The Bright Side: A Hello Sunshine Podcast

Tori Dunlap saved $100,000 by the age of 25. After that, she quit her corporate job to start her own company and teach other women everything she had learned about investing and financial literacy. Today, Tori is the bestselling author of “Financial Feminist,” and her company Her First 100k is on track to generate $5 million in revenue this year. She came on the show to talk about tangible strategies for building wealth and why her motto is “Fight the Patriarchy. Get Rich.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For flirting coach Benjamin Camras, flirting isn’t just about being charming and extroverted — it’s about genuine, thoughtful connection. Online or IRL, romantic or platonic, he lays out how to unleash your inner flirt and cultivate meaningful connections in any situation. So whether you're single and ready to mingle or happily coupled up, he has some advice for you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2008, Queen Harrison Claye became the youngest member of the US Track and Field Team to compete at the Olympic Games in Beijing. Later this month she’s participating in the Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon to qualify for Paris 2024. Queen joined us on the show to talk about empowering female athletes, the mental prep that goes into training, and becoming the co-founder of The Athletic Girls Club, which launches this month. She is also a host on AirBnb. This episode was made in partnership with Airbnb. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To follow her dreams, Kathleen Griffith first had to blow up her life. She’s an award-winning business strategist, entrepreneur, and the author of “Build Like a Woman: The Blueprint for Creating a Business and Life You Love.” From overcoming doubt to finding the courage to pursue your passion, Kathleen discusses the importance of taking the first step towards creating a meaningful life and gives actionable advice to that end. Plus, the Reese’s Book Club pick for June is “The Unwedding” by Ally Condie. We’ll have her on later this month, so send in your questions to [email protected]!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even in 2024, menopause is a taboo subject. But lately, women like Halle Berry, Jennifer Anniston, Drew Barrymore, and Gabrielle Union are speaking out. We join the conversation with Dr. Jennifer Ashton to answer all of your menopause questions: from first symptoms, to libido, to muscle building as you age. Dr. Ashton is a double board certified physician in obstetrics and gynecology. She recently stepped down as ABC's chief medical correspondent to launch her own wellness company called Ajenda, which focuses on women’s health and wellness. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrity stylist Karla Welch has dressed the world’s biggest stars including Tracee Ellis Ross, America Ferrera, Olivia Wilde, and Justin Bieber, but the greatest accomplishment of her life may just be her work to fight period poverty. Period poverty – defined as a lack of access to menstrual products or education – affects millions of people who menstruate every day. As the co-founder and CEO of The Period Company, Karla built a mission-driven business that makes affordable, long-lasting period underwear more accessible to everyone, both in the United States and globally. Karla sits down with us to spread the message and show how you can get involved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the co-creator and star of “Broad City”, Ilana Glazer spent her twenties perfecting the relatable buddy comedy about trying to "make it" in New York. Ilana’s new movie “Babes” also draws from her own experience, this time of becoming a mom in her early thirties, to portray the messy, hilarious, and poignant reality of motherhood and how it can test even our most cherished lifelong friendships. She spoke with us about what pleasure looks like in her thirties, why she hates it when people call pregnancy “gross” and how she’s learned to manage her nerves. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yulin Kuang was born for this moment. Growing up, Yulin rewrote movies in her head to include more kissing scenes and transcribed romantic comedies into her diary before bedtime. In her career as a screenwriter and director, Yulin’s credits include “I Ship It”, “Dollface” and the forthcoming adaptation of Emily Henry’s bestselling “Beach Read.” Yulin’s lifelong love affair with the romance genre culminated when her first book, a contemporary romance novel called “How to End a Love Story”, was selected as May’s pick for Reese’s Book Club. Yulin sits down with Danielle and Simone to talk sexual awakenings and learning to sit with your feelings. You can find "How to End a Love Story" on Apple Books or wherever you get your books. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 13 years as one of the most respected and recognizable news anchors at CNN, Brooke Baldwin left the network at the height of her career – not because of the stress of covering the pandemic or the tumultuous Trump presidency, but because of the toxic work culture, bullying, and unequal treatment she experienced. Years later, Brooke calls that transformative time in her life and its aftermath her “unraveling," and she credits it with finally finding her own voice amidst the noise. She joins us to share how she garnered the strength to reinvent herself and what she’s up to now that she has entered her bad girl era. The list is long!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary singer-songwriter Jewel found success at a young age. When she hit the music scene with her iconic album “Pieces of You” in the ’90s, her authenticity endeared her to millions of fans worldwide and thrust her into the limelight. Her experience with the trauma of fame led her to eventually quit the industry for seven years and explore what she wanted to do with her life. She stopped by The Bright Side to talk about learning how to become more self-reliant, the pressure of success, and learning how to be happy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We revisit highlights from three conversations we loved having on this show. Maryjane Fahey, who created the Glorious Broads community, talks about aging powerfully and living imaginatively. Amanda Montell, linguist and author of “The Age of Magical Overthinking,” gets into how we deal with the incredible amount of information that comes at us every day. And Priya Parker, the author of “The Art of Gathering,” tells us how we can make our time spent with others more meaningful with a little bit of intention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Memorial Day Weekend, and our sights are set on summer barbecues, patio drinking, and picnics with our pals. Sommelier Alison Morris Rosyln, of Francey Not Fancy, stops by The Bright Side to guide us through the best wine picks for the summer. She drops some wine knowledge, and also gives us some tips on how to pick out the best wines at a restaurant.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Alexandra Hayes Robinson — AKA Hello Hayes — the journey to becoming an advice columnist started when she realized that she was a person with very big feelings. Now, with hundreds of thousands of followers across social media platforms, she uses that introspection to answer questions all about friendships, confidence, and so much more. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss active listening and couples who sleep in separate bedrooms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacqueline Novak is the co-host of the podcast “Poog,” the author of “How to Weep in Public: Feeble Offerings on Depression from One Who Knows,” and the force behind the Netflix special “Get On Your Knees” — a comedically highbrow exploration of a less-than-highbrow sex act. She talks about the act of creating something unique, and of being true to who you are. Simone fills Danielle in on a life-changing retreat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The word “iconic” gets thrown around a lot these days. But with two Olympic medals, five World Championships, and nine US Championships, figure skater Michelle Kwan is nothing if not iconic. And after representing the US on the world stage in the ice rink, she has moved on to an incredibly fitting second act: she’s the US Ambassador to Belize. Ambassador Kwan talks about her Second Act, and the lessons she learned in her storied figure skating career.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nora McInerny is an author and the host of the podcast “Terrible, Thanks for Asking.” She joins Danielle and Simone for a lively discussion about ephemeral tattoos and women naming their kids after themselves. Then, they dive into a deeper conversation about life after grief, our shared joys, and our shared joys. Would you name your daughter after yourself? Send an email to [email protected] and let us know!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor and activist Jameela Jamil has advocated around body image, diet culture, mental health, and more. Her newest cause: getting people exercising in the most inclusive way possible. The I Weigh founder wants to remove the self-consciousness that many women associate with exercise spaces — and she wants them to feel safe doing it. To that end, she’ll be speaking at “Move For Your Mind” in New York, New York on Monday, May 20th. Plus, this National Graduation Tassel Day, Danielle and Simone give their younger selves some advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, broadcaster Cari Champion is leaning into what brings her joy. After leaving ESPN a few years back, Cari says she is building the life she wants and telling the stories she wants to tell. She stops by The Bright Side to talk with Danielle and Simone about her “I deserve” era. Plus, we’re getting a Legally Blonde prequel (!), Gayle King on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and the Kansas City Chiefs kicker is a hot mess express. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor and producer Jessica Biel has done many things in her career, but writing a children’s book about periods was not something she anticipated doing. She stops by The Bright Side to talk about her new book, A Kids Book About Periods, and why she’s on a mission to ease the shame that can come with puberty and menstruation. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss Molly Baz’s Times Square billboard, and is secretly making your fiancé pay for their engagement ring scammy? Weigh in: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are few stars that get us as nostalgic for the ’90s as Melissa Joan Hart. The actor, director, and comedian stops by The Bright Side to discuss her new comedy tour, growing up as a teen star, her time hanging out with Britney Spears, self acceptance, and more. What's your favorite Melissa Joan Hart show? Let us know by sending an email to [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After journalist and best-selling author Elaine Welteroth gave birth to her son, she became interested in learning more about the maternal health crisis in America. It inspired her to found birthFUND, a coalition that financially supports mothers who want to use midwives. Plus, Danielle and Simone react to the news that Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie are reportedly reuniting for a new reality TV show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When author Chelsey Goodan started tutoring girls, she realized that what they needed most was for someone to listen to them. Her new book, “Underestimated: The Wisdom and Power of Teenage Girls,” is the result of all that listening. It's a practical guide for those looking to help empower girls and change the narrative of perfection that so many girls have internalized. Plus, in honor of Mother’s Day, Danielle and Simone’s moms stop by The Bright Side studios to drop some motherly wisdom. Have a Mother’s Day shout out? Email us: [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peloton instructor, “Today Show” on-air contributor, and Love Squad CEO Ally Love joins the show to talk about resilience, the power of pep talks, navigating life’s transitions and whether or not you really need to make your bed in the morning. Plus, Mother’s Day is around the corner and we’re debating which is better: a practical or frivolous gift? Let us know what you think by sending an email to [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We get into the fascinating history of women’s health with Dr. Elizabeth Comen, an oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering and the author of All in Her Head. Plus, if your friend wanted to get back with an ex, would you weigh in with your opinion? Tell us: [email protected]. At the end of the episode, Danielle and Simone discuss the importance of having each others’ backs in the workplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning actress Regina King and her sister Reina King stop by The Bright Side to talk about creativity, drive, and working together as sisters. The two founded the production company, Royal Ties, out of their love for storytelling. Their latest is the Netflix series “A Man in Full,” which they executive produced and Regina directed. They also talk about their work on “Shirley,” a stunning biopic about Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm’s presidential campaign. Plus, Anne Hathaway’s moment, Miss USA relinquishes her title, and hype-ups that aren’t appearance based. Tell us your favorite hype-up: [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women are not only natural entrepreneurs, they’re also uniquely equipped to solve the world’s future problems, according to author Brooke Markevicius. In her new book, “The Future Built by Women: Creating a Brighter Tomorrow Through Tech and Innovation,“ Brooke encourages and empowers women to live at the forefront of technological, social, and business change. Plus, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes talk about parenting at an “older” age, and dopamine decor. What’s your take? Hit us up: [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Pop culture anthropologist” Blakely Thornton will host his Met Gala watch party on Monday, May 6. He joins the show to dish about what excites him about the red carpet looks, fashion trends, sushi hype, and movie casting what-ifs. Plus, a baby shower secret weapon, Bumble allowing men to initiate, and even more about Lenny Kravitz exercising in his leather pants. Do you like to initiate on dating apps? Send an email to [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson returns for another “Asking for a Friend.” She lays out how conflict in our friendships is not only normal, but an opportunity to meet a need and ultimately strengthen the relationship. And she gives us some concrete pointers on how to navigate that conflict. Her book “Fighting for Our Friendships” is out May 7. Plus, adventures in recreating healthy recipes at home, keeping tabs on your friends and family, and the girls soccer team that beat a boys team for a championship. Need some friendship advice? Send us an email at [email protected] and we may get you an answer from an expert!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neha Ruch founded Mother Untitled as a community for mothers rethinking their relationship to work. The goal: to give clarity and confidence to women who are considering a career pause or downshift, and to shift the perception of what it means to be a stay-at-home parent. Plus, Danielle and Simone get into the phrases that successful women use at work. Do you use any of these phrases at work? Maybe you have your own? Let us know at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joanne Molinaro, The Korean Vegan, reflects on the wisdom, confidence, and joy she’s found through food. Plus, we’re Giving Her Flowers: High school freshman Naya Ellis’ invented a watch that can detect the signs of stroke in older adults. Her invention won her recognition at the National STEM Challenge. If you know someone in your community who deserves her flowers, send us their name and your reasons for nominating them to [email protected]. We'll be showering praise and recognition once a month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Claire Lombardo is the author of “The Most Fun We Ever Had,” the Reese’s Book Club pick for April. The book deals with imperfect characters, complicated relationships, and dysfunctional families, and it exemplifies one of Claire’s philosophies in fiction: no one’s fully a hero, and no one's fully a villain. Plus, Danielle and Simone sound off on stage names. What’s your stage name? Send us an email at [email protected]. You can find "The Most Fun We Ever Had" on Apple Books or wherever you get your books. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ada Limón draws inspiration from nature — from feeling like a part of a much larger, awesome whole. She’s partnering with the National Park Service to create the “You Are Here” initiative: seven picnic tables at seven National Parks, each featuring a site-specific poem selected by Ada. And later this year, she’s sending one of her poems to space on NASA’s Europa Clipper! She shares insights about her relationship to poetry, and gives a prompt to help all of us get in touch with our inner poet. Plus, Sophia Bush and letting yourself exhale, whether to block an ex, and fake celebrity relationships.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When comedian and “Daily Show” senior correspondent Dulcé Sloan began her memoir “Hello Friends: Stories of Dating, Destiny, and Day Jobs,” she started with the jokes that were too long to tell on stage. She talks with Danielle and Simone about not being famous enough, the tight-knit comedy community, and the perks of growing up in Atlanta. Plus, Caitlin Clark is set to sign a $28 million deal with Nike, Anne Hathaway opened up about a “gross” chemistry test in the 2000’s, and Hello Sunshine’s Mother’s Day gift guide is here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeni Britton Bauer built Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams up from a single storefront in Columbus, Ohio, to a national brand. The ice cream icon’s path to dessert royalty was sometimes a rocky road, and she’s learned big time business lessons along the way from failures, from crises, and from… “The Lord of the Rings”? Plus, the (real!) power of a pat on the back — and maybe you’ve heard of love languages, but how can “stress languages” help inform your relationships? What’s your stress language? Send an email to [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexa von Tobel is on a mission to teach girls about money. Financial literacy is one of the keys to closing the wealth gap between men and women, and Alexa says you can start teaching kids about money at a very young age. She joins us to discuss ways to get into a healthier money mindset — for both kids and adults. Plus, the Spice Girls reunite, Cher finally enters the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the dichotomy between truth and kindness. How do you talk about money with your kids? Email us: [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Katherine Woodward Thomas wrote Calling in The One in the early 2000s, she had no idea how strongly it would resonate with women today. The therapist and author joined The Bright Side to talk about how to attract the love of your life, and why her book is having a resurgence two decades after it was first released. Plus, we chat about Earth Day, Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department, and a recent study that says America is not as divided as we think.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Jessica Shepherd has seen her fair share of misinformation about birth control. The OB-GYN joins The Bright Side to do some myth busting around reproductive health, and discuss questions around IUD pain, infertility, and weight gain. Plus, Danielle and Simone talk about Taylor Swift’s new album, react to the news that Nelly and Ashanti are expecting their first child, and discuss Emma Roberts’ "doll wall." Do you have any questions about reproductive health for our next conversation with an OB-GYN? Send us a voice memo at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mary Beth Barone is no stranger to doing it herself. For years, the comedian has made her rounds as a stand-up on the comedy club circuit. Mary Beth sits down with Simone and Danielle to talk about her evolution in comedy, working in a male-dominated industry, and writing, directing, producing, and funding her own comedy special on YouTube. Plus, Arianna Grande’s nonna is the oldest person to hit the Billboard Hot 100, “Crazy Rich Asians” goes to Broadway, and the merits of being “unlikeable.” Let us know what you think about being “unlikeable” at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reporter Amy Chozick used her experiences covering HIllary Clinton on the campaign trail as the inspiration for a new show on Max called “The Girls on the Bus.” Part satire, part drama, the show follows four journalists covering a cadre of flawed presidential candidates. Amy joins us to talk about turning her observations from ten years of campaign reporting into a TV series. Plus, Caitlin Clark’s WNBA salary, Taylor Swift tries to make poetry cool, and Danielle and Simone ask: is it OK to drink breast milk? Later this week, we’re talking with an OB-GYN who’s going to help us debunk some women’s health misinformation. Have a question for her? Email us: [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rachel Zoe is a fashion mogul, celebrity stylist, CEO, and host of the podcast “Climbing in Heels.” She dishes about her decades of making fashion approachable, building her brand while staying on top of her game, and just being a nice person. Danielle and Simone react to the news that “The Morning Show” will delay season 4 until after this year’s election — and compare their own newsroom experience to the show. Plus, beauty tips from Ava Phillippe, the daughter of Reese Witherspoon!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2024 has been a phenomenal year for women in sports. With the record-breaking viewership of the women's March Madness finals, women's athletics have finally gotten the media coverage they deserve. However, recent research shows that by the time girls hit 14 years old, they are twice as likely to quit playing sports than boys. Christine Yu, award-winning journalist and author of “Up to Speed: The Groundbreaking Science of Women Athletes” joins us on the show to unpack why this is happening and what we can all do to help the girls in our lives learn that a good body is a strong body. Plus, Danielle and Simone chat about wearing perfume to bed, acts of microfeminism, and men's emotional wellness retreats. What are your small acts of feminism? Email us your answers at [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The color-obsessed content creator Courtney Quinn — better known as Color Me Courtney — joins the show to talk about the power of color, and what different colors say about our clothes, our confidence, and even our show’s logo! Plus, Danielle and Simone talk about the upcoming Margot Robbie-produced Monopoly movie, Lenny Kravitz working out in leather pants, and the colors we’re wearing this season. Are you all about bright colors, or do you prefer a more neutral palette? Send us a voice memo at [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we bid farewell to an archetype that defined millennial hustle culture: the #girlboss. Danielle and Simone give heartfelt eulogies, and are joined by cultural critic Leigh Stein to understand the girlboss rise and fall. Leigh helps make sense of why it’s time to let her go, and where we go from here. Plus, we dive into AI therapy (yes, it’s real), the new Bridget Jones movie, and the paradigm-shifting viewership of the women’s NCAA Finals. Send in your #girlboss condolences: [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Optimism is not just an outlook — it’s a mindset. And it’s a mindset that can change your life for the better, according to Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist and the author of “Practical Optimism.” Dr. Varma says you can actually train your brain to become more optimistic by learning to reframe negative situations. The effects are stunning. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss Billie Eilish’s new album, Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen, and Rihanna on plastic surgery. Have a hot take on celeb culture? You can reach our show at [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year, at Girls State, young women from across the country gather to form a mock government while honing their leadership skills. The new Apple TV+ documentary “Girls State” follows some of these girls from 2022’s event, documenting their triumphs, failures, tears, and breakthroughs. Co-director Amanda McBaine joins the show along with one of the film’s main subjects, Emily Worthmore. They dig into the value of crossing the aisle, and all the amazing things you can learn from young women. Plus, Danielle and Simone talk about the total eclipse, and weigh the pros and cons of IUDs. Did you watch Girls State? Let us know what you thought by sending a voice memo to [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Flo Rosen, AKA Ask Bubbie, joins The Bright Side for our regular “Grand Ol’ Grannies” segment with our favorite advice-giving grandmas. The former pediatrician turned TikTok phenom drops some truth bombs about gentle parenting, keeping sane with a fussy child, and when the best time is to visit new parents. Plus, Danielle and Simone discuss the solar eclipse, bachelorette parties, and Mel B getting kicked out of the Spice Girls chat. Which Spice Girl are you? Send us a voice memo at [email protected] for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in the mood to chit-chat on The Bright Side today, but have you ever found yourself in a small-talk situation with nothing much to say? Danielle and Simone discuss how to up your small talk game. Plus, this weekend it’s the NCAA Final Four! We talk about March Madness with sports producer Hannah O’Flynn. It’s been an historic year for the women’s tournament, drawing record viewership and unparalleled attention. We’re swept up in the Caitlin Clark phenomenon, and we’ll be cheering on Angel Reese in the WNBA next year.. Who are you rooting for this weekend? Send us a voice memo at [email protected] for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reyna Roberts may or may not have discovered she would be featured on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album the way the rest of us did: when she heard her own voice on two of the tracks. Reyna joins The Bright Side to talk about what it’s like to be a black artist in a predominantly white genre, the Beyoncé effect on country music, and she sticks around to play a round of “This or That'' with the hosts. Plus, Taylor Swift joins the billionaire club, Shakira’s hot take on Barbie, and our weird celebrity crushes. Be a part of The Bright Side! Are you watching the NCAA FInal Four this weekend? What do you make of the Caitlin Clark effect? Send us a voice memo at [email protected] for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in the era of overthinking, according to linguist and author Amanda Montell. She stops by The Bright Side to talk about her new book “The Age of Magical Overthinking,” and how our brains process the information overload we’re bombarded with on a daily basis. Plus, Reese’s Book Club pick for April is “The Most Fun We Ever Had” by Claire Lombardo. Claire will join us for a conversation at the end of the month — and she’ll be taking your questions! Send us a voice message at [email protected]. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode, we kick off “Asking for a Friend,” The Bright Side’s new friendship advice segment. Danielle and Simone are joined by friendship coach Danielle Bayard Jackson, who answers listener questions and teaches us how to strengthen our bonds. If you have a friend dilemma, send us a voice message at [email protected]. We might use it next time! Plus, Are you more of a black cat or a Golden Retriever when it comes to relationships? Danielle and Simone discuss what it means to be with a partner who brings that lovable, playful “Golden Retriever Energy.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.