Hotter Than Ever

Erin Keating
Hotter Than Ever

Why are we so scared of change? The second half of your life can be happier, sexier and more fulfilled, but you may need to blow some stuff up. To find out how, we're bringing you interviews and frank, irreverent, inexpert advice on everything from career and aging to sex and body image in what used to be called "middle age." Laugh, get honest, break the rules and stop caring what other people think. Join us, and we can be hot together!

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    What It Takes to Open Your Marriage with Dr. Joli Hamilton

    “Release yourself from the idea that your relationship needs to fit into anybody's box.” Have you ever wondered if you and your partner are truly compatible? Or struggled to express your needs, feeling lost in a sea of unmet expectations? Whether you’re exploring non-monogamy, redefining relationship norms, or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode is for you. Our guest, Dr. Joli Hamilton, is a relationship coach, sex educator, and co-host of the “Playing with Fire” podcast.  She’s on a mission to help people design non-monogamous partnerships that align with their authentic selves—no more shrinking, pretending, or hiding. Join Erin and Dr. Joli as they delve into what it means to truly know and communicate your needs within a relationship, whatever form it takes. This episode is a bold invitation to reimagine relationships and a reminder that it’s never too late to build the life you truly want. Together, we navigate through: Why many people default to monogamy without questioning if it’s truly right for them.The role of the Internet in normalizing conversations about non-monogamy.The power of intentionality in defining your relationship goals, whether monogamous, non-monogamous, or something uniquely yours.Unpacking ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, monogamish, and creative monogamy—and the need for accessible language around non-traditional relationships.Why regularly reassessing your relationships is essential to meet the evolving needs of both partners.The value of knowing your “relationship bottom lines” and non-negotiables.Individuation: breaking free from societal norms to uncover your true self and find fulfillment outside the status quo.Why honesty and willingness to do the deep work are essential for any relationship to thrive—monogamous or otherwise. OUR GUEST: Dr. Joli Hamilton is the relationship coach for couples who color outside the lines & founder of The Year of Opening. She is a research psychologist, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and AASECT (pronounced ay-sect) certified sex educator. Joli also co-hosts the Playing with Fire podcast with her anchor partner, Ken. Joli’s been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Cosmo, and NPR.  Want more Dr. Joli? Learn more about her at https://www.jolihamilton.com/ and take her quiz to see if you are ready to open your relationship happily: www.JoliQuiz.com  Check out her podcast Playing with Fire: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/playing-with-fire/id1540852334 Follow her on: Instagram: @drjoli_hamilton Facebook: @dr.joli.hamilton LinkedIn: @joli-hamilton-phd   Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com  Follow us on: Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/hotterthaneverpod/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 7m
  2. NOV 28

    Saying Yes To Inspiration with Daily Show Co-Creator Madeleine Smithberg

    “Don't let fear put you out of reach of your dreams.” As the Thanksgiving and holiday season unfolds, it’s natural to focus on gratitude for the good things in life. But what happens when life’s transitions leave you feeling lost, isolated, or stuck in a downward slump? This week’s guest, Madeleine Smithberg, knows all about navigating those emotional valleys. As the co-creator of “The Daily Show”, an Emmy and Peabody award-winning producer, and the talent behind “Mad in the Kitchen” (among many many other shows), Madeleine has experienced the dizzying highs of professional success. Yet, she’s also faced deeply personal struggles, including challenges in her personal life and a grueling battle with cancer. Through it all, Madeleine’s unwavering creativity, sense of humor and resilience have guided her to new purpose and opportunities at every stage of life. In this rich conversation, Erin and Madeleine explore the realities of navigating life’s highs and lows, from professional reinvention to personal resilience, and acting on inspiration to create new opportunities. Together, we dive into: Pivoting, adapting to change, and exploring new passions—whether in career, family, or personal life—especially later in life.The power of saying no and stepping back, even in the face of big opportunities, to prioritize personal goals and well-being.Breaking barriers in male-dominated industries and the impact of women stepping into leadership roles.Creating The Daily Show and the serendipitous blend of timing, talent, and collaboration that made it a success.Why “having it all” is still bullsh*t and the toll it takes on women striving to do it all at the same time.How focusing on the present moment can ground us in gratitude and possibility, even amid chaos and uncertainty.Acting on moments of inspiration and fearlessly pursuing your dreams.Getting out of your own way, taking risks, and embracing the unexpected opportunities that follow. OUR GUEST: Madeleine Smithberg is an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer, best known for co-creating The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. She also worked on The Jon Stewart Show, Steve Harvey’s Big Time, and Late Night with David Letterman. Through her production company, Mad Cow Productions, she has developed comedy projects for networks like HISTORY, TBS, FOX, and Showtime, and created the news franchise INFOmania for Current TV. She earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Don’t Sleep! on BET. In 2018, Madeleine shifted careers to become a Teaching Chef at Blue Ribbon Cooking and launched her YouTube channel Mad in the Kitchen. She’s currently working on her memoir “Almost Funny” and a new show for women over 50, “Lady Girls”. Want more Madeleine? Learn more about her work on IMDb https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0810431/ and at https://madcowmedia.weebly.com/. Check out MAD in the Kitchen at https://www.madinthekitchen.com/   Follow “MAD in the Kitchen” on: Instagram: @madinthekitch YouTube: @madinthekitchen TikTok: @madinthekitch Facebook: @madinthekitchen X/Twitter: a...

    1 hr
  3. NOV 21

    Getting Unstuck with Deanna deBara

    “A period of stuckness always precedes a period of serious growth.” So many of us find ourselves grappling with the overwhelming feeling of being stuck, especially as we navigate midlife. Weighed down by societal expectations and self-imposed narratives, we can struggle to align our lives with what we truly value and desire. Enter Deanna deBara, writer and host of the “Season of Stuck” podcast, where she shares her journey of overcoming "stuckness" and offers practical tools to help others do the same. In this episode, Erin and Deanna explore how to shift from a place of stagnation to a state of thriving, and the transformative power of giving oneself permission to change and grow. We cover: Why feeling stuck, though isolating, is a universal experience—and how it can become a catalyst for transformation in midlifeHow the stories we tell ourselves shape our reality, either keeping us stuck or opening the door to changeThe role of self-compassion and authenticity in fostering growth and changeTechniques for shaking off feelings of being stuck, including movement, cold plunging,  and micro ‘yeses’Strategies for rewriting internal limiting narratives about ourselves and cultivating a compassionate, supportive inner dialoguePractical advice on navigating midlife transitions, challenging societal expectations, and redefining personal success OUR GUEST: Deanna deBara is a freelance writer living in Portland, OR. When she's not busy building her business or typing away at her keyboard, she enjoys spending time hiking in the Pacific Northwest, traveling with her soon-to-be husband, or doting on her dog, Bennett.  Want more Deanna? Tune into her podcast Season of Stuck and learn more about her work at https://www.seasonofstuck.com/ and follow on Instagram @seasonofstuck Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com  Follow us on: Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod  TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod   Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod  Facebook: @hotterthaneverpod   Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts - we’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more! That way you’ll never miss an episode.  We’d love to hear what you think about the show - it helps us know what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review!

    55 min
  4. NOV 14

    How To Manage Career & Personal Change with Dr. Keri Ohlrich & Kelly Guenther

    Is entrepreneurship truly a solo journey, or would you rather start a business with a friend?  For Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther, co-founders of the leadership and HR consultancy the Abbracci Group and co-hosts of “The Breakout” podcast, the answer is clear: collaboration is key. Together, they’re on a mission to help women and entrepreneurs navigate both professional and personal changes, big and small. Their book, “Whatever the Hell You Want”, is a guide to identifying the “boxes” that confine us, creating a roadmap to break free, and living a life of choice and freedom. Keri and Kelly’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of partnership and support. In this episode, Erin, Keri & Kelly dive into themes of change, growth, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. Hear how taking bold, sometimes daunting steps can help break free from traditional paths and bring about lasting happiness. Tune in as we discuss: The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and why a supportive business partner can make all the difference, especially for womenReimagining community over competition in the workplace and fostering mutual support for women Identifying your core values, wants, and motivations as key to your next steps in life and careerHow growth often emerges from painful experiences, revealing what’s no longer serving youWhy workplace gender bias still persists, even in progressive workplacesHow women leaders can drive change by mentoring the next generationTips for embracing the uncertainty and instability that come with entrepreneurship OUR GUESTS: Kelly Guenther and Dr. Keri Ohlrich are the co-founders of Abbracci Group, co-hosts of The Breakout podcast, and co-authors of Whatever the Hell You Want.  Together, they bring a wealth of experience in leadership, HR, and professional development, focusing on empowering individuals and creating supportive workplace cultures. Kelly Guenther applies a holistic approach to leadership and talent development, combining her experience in sales training and certification for top-level executives with a deep understanding of both team dynamics and individual strengths. She holds a Master of Education from Carroll University, a Bachelor’s in English from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, and is certified in iPEC professional coaching and Prosci® change management, among other assessments.  Dr. Keri Ohlrich brings over 20 years of HR leadership experience spanning start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, where she has been instrumental in redesigning HR processes and driving large-scale change management initiatives. With a PhD in Human Development and Organizational Systems, as well as dual master’s degrees in Peace and Conflict Resolution and Global Human Resources, she is committed to transforming workplaces into thriving ecosystems. Keri also serves as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) volunteer for children’s welfare. Want more Dr. Keri & Kelly? Tune into their podcast The Breakout and learn more about their work at https://abbraccigroup.com/. Check out their books Whatever the Hell You Want and The Way of the HR Warrior. Follow their work on: Instagram: @thebreakoutpoda...

    1h 9m
  5. NOV 7

    Nurturing Your Intimate Relationships with Vanessa & Xander Marin

    “Sex isn't really worth having without vulnerability.” Sexuality and intimacy can be sensitive topics, especially in long-term relationships. But what if these conversations could be transformed into pathways to deeper connection and more fulfilling, mutually satisfying sex? In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome our first couple(!) to Hotter Than Ever: Vanessa and Xander Marin. Vanessa, a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of experience, and her husband, Xander, bring their unique perspectives together to foster honest, vulnerable discussions around sex and intimacy. Together, they’ve written the NYT bestselling book “Sex Talks” and are on a mission to help couples achieve true closeness. Join us for an illuminating conversation on the essential ingredients for a rewarding sex life and on dismantling long-standing misconceptions about intimacy. This episode is a powerful reminder that true intimacy—whether in long relationships or new ones—requires courage, open communication, and a fresh look at what we really need and desire. We discuss: Why open conversations about sex are crucial for fostering intimacy and connection between partners.Breaking down male expectations around intimacy and performance, and how these notions can block true connection and vulnerability.Prioritizing quality over quantity in sex—focusing on enhancing pleasure and satisfaction over frequency.Practical, small-scale actions to boost emotional intimacy, like expressing gratitude, embracing a 30-second hug, or sharing a 6-second kiss.Cultivating your own individual sexuality to reinforce a sense of self and desire, no matter your relationship status.Navigating sexual changes through perimenopause and menopause, with tips on staying connected to your body and sexuality. OUR GUESTS: Vanessa and Xander Marin are the dynamic duo behind the NYT bestseller “Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life”. Vanessa, a certified sex therapist, and her husband Xander, who left a career at Google to join her in this mission, combine their expertise and candid, down-to-earth approach to help couples kick shame out of the bedroom and embrace deeper connection, pleasure, and joy. Together, Vanessa and Xander have been featured in top publications like O, The Oprah Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and Goop, and Vanessa has contributed to The New York Times, Allure, and Lifehacker. Want more Vanessa & Xander? Tune into their podcast Pillow Talks for practical relationship advice, real-life insights, and plenty of laughs as they share what truly goes on behind closed doors. Follow them on: Instagram: @vanessaandxanderTikTok: @vanessaandxander YouTube: @vanessaandxander Facebook: @vanessaandxander Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at a href="http://www.hotterthaneverpod.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    49 min
  6. OCT 31

    Producing Your Best Life: Movies and Motherhood with Feigco's Laura Fischer

    If you’ve ever wondered why stories of women in midlife are so rare in movies and TV, you’re not alone.  In a landscape where male-centered narratives often take center stage, Laura Fischer (Co-President of director Paul Feig’s feature film company Feigco) stands out as a force for change. In partnership with the iconic comedy director, Laura champions films anchored by funny women (think Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy and Leslie Jones) and helps showcase the work of diverse creators while balancing the complexities of family life and career with remarkable grace and determination. Join us as we delve into issues impacting women today, from societal expectations to the untapped potential of stories about older women, all through the lens of Laura’s inspiring career. Laura’s journey underscores the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of defining your own priorities amid the many roles we, as women, navigate. Here’s what’s on the table: Embracing failure as a normal part of creative and professional growth.Practical tips for managing the ever-elusive work-life balance as a mother and professional.Why prioritizing YOU—and the pursuits that ignite your passion—helps you best show up for the people you love and support.Post-divorce insights: successful co-parenting and the liberating freedom of prioritizing yourself and your work.Breaking free from the constraints of corporate life to unlock personal and creative freedom.The ongoing fight for representation of women over 40 in media and why more female voices in decision-making roles matter.A reminder that at every stage of life, you have the power to choose your own path. OUR GUEST: Laura is Co-President of Feigco Entertainment, where she and Paul Feig oversee the company’s film and TV projects, currently including A Simple Favor 2 for Amazon. She also serves as CEO of Powderkeg, a content company dedicated to uplifting female, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC creators. Through Powderkeg, she has launched programs like Fuse, a short film initiative for emerging female directors, and Break the Room, focused on diverse writing talent. Previously, Laura led original series production at Yahoo! and worked on Emmy-winning projects at Disney-ABC. She is a member of the Producers Guild and the Television Academy. Want more Laura? Find more of her work at https://x.com/Feigco and https://powderkegmedia.com/ and follow her on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lcallen11/ IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10895092/  Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com  Follow us on: Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod  TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod   Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod  Facebook: a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090728330453" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 2m
  7. OCT 24

    Straight Talk About Libido Over 40 with Dr. Maureen Slattery

    Ever wondered why some women experience low libido and what can be done about it? Or what orgasms look and feel like for different women? These questions often go unanswered, but Dr. Maureen Slattery—a board-certified OBGYN specializing in sex and menopause—is here to change that. A leading advocate for women’s sexual health, Dr. Slattery joins us in this episode to share her mission of empowering women through education and enhancing sexual well-being during perimenopause and menopause. Join Erin and Dr. Maureen as they dive deep into the complexities of women’s sexual health, exploring how reclaiming pleasure and purpose can be a transformative experience in midlife. We discuss: Why comprehensive sexual health education is often overlooked in the medical field, and the consequences for women’s health.How puritanical and patriarchal attitudes have shaped women’s sexual education and self-understanding.The effects of hormonal changes on sexual pleasure, desire, and overall well-being.Understanding low libido and Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD).Tips for having open, productive conversations about sex and pleasure, especially in long-term relationships.The importance of raising sex-positive children and navigating talks about consent, relationships, and body positivity. OUR GUEST: Dr. Maureen Slattery is a board-certified OBGYN with 20 years of experience, specializing in sexual health and menopausal care. An AASECT-certified sex counselor, she has contributed to AARP and Rochester Regional Health on topics like sexual health and hormone therapy. Maureen teaches medical students and professionals about menopause and sexual health in Rochester, NY, and at the University of Michigan. Her passion lies in helping patients rediscover pleasure and educating healthcare providers about sexuality. She is a sex-positive, kink-aware, and LGBTQIA+ ally. Want more Dr. Slattery? Follow her on: Instagram: @drmaureenslattery LinkedIn: @maureen-slattery-md-csc-abs  Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com  Follow us on: Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod  TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod   Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod  Facebook: @hotterthaneverpod   Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts - we’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and more! That way you’ll never miss an episode.  We’d love to hear what you think about the show - it helps us know what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review!

    55 min
  8. OCT 17

    How Do you Measure your Value?

    "I think our value and our values get all kinds of conflated and mixed up." We often hear about self-love and its pivotal role in creating a joyful life. But defining self-love is subjective and multifaceted. It involves caring, self-respect, boundaries, and counteracting our harsh inner critic. Today, Erin delves beyond self-love to examine the societal and personal metrics we use to gauge our worth. Join Erin as she questions the conflation of material wealth, career success, physical appearance, and external approval with our intrinsic value. She asks us to reconsider what true value means in our lives and how our values may have been skewed by societal norms. In this episode, Erin discusses: The societal emphasis on material wealth and the pros and cons of caring a lot about financial successWhether career achievements and professional accolades truly correlate with self-worthThe complicated relationship women have with physical appearance and desirability as we ageThe roles of daughter, sister, wife, friend, and mother, and how we assess our value within these relationshipsThe deep-rooted cultural messages that impact our self-worthThe internal qualities and strengths that may hold true value, such as creativity, resourcefulness, kindness, and impact on others Want more Hotter Than Ever? Subscribe to the Hotter Than Ever Substack to dive deeper.  Find episode transcripts at www.hotterthaneverpod.com  Follow us on: Instagram: @hotterthaneverpod  TikTok: @hotterthaneverpod   Youtube: @hotterthaneverpod  Facebook: @hotterthaneverpod   Follow Hotter Than Ever wherever you listen to podcasts - we’re on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and more! That way you’ll never miss an episode.  We’d love to hear what you think about the show - it helps us know what stories are resonating with you. DM us on Instagram and write us a review!

    28 min
4.5
out of 5
140 Ratings

About

Why are we so scared of change? The second half of your life can be happier, sexier and more fulfilled, but you may need to blow some stuff up. To find out how, we're bringing you interviews and frank, irreverent, inexpert advice on everything from career and aging to sex and body image in what used to be called "middle age." Laugh, get honest, break the rules and stop caring what other people think. Join us, and we can be hot together!

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