The Maison Gaton Podcast
The Maison Gaton Podcast is for women who read and run things. Each week, attorney, author, and certified life coach Judith Gaton talks about personal style, identity, creativity, leadership, and the interior lives of women who refuse to be just one thing. If you're a high-achieving woman looking for a podcast that takes you seriously, welcome home. Come for the style. Stay for everything else. New episodes every week. Find the full Maison Gaton collection at maisongaton.substack.com.
Episodes
Three Stylish Missions from the World of Madame J
Pull up a chair. It's 1951. The linen is crisp, the coffee is strong, and you and I have nowhere to be for at least an hour. This episode is inspired by Part 3 of The Misadventures of Madame J: Chortler on a Train, and three things it made me think about for all of us. Three stylish missions this week: Eat one meal alone. Unhurried. No phone. Order exactly what you want. Slow down for f
Your Style Leaves Clues
Chortler on a Train, No. 1 is live on Substack today. This episode is the companion to it. Madame J notices what people wear because what people wear is information. She was a spy. That kind of attention doesn't retire just because the war ended. This week I talk about: What Madame J sees when she opens that curtain and looks at the dead man across the aisle Why I built her eye for styl
She's Here. Almost.
She's Here. Almost. This episode is about what a story can do that an essay cannot. I have spent years writing essays about formidable women. About refusing smallness. About taking up space without apology. I meant every word of every one of them I have been sitting on this long enough. Madame J arrives Tuesday June 2nd on Substack. Five installments. Every Tuesday. Free to read. Connect:
Where do you want to be?
Where Do You Want to Be? This week I talk about the very human experience of looking for your reflection in someone else's record of the night, what I actually found when I looked, and the distinction that changed everything for me: I wasn't missing from the night. I was missing from the record of the night. Those are two different things. This week I talk about: The event, the Instagram carous
Writing Women You Actually Want to Meet
This week I want to introduce you to a woman you haven't met yet. And before I tell you about Madame J, I have to tell you about Elle. Elle was my imaginary friend when I was eight. A 1920s movie star with a jet black bob, cupid bow lips, and apartments in Paris, Hollywood, and New York City. Whenever I opened the imaginary door to her apartment I never knew which city I'd land in. Sometimes I
Darling, the World Is Waiting: The Collection of Lovely Things Finale
Accomplishment Loneliness in Success
This week we're continuing our A Collection of Lovely Things series with a theme of Blue: Hopes, Dreams & Aspirations, and this week's room is a little different. The Blue room has comfy couches, table space, journals, notebooks, whiteboards. It's a space for dreaming. And more importantly, it's a space with a microphone in the center because this week we're talking about something rarely discus
How to Turn Your Home Into a Creative Retreat (No Travel Required)
This week we're continuing our A Collection of Lovely Things series with a theme of Green: Home & Environment, and it's all about turning the space you already have into the retreat you've been waiting for. The episode opens with a reflection on a self-scheduled weekend retreat: a whiteboard in the dining room, a pillow nest on the couch, and the question that started it all: do you want your ho
What Friendship Actually Looks Like for Busy Women
This week we're continuing our A Collection of Lovely Things series with a theme of Yellow Friendship Gathering, and it's all about the little pieces of ourselves we give to one another. The episode opens with a reflection on being truly known by a friend, the kind of friend who can read a book you wrote and spot little pieces of you scattered across every character. From there, we dig
Micro Creativity and Bravery: The Orange Collection
This week on the Maison Gaton Podcast, we're stepping into the Orange Room, a space dedicated to creativity, whimsy, and permission to be a messy beginner. Drawing on a reframe from a MythBusters creator, we explore how creativity is really just problem solving in disguise, something you're already doing every day. Your missions this week: try micro creativity, be brave enough to be bad at somet
Petite Pleasures and Everyday Glamor: The Red Collection
Petite Pleasures and Everyday Glamor: The Red Collection In this episode: What petite pleasures and everyday glamor actually mean (and why it's a mindset first) Judith's personal story of finding glamor in the smallest of things, even a 99-cent Shasta soda Why you work too hard not to be savoring the life you've built How to do a Color Walk through your home and rediscover the gorgeo
A Collection of Lovely Things Part I
Welcome to the first episode of a new series! Step inside the Maison Gaton house: an eccentric, curated space full of trinkets, textures, and treasured collections. This episode is an invitation to take inventory of the lovely things you've gathered throughout your life, and to truly enjoy them. Timestamps: 0:00 — Welcome & introducing the Maison Gaan house 1:17 — Grandmother's Folgers c
Why I Abandoned the Airbnb at 2am
Why I Abandoned the Airbnb at 2am It started with a smell. In this episode, Judith shares the full story of abandoning a vomit-soaked London Airbnb at 2am — and what hauling a giant suitcase into a perfumed hotel in the middle of the night taught her about the year she was actually having. This is the episode that introduces the 2026 theme: Misadventures. In This Episode: The Airbnb from
Episode 338 Tiny Creative Acts
The Lost Pleasure of Getting Ready
Episode 337: The Lost Pleasure of Getting Ready - 30 Acts of Resistance Through Style Why has getting dressed become a lost pleasure for busy professionals? Host Judith Gaton reframes intentional dressing as an act of resistance and shares 30 compelling reasons to find joy in your getting ready routine again. What You'll Learn Why the ritual of getting ready has lost its mystique How s
First of the Month Files March 2026
Episode Overview In this special episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, host Judith Gaton introduces a new format inspired by her Substack's "First of the Month Files." She shares five things she's currently loving and working on, along with encouragement to pursue your own creative projects and find joy in the everyday. Key Takeaways Imperfect progress > perfect inaction Find your ac
From Teacher to Mobile Bookstore Owner with Andie Geyer
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Andie Geyer, the owner and operator of Rebel Reads, a mobile romance and fantasy bookstore based in Redlands, California. Andie shares her incredible journey from third-grade teacher to entrepreneur, proving that you don't need to quit your day job to build a thriving passion business. Discover how Andie went from seeing a video to launching her p
Process Over Outcome 2026 Goals
In this episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, the host delves into the concept of goal-setting, encouraging listeners to shift their focus from grandiose outcome goals to specific, daily processes. Sharing personal realizations and examples, such as making a million dollars, losing weight, creating a stylish wardrobe and writing a novel, the episode emphasizes that real progress and satisfac
The Art of Leaving Room: Goals, Growth, and Grace
In this episode, Judith explores the tension between setting ambitious goals and leaving room for flexibility, creativity, and possibility—especially at the start of a new year. She shares personal reflections, style advice, and encouragement for high achievers to embrace both planning and the unexpected.
Why Women People Please and How to Break the Cycle with Sara Fisk
In this transformative conversation, Judith is joined by friend, colleague, and certified coach Sara Fisk, creator of The Stop People Pleasing Program and host of The Ex Good Girl Podcast. Together they explore what people pleasing really looks like beneath the surface, why high-achieving women are especially vulnerable to it, how it shows up in both obvious and subtle patterns, and what it truly
Embracing Creativity and Authenticity with Lisa Haukom from The Golden Brand
In this episode of The Style Masterclass podcast, the host welcomes Lisa Haukom, the founder of The Golden Brand, to explore the journey of creative entrepreneurship. They discuss Lisa's background in art history, culinary arts, and her transition into running her own businesses, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and visual storytelling. Lisa shares insights on her remote photography sess
Fitness and Mindset with Chris Coulson
In this episode of the Style Masterclass Podcast, I'm welcoming Coach Chris Coulson for an honest, empowering conversation about fitness, mindset, and self-care. We discuss overcoming injuries, integrating mental health with fitness, setting meaningful goals, and embracing failure as a learning tool. Chris shares his unique "nerd quest" approach to habit-building, while I reflected on my own journ
Unlocking the Secrets of Feng Shui: A Conversation with Abby Lane Designs
In this episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, I'm welcoming Abby from Abby Lane Designs and Holistic Homes. Abby, an intuitive interior designer and 'house therapist', breaks down the ancient Chinese art of feng shui. She explains its principles, its impact on our living spaces, and how adjusting our environments can enhance our lives. The discussion delves into practical tips for creating nur
Style is a Creative Act Not a Checklist
In this episode I am talking you through the idea that style is a creative act rather than a checklist, and how I came to this realization for myself. You'll learn: Getting dressed is a daily moment of authorship The false narrative that professional women are not creative How to use your closet and your style to build your confidence and creativity Join our Morning Coffee Newsletter: ht
The ONE Summer Item
In this episode I am talking about the one summer item. Not an entire wardrobe, not an entire outfit, we're simply starting with one item. You'll learn: What to do if you're feeling overwhelmed about your summer wardrobe this year The gift you can give yourself to take the pressure of this summer Items I suggest (with the caveat that you're going to repeat this item over and over) starting
First of the Month Files Episode 2
We're back with our First of the Month series and today we're talking all about editing and the beauty of a mid-year edit. You'll learn: The value and importance of a mid-year edit, regardless of your approach to goal setting Why it's not always about the goals themselves, and what it's actually about instead What to do if you've been delaying progress on what you set out to do at the beg
Maison Gaton Signature Series Episode 1
We're doing something a little different in this episode. I'm starting a new series that we'll do on the Style Masterclass podcast at the end of each month. I'm sharing some writing I've done, offering a letter challenge, and more. You'll learn: What gumption means to me and a personal family story that brings it together The choices you have when it comes to your personal stories and histor
Continued Experimentation
We're talking about two of my favorite things: being a creative and a writer and style. There's a marriage between the two and I want to explore that in today's episode and how I'm bringing those together for you. You'll learn: What we miss out on when it comes to getting really good at something How to go beyond the highlight reel in a practical way, especially when it comes to style Why
Long-forgotten Items
We're exploring the concept of "long-forgotten items". So many of us buy things aspirationally and let's talk about why we do that, how we can make the most of these and bring them back to life. You'll learn: Why and how we should reach for those long-forgotten items Questions to ask as you re-discover these items and how to revive them How to make this practice practical in your own life
First of the Month Files No.1
We're trying something new around here and starting the First of the Month Files. This will go along with my Morning Coffee Newsletter that goes out on the first week of the month so be sure to subscribe to that if you aren't already! Today, let's do a little check-in. You'll learn: How to take stock of what went well and why it matters What matters beyond what's "next" and the value in small
Style Mistake 4: One and Done
We are continuing our new series on the podcast today of the 4 most common style mistakes I see people make, how to avoid them and what to do instead. Today, we're addressing the fourth and final mistake I see all the time: one and done. You'll learn: Finding and exploring your style is never "one and done" and why it can't be rushed Why change is a GOOD thing and the beauty in dressing who y
Style Mistake 3 Prioritizing Flattering Over Distinctive
We are continuing our new series on the podcast today of the 4 most common style mistakes I see people make, how to avoid them and what to do instead. Today, we're addressing style mistake number three: what happens when you prioritize "flattering" over everything else. You'll learn: Why "flattering" is not the only criteria when it comes to picking your clothing Better questions you can ask
Style Mistake 2 Changing Everything All at Once
We are continuing our new series on the podcast today of the 4 most common style mistakes I see people make, how to avoid them and what to do instead. Today, we're addressing style mistake number two: changing everything all at once. You'll learn: My thoughts on the movie montage makeover The often overlooked benefits in changing things slowly and in layers How you can intentionally curat
Style Mistake 1 Dressing For What Used to Be
We are starting a new series on the podcast today of the 4 most common style mistakes I see people make, how to avoid them and what to do instead. Today, we're addressing one of the most common mistakes I see: dressing for what used to be. You'll learn: What it means to "dress for what used to be" and how to spot it Questions to ask to get to know yourself in this season of life How to dre
The Power of Letting Go
We are continuing on with our series focusing on letting go of good enough. In this episode, I'm sharing the power of letting go and 5 powerful ways to let go in your own life and focus on what really matters to you. You'll learn: What does it actually mean to let go and how to do it when you know you need to The power of lightening your mental load and how to let go of false expectations
Letting Go of Good Enough in Your Confidence
We are continuing on with our series focusing on letting go of good enough. In this episode, I'm sharing what it looks like to let go of good enough when it comes to confidence and my new and improved confidence equation I teach to my clients. You'll learn: What my confidence equation 2.0 is and how to apply it You probably have more experience than you're giving yourself credit for How to
Letting Go of Good Enough in Your Influence & Impact Stepping Into Your Leadership
We are continuing on with our series focusing on letting go of good enough. In this episode, I'm sharing something I taught the women at our March 2025 live event on your influence and impact when it comes to leadership. You'll learn: You're already influencing those around you and what to do about it The ripple effect of you showing up with intention Questions to evaluate your own influenc
Letting Go of Good Enough in Your Style and Dressing to Your Full Potential
We are starting a new series in this episode focusing on letting go of good enough. In the first episode, we are going back to the roots and talking about style and how to let go of "good enough" when it comes to your personal style. You'll learn: Why going back to the basics is so important for innovation The basic principles of curating your style My exact process on showing up as the wom
Sustaining Your Morning Routine Staying Consistent and Evolving Over Time
We are spending this entire month focused on morning routines. In today's episode, we're wrapping up the series by discussing how to sustain a consistent morning routine and make space for it to evolve over time. You'll learn: Why it's so important to admit when something is no longer working How to assess what's working and what isn't within your routine and what to do about it The impor
Building a Flexible Morning Routine Start Small, Embrace Imperfection, and Adapt
We are spending this entire month focused on morning routines. In today's episode, we're sharing how to build a flexible morning routine, starting small, letting go of perfectionism and being adaptable. You'll learn: How I began consistently getting up earlier in a way that actually worked for me You can slowly add on more to build a routine you crave Why your personal life tends to fall t
From Chaos to Clarity Designing a Morning Routine That Works for You
We are spending this entire month focused on morning routines. In today's episode, we're sharing how to go from chaos to clarity in designing a morning routine that actually works for you. You'll learn: What internal chaos looks like and how it impacts our neverending to-do lists Going from chaos (internal or external) to clarity in a personalized way How to take the power back from our p
How to Start Your Day When You're Exhausted
In this episode, we're talking about morning routines. We are spending this entire month focused on morning routines to help you start your days refreshed, even if you're exhausted. You'll learn: How to start your day when you're exhausted What to do when exhaustion comes up and how to address it Why we need to go beyond the mechanics of "morning routines" and the questions we need to be a
Style Struggle Series: Styling v. Wearing
In this episode, we're bringing back the Style Struggle Series! In this episode, I'm diving into the difference between styling and wearing your clothes. You'll learn: How to better understand and shop for your proportions using the Golden Ratio How to play with colors in your daily outfits to look more styled Use your self-image to understand how you choose to dress and style yourself J
Style Struggle Series: Fun Clothes, Nowhere to Go
In this episode, we're bringing back the Style Struggle Series! In this episode, I'm diving into what to do if you have fun clothes and nowhere to go. You'll learn: You don't have to have a special occasion to wear your fun clothes. What to do with your treasured and beautiful items How to plan your wardrobes effectively if you travel Join our Morning Coffee Newsletter: https://www.judit
Scheduled Spontaneity
In this episode, I'm talking about the difference the concept of "Scheduled Spontaneity", what it is, why you might want to try it out, and my experience with it myself and for my clients. You'll learn: What to do when you notice your schedule is getting overloaded and it's difficult to have true time for relationships How to prioritize your time in a way that actually makes sense for your o
Permission or Prescription
In this episode, I'm talking about the difference between "permission", "prescription", and how it relates to setting goals, particularly in the New Year but this is applicable as you reflect and set goals for yourself at any time. You'll learn: The exact questions I asked myself to reflect and determine where I want to go next Important differences and how to know if you're looking for a pre
12 Days of Style Day 12: She is Herself
12 Days of Style Day 11: Legendary
12 Days of Style Day 10: Visionary
12 Days of Style Day 9: Powerful
12 Days of Style Day 8: Courageous
12 Days of Style Day 7: Confident
12 Days of Style Day 6: Passionate
12 Days of Style Day 5: Unfettered
12 Days of Style Day 4: Leader
12 Days of Style Day 3: Intelligent
12 Days of Style Day 2: Bold
12 Days of Style Day 1: Outspoken
12 Days of Style: WELCOME
12 Days of Style Invite
You are invited to the 12 Days of Style! Let's talk details! You'll learn: What to expect inside the 12 Days of Style Who should join and why How we're going to have the best holiday season yet Join the 12 Days of Style Now: https://www.judithgaton.com/12daysofst/
Influence and Impact
In this episode I'm diving into influence and impact and why I think these two terms break down legacy and how to actually transform influence into impact. You'll learn: How to breakdown "legacy" using influence and impact How and why you should move beyond influence and into more impact What you need to do to find your own first step Join our Morning Coffee Newsletter: https://programs
Introducing Maison Gaton
In this episode I'm introducing you to a new space, the story behind it, and what it is: Maison Gaton. I also want to encourage you to revisit old ideas, inklings, murmurings, because now might be the time to take those ideas out and let them see the light of day. You'll learn: What Maison Gaton is and its key components What drove the creation of Maison Gaton and how we came to create it
Style Struggle Series: Proportions when you are under 5'2
This episode is a new struggle in our ongoing Style Struggle Series. This episode is for the petite ladies, but I also have some classic tips that apply to everyone. You'll learn: You may not be petite all over, and what to do about it The value of tailoring and what to look out for The goal is to get the clothing to conform to our bodies, not conform out bodies to the clothing We're getting
The What and Why of Gumption
We're covering one of my all-time favorite subjects in this episode: Gumption. It's so unbelievably important and I want to share why it's one of my favorite words and what it really means, let's break it down. You'll learn: Who can benefit from gumption - and how to start The importance of determination and how to channel it How to actively make decisions with courage and compassion We're ge
3 Stylish things to do when you're sick
After taking the summer off… I am BACK! In my first episode back, I'm sharing a recent experience I had while sick and what I took away from it in stylish things you can do even when you're sick or just not quite like yourself. You'll learn: The first stylish thing I do for myself when I get sick How to curate an environment for healing The importance of asking for help when we need it We're
Style Struggle Series: Online Shopping Overwhelm
In today's episode, we are talking about what to do if you feel overwhelmed with online shopping and don't know what to do or want to spend lots of time scrolling and trying to shop online. I shop for my clients online all the time and I have some incredibly effective tips I'm so excited to share with you my best advice on online shopping. You'll learn: My number one tip to stop the endless scro
Style Struggle Series: Too Many Clothes
In today's episode, we are talking about what to do if you have "too many clothes". This is such a common problem and I am so excited to dive into this with you today. You'll learn: It's not always about getting rid of as many clothes as possible Why it's important to ask how we got to this point - and what I've seen with my clients Questions to use as you decide what to do with your clothes
Style Struggle Series: Postpartum Style
In today's episode, we are talking all about postpartum style. This is such a good question if you are postpartum and it can apply to anyone who has experienced other body changes too. If you know a postpartum mom in your own life, don't forget to pass this along to them too! You'll learn: How to assess if pre-pregnancy clothes still fit your lifestyle - and what to do about it Why it's helpful
Style Struggle Series: Work Clothes vs. Play Clothes
In today's episode, we are diving into the balance between work clothes and play clothes. I'm so excited to talk about this one because so many of my clients spend so much time at work so this such a relevant and important thing to talk about. You'll learn: What frequently happens to women who spend most of their time working What to do if you feel like you're not allowed to wear work clothes o
Style Struggle Series: Finding Plus Size Clothes in My Style and Colors
In today's episode, we are talking about the struggle of finding plus-size clothes in your style and colors. Whether or not you feel like this one applies to you, I encourage you to listen anyway because we can all relate to having a hard time finding clothes that fit us properly. You'll learn: What to do when you want to feel stylish but the odds seem stacked against you. Your style may be mo
Style Struggle Series: Closet Full of Clothes and Nothing to Wear
In today's episode, we are talking about the struggle of having a closet full of clothes and yet you feel like you have nothing to wear every day. What it comes down to is, do you have a wardrobe to support the life you live right now? Let's talk about it. You'll learn: Having a closet full of clothes that don't fit your body or lifestyle is a disservice to you. What to do if your closet isn't
Style Struggle Series: "I can't decide what I like"
In today's episode, we are talking about the struggle of feeling like you can't "decide what you like". I'm going to share what question you should start with if you feel this way and an example to help you apply it in your own life. You'll learn: Why you should start with what you don't like - not what you do. You have your own sense of style already. You have permission to play and embrace t
Style Struggle Series: Style Bravery
In today's episode, I have a new style struggle to talk about: Style Bravery. I'm so excited to bring this topic to you because it's such a juicy question and it has come up so much for my personal styling clients recently. We're diving into what to do if you feel like you are not "brave enough" to try new styles and clothes so you tend to purchase the same styles for years without changing it up.
Style Struggle Series: Straight Up and Down No Curves
In today's episode, I am continuing the series all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on listeners who feel they don't have a lot of curves and have a hard time finding clothes that fit around the waistband in particular. You'll learn: Everyone has curves - there's no such thing as straight lines on the human
Style Struggle Series: Petites and Menopause
In today's episode, I am continuing the series all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on my petite listeners and experiencing menopause. You'll learn: My store recommendations for petite women Tips for handling changes in your body and nothing has gone wrong How to plan for your fluctuating body Get ongoing
Style Struggle: Finding Jeans I Like
In today's episode, I am continuing the series all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on finding jeans you actually like. You'll learn: How and why you should run "jeans experiments" All the factors that go into finding the right pair of jeans How to be your own best personal stylist Get ongoing sty
Style Struggle Series: Short and Curvy
In today's episode, I am continuing our new series on the podcast all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on finding clothes that fit for short and curvy women. You'll learn: Why clothing that fits properly can be difficult to find for so many of us How to determine your common fitting issue - and if find
Style Struggle Series: "I like too many different styles!"
In today's episode, I am continuing our new series on the podcast all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on what to do if you feel like you like too many different styles. You'll learn: How opposite styles can actually coexist beautifully You don't have to be one category of anything How to merge the d
Style Struggle Series: "I don't know what my style is!"
In today's episode, I am continuing our new series on the podcast all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on not knowing what "your style" is. You'll learn: Just because you may have figured out your style before, doesn't mean it needs to stay the same What style actually is Questions you can use to as
Style Struggle Series: Overwhelm from too many choices
In today's episode, I am kicking off a new series all about common style struggles that have been sent in from listeners and followers on Instagram. Today's episode is focused on overwhelm from too many choices. You'll learn: Where the overwhelm of too many choices may be coming from How to fill in the gaps in your wardrobe without the overwhelm Common mistakes to avoid when shopping -
