#8: Embracing Life's Detours & Twists on Traditions

Explicit content warning

03/13/24 • 30 min

As the sands of time slip through our fingers, we welcome the effervescent Jackie Flanagan to muse over the present moment, love, and the serendipitous detours of life. Our conversation is a kaleidoscope of experiences, spanning Jackie's leap from the allure of the non-profit world to embracing her true vocation. We traverse the landscape of emotional growth, touching on dating escapades and the tongue-in-cheek notion of seeking the next trip "across the pond" all the while sipping on the citrusy zest of a "Madras" cock & mock. These stories, laced with laughter and vulnerability, are a testament to the unpredictable journey that shapes Jackie's existence.
Whisked away by the charm of New Orleans, I recount the days that have etched a permanent joy in my soul. From slinging drinks at a bustling gay and lesbian bar to the pivot toward meaningful nonprofit work, these narratives celebrate the power of connection and the pursuit of passions. It's a homage to the cultural mosaic of the Big Easy, the unbreakable bonds of friendship that have been forged, and the fulfillment found in advocating for what truly matters. These shared memories reveal the vivid threads woven into the tapestry of my life's work and the communities I hold dear.
Amidst the laughter, we confront the sobering realities of divorce and the subsequent quest for identity. The raw honesty of my personal saga, from marrying at the twilight age of 60 to facing the stigmas of separation, underscores the complexities of life's second acts. We navigate the humorous prospect of reality TV romance, the dynamics of dating across age lines, and the reverberations of change on one's sense of self. With candor and camaraderie, we toast to the strength drawn from our collective experiences, lifting our spirits as we continue to grow and flourish within the embrace of our podcast family.

Send us a text

Mocktails Or Messy podcast
IG: @mocktailsormessy | TikTok: @mockmess
Watch | YouTube Mocktails Or MessyListen | Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Featured | #11 of Best Local Podcasts: FeedSpot

Send us a text

Previous Episode

#7: Fernando J. Garcia: Designer of Oscar de la Renta & Monse

Embark on a sartorial journey with Fernando J. Garcia, the visionary behind Monste and co-creative director at Oscar de la Renta, as he weaves a narrative of ambition, culture, and creativity. From the architectural halls of Notre Dame to the vibrant energy of New York City's fashion scene, Fernando's tale is a testament to the power of passion and the influence of roots. Underneath the shimmer of sequins and swish of silk, we uncover a story of hard work, family values, and the drive that propels someone from dreaming to doing. Fernando's insights offer a look behind the curtain of Fashion Week's whirlwind and the intricate dance of bringing a collection to life.
Strap in for a masterclass in personal style and the transformative power of clothing, as Fernando champions the art of dressing to express. Forget the fleeting whims of trends; here, it's all about clothing that sings to your soul and steps that stride with confidence. We also mix it up with a discussion on mocktails and the evolving relationship with alcohol, stirring a cocktail of thoughts on lifestyle balance and cultural idiosyncrasies. Shifting to the psychological palette, Fernando paints the challenges of new environments and upbringing, crafting an intimate portrait of the influences that shape our very fabric of being.
In the creative kaleidoscope of fashion, we discover the rainbow that is collaboration and the shades of artistic vision against the canvas of commerce. Fernando opens up about the synergy of criticism and growth, sharing the spotlight with those who push us to refine our craft. And sprinkled throughout are anecdotes of friendships that glisten like gems in a cityscape, the unexpected joys of apartment hunting in NYC, and the liberating power of shared vulnerabilities. Come for the fashion, stay for the profound reflections on creative careers, the delicate balance of work and personal life, and the strength found in embracing our fears.

Send us a text

Next Episode

#9: Workplace Psychological Safety & Wonders of Postbiotics

Pull up a chair and join the banter as Kelly Mizgorski and Ryan Frankowski, serve up a hearty mix of humor and insight on Mocktails Or Messy. The clink of glasses sets the stage as Kelly sips her cherished Chardonnay and I pour myself a riveting glass of non-alcoholic Lights van Goet. But our conversation isn't just a tipsy journey—it's a deep dive into the heart of workplace culture with psychological safety on the agenda. We're unwrapping the layers of what it means to speak your mind without the fear of retribution, in a world where your voice isn't just heard, it's valued.
As the drinks flow and our chat heats up, we switch gears to the gut-wrenching topic of postbiotics. Ever wondered what probiotics leave behind? Kelly schools us on the fascinating aftermath of these beneficial bugs, and how the leftovers might be the unsung heroes of gut health. She's not just talking out of her... well, you know—she's bringing the science to the table with a nod to the game-changing effects of fecal transplants. So, top off your glass, get comfortable, and raise a toast to explosive learning—without any of the mess. Cheers to not being a peasant in knowledge or in spirit!

Send us a text