It's Always Brunch with Megan & Shannon

Megan & Shannon

Join Megan and Shannon for real talk between girlfriends about dating, relationships, love, and sex… all the things we talk about over mimosas at brunch or during the hours and hours we spend on the phone like we’re back in high school.   As two modern, evolved, sexy, and fiery women in our 40s navigating the dating world, we are sharing our very relatable experiences to empower you to take ownership, accountability, and ultimately take charge of your romantic life whether you’re single or in a relationship.  It’s about understanding who you are and investing in yourself to raise your frequency and experience everything your heart desires!    We also support the sexy, fun, curious men growing alongside us on this journey.  Men who are mature and who are also emotionally available, open, and in tune with their wants and needs and looking to understand the women in their lives better.    There’s a new model of what the modern relationship can look like and we’re here to help create it. Communication, connection, alignment, passion, pleasure…let’s consciously create it together!    And don’t forget to grab your mimosa - because here It’s Always Brunch with Megan & Shannon! Cheers!

  1. 05.06.2024

    Standards & Expectations & Boundaries, Oh My!

    As a follow up to our last episode on not settling, today we’re tackling standards, expectations and boundaries.  All SUPER important things when it comes to relationships.  We’ve talked a lot about standards and boundaries but thought we’d get into more detail about what they actually are. There seems to be some confusion out there so S&M are breaking it down for you!  Have you been asked if your standards are too high?  Some people might think this is why you’re still single. But what does that even mean??  I have standards for myself, as I should!  People tend to think standards are what you’re looking for in a person – the superficial checklist mentality: tall, dark, and handsome.  Most of these things are extrinsic, not intrinsic – what makes someone a good partner.  These are the types of things that are better related to how you filter potential dates and mates on the surface. We discuss a better way to filter through the potentials is to know what your standards are.  Standards actually have to do with YOU and not your partner. Standards are actually better aligned with your well-considered dealbreakers that are based on your values and principles that guide the type of relationship you want, desire, and deserve in your life. Yes, we’re talking about dealbreakers yet again! These are essential to know when evaluating your fundamental compatibility with a person. It’s about what’s acceptable and unacceptable to you and can be more factual and fixed rather than flexible.  Next up is expectations which tend to be rooted in our beliefs.  They can be more fluctuating and subject to emotion.  They can develop, change, or evolve from past experiences or our hopes for the relationship and how each person in the relationship functions within it.  When you have expectations for someone and they don’t meet them we can feel hurt, disappointed, and frustrated. We talk about the importance of making sure someone meets your standards and communicating your expectations as you get to know one another and grow in the early stages of the relationship.  Then we get to talk about boundaries- yay! When your standards are not being met you can communicate through boundaries. Boundaries are the action aspect of your standards.  Boundaries inform people of how you want to be treated.  You need to know and communicate your preferences, desires, limits, and dealbreakers. It’s about prioritizing yourself!  The fun stuff:   Episode 62- Not Settling https://www.buzzsprout.com/2154729/15154818  Episode 2- The Checklist https://www.buzzsprout.com/2154729/12686824  Find the checklist here: https://chipper-inventor-8862.ck.page/065afb4a0f  Terri Cole- the OG Boundary Boss! https://www.terricole.com Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  2. 29.05.2024

    Not Settling

    Lately we’ve found ourselves in some less than desirable situations and, after some self-reflection, we realized we have not been applying our own standards - even compromising some of our dealbreakers - because we wanted to “be open.” We opened ourselves up for sure, but the only thing that really got us was hurt.  So today we’re dropping some gems about not settling! Settling is compromising on what you want, need, and desire in your life.  It's vital that you’re clear and solid in what your dealbreakers and standards are.  Upholding them should help you not settle although we know that can be challenging especially when chemistry is involved.  We talk about how we justify softening our boundaries and standards and why we do it.  And we also discuss settling for what the other person is willing to give (think situationship, FWB, hooking up) while hoping for more.  Reminder: when you do that, you’re also accepting less than what you want and ultimately de-valuing yourself.  You’re effectively saying, “I don’t deserve what I want and desire.”  Ouch.   We get into what being open means, getting super clear on what you actually want, and upholding your boundaries.  If the evidence points to no, then why continue giving so many chances and trying to move forward? We have an interesting conversation about compromise- how it goes both ways, what it means to truly compromise and what that conversation looks like.  It’s not about changing who you are, it’s about coming to an understanding on both sides.  When you don’t do this it most likely will lead to resentment which builds into contempt and that is not a good place to be.  The biggest gem- saying no faster to people who aren’t a fit for you!  It’s so important to stay in your own integrity rather than holding on to someone who doesn’t meet your standards or respect your boundaries.  And this is not about throwing someone away for the next best thing.  This is about making a healthy assessment of your situation and what’s best for you.  If someone likes you and wants to be with you then they’ll make reasonable concessions.  Period!   The goodies: Managing Conflict: Solvable vs. Perpetual Problems https://www.gottman.com/blog/managing-conflict-solvable-vs-perpetual-problems/ The Four Horsemen: Contempt https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-contempt/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  3. 22.05.2024

    Putting Yourself Out There

    Yay to putting yourself out there!  We talk about the speed dating event we helped support at Artist Block tasting room in Dundee, OR.  We absolutely love the vibe of the place so much that we did a photo shoot there.  It was so much fun to play in such a bright space with beautiful neon colored art everywhere.  It’s kinda like a playroom for adults especially if you indulge in some Woo Juice- yum! We were so excited to see how open and comfortable everyone was that attended especially since everyone was a speed dating virgin! They all embraced the experience and thoroughly enjoyed it.  Some people even made new friends and went out for drinks afterwards.  We talk about the benefits of speed dating and differences with traditional dating, trying something new even when you’re nervous, and the importance of communication and conversation (ALWAYS!).  We also talk about the Never Have I Ever bingo game (and the fact that Shannon has no idea if she’s ever been in a police car or not....OMG) and we answer some of the question prompts we created for the mini dates (as usual....get ready haha!) Thank you so much to everyone who showed up!  We’re both looking forward to offering more in person experiences so, stay tuned! Goodies we're sharing from the ep-  Artist Block https://www.artistblockwine.com  “Soul Gazing” Is the Difference Between Having Sex and Making Love https://www.popsugar.co.uk/love/tantric-eye-gazing-48707473 “Our stories are not meant for everyone. Hearing them is a privilege, and we should always ask ourselves this before we share: "Who has earned the right to hear my story?" - Brené Brown Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  4. 15.05.2024

    S&M After Dark: What’s Alive for Us Right Now

    We’re doing something different this week and recorded after hours and decided to share where we’re both at in dating and what’s alive for us right now.  Buckle up, buttercup! We haven’t talked about the dating apps in a while.  Megan gives an update on that (spoiler alert- frustration ensues) and we talk about intentional dating and overall respect.  We’ve both had experiences with people that seem self-absorbed lately so we delve into that further and offer our thoughts on why that may be happening (oh, and the importance of self-awareness because how could we not).  And we talk about breaking trust and the repair that needs to happen to be in a healthy relationship. So, lots of topics- we went on an adventure of sorts.  Then Shannon gets into what it means to be an empath vs having empathy.  We talk about compassion and the 3 strike rule, how hurtful it is when someone’s actions don’t line up with their words, and healing in a relationship.  Which leads us to talk about what we’re both looking for in a relationship. Megan asks Shannon for her thoughts on speed in a relationship and feeling at peace in a relationship.  We also get into post relationship reflection- the fun stuff! We threw in a PSA for men- take the chance and ask her out even if you think she’s out of your league! And we ended talking about an upcoming speed dating event that we’re helping to run.  Update on that coming soon! Matthew Hussey’s book: Love Life- How to Raise Your Standards, Find Your Person, and Live Happily (No Matter What) https://matthewhussey.com/love-life-book/   Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  5. 08.05.2024

    Misconceptions of Dark Feminine Energy in Dating

    Dark feminine energy (also referred to as black cat energy) is the shadow side of the divine feminine and is marked by such traits as being mysterious, assertive, authentic, powerful, seductive, and confident.  There are benefits to tapping into the dark feminine but there’s plenty of toxic information out there about what it is and how to wield it to get a man to give you whatever you want. So, today we’re talking about how manipulative and unhealthy this dating advice is.   For real, these are strategies that women are teaching other women to land a man who will treat you like a princess: ·      Don’t debate or have intellectual convo (ummm, I have a brain up in here) ·      Let things be his ideas and not yours (just….NO) ·      Smile and nod while listening (basically sit there and look pretty) ·      Receive instead of giving (sooo, be a taker) ·      Don’t initiate texting, talking, making plans, etc. (essentially make him chase you)   We’re completely against playing games but there are ways to model healthy behavior in dating to see how the other person will respond- will they step up and show up. Think about what you’re putting out there and what type of person you’ll attract.    We talk about positive feminine energy responses and behaviors in dating and include some of our own approaches and experiences, of course! Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  6. 01.05.2024

    Oral Sex: Viva La Vulva!

    It’s time to beCOME CLITerate! Today S&M are talking about cunnilingus although this episode will benefit both men and women.  It’s the sex ed we never got in school but should have.  The inspo for this convo came from Ian Kerner’s book She Comes First which is a MUST read for everyone.  It has been called the essential guidebook to oral sex and the philosophy for pleasuring women.  And we agree! Kerner has identified three essential stages- Foreplay, Coreplay, and Moreplay.  And oral isn’t part of foreplay like most people would consider it to be.  Foreplay is all about stimulating other parts of the body.  Her body is wonderland and it’s time to start exploring!  And take your time.  There’s no rush here with any of this.  Coreplay is where oral takes center stage. The book includes diagrams and descriptions of different techniques and positions that work best for women.  We talk about the ones that are less than optimal and how we feel about them.  And then moreplay is all about more orgasms. Yes, please!!!  Need we say more?   We discuss the importance of incorporating fingers into playtime as well as lots of other tips and goodies including taking the time to get to know someone’s body, connecting with each other, enjoying the pleasure palace, and communication (shocker, right?).   So, rev up your engines!   EVERYONE NEEDS THIS BOOK!   She Comes First by Ian Kerner   https://www.harpercollins.com/products/she-comes-first-ian-kerner?variant=32207941861410 Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

  7. 24.04.2024

    Sharonda Grandberry Opens Up About Healing, Dating & Sex!

    We have a special guest today- yay!  We are excited to have Sharonda Grandberry with us today.  Sharonda is a full figured model, speaker, author award winning stylist, brand ambassador, and CEO of Pink Throne Styles.  Basically, she’s a total badass! Sharonda shares her healing journey, growing apart from her husband and breaking their trauma bond, therapy, forgiveness, exiting a 20+ year marriage, a big move to Georgia, and living solo.   Then we talk about dating!  Sharonda talks about her transition into the dating world of apps and Insta DMs!  She’s not shy about asking men if they’ve worked through their traumas and are healing.  We discuss the stigma around therapy, especially for our generation (Gen X!) and how we’re leading the charge now and taking control of our own healing and helping the generation before and after us.  Sharonda also emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for men to open up and be vulnerable with us and how we need to also have patience and grace with them.   We talk about emotional connection and the importance of sex.  Mmmm, yes, our sex drives are in overdrive in our 40s!  We are more comfortable in our bodies; we know what we want and we’re not settling for anything less than great sex!  Sharonda floats the idea of the maintenance man to get your needs met (*wink wink*).   Oh and there may have been some talk about eggplants- lol!   This was such a fun one for all of us to share our stories, relate, and support one another.  Enjoy!!     All Sharonda’s Links:   https://www.pinkthronestyles.com https://www.sharondagrandberry.com/ https://www.instagram.com/foreverfashion24_8/ https://www.instagram.com/pinkthronestyle/ https://www.facebook.com/pinkthronestyles/ https://www.tiktok.com/@foreverfashion24_8  https://twitter.com/pinkthronestyle   Diary of a Ready Woman: I don't look like what I've been through because my comeback is better than my setback  https://www.amazon.com/Diary-Ready-Woman-Through-Comeback/dp/0970717512   Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

    Sharonda Grandberry Opens Up About Healing, Dating & Sex!
  8. 17.04.2024

    It’s Our Podiversary!

    It's our One Year Podiversary-yay!! We've managed to consistently deliver this pod every week for a year and are celebrating our dedication and commitment to sharing and helping all of you! Our mission is to empower women and support men in truly understanding and knowing themselves and each other while navigating relationships and creating the healthy love life they deeply desire.  We talk about how and why we started, how we’ve evolved, top episodes, countries, and cities, and what’s next for us! We also got a bit into the healing process.  More to come on another episode! Then we crush on each other for a bit- lol!  ** Apologies on Megan’s sound- unknown technical difficulties ☹ Links to our fav episodes: The Apology Series: Part 1 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-always-brunch-with-megan-shannon/id1679100522?i=1000623925623 Part 2 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-always-brunch-with-megan-shannon/id1679100522?i=1000624647031 Part 3  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-always-brunch-with-megan-shannon/id1679100522?i=1000625407770 The Checklist  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2154729/12686824 Let's Talk About Safe Sex, Baby! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2154729/13158118 Follow us https://www.instagram.com/itsalwaysbrunchpod/ Shannon’s Dating & Relationship Coaching https://www.instagram.com/sagecoachingandhealing/  Rate, Review & Follow on Apple Podcasts:  Please support the pod by rating and reviewing us!  This helps others to find us more easily, grow our following, and will allow us to do some titillating things! ·      Click HERE, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate, and choose to “Write a Review” ·      Let us know what you love about the pod!  And when you follow us, you’ll receive notifications when the next juicy episode drops- yay!

Info

Join Megan and Shannon for real talk between girlfriends about dating, relationships, love, and sex… all the things we talk about over mimosas at brunch or during the hours and hours we spend on the phone like we’re back in high school.   As two modern, evolved, sexy, and fiery women in our 40s navigating the dating world, we are sharing our very relatable experiences to empower you to take ownership, accountability, and ultimately take charge of your romantic life whether you’re single or in a relationship.  It’s about understanding who you are and investing in yourself to raise your frequency and experience everything your heart desires!    We also support the sexy, fun, curious men growing alongside us on this journey.  Men who are mature and who are also emotionally available, open, and in tune with their wants and needs and looking to understand the women in their lives better.    There’s a new model of what the modern relationship can look like and we’re here to help create it. Communication, connection, alignment, passion, pleasure…let’s consciously create it together!    And don’t forget to grab your mimosa - because here It’s Always Brunch with Megan & Shannon! Cheers!