Coffee to Cocktails: Recent Episodes
Coffee to Cocktails Podcast
Grab a front row seat for a nostalgic conversation about the movies we love (and a few hilarious mentions about films we DIDN'T love so much). We discuss Glenn "Wanda" Close grubbin' on fried catfish and mackin on Omar Epps in her latest Netflix feature. We recite lines from favorite scenes, and discuss movies that literally made us snore in the theater. Lights, Camera, Action ....grab your drink and bring your popcorn. Tonight's libation is a refreshing Blueberry Lemon Sangria.
Ingredients:Lemon slices
Blueberries
1 oz of Blueberry or Regular Vodka
1 oz of simple syrup
½ oz of orange liqueur
1 oz fresh lemon juice
4 oz Pinot Grigio
Soda Water
Add 2 lemon slices and a handful of
blueberries
Muddle with simple syrup
Add vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and
wine
Top off with soda water
Give a stir and garnish with a lemon wheel
and some blueberries
Enjoy!
In this episode, Nina and Kristin talk about the journey oflosing weight, with guest, Darren (Nina’s husband). During the episode, Darren shares how he has lost over 60 pounds and the techniques he has used to keep the weight off. Darren does not only talk about shedding pounds, butalso mentions the impact that weight had on his emotional and mental health. He explains what caused him to gain the weight and his successes/failures with nutrition and food. If you are struggling with your weight, this episode may be the inspiring conversation you need to hear in order to help you achieve a healthier, lighter you.
Featured Cocktail: Aperol Spritz
In this Season 5 Opener, Kristin and Nina reveal their quirkiest, most repetitious "Toxic Traits" . . . Kristin keeps shopping healthy and letting the produce go bad in the fridge, while Nina does a wardrobe haul before each vacation! Both ladies discuss hilarious, uncanny habits that keep rearing their little heads in their day to day lives. What are YOUR toxic traits? This week's beverage is a Fuzzy Navel
Ingredients:
Ice
2 oz Peach Schnapps
4 oz OJ
1 oz vodka
Orange slices and/or maraschino cherries for
garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Add ice to shaker
Pour in ingredients
Shake well and pour into glass
Pour and Enjoy!
We had to get behind the mike BEFORE Season 5 begins to discuss this drama about a marriage gone waaay wrong. Why is mama undressing at a funeral??…and that’s just the opener! Oh we’re pullin up on mother-in-laws at the supermarket now???? Ever seen someone get dragged? …literally? It’s a wild ride and we are discussing it here. Press Play! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share.
The media has stereotyped black men as aggressive, violent, and lazy. To highlight a different perspective, this episode is dedicated to black men by celebrating their strength, love, and triumphs, as well as honoring their invaluable contributions to their families and communities. The episode's guest, Joshua Grace, talks about his upbringing, his perspective on what it is to be a black man, and what accomplishments he is most proud of. Listen in as Joshua shares the complexities of being a black man in America, while discussing what he has done to overcome adversity. Press play to hear some positive praises given to black men! Featured Cocktail: Cape Cod (aka Vodka and Cranberry)RECIPE: 1oz vodka, 4.5oz cranberry juice, and 1 dash of lime juice (optional)INSTRUCTIONS: Fill your glass halfway with ice. Pour ingredients in. Serve, sip, and enjoy?
The common phrase regarding courtship woes is that “the dating pool has pee in it”. Well…we prefer TEA, and we are serving it HOT this episode. For the first time, we are joined by not one - but TWO guests, our friends, Brock and Latetia, to discuss dating in the modern age. We discuss social media’s impact on dating - the good, the bad, and the ugly. We talk about what moves us, and what irks us. Do men care about the credentials of an accomplished woman? Brock has HIS answer, and it may surprise you!! Do women only want lavish over-the-top first dates? … or are they more impressed by thoughtful dates that incorporate fun & excitement - regardless of the price tag? Latetia lets us know her thoughts. Are potential mates moved by generic ‘good morning’ / WYD texts, or should you be more deliberate in your approach? Kristin has a strong opinion about this. How did a date involving conversation and Chicken Crispers blossom into marriage and family for Nina? Tune in to find out! Tonight’s Cocktail: Grand MimosaRECIPE: 1.5oz Grand Marnier, 0.5oz Aperol, 3oz Champagne, 0.5oz Orange JuiceINSTRUCTIONS: Fill your glass halfway with ice. Add the OJ, Aperol, and Grand Marnier over Ice. Top off with Champagne
Nina and Kristin discuss the diverse and profound experiences of their pregnancies. From the highs to the lows to the unexpected twists and turns, the ladies share personal stories to them becoming mothers. Listen in as they navigate the emotional, mental, and physical transformations. Whether you are already a parent, planning for the future, or simply curious about the complexities of pregnancy, this episode offers exploration of the paths to motherhood. Featured Cocktail: Sunrise MocktailRECIPE: Alcohol free sparkling wine, a citrus flavored soda water, sprite, or ginger ale Orange Juice ½ tsp of Grenadine INSTRUCTIONS: Add equal amounts of orange juice and non-alcoholic sparkling wine to a champagne flute. Gently pour in grenadine. Garnish (optional) and serve.
In this episode, we discuss the phenomenon that is referred to today as mean girl syndrome. What is it that makes both individual women, and at times groups of women to be so combative? We discuss jealousy, callousness, gossip, and several other characteristics of mean girl behavior. We reveal the surprisingly early childhood stage where this behavior is first observed, and it AIN’T middle school! We bring the conversation full circle, by discussing the importance of sisterhood, and empowering one another instead of tearing one another down. We’re better together! This is an episode you’ll want to share with the women in your life of all ages! Tonight’s drink is actress Issa Rae’s Viarae Prosecco. Book Reference: “Queen Bees and Wannabees” by Rosalind Wiseman. Movies mentioned: “Queen Bees” (2021), “Mean Girls” (2004), “Lord of the Flies” (1990)
What are social norms and why do they exist? In this episode, Nina and Kristin explore the intricate web of unwritten rules that have helped shape some of their behaviors. Should you clean meat before cooking? Should you live with your significant other before marriage? The ladies uncover the complexities of social norms and discuss what impacts social norms have on individuals.
Featured Cocktail: Pink Starbust Cocktail
RECIPE
- 1 or 2 pink starburst candy
- 1oz Vodka or Clear Rum
- 1oz Orange Juice
- 1oz Strawberry-Kiwi or Punch
- 1-1 ½oz Sprite
- Red food coloring (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS: Place pink starburst in a mason jar. Pour in Vodka/Rum and cover with lid. Allow candy to dissolve in alcohol for at least 24 hours. Fill glass with ice and add candy alcohol mixture to glass. Pour in OJ and strawberry-kiwi juice. Top with sprite. Optional: add a drop of red coloring
Tonight’s discussion is about the balancing act of managing our busy schedules. Nina discusses leveraging her personal endeavors with a full time work schedule. Kristin talks about the challenge of setting boundaries and parameters in instances where there are none, to create structure. It gets hectic…you might want a drink to take the edge off!
Featured Cocktail: Classic Cosmopolitan2oz Vodka1 ½ oz orange liqueur1 TBSP lime juice1 oz Cranberry Juice
Kristin mentions the planner she uses to keep track of things. If you want to check it out go to www.erincondren.com
As an adult, it can be hard to make new friends. If you struggle to make new friends and want to expand your friend group, listen in as our "expert", Brielle (Nina's 10-year-old daughter) provides tips and techniques on what adults can do to make new friends. Featured Cocktail: Liquid Skittles
Tonight’s cocktail is called “Jamaica Me Crazy” - totally appropriate for the subject matter, because Nina and Kristin are discussing their favorite concerts and vacation destinations. Kristin reveals how many concerts she managed to fit into one summer, the adventure she had acquiring Beyoncè tickets, and how her next adventure involves both music AND travel. Nina lends insight to the family-friendly aspects of Las Vegas, and shares details of a recent couple’s trip that will have you listing Sonoma, CA as one of your next travel stops. Get ready for lots of fun memories and lots of giggles. Press Play!
Nina, Kristin, and guest, Kisha, reflect on the valuable lessons learned from their upbringings. The ladies discuss the concept of overcoming adverse patterns and challenges that were passed down through generations. They share personal anecdotes and insights that have shaped their perspective on raising their children. In this episode, you will hear relatable stories and practical takeaways that will create positive change for families and communities.
Featured Cocktail: Strawberry Shortcake Sangria
Allow us to reintroduce ourselves!! Your virtual happy hour girlfriends are BACK with an insightful premiere episode, where we bring you inside to get to know us. We have our concise elevator speech when folks ask what this show is about, but on this episode we go beyond that and tell you why we started this podcast, and who we are as people. We also tell you a bit about some things we have been up to during our extended break! Join Nina’s fitness movement by following her on IG @Focus2BFit. And Kristin is planting the seeds of a support community for widows on IG @WidowWakeup. Tonight’s Cocktails? As we tell you about ourselves we are each taking our own signature sips. For Kristin it’s Sweet Tea with a heavy splash of Crown Royal Peach. For Nina, it’s a Sex on the Beach. Press Play!
Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It can also influence how we handle stress and make decisions. During this final episode of Season 3, Nina, Kristin, and guest, Ashley, have an open conversation to help combat the stigmas about mental health, especially in the African American/Black community. The ladies discuss how seeking professional help can be a positive step towards healing growth from past trauma/triggers. Ashley mentions several resources available for mental health support, including:
- Finding a counselor/therapist through your employer, using the Employer Assistance Program (EAP)
- Therapy for Black Girls - https://therapyforblackgirls.com
- Therapy for Black Men - https://therapyforblackmen.org
Featured Cocktail: Bourbon Arnold Palmer
Last week we discussed our LEAST favorite things on the Pet Peeves episode. Tonight we cozy up with a glass of wine and and chat about our FAVES! Kristin is chowing down on a bowl of your new favorite noodles (YOUR’RE welcome), and Nina shares some of her favorite places to shop! Tonight’s drinks: 3 Fat Guys Chardonnay, and The Pour Girl Rosè Wine.
Pet peeves...everyone has them. Nina and Kristin talk about several things that get on their nerves, traveling with others to people showing up to your house unannounced/unexpected. Listen as the ladies share stories about their biggest annoyances. Featured Cocktail: Hawaiian Mimosa
This week Nina & Kristin discuss self worth…what it means to them, how they instill it and cultivate it in their children, and how they maintain it in their own lives. Nina shares three important things she always wants her daughters to carry throughout life, and Kristin shares some really personal self-worth challenges she has overcome in her life. This week’s yummy cocktail? The Southern Peach…listen in to see how it’s made!
Who knew the hardest part of being an adult is figuring out what to cook/eat for dinner every single night for the rest of your life! During this episode, the ladies share their favorite meals to prepare, while discussing what dishes they least enjoy. Find out what food triggers Nina, what meal Kristin is not a fan of, and what dish Danae (guest) does not allow in her home. BUT there one type of food that all three ladies unanimously agree they do not like....listen in to find out what it is! Featured Cocktail: Hard Cider (brands: Cider Boys & Woodchuck)
Are good grades the key to success? Are 4-year universities the be-all-end-all career inroad? Is it realistic to parlay a favorite pastime into a viable career path or should that stay a hobby? Is society pigeonholing us into limited mindsets regarding education, career paths, and success? That is what we are discussing on this episode. Serious topic, but not without a few giggles thanks to our cocktail, the Woodford Spire!
In this episode, the ladies discuss the enchanting world of positivity. Through personal stories, the ladies share their experiences on the impact that positivity has had on their well-being and personal growth. Get ready for an exciting treat as Nina and Kristin's first guest joins the episode to bring an enlightening perspective! Featured Cocktail: Pinkie Martini
On this week’s episode, we discuss all the astrological signs. Tune in to hear about our interactions with people of various zodiac signs…Nina’s changed perspective on Geminis, and why Kristin believes she is a Sagicorn. * Aries 10:03 🐏 Taurus 17:52 🐮 Gemini 22:21 👯♀️ Cancer 34:24 🦀 Leo 40:18 🦁 Virgo 53:07 💃🏽 Libra 1:00:07 ⚖️ Scorpio 1:04:48 🦂 Sagittarius 1:10:09 🏹 Capricorn 1:20:41 🐐 Aquarius 1:30:15 💦 Pisces 1:36:25 🐟 This week we enjoy TWO cocktails featuring Crown Royal Peach: Royal Peach Fizz and Royal Peach Tea!
As adults, we spend majority of our time problem solving and doing things we don't want to do. Nina and Kristin discuss the challenges of adulthood and share stories about their versions of adulting...but they do it with lots of laughter! If you have experienced riding a mechanical bull (and ended up in pain), running out of gas, or telling the cashier to stop ringing groceries once a certain total is reached, you will enjoy this episode! Featured Cocktail: Cooper's Hawk Red Sangria
We are BACK with the Season 3 opener, and its HOT … no literally. It is hot …outside. Sit back and relax as we talk about summer time - current summer plans, summers past… lazy days doing nothing versus keeping these spoiled kids busy with activities. PLUS - we’re doing a GIVEAWAY. Listen for details. Featured Cocktail: Mermaid Juice (check our socials for a photo and the recipe!)
Love is Blind S4 Reunion has the streets buzzing. Nina and Kristin give their perspective on the cast, the host, and the entire season. Featured Cocktail: Caribbean Bliss
The ladies share their experiences as black women in America. Listen in as they talk about the struggles and achievements from two black women's point of view. Featured Cocktail: Love Cork Screw, Cabernet Sauvignon (We're Movin' On Up)
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization officially declared Covid 19 a pandemic. On March 13, 2020 a state of emergency was declared, and the United States went into immediate lockdown. On this episode, the ladies go back to that time and place to discuss the impact of the pandemic on life, then and now. Nina was pregnant and gave birth during this health crisis. Kristin had just relocated and was in the process of moving right as the pandemic started. Sometimes you must laugh to keep from crying, so tonight’s cocktail is none other than a Corona Sunrise…at least the name corresponds to the topic. Tune in for our review of this interesting drink selection…
Ever considered moving to a new place? Rachel Wolchin's quote states that if we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet. During this episode, Nina and Kristin share their stories about relocating to several different states. If you are contemplating with moving and need some encouragement, this is the episode for you! Featured Cocktail: New Age Sweet Wine
Cue the harps Kristin and Nina reminisce over drinks about the days before parenthood. We cherish our kiddos, but sometimes we can’t help but remember a time when life was more care free. Come sit with us as we talk about the ups and the downs of life then vs now! Whether you are already a parent, contemplating becoming one, or avoiding parenthood all together, this episode will leave you with some perspective and gratitude for what ever point in life you are at. Featured Cocktail: Seagram’s Jamaican Me Happy Wine Coolers, a throwback to our 20’s.
Nina and Kristin believe TV is a great form of entertainment. In honor of Black History Month, the ladies cover black tv shows from the 70's up to present day. Which show is Nina's favorite? Which show helped Kristin navigate through her teen years? Listen in as they talk about tv shows they enjoy!Featured Cocktails: Josh Cellars Legacy Blend (Nina's choice) Gallivant Cabernet Sauvignon (Kristin choice)
On this episode, the ladies talk about all things BEAUTY. Nina gives a thorough review of an innovative and effective skincare line she loves. Kristin finally found a red lippie that does not make her want to whip out a clown wig. …all that and so much in between. The following items are mentioned on this episode: Storyderm Brightening Foam, Ultra Essence Clean Facial Foam Cleanser, and Ultra Hydraulic Essence Aqua Toner • Fenty Beauty Fat Water Toner • Mac Ruby Woo • Lip Bar Hot Mama • Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation • Eylure ProMagnetic Lashes • Huda Beauty Legit Lashes •TailiaMei Eyshadow Shields •Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Mascara •Paw Paw Wonder Blender Hi-Def Sponge
Featured Cocktail: Sleeping Beauty
Social Media has changed the world, but Nina and Kristin remember how things were BEFORE social media existed. Is social media a gift? Or a curse? Listen in as Nina and Kristin share their views on social media and discuss how some web-based platforms have impacted their lives.
Featured Cocktail: French 76
In this episode Kristin and Nina wax nostalgic about the college years… anecdotes, great memories, and crazy incidents abound…how did Kristin end up cuddled up with a hot blonde? How does one disappear after a night of partying, and resurface the next day in a hospital gown with one shoe on? …We would provide timestamps so you could fast forward, but you’ll just have to listen in to find out! Unique perspectives from the graduate of a world renown HBCU, and the graduate of small liberal arts college that made a BIG impact. Press Play!
Nina and Kristin share their stories about their financial journeys. Nina talks about her excessive spending, while Kristin remembers when she did not have enough to pay her bills. Listen in as they talk about money lessons they have encountered and things they are still learning.
Coffee to Cocktails is BACK to kick off Season 2! Settle in for a listen while we catch you up with our holiday activities, and how we plan to do better in 2023!
Nina and Kristin pop back in for a BONUS EPISODE, just in time for the holidays. Settle in and listen for tips on not just surviving, but THRIVING during what should be a joyous and peaceful holiday season. Tonight’s beverage is a Mistletoe Margarita! Connect with us on FB @CoffeeToCocktailsPodcast to get the recipe! Happy All of it…Merry Everything! Season 2 is on the way…
After 10 episodes recorded, Nina and Kristin pop champagne to celebrate their first (completed) season! During the recap episode, the ladies briefly discuss each episode: Which was the most listened to? Which as the most fun to record? Which was the most sentimental? Listen in to find out! (As Season 1 comes to an end, Nina and Kristin are so grateful for all the support and comments from their Loyal Listeners! They want to thank everyone who has listened! Be on the lookout for Season 2, which is scheduled to begin in January 2023!)
Listen in to celebrate a life well-lived, with anecdotes, memories, and wisdom from Kristin’s late husband Andre Moore, beloved son, brother, uncle, world-class engineer, master stock trader, burgeoning real estate mogul, and resident smart aleck. No worries, this won’t be a guess-you-had-to-be-there conversation. By the end, you’ll love him too, and you might take away a nugget or two. Tonight’s cocktail is one Andre would have enjoyed…a Smoked Old Fashioned. Press play!!
In this episode, the ladies take a deep dive into experiences with one-sided relationships … times when they may have invested more into people than what was deserved. Tune in for a little wisdom peppered with humor, and important lessons learned - and perhaps a bit of TEA on this episode of Coffee to Cocktails…press play! P.S. - Kristin got her ingredients reversed in her Pinkatini …that explains why hers was so “S’CRONG”! 🍸
Nina and Kristin continue their conversation about growing up in the 1990s/early 2000s era. They reminisce and talk about how the world shifted before their eyes. Listen in to Part 2 as they share stories about fashion, getting lost when using Mapquest, and some of the toys from the 90s.
Can you remember life before cell phones, social media, and fast internet service? During this episode, Nina and Kristin take a trip down memory lane to reminisce on their childhood and teenage years. Listen in as they talk about growing up during the 1990s/early 2000s era! But whatever you do...please don't call it the late 1900s!
There is always so much to do with so little time - or so it seems that way. Balancing work and life can be demanding, yet difficult to achieve. Join Nina and Kristin as they discuss the things to help them balance work, homelife, motherhood, and self-care.
This week Nina & Kristin swap stories about their haircare journeys! Kristin gets tangled in a calamity that forces her to break out the scissors, and Nina walks out of the braid shop with her hair half done. …Hair challenges, hair victories and everything in between! Press Play…and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and rate the podcast.
We live in a society where we are told how to look, dress, and act - BUT we are not encouraged to be ourselves. Nina and Kristin talk about the struggles they have faced in the past as young women, doing things to fit other people’s liking and looking for validation from others. Listen in as they talk about being comfortable with who they are and how long it took for them to get to that place.
This week Nina & Kristin delve into their respective journeys with physical fitness.
...tune in to find out what motivates them to get moving, about times when they've fallen off the wagon, and how they got back on ... or ran beside it. Kristin has her feelings about running, and Nina throws down an actionable challenge that we can all try get a kick-start! Grab your coffee or your cocktail and join us.
On this episode Kristin and Nina spill tea on their latest dating adventures. Kristin speaks on navigating the dating world as a single lady, and Nina shares how she keeps things fresh by dating her spouse. Grab your drink and press play 🥂
Nina and Kristin introduce themselves. How’d they become friends? What’s tea? How do they define friendship, and how in the world do you cultivate solid friendships as an adult in a new town? Grab a drink and let’s chat!!