More Better with Stephanie & Melissa
More Better with Stephanie & Melissa

<p>Real-life friends and stars of the hit TV show <em>Brooklyn Nine-Nine</em>, Stephanie Beatriz and Melissa Fumero, team up for a weekly podcast that will have you laughing, crying, and crying with laughter. They’ll talk about it all while helping each other (and us) be better – MORE better.</p> <p>Join these amigas as they take us on their personal ride through all aspects of life and share the juiciest cheat codes for adulting, while throwing in some hilarious anecdotes and probably a few embarrassing stories. In their careers and personal lives (both are married with children), they often find themselves leaning on each other for advice and laughs. Follow Stephanie and Melissa as they keep it real, and real fun on their journey to be little MORE better.</p>

What to do when you’re about to marry the love of your life and your family ACTUALLY speaks now and do not forever hold their peace? This week, Stephanie and Melissa read an email from listener Rachel, who is having trouble navigating the fact that she and her now husband come from completely different cultures. Steph and Mel share their experiences and thoughts on how to navigate multicultural families — and they quote Bon Jovi along the way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s holiday seaz once again, and we don’t know about y’all — but we’ve been party hopping! As a sweet seasonal treat, we're resharing this very handy (and cutie and funny) episode from season one alllllll about Work Parties. Happy schmoozing! // The dreaded work party. It’s a party! There’s an open bar! But it’s also…work. How do you let loose and mingle freely when your boss is staring at you from behind the shrimp cocktail tower? This week Stephanie and Melissa discuss their Brooklyn 99 parties past and their struggles with striking the perfect professional balance at these events. Some takeaways: 1) No amount of free alcohol is worth getting fired. 2) Make a game plan before you go 3) Sometimes the answer is to simply sequester yourself in a corner with your friendsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘Tis the season to dig up Abuelita’s recipe book and get to work. On today’s episode Stephanie and Melissa put on their best holiday onesies and talk all things family recipes. From family feuds over beans (watch out for the flying frijoles, you’ll shoot your eye out!), to memories of Christmas morning arepas — they discuss what their families eat during the holiday season, the stories behind the recipes and the pressure and honor of carrying on those legacies. So, settle in, and let us know over on our social pages whether you plan on digging into some tamales, salteñas or lechón this year at your table.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stephanie has Gouda. Melissa has Rosie. Here at More Better we believe that every human should have a familiar. On today’s episode, our animal-loving heroines discuss all things pets. From their childhood fish and bonkers orange cats (IYKYK), thoughts on dog fashion, that one time that Melissa got really into the Cesar Millan training thing, that other time that Steph dyed her dog Banjo’s tail blue, to the pain of losing your soul dog — they get into ALL of the details of being a pet owner. Their main takeaway? Wipe your dog’s butt after a walk. Trust us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
‘Tis the season for reunions! Picture it now: Catching up with your hometown friends at the cozy local dive on Thanksgiving Eve, making small talk with Tía Mari on Noche Buena en La Sala while decked out in your living room best, running into the inventor of Post-Its at your high school reunion and performing a meticulously choreographed dance to “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper in the middle of the dance floor. Are you ready for it? On this week’s episode, Steph shares hot goss about her own dramatic and satisfying high school reunion, Melissa agonizes about whether she’ll attend her 25th this year, and they both discuss the family gatherings they’re a li’l stressed about planning PLUS! The agony and the ecstasy of confronting past versions of yourself while reconciling them with the new and improved you. Happy reunion season, More Betties! We are so very thankful for you. And don’t forget to ask for the business woman special out there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The holidays are coming, which means…(drumroll, trumpet, orchestral music)... PACKING SEASON!! The More Better gals get into it about packing cubes, pre-trip outfit try-ons, and tricks to avoid forgetting your damn toothbrush. Melissa reveals an essential hack for busy traveling parents, a dedicated dirty laundry suitcase, and Stephanie shares her personal distaste for backpacks (ruin the line of her jacket, she could never!). Whether you love packing or hate it, Stephanie and Melissa can commiserate. Wait, did you remember your charger?!?!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever been in a cult? (Are you sure?) Are Disney Adults in a cult? What about Serious Coffee People? How obsessed with Mother God are you? On today’s episode, Stephanie and Melissa discuss all of the cults and cult-ish groups they’ve encountered in their lives, share which ones they surprisingly found themselves a part of and strategize about how to more better avoid cults in the future. Especially the TikTok dancing variety.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A good haircut can change your whole personality. Picture this: You walk out of the salon with a c*nty little wolf-bob-mullet and suddenly the skies are bluer than they've ever been, the birds are chirping AT you and you feel like you can take on the world. A bad haircut? Well, that can ruin your life in an instant. On today’s episode, Stephanie and Melissa discuss the science and poetry of getting a haircut. Do you bring reference photos? Or let the stylist take the reins? Are you a small talk in the chair person? And if you see disaster looming in the mirror, do you speak up? Or are you more of a people pleaser? Steph shares about the elusive Best Haircut Of Her Life and Mel tells tales of A Bad Bob. Plus, they dig into the spiritual and cultural significance of hair. Also — Should Melissa grow out her grey streak? Sound off in our inbox!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How long do you think you could survive in a zombie apocalypse? One minute? One week? One year? Forever? This week, in honor of the spookiest of holidays, Stephanie and Melissa discuss how to become more better at existing in a hypothetical world riddled with the living dead. Join our sort-of fearless hosts as they discuss their favorite zombie movies, ponder about which vehicle would mow down hoards of brain-eaters the most effectively and debate the extremely important question: Would you rather fight one zombie horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized zombies? Plus, we get into the origin of the modern George Romero zombie, rooted in Haitian Vodou. Happy Halloween!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How would your proudest relative describe you? Is that the same way you describe yourself? What is the story that you're telling yourself… and the world? On today’s episode Stephanie and Melissa welcome their dear friend, the multitalented Gloria Calderón Kellett to discuss storytelling with authenticity. The ladies share about moments in their lives in which they showed up authentically as themselves, their work as creatives and all of the surprising ways that those two things intersect. Plus — are heels and thongs tools of the patriarchy? Or tools for cutie outfits and against swampiness? Talk amongst yourselves…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Suarez family is back together as Mark and Ana sit down with the one and only America Ferrera! From the sushi restaurant debacle that started it all to the bittersweet final days on set, Betty's iconic glasses to her lesser-known extensions, fake laughter to real tears, the trio share cherished memories and lasting legacies of the show. Plus, el padre Tony Plana joins the chat to complete the Suarez family reunion and surprise America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thigh high boots? Check. Plaid shirt? Check. Big ass hat? Check. Yes, it’s that time of year again... Christian Girl Autumn. Er- Pumpkin Spice Season. Er- Lenny Kravitz in a Humongous Scarf Time. Wait no… it’s fall. And how does one properly *do* fall? This week, Stephanie and Melissa discuss the ever-growing prominence of Fall Culture and the joys and pressures to really make the most of this fleeting season. Are you doing fall right?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hello, More Better listeners! We’re excited to share an interview with award-winning actor, writer, producer and activist John Leguizamo with our new podcast The Moment, hosted by father-daughter powerhouse journalists, Jorge Ramos and Paola Ramos.  Jorge and Paola Ramos sit down with award-winning actor, writer, producer and activist John Leguizamo, to reflect on his identity, his fight against Hollywood’s gatekeepers, and how our shared Latinidad can unite and empower us now more than ever. Listen and subscribe to The Moment with Jorge Ramos and Paola Ramos on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts! New episodes drop every Wednesday. Follow us at: @JorgeRamosNews @PaoRamos @RadioAmbulante @MyCulturaPodcastsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bodies. We all got ‘em. We all have a unique relationship with our own. And Stephanie and Melissa aren’t any different. This week, MB listener Joetta sends us a voice note asking how she can be more better at loving her body the way that it is. From crackling knees to giving birth to late-in-life feet growth to the pressures of body image — our always genuine hosts open up about their personal experiences with having a body. Content warning: this episode includes discussions of body image, food, pregnancy, and physical changes that some listeners may find sensitive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hiiiieeeee More Better fam! We need your help to win FOUR Signal Awards. We’re super excited to share that More Better with Stephanie and Melissa is a finalist in FOUR categories: Best Comedy Episode (for "Vindication!" with Chelsea Peretti), Advice & How To, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, AND Buddy Podcast! This means so much to our whole team, and it's an incredible opportunity to share our show with new listeners. Here's how to vote: 1. Go to https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting 2. Search for "More Better” 3. Vote for us in ALL FOUR categories (there's a Listener's Choice Award in each one!) 4. Voting closes October 9th. If you've enjoyed listening, please take a couple minutes to cast your votes. Thank you for being the best community ever! 💛 xoxo Producer IsisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Beep beep, delivery! Someone’s at the pod door and it’s… YOU! Welcome to the very first mailbag episode of season dos. On today’s episode, the ladies read (and listen to) your many sweet, funny, vulnerable and spicy letters for them. From heartbreak to insecurities to top secret hot goss that we had to bleep the names out of, there’s SO much to dig into. Steph shares how Elaine Benes influenced her career, Mel gives her tips on how to *~*~*stay present*~*~* and defeat the dark thoughts and the ladies react in real time to an oil painting of Rosa Diaz on listener Annabel’s queer altar. (Gorg!)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What makes a “girl's girl”? Is it wiping a stranger's tears in the bathroom, helping her block her ex’s number and then lending her your lip gloss? Does it mean agreeing with every woman you’ve ever met (or haven’t met), on every subject, no matter what it is? Or is it as simple as stepping off another girl’s couple if you’re a contestant on Love Island? Inspired by the Huda of it all, Stephanie and Melissa dive into what it really means to be a “girl's girl” in this day and age, and whether they claim that label for themselves. Also, what ever happened to “girl code”?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Decisions… decisions…  Hot coffee or iced coffee? New York or LA? Stephanie or Melissa? *Air horn sound* Trick question. Obviously the answer is both. And they’re back! For another season of More Better. On the inaugural episode of season two, our self-improvement heroines discuss the skill of making decisions. From the challenge of big life choices to picking what shoes to wear in the morning, making decisions is a fundamental part of what makes us human. And sometimes, one of the trickiest. But don’t you dare suggest that Stephanie try journaling. Seriously. Get outta here with that nonsense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stephanie and Melissa are back with an all new season of "More Better."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After experiencing the complexity of migrating to the U.S. “the right way,” comedian Felipe Torres Medina set out to write a book that was informative but also fun. His goal: to help “remove the weight around the subject of immigration.” The writer for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert published "America Let Me In," which breaks down the serpentine world of visas and legal migration—with a lot of laughs along the way. “Out of respect” for the horrors and challenges of being undocumented, Torres Medina doesn’t touch on those stories in his book. Listen to his conversation with Latino USA. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa.  Follow the show to get every episode.  Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of their conversation, the fellas and Terry Crews dive deep into his breakout roles, from Training Day to White Chicks, and the unexpected twists that led him there. He shares hilarious and heartfelt stories about balancing comedy with intensity, working alongside legends like Denzel Washington and the Wayans brothers, and how a “turn” in Malibu’s Most Wanted transformed his comedic career. Terry also reveals his philosophy of vulnerability in performance and how collaborating on Brooklyn Nine-Nine became a healing experience. Join Wilmer and Freddy for a conversation packed with wisdom, laughter, and the art of staying true to yourself.   “Dos Amigos”  is a comedic and insightful podcast hosted by two friends who’ve journeyed through Hollywood and life together. Wilmer Valderrama and Freddy Rodriguez push through the noise of everyday life and ruminate on a bevy of topics through fun and daring, and occasionally a third amigo joins the mix!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Terry Crews joins Wilmer and Freddy to share the story of how a tough encounter with a hostile landlord fueled his early career mindset. He opens up about falling into acting through a Billy Blanks reality show and the crucial advice to “be you, be a personality” that shaped his authentic approach. Terry reflects on his persistence through constant rejection and the breakthrough moment landing American Gladiators as “T-Money,” bringing Detroit energy alongside his brothers. Don’t miss his inspiring take on overcoming imposter syndrome and turning setbacks into stepping stones. “Dos Amigos”  is a comedic and insightful podcast hosted by two friends who’ve journeyed through Hollywood and life together. Wilmer Valderrama and Freddy Rodriguez push through the noise of everyday life and ruminate on a bevy of topics through fun and daring, and occasionally a third amigo joins the mix!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In part two of their chat with Melissa Fumero, Wilmer and Freddy dig into friendship, advice, and Melissa’s podcast More Better. Melissa opens up about sharing culture with her kids, staying connected with castmates, and finding joy in new roles. The tables turn as Wilmer and Freddy each ask Melissa for advice on how they can be “more better” in their own lives. It’s an honest and heartfelt episode about growth, connection, and leaning on your amigos. “Dos Amigos”  is a comedic and insightful podcast hosted by two friends who’ve journeyed through Hollywood and life together. Wilmer Valderrama and Freddy Rodriguez push through the noise of everyday life and ruminate on a bevy of topics through fun and daring, and occasionally a third amigo joins the mix!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wilmer and Freddy sit down with actress, director, and podcast host Melissa Fumero to talk about her career journey from soap operas to Brooklyn 99. Melissa shares stories from early in her career, including meeting her husband on set and finding her comedic voice. They dive into the challenges of press tours, staying fresh in the industry, and the thrill of directing shows like Primo and Gordita Chronicles. It’s a conversation full of laughs, insight, and behind-the-scenes gems. “Dos Amigos”  is a comedic and insightful podcast hosted by two friends who’ve journeyed through Hollywood and life together. Wilmer Valderrama and Freddy Rodriguez push through the noise of everyday life and ruminate on a bevy of topics through fun and daring, and occasionally a third amigo joins the mix!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Well, this is it. For the past 40 episodes we’ve gathered here wherever you listen to podcasts to laugh, to cry, and to become un poquito más mejor. On the season one finale of More Better, Stephanie and Melissa continue the Listener Mailbag Extravaganza Bonanza. In celebration of you, our lovely listeners and community, Steph and Mel are once again reading your messages, listening to your cutie little voice notes and answering some rapid-fire questions. There may be tears. And farts jokes. Okay. See you later. Byeeeeeee!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buckle up, More Better-ettes, because today we’re kicking off our two-part season finale. We’ve been reading your e-mails, comments and DMs all year and are dedicating our last two episodes to YOU! This week, Stephanie and Melissa are reading your messages, looking at pictures of your pets and answering some rapid-fire questions. After all’s said and done, Stephanie may just have an existential crisis and become a full-blown horse girl. See you next week for the season finale!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is reality TV rotting our minds or providing community? Are you more of a Scheana or an Ariana? Do you remember where you were when New York made her TV debut on Flavor of Love? What’s your Real Housewives tagline? Today, Stephanie, a self-proclaimed reality TV superfan and Melissa, definitely not that, discuss the genre’s history, impact and most iconic moments. In the end, Melissa learns what Scandoval is, Stephanie considers watching Alone for the survival skills and we learn to look at reality TV stars through the lens of Les Mis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What to do when you’re about to marry the love of your life and your family ACTUALLY speaks now and do not forever hold their peace? This week, Stephanie and Melissa read an email from listener Rachel, who is having trouble navigating the fact that she and her now husband come from completely different cultures. Steph and Mel share their experiences and thoughts on how to navigate multicultural families — and they quote Bon Jovi along the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shhh! Can you hear that? It’s the sound of idyllic Disney princess melodies and cutie little singing birds. That can only mean one thing… spring is on its way to the northern hemisphere. It’s almost time to peel off the wearable blanket you’ve been fused with all winter, open up the damn windows and start decluttering your space. This week Melissa and Stephanie are talking all things spring cleaning. What’s the correct way to organize your suitcases? Is your stack of books cozy in a Dark Academia way or are they just snooty trophies (hot take)? Does that bursting junk drawer give you ataque? Steph and Mel discuss. They may not be perfect at it yet, but they’re TRYING, OKAY?!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you ready for your closeup? After a couple of weeks of having some of their favorite former co-stars on the pod (Nine-Nine!), Stephanie and Melissa are feeling real thespian. This week, they’re talking about Acting. From their theater school roots to their thoughts on method acting, strap in because we’re getting realllllllll nerdy. And the Oscar for best podcast listener in the world goes to… you!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Would you go into business with your friend? Is calling someone your “work wife” cringe? How do you make friends at work? What’s it like to have your actual spouse as your boss? Would you befriend the guy rocking a dangling George Michael crucifix earring and a beret? Today we’re talking all about what it’s like to work with your friends with the one and only Jo Lo Truglio. Mel, Steph and Joe reminisce about the good old Brooklyn Nine-Nine days and the magic that comes from working with your buds. Spoiler alert: The guy with the earring? That was Joe circa 1988.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What makes something funny? How does one be funny? Are Beavis and Butthead back? Here to help answer these existential questions and more is the one and only comedy legend Chelsea Peretti. This week on More Better, Chelsea, Steph and Melissa reminisce about their days on set together on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, share stories about the stupid things that make them laugh and open up about the vulnerability that it takes to get up on that stage sometimes. Nine Nine!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hi More Better Listeners! Take a listen to the trailer of our newest show, Dos Amigos. About the show: From WV Sound and My Cultura, comes a new series featuring real-life amigos Wilmer Valderrama and Freddy Rodriguez. Picture this…you’re chillin’ with some of your closest friends at your favorite spot. You lose track of time amid the good vibes, pain-inducing laughter and genuine conversations. What more could you ask for, right?  Join these two amigos as they candidly reflect on their careers, life, and share everything about everything, and of course the door is always open for special guests to roll through. Each weekly episode emanates from Wilmer’s very own speakeasy, so you know it’s a party, and you’re our VIP guests. This podcast is all about bringing friends together, sparking honest reflection, and of course…toasting to the good times. Listen here and subscribe to Dos Amigos on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Happy Valentine’s Day, More Better fam! Cupid’s on his way. …Or not. If you hate this holiday, we get it. Melissa really gets it. This week, Steph and Mel talk all things ROMANCE. They spill about cringy poetry, emotional breakthroughs over honeymoon pizza, romantic takeout eaten on the floor and the simplicity of making your partner a cup of coffee in the morning. Because when it’s the right person — it’s just about seeing one another. All together now: Awwwwwwwww! One thing’s for sure. We absolutely positively love YOU, dear listeners. Will you be our Valentines?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did you know that Oprah Winfrey was fired from her first TV job as an anchor in Baltimore? Big mistake. Huge. This week, we talk about failure, sucking and imposter syndrome. More Better listener Zander asks: “How do I get more better at being okay with being bad at things?” The answer? Well, it’s complicated. Stephanie and Melissa share about their experiences with moving through failure, the bumpy road to success, the importance of bombing and how an ikebana flower arranging class taught Steph to let go.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Protestant Work Ethic? I don’t know her. What even is work-life balance? Stephanie and Melissa discuss the modern concept’s ancient philosophical roots, its undeniable feminist ties and the influence that Samantha the American Girl doll had on their generation’s understanding of labor rights. Listener Amanda shares her struggles and concerns about “having it all” and Aristotle gets flamed. Moral of the story? You can have it all. Just mayyyyybe not at the same time. Do you agree?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What to do when a musty dusty co-worker patronizes you in the workplace? Ever frozen up at a rude comment launched your way in the breakroom? This week, More Better listener Stacey writes in to ask the ladies if they’ve ever dealt with a workplace bully. Stephanie and Melissa realize their extensive experience fending off shady opps, and share their personal tips and tricks for dealing with them in a professional manner. Does the answer lie in studying “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” as if it were the ancient scrolls of “The Art of War” itself? Perhaps. *Resources and directories for anyone looking to help, find support, or donate to LA Fire Relief: https://www.theconsciouscitizens.org/los-angeles-disaster-support-masterlist/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stephanie and Melissa haven’t seen each other in person since they recorded the verrrry first episode of More Better last year. Ya know — work, life — things happened.Thus, they have totally perfected the art of The Long Distance Friendship. This week, Aussie pod listener Lauren sends us a voice memo asking for advice on how to maintain her friendship with her LDB (long distance bestie) in Germany. Have a listen, see if you can relate and let us know what you think of Steph’s Australian accent. We think it’s coming along bloody nicely, mate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Happy 2025! Steph and Melissa survived the lost week between Christmas and New Years or what they are calling the Bermuda Triangle of Weeks and this week on the pod, they are talking about New Year’s Resolutions. Do resolutions haunt you every year? You are not alone! Stephanie and Melissa have found some ways to make resolutions feel less icky; consider reframing! Don’t set yourself up for failure! Manifest (we can be a lil woo-woo for 2025)! Have markers! Steph and Mel also predict some Ins and Outs of 2025, so stay tuned for the trend forecasting – sneak peak, podcasts might be OUT (according to SOME lists) but this one is IN.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You know it. You love hate it. You’re maybe scrolling on it right now. It’s social media. This week, Steph and Melissa discuss the pros and cons of “the sosh” and dive deep into the psychology of posting. Plus, we answer the perpetual question — Does Stephanie have TikTok on her phone today?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Holidays are on the horizon and Stephanie and Melissa are READY…kind of. Decor? They have a plan for that. Food? We have some restaurants on speed dial. Best Christmas movies? Well, this one’s slightly a point of contention. Though they do agree on *that* leg lamp being cool. This week on More Better, we’re talking about how to prepare for holidays in a way that protects the magic of the season and, equally as important, your *peace*.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A hobby is, according to Steph, “stuff you do on your own GD time” that, according to studies, leads to a happier and healthier life. No pressure! This week, Stephanie and Melissa discuss their hobbies — or lack-there-of — and dig deep into what sparks joy for each of them. Looking for a hobby? Why not pick up baking? Competitive dog grooming? How about stamp collecting? Let’s start with Listening to More Better.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever wondered what it takes to break into the voice acting biz? Or how Stephanie and Lin Manuel Miranda made her role as Mirabel in Encanto come alive in the recording booth? All the funny voices Mel and Steph did during their downtime on the set of Brooklyn 99? Well, thanks to a special voice note from More Better listener Archie this week, our talented hosts are sharing all that there is to know about voice acting. Let’s go!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s Election week in America! This week, we revisit our chat with Elsa Collins (@elsamariecollins), professional do-er, humanitarian and founder of Poderistas and This is About Humanity. Steph, Mel and Elsa discuss the election, voting and civic duty in this very special remixed episode with never-before-heard audio. If you’re a fan of More Better, head over to https://www.vote.org/ and make a voting plan today — and send Steph and Mel photos of your I Voted sticker on IG @MoreBetterPodcast. See you at the polls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you ever find yourself digggggging down deep into your deepest depths trying to scrounge up just a smidge of motivation? Well, you’re not alone. Today Stephanie and Melissa quote Hoobastank and Guns N' Roses as they respond to a question from More Better listener Baylie and share their struggles and successes when it comes to getting sh*t done. So, join us and let us know — what’s your motivation? Cue the Normani.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s October! Time to put on your finest costume and embrace all of the spooky things under a full moon. Are you a fight, flight, freeze or FLOP type of person? Are you a haunted house enthusiast? What’s your favorite scary movie? On today’s episode Stephanie and Melissa discuss their relationships with fear, Halloween and communing with the ancestors on Día de Los Muertos.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you’ve ever lived, chances are you’ve loved someone or something. If you’ve ever loved, chances are you’ve had your heart broken to pieces. More Better listener Vivien wrote in to the pod this week asking for advice with just that — heartbreak. In response, Stephanie and Melissa share stories about their first and biggest heartbreaks, their advice on how to move through breakups, and the scientific reason why breaking up actually physically hurts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The leaves are changing, school’s back in session and there’s a cool breeze rolling in. Here at More Better, that means we’re in our cozy era. Enter, hygge. A defining characteristic of Danish culture, hygge is all things cozy and comfortable. This week, Stephanie and Melissa share what hygge means to them and how they intentionally create cozy spaces in their homes. So put on your cozies, grab a warm cup of cocoa by candlelight, and snuggle into hygge season with us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you afraid to say no? Do you find yourself agreeing with others just to keep the peace? Do you need validation? Well, you might just be a people pleaser. This week Stephanie and Melissa discuss their own people please-y-ness and try to navigate the world of boundaries and confidence. Turns out, “No” is a complete sentence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The listener questions are back! This week, Stephanie and Melissa field a very special question from twin sister listeners Lisa and Kristen who are planning a very special birthday — their 40th! Milestone birthdays can be overwhelming. There can be pressure to throw the perfect party, keep up with the Joneses and make the absolute most of every single second we have on this planet and not fall behind. But there’s no need to stress — Steph and Mel are here to talk us through it all. They share stories about their own milestone birthdays good and bad, and explain why celebrating another year of survival matters. Just be kind to yourself, it’ll be okay. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gossip. We love it, we’re ashamed of it, we simply must know it all. Today Stephanie and Melissa each spill some of the hottest tea they’ve ever come by, explore the intricacies and dangers of talking sh*t and consider a scientific study that theorizes — is gossip actually good?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen, we all do our very best to treat others with kindness, have empathy and resolve interpersonal issues in a caring and respectful manner. But…sometimes…as Stephanie so eloquently puts it — “people are shit”. This week, Stephanie and Melissa dive deep into the subject of enemies. Be they bullies, jerks, frenemies or even an arch nemesis — we learn how to spot them, navigate difficult interactions and ultimately, how to protect your peace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What should I wear? Does this look stupid? Do people still think about that dumb thing I said at that one party like 10 years ago? Does my dog think I’m weird? What is the worst possible case scenario and how do I prepare? Is everybody in this grocery store staring at me? Did I turn off my hair straightener? WOAH WOAH WOAH. Let’s check in real quick. We’ve been reading your e-mails and listening to your voice notes. This week’s episode comes from a listener request! Overthinking. It happens to the best of us — Stephanie and Melissa included. Listen along this week as they share their specific flavors of anxiety and how they each work to get out of their heads when it strikes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you ever feel paralyzed when it comes to showing up for causes? Does online activism feel like it’s just not enough? Wondering if your vote even matters? Too busy lit-er-a-lly just trying to survive but feeling guilty about not doing enough for your community? Well, first of all, breathe, You are not alone. Today, Stephanie and Melissa welcome Elsa Collins (@elsamariecollins), professional do-er, humanitarian and founder of Poderistas and This is About Humanity to ask her all the questions they've ever had about showing up. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buenas, More Better fam! Who’s coming over for family dinner? Gather ‘round the table as we discuss cultura and familia this week. Stephanie and Melissa open up about their Colombian, Bolivian and Cuban cultures — from the food, to the language, holidays, traditions, values and more — and how they’re doing their best to pass those foundations on to the next generation. So settle in and make yourself at home, you’re a part of the More Better Familia now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does self-care mean to you? Scheduling a massage? Taking a lunchtime nap? Zoning out on your iPad at your hair appointment? This week, Stephanie and Melissa swap stories and feeeeeelings about self-care. Why is it so hard to do? Why do people shame you when you do make time for it? And how do we shed that guilt and just get the damn massage?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Everyone can and should embrace their inner creative. Whether you’re a professional artist or you’re just trying to decorate your home, we all benefit from imagination and play sometimes. But sometimes it’s hardddddd. So what’s the solution? Meditating? Journaling? Taking a damn break? This week Stephanie and Melissa discuss how they developed their creative identities and share personal tips and tricks for getting that creativity faucet flowing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What is orange wine? Do you know what body means? How about legs? When you’re an adult, people usually expect you to know about things like crown molding, 401ks, osteoporosis and … wine. Today, Stephanie and Melissa welcome Lucia Palm (@lucialoveswine), certified sommelier and wine content creator and educator to ask her all the questions they've ever had about wine but have been too embarrassed to ask.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The dreaded work party. It’s a party! There’s an open bar! But it’s also…work. How do you let loose and mingle freely when your boss is staring at you from behind the shrimp cocktail tower? This week Stephanie and Melissa discuss their Brooklyn 99 parties past and their struggles with striking the perfect professional balance at these events. Some takeaways: 1) No amount of free alcohol is worth getting fired. 2) Make a game plan before you go 3) Sometimes the answer is to simply sequester yourself in a corner with your friendsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we’re talking about S-E-X. What does owning *your* sexuality mean to you? Reading fairy smut? Wearing some really hot hot shorts and feeling good hot to go? Exploring BDSM? Sex in public? Or are you a little bit prude? All things go and all things welcome this week as Stephanie and Melissa have THE sex talk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s time for those summer vacations! This week, Stephanie and Melissa discuss their most memorable childhood family vacations — cruises, kids clubs, time-share presentations and all. Steph shares about her upcoming Italian adventure, and things get vulnerable when our hosts open up about their struggles to take time off and unplug. Should you answer those work e-mails when you're clocked out? Spoiler alert: Take the damn vacation (if you can). It’s good for your health.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Figuring out who you are is tough enough — learning how to infuse that identity into your personal style is a whole different ~journey~. This week Stephanie and Melissa are joined by their shared stylist Ariel Tunnell to discuss their respective style journeys, swap shopping and dressing room tips and discuss Steph and Mel’s thoughts on the return of Y2K style. Can you guess who’s more of a “jeans and t-shirt” kinda girlie and who’s the Trend Queen?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Making friends is harrrrrrrd! Stephanie and Melissa open up about just how difficult it can be to put yourself out there, especially the older you get. Stories about nightmare roommates and mom groups are swapped, cackles abound, and “How to Make Friends” tips from a bonafide friendship coach are put to the test during Nerd Time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stephanie and Melissa face their guilty pleasures head-on and try to get better at releasing shame. Reality TV, chisme and “just f*cking resting” can trigger feelings of shame or guilt. How can they overcome it? And who said there had to be guilt in their pleasures in the first place? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The work of listening to yourself never ends …enter More Better; Stephanie Beatriz and Melissa Fumero introduce the podcast by discussing their identities and how they have stayed true to themselves and their friendship. On this inaugural episode with these off-screen besties, we go on a journey through Stephanie and Melissa’s own experiences with listening to themselves and that internal “tug” when you know something is right. Cups of coffee count: 1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.