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I’m back with a solo episode where we’re getting real about speaking up and navigating life when things feel a bit, well, wild. I might not be the loudest voice in the room, but I’m here to get vocal about the things that matter – setting boundaries, getting involved, and staying true to yourself when the world wants you to shrink.
Key Takeaways:
• Finding & Using Your Voice: Speaking up isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. I’m sharing how to use your voice effectively, whether it’s at work, with friends, or out in the community. Change doesn’t happen if we stay silent.
• Boundaries, But Make It Real: Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” – it’s about knowing what you stand for and holding firm even in tough conversations. I’m breaking down how I keep things real with people who see the world differently.
•Local Change, Big Impact: Want to make a difference? Start small. I talk about the power of getting involved locally, supporting causes that align with your values, and why small actions matter more than we think.
•The Magic of Storytelling & Listening: It’s not all about shouting from the rooftops – sometimes it’s about sharing your story and truly listening to others. I explore how personal experiences can inspire change and build connection.
• Self-Care While Speaking Out: No one said making a difference was easy. I get into why taking care of yourself while you’re out there speaking up is crucial. Because burnout? We’re not doing that.
•Community is Key: Remember, you’re not doing this alone.
Connect with Me Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheick for more relatable takes, and a community that’s all about real talk and real change. Let’s keep it going!
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Disney movies taught us to dream big about love—but did those dreamy storylines secretly mess us up? This week, Ditch the Ick dives into how Disney’s fairytales may have warped our expectations for real-life relationships. AND we have a special guest back on the mic: my bestie, Jersey! Together, we’re peeling back the layers of “happily ever after” to figure out what Disney got wrong (and maybe what it got a little right).
Highlights:
The Disney Effect: How movies convinced us that love should be instant, magical, and oh-so-easy.
Unrealistic Standards: Why expecting a Prince Charming might have us missing out on real, messy love.
“Happily Ever After”: Why the fairytale ending is the biggest myth and how to embrace reality.
Red Flags in Disney: Revisiting some classic characters (Prince Eric, we’re talking to you) to see how Disney skipped over some serious relationship icks.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’ve ever found yourself disappointed that love doesn’t look like it does in movies, this one’s for you! Jersey and I are here to ditch the ick and help you reclaim a healthier, more realistic view on love.
Follow me on instagram @dithctheick and Join our facebook community
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Just because Halloween was yesterday doesn't mean spooky season is over. Today’s episode is loaded with dating horror stories—from pancake fails to soulmate wins! Think your dating life’s a circus? Trust me, you’re not alone! Get a sneak peek at upcoming episodes, including an interview with a romance author! And next Friday, Jersey’s back for a Disney-style dating disaster special you won’t wanna miss!
Want more? Join our https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick for community, support, and all things love and life! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Girl Fall Book Club, where we're diving into romance reads that’ll keep you turning pages all season long.
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This week, I sat down with sexuality educator Dakota Ramppen to talk about all things relationships, empowerment, and sexuality. Dakota opens up about her journey from teaching sex-ed to pre-teens to working with adults, and why she believes that empowering parents can create a lasting, positive generational impact. We dive deep into the awkward but crucial world of sex education, discussing why communication, mutual understanding, and self-discovery are at the heart of any strong relationship.Dakota also sheds light on the importance of exploring fantasies and desires with your partner—no shame, no fear.Key Takeaways:The evolution of Dakota’s career from teaching kids to empowering adultsNavigating love, sexuality, and relationships through tough love and honestyWhy self-discovery and open communication are key in relationshipsExploring fantasies and desires in relationships without fear or judgmentCTA:Join us in the Ditch the Ick Facebook Group for more real talk and community support! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Fall Girl Book Club—we’re reading Flawless by Elsie Silver. Tune in on October 31 at 7:45 PM EDT for our next discussion. Let’s dive into these swoon-worthy fall reads together!
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Join the Feral Girl Fall Book Club!
Dive into some smut with the Ditch the Ick Community! Head to www.ditchtheick.com to stay up to date.
This episode:
I’m joined by returning guest and fearless adventurer, Paige Mitchell, as we dive into ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the realities of dating while traveling. We candidly discuss embracing our sexuality, navigating short-term relationships, and finding balance between fun and lasting connections while on the move.
What We Covered:
Embracing Our Feral Girl Fall: Paige and I talked about how our ‘feral phase’ is more about self-discovery and personal exploration rather than seeking validation.
Dating Abroad with Safety in Mind: Paige shared her experiences of dating abroad and we dove into important safety tips for dating while traveling.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Relationships: We discussed the challenges and rewards of forming short-term connections while traveling, and how those experiences differ from the deeper bonds we’re looking for in long-term relationships.
Balancing Feminine and Masculine Energy: Paige and I explored how we balance our feminine and masculine sides in both casual dating and serious relationships. This balance has been a key factor in shaping our romantic and personal experiences.
Ready to embrace your own ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the world of dating abroad? Tune in to this episode and follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for more tips, stories, and advice on dating, relationships, and self-discovery.
Don’t forget to keep up with Paige Mitchell and her adventures by following her on Instagram @beachbabepaige
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Welcome to the one-year anniversary special of Ditch the Ick! I’m taking a bit of a back seat in this episode as my best friend, Jersey, hijacks the show to put me in the hot seat. She’s ready to embarrass me while we celebrate a wild, unforgettable year. From navigating the ups and downs of podcasting to creating this incredible community, it’s been a feral, fun ride, and I can’t wait to reflect on it with all of you.
Jersey and I go way back—we’ve had plenty of adventures together, You know this episode is going to be full of laughs, some cringey memories, and maybe even a few heartfelt moments. Whether you've been with me from the start or you’re a new listener, this is an inside look at how Ditch the Ick has grown and what’s coming next!
Key Takeaways:
Celebrating a year of Ditch the Ick
My personal growth and lessons from podcasting
The hilarious dynamic between me and Melissa
A look back at the best moments of the past year
CTA:
Catch the full story by listening to this special episode! I’d love for you to join me in celebrating this milestone—listen now and share your favorite Ditch the Ick memories with me instagram @ditchtheickpod
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, I’m joined by Cortney Griffy, host of the podcast What the Smut are You Talking About, for a fun and insightful deep dive into the world of smutty romance novels. If you’ve ever been curious about the world of romance sub-genres or unsure where to start, this is your crash course! From cowboys to dark romance, we’re breaking it all down.
What We Covered:
How Cortney Got Into Smut: We kicked things off with Cortney’s story of how she fell into the world of smutty books, starting from her days as an avid reader of Harry Potter and Twilight, to discovering Fifty Shades of Grey, and now diving into dark romance and beyond.
Navigating Romance Sub-Genres: Cortney and I explored the various sub-genres of romance, including:
Cowboy Romance
Dark Romance
Mafia Romance
Billionaire Romance
Small Town Romance
We also clarified some key tropes like "grumpy-sunshine," "fake dating," and "age gap" relationships.
Curious about diving into the smutty romance world? Tune in to this episode for a full Smut 101! Be sure to follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for more tips and discussions. Also, don’t forget to check out Cortney Griffy’s podcast What the Smut are You Talking About @whatthesmutpodcast for more juicy book recs and conversations.
Ready to start your smutty reading journey? Join our Feral Girl Fall Book Club!
Feral Girl Fall IG Lives to discuss each book on the below dates:
10/16: Sinful Vow: An Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance (Mafia Misfits Book 1) - Enemies to lovers, Arranged marriage, Dark mafia
10/30: Flawless: A Small Town Enemies to Lovers Romance - Enemies to lovers, Cowboy
11/14: Pucking Around: A Why Choose Hockey Romance (Jacksonville Rays Book 1) - Why choose, MMFM, RomCom, Queer Awakening
Join FB Group now! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HNNkwsiDqZzzotkd/
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I’m getting real and sharing my personal journey from what I call "Sad B*tch Island" to living out my own rom-com fantasy. From navigating ADHD and financial crises to running a business and dating in this wild world, I’m laying it all out there.
What We Covered:
• Financial Crises and Risk-Taking: Last year, I faced some serious financial struggles, but I’m sharing how learning how to ask for help changed everything. It’s hard being a single b*tch in this economy.
• Embracing the Delulu: Looking back, if someone had told me how things would unfold, I would've thought they were out of their mind!
• Dating Adventures and the Future: Of course, I had to dish out some personal dating stories and share my plans for what’s next. The biggest takeaway? Keep putting yourself out there and trust that amazing things can happen, even if they seem out of reach right now.
Reach out and don’t be afraid to take those risks—sometimes being delulu really is the solulu!
If you’re ready to lean into a little delulu and start making the impossible a reality, this episode is for you! Make sure to follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for all the updates, and stay connected for more episodes where we talk about the highs, lows, and everything in between of this crazy thing called life. Feral Fall Girl Book Club will be rolling real soon! Join the free Patreon or our Facebook group to get in on the action!
Links:
Patreon -
https://www.patreon.com/ditchtheick
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod?igsh=NG1lbzhnaHk5MGJk&utm_source=qr
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, we’re joined by a special guest — The Scotsman! Together, we dive into a hilarious adventure, exploring the wild culture differences between the U.S. and the U.K. Expect stories of epic culture shocks, bizarre encounters with "nutters" and "maniacs", and the legendary devotion to Bucc-ees. With plenty of laughs, witty banter, and unfiltered takes, this episode is a whirlwind of transatlantic chaos you won’t want to miss!
Bonus content on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/DitchtheIck
Connect with Katie:
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/
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My guest this week is Denise Holler. Denise is a Clinical Sexologist and Certified Sex Coach with a passion for enhancing the intimate lives of her clients. She believes in breaking the taboo around sex and providing education in this essential area. Specializing in working with women and couples, Denise addresses various aspects of sex and intimacy, including uneven desire, low libido, body image issues, and enhanced pleasure, all through a holistic approach known as the MEBES model. By evaluating the Mind, Emotions, Body, Energy, and Spirit, she helps individuals and couples unblock areas of concern and achieve alignment for a more fulfilling sexual experience. Denise's mission is to help people rediscover pleasure, gain confidence, and find happiness in the bedroom. Alongside her professional work, she is also an advocate for the Neurodivergent community, as she herself has ADHD and has been working with ADHD coaches for several years.
In this episode, we cover topics ranging from masturbation and body image to communication in the bedroom. It is fascinating to learn about Denise's work helping people overcome issues and fully embrace pleasure.
Connect with Denise:
Email: [email protected]
FB Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/denisehollercoachingllc
Private FB group community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dhcoachingempowered
Denise also works with The Original ADHD Coach https://www.theoriginaladhdcoach.com/
Connect with Katie:
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/
Join the Patreon Party!
https://www.patreon.com/DitchtheIck
Join the Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, I sat down with the incredibly talented Maria Pendolino, a voice actor and TV personality who was even on an episode of one of my favorite shows 'House Hunters'. We dove deep into Maria's unique approach to online dating, and how she finally found her happily ever after—after 97 first dates!
Key Takeaways:
What the early days of online dating looked like
How to stop having pen pals, and start meeting your matches IRL
First date safety tips, tricks, and hacks
Reality vs. Real Life
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for more updates and behind-the-scenes content! And be sure to check out Maria Pendolino’s work by following her on social media @mariapendo and exploring her voice acting projects.
Like this episode? Rate it and leave us a review!
Follow Maria:
https://www.voicebymaria.com/
https://www.instagram.com/mariapendo
https://www.tiktok.com/@mariapendo
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Hey, Ditch the Ick fam! Can you believe we’ve hit 50 episodes? It feels like just yesterday we were diving into our first awkward dating story, and now here we are—50 episodes going strong!In this milestone episode, I’m celebrating all the ups, downs, and everything in between that we’ve shared together.What We Covered:
50 Episodes of Growth
Feral Girl Fall is Here!
Book Club Launch: Yes, you heard it right! We’re launching a book club on Patreon FOR FREE. Keep an eye out for the polls where you can help choose our next read!
Dating insights: We couldn’t celebrate 50 episodes without talking about dating, right?
Call to Action:• If you haven’t already, make sure you’re following us on Instagram @ditchtheickpod to stay in the loop on all things Ditch the Ick. And if you’re as excited about Feral Girl Fall as I am, join the book club and other exclusive content over on Patreon www.patreon.com/ditchtheick
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the amazing Gabriella Borrero, also known as Gabby. She's the founder of the Next Generation Network and a consultant who's passionate about empowering minority female entrepreneurs. Gabby and I go connected at the start of my entrepreneur journey in 2022 through a Facebook group, and I couldn’t wait to have her on the show to share her story.
Here’s What We Covered:
Gabby’s Journey as first-generation American entrepreneur
Moving beyond the “mean girl” mindset and foster genuine, supportive networks
Empowering minority women entrepreneurs
The power of authentic networking
Follow us on Instagram:
@ditchtheickpod – Stay updated on the latest episodes and join our community!
@noplanbconsulting – Connect with Gabby and follow her journey as she continues to empower women entrepreneurs everywhere.
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In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with holistic life coach and world traveler Paige Mitchell. Paige shared her inspiring journey from burnout to living a life filled with intention and purpose. We dove into her personal experiences, including navigating the end of an 11-year relationship, the ups and downs of dating, and her adventurous decision to backpack through 14 countries. We also discussed the importance of self-compassion, self-awareness, and emotional healing, as well as Paige’s top five core values that guide her approach to coaching and life.
We Discussed:
Paige's Journey to Becoming a Life Coach
Navigating Breakups and Emotional Healing
The "Ick" and Overcoming Discomfort
Living in the Present and Pursuing Dreams
Connect with Paige Mitchell:
Follow Paige on Instagram: @paigemitchell.coach
Listen to her podcast, Paige’s Lessons, for more insights on self-compassion and living with purpose.
Join the 'Ditch the ick' Community!
Follow us on Instagram: @ditchtheickpod
Let’s build a community where we can support each other through the ups and downs of single life!
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In this episode, I’m spilling all the details on how I managed to travel through Europe this summer without breaking the bank! From scoring free accommodation with the Trusted House Sitters app to finding last-minute deals on food and trains, I’m sharing all my favorite budget travel hacks. I’ll also dive into the best transportation apps and services I used across the UK, offering tips on how to navigate public transit, payment options, and more.
If you're planning a trip or just love hearing about smart travel strategies, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you save big on your next adventure. Plus, I’m giving away my personal trip planning spreadsheet and announcing upcoming episodes with special guests Paige Mitchell and Gabby Barrero!
What You'll Hear:
Accommodation Tips:
How I saved around $3,500 using the Trusted House Sitters app.
Why I might choose longer stays in one area next time to reduce travel stress.
Transportation Insights:
Must-have apps and services for navigating the UK – especially London.
Learn from my mistakes
My favorite tricks for cutting costs on transit.
Safety and Planning:
The importance of sharing your travel itinerary with friends and family.
How to get my trip planning spreadsheet to help organize your own travels.
Upcoming Episodes:
Get ready for exciting conversations with Paige Mitchell and Gabby Barrero, where we’ll dive deeper into travel, personal growth, and more.
Stay Connected: Make sure to follow the podcast on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for travel tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review—it helps the show grow and reach more listeners!
Click here to view the resources I shared in this episode:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG3SOmVCG0qG0vdliJ8TkRlbzoC3x0CDBH2h9CqRzpc/edit?usp=sharing
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Get ready for a full recap of my wild and wonderful summer adventures across Europe. From the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland to the bustling streets of London and the charming vibes of Whitegate, Ireland, I experienced it all. Along the way, I faced some unexpected challenges and had a few memorable moments in part one, I reflect on how these experiences have enriched my life and what it's been like adjusting back to reality in America. Get ready for part two next week where I share lessons learned, my travel secret weapons, and more!
Special Announcements:
Community Connection:
Follow the podcast on Instagram for updates, travel tips, and to be part of our supportive community.
Feel free to ask me any questions about my travels or the podcast through our website, social media or email.
Book Club Discussion:
I’m excited to announce a book club discussion on "The Ethical Slut." Tune in to hear my thoughts and join the conversation by sharing yours on social media.
Stay in Touch: Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform.
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Shownotes:
Join Abby O'Sullivan and me as we chat about our dating lives and how podcasting fits into the mix. We talk about the ups and downs of online communication, navigating the beauty industry, and the lessons we've learned along the way. We also dive into why self-awareness, setting boundaries, and keeping an open mind are so crucial in relationships. Plus, we share how our podcasts have helped us grow personally and connect with our awesome community.
What You'll Hear: Dating Tips from Abby:
Why knowing yourself is key.
The importance of setting boundaries.
How past relationships taught her to put her needs first.
My Take:
Understanding yourself before jumping into a relationship.
Being real about why you're using dating apps.
Avoiding those daydreams about perfect partners.
Chat Highlights:
How podcasting and dating intertwine.
The challenges of online communication and the beauty world.
Using our podcasts for personal growth and community building.
Stay in Touch: Follow us on social media, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!
Follow Ditch The Ick Podcast on Instagram @ditchtheickpod
Follow Abby on Instagram @itsme.abbyo
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In this powerful episode, I'm joined by my wonder podcast manager and dear dear friend Sarah K. Heeter.. Sarah opens up about her path to self-discovery and healing, sharing invaluable insights and practical advice for anyone dealing with similar struggles.
Key Topics Covered:
Understanding Relationship Trauma
Sarah's candid account of her experiences and the impact of relationship trauma on her life.
Strategies for Healing
Self-Discovery and Growth
Advice for Listeners
Additional Resources:
While this episode doesn't specifically speak to domestic abuse, we wanted to provide some resources:
https://www.thehotline.org/ Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) Text "START" to 88788
https://ifs-institute.com/store/37
a safe place to land podcast
Connect with Sarah:
https://www.instagram.com/sarahkheeter
https://bigbravebusiness.com/
https://www.podfoxmedia.com/book-now
Check out my Patreon: patreon.com/ditchtheick. Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for more Europe updates!
Social Media and Contact:
Instagram: @ditchtheickpod
Email: [email protected]
Patreon: https://patreon.com/ditchtheick
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Welcome to Feral Europe update number two! In this week's update, I'll give you insights into what housesitting has been like, my London + Edinburgh adventures, PLUS I answer your Q+As from Instagram! Feeling bittersweet as my trip winds down. Loving the UK vibes and seriously considering making it my home someday. If you have tips on living abroad, hit me up!
For all the details and vlogs, check out my Patreon: patreon.com/ditchtheick. Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for more Europe updates!
Social Media and Contact:
Instagram: @ditchtheickpod
Email: [email protected]
Patreon: https://patreon.com/ditchtheick
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Sue Almonte is back! After sharing the joys and challenges of solo travel, Sue now dives into dating abroad.
In this episode, we cover:
Real-Life Stories: Sue’s memorable dating adventures worldwide.
Top Tips: Navigating dating apps, meeting people organically, and understanding local customs.
Safety First: Tips for staying safe while dating in unfamiliar places.
Cultural Insights: How cultural differences impact dating and how to bridge the gap.
Empowerment: How dating abroad can boost confidence and enrich your travels.
Tune in for practical advice, entertaining stories, and crucial safety tips to enjoy your solo travel adventures!
Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Ditch the Ick on your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media using #DitchTheIck or shooting us a DM.
Want some bonus footage of Sue sharing more of her experiences? Subscribe to our Patreon! Patreon.com/ditchtheick
Connect with Sue
Instagram: @suealmonte
Blog
Social Media and Contact:
Instagram: @ditchtheickpod
Email: [email protected]
Patreon: https://patreon.com/ditchtheick
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