2 monicas & a microphone by Nothing Serious Productions

Our feature guest today is Pepe Clark Magana. He is a professional drummer for the rock band KYNG and owns Let There be Rock schools in El Paso, TX. His story starts when we met in kindergarten. Now decades later he fills me in on how he became a drummer, toured with Ozzy Osbourne and played virtually every rock venue in Los Angeles. Join me and rock out with Pepe and his story.

What's your dream? It's not every day you meet someone following their dream, really following their dream and not willing to compromise themselves to realize the dream. Today's spotlight showcases Michael Jedrzejewski, an aspiring screenwriter pursuing his dream in Hollywood. His story starts well before this one as an immigrant from Poland in the 1980's. His family followed their dream to live in the US. He continued his dream to write and be true to himself and his art. The rug was pulled out from under him multiple times and then there was the diagnosis that changed his life. I can't think of a more quintessential American Hollywood Dream story than Michael's. We talk immigration, writing samples, college memories and his life as it is now. In a nutshell, he has a dream, he has integrity, and he has hope.

Ep. 80 You probably know of the Boogie Man, but do you know BabaYaga or La Llorna? We continue Spooky Season with a dive into International Scary Stories. You'll have some new tales to tell your children to frighten them into staying out of the water or keeping out of the woods, but only if you're not too afraid yourself. 

Ep. 78 Nicole Ivana Darland is an inspiring woman who has created and founded numerous companies in the fly fishing world. Her current companies include Master Nymph and Nymph Master. She's been on magazine covers, created products, educated and inspired people all over the world. We talk start ups, motherhood, fishing and more. Listen to her journey now and we hope you'll be inspired to take up a new hobby!

Epi. 76 Did you listen to music on repeat growing up? What were the most popular bands of the 90's? Did a boyfriend or girlfriend help expand your musical tastes? And what was your first concert? The 90's was a transformitive decade for many of us and the music helped to shape it. Alternative pushed it's way to the front stage. Kurt Cobain's suicide dominated headlines. HOLE was just that and the kinder gentler Sweater Song wormed its way into my brain. Take a walk down memory lane as we drift to the music of the 90s! 

Head back to the 90's a relive some of our favorite coming of age movies. Do you remember your first rated R movie? How about a movie you watched at a friend's house because you weren't allowed to watch it on your own? Let's not forget the movies you watched so many times you had the whole thing memorized. Well, these movies are today's topic, oh and they are all from the 90's because that's when we were adolescence.

Are you a parent who wonders what your kid eats for lunch when the lunch box comes back full of what you lovingly made? This episode is for you. We talk lunch making, eating, and how to get your kids involved in the day to day business of meals. It's Parenting with Heart, featuring certified parenting coach Kristin Schmoke. You can find her on Instagram @kristinschmoke_parentcoach and also on the link in our website www.2monicaspodcast.com She is available for one on one parent coaching and so much more.

Ep. 73 Mermaids, the fairies of the sea! In this episode we discuss if mermaids are real. No, really! Is it true that Captain Blackbeard, Christopher Columbus, and even John Smith spotted these mystical maids? And if so, how did they describe the creatures. Have there been any modern sightings of mermaids? We think the answer will surprise you.

Epi. 72 It's not every day we come across an artist who has taken her talent and made it into her business. We love highlighting Amor First for its story, its founding and the beauty of the creations. Sulema is as warm and genuine as I remember, and I'm honored she shared her time with me. Whether you are on the hunt for a special gift for someone or want a fun bauble to adorn your lobes, Amor First has something for you. Don't forget to click on Amor First to order yourself something fun and special today!

Introducing Parenting with Heart.

Epi. 70 Do you like American music? Explore the history of some of America's most iconic tunes like Beautiful Dreamer, The Star-Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful and more. Many of these songs started as poems, others were written by visitors to our great nation. The roots of these melodies are a meld of many cultures. Feel the nostalgia when you listen to this episode. It's a personal favorite.

Epi. 68 America has a rich history of immigration and melding. Americana, our favorite series of the year, we dig into America and our roots. The rich history of Baseball, including that time women played to keep the spirit of the game and country alive. Why is apple pie an iconic American dessert? Then we cover BBQ and all the facets that make up the favorite cuts across the country. This episode is sure to please. For all the details on Blueberry pie? Cherry pie? Barbeque? the notes for our sources, please go to 2 Monicas Podcast 

Epi. 66 Today we are going to take you on quite a trip that includes JFK, Lincoln, Presidents dying on the 4th of July, Jim Morisson's father, and flying babies. Have you ever experienced a connection that had no apparent explanation? What about a lucky number? Did you meet your soulmate by chance? How can one person survive so many calamities? Is it all just coincidence or something more?

Epi. 64 Jump down the rabbit hole and find the answers to questions you've never thought to ask. Like, can you walk off the face of the earth? Did Lincoln see his own ghost? Can you spontaneously combust? Listen in to find out as we discuss these curiosities and more!|| Real relatable entertainment focusing on history, culture and curiosities ||

Epi. 62 Part 2 of Wedding Traditions and Superstitions has arrived! Brides wear something old, new, borrowed and blue, but why? The engagement ring wormhole (Liz Taylor anyone?) We cover the last of the traditions and superstitions. Be prepared to laugh, learn and be entertained!

Epi. 61 We continue our Wedding series with Traditions and Superstitions. If you've ever wondered why it's good luck to have rain on your wedding day, or why brides *really* wear white, or why something blue? This is the episode where we dig into all of those traditions and superstitions. Learn a little and laugh a lot in this episode, keep a look out for part 2!

Epi. 59 These newlyweds embark on what is supposed to be the happiest vacation ever. However, these trips challenge the notion of for better or worse, and in sickness and in health. Some of these couples even get an X rated surprise!

Epi. 56 We've explored Cinderella to Snow White and more. But what about the rest of the world? Folk Tales are another way to pass along stories from one generation to the next in every culture. We explore tales from Persia, Brazil, Mexico, Russia and Africa. Is what we know of Aladin true? Or is there more to the story? What happens when you wish for too much? Hit play for a fun exploration of other cultures and their folk tales.

Epi. 55 We continue our exploration of fairies in part 2 of the good, the bad, and the pretty. Tinkerbell. She's an icon. The fairy dust, pompom shoes, and strapless green minidress are unmistakable. She isn't the first fairy and hopefully won't be the last. They may have names like fey or fae, sprite or fairy. We can still be obsessed with these tiny divas who possess magical, mystical powers. Listen now for a look at famous fairies in literature and fairy tales.

Epi. 54 Tinkerbell. She's an icon. The fairy dust, pompom shoes and strapless green minidress are unmistakeable. She isn't the first fairy and hopefully won't be the last. They may have a couple of names like fey or fae, sprite or fairy. No matter, we can still be obsessed with these tiny divas who posess magical, mystical powers. Listen now for a look at famous fairies in literature and fairy tales. 

Welcome to the second episode of the Fairytale Mini Series. Listen in while the two Monicas take another peek at fairy tale origin stories but this time they aren't all make-believe. No, the fairy tales we explore today were based - in part - on real-life people and events. Snow White, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Handsel & Gretel or are they fact or pure fiction? The Grimm Brothers weren't the first to imagine these tales. Listen now for a lighthearted history of fairytales.

Epi. 50 Have you ever wondered if your favorite fairy tale was a dream or a reality? Think no further! We explore the origins of the most popular fairytales, and the truth will amaze you. You may be shocked to learn Hansel and Gretel, Ariel and the Sea Witch, Snow White, Cinderella, and many more with origins. It's more than just the Brothers Grimm, it's centuries of folklore and tales told through time. Walt Disney put the fairy in fairy tales because some of these tales are downright frightening.

Epi. 48 It's the first month of the year, but you won't know why until the next episode. This one is all about the zodiac, Chinese new year, Old Russian New Year and the details that make up a Monica. (There are a lot, so brew some tea or pop some Champagne and settle in).

Epi. 47 On today’s episode the other Monica catches up with a friend who has all the fashion advice. She’s got a formula on how to create an outfit, the dish on websites like Poshmark and Rent the Runway. And she even gives you a little trick on how to get the best buys on Ebay. Here’s Chic Life with Amy.

Epi. 46 Diamonds are a girls best friend. Fortunately for us we have a friend who knows diamonds! We are so excited to showcase Jess Busi in today's episode. Before diamonds, Jess shares her Grandmother's story as a Holocaust survivor where struggle and perseverance lay the inspiration and foundation for Jess's drive and success today. We talk about life, we talk about creativity, we talk diamonds. So let's start the new year right celebrating another female entrepreneur! Follow Jess @everybunnylovescarats and her new line @ox_ny_ both on IG. OX-NY for all the greatest Ourglass designs.

Just when you think you've heard it all, 2 Monicas and a Microphone brings you a new Spotlight episode. This week we feature a skincare guru, female founder and all around real woman, Nicole Simpson. Nicole believes in only using essential ingredients to effect real change in your skin. Clean products are her passion. Check out her brand Amethyst Skin Care , @nicoleknowskin on IG and listen to her very real story about navigating the world between corporate, entrepreneur and mother. 

Epi. 42 **Listeners be advised of strong language and disturbing content. Please take care to who is listening around you.** Take a dive into the naming functions for Serial Killers. Were they given a moniker because of their location? Was it because of their M.O.? Were they dubbed by the media or did they name themselves? So many questions and some of the answers are baffling while others downright comical and every single one disturbing. There were many sources and resources used in this episode. 

Epi. 40 Not all true crime stories are about murder and the darkest sides of humanity. Sometimes they take the form stolen jewels, art theft or stealing the original 007 DB5. We give you the outline of the still unsolved theft of the Isabella Stweart Gardner Museum which robbed the world of 13 famous paintings, including a Rembrandt. Find out which paintings have been stolen multiple times, the blunders of stupid planning and the trauma of a home invasion. Find all 2 Monicas Podcast True Crime episodes now on your favorite podcast app.

Epi. 38 It is no surprise True Crime has taken the podcasting world and by storm the last few years. We put our own Real, Relatable, Entertainment spin on the genre to kick off a bingeworthy True Crime series. Did you know that animals are often used in the commission of a crime? How about the puppy theft ring plaguing the South East? And we don't forget to address the weevil trials, hog hangings and favorite pets of the most infamous killers in history.

Epi. 36 It's Spooky Season! Halloween has deep roots. In this episode we discuss how those roots appear in pop culture today. From movies to music to costumes and more, if you miss Halloween, you'll get your fix. The origins of the Jack O' Lantern, why witches ride brooms and the black cat are all revealed!

Epi. 35 Never open an umbrella indoors. Why? Never walk under a ladder. Why? Never sit at the corner of the dinner table if you are an unmarried woman. Why? Over which shoulder do you toss the salt if is spills? Where did you learn your superstitions and do you still believe them? We discuss the origins of superstitions from around the globe, including ones you may believe. Who know's, maybe you'll pick up a new one and start stepping over those cracks in the sidewalk. There were numerous sources used in the creating of this episode, please visit our website for full notes and resources. 

Ep. 32 Have you ever laughed out loud to a commercial the first time you saw it? Then you'll love this episode. Nostalgia got the best of us as we pull all the Bad, Awful, Memorable and Funny Commercials we can think of and share them to make your day a little lighter. Are there commercials that make you want to pull your hair out? Mentos maybe? Do you watch The Superbowl just for the commercials? Volkswagen had a moment and what about those Versace perfume ads? Commercials can be entertaining and awful. We explore the best of both in this episode.

Ep. 30 We go back to the beginning with some updates! Join us now and get to know a modern cult, get to know us, in that order. Monica recounts her brief obsession with NXIVM, a modern cult and its predatory leader.

Ep. 28 Part 2 of the interview with Meghan Kirk. Getting to know the other side of her life is just as much fun as getting to know her road to become a Cabaret Singer. She worked in Los Angeles in fine dining for Wolfgang Puck, lived in a Melrose Place like apartment building and took a risk on a new job as a flight attendant for private jet owners. Take a listen, wait for the plot twist, it had my true crime mind swirling and running straight to google.

2 Monicas give their husbands the ultimate Colorblind Tests to see who will be... most colorblind. Find out the winner in this episido. 

Ep. 26 The world is full of vibrant colors, yet not everyone can see them. They are married to men with this condition. The two Monicas explore the biology and science behind color blindness. This episode is a little nerdy, a little humorous and a whole lot personal. It will leave you thankful you see life in full color.

Ep. 24 Language is ever-evolving and the USA is HUGE. American slang is a melting pot of history. Almost every state has a special word or phrase unique unto itself, did you know that? Find out which state says Uf-da and where calling someone "sourdough" means they have lived in the state for a long time. We don't stop there though! Slag words are added to Miariam Webster's dictionary regularly and we can tell you which of our favorite words were added and when.

Ep. 22 When we think hot dog, we think 4th of July and summer BBQs. The history of the most famous hot dog joints in the USA has ties to immigration and imagination. How do you eat your hot dog? What is a Chicago Dog? Would you eat a Seattle Dog? Is a Coney Dog from New York? New Mexico has a signature hot dog. And how many toppings are too many? This episode gives the dish on the most iconic hot dog joints in every state. It will leave you running for one by the end!

Ep. 20 In a marriage, who picks the movies? Are you the type to watch anything or are you the picky spouse? 2 Monicas discuss movies they've watched with their husbands and the sometimes crazy, sometimes funny conversations that result. From Buddy Games and SPY to Ransom and Taken, 2 Monicas reveal just what happens in their houses on movie night. We just might spark a movie conversation in your house!

Ep. 18 Join us today for a lighthearted interview and conversation with Cabaret Singer Meghan Kirk. Her journey to the stage took her from acting in Los Angeles & singing cabaret to flying the world on private jets. One Monica was fortunate enough to connect with her in St. Louis. This two part episode follows Meghan through her journey working for Wolfgang Puck and flying private.

Ep. 16 - If you eat food, you've likely used a condiment or two. Most, if not all of us, have a preference between ketchup & mustard, the tangy zip of that Whip or Mayo, soy sauce or fish sauce, fritssause or mayoketchup. The international world of flavors takes food to another level too. Push play for a whole conversation about the world of condiments and the ways they are used. Get ready to laugh, get ready to gag, get ready to have a conversation about condiments.

Ep. 14 Introducing Spotlight Episodes! Today we dive into vegan beauty products, sustainability, aging, first time motherhood and more with aesthetics influencer Jasmine Hill and recently published auther of "Vegan Baby", Ashley Renne. They are dynamic sisters who focus on sustainability, clean beauty, & travel. Move over Estee Lauder and L'Oreal, these two are up on the latest like Thrive, which is vegan, and all best clean products. They discuss the 'green washing' in many of today's brands. The sisters share fashion trends on East and West cost too. Each Spotlight will highlight entrepreneurs and interesting people.