Forever35 Podcast Summary: Mini-Ep 430 – "Soft As A Baby’s Bottom"

Release Date: February 12, 2025
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu

In this engaging and heartfelt mini-episode of Forever35, co-hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into topics of friendship, sustainable living, and personal self-care, all while responding to listener voicemails with their signature humor and warmth. The episode, titled "Soft As A Baby’s Bottom," emphasizes the importance of maintaining real-life connections and offers practical advice on everyday challenges.

1. Kickoff to Friendship Month

The episode begins with Doree and Elise celebrating Friendship Month, sharing personal anecdotes about reconnecting with friends and highlighting the significance of nurturing these relationships.

• Doree shares her upcoming birthday trip:

  "[05:09] Doree Shafrir: ...we're meeting up in Ciudad de Mexico, so. CDMX Mexico City. Very excited. I hear the food scene there is amazing."

• Elise recounts a heartfelt moment with her friend Elizabeth:

  "[13:28] Elise Hu: I had said last week that I was going to tell Elizabeth in person how much, like, I appreciated our friendship. And I did do that. I mean, a very, like, a very emotional moment. Like, tear."

The hosts emphasize the joy of real-life interactions over digital connections, underscoring the value of face-to-face friendships, especially in midlife.

2. Upcoming Guests and Topics

Doree and Elise preview the upcoming guests for the month, including Anna Goldfarb, Kasli Killam, Raina Cohen, and Dr. Marissa Franco. They express excitement about the diverse expertise these guests will bring, particularly in the realm of platonic friendships and connections.

• Doree previews the guests:

  "[13:48] Doree Shafrir: ...they have different areas of specialty when it comes to platonic friends and connection in general."

The hosts highlight how each guest will contribute uniquely to the conversation about sustaining meaningful relationships.

3. Sustainable Cooking Practices

A listener voicemails brings up the use of AI tools like ChatGPT for generating recipes tailored to small household needs. The discussion evolves into a broader conversation about the environmental impact of AI and digital tools.

• Listener's concern:

  "[21:26] Dory Shafrir: ...the use of this tool uses so much water and other natural resources, so I don't think people are aware of how devastating it is for the environment."

• Doree responds thoughtfully:

  "[23:52] Dory Shafrir: ...so it's hard for me to kind of like tease apart. But also, you know, it's interesting because like I was trying to, I use it to try and be sustainable and not be wasteful with my food..."

The hosts acknowledge the complexities of balancing technological convenience with environmental responsibility, encouraging listeners to make informed choices.

4. Chocolate Chip Cookie Solutions

Multiple voicemails address the challenge of making small batches of chocolate chip cookies without wasting ingredients. Doree and Elise provide practical solutions and share their personal strategies.

• Doree's advice on freezer cookie dough:

  "[24:12] Dory Shafrir: ...freeze them on a flat tray with, like, parchment paper so it doesn't stick... just throw those lumps of chocolate chip cookie dough into a plastic bag and then bake off whenever you want."

• Elise adds her method:

  "[25:29] Elise Hu: ...I have done this with the copycat Levain chocolate chip cookie recipe."

These tips offer listeners effective ways to enjoy fresh cookies without the commitment of large batches, enhancing their kitchen efficiency.

5. Med Spa Experiences and Self-Care

A heartfelt voicemail from a listener discusses her positive experiences at a med spa, using Botox for TMJ and considering IPL treatments for skin concerns. The hosts engage in a conversation about the accessibility and benefits of med spas compared to traditional dermatological services.

• Listener's journey:

  "[32:35] F: ...I went, got Botox. It has helped tremendously. I no longer am clenching my teeth as much..."

• Elise's appreciation:

  "[34:52] Elise Hu: ...Thank you, Elise. Such a good reminder. And Jessica Craven is a wonderful human."

Doree and Elise commend the listener's proactive approach to self-care, reinforcing the importance of seeking solutions that enhance personal well-being.

6. Affordable Nugget Couches for Families

A listener shares her successful find of an affordable nugget couch from Sam's Club, providing an alternative for parents seeking budget-friendly options without compromising quality.

• Listener's recommendation:

  "[35:05] Elise Hu: ...I really wanted to get a nugget couch for my son, but the price tag was a bit steep for my budget. So I got the Sam's Club brand one. It was only $150."

• Doree and Elise discuss preferences:

  "[36:37] Dory Shafrir: ...I will put a call out, though, to listeners to. If you have a good sort of futon type option..."

The conversation highlights cost-effective solutions for family-friendly furniture, catering to listeners with young children.

7. Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

As the episode wraps up, Doree and Elise express gratitude towards their listeners for their continued support and engagement. They encourage more voicemails and interactions, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

• Doree's closing remark:

  "[35:03] Dory Shafrir: Yeah. Love the Sam's Club heads showing themselves."

• Elise's friendly sign-off:

  "[37:31] Elise Hu: Bye."

The episode concludes on a warm note, celebrating friendships and the collective journey of self-care and personal growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Elise on Friendship:

  "[13:28] Elise Hu: ...I had said last week that I was going to tell Elizabeth in person how much, like, I appreciated our friendship."

• Doree on Sustainable Choices:

  "[23:52] Dory Shafrir: ...I use it to try and be sustainable and not be wasteful with my food..."

• Doree on Freezer Cookie Dough:

  "[24:12] Dory Shafrir: So what I think that you should do is Google Freezable chocolate chip cookie dough and find recipes that are well suited..."

Conclusion

Mini-Ep 430 of Forever35 effectively blends personal stories with practical advice, all while engaging with their listener community. Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu continue to provide a relatable and insightful exploration of self-care, friendship, and everyday solutions, making this episode a valuable listen for anyone navigating the complexities of modern life with grace and humor.