Two Jersey Js: A Life Worth Living

Summary

Podcast Summary: Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge

Episode: Two Jersey Js: A Life Worth Living
Release Date: December 2, 2024
Guest: Maria Menounos
Host: Jackie Goldschneider & Jen Fessler
Podcast Series: Two Ts In A Pod with Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge
Host Network: iHeartPodcasts

---

Introduction

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Two Ts In A Pod, hosts Jackie Goldschneider and Jen Fessler welcome special guest Maria Menounos—a multifaceted media personality known for her roles as a TV host, actress, and podcast host. The conversation delves deep into Maria's illustrious career, her personal health battles, and her journey towards redefining success and achieving work-life balance.

Maria Menounos' Career Journey

Maria Menounos shares an extensive overview of her diverse career, highlighting her early beginnings in beauty pageants and her transition into the television industry.

Key Points:

• Early Beginnings: Maria recounts her start in pageantry, winning the Miss Massachusetts Perfect Teen title at age 15 and competing nationally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. (09:20)

• Transition to Television: Studying journalism and film in college, Maria worked on a movie with her now-husband, Kevin. This project served as a launching pad, leading to her big break at Channel One News. (10:26)

• Diverse Roles: Over the years, Maria has donned multiple hats—from being a TV host on Access Hollywood and Extra to acting in films and even wrestling in the WWE. (05:35)

Notable Quote:

"I love everything, which is why I've done so many different things. I've wrestled and so I love writing." (16:49)

Health Challenges and Recovery

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Maria opens up about her and her family's health struggles, emphasizing resilience and proactive health management.

Key Points:

• Family Health Battles: Maria discusses her father's Type 1 diabetes and her mother's battle with a malignant brain tumor diagnosed in September 2016. (21:24)

• Personal Diagnosis: Months after her mother's diagnosis, Maria discovered she had a benign brain tumor. This revelation came after experiencing severe symptoms like slurred speech and intense ear pain, leading her to insist on an MRI despite initial reassurances from doctors. (29:30)

• Advanced Scanning: Maria credits a full-body Pruvo scan for detecting a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor—a diagnosis that traditional doctors initially missed. This proactive approach was crucial in saving her life. (35:04)

Notable Quotes:

"I did have moments where like, the Mack truck rolled over my chest and I'm like, oh, my God, someone's going to saw my head open. But I watched my mom go in with a smile and I was like, okay, I'm good. I'm in great hands." (43:23)

"I know how to heal and I believe in my healing. And Saint Nectarios, our healing saint, has been so good to me." (35:54)

Redefining Success and Work-Life Balance

Maria candidly discusses her evolving perception of success, influenced by her health challenges and personal growth.

Key Points:

• Changing Priorities: Maria emphasizes shifting from external definitions of success—such as career achievements and financial gains—to internal fulfillment and family happiness. (52:03)

• Mindset Shift: She shares her journey of prioritizing health, family time, and personal happiness over traditional success metrics. This shift has led her to focus on activities that bring genuine joy, such as cooking with family and being present for her child. (54:17)

• Advocacy for Self-Care: Maria advocates for self-advocacy in healthcare and personal wellness, encouraging listeners to prioritize their health and well-being. (55:57)

Notable Quote:

"Life is about more than that. And the problem is we've been born and bred into like, achieve succeed, get good grades, get a huge job, and then maybe marriage and kids. Never health, but everything's always an aside to money and success." (54:17)

Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Maria shares her aspirations to create health retreats and develop courses aimed at helping women achieve foundational health and personal clarity.

Key Points:

• Health Retreats: Maria is working on organizing retreats focused on health and healing, leveraging her personal experiences and expertise to guide others on their wellness journeys. (56:25)

• Educational Courses: She plans to develop courses that help women determine their true desires and needs, fostering personal growth and self-discovery. (56:25)

• Holiday Movie: Maria discusses her involvement in holiday-themed movies, highlighting her latest project, Christmas at Plum Hill Manor, shot in London. The movie centers on a career-driven architect who discovers a fulfilling, community-oriented lifestyle during her stay at a family manor. (49:23)

Notable Quote:

"One of my dreams is to put health retreats together and take people on this, like, journey so that if you want to be healthier, you'll learn the foundational health things that you need to learn." (56:25)

Insights on Personal Growth and Healing

Maria delves into the practices that have aided her healing process, emphasizing the importance of meditation, reducing toxin exposure, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Key Points:

• Healing Practices: Maria incorporates meditation, red light therapy, sauna sessions, grounding, and fascia release exercises into her daily routine to manage her health conditions. (35:34)

• Mental Resilience: She highlights the significance of a resilient mindset, believing that hardships occur for personal growth and the ability to help others. (43:29)

• Support Systems: Maria acknowledges the role of her husband, Dr. Allison, and her faith in Saint Nectarios in her healing journey. (35:54)

Notable Quote:

"I think the great gift I think I've gotten from all of the health crises is that there's so much more to life." (54:17)

Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Jackie and Jen express their admiration for Maria's strength and resilience, emphasizing the inspirational nature of her story. They encourage listeners to seek out Maria's work, including her holiday movies and her podcast, Heal Squad, for more insights and inspiration.

Notable Quote:

"You are my absolute new hero." (60:15)

---

Key Takeaways

• Proactive Health Management: Maria underscores the importance of taking control of one's health, advocating for advanced diagnostics and personal advocacy in medical settings.

• Redefining Success: The episode highlights the need to redefine success beyond traditional metrics, focusing instead on personal well-being and family.

• Resilience and Growth: Maria's journey serves as a testament to resilience, showcasing how personal hardships can lead to profound personal growth and the desire to help others.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “I love everything, which is why I've done so many different things. I've wrestled and so I love writing.” — Maria Menounos (16:49)

• “I did have moments where like, the Mack truck rolled over my chest and I'm like, oh, my God, someone's going to saw my head open. But I watched my mom go in with a smile and I was like, okay, I'm good. I'm in great hands.” — Maria Menounos (43:23)

• “Life is about more than that. And the problem is we've been born and bred into like, achieve succeed, get good grades, get a huge job, and then maybe marriage and kids. Never health, but everything's always an aside to money and success.” — Maria Menounos (54:17)

• “One of my dreams is to put health retreats together and take people on this, like, journey so that if you want to be healthier, you'll learn the foundational health things that you need to learn.” — Maria Menounos (56:25)

• “You are my absolute new hero.” — Jen Fessler (60:15)

---

This episode of Two Ts In A Pod offers listeners a profound look into Maria Menounos' life, balancing her public persona with her private struggles and triumphs. Her candid discussions on health, career, and personal growth provide valuable insights and inspiration for anyone navigating similar challenges.

Transcript

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Be merry, be bright, be love. This holiday season with sparkling holiday gifts from Pandora Jewelry. Bring the sparkle to Black Friday with Pandora jewelry. From November 16th through December 3rd, receive 30% off. Store wide, hand picked and ready to wrap, wear and love select from a wide range of possibilities for personalization. From festive charms with vibrant pops of color, shimmering rings and earrings designed to dazzle to radiant bracelets and necklaces shining in a mix of luminous metals. Pandora has something special for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Pandora jewelry today and save 30% off. Some exclusions apply. Hey, everyone, this is Jackie and Jen. We are from two Jersey Jays and we've got a big beauty secret to tell you about.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it's the fascia blaster from Ashley Black. I got to tell you, it's so, so cool. It really is, you guys, right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, I love it because it not only smooths the appearance of the skin, I've been using it on my legs. It brings down my inflammation. It just feels good.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say, like when I first got it, I was sort of. I was unsure. But it feels so good. It feels really good and it feels like it's doing something. And I mean, it is. I feel like my legs look way smoother.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

The fascia blaster has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. My cellulite can be stubborn, but. But no matter what you try, the fascia blaster has made a huge difference in my skin.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Same here. I feel my skin is so much smoother and firmer than it used to be. If you wanna see these kinds of results, head over to ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount.

[Jen Fessler]

Yep, that's ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount. You are going to love it. It's the moment we've been waiting for. Macy's Black Friday deals are on. Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Shop now and score the best deals before they're gone. I 40% off classic Levi's, 30 to 50% off your favorite beauty brands, 20 to 60% off toys on every wish list and so much more.

[Jen Fessler]

And if you don't want to head in store, you can get your Black Friday shopping done Online orders over $25. Get free shipping.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But also remember, stores are closed Thanksgiving day. So shop every Black Friday deal on Macy's dot com.

[Jen Fessler]

Treat yourself and the ones you love with Macy's Black Friday deals. November 24th through the 30th. Shop@macy's.com. it's better over here at And T customers.

[Maria Menounos]

Switching to T mobile has never been easier. We'll pay off your existing phone and give you a new one free. All on America's largest 5G network. Visit t mobile.com carrier freedom to switch today.

[Tonya Rad]

Pay off up to 650 via virtual prepaid MasterCard in 15 days. Free phone up to 830 via 24 monthly bill credits plus tax qualifying port and trade and service on go 5G next and credit required. Contact us before canceling entire account to continue bill credits or credit stop and balance and required finance agreement is due.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

This is Tonya Rad from scrubbing in with Becca Tilly and Tonya Rad. This is what you do when you've just found that statement handbag on ebay and you want to build an entire wardrobe around it. You start selling to keep buying. Yep. On ebay over that all black everything phase. List it and buy all the color. Feeling more vintage than ever. It's out with the new and in with the pre loved. Next thing you know, you've refreshed your wardrobe basically without spending a dime. Yeah, ebay the place to buy and sell new pre Loved vintage and rare fashion. Ebay. Things people love. Hey, everyone.

[Jen Fessler]

Hi, guys.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I'm Jackie Goldschneider.

[Jen Fessler]

And I'm Jen Fessler.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And we're two Jersey Js. Yeah, we have a really, really great episode today. You know what I was thinking? You know, first of all, when I said that Evan always jokes whenever a show starts and they're like, we have a really great episode today. He's like, what are they going to say?

[Jen Fessler]

As opposed to what? Shitty.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Won't be fun.

[Jen Fessler]

You guys tune out.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Turn.

[Jen Fessler]

Turn your radio off.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

No, but it actually is a great one today because I was thinking, like, you know when you have like, you wake up and you have this idea and you're like, oh, I really want to do this. And then like an hour later you're like, now. Too much effort.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes. Our guest today wakes up and, oh.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

My God, like, every single thing you can imagine doing, she has done.

[Jen Fessler]

I absolutely agree. And I'm. I definitely to get the. Oh, my God, I should do this. And three minutes in, I'm like, yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

You're like, no, because that'll take a lot of effort. No, she is actually required showering.

[Jen Fessler]

Exactly. But this woman, as you guys probably know, is a go getter for sure.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Right. So today we have Maria Menounos.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

On the pod.

[Jen Fessler]

Wait, do that again, Jack. I don't think we gave it enough of a bang.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

All right. Today we have Maria Menounos.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah, baby.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah. She is. Well, first of all, she's like the most stunning woman in the world. I always thought of her as just like a celebrity correspondent.

[Jen Fessler]

Right, right. Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

So when I sat down to just, like, look at her bio.

[Jen Fessler]

Right.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Oh, my God. Like, there is nothing that she hasn't done. Literally, she.

[Jen Fessler]

Because she got. When you hear the name, it's like you can't even like, pinpoint, though one thing. She's just been a presence. She's younger. Well, she's probably your age, right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

She's a little younger than me, my age.

[Jen Fessler]

But, like, I always picture her from. And I may be. I mean, I. You know, I know Access Hollywood, like, all of those ET And I know she didn't do all those entertainments night and whatever. I just always picture her.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I picture her also as the Pantene girl.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Like, I know that with that unbelievable hair.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But she has been everything. So she's been obviously a TV host. She was on Access Hollywood, E. Extra. She was an actress.

[Jen Fessler]

She was an actress.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

She was still an actress.

[Jen Fessler]

She was a wrestler. I don't even know, like, we have to ask her a little bit about that. But, like, kind of a. I can't even. Can you picture her in a ring?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

No, I don't. I don't know exactly in what capacity she's gonna have part of the wwe, but I know that she.

[Jen Fessler]

No, she actually. I know that she actually, like, fought.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Oh, really?

[Ashley Black]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

Oh, I hope I'm not off there.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I don't know. You might be right.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes. I am pretty sure she produced a movie.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I know that. I know that she has won beauty pageants.

[Jen Fessler]

Right.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

She's had a radio show, a podcast, a reality show. Chasing Maria Menounos.

[Jen Fessler]

Right.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Right there. Like, literally, there's been. And she started early, like, she started in childhood. So I'm really excited to talk to her because I only know this, like, little bit of fame as an adult, like a fully formed adult, so I could make rational decisions. I can't imagine starting so young.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah. And she's been through it, you guys. I mean, I don't know listeners, what, you know, but she is. She's battled. She's had several battles with her family having cancer. Her mom had a brain tumor. Actually, her dad had type 1 diabetes, which is what my daughter has. So I'm excited to kind of talk to her about that. And now she's in her own battle with pancreatic cancer. So, you know, she's been through It. And she has a baby.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

She has a baby. And she has a new movie.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

On. It's on Lifetime.

[Jen Fessler]

No.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it is. Plum Hill Manor. Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I can't imagine.

[Jen Fessler]

No. I feel very inadequate this segment.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And she's very open about her health battles, so we'll talk about everything. Really excited to have her on. So let's welcome Maria.

[Jen Fessler]

Maria Menounos.

[Maria Menounos]

Hi, guys.

[Jen Fessler]

Hi, Maria.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

You're just beautiful over here.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say, it's like.

[Maria Menounos]

Oh, thank you. I was hoping my crazy sunlight was going to shift just at the right time, because, see, it's, like, right there.

[Jen Fessler]

No, no, no, no. You look ethereal. It's actually. It's like an angel. Yes.

[Maria Menounos]

Thank you.

[Jen Fessler]

So it's not only what you look like, but as we were, like, as we were opening here, talking about the things that you've done, it's a little bit intimidating. It's bordering on annoying. But I am welcoming you with open arms and a warm heart. We both are. I am pretty amazed.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Where are you right now? We're in Jersey.

[Maria Menounos]

I'm in Connecticut, actually.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

You're in Connecticut. Okay. So, yeah. So we're neighbors. I meant we are in New Jersey. You know, that came out, like, where. And you grew up in Boston?

[Ashley Black]

No, I grew up in Boston.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah. Just outside of Boston. Medford.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Oh, okay. I went to Boston Universe.

[Jen Fessler]

Oh. We both went to Boston University. I transferred after a couple years, but, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Love it there.

[Jen Fessler]

I don't. But anyway, that's for another episode, so. Maria, welcome. Thank you so much for being with us. We really do appreciate it, and thanks for having me. You know, we want to just start out, you know, when we have started out already, kind of listing your accomplishments. Your career has been huge. I honestly, Jackie just said, like, you know, when you, like, wake up and you think, I'm going to do this today, and then, you know, five minutes in, you're like, ah, not so much. Like, we're saying that Maria Menounos is the one that actually does it, which is rare. So, you know. And again, we started talking about all the things that you've done, but maybe. I'm sure that we're missing a lot. I was actually saying you started out as, like, Miss Teen. Were you like, Miss Teen Massachusetts?

[Maria Menounos]

I was, Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

I can't, seriously. Wow. How did you get into pageanting?

[Maria Menounos]

Well, I remember I was, like, 13, and I got a card in the mail for the Miss Perfect Teen Pageant. And at that time, I was, like, starting, like, I really wanted a model I wanted to do stuff, and I got the card in the mail and my parents. My dad was like, no. And then the next year, it came again. The next year, I enlisted the help of my cousin Anthony. I was like, you gotta convince them to let me do this. And at that point, no, I was like, 15, actually. And so I did it, and I won Miss Massachusetts Perfect Teen.

[Jen Fessler]

I can't imagine imagine it, putting that title on a pageant now.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

You would never. Oh, my God. No way.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah. So I was perfect.

[Jen Fessler]

Was your dad happy once you won? He must have been proud.

[Maria Menounos]

Of course. Like, we went. It was the first time we won. And then we went to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for the national competition. I think I came in, like, third or something there.

[Jen Fessler]

Wow.

[Maria Menounos]

And then eventually I did Miss Mass Teen USA and did that. And so, yeah, that was kind of the entry point.

[Jen Fessler]

Wow. Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And then in college, that's when your career started really taking off in the TV world. Right.

[Maria Menounos]

So I feel like everything is, like, baby steps. Right. Like, how does a Greek girl from, you know, parents who are immigrants make it? I don't know. You just make one move after another. So the pageants weren't, you know, a great entry point. Started doing some commercial work and things like that. And then in college, I was really studying journalism and film and worked on a movie with my now husband, Kevin. That really was the launching pad, like, you know, when my classmates didn't want to work for free and I did well, then somebody I met on the movie helped me get my big break in LA at Channel one News.

[Jen Fessler]

Wow.

[Maria Menounos]

So I didn't finish my last year of college because I ended up getting that job.

[Jen Fessler]

And you and Kevin, your husband, now, I believe if I'm correct, you started dating in college and your father was not pleased. I know you already said that. You're Greek. You have a very strong Greek heritage background, right?

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah, my dad was. I think it was more like he was, like, freaked out that I could be having sex. I don't know. Like, it was just very bad. It was a very ugly time. Um, so it was because he wasn't Greek. And, yes, my dad was, you know, had his dream of, you know, me marrying a Greek person and that whole scam.

[Jen Fessler]

But do you love. Do you love the My Big Fat Greek Wedding?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

He doesn't love that movie.

[Jen Fessler]

But does it.

[Maria Menounos]

Does it, like.

[Jen Fessler]

But does it resonate with you? Is that.

[Maria Menounos]

Of course it resonated with the whole world.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, that's true.

[Jen Fessler]

That's true.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Every culture, Jewish family.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

For sure. Be merry, be bright, be love this holiday season with sparkling holiday gifts from Pandora Jewelry. Bring the sparkle to Black Friday with Pandora jewelry. From November 16th through December 3rd, receive 30% off. Store wide, hand picked and ready to wrap, wear and love select from a wide range of possibilities for personalization. From festive charms with vibrant pops of color, shimmering rings and earrings designed to dazzle to radiant bracelets and necklaces shining in a mix of luminous metals, Pandora has something special for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Pandora Jewelry today and save 30% off. Some exclusions apply. Hey everyone, this is Jackie and Jen. We are from two Jersey Jays and we've got a big beauty secret to tell you about.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it's the Fascia Blaster from Ashley Black. I gotta tell you, it's so cool. It really is you guys, right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, I love it because it not only smooths the appearance of the skin, I've been using it on my legs.

[Jen Fessler]

It me too.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Brings down my inflammation. It just feels good.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say like when I first got it, I was sort of. I was unsure. But it feels so good. Yeah, it feels really good and it feels like it's doing something. And I mean it is. I feel like my legs look way smoother.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

The fascia blaster has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. My cellulite can be stubborn, but no matter what we what you try, the Fascia blaster has made a huge difference in my skin.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Same here. I feel my skin is so much smoother and firmer than it used to be. If you want to see these kinds of results, head over to ashleyblackguru.com and use code Jersey for an exclusive discount.

[Jen Fessler]

Yep, that's ashleyblackguru.com and use code Jersey for an exclusive discount. You are going to love it. Curious about Ozempic or wegovy but not sure if your insurance covers it. That's where Rowe comes in. Rowe can help you understand if GLP1s are right for you and your goals. But that's just the beginning. ROE members have support throughout the process. That means no insurance paperwork and you'll have access to your provider on demand for any questions. Plus, you can sign up online from the comfort of your own home. That means no waiting for an in person doctor's appointment, no commute to the doctor's office, and no waiting rooms. Join the over 250,000 people who have already chosen RO to access GLP1s. Go to RO CO Jersey to find out if you're covered for free. That's Ro Co Jersey. For box warning and full safety information, go to Ro Co Safety prescription only. It's the moment we've been waiting for. Macy's Black Friday deals are on.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yes, shop now and score the best deals before they're gone. I mean, 40% off classic Levi's, 30 to 50% off your favorite beauty brands, 20 to 60% off toys on every wish list and so much more.

[Jen Fessler]

And if you don't want to head in store, you can get your Black Friday shopping done online. Orders over $25 get free shipping.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But also remember, stores are closed Thanksgiving day, so shop every Black Friday deal on Macy's dot com.

[Jen Fessler]

Treat yourself and the ones you love with Macy's Black Friday deals. November 24th through the 30th, shop at Macy's.

[Tonya Rad]

What does it feel like to get the new iPhone 16 Pro with AT&T? Next up anytime. It's like when you first pick up those tongs and you're now the one running the grill. It's indescribable, like something you've never felt before. All the mouth watering anticipation of new possibilities, whether that's making a perfect cheeseburger or treating your family to a grilled baked potato, which you know will forever change the way they look at potatoes. With AT&T. Next up anytime you can feel this way again and again. Learn how to get the new iPhone 16 Pro with Apple Intelligence on AT&T and the latest iPhone every year with AT&T. Next up anytime. ATT connecting changes everything. Apple Intelligence coming fall 2024 with Siri and device language set to US English. Some features and languages will be coming over the next year. $0 offer may not be available on future iPhones. Next up anytime feature may be discontinued at any time. Subject to change additional fees. Terms and Restrictions apply. See att.com iPhone for detail details.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

With all of these jobs and all of these amazing things that you've done, is there anyone that's been your favorite? You've done commercial work, reality shows, radio work? All of it.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah. I mean, listen, I love everything, which is why I've done so many different things. I've wrestled and so I love writing.

[Jen Fessler]

We talked about that.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Oh, yeah. Can we talk about that?

[Jen Fessler]

We have to do. Yeah. Can kind of understand what you're saying right now. Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

In what capacity were you part of the WWE?

[Maria Menounos]

I am 40 in the WWE. I wrestled at Wrestlemania. Guys. Mark Wahlberg was sitting front row and I watched his mouth go.

[Jen Fessler]

What are you doing? How'd you even. Who said, Maria, we have an idea. Was it you? I want to be arrested. What? What are you talking about?

[Maria Menounos]

Inside scoop. I watched wrestling my whole life with my dad. And so I was a die hard wrestling fan. I met Kevin, who's also a die hard wrestling fan. When I first met Kevin as a chubby 19 year old, at one point when he, you know, we were working on his movie, he lost his movie, went bankrupt. The whole world caved in on him. He was going to go potentially work with the wwe and he was like, you could wrestle all right. It was like, great. So he went and he met with Shane McMahon and he met with, you know, them over there. I think he even had FaceTime with Vince at the time. And my job at Channel One came in the interim, and so that never even came to fruition. So we left and we moved to la. But then the dream to wrestle was still there. So then let me finish. So then flash forward, years later, I was telling my publicist because they started having Monday Night Raw guest hosts. I said, you got to get me in. I have to do this. And so he calls me like a month after that meeting. Meanwhile, he had not made one call yet. And he's like, you're not going to believe this. I didn't even call them. They called us. They want you to do it. I said, great, on one condition. I want to wrestle. They didn't take me seriously. They thought I was, you know. And by the way, WWE is such a machine. They don't have time to worry about Maria wrestling or whatever. So I went and I hired a coach. I started doing backyard wrestling and learning. I showed up for that guest host appearance. I'm like, I know how to wrestle. Let's go. And they created something on the fly. And from there, I knew how to taunt the audience as a fan. So I taunted the audience, I taunted the other wrestlers, and it became a thing that led to WrestleMania. And it was the first time the women got air time on tv. It was a big deal. And I was doing Dancing with the Stars at the same time. So I had cracked ribs, fractured feet. I was a hot mess, but I had to go and I did it. And it was one of the highlights of my life, for sure. And then the other favorite thing I've done was like, nightly news for sure.

[Jen Fessler]

Maria, but your face. I would have never. If we had been friends back then, I would have never allowed for such a thing.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But you could really get hurt.

[Jen Fessler]

No, right?

[Maria Menounos]

Hurt who can't look at her face.

[Jen Fessler]

Who does that?

[Maria Menounos]

I'm dead. I said that. You know, I said that to Daria Baron Otto, who's now Sonya deville in wwe. When she first came to afterbuzz as one of our hosts, we went to a Ronda Rousey UFC fight, and we were sitting in the booth, and I go, you are too pretty to be fighting and having people punch you in the face.

[Jen Fessler]

How we figure something else out. You.

[Maria Menounos]

And then, long story short, I'm in a meeting with USA Network for Tough Enough. No, for something for General. And they're like, you should do tough. I'm like, no, but I know who's perfect. And then she did that and ended up launching her whole career, which is so cool. So she made the shift. Wow.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

So dancing with the. What's easier? Dancing with the Stars or WWE or what's Harder? I can't imagine both of them are so out of my realm of what I possibly can do.

[Maria Menounos]

They're both really hard. Wrestlers, really have a hard life. I mean, they're traveling 360 days a year by rental car, and, you know, the whole thing, I mean, the. What they put their bodies through is so intense. I have the utmost respect for them, which is why I think I did so well with them, because they knew I wasn't just, you know, there for any other reason. I really respect them and their craft and dancing. My God, I. When I first started, I had the video. I couldn't put, you know, two steps together. Derek had, you know, a definite project player on his hands. But, you know, the cool thing in my life is I've. I love challenges. I love living in that moment of, like, terror and, like, am I going to be okay? Am I going to be okay? Okay. We did all right. All right.

[Tonya Rad]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

I'm so glad you said that.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Someone like you that you don't get scared of.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Well, I was going to say, like.

[Jen Fessler]

I don't want to be this cheesy transition. Right. But, like, clearly you're a fighter, and I. You know, I'm sure we're going to talk about your health challenges, but when I was reading what. I was reading about you even going back to your childhood, what struck me was that you grew up with a father with type 1 diabetes, and I have a daughter with type 1 diabetes, so I know a lot about how difficult that can be. But I'm sure most of our listeners don't know, but type 1 diabetes is way more. It's still a bitch, but it's way more manageable. Now, so going back that many years, there were no pumps, there were no sensors. Right. So it was life and death. Life and death. And I was reading about how often your father would have low blood sugar and how often he was, you know, on the verge of death, and you had to be tough. How old were you when he first was diagnosed?

[Maria Menounos]

Oh, he was diagnosed when he was, like, 20. Way before I was conceived. Yeah. So it was my whole life with him. Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

Okay. Okay. So, I mean, I'm. I'm thinking, you know that already now you have a different type of childhood starting there, and you obviously rose to all of these occasions. But, yeah, the fighting thing, the wrestling thing, again, I didn't want to sound cheesy, so I'm glad you said it, but you clearly enjoy a fight.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

So the one. The one job aspect that we do have in common was the reality show.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Unfortunately, yes.

[Jen Fessler]

Right.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

So your reality show, it was called Chasing Maria Menounos.

[Maria Menounos]

Right.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Did you enjoy it? Do you like sharing your. Did you have to share your whole life?

[Maria Menounos]

You know, that was such a tough thing, because I have no problem sharing. The problem is they were so fake about it. They had, like, their agenda of what they wanted, which was marriage and babies. And that was my dad's dream. That's all he wanted at the time. And I said to them at one point, I go, if my dad is sick of this, then that means the audience is going to be totally sick of this. So instead of allowing for reality to happen, which I think is hard with budgetary constraints, I'm like, guys, we are definitely full of stuff. And imagine if they had been filming these last seven years. There was so much stuff that had gone on, but they were the. I guess the plan, you know, laid out was just very restrictive, and so it wasn't as fun as I thought. The one good thing is, is I do. I do have my family on camera. And it was. It was fun to be with my parents a little bit more than I would have at that time because we had to squeeze in filming, but.

[Jen Fessler]

But, yeah, reality shows are hard. They are hard.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

But I do think that Jackie's like, I think about that for you because you have your kids forever, you know, into.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Right. I have birthday parties that I'll forever be able to watch back, you know, for all the good and the bad.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah, but you have it documented, the.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Time and the energy. How do you find the time for.

[Maria Menounos]

All of those things?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

For all of it?

[Maria Menounos]

I mean, before I was just a human doing. That's why I said I'm like the brain tumor came to make me a human being. I was just a human doing. I was just a machine nonstop. And I think when you grow up the way I did, I just had someone on my show on Heal squad talking about how we're high functioning codependents and HFCs are just really good in crisis. We're really good at solving everything. And you know, I, I grew up not speaking the language. I had to be my parents interpreter. I was first gen, had to literally revive and save my dad on the regular. We were always in fight or flight.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Maria Menounos]

And you know, we, you know, had some really rough times financially as well. So I think that when I made it in this business, I found it to be such a blessing. I was like, my God, I'm making more money than my parents ever could have dreamed of. How could I say no? And how could I not go for every opportunity and do everything? And so yeah, that's what I did. And then God threw a brick at my head and then said, let's recalibrate.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Be merry, be bright, be love. This holiday season with sparkling holiday gifts from Pandora Jewelry. Bring the sparkle to Black Friday with Pandora jewelry. From November 16th through December 3rd, receive 30% off. Store wide, handpicked and ready to wrap, wear and love select from a wide range of possibilities for personalization. From festive charms with vibrant pops of color, shimmering rings and earrings designed to dazzle. To radiant bracelets and necklaces shining in a mix of luminous metals. Pandora has something special for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Pandora Jewelry today and save 30% off. Some exclusions apply. Hey everyone, this is Jackie and Jen. We are from two Jersey Jays and we've got a big beauty secret to tell you about.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it's the fascia blaster from Ashley Black. I gotta tell you, it's so cool. It really is you guys, right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah. I love it because it not only smooths the appearance of the skin. I've been using it on my legs.

[Jen Fessler]

It me too.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Brings down my inflammation. It just feels good.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say, like when I first got it, I was sort of. I was unsure. But it feels so good. Yeah, it feels really good. And it feels like it's doing something. And I mean, it is. I feel like my legs look way smoother.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

The fascia blaster has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. My cellulite can be stubborn, but no matter what what you try, the fascia blaster has made a huge difference in my skin.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Same here. I feel my skin is so much smoother and firmer than it used to be. If you want to see these kinds of results, head over to ashleyblackguru.com and use code JERSEY EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT.

[Jen Fessler]

Yep, that's ashleyblackguru.comand use code jersey for an exclusive discount. You are going to love it. It's the moment we've been waiting for. Macy's Black Friday deals are on. Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Shop now and score the best deals before they're gone. I mean, 40% off classic Levi's, 30 to 50% off your favorite beauty brands, 20 to 60% off toys on every wish list and so much more.

[Jen Fessler]

And if you don't want to head in store, you can get your Black Friday shopping done online. Orders over $25 get free shipping.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But also remember, stores are closed Thanksgiving day, so shop every Black Friday deal on macy's dot com.

[Jen Fessler]

Treat yourself and the ones you love with Macy's Black Friday deals. November 24th through the 30th. Shop@macy's.com Looking for excitement?

[Tonya Rad]

Chumba Casino is here. Play anytime. Play anywhere. Play on the train. Play at the store. Play at home. Play when you're bored. Play today for your chance to win and get daily bonuses when you log in. So what are you waiting for? Don't delay. Chumba Casino is free to play.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Experience social gameplay like never before. Go to Cumba Casino right now to play hundreds of games, including online slots.

[Jen Fessler]

Bingo, Slingo and more.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Live the chumba [e-mail] BGW Group no purchase necessary Void book prohibited by law.

[Jen Fessler]

See terms and conditions 18.

[Ashley Black]

This holiday season, surprise everyone on your list with the best gifts. Tickets to see their favorite artists live. Choose from thousands of concerts and comedy shows including Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Matt Matthews, Metallica, Thomas Rhett, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Sarah Silverman, and so many more. Share a memory together or give a gift they'll never forget. Find the most exciting gift for every [e-mail] gifts. That's livenation.com gifts.

[Jen Fessler]

So you guys. It's not. I just want to make sure that our viewers understand a little bit even more about your background. But your mom had a brain tumor. I hope it's okay. I'm sure I'm thinking it's okay. I know you're very open about your struggle. It is okay. So your mom had a. Had a malignant brain tumor and was it a year later that you were diagnosed as well with a brain tumor?

[Maria Menounos]

Months later.

[Jen Fessler]

But a Benign one months. I mean, wow, it's.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

That's mind blowing. Yeah. So what. What was that? That whole time period? Were you working through it? Were you?

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Maria Menounos]

Well, it was crazy because my mom was diagnosed beginning of September 2016 with a malignant brain tumor called glioblastoma. Stage 4 brain cancer, one of the deadliest cancers you can get. Maria, how old were you? Oh, gosh, don't ask. I have no freaking Clue. This was 2016. Someone do the math. Eight years ago. 39. 38. 39. Something like that. Anyway, I was working at E. News at the time, and now I'm trying to, like, in Sirius xm, trying to keep all the masters happy while I'm also trying to keep my mom alive. And I thought the headaches I was getting and the pain I was having and the fatigue was all due to the stress of my mom. And then I started slurring my speech, and then I was needing second takes, and I was like, one take, Maria. Like, what the heck's going on? And then I started having really bad ear pain. And so the ear pain took me to the doctor because I'm like, do I have an ear infection at 30? Something like, this is crazy. And he was like, you don't have an ear infection. What else are you feeling? Well, once I started rattling off all those symptoms, he's like. I go, oh, my God. And he's like, what? I go, I think I have a brain tumor. Like, my mom. Isn't that crazy? Just saying it right now. I'm reminded of how crazy that was. And he's like, I don't think you're crazy. Let's just get an MRI to rule it out. And then the MRI said I had a brain tumor. Now, luckily, mine appeared to be benign, but they were like, we don't know. But mine also. When I talked to the same neurosurgeon, when I called the neurosurgeon, Dr. Keith Black's office, I was like, I need an appointment. They're like, okay, so what time can your mom come? I go, no, no, no, it's for me. And they were shook. I said, so surely this is going to be an easier surgery than my mom's. And he was like, nope, this is way more complicated.

[Jen Fessler]

Wow.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Is that hereditary or coincidental?

[Maria Menounos]

Totally coincidental. I believe it was the IVF that did this, because when I was doing ivf. First of all, at some point, we're going to learn how dangerous IVF is. I'm not against it, obviously, because I have a Beautiful baby because of it. But I do always tell people to get a scan before you do anything to see if there's anything that will grow. The reason my neurosurgeon wouldn't let me get pregnant is he was afraid. When you get hormones going, things grow.

[Jen Fessler]

That's when. Right.

[Maria Menounos]

So I unknowingly might have had the brain tumor in my head all this time, or maybe it came out of nowhere, I don't know. But all I know is when I was taking those progesterone shots, I called my doctor and I said, I want to drive my car through a brick wall. And I was. My head was exploding, and she was like, stop the progesterone. And that was, I think, months before I finished. Months before I was diagnosed, I had finished my last IVF cycle. So I think the hormones grew it. So I always tell my girlfriends, and now all of you, because it's really sketchy to, like, go out in public and say this stuff. I feel like people, like, get really, like, freaked out and upset, but secretly, behind the scenes, I always tell my friends, if you are going to do ivf, find a way to get a scan and make sure that nothing's going to grow, because these hormones have the.

[Jen Fessler]

Potential to grow things they say that about right now. So I'm not. I'm way past the time to get pregnant, but I'm in that phase of menopause where you take hormones, you take estrogen, right? To make you feel better with. In terms of what's going on with your body during menopause. And then I think it's sort of the same idea, right? Like, it's a very. It's a balancing act, and it's a risk versus reward. Because, you know, hormones can, if. I don't know if they can actually cause cancer, but they can grow cancer, from what I understand. So.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And doctors don't tell you that I had five rounds of IVF myself.

[Maria Menounos]

They don't tell you. And you wouldn't know that. Even the menopause stuff, like, you wouldn't know. And then also the other thing that's crazy is nobody knows that you can actually do natural rounds. So it's a much less expensive thing, too, which they don't want you to really know about. But my IVF doctor, Dr. Wendy Chang, who is amazing, told me that it was possible. So if you have follicles naturally, you can just do a trigger shot and go in for your. Your removal. You just have to time everything carefully. But there is a way to do natural Cycles to avoid all of those shots.

[Jen Fessler]

I hope that a lot of women are listening.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, I hope that, you know, you know, I always say that you have to advocate for yourself at these doctors appointments because they really, some doctors do not do a great job. But anyway, so, so you, you're diagnosed with this brain tumor. They find that it's benign.

[Maria Menounos]

You have surgery is what reveals whether it's benign or not. So, yeah, so they removed as much as they could because there's a tumor that's, there's still tumor in there that's wrapped around my facial nerve. So if he tried to get rid of it, I would have been paralyzed. So he left it alone. Thank God. So, yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

How, and so do you have any remaining?

[Maria Menounos]

I mean, yeah, there's, there's stuff that.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I feel does it manifest?

[Maria Menounos]

But I, I manage it. And I've been doing a lot of things like lightning. My, my toxin load has been helpful. Meditation has been helpful. I'm experimenting every day with stuff to, to heal and get better.

[Jen Fessler]

I, it occurs me that I know I have known some people with brain tumors and malignant or not, brain surgery is a very, very serious kind of surgery. I don't think, you know, it's not just like, okay, we're going to go in and take it out. When it comes to the brain, it's. And Maria, you can. If I'm not right. But I think it's very, very tricky and very, very risky. And so I just, it, that hits me because you've just gone through a lot of stuff.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah, that was an eight hour surgery. No, that one was six and a half, I think. And then the pancreas surgery was like 8.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

After your, your brain tumor comes out and you're recovering, then you get thrown another health.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah, well, I was feeling something. I was getting really bloated. Things weren't right. I was like, something's off. Somehow predicted on my own show, an audience member later was like, you predicted this in April before you were diagnosed. I'm like, what? And I, I listened and looked. I was like, oh my God. But that's not pertinent to the story. But the truth is, is I knew something was wrong. I kept investigating different diagnostic tests. They kept telling me I was fine. I went to the doctors, buckled over an excruciating pain, like, unbelievable, unbearable pain. They told me I was fine. And it was only until I got this pruvo scan that they found a tumor, a large tumor on the tail of my pancreas. It's called the neuroendocrine tumor. It's what Steve Jobs had, and it had doubled in size within two months of that scan, where I went to the doctors and I was like, I'm in so much pain.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And when. When was this?

[Maria Menounos]

This was last year, and it was.

[Jen Fessler]

You did the pruvo scan. Will you just tell our listeners? Because I hear more and more about people doing it. That's the full body.

[Maria Menounos]

It's a full body scan. Yeah. So they listen. It's not. It's not free, and it's not perfect, but they saved my life when, you know, traditional hospitals told me I was fine and sent me home. This thing doubled in size. Now, where would I be by June if from November to January it doubled? And my baby was due in June, Maria. So.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Wow.

[Jen Fessler]

And now how old is Athena now?

[Maria Menounos]

So she's 17 months next week.

[Jen Fessler]

Oh, my goodness.

[Maria Menounos]

Wow.

[Jen Fessler]

Do you call her your miracle baby? Right?

[Maria Menounos]

She is.

[Jen Fessler]

I think I read that she is, yeah. Wow.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

So your health journey now, are you in the clear? Are you still battling?

[Maria Menounos]

You know, I'm. I. I'm in the clear in a lot of ways, but, like, there's still stuff, right? Like, I was in the Dominican Republic earlier this year because they thought they found liver cancer. And I was like, I don't think it's liver cancer. I think my body's just having a hard time processing all these scans. People think scans are nebulous. They're not. When you're getting gadolinium and you're getting CT scans, these are very powerful, high radiation, highly toxic things. And, yeah, if you're doing one, that's fine, but I've had to do so many, and no one's really counting, and no one's really paying attention. And so I was like, I think my body's just having a hard time detoxing all this out. Well, I went to the doctor and I created this little health protocol of just sun and grounding and sweating and sleeping, and they all shrunk in two and a half weeks.

[Jen Fessler]

How in the world did you know that it wasn't your liver? How would you be that in tune?

[Maria Menounos]

I am super intuitive, but I also. I'm. I've learned over these last seven years of this brain tumor experience and stuff to listen. And I just felt. I felt like it didn't make any sense, and I didn't feel like it was true because, yeah, I just didn't. So I was like, I'm just gonna go experiment. And I know the equator is really healing from everything I'VE studied, and my naturopath, that's been on my show a lot, that's helped me through a lot. And I was really pleased, obviously, with the results. And so when you say, are you healed? I mean, I still have a brain tumor. I still have lesions on my liver. Like, two new ones popped up, we just found. And I'm like, I'm looking at Kevin. I'm like, but I'm not scared. I think I'm fine. He goes, I think you're fine too. And so I just think, again, these scans that I got before now have accumulated, so it's. It's a thing. And so I'm constantly working on it. I'm using my red light and my sauna and my sun and my grounding and my fascia release exercises. I'm like, as. As much as I can devote each day to my healing and my health, it's important, obviously, because I need to be around for my baby. But I know I'm vibrant and healthy. I know a lot of this doesn't make sense. The diabetes actually broke my heart and threw me on the floor because I think I have so much trauma with that. Like, the brain tumor was easy in a sense. Like, I did have moments where like, the Mack truck rolled over my chest and I'm like, oh, my God, someone's going to saw my head open. But I watched my mom go in with a smile and I was like, okay, I'm good. I'm in great hands. There's nobody better than Dr. Black. And the diabetes killed me because I had quit sugar two years before and I. It just didn't make any sense, all this shit. I was like.

[Jen Fessler]

I don't know. I just want everybody to understand. I don't understand at all everything you're saying. I understand this part of it that is type 1 diabetes. And I want you guys to understand that that in itself is an everyday on your mind. I know this a cry too. This is like. That in and of itself is so hard. And then you have all of this other stuff. You are my absolute new hero. You have to be my friend, our friend. You must. You are so. I'm so proud of you.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Thank you, Maria. What's your energy level like? Has it affected, like, how much you work?

[Maria Menounos]

It's been so hard at different times, like, to be honest. But right now it's been. It's on the upswing. And so that's been really exciting. I mean, Dr. Allison and I have done so much work that I feel like I have more energy than I ever have. So that's been really good. You know, I say I kind of have to pitch a perfect game with my health. Like, I can't. I don't have a lot of wiggle room because I have to. I have to really heal from all these things. And they are healable. Like, even when they found the breast lesion, I went back to Dr. Funk and she goes, it shrunk. I was like, yes. Because I focused in my meditations on it shrinking. So I keep getting success even though there's so much shit that pops up and it's felt like whack a mole. I know how to heal and I believe in my healing. And Saint Nectarios, our healing saint, has been so good to me. So what is his name, please?

[Jen Fessler]

I need to write that down. Saint Nick Tario.

[Maria Menounos]

Saint Nectarios. Nectar. Nectarios.

[Jen Fessler]

Okay.

[Maria Menounos]

He is the healing saint in the Greek Orthodox church, but he will heal anyone who believes in him. And I've had so many miraculous moments of healing, whether it's me, my mom, my friends. I wear my bracelet that I got at his church in Aegina, Greece, which is an island just south of Athens. And so ever since he's come into my life, like, so much good has happened. And I know that the. It looks like so much bad has happened, too. And listen, it's not been easy, but I. I do believe that it's happened for me, not to me. And I do believe that it's happened to me because I can figure it out and I can heal and I can show other people how to do it. And I do that through my show every day. So, you know, what a mindset.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

It's unbelievable. You know, they say that, like, you could have a million problems until something happens with your health and then you have one problem. There is just no, there's no way around it. You are a my hero. Be merry, be bright, be love. This holiday season with sparkling holiday gifts from Pandora Jewelry. Bring the sparkle to Black Friday with Pandora jewelry. From November 16 through December 3, receive 30% off store wide, hand picked and ready to wrap, wear and love. Select from a wide range of possibilities for personalization. From festive charms with vibrant pops of color, shimmering rings and earrings designed to dazzle. To radiant bracelets and necklaces shining in a mix of luminous medals. Pandora has something special for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Pandora jewelry today and save 30% off. Some exclusions apply. Hey, everyone, this is Jackie and Jen. We are from two Jersey Jays and we've got a big beauty secret to tell you about.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it's the Fascia Blaster from Ashley Black. I gotta tell you, it's so cool. It really is, you guys. Right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah. I love it because it not only smooths the appearance of the skin. I've been using it on my legs. It.

[Jen Fessler]

Me too.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Brings down my inflammation. It just feels good.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say, like, when I first got it, I was sort of. I was unsure, but it feels so good. Yeah, it feels really good. And it feels like it's doing something. And I mean, it is. I feel like my legs look way smoother.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

The Fascia Blaster has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. My cellulite can be stubborn, but no matter what we what you try, the Fascia Blaster has made a huge difference in my skin.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Same here. I feel my skin is so much smoother and firmer than it used to be. If you want to see these kinds of results, head over to ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount.

[Jen Fessler]

Yep, that's ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount. You are going to love it. It's the moment we've been waiting for. Macy's Black Friday deals are on. Yes.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Shop now and score the best deals before they're gone. I 40% off classic Levi's, 30 to 50% off your favorite beauty brands, 20 to 60% off toys on every wish list, and so much more.

[Jen Fessler]

And if you don't want to head in store, you can get your Black Friday shopping done online. Orders over $25. Get free shipping.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

But also remember, stores are closed Thanksgiving day, so shop every Black Friday deal on Macy's dot com.

[Jen Fessler]

Treat yourself and the ones you love with Macy's Black Friday deals. November 24th through the 30th. Shop@macy's.com looking for excitement.

[Tonya Rad]

Chumba Casino is here. Play anytime. Play anywhere. Play on the train. Play at the store. Play at home. Play when you're bored. Play today for your chance to win and get daily bonuses when you log in. So what are you waiting for? Don't delay. Chumba Casino is free to play.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Experience social gameplay like never before. Go to Chumba Casino right now to play hundreds of games, including online slots.

[Jen Fessler]

Bingo, Slingo and more.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Live the chumba [e-mail].

[Ashley Black]

This holiday season. Surprise everyone on your list with the best gifts tickets to see their favorite artists live. Choose from thousands of concerts and comedy shows, including Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Matt Matthews, Metallica, Thomas Rhett, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Sarah Silverman and so many more. Share a memory together or give a gift they'll never forget. Find the most exciting gift [e-mail] gifts that's livenation.com gifts.

[Jen Fessler]

I've had people in my life that have been, you know, they've been. They've gotten sick, they've had kids. I have friends whose kids have gotten sick. Nobody. I always say this to my daughter who has type one. I'm like, you know, nobody gets away. And I'm not just talking about health issues. No one gets away. Everyone has got their stuff. And hopefully we all deal with the cards we are dealt with. You know, we can actually turn them into something productive. You wanting to inspire people, you know, and say, what did you say? It happened for you?

[Maria Menounos]

Not to me.

[Jen Fessler]

I absolutely, absolutely love that. But, you know, tell us something good. Tell us.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, let's talk about. Let's pivot a hard pivot and talk about this Christmas movie. Now, I'm a Jewish girl. I love Christmas. Me too.

[Maria Menounos]

My Jewish friends are being all of it too, so.

[Jen Fessler]

Oh, my God.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I just get this, like, feeling. I remember sitting in the movie theater, I was single. It was like 2006. I was like, I'm never going to meet anybody. And I was watching that movie, Love actually ended up meeting my husband a few months later. But I was like, I just. Nothing makes me feel better than a Christmas movie.

[Jen Fessler]

Just Christmas in general, please.

[Maria Menounos]

Well, I'll tell you, the Christmas movies came at the perfect time because it was on my bucket list to do one. And it was because of my mom that I got in the first one because I had made this, like, little video on YouTube of our journey, caretaking for her in her last months. And my friend Ryan McPartland, who is a Christmas movie star, amongst other amazing things like Chuck and stuff, but he was making one just down the street in Connecticut. So he connected with me to tell me how moved he was by this piece I put together. And then I ended up as his sister in this movie. And then the director of that called me to star in the next one, which came out two years ago. And then he called me for this one that we shot in London. So funny you talk about love. Actually, we shot ours in London. So you're not really used to seeing, you know, these holiday movies on Lifetime etc, where they're set in London. There's, I think, only two Christmas movies set there. So you're going to get the most amazing British feels. The accents the charm.

[Jen Fessler]

Are you British in it? Do you have to have put on the accent?

[Maria Menounos]

No, thank God. Because that would take a little bit of work because my accent ain't great, but. But I worked on it the whole time there. But I play an architect, like a New York City architect who unbeknownst to her, had this great aunt that left her a manor. And she has one week she has to spend there before she can make the decision of keeping it or getting rid of it. And she's like, you know, the super type A. It's all about her career. She shows up there, she sees a whole other lifestyle, you know, a life where like community and events and, you know, Christmas, you know, Carol of the Bell events and stuff are, are the main focus. And she ends up falling in love and sees a whole other path for life. And I feel like a lot of us, us need to kind of see it for a few reasons. One, like, listen, we love holiday movies and this one I think will make you have all the holiday feels. And I, I know for me, with everything that we've gone through, these have been great escapes and there are hard times out there, people are really suffering and that's why we love watching these. But the other thing is, is like for all of us, kind of type A high functioning codependence. I'm kidding. All of our us type A women who, who kind of sometimes forget that there's other things that matter other than just business and making and succeeding and buying more things like.

[Jen Fessler]

Are you listening to this? Because we need us in particular.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yes.

[Jen Fessler]

Need to be hearing this.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yes, yes.

[Jen Fessler]

It's.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I'm like intense, I know, but it's.

[Jen Fessler]

Just, it's so true because it's so easy, especially in, I mean, we're in reality television and you forget all of a sudden you're so caught up in that world and all, you know, need to be reminded. But please, I'm sorry, go on.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah, no, life is about more than that. And the problem is we've been born and bred into like, achieve succeed, get good grades, get a huge job, make a lot of money, and then maybe marriage and kids. Never health, but everything's always an aside to money and success. That's always first. And so the great gift I think I've gotten from all of the health crises is that there's so much more to life. And I've been working actively in the last seven years on redefining success for myself because we also define success by other people's standards. And I caught myself Doing that. I was chasing the people who were working 247 and, like, all this stuff. And I'm like, wait, this is so against my nature. I don't care. Kevin's been trying to put shows together with my name on it. This. I don't care. I just want to be happy. I want to live. I want to cook something in my kitchen with my family. I want to be present for my baby. I want to work as little as possible, but maintain as much as I can. What I have now, I don't need more. Like, I remember meeting with a friend who was, you know, really successful in business. Marie Forleo. She's a business teacher. And we were talking about kind of my next phase in life. This was two years ago. And she's like, how much money do you want to make? And I'm like, I gave her a number. It was so low. And she goes, what? I go, I don't care. I just need to be healthy. That's all that matters. But we don't ever realize it until shit hits the fans. So I'm always. I think that now more than ever. And the millennials are doing this. The Gen Zers are doing this. They're looking at our generation like we were crazy people, workaholics, and they're going the other way. But there's a happy medium.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Right? They're getting a lot of slack for that, too. They're called a very lazy generation of very, like, coddles.

[Jen Fessler]

Well, I think there is a happy medium.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah. Like, we don't need to be chasing a life that we didn't even want. And I think that a lot of us chase a life we don't even want. We're not really happy. We're, like, snappy and short and miserable. I know. I remember. And it's not worth it. It's just.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I mean, can you just change that by changing your mindset? Because I think I have a little of that. Like, I want things so that. I mean, I'm not super in tune to what I want sometimes. I know that I want things that I don't really, deep down want, but I want other people to see me doing them.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah. Yeah. And I think that it really comes down to you having, like, some time with yourself to be like, what do I really want? What do I not want? And how do I now get time with myself to be more introspective? Like, meditation has changed everything for me. I'm not currently meditating the way I was. I'm about to get back on track because we've been doing so much here. But. But I'll tell you, like, it. It really is important to find the things that are going to give you joy and happiness that don't cost anything. Making that list and then realizing, well, like, all these things that I'm focusing my energy and attention on are taking away from the things I really want. I really want time with my family. I don't want to be on my phone all the time. I want to be able to go, you know, on fun adventures with my. With my kids or with my friends or. I don't really care about the stupid new Chanel bag.

[Jen Fessler]

Like, amen, sister.

[Maria Menounos]

I don't want to be robbed. So I don't buy this stuff. I'm like, at this point, like, you're just a target anyway. Like, let's. Let's put that into just not having to work more. So less. Less of that stuff. Yeah, More peace.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

If you ever want a new job, you could be my life coach.

[Ashley Black]

Do you write?

[Jen Fessler]

Are you writing a book? I mean, I know you've done enough, and I should not be pressuring you, but you've written a book. You have.

[Maria Menounos]

I've written a few books, yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

A few. Okay. Sorry about that.

[Maria Menounos]

But. But that was in my crazy stage, you know, it's been really hard. I had a book deal just before COVID didn't feel right, so I passed. I do have a few in me, but I really just want to be with Athena, and so it's going to take a while before I have a documentary. I've been in the middle. I'm like, everything's just going to take a backseat to my health and my baby.

[Jen Fessler]

So you don't need to actually give us what we want them, because I've got a list of things I'd like from you.

[Maria Menounos]

I will tell you, funny enough, I was just on a meeting with one of my team members, and I was like, listen, I finally think I have the energy to put some things forward that I've wanted to do, and I almost did last year, but then the pancreas tumor, you know, derailed me. But one of my dreams is to put health retreats together and take people on this, like, journey so that if you want to be healthier, you'll learn the foundational health things that you need to learn. But if you need to heal from something, we can also teach you how to do that. I've also already guinea pigged myself. I've proven that the stuff works. And Dr. Allison, my partner, is the genius of all geniuses. And then I want to also put a course together for women to be able to do exactly what you were just asking. Figure out what you really want. I got this weird download in Covid, and it was, like, coming through so fast, and I'm writing everything down, writing everything down. I'm like, I need this. And then I go, we all need this shit. So I was just on the phone with them. I was like, if we can make this easy and I can film this and it's a course and people can just grab it and use it and do it, I'm in. So I'm working on.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

If you put those together, Jen and I will send you.

[Jen Fessler]

Now just tell us what's your Venmo.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And I am so excited to see your holiday movie.

[Maria Menounos]

You can go to my Instagram and you'll find it Christmas at Plum Hill Manor. And then my podcast is Heal Squad, so you guys can always listen to that as well.

[Jen Fessler]

We are going to be listening, and I hope that. I don't know. I feel so. I don't want to put you on this weird pedestal. I don't know if people do that a lot, and I don't know if you would like that or not, but I'm just. I know, Jackie. We both are just in awe, you know, it's like, we're all humans. We all struggle. Nobody's. It's not like what you're saying.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I feel very much like my priorities get reset when I meet someone like you and I listen to you and you're very wise.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah, you are.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And it's really been an honor to speak to you.

[Maria Menounos]

Thank you, guys. Thank you so much. And if I can be helpful with your daughter with type 1. I learned a lot at the equator. My blood sugar, if you're going down, it was crazy, really. Oh, my God. I was like bread without having to take insulin. People heal from diabetes at the equator. People heal from Ms. Parkinson's. It's unbelievable.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah, I don't know anything about this.

[Maria Menounos]

Yeah, it's amazing.

[Jen Fessler]

Well, then, if you wouldn't mind, then off camera, we're gonna have to have a little discussion, because I would love to know.

[Maria Menounos]

Well, also, if you go to heelsquad.com I took because Apple Podcast doesn't organize the episodes at all, so you can't really find what you need easily when you've done as many episodes as I have. But there's a column called Foundational Health. There's one for autoimmune. There's one for cancer, foundational health. All those episodes will teach you everything that I did to heal the liver lesions and everything about the equator and how powerful it is. So you can deep dive on the episodes that are connected to specifically Those themes on heelsquad.com they're called health, I think.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Amazing.

[Jen Fessler]

My daughter Rachel as working.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah. Thank you so much. Wishing you only good things and congrats on the movie and the baby and everything and happy holidays and can't wait to watch. Thanks, Maria.

[Maria Menounos]

Thank you, guys.

[Jen Fessler]

Thank you, Maria.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

That was unbelievable.

[Jen Fessler]

I feel, like, so freaked out and not freaked out in the best way.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

But like, to see this woman who is again, you're probably the same age, right?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I think she's a little bit younger than me.

[Maria Menounos]

Younger.

[Jen Fessler]

She looks so young.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

And, well, her mindset is fucking amazing. I. It makes me feel nervous because I don't pay attention to my health nearly as much.

[Jen Fessler]

When she said she did that scan, I forget.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I almost don't want to know. Like, I get very nervous.

[Jen Fessler]

I know everyone knows. But. But anyway, she is. And I don't know, inspiration doesn't even seem like I know.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

It's amazing.

[Jen Fessler]

I want to have that guy on.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

To know yourself so well that someone could tell you that you might have. If someone ever said the words liver cancer to me, I would black out. And then my entire life, every focus of every second of every day would be about whether or not I have liver cancer. For her to intuitively know that it just doesn't feel like I have that is fucking mind blowing to me. How do you know yourself so well?

[Jen Fessler]

I don't know. As you know, Jack, I'm a raging hypochondriac, so I always think I have everything, but I don't know. This woman is amazing and inspirational, and.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I am definitely going to watch her movie.

[Jen Fessler]

And our Jackie. Jacqueline, who's on Jackie? Jackie, I know you got the name of the new doctor that we want on the pod. Dr. Joe Dispenza.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

I would love that. I need to learn how to do the things in life that I really authentically want to do.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Which a lot of them. Listen, some of the stuff I'm doing, I do want to do and I love every second with my family. Career wise, I'm not so sure what I really authentically want to do.

[Jen Fessler]

It's uneasy. We both struggle. We both have mental health struggles. So, yeah, nothing is easy. Everything is a journey. But, yeah, I mean, I hope a ton of people listen to this.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah, me too. Me too. All right, guys.

[Jen Fessler]

This was a good one.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Well, on that note.

[Jen Fessler]

Yeah.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

All right, we will see you next time.

[Jen Fessler]

Love you guys.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Love you.

[Jen Fessler]

Love you, Jack. Love you guys.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Love you guys.

[Jen Fessler]

Bye.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Be merry, be bright, be love. This holiday season with sparkling holiday gifts from Pandora Jewelry. Bring the sparkle to Black Friday with Pandora jewelry. From November 16th through December 3rd, receive 30% off. Store wide, hand picked and ready to wrap, wear and love. Select from a wide range of possibilities for personalization. From festive charms with vibrant pops of color, shimmering rings and earrings designed to dazzle to radiant bracelets and necklaces shining in a mix of luminous metals. Pandora has something special for everyone on your holiday list. Shop Pandora jewelry today and save 30% off. Some exclusions apply. Hey, everyone, this is Jackie and Jen. We are from two Jersey Jays and we've got a big beauty secret to tell you about.

[Jen Fessler]

Yes, it's the fascia blaster from Ashley Black. I gotta tell you, it's so cool. It really is, you guys, right, Jack?

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah. I love it because it not only smooths the appearance of the skin, I've been using it on my legs. It brings down my inflammation. It just feels good.

[Jen Fessler]

I was about to say, like when I first got it, I was sort of. I was unsure. But it feels so good. Yes, it feels really good and it feels like it's doing, doing something and it, I mean, it is. I feel like my legs look way smoother.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Yeah.

[Jen Fessler]

The fascia blaster has completely changed the way I feel about my skin. My cellulite can be stubborn, but no matter what we what you try, the fascia blaster has made a huge difference in my skin.

[Jackie Goldschneider]

Same here. I feel my skin is so much smoother and firmer than it used to be. If you want to see these kinds of results, head over to ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount.

[Jen Fessler]

Yep, that's ashleyblackguru.com and use code jersey for an exclusive discount. You are go going to love it.

[Ashley Black]

This holiday season, surprise everyone on your list with the best gifts. Tickets to see their favorite artists live. Choose from thousands of concerts and comedy shows including Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Matt Matthews, Metallica, Thomas Rhett, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Sarah Silverman and so many more. Share a memory together or give a gift they'll never forget. Find the most exciting gift for every [e-mail] gifts that's livenation.com gifts.

[Jen Fessler]

High Five Casino.

[Maria Menounos]

High Five Casino is a social casino with real prizes and big Vegas [e-mail] the hottest games right from Vegas and all winnings go straight to your bank account. Hundreds of exclusive games, free daily rewards, and come back to get free coins every four hours only at high5casino.com High5.

[Tonya Rad]

Casual is a social casino. No purchase necessary.

[Maria Menounos]

Void were prohibited play responsibly. Terms and conditions supply. See website for details at highthenumber5casino.comHigh5casino Once.

[Tonya Rad]

Upon a time, Amazon Music met audiobooks, and listeners everywhere rejoiced. Oh yeah, because now they could listen to one audiobook title a month from an enormous library of popular audiobook titles, including Romantasy, Autobiographies, True Crime, and more. Suddenly, listeners didn't mind sitting in traffic or even missing their flight. Amazon Music Unlimited now includes Audible Download, the Amazon Music app Now to start listening terms apply.