At the Not Vanilla Podcast, hosted by the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Roxana and Dominique, our mission is simple yet powerful: Cultivating meaningful connections and promoting wellness, both mental and emotional every episode.
We're here to dive deep into the intricacies of relationships, exploring topics that resonate with both the wisdom of age and the freshness of youth. From navigating life's milestones to dissecting the latest trends, we cover it with humor, a touch of sass and lots of love .
But we're not just about talk; we're about connection. Through our engaging discussions and diverse guest lineup, we will bridge generational divides and spark moments of shared understanding and healing.
Together, let's make every conversation a little less vanilla and a whole lot more vibrant!
Listen to the Not Vanilla Podcast wherever you get your favorite podcasts! 🎧✨
At the Not Vanilla Podcast, hosted by the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Roxana and Dominique, our mission is simple yet powerful: Cultivating meaningful connections and promoting wellness, both mental and emotional every episode.
We're here to dive deep into the intricacies of relationships, exploring topics that resonate with both the wisdom of age and the freshness of youth. From navigating life's milestones to dissecting the latest trends, we cover it with humor, a touch of sass and lots of love .
But we're not just about talk; we're about connection. Through our engaging discussions and diverse guest lineup, we will bridge generational divides and spark moments of shared understanding and healing.
Together, let's make every conversation a little less vanilla and a whole lot more vibrant!
Listen to the Not Vanilla Podcast wherever you get your favorite podcasts! 🎧✨

Mastering De-Escalation: Avoid Your Joseline Hernandez Era
Mindfulness, maturity, and avoiding emotional regret
In this episode of Not Vanilla, Roxana and Dominique get real about emotional roller coasters, unhealthy coping habits, and what it actually takes to de-escalate in real life — not just in theory.
They talk about “de-escalation options” (A: alcohol, B: coffee, C: casino, D: shopping) and how those quick fixes can feel good in the moment but leave you with more anxiety, clutter, debt, or regret later. Through honest stories about emotional eating, impulse spending, gambling urges, overdoing coffee and tea, and even relying too much on meds, they show how easy it is to call something “self-care” when it’s really self-sabotage.
They also unpack why having a true de-escalation friend matters — someone who doesn’t just hype you up, but lovingly challenges you and helps you step back from the edge. From Jocelyn Hernandez’s explosive TV moments to the public toxicity of Krishan Rock and Blueface, they reflect on how algorithms normalize chaos and why we have to choose a different pattern for ourselves, our relationships, and our futures.
This is a funny, vulnerable, mother–daughter conversation about catching yourself before you spiral, choosing maturity, and building a life where you don’t keep apologizing for “going off.”
Key Takeaways:
• De-escalation starts with self-awareness: notice your patterns before they take over.
• Not everything that feels good in the moment is actually de-escalation; some habits quietly escalate stress (shopping, gambling, bingeing, over-drinking, etc.).
• A real de-escalation friend doesn’t just cosign your feelings; they help you slow down, think, and choose better.
• How you react has consequences—for your money, health, relationships, and how safe people feel with you.
• Growth is when you can see yourself choosing differently than you would have in the past—and feeling proud of that.
Resources:
* 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique (CALM Guide): https://www.calm.com/blog/5-4-3-2-1-a-simple-exercise-to-calm-the-mind
*HelpGuide: Understanding Emotional Regulation: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/emotional-regulation.htm
*988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime for support. https://988lifeline.org
If this episode made you think, laugh, or reflect, share it with someone who needs it. Tell us your favorite de-escalation strategy, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. New episodes drop bi-weekly.
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