Afleveringen
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I’m back with a solo episode where we’re getting real about speaking up and navigating life when things feel a bit, well, wild. I might not be the loudest voice in the room, but I’m here to get vocal about the things that matter – setting boundaries, getting involved, and staying true to yourself when the world wants you to shrink.
Key Takeaways:
• Finding & Using Your Voice: Speaking up isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. I’m sharing how to use your voice effectively, whether it’s at work, with friends, or out in the community. Change doesn’t happen if we stay silent.
• Boundaries, But Make It Real: Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” – it’s about knowing what you stand for and holding firm even in tough conversations. I’m breaking down how I keep things real with people who see the world differently.
•Local Change, Big Impact: Want to make a difference? Start small. I talk about the power of getting involved locally, supporting causes that align with your values, and why small actions matter more than we think.
•The Magic of Storytelling & Listening: It’s not all about shouting from the rooftops – sometimes it’s about sharing your story and truly listening to others. I explore how personal experiences can inspire change and build connection.
• Self-Care While Speaking Out: No one said making a difference was easy. I get into why taking care of yourself while you’re out there speaking up is crucial. Because burnout? We’re not doing that.
•Community is Key: Remember, you’re not doing this alone.
Connect with Me Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheick for more relatable takes, and a community that’s all about real talk and real change. Let’s keep it going!
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This week’s episode is one I’ve been dying to bring you! I finally got to chat with the incredible Béa Victoria Albina, NP, MPH. She’s a somatic experiencing practitioner, feminist wellness coach, and all-around magical human being. We dove into her signature concept of emotional outsourcing—aka relying on other people for our sense of worth, safety, and belonging (yeah, ouch).
We talked about EVERYTHING, from breaking free of codependency to staying grounded in your values—even in the messiest of situations. Béa also shared her genius tips for regulating your nervous system and letting yourself actually feel your feelings (not just shove them down or ignore them).
Here’s What We Got Into:
Codependency vs. Interdependence: What’s the difference? (Hint: interdependence is the vibe we’re going for).
Emotional outsourcing: Béa breaks down how it sneaks into our lives and keeps us stuck.
Nervous system regulation: What it really means, and why it’s not as simple as tapping your forehead and calling it a day.
Sacred rage: Why anger is actually a good thing when it’s intentional and aligned with your values.
The beauty of reciprocal relationships: How to stop keeping score and start building connections that energize you.
Want More from Béa?
She’s got some amazing gifts for you! Head to BeatriceAlbina.com/ditchtheick to grab her free meditations and nervous system exercises. Whether you’re dealing with a stressy day or diving into your healing journey, these are a must-have.Béa also has a book dropping in September 2025 called Emotional Outsourcing.
Big Life Moves
I’ve been hinting at a major life change, and here’s the deal: I’m working on my escape plan to move abroad! While I’m not on a plane just yet, I’m getting serious about making it happen, and I want to invite you along for the ride.
That’s why I’m joining the Move Abroad Escape Plan Bootcamp with the Move Abroad Coach. It’s a 4-day LIVE virtual bootcamp from January 25th-28th at 11 AM Eastern (with replays available). This bootcamp is all about creating a step-by-step action plan to move abroad in a year or less. If moving abroad has been on your dream list, this is the sign you’ve been waiting for!
You can join me by checking out all the details here: https://bit.ly/4gR6VXF
Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for all the behind-the-scenes action. I’ll be sharing what I’m learning, the highs, the lows, and maybe a few tips to help YOU make bold moves, too.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Welcome to the first episode of Ditch the Ick in 2025! After taking a much-needed break, we’re kicking off the year by tackling an important and often misunderstood topic: toxic positivity.
We’re unpacking what toxic positivity really is and why the “good vibes only” mindset can do more harm than good. I also share my personal journey with embracing emotions—both good and bad—and how adopting a mindset of realistic optimism has helped me feel more grounded and confident. Plus, we touch on actionable tips for managing emotions, setting boundaries, and showing up for others in a healthy way.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- What toxic positivity is and why it’s so damaging.
- The subtle ways it can show up in daily life (e.g., “Just stay positive!”).
- Signs you might be experiencing or perpetuating toxic positivity.
- The benefits of realistic optimism and why it’s a better approach.
- Actionable phrases and habits to replace toxic positivity with authentic support.
Resources Mentioned:
- Why Toxic Positivity Can Be Harmful by Kendra Cherry, MSeD: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-positivity
- Realistic Optimism by Chris Loper: https://becomingbetter.org/realistic-optimism/
- Submit your anonymous questions or storie https://www.ditchtheick.com/ask-us-anything
- Email: mailto:[email protected]
- Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod
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Today’s episode of Ditch the Ick is one for the books—literally! 🎉 I’m sitting down with Amazon bestselling romance author Caitlin Moss to talk about her journey from purity culture to writing the spicy stories we all know and love. Caitlin dives deep into the unlearning of shame, the reclaiming of pleasure, and how books (yep, including the steamy ones) can empower us to understand our bodies, our desires, and ourselves.
We’re unpacking:
✨ Growing up in purity culture and how it shaped our mindset (and icks)
✨ Why romance novels are more than just smut—they’re freeing, fun, and female-centered
✨ The shame, the rebellion, and the “now or never” moment that got Caitlin writing
✨ Toys, taboos, and the beauty of learning to embrace pleasure (yes, girl, we go there)
If you’re ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe add a few books to your Kindle library, hit play and let’s ditch the ick together.
✨ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheick for more relatable content from the pod!
Where to Find Caitlin:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlinmossauthor
TikTok: @caitlinmosswrites
Books: Available on https://www.amazon.com/ (Kindle Unlimited included!) and through local indie bookstores.
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The holidays are here, party people, and it’s time to lean ALL the way into your feral side. This week’s episode is your ultimate holiday survival guide, specifically for single, child-free women who are constantly fielding those unhinged questions from boomer family members. Whether it’s “Why are you still single?” or “When are you having kids?”, I’ve got you covered with both hilarious and practical comebacks to keep everyone on their toes. But at its core? This episode is about reclaiming the holiday.
I also share some wild voice notes from a dear friend who lived through these exact scenarios—and let me tell you, the stories are bananas.
In This Episode:
Hilarious, wrong-answer-only responses to intrusive family questions.
How to handle “Why are you still single?” without breaking a sweat.
Wild intergenerational stories that will have you screaming, “Same, girl, same!”
Practical tips for setting boundaries and surviving family gatherings.
The importance of self-care and building new traditions for yourself.
Love this episode? Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! Don’t forget to follow on Instagram @ditchtheickpod and slide into the DMs to share your unhinged holiday survival stories.
Have a story to share? Email me at [email protected] or visit ditchtheick.com.
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What’s up, party people? This week, I’m joined by my longtime friend and burnout buddy, Sarah Jones, to unpack all things toxic workplaces. From our McKinsey days to corporate chaos, we’re getting real about red flags, micromanaging bosses, and why being single with no kids doesn’t mean you have unlimited free time (looking at you, out-of-touch managers).
I’m sharing my own horror stories (yes, I’ve cried in the car post-work) and some hard-earned wisdom on setting boundaries, spotting the signs of burnout, and knowing when it’s time to GTFO. Sarah and I also talk about how to advocate for yourself, sprinkle in a little snark about corporate buzzwords, and dish out advice for surviving the hot mess that is today’s job market.
If you’ve ever questioned your sanity after a meeting or had to Google “FMLA,” this one’s for you.
Check out the new art of Ditch the Ick and follow me on IG @ditchtheick for more laughs, real talk, and updates!
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I’m back from Thanksgiving with a fresh pixie cut, some press-on nails, and a whole lot to catch you up on. Let’s just say it’s been a week.
In this episode, I’m sharing all about my breakup with the Scotsman—yes, that Scotsman—and how I’ve been navigating the emotional rollercoaster of it all. I’ll take you through the highs, the heartbreak, and the self-reflection that’s come out of it.
I’ll also fill you in on what I’ve been doing to take care of myself (hello, support system!) and how I’m keeping my eyes on the prize—aka my big move abroad. Scotland may be off the table (for now), but don’t worry, the dream is still alive and thriving. Plus, I’ve got some exciting news about changes coming to the podcast—think fresh vibes and a broader focus that fits where we’re all at right now.
Let’s chat:
Ever had to walk away from something (or someone) that wasn’t serving you? DM me or drop a comment @ditchtheick —I’d love to hear your stories.
Grab your favorite cozy blanket and tune in. This one’s real, raw, and maybe even a little cathartic.
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This week we're having an important conversation about living child-free with special guest Paulette Erato. We're breaking away from societal expectations and exploring the empowering decision to live life on your own terms. This episode will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of traditional norms bearing down on their shoulders. It’s about reclaiming your right to choose your path, embracing your authentic self, and finding joy in the freedom that comes from living childfree.
About Paulette:
As the host and creator of the biweekly Spanglish-language podcast La Vida Más Chévere de Childfree Latinas, Paulette Erato aims to dismantle the many toxic ideas perpetuated by Latinidad and American culture. There's nothing wrong with being proud of one's heritage, but that comes with a responsibility for combating and healing the unsavory or even dangerous parts of it, too--all so we can live our best lives!
Connect with Paulette:
Instagram and TikTok: @pauletteerato
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@LaVidaMasChevere
Connect with Katie:
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/
Join the Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/
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Hey party people! In this episode, I chat with founder of Move Abroad Coach Richelle Gamlam, about international moves and designing a life you love. As someone planning a move to Europe, this conversation really hit home for me. Richelle shares her journey of living abroad, what it means to create a fulfilling life on your own terms, and how to tackle the logistics, fears, and mindset shifts that come with big life changes.
What We Touched On:
Richelle shared how her move to China, including an initial rough start, led her to develop her coaching business.
Connect with Me:
Instagram @ditchtheickpod -> https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod
Join our facebook community -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick
Connect with Richelle:
Follow Richelle on Instagram: @moveabroadcoach -> https://www.instagram.com/moveabroadcoach
Check out the Move Abroad Coach Podcast -> https://open.spotify.com/show/7r5mTbobi6ssNWfbXxNVt9
Start your move abroad journey with Richelle’s Move Abroad Crash Course at moveabroadcourse.com
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I’m back with a solo episode where we’re getting real about speaking up and navigating life when things feel a bit, well, wild. I might not be the loudest voice in the room, but I’m here to get vocal about the things that matter – setting boundaries, getting involved, and staying true to yourself when the world wants you to shrink.
Key Takeaways:
• Finding & Using Your Voice: Speaking up isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. I’m sharing how to use your voice effectively, whether it’s at work, with friends, or out in the community. Change doesn’t happen if we stay silent.
• Boundaries, But Make It Real: Setting boundaries isn’t just about saying “no” – it’s about knowing what you stand for and holding firm even in tough conversations. I’m breaking down how I keep things real with people who see the world differently.
•Local Change, Big Impact: Want to make a difference? Start small. I talk about the power of getting involved locally, supporting causes that align with your values, and why small actions matter more than we think.
•The Magic of Storytelling & Listening: It’s not all about shouting from the rooftops – sometimes it’s about sharing your story and truly listening to others. I explore how personal experiences can inspire change and build connection.
• Self-Care While Speaking Out: No one said making a difference was easy. I get into why taking care of yourself while you’re out there speaking up is crucial. Because burnout? We’re not doing that.
•Community is Key: Remember, you’re not doing this alone.
Connect with Me Follow me on Instagram @ditchtheick for more relatable takes, and a community that’s all about real talk and real change. Let’s keep it going!
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Disney movies taught us to dream big about love—but did those dreamy storylines secretly mess us up? This week, Ditch the Ick dives into how Disney’s fairytales may have warped our expectations for real-life relationships. AND we have a special guest back on the mic: my bestie, Jersey! Together, we’re peeling back the layers of “happily ever after” to figure out what Disney got wrong (and maybe what it got a little right).
Highlights:
The Disney Effect: How movies convinced us that love should be instant, magical, and oh-so-easy.
Unrealistic Standards: Why expecting a Prince Charming might have us missing out on real, messy love.
“Happily Ever After”: Why the fairytale ending is the biggest myth and how to embrace reality.
Red Flags in Disney: Revisiting some classic characters (Prince Eric, we’re talking to you) to see how Disney skipped over some serious relationship icks.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’ve ever found yourself disappointed that love doesn’t look like it does in movies, this one’s for you! Jersey and I are here to ditch the ick and help you reclaim a healthier, more realistic view on love.
Follow me on instagram @dithctheick and Join our facebook community
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Just because Halloween was yesterday doesn't mean spooky season is over. Today’s episode is loaded with dating horror stories—from pancake fails to soulmate wins! Think your dating life’s a circus? Trust me, you’re not alone! Get a sneak peek at upcoming episodes, including an interview with a romance author! And next Friday, Jersey’s back for a Disney-style dating disaster special you won’t wanna miss!
Want more? Join our https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick for community, support, and all things love and life! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Girl Fall Book Club, where we're diving into romance reads that’ll keep you turning pages all season long.
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This week, I sat down with sexuality educator Dakota Ramppen to talk about all things relationships, empowerment, and sexuality. Dakota opens up about her journey from teaching sex-ed to pre-teens to working with adults, and why she believes that empowering parents can create a lasting, positive generational impact. We dive deep into the awkward but crucial world of sex education, discussing why communication, mutual understanding, and self-discovery are at the heart of any strong relationship.Dakota also sheds light on the importance of exploring fantasies and desires with your partner—no shame, no fear.Key Takeaways:The evolution of Dakota’s career from teaching kids to empowering adultsNavigating love, sexuality, and relationships through tough love and honestyWhy self-discovery and open communication are key in relationshipsExploring fantasies and desires in relationships without fear or judgmentCTA:Join us in the Ditch the Ick Facebook Group for more real talk and community support! Plus, don’t miss out on our Feral Fall Girl Book Club—we’re reading Flawless by Elsie Silver. Tune in on October 31 at 7:45 PM EDT for our next discussion. Let’s dive into these swoon-worthy fall reads together!
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Join the Feral Girl Fall Book Club!
Dive into some smut with the Ditch the Ick Community! Head to www.ditchtheick.com to stay up to date.
This episode:
I’m joined by returning guest and fearless adventurer, Paige Mitchell, as we dive into ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the realities of dating while traveling. We candidly discuss embracing our sexuality, navigating short-term relationships, and finding balance between fun and lasting connections while on the move.
What We Covered:
Embracing Our Feral Girl Fall: Paige and I talked about how our ‘feral phase’ is more about self-discovery and personal exploration rather than seeking validation.
Dating Abroad with Safety in Mind: Paige shared her experiences of dating abroad and we dove into important safety tips for dating while traveling.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Relationships: We discussed the challenges and rewards of forming short-term connections while traveling, and how those experiences differ from the deeper bonds we’re looking for in long-term relationships.
Balancing Feminine and Masculine Energy: Paige and I explored how we balance our feminine and masculine sides in both casual dating and serious relationships. This balance has been a key factor in shaping our romantic and personal experiences.
Ready to embrace your own ‘feral girl fall’ and explore the world of dating abroad? Tune in to this episode and follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for more tips, stories, and advice on dating, relationships, and self-discovery.
Don’t forget to keep up with Paige Mitchell and her adventures by following her on Instagram @beachbabepaige
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Welcome to the one-year anniversary special of Ditch the Ick! I’m taking a bit of a back seat in this episode as my best friend, Jersey, hijacks the show to put me in the hot seat. She’s ready to embarrass me while we celebrate a wild, unforgettable year. From navigating the ups and downs of podcasting to creating this incredible community, it’s been a feral, fun ride, and I can’t wait to reflect on it with all of you.
Jersey and I go way back—we’ve had plenty of adventures together, You know this episode is going to be full of laughs, some cringey memories, and maybe even a few heartfelt moments. Whether you've been with me from the start or you’re a new listener, this is an inside look at how Ditch the Ick has grown and what’s coming next!
Key Takeaways:
Celebrating a year of Ditch the Ick
My personal growth and lessons from podcasting
The hilarious dynamic between me and Melissa
A look back at the best moments of the past year
CTA:
Catch the full story by listening to this special episode! I’d love for you to join me in celebrating this milestone—listen now and share your favorite Ditch the Ick memories with me instagram @ditchtheickpod
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, I’m joined by Cortney Griffy, host of the podcast What the Smut are You Talking About, for a fun and insightful deep dive into the world of smutty romance novels. If you’ve ever been curious about the world of romance sub-genres or unsure where to start, this is your crash course! From cowboys to dark romance, we’re breaking it all down.
What We Covered:
How Cortney Got Into Smut: We kicked things off with Cortney’s story of how she fell into the world of smutty books, starting from her days as an avid reader of Harry Potter and Twilight, to discovering Fifty Shades of Grey, and now diving into dark romance and beyond.
Navigating Romance Sub-Genres: Cortney and I explored the various sub-genres of romance, including:
Cowboy Romance
Dark Romance
Mafia Romance
Billionaire Romance
Small Town Romance
We also clarified some key tropes like "grumpy-sunshine," "fake dating," and "age gap" relationships.
Curious about diving into the smutty romance world? Tune in to this episode for a full Smut 101! Be sure to follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for more tips and discussions. Also, don’t forget to check out Cortney Griffy’s podcast What the Smut are You Talking About @whatthesmutpodcast for more juicy book recs and conversations.
Ready to start your smutty reading journey? Join our Feral Girl Fall Book Club!
Feral Girl Fall IG Lives to discuss each book on the below dates:
10/16: Sinful Vow: An Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance (Mafia Misfits Book 1) - Enemies to lovers, Arranged marriage, Dark mafia
10/30: Flawless: A Small Town Enemies to Lovers Romance - Enemies to lovers, Cowboy
11/14: Pucking Around: A Why Choose Hockey Romance (Jacksonville Rays Book 1) - Why choose, MMFM, RomCom, Queer Awakening
Join FB Group now! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/HNNkwsiDqZzzotkd/
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I’m getting real and sharing my personal journey from what I call "Sad B*tch Island" to living out my own rom-com fantasy. From navigating ADHD and financial crises to running a business and dating in this wild world, I’m laying it all out there.
What We Covered:
• Financial Crises and Risk-Taking: Last year, I faced some serious financial struggles, but I’m sharing how learning how to ask for help changed everything. It’s hard being a single b*tch in this economy.
• Embracing the Delulu: Looking back, if someone had told me how things would unfold, I would've thought they were out of their mind!
• Dating Adventures and the Future: Of course, I had to dish out some personal dating stories and share my plans for what’s next. The biggest takeaway? Keep putting yourself out there and trust that amazing things can happen, even if they seem out of reach right now.
Reach out and don’t be afraid to take those risks—sometimes being delulu really is the solulu!
If you’re ready to lean into a little delulu and start making the impossible a reality, this episode is for you! Make sure to follow @ditchtheickpod on Instagram for all the updates, and stay connected for more episodes where we talk about the highs, lows, and everything in between of this crazy thing called life. Feral Fall Girl Book Club will be rolling real soon! Join the free Patreon or our Facebook group to get in on the action!
Links:
Patreon -
https://www.patreon.com/ditchtheick
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod?igsh=NG1lbzhnaHk5MGJk&utm_source=qr
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, we’re joined by a special guest — The Scotsman! Together, we dive into a hilarious adventure, exploring the wild culture differences between the U.S. and the U.K. Expect stories of epic culture shocks, bizarre encounters with "nutters" and "maniacs", and the legendary devotion to Bucc-ees. With plenty of laughs, witty banter, and unfiltered takes, this episode is a whirlwind of transatlantic chaos you won’t want to miss!
Bonus content on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/DitchtheIck
Connect with Katie:
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/
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My guest this week is Denise Holler. Denise is a Clinical Sexologist and Certified Sex Coach with a passion for enhancing the intimate lives of her clients. She believes in breaking the taboo around sex and providing education in this essential area. Specializing in working with women and couples, Denise addresses various aspects of sex and intimacy, including uneven desire, low libido, body image issues, and enhanced pleasure, all through a holistic approach known as the MEBES model. By evaluating the Mind, Emotions, Body, Energy, and Spirit, she helps individuals and couples unblock areas of concern and achieve alignment for a more fulfilling sexual experience. Denise's mission is to help people rediscover pleasure, gain confidence, and find happiness in the bedroom. Alongside her professional work, she is also an advocate for the Neurodivergent community, as she herself has ADHD and has been working with ADHD coaches for several years.
In this episode, we cover topics ranging from masturbation and body image to communication in the bedroom. It is fascinating to learn about Denise's work helping people overcome issues and fully embrace pleasure.
Connect with Denise:
Email: [email protected]
FB Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/denisehollercoachingllc
Private FB group community https://www.facebook.com/groups/dhcoachingempowered
Denise also works with The Original ADHD Coach https://www.theoriginaladhdcoach.com/
Connect with Katie:
https://www.instagram.com/ditchtheickpod/
Join the Patreon Party!
https://www.patreon.com/DitchtheIck
Join the Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchtheick/
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In this episode of Ditch the Ick, I sat down with the incredibly talented Maria Pendolino, a voice actor and TV personality who was even on an episode of one of my favorite shows 'House Hunters'. We dove deep into Maria's unique approach to online dating, and how she finally found her happily ever after—after 97 first dates!
Key Takeaways:
What the early days of online dating looked like
How to stop having pen pals, and start meeting your matches IRL
First date safety tips, tricks, and hacks
Reality vs. Real Life
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ditchtheickpod for more updates and behind-the-scenes content! And be sure to check out Maria Pendolino’s work by following her on social media @mariapendo and exploring her voice acting projects.
Like this episode? Rate it and leave us a review!
Follow Maria:
https://www.voicebymaria.com/
https://www.instagram.com/mariapendo
https://www.tiktok.com/@mariapendo
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