Short Story Long, Always

ZealCast Studios
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Short Story Long — Always, the podcast for women who struggle to keep their stories short and their thoughts condensed. I’m your host, Elisa — coffee connoisseur, forever student, and your go-to podcast girl. I’ve always believed that every person has a story that could impact someone else, and here, I’m opening up a space for those stories to be shared. We dig into the messy middle, the pivots, the challenges, and the growth that comes with figuring it all out. Join me and my guests weekly for an honest coffee chat that makes you feel seen and inspired.

  1. May 20

    18: My Hormone Health Journey | How Burnout and Birth Control Opened My Eyes to Women's Health

    Today Elisa is diving into the world of women’s health in honor of National Women’s Health Month. From hormone health and menstrual cycles to burnout, birth control, fertility awareness, and the gaps in women’s health research, this conversation blends personal experience with approachable science and education. Elisa shares her own hormone health journey, including coming off birth control, learning to understand her cycle, and discovering how stress, sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle can impact overall wellness. She also explores the recent PCOS to PMOS name change, cycle syncing, hormone testing, and the importance of advocating for yourself in healthcare settings. Whether you’re navigating your own health journey or simply want to better understand your body, this episode offers honest conversation, practical insights, and resources to help you feel more informed and empowered. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Instagram Accounts I leaned on: Sarah Grace Meck Berrion Berry Balanced Beyers Cycle With Kylah Dr. Jolene Brighten Podcasts I Mentioned: Did We Just Say That? --Sleep Episode Dr. Brighten Show Books I Recommend: This is Your Brain on Birth Control Woman Code Beyond the Pill Brands I Recommend: Rowe Casa Organics Grove Collaborative Primally Pure Crunchi Ilia Dime Beauty

    38 min

  2. May 14

    17: Mental Health Will Never Go Out of Style | Part 2 with My Friend & School Psychologist, Jordan

    We’re continuing the conversation on mental health in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month with part two of Elisa’s conversation with her friend and school psychologist, Jordan. Together, they talk about the realities of working on the front lines of student mental health. From navigating burnout and compassion fatigue to responding to crisis situations in schools, Jordan opens up about the emotional weight of supporting students through some of the hardest moments of their lives and the beautiful moments that make it all worth it. They continue on to discuss the importance of protecting your own mental health while caring for others– Flight Attendants always tell us to put on our oxygen mask first. Jordan also shares her personal decision not to have children, the fulfillment she’s found through her career, and the powerful relationships she’s built with students over the years. This episode is a powerful inside look at the work school psychologists do every day while also providing practical mental health advice, warning signs to watch for in kids, ways to support loved ones, and resources for anyone struggling. Whether you’re interested in psychology, education, or simply want a more honest conversation about mental health, this episode is filled with meaningful insight, vulnerability, and encouragement.  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: If you or someone you love is going through a difficult time and need some extra support, please call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential mental health support. American Psychological Association Psychologist List Check Out The Healthy Minds App in the App Store Get “Punished For Dreaming” Book! Get “The School Psychologist Survival Guide” here! Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    57 min

  3. May 6

    16: You’re Never Alone, Like Ever ft. my friend & School Psychologist, Jordan

    In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re opening up the conversation of mental health and diving into one of the mental health professions that may not be as widely talked about. Today on the podcast, Elisa sits down with one of her closest friends, Jordan, for an honest look into the world of school psychology, student mental health, and the realities of supporting others through difficult seasons of life.  Jordan shares what it’s really like working as a school psychologist in a large urban high school, supporting students through everything from anxiety, panic attacks, and friendship struggles to crisis intervention and mental health advocacy. Together, Elisa and Jordan unpack the misconceptions surrounding school psychology, the stigma around therapy and mental health, and why accessible support systems for teens matter now more than ever. The conversation also dives into Jordan’s personal story and how she discovered her passion for helping teens feel seen, heard, and supported. Along the way, they discuss compassion fatigue, burnout, imposter syndrome, grad school, and the importance of caring for your own mental health before you reach a breaking point. Whether you’re a parent, educator, student, or someone navigating your own mental wellness journey, this episode is full of honest perspective, encouragement, and reminders that you never have to go through hard things alone. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: If you or someone you love is going through a difficult time and need some extra support, please call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential mental health support. American Psychological Association Psychologist List Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    48 min

  4. Apr 29

    15: Expectations vs. Reality of Traveling to Alaska During “Break-Up Season”

    It’s finally time to recap Elisa & Josh’s very first Alaskan adventure! During this episode, Elisa is sharing why Alaska and why now – especially since it’s during what Alaskan’s call their “Break-Up Season”. Let’s just say that she quickly realized why this is the least popular time of the year to visit.  Elisa also shares more behind the scenes from their engagement photo session and other expectations she had versus the reality they experienced. From exploring Anchorage to taking in breathtaking views while driving in the mountains and down the Kenai Peninsula, this audio travel diary captures the beautiful memories along with moments of disappointment. Even when the weather didn’t cooperate in ways that she had hoped, it helped her remember to find beauty in what she did see. A gentle reminder that being present in the moment and accepting it for what it is, may actually turn out to be better than you could ever imagine. Lastly, if you followed along on Instagram, Elisa shared how her luggage did not make it to Alaska when they did… and now it’s time for the FULL story. Equal parts chaotic and hilarious, this luggage saga adds a relatable twist to an otherwise dreamy trip. Whether you’re planning an Alaskan vacation, a destination wedding, or just love a good travel story, this episode is packed with real moments and reminders to find joy in the journey. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Check Out Camp Snap & Save!! Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    56 min

  5. Apr 22

    14: It’s National Infertility Awareness Week: Let’s Talk About It with Stephanie Booe | Infertility, IVF, & Motherhood After Infertility

    This week is National Infertility Awareness Week and Elisa sits down with infertility advocate and IVF warrior, Stephanie Booe, to talk about infertility and how this diagnosis has changed her life. This episode is raw and vulnerable as Stephanie shares her journey through infertility, IVF, and motherhood after infertility. She offers an honest look at both the clinical understanding and also the emotional weight of it all. Stephanie answers some common questions about infertility  while also sharing the reality of what it’s been like to live it.  Stephanie opens up about her diagnosis of unexplained infertility and the grief of not having answers—along with the tension of holding both hope and fear at the same time. This conversation goes beyond the medical side to explore what infertility truly takes, from finances and future plans to friendships, identity, and mental health. She shares how infertility reshaped her life and marriage, while emphasizing the importance of communication, community, and finding safe spaces to process the weight of it all. The episode also explores motherhood after infertility—what it feels like to live in answered prayers while still carrying the impact of the journey. Stephanie speaks candidly about the intensified joy, the unexpected guilt, and the lasting emotional layers that don’t simply disappear after having children. In a deeply tender moment, she shares about her recent embryo transfer, the loss of their embryo and the grief that followed, offering insight into what it means to honor that life and move forward through heartbreak. Stephanie reflects on how sharing her story has created space for others to feel seen and supported, while also becoming a source of healing in her own life. She offers support to those walking similar paths and also practical, compassionate guidance for supporting loved ones through infertility. Whether you are walking through infertility or supporting someone who is, this episode offers compassion, perspective, and hope in the midst of uncertainty. TW: I wanted to give a quick note that this episode includes open and honest conversations about pregnancy loss, including miscarriage and chemical pregnancy, along with experience navigating IUI and IVF. We completely understand that these topics can be deeply personal and difficult to hear. Please take care of yourself as you listen and feel free to pause, skip, or come back to this episode whenever you feel ready. If you relate deeply to any of this conversation, know that we’re sending you so much love and warm hugs! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Follow & Connect with Stephanie on Instagram Listen to the Messy Motherhood Podcast For More Infertility Awareness, information, and support – check out The Warrior Shop Get Stephanie’s Book: You Were Worth the Wait ___________________________________ Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    1h 20m

  6. Apr 15

    13: Finding THE Dress: Bridal Advice, Dress Regret & What to Expect ft. Ivory Rose Bridal Stylist, Lauren

    You don’t have to cry to know it’s the dress.  For this episode of SSLA, Elisa is taking the podcast to a pink paradise that is Ivory Rose Bridal Boutique in Appleton, Wisconsin. She is joined by bridal stylist, Lauren, to talk about all things weddings, but specifically what you need to know when it comes to wedding dress shopping, including the parts no one prepares you for. From unexpected “yes” moments to the truth about how to prepare for your first dress appointment, alterations, and why your dream dress might look nothing like what you pinned on Pinterest… this is the real deal coming from true bridal experts. Elisa and Lauren also dive into the pressure social media puts on brides, and how to avoid dress regret in a world full of opinions. Plus, Lauren shares behind-the-scenes stories from her experience as a bridal stylist—including emotional moments, real stories where “THE dress found you”, and why trusting your gut matters more than anything else. If you’re a bride-to-be (or love all things wedding talk), this episode is packed with real talk, expert bridal tips, wedding dress advice, and reminders to stay grounded in your vision. Because finding your dress isn’t just about how it looks; it’s about how it feels. Grab your favorite pink drink and let’s get started! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Follow Ivory Rose Bridal Boutique on Instagram Future Bride? Check out their blog here! Book Your Appointment at Ivory Rose Bridal Boutique & tell them Elisa sent you from this podcast! Visit https://www.ivoryrosebridalboutique.com/ for more information. If you’re in Appleton, Wisconsin be sure to check out their store on College Avenue! ___________________________________ Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    1h 22m

  7. Apr 8

    12: “Am I Doing Enough For My Wedding?” Curate an Intentional Celebration That Feels Like You & It’ll Be More Than Enough | I Do Diaries Part 3

    Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost the real meaning of weddings. Too often, the focus shifts from celebrating love to chasing the glitz and glam. In today’s episode, Elisa brings back the “I Do” Diaries—her personal audio journal of wedding planning—and dives into one of the biggest challenges modern brides face: the pressure to create the perfect wedding day. Planning a wedding today can feel overwhelming, and Elisa shares how she’s experienced it firsthand. With social media overflowing with wedding advice, trends, and curated inspiration, it’s easy to fall into comparison traps, feel like you’re not doing enough, and experience decision fatigue. Elisa shares practical mindset shifts for staying grounded and intentional when the pressure builds. But this episode isn’t just about the stress. Elisa gives all the wedding updates you’ve been waiting for, shares 3 bold Hot Takes from her planning journey, and gives a sneak peek into her pre-wedding trip to Alaska with Josh. From vendor bookings to unique personal touches, she shows how to plan a wedding that truly reflects you not what’s trending online. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by curating a Pinterest-perfect wedding, this episode is your reminder to slow down, make intentional choices, and celebrate the love that matters most. Your wedding day should be about you and your partner, not anyone else’s expectations. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    39 min

  8. Apr 1

    11: Social Media Mindset Shifts That Change Everything For Your Business ft. Anna Erdos | Off The Coast Creative | Social Media Marketing Agency

    Hold onto your cowgirl hats & buckle up because ya’ll are in for a RIDE with this episode!  Today on Short Story Long, Always, Anna Erdos, the powerhouse behind Off the Coast Creative (and 4 other brands), is joining Elisa for an encouraging episode about social media and content creation. This episode is equal parts chaotic, educational, encouraging, and deeply meaningful, and it might just change the way you think about showing up online. Elisa and Anna talk about content creation, strategy, and what actually moves the needle in your business but they also peel back the curtain and dive into the heart behind it all. From building multiple brands from the ground up to scaling them through Instagram stories, Anna shares how she has leveraged social media through it all. But this isn’t just about business and this episode isn’t just for entrepreneurs.  Social media can also be deeply personal and Anna opens up about her personal story that reshaped her entire “why” behind content creation. It’s one that will make you rethink the way you document your life, your work, and your voice. It’s a reminder that what you create today isn’t just content– it can become a valuable memory in the future. There’s honestly sooo many powerful nuggets within this episode, so here’s a summary of what else Elisa and Anna chat about: Why social media is just one piece of a marketing ecosystem The truth about virality and why it’s not as cool as you’d think How to integrate creating content into your life Why quantity breeds quality What makes a brand stand out in a saturated online space The underrated power of Instagram stories for connecting with your community Laugh with us, learn from a social marketing queen, and feel encouraged to create the content. We know it’s a long one, but by the end of this episode you’ll walk away with a completely different mindset when it comes to social media. So grab yourself a dirty soda and maybe even a notebook, because we’ve got a lot to cover!  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Connect with Anna on Instagram: @socialanna Work with Off The Coast Creative - A Boutique Social Media & Content Creation Agency Follow along with Anna’s Other Brands on Instagram: Vowed To Vision Salty Cowgirl Event Co. Dirty Cowgirl Soda Bar Bell Bottom Brims  For locals in Richmond, Fredericksburg, or Stafford, Virginia areas check out Salty Cowgirl Events for your party needs!  Stay tuned for the Socially Salty Podcast coming soon!! ___________________________________ Connect with @ElisaUnscripted on Instagram  Follow @ZealCastStudios on Instagram Short Story Long, Always is a ZealCast Studios Podcast: ZealCast Studios is a podcast management agency for passion-driven female creatives ready to amplify their messaging and leverage their brand through podcasting. If you are ready to step into your calling as a podcaster or are wanting to take your show to the next level, I invite you to reach out to ZealCast Studios for podcasting support. You can get started by going to www.zealcaststudios.com/get-started.

    1h 31m
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About

Welcome to Short Story Long — Always, the podcast for women who struggle to keep their stories short and their thoughts condensed. I’m your host, Elisa — coffee connoisseur, forever student, and your go-to podcast girl. I’ve always believed that every person has a story that could impact someone else, and here, I’m opening up a space for those stories to be shared. We dig into the messy middle, the pivots, the challenges, and the growth that comes with figuring it all out. Join me and my guests weekly for an honest coffee chat that makes you feel seen and inspired.

Information

  • Creator
    ZealCast Studios
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © ZealCast Studios
  • Show Website
    Short Story Long, Always