In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with lifestyle photographer, cookbook author, and content creator Chloé Crane-Leroux for an inspiring conversation about art, food, and finding balance in a world that never stops moving. Chloé opens up about her early years growing up in Montreal, always driven by a “five-year plan,” and a desire to create beauty. She shares her journey from the highs and challenges of the fashion industry to discovering a more soulful creative outlet in food photography and storytelling. Together, she and Valeria dive into burnout, creative ruts, and the pressures of the internet, while also exploring the rituals and meditations, like cooking, that ground her in joy. Chloé reflects on the vulnerability of sharing her life online, the profound loss that shifted her perspective, and why she no longer clings to rigid plans for the future. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that your life is your art and your canvas, and that creativity thrives not just in output, but in presence, connection, and growth. Follow Chloe on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloecleroux/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chloecleroux?lang=en Website: https://www.chloecraneleroux.com/ Get Chloe’s Recipes: https://www.chloecraneleroux.com/recipes Shop Chloe’s Essentials: https://www.chloecraneleroux.com/chloes-essentials Chloe’s Book Recommendation: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2357926 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:34 - Valeria sets up episode 1:03 - Introducing Chloe Crane-Leroux 2:19 - Start of interview 5:27 - Growing up in Montreal surrounded by art 7:35 - “I’ve had a 5-year-plan since I was 5-years-old” 8:01 - Wanting to create beauty and share it 9:10 - The toxicity of the fashion industry 11:29 - Switching to food photography 13:03 - Going in front of the camera 15:10 - Creating cookbooks with her mom 16:20 - Teaching herself to cook 20:06 - Reaching burnout 22:39 - Creative Ruts 23:18 - Getting caught up in the likes and followers 24:41 - AI making Valeria optimistic  26:24 - Creativity being down right now 29:29 - Rituals that help her slow down 31:00 - Her love of Pinterest 32:50 - “For me, cooking is meditation” 35:13 - Touching different aspects of her job, and growing within that 37:40 - The balance of being vulnerable online 39:08 - Her year of loss and how it changed her 41:20 - Thoughts on the “30 under 30” Forbes List 44:33 - Not having a 5-year-plan anymore 46:52 - “Your life is your art” / “Your life is your canvas” 47:39 - Rapid Fire Round Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by CLEARSTEM: My favorite skincare brand that fights acne and aging at the same time, with zero pore-clogging ingredients, ever. Get 15% off at https://clearstem.com/Valeria with code VALERIA. In this special solo episode of Not Alone, Valeria reflects on turning 35 and what this milestone means to her. She opens up about the lessons she’s carrying forward, the habits and pressures she’s choosing to leave behind, and the aspirations guiding her next chapter. From learning to be more present and putting herself first, to accepting that not everyone will like you, Valeria shares the mindset shifts that have shaped her growth. She talks about aging in a culture obsessed with youth, embracing contradictions as part of evolution, and the importance of pausing before reacting. With honesty and vulnerability, she explores her own “hero’s journey,” reflects on her children and mother getting older, and why success is about feeling, not chasing. It’s an intimate, thoughtful conversation on awareness, boundaries, and stepping into your mid-thirties with clarity and confidence.   Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/2367051 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  Books I Mentioned: The Art of Thinking Clearly: https://amzn.to/3Iiy9ds The Power Pause: https://amzn.to/4mYaM88 The Hero's Journey: https://amzn.to/3JYXBoY What we talked about:  0:24 - Start of the conversation  0:30 - Turning 35 2:40 - Sharing the things Valeria knows now 2:46 - Life is all about evolution and contradicting yourself 4:25 - Learning how to be more present 7:15 - The importance of putting yourself first 8:50 - Pausing 10:55 - Most things don’t need a reaction 11:50 - Being “okay” with not being liked by everyone 13:40 - Choosing your own lens on life 15:11 - Clearstem Ad 16:25 - “The Hero’s Journey” Breakdown 20:26 - Things she may never figure out 20:39 - The idea of time 22:14 - Feeling success instead of chasing the next goal 23:15 - How to age in a world obsessed with youth 26:33 - Being kind vs. being nice 29:30 - Taking more time to process emotions 30:49 - Leaving behind having answers for everything 31:54 - Overexplaining my boundaries to get approval 33:04 - Moving away from sharing too much, too fast online 36:02 - Sharing things that took a long time to process 37:10 - Admiring Pamela Anderson 38:00 - Igniting Awareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Furtuna Skin: Italian, olive oil–based skincare that’s pure, potent, and transformative. Try their Olive Lip Butter Balm and more at https://www.furtunaskin.com, and get 20% off your first purchase with code VALERIA20. This episode is also brought to you by Floatley - A bra brand offering feel-good basics that combine cloud-like comfort with reliable support. Try our bestselling Cozy Adjustable Bra at https://www.floatley.com/products/cozy-adjustable and get 20% off your order with code VALERIA20, plus free shipping on US orders over $50. In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with astrologer, author and speaker Mia Pineda (aka Mia Astral) for an intimate conversation about identity, intuition, and the paths that guide us. Born to a mother who was only 14 and raised by her grandparents in Venezuela, Mia often felt like an outsider, questioning her place in the world. Astrology became the way she found her footing, transforming uncertainty into purpose. Mia shares the wisdom she learned from her grandmother, talks about leaving Venezuela to move to Miami, and the surprising path from criminology and forensic law to becoming a leading voice in Kabbalistic Astrology. Together, they explore how to tell the difference between fear and intuition, the evolution of astrology in our modern world (yes, even Taylor Swift comes up), and how to lean into discomfort as a catalyst for growth. It’s a thoughtful, soulful episode about reframing your mindset, resilience, and finding your own purpose through the stars.  Follow Mia on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mia_astral/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mia_astral?lang=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mia_astral Website: https://miastral.com/ Become a Member on Mia’s Website: https://miastral.com/my-account/ Shop her Books: https://miastral.com/shop/   Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2146915 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:28 - Valeria on turning 35 and her birthday traditions 2:39 - Valeria on the end of summer for her family 4:40 - Introducing Mia Pineda 6:24 - Start of interview 6:37 - Mia’s unusual upbringing in Venezuela 9:19 - Being raised by her grandmother 11:59 - Figuring out her place in the world 12:50 - Grandmother’s mentality of abundance  13:47 - Getting a bad reading from a popular astrologer 15:05 - Fortuna Skin Ad 16:14 - Floatley Ad 19:29 - Understanding the mathematics of astrology 22:18 - Studying criminology and forensic law 23:31 - Discovering Kabbalah  23:51 - Leaving Venezuela and moving Miami 27:11 - Working on her mindset 29:07 - Kabbalistic Astrology 34:01 - Differentiating between intuition and fear 36:43 - The evolution of astrology 37:40 - “I’m pretty sure Taylor Swift uses an astrologer” 38:32 - Explaining eclipse seasons 45:40 - “How can you get into uncomfortable but manageable situations?” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by CLEARSTEM - my favorite skincare brand that fights acne and aging at the same time, with zero pore-clogging ingredients, ever. Get 15% off at https://clearstem.com/valeria with code VALERIA. This episode is also brought to you by Vuori: Versatile athletic and performance clothing. Head to https://vuori.com/notalone for 20% off your first purchase, plus free shipping on US orders over $75. In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with clinical psychologist and friendship expert Christie Ferrari to unpack the complicated world of adult friendships. They explore why friends can feel so different after childhood, and why we sometimes fight to keep certain people in our lives while letting go of others. Christie introduces the concept of growth flags vs. red flags and helps us identify what healthy, evolving friendships look like versus the ones that may be holding us back. Together, Valeria and Christie dive into questions we all face: What kind of friend am I? Am I a fringe friend? How do I deal with “mean girls” even as an adult? From cultural differences in how friendships form, to tips for approaching conflict, to understanding when it’s time to quietly distance yourself, this conversation offers both validation and practical tools for navigating relationships. If you’ve ever questioned your place in a friend group or wondered how to deepen your connections, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Christie on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christie_ferrari/?hl=en  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@christieferrari?lang=en  Website: https://www.christieferrari.com/ Subscribe to Assertive You: https://www.christieferrari.com/assertive-you Book a session with Christie: https://www.christieferrari.com/services   Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2205029 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:38 - Valeria sets up the episode about friendships 3:52 - Start of the conversation 4:01 - Introducing Christie Ferrari 6:33 - Why adult friendships seem so different 8:28 - Why we work for friendships & why we let them go 9:48 - Growth flags vs red flags 12:38 - Understanding what kind of friend you are 15:12 - Clearstem Ad 16:35 - Vuori Ad 17:57 - Christie’s draw to studying friendships 18:49 - The importance of being assertive 20:28 - What is a fringe friend? 23:18 - Helping a fringe friend  25:35 - Tips to find good friends 27:42 - Christie’s story on being a fringe friend 28:17 - Dealing with Mean Girls 29:29 - Why Mean Girls exist in adulthood 31:03 - Cultural friendship differences 32:05 - How Mean Girls lose power 34:10 - Approaching a friend with an issue 36:36 - When to let a friendship go 37:25 - Quiet distancing 40:14 - Mourning friendships 41:07 - Having more than one “best friend” 43:56 - Trying a friendship reset 44:48 - What healthy friendships look like 45:34 - Men’s reactions to female friendships 47:46 - Why friendships are easier in your 20s 48:35 - Underrated green flags 49:01 - Rapid Fire Questions 51:19 - Christie’s Reading Rec    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Vuori: Versatile athletic and performance clothing. Head to https://vuori.com/notalone for 20% off your first purchase, plus free shipping on US orders over $75. This episode is brought to you by CLEARSTEM — my favorite skincare brand that fights acne and aging at the same time, with zero pore-clogging ingredients, ever. Get 15% off at https://www.clearstem.com/valeria with code VALERIA.  In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria and her husband Gary open up about their journey with money, what it symbolized in their childhoods, how they laid everything on the table when they first got together, and the transparency they’ve had with money ever since. They revisit pivotal moments that tested and strengthened their bond—like the time Gary’s big business deal fell through before their wedding and he gave Valeria the chance to walk away. Her response, “never say that to me again,” became a defining moment in their partnership. They talk about how they approach finances in a traditional way—Gary managing everything day-to-day while Valeria leans in with curiosity and questions—and the ways they don’t always see eye to eye on how their values were worked out along the way. Together, they share lessons learned, laugh over the “ROI” of Valeria’s nutrition degree that unexpectedly sparked her career in content creation, and offer advice for couples who struggle to have honest conversations about money. This episode is both vulnerable and lighthearted, pulling back the curtain on the realities of love, trust, and building a life together. Follow Gary on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garylipovetsky/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@garylipovetsky Listen to Gary’s Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/@Gary.Lipovetsky https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rise-podcast/id1688773397   Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ Shop my looks from this episode: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2062213 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:29 - Setting up the conversation with Gary 3:07 - Start of the episode 4:30 - Gary’s childhood mindset on money 5:41 - The scarcity mindset 8:40 - Thinking of money in terms of necessity 10:06 - Valeria’s money mindset growing up 11:22 - Valeria’s mom crowdfunding with other single moms 12:24 - Vuori ad 14:42 - Financing basic needs 15:36 - The importance of financial literacy 16:32 - Valeria leaving home at 16 and making money 18:42 - People with fallback plans and people without 19:21 - Remembering their first conversation about money 20:33 - Valeria changing her approach to money 22:16 - Clearstem ad 24:30 - Gary’s big deal falling apart 26:24 - The outcome of losing out on big money 28:08 - Their traditional approach to finance 34:07 - The language difference around making money 35:30 - Agreeing on “what’s worth it” when spending 39:07 - Communication on money 39:33 - Disagreeing on how they work on or through things 42:21 - Best money they’ve ever spent 43:22 - The ROI on Valeria’s nutrition diploma 46:56 - Valeria being clueless on life and money 48:23 - What Gary wishes he knew earlier about money 52:02 - Tips for couples who struggle talking about money Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with model, entrepreneur, and content creator Emily DiDonato to explore the joy of trying new things, no matter how imperfectly. Emily shares the story of being discovered at a mall as a teenager, stepping into a whirlwind modeling career, and eventually finding her creative spark in content creation. We dive into how Emily channels any flickers of comparison into motivation, why she’s never been competitive or jealous, and how motherhood has redefined her version of “balance” (hint: there isn’t any!). Emily opens up about the weekly “admin meetings” she and her husband use to keep their busy lives in sync, and why she believes there’s magic in being a beginner. From career pivots to personal growth, Emily’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: it’s fun to try, it’s fun to fail, and the learning process is where the real reward lies. This episode will leave you feeling braver about starting, more forgiving of the messy middle, and reminded that the courage to try, again and again, is what truly shapes a fulfilled life. Follow Emily on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilydidonato/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@didonatoemily?lang=en  Shop Emily's Skincare Brand Covey: https://coveyskin.com/?srsltid=AfmBOore9LtSOvC5ftxSnkNL8m2rn6SoZV3Zx8KYIdYPSM9sjbQuZN2U Shop my looks from this episode: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2062111 https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/2071219 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  Apply for Creator Method: https://creatormethod.com/ 👉Related Links: NYFW 2019 vlog: https://youtu.be/eVLdfF_4n8k Drunk GRWM: https://youtu.be/vtEL61OUvHg Emily Collab: https://youtu.be/NoobVS82bj8 What we talked about:  0:50 - Valeria’s recent trip to New York 1:30 - Creator Method Summit 3:46 - Introducing Emily DiDonato 6:06 - Start of interview 6:14 -  Valeria and Emily’s friendship history 8:59 - Emily’s start in modeling 12:23 - Emily’s evolution to content creation 18:02 - “That creative outlet lit a flame for me” 18:51 - Starting on instagram and moving to YouTube 19:54 - Using comparison to push herself 21:11 - Being overwhelmed and needing help 24:45 - Spiritual challenges 26:16 - “There is no balance as a mom”  29:01 - Emily and her husband’s weekly admin meeting 31:21 - Emily on trying anything and everything 33:28 - “It’s fun to suck” 35:17 - On being vulnerable online 36:53 - Navigating negativity online 38:48 - Audience Q&A 39:29 - Who are the people behind you who help you get it all done? 41:08 - What days are you slumming it and what days are you in full glam? 42:43 - Advice to the younger generation on body image and confidence 44:28 - Things she would do differently when starting a business 46:38 - Knowing which hobbies and interests are worth pursuing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Eight Sleep, the leader in sleep fit technology. Their award-winning Pod 5 sleep system helps you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed by automatically adjusting to your ideal temperature, elevation, and sound throughout the night. Upgrade your rest and your recovery: use code VALERIA for $350 off at http://eightsleep.com/valeria  In this insightful and inspiring episode, Valeria sits down with Alex Zatarain, co-founder of Eight Sleep, to discuss how she’s transforming the way we think about rest, recovery, and performance. Alex shares the story of building one of the most innovative sleep technology companies in the world, from identifying the gap in the market to creating the Pod - a smart mattress designed to personalize and optimize your sleep. Together, they explore the science behind quality rest, the connection between sleep and mental health, and how technology can help us live longer, healthier lives. Alex also opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, balancing ambition with self-care, and the habits that keep her grounded. Whether you’re an aspiring founder, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to sleep better, this episode offers actionable takeaways and a behind-the-scenes look at a brand changing the future of sleep. Shop my looks from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/2101362?tab=collections   📱Follow Alex & Eight Sleep  Instagram: @alexzatarainj https://www.instagram.com/alexzatarainj/?hl=en  Eight Sleep: https://www.instagram.com/eightsleep/?hl=en  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrazatarain/?locale=en_US X / Twitter: https://x.com/a_zatarain Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:35 - Valeria Recap Toronto Team Retreat  2:54 - Introducing Alexandra Zatarain 5:43 - Start of Interview 6:35 - Growing up in Mexico 7:18 - Learning what opportunity really means 12:22 - The college assignment that changed the game 14:04 - Meeting her husband and future co-founder 15:37 - Opening her world to tech in the “Silicon Alley” 18:32 - Working with her husband 21:08 - Trying to building something in 3D printing 22:15 - Coming up with the idea of Eight Sleep  25:30 - Leaving her job and forming the company 27:00 - How the technology works 30:55 - Temperature is crucial for good sleep 32:06 - Changing the conversation on sleep 34:09 - Sleep Fitness 38:20 - Mitigating women’s sleep issues 41:37 - Keeping it simple with sleep products 43:10 - Being a female Latina founder 46:51 - Building a company with her husband 49:58 - Valeria triggering people with Gary work dynamic 51:41 - “The team you build is the company you build” 52:32 - Balance and keeping herself in check 58:20 - Alexandra’s book recommendation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode, Valeria sits down with Natasha Oakley and Devin Brugman, best friends and co-founders of Monday Swimwear, for an honest and energizing conversation about building a business, growing through friendship, and redefining leadership. Natasha and Devin open up about the rare bond that has held them together for over a decade, one built on unwavering trust, shared values, and deep emotional loyalty. They reveal how they’ve come to trust each other even more than their romantic partners, and why that unshakable connection is the foundation for everything they’ve built. The trio also explores how they launched a globally recognized brand without formal fashion training, what it means to lead as women, manage teams with heart, and stay grounded while scaling a company. From navigating dating in your 30s and freezing eggs to staying obsessed with work and each other, this episode is a love letter to ambition, authenticity, and choosing the people who lift you higher. Follow Tash: https://www.instagram.com/tashoakley/  Follow Devin: https://www.instagram.com/devinbrugman/  Follow Monday Swimwear: https://www.instagram.com/mondayswimwear/   Shop Monday Swimwear: https://mondayswimwear.com/  Book Recommendations:  Excessively Obsessed by Tash Oakley https://a.co/d/aski91P  The Power of Now by Ekchart Tolle https://a.co/d/8DeuoAV  Sex at Dawn by Christopher Ryan https://a.co/d/2ZiptCN  Good Morning, Monster by Catherine Gildiner https://a.co/d/3ud8vUW  Attached by  Amir Levine and Rachel Heller https://a.co/d/ivLtVkS  Only Love Is Real: A Story of Soulmates Reunited by Dr. Brian Weiss https://a.co/d/4nVFYrT The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan https://a.co/d/4LEoWHX The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett https://a.co/d/iS1jwER Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1898265  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  01:00: Swim Week in Miami04:00: How Tash and Devin first met 07:00: Building a business on friendship and trust 12:00: The secret to their communication style 14:00: Managing team dynamics with empathy 20:00: The Bikini A Day origin story 24:00: Designing swimwear that actually fits 31:00: Choosing partners 34:00: How Monday Swimwear became the standard 38:00: Dating in your 30s with clarity 41:00: Freezing eggs and taking the pressure off 47:00: Opening a store and staying playful 51:30: Wellness habits that keep them grounded 54:00: Advice for aspiring influencers 56:00: Running a brand that lasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by CLEARSTEM! If you’re looking for skincare that’s both anti-acne and anti-aging, CLEARSTEM has you covered. Their science-backed formulas help you achieve clear, glowing skin without pore-clogging ingredients. And we have a special deal for you get 15% off your order when you visit https://www.clearstem.com/valeria and use the code VALERIA at checkout! In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and best-selling author Kim Perell to talk about the failures, risks, and mindset shifts that helped her build a multimillion-dollar business empire. Kim opens up about losing everything in her 20s and the lessons that came from hitting rock bottom. They go deep on the pressures to prove yourself, how to tune out the noise, trust your gut, and why your biggest mistakes might be your greatest assets. If you’ve ever questioned your path, feared failure, or felt alone in the hustle - this episode will remind you that success often starts where the plan falls apart.  Shop my looks from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1952399  https://shopmy.us/collections/1983683  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  📘 Kim's New Book Pre-Order 👉 KimPerell.com/mistakes Her new book Mistakes That Made Me a Millionaire is available now for pre-order — and comes with $300 in free bonuses, including her Fast Action Millionaire Playbook to go alongside the book! 🎟 Upcoming Event: Meet Kim in Vegas at Entrepreneur's Level Up Event! Attendees will have the opportunity to pitch their business live to investors and industry leaders. 👉 https://entrepreneurlevelup.com/get-your-tickets  🌐 Website: KimPerell.com 📱 Social Media Instagram: @KimPerell Facebook: facebook.com/KimPerell LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/KimPerell TikTok: @KimPerell X / Twitter: @KimPerell What we talked about:  0:35 - Valeria’s Story about her son, Benjamin 4:38 - Introducing Kim Perell 5:48 - Why failure is a necessary part of success 7:28 - Parents normalizing failure 9:35 - Getting laid off at 23 and hitting rock bottom 12:40 - Clearstem Ad 16:08 - Valeria on losing herself in ambition and external pressure17:01 - Building her business from the kitchen with no money 19:37 - “No one is successful alone” 20:54 - Why asking for help is necessary 22:52 - “Let’s have coffee”24:02 - Selling her first business 26:32 - You don’t know what’s possible unless you try 28:12 - The $235-million-dollar sale 30:11 - Nobody knows what they’re doing 33:15 - Lessons in leadership from building multiple companies37:49 - The power of being underestimated  41:14 - Why you need to start small and start now 45:11 - Kim’s advice for entrepreneurs 48:08 - Going for the “no” 49:28 - Finding balance at home 53:35 - 100.co  54:58 - Creators and founders using AI 57:26 - How to be an industry disruptor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by CLEARSTEM! If you’re looking for skincare that’s both anti-acne and anti-aging, CLEARSTEM has you covered. Their science-backed formulas help you achieve clear, glowing skin without pore-clogging ingredients. And we have a special deal for you—get 15% off your order when you visit https://www.clearstem.com/valeria and use the code VALERIA at checkout! In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with wellness expert, author, and content creator Aggie Lal for a refreshingly honest conversation about the current state of modern health culture for women, and what it really means to feel well in today’s world. Aggie shares her personal journey from rigid routines, veganism, and biohacking for good labs to finding balance by reconnecting with her intuition, hormones, and overall purpose. Together, she and Valeria dive deep into the pressure to be “healthy” at the expense of joy, the shame around beauty choices like Botox, and why women are often left out of mainstream health narratives. Plus, a powerful discussion on how to separate your roles from your identity - so you can thrive, not just survive. Whether you’re burnt out by wellness trends or looking to redefine your relationship with health and womanhood, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Aggie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aggie Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  Shop my looks from this episode: intro/ads: https://shopmy.us/collections/1952399  aggie: https://shopmy.us/collections/1983674  What we talked about:  0:55 - Valeria’s Family trip to Spain 3:29 - Introducing Aggie Lal 5:40 - Aggie’s First Impressions of Valeria 7:13 - The World of Biohacking 9:35 - Being Vegan 10:30 - Body Trends 11:59 - Clearstem Ad 13:50 - Pillars of Biohacking  15:25 - What is Different for Females 18:00 - Aggie’s Favorite Health Rituals 19:08 - Hypnotheray  23:45 - 4 Pillars of Health 24:10 - The Importance of Purpose 27:20 - Valeria’s POV on Motherhood 29:55 - The Role of Mothers 31:57 - Best Methods of Recovery 38:04 - Ways to Connect with your Partner 40:32 - Pushing the Definition of Wellness 42:33 - Health Habits that Don’t Work 45:52 - Aggie’s Pregnancy 49:15 - Everything Women Must Juggle 51:30 - The Importance of Rest 53:50 - The Beauty of Feeling Free 56:25 - What’s Next for Aggie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down with journalist, content creator, and “queen of questions” Danielle Robay for a thought-provoking conversation about identity, ambition, and the pressure to have it all figured out. Together, they unpack what it means to chase your dreams, navigate career pivots, and show up authentically - both professionally & personally. From quitting her “dream job” to manifesting a show at Hello Sunshine, Danielle opens up about what it took to get where she is today & her super power - asking good questions! She shares stories about her childhood dinner table, dating in the modern world, and freezing her eggs. Together, she and Valeria explore the fear of not living up to your potential, the vulnerability of putting yourself first, and the courage it takes to say ‘I don’t know.’  Danielle is the host and co-executive producer (alongside Reese Witherspoon) of ‘Bookmarked’ from Hello Sunshine, the podcast ‘Question Everything,’ and E!’s ‘While You Were Streaming.’  Follow Danielle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellerobay/  Follow Danielle on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@daniellerobay  Subscribe to Danielle’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/question-everything/id1550883345  Shop the QUESTION EVERYTHING Card Game: https://questioneverythingshop.com/collections/shop Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1972268https://shopmy.us/collections/1972338 Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  0:40 Valeria’s Realization 2:35 Introducing Danielle Robay 5:43 Interview Begins 6:28 Why the Beginning of Podcasts are Awkward 7:00 Valeria’s Mom’s Resilience 8:01 How to Successfully Manifest 9:02 Danielle Manifesting a Job at E! & Hello Sunshine 11:30 How Valeria Manifested Her Career 17:45 Feeling Embarassed on the Internet 18:55 Living Up to Your Potential 22:56 Gary Predicting Their Career 25:07 The Power of Being Selfish  26:50 The Big Piece of Chicken 29:49 Danielle’s Career & the Power of Questions 35:40 The Importance of Being in the Room 37:55 Not Asking for Advice & Not Going to Therapy  40:00 Danielle’s Love Life & Going Deep 43:27 Courage is a Big Word 44:38 Danielle’s Egg Freezing Journey 47:55 Pros & Cons of Being a Young Mom  50:33 The Part of Feminism We’re Still Figuring Out 51:19 Do Married Couples Still Have Sex? 55:30 Why Gary Triggers Women 57:49 The Message vs The Delivery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s very special 100th episode of Not Alone, Valeria sits down for a powerful and deeply honest conversation with writer and creator, Heidi Clements. Known for her unfiltered storytelling and viral presence online, Heidi opens up about aging, sobriety, 25 years without sex, surviving trauma, and what it means to live life on her own terms. The two explore the emotional realities behind choosing a nontraditional path, including living single, redefining intimacy, and navigating the invisibility many women feel after 50. They discuss how society conditions women to seek validation, how the male gaze has shaped generations, and why self-approval is the ultimate freedom. With humor, heart, and vulnerability, this episode is a candid look at healing, wholeness, and the courage to tell your story out loud. Follow Heidi: https://www.instagram.com/welcometoheidi/  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1909988  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  00:00 Not Alone’s 100th Episode! 00:14 The Humbling Journey of Podcasting 01:38 Overcoming Perfectionism and COVID Challenges 02:28 The Birth of 'Not Alone' 02:58 Finding My Groove in Podcasting 04:07 Introducing Heidi Clements 06:12 Heidi's Journey to Internet Fame 07:43 Navigating Social Media and Personal Growth 13:11 The Impact of Sobriety and Personal Trauma 16:06 Empowering Women and Challenging the Patriarchy 20:07 Generational Shifts and Future Hopes 36:00 Gen X and Menopause: A New Conversation 37:02 Cultural Silence and Women's Health 38:52 Living Shamelessly and Embracing Authenticity 41:57 Intimacy and Sobriety: A Personal Journey 45:43 Redefining Intimacy and Relationships 52:47 The Evolution of Self-Love and Acceptance 01:01:47 Visibility and Aging: Embracing Change 01:05:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m back for another solo episode! In this one, I’m catching you up on everything: life lately, parenting epiphanies, personal shifts, and a few hot takes I had to get off my chest. From summer travel plans and raising pre-teens to why I’m not falling for every wellness trend online, this one's a mix of honest reflections and playful rants (yes, we’re talking about fantasy books, healing culture, and capri pants). I also open up about feeling disconnected from social media, the emotional weight of parenting older kids, and the importance of building real community. If you’re navigating your own in-between season or need some camaraderie in the messy, beautiful chaos of life, this one's for you. Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1825890  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What I talked about:  00:26 Life Updates 01:32 Puppy Adventures and Parenting Reflections 03:08 Navigating Parenting Challenges 13:30 Father's Day Reflections 15:47 Summer Plans and Travel Excitement 19:40 Social Media Presence and Personal Growth 21:45 Rediscovering Myself 22:03 Current Projects and Redirections 23:07 Book Recommendations and Reading Journey 24:39 Motherhood and Community 25:18 Propaganda I’m NOT Falling For  25:54 Supplements and Personalized Health 30:05 I read ACOTAR… 31:45 50/50 Relationships and Equity 32:55 Political Views and Social Media 34:20 Fashion and Overdressing 37:02 Healing and Self-Improvement 40:10 Contradictions and Personal Growth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Natural Cycles: The company changing the contraception game with the world’s first FDA-cleared birth control app. Whether you're looking to prevent pregnancy or plan for it, the Natural Cycles app offers a non-hormonal, non-invasive alternative to traditional birth control. Right now, you can get 15% off an annual subscription plus a free Bluetooth thermometer when you visit https://www.naturalcycles.com and use promo code VALERIA at checkout. Natural Cycles is for 18+ and does not protect against STIs. Always read and follow the instructions for use. In this episode, Valeria sits down with digital pioneer, designer, and mom of two Aimee Song for an intimate and honest conversation about identity, motherhood, and the evolution of personal ambition. Aimee opens up about building her career before the influencer industry even existed, the highs and hidden lows of success, and why her definition of fulfillment has completely shifted in recent years. They talk postpartum depression, therapy breakthroughs, creative burnout, and the magic of slowing down to reconnect with what really matters. Aimee also shares what inspired her return to interior design and the intention behind her new fashion brand, Amiya. It's a raw, funny, and deeply personal look at what happens when you let go of the hustle and finally come home to yourself. Follow Aimee: https://www.instagram.com/aimeesong/  Shop Lulu + Georgia Collab: http://bit.ly/43PbQUQ  Shop Amiya: http://bit.ly/3HOWRl8  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1811792  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  00:55 Navigating Early Career Challenges 01:48 Reflecting on Industry Changes 05:52 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 08:12 Therapy and Self-Discovery 15:54 The Hoffman Process 24:18 Redefining Success and Happiness 35:26 Diving into New Ventures 35:46 Reflecting on Career Choices 37:05 The Importance of a Strong Foundation 38:32 Embracing Cringe Moments 39:06 Returning to Interior Design 40:31 Feng Shui and Home Harmony 47:04 Launching a New Brand: Amiya 56:19 Lessons from Motherhood 59:12 Embracing Aging and Redefining Milestones 01:04:28 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Valeria sits down with Stefanie Broes, the co-founder of Moonbird, for a refreshing conversation about something we all need more of: calm. They explore how breathwork can help us manage stress, sleep better, and feel more grounded in our daily lives. Stefanie opens up about her own journey, from battling burnout during her PhD to discovering the power of the breath as a healing tool. They unpack the science in a super accessible way, talk through the differences between breathwork and meditation, and share simple ways to bring these practices into your routine. Plus, Stefanie gives us a look into Moonbird’s mission and why she believes teaching breathwork to kids and adults alike could change lives. This episode is brought to you by moonbird: Tired of stress hijacking your day or struggling to fall asleep at night? Meet moonbird, your handheld breathing coach, designed to help you slow down and reconnect with your breath. Born from personal need and backed by science, moonbird merges biometric intelligence with guided breathwork to help you calm your mind, ease anxiety, and sleep better. It gently expands and contracts in your hand, guiding your breathing rhythm in real time — no screens, no noise, just you and your breath. Go to moonbird.life/VALERIA and use code VALERIA for $25 off. Follow Stefanie: https://www.instagram.com/stefaniebroes/  Follow moonbird: https://www.instagram.com/moonbird.life/  Shop moonbird: https://www.moonbird.life/VALERIA  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1791757  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  00:00 Intro 01:11 Discovering Breathwork: A Personal Journey 02:52 The Science Behind Breathwork and Meditation 04:41 Practical Applications and Benefits of Breathwork 10:09 The Nervous System and Stress Response 18:18 The Importance of Sleep and Personal Well-being 19:55 Heart Rate Variability and Breathwork 22:35 Guided Breathwork Exercise 25:49 Balancing Health and Wellness Practices 27:00 Exploring Women's Unique Health Challenges 29:02 Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction 30:58 The Impact of Shallow Breathing and Modern Posture 31:26 Proper Breathing Techniques 36:10 Incorporating Breath Work into Daily Life 46:40 Breathwork and Digestion 50:05 A Personal Story and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, Valeria sits down with powerhouse content creator Rebecca Zamolo. Rebecca discusses her journey to 18.9 million YouTube Subscribers, 18 million TikTok followers, and over 8 billion views: from pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles to becoming a predominant figure in the family-friendly content space.  Rebecca opens up about her struggles with ulcerative colitis, enduring surgeries, and how these experiences led her to start her YouTube channel. She shares her strategies for creating engaging content, the importance of authenticity, and how she balances her career with motherhood. Rebecca also talks about her IVF journey, the challenges of working with a surrogate for her second child, and her new supplement brand Molo aimed at supporting women's fertility. This candid conversation highlights Rebecca's resilience, her commitment to empowering women, and her vision for the future. Follow Rebecca: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccazamolo/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebeccazamolo  https://www.tiktok.com/@rebeccazamolo  Shop Molo Fertility: https://bit.ly/3FOMZXY  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1780505  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What We talked About: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:36 Health Struggles and Career Shift 04:00 Building a YouTube Empire 08:21 Navigating Family and Content Creation 10:35 Balancing Family Life and YouTube 28:03 The Role of a Nurturer 29:19 Parenting Challenges and Emotional Growth 35:54 Balancing Work and Motherhood 36:38 Sharing Miscarriage & Fertility Struggles Publicly  40:07 The IVF Journey 43:11 Creating Molo: A Mission to Help Women 49:27 The Surrogacy Experience 51:44 Daily Practices and Personal Growth 54:20 Hopes for the Future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In her first podcast ever, model Kelsey Merritt sits down with Valeria for a refreshingly honest conversation about identity, boundaries, and ambition. From growing up in a strict Filipino household to becoming the first Filipina Victoria’s Secret model, Kelsey shares the full story behind her calm, polished image and what people often get wrong. They talk about the emotional impact of cultural expectations and beauty standards in the Philippines and Eastern Europe, the real dynamics of the modeling industry, and what it’s like to build a public persona while staying true to yourself. Kelsey also opens up about her love of surfing, gatekeeping style trends, and why she’s learning to speak up more in this new chapter of her life. Follow Kelsey: https://www.instagram.com/kelseymerritt/  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1738912  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What We talked About: 00:00 Being private and perfectionist 03:14 Filipino upbringing and boundaries 07:50 Being The First Filipina Victoria’s Secret Runway Model  10:55 Biracial identity and criticism in the Philippines  14:59 Manifestation and big breaks 18:02 First house and Birkin 21:45 Modeling and social media 28:02 Beauty standards in the Philippines 30:20 Style evolution and gatekeeping 36:47 Rapid Fire: Surfing, skiing, and stillness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Natural Cycles: The company changing the contraception game with the world’s first FDA-cleared birth control app. Whether you're looking to prevent pregnancy or plan for it, the Natural Cycles app offers a non-hormonal, non-invasive alternative to traditional birth control. Right now, you can get 15% off an annual subscription plus a free Bluetooth thermometer when you visit https://www.naturalcycles.com and use promo code VALERIA at checkout. Natural Cycles is for 18+ and does not protect against STIs. Always read and follow the instructions for use. In this episode, Valeria sits down with Stassi Schroeder for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, honest, and unexpectedly deep. They talk about Stassi’s early experiences in the spotlight and what it feels like to return to reality TV with Vanderpump Villa after years of personal growth. She opens up about the emotional toll of growing up on camera, how motherhood has changed her, and why she’s giving more attention to what matters most now. Stassi shares how writing her latest book helped her rethink ambition, identity, and the myth of balance. She also reveals her decade-long struggle with self-harm and what helped her finally stop. The two dive into joy as a healing practice, the emotional cost of perfectionism, and why fashion is still one of Stassi’s favorite forms of self-expression (just don’t expect her to wear neon or crop tops). They also get into motherhood, mental health, alone time as a survival tool, and even egg-based spiritual cleansing. This is a layered look at what it really means to evolve, how to stay grounded in chaos, and how to laugh at yourself along the way. Follow Stassi: https://www.instagram.com/stassischroeder/  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1717550  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  Mentioned:  Vanderpump Villa on Hulu: https://www.hulu.com/series/vanderpump-villa-bf42f6f5-db26-4429-85e0-17e86d161c98  Stassi Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5vYFtK213TmWUvTVynh0IL  You Can't Have It All: The Basic B*tch Guide to Taking the Pressure Off by Stassi Schroeder: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668049929  What we talked about:  00:31 Hair and Makeup Talk 01:45 Nail Care and Personal Preferences 02:39 Vanderpump and Personal Evolution 06:46 Writing and Vulnerability 07:39 Balancing Life and Work 10:42 Joy and Self-Improvement 16:47 Mental Health and Self-Care 38:05 Reflecting on Self-Harm 39:07 The Catalyst for Change 40:02 Finding Coping Mechanisms 40:31 A Turning Point in the Relationship 45:26 The Importance of Alone Time 46:37 Fashion and Style Evolution 01:00:35 Navigating Motherhood and Identity 01:03:07 Balancing Work and Personal Life 01:07:26 Dealing with Jealousy and Social Media 01:11:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by L’Oréal Paris, the world’s leading cosmetics brand, making the best of luxury beauty accessible to everyone. For over 110 years, L’Oréal Paris has combined scientific research and innovation to develop highly advanced beauty products with clinically-proven efficacy and safety. A brand that champions women’s empowerment and challenges stereotypes, L’Oréal Paris supports women as they pursue their ambitions and define femininity on their own terms. Speaking of ambition, L’Oréal Paris invites you to set yours higher with the new Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil. Experience the instant plumping effect and smoother-looking lips with a gentle tingling sensation in just one swipe. This luxurious, hydrating lip oil is infused with hyaluronic acid and tripeptides for a comfortable plumping experience you’ll love https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DK3XR6Q2  In today’s special episode, Valeria sits down with Jessica Campbell, the first female bench coach in the NHL, in an exciting live recording. Jessica discusses her groundbreaking role in a male-dominated industry, sharing her insights on leadership, the importance of authenticity, and the balance between femininity and strength. She emphasizes how makeup and self-presentation serve as her 'armour,' helping her to show up as her truest self. Through her journey from playing hockey with boys in Saskatchewan to becoming a coach at the highest level, Jessica reflects on the importance of representation, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations of women in sports leadership. L’Oréal Paris Plump Ambition Hyaluron Lip Oil: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DK3XR6Q2   Follow Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/soupy08/  Follow L’Oréal Paris: https://www.instagram.com/lorealparis/  Shop my look from this episode: http://shopmy.us/collections/1676445  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  What we talked about:  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:10 Meet Jessica Campbell: Breaking Barriers in Hockey 00:33 Understanding the Role of a Bench Coach 01:10 Navigating the Traditional Hockey Culture 01:28 Jessica's Journey: From Player to Coach 02:44 Redefining Leadership in Sports 05:55 Building a Foundation: Early Life and Influences 09:00 Pursuing Dreams: From Player to Coach 10:19 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success 18:50 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energy in Coaching 22:51 The Power of Authenticity and Representation 27:48 Partnership with L'Oreal Paris: Empowering Women 29:22 A Special Day and Career Reflections 31:00 Facing Gender Bias in Sports 34:12 Empowering Women and Building Community 37:40 Self-Care and Coping Mechanisms 39:52 The Power of Movement and Expression 42:35 Leadership and Legacy 44:32 Q&A Session: Personal Insights and Experiences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by moonbird: Tired of stress hijacking your day or struggling to fall asleep at night? Meet moonbird, your handheld breathing coach, designed to help you slow down and reconnect with your breath. Born from personal need and backed by science, moonbird merges biometric intelligence with guided breathwork to help you calm your mind, ease anxiety, and sleep better. It gently expands and contracts in your hand, guiding your breathing rhythm in real time — no screens, no noise, just you and your breath. Go to https://www.moonbird.life/VALERIA and use code VALERIA for $25 off. In this raw and heartfelt episode, Valeria sits down with her close friend Martha Graeff to talk about everything from rebuilding her mental and physical health to launching her wellness brand Happy Aging. Martha shares how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for a full transformation. They explore solo travel, shifting beauty standards, the pressure of aging in Miami, and finding love again at almost 40. It’s a powerful conversation about choosing yourself, starting over, redefining what it means to thrive, and embracing the aging process through empowerment and strength.  Follow Martha: https://www.instagram.com/marthagraeff/  Follow Happy Aging: https://www.instagram.com/happyaging/  Shop Happy Aging: https://happyaging.com/collections/all  Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/valerialipovetsky/  Shop my look from this episode: https://shopmy.us/collections/1592777   Mentioned:  Brazil Trip Vlog: https://youtu.be/QWNbqW1SVHk  What we talked about: 00:00 Introduction and Casual Start 00:35 Deep Dive into Personal Connections 01:57 Memorable Trip to Brazil 03:50 Transformative Solo Trip to India 09:11 Struggles with Modeling and Body Image 13:05 Navigating Divorce and Personal Growth 22:52 Launching Happy Aging 29:58 Eager Conversations and Happy Aging 30:17 Green Light Theory and Brand Success 30:58 Understanding Women's Health Needs 32:52 Personal Health and Fitness Journey 33:45 Redefining Aging and Finding Confidence 37:20 Embracing New Love and Overcoming Codependency 43:46 Balancing Personal Life and Social Media 47:31 Final Reflections and Rapid Fire Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices