Two Noras and a Mic

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Nothing kicks off summer quite like a deep dive into ice cream preferences and a candid taste test of Lady Gaga's questionable beverage choice. We start with updates on the helicopter "wiener drop" event we'd been anticipating - complete with the unexpected appearance of Bill Murray helping distribute 2,600 hot dogs raining down on a stadium field.

We couldn't help but address some genuinely concerning beauty trends currently making rounds on social media. From people using Sharpie markers as lip liner (despite the chemical smell and dermatologists' warnings) to the horrifying practice...

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Two friends named Nora take listeners on a delightful journey through the quirky side of summer, beginning with a hydration challenge that's led to frequent bathroom breaks and the surprising sacrifice of a beloved afternoon Diet Coke. Their conversation flows naturally from horrifying food innovations (a deep-fried hot dog rolled in Hot Cheetos and Fruity Pebbles, anyone?) to taste-testing blueberry pie Oreos with hilariously mixed reviews.

The podcast takes a fascinating turn when they explore recent psychological research on what makes someone "cool." According to a University of Arizona study spanning 12...

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Ever wondered how champagne gets those magical bubbles? Or why bubble wrap is so satisfyingly poppable? Join the Noras for a fizzy, fun exploration of everything bubbly while we catch up after the holiday weekend!

They start with Fourth of July stories - from neighborhood fireworks traditions to the simple joy of writing your name with sparklers. Then prepare yourself for the horror story that might forever change your online shopping habits as we reveal what one mother found inside a baby rattle ordered from Shein (hint: it involves fingernails and...

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What happens when your entire identity has been scripted? In this captivating conversation with bestselling author Annabelle Monaghan, we dive deep into her fourth novel, "It's a Love Story"!

Annabelle reveals how Jennette McCurdy's raw memoir "I'm Glad My Mom Died" sparked her curiosity about teen stars who grow up on camera – young people who spend their formative years being told exactly who to be, what to say, and how to act. This inspiration evolved into Jane, a complex protagonist who emerges from childhood fame with no genuine sense of who sh...

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Grab your favorite cocktail and join The Noras for a delightful conversation with Western Springs' newest entrepreneur, Amanda Sutter, founder of Jolie dress boutique. Amanda shares her journey from dress enthusiast to shop owner while we sip on custom blackberry lemonade cocktails crafted by The Opry's talented Dan Schovain.

The magic of Jolie lies in Amanda's thoughtful approach to fashion retail. With only six pieces of each style available, shoppers enjoy a significantly lower risk of the dreaded "same outfit" encounter. This exclusivity creates such demand that Amanda regularly declines requests...

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When was the last time you thought deeply about your snacking habits? In our Season 4 premiere, we're unwrapping the surprisingly complex world of between-meal munching, from nostalgic childhood favorites to our current cravings.

The Noras kick things off with a fascinating productivity hack called the "one-minute rule" that's transforming how we tackle those small daily tasks. Then, prepare your taste buds as we conduct a live taste test of Selena Gomez's Oreo collaboration (spoiler: they taste like chocolate-filled churros and might be the best celebrity snack collab we've ever tried).
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That's a wrap on Season 3! We are so grateful for our listeners far and wide.

Season 4 will begin June 23rd and we can't wait! 

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The Noras dive into the nostalgic world of board games, from classics like Monopoly and Scrabble to quirky favorites with names like "Sneaky Snacky Squirrels." Did you know Monopoly was initially rejected by Parker Brothers for being "too complicated"? Or that games can be categorized into four fundamental types: race games, space games, chase games, and displacement games? These frameworks help explain why we gravitate toward certain games and avoid others.

Along the way, we explore summer's hottest trends (sardine-themed decor, anyone?), discuss bizarre banned baby names from around the world...

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What happens when two friends with the same name tackle bizarre food combinations and debate the perfect pizza? Pure podcast magic.

This episode begins with a taste-testing adventure sampling the questionable limited-edition Beer Can Chicken flavored Pringles that leave one Nora gagging while the other surprisingly doesn't mind the bouillon-cube-like flavor. They follow this culinary experiment with Sprite mixed with iced tea—a strange beverage that separates in your mouth, hitting you with fizzy lemon-lime before transforming into tea. This leads them down a rabbit hole of unusual food tr...

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In this colorful episode, we kick things off with Noras play-by-play of an unforgettable night at Beyoncé's Renaissance Tour. The Queen Bey delivered a masterclass in performance art despite Mother Nature's obstacles. The concert stories lead us into an unexpected treasure hunt when we discuss Czech hikers who stumbled upon $360,000 worth of buried gold artifacts from the early 1900s—talk about being in the right place at the right time!

The conversation shifts to the curious world of color psychology as we explore what different colored heart emojis actually mean (car...

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Mother's Day celebrations kick off this week's episode, with stories of family gatherings and sports games.

Nostalgia takes center stage as they compare their wedding invitations from the early 2000s, marveling at the similarities in their choices and how wedding planning has changed in the digital age. "No websites, no email addresses – just phone numbers," they laugh, reflecting on their beautiful calligraphy and matching response cards. Their genuine friendship shines through as they appreciate these connections they didn't even know they shared when planning their weddings years before meeting.

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Remember the satisfying feel of opening a quality stationery set? That first whiff of fresh paper? The smooth glide of a perfect pen? We're diving deep into our shared love of all things paper in this nostalgic episode that celebrates the tangible in our increasingly digital world.

Our journey begins with a hilarious taste test of Aldi's Summit Cola Diet, inspired by a viral TikTok claiming it's indistinguishable from McDonald's Diet Coke. Spoiler alert: the mouthfeel is subpar, but we've got tips if you're brave enough to try it yourself! We...

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Poor Nora! Has this ever happened to you? You take a couple pills to help with some cold symptoms, only to have it get physically stuck with you? Nora found herself in a real pickle and when Google suggested "immediate medical attention" she tried everything from drinking copious amounts of water to sleeping upright like "the Dutch used to sleep" and even going for a morning run - all while hoping the pill would dislodge itself without intervention. But fear not...the situation is under control now.

Between opening night celebrations...

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Phil Nawrocki joins us for our second Nightcap with the Noras! Listen in as he takes us on a journey from Chicago loft living to becoming a central figure in the Western Springs community. 

What makes this conversation fascinating is Phil's natural path to local governance. After sending a hopeful email to the village caucus, he was told to "become president of your subdivision first"—a challenge he embraced wholeheartedly. Soon he was walking every street in Ridgewood documenting potholes and transforming neighborhood social gatherings. His hands-on approach demonstrates how accessible sma...

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From ancient hummus to 1950s French onion, the humble dip contains multitudes of culinary history worth savoring. Join Nora and Nora as they gleefully dissect the fascinating world of dips and the vessels that carry them.

The conversation begins with an unexpected National Banana Day celebration and a quirky gift exchange before diving into the surprising revelation that dips only became popular in American homes during the 1950s. This coincided with the rise of suburban entertaining and casual hosting, though essential dip components like sour cream (invented 1815) and potato chips (created 1853...

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Spring brings chaos, celebrations, and reflection as we navigate through a season of changes. The Noras commiserate over similar travel mishaps where flight cancellations led to unexpected rerouting adventures. What started as simple weekend getaways quickly transformed into complex puzzles of airport navigation and scheduling—a reminder that even the best-laid travel plans can unravel in an instant.

From the frustration of travel to the simple joy of wearing brand new socks to the satisfaction of creating a beautiful birthday cake using techniques learned from Cake Boss cookbooks. There's something genuinely de...

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Ready for a podcast that serves up both laughs and shivers down your spine? We kick things off sharing our April Fool's Day experiences - from tiny clown car rental pranks to fake academic emergencies that had us completely fooled. There's something universally entertaining about those moments when we realize we've been had, especially by our loved ones.

The conversation shifts to an unexpected place when we discuss the recently returned NASA astronauts who spent nine months in space instead of their planned week. What fascinates us most isn't just their...

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The seemingly simple question of what we wear to bed reveals surprising insights into our personalities, cultural history, and family dynamics. From matching sets to mismatched comfort wear, our pajama preferences speak volumes about who we are.

Did you know the word "pajama" originated from Hindi? Or that in Western culture, pajamas were initially a status symbol demonstrating wealth and cleanliness? These comfy garments have a surprisingly rich history that we unpack with enthusiasm and personal anecdotes.

We share our contrasting sleepwear approaches - one of us exclusively wears...

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Numbers surround us, shape our memories, and often reveal our deepest connections—even for those who proudly claim to be "not Numbers Noras."

We dive into a whirlwind of topics ranging from bizarre food trends (hot dog towers, anyone?) to the safe return of astronauts Butch and Suni after their extended 286-day space adventure. Their remarkable journey, especially impressive considering they're 62 and 59 years old, leaves us contemplating what's still possible in our own futures.

Our conversation takes an unexpectedly nostalgic turn when we explore our relationships with numbers—from luck...

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In this episode, we journey through our babysitting adventures from both sides of the childcare equation. Remember when fifth graders could watch four kids including a 10-month-old baby? We were those fearless young sitters, navigating responsibilities far beyond our years without cell phones or emergency protocols – just a house phone and an address scribbled on a notepad.

Fast forward to today, where national babysitting rates hover around $25 per hour and parents expect a level of professionalism that would have been unimaginable in our early babysitting days. We share hilarious and sometimes te...

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Dive into the surprisingly revealing world of purses as Nora and Nora empty their bags and explore what our everyday carryalls say about us. 

What begins as casual catch-up about March weather and Lenten sacrifices quickly transforms into an unexpectedly hilarious deep dive into purses and their significance in our lives. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as the hosts share memories of their first meaningful purses—from a treasured Michael Jackson bag that met a tragic end to structured Kate Spade totes that defined high school style.

The hos...

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Struggling with patience? You’re not alone! In this engaging episode, we tackle the often-frustrating world of waiting, exploring its emotional impacts and social dynamics through shared stories and lighthearted banter. We dive into personal anecdotes, revealing our individual capacities for patience while navigating waiting in everyday life—whether it’s waiting for kids, crucial emails, or a flight’s delayed takeoff. With humor and wit, we discuss a hilarious plane incident that had us questioning airline protocol and the dynamics of uncomfortable wait times.

Whether you’re waiting in line for coffee...

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Have you ever wondered why certain movie soundtracks stay in our hearts forever? This episode takes you on a delightful journey through the world of cinematic melodies and Oscars surprises. We'll share our rankings of the Oscar-nominated songs, revealing some unexpected favorites, and reminisce about those timeless soundtracks that shaped our love for movies. 

Throughout our chat, nostalgia fills the air as we celebrate the evolution of movie soundtracks. We dig deep into the power of soundtracks, recalling iconic films like "The Bodyguard," "Forrest Gump," and the legendary beats of "Purple R...

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Our conversation today starts with recaping Noras fav Rom Com, 'Love and Basketball'. The episode takes a fun twist as we recount our out of the blue choice to go to the casting for "Wheel of Fortune"! Fingers crossed we will see the Noras on The Wheel!
We share good news as we celebrate the much-anticipated return of astronauts Butch and Sunny, musing over the potential effects of their extended mission and the jubilation their families must feel. Our light-hearted chatter extends to recreating a high school favorite snack and indulging in...

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This week’s tales weave through the joys and trials of balancing family life and finances, all while sipping tea and humorously debunking the mysteries of tea bags. Whether it's celebrating victories on our kids' sports teams or anticipating a blissfully uneventful weekend, there’s something for everyone in this lively conversation.

Fashion enthusiasts and bookworms alike will appreciate our playful exploration of quirky trends, from the nostalgic delight of shamrock shakes to the bizarre world of furry nails. Ever pondered the charm of book bars like Gulp Fiction, where you can...

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We embark on a deliciously humorous journey through our 33rd “Scottie Pippen” episode, marking a milestone in our third season. We share a personal story from a Paris trip about the hilarious quest for extra butter and our attempts at planning a surprise party for one of our favorite "Dad Listeners", Adam. From the laughter of impromptu after-parties to the art of baking and the peculiar realities of assembling furniture, there’s a little something for everyone who loves a good tale or two.

Join us as we navigate the quirks of dir...

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The Noras recount a busy birthday filled week! 
After a brief catch up, the Noras introduce their first "Nightcap with the Noras" segment! Dan Schovain, Western Springs resident and owner of The Opry, opens his doors to Nora and Nora for a chat a delicious cocktail. The Opry is a coffee roastery by day and a lively craft cocktail bar by night. You'll love our chat about this unique space that buzzes with creativity and family-friendly vibes. Dan shares one of their best cocktails, "The Pollinator," a refreshing blend of lemon juice, h...

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Ever seen a coyote in a grocery store or a museum filled with dinosaur-costumed enthusiasts? We have stories that will tickle your funny bone, featuring quirky tattoos and a record-breaking event in Florida that had 468 people dressed as dinosaurs. Plus, a coyote's unexpected visit to an Aldi in Chicago sparks a debate on who handles wildlife intrusions better: police or animal protection services. With anecdotes of wildlife sightings and community alerts that add a humorous twist to neighborhood safety, there's never a dull moment in this chapter of our podcast.

Finally...

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Join us for a lighthearted chat as we recount the delightful chaos of the holiday season, from the excitement of long-awaited gifts like the Dyson Airwrap to the strategic dismantling of festive decorations that magically transform our living spaces. We'll share our insights on juggling the joyful chaos when kids are home and the tricks to managing post-holiday routines. Expect a generous dose of humor as we dive into household habits and explore how small changes can lead to a more spacious and organized home. 

Get ready for a whirlwind of t...

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Join us for a merry "Nightcap with the Noras" as we raise a glass to the holiday season, reminiscing about how our festive traditions have transformed over time, especially with kids around. Get ready for some lively banter as we discuss our Christmas break and New Year's Eve plans.

But this episode is more than just holiday cheer—it's about milestones too! One Nora's wedding anniversary is right around the corner and did you know that apparently the 19-year anniversary gift is bronze?! Pour yourself a glass, sit back, and let ou...

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The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes both magic and mayhem. Have you ever wondered how moms manage to sprinkle that festive cheer amid the chaos of finals week, unexpected health hiccups, and the hilarity of driving permit misadventures? Join us as we share personal stories of navigating this bustling time with humor and grace. We also take a moment to empathize with the families of astronauts dealing with mission delays, adding a unique twist to the holiday stress narrative.

Nostalgia takes center stage as we reminisce about...

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Ever wondered how a banana duct-taped to a wall could sell for $6.2 million? Join us on a roller coaster of laughter and curiosity as we dissect the wild world of modern art and poke fun at the eccentricities of wealth. We also navigate the maze of holiday shopping and teenage financial responsibility, sprinkled with tales of supportive friendships and the unexpected joy of a rescued package.

But that's not all! We reminisce about our favorite hotels and the magic they hold, taking you on a journey from The Ritz-Carlton New York...

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We kick off with some sensational Thanksgiving tales, from slap cup escapades to a now-retired turkey costume that had us all gobbling with laughter. Ever tried Thanksgiving pizza? Nora did, and we're still puzzling over its mysterious DiGiorno cousin. This episode is all about embracing the holiday vibe, and we've got the quirkiest tips to make your season sparkle—like whipping out Christmas china way before December 25th.

As we navigate the labyrinth of household chaos, our stories of kitchen "to-do piles" and creative clutter-concealing feats will have you nodding in re...

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Ever find yourself on a spontaneous adventure, or maybe just cozied up with a comforting bowl of soup? Join us as we share our heartwarming holiday experiences, from Nora's delightful girls' overnight trip filled with shopping and parades, to Mike's unexpected flight to Scottsdale during Thanksgiving week. Laughter fills the air as we realize we are both loving soup at the moment and dive into the lighter side of life, experimenting with nighttime deodorant routines and reflecting on the humorous "enshittification" among the year's other notable words.

Gratitude finds its way...

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Ever wondered what lengths people might go to for a quick buck, or how a tomato wine pairs with your favorite slice? Join us for a heartening and humorous journey as we recount our latest family adventures, from tree lighting ceremonies and Christmas card photos to the joy of celebrating a 9 year-old's birthday. We pause to chuckle at a peculiar news story from California where a couple's insurance fraud involving a bear costume and a Rolls Royce went hilariously awry, and share our skeptical curiosity about Pizza Hut's unconventional holiday tomato wine.
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The Noras kick off with a revisit with Kelsey mix cereal and the unexpected reality of serving sizes—thanks to a little thing called portion control. From guilty pleasure snacks to the quirky concept of "tasteful tantrums" as a stress-relief method, we explore the joyous chaos of navigating family life. 

Nora does her best to get Nora motivated to visit some of her favorite art museums. She in face gets so excited to share about her favorite spots that she barely lets Nora get a word in!  She tries to her best...

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Ever wondered how to handle the Halloween sugar chaos at home? We share our wild ride through trick-or-treating, complete with tales of candy overload and the mysterious "Switch Witch" tradition, where candy is exchanged for gifts. And just when you think Halloween couldn't get any more interesting, we dive into the strange world of the "Pickle Witch" sandwich from Jimmy John's. With our skepticism on high alert, we debate its culinary merits—or lack thereof. We also dive into a bowl of "Kelce Mix" cereal which is a surprisingly delightful blend of Reese's Pu...

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Ever wondered if a gas station bathroom could be award-winning? Join us as we uncover the surprising charm of Maverick's public restroom in Salt Lake City, crowned the best in the U.S.! Our adventure doesn't stop there—meet Curtis Hargroves, the marathon dynamo who doesn't just run for medals but for meaningful causes, like his high-heeled race supporting crisis societies. As we shift from the streets to the stars, get excited with us about NASA's upcoming mission featuring the first woman and first person of color on the moon, fashionably suited up in...

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Ever wondered what hosting a garage sale and a wife carrying contest might have in common? Our recent escapade into the world of garage sales offered up a smorgasbord of unexpected lessons, challenging moments, and outrageous tales that we just had to share. Join us as we revisit the beloved dictionaries of our youth and dive headfirst into the chaotic, yet amusing realm of bargain hunters. With humor as our compass, we navigate the unpredictable tides of customer antics and remind ourselves why this was, without a doubt, a one-time adventure. 

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We are Noras who keep their word and we pop open to cans of Oreo-flavored Coke Zero Sugar. One Nora could do with out and the other likes the sweet treat! But while the US is mixing two sweet flavors, everything bagel seasoning is causing a stir in Korea. We kick off this episode with our quirky takes on these food phenomena. Plus, we chat about Dua Lipa's unusual Coke recipe that includes pickle and jalapeno juice, and the latest addition to McDonald's menu, the Chicken Big Mac. Get ready to laugh, ponder...