Are We Doing This?

Lauren and Lauren

Feeling stuck in the same routine? Welcome to Are We Doing This?, the podcast where two moms, on the verge of 40 and refusing to settle, push each other out of their comfort zones and try something new. From revisiting old hobbies to challenges like shopping locally, journaling daily, or finding creative side hustles, we’re showing that growth doesn’t stop at 40—it gets more exciting. With a blend of humor, honesty, and a little chaos, we’re on a mission to shake things up. Ready to rediscover yourself, embrace change, and maybe laugh along the way? Come do this with us!

  1. JAN 29

    The Dual Citizenship of Being Alive

    On today’s episode, we wade through the overwhelming stream of difficult news pouring out of Minnesota — from federal immigration enforcement crackdowns and shootings to community fear and fatigue. Amid that heaviness, we remind listeners that even in the darkest times we still need pockets of joy to stay human. Lauren P. opens up about a book she couldn’t put down — the kind of escape that gives you something good to hold onto even when the news feels relentless. She also shares a recipe so simple that even she couldn’t mess it up (yes, it really is foolproof) and walks us through gel nails you can do at home — little self-care wins that matter more than we often admit.Lauren B. checks in through a rough patch — she’s been hit with a bout of illness that has kept her slow and sidelined. She talks about the comforts that actually help: Vicks Vapor Rub, her go-to cough drops, a must-watch TV show that’s helping her pass the sick days with a smile, and an affordable juice hack that somehow feels like a tiny victory in a gross week.Every story on this episode — the national fury, the personal anecdotes, the practical tips for comfort and joy — ties back to the same truth: life keeps happening, and while the world can feel heavy and those in power can feel untrustworthy, holding onto the good things we can control — books, food, self-care, laughter — is not just optional, it’s essential. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://www.standwithminnesota.com/ LP's Dumpling Bake Recipe LP's At Home Gel Nails

    54 min
  2. 11/19/2025

    2,768 Steps and a Break Up

    In this episode, Lauren and Lauren Parajon catch up on all the big things—like conquering Thanksgiving, surviving the 2,768-step Manitou Incline (aka: the StairMaster from hell), and planning a handmade Christmas because apparently nothing says “festive” like stabbing fabric thousands of times with a tiny needle. Lauren Butler shares how she’s rediscovering her crafty side through hand embroidery, all while navigating the rollercoaster of parenting older kids—complete with new boundary-setting adventures and the realization that big kids can outsmart you. The Laurens also dive into their complicated relationships… with their phones. They talk about what it might look like to officially “break up” with their devices, how screen time hijacks real-life moments, and why a digital detox might actually save their sanity. Toss in some tips for cutting back on scrolling, a rant or two about social media brain fog, and a group challenge to put the phones down before they fuse to our hands. And because we’re grown-ups now, they even squeeze in some chat about sleep, health, and doing small things to prevent future problems—like dementia, burnout, or turning into those people who insist they don’t need rest. It’s an episode full of laughs, honesty, and the shared goal of being a little healthier (and slightly less glued to our screens). Helpful Links: How to Break Up with Your Phone (book) https://a.co/d/0wqlNXT Dementia Prevention (book) https://a.co/d/50F7LWo

    1h 2m
5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Feeling stuck in the same routine? Welcome to Are We Doing This?, the podcast where two moms, on the verge of 40 and refusing to settle, push each other out of their comfort zones and try something new. From revisiting old hobbies to challenges like shopping locally, journaling daily, or finding creative side hustles, we’re showing that growth doesn’t stop at 40—it gets more exciting. With a blend of humor, honesty, and a little chaos, we’re on a mission to shake things up. Ready to rediscover yourself, embrace change, and maybe laugh along the way? Come do this with us!