLEASURE:)

Do you fear sneezing and having a little pee come out? Have you found yourself worried if you laugh too hard at a movie that you might leave a wet spot behind? Incontinence is a very common experience that is unfortunately still a HUGE unmentionable.  🎙On this week’s episode, we talk with urogynecologist Dr. Dana Soroka about the different kinds of incontinence and what can be done to help those experience it, live life without compromise. We also answer YOUR questions about it.  This episode is in partnership with @tena.canada, a global leader in incontinence solutions. Please Note: - All opinions and recommendations are Dr. Soroka’s - TENA is not offering medical advice. - The content we shared is for informational purposes only, you always must consult your physician for recommendations and treatments adapted to your specific needs. To learn more, visit www.tena.ca #Incontinence #Unmentionables #CynthiaAndJosie’sUnmentionables #Podcasts #Partner #TENACanada #Urology #BladderLeakage

Are you feeling extra crusty/crispy lately? Ruminating over things when you should be sleeping?  On the brink of tears at any given moment? Josie recently has been feeling this way and she thinks it’s something called “busy depression”. Cynthia thinks it’s closer to burnout. So if you’re wondering if what you’re feeling is hormones, stress, “busy depression”, burnout or some combination- this is the mini group therapy session for you. Cynthia also goes through her 3-step beginning of burnout formula that might help if you ever find yourself on fire.  NOTES: In case you missed them, here are the links to our previous episodes on burnout: (add links here) Also, if you’re in the Toronto area and want to check out one of Cynthia’s favourite places for calm, you can get 11% off credit packages at Othership. Code: PLEASURE. (This can only be used on credit packages & one time per person.) https://www.othership.us

How can you get over heartbreak? Should you have breakup sex? Can you truly be friends with an ex? You asked and we answered (Josie even cracks open her high school diary). It’s an entire episode on everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask when it comes to former lovers and flames. 

What if your deepest secret was an addiction? To the outside world, Shannon McKinnon seemed like the epitome of success: a loving husband, a thriving career in television, and two beautiful children. But behind closed doors, she was waging a silent war with heroin addiction. In this episode, Shannon shares her journey from battling chronic pain to slipping into addiction, losing her home, job, and marriage, and nearly her life. Listen as she reveals how she found the strength to rebuild and emerge more grateful than ever.

So last episode on home vs hospital births inspired a lot of heated conversations! Many of you expressed how surprising it was to hear close friends completely disagree with each other. With that in mind, we decided to try to unpack some of the reasons why it often feels like everyone is fighting these days (even with those who share the same views!). We also discuss how fear and trauma impacts our ability to listen deeply and why we should all start assuming the best instead of the worst of each other.  More information about Daryl Davis: https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/accidental-courtesy/ NYT ARTICLE: What if Instead of Calling People Out, We Called Them In? https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/19/style/loretta-ross-smith-college-cancel-culture.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare&sgrp=c-cb

We generally get along about most things. But once we had a discussion and realized that there is a topic we totally disagree on: where to give birth. We unpack our radically different birth stories and debate the pros and cons of home vs hospital births on this heated episode (proving you can still be friends with people you don’t always agree with!) For more information on Hypnobirthing if you’re interested: https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/hypnobirthing#methods For more information about Elaine Welteroth and her charity, follow @birthfund Here’s also an article written by her on Black maternal health: https://time.com/6249274/elaine-welteroth-midwifery-care-maternal-health/ And if you’re interested, check out episode 5 of For The Culture, called “The Standard Of Care”:  https://gem.cbc.ca/for-the-culture-with-amanda-parris Lancet Article : Home birth—proceed with caution Home Births Proceed With Caution

Psychologists are increasingly saying that focusing on yourself is more likely to lead to a happy life. So what if instead of trying to find your “other half” you instead decide to make yourself whole. In this episode we chat with Andrea Bain, author of Single Girl Problems: Why Being Single Isn’t A Problem To Be Solved about how to reframe and embrace solo living.  To get a copy of Andrea’s book, click this link: https://www.amazon.ca/Single-Girl-Problems-Problem-Solved/dp/1459739094 If you are interested in Othership, the fine folks there have offered our listeners 11% off credit packages by using the Code: PLEASURE.  **This can only be used on credit packages & one time per person.  Just download the booking app https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/othership-booking-app/id1604297378 And if you can share your favourite podcasts with your network or community- we would be forever in your debt. And if you send us a nice note we will show it on social media!