Mid-Life Mafia

Have you ever discovered that the thing you loved as a child or teenager was actually something you were meant to come back to? Maria Venuto joins us to talk about music, family, finding her way back to singing, and what she hopes to do next.

Maria comes from a musical family, and although she didn't want to sing as much as a teenager, seeing her father perform later on made her realize just how much she wanted to get back to music. She also shares how being multilingual has allowed her to sing in...

Join us for an exciting episode of the Midlife Mafia podcast as we sit down with Rosa, the culinary powerhouse behind Easy Eatz with Rosa! Raised by an Italian mother and Croatian father, Rosa brings a rich blend of European cuisine to the table, sharing her tips and tricks to make traditional dishes that save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.

In this episode, we dive into Rosa's journey from family cooking traditions to becoming a digital creator. Discover how a family text thread inspired her to share her culinary adventures on social...

What started as a dream of opening a storefront took an unexpected turn when Covid changed the plans and led Andrea to build a community online around something she loves: food, family, and tradition.

In this episode of the Mid-Life Mafia Podcast, Andrea shares the story behind her cannoli journey, her love of Italian cooking, and how social media has opened the door to a community that sends her plenty of love — much of it directed at the real star of the show, her dad!

But there’s much more to Andr...

What does it take to become a different version of yourself?

In this episode of the Mid-Life Mafia Podcast, we sit down with John Scafiddi Jr., founder of At War, a Brooklyn-based clothing brand built around more than just fashion. John opens up about entrepreneurship, mental health, relationships, divorce, personal growth, and the experiences that shaped the person he is today.

John talks about how he started At War and how the COVID-19 pandemic gave him the opportunity to put more focus into his business. What began as a clothing line...

What happens when your social media becomes your diary?

In this episode of the Mid-Life Mafia Podcast, we sit down with Louie Fevola, aka @okayhilouie, for a hilarious and honest conversation about growing up in Williamsburg, family, food, body hair, social media, being yourself, and the things we’re still learning about sex and relationships.

Louie shares how he got started creating videos, why his parents have always been such a huge source of support, and how his sense of humor comes from his dad. He also talks about his incredibly close relationship with his mo...

Have you ever taken a completely unexpected path in life and discovered you were meant to be there all along?

In this episode, we sit down with Alexia, the creator behind U Had Me at Kitchen, to hear the story of how a career that began with music and rapping at just 14 eventually led her into the world of food, television, and cooking competitions.

Alexia shares how she got signed by a record label, why cooking eventually became her creative outlet, and how sharing her everyday recipes on Facebook grew into...

In this episode, we sit down with dance music icon Reina to talk about her incredible career, life on the road, and the passion that's kept her performing for decades. Joined by surprise guest host Alexia, we explore the music that shaped Reina, the artists who inspired her, and what it takes to keep doing what you love weekend after weekend.

From growing up listening to legends like Donna Summer and Led Zeppelin to having her mom manage her career and sing backing vocals, Reina shares the personal stories behind her journey in music. We...

Have you ever wondered what would happen if something happened to you tomorrow?

It's not the easiest conversation to have, but it's one of the most important. In this episode, we sit down with attorney and funeral director Jennifer Graziano to talk about legacy planning, funeral planning, wills, and why preparing ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones.

Growing up in her family's funeral business gave Jennifer a unique perspective on life, loss, and the importance of making every moment count. She shares how those...

Can you really enjoy burgers, pizza, and good food while still losing weight during menopause?

In this episode, we sit down with Melanie from Mel's Butcher Box to talk about food, fitness, weight loss, and building a successful business around a lifelong passion for quality meat. Mel shares how her friendship with Pat LaFrieda helped launch her journey, how she built her brand, and why staying true to yourself is the key to long-term success.

We also dive into one of the biggest topics women face in midlife—perimenopause, menopause, and we...

Some conversations leave you feeling inspired long after they're over—and this is one of them.

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Ann Agnes Gargiulo to talk about embracing who you truly are, choosing kindness in a world that doesn't always make it easy, and finding the strength to rebuild your life after difficult seasons. Laura shares how social media became an outlet for spreading positivity and why staying authentic has always mattered more to her than chasing trends.

We also chat about Staten Island, her close relationship with he...

Summer always seems to fly by—but between heat waves, beach days, power outages, and trying to stay cool, there's never a shortage of stories to tell.

In this episode, we catch up on how our summers have been going so far and also reflect on how the Mid-Life Mafia Podcast has evolved over the past year and how the show continues to grow.

Summer survival is the episode theme and we begin with the heat: scorching temperatures, air conditioning, Con Edison energy controls to name but a few. We then go...

For Colomba, food has always been about more than recipes—it's about preserving traditions, celebrating family, and keeping Italian culture alive.

In this episode, Colomba, better known as Festa In Cucina, shares how her daughter encouraged her to start creating content online and how that one suggestion led to a thriving community of people who love authentic Italian cooking and traditions.

We dive into growing up in a close-knit Italian-American family in the Bronx, where cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents all lived just steps away. Colomba reflects on the values, traditions, an...

Success rarely follows a straight path. For Dr. Jennifer DiLandro, it came through adversity, determination, and a refusal to give up when life threw its biggest challenges her way.

In this episode, Dr. Jen shares her journey from nurse to entrepreneur, revealing how a difficult chapter in her personal life pushed her to go all-in on herself and build a thriving business from the ground up with just $3,000. She opens up about taking risks, returning to school, earning certifications, and establishing the credibility needed to grow Dolce Aesthetics into the trusted practice it is today.<...

Renee Cardaci simply wants to share her love of cooking—and millions of views later, she's helping home cooks everywhere feel more confident in the kitchen.

In this episode, Renee shares how her journey began after her first child left for college and how a passion for cooking turned into the beloved Cooking With Renee brand. The conversation covers favorite kitchen tools, must-have ingredients, and the dishes she loves making most.

Renee also shares what she's learned from traveling, especially her trips to Italy, where she discovered a deeper appreciation for tr...

Step behind the counter and beyond the cameras with Maddalena and Lisa, two fan-favorite personalities from Carlo's Bakery and TLC's Cake Boss.

In this episode, they share how life changed after television, why they embraced social media, and what it was really like working alongside Buddy Valastro and the rest of the family business. From memorable Cake Boss moments and cake disasters to going nationwide and internationally with Carlo's Bake Shop, they offer an honest look at life behind one of America's most famous bakeries.

The conversation also explores the power...

One year. Countless conversations. Plenty of laughs. And more than a few moments that made us ask, “Did we really just say that on a podcast?” Of course we did, because why sugarcoat it? We are who we are.

In this special anniversary episode, we look back on the first year of the Mid-Life Mafia podcast and reflect on the journey that started with a simple goal: trying to understand the changes we were experiencing in midlife, especially when it came to menopause, hormones, and all the things nobody seemed to be talking about.

<...

Can starting later in life turn out to be exactly the right timing?

In this episode, we sit down with Kelly Curtin aka LaDolceVitaKellyStyle to talk about exactly that and building something meaningful from home - proving that it’s never too late to create success on your own terms.

Kelly shares how life as a stay-at-home mom eventually led her to social media, where she found a way to combine family, food, and creativity into something that inspires thousands. What started as a love for cooking became a platform where sh...

What happens when a homemade salad dressing turns into a full-blown brand — complete with social media dancing, loyal customers, and a beloved 92-year-old family friend who became the company icon telling everyone to “Buy the salad”?

In this episode, we sit down with JJ Flavor Rican to talk about the unexpected journey of building an all-natural salad dressing business from the ground up. JJ shares how she first got her products into brick-and-mortar stores long before social media became part of the plan, and how Facebook helped grow awareness before TikTok entered the picture.

Can massage therapy become part of your midlife survival kit? In this episode, Billy Bossa says absolutely — and he’s breaking down why more people are turning to wellness treatments not just for relaxation, but for recovery, stress relief, hormones, inflammation, and overall self-care.

We sit down with Billy Bossa, owner of Bossa Massages & Wellness, for a conversation that starts with some humour around the classic “happy ending” massage stereotype before getting into the very real ways massage and wellness treatments can support people through midlife and beyond.

Billy shares how he got into the massage...

What happens when two teachers start posting videos online… and suddenly become social media personalities?

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Brackenbury and Melissa McHale to talk about their unexpected journey from the classroom to TikTok and Instagram. What started with relatable teacher lunch videos quickly turned into a growing online community — and a whole new chapter of life.

Jenn and Mel open up about what it was like balancing teaching while building a social media presence, how their students and co-workers reacted after discovering their videos, and the supp...

Sometimes reinvention starts with something small… like your daughters convincing you to post on TikTok.

In this episode, we sit down with Rita to talk about motherhood, social media, Italian family life, and what it really looks like to build a new chapter for yourself in midlife.

Rita shares how her daughters pushed her into the world of TikTok, how that grew into a loyal online community, and why social media can be both rewarding and brutal. From internet trolls to hateful comments (especially when kids are involved), we talk honestly about navigating the online wo...

Some people build a following online. Others build a whole cast of characters.

In this episode, we sit down with Kristin Falcone (aka ThatHairDressaKristin) to talk about the path from hairdresser to social media creator, how her wildly relatable characters came to life, and why humour has become such a powerful way to connect with people.

Kristin shares how social media started almost by accident, how her characters (including the unforgettable Carol) took on lives of their own, and how her audience helped fuel her growing wig fund for cancer patients.<...

In this episode, we sit down with Candice Guardino, the force behind Italian Bred, to talk about the life experiences that shaped her — from growing up in a big, expressive Italian family to turning those moments into comedy, storytelling, and now a growing platform across stage, screen, and writing.

Candice shares what it was like being raised in a home where everyone talked (and yelled) at once, and how her grandmother played a huge role in shaping her voice from a young age. That foundation now shows up in everything she creates — raw, honest, and deep...

In this episode, we dive into our love–hate relationship with technology and how deeply it’s embedded into modern life. From favourite gadgets and smart homes to digital frustration and midlife learning curves, we explore whether tech is making life easier—or quietly more complicated.

We talk about how everything is becoming digital: taxes, IDs, driver’s licences, banking, even buying a house or a car. And while convenience is at an all-time high, so is overwhelm.

There’s also a look at social media’s double edge—connection, opportunity, and education on one side, but also...

Some people cook because they have to, others cook because it’s part of who they are.

In this episode, we sit down with Momma Jackie — the TikTok and Instagram creator known for her comforting Italian recipes — to talk about where it all started, how it grew and why cooking still matters in a fast-paced world.

Momma Jackie shares how curiosity about making money online turned into something much bigger. Her videos might go viral, but at the heart of it all is something simple: feeding people, getting their reactions, sharing knowle...

There’s a point in midlife where you start asking yourself different questions. Not “What’s next?”… but “What do I actually want now?”

In this episode, we talk about the things we still desire — some simple, some unexpected, some that have been quietly sitting in the background for years. From wanting more rest to dreaming bigger (yes, even writing a book or doing something completely random like getting slimed in Florida), it’s about giving those thoughts space again. We also look back at the things we miss from earlier years and the things we think we could...

There’s something about spring that makes you pause… look around… and realise what needs a bit of sorting — in your home and in your life.

In this episode, we talk about the shift that comes with a new season, the small annoyances (hello allergies and bugs) and the practical stuff (switching wardrobes, noticing those very dirty windows).

We move from everyday moments to bigger conversations because spring brings a shift in mindset too. It feels like the start of a new cycle — a time to check in with yourself, take care of yo...

In this episode of the Midlife Mafia podcast, we sit down with Kitchen Killa Lisa, an accidental influencer who has captivated nearly two million followers on TikTok. At 61, Lisa is redefining what it means to age gracefully with her candid rants, real-life advice, and unapologetic takes on beauty, fashion, and relationships.

Lisa's approach to discussing sensitive subjects, such as her experiences with weight loss and body image, showcases her commitment to real talk. She openly shares her past struggles with weight, including her journey through various weight loss surgeries and the emotional toll of societal judgments. By...

Some episodes are deep, some are funny and some feel like sitting around the table swapping the things we wish someone had told us sooner.

This one? It’s that. Tips for women by women.

We’re sharing the practical stuff — the little tips and tricks that make everyday life smoother. Skincare routines, cooking motivation, the art of folding bed sheets, and yes… the ongoing saga of buying pants online.

We also get into budgeting — eating out, subscriptions, and the quiet ways money slips through your fingers if you’re not paying attention.

In the...

Have you ever wondered why so much of it still falls on you… even when nobody says it out loud?

In this episode, we talk about the expectations you’ve lived with—at home, at work, and in the spaces no one really sees. Not to accuse. Not to keep score. Just to acknowledge it. Because somewhere along the way, you learned what was yours to carry… and you carried it. Just like so many women do.

We get into the reality of keeping a home when you also have a career, why some roles still fa...

Some things in life just make you go…hmmm. You know, those little (and not-so-little) moments that make you stop, laugh, and sometimes shake your head in disbelief. From fashion quirks to city chaos, we’re spilling the tea on the everyday stuff that midlife throws at us.

Elle shares her epic parking moment. Marietta weighs in with her tummy-tucking advice, because apparently some things are worth sharing. Kristy has a word or two about entitled people, especially when it comes to driving. And that’s just scratching the surface.

Here’s a taste of what’s i...

In this episode we are taking a break from Midlife and talking about some of the more current & serious events that are happening in our country, We are THREE different women with three different opinions and take on our current environment. If you are someone who is looking for a change in conversation, or someone who likes a little "on the air" tension, then this episode is for you! In this episode we discuss... Is our country divided? Our opinions on Ice Luck vs hard work social media Current economy and much more ! SO take a minute out of...

Welcome to our valentines day show special, in this episode "Valentines Day: Sweet or Scam" we discuss the sweet side of the hallmark holiday, and the scams that come with it. If you are someone who is looking for ideas on what to give or what not to give, or someone who simply does not care about valentines day and just want's to have a laugh then this episode is for you. In this episode we will be covering... What Valentines day means to us Holiday memories & family traditions Gifts Do's & Don'ts Date Ideas What do Single Ladies do...

Midlife is a time of change and with that comes changes in your daily routine! If you are someone that has been struggling with how to balance your schedules, finding a time for yourself and even staying organized then this episode is for you. in this episode we discuss... What a typical day looks like for each of us ( they are all different) Tools we use to help us stay organized Daily challenges things that drive us CRAZY How WE find time to ourselves Our different forms of self care SO take a minute out of your busy schedule...

In this episode of the Midlife Mafia “Throwback Nostalgia” we dive into a conversation where we relive our experiences growing up as a kid in the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s and how it has shaped the grown ups we are today. We take a walk down memory lane and share our core memories that we know you can relate to as well. In this episode we cover: Fashion trends of our times Favorite Games and forms of Entertainment Life before cellphones Menopause Minute: Did people use hormone therapy in the 80’s? How was life like at home Our favorite places to eat Iconi...

In this episode of Midlife Mafia “Confident, Sore, and Still Social,” we get honest about what it really feels like living in a midlife body that is changing biologically, physically, and mentally. From hormone shifts to emotional eating, confidence struggles to redefining what sexy even means, this conversation is raw, real, and deeply relatable.

We talk about how hormones might be the easiest part to manage, but the emotional side, body image, and mental health are the real challenges. We open up about weight gain, depression, friendship, intimacy, and learning how to show up for ourselves with more...

n this episode of Midlife Mafia, we go back in time to Growing Up in Brooklyn, the Bensonhurst edition. Kristy and Marietta share what it was really like growing up just blocks apart in a neighborhood where everyone knew your name, kids played outside all day, and your parents always knew where you were.

We talk about how different it feels now, from safety and street life to how kids grow up today, and why we still miss the old Brooklyn community vibe. Plus, we get into all the Bensonhurst staples, the food spots we grew up...

In this episode "Life Ain’t Nothin’ But a 6,7", we dive into the chaos, curiosity, and cultural conversations of 2025 midlife style. From the 6/7 trend our kids hate, to AI taking over, to the Epstein files and the Diddy documentary, nothing is off the table.

In Episode 25 we talk about:

• "6/7" slang and why the kids cringe when we say it

• AI taking over everyday life

• The redacted Epstein files and why nothing shocks us anymore

• Diddy’s allegations and separating art from the artist

• Trust in institutions feeling lower than ever<...

In this New Year’s Special of Mid-Life Mafia, we reflect on the past year, celebrate growth, and talk honestly about what it feels like entering new chapters in midlife. From motherhood transitions to hormone changes to simply trying to show up for the people we love, this conversation is real, warm, and deeply relatable.

Join us in this Episode 24 New Year Special where we cover:

• Transitioning into motherhood and now facing a new shift as kids grow up

• Procrastination and why we need to stop waiting to see the people...

In this episode of Mid-Life Mafia, we get real about what the holiday season actually looks like when you’re navigating menopause, managing stress, and just trying to make it through without losing your mind. It’s a real conversation about how the holidays actually feel in midlife.

Join us in this Holiday Special where we cover:

• How menopause and stress amplify everything

• Pressure during the holidays

• Gift giving

• Expectations and emotional overload

• The changing of traditions over time

The Mid-Life Mafia family wishes you all a Happy Ho...