Life Lately: A Check-In with Myself

Curiosity Over Comfort

What happens when life forces a planner to become an explorer? Fresh into her "thirty, flirty... and actually 31" era, Hillary reflects on leaving behind a four-year relationship, packing up her life in Florida, and moving to Philadelphia without knowing a soul. From childhood memories of wandering the mountainsides of Puerto Rico to exploring the beauty of religious architecture, navigating racism, debating pineapple on pizza, and eating cold leftovers straight from the fridge, our conversation moves effortlessly between laughter and reflection. Together, we celebrate the joy of discovering yourself beyond the plans you once held, and explore the courage it takes to take up space while finding the freedom to wander. Oh, and seriously... what's up with those sweet beans?!

Halfway Point: The Gift of Being Heard

It's hard to believe we're already at the halfway point of the first season of Seasons of Us! As I celebrate my birthday month and prepare to turn 26, I've found myself reflecting not only on the past year of life, but also on what these thirteen episodes have taught me. When I started this podcast, I thought it might be about using my voice. Instead, it has become an exercise in listening. One of the things that makes Seasons of Us unique is that guests are never given questions beforehand. Every conversation begins with trust and unfolds in real time, creating space for authenticity, vulnerability, and the unexpected. Over the past thirteen episodes, people have generously shared their joys, struggles, hopes, questions, and everyday realities. At this halfway point, I'm reflecting on the gift of being heard, the responsibility of holding another person's story, and what it means to create space for ordinary lives to be seen as extraordinary. Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or are just joining the journey, thank you for being part of this community. This episode is an invitation not just to listen to these conversations, but to listen to the season you're in.

Maybe It's Time to Rest (Actually)

Episode 12 - If I had a dollar for every time I said the phrase “the body remembers” during this episode, I'd probably be able to buy myself a nice nap! But it’s true. June hasn't quite started the way I expected it would. I thought it would be a month of excitement, celebration, and summer plans. Instead, it has become a month of reflection, slowing down, and paying attention to what I am carrying. Seasonal Reflections are here again and we're taking notes from our previous guests, learning that ambition comes at a cost, that saying no can be an act of self-respect, and that living might actually mean slowing down long enough to enjoy the life we're working so hard to build. Did you hear that, J'Lani?! Maybe the body remembers but maybe it also knows when it's time to rest.

At What Point Do We Start Living?

Episode 11 - This homegirl is convinced she’s the funniest one in the bunch... but you know what... let us leave her to think that! From caper debates and fighting Oreo allegations to unpacking Irish reflections about emotions (you're gonna love this!), language, and identity, this episode somehow becomes a conversation about what it means to fully lean into yourself. Breyia and I talk confidence, boundaries, family, media, womanhood, and the versions of ourselves we suppress just to fit comfortably around others. Because eventually, you realise you can only hide parts of yourself for so long. At some point, you have to stop preparing for life and actually live it. Also... so close yet no cigar??? Let's unpack that because I think the jury's still out on that one...

Some Nights Are Gonna Cost You

Episode 10 - Five years after meeting through an unexpected situation at a birthday party, my friend Justin and I reflect on friendship, growth, and what it'sike living in New York (it ain't what you think!). From Trinidad roots to career growth, Fashion Week, and moving up quickly at work, we talk ambition and identity in real time. We also get into how a family experience with alcohol struggles also shaped his resilience and drive to build a better future. Beyond the highlights, this is about slowing down, saying no to constant going out, and realising that busy isn’t always better... even if it means staying in and actually enjoying the rent you’re paying. And oh somewhere in the mix of it all, we end up on the topic of monsoon season.. let's hear how!