Forever35 Podcast Episode 354: "Kate Spencer Comes Back! (For One Episode)"
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu
Guest: Kate Spencer
Introduction & Reunion
In this special episode of Forever35, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu warmly welcome back former co-host Kate Spencer for a one-time return. Celebrating the one-year anniversary of Kate’s retirement from the podcast, the trio reminisces about past collaborations and the seamless transition Elise brought to the show.
Elise Hu [02:33]: "You probably can already see from the episode title who the guest is on today's show."
Kate's Post-Podcast Life
Kate delves into her life after stepping away from the podcast. She shares her journey of rewriting her identity beyond her role on Forever35, emphasizing personal growth and new ventures.
Kate Spencer [18:12]: "I've been working on this book, and I was heavy into book promotion right after the podcast ended."
Self-Care Practices
The discussion begins with Kate's current self-care routines, highlighting her commitment to strength training and its positive impact on her mental and physical well-being.
Kate Spencer [08:59]: "I have been strength training more like two to three times a week for the last almost two years. It's been really satisfying."
Strength Training & Physical Health
Kate explains how strength training not only enhances her physical capabilities, such as playing pickleball more effectively and easing daily tasks like lifting heavy bags, but also serves as a crucial mental outlet.
Kate Spencer [10:20]: "The feeling of getting physically stronger has been really cool. It really helps me mentally to exert that physical energy."
Exploring New Hobbies: Pickleball & Mahjong
Transitioning into her new interests, Kate talks about her passion for pickleball and learning mahjong, a game introduced to her by the co-hosts. She appreciates the cognitive challenges these activities present.
Kate Spencer [23:25]: "I've really enjoyed learning how to play mahjong. It's like your brain running a marathon by the end."
Introducing Her New Book: "All's Fair and Love and Pickleball"
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Kate’s upcoming book, "All's Fair and Love and Pickleball." She provides an overview of the plot, highlighting the blend of romance, rivalry between pickleball and tennis, and the personal growth of her protagonist, Bex.
Kate Spencer [25:54]: "All's Fair in Love and Pickleball is a classic enemies-to-lovers or rivals-to-lovers fake dating romance."
Elise praises the book’s engaging narrative and the seamless integration of pickleball into the storyline, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the sport.
Elise Hu [27:12]: "If you have no idea what pickleball is or if you find it annoying, you can still enjoy this book."
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Kate reflects on the challenges of maintaining authenticity and privacy in the digital age. She discusses her efforts to disconnect from the constant pressure to share every aspect of her life, aiming to foster genuine personal connections.
Kate Spencer [46:40]: "I realized I just don't have to share every part of my life... that feeling of having to prove it happened for the rest of the world."
Skincare Regimen & Product Recommendations
Shifting to lighter topics, Kate shares her skincare routine, including her use of tretinoin, exfoliating pads, and hydrating products. She also recommends discovering new, cost-effective products like Olay’s Regenerist Cream and La Roche Posay’s vitamin C serum.
Kate Spencer [34:10]: "I've stuck with using tretinoin a few times a week and have been trying to double cleanse."
Additionally, Kate enthusiastically endorses Patrick Ta’s plumping lip glosses, highlighting their effectiveness and longevity.
Kate Spencer [37:12]: "Patrick Ta's major volume plumping lip balm is the Holy Grail. I will never go back."
Engaging with the Community & Book Promotion
Towards the end of the episode, Kate discusses her book promotion strategies, including personalized signings and special offers for pre-orders. She invites listeners to attend her upcoming events in various cities, fostering a sense of community among her fans.
Kate Spencer [50:36]: "If you pre-order 'All's Fair in Love and Pickleball,' you'll receive an adorable sticker sheet and a personalized book signing."
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with heartfelt gratitude towards Kate for her return and insightful conversation. Hosts and Kate exchange warm goodbyes, leaving listeners inspired by Kate’s journey of self-discovery and creative endeavors.
Kate Spencer [53:44]: "Thank you. It was so great to be back."
Key Takeaways:
- Kate Spencer's Transition: Emphasizes personal growth post-podcast, focusing on writing, strength training, and mental health.
- New Ventures: Adventured into pickleball and mahjong, integrating these hobbies into her lifestyle.
- Literary Pursuits: Upcoming book blends romance with competitive sports, appealing to a broad audience.
- Self-Care & Wellness: Maintains a structured skincare regimen and explores new wellness practices.
- Community Engagement: Actively involved in book promotions and fostering connections with her audience.
Notable Quotes:
-
"I've definitely gone through a grieving process... I miss the podcast and I miss this."
— Kate Spencer [20:21] -
"Activities like mahjong make your brain run a marathon by the end. I'm so tired."
— Kate Spencer [23:43] -
"I have been trying to really streamline how I plan everything and make sure I have this one notebook and the things on my computer and phone and that's it."
— Kate Spencer [43:31]
Connect with Forever35:
- Website: forever35podcast.com
- Instagram: @forever35podcast
- Patreon: patreon.com/forever35
- Newsletter: forever35podcast.com/newsletter
Don’t miss Kate Spencer’s book launch events in LA, Portland, Maine, and Boston!
This summary encapsulates the heartfelt reunion and in-depth conversation with Kate Spencer, offering listeners a glimpse into her life beyond the podcast, her creative endeavors, and her commitment to self-care and community.