Real Pod

Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or like you’re running on fumes? Vic sits down with Harvard physician and stress expert Dr. Aditi Nerurkar for a powerful and practical conversation on burnout, bandwidth, and why we’re all so mentally maxed out. Dr. Aditi, author of The 5 Resets and regular on The Today Show, explains how toxic resilience and hustle culture are silently fueling our exhaustion, and shares why multitasking is actually sabotaging your brain. You’ll learn how to create digital boundaries, quiet “popcorn brain,” and embrace brain resetting tools like “stop, breathe, be” to reclaim groundedness and presence. This is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, spread thin, or like they’re spending a little too much time online. Without judgment, Vic and Dr. Aditi are here to help you reset your brain and body for less stress and more resilience!Instagram: @draditinerurkarWebsite: draditi.com// SPONSORS // Function: Function is offering 160+ Lab Tests for $365 to anyone who signs up between July 7th and July 11th. To learn more and get started, visit www.functionhealth.com/REALPODQuince: Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Max Browne is back on Real Pod for a much-needed men’s mental health convo. Vic and her husband, Max, unpack why so many men feel pressure to be stoic, the generational messages they’ve absorbed (like “man up”), and why anger is often the only emotion society allows them to show. Max shares his experiences with anxiety, therapy, and performance pressure from his football career, and how learning to express his emotions has made him a better partner, friend, and man. They also dive into how couples can create emotional safety, shift unhealthy gender roles, and hold space for each other’s needs. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by a partner who won’t open up or you’re a guy trying to navigate your own mental health, this episode will leave you seen, validated, and better equipped. Send it to the men in your life so that you can keep fostering these open conversations and keep growing in your mental health journeys together!Follow Max on Instagram @maxbrowne & TikTok @brownemaxMore episodes with Max:Max Got a New Job!! Why He’s Changing Careers & What’s NextThe Max Browne Interview - What Really Happened to the Nation's #1 RecruitVic & Max: How We Navigate Disagreements, Strengthen Our Bond, & Support Each OtherRelationship Q+A with Vic & Max! How to Shoot Your Shot, Find Your Teammate for Life, & Communicate Effectively7 Tips For Building A Healthy Relationship (Ft. My Husband, Max!)// SPONSORS // CozyEarth: Get 40% off at cozyearth.com when you use REALPOD. AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 and 5 free travel packs in your first box! So make sure to check out drinkag1.com/realpod to get this offer! Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Debrief with Vic and her BFF Natalie (aka @corporatenatalie) on her engagement and wedding plans! From the subtle ways her friends and fiancé tried to keep it a secret to the surprise proposal to the whirlwind celebration with friends and family, Natalie shares every behind-the-scenes detail. She opens up about how she met her now-fiancé through a romcom-worthy setup, the moment she knew he was her forever teammate, and what it’s like being in a relationship with someone completely off social media. Plus, Vic and Natalie get real about navigating privacy boundaries with their partners and future kids, the pressure to get perfect wedding content, and why you shouldn’t overcomplicate your proposal pics. Natalie’s bridal era is just getting started, so tune in to learn what’s next and get a reminder of what really matters when you find your person and say yes to forever.Follow Natalie on Instagram: @corporatenatalie// SPONSORS //Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Beam: Go to shopbeam.com/realpod and use REALPOD at checkout for up to 40% off! Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Armani Latimer is a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and breakout star of Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts, who is redefining beauty and speaking out about her alopecia journey. In this episode, she shares the raw story of the day her wig came off, along with the last of her hair, and how that moment changed everything. From secretly covering bald spots to performing wig-free on national TV, Armani opens up about finding the confidence to stop hiding and let the world see her as she is. She and Victoria talk about the pressure female athletes face to be perfect, the reality of hair loss in women, and how to build self-confidence when insecurities run deep. Tune in to witness the power of vulnerability, the impact of representation, and why Armani’s story matters to every woman who’s ever questioned her worth.Instagram: @ac_latimerIf you love Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts, check out this episode: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Victoria Kalina on Mental Health, Body Image, & What's Next// SPONSORS // LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. Just Thrive: Visit justthrivehealth.com and use code REALPOD for 20% off your first 90 day bottle. That’s like getting a month for free! Quince: Give yourself the luxury you deserve with Quince! Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sex therapist Vanessa Marin is here to take the intimidation out of intimacy. With 20 years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist and millions of views online, Vanessa and her husband, Xander, have become a go-to couple for real, shame-free conversations about sex. In this episode, Vic opens up about her own sexy journey as they dive into how to communicate with your partner, reduce shame, and strengthen emotional and physical connection. From why a six-second kiss matters to what intentional initiation actually looks like, this episode is full of game-changing tools to make you feel more comfortable and confident in the bedroom.Instagram: @vanessaandxanderWebsite: vmtherapy.comRead: Eight Dates by John Gottman, MD// SPONSORS //Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Paired: Head to paired.com/realpod to get a 7-day free trail and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Celebrity makeup artist and Vic’s bestie, Michelle DeLorenzo, aka the talent behind Vic’s glam and go-to girl for stars like Lauryn Bosstick and Tinx, joins the pod to talk about manifesting dream opportunities in your career, friendship in your twenties, and rebuilding your connection to self (especially after a breakup). As one of Vic’s best friends, Michelle shares what makes their bond so special, the power of solo dates, and how trusting her intuition led her to the life she once only dreamed of. Whether you've been through a breakup recently, are curious about how to take your business to the next level, or are just craving a fun convo with besties, tune in to hear how supportive friendships can inspire you and carry you through anything life throws your way.Follow Michelle on Instagram: @michelledelorenzo// SPONSORS // AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 and 5 free travel packs in your first box! So make sure to check out drinkag1.com/realpod to get this offer!  Beam: Go to shopbeam.com/realpod and use REALPOD at checkout for up to 40% off! Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vic is reflecting on turning 28 and the mindset shifts helping her feel more aligned, grounded, and true to herself. From exiting her hustle era and protecting her energy, to pulling back on people-pleasing and rewriting her self-talk, this solo episode is an unfiltered check-in on what’s changed, and what’s finally clicking. Vic shares why she skipped a big birthday celebration, how she’s building deeper self-trust, and the small but powerful ways she’s being kinder to herself this year. Tune in for honest reflections on getting older, slowing down, and giving yourself permission to be imperfect.Related episodes:This Will Change Your Life — A Powerful Lesson On Joy From Cancer Fighter Jeffrey SaadHow To Overcome Perfectionism & Self-Criticism w/ Expert Dr. Ellen Hendriksen// SPONSORS // Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Storyworth: Right now save $10 during Storyworth’s Father’s Day sale when you go to storyworth.com/realpod. Just Thrive: Visit justhrive.com and use code REALPOD for 20% off your first 90-day bottle. That’s like getting a month free! Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your twenties are a time of major change and transition, and here to help you navigate it all are Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik - founders, authors, and co-hosts of the Almost 30 podcast. In this soul-nourishing episode, Krista and Lindsey share what their Saturn Return taught them about becoming the most authentic version of themselves, and help Vic work through what’s surfacing in her own Saturn Return. From inner child healing to evolving friendships, they explore how to tune into your own energy, recognize patterns, and extend yourself grace through growth. Because the truth is, change isn’t something to fear, it’s the exact thing that shapes you into who you’re meant to be. Tune in for big sister wisdom and a reminder that you’re not behind - you’re becoming.Book Pre-Order: Almost 30: A Definitive Guide to a Life You Love for the Next Decade and Beyond by Krista Williams and Lindsey SimcikInstagram: @almost30podcastWebsite: almost30podcast.comRelated Real Pod episodes:RAINN WILSON: From The Office to Enlightenment, Why The World Needs A Soul BoomMy Live Therapy Session with Gabby Bernstein!// SPONSORS // LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Better Help: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. Beam: Go to shopbeam.com/realpod and use REALPOD at checkout for up to 40% off! Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If perfectionism is your favorite weakness, this one’s for you. Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, clinical psychologist and author of How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists, joins Vic to unpack the roots of perfectionism, how it shows up in everyday life, and why so many of us feel like we have to earn our worth. They explore the difference between healthy ambition and toxic self-criticism, how to find that middle ground where you’re still growing without burning out, and what it really means to practice self-compassion. Vic opens up about her own struggles with perfectionism—from how playing D1 volleyball enhanced her inner critic to why she regrets overplanning Max’s 30th birthday—and shares the tools she’s learning to prioritize presence over performance. Whether you overthink, overachieve, or feel like you’re never quite doing enough, this conversation will help you let go of the pressure and embrace the messiness of being human.Website: ellenhendriksen.comInstagram: @ellen_hendriksenBook: How to Be Enough: Self-Acceptance for Self-Critics and Perfectionists by Dr. Ellen Hendriksen// SPONSORS // Quince: Treat your closet to a little summer glow-up with Quince. Go to quince.com/realpod for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns! Paper Doll By Dylan Mulvaney: Buy your copy of Paper Doll here or wherever books are sold!Paired: Head to paired.com/realpod to get a 7-day free trail and 25% off if you sign up for a subscription. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever wondered how Vic started The Hidden Opponent? Or what it really takes to launch and run a non-profit? This episode is your crash course! Vic shares why she founded THO, how Kobe Bryant played a key role, and the real behind-the-scenes of building a movement for student-athlete mental health. She also introduces THO’s new CEO, their Avengers-level Board of Directors, and gives a sneak peek at the adidas x The Hidden Opponent collab — out now! If you’re passionate about mental health or want to make a difference, this episode will leave you fired up to take action. Shop the collection: Learn more: thehiddenopponent.orgFollow: @thehiddenopponentVic’s TEDx Talk: The Hidden Opponent: Student Athletes And Mental HealthRead:  Geese Are Never Swans by Kobe Bryant// SPONSORS // Beam: Get 40% off their best-selling Dream Powder by heading to shop beam.com/realpod or using code REALPOD. Cozy Earth: Get 40% off with my code REALPOD and to celebrate Moms everywhere, this weekend only May 2-4, Cozy Earth is giving my listeners a special promo: Buy One, Get One Free Bamboo pajamas! Use code REALPODBOGO to take advantage of this. She deserves the best! LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that’s 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.