Ep. 57 - Join Jen as she dives headfirst into the world's fastest-growing sport: Pickleball. Returning to Malibu as an empty nester, Jen is embracing the "era of hobbies," and today she's joined by the man who made her a believer—pickleball expert and "Pink Guy" influencer, Miguel Enciso, along with fellow player Kimberly. Miguel shares his incredible journey from a long career as a television director for Entertainment Tonight to becoming a viral pickleball sensation with over 20 million views. Whether you're seasones or a total newbie, this conversation uncovers why pickleball is more than just a game—it's a powerful tool for building community, staying active in midlife, and finding joy in the "messy, meaningful, and magical" parts of transformation.

Chapter Timestamps:

01:15 – The social magic of pickleball: Why it's the ultimate community builder.

03:10 – "Jen, you're the one": Understanding the server rules (and some flirtatious fun).

05:00 – Bridging the age gap: From high school friends to 200+ new acquaintances.

06:45 – Miguel's Hollywood backstory: From Entertainment Tonight to the courts.

16:20 – Beginner Basics: Essential gear, court shoes, and avoiding the "Amazon trap."

19:40 – High percentage serves: Tips for playing with grandkids and grandparents.

22:15 – Tactics vs. Power: Why tennis players often struggle at first.

25:30 – Paddle talk: Top brands (Joola, Selkirk, Franklin) and Miguel's favorite, Komodo.

28:00 – The Olympic Debate: Why isn't pickleball in the 2028 games?

31:15 – How to find a game: Navigating community parks and overcoming "Open Play" fear.

34:50 – Women in Pickleball: The intensity of professional mixed doubles.

38:15 – The health benefits: Combatting dementia and staying sharp in midlife.

40:40 – Going Viral: The story behind Miguel's 20-million-view garage video.

47:00 – Final Thoughts: Be kind to beginners and... Paddle Up!

Follow Miguel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miguel.pickleballcoach/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@user7018619840568

Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialjenrouse/

Follow Malibu & Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malibuandmepodcast/

Ep. 56 - In this episode of Malibu and Me, Jen welcomes back guest and healer Lauren Tarantino to demystify the practice of Nervous System Regulation. Whether you are navigating the complexities of midlife, managing daily work stress, or processing grief, this conversation offers a practical look at how to move from "fight or flight" into a state of cellular repair.

Chapters:

0:40 | The Nervous System Reset class at The Mindry

1:15 | What is Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)?

1:45 | Combining tapping, meditation, and Reiki

2:05 | The science of sound healing and the vagus nerve

3:05 | The mechanics of tapping: Identifying your stress scale

5:30 | The danger of normalizing high-stress lifestyles

6:30 | Understanding the "fight or flight" physiological response

8:10 | How to practice EFT at home (The setup statement)

10:30 | Processing grief and emotions without fear

11:55 | The power of group community and shared healing

14:20 | Why Lauren leaves space for silence

20:10 | Finding your "reset" moments: Walks and quiet time

22:20 | Using EFT for physical discomfort and gut health

23:20 | Closing thoughts and resources

Follow Lauren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humandesignmalibu/

Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialjenrouse/

Follow Malibu & Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malibuandmepodcast/

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iconicnationmedia

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!

Ep. 55 - Jen sits down with Mahjong expert Carolyn Lertzman to demystify the game that is taking the midlife community by storm in Los Angeles. Whether you've heard the click of the tiles and been intrigued or feel intimidated by the complex rules, this conversation breaks down why Mahjong has become a viral phenomenon.

We discuss:

- The history and cultural roots of the game.

- The difference between American and traditional Chinese styles.

- Why Mah Jongg is the ultimate tool for networking, community building, and finding "escapism" in midlife.

- Etiquette for beginners and how to avoid common "faux pas" at the table.

- Practical tips on sets, hosting, and finding an instructor. Whether you're a seasoned player or a total novice, discover how this game can bring joy, resilience, and connection to your own "beginning again" chapter.

Timestamps

0:00 – Intro: Midlife transformation and the Mahjong craze

0:51 – Meeting our expert, Carolyn

1:20 – Carolyn's journey: From Rummy Tile memories to teaching Mahjong

3:02 – The community aspect: Why it brings generations together

4:44 – Brief history and the difference between American vs. Chinese styles

7:27 – The "trauma bonding" of being a beginner

10:26 – Managing different personalities at the table

12:11 – High-level overview: How the game works

15:22 – New cards every year: What to expect

16:06 – Choosing the right set: Luxury vs. classic recommendations

20:17 – Differences in traditional vs. modern sets

22:13 – Mahjong etiquette: Dos and don'ts for new players

25:01 – Cross-generational play: Teaching kids and parents

28:06 – The "Golf" analogy: Learning through frustration

31:51 – How many lessons do you actually need?

35:16 – Where to find Carolyn and resources for players

Follow Malibu & Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malibuandmepodcast/

Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialjenrouse/

Follow The Mahjong Line: https://www.instagram.com/themahjongline/

Subscribe on YouTube: @iconicnationmedia If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!