Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project

Michelle Anderson & Lauren Massarella

Hosted by Michelle Anderson and Lauren Massarella, sisters and wellness, lifestyle bloggers from the midwest, their talk-radio inspired show is a bi-weekly podcast about everyday life experiences, pop culture, current events, and everything in between. Recorded from the comforts of their own home and born out of the desire to have more fulfilling, thought-provoking, and entertaining conversations, welcome to Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project. Support this podcast: <a href="https://anchor.fm/cozy-conversations/support">https://anchor.fm/cozy-conversations/support</a>

  • 1 hour 14 minutes
    374 | Heated Rivalry: The Show We Didn’t Know We Needed

    Welcome back, WIFs! In this cozy and emotionally rich episode, sisters Lauren and Michelle settle in with oat milk cortados and reflect on what they’re caring less about lately—overcommitting, anxiety-fueled overthinking, and saying yes when the bandwidth just isn’t there. After a comforting catch-up filled with cozy gatherings, board nights with friends, and the joy of simply being together, the conversation turns to the episode’s Hot Topic: Heated Rivalry.

    Lauren and Michelle unpack why this steamy, deeply emotional story stirred up all the feelings—from themes of love, longing, secrecy, and vulnerability to the unexpected release of crying over something beautiful instead of heavy. They reflect on how art and storytelling can crack us open in the best way, why letting yourself feel deeply can be healing, and how caring less sometimes means allowing yourself to feel more. Along the way, they share what they’re reading, watching, and listening to, and wrap up with Simple Joys rooted in food, family, and tenderness. Press play, snuggle up, and join us for a cozy conversation that feels like a deep exhale.

    Resources:

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    This episode is sponsored by Posey Law Group.

    29 January 2026, 7:47 am
  • 1 hour 10 minutes
    373 | Winter Survival Part 2: Tips from the Experts

    Welcome back, WIFs! In this cozy winter episode, sisters Lauren and Michelle sip a nutrient-packed shake and chat about what they’re caring less about this season—from the pressure of no-chip manicures to unnecessary judgment and noise. They catch up on wardrobe shifts, the joys of clothing rental and vintage shopping, and then settle into Winter Survival: Part 2, sharing thoughtful, research-backed ways to actually enjoy winter instead of wishing it away. From changing your lighting and embracing slow hobbies to scent memories, invented holidays, and spending more time outdoors, this conversation reframes winter as a season of intention and hope. Plus, cozy reading, watching, and listening recs, a housekeeping note, and Simple Joys of the Week—including first sips of coffee and the magic of creating a cozy café at home. Press play, snuggle up, and let winter feel a little warmer.

    Resources:

    Paines Balsam Fir Incense

    Ka'Chava Protein Shake

    9 Ways To Embrace Winter

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    This episode is sponsored by Posey Law Group.




    22 January 2026, 7:17 am
  • 1 hour 12 minutes
    372 | The Year of Analog and Why Presence Is the New Luxury

    Welcome back, WIFs!

    In this cozy catch-up episode, sisters Lauren and Michelle reflect on the sweetness of the post-holiday pause, sip Costco hot green tea, and talk about what they’re intentionally caring less about—from anxiety-inducing college admissions noise to that pesky whisker. They share why the week between Christmas and New Year is pure magic, unpack a meaningful New Year ritual that led to the word correspondence, and explore what it looks like to go slower and focus on tiny, thoughtful details.

    The conversation naturally flows into a hot topic close to their hearts: why 2026 feels like the year of analog, from puzzles and snail mail to vinyl, planners, and real phone calls. Plus, there’s sponsor love, cozy media recs, and Simple Joys of the Week—including lingering Christmas lights and heartfelt handwritten notes that prove written words still matter.

    Press play, snuggle up, and settle into this comforting, intentional, and very cozy conversation.

    Resources:

    2026 Planners

    Costco Green Tea

    Why Everyone Is Logging Off in 2026

    PLG Maven Use our code Cozy Maven for 10% off.

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    Thank you to our sponsor Posey Law Group.

    15 January 2026, 7:38 am
  • 1 hour 20 minutes
    371 | The Power of Starting Over: TJ Booth on Sobriety &amp; Self-Discovery

    Welcome back, WIFs! Today, we’re joined by our wonderful friend, creator, and fellow podcaster, TJ Booth, host of the Sober Gay Guy podcast. This cozy conversation is filled with honesty, vulnerability, resilience—and yes—a delicious mocktail.

    We revisit one of the most important questions we asked TJ last time:
    “When you’re thinking about quitting drinking, where should you start?”
    TJ wasn’t thrilled with his original answer, so today he gives us a powerful do-over—one filled with clarity, compassion, and intention.

    We also dive into TJ’s beloved sober rituals, how he brings coziness into his everyday life, and the recent makeover that has Michelle and Lauren obsessed (hello, handlebar mustache era!). From Trader Joe’s favorites to what he’s reading, watching, and listening to—this is one of the warmest and most open episodes yet.

    Plus, we share our Simple Joys of the Week, chat about the stunning children’s book Good Night LaGrange, Good Night Western Springs by Taylor D. Tomlison, and gush over the new Frankenstein film that TJ convinced Lauren and Michelle to go see ASAP.

    Cozy up, pour yourself a mocktail, and enjoy this heart-forward conversation.

    Resources

    Good Night, La Grange

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    Shop Our Seasonal Candles

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    Thank you to our sponsors, Lizzie Selle Studio & Let It Be Us

    18 December 2025, 7:50 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    370 | A Very Cozy Holiday Special: Joy, Simple Pleasures &amp; Seasonal Melancholy

    Welcome back, WIFs! In this festive Holiday Special, Michelle and Lauren settle in with cozy drinks, snowy-night stories, and all the magic (and melancholy) that this season brings. From a perfect snow-filled crafting night with Mia to Lauren’s new “traveling drink system,” the sisters share the simple moments that have been filling their cups this December.

    They dive into the traditions and history behind the Feast of the Seven Fishes, introduce us to Cosmo the Gnome in the Home, and chat about the beautiful chaos of holiday photos, décor wish lists, and the Christkindlmarket drama of 2025. You’ll also hear what they’ve been reading, watching, and listening to—from spicy holiday romances to cozy thrillers and feel-good podcasts.

    Plus, enjoy festive recommendations, sponsor shoutouts, and their Simple Joy of the Week: snow and glowing Christmas tree windows—arguably the best holiday décor of all.

    Press play, get cozy, and settle into this warm, funny, and intensely seasonal conversation.

    Resources:

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    Shop Our Seasonal Candles

    Check Out Our Website

    Thank you to our sponsor.

    Lizzie Selle Studio



    11 December 2025, 7:36 am
  • 1 hour 7 minutes
    369 | Holiday Nuts, Creative Guts &amp; Cozy Chats with Blake Tamarkin

    Welcome back, WIFs! In this heartfelt episode, sisters Lauren and Michelle sit down with longtime friend and talented filmmaker Blake Tamarkin. From a festive ice breaker (yes, chocolate-covered peppermint almonds!) to the creative journey behind his latest film, Third Wheel, Blake shares the inspiration, challenges, and joys of working vulnerably with family.

    They dive into creative doubt, Hollywood experiences, and the advice Blake has for anyone hesitant to start their own project. Plus, enjoy Third Wheel thoughts, a cozy holiday movie rec, and the Simple Joy of the Week.

    Press play, snuggle up, and soak in this funny, inspiring, and cozy conversation.

    Resources:

    Third Wheel

    Full Out Films

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    Shop Our Seasonal Candles

    Check Out Our Website

    Thank you to our sponsors;

    Lizzie Selle Studio

    Let It Be Us

    4 December 2025, 7:14 am
  • 1 hour 6 minutes
    368 | On Teens Growing Up, Holiday Rage &amp; Staying Grounded

    Welcome back, WIFs! In this cozy catch-up, Michelle and Lauren settle in with ginger-molasses cookies, share a big holiday announcement, and dive into the whirlwind of real emotions that come with this season of life. From a beautiful Naples wedding with lifelong friends to navigating holiday prep, mom-grief, and the emotional toll of the world right now, this episode is equal parts heartfelt, hilarious, and human.

    The sisters also share what they’re reading, watching, and listening to, plus the simple joys that grounded them this week. If you’re craving warmth, honesty, and a little levity, pour a cup and settle in.

    Cozy, mindful, real — just how we like it.

    Resources:

    Follow Us!

    Shop Our Seasonal Candles

    Check Out Our Website

    Thank you to our sponsors;

    Let It Be Us

    Lizzie Selle Studio


    27 November 2025, 1:36 pm
  • 1 hour 4 minutes
    367 | The Power of Speaking Up: Boys and Men’s Mental Health with Jimmy Maley

    Welcome back, WIFs!

    Grab your coffee and settle in for another cozy chat with Lauren and Michelle. This week, they welcome fellow SJC Wildcat and podcaster Jimmy Maley, from The Maley Way Podcast, for a heartfelt, funny, and refreshingly honest conversation about boys, men, their mental health - and why empathy is actually the most badass trait a man can have.

    Together, the trio digs into mental health, Jimmy’s experience with depression, and the tricky space between masculinity and vulnerability. Jimmy opens up about what he’s seeing in young men today and how parents can show up better for their sons. Expect laughter, insight, and a few “huh, that’s so true” moments.

    A very cozy thank-you to our sponsor, Let It Be Us, for the beautiful work they’re doing in foster care and adoption across Illinois. And Lizzie Selle Studio for allowing us the opportunity to show off some of her incredible one of a kind creations.

    So light a candle, grab your blanket, and press play. This one’s for anyone raising sons, has a man in their life, or just trying to understand them better because the truth is, mental health struggles don’t discriminate.

    Resources:

    The Maley Way

    Follow Us

    Shop Our Seasonal Candles

    Check Out Our Website

    Thank you to our sponsors;

    Let It Be Us

    Lizzie Selle Studio

    20 November 2025, 7:46 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    366 | The Cozy Reset: How to Embrace the Darker Season and Actually Love It

    Grab your peppermint tea and settle in — Lauren and Michelle are back with another cozy, laughter-filled catch-up that’ll make you want to slow down, care less, and do a little more of nothing.

    This week, the sisters dive into Michelle’s Sip & Rip Retreat (a.k.a. the coziest girls’ getaway of the year) — complete with bracelet ceremonies, decoupaged shells, and a surprisingly delightful alcohol-free experience. You’ll also pick up a new holiday mocktail recipe that’s as festive as it is functional: Marcy’s Cherry Ginger Mocktail.

    Then, the convo turns inward (and hygge AF) as Lauren and Michelle talk about finding joy in the simple sh*t — leaning into the darker, slower season, decluttering, and realizing that maybe… we already have everything we need. Expect cozy tips galore — from Trader Joe’s candles and simmer pots to early bedtimes and peppermint tea.

    They also chat about The War of Art (a creative kick in the pants) and why VO₂ max might just be your key to longevity — plus, a few laughs over the worst movie rewatch of all time.

    This one’s for anyone ready to embrace cozy season, simplify life, and find joy in being, not doing.

    Resources:

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    Shop Our Candles!

    Check Our Our Website!

    Thank you to our sponsors;

    Lizzie Selle Studio

    Let It Be Us


    13 November 2025, 7:48 pm
  • 58 minutes 5 seconds
    365 | How to Care Less (and Enjoy More) This Holiday Season

    Lauren and Michelle are back with a cozy reminder to do less and enjoy more this holiday season. From slowing down and caring less to embracing the art of doing absolutely nothing, this episode is your permission slip to simplify the season.

    Things kick off with laughter over Kim Kardashian’s latest creation—SKIMS merkins (yes, pubic wigs are a thing again)—before diving into Michelle’s first-ever Artist’s Date at a cozy indie bookstore and Lauren’s tales from the toddler bedtime trenches.

    The sisters chat about homemade ornaments, vintage sequins, and June’s famous dill and ranch CRACKers while sharing how to ditch the holiday chaos and focus on connection over perfection. With their signature blend of humor and heart, they offer practical tips for reclaiming calm: set boundaries, rest often, and embrace the cozy sabbath.

    They also spotlight their featured partners, Let It Be Us and Helping Hand Signature Homes, and wrap up with what they’re watching, listening to, and their simple joys of the week.

    So go on—slow down, care less, do nothing, and get cozy with The Sister Project.

    Resources:

    Follow Us!

    Shop Our Seasonal Candles!

    Check Our Our Website!

    Thank you to our sponsors;

    ⁠Let It Be Us⁠

    ⁠Helping Hand⁠

    6 November 2025, 7:34 am
  • 1 hour 6 minutes
    364 | Haunted in La Grange: Real Ghost Stories &amp; Cozy Chills

    This week, we’re getting spooky cozy as Lauren shares true ghost stories from her time living in their family’s historic La Grange home. From eerie footsteps to unexplained sightings, this Halloween episode is packed with real-life chills and nostalgic small-town vibes.

    Michelle brings a little magic of her own after attending a witch party (yes, spells were cast—intentionally). She dives into what that experience taught her about energy, ritual, and modern witchcraft.

    Meanwhile, Lauren and Anthony find themselves at a Bears game with an oddly aggressive fan — proving that hauntings come in many forms.

    And for true crime lovers, Lauren rounds things out with her take on Devil in Disguise, the bone-chilling John Wayne Gacy series that’s as disturbing as it sounds.

    Pour yourself a dark roast or a mulled cider, get cozy under your blanket, and join the sisters for a Halloween episode that’s part ghost story, part real-life weirdness, and fully Cozy Conversations.

    Thank you to our Sponsors:

    Let It Be Us

    Helping Hand

    30 October 2025, 6:47 am
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