Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project - podcast cover

Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project

Lauren Massarella and Michelle Andersoncozyconversationswiththesisterproject.com
Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project is hosted by sisters Lauren Massarella and Michelle Anderson. Michelle hit a breaking point trying to balance full-time work, motherhood, and caring for their mom with dementia. That moment gave birth to a new life philosophy: slow down, care less, do nothing. It’s not just a mantra—it’s a middle finger to burnout. Rooted in Midwestern warmth and wit, their weekly episodes are unfiltered, full of big laughs and cozy inspo.
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Episodes

318 | Darkness and Connection: Finding Balance in Seasonal Change

Get ready to embrace the dark side—no, not the spooky kind, but the kind that does wonders for your mental well-being. In this episode, Michelle and Lauren explore how the days are getting shorter, but your mood doesn’t have to. From the therapeutic power of darkness to the life-changing magic of friendship, self-compassion, and rituals, we’re diving deep into how embracing seasonal shifts can be a good thing (yes, really!). Plus, they’re sharing how supporting each other (hello, female friendsh...

Nov 07, 20241 hr

317 | Embracing Our Fate: From Perimenopause Symptoms to Election Realities

Join Lauren and Michelle as they dive into the chaos of morning routines, election anxiety, and the joys of family culinary traditions—because who doesn’t need some comfort food before casting a vote? They tackle everything from deep breathing and psilocybin to the ups and downs of perimenopause (spoiler: it’s a wild ride). With a sprinkle of humor, they explore resilience, grief, and the importance of embracing life’s rollercoaster. Plus, get the scoop on their upcoming speaking events—because ...

Oct 31, 20241 hr 3 min

316 | Carmex, Conspiracies, and Culinary Comforts: A Fall Fest of Thoughts

Join sisters Michelle and Lauren in this week’s Cozy Conversation , where they explore everything from the allure of Carmex lip balm to the fascinating world of apples—who knew fruit could be so captivating? They share heartfelt reflections on fall festivities, including a stroll through Graceland Cemetery (cozy, we promise!) and the emotional power of tears. Get ready for culinary adventures featuring seasonal soups and the love language of cooking. But it’s not all sweetness! The sisters tackl...

Oct 24, 20241 hr 5 min

315 | Boo Baskets: The Halloween Debate You Didn't Know You Needed

In this week’s cozy convo, Lauren and Michelle dive into the spooky world of consumerism—just in time for Halloween, where boo baskets are practically an Olympic sport! They discuss how making lasting memories is far more rewarding than stockpiling plastic spiders and pumpkin-shaped candy bowls. With the cost of living making wallets weep, they find joy in simple pleasures, like watching baking shows (because who doesn’t love a good soufflé drama?). Their chat highlights the art of mindful livin...

Oct 17, 202454 min

314 | Witchy Wisdom: Mindset, Manifestation, and Menopause

In this episode of Cozy Convos, Lauren and Michelle spill the tea on their recent adventures at a witch parade—complete with brooms, giggles, and a few questionable train antics! They chat about the joys of Halloween decorations, indulge in their love for Greek cuisine (because what's better than witches and tzatziki?), and celebrate the vibrant feminine energy that brings us all together. With plenty of playful banter and some crafty costume inspiration, they prove that every woman has an inner...

Oct 10, 202459 min

313 | Why Cozy Season and Constant Connectivity Don’t Mix

In this week’s conversation, Michelle and Lauren discuss the major downsides to constant connectivity. From mental health and loneliness to shortening attention spans and expectations of immediate responses, constant connection has a host of problems. Which is why the sisters are sharing their important message to slow down, care less, and do more of nothing. Hot Topics : Nobody Wants This , Ina Garten, and jet lag is real. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to...

Oct 03, 20241 hr 6 min

312 | Why You Should Face Your Fears & It’s Fall Y’all

In this week’s conversation, Michelle and Lauren dive into how facing your fears can help you live the life you dream. From starting a business to traveling the world with a toddler - they’re taking down one fear at a time. Hot Topics : Lauren in Tuscany, the Menendez brothers, and Michelle is pumpkin everything. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Th...

Sep 26, 202456 min

311 | The Power of Intention Setting & Lauren's Italian Travels Continue

In this week’s cozy convo, Michelle and Lauren explore the power of intention setting. As they share in this episode, instead of feeling like a victim of circumstance, setting intentions helps you become the conscious creator of your days and life. Along with these nuggets of wisdom, Lauren shares about her visit with their family in Fondi, Italy, and all of her adventures in southern Italy. Hot Topics : Spaghetti alle vongole, Good Energy by Casey Means MD, The Real Lives of Mormon Wives (HULU)...

Sep 19, 20241 hr 4 min

310 | Slowing Down and Aperitivo in Italy

Michelle is back from Italy while Lauren stayed behind and on today’s Cozy Conversation, they are sharing their Italian getaway with listeners. From cultural aspects they loved to traveling with a toddler, the sisters have a full -n travel report. Hot Topics: Aperitivo, recycling in Italy, and the Campari spritz. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Th...

Sep 12, 202457 min

309 | Reset For Fall & We're Off To Italy

In this week’s cozy conversation, Michelle and Lauren discuss their preparations for their upcoming trip to Italy along with their transition from summer to fall. They’re including packing strategies and discuss the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment while traveling. The sisters also explore ways to reset for fall such as spending time with friends, taking the day off to enjoy life, and doing a little online security update. And per usual, they’re sharing what they’re reading, wa...

Sep 05, 202444 min

308 | How To Better Listen To Your Gut & A Hack That Will Blow Your Mind

In this week’s conversation, Michelle and Lauren explore the benefits of tuning into your intuition and gut feelings. Inspired by a recent article in Real Simple, the sisters discuss ways to tap into your inner voice and how it has helped them over the years. Lauren also shares one of her and her husband’s most effective hacks when it comes to dealing with life’s moments of overwhelm. Hot Topics: The Sister Project pickleball league at Netgame , Fall TV, and Mel Robbins (again) If you love Cozy ...

Aug 29, 20241 hr 5 min

307 | The Chicago Spirit and Daily Ways To Stress Less

In this week’s cozy conversation, Michelle and Lauren express their love for the great city of Chicago and the spirit of this Midwest gem and its people. The sisters are diving into a recent Mel Robbins podcast about 8 realistic ways to add healthy habits to your everyday. You do not want to miss this episode! It is packed with wheezy laughs and everyday things you can do to stress less daily. Hot Topics : Mel Robbins, dead cat & Covid, and edible-infused phone chats If you love Cozy Convers...

Aug 22, 20241 hr 8 min

306 | Slow Sundays, Hollywood Gossip, and The Taste of Little Italy

In this week’s episode, Lauren and Michelle are diving deep into the most current Hollywood drama surrounding the release of the much-anticipated film and adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s book, It Ends With Us . Because the truth is, sometimes gossip is cozy. Especially when it’s not your gossip. The sisters are also discussing slow Sundays and their love for Chicago’s Taste of Little Italy. Hot Topics : America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders (Netflix), Gloria Steinem, Tell Them That Yo...

Aug 15, 202455 min

305 | Pet Grief, Snoop Dog, and Finding Our Dolce Far Niente

In this week’s episode, the sisters tackle the grief of losing a pet, Olympic highlights out of Paris, and their excitement for their upcoming trip to Italy! As sisters do, Lauren and Michelle share their journey with loss, but look forward to what the future holds. Gelato, anyone? Hot Topics : Presumed Innocent, the Midwestern accent, and cat ladies. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link ...

Aug 08, 20241 hr 4 min

304 | Broccoli Rabe, Menstrual Cups, & Kamala: A Recipe for Thought

Join Michelle and Lauren as they dish on mental health days, mommy meltdowns, and the wonders of menstrual cups—all while serving up a couple killer recipes. They dive into Kamala Harris’s backstory and stir up spirited debates on self-care and politics. It's a hearty blend of humor, insights, and a few unexpected ingredients. Bon appétit! Hot Topics : Saalt menstrual cups (use our code TSP15 for 15% off), Vanity Fair, and Answer the Call Zoom If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Proje...

Aug 01, 202456 min

303 | Cozy Mysteries, Cannabis, and ChatGPT To The Rescue

To help the overwhelmed woman, Michelle and Lauren are sharing how they integrate cannabis and ChatGPT into their lives. Because who doesn’t like a little help from their friends? Hot Topics: Cozy mystery book genre, favorite cannabis edibles, and Kamala Harris If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Thank you! Thank you to our sponsors; Curaleaf , Hummin...

Jul 25, 202452 min

302 | From Tornadoes to Trump: A Whirlwind Chat on Politics and Personal Wellness

Chicago survived yet another round of tornados so the sisters came out of their basements to dive into yet another cozy conversation. However, this one may not be the coziest of convos as they are discussing the recent attempt of assassination on former president Trump and the division among people in America. But, as with every conversation, you are sure to learn a little (like how to pick the perfect watermelon) and laugh a lot. Hot Topics : Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon, The Daily Podcast, and...

Jul 18, 20241 hr 10 min

301 | Are Youth Sports Worth It and Stress-Free Birthday Parties

In this week’s episode, Lauren and Michelle take on youth sports and the challenges associated with it. The sisters discuss the pressure and strain on families, the financial burden, the lack of free time, and the intensity surrounding the culture of club teams. They beg the question, “why must we feel the need to be so busy?”. Hot Topics: The Bear (season 3), Tips for Throwing a Stress-free Kid’s Birthday Party, and of course, pickleball Resources: Asking For A Friend sponsored by Curaleaf Your...

Jul 04, 202451 min

300 | Celebrating 300 Episodes & The Power of Perspective

In this week’s episode, Lauren and Michelle celebrate their 300th episode and reflect on their podcasting journey. They discuss their early days of podcasting, the changes they've made over time, and the lessons they've learned, along with the importance of supporting each other and taking action on your dreams. Hot Topics : The power of perspective, BRATS (Documentary), fireflies, and the vigilante of Logan Square. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show yo...

Jun 27, 202455 min

299 | Lauren Does Vegas, Michelle Does Pickle Ball & The Benefits of Relaxing

In this week’s episode, Lauren tells tales from her first time in Vegas while Michelle has become quite the pickleball player. The sisters also discuss the importance and health benefits of relaxing - something a lot of people feel guilty doing. Hot Topics : Oscar Pistorius, the perfect coral, summer lip, & Princess Kate If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more inf...

Jun 20, 20241 hr 3 min

298 | Cicada Update, Growing Wiser, and Yet Another Cult Obsession

In this week’s cozy conversation, Lauren and Michelle discuss various topics including their favorite beauty products for summer, why on earth people join cults, and an update on the Midwest cicada invasion. The sisters also share their thoughts on the wisdom of older women like Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Julie Andrews and the power of female friendships. And of course, what they are reading, watching, and listening to. Hot Topics: Amanda Knox, Bain de Soliel, and the new cult docuseries - Dancing ...

Jun 13, 202459 min

297 | Back to Therapy Lauren Goes & Men’s Mental Health

This week, Michelle and Lauren are discussing Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month along with Lauren’s journey back to therapy. Hot Topics : Tips to finding the right therapist for you, Wiser Than Me Podcast, and Full Swing on Netflix If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Thank you!...

Jun 06, 202458 min

296 | Cicada Invasion and The Benefits Being Outdoors As We Age

In this week’s episode, Michelle and Lauren are diving into the cicada invasion that has taken over the suburbs of Chicago and how spending time outdoors can benefit our minds and well-beings as we age. Join the sisters for a conversation that will have you learning a little and laughing a lot. Hot Topics: Rafah, Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis Dreyfus, and Ashley Madison on Netflix If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created,...

May 30, 20241 hr 4 min

295 | Harrison Butker, Jackson Hole, & The Power of a Good Cry

This week, the sisters are weighing in on Harrison Butker’s commencement speech heard around the world, Lauren is rating Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and both sisters share how good a good cry feels. Hot Topics: JoJo Siwa, gardening, and Mel Robbins If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Thank you!...

May 23, 20241 hr 6 min

294 | Mother’s Day, Slow Mornings, & Gone Camping

VikingsofIn this week’s episode, Lauren is home from camping and Michelle is back from her girls' trip just in time for Mother’s Day. The sisters share how they spent the special holiday…without their kids. Spoiler alert: they loved it. Also discussed the major wellness benefits from starting your morning off nice and slow. Hot Topics: More vikings, carajillo cocktail, and Camp Wandawega If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content cr...

May 16, 20241 hr 2 min

293 | What Kind Of Human Are You & Crayze for Swayze

This week, the sisters tackle some hard-hitting observations on what kind of humans they are inspired by a trending TikTok. After sorting out what kind of contributions they make to society, they dive into what it’s like to use fancy toilets and what they’re are reading, watching, and listening to. Hot Topics : Patrick Swayze, bidets, and Life’s Too Short (LTS) If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor....

May 09, 20241 hr 9 min

292 | It’s Toddler, Tornado, and Tiff Season

This past week, tornadoes ripped through part of the country, so naturally Michelle and Lauren are digging into tornado facts and personal experiences. Lauren is sharing her experience with having a toddler while Michelle is enjoying city field trips with her teen. Hot Topics : Baby Reindeer (Netflix), Haworth office, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in sho...

May 02, 20241 hr 3 min

291 | Earth Day, Be Less Busy, and Parenting Is Hard

In this week’s episode, Michelle and Lauren are discussing Earth Day and plastic containers, how to be less busy (aka slow down), and the truth about parenting. And the truth is, it’s really hard. Hot Topics: Vikings, Baby Reindeer, and Lauren’s terrible haircut. If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more information. Thank you! If You've Come This Far Podcast The Sister...

Apr 25, 20241 hr 3 min

290 | A Very Cozy Cannabis Conversation

In celebration of World Cannabis Day (aka 420), Michelle and Lauren are covering all things cannabis. They’re diving into the history of the plant, their favorite canna-products, some hard-hitting canna-facts, and how cannabis can help with pain relief, sleep, creativity, and more. Hot Topics: Wana gummies, sativa v. indica, and that one time they went to Jamaica. This episode is sponsored by our partner, Curaleaf . Be sure to use our code, SISTER30, at your local Curaleaf Dispensaries for 30% o...

Apr 18, 20241 hr 14 min

289 | Is Our Food Garbage, Near Death Experiences, & Michelle’s Pickin’ Again

This week, Michelle and Lauren are wondering how bad our food really is, why Old Navy rips us off, and are discussing near-death experiences. In bad news, Michelle is back to picking. The Sister Project Merch store closes on Monday, April 15. Get your orders in! Hot Topics : PEN15, nail filing, and Chicago’s dreary weather If you love Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project and would like to show your support for the content created, please visit Anchor.com (link in show notes) for more infor...

Apr 11, 20241 hr 4 min
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