From Lemons to Limoncello

Lisa Marie DeSanto

They say we should make lemonade when life gives us lemons, but I think we can do so much more than that. Adding a little sugar just masks the sour of life, but if we take the time to distill all of the flavors of our experiences—with honesty and empathy—we can completely transform our lives into something as bold and exquisite as a glass of limoncello. I hope you'll join me each week, because the only thing better than creating a great recipe for life is sharing it with friends.

  1. 06/29/2025

    EP 72 - A Quick Note: Taking a Break (So I Can Hear What’s Next)

    This week’s episode is a little different. It’s about taking a deep breath. After 71 consecutive weeks of stories, insights, and connection, I’m pressing pause — just for a bit. Not because I’ve run out of things to say, but because this pause is something worth taking. Life has tossed a few brass bands into my zen garden lately, and I’m taking a short break to recalibrate, realign, catch up and rest before the next leg of the journey. I'll be back soon from a new corner of the world, ready to bring you some fresh stories with the energy they deserve. In the meantime, this is the perfect time to catch up on episodes you might’ve missed—and if you want to follow along with my travels, I’m sharing weekly updates on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @lisamarieconnections. My next destination reveal is coming soon, so please follow me there so you don’t miss the announcement.   Until then, keep doing what lights you up. Live your life like it’s happening now—because it is. And if you need to pause? That’s a part of the journey, too. This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    4 min
  2. 06/22/2025

    EP 71 - Your Sign to Stop Settling: From a Digital Nomad Who's Been There

    Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is admit that “just getting by” isn’t enough anymore. So many of us stay stuck in the familiar—jobs that deplete us, relationships that shrink us, routines that numb us—because we’re taught to believe that survival equals success. But what if the discomfort you’re feeling isn’t a signal to push harder... what if it’s an invitation to stop settling? In this episode, we talk about: Breaking free from burnout cycles and why overwork is not a badge of honorWhat it really means to leave a toxic job or draining relationship and redefine securityHow rediscovering joy, creativity, and curiosity can lead to a more aligned and fulfilling lifeWhy “starting over” isn't failure—and how to turn your reset into a powerful act of self-trustHow to shift from fear-based decisions to soul-aligned choicesWhy embracing rest, play, and imperfection is a radical act of personal growthPractical tips for reclaiming your creativity and reconnecting with your inner voice If you’ve been searching for motivation to leave what no longer serves you and step into something truer—this is your episode. You don’t have to settle for a life that only looks good on the outside. You deserve one that feels alive on the inside. See you there. Cheers! This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    14 min
  3. 06/15/2025

    EP 70 - When Making a Living Costs You Your Life

    Sometimes,“success” comes at the cost of our well-being, creativity, and joy. And when that happens — when making a living costs you your life —you don’t always notice right away. It creeps in quietly, disguised as productivity, masked by ambition, until one day you realize you've traded your passion for survival and your voice for silence.   In this episode, we talk about: Burnout and the emotional toll of overworking, especially in traditional 9-to-5 or corporate settingsThe pressure of financial stability vs. emotional freedom, and how fear can drive our choicesLetting go of toxic productivity to rediscover joy, identity, and a more aligned daily rhythmChoosing intentional living over “default mode,” and the mindset shift that creates room for passion Key takeaways for listeners include: How to recognize the signs you’ve been surviving instead of livingWhy small, consistent actions—like revisiting a forgotten passion—can reignite your inner sparkWhat living with purpose looks like outside of the traditional career pathWhy joy and creativity aren’t distractions—they’re essential for real balance and fulfillment If you’re feeling burned out, questioning your work-life balance, or wondering how to rediscover your passion outside the 9-to-5 grind—or navigating a career shift, craving a more intentional life, or simply ready to stop surviving and start living, this episode is for you.  See you there. Cheers!  This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    19 min
  4. 06/08/2025

    EP 69 - Digital Nomad Truths: Language Gaps. Loneliness. Living Life in the Moment.

    What does being a digital nomad really feel like? Stepping into a new country as long-term guest is exciting and fulfilling. It can also be lonely. Why? Well, one challenge can  catch travelers off guard—language barriers. Beyond ordering a coffee or asking for directions, language leads to human connection, the kind that turns strangers into friends and everyday interactions into meaningful exchanges. Without it, conversations stay at a surface-level, and really experiencing local culture and human connection ends up feeling just out of reach. In this episode, we talk about: The impact of language gaps on social connections—how not speaking the local tongue can make even simple interactions feel distant and incomplete The isolation that comes when when you don’t speak the local language—and the challenge of missing out on conversations and forming deeper relationships Creative workarounds to bridge the language divide—from Google Translate to nonverbal cues, there ARE ways to connect Why making the effort matters—the importance of trying, even when you're trying isn't perfect, and how locals often appreciate your willingness to learn We also talk about:  What expat life feels like when you’re not fluent in the local language Strategies to push past being uncomfortable A fresh perspective on the emotional challenges of travel—why missing out on deeper dialogue is one of the hardest parts of adjusting to life abroad The truth behind digital nomad life—exploring the less glamorous, often overlooked side of traveling full-time If you’ve ever felt the frustration of wanting to say more but not having the words, or wondered what being a digital nomad is really like, or wondered what it's like to be on the outside looking in —this episode is for you. We’ll talk about the unfiltered realities of digital nomad life, fitting in in a new culture, and finding connections beyond words. See you there. Cheers! This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    16 min
  5. 06/01/2025

    EP 68 - My First Stop as a Digital Nomad: Heat, Healing, and Humility

    Becoming a digital nomad comes with moments of awe and moments of “Oh my God, did I do the right thing?” The truth is, life on the road isn’t just postcard-perfect scenery—it’s an intense process of growth, discomfort, and resilience. From settling into Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — my first stop on my journey — to navigating cultural and lifestyle shifts, this conversation is all about how I’m doing 3 weeks into my digital nomad journey. I talk about some of the emotional and physical transitions of leaving behind familiarity — and  embracing change with humility, surrender and a little bit of humor. In this episode, we talk about: The deep reset that comes with letting go—how releasing years of stress has triggered an unexpected physical and emotional transformation.The physical challenges of going from a sedentary U.S. desk-bound lifestyle to constant movement, including navigating the realities of mobility issues in a city designed for walking.The powerful impact of human connection in a foreign place, from learning Spanish with patience and kindness to building a sense of belonging within the local community.The benefits of trying to integrate into a new culture, beyond looking for a tourist experience.Why discomfort is a gateway to growth, shifting the perspective on challenges as opportunities for self-evolution.The unexpected ways a new rhythm changes everything, including our relationships with control, uncertainty, and ourselves. If you’re curious about what it’s like to live a digital nomad life—the magic and the reality—this episode is for you. Tune in to hear this part of my journey unfolding in real time, including thoughts on transformation, resilience, and the beauty of human connection. This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    23 min
  6. 05/25/2025

    EP 67 - Crawling Back to Wellness: When Hustling Hijacks Your Health

    We live in a world that glorifies hustling—endless work, constant productivity, putting everyone else’s needs before our own. But what happens when that grind catches up with us? When years of pushing through exhaustion lead to weight gain, lost mobility, and declining physical strength? The slow decline sneaks up—until one day, getting off the floor feels impossible, chronic stress wreaks havoc on our bodies, and exhaustion becomes our default state. Overworking at a desk doesn’t just drain us mentally—it takes a toll on our health, leading to muscle atrophy, joint pain, and a body that just doesn’t feel like it’s on our side anymore. In this episode I get vulnerable, and talk about how I ended up overweight, out of shape, and ready to take my health back.  We chat about: How hustle culture—at work, at home, and in daily life—contributes to weight gain and mobility lossThe surprising ways a sedentary lifestyle sneaks up on us—causing muscle weakness, poor circulation, and decreased flexibilityThe emotional burden of losing fitness: frustration, shame, and the fear of starting over when simple, basic movements feel difficultA self-sabotaging mindset we often adopt—avoiding exercise because the reality of how much we've lost is overwhelmingWhy self-care has to be non-negotiable, even when life feels chaotic, and how reclaiming our health starts with small, doable stepsFacing aging, physical discomfort, and the irreversible impacts of prolonged sitting—and what we need to do to minimize long-term damageThe connection between stress, cortisol overload, and sitting too much — and autoimmune conditions, spinal health, and metabolic dysfunctionHow stress, sitting too much, and neglecting movement lead to muscle deterioration, weight gain, and preventable health issuesThe importance of working toward regaining mobility—even if you’ve been stuck in a sedentary cycle for yearsShifting your mindset from survival mode to personal empowerment—so you can finally prioritize your well-being Your body is your foundation, and it deserves to be cared for. If you've been feeling exhausted, weighed down, or disconnected from your health, this conversation is for you. No matter how far you’ve slipped, it’s time to make your way back.  You'll have company. I've just started my work on this, too. This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    21 min
  7. 05/18/2025

    EP 66 - Tired? Try giving your soul a wake-up call

    Feeling drained despite getting enough sleep? Sometimes, exhaustion isn’t about needing more rest—it’s about your soul feeling empty, the burnout from neglecting passions, and the fatigue of constantly hustling without true joy. In a society that glorifies productivity over well-being, too many of us find ourselves stuck in a cycle of working, surviving, and barely making room for what truly lights us up. But what if the key to feeling energized isn’t more sleep or caffeine, but reconnecting with the things that make us feel alive? In this episode we talk about how feeding your passion and prioritizing fulfillment can break the cycle of exhaustion. We cover: The hidden exhaustion caused by neglecting creativity, adventure, and personal fulfillmentThe impact of grind culture, which conditions us to prioritize work over joyHow our identities have become tied to job titles, making it harder to step awayThe guilt associated with taking time for hobbies, and why it’s essential to reclaim that joyReal-life examples of how stepping outside the grind can restore energy and emotional well-beingSupport in reconnecting with passions without sacrificing responsibilitiesEncouragement to redefine success, shifting the focus away from work-centric fulfillment and toward holistic well-beingThe importance of breaking free from toxic productivity to reclaim personal joy, and infuse passion back into your daily life If you’ve ever felt drained despite doing everything "right," this episode is for you. See you there. Cheers! This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    18 min
  8. 05/11/2025

    EP 65 - The Cost of Playing It Safe- Why Staying Put Could Be Holding You Back

    Playing it safe might feel comforting, but it could be the very thing keeping you from the life you truly want. Whether it’s staying in an unfulfilling job, avoiding financial sacrifices, or holding onto relationships that no longer serve you, fear and discomfort can convince us that change is too risky. But what if everything you're dreaming of is waiting just beyond that fear? If you’ve been asking yourself, Should I take the leap or stay where I am?—this episode is for you. We chat about: How fear distorts decision-making and keeps us stuck in unfulfilling situationsWhy stepping outside your comfort zone is necessary for real progressThe psychological barriers that make change feel impossible—but aren’tHow temporary discomfort leads to long-term fulfillment and successThe power of calculated risks and how they lead to breakthroughsThe role of sacrifice in achieving financial stability, career shifts, and personal happinessWhy avoiding discomfort leads to stagnation in career, relationships, and personal growthSelf-sabotaging thought patterns that hold you backReframing fear and use it as a tool for transformationHow to recognize and move past negative social influences that keep you stuck If you've ever felt stuck, hesitant, or afraid to make a change, now’s the time to shift your mindset. Don’t let fear dictate your future—step beyond your comfort zone and start making bold moves toward your goals. Tune in now for insights and encouragement. See you there. Cheers! This episode is a Sunday Shot: a short and sweet solo episode with a runtime of approximately 10 - 20 minutes.  More About Lisa Marie: To learn more about Lisa Marie, get more content, or schedule a one-on-one coaching session, visit her website at: www.lisamarieconnections.com or her contact page, at: www.lisamarieconnections.com/connect Follow Lisa Marie on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube: https://linktr.ee/lisamarieconnections AFTER THE EPISODE: Love the podcast? Please rate the show and leave a review! Know someone who would benefit from hearing this episode? Please consider sharing it with them! PLEASE NOTE: The "From Lemons to Limoncello" podcast and content posted by Lisa Marie DeSanto is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this website, the podcast, linked to content, or from coaching sessions is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    17 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

They say we should make lemonade when life gives us lemons, but I think we can do so much more than that. Adding a little sugar just masks the sour of life, but if we take the time to distill all of the flavors of our experiences—with honesty and empathy—we can completely transform our lives into something as bold and exquisite as a glass of limoncello. I hope you'll join me each week, because the only thing better than creating a great recipe for life is sharing it with friends.