Our Most Talked About Conversations: Open Marriages & The New Kind Of Divorce

Open marriages have been quite the topic on the show this year so when we were deciding which shows to bring you as part of Our Most Talked About Conversations summer listening, this episode was a no-brainer. Mindy Kaling recently revealed she chose solo motherhood because she didn't want to compromise on money, career decisions, or parenting choices. She joins a growing number of high-profile women who are reimagining traditional approaches to family, marriage and relationships. We unpack the rise of intentional solo parenting and non-traditional family structures. Plus, everyone's talking about this surprise TV hit of the year (and no, it's not The White Lotus). We discuss why it's capturing everyone's attention. And in our recommendations: jelly beans vs brussels sprouts in an unexpected health showdown, and Mia discovers a soothing video trend that's helping her unwind. Support independent women's media Don't miss an episode of Mamamia Out Loud Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  'After 20 years, we opened up our marriage. Here are the rules that worked for us.' 'I asked my husband if we could open our marriage. Here's what happened.' 'I went out for a drink with another man. I came home to an open marriage.' The 'grey divorce' phenomenon that no one's talking about. 'The perks of divorce nobody talks about. But everyone should hear.' THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's worth your time, your attention and your money this year according to Mamamia Out Loud? So glad you asked. Well... Sinners. Blusher. Chalamet. Bed Hair. Eyeliner, and a 40-year-old book. These are just some of the recommendations Amelia Lester, Emily Vernem, Jessie Stephens and Holly Wainwright are pulling out from the very long list of reccos they made in 2025 for the first half of their comprehensive list. Feel free to give feedback. It's a gift, you know. Support independent women's media  Movie & TV Recommendations Holly recommends A Real Pain and Sinners   Jessie recommends Titan: The Oceangate Submersible Disaster Amelia recommends A Complete Unknown and Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere Em recommends  Sinners too and Superman  Book Recommendations Holly recommends One Hundred Years of Betty by Debra Oswald Jessie recommends The Elements by John Boyne  Amelia recommends Show Don't Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld Em recommends How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang Beauty Recommendations Holly recommends Ellis Faas Skin Veil Foundation   Jessie recommends Kevin Murphy Bedroom Hair and the Baies Room Spray Amelia recommends the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid eyeliner Em recommends the Sephora Collection New Cream Lip Stain in Naughty Burgundy Best Hacks & Random Reccos Holly recommends Virginia Trioli’s green beans and RecipeTin Eats mango pancakes Jessie recommends using Depop or Facebook Marketplace.   Amelia recommends getting the newspaper delivered.  Em recommends a cleanser hack where she sits in front of the TV massaging her oil cleanser in for 20 minutes. What To Listen To Next:  Don't miss an episode of Mamamia Out Loud Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Which of your festive traditions are just plain 'tacky'? Emily Vernem has a list, and you're probably on it. Holly Wainwright and Jessie Stephens certainly are.  This is the last 'normal programming' show for 2025, and we're leaning into comfort and joy. We're bringing all our predictions for 2026 including the fate of some celebrity relationships, the details of the most famous woman in the world's wedding dress, and whether or not it will be the Year Of The Unusual Face. We also revisit what we said would happen in 2025. Some of us were more right than others.  Plus, the letter you should absolutely write yourself before the year is out, and recommendations.  Also: Here is the essay, by Maggie Alderson, that inspired our 'letter' chat: https://www.mamamia.com.au/december-letter-to-self/ Support independent women's media Recommendations Em recommends Heated Rivalry for all your steamy, hockey playing TV needs. Jessie recommends Anatomy of a Cancellation on ABC. Holly recommends the Beth's Dead podcast.  What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: Our Glimmers of 2025 Listen: The Bondi Stories We’ll Never Forget & How To Be A Good Guest Listen: The Unspoken Etiquette Of Friendship Listen: A Sunday Evening At Bondi Beach Listen: The Rudest Question You've Definitely Asked This Week Listen: Jessie's Twin Pregnancy Update: They're Doing What Now? Listen: The Performers Who Have Had Enough Of Australia Listen: Things You Fantasise About When You're Single Listen: The Most Surprising Relationship Red Flag Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  'What's your favourite nostalgic Christmas tradition? Your answer tells me everything.' 'I asked a psychic for her 2025 predictions, and what she said floored me.' 'It makes zero sense on paper. But I've finally figured out why Kylie and Timothée work.' 'Millions of people are watching Heated Rivalry. It's the hottest TV show I've seen all year.' A brutally honest review of Meghan Markle's new Netflix series. THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloud CREDITS: Hosts: Emily Vernem, Jessie Stephens & Holly Wainwright Group Executive Producer: Ruth Devine Executive Producer: Sasha Tannock Audio Producer: Leah Porges Video Producer: Josh Green Junior Content Producer: Tessa KotowiczBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are names we will never forget from the Bondi attacks. On today's show, Jessie, Holly and Amelia want to honour just a few of the many heroes who risked — and in some cases lost — their lives trying to save others in the worst terror attack ever to happen on Australia's soil. And we want to tell you a little bit about what it feels like in Sydney, and at Bondi at the moment.  Not everyone is able to turn their attention elsewhere this week, but for those who can and want to, we're having some other conversations, too. Like, Taylor Swift, Timothee Chalamet and the era of being able to say, "Yeah, I'm pretty good at this" without cringe.  And, the power of gathering. Being together has never felt more urgent, but at whose house, and who's bringing the cake? Even if you hate hosting, it's hard to avoid at this time of year and you know what makes it better? Good guests. We tell you how to be one, and Amelia shares a thank-you note rule that impressed us all.   Resources: If you or someone you know is in need of support contact help is available: Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 46361800RESPECT  1800 737 732 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800Mental Health Line 1800 011 511Transcultural Mental Health Line 1800 648 911  Support independent women's media  What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: The Unspoken Etiquette Of Friendship Listen: A Sunday Evening At Bondi Beach Listen: The Rudest Question You've Definitely Asked This Week Listen: Jessie's Twin Pregnancy Update: They're Doing What Now? Listen: The Performers Who Have Had Enough Of Australia Listen: Things You Fantasise About When You're Single Listen: The Most Surprising Relationship Red Flag Listen: The Seven Year Friendship Rule Listen: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  Boris and Sofia Gurman bravely tried to stop the first bullet. They died in each others arms. The cost of running towards danger. Three days on, this is what we know about the Bondi terror attack. These are the people who should have made it home from Bondi Beach. The 6 unexpected things we learnt from Taylor Swift's new docuseries. 'I'm a chef and food influencer. Here are my 6 best hacks for hosting a dinner party this weekend.' THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not a usual show today, because it's not a usual day.  At sunset on Sunday, at Australia's most famous beach, Australia experienced the worst act of terrorism ever to take place on our soil. As the local Jewish community celebrated the beginning of Chanukah, families gathered around food, face-painting and even a petting zoo for an 'everyone is welcome' opening to the Festival Of Lights. And two men opened fire.  Some Outlouders will be directly affected by what happened on Sunday. Others will be far removed but asking how this could happen here in Australia, and what they can do to help. Some will just want to talk it over. Today Mia Freedman, Jessie Stephens, Holly Wainwright and Amelia Lester are here to do exactly that.  Resources: If you or someone you know is in need of support contact help is available: Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 46361800RESPECT  1800 737 732 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800Mental Health Line 1800 011 511Transcultural Mental Health Line 1800 648 911  Support independent women's media  What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: The Rudest Question You've Definitely Asked This Week Listen: Jessie's Twin Pregnancy Update: They're Doing What Now? Listen: The Performers Who Have Had Enough Of Australia Listen: Things You Fantasise About When You're Single Listen: The Most Surprising Relationship Red Flag Listen: The Seven Year Friendship Rule Listen: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Listen: The Thing You Can’t Say About Having Kids Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  This is who we are. A man in a white T-shirt. Not a terrorist with a gun. These are the people who should have made it home from Bondi Beach. As gunshots rang out across Bondi Beach, these ordinary people did extraordinary things. 'This cowardly act of terrifying violence is painful to see.' Police update on Bondi Beach terror attack. THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When do ‘preventative’ injections cross the line and start making you look older? Can wearing a bra to bed really prevent sagging? And do you need to see a gynaecologist if you've never had sex? In this episode, we speak to Consultant Dermatologist and Specialist Cosmetic Injector, Dr Cara McDonald to get the truth about anti-ageing, skincare ingredients and cosmetic procedures. She gives her expert rating (out of 10) for the most popular skincare ingredients -  from your hyaluronic acids to your retinoids -  and if they’re really that great in the fight against ageing.We cover everything from why the operator is more important than the device, the dangers of over-filling and when removing all movement from your face can actually backfire…  Dr Mariam breaks down the serious risks of ‘cosmetic tourism’, the differences between a ‘Plastic Surgeon’ and ‘cosmetic surgeon’ and how to identify a properly credentialed practitioner. Plus, we settle the "to bra in bed or not to bra in bed" debate, and whether it has any proven impact on sagging. And, in our quick consult, Dr Mariam answers a listener’s question about whether you still need to see that doctor if you've never done the deed. THE END BITS All your health information is in the Well Hub. Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon. Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here, email here or leave us a voice note here. Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room. Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok. Support independent women’s media by becoming a Mamamia subscriber CREDITS Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam Guest: Dr Cara McDonald  Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best Audio Producer: Scott Stronach Video Producer: Julian Rosario Social Producer: Elly Moore Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the time of the year when you have to rub up against other people in all kinds of ways. And so obviously Jessie, Holly and Em needed to bring an updated etiquette guide. So, what's a great question, what's a rude one and do you always, always need to give a gift receipt? And, are you struggling to make a big decision about the new year? Of course you are. We have a new framework to help: Is this a Hat, Haircut or Tattoo problem?  Plus, a dilemma for the ages: Is a straight man cheating if he continually 'likes' another woman’s Instagram posts? Thankfully, a court has cleared this up.  And of course, recommendations: Something to make life easier, something to make yourself smell lovely and something to make the Gen Xers feel smug.  Support independent women's media Em recommends the Ouai hair and body mist in the scent St Barts Jessie recommends the Dinner Ladies Christmas dishes Holly recommends the essay in the New York Times, Is Gen X Actually the Greatest Generation? and creating a lucky dip of loved Christmas movies using an empty jar. What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: Jessie's Twin Pregnancy Update: They're Doing What Now? Listen: The Performers Who Have Had Enough Of Australia Listen: Things You Fantasise About When You're Single Listen: The Most Surprising Relationship Red Flag Listen: The Seven Year Friendship Rule Listen: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Listen: The Thing You Can’t Say About Having Kids Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  An expert told us there are 5 things a partner will do before they cheat on you. 'Just 10 Christmas gifts that won't end up in the "re-gift" pile.' Exactly what to wear to your work Christmas party, according to a fashion editor. A definitive list of the 13 best Christmas movies of all time. My boss is about to become my mother-in-law. So I wrote a list of 7 rules for her to follow. THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloud CREDITS: Hosts: Em Vernem, Jessie Stephens & Holly Wainwright Group Executive Producer: Ruth Devine Executive Producer: Sasha Tannock Audio Producer: Leah Porges Video Producer: Josh Green Junior Content Producer: Tessa KotowiczBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Performers are totally over it, and their end-of-year burnout is highly relatable content. But also, are we, the crowds, worse than we've ever been? This week a 90s rock legend ripped into a concert-goer at a Melbourne show and we want to know — do any of us know how to behave any more?  And, in what seems like very unsurprising news, adult content creator Bonnie Blue has been arrested in Bali. But why did she take her 'bang bus' there in the first place? Plus, scams. Amelia has a scam story that will make your hair stand on end, Holly says fears of being ripped-off make holiday shopping harder than battling traffic at the carpark and Jessie wonders what living in an era of mass distrust is doing to us all.  Also, Pammy and Liam, Katy and Justin, Kylie and Timmmeeee — we're bringing you the celebrity romance and fauxmance updates not one of us asked for. Oh, and bananas.  Support independent women's media  What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: Things You Fantasise About When You're Single Listen: The Most Surprising Relationship Red Flag Listen: The Seven Year Friendship Rule Listen: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Listen: The Thing You Can’t Say About Having Kids Listen: The Good Guest's Guide To Wedding Etiquette Listen: The Woman Who 'Caused' Family Estrangement Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau just hard-launched their relationship. 'Celebrities keep pulling PR stunts and I'm officially exhausted.' MIA FREEDMAN: 'What the Taylor concert was really like.' A woman, a glass box, and 2,000 men. We’ve been here before, and it never ends well. 'I watched Bonnie Blue's documentary. She had me convinced until the final 5 minutes.' THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift never fight. Nor do George and Amal Clooney. Not about work, money, cleaning, travel or whose turn it is to feed the dog (sorry, cats.) An aspirational relationship goal? Or a flashing red flag? Also, this week the whole world is looking at Australia as our world-first social media delay kicks in on Wednesday, December 10. So, what are we to make of the poll that says only a third of Aussie parents are actually going to enforce the ban that experts are calling "a mothers' revolution"?  Plus, Oprah Winfrey is in Australia and drawing huge crowds with her trademark a-ha moments. So why is Oprah still so interesting to Aussie women in 2025?  And, there's a very relevant Word of The Year, and a very intimidating Colour Of The Year, and Amelia, Jessie and Holly have a theory that they're linked.  Support independent women's media  Friends, what’s your Word of the Year for 2026, and why? Please let us know by emailing: [email protected] or, even better, by leaving us a voice note. What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: The Seven Year Friendship Rule Listen: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Listen: The Thing You Can’t Say About Having Kids Listen: The Good Guest's Guide To Wedding Etiquette Listen: The Woman Who 'Caused' Family Estrangement Listen: All The Things We Didn’t Need To Know About The Sex Scandal Of The Year Listen: So, Are You Rude With Money? Listen: The Women Quietly Quitting Their Husbands & Your High School Ghost Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  Oprah spoke to parents and kids on either side of 'no-contact.' These are their stories. HOLLY WAINWRIGHT: 'How to really have a conversation with your kids about the social media ban.' We break down everything you need to know about Australia's under-16 social media ban. 'Travis Kelce admitted one thing he never does with Taylor Swift. It's the biggest red flag ever.' Bonnie thinks all men should cheat on their wives. Before you get angry, read this. THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should you 'shed' friends every seven years? We hear out the expert who says yes. She also knows why you feel like you have no mates, and has some advice for how to attract some new ones. And no, Jessie, Em and Holly don't all like it. Also, the new micro-compatibility test for prospective partners. Lead question: How long before a flight do you like to get to the airport?  Plus, all our recommendations. One of which is for the stellar Out Loud gift guide, coming into your inbox from the Holly Out Loud newsletter tomorrow — but only if you're subscribed: Support independent women's media - subscribe here. MERCH NEWS: Time is running out. The sale on Out Loud T-shirts and tote bags is ending soon! Get the T-shirt for $50 and the tote bag for $20. Sale ends Dec 6. Shop now. 🎉 🎉 🎉 🎉 Recommendations Em recommends the Skoop Anti Chafe Balm that she swears by. Jessie recommends The Names by Florence Knapp.  Holly recommends A Very Outloud Gift Guide, the ultimate one-stop shop on the Holly Out Loud Substack. This gift guide releases Saturday morning. What To Listen To Next:  Listen to our latest episode: The 6 Different Types Of People Pleasers Listen: The Thing You Can’t Say About Having Kids Listen: The Good Guest's Guide To Wedding Etiquette Listen: The Woman Who 'Caused' Family Estrangement Listen: All The Things We Didn’t Need To Know About The Sex Scandal Of The Year Listen: So, Are You Rude With Money? Listen: The Women Quietly Quitting Their Husbands & Your High School Ghost Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. Watch Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read:  'In news no one saw coming, "handies" are the new d**k pics.' 'Young women are overtaking the F1 fan base. I know exactly why.' 'I'd never heard of a friendship "catch-up trap". Turns out, I'm in one.' 'Sometimes the cracks get too big.' Why I'm letting a 40-year friendship go. These are the 8 dates you need to go on to know if you're compatible with someone. THE END BITS:  Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at [email protected] Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloud CREDITS: Hosts: Emily Vernem, Jessie Stephens & Holly Wainwright Group Executive Producer: Ruth Devine Executive Producer: Sasha Tannock Audio Producer: Leah Porges Video Producer: Josh Green Junior Content Producer: Tessa KotowiczBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.