Best MELISSA VERA Podcasts (2025)

1
Faith, Resilience, and Lego: Lessons from Ole Kirk Christiansen 23:48

19h ago23:48

23:48

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera reflects on the inspiring life of Ole Kirk Christiansen, the founder of LEGO. From devastating factory fires to heartbreaking personal losses, Ole Kirk’s journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and perseverance. Melissa shares how Christiansen’s unwavering belief in leaving things…

1
Protests, Legal Rights & Immigration: What You Need to Know with David Secular 57:19

3d ago57:19

57:19

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with David, a criminal defense attorney and author, to explore the intersection of protests, legal rights, immigration, and law enforcement. From knowing your civil liberties during protests to understanding the do’s and don’ts when confronted by law enforcement, this convers…

1
Is This Catfishing… or Hoodfishing? | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 23:11

4d ago23:11

23:11

This week’s Ask a Matchmaker Hotline has everything from dating app burnout to inspiring relationship updates. One caller, 40, tried a bold Hinge strategy but got no results, so Maria advises her to take a break from swiping and start meeting people IRL, even suggesting a Star Trek convention. Another caller, 41, struggles with being sexualized onl…

1
Standing Up: Lessons from Fannie Lou Hamer for Today 29:17

5d ago29:17

29:17

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera explores the life and legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer—a courageous leader in the civil rights movement whose voice still inspires change today. Through her unwavering faith, resilience, and fearless advocacy, Hamer became a symbol of hope, social justice, and community empowerment. Melissa share…

1
How to Stay Hopeful in Difficult Times | Resilience, Faith & Finding Joy 24:09

8d ago24:09

24:09

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera opens up about the importance of hope, resilience, and community during challenging times. Drawing from her personal journey with anxiety, Melissa shares heartfelt stories that highlight how faith, kindness, and compassion can make a difference—not only in our own lives but in the worl…

1
Uncovering Family Roots & Generational Resilience with Caroline Topperman 1:01:17

10d ago1:01:17

1:01:17

In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with returning guest Carolyn Topperman to explore the importance of understanding our roots and preserving our identity. Carolyn shares her emotional journey to Poland, where she uncovered her family’s history and confronted the impact of generational trauma. Togethe…

1
New Found Female Empowerment & Red Pill Dating w/ Weezy WTF, Vera Papisova, Kaneez Surka & More| Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 1:04:45

11d ago1:04:45

1:04:45

This week on Ask a Matchmaker, Maria celebrates 5 powerful years of conversations that have redefined how we talk about dating, relationships, and emotional growth. To mark the anniversary, she’s sharing five unforgettable episodes that showcase the heart and range of the show. Hear from Weezy WTF about sex, power, and dating after the pandemic in …

1
Filling Your Emotional Cup: Finding Hope, Letting Go, and Embracing Joy 31:21

12d ago31:21

31:21

What’s in your emotional cup right now—worry or hope? 💛 In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares personal stories of loss, rediscovery, and the small but powerful reminders—like treasured family heirloom teacups—that teach us to let go of fear and fill our lives with faith, joy, and positivity. ✨ You’ll hear: How …

1
Living Your Faith Through Kindness Inspired by Mister Rogers 35:59

15d ago35:59

35:59

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores why kindness and compassion are more important than ever. Drawing inspiration from Mister Rogers, Melissa reflects on how we can quietly live out our faith—without judgment—and lead with love in every interaction. She shares how small acts of understanding can make a…

1
From Corporate Life to Allergy Advocate: MG Colangelo' s Journey as a Food Allergy Mom 1:03:56

17d ago1:03:56

1:03:56

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with MG Colangelo— a passionate coach, mother, and fierce advocate for children with severe food allergies. 🌿 MG opens up about her life-changing journey from a corporate career to becoming a full-time food allergy advocate after her son was diagnosed with life-thre…

1
What Is the Gen Z Stare? | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 17:29

18d ago17:29

17:29

On this week’s Solo Summer Session, Matchmaker Maria dives into the rise of the Gen Z stare and how it reflects shifting norms in dating and communication. From emotionless customer service to silent babysitters, she shares real-life encounters that left her questioning today’s social cues. Maria explores how Gen Z’s unique upbringing, including re…

1
Special episode: How to track non-financial misconduct within your business with Smarsh's Shaun Hurst and former Standard Chartered surveillance chief Emily Wright 29:52

19d ago29:52

29:52

Today’s episode is a special one produced in association with Smarsh, a technology firm providing global financial institutions with the tools to capture, store, and monitor their communications. It also marks the launch of a new Following the Rules series providing practical, actionable guidance to help listeners and the financial services firms t…

1
Is He Cheating or Just Hacked? | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 18:09

25d ago18:09

18:09

In this week’s Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria answers hotline calls from women navigating trust, loss, and new beginnings in dating. One caller suspects her boyfriend may be using a dating app, prompting a deep dive into digital infidelity, gut instincts, and whether to stay or go after two years together. Maria shares clear next steps for rebu…

1
Dating Older? Here’s What Actually Matters | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 26:09

1M ago26:09

26:09

In this episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Maria shares highlights from her recent women’s retreat in Greece, reflecting on the creation of Agape Escapes and the meaningful experiences the group had together. She opens up about the surreal feeling of being off the grid during global events and reveals how one special location inspired the cover of her up…

1
Mark Watson, SVB’s former management governance head, on the crisis policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions are sleepwalking into and how to avoid it 30:20

1M ago30:20

30:20

Today’s guest outlines where governments and financial regulators are going wrong in their supervision of the sector. He details where he sees potentially systemic risks mounting and he explains what banks, financial institutions and their supervisors can do now to prevent a significant blow-up from occurring on their watch. Mark Watson is a govern…

1
Broadway Meets Children’s Books: Why Music Education & Representation Matter with David Weiser 47:29

1M ago47:29

47:29

🎙️ In this inspiring episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with David—a Broadway talent turned children’s book author—to explore the powerful intersection of music, storytelling, and education. 🎶 From center stage to the pages of picture books, David shares his unique journey and passion for making music accessible and i…

1
Ex-CIA, Current Husband w Allison Raskin & John Blakeslee | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 34:36

1M ago34:36

34:36

On this episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Maria is joined by writer Allison Raskin and her husband, former CIA agent turned screenwriter John Blakeslee. They talk about their new podcast Starter Marriage, diving into the realities of modern relationships, communication, and therapy. From Allison’s book I Do to John’s past in the CIA, the couple shares h…

1
Leading with Compassion in a Divided World 27:51

1M ago27:51

27:51

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera explores why compassion is more important than ever in today’s world. As fear and division seem to dominate the headlines, Melissa invites listeners to pause and reflect on the healing power of kindness, gratitude, and human connection. Through personal stories and honest ref…

1
Justice, Prejudice & the Power of Storytelling with David G. Secular 55:58

2M ago55:58

55:58

In this thought-provoking episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera welcomes David, a former criminal defense attorney turned author, to discuss his gripping novel A Hate Crime in Brooklyn. David shares his unique journey from practicing law to writing fiction, and how his legal background shaped the powerful themes in his debut book.…

1
Are You Being Real or Just Being Liked? Matchmaker Maria LIVE in NYC with Chrissy Rutherford | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 1:04:24

2M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

In this special live episode recorded at the legendary 92nd Street Y in New York City, Matchmaker Maria is joined by her dear friend and style expert Chrissy Rutherford for a fun, honest, and wide-ranging conversation about modern love. The two dive into Maria’s new book, Ask A Matchmaker, and how it blends human behavior, communication theory, and…

1
FMSB CEO Myles McGuinness on his plans to help the City tackle non-financial misconduct, and bolstering the standard setters' future in an increasingly polarised world 33:22

2M ago33:22

33:22

Today’s guest explains why global standards for financial conduct could help counter the risk of rising regulatory fragmentation - providing, as he puts it, “the glue to hold diverging rule books together.” He outlines how a robust governance framework could help financial institutions better tackle toxic workplace behaviour. He explains why he bel…

1
From Grief to Joy: Alexandria’s Journey After Loss 54:50

2M ago54:50

54:50

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera talks with Alexandria about her powerful journey of healing after her husband’s suicide. Alexandria opens up about navigating profound grief, parenting through pain, and ultimately discovering a renewed purpose—helping others find joy even in the darkest seasons. Together, th…

1
414: Justice & the West Memphis Three: Dan Stidham on Wrongful Convictions & Redemption 52:55

2M ago52:55

52:55

In this powerful episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with attorney, author, and judge Dan Stidham to discuss the infamous West Memphis Three case and his decades-long pursuit of justice. Dan opens up about the emotional toll of wrongful convictions, the critical role DNA evidence played, and the impact public pressure …

1
Movie Tea on The Materialist & Maria Spills Book Tour Details | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 30:48

2M ago30:48

30:48

This week, Maria shares the highs, surprises, and deep conversations from her Ask a Matchmaker book tour. From readers finding clarity in their relationships to full-blown divorces sparked by missing pillars (yes, really), the impact has been powerful—and personal. Even her husband had thoughts after reading it! Plus, Maria gives her full (spoiler-…

1
Single at 40: How to Date Smarter, Not Harder! with Joyelle Nicole Johnson | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 48:48

2M ago48:48

48:48

On this week’s episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria is joined by co-host Joyelle Nicole Johnson are on a hotline ep, answering your toughest dating dilemmas. First, a 42-year-old single woman from Jersey City is looking for love, but struggles to find men who match her lifestyle and ambition. Maria offers advice on expanding her dating poo…

1
Jillien Flores of the Managed Funds Association on how rulemakers can best rethink overly-onerous regulations for alternative asset managers, and the "misguided" policies they should avoid 32:48

2M ago32:48

32:48

Today’s guest calls on regulators and policymakers to stop seeking to regulate alternative asset managers like they’re banks. She details how policymakers can best rethink the regulatory framework for the non-bank sector to benefit not only alternative asset managers but also the financial sector more broadly. And she explains how a push to harmoni…

1
413: Chatting about Healing from Childhood Trauma with Dr. Neal King 52:31

2M ago52:31

52:31

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera speaks with psychologist and author Dr. Neal King, whose memoir Trauma is a Thief shares his powerful story of surviving childhood trauma, family abuse, and addiction while growing up in a military household. Dr. King opens up about: ✅ Navigating trauma and PTSD in childhood ✅ How supp…

1
Is Polyamory Right for You? Let's Talk About It! with Joyelle Nicole Johnson & Melissa Fulgieri| Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 54:10

2M ago54:10

54:10

How do you open the conversation about polyamory with your partner, without blowing things up? On this week’s episode of Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria is joined by co-host Joyelle Nicole Johnson and NYC-based relationship therapist and professor Melissa Fulgieri to explore the nuances of ethical non-monogamy. From setting ground rules to navig…

1
412 : Chatting aboutFrom Science to Storytelling: Mike Cobb on Writing True Crime-Inspired Historical Fiction 47:00

2M ago47:00

47:00

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, host Melissa Vera sits down with author and former scientist Mike Cobb to discuss his powerful historical fiction novel You Will Know Me by My Deeds. Inspired by the real-life Atlanta child murders, Mike shares how his background in science and love of research fuels his compelling storytelling. Learn h…

1
From Sugar Baby to Stock Savvy with Weezy W.T.F | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 38:21

2M ago38:21

38:21

On this week’s Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria sits down with the fearless and unfiltered Weezy WTF co-host of the Decisions Decisions podcast and co-author of the brand-new book No Holes Barred: A Dual Manifesto of Sexual Exploration and Power. From sugar baby adventures to navigating the emotional rollercoaster of dating in NYC, Weezy shares j…

1
Edwin Schooling Latter, ex-FCA regulator now Mizuho's UK compliance head, on the reforms that could unlock "big savings" and the lessons we missed from recent failures of major financial institutions 41:25

2M ago41:25

41:25

Today’s guest pinpoints the “very technical” but overly complex regulatory requirements underpinning financial markets that he believes regulators could rethink to generate “big savings” for both themselves and the market participants they oversee. He discusses the lessons he would like to see industry players take on board and the changes he belie…

1
411: Chatting about Navigating Professionalism in Podcasting 48:42

3M ago48:42

48:42

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera discusses the importance of accountability, particularly in the context of podcasting. She shares a personal experience involving miscommunication with a guest, highlighting the challenges of managing expectations and professionalism in the podcasting world. The episode also features testim…

1
Therapy Is the New ‘I Love You’ with Joyelle Nicole Johnson | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 29:52

3M ago29:52

29:52

This week, Matchmaker Maria is joined by her hilarious and heartfelt co-host for the month, comedian Joyelle Nicole Johnson! They dive deep into what it really means to love someone, and how therapy, timelines, and choosing your own adventure can all be ways to say “I love you.” Joyelle shares the origin story of her relationship, from getting set …

1
410: From Technical Writer to Fiction Author: Chris Null’s Journey 51:19

3M ago51:19

51:19

In this episode of the Chats from the Blog Cabin podcast, host Melissa Vera welcomes author Chris Null to discuss his journey as a writer, the transition from technical writing to fiction, and the inspiration behind his new novel, The Cul-de-sac. Chris shares insights into his family dynamics, the evolution of his writing career, and the unique cha…

1
He’s Still Friends with His Ex! Is That a Red Flag? with Matchmaker Chrisoula | Ask a Matchmaker with Matchmaker Maria 22:35

3M ago22:35

22:35

This week, Maria is joined by her sister, Matchmaker Chrisoula! before we get into it, Maria's new book, Matchmaker Maria’s No-Nonsense Guide to Finding Love, is out! Go buy it! Now tune in for a special Hotline Episode of the podcast! The two take calls from listeners looking for real-time dating advice, from situationships to second date confusio…

1
ESMA chair Verena Ross on her to-do list for 2025, simplifying the EU financial rulebook, and life at the helm of the watchdog 44:51

3M ago44:51

44:51

Today’s guest discusses the European Securities and Markets Authority’s to-do list for 2025, and she explains the regulator’s priorities as it responds to an EU-wide effort to simplify the bloc’s rulebook. She outlines ESMA’s expectations of market participants subject to its landmark reforms on digital operational resilience and crypto-assets and …

1
Ask a Matchmaker: How I Wrote My Book! | Ask a Matchmaker with Matchmaker Maria 36:03

3M ago36:03

36:03

In Matchmaker Maria’s No-Nonsense Guide to Finding Love, celebrity matchmaker Maria Avgitidis blends heartfelt storytelling with decades of experience to offer a refreshingly honest guide to modern dating. Written as a “prescriptive memoir,” this isn’t just a dating manual it’s a candid, deeply personal conversation over coffee with a trusted frien…

1
409 Navigating the Waves of Grief 35:45

3M ago35:45

35:45

In this heartfelt episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa shares her personal journey through grief, reflecting on the loss of her sister and father. She discusses the complexities of grief, the memories that linger, and the emotional waves that come unexpectedly. Through her stories, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief and t…

1
Is He Into You or Just Into Texting? | Ask a Matchmaker w Matchmaker Maria 32:15

3M ago32:15

32:15

Matchmaker Maria is just one week away from the release of her new book Ask a Matchmaker, and she's calling on all her listeners to support it! Whether you're a page-turner or an audiobook addict, now's the time to preorder and get ready to transform your dating life. Then it’s time to open the hotline! Maria is joined by her sister and fellow matc…

1
408: Reflections in the Frame: Motherhood, Writing, and the Stories We Carry 25:05

3M ago25:05

25:05

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares her personal reflections on Mother's Day, her experiences at a recent writing workshop, and her thoughts on navigating complex emotions related to family and societal issues. She discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome, the significance of her blog launch, and the impact of the…

1
The Materialists vs The Matchmaker | Ask a Matchmaker w Matchmaker Maria 44:33

4M ago44:33

44:33

This week on Ask a Matchmaker, Matchmaker Maria is joined by a fellow matchmaker, her sister and May's cohost, Chrisoula! The two are diving into the matchmaking world! What it takes, how it works, and why it’s not all candlelit dinners and perfect matches. From surprising client obstacles to touching success stories, Maria and Chrisoula pull back …

1
Capstone's Mathew Gilbert on navigating Trump 2.0, and the regulatory changes needed to drive "tangible" growth in the UK and EU 27:05

4M ago27:05

27:05

Today’s guest outlines how he expects financial services regulators in the UK and European Union to react to President Trump’s increasingly erratic policymaking. He details the regulatory changes he believes are needed to ensure the UK government achieves its growth mission and he highlights what Brussels must get right if the EU is serious about r…

1
407 : Chatting about Anchored in Hope: A Journey of Faith 12:51

4M ago12:51

12:51

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, Melissa Vera shares her personal journey of becoming a contributing author in the collaborative book 'Anchored in Hope.' She discusses the significance of sharing stories, the healing power of community, and the transformative experiences that led her to write about her own struggles with faith and resi…

1
He Ghosted Me After 2 Months of Dating, Now What?! with Jessie Lee | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 32:11

4M ago32:11

32:11

This week on Ask a Matchmaker, Maria is joined by the wildly entertaining Jesse, who brings her playful energy and real talk to your biggest dating dilemmas! 💌 First up, Brianna is overthinking a recent date with a man she felt went too well. Maria breaks it down with practical advice about pacing new relationships and managing expectations. 💥 Then…

1
406: Chatting about Nurturing Your Marriage in a Large Family with Andrew Paul 47:43

4M ago47:43

47:43

Andrew, a father of 10, shares his journey of balancing work and family life and the importance of seeking help and support as a father. He discusses the societal pressure on men to be strong and not show vulnerability, and how he decided to pivot and start helping other dads. Andrew emphasizes the importance of being present for his children and t…

1
Dating Bans and Kittenfishing?! with Jessie Lee | Ask a Matchmaker Podcast with Matchmaker Maria 24:06

4M ago24:06

24:06

This week, Matchmaker Maria is joined by the insightful and hilarious Jessie to break down what's happening in the wild world of dating right now. From the rise of kittenfishing—yes, that sneaky cousin of catfishing where people add just a little too much sparkle to their online personas to the U.S. government literally banning romantic relationshi…

1
Governance expert Vera Cherepanova on why ethics and compliance professionals need a more influential voice in the boardroom, and the obstacles standing in their way 26:51

4M ago26:51

26:51

Today’s guest is on a mission to bring ethics and compliance to the top table. She explains why ethics and compliance professionals should be given a seat in the boardroom and what’s stopping them from getting there. She also discusses how businesses and their compliance executives can best navigate today’s increasingly fragmented regulatory enviro…

1
405: From Farm to Pharma: A Journey of Health Innovation with Alex Martinez 52:44

4M ago52:44

52:44

In this episode of Chats from the Blog Cabin, the host engages in a deep conversation with Alex, a CEO in the pharmaceutical industry, about the gut microbiome and its significance in health. Alex shares his unique journey from growing up on a farm to becoming an entrepreneur focused on natural health solutions. He discusses the importance of human…

1
Going Undercover: Dating The Far Right with Vera Papisova PART 2 | Ask a Matchmaker Matchmaker Maria 41:36

4M ago41:36

41:36

This is part 2 of a powerful two-part episode of Ask a Matchmaker. This week, Matchmaker Maria sits down with journalist Vera Papisova, who went undercover on conservative dating apps during the 2024 election cycle. Her goal? To investigate the rise of red pill culture, Christian nationalism, and the growing appeal of traditional gender roles among…

1
Big Brand Collaborations and Creative Career Growth with Melissa Donne 47:58

4M ago47:58

47:58

Meet local Illustrator and Surface Pattern Designer, Melissa Donne! For this episode we had the joy of sitting down to dig into Melissa's creative career and collaborations in the incredible Clockwise Southampton. This one is for all the makers, budding illustrators, and our fellow colour enthusiasts ✨ Did you know Melissa is also one third of the …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

MELISSA VERA Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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