Exiting Our Twenties

Berkeley Joy Mashburn
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No one makes it through their twenties without a story to tell. Exiting Our Twenties celebrates women at the start of a new chapter. Sharing the most meaningful stories from our twenties, we help younger women navigate their own while embracing the lessons we’ve learned. Together, we prepare for what's next and remind ourselves – the best is yet to come. Interested in telling a story on the show?  Fill out this Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit

Episodes

  1. The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection

    09/21/2025

    The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection

    Send us a text Episode 8 – The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection  In celebration of her thirtieth birthday, Berkeley shares an intimate reflection on her twenties and the essential lessons she’s carrying into her thirties. She offers a 3-prompt framework for discovering the essential data you’ve collected about yourself over the last decade, and setting yourself up for an extraordinary adventure in your thirties (or whatever chapter is around the corner for you). Finally, she shares another story from her twenties and the six words she heard recently that changed her life –– This Is Not Working For Me. The Exiting Our Twenties Reflection To join in on the reflection, grab a journal or a piece of scrap paper and a pen, and take some time to answer these three prompts:  What are 3 things I did right in my twenties? What are 3 things I wish I had done differently in my twenties? What are 3 Essential Lessons I learned in my twenties? You can also review the prompts on our Instagram: @exitingourtwenties Berkeley’s Answers – Listen to the Episode to Hear More!  What are 3 things I did right in my twenties?I traveled solo I read a lot (especially nonfiction)I allowed myself to change my mind (and followed through for myself)What are 3 things I wish I’d done differently in my twenties?I wish I had prioritized my physical fitness  I wish I’d focused less on who might be in love with me – and more on what I wanted to do with my life / who I wanted to be I wish I’d stayed in better touch with my girlfriends  What are 3 Essential Lessons I learned in my twenties?   What I put in my body has everything to do with how I feel I’m never as stuck as I think I am  Having quiet time alone with my thoughts is essential to figuring out who I am and creating a life that feels goodBooks Referenced in the Episode  Digital Minimalism and Deep Work by Cal Newport  The Anatomy of Anxiety by Dr. Ellen VoraQuit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron  The Morning Pages are a great tool for self-reflection as you're exiting your twenties or navigating any big transition in life. If you enjoyed the solo travel story in this episode, check out Berkeley’s blog post about the experience at Chasing Joy Travel (originally published Aug. 2021).  Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    32 min
  2. Natalie's Story

    08/10/2025

    Natalie's Story

    Send us a text In Episode 7, Natalie from Oregon shares how she learned to cope with the uncertainty of her twenties and overcame debilitating panic & anxiety attacks.   After graduating from college, Natalie felt immense pressure to make all the right choices, fearing one misstep could mess up the rest of her life. But a series of panic attacks threw a wrench in her plans. Sharing the coping strategies that worked for her, Natalie reminds us that when we face our fears head-on, let go of what we can’t change, and lean on the people who love us, we discover how resilient we truly are.  You’ll relate to Natalie’s story if you’ve ever: Felt the pressure to do everything right in your twentiesStruggled with anxiety or panic attacks  Resisted therapy out of fear of being labeled with a mental health disorderReframed a diagnosis into something you could embrace  Discovered simple solutions to calm yourself down during difficult moments Resources from the Episode Natalie’s Tools:* The Worry List: Set a 5-minute timer, write down everything bothering you; then cross off what’s outside your control, and make an action plan for what’s leftPhysical Grounding: Hold ice cubes or embrace something warm to bring yourself back to the present moment (practice safely, pls); put your feet up on the wall and breathe into your hands Bedtime Rituals: Build a nightly routine that works for you–consider stretching, journaling, reading, drinking water, and/or talking through your fears with a loved oneConnection & Self-Care: Honor yourself and lean into supportive relationships (including professional therapists and counselors) when things get hard*Listen to the episode for more! If you’re struggling with anxiety or mental health concerns, please seek support from a qualified healthcare provider. Berkeley’s Book Rec: The Anatomy of Anxiety: Understanding and Overcoming the Body’s Fear Response by Dr. Ellen Vora, MD This is one of the most impactful books Berkeley read in her twenties. Psychiatrist Dr. Ellen Vora teaches us that “anxiety is not simply a brain disorder but a whole-body condition.” She shares the physical factors–including nutrition–that impact our mental health and empowers us with practical tools to support our bodies, manage, and even prevent anxiety.  Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist turning 30 soon! After years of private scribbling and longing for the right outlet, she realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties, to bring hope and confidence to women of all ages and remind those nearing thirty that the best is yet to come. Follow, Subscribe, and Share Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. We're also on Instagram. If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman who would benefit from Natali Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 16m

  3. 06/29/2025

    Paulina's Story

    Send us a text Episode 6 – Paulina's Story “Just because you have the opportunity to do something, doesn’t mean you should.” In Episode 6, Paulina from NYC shares how FOMO shaped her twenties.  After growing up feeling like she missed out on a lot, Paulina was determined to live life to the fullest. But in going full throttle, she sometimes went too far and faced serious consequences. Through candid stories from college and her study abroad, Paulina reflects on the lessons she learned about balancing personal safety and responsibility with the desire to live an unforgettable life. Also on the show, Paulina and Berkeley explore the tension between FOMO and what we truly want, how alcohol and social media disconnect us from the present, and the importance of learning to ask ourselves, “Aren’t you satisfied?” You’ll relate to Paulina’s story if you’ve ever: Wanted your life to feel like a movie—or caught yourself constantly scrolling your camera rollFelt the urge to challenge yourself and make every moment countMade potentially dangerous decisions when you had no one to answer to for the first timeHid what was really going on from your parents to keep them from worryingRealized not every day will be fun and excitingRegretted losing memories to drinking Struggled to feel satisfied while comparing your life to everyone else’s onlineResources from the Episode Paulina’s Recommended Reading: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin Sociopath: A Memoir by Patric Gagne Berkeley’s Recommended Reading: Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker – A quit-lit classic that changed Berkeley’s life. Part memoir, part feminist call to arms, this book invites women to reconsider what we believe about alcohol and ask a powerful question: Is drinking actually making my life better? Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist enjoying the end of her twenties (she turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, she realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique—yet relatable—lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. She hopes to bring hope and confidence to women of all ages and remind those nearing thirty that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. We're also on Instagram. Visit ExitingOurTwenties.com to stay in the loop. And if there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 2m

  4. 06/13/2025

    Berkeley's Story

    Send us a text Episode 5: Berkeley’s Story  “It couldn’t have been a better one night stand experience – and I wish I could not regret it.” In Episode 5, our regular host Berkeley takes the “hot seat,” and her new friend Tori interviews her about a romantic night in Rome that left a lasting impact. Berkeley reads from her study abroad journal and reflects on her mixed emotions following this pivotal experience. Tori fills us in on life as a 25-year-old in Manhattan and shares a story from her 4-month backpacking trip. Together, these friends unpack the pressure we face to have sex in college/our early twenties, the dangers of comparing ourselves to others, and how we learn to choose what it is we truly want. You'll relate to Berkeley’s story if you’ve ever:  Been inspired by The Lizzie McGuire Movie to travel to Rome and search for your PaoloHad conflicting feelings about a decision you made while exploring your sexuality  Felt like there was something wrong with you for not sharing certain “rites of passage” with your peersHeld back your true feelings when talking about sex and relationships with your friendsDiscovered how capable you are while traveling or studying abroad Searched outside yourself for something that would make you feel complete Faced the consequences of making a decision you weren’t really ready for Had a Work Wife who you love to gab with 3Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences from their twenties. Through exploring these stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe NEW! Follow us on Instagram for updates and fun excerpts from the show! Our handle is @exitingourtwenties.Don’t miss an episode! Follow the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Check us out at exitingourtwenties.com.If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman you think would benefit from hearing Berkeley's story–please share this show with them!Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 19m

  5. 05/23/2025

    Jen's Story

    Send us a text Episode 4: Jen’s Story “I can make my own decisions – and watch me make my first one.” In our fourth episode, Jen from New York City (by way of Houston, TX) shares how she found a new rulebook for life after a terrible loss.  Growing up, Jen turned to her mom for guidance on every decision, big or small. But shortly after graduating from college, Jen's mom was diagnosed with cancer. Jen was thrust into “a new universe” and overnight, became a caretaker, a support system for her dad and sister, and a daughter wishing for a miracle. After her mom’s passing, Jen came to realize that honoring her mom would require her to chart her own course in life. Jen’s Story is a tender, unflinching look at how we move forward after the unthinkable happens. You’ll relate to Jen’s story if you’ve ever: Felt responsible for a parent’s happinessLost a parent or a beloved parental figure at a young ageTried on different "hats" or personalities to fit inRelied on a parent for decision-making growing up, and later struggled to trust your instinctsConsulted a psychic, tarot reader, or other mystic for adviceLeft a job without your next career move figured out Felt you were "born to be in your thirties"Resources from the episode:  Berkeley's Favorite Book: The Artist's Wayby Julia Cameron – Ever felt that something is holding you back from pursuing your purpose? The Artists' Way is beloved by creatives around the world (from writers to filmmakers to entrepreneurs) for helping them reimagine their lives. Check out this review in the New York Times or pick up a copy at your favorite independent bookstore today.Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. If there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 25m

  6. 05/09/2025

    Ellen's Story

    Send us a text Episode 3: Ellen’s Story “There’s so much our body knows how to do, as long as we don’t get in the way of it.” In our third episode, Ellen from Vail, CO, shares how she empowered herself to overcome her fears and make a choice aligned with her values: natural childbirth. A mystery childhood illness inspired Ellen to pursue a career as a naturopathic physician. Despite pushback from family members and others, she found the courage to follow that path and establish her practice in California. Years later, when preparing for the birth of her first child, Ellen realized she carried unconscious biases against midwives that mirrored the skepticism she faced in her profession. Determined to make the right choice for herself, Ellen took on the research, built a supportive community, and prepared her body for the journey ahead.  Ellen’s story reminds us that we can do hard things when we trust our instincts, build supportive communities, and live with intention. You’ll relate to Ellen’s story if you’ve ever: Pursued a career inspired by childhood challengesFaced pushback from family members when making early career decisionsBeen through a major life event that reinforced your habits and valuesConsidered alternatives to a traditional hospital birth (or simply been curious about natural childbirth) Reconsidered your body image and redefined its purpose Become a parent!Resources from the Episode Ellen’s Website: Explore naturopathic medicine and connect with Ellen.Book an Appointment Yuka: A mobile app that lets you scan everyday cosmetic and food products to understand their ingredients and find healthier alternatives.EWG’s Skin Deep® Database: A trusted resource for checking the safety of skincare and other personal products. Pain Free Birth: An educational resource for expecting moms interested in natural childbirth (or anyone curious about working with a doula or midwife!)Holistic Hub Podcast: On Ellen and baby Freddy’s first podcast appearance,  Dr. Ellen shares her expertise on environmental toxins and physician-assisted detox.Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet usually relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews friends about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these true stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Follow us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and visit Exitin Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 7m

  7. 04/25/2025

    Marnie's Story

    Send us a text Episode 2: Marnie’s Story  “I had this feeling that I wasn’t where I needed to be to grow.”  In our second episode, Marnie from Austin, TX, shares how she embraced the unknown to leave the corporate world and a long-term relationship in her late twenties and start her own business. At a time when everything in her life looked right on paper, Marnie felt like something was missing. With faith that just because something is unknown doesn’t mean that it’s bad, Marnie found the courage to bet on herself. Her story is a reminder that self-awareness and openness to the unknown are gifts, and that intuition is a muscle you can strengthen.  You’ll relate to Marnie’s story if you’ve ever: Felt like you’d “made it” in your career… only to realize something was missing or that you were ready for a change Moved cities or changed jobs in search of more varietyLived with a Boomer parent during COVID…Debated whether to leave your 9-5 and go all-in on a side hustle, or whether to leave a long-term romantic relationshipExperienced a lot of change in your life around 30 years oldEnjoyed being underestimated in your twentiesResources from the episode: Marnie’s Pick:Career Contessa: A helpful resource for women navigating every step and every challenge in their career. Work with Marnie: Marnie works with individuals at every stage of their careers to help them supercharge their job search, prepare for interviews and salary negotiations, and unpack any beliefs that may be holding them back from crafting work lives full of meaning. Explore Marnie’s Coaching Services and check out other resources (resume templates, interview ebook, and more) at https://www.marnielemonik.com/ 25% OFF: Use code TWENTIES for a discount on your first purchase, including coaching services.Book a Free Coaching Consult: https://calendly.com/marnieglemonik/coaching-consultationConnect with Marnie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnielemonik/ Berkeley’s Rec: Check out Berkeley’s theory of essential data on Substack.Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet usually relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews friends about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these true stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    44 min

  8. 04/11/2025

    Jo's Story

    Send us a text Episode 1: Jo’s Story “It’s OK to question everything – and it’s OK on the other side.”   In our very first episode, Jo from New York City tells the story of how and why she left her parents' church.  Throughout her twenties, Jo was discouraged from looking closely at childhood religious beliefs that never felt right. After an existential crisis at 25, Jo confronted her doubts head-on and embraced her inner authority. Jo reminds us that it’s okay to question everything and that there’s relief on the other side of confronting our cognitive dissonance. You’ll relate to Jo’s story if you’ve: Struggled to trust your inner authority during your twentiesBroken with your parents’ expectations for your life Grown up in a religious household but ended up less religious than your parentsExperienced existential dread or spiritual discomfortFound the courage to ask hard questions about your identity or beliefsResources from the Episode  Jo’s Favorite Reads: Author Brandon Sanderson: "Sometimes a hypocrite is nothing more than a (wo)man in the process of changing."ACOTAR: A Court of Thorns and Roses (aka Faerie Smut)Jo’s Podcast Rec: You Have Permission by Dan Koch — An embracing listen for anyone examining their faith or religious upbringing.Berkeley’s Book Rec: Revolution from Within by Gloria Steinem – An empowering read for women of any age. //"I think the idea of an inner authority is upsetting to those accustomed to looking outside for orders – and certainly to those accustomed to giving them." Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn* Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned PR strategist enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique – yet usually relatable – lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these true stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come. *In Episode 1, Berkeley reveals a long-held secret: She used to write Harry Potter FanFiction.  Follow & Subscribe Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Visit ExitingOurTwenties.com to stay in the loop. And if there’s someone in your life who would enjoy this episode–or a young woman you think would benefit from hearing Jo’s story– please share our show with them! Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1h 1m

  9. SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Exiting Our Twenties – Trailer

    Send us a text No one makes it through their twenties without a story to tell.  Exiting Our Twenties is a show about the real-life experiences of women just like you. Join us April 11th as we build a new community for women, one story at a time. Share Your Story If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!

    1 min

Trailer

About

No one makes it through their twenties without a story to tell. Exiting Our Twenties celebrates women at the start of a new chapter. Sharing the most meaningful stories from our twenties, we help younger women navigate their own while embracing the lessons we’ve learned. Together, we prepare for what's next and remind ourselves – the best is yet to come. Interested in telling a story on the show?  Fill out this Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10Fr6Jf5c--BwLZ-UT06zxRFuKAmOpdJsX_eJ31j0KUA/edit

Information

  • Creator
    Berkeley Joy Mashburn
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Exiting Our Twenties
  • Show Website
    Exiting Our Twenties