This week’s podcast episode was a treat for me to record, and I hope it’s a treat for you to hear: It’s an interview with one of my biz mentors, the amazing Marisa Corcoran, and her downright delightful mother, Rita Fratto.
This is Rita’s podcast debut 🎉! How cool is that?
Marisa’s father died when she was almost 2 years old, and Rita raised Marisa as a single (widowed) mom, surrounded by the community of loving adults she cultivated.
Despite some of the heavy content, it was so much fun to chat with Rita and Marisa, and to witness their beautiful connection with each other.
Enjoy!
About the episode
What’s it really like to grow up in a single-parent home shaped by grief…and deep, enduring connection?
In this special episode, I’m joined by copywriting coach Marisa Corcoran and her mom, Rita Fratto — a real-life “Gilmore Girls” duo whose story offers a powerful glimpse into widowhood, single parenting, and the long-term impact on children as they grow into adulthood.
This is an honest, inspiring – and fun! – conversation about life’s unexpected lessons, community, resilience, chosen family, and the everyday moments that build a secure, loving relationship over time, without pretending that single parenting is easy or light.
ABOUT MARISA CORCORAN AND RITA FRATTO
Marisa Corcoran and Rita Fratto hail from Syracuse, New York, and consider themselves the original “Gilmore Girls.”
Rita spent the majority of her career as the head of Senior Programs for The City of Syracuse as well as a Social Worker with Syracuse Housing Authority, all while being a widow and single mother.
Marisa Corcoran is the creator of The Copy Chat and Copy Confidence Society, helping business owners uncover what to say (think: words on your website, emails, and more!) to magnetically attract your dream clients.
👉 WEBSITE: MarisaCorcoran.com
👉 IG: @Mtoni
👉 FREE: 50+ Scroll-Stopping Subject Lines
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👉 Enjoying the podcast? I’d love if you’d share it with a friend or leave a quick rating or review. It truly helps the show reach more single parents (and anyone who feels like one!).
Don’t miss it!
Listen to the episode on popular podcast platforms:


