Shawna and LaLa: Life Beyond The Mic
Society & Culture
About
Life Beyond The Mic is a women’s empowerment and lifestyle podcast hosted by Shawna and LaLa, where conversations go beyond the mic, lights, cameras, and stage. Blending celebrity interviews with real-life conversations, they talk about the wins, the struggles, and the failures, giving an honest look at what life actually looks like behind the spotlight. As creators living with disabilities, they bring a perspective that is rarely heard, sharing real experiences, practical solutions, and product features that make everyday life more accessible and independent.
Episodes
- LaLa Was Escorted Out by Cops… and Banned from Staples
LaLa discusses an incident at Staples where she was escorted out by police. The hosts also share their Mother's Day Gift Guide and talk about their NICU giveback initiative at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital.
- Don't Trust Anyone
Shawna provides an update on her TMS therapy. Linda Perillo discusses her book "Your Payment Method Has Been Declined," which tells the story of an alleged trust fund mishandling. RJ Mitte also talks about living with cerebral palsy and di…
- Posting the Perfect Life… Then Asking for Money + Ali Stroker Speaks Out
This episode of Life Beyond The Mic features Shawna discussing her TMS therapy, planning her mother's birthday, and a conversation with LaLa about bragging. They also interview Ali Stroker about the ReelAbilities Film Festival and the need…
- The Journal Farrah Abraham Should Start
Shawna and LaLa discuss a recent drama involving Farrah Abraham. Shawna provides an update on her experience with TMS therapy, and Katie Wood is featured to discuss her journal, A Simple Seed, and the benefits of journaling.
- Life Is Too Short… So Why Are We Living Like This?
Shawna and LaLa discuss the pressures of modern life, the importance of self-care, and making time for personal experiences. They explore how people manage stress in high-pressure careers and the challenges of balancing work and personal w…
- The Party Era vs Real Life + A Story That Will Change You
In this episode, Shawna and LaLa discuss Jazmine Faries' experiences with Down syndrome, reflect on early 2000s party culture, and debate modern parenting styles regarding respect and discipline. They are joined by Chad and Jazmine Faries…
- I Woke Up During My Colonoscopy…
Shawna describes waking up during her colonoscopy and finding the experience fascinating, much to LaLa's amusement. The episode also includes Gio's unexpected long bus ride and a conversation with Wendy about her business.
- Life Beyond The Mic with Vic DiBitetto, Kaelynn Partlow & Matt Walst
Shawna and LaLa discuss seeing Vic DiBitetto live, interview Kaelynn Partlow about her experiences on Love on the Spectrum and her book, and chat with Matt Walst from Three Days Grace about their music and touring.
- Vic DiBitetto: Everyday Frustrations and Viral Comedy
Comedian Vic DiBitetto joins Shawna and LaLa to discuss his comedy, focusing on everyday frustrations and relatable life moments. The episode also touches on longevity habits discussed at the Modern Day Wife event and features a humorous i…
- Facts Over Feelings
Shawna and LaLa discuss a snowstorm discrepancy, Botox, and viral hot takes, emphasizing facts over feelings. They also interview Cindy Yates about clean beauty and Dr. Kara Wada on inflammation, immune health, and patient advocacy.
- Women Supporting Women: The Pajamas Bringing Dignity Back to Hospitals
Shawna and LaLa recap their Valentine's Day and attendance at the What She Said event. They interview Cindy Mutti, founder of Just Because Love Does, about her mission to provide adaptive hospital pajamas that restore dignity and comfort t…
- Back After the Blizzard: Valentine’s Confidence & Gut Health Real Talk
Shawna and LaLa return with an episode covering Valentine’s confidence and gut health. They discuss LaLa's trip to the Cayman Islands, Shawna's experience with winter storms, and products promoting body confidence. Guest Kaytee Hadley join…
- When Doctors Don’t Listen - The Cost of Being Dismissed
Shawna and LaLa share personal experiences of being dismissed by doctors and advocate for a holistic, individualized approach to healthcare. They emphasize patient advocacy and the importance of pursuing answers, even when facing systemic…
- Panties, Emeralds, and Gifts Nobody Asked For
In this episode, Shawna and LaLa discuss milestone birthdays, questionable gifts, and medical issues. They also touch on New Year's resolutions, redefining success, and lowering expectations for the new year.
- Shawna Threw a Party... And Has Zero Memory of It
Shawna and LaLa share stories of travel mishaps, a milestone birthday, and Shawna's shocking lack of memory from a party she planned. They also highlight their meaningful holiday tradition of assembling gift bags for a local pediatric unit.
- NY Winter Blues, Holiday Gift Guide Picks
Shawna and LaLa share their struggles with New York
- Holiday Favorites and Accessibility in the Arts: bergenPAC Edition
Shawna and LaLa discuss their favorite holiday gift picks, including products like Green Pan and EaZyHold. They also interview bergenPAC Executive Director Alexander Diaz about the performing arts school's inclusive opportunities for stude…
- Bryan James Breaks His Silence
Bryan James discusses the movie 'Reckless,' his strained relationship with co-star Max Ehrich, and the online controversy in an interview on Shawna and LaLa: Life Beyond The Mic. He shares his perspective on behind-the-scenes drama, heated…
- Macy Gray Unplugged: 25 Years of Soul, Stories, and Surprises
Macy Gray celebrates 25 years in music, discussing her journey, upcoming tour, and new album with hosts Shawna and LaLa. The episode also features discussions on 90s nostalgia and personal stories.
- Secrets to a Long Life
In this episode, LaLa recounts a bizarre incident at a dance party where a stranger handed her a baby. They also interview 95-year-old voiceover artist and author Ken Dabrow, who shares his insights on life and aging.
- When Life Hands You Tragedy
Shawna and LaLa share raw experiences, including personal health crises and reactions to public tragedies. They interview disability advocate Chelsie Hill and discuss LaLa's new cannoli business, highlighting themes of resilience, advocacy…
- Inside Nashville
In part two of their Nashville trip, Shawna and LaLa review the Holston House Hotel, experience Puttshack Nashville, and visit Nashville Underground. They also interview singer-songwriter Mary-Clair about her album and influences.
- Nashville Almost Turned Into a True Crime Story
Shawna and LaLa share a harrowing experience in Nashville where LaLa was targeted by a stranger, detailing the intervention of two heroic men. The episode also explores the Nashville music scene, highlights local talent like Coey Redd, and…
- Skeeter Syndrome Chaos
This episode covers LaLa's experience with her daughter's severe allergic reaction to mosquito bites, known as Skeeter Syndrome, resulting in an ER visit. It also touches on meal preparation with Seal Vax, recovery hydration with Coaqua Co…
- Viral Cheating Scandal
Shawna and LaLa discuss a viral video from a Coldplay concert and Shawna shares a personal health update about her hernia diagnosis and upcoming surgery. LaLa talks about rehabbing a baby squirrel and discusses a supplement for her dog's s…
- Thou Shalt Not Dine Where You Usually Do
Shawna and LaLa discuss the devastating floods in Kerrville, Texas, and the persistent rain in New York. They also touch on vacation dining preferences, online trolls, an ant bait review, and the Litter Robot.
- Are You Hauling Rocks or Building a Cathedral?
Shawna and LaLa explore the meaning of "hauling rocks or building a cathedral," discussing life lessons and mental health. They interview Elisa Gilbert about her family's jewelry-making legacy and the evolution of the industry.
- Rainy Summers and School Day Scars
In this episode, Shawna and LaLa share personal stories about rainy summers and impactful school memories. They also discuss summer adventures and LaLa offers a review of the Lingo Kids app.
- From Late Night Break Ins to Whoop-Tea on the Red Carpet
Shawna and LaLa discuss a late-night security scare and a canceled concert. They then attend Whoopi Goldberg's "Whoop-Tea" launch party, meeting various personalities and accepting that things don't always go as planned.
- Mom Guilt and Men Who Think With Their ...
Shawna and LaLa explore mom guilt, the challenges of single motherhood, and controversial dating scenarios, including stories from the "Are We Dating The Same Guy?" group. They also discuss solo vacation dilemmas and review the Litter Robo…
- Don't Try This TikTok Hack
LaLa shares details of a disastrous cruise vacation, while Shawna discusses her diet with Eat Clean To Go and a post-surgery hair loss solution from Musely. The hosts also caution listeners about a viral TikTok hack and mention The Harlowe.
- Cruising Through Anxiety and Success
This episode covers LaLa's anxiety about a new cruise, the science and benefits of red light therapy with Melissa Van Riper, and author Sarah Sparks' journey overcoming disability. Mother's Day gift ideas are also shared.
- Sick Days, Squirrel Tales, and Mother’s Day Must Haves
Shawna discusses her health journey and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. LaLa shares vacation essentials, a bedtime routine, and a humorous tale about a squirrel rescue, along with Mother's Day gift ideas.
- Trust Your Gut
Shawna and LaLa discuss Shawna's recent health issues, which led to an ER visit and diagnosis of a GI tract infection and UTI, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy. They also touch on Easter treats, potty training updates, and an u…
- Medical Mayhem and Online Mayhem
Shawna and LaLa discuss Shawna's medical issues, including an MRI contrast allergy and her mother's recovery from spine surgery. They also address an online threat LaLa received concerning her children, and broader parental concerns about…
- End of the World and Politeness
Shawna and LaLa discuss disaster preparedness and declining modern manners, including examples like kids attending job interviews and poor customer service. They also touch upon high electricity bills and welcome Frank DeRaffele to discuss…
- Grammy Scandals to Miracle Mornings
Shawna and LaLa discuss the Grammy Awards, including Beyoncé's win and Kanye West's wife's attire. They also touch on a perceived increase in plane crashes and share insights from Hal Elrod's 'The Miracle Morning'.
- New Year, Same Chaos
Shawna and LaLa start 2025 discussing a job search, personal anecdotes about tech products, and security. They also touch on current events like LA fires and celebrity philanthropy, and feature author Suzanne Geismann discussing her book.
- Unwrap the Season
Shawna and LaLa present their holiday gift guide, including toys and wellness products from featured brands. This episode follows their recent hospital visits.
- Gifting Joy and Saving Lives with Life Vac
Shawna and LaLa present their Holiday Gift Guide featuring brands like Air Up and JLab, share a personal anecdote, and interview Arthur Lih, CEO of LifeVac, about the life-saving device. The episode offers gift ideas and information on hom…
- Turkey, Cocktails, and Smooth Jazz with Boney James
Shawna and LaLa host Boney James to kick off the holiday season, discussing Thanksgiving preparations, CBS filming experiences, and holiday cocktails from Hilton Head Distillery. Boney James also shares music and holiday spirit.
- STANDING UP FOR CONFIDENCE
Shawna and LaLa explore meal planning with "A Better Meal," recount a comedy show experience, and discuss advocating for oneself, particularly Shawna's experience with a cardiac CAT scan. Business coach Julie DeLucca-Collins joins to discu…
- Pumpkins, Storms, and Standing Up for Our Kids
Shawna and LaLa discuss hurricane recovery, a challenging resort experience, a doctor's visit regarding vaccines, and a conversation with Brian Kilmeade. The hosts share personal stories and reflections on their show, Life Beyond The Mic.
- Psychic Insights with Piera
On this episode of Shawna and LaLa: Life Beyond The Mic, hosts Shawna and LaLa welcome psychic medium Piera to discuss supernatural topics. The episode also covers Gio's vaccine decision and a theory linking the government to recent hurric…
- Hands Are Tied
Shawna and LaLa discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene and Milton, government support for affected areas, and parental rights in healthcare decisions. They are joined by Chanda Hinton of the Chanda Center For Health, which provides service…
- Red, Right and Real with Brian Kilmeade
Shawna and LaLa discuss politics, pop culture, and media influence, sharing a story about P. Diddy's car and interviewing Brian Kilmeade about politics and his tour.
- Read The Signs
Shawna and LaLa share personal stories, including LaLa's solo trip to Florida and Shawna's recounting of local celebrations. They are joined by Peter Shankman to discuss navigating business with ADD and Autism.
- The New Age of Parenting
LaLa prepares her son for middle school as phones become allowed in class, prompting Shawna and LaLa to reflect on changing parenting and school tech. They discuss school supply pressures and online parent-shaming before interviewing the c…
- Gio's Health Scare, Giulina's Sass & Baby Tech Talk
LaLa discusses Gio
- Sick Days, Big Prizes & Alien Nightmares
LaLa recounts a health scare with her son, highlighting Kinderlyte electrolytes. The hosts discuss a baby giveaway with brands like Huggies and Owlet, LaLa's alien-related fears, and Shawna's difficult month including personal loss and a t…