The Real Stuff with Lucie Fink

In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on every single revenue stream (there are over 13 of them) that powers my business as a content creator — the ones you see, the ones you don’t, and the ones people rarely talk about publicly.So often, being a creator looks like posting on social media and doing the occasional brand deal. But behind the scenes? It’s a layered, strategic business with multiple income streams happening at once (at least it can be). In this episode, I walk you through how it actually works — from brand partnerships and sponsored content, to platform payouts, whitelisting and boosting, coaching, courses, digital products, affiliate income, speaking engagements, podcast monetization, and more.This episode gives you the overview of all aspects of my business, but if you want the REAL numbers, deeper strategy, pricing insights, and screenshots I can’t share publicly on social media, that’s all living inside my new paid newsletter, Creator Confidential. Creator Confidential is where I go all in every other week: sharing real earnings, platform breakdowns, behind-the-scenes decisions, and the exact strategies I use to run my business. If this episode intrigues you, the newsletter is truly this conversation on steroids. Sign up at luciefink.com/confidential. I also share how and why I’ve intentionally built additional revenue streams beyond brands and platforms, not just to grow, but to protect myself long-term in an industry that’s constantly changing.And as a special bonus segment, I’m bringing you a short conversation with Denise Woodard, founder of Partake Foods, about entrepreneurship, building a business from scratch, and how Amazon has helped her scale her brand — because this episode isn’t just about creator income, it’s about modern entrepreneurship in all its forms. You can shop Partake and a curated selection of incredible products from small businesses by looking for the Small Business Badge and visiting the Amazon Small Business Holiday Shop at amazon.com/smallbusinessgifts.If you’ve ever wondered how creators actually make money or how to think like a creator-entrepreneur, this episode is for you! Apply to do 1:1 social media coaching with me: https://luciefink.com/apply-coaching Apply for my 8-week course, "Launch Your Dream YouTube Series" here: https://luciefink.com/youtube-course Check out my Motherhood Superguide: http://luciefink.com/motherhoodApply to join ShopMy here: https://shopmy.us/join/luciefinkStart your own newsletter on Beehiiv: https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Lucie-FinkSponsors:Magnetic Me: If you’re a parent or shopping for one, visit MagneticMe.com now, and new customers will receive 15% off!Storyworth: Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you visit Storyworth.com/REALSTUFF Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Subscribe to my free newsletter "The Lucie List" here: https://thelucielist.beehiiv.com/subscribeSubscribe to "The Creator Confidential": http://www.luciefink.com/confidentialExecutive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Reza Khan was living the dream on paper — a steady job at Google, great benefits, a clear career path, and the kind of structure most people work hard to reach — until he realized it wasn’t the life he wanted. Today, Reza is a full-time content creator sharing the hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes chaotic reality of fatherhood online with his wife, Puja.In his first-ever long-form interview, Reza goes deeper than he ever has before. He talks about the moment he realized corporate life wasn’t for him, the emotional and financial leap into creator life, and the identity shift that came with becoming a dad. He also opens up about boundaries, burnout, partnership, and how creating content about fatherhood unexpectedly helped him reconnect with himself.If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to leave a “dream job,” redefine success, and build a creative life while raising young kids — this one’s for you.Follow Reza: https://www.instagram.com/therezakhan/Sponsors:CLEARSTEM: Go to CLEARSTEM.com/REALSTUFF and use code REALSTUFF at checkout for 15% off your first order.Magnetic Me: If you’re a parent or shopping for one, visit MagneticMe.com now, and new customers will receive 15% off!Seed: Get ahead of the New Year with a routine that helps you now by going to Seed.com/REALSTUFF and use code REALSTUFF to get 20% off your first month.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Subscribe to my free newsletter "The Lucie List" here: https://thelucielist.beehiiv.com/subscribeSubscribe to "The Creator Confidential": Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Last week, you heard Part 1 of my conversation with Maya McHenry, where she opened up about her years-long journey with endometriosis. What you didn’t get to hear until now is the moment at the end of that interview when I brought up her sister, Lyric McHenry, who I knew personally from our time working together at Refinery29.What unfolded next is one of the most emotional recordings we’ve ever had on The Real Stuff. Maya shared, in the most intimate and detailed way she ever has, the story of losing Lyric in 2018 — the shock of it, the media whirlwind, the unanswered questions, the guilt, the grief, and ultimately the strength she’s had to find in order to survive it.In this episode, Maya talks about the last time she saw her sister, the moment she received the phone call that changed her life, and what it was like to navigate unimaginable pain while also protecting her family and correcting the damaging narrative the media created around Lyric’s story. She shares how grief shows up years later and how she’s learned to stay connected to Lyric through small signs, laughter, memory, and purpose.We also talk about the extraordinary fellowship Maya built in Lyric’s honor at Stanford — a program that now helps young creatives access opportunities that would otherwise be financially out of reach. Hearing how she transformed such deep heartbreak into something that actively changes lives is extraordinary.If part 1 of my interview with Maya was about chronic illness, resilience, and self-advocacy, part 2 is about love, loss, legacy, and the ways we keep the people we’ve lost alive. This conversation meant so much to me, both as someone who knew Lyric and as someone who believes that grief doesn’t end — it just changes shape. I am endlessly grateful to Maya for trusting me, and for trusting all of you, with this part of her story.Donate to the Lyric McHenry Community Arts Fellowship here: https://www.lyricmchenry.com/donateThe Endometriosis Foundation of America: https://www.endofound.orgFollow Maya: https://www.instagram.com/mayamchenry/Sponsors:Magnetic Me: If you’re a parent or shopping for one, visit MagneticMe.com now, and new customers will receive 15% off!Timeline: My friends at Timeline are offering 20% off, just for my listeners! Head to timeline.com/realstuff to get started.Storyworth: Right now, save $10 or more during their Holiday sale when you visit Storyworth.com/REALSTUFF Seed: Get ahead of the New Year with a routine that helps you now by going to Seed.com/REALSTUFF and use code REALSTUFF to get 20% off your first month.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Subscribe to my newsletter "The Lucie List" here: https://thelucielist.beehiiv.com/subscribeExecutive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

This week, I’m sitting down with Maya McHenry — a model, publicist, philanthropist, and board member of the Endometriosis Foundation of America — for a conversation I’ve been wanting to have on this show for a long time.Maya’s been deep in this advocacy work for years, and it’s clear why—in today’s interview, she shares just how much trauma and hardship she’s been through. In our conversation, Maya walks me through the first time she ever experienced an “endo episode,” when the pain was so severe she passed out. She shares how she spent years being dismissed by doctors, misdiagnosed, and told that her symptoms were “just anxiety.” Hearing how long she suffered before finally getting a diagnosis was heartbreaking, especially knowing that her story isn’t unusual. Many women wait 7–10 years for answers, and Maya brings so much honesty, clarity, and compassion to this topic.We also talk about how chronic illness impacts mental health, how trauma can intensify physical symptoms, and the tools she’s learned to use when her flares hit without warning. Maya’s vulnerability in sharing what this disease has taken from her and how she’s learned to advocate for herself is incredibly powerful.At the end of the conversation, I asked her about her sister, Lyric McHenry (my former coworker and friend from Refinery29 who tragically passed), and what Maya shared with me was so emotional and so profound that I realized it deserved its own full episode.So today’s episode is only Part 1, focusing on Maya’s endometriosis journey.Next week, you’ll hear Part 2, where Maya opens up about grief, healing, and the beautiful ways she continues to honor Lyric’s legacy.This is one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had on The Real Stuff. I hope it brings comfort, insight, and validation to anyone who has ever felt overlooked or unheard in the medical system.The Endometriosis Foundation of America: https://www.endofound.orgFollow Maya: https://www.instagram.com/mayamchenry/Sponsor:CLEARSTEM: How to claim your free Hydration Heroes Mini Kit: Go to CLEARSTEM.com, add the Hydration Heroes Mini Kit plus $75 of other CLEARSTEM products to your cart, and enter code REALSTUFFHH at checkout — the kit is yours for free! Offer ends December 2nd.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Subscribe to my newsletter "The Lucie List" here: https://thelucielist.beehiiv.com/subscribeExecutive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Tori Dunlap is back on The Real Stuff! 💸I asked my audience on Instagram to answer some of the most taboo money questions, like whether it’s rude to ask what someone’s house costs, if couples should split expenses 50/50, and how people really feel about money in relationships. If you haven’t listened to my first episode with Tori yet, go check it out at the link below! This time, we’re taking the conversation even deeper. In this conversation, Tori and I go through your replies one by one, breaking down the psychology behind money, greed, success, and why women in particular are taught to feel guilt or shame around wanting wealth. We also talk about financial privilege, debt, and what an equitable partnership looks like when incomes don’t match.Money isn’t moral or immoral — it’s a tool. And as Tori says, money means options. Listen now for a financial expert’s take on the most taboo money-related questions.Watch our previous episode with Tori here: https://youtu.be/1zqDOt0sKPY?si=ZwAEe3CrzNe47KHZFollow Tori on Instagram: @herfirst100kSponsors:Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! Check out their Black Friday sale starting November 21st for 25% off select styles, no code needed.Rhoback: Use the code “REALSTUFF” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first order through the end of this week.CLEARSTEM: Go to CLEARSTEM.com/REALSTUFF and use code REALSTUFF at checkout for 15% off your first order.How to claim your free Hydration Heroes Mini Kit: Go to CLEARSTEM.com, add the Hydration Heroes Mini Kit plus $75 of other CLEARSTEM products to your cart, and enter code REALSTUFFHH at checkout — the kit is yours for free! Offer ends December 2nd.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Subscribe to my newsletter: https://thelucielist.beehiiv.com/subscribeExecutive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

When Emily picked up the phone at work one random afternoon, she had no idea the woman on the other end would change her life forever.At 37, Emily was married with twins, living in her dream house and running her own audiology practice. But then, one chance encounter set off a chain of events that made her finally face the truth: she was gay.In this epic audience caller episode, Emily opens up about what it’s really like to come out later in life, while married, with kids, and everything to lose. From her husband’s shocking response and her father-in-law’s unethical diagnosis, to the first time she fell in love with a woman — this is one of the most gripping, emotional, and unexpectedly funny conversations we’ve ever had on The Real Stuff.If you’ve ever wondered what it means to start over and live authentically no matter the cost, this episode will stay with you long after it ends.You can reach out to Emily at farb48@gmail.com.Sponsor:CLEARSTEM: Go to CLEARSTEM.com/REALSTUFF and use code REALSTUFF at checkout for 15% off your first order. Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

This week, I talk to “Josie,” an anonymous audience caller who shares one of the most difficult and thought-provoking stories we’ve ever had on The Real Stuff. Three years ago, Josie’s dad chose to end his life through MAID — Medical Assistance in Dying. It’s a legal medical procedure in Canada that allows people facing unbearable suffering to choose when and how they die.But Josie’s story isn’t just about death, it’s about the messiness of love, family, and grief. Her relationship with her dad was complicated, filled with both disappointment and affection. When he decided to pursue MAID, Josie found herself navigating conflicting emotions: heartbreak, relief, guilt, and understanding.We talk about what it’s like to know the exact day someone you love will die, the ethics and humanity of MAID, and how Josie is learning to carry compassion and peace for a parent who was never perfect, but was deeply human.If you’ve ever experienced complicated grief or wondered how far autonomy should go at the end of life, this is a conversation you won’t forget.Sponsors:Magnetic Me: If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Rhoback: Use the code “REALSTUFF” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first order through the end of this week.Timeline: My friends at Timeline are offering 20% off, just for my listeners! Head to timeline.com/realstuff to get started.Happy Mammoth:Try Prebiotic Collagen Protein risk-free AND get 15% off your entire first order with code REALSTUFF at checkout.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

In this episode of our sub-series “Don’t Hang Up,” I called my talent manager, Sam, for a raw and unfiltered conversation about what it’s really like to work together.Sam and I have been working side by side for years, and on this call, we talk openly about everything from how the creator–manager relationship actually works to the differences between an agent and a manager, how to find good representation, and what makes a partnership successful.I even ask her the questions I’ve never asked before — like how many other clients she manages, how she pitches me to brands, and what she really thinks it takes to build a sustainable creative career.This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the business side of content creation and the friendships that keep it all running.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

When today’s audience caller, Lindsey, was seven months pregnant, her husband walked out — leaving her to face the end of her marriage and the start of motherhood alone. In this raw, emotional episode of The Real Stuff, I sat down with Lindsay to unpack the unbelievable story of love, betrayal, and resilience.We talk about the moment everything changed, how she found the strength to rebuild her life, and what it really feels like to be abandoned in the middle of pregnancy. This honest conversation explores marriage, divorce, motherhood, and healing after heartbreak — with the empathy and depth that defines this podcast.Listen if you’ve ever experienced heartbreak, felt blindsided by someone you trusted, or needed a reminder that you can start over, even in your darkest moment.Sponsors:Rhoback: Use the code “REALSTUFF” on Rhoback.com for a generous 20% off your first order through the end of this week.Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! I know you’ll love these, too. If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Happy Mammoth: Right now, you can try Prebiotic Collagen Protein risk-free AND get 15% off your entire first order with code REALSTUFF at checkout.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Try Mimi’s amazing platform, Activations, with an exclusive 14-day free trial + a major discount for our listeners at activations.com/realstuff ✨What if you could literally rewire your brain and re-route your life?This week on The Real Stuff, I sit down with Mimi Bouchard, founder of the viral app Activations, who went from having just $8 in her bank account to building an 8-figure empire by her late twenties. Yes, a DECAMILLIONAIRE! We talk about what it really takes to change your life from the inside out: how to break free from the money mindset you grew up with, how to take full responsibility for your future, and the science behind rewiring your subconscious mind for success.Mimi opens up about her childhood, the early days of struggle, and the exact steps that helped her build wealth, confidence, and purpose. We also unpack how her app Activations uses visualization, cinematic audio, and neuroscience to transform everyday moments into powerful mindset shifts. If you’ve ever felt stuck or destined for “more” but didn’t know how to get there, this episode is your sign.Sponsors:Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! I know you’ll love these, too. If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Laundry Sauce: Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entre order @ LaundrySauce with code REALSTUFF at https://laundrysauce.com/REALSTUFF #laundrysaucepod #adRhoback: Use code REALSTUFF at Rhoback.com for 20% off your first order through the end of this week.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

In this Don’t Hang Up episode, I call my dad, Jimmy Fink, to talk about the family business that shaped generations of our family — The Fink Baking Company. Before he was a radio guy, my dad was a bread guy. My childhood was filled with the smell of freshly baked loaves, “bring your daughter to work” days at the bread factory, and animal-shaped loaves for show-and-tell.But like most family businesses, things weren’t always simple. My dad opens up about the history of the bakery and walks me through how it started in the 1880s, grew into a massive operation supplying bread to Yankee Stadium and New York City schools, and eventually came to an end. We talk about what it was like to work alongside family, the tensions that came with it, and the bittersweet reality of closing a 100-year-old company.Sponsors:Happy Mammoth: Try Happy Mammoth's Prebiotic Collagen Protein risk-free and get 15% off your entire first order with code REALSTUFF at checkout.Timeline: Get 20% off Mitopure Gummies at timeline.com/REALSTUFFWatch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

When I received the submission from today’s audience caller, I’ll be honest…it stopped me in my tracks. Here was someone who shared so many core pieces of my identity: she’s married to her high school sweetheart, has two kids the same age as mine, has Celiac disease, and has followed my content since my Refinery29 days. And yet, she lives in a one-bedroom, 550-square-foot log cabin in rural Colorado, below the poverty line.She reached out to tell me that sometimes, watching my life feels like looking in a mirror. Except that mirror reflects back a completely different world. I could have easily ignored her message because this conversation could have made me uncomfortable. But that’s exactly why I knew I needed to talk to her.In this episode, we dive into the very real and sometimes awkward tension between financial privilege and emotional relatability. We talk about what it's like raising kids with almost identical timelines, but in completely different environments. We talk about money, motherhood, access, and the kind of abundance that has nothing to do with wealth.This conversation reminded me that no two lives are the same, even when they look eerily similar from the outside. I’m so grateful Sydney trusted me with her perspective, and I think it’s one we all need to hear. Whether you see yourself in me, in Sydney, or somewhere in between, I think you’ll find something here that makes you pause, reflect, and feel just a little more understood.Sponsors:Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! I know you’ll love these, too. If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Laundry Sauce: Make laundry day the best day of the week! Get 20% off your entre order @ LaundrySauce with code REALSTUFF at https://laundrysauce.com/REALSTUFF #laundrysaucepod #adBau, Artist at War: Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more or sign up your organization for a group screening.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

In this episode, I opened up my Instagram “secrets box” and read your anonymous confessions out loud. From wild nights abroad to hidden crushes at work, to the unspoken struggles of parenting, relationships, fertility, and family dynamics…things get juicy! Along the way, I reflect on the psychology of secrets, the power dynamics they create, and why sharing them can feel so freeing. This episode is raw, funny, emotional, and deeply human — proof that we’re all carrying more than we let on.Sponsors:Vivrelle: Go to www.vivrelle.com and apply for a membership today using code REALSTUFF for 50% off 1 month of membership. The code will also allow you to skip the Vivrelle waitlist. Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! I know you’ll love these, too. If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Bau, Artist at War: Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more or sign up your organization for a group screening.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Emily Scott James is one of those people who radiates joy. You feel it instantly when you scroll her Instagram, and you definitely feel it in today’s conversation. This was our very first time meeting, but we’ve actually been DMing for years (way back before she became a content creator). Now, she has over 700K Instagram followers, a feed full of hilarious, heartwarming videos (have you seen the bathtime salon series?!), and a brand-new full-time career born out of dancing next to a moving car.In this episode, Emily and I talk about:- Her past life as a competitive dancer and a “So You Think You Can Dance” alum- Why she left her corporate job of 10 years- How motherhood reconnected her with her joy, confidence, and creativity- The boundaries she’s set around money, sex, and family content- And what she’s dreaming up next 👀Emily’s energy is infectious and her story is one so many women will relate to, especially if you’ve ever had to reinvent yourself or rediscover who you are. Whether you’re a mom, a creator, or just a fellow glass-half-full type of gal, I think you’ll love this one.Follow Emily: https://www.instagram.com/emilyscottjames/ Sponsors:Vivrelle: Go to www.vivrelle.com and apply for a membership today using code REALSTUFF for 50% off 1 month of membership. The code will also allow you to skip the Vivrelle waitlist. Magnetic Me: If you haven’t ordered Magnetic Me yet, now is the time! I know you’ll love these, too. If you’re a parent, or shopping for one, go now to MagneticMe.com and new customers will get 15% off!Bau, Artist at War: Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more or sign up your organization for a group screening.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

In this installment of our “Don’t Hang Up” mini-series, I call my brother Robbie to talk about how becoming a dad has changed everything for him and for our relationship. His daughter Dylan was born just one month before my daughter, Coco, and since then, we’ve found ourselves in the trenches of new parenthood together. We talk about how that’s brought us closer, what it feels like to finally share the family baby spotlight, and the funny (and sometimes tricky) dynamics of raising kids who are so close in age. Robbie opens up about his perspective on milestones, community, and what actually prepared him for fatherhood. It’s a thoughtful, honest conversation about identity, family, and this new season of our lives as siblings and parents.Sponsor:Bau, Artist at War: Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more or sign up your organization for a group screening.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

Jess is an audience caller who wrote in to share her story, and it’s one of the most powerful we’ve featured. She waited until marriage to have sex with her husband, and then discovered it was excruciatingly painful and physically impossible. After eight years of misdiagnoses, shame, and failed treatments, she finally healed herself from vaginismus — a condition that is often misunderstood or ignored. In this raw and compassionate conversation, we unpack what vaginismus really is, how purity culture and religious beliefs shaped Jess’s experience, and what it takes to reclaim intimacy — not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. Jess is now a pelvic floor therapist helping other women do the same and her expertise brings hope and healing to those who have felt alone in their pain.Follow Jess: https://www.instagram.com/painfree.intimacy/Sponsors:Bau, Artist at War: Visit BAUmovie.com to watch the trailer and learn more or sign up your organization for a group screening.Vivrelle: Go to www.vivrelle.com and apply for a membership today using code REALSTUFF for 50% off 1 month of membership. The code will also allow you to skip the Vivrelle waitlist. Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

I’m back with another installment of my mini-series Don’t Hang Up, where I pick up the phone and call people in my real life (begging them not to hang up!) while I ask them deeply personal questions.This time, I called my mom (who was not thrilled about being on the podcast — sorry, Mom!!) to talk about how she raised three kids who somehow grew up without sibling rivalry or competition and are now true best friends as adults.We talked about what it was like raising twins, how she handled our sibling bickering, the little mantras she repeated that shaped us, and why celebrating our differences was key. She even shared some funny childhood memories (like me making “commercials” in the bathroom mirror) that I’m still cringing about. But I guess the commercials were worth it and led me somewhere fun!It’s a conversation about parenting, sibling bonds, and the small, everyday choices that can shape a family for life. Whether you’re a parent yourself, a sibling reflecting on your own childhood, or just love a heartfelt family story, you’re gonna love this one.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

This week, I’m sitting down with a 7-figure business coach named Chirag Shah. He’s single-handedly made many of his clients into millionaires with his executive coaching and mentorship programs, and he’s currently one of MY coaching clients (I’ve started working with him to improve his social media presence). Once I learned a bit about him and his story, I knew he’d make an amazing guest on the show.Chirag has made millions of dollars and has the most amazing insights to share (that are universally applicable no matter what your goals are), but what I found most interesting was how the highest point in his business correlated with the lowest point in his personal life. In this episode he gets honest and vulnerable. This episode is for everyone–whether you’re building a business, navigating burnout, or simply trying to live with more balance and clarity.We talk about:How to recognize the signs of burnout (before it’s too late)The simple habits that helped him reset his prioritiesWhat entrepreneurship really looks like behind the highlight reelPractical strategies you can apply to your own career and personal growthThink of this episode like listening in on a coaching call: raw, real, and full of tangible takeaways you can bring into your own life.Follow Chirag to get an inside look at our one-on-one coaching sessions: https://www.instagram.com/chiragshahcoaching/Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

When I was pregnant with my first child, I read Expecting Better by Emily Oster and it completely changed the way I approached pregnancy. It eased my anxiety and gave me permission to trust myself and question the blanket rules I was hearing from strangers and the Internet. So, you can imagine how thrilled I was to bring Emily onto The Real Stuff for a deep, data-driven conversation about all the hot button parenting topics we’re told not to talk about.In this episode, we cover everything from drinking alcohol during pregnancy to sleep training, breastfeeding vs. formula, going back to work vs. staying home, vaccines and autism, and so much more. Emily brings the facts (and I mean real, peer-reviewed, large-sample-size data-driven facts) to some of the most polarizing conversations in parenthood without judgment or shame.We also talk about her own experiences as a mom, the pressure to do everything “right,” and the value of doing what works for your family.Whether you’re pregnant, parenting, or just curious about what the actual research says about these loaded topics, I hope this conversation brings you the same calm and clarity that Emily’s work gave me.Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.

In this episode, I’m continuing my mini-series Don’t Hang Up, where I pick up the phone and call people in my real life (begging them not to hang up!) while I ask them deeply personal questions.This time, I called my friend (completely unannounced - sorry, Monique!!) to talk about what went down at her recent destination wedding in Cabo. Monique is one of my best friends from college, and after years of planning, her dream beach wedding was hit by a literal tropical cyclone. Not just rain…it was a sideways, slamming, ceremony-soaking cyclone kind of weather event.We talked about what it felt like to watch her wedding day unravel in real time, the emotions she went through that morning, how her support system showed up for her, and how she ultimately found the beauty in all the chaos. It’s a story about resilience, friendship, soggy dance floors, and what really matters when things don’t go according to plan.Whether you’re a bride-to-be, a wedding guest, or just love a good real-life plot twist—this one’s for you!Watch this episode in video form on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjmevEcbh5h5FEX0pazPEtN86t7eb2OgX To apply to be a guest on the show, visit luciefink.com/apply and send us your story. I also want to extend a special thank you to East Love for the show's theme song, Rolling Stone. Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealstuffpod Find Lucie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luciebfink/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luciebfink YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/luciebfinkWebsite: https://luciefink.com/ Executive Producer: Cloud10Produced 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.