Podcast
The SavvyCast
Hosted by Jamie Tarence · EN
The SavvyCast is a podcast of the Family Savvy blog, where Jamie Tarence will host savvy guests to discuss real life topics that affect us all. Food and family. Marriage and divorce. Fitness and health. The Enneagram and relationships. Each episode is designed to entertain, educate and inspire all who listen. Everyone is welcome at the table! So grab a cup of coffee, and let's talk.
43episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
When Heartburn Isn't Just Heartburn: Esophageal Cancer Signs & Early Detection
Mar 2000:23:19Tap to summarizeEsophageal cancer is something many people don't think about until it hits close to home. In this episode, we're joined by Patti Pierce and Dr. Swaroop Vitta to have an eye-opening conversation about the warning signs, symptoms, and why early detection matters. After losing her 25-year-old son, John Michael, to Stage 4 esophageal cancer, Patti shares her story and the mission behind the John Michael Pierce Foundation to raise awareness, especially among young men. Dr. Vitta also explains what to watch for, because many symptoms can easily be dismissed as everyday heartburn. This is a powerful, informative conversation that could truly save lives! QUESTIONS ANSWERED IN THIS EPISODE: How did John Michael discover he had Stage 4 esophageal cancer? What are the different stages of cancer, and what do they mean? What are the most common symptoms of esophageal cancer? What are the key signs and red flags to watch for, including: Persistent heartburn that doesn't improve with antacids Difficulty swallowing Black or tar-like stools Unexplained weight loss Is esophageal cancer more common in men or women? What trends are doctors seeing in esophageal cancer cases among younger men? What does true chronic heartburn actually feel like? What does screening for esophageal cancer look like? What is Barrett's esophagus, and why does it matter? What new, less-invasive screening options are currently in development? How is the John Michael Pierce Foundation raising awareness and educating others? HOW TO SUPPORT THE JOHN MICHAEL PIERCE FOUNDATION: Attend their JMP Golf Classic on August 3, 2026, at the Highland Park Golf Course Donate to the foundation LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: John Michael Pierce Foundation Stay up to date with the John Michael Pierce Foundation on Instagram Schedule an appointment with Birmingham Gastroenterology Follow along with Birmingham Gastroenterology on Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Ady's BiG Army: How One Girl's Journey Brings Hope to Adults with Disabilities Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Thistle Farms: A Safe Haven for Human Trafficking Survivors Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →Navigating Hair Loss: Solutions for Cancer Patients, Thinning Hair, Alopecia, & More
Mar 1300:39:08Tap to summarizeHair loss affects millions of people, whether from cancer treatment, alopecia, genetics, hormonal changes, and more. In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and hair expert Kim Laslo, owner of Hair by Kim, to talk about the many alternative hair solutions available today. From wigs and toppers to extensions and men's hair systems, Kim shares practical insight and hope for anyone navigating hair loss and looking for options to feel confident again. LINKS & RESOURCES Hair by Kim Amanda Pair Foundation TOPICS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE: How people are experiencing hair loss at younger ages than ever before How Kim works with cancer patients navigating hair loss during treatment Why cold caps don't always prevent chemotherapy hair loss The difference between synthetic wigs and real human hair wigs The typical price range for wigs and alternative hair solutions How long it usually takes for hair to grow back after cancer treatment My personal experience with hair extensions from Kim Alternative hair solutions for women with thinning hair or alopecia Hair replacement options for men Whether a full toupee for men is worth it How modern alternative hair can restore confidence and normalcy WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Considering a Facelift? 10 Things to Think About Before You Say Yes Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Which Beauty & Skincare Treatments Actually Make a Difference (Botox, Sculptra, Microneedling, & More) Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →10 Ways I Use ChatGPT Every Week (That Make Everyday Life So Much Easier)
Mar 600:21:33Tap to summarizeThis episode is all about one of my favorite tools lately: ChatGPT. I know many women, especially in midlife, feel hesitant about AI. But, I've found it to be an incredibly helpful tool for everyday life! I use AI for everything from improving recipes and planning meals to creating travel packing lists. It even helped me redesign my laundry room! It's become a simple way to save time and stay organized. In this episode, I'm sharing the practical ways I use ChatGPT each week and how it can make your daily life a little easier, too. LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Banana Nut Bread Recipe WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Our New Year Rhythms: Simple Daily Habits We're Prioritizing as a Couple Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Real Talk on Midlife: Hormones, Marriage, and Looking & Feeling Your Best with Deanna Pizitz Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →Infrared Sauna Q&A: Health Benefits, Safety, & Red Light Therapy Explained
Feb 2700:44:22Tap to summarizeConnie Zack, co-founder of Sunlighten, is back on the podcast for a deep-dive Q&A all about infrared saunas and red light therapy. I asked her your most-submitted questions—from longevity and health benefits to safety, cancer support, and how to choose the right sauna for your home. If you've ever wondered whether an infrared sauna is worth it, this episode is packed with practical, science-backed answers for you! LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Sunlighten Saunas - I own the 3-seater mPulse Conquer. WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Detoxing and Energizing the Body with Infrared Light Therapy Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Infrared Sauna Benefits: How I Use Mine for Pain Relief & Radiant Skin Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →What It's ACTUALLY Like Working in Fashion
Feb 2000:36:14Tap to summarizeWhat is it actually like working in the fashion industry? In this episode, I sit down with Katie Kittrell and Katrina Longoria from the Ming Wang team to pull back the curtain on how fashion REALLY works. We talk about how they got their start, what it takes to launch a collection so far in advance, how trends are forecasted, and whether it's anything like The Devil Wears Prada. Plus, get behind-the-scenes insight into the new Family Savvy x Ming Wang collection! If you've ever wondered what happens between design and the sales floor, this episode gives you a true insider's perspective. Links & Resources Mentioned: Shop the NEW Family Savvy x Ming Wang fashion collection: Dillard's Nordstrom Ming Wang's website Follow along with Ming Wang: Website Instagram Facebook Where to Listen The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! Enjoyed this Episode? Check These Out! Tanya Foster: Her New Clothing Line & Best Style Advice for Women Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube How I Ended Up Designing a Fashion Collection | The Story Behind Ming Wang with CEO Steven Wang Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →Considering a Facelift? 10 Things to Think About Before You Say Yes
Feb 1300:19:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I'm sharing my personal facelift experience and the thoughtful process behind my decision. From choosing the right surgeon and technique to deciding between an endoscopic and deep plane facelift, I open up about what I prioritized—refinement, not reinvention. I also discuss recovery, maintenance, additional treatments like CO2 laser and lipo, and why cosmetic procedures are never truly "one and done." This is an honest conversation about how to find what's truly right for you and how to make the best decisions that align with your season of life. Links & Resources Mentioned: Reveal Beauty Plastic Surgery - My surgeon was Dr. Clinton, but he is currently only conducting injectables. Where to Listen The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! Enjoyed this Episode? Check These Out! My Mommy Makeover: Why I Did It & How It Turned Out Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Real Talk on Midlife: Hormones, Marriage, and Looking & Feeling Your Best with Deanna Pizitz Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →How I Ended Up Designing a Fashion Collection | The Story Behind Ming Wang with CEO Steven Wang
Feb 600:41:45Tap to summarizeMost of us never get to see what really goes into building a fashion brand, but today I'm taking you behind the scenes with Steven Wang, CEO of Ming Wang. Steven shares how his parents immigrated to the United States and started the business out of their small New York City apartment, how that foundation shaped the brand, and what it's been like stewarding what his family built into a thriving name in fashion. We also talk about the unexpected connection through my husband that started our collaboration, what I learned while designing my very first fashion collection, and the incredible level of thought and detail that goes into every piece. After nearly two years in the making, I'm so excited to finally share the first Family Savvy x Ming Wang capsule collection with you on February 19. LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Follow along with Ming Wang! Website Instagram Facebook Join me for the Family Savvy x Ming Wang Launch Party in Birmingham | February 19 Come shop the collection, connect with expert stylists, enjoy a mini makeover, snack on light bites, sip champagne, and celebrate with me. I would truly love to hug your neck! View full event details here. (This event is FREE and open to EVERYONE, so bring your friends and family!) Nashville Friends & Fashion Event Join us on February 23 for a lively shopping experience featuring a variety of vendors, a fashion show, an auction, and bites and beverages all in support of Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Purchase tickets here. WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Mahjong Enthusiast to Entrepreneur: Megan Trottier of Oh My Mahjong Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Living Your Best Life Beyond 60 with Ally Phillips Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →Protecting Your Kids from Porn in 2026: What Parents & Grandparents Need to Know with Kristen Jenson
Jan 3000:48:24Tap to summarizeIn this timely and practical conversation, Jamie sits down with Kristen Jenson, founder of Defend Young Minds and author of Good Pictures Bad Pictures, to talk about how parents and grandparents can protect kids from pornography in 2026 and beyond. Kristen shares why kids are being exposed earlier than most parents realize (sometimes as young as age three!) and how her books are designed to give families simple, age-appropriate language to help kids reject porn when they encounter it. We discuss the growing dangers of social media, shared-server games like Roblox and Fortnite, Discord, and how AI is fueling porn and exploitation. Kristen also shares tangible next steps parents can take today, including how to talk to kids about red-flag behavior, why using proper anatomical language matters, and how girls are often exposed differently than boys. This episode is a must-listen for anyone raising or influencing kids in today's digital world. LINKS & RESOURCES FOR PROTECTING YOUR KIDS FROM PORN: Check out Kristen's books: Good Pictures Bad Pictures on Amazon Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr. on Amazon Good Pictures Bad Pictures Guidebook for Counseling Kids on Amazon Good Pictures Bad Pictures for Girls - Releasing March 2026! Links to Defend Young Minds' resources: Defend Young Minds Digital Guides Brain Defense Digital Safety curriculum "How Do Kids Find Porn in 2026? 13 Pipelines Targeting Your Kids You Need to Know About" Article Follow along with Defend Young Minds! Instagram: @defendyoungminds Facebook X: @defendYM LinkedIn Website: defendyoungminds.com WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn (and Why it Can't Wait) with Greta Eskridge Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Honest Q&A with My Husband: Marriage, Parenting, & Menopause Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn (and Why It Can't Wait) with Greta Eskridge
Jan 2300:50:50Tap to summarizeIn this important and honest conversation, I'm joined by author and speaker Greta Eskridge, who is helping parents and grandparents navigate one of the most difficult but necessary issues of our time: how to talk to your kids about pornography. Greta shares why these conversations can't wait, especially as the average age of first exposure to porn continues to drop and more girls are being affected than ever before. She also opens up about her own family's story, how her husband's confession of a porn addiction changed the direction of their lives, and why she became passionate about equipping families with tools, language, and confidence to protect their children. Together, Greta and I discuss where to begin, how to talk to kids at different ages, what sextortion is and why teen boys are often targeted, and how parents and grandparents can work together. This episode is thoughtful, practical, and deeply encouraging for anyone raising or influencing kids in today's digital world. LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: Check out Greta's books: It's Time to Talk to Your Kids About Porn Adventuring Together 100 Days of Adventure Follow along with Greta! Instagram: @greta.eskridge Podcast: The Greta Eskridge Podcast Website: www.gretaeskridge.com Resources Greta shared: Canopy App Christian Sex-Ed Reclaimed Bark Technologies Parental Controls WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! Honest Q&A with My Husband: Marriage, Parenting, & Menopause Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube Why Extramarital Affairs Happen & How to Prevent Them with Dr. Joe Beam Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
Transcribe →The Career Traits Employers Look for (and How to Build Them at Any Age)
Jan 1600:39:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with my husband, Zane, for a candid conversation about what employers are truly looking for and what separates good employees from excellent ones. As an experienced investment banker and entrepreneur, Zane brings years of hands-on experience hiring and evaluating talent, and he's passionate about passing these insights on to the next generation. While this career advice is especially valuable for young adults, it's also incredibly relevant for anyone in midlife who's guiding kids/grandkids or reflecting on their own career path. Whether you're mentoring someone else or wanting to stay intellectually curious and relevant in your own career, this episode offers practical, timeless insights that apply at any stage of life. WHERE TO LISTEN The SavvyCast is available on all podcasting platforms and YouTube. One of the best ways to support the show is by leaving a rating and review—I so appreciate you sharing your thoughts, my friends! ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? CHECK THESE OUT! The Power of a Solo Retreat: A Year-End Reflection for Faith, Marriage, Family, & Work Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube How to Land a Job & Nail the Interview with Zane Tarence Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Watch on YouTube
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