Four Fun Things
Have you listened to Amy Poehler’s podcast episode with Fred Armisen? Oh my gosh, I laughed 1,000 times, including when they talked about free climbing, Texas accents, and Fred pretending to be an expert on the Alaskan Pipeline. Nailed it.
The sun finally came out today, and everyone in our neighborhood is basically skipping down the street. Such a mood-boost! I’m excited to wear white again and am eyeing this pretty shirt, cropped pant, and splurgy but stunnnnning dress.
Hailee Catalano’s pigs-in-a-blanket recipe makes me want to throw a party. The peppers!
Have you read anything good lately? I’m halfway through The Complex by Karan Mahajan, a sweeping novel about family drama in India, and really enjoying it — the characters are so vivid, I feel like I’m in the same room. And I recently liked I’ll Come to You by Rebecca Kauffman, which also follows a multi-generational family. It reminded me of Elizabeth Strout’s and Colm Tóibín’s books, since the characters had such rich inner lives but kept so much to themselves. Sometimes I wanted to shake the book and say, just talk to each other!
P.S. More fun things, and a podcast that made me laugh in Trader Joe’s.
Tags: fun things
Comments
187 commentsAmy’s podcast with Jonathan Groff was an absolute delight, too
Yes! I didn’t know much about him before, but the chemistry between them was just so good!
I just finished reading Honeysuckle by Bar Fridman-Tell and would HIGHLY recommend it. It’s loosely based on a story from Welsh mythology and has strong themes of love, autonomy, and consent. It was a heartbreaking story that really grabbed me and it’s a debut novel! For anyone who likes adaptations of fairy tales and mythology, I’d say definitely give it a try.
Help! I have GERD or something similar and need your tasty recipe ideas. I mostly like to eat spicy and acidic foods, so this is a pain!
I read recently Into the Blue by Emma Brodie. Brand new. Mesmerizing, aching love story. Very niche in the acting world but definitely new favorite of all time!
Jo, please please please connect with the wizards of the internet and please please please create a section? tab? sidebar? header? with ALL COJ community books recommendations. Could an AI agent go through the comments and just list them?? Make it substack for the amount of work, I totally understand it. I have discovered so many amazing books and authors through your blog and the inspiring comments – I just want a shortcut and a visual to it all. ps – latest read, the unmissable Tana French and her The Keeper; and a re-read on Orbital and Atmosphere, thanks to all the Artemis II lovely content and experience.
I’m on my library list for the new Tana French and I can’t WAIT I love her so
I’m pretty sure that a reader of the blog started a spreadsheet of all the books and shared it in the comment section! Sometime in the last couple of years. Does anyone remember that?
Alternately, you could start a Goodreads list for Cup of Jo readers. GR is free to join.
@Larissa, yes I scrolled through my “shared with me” and found it, from 2021. I’m sure it needs an update. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sWdurWpK1GiYTTQ3Ek2akhGDZHoP4WTmkJ_ysHF-x_8/edit?gid=0#gid=0
@Haley Nahman and @larissa thank you so much for this! 484 recs in there and I only read half of them. This is awesome 🙌
Highly recommend The Time It Takes to Fall if you want more space content!
You can start here with the Book Recs section Jo created:https://cupofjo.com/editors-picks/
Jen Hatmaker’s book “Awake” is incredible, especially the audiobook. So amazed by women who are willing to share their journeys, even when it was probably so hard for them to rewrite and relive.
Oh no, save me from another comment section full of the most enticing book rec’s!!! My list is miles long now, lol. I am in the middle of Brawler by Lauren Groff, a collection of short stories. Each one is so good and her writing is beautifully precise yet artful. I am enjoying it so much.
My two recent favorite books were The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donohhue. Such a beautiful story of friendship and a love story, I loved it so much! Also Isola by Allegra Goodman- based on a true story. It was captivating and unbelievably Robinson Crusoesque. Highly recommend!
loved both of them, great recs
Everyone needs to read Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino. It was so good – I couldn’t put it down. And now I’ve been in a book hangover for a month since finishing it – all other books suck! Nothing is sticking for me lol.
I LOVED Best Offer Wins and I highly recommend A Good Person by Kirsten King—similar vibes!
I read it and didn’t like it. I get the woman was supposed to be crazy but she and her husband were insufferable characters. I just didn’t find it as captivating as everyone said . I almost did not finish
Joanna, what lip color are you wearing in that photo? I love it!!
always and forever this one, in the red color: https://cupofjo.com/2023/10/31/my-friend-gemmas-amazing-lipstick-find/
A reminder to myself after reading less than favorable comments about A Good Hang, one of my most favorite podcasts with some of my favorite people. We really aren’t meant for everyone…just the right ones.
For all of you who, like me, wish to be a professional book recommender (please let me know if this job exists), I share this really fun and simple gift idea: My younger brother, who is also in his 40s, needs nothing from his big sister (me), and figuring out what to give him for Christmas is always kind of hard. This year, I bought 13 books I loved reading, wrote a short note for each one about why I chose it, and then wrapped all 13 separately. On 12 of the books, I wrote a month of the year, starting with January. On Dec 25, he opened the gift on which I had written, “OPEN ME FIRST”; it had one book for that gloriously slow week between Christmas and New Years and a note that explained my project. We have had SO MUCH FUN this year texting or chatting about the books. We didn’t plan it, but he texts me every time he finishes a book and gives me his take on it. He said to me this week, “I love that you did this. Unlike the algorithms that are constantly trying to recommend stuff to me, this feels so HUMAN. I never would have picked these up, and I’ve enjoyed them a lot.” Plus, given the low cost of paperbacks and the wonders of ThriftBooks, I spent a little over $100–what I would have spent on a sweater or other something that he might have enjoyed but certainly wouldn’t have given us so much to discuss and connect about! The books: A Gentleman in Moscow; The Pretender; The Guide; My Name is Asher Lev; Go As A River; Destiny of the Republic; This Tender Land; The Wager; The Screwtape Letters; Nothing to See Here; Plainsong; and The Thursday Murder Club; and Song of Achilles.
Hilary, yes, it is called being a librarian :) One of our many duties, and among the most fun.
This is such a great and special gift! I love it, thanks for sharing.
What a present! It’s huge, I love it!
An amazing idea!
HILARY WHAT A WONDERFUL GIFT
I just finished the audiobook of The Lost Girl of Craven County – an excellent historical mystery set in a Jewish community in the Depression-era South. Really jaw-dropping twist midway through – loved it!
This combination of descriptions! Historical! Mystery! Jewish! The Depression! The South! Never did I think I would see all these words together. I am going to pick this up immediately, and you, Barbara, should be writing book blurbs. What a sell!
Oh my goodness, those pigs in a blanket are so cute. Looks like I now know what my kids & I are having for dinner. I’m two thirds of the way through Buckeye and cannot wait to find out what happens next. Work is getting in the way of my reading time! The only perk of 2026 being the dumpster fire it is, is that I’ve rediscovered my love of fiction (hi, escapism!). I’ve read so many good books this year, including “The Bees” (trippy and amazing), “All the Colours of the Dark”, “The Correspondent” (oh em gee), “Wreck”, and “The Ten Year Affair”. Shout out to this community for being a top source of good reads — keep ’em coming! <3
I made Chicago Stye deviled eggs for Easter and they were a hit! Sport peppers, tiny wedge of beef stick, and celery salt. Mustard in the mix. It was a hoot!
I just finished Kin (by the author of An American Marriage) and it knocked my socks off. Her words are written like poetry and the characters are supremely rich and well-developed. My favorite book of the year so far!
Kin is definitely my favorite of the year so far too—the best book I’ve read is such a long time! The story and characters have really stayed with me.
I’m reading it right now, just a few chapters in but already fully engaged. I loved An American Marriage, and was so excited to get my library hold notification for Kin! I’m trying to savor it and not tear through it too quicky as I often do with very good novels that I’ve been looking forward to…
I also just finished Kin and loved it so much, gorgeous writing and the characters will stay with me for a long time, too. Also love the cover – bonus points haha. I was sad to return it to the library and decided that I’m going to buy a copy :)
I loved this book so much. My book bestie recently started it and she texted me like, this book might be a work of art…
I just tore through The Bright Sword, and loved it. Lady Tremaine is on my list! Unrelated: Would you consider a post about older parents who seem addicted to their phones? My friends and I all have parents in their 60s and it seems to be a common situation. In my case, I sometimes find myself thinking, “I fly all the way across the country to visit my in-laws, only to watch them do crosswords on their phone instead of interact with their grandson!”
YES. There was just a Washington Post article on this and I was nodding along with both your sentiment and the article (gift linked) – https://wapo.st/4dQ3ZvO
Yes!! And always with the volume on FB videos turned up and the keyboard tones on!! Drives me mad. We have been quite clear with grandparents that we’d like phones away while the kids are around and they have mostly been receptive to that.
I loved the bright sword so much!
The Bright Sword was so surprising to me — it was so, so slow. But turns out, in the best way. Wow. I was formerly an Arthurian legend geek (did a whole summer in Oxford on it) so it was such a treat to revisit all the stories, woven together and ultimately such a plot twist and moving ending. Wow.
LOL…what are you on about with the phones? I see people of all ages, but primarily younger people, crossing streets while glued to their phones (at considerable personal risk!), also driving, riding bikes, eating, alone, in groups, in meetings, in lines….in any kind of situation, who are so hypnotized by their phone they are oblivious to anything going around them. I am in my 60s and know many, many other people in their 70’s, 60’s, 50’s and 40’s who do not fit this generalization. What you describe sounds like a relationship problem. Maybe just talk directly to your parents about your frustrations? the world doesn’t need a post perpetuating more derogatory stereotypes about older people. Just because there was an article in the WP doesn’t make it valid.
Thank you GOOD GRIEF ! I agree. Even on this blog I cannot count the times someone has commented about scrolling their phone while baby is eating in their arms, or commenting when the baby is like a day old. Look at your baby ! What could be better ? Why bring in distraction of a phone ! This is not the first time people talked about ” boomer ” phone habits here. I thought the younger generations were all about not generalizing/ stereotyping. I’m sorry your family members are phone addicted but I have not had this experience at get togethers.
Yup the boomers in my life do this too. Constantly on their phones, scrolling Facebook, playing games, looking up every little thing we don’t know in a conversation. It is especially bad during dinner and while spending time with their grandkids. Meanwhile, other millennials I know are trying to set limits on phone use and social media, or are outright leaving platforms. All anecdotal but every friend I’ve brought this up to has noticed this same thing about the 60+ crowd.
yes. it’s an international phenomenon… Greetings from Germany. we gave my dad (in his 80s now) an ipad to be able to communicate with us and his grandchildren while we are away. Now instead of connectin gist, it’s mostly become a blocker of communication when we are visiting. He is old and immobile so it’s become his main source for entertainment, even when we are all around. It’s hard and painful, he’s never been one to watch much TV, but I think he is (as no one else is either) not immune to the addictive technology of Sillicon Valley. When on youtube, he just watches one short clip or video after the other and has been notably more radicaliczed politically because he’s being shown stuff that’s obviously created for clicks… It’s a source of grief and regret for me, I wish we hadn’t given it to him. He’s very sensitive and defensive about it, too, now, it’s hard to talk about it with him.
@GOOD GRIEF and @PNW GRATEFUL … So rude!
Kelly I’m sorry you found my comment rude. I don’t see what’s rude about it. I was merely pointing out that it has not been my experience, the boomer phone thing of which these comments speak. It doesn’t mean it’s not happening, but to say it’s mostly boomers seems incorrect to me. But too much going in in the world to have a back and forth with you lovely people, whom I truly do hold dear. I appreciate the insights from all ae groups represented here. But I do think there is a tad bit of boomer bias. One commenter awhile ago stated that boomers are the ones overstuffing trash cans in parks etc. How is this discerned I wonder. It just gets old. Hope all of you enjoy the day.
@Kelly Dawson: It’s not rude to say I strongly disagree with you, and I absolutely do. What you propose is a misdirected response to a personal problem that will not be at all resolved by what you suggest. Here you are online, complaining about your parents also being online. Words have impact, perpetuating ageism and other stereotypes does harm. If you are going to advocate for those things online in a public forum then you should expect that people reading it will react.
I recently read Yesteryear and it captivated me! Admittedly, I also listen to Caro’s podcast so I knew I would probably like the book, but it surprised me a lot too.
I’m excited for this one, I’m in a many week holds queue!
I need a bookclub to process this book. I read it in 2 days, but am still ruminating on the ending.
I am mid-way through and it is definitely a page-turner- like want to leave work early to finish it page-turner.
After thoroughly riveted by “Isola,” in the historical fiction genre, I am looking forward to reading Allegra Goodman’s new book “This Is Not About Us” in the family dynamics category. The NYT said it is “wise and witty — a deliciously readable book.”
You’re in for a good time with This Is Not About Us! It’s so gentle and clever. And you might also consider Sam, Goodman’s novel before Isola. A truly great coming of age story. Happy reading!
“This Is Not About Us” is so good. I’ve almost finished reading it. Every story is a gem. Bizarrely, many people on Goodreads reviewed it as if it were a novel, but it’s a book of linked stories. I loved it!
Three books I’ve loved recently were I Am You by Victoria Redel (historical novel set in 17th century Amsterdam), A Town Without Time by Gay Talese (the chapter about the building of the Verrazano Bridge should be required reading for all New Yorkers), and Pick A Color by Souvankham Thammavongsa (a day inside a nail salon).
I recently read This Is Where The Serpent Lives by Daniyal Mueenuddin and I am still in awe. It is a magnificient story of love, class, power, family, and ambition.
I agree…an incredible book that will stay with me
I love how Amy subtly dresses with the same vibe as her guests. (Or not so subtly, in the case of Fred, haha.)
I have read 3 fabulous books recently: Lost Lambs, The Ten Year Affair and Heart The Lover- a book that i may never recover from. SO beautiful, if you have not read it you must!!
Heart the Lover! Gasp!!! So so so good.
I loved Heart the Lover and enjoyed The Ten Year Affair as well. I’m almost done with Lost Lambs—such a wild and hilarious read! I just love those Flynn sisters.
I just put all 3 of these books on my holds list today ! Thanks for the recs ! They all look good.
Those pigs in blankets have me enthralled. I’d never really thought about including something pickly inside with a mustard dipping sauce??? I’m sold… But also a vegetarian. Does anyone have any recipe recs with the same vibes? I could imagine a puff pastry/pickle/sharp cheese combo being in the same vein.
Hi! Just sub SmartDogs veggie tofu dogs! This is in regular rotation at my house, since my kids were school age. Usually I use TJ’s organic crescent rolls for the “blankets”, cut a split in the hotdogs to insert a strip of sharp cheddar, and spread the dough with dijon before rolling up. Bake at 350 for 14 minutes. You could probably cut those dogs in half to make this fancier version.
Lauren, have you ever had a cheese and pickle sandwich? it is a UK thing, cheese with a pickled chutney, I think it would scratch the itch of this pig in a blanket recipe, but for veggie folks. Branston Pickle is the best chutney option, IMO and can be found stateside at like, fresh market type stores.
I really like the impossible sausages. They are not small enough for pigs in a blanket, but you could do similar toppings, just making a larger version.
Curious if anyone here watched (and finished) DTF: St Louis on HBO.
I can’t decide if I want to watch—would you recommend it?
My husband and I haven’t watched the last episode yet, but we are loving it. The tone is so original and hard to describe to anyone who hasn’t watched the show. I went in ready to dislike David Harbour because of recent gossip about his being a shitty person, but his performance is incredible. His character is so full of heart.
@EmilyB The pacing is slow but superb acting and last few eps really hooked me. I will say if youre sensitive to morose storylines (theres a trigger warning that would spoil the ending) then avoid the series. Otherwise, it was my fave current show other than The Pitt!
omg. YES. It went where I kind of expected it to, but still left me feeling so many feelings. do we all also now hate the phrase “no way, Jose” ?!
I guess I am too old and lumpy for the splurgy white sundress, but it is fabulous, and I hope someone buys it and wears the heck out of it.
i am too old and lumpy for nearly every outfit suggested here, but i remember when i was not and what a time it was. I agree, i hope someone does buy it and enjoys wearing it!
But for $1000? Ouch
Jen, it’s $595 and not $1,000. Joanna noted it was splurgy so while it’s still expensive for me, it might not be for others. A “good for them but not for me” kind of mentality is a helpful one to have instead of “ouch.”
I just turned the last page of North Woods by Daniel Mason, and am lying on the couch with the book on my chest, trying to soak it up just a little bit more.
AH to relive that moment of finishing that book!! SO good.
It simply has to be like that! The best theory ever!
Yes Katie!!! This was my feeling too! Just marvel and awe and gratitude that he went through the labor of bringing that book into the world. He has another book coming out this year!
Omg the best book I’ve read in a long time! What an interesting author eh?! I found it so unique. I read it last year and like an addict I’ve been desperate to read another book that just wows me like that. A total delight!
I seriously loved that book. Mesmerizing.
I listened to Strangers, which was riveting. And just finished reading Lady Tremaine, also an excellent read. However, I DNFed Mona’s Eyes. I fell for the hype at B&N, and I’m so mad. It is so boring, the writing is formulaic, and it just feels very flat. Do not recommend. Now I’m reading one of the books in the Heated Rivalry series as a palate cleanser.
Couldn’t agree more! Waste of my audiobook $.
I just read Lady Tremaine based on your recommendation and big oh boy I LOVED it. It was exactly what I needed. I’m in a very layered period of mothering right now and so much of this book stopped me in my tracks, had me re-reading lines out loud. I appreciated how complex the characters were, no one is perfect, everyone is trying, everyone brings their own experiences. Also the pace of the story was so well done. Thank you for sharing it. All our slender wrists holding up our collective roof – I felt that. Next up for me is American Fantasy by Emma Straub and I was SO thrilled it came in my book subscription (I’m in a subscription where I get a book each month. Wellread it’s called and I love opening that brown bag each month to see what I get. Grown ups lucky dip for book nerds! The best!)
I pre-ordered Lady Tremain on impulse and by the time it arrived I had forgotten all about it, and was regretting the impulse because I thought it would be chick lit, as in light and predictable. (no judgement, I do read some books in that flavor, but I was in the mood for something with substance). Well, shows what I know (nothing much) because I thoroughly enjoyed it, and thought the writing was quite good.
Lady tremaine is hands down my favorite book this year so far!! I read it and promptly started it back over and read it a second time just as fast. I’ve NEVER done this before with a book. The writing and the themes and the characters were all exquisite!!
i completely agree! i loved Lady Tremaine so much and thought everything about it was excellent.
I love the picture of you and your friends hanging out on your stoop.
Seriously! Jo, do you live on … Sesame Street? This is such a charming portrait of community — a true talent of our hostess, online or IRL (as long as the friend isn’t playing Push ;))
Based on Jo’s multiple mentions, I just finished Lady Tremaine. Cannot. Stop. Thinking. About. It. So so so good!! What do I try next??
Although very different, I think someone who loved LT might also love Good People by Patmeena Sabit. It’s a literary mystery about the death of a girl that unfolds entirely through the stories and witness statements of people who knew the girl and her family. It’s also the story of a family of Afghan immigrants who achieve the American dream before the tragedy at the center of the story. Halfway through and entirely riveted!
Another book that made me think “just talk to each other” is When The Cranes Fly South, such a beautiful book
A beautiful, poignant book indeed. And there’s a wonderful dog in it.
Amy Poehler & Smartless pods not working for you? Join me over at “Handsome”! With Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster & Mae Martin, it’s utter silliness. Lol every episode
Ah thanks for a rec for those of us who can not get into Amy Poehler’s pod or Smartness! Huge fan of Mae Martin!
Love that podcast too!! I find good hang to be funny sometimes but it totally depends on the guest. Same for smartless (although I liked it better in its early days when they were less….not sure how to describe it…full of themselves??)
Definitely have paused on Smartless, mostly because of the bullying of Sean Hayes, though some of the early episodes made me laugh (George Clooney, Ricky Gervais). Will Arnett is annoying to me even though he can be funny. Amy’s show is hit or miss for me as well, though she has gravitas–listen to the one with Martin Short.
Thank you for the rec! While I love Good Hang, I am generally tired of podcast men. Smartless, Armchair Expert, etc… stop giving these men microphones lol. Will try Handsome!
Loved Smartless at first (the Maya Rudolph episode!) but have fully given it up, because of how cringe they can be. When they have younger guests, it’s especially apparent. I am now a diehard Diabolical Lies fan. Those ladies are so smart, everything is well researched, and even the most uninteresting topics become enthralling. I haven’t felt as intellectually stimulated by something in a long time. Listen to the back-to-back episodes “Scott Galloway vs. Heated Rivalry: Who Will Save the Men?” and “Usha Vance, Rama Duwaji, & the Tragedy of Heterosexuality”. Totally worth paying for, as they have no sponsors. I could go on!
Handsome is my favorite!! Always a good time, uplifting, but they keep it real and it’s very special. I listen to it on my commute and it makes the drive so much better.
I am loving The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins. So many jokes per square inch!
Me too!
I love podcasts, but I am VERY picky…I want to learn something, be pleasantly amused a bit, don’t want celebs or gossip or people who do not actually know very much, give me a true expert, academic, or someone with experience. Hidden Brain is an amazing dive into the workings of humans, it’s been on for years, and is never not riveting. How I Built This, with Guy Rasz, gives the founders stories behind businesses and brands that have gone from living room or kitchen table dreams to large, successful, and importantly to me, LIKEABLE brands I can usually get behind. It’s great if you are nursing your own “what if I made this idea real” dreams, very inspiring, with the occasional CEO I cannot listen to, (so i skip them). Andy J Pizza is a highly entertaining and also incredibly inspiring artist, of comics, brand work, books, anything that can be illustrated. He is funny, and very out about his own neuro divergence and how it helps, hinders, and fuels his incredibly diverse career. If you have a mind that likes to wander…are a creative who gets stuck, someone with a wonderful imagination who has a hard time doing the things, he is like a balm to the busy brain (like mine). His is called Creative Pep Talk. These are the voices and ideas that keep me going in these times. And for finding the calm, no one gets me there better than Dan Harris and his meditation / Buddhist leaning podcast, 10% Happier. So much great stuff to ponder out there!
Your list sounds a lot like mine! Listen the maya shankar’s a slight change of plans.
My current favorite podcast in this vein is Classical Music Happy Hour. They have a host and every week they interview a classical composer or musician. They talk about serious topics in music, but also have listener questions and a silly quiz at the end of each episode. It’s so much fun, even if you don’t have a serious music background.
I finished reading Normal people and liked it so much, ewpecially how much these characters change and the sliw touch of her style. Am about to start The emperor of gladness, by Ocean Vuong. Has anyone thoughts about it? My good friend really didn t like his first book, too dark. I hope there is light in this one, i need sunshine… love from Paris
I’m 30% into Emperor of Gladness. I would say it definitely isn’t super light but it’s beautifully written and i have reread many lines. I love everything Sally Rooney – definitely read Intermezzo if you haven’t yet! One of my top books of 2025
Loved The Emperor of Gladness. The story is dark but the writing is light… if that makes sense. I wouldn’t read it right now if you’re wanting something uplifting though!
I will try it, thanks for your words. Love from Paris
Katherine! I’m almost finished with Intermezzo but don’t want to! It is SO good! I love these characters and how she slowly builds the situation… thank you so much! Love from Paris
Do I spy you embracing your silver strands? Love it!
Haha that was right before a hair appt! I am still getting it dyed, which feels right to me for now, but maybe at some point I’ll go silver like my aunts!
Good for you, Joanna — I love that you are confident in your choices, and at the same time respectful and celebrating others’ different choices!
Good Hang continues to be a bright spot in my week. No other podcast has me giggling like Amy. Fred isn’t my fave but Steve Carrell was so funny recently and I can’t wait to listen to Kerry Washington that just dropped.
The Brandi Carlile episode is just delightful!
Ariana Grande! this is what matriarchy looks like and I WANT MORE
Agreed; the Brandi Carlile episode was so good! I loved being able to watch the video version. Does anyone else struggle with audio-only podcasts? I listen to several audiobooks a week, but something about knowing that the interviewees on podcasts are real people makes me want to see their faces and reactions.
I love the Jonathan Groff episode! So joyful and funny!
Jonathan Groff was also such a hilarious surprise!
I really enjoy Good Hang – just when I thought “does the world really need another celebrity podcast”. Why yes, yes it does, apparently. Amy was absolutely masterful in the Aubrey Plaza episode. The way she handled that interview with the utmost care was truly masterful. Also loved the Ina Garten and J Law ones.
May I also suggest the Idris Elba ep on Good Hang? they also coordinate inadvertently and its adorable. (and if you want to go down the Idris rabbit hole, his chicken shop date, also a banger.) those pigs in a blanket with peppers, genius.
I definitely agree. This episode is also the moment when I realized that I was entering my 50s with people like Idris Elba and Amy Poehler — and that it was going to be OK.
Love it when I get book recs that are NOT on hold at the library. Was able to get I’ll come to you right away! Woohoo.
Yessss congrats on your library win, fellow Kat!
Me too!! Always makes my day!
I really love the podcast starter marriage: conversations on modern marriage. It’s hosted by a married couple- Allison Raskin and John Blakeslee. They are writers and comedians and every week they interview different experts, couples, friends, etc- about marriage. Its fun and warm and has prompted a lot of interesting questions and conversations for me.
I’m completely engrossed with Andersen Cooper’s podcast about grief, All There Is. I’m so hooked I listen to MULTIPLE episodes a day, but the one with Steven Colbert is heart-achingly beautiful. And Andersen Cooper is so loveable you just want to reach through the airwaves and give him a hug.
Yes! This podcast is so wonderful. I didn’t realize I loved Anderson Cooper??
As someone who can’t bear listening to podcasts, I am holding onto Anderson’s “All There Is” with both hands. A couple months ago, I lost my mom to ovarian cancer. (A horrible death.) She was only in her mid 60s and the fiercest woman I know. Anderson’s podcast feels like a loving welcome into another layer of life–living with grief.
I’m so sorry for your loss your loss, Maria. xoxo
I’m so sorry, Maria. <3
Maria, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I wanted to share I also lost my mom (6 months ago, mid sixties, brain cancer) I am with you <3 and I am going to dive into that podcast!
So, I know it’s not as erudite as most COJ book reccos. but I’ve been LOVING Dungeon Crawler Carl. It’s just such a fun read! Like a mash up of Hitchikers Guide to the Galaxy and Guardians of the Galaxy, but throw in some RPG foundations and don’t leave Earth (yet…I’m only on book 3, no spoilers please!)
LOVE the Dungeon Crawler Carl series! I started reading them after seeing it recommended heavily on Reddit. After I was a few books in, I asked all my real life reader friends if they are reading it and not one person is.
Love DCC!! it has consumed my 2026 tbr–I just keep reading the next one. donut has some of the BEST lines.
YES! SAME!
My husband is reading Dungeon Crawler Carl right now! I’ve never heard of it, but he described it as sci-fi but very funny.
Is it good on audio?
It is 100% not something I’d read but thriftbooks just recommended it to me, if anyone uses thriftbooks, you might be able to get double points if you buy it. Not sure.
The audiobooks are AMAZING. I was actually a bit meh on the story to start, but Jeff Hayes’ amazing reading kept me going until I eventually got engrossed. New one is out next month!
Dungeon Crawler Carl is SUCH an amazing series. I just started Book 4! I can’t believe they’re still being written. Fun fact – they gained popularity through word of mouth and incredible audiobook narration, as well as originating Royal Road. AND the author, Matt Dinneman, self publishes them!
Fun thing: the fourth and fifth graders at my great granddaughter’s school doing a primary school version of “ The Little Mermaid “. So wonderful. The kids are so talented…the only thing they aren’t doing themselves is the sound. So many teachers, librarians, parents, and grandparents have worked so hard and given so much to make this possible. It’s hard to get arts projects in public schools these days. I just rejoice in the wonder and joy on that cafeteria stage.
this sounds so wonderful!
On climbing, my all-time favorite drag performance is Edith Poussard’s “‘Roxanne’-but-just-ROCKS!,” a tour de force that makes me want to attach carabiners to my own sports bra (but not free climb, that’s for maniacs). https://www.instagram.com/reels/DUgDLKSiOGJ/ On rocks, in turn, this “speech written for Nixon to deliver if the Apollo 11 astronauts didn’t make it to the moon” is my second-favorite rocks-based discovery of the week, and that’s saying something (I have a Ludo-from-LABYRINTH-like relationship with rocks). https://clickhole.com/this-speech-was-written-for-president-nixon-to-deliver-1825121627/ “Buzz and his husbands did not jump into space because they knew they would succeed. No, they went into space because mankind has an unquenchable thirst for strange new rocks. The moon is brimming with weird stones and boulders, and we want them. Mankind wants the baffling rocks, and even though these men exploded, we’re going to send more men to get the rocks.”
I’ve tried listening to Amy poehler podcast but she has become just so into who she know in Hollywood.. The one I listened to had Jon Hamn call in from a set for no other reason that just showing she knows him. I love her but her podcast doesn’t do it for me.
I agree, I much prefer Armchair Experts in this vein. I started listening when a menopause expert was featured and the Hollywood interviews are secondary to the scientists, scholars and authors for me (I’m a scientist).
That’s how I feel about the Smartless podcast. So much Hollywood focused talk that applies to no one else in this world. I wanted to like it but just couldn’t get into it.
this is fascinating to me, because I find armchair expert absolutely so insufferable, good at the beginning and now, I just cannot–perhaps every such celeb pod jumps the shark for someone at some point!
Same regarding both Amy Poehler and Smartless! On Amy’s podcast, I am distracted by how much people say “like,” including her. I think Smartless is funnier and I like the chemistry between the three of them (80s kid here), but it is much too Hollywood “in the biz” focused.
I personally love the insider-y, behind the scenes, Hollywood parts – it’s one of the reasons I like celebrity interviews! And I think it’s a bit unfair to accuse Amy of only having people pop in to show who she knows – that’s literally her world, her friends, her colleagues AND the premise of talking well behind someone’s back is really nice! Jon Hamm also wasn’t there for Amy to brag, he was there to talk well behind Paul Rudd’s back, because they’ve been friends since before they were famous. But (probably clear by now, lol) I love Good Hang! It’s so joyful and everyone seems so much more comfortable than they are in other interviews. I find Smartless and Armchair Expert totally insufferable, such obnoxious hosts who constantly talk over their guests, especially women. To each their judgemental own! (including myself in that 😂)
This is so funny because I’ve felt similarly about other celeb podcasts, but just find myself thinking “She seems like such a great friend and person to work with!” after episodes of Amy’s podcast. Maybe I’m just in the mood to hear people talk about liking their jobs these days, and actors have it good?
I remember Amy saying she wanted to start a podcast that is literally just hanging out with friends, no big life agenda or lesson. If you listen with that reason in mind – you will enjoy Good Hang. Las Culturistas is a great example – I am not updated with Housewives but the way they discuss it so passionately impresses and entertains me. Too many ad breaks though. I have an irrational dislike for Armchair Experts’ Dax Shepard. Never saw his appeal.
So funny how different we all are! I ADORE Amy and feel like she seems like such a nice person and friend. Smartless is funny but gives me the ick sometimes with how much they fall over themselves complimenting the guest. I cannot STAND Dax Shepherd, omg, extreme ick, or his cohost (Monica? maybe) so Armchair Expert is a hard pass for me.
I disagree with the poster who said Jon hamn was there to provide insight into Paul Rudd. I actually adore Paul Rudd which is why it drew me to that podcast but they interviewed a pre-taped podcast with jon hamn who was on set about to go in a hot air balloon. It felt a little bit too much like “ooh look at me I’m a celebrity.” Pass . Again I think Amy is hilarious just think her podcast is too “look at me I know important people .”
I’m also a big fan of A Good Hang. Amy is a ray of sunshine and her banter with her friends and crushes make me laugh. My favorite episode is with my hero Ina Garten. So funny. Concur that Armchair Expert has the ick factor. To each their own, clearly!
Reading about people who don’t like Good Hang is such a good reminder to us all that you can literally be the top of your “thing” out there at the moment and yet there will be people who don’t like you! Like thank goodness Amy Poehler does not worry that what she makes will be for everyone because then I wouldn’t get the weekly delight of listening to Good Hang. Unsurprising for the Queen of “good for her, not for me” but as a people pleaser who gets so paralyzed by people’s opinions it’s kind of refreshing to hear people expressing dislike for a podcast I (and many many others) find so wonderful. (P.S. I find Armchair Expert so irritating!)
United in our love for Paul Rudd! We’ll have to agree to disagree about the Jon Hamm bit – all of her “talking well behind people’s backs” segments are pre-taped, not just that one, and it felt genuine to me that he was calling Amy when he had a minute (plus I learned what ‘turning around’ means on a set!). It also made sense to me that they accommodated talking to him on set (in my memory, he’s the only one so far) in order to talk to one of Paul’s oldest friends. And they really do talk about him! How they met (the Duran Duran jean jacket!), when they became friends, etc. Admittedly I do find it fun when celebrities I like turn out to be friends in real life, so it was fun for me to listen to/watch Amy and Jon chat for a few minutes. I also think one of the reasons that segment didn’t bother me is that I feel like Amy, Paul, and Jon share a celebrity trait I really like, which is when celebrities who were just regular people before they got famous are completely in on the joke of how ridiculous celebrity, fame, Hollywood, etc is, while at the same time very genuinely being like ‘how crazy and amazing that this is how things turned out for us!’ Anyways, it’s totally okay if it rubbed you the wrong way, you definitely don’t have to like it! Only commenting back in case there’s someone reading this thread who’s considering listening to Good Hang but the initial comment above about Amy’s vibes is making them hesitate. I’d encourage people to listen to at least a handful of episodes to get a sense of it! Each episode is a little bit different depending on the talking-well person and the actual guest, and it’s such a joyful, friendly, fun podcast.
I totally get it. I can understand why it works, but it doesn’t work for me—and that’s fine. I think my favorite podcast in the world is the NYT Book Review when it features Gilbert Cruz and Joumana Khatib. I love all the episodes, with a soft spot for MJ Franklin as book club host, but Joumana’s takes, likes, and opinions just feel tailor-made for me. I’m also very into an obnoxious British rugby podcast, so what do I know? Heading into my 48th trip around the sun, “good for her, not for me” just makes more and more sense.
Looking for some foundation/tinted moisturizer recommendations.
I swear by CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen. It’s got a great tint, is super light weight and is so hydrating. I wear it pretty much everyday.
Love Supergoop mattescreen and rms sun cover
I put on a layer of Trader Joe’s gel moisturizer and then when that’s allllmost dry, I blend in a bit of Merit concealer stick with a brush
I love Tower28’s!
I’ve been loving color science Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50. Im fairly light skinned and got shade medium and I feel it gives good coverage, not heavy, and really blends well – not to mention good sunscreen protection.
Estee Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Sheer Tint Release Moisturizer SPF 15!! Been in love with this product for over 15 years- so lightweight and moisturizing for the Most glowy skin.
I second the rec for CeraVe’s tinted mineral sunscreen. I typically HATE the feel of mineral sunscreen, but theirs is great and relatively inexpensive.
the BEST i’ve ever used is a Korean brand, “purito cica clearing bb cream”–it’s such a nice consistency and is SO smoothing and balancing and it’s $11! however–the shade range sucks. wish they carried darker shades.
I love Neutrogena mineral UV tint – I am pale and the light shade is not orange on me like most other drugstore tinted mineral sunscreens I’ve tried!
Beauty of Joseon has an excellent, not very pricy, tinted sunscreen in many shades.
I use ILIA Skin Tint. I love it. I still apply sunscreen over it.
Prequel Mineral sunscreen is lovely. It”s tinted slightly , just enough so that you don’t get the dreaded white cast. I love pretty much everything they make. Created by a dermatologist , it’s affordable , gentle and fragrance free. My new favorite thing is their Sulfur facial cleanser ( $18 for a huge tube and you only need a small amount).If you know anyone with rosacea, acne or redness it’s the perfect cleanser. It would be great for teens too.Sorry, I sound like an ad, but it’s so nice to fine a line that’s gentle, affordable and works!
Paula’s Choice Essential Glow Moisturizer- it’s tinted, with SPF
I wear white all winter and can’t recommend it enough.
I was so intrigued by the note about wearing white again–I would never stop. I wear white t-shirts with jeans daily regardless of weather or some arbitrary rule about “no white after labor day.”
One of the post-menopausal things I looked forward to was wearing white pants all the time and not worrying about bleed-through. (That and not buying tampons ever again.) Beware muddy puddles and marinara splatters, though. White pants forever!
Can we get a post on tips of how to wear white and keep white clothing bright and stain free? This is a mystery that has eluded me my entire life, and I’ve always envied the women who are able to manage this herculean feat!
Claire – it’s probably not the best approach, but I discovered the miracle of bleach and my whites have never been whiter. If anyone has a better alternative, I want to hear it! I know bleach is bad for skin, hair, etc.
White doesn’t fly in my Midwestern city in the winter … At least for bottoms. The filthy sludge that sprays up on you when vehicles drive by or what kicks up on your own calves from boots is frustrating. Snow removal at times seems like a suggestion to the dept of public works. So there is a return to clean white in late spring!
Claire, Biz is the answer to wearing white clothing. I throw a cup in every white load. Never wash in the machine until the stain is out first, unless it’s just normal dirt/smudges. Here’s the protocol: treat the stain by alternating with dish soap and a bar of Ivory hand soap and cold water. If that doesn’t do it, rub Ivory bar soap on it and soak in cold water for a few hours (this gets out every berry stain but they turn alarmingly purple-black first). If THAT doesn’t do it, I soak it in Biz overnight. If THAT doesn’t do it, I dump straight hydrogen peroxide on it and rinse after a few minutes (this is vanishingly rare). This all sounds crazy but I love my white jeans and honestly, I don’t have to stain-bust as often as you’d think.
Can I shout out a podcast I have been loving lately? On brand with Jon and Marisa! Two friends who take turns teaching each other the history of a brand with lots of joking around and bff coziness!!
After watching Trust Me on Netflix this weekend that top has… an energy!
I could not stop watching it!
Literally can’t stop thinking about it. Obviously the abuse is horrific, but I’m just fascinated buy the insular, very isolated nature of that community. I’ve read/heard accounts of secular folks driving through some of these FLDS towns and just getting stared at, followed, or generally a super creepy unwelcome vibe.
Binged that! So fascinating how people can be brainwashed like that. Was hard to watch- I felt for all of those women.