40 Years To Freedom: Recent Episodes
This Life Ain't For Everybody
Meet Jen and Anna V,
Both, a couple of powerhouse women who have definitely been through amazing things and even bigger obstacles in this so called life as they know it.
Jen, born and raised in Southern California, and Anna V, is our sweet Georgia Peach. East coast meets West coast. One is country, one is rock n’ roll…two opposites that have come together over one main subject…Being over 40 and having a different kind of perspective on things.
They’ve been there, done that with so many different things, but have found a sort of worthiness, understanding and utter compassion for each other and on so many different subjects.
This is a Podcast about good times and bad, growth, parenting, music, self care and just daily motivation to where others can understand that they are not alone on this journey.
Life doesn’t ever stop, and these ladies are here to talk about how they get through all of it.
Living life with a “happy, humble heart”.
We’re back! After a little break, we’re catching up on everything that’s been happening over the last several weeks. From Jen’s first-ever music festival and Fourth of July celebrations to birthday parties and summer adventures, there’s been no shortage of stories to share.We also talk about Brittni’s trip to posting for Veda’s diagnostic conference, where they met with the right doctors, connected with other families, and took important steps on their journey. It’s an honest conversation about the highs, the hard moments, and the hope that comes from finding the right people.We wrap up the episode by sharing our plans for the rest of the summer and finish with a fun round of This or That: Summer Edition. Grab your favorite drink and catch up with us. We’ve missed you!
This episode takes a real turn through life lately… the heavy, the hopeful, and the unforgettable.We open up about Vayda’s recent RSV exposure and hospital stay — the kind of moment that stops everything and reminds you what actually matters. From there, Jen shares her new journey into peptides, what she’s learning, and what it feels like stepping into a whole new phase of health and self-investment.Things get a little spicy when politics enter the chat… because sometimes you just have to say it how it is.And then — the highlight reel ✨Jen dives into her incredible Vegas trip with her son, seeing Bruno Mars live, and getting the full VIP treatment from Caesars Entertainment. Gratitude, once-in-a-lifetime moments, and memories that hit different when you get to share them with your kid.It’s real life, unfiltered — a mix of fear, growth, fire, and pure joy.
We’re talking Vayda’s latest therapy wins (and the strength she’s showing in her walker lately 🥹), a trip that confirmed Pigeon Forge is truly its own chaotic universe 😂, stepping into gun safety training part 2, and celebrating big moments—like Jen’s mom turning 80 and a random backstage night that felt very “how is this life?” - Also, espresso martinis are now a personality trait.And… Jen received THREE separate DMs from men from her past—and somehow each one was worse than the last 🫠 bold, cringey, and completely unserious.It’s life lately—real, messy, meaningful, and still somehow funny.#40YearsToFreedom #PodcastLife #LifeLately #MomLifeUnfiltered #RealLifeTalk #PigeonForge #WomenWhoTalk #CoffeeAndChaos
Small-town grit. Four daughters. One brutal season after another.In this episode of 40 Years to Freedom, we sit down with Amy Richards of TKO Vitality to talk about surviving chronic childhood illness in her family, a near-fatal accident, her own health collapse, and what it takes to rebuild from the inside out.After losing 115 pounds with tirzepatide and completely transforming her mindset along the way, Amy now helps others take back control of their health and their future.We talk about marriage through the hard years, why “balance” is often a myth, recovering from people-pleasing, and what it really looks like to juggle life instead of pretending everything is perfectly equal.This conversation is about resilience, faith, family, and finding strength when everything feels heavy.
Jen and Brittany are joined by someone who is usually working quietly behind the scenes — their producer, Alley Stanley.For the first time, Alley shares a glimpse into her own family’s experience navigating a rare disease diagnosis. What started as subtle concerns unfolded into something far more complex, reshaping how she sees motherhood, advocacy, and the healthcare system.Together, these three mothers talk honestly about the moments that change you — the shock of unexpected news, the instinct to dig deeper, and the determination that rises when your child needs you to fight.If you’ve ever trusted your gut when something didn’t feel right… If you’ve ever had to advocate harder than you thought possible… You may find more of yourself in this story than you’d expect.
In this raw and honest episode, Jennifer and Brittany are joined by Jens' energy healer Stefanie for a powerful conversation about what it really means to heal. From emotional blocks and stored trauma to intuition, vibration, and spiritual awakening, this episode explores how energy work can unlock the parts of us that traditional healing often misses. If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected, or ready for a deeper level of change, this conversation is for you.
Different responsibilities.The same emotional weight.In this episode of 40 Years to Freedom, Jennifer and Brittany sit down for an honest, unfiltered conversation about what it really means to carry everything — especially when life doesn’t slow down for the holidays or the turning of a new year.This episode is for the caregivers, the single parents, the advocates, the providers, the leaders — and the exhausted humans holding more than they ever thought they could.
Your girls are BACK and honestly… it feels so right.Catch up with your favorite duo as they regroup, refocus, and spill exactly where the show is heading next. We’re talking fresh energy, new plans, and the same unapologetic honesty you’ve always loved.In this episode, we’re diving into:• Holiday chaos• All the family fun is happening in our area right now• And a little life tea you didn’t know you neededGrab your coffee, your wine, or whatever you’re vibing with—let’s catch up like the friends we basically are.
Brittany opens up about the ongoing rollercoaster fighting insurance to get critical inpatient care approved for Vayda — a raw look into the not-so-picture-perfect side of motherhood that demands relentless advocacy, even when the system makes it feel impossible. Meanwhile, Jen is soaking up the bittersweet final days before her twins officially turn 18, reflecting on the wild ride of raising teens into adulthood (and what no one warns you about when your “babies” aren’t babies anymore).We also dive into some relatable and hilarious “mom realities” — from the unseen mental load to the moments that make it all worth it — plus, a few funny Mother’s Day “this or that” debates you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re in the trenches of toddlerhood, navigating teens, or just appreciating all your mom has done for you, this episode is a reminder: motherhood isn’t a Hallmark card — it’s messy, beautiful, and absolutely worth celebrating.Grab your coffee (or your wine) and join us for a heartfelt conversation that feels like a hug from your best friend.
The ladies dive deep into a new card game, Substance, for meaningful, deep conversation starters for Adults. You explore three connection levels, Intimacy, Mindf*ck, and vulnerability, designed to guide users through progressively deeper and more meaningful conversations. Rediscover the power of conversation with the girls and connect with them on a deeper level!
This week on 40 Years to Freedom, Brittany shares her eye-opening two days at the Nevada Legislature, fighting for policies that could change the lives of disabled and medically complex families. From giving testimony to navigating the challenges of advocacy, she takes us behind the scenes of what it takes to push for real change. Meanwhile, Jen dives into her powerful ladies’ weekend, where vision boards, faith, and intentional manifestation set the stage for a future filled with purpose. Tune in as we explore the intersection of action and belief—fighting for what matters while speaking life into the dreams we’re meant to chase.
For those who love diving down rabbit holes, this episode is a must-listen. Brittany and Jen tackled the moon landing, the LA fires, and simulation theory, offering both researched insights and their own candid opinions. They balanced skepticism with curiosity, making the discussion accessible whether you’re a die-hard conspiracy theorist or just someone who enjoys questioning the world around you. Their chemistry kept things entertaining, with plenty of “wait, but what if?” moments that will have listeners thinking long after the episode ends.With a perfect mix of personal stories, humor, and thought-provoking discussions, these two episodes showcase everything that makes 40 Years to Freedom such an engaging podcast. Whether you’re here for the laughs or the deep dives, Brittany and Jen deliver every time.
This episode was a fun, lighthearted peek into the contrasting experiences of both hosts. Brittany shared her relaxing and joyful family vacation in San Diego, while Jen gave listeners an inside look at the high-energy world of the Caesar’s High Roller guided hunt with Chad from The Fowl Life. Their storytelling makes you feel like you’re right there with them—whether it’s soaking up the California life or navigating the logistics of an adrenaline-fueled hunt with people you don’t get to meet every day. As always, they kept things real, opening up about Valentine’s Day plans (or lack thereof) and the difficult decision to cancel Vayda’s neurology appointment while waiting for rehab. The episode ended on a hilarious note with a discussion about personalized license plates, proving once again that no topic is off-limits for these two.
Join Jen, Brittany, and 2 new special guests as they explore the science behind the TikTok algorithm and talk about the 12 hour ban. Learn what it takes to be a YouTuber, and learn the lingo of the kids. This may be the most fun and engaging podcast yet, so make sure to stay tuned. Enjoy the episode, or don’t! your choice! and follow The 40 years to freedom podcast on IG, Spotify, or anywhere you listen to podcasts, and while your at it subscribe to The Snare Ninja on YouTube.
New Year with a Fresh Start - Welcome back friends, to a great start to 2025. The girls talk about their holidays and what big things they are starting to plan for the new year. Resolutions? Did they make any? Let’s talk about what people tend to set for themselves in the new year.
🎙 Mariah Said, “It’s Timeeeee!” So Here We Are! 🎶🎁Get ready for a holly jolly episode full of festive fun! We’re diving into This or That, spilling the tea in Never Have I Ever, and embracing all the holiday sparkle ✨. Whether you’re decking the halls or hitting that high note (Mariah style 🎤), this episode is here to bring the laughs and the feels. Come for the stories (even the repeats 🤭), stay for the silliness, and let’s sleigh this holiday season together! 🎅🎄
Jen and Brit are back with a November recap! From first-time trips to Holiday Dinners, so much to be grateful for. But most importantly, rallying up the troops for the second annual Vaydas toy drive to truly spread the Christmas spirit!
The ladies are back after a whirlwind of an October with one event after another. They share the success of the Footprints of Hope charity event, Jen’s boss's 50th surprise birthday party, Halloween, a new president, and most of all the Dodgers winning the WORLD SERIES! Catch up with their fall and enjoy the show!
The girls are here today and they have some deep-thinking questions - everything from love to the afterlife. Take a ride with them and see if the questions get you thinking, too!
Footprints of Hope-Join Jen & Brit and their fabulous guest, Barbara with The Tiny Toes Foundation, as they chat about The upcoming Gala and all the exciting ways to help. Tiny Toes Foundation is a non-profit foundation helping children and their families in a critically complex medical situation not have to bear it all alone.
We’re baaaaack! Jen & Brit have reunited, and it feels so good! Summer? Oh, that flew by faster than a kid spotting the ice cream truck! Join us as we rewind through a blur of travels, events, camp, and chaos shenanigans. Let’s gather ‘round, wave goodbye to summer, and plan for whatever’s next!
The ladies are in the house and they are here with a brand-new series! Their Conspiracy Series will dive into some big theories, like the ones that live rent-free in their head. With current events happening in the world they thought it was time to go down a few rabbit holes. Catch volume 1 where they briefly discuss a handful of theories they think are possible, and relevant to today’s world. Follow along for volumes to come.
The ladies of the "40 Years to Freedom" podcast are back! Catch up with the duo to see how summer has been treating them, and join in for a fun game of "This or That."
Jen and Brit are excited to welcome their first-ever Zoom guest, Dr. Tiffany Robinson of Dallas DMI! Dr. Robinson discusses reflexes and children with movement or coordination delays, as well as neurological disorders like cerebral palsy. She shares her remarkable success with Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI), which proves rapid progress over her two-week intensive therapy model. This therapy helps build or rebuild neural pathways to enhance movement, coordination, balance, and more. Dr. Robinson also expresses the joy she feels watching kids achieve what was once thought to be impossible.
Today was all about nostalgia and cherished memories for Jen and Brit! 📦✨ They spent the afternoon going through their old keepsake boxes, filled to the brim with mementos from years past. From old photos and concert tickets to handwritten notes, newspapers, and childhood treasures, each item brought back a flood of memories and stories. It was a beautiful reminder of all the lives they’ve lived.
The girls are back again, and what better way to end the Month of May than to reflect on Motherhood? Jen gets to take a stroll back on the years raising Gavin & Kaden as they celebrate their 17th birthday, Prom, and Driver's Licenses! So many milestones they’re cruising 🚙 through. Brittany reflects on the upcoming 1st year since Vayda got sick and their lives changed overnight, the layers of the last year, the progress, and her recent Intensive Therapy in Dallas. If you like this episode give us a follow and leave a review!
Your girls Jen & Brit are back again! In this week's episode, the ladies spend some time playing catch-up and recapping what’s been going on. Always a funny story in there. The second half of the episode may be NSFW or Kids, as they dig into a popular Reddit forum “AITA?” - the girls give their unsolicited advice on who is the asshole in the situation. Don’t forget to Like, Comment, and Review!
Jen and Brit are eager to introduce Jarrod Woodward, an officer with the RPD, who focuses on gun safety and training. Both Jen and Brit carry their CCW, and Jarrod recently guided them through a shooting session to refine their skills in carrying, loading, form, hand placement, and pulling with their Sig Sauer guns. Jarrod proved to be an excellent instructor, and the girls are looking forward to having him back for more sessions.
Jen and Brit are thrilled to introduce Callie Bigrigg, the founder of Tiny Toes Foundation, and a mother to Gunner and Conner. Callie, who is intimately familiar with medical complexities and the challenges of being hospitalized with uncertainty, established Tiny Toes Foundation with genuine dedication and a heartfelt mission to support others during the toughest moments of new parenthood and having a child with a complex medical condition.
In this podcast episode, Jen and Brit reconnect after a six-week break. They discuss a few topics including enforcing curfews for the boys, Vayda's recent neurology appointment in Chicago, and the time spent touring the lab at Northwestern University. Additionally, Jen opens up about the significant loss of her father, a life-changing event that has deeply affected her.
The Ladies are back to talk about some hard stuff. 2024 is off to a rocky start, but sometimes mental health therapy comes in many forms.Navigating the maze of the mind can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces – challenging, but every piece matters in the grand design of mental well-being.Jen and Brit are raw in what they go through and talk about ways to seek help.
The Rapid Fire Questions Holiday edition is here! Jen and Brittany talk about how they do the holidays and celebrate the magic of Christmas with their families.
This week the ladies talk about life updates, Vayda's progress and all they are thankful for this holiday season.
Jen and Brit are back with a fan favorite, the rapid-fire questions! Totally random questions asked and answered by your favorite Northern Nevada duo!
On this episode, Jen and Brittany talk about Jen's favorite season…Fall! All the fall things from the weather, to favorite fall drinks and food, where to go locally for fall favorites, and places to travel to with just a little bit of a road trip to enjoy the crisp fall air, pumpkins, spice, and everything nice!
Jen and Brittany discuss The Fowl Life’s 9/11 episode, the viewing party that they attended, where they were on that tragic day and how they can make sure the importance of that day and remembering it with their families and celebrating the heroes daily.
Brittany and Jen are back and enjoying what Reno has to offer in the spirits game. They talk about their favorite places in Northern Nevada to enjoy a cocktail, the best places with a great ambiance, and the best places for people-watching! So if you’re looking for a new spot, make sure to check out this episode with all the favorites!
Brit and Jen are back with what’s been going on the last few weeks of Summer. Vayda update, Jens's birthday, back to school, and the wild ride it’s been teaching her son how to drive.
Episode 39- Going to the Chapel, cause we’re gonna get married by This Life Ain't For Everybody
Brittany is back to update us on Vayda and her current health diagnosis. An emotional conversation on life’s ups and downs and trying to find answers to help her little girl.
A quick update from Jen as to what she and her co-host Brittany have been going through the last month. With a deep, quick update from Jen, she shows her compassion for what her friend and their family are going through.
Summer is finally here, and Jen and Brit are excited about the season change and most definitely warmer weather! They talk about plans, past summers, what they want to do this summer and how to enjoy it best with their kids!
Jen and Brit talk about a serious situation happening in the schools and really around the country right now. Just their opinions, how they think things could be better and the future of school safety.
The second half of a two part series with more hilarious and rapid fire questioning. Get to know these two on a whole different level!
Part 1 of a 2 part series, Jen and Brit have fun with a rapid fire question series. Dive deeper into getting to know the hosts with these fun and random questions.
Jen and Brit have a special guest in the studio, local business woman Risa Lopez. They talk about her success, how she’s able to find time for herself and her family, how to stay relevant in the salon industry and what she’s doing to help the success of her team and starting a new business coaching course. You will find out quick why this accomplished woman is Jen’s mentor!
Jen and Brittany talk about something that women should do better at these days…the mean girl syndrome. Why women tend to tear each other down instead of building each other up. How they dealt with their own situations like this and how they choose to be different at this point in their lives.
Jen and Brit have two guests this week, Clay Belding and Alex Crosby, who are here to talk about their views on commitment and why today, men over a certain age, don’t feel a need to get married to their significant others. Jen and Brit have very different views then the guys, needless to say it’s a very interesting conversation between the 4 of them
Jen and Brit have a special guest, Clay Belding, a gardening master, to talk about the best ways to start a backyard garden project in this area. Where to start, how to test soil, what you’ll need to get started and most importantly, what to do with all the produce once it starts producing amazing results. The ladies may not have green thumbs, but after this conversation, they may be able to pull this off.
Jen and Brit talk about Jens recent car accident. After getting great information from the highway patrol officer and her friends, she wanted to make sure to share that information in case anyone would end up in the same situation she was in.
Jen and Brittany talk about one of their favorite subjects… FOOD! Exploring Northern Nevadas local food scene and what they enjoy most. From breakfast to Brunch, quick lunch spots dinners and their favorite spots including their favorite items. A must listen to get you craving some of Reno’s finest!
Jen and Brittany are daydreaming of warmer weather and talk about their favorite and most memorable vacations they’ve had in their lives thus far. Where they’ve been, what their favorite memories were, what they plan on for the future with their own families and the memories they want to create.
Jen and Brit talk about a big part of their youth…high school. The ups and downs, drama, trying to fit in and stay focused through the four years. They also talk about Jens kid’s experiences, and what Brittany wants for her daughter when the time comes.
Jen and Brittany discuss a scary situation that Brittany just had with her new baby. They talk about reactions, feeling helpless, over coming emotions to stay strong for their loved ones during these emergencies. The worrying never stops when you have a child or loved one going through a medical emergency.
Jen & Brittany have the friend, Health and Wellness Coach, Erika Clark on to talk the new year, fitness, resolutions, goals, eating, getting out of your own way, and taking care of you for YOU!
Jen and Brittany talk about wrapping up the year, celebrating with family for the holidays, favorite meals, traditions, memories and of course their favorite holiday movies that they watch through the month. Trying to keep it magical for everyone all while trying to keep it together mentally and physically for themselves as well! Merry Christmas to all our listeners!
Jen and Brittany talk about their holiday plans, family traditions, new traditions and what’s in store for them this holiday season.
Jen has the lovely Brittany on again today talk about how important it is to take the time to pamper yourself as a mom and do things strictly for themselves. Products they love, services they can’t live without and the local technicians that take care of them. Always making sure they make the time for themselves that they truly deserve as mommas.
Jen and Anna invite Brittany back to talk about her first night out as a new mom!!! Oh, and what a night it was. They all attend the Kid Rock Concert in downtown Sparks for an unbelievable show. Drinks, Dancing, maybe even waking up with a bit of a hangover and how that was with the new baby! Absolutely unforgettable to say the least.
Jen and Anna spend a week in New York with the family. A week full of sightseeing, including Yankee games, Statue of Liberty visit, 9/11 memorial, Broadway and so much more…along with the amazing people and can’t forget about all the food! An experience they will never forget and stories they will be sure to tell for years to come.
Jen and Anna discuss how they turn to music for any complicated situation to help soothe their soul. From concerts to favorite songs and GO TO playlists to help pump them up. Music is such a huge part of their lives and are hoping people can relate to lyrics the way that they do.
Anna and Jen talk about the end of summer, what the new fall season starts to look like, what a season could look like for either one of them and how to adapt to change and growth.
Jen and Anna talk about something that seems to always tear apart people, especially women…DRAMA. How they handle it with compassion and understanding to say the least, this episode is indeed too much of our reality as women.
Jen and Anna head to Panama City Beach with the family for a little rest and relaxation. They record live from the beach on their balcony to share a piece of the beach with their listeners and talk about the importance of the time to spend with family ad enjoy the moments that they can!
Jen is joined by her friend Rachael to talk about her success at following her dreams and the start of building her own empire. They talk about passion, determination, and work ethics that landed her dream business.
Jen has her good friend Brittany on to talk about becoming a new mom. They talk about pregnancy struggles, new parent anxiety, how to still make time for yourself as a new mom and lots of ups and downs that weren't quite as expected or planned through their journey.
Jen and Anna V discuss the hurdles of trying to raise true champions at any level being single moms and through the struggles of what some would call "politics" on and off the field.
Jen and Anna talk about relationships and how to keep that spark and romance flowing. Stories of friends and personal ones of their own, just showing their perspective on long term relationships.
Dating when you're over 40!!! How does one meet someone these days…online, in a bar, through a friend. The rollercoasters of being single and over 40 trying to find your match can be overwhelming to say the least!
Jen and Anna finally have an evening to talk about finding their “why” , discussing the importance of having Mentors to help guide you in the right direction and having a purpose on your journey…all while enjoying some of their favorite food and wine!
Making hard decisions and putting yourself first in all types of situations, mainly work is no easy task. Jen and Anna share stories of leaving jobs and not worrying about disappointment or feeling like a failure. Jen talks about a career she really had a passion for and dealing with an inappropriate boss while Anna shares a story of her friend who just moved for an opportunity of a lifetime, but wasn’t quite was it seemed to be.
Jen and Anna touch on a sensitive subject about technology and safety. What’s safe, what would they allow their kids to use and how they keep up with staying in tuned to what is going on in their lives. They also talk about how much technology is involved in their own lives as well.
Jen picks up where she left off with her personal story. Oregon is her new home, she meets her husband, starts a family and really finds out where her place is in this world that she knows. A love story, stricken by sickness and then sadness, so listeners can understand more of exactly why she is a strong as she is. Opening up and letting people in is hard for some, but she warmly shares the tribulations that she’s endured for a reason. To connect with her listeners on every level.
We dive a little deeper this week into getting to know Jennifer. She shares her childhood, a crazy teenage youth and how she survived addiction and abuse at far too young of an age. All of these have molded her into the woman she is today.
The party continues with Jen and Anna with a trip to Nashville and celebrate Valentines day with a whirlwind of excitement for both of them. Bringing in the lovers holiday with an elite “Pardi” and got to play dress for a once of a lifetime night!
Jen and Anna take a quick trip to sin city for a show with The Fowl Life team and talk about their shenanigan’s, staying up till dawn and hanging out backstage at a big show at T-Mobile arena! All in 48 hours…
Welcome to the first episode of the 40 Years To Freedom Podcast. This is a Podcast about good times and bad, growth, parenting, music, self-care and just daily motivation to where others can understand that they are not alone on this journey. Your hosts, Jennifer Swenson and Anna v Outdoors are two opposites that bring different perspective on things.