Podcasts about bribooks

Welcome to the Bri Books ‘Career Crash Course' mini-series! I'm sharing all the tips needed to help recent grads navigate the confusing yet exciting ‘real world' after college. Join me as I discuss career topics that most students don't learn in college--like how to actually land a job--and go deep on lessons learned from my own career across tech, social media, and journalism. For job search coaching questions and partnerships, email at bri@bribookspod.com. In this episode, we sit down with Amelia Duffy, a junior and Research Associate attending the School of Information at the University of Michigan School of Information. Amelia and Brionna chat about how to leverage interests and hobbies in order to build a portfolio career for yourself postgrad, and the power of having multiple interests when it comes to the working world. For job search coaching questions and partnerships, email at bri@bribookspod.com, and follow @bribookspod on Instagram and Twitter. SHOW NOTES 0:00-2:20 - Intro 2:45 - Meet Amelia Duffy, a junior at the School of Information at the University of Michigan, class of 2023.  4:00 - Amelia walks us through her thought process surrounding selecting courses, and how she's using her college courses to help her make a more informed decision about her career path.  7:00 - “When you stop trying to force something on yourself, what you're meant to do will come naturally.” - Brionna Jimerson  8:20 - Brionna's podcast recommendation, “Side Hustle Pro” podcast by Nicaila Matthews Okome, a University of Michigan Ross School of Business graduate who pivoted her entrepreneurial passions into a full-grown career.  12:00 - On moving from company to company: “One of the things I've been trying to avoid is feeling pigeonholed into one space. It's nice to hear about someone who has comfortably switched between roles and companies.” 13:00 - Brionna's advice on how to switch jobs as a recent grad: “Once you're on the boat, you can always change decks.” Find a company that has other business arms that interest you, where you can expand and grow into. Set up informational interviews with people who have the skillsets you're trying to develop.” 20:30 - Amelia's career advice: “You want to go into a career that goes on your strengths instead of one that just makes money, because 1.) You'll enjoy it because it'll come easier to you and 2.) You'll constantly be trying to catch up because the career won't ride on your strengths but will ride on the strengths of others.  22:30 - What Amelia wishes she knew about the job search and wants undergraduates to know now: “You don't need a big name company right out of college. You can grow so much more in other areas of companies. Not every single person in the US from the top college is competing for the same jobs. Take a step back. You have to understand you can grow in other places.” 26:00 - How to pursue interests and extracurriculars as part of your career DNA 29:00 - Brionna's #BriBooks recommendations for Amelia: “Data Science from Scratch: The First Principles of Python” published by O'Reilly, and “Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence” by Vicky Robin and Joe Dominguez. 

SECRETS TO FINDING A JOB AS A RECENT GRAD Welcome to the Bri Books ‘Career Crash Course' mini-series! I'm sharing all the tips needed to help recent grads navigate the confusing yet exciting ‘real world' after college. Join me as I discuss career topics that most students don't learn in college--like how to actually land a job--and go deep on lessons learned from my own career across tech, social media, and journalism. In this episode, we sit down with Ameenah Rashid, an Associate Analyst at eCommerce startup Profitero, and Tufts class of 2021. Ameenah and Brionna chat about navigating post-grad life and how to make those first crucial career decisions after college. For job search coaching questions and partnerships, email at bri@bribookspod.com, and follow @bribookspod on Instagram and Twitter.    SHOW NOTES 2:45 - Meet Ameenah Rashid, 21, Associate Analyst at Profitero, an eCommerce startup in Boston. Here's the story of how Ameenah navigated those first decisions post-college by leaning on her interdisciplinary interests.  3:45 - How Ameenah spent almost the entirety of her senior year of college applying for jobs, ranging from analyst to finance to tech roles. Now that she has some stability, she's ready to think about the next steps and play her cards more wisely. She'd been on the job search treadmill for a year, and now that she has a chance to stop, she's working on being intentional about the next phase of her career.  5:20 - On the importance of cultivating interests outside of work. “I've always been left-brained and right-brained in my professional interests and hobbies. Career-wise, I've done a lot of marketing because there are so many marketing positions. I've done marketing, strategy, social media, some consulting, digital work, and I currently work as an analyst. My current role as an analyst is more technical than any role I've had before, so I'm leaning into that side of things.” 6:30 - Why it's important to focus on getting the skill sets you need in order to set yourself up for success, and how to mine your own life's experiences for ways you can incorporate your own knowledge into your professional life. “In my undergrad life, I'm proud of exploring internships in a diverse range of industries--from engineering education to the Olympics to marketing the editorial--it's taught me that it doesn't matter if you don't know everything about the experience. You can pick things up on the fly.  9:30 - The dangers of trying to put yourself into a ‘box' professionally, and how to leverage your college activities as part of your job search process   16:00 - How Ameenah is making the most of her first job post-college, and Ameenah's advice for soon-to-be graduates/ what she wishes she knew six months ago. . "The whole time I was applying for jobs I was irrationally stressed when in reality if I didn't have a job it'd be fine."  18:00 - Brionna's #Bribooks read: “Consumed” by Aja Barber 20:00 - Brionna's #Bribooks recommendation for Ameenah: “Your Money Life: Your 20s” by Peter Dunn. 

On today's episode, we're talking all things International Women's Day, the best female-founded companies, and 10 amazing brands you need to know, shop and love from now on. Over 70% of the women and founders on this list are women of color.  Celebrated on March 8 annually, International Women's Day is one of the most important days of the year to celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness about women's equality, lobby for accelerated gender parity, and fundraise for female-centered charities. I'll be sharing some fantastic brands and initiatives that are perfectly aligned with International Women's Day.  This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS.  If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Show me what you're reading by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram and @bribookspod on Twitter.   Uoma Beauty, founded by Sharon Chuter Cashe cashmere donates 10% of all purchases to the Nepal Youth Foundation. Their new 'Women of Nepal' docu-film, created via a partnership with multimedia journalist Rajneesh Bhandari on behalf of the Nepal Youth Foundation (NYF), showcases the intersection of livelihood and motherhood for two profound women. Black Girl Sunscreen was designed to start the conversation around sun safety and education, and works to decrease the risk of melanoma within the Black community, one bottle of SPF at a time.  K-Swiss Girl Scouts collection.  Each shoe takes details from its namesake and translates them to a reimagined take on the iconic Court 66, with textures that mimic the Girl Scout Cookies they represent.  Here's a link to how you can build community partnerships with your local Girl Scout troop.  The Lip Bar's story is a complete Cinderella story. The founder, Melissa Butler, was turned DOWN from Shark Tank! But that "rejection" just sharpened her direction, because now you can find TLB in Walmart and Target stores across the country! Here's my favorite new product from TLB, a 3-in-1 skin conditioner tinted moisturizer which comes in 8 glorious shades.  Soon Skincare is a beauty brand started with the goal of bringing the excitement and innovation of Korean beauty to the entire world. The company is named after co-founder Lisa's grandmother and means 'smooth and pure' in Korean, which is at the crux of the entire line. I'm obsessed with the Vitamin C + E serum, and the Mermaid Marine collagen serum. DBF Interiors founder Dominique Fluker is an interior design service bringing interior styling to modern professionals. Dominique believes luxury is truly experienced when one slows down and embraces the fruits of her labor. Here's a link to book a consultation with Dominique.  Dominique Broadway is an award-winning millennial personal finance expert and entreprenuer. Her personal journey to educate and assist women of color in reaching their financial goals began with working with the uber wealthy and realizing that money advice should be available to anyone who wants to learn it. Through her platform and The Wealth Transfer Investing course, she has changed the game and broadened so many people's understanding of what's possible when it comes to making money in the market. More than that, she's passionate about changing people's money mindset, which is crucial.  Corey Paige is a designer who started her business in her dorm room at Tulane University. Nowadays, Corey is designing leggings, jogers, crewnecks, phone cases, face masks with her signature 'Millennial Lisa Frank' aesthetic of bright, cheerful colors.  Bearaby is a weighted blanket comapny I've been loving for about two years. Bearaby believes that self-care should be joyful and deep, revitalizing rest should be natural. The blankets are all-natural, sustainable and made from recycled materials. The founder Kathrine Hamm was led to create the brand out of her on sleep struggles. It's a brand I can put my name (and money!) behind. 

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS.  We're starting season 6 with Samio, a full-time blogger and content creator from Manchester, England. Samio is a 'style enthusiast' who focuses on quality over quantity in all things in life. Over the years, Samio has been able to develop her love of photography into a full-fledged blog, YouTube platform, and Instagram platform. In this episode, Samio and I get into the nuts and bolts of living. She gives encouragement to people who are afraid to start something new, and we dig deep into why it's important that you're careful about how you think about and talk about yourself. Samio loves to delve deep into this topic on her YouTube channel, which feels like having a (virtual) chat with a close friend. Follow Samio's journey on Instagram, YouTube, and her blog!  If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Show me what you're reading by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram and @bribookspod on Twitter. 

New season, who dis? Welcome to season 6 of Bri Books, the podcast that encourages, entertains and inspires by discussing ideas both on and off the page. I have SO much great content in store for you—buckle up! If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Show me what you're watching by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram! Show me what you're watching by using #bribooks on Instagram, join the @bribookspod community on Instagram and @bribookspod on Twitter.  This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS.

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Brace yourselves: the beauty discounts are coming. Here's my curated list of the best products to buy from Sephora's 2020 Cyber Monday sale. These are the picks I've been loving (and lusting after) all year, and with up to 50% off full-price items, now's the time to pounce. Last year, I recorded a Bri Books episode about what to buy during Sephora's annual December VIB sale, and wanted to share a Cyber Monday-ready curated list. Here's what I'd stock up on if I were you: Bread Beauty Supply creamy deep conditioner ($28) Ilia Eye Heart Clean Beauty Kit ($45, limited edition but here's a similar Ilia Beauty set with even more goodies for $48) Urban Decay Naked Honey eyeshadow palette (Was: $49; Now: $24.50) Peter Thomas Roth Masking Minis 5-piece mask kit ($19) Alien Eau de Parfum Mugler perfume (Was: $120; Now: $72) Maison Margiela Replica perfume Deluxe Mini Coffret Set ($68) Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream Trio ($15) Dyson Corrale hair straightener ($499)

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Valid until 11/21/2020. Get out of that takeout rut with these 5 essential cookbooks, just in time for the holidays. These cookbooks are filled with mouthwatering recipes and invaluable culinary tips that'll help you build confidence in the kitchen this holiday season. 5 Mouthwatering Cookbooks to Inspire Your Holiday Meals 1. Cooking for one (for yourself on a regular basis): “The Living Kitchen: Healing Recipes to Support Your Body During Cancer Treatment and Recovery” by Sarah Grossman and Tamara Green 2. Cooking for a crowd (two or more): “Cravings: Recipes for all the Food You Want to Eat” by Chrissy Teigen 3. Guest flex (for when it’s your turn to host): “Everyday Is Saturday: Recipes + Strategies for Easy Cooking, Every Day of the Week” by Sarah Copeland 4. Technique (how you present your food): “That Photo Makes Me Hungry: Photographic Food for Fun and Profit” by Andrew Scravini 5. What’s up next (new release) "Jubilee: Recipes From Two Centuries Of African American Cooking:” by Toni Tipton-Martin  Pssst, check out my “How to Shop the Farmers Market” IGTV for more info about seasonal eating.   If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more cooking tips and culinary secrets.

Feeling nostalgic? Watch these black-and-white movies in your cozy socks with a cup of hot chocolate this holiday season. This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Show me what you're watching by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more movie recommendations. 4 Iconic Black & White Films to Watch Over Thanksgiving Break   Mildred Pierce, 1945 ‘Mildred Pierce’ is a 1945 crime-drama film starring Joan Crawford in the Oscar-winning title role. The style in this movie is UNREAL, and I love that the Max Factor makeup creator worked exclusively with Joan Crawford on this film—such a cool piece of film and makeup history. All About Eve, 1950 ‘All About Eve’ stars Bette Davis. The director and screenplay creator is Joseph Mankiewicz. Bette plays a stage actress named Margot who is slowly but surely being edged out by her protegee, Eve. The monologues! The hairstyles! The shade! A Raisin in the Sun, 1961 ‘A Raising in the Sun’ is the film starring Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, Claudia McNeil and Diana Sands following the Younger clan in Chicago as they navigate their future as a family unit and as individuals. 'Based on the play by Lorraine Hansberry, the scoring in this film accents the theatric foundation of the story. Madame Bovary, 1949 Based on the controversial 1856 novel ‘Madame Bovary’ by French author Gustave Flaubert, the 1949 adaptation challenged public ‘morality’ and the Motion Picture Production Code fought to censor the film. Show me what you're watching by using #bribooks on Instagram, and @bribookspod on Instagram and @bribookspod on Twitter. 

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Valid until 11/21/2020. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're reading by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more book recommendations. This week's guest is Patricia Bright: businesswoman, YouTube queen and author of “Heart & Hustle: Use Your Passion, Build Your Brand, Achieve Your Dreams.” Patricia has earned over 2.9M YouTube subscribers, and just hit 1.2M on Instagram. I've followed Patricia Bright since the late 2000’s, and it’s such a treat to be able to celebrate the platform she’s created. Since recording, Patricia's expanded her empire with the launch of The Break channel on YouTube where she chronicles her investment property journey and dishes out invaluable personal finance tips.  *This podcast episode was recorded in April 2019. Note on audio: You’ll hear the sound of me typing furiously in the background during the interview. I apologize!*  0:00-4:30 – Meet Patricia Bright, the story behind Bri Books cold pitching Patricia and why Suzanne Jeffers’ “Feel the fear and do it anyway” is how Patricia lives her life.  4:30 – In her book, Patricia discusses how being consistent is the challenge of our lives, and one we must rise to daily. Patricia shares her untold story, and why the big three--Brand, Business, and Beliefs--are crucial. With "Heart & Hustle," Patricia is teaching us to find our grinds, and identify our sweet spots where passions and unique skills find the perfect audience.  8:20 – How Patricia applied for and earned an investment banking internship…even though she didn’t have the grades and failed the admittance test…and what the experience taught her about the nature of limitations 12:09 – Patricia on learning to be a stronger networker: “Networking should be active, and start on an honest point of interest.” 14:25 – Taking the sting out of networking, and learning to be comfortable having varied conversations with different types of people.  14:45 – While Patricia was writing “Heart and Hustle,” she created one of her most successful YouTube series organically, the “I Spent” series wherein she shops online retailers, and brings her YouTube audience along as she tries on and reviews new purchases.  15:25 – Patricia: “It’s important to find that sweet spot between your passion, ability and what’s practical.” it sounds like that’s the recipe. 18:00 – Patricia on the science of building an audience: Writing down and executing ideas, and planning content are key! These two concepts are transformative because it takes the in-the-moment pressure away.  18:50 – Patricia’s #BriBooks current read: “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear 19:45 – Patricia: “You realize that in life, you’ll have a big goal, but what matters are the steps you take towards it. If you can take those steps every day, you’ll most likely achieve that goal. Pick up ‘Atomic Habits’!  20:07 – Let’s play “Patricia Taught Me,” a game where we quote from “Heart and Hustle” and Patricia expands on the ideas behind her words.  24:20 – One of the most powerful quotes from the book: “ “When you're struggling or fearful about doing something you want to do, the temptation is real to look for an excuse. Don’t. Excuses are just ways to stop yourself from being as good as you want to be.” – Patricia Bright, “Heart and Hustle.” 25:50 – What’s making Patricia say “What a time to be alive”? “I’m excited about is the fact that knowledge and wisdom will be open for everyone. We’re in the generation of we all have the same knowledge, so let’s work. It’s important to me: for people to learn, have access to information. That’s where the passion lies.” LINKS TO PATRICIA'S WORK: Patricia Bright's blog, book, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube channels.  Say hi! @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Valid until 11/21/2020. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify  Stitcher, and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more wine buying tips and wine secrets. 

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Valid until 11/21/2020. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more wine buying tips and wine secrets.   How many times have you gone into a wine shop, perused bottles and labels with glazed-over eyes, and left unfulfilled and over budget? Here are four categories I consider when planning what wine to bring to an event, serve to guests, or buy for myself:  Brionna’s @BriBooksPod Wine Menu Tips  Bubbles or no? (shoutout to Sarita of The Swirl Suite podcast for always encouraging bubbles to kick off the night) Learn the rules, then break them. I choose wines based on my own flavor principle: the lighter the flesh, the lighter the wine. Hence white wine with fish and creamy pasta dishes, red wines with tomato dishes and red meats, and Rosé flows best with vegetables. From there, I forget everything I know and opt for a left-of-center pick such as Pinot Gris in place of a classic white wine or an orange wine in lieu of Rosé.  Pick up a wildcard--perhaps a liquor--that you can use to create quick cocktails Think about analogous and complementary flavors relative to the meal Brionna’s @BriBooksPod Wine Menu Recommendations  Bubbles recommendation: Vigneto Luciano Saetti Rosso Viola Lambrusco Salamino, 2018 ($20-$23), available at Simple Syrup Wine and Spirits in Brooklyn  Meal pairing recommendation: Meinklang “Mulatschak” Weisser Pino Gris ($17-$20), available at Simple Syrup  Easy, delicious red to compliment every dish recommendation: Adega de Penalva Idigena Branco, Dao ($13-$15), available at Simple Syrup  Wildcard: Letherbee Charred Oak Absinthe Brun ($38-$40), available at Simple Syrup  Show me what you're sipping on by using #bribooks on Instagram, and @bribookspod on Instagram and @bribookspod on Twitter. 

This episode is proudly sponsored by briCandles, 100% natural soy candles hand-poured in Brooklyn. Bri Books listeners get 20% off their briCandles.com order with the code BRIBOOKS. Valid until 11/21/2020. Fact: Autumn is lowkey the most delicious season. Don’t @ me. In this episode of “Bri Books,” we’re discussing 8 mouth-watering autumnal flavors that are in season right now. The best part: You can find these crops at your local farmers market (shoutout to GrowNYC Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket, my personal home market) or grocery store.  For a full breakdown of each ingredient and quick autumn recipes, watch ‘8 Delicous Autumnal Flavors’ IGTV on Bri Books Podcast, and follow Brionna Jimerson on Pinterest and Instagram. If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more cooking tips and culinary secrets. Bri Books 8 Autumnal Flavors: Apples - Apples reach their peak in the autumn, with the flavor improving as the cooler weather settles in. There are hundreds of apple varieties, and they vary wildly based on your state. Now's the perfect time to explore roasting apples alongside veggies. Carrots - Carrots are hearty, sweet, comforting, and pair perfectly with every meal. Slow-roasted rainbow carrots topped Kosterina dark chocolate balsamic vinegar ($19.95) creates an almost caramelized effect. You'll be shocked how quickly you devour these veggies!  Turmeric - Turmeric is an ancient crop, well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has a warm, nutty flavor that's synonymous with curries around the world. If you want to sneak turmeric into your diet, I'd recommend you start with Dona turmeric spice dust ($10), a blend of turmeric, allspice, pink peppercorn, black pepper, and lemongrass. I love to use the powder to top my gold lattes and tea brews, and adding a few teaspoons to cake batter will completely transform your baking.   Ginger - Ginger is classically known as a warm, spicy root. Pro tip: Experiment with ginger-based marinades for your meats and ginger-infused bone broths for your winter soups and stews! Chai - Chai is the perfect autumnal spice profile. The earthy, woody flavors of cardamom, pepper, and clove in the Dona masala chai dust ($10) instantly ground any dish. An interesting way to experiment with chai: Add a half teaspoon of chai spice to your salad dressings for a dynamic baby greens salad.  Pears -  Pears deliver a subtle and delicate crunch and flavor compared to their sibling, apples. Now’s a great time to bake pears for a decadent dessert dish, or spiralize them to add to your salads and veggie roasts. Cinnamon - We’ve been creeping around this spice all episode. Like with chia, cinnamon is a signature autumn flavor. Make your own fresh cinnamon powder by grinding cinnamon sticks in a coffee grinder.  Squash - This year in my backyard garden, we grew butternut squash from scratch from seeds! Taste the goodness of delicata squash, honey-nut, acorn, and butternut squash this season gently roasted. (here’s a recent Bri Books episode about how to get started gardening.) If you like more butternut bisque experience, grab a butternut squash. To open a squash, simply slice off top and bottom, and then split the squash down the middle. A few more Bri Books episodes about cooking, food and gardening: 5 Restaurant-Worthy Meals You Can Make at Home 8 Garden-Starting Hacks to Get You Growing Cookbooks for Building Confidence in the Kitchen feat. Slice and Torte Podcast The Garden in Every Sense and Season feat. @ABeautifulNestTV 6 Wine Essentials & How to Shop for Wine 6 Best Quarantine Cookbooks What to Eat in the Dead of Winter 5 Gardening Tips Every First-Time Gardener Needs to Know How to Curate a Solo Wine Menu Secrets to Dining at a New Restaurant  5 Most Delicious Cookbooks If you’re new to the show, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please ask me your houseplant and garden questions and show me what you're growing by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more cooking tips and culinary secrets.

This episode was a WHIRLWIND! Let’s review "Insecure" season 4 finale: Lowkey Lost. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 22:30 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 10 recap 23:00 - Episode and character analysis (Andrew! Molly! Issa! Condola! Lawrence! Tiffany! WTF?!)  25:50 - #OOTN: Molly's MONSE Resort 2019 statement coat 27:30 - Song of the night: "Fair Chance" by Thundercat feat. Ty Dolla $ign and Lil B 28:30 - My #BriBooks recommendation for Issa and Molly Thank you so much for joining me for this recap series for "Insecure" season 4! 

Let’s review season 4 episode 9 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Trying. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 17:00 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 9 recap 17:15 - Song of the night: "The World We Created' by Giveon 18:00 - Episode and character analysis 19:00 - #OOTN: In this epsiode, every character rocked their signature lewks. Molly's lewks had Big Kahlana Barfield Brown Energy! 20:20 -  My #BriBooks recommendation for Issa and Molly: "Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close" (July 2020) by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, hosts of the "Call Your Girlfriend" podcast

Let’s review season 4 episode 8 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Happy. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 11:30 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 8 recap 11:45 - Episode and character analysis  12:30 - My #BriBooks recommendation for Issa 13:45 - Song of the night: "Out Of Your League" by Blood Orange ft. Steve Lacy 15:30 - #OOTN: Issa's red lazer cut-out blazer, designed by LVMH Prize 2019 finalist and South African designer Thebe Magugu. Much love to "Insecure" costume designer Shiona Turini for expertly constructing Issa's vulnerable-yet-in-control look for the evening, from head to toe! 

Let’s review season 4 episode 7 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Trippin. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 11:30 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 7 recap 11:45 - Episode and character analysis (we’re looking at you, Molly!) 13:45 - #OOTN: Molly's Opening Ceremony cardigan sweater-dress and boots designed by MCM Global Creative Partner Misa Hylton 14:30 - My #BriBooks recommendation: "Drop the Ball: Achieving More By Doing Less" by Tiffany Dufu. Here’s the episode of Bri Books I recorded with Tiffany herself, all about the best takeaways and life lessons from her fantastic book. 18:10 - Song of the night: "Como Si Na" by Melli EPISODES AND BOOKS MENTIONED "Drop the Ball: Achieving More By Doing Less" by Tiffany Dufu. Here’s the episode of Bri Books I recorded with Tiffany herself, all about the best takeaways and life lessons from her fantastic book.

Let’s review season 4 episode 6 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Done. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 11:0 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 6 recap 11:30 - Episode and character analysis (we’re looking at you, Issa!) 13:10 - My #BriBooks recommendation: “What I Know For Sure” by Oprah Winfrey. Here’s an episode of Bri Books I recorded all about the best takeaways and life lessons from Winfrey’s collection of essays. 15:00 - Song of the night: “Paid in Full” by BOSCO 15:52 - #OOTN: Issa’s Telfar bag, by black fashion designer Telfar Clemens, a black fashion designer you need to know! EPISODES MENTIONED “7 Things Brionna Knows for Sure (a la Oprah Winfrey). Here’s an episode of Bri Books I recorded all about the best takeaways and life lessons from Winfrey’s collection of essays.

Let’s review season 4 episode 5 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Movin’ On. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  1:00 - 12:20 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 5 recap 12:30 - #OOTN: Issa’s vintage 'Waiting to Exhale' sweatshirt/ tee (vintage from eBay) 13:30 - Song of the night: “Wobble” by VIC 14:20 - My #BriBooks recommendation: “Codependency for Dummies” by Darlene Lancer, MFT. for Molly. This book was ‘prescribed’ to me by my therapist in 2015, and it completely revolutionized how I saw myself vis-a-vis friends and family members and helped me establish strong emotional boundaries that are still in place to this day. It 100% deserves a spot in your library.

Let’s review season 4 episode 4 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Losin’ It. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  1:00 - 6:20 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 4 recap 6:30 - The overarching theme of the episode: Every character is “Insecure” about their ability to juggle it all and keep their shit together 8:30 - My #BriBooks recommendation: “The Art of Showing Up” for Issa. Here’s an episode I recorded about the book, and why it deserves a spot in your library. 9:54 - “Temperature” by TeaaMarr 10:40 - #OOTN: Molly’s Maison Margiela laser cut-out jeans ($660)   EPISODES MENTIONED “5 Books to Add To Your TBR Pile in May,” featuring  “The Art of Showing Up”

What are you reading? Let me know by reviewing Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, joining the community on Instagram, and show me your book shelfie using #bribooks! Let’s review season 4 episode 3 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Thankful. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  0:30 - 9:30 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 3 recap 10:00 - The overarching theme of the episode: Every character is “Insecure” about their investments 11:25 - My #BriBooks recommendation: “The Art of Making Memories” for Molly. Here’s an episode I recorded about the book, and why it deserves a spot in your library. 13:00 - Song of the week is “Case of the Ex” by Mya 14:15 - #OOTN: Molly’s asymmetric blazer from the brand Monse has a gorgeous cape effect: think Carmen SanDiego meets Olivia Pope ($3,793) EPISODES MENTIONED “5 Books to Add To Your TBR Pile in May,” featuring  “The Art of Making Memories”

Let’s review season4 episode 2 of HBO’s “Insecure”: Lowkey Distant. Spoiler Alert: There are spoilers. We’ll discuss the episode’s overarching theme and recap the major moments. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for a main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  1:30 - 10:50 - “Insecure” season 4 episode 2 recap 11:00 - The overarching theme of the episode: Every character is “Insecure” about their position 14:10 - My #BriBooks recommendation: Journals! Everyone needs to start journaling, STAT! Here’s my #bujo journal tutorial for the girls.  15:00 - Song of the week is “Waste My Time” by Zaia 15:30 - #OOTN: Molly’s wearing an emerald kelly green sweetheart neckline velvet ruched bustier-style top from The Attico (via Luisaviaroma) is the DREAM!

Today’s episode is kicking off a series of recaps and reviews of “Insecure,” Issa Rae’s hit show on HBO. In these episodes, we’ll discuss the episode theme, do a recap of the major moments, and a deep dive into characters. At the end of each episode, I’m going to recommend a #BriBooks read for the main character, along with a song of the week and #OOTN--which fit on “Insecure” reigned supreme?  1:40 - As they say on the "Black Girls Squee" podcast, “Spoiler alert: We spoil shit.” 2:08-10:22: “Insecure” season 4 episode 1 recap  10:15 - The overarching theme of the episode: Every character is “Insecure” about their history 14:20 - My #BriBooks recommendation: I recommend Issa pick up “The Defining Decade: Why Your 20s Matter—And How to Make the Most of Them Now” by Meg Jay, PH.D. Here's an episode about “Bri Books” I recorded about the book, featuring actor and creator Cyndii Johnson.  16:15 - Song of the week is “Cool Enough” by TeaMarrr. TeaMarr recently signed with Issa Rae’s music label “Raedio.” the song is about the feeling of being emotionally betrayed, although at time we betray ourselves.  17:30 - #OOTN - Issa Rae in a vegan leather Nanusha wrap skirt and blazer set OTHER EPISODES MENTIONED Yvonne Orji, the actor who portrays Molly on “Insecure,” was a speaker at the 2019 MTYRetreat in Cancun, Mexico where she dropped countless gems about remaining laser-focused while reaching for your future. Here’s an episode I recorded with “Swirl Suite” host Sarita Chaves about the retreat experience.

What have you been reading? Show me your TBR pile on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to our newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter! You know you need a break from the screen, so Bri Books is here with 5 books worth adding to your ‘TBR’ (‘To Be Read’) pile. Last Sunday, I woke up on a mission: organize the Bri Books library’s several TBR piles that were inexplicably cropping up around my home. Here are the reads I’m diving back into (after finishing “The Mirror and the Light” by Hilary Mantel, of course.) Pssst, Bri Books just published a podcast episode about historical fiction novels and TV shows you should watch. “The Paris Hours” by Alex George (May 2020) - Told over the single day in 1927 Paris, this novel takes four ordinary people whose stories, told together, are as extraordinary as the city they inhabit.  “Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown” by Anne Glenconner (March 2020) is an extraordinary memoir of royal secrets, legacy, and loss. Anne Glenconnor is a close member of the royal circle and was Lady-in-Waiting to Princess Margaret, as seen on Netflix’s “The Crown.” If you love the Royals and if Megxit gave you a buzz, you should pick up “Lady in Waiting.” “Volcanoes and Wine: From Pompeii to Napa” by Charles Frankle (November 2019) takes us across the stunning and dangerous world of volcanic wines. It sounds like the perfect blend of geology, world history, and wine. “The Art of Showing Up: How to Be There for Yourself and Your People” by Rachel Wilkerson Miller (May 2020) is the perfect companion piece to, well, our current reality. Could it BE any more on-the-nose?! “The Art of Making Memories: How to Create and Remember Happy Moments” by Meik Wiking (October 2019) is a keepsake worth distilling into a future episode of Bri Books. I’ll definitely write down what I learn from this book and any insights into how we can all make deeper memories during these uncertain times.   SUBSCRIBE TO BRI BOOKS ON APPLE PODCASTS What have you been reading? Show me your TBR pile on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to our newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!

Anyone else in the mood for comfort reading? In this episode, I'm revealing the two historical fiction series that’ll get you through the next phase of social distancing. What are you reading? Let me know by reviewing Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, joining the community on Instagram, and show me your TBR pile using #bribooks! SUBSCRIBE TO BRI BOOKS ON APPLE PODCASTS Bri Books Best Historical Fiction Novels to Read During Quarantine (and What to Watch) Historical literature, in a nutshell, is a piece of writing wherein the plot takes place in the past. What sets historical fiction apart is the detail the author takes to create a world that pays attention to the period being discussed. When it comes to historical fiction, you want to select an author who will ‘do right’ by the characters being created. Women write fantastic historical fiction. I’m certain former Bri Books guest Liana Rodriguez would agree!  These two historical fiction novel series have visual counterparts (like an accompanying TV series). Welcome to the Bri Books Pod Multiplatform Book Club!  Series #1: “Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon 3:25 - The origin story of the “Outlander” historical fiction novel series by Diana Gabaldon and the novel's plot Series #2: “Wolf Hall” Trilogy by Hilary Mantel 6:30 - “Wolf Hall” series by Hilary Mantel is my all-time favorite historical fiction collection. The trilogy spans “Wolf Hall,” “Bring Up The Bodies,” and Mantel’s final installation “The Mirror and the Light.”  Reading “The Mirror and the Light” by Hilary Mantel feels like riding a roller coaster. The first novel, “Wolf Hall,” chronicles the rise of Thomas Cromwell and the fall of Cardinal Wolsey, the Archbishop; and the impact of Anne Boleyn. “Bring Up the Bodies” traces the beginnings (and end) of Anne Boleyn, and the ushering in of Jane Seymour, the third of King Henry’s queens. Oh, and a casual Protestant Reformation sweeping the nation, NBD. I highly recommend you read the entire “Wolf Hall" trilogy, and to accompany your reading, watch the 2015 BBC six-part mini-series “Wolf Hall,” which follows the plots of the first two novels.    What have you been reading? Show me your TBR pile on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to our newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!

I'm sharing the quarantine cookbooks and recipes that have been the most used and helpful to me during these first few weeks of the global pandemic. These are the titles that have been feeding my soul, my tummy, and aligning with my community. I’ve been buying a local CSA box from Local Roots NYC, while independently supporting my favorite Greenmarket farmers.  When I get my Local Roots CSA subscription box delivered, I go straight to the indexes of my favorite cookbooks to uncover any recipes I can create with my new produce finds. What have you been eating? Show me your meals on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to our newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter and check out more behind-the-scenes photos on bribookspod.com!  Bri Books 6 Best Cookbooks for Nourishing Meals During Quarantine 3:00 - Book 1: “From the Oven to the Table: Simple Dishes that Look After Themselves” by Diana Henry. Thanks to the Local Roots CSA, I’ve been able to experiment more with cooking meats! This cookbook is full of tips on what to look for in your fresh produce and ingredients. The recipes are so simple, and they make you feel alive from the inside out. 6:30 - Book 2: “How to Cook Everything” by Mark Bittman. I mentioned this book on the Bri Books episode “How to Build Confidence in the Kitchen” featuring Danielle and Sherrod of “Slice and Torte” Podcast. This cookbook is where I go for technique and ingredient-specific help. For example, I was in search of a chili recipe to make with my Local Roots ground beef, and found the perfect one in “How to Cook Everything” (pssst…here’s the recipe.) 8:20 - Book 3: “Every Day is Saturday: Recipes and Strategies for Easy Cooking Every Day of the Week” by Sarah Copeland. This cookbook is the ultimate comfort food companion. Every recipe tastes like you’re eating at your favorite neighborhood joint; these recipes are 100% restaurant-worthy quality. I love Sarah Copeland’s ‘catch-all’ take on easy, leftovers-based, nibbly Sunday night dinners. The meals in this cookbook call on ingredients you already have--especially the mains! The "Every Day Is Saturday" cookbook reminds me to be my own best chef.  11:40 - Book 4: “Jubilee: Recipes for Two Centuries of African-American Cooking” by Toni Martin-Tipton. I mentioned this book on the “5 Most Delicious Cookbooks” episode of Bri Books. This book brings together the depth of African-American cuisine and techniques, and shines a loving light on the roots of American food. This cookbook is built on learning and sharing our knowledge, and I’m 100% committed. 13:00 - Book 5: “Vegetable Kingdom” by Bryant Terry. Terry is a James Beard Award-winning chef, educator and author of the iconic book “Afro-Vegan.” Terry’s renowned for his efforts to create a healthy and equitable food system. This cookbook is already inspiring the ways I take in the fresh flavors of spring. 14:50 - Book 6: “Cook Beautiful” by Athena Calderone, which I discovered at Sezane, one of my favorite French brands. Athena is a creator of beauty, a stylist, a lifestylist, an interior expert and advocate, she breathes life/ texture creativity into rooms. In this cookbook, she reveals the secrets to preparing unforgettable meals. You can feel how Athena loves to create a sense of belonging and warmth in both food and in life. One of my favorite things about the book is that it’s broken into seasons--you can come back to different sections for inspiration! Athena was featured on Glamour.com as 1 of 11 female interior designers to support (and follow on Instagram). Athena Calderone’s entire ethos is that you don’t need a sprawling space and an endless supply of farm-fresh food to live well— just need a bit of tender care, attention to detail, and inspiration. But the farm-fresh food doesn’t hurt ;) (Hiii, Local Roots!) What have you been eating? Show me your meals on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to our newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!

Welcome to #BriCember--31 days of daily podcasts, for the rest of the decade. I was inspired and encouraged by podcasters Amanda Miller Littlejohn ("Package your Genius" pod) and Emma Gunavardhana ("The Emma Guns Show") to challenge myself to daily episodes. Nothing's off-limits--leave a review of the podcast and tell me what you want us to discuss! We'll chat my best beauty lessons learned this year, how I spend my money, wine favorites, what’s in my cookbook collection, my AM and PM skincare beauty routines, how I deal with procrastination, falling in love with vintage shopping, my favorite creators and podcasts, a few of the books I've read in 2019, and even my own career story.  You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter! The theme music is "One Way"  by Jenn Mundia, fall in love with her here: https://soundcloud.com/jennmundia

The Bri Books Summer 2019 Reading Experience is here! At the end of the episode, I share the curated list of books we'll be reading this summer as a Bri Books community.  How can your bookshelf better reflect your values? Liana Rodriguez, a Bronx-based bibliophile, asked herself this question at the start of 2019. It led her to building her own personal library from scratch, full of narratives from diversified voices around the world instead of the cis-het White male writers of World Literature classes past. While celebrating "Well Read Black Girl" book club founder Glory Edim's anthology, "Well-Read Black Girl: Finding Out Stories, Discovering Ourselves" at The Wing Soho in conversation with Uli from Subway Book Review, I met Liana Rodriguez. In this episode, we go deep on Liana's bookshelf project, the importance of author's life experiences and who is doing the writing, book purging, and how to get back into reading after falling off. We finish the episode with a walking tour of Liana's library.    #BRIBOOKS SUMMER 2019 READING EXPERIENCE "The Wedding Date" by Jasmine Guillroy "The Other Americans" by Laila Lalami "Beasts Made of Night" by Tochi Onyebuchi Liana's reading recommendation: "The Midst of Winter" by Isabel Allende Follow Liana's reading journeys on Instagram.    You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!  

Welcome to season five of Bri Books!  You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter! We’re kicking off the season with Patricia Bright, businesswoman, YouTube queen and author of “Heart & Hustle: Use Your Passion, Build Your Brand, Achieve Your Dreams.” Patricia has earned over 2.7M YouTube subscribers, and just hit 1M on Instagram. I've followed Patricia Bright since the late 2000’s on YouTube and Longhaircareforum, and it’s such a treat to be able to celebrate the platform she’s created. *Note on audio: You’ll hear a small sound of me typing furiously in the background during the interview. I apologize!  0:00-4:30 – Meet Patricia Bright, the story behind Bri Books cold pitching Patricia and why Suzanne Jeffers’ “Feel the fear and do it anyway” is how Patricia lives her life.  4:30 – In the book, Patricia discusses how being consistent is the challenge of our lives, and one we must rise to daily. Patricia shares her untold story, and why the big three--Brand, Business, and Beliefs--are crucial. With "Heart & Hustle," Patricia is teaching us to find our grinds, and identify our sweet spots where passions and unique skills find the perfect audience.  8:20 – How Patricia applied for and earned an investment banking internship…even though she didn’t have the grades and failed the admittance test…and what the experience taught her about the nature of limitations 12:09 – Patricia on learning to be a stronger networker: “Networking should be active, and start on an honest point of interest.” 14:25 – Taking the sting out of networking, and learning to be comfortable having varied conversations with different types of people.  14:45 – While Patricia was writing “Heart and Hustle,” she created one of her most successful YouTube series organically, the “I Spent” series wherein she shops online retailers, and brings her YouTube audience along as she tries on and reviews new purchases.  15:25 – Patricia: “It’s important to find that sweet spot between your passion, ability and what’s practical.” it sounds like that’s the recipe. 18:00 – Patricia on the science of building an audience: Writing down and executing ideas, and planning content are key! These two concepts are transformative because it takes the in-the-moment pressure away.  18:50 – Patricia’s #BriBooks current read: “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear 19:45 – Patricia: “You realize that in life, you’ll have a big goal, but what matters are the steps you take towards it. If you can take those steps every day, you’ll most likely achieve that goal. Pick up ‘Atomic Habits’!  20:07 – Let’s play “Patricia Taught Me,” a game where we quote from “Heart and Hustle” and Patricia expands on the ideas behind her words.  24:20 – One of the most powerful quotes from the book: “ “When you're struggling or fearful about doing something you want to do, the temptation is real to look for an excuse. Don’t. Excuses are just ways to stop yourself from being as good as you want to be.” – Patricia Bright, “Heart and Hustle.” 25:50 – What’s making Patricia say “What a time to be alive”? “I’m excited about is the fact that knowledge and wisdom will be open for everyone. We’re in the generation of we all have the same knowledge, so let’s work. It’s important to me: for people to learn, have access to information. That’s where the passion lies.” LINKS TO PATRICIA'S WORK: Patricia Bright's blog, book, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube channels.  Say hi! @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter.

Welcome back to Bri Books, the podcast that encourages, entertains and enlightens by engaging with the ideas on and off the pages. Season five starts April 16!! Send “Bri Books” to the booklovers in your life! @bribookspod, bribookspod.com/newsletter. Show me what you’re reading with #bribooks! SHOW NOTES 0:53 - This season we’re doing things differently. We’re talking to more authors, more podcast hosts, and creatives. Before the season begins, I want to give you a taste of what to expect. 1:07 - We’ll be having conversations with first time author Cora Harrington, founder and Editor-in-Chief of “The Lingerie Addict” and author of new book “In Intimate Detail.” Later this season you’ll hear from Danielle and Sherrod of "Slice and Torte" podcast as we talk through our can’t-live-without cookbooks. We’ll be chatting with fashion writer Channing Hargrove about how she’s dedicated her career to loving on and celebrating black women. We’ll be having bibliophile Liana Rodriguez discuss what she does to build a more well-read and less overwhelmingly male and white library for herself. Then we chat with host of "The Kindred Spirit" podcast Ashley Warren to discuss women in wine and liquor from beginning of time to today. 2:24 - This season we’ll be using literature more to uncover our passions and manage things like managing side hustles, mentorship, career growth, fear of adulting, life challenges. Bri Books is a podcast that’s invested in delivering a sincere and inspiring conversation on books of cultural significance!  Say hi! @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!

Welcome to Bri Books Season four finale, where we're discussing “Becoming” by Michelle Obama. Thank you for a great season four! In this episode, we’re breaking down “Becoming,” and sharing a few #Becoming101 insights. Much love to Well-Read Black Girl community and founder Glory Edim, for dedicating their December book club to “Becoming.” Joining the conversation via #WRBGChat was such a treat. 4:00 - “Becoming Me” and the crystalizing moments Michelle experienced as a child that solidified the foundation for who she would “become.” 6:00 - ‘Becoming Us” and the musings of Michelle on mid-career, marriage, motherhood and beyond 7:20 - “Becoming More,” and Michelle molding her FLOTUS platform to her values and priorities 9:00 - #Becoming101: Michelle is teaching us to “become” by dating, by iterating, and by being bougie Bri Books will be back in early spring 2019! In the meantime, keep the pot boiling at @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!

You asked. I'm delivering. In today’s episode,  we’re discussing the film adaptation of the Richard Ford novel “Wildlife”, as requested by YOU! Thank you for heeding the call on a recent “Bri Books Bites” asking which of my most recent reads you’d be most interested in chatting about. Thank you to @bethcorinnek, who commented TWICE on Instagram, requesting we dissect the novel and film. I think this episode will encourage you to pick up the novel from your local library or pop into a local theater to support the film. 3:00 - Recapping the novel “Wildlife” (more in this episode of “Bri Books”) 5:30 - Recapping the experience of watching film “Wildlife” Both the film and novel communicated the unexpected vulnerability that accompanies blurred lines within a family. It’s that vulnerability--between spouses and between child and parent--that permeates both expressions of this incredible story. #BriBooks recommends “Wildlife” 100% I’ve shared my bullet journal tips in an IGTV about setting up your bujo is live on @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!  

Today's "Bri Books" is holiday feast-ready. We're discussing "Gut: The Inside Story of Our Bodies Most Underrated Organ" by Giulia Enders. We're mere weeks away from 2019. From now to the end of 2018, our guts will be working overtime. Between work potlucks, family potlucks, holiday parties, our guts are working intensely. This books goes inside (no pun intended) the world of the gut, and I share my "gut checks" and learnings along the way.  0:35 - Today's #BriBooks pick couldn't be more appropriate for end of the year as we wrap up 2018…with lots of food. Between now and the end of 2018, our guts will be working overtime. Between work potlucks, family gatherings and holiday parties, there's so much food and stress packed into the last few weeks of the year when our guts are working intensely. 3:00 – How Brionna discovered “Gut: The Inside Story of Our Bodies Most Underrated Organ" by Giuliana Enders” while working at ABC News, and general takeaways and first impressions after finishing “Gut” 5:00 - Gut Check #1: Giving our small intestines enough vitamins and minerals (by way of nutrient-rich and nutrient-dense food) is a major key to more small intestine success. 5:30 – Gut Check #2: Constipation results from a disconnect between the nerves in the nervous system and the muscles of the gut. The gut is ultimately a creature of habit, and if that habit is disrupted by holiday travel or holiday eats, constipation can arise. A great way to re-establish your gut’s equilibrium is to make sure you’re eating fiber and drinking fluids 2-3 days before holiday travel or before major meals. 7:45 – Gut Check #3: There’s a link between the gut and the brain. Emotions like fear and stress reduce smooth muscles in the gut, and make it so the stomach can't stretch adequately, and we feel nauseous or anxious after just a few bites. Let’s all work on connecting with our guts and your brains, remaining mindful of seasonal stress. Bri Books is not intended as a substitute for medical or health advice, and shouldn't be treated as such. A great secondary research for your deep dive into the world of the gut: "Follow Your Gut: The Enormous Impact of Tiny Microbes" by Rob Knight PS, I’ve shared my bullet journal tips in an IGTV about setting up your bujo is live on @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!  

PS, I’ve shared my bullet journal tips in an IGTV about setting up your bujo is live on @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter! Hi, welcome back to Bri Books. On today’s episode I’ll be starting “Bri Books Bites.” I’ll be sharing four recent reads that I think may resonate with you. 0:22 - I want to apologize and acknowledge the Bri Books schedule’s been out of whack. 1:47 - In lieu of a full episode, I’m starting “Bri Books Bites,” a quick digest of a few of the titles I’ve recently devoured. And there will be a twist. I want you to choose which of the four titles we will feature on the podcast. I’ll tell you all the steps of how to vote. 2:30 - This Podcast was inspired by “Just The Right Book Podcast.” 4:10 - Book #1: “Wildlife” by Richard Ford. On October 19, the “Wildlife” film starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Michelle Williams. When Roxanne Coady mentioned it on “Just The Right Book Podcast,” I knew I, too, had to discuss this title. The book begins in 1960s rural Montana, and we are introduced to a family--mom Jeanette, dad Jerry, and 16-year-old son Joe. It’s wildfire season, but the flames burn through more than the neighboring forests--it burns through the family fabric. What’s left behind after the flames tear through their lives is...interesting. To discuss this book, visit @bribookspod on Instagram, and leave the comment “Wildlife” on the most recent photo. 6:05 - Book #2: “The Butcher’s Daughter” by Victoria Glendinning. In the mid-1500s, when King Henry the VIII and his right-hand-man Thomas Cromwell set about abolishing religious houses and monasteries in England, the priests and nuns who were part of the religious order were scattered to the winds. But what happened to the nuns? “The Butcher’s Daughter” sets out to answer the question through eyes of a young woman sent to live at Shaftesbury Abbey. Thanks fo her intellect and the fact that she could read, she was able to be an assistant to the Abbess of Shaftesbury. This plops here in the midst of a landscape of protest and reformation. If you want to discuss “The Butcher’s Daughter,”  visit @bribookspod on Instagram, and leave the comment “Butcher’s Daughter” on recent photo. 9:35 -Break! 9:53 - Book #3: “Travel As A Political Act” by Rick Steves. I picked this book up while working at ABC News. The author has spent most of his career reaching people how to travel. The book is about finding the lessons that accompany us through travel. For context, Steve’s wrote first edition at end of the Bush administration and the second edition post-Trump election. The book describes how travel as a political act, and is organized into regions and counties including Yugoslavia, Europe, Denmark, El Salvador, Turkey, Iran,Palestine, Israel. 11:15 I leaned into being part of global POV and putting global POV into action locally. To discuss this book, visit @bribookspod on Instagram, and leave the comment “Travel” on the most recent photo. 11:45 - Book #4: “Martha Stewart's Newlywed Kitchen: Recipes for Weeknight Dinners and Easy, Casual Gatherings.”Martha Stewart’s Newlywed Kitchen: Easy Weeknight Dinners.”  Even though I’m not engaged and I cook for one (or two), I love how this book is organized, and it doesn’t feel like a specialty cookbook. It feels like with forward thought, planning, creativity, flexibility, and grace could be fun. To discuss this book, visit @bribookspod on Instagram, and leave the comment “Newlywed” on the most recent photo. Thank you so much!   PS, I’ve shared my bullet journal tips in an IGTV about setting up your bujo is live on @bribookspod and bribookspod.com and bribookspod.com/newsletter. you can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter bribookspod.com/newesletter!  

Welcome to Bri Books! This episode is a book update, about Charreah K. Jackson's “Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman’s Playbook for Love and Success.” It’s so good, I wanted to record a status update. This episode, I share how I discovered Charreah and the book, and two of my favorite takeaways so far. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter. 2:30 - Brionna’s Charreah Story 5:00 - The definition of a “Boss Bride” 7:10 - Top Takeaway 1: “What is my comfort costing me?” Charreah says, “Trust yourself; “There’s a gap between what we’re called to do and what we feel we are capable of doing.” 10: 00 - Top Takeaway 2: Don’t wish away the alone time! Wishing away the alone time can be wishing away opportunities to grow unencumbered. This section reminds me of 1 Corinthians 7:32, beginning with “ I want you to be free from anxieties.” I often equate singleness with anxiety, but living single can help free us of anxiety. There will come a time to be partnered, but when you’re free to think of yourself and how you relate to the world around you, you don’t want to wish that time away.

Welcome to Bri Books, today we’ll be discussing Franchesca Ramsey’s book, ‘Well That Escalated Quickly’ with Odochi (Ode) of The Five Fifths podcast. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter. 1:07 - What’s Five Fifths Podcast? 1:20 - The Three Fifths Compromise dates back to 1787, a compromise reached among State delegates. It decided how would slaves be counted as part of the population. In 1787, the US was trying to determine how a state's population would affect taxation and legislative representation. The “solution” was to count three out of every five slaves as a person, to give the south more electoral votes than if the slaves had been ignored, but fewer than if the slaves had been counted equally. It was in the interest of slave owners and landowners to three out of every five slaves as a person. 4:00 - “The Five Fifths podcast is basically showing that every person on this Earth is five-fifths, they’re all whole. Nobody’s humanity can be quantified.” - Ode 4:42 - Who is Franchesca Ramsey? In 2011, when “Shit Girls Say” took off on YouTube, Franchesca created her own iteration, “Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls.” 5:50 - How Ode’s predominately white private school experience  relates to Franchesca’s “Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls” 7:08 - What took us from fans of Francesca’s YouTube work, to being fans of her writing 7:45 - Ode: “Seeing her on her own platform, as a dark-skinned woman who looks like me, I felt like she was very relatable.” 10:30 - In the book, Francesca traces her YouTube success trajectory. I really loved that Franchesca dindt’ shy away from the reality that it takes a long time to accumulate traction. She’d made over a hundred videos BEFORE “Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls.” It’s not lost on Franchesca that the quality and caliber of work speaks for itself when the time comes. 13:20 - After “Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls,” Franchesca was offered a book deal. But she didn’t jump on that opportunity, because she was setting herself UP for greatness instead of jumping ON whatever came her way. 15:50 - Discussing the chapter “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? It’s Lena Dunham.” 20:15 - Discussion of “Call Out” culture versus “Calling In” 20:42 - According to EverydayFeminism.com, the goal of “Calling out” is publically pointing out that someone is being problematic or downright wrong. However, “calling in” aims to get someone to change their problematic behavior.” 21:50 - Ode on the problems of call-out culture. “The way that someone responds to a callout should determine how we respond to them. Once you learn something is offensive to a group of people, you have to change your language.” 22:40 - Our favorite “Self-Care” rituals and our “Activist Lent” a la Franchesca Ramsey 23:20 - Ode’s self-care is being around people with great energy, and going to therapy (shoutout to her therapist, whom she found on https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com) 24:40 - Ode’s “Activist Lent” is deep-dive reporting on deaths of black LGBTQ people 27:40 - Brionna’s self-care is mani-pedis at The Nail Boutique in Brooklyn. Shoutout to Mola’s Nail Boutique! 28:45 - Brionna’s “Activist Lent” is indulging in luxury YouTubers Connect with Odochi: The Five Fifths Media Patreon, Instagram, Facebook, Spreaker  You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter.

Hi from Brionna! This isn't your regular Bri Books episode today--Join Junket NYC for Part 1 of the 3 part series: "Our Experiences in Foster Care." We begin with "Entering the System" through  the eyes of a foster child based on our collective experiences. Stay tuned at the end when we talk to our Junket roundtable for more of the real story. Subscribe to Junket's podcast on Apple podcasts here.   Junket NYC website and how to get involved: HERE Junket NYC Instagram, Twitter You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter.

Hello from Bri @ Bri Books! Today's episode is a solo show. We still have 202 days left in 2018. Let's make it count by restoring margin and balance to our lives, shall we? Here are the ways I'm working to restore balance, and the podcasts hosted by women of color that are helping me along the way.  You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter. 00:57 - As of June 12,2018, we’ll have 202 days left in 2018. That means as much as we have behind us, we have ahead of us and more. 1:10 - If you still get that cringing falling part feeling, don’t worry, it just means you’re human. 1:30 - Before we go further, thanks for being here. Subscribe to newsletter at bribookspod.com/newesletter. 1:35 - This episode is about restoring margin. What’s margin? According to Pastor Darryl Dash, margin is “a little reserve that you’re not using up. You’re not stretched to the limit. You’re not going from one meeting to the next with no space between. Margin is the space between my load and my limit.” 1:57 - The only reason I know about margin because we had a sermon at The Journey Church about restoring balance and allowing God to restore balance. The concept of margin came up. 2:16 - It struck a nerve because I acknowledge that I, like most of us, am on overload. 2:20 - Let’s break down margins, think a piece of paper. The standard 1” margin would be setting a margin around your life, saying “Everything outside of this isn’t available.” 2:40 - Sometimes I live on the 0.2” margin, and I'll let procrastination/ anxiety stop me. 3:06 - When it comes to restoring margin, I get a little excited. To that end, I'll be sharing the ways I've been trying to restore margin to my own life, and a few of the podcasts that have been with me along the way. I’m gonna chat about it with a few podcasts I've been enjoying and have been crucial in helping me notice patterns when I Don't have margin, and make those non-negotiable. 3:36 - Nobody has to tell you how busy you are. We have the lists--we know the XYZ, and somewhere we’re supposed to fit in the ‘YOU’. 3:48 - Margin is basically breathing room. The sermon spoke to me, and I realized I was running on my own steam instead of the Lord’s, and I wasn’t focusing where I was supposed to focus. 4:07 - For me, that meant instead of focusing on one aspect of a project, I’m weighing all 10 aspects equally at the same time and weight, which means I'm waffling and moaning about the idea of doing instead of getting down to it. 4:30 - One of the 2 places I've started creating margin is when it comes to taking care of myself. I find margin in my life when I Devote time to caring for myself. 4:42 - I've mentioned before on this podcast that when my anxiety is in full swing, the first thing I Attack is my body. Here I Am, i’d fall asleep after a day of work, evening of volunteering, and i’d forget to brush my teeth, fall asleep with the lights on, wake up in the middle of the night to do what I should've done hours ago, because I Didn't have margin in my life for taking care of myself. 5:15 - “The Naked Beauty” podcast  really got through to me. It’s a podcast hosted by Brooke DeVard, and it’s “an unfiltered talk about beauty trends, tips and products” hosted by Brooke Devard. What Takeaway is that the bare minimum is not allowed. 5:40 - what I've learned from podcast is that when things go wrong, we can’t make ourselves optional. But finding margin and making myself not an option but a requirement--for me, that means setting a timer, 20 minutes Ican take care of everything skincare and oral hygiene. Setting that timer and making it a non-negotiable has helped me to restore margin and take care of myself. Here’s a link to the podcast. I can give that to myself at least every day. Building that margin in and making it a non-negotiable has helped me restore a sense of balance to my own life. 6:40 - The other way I've restored margin is by giving myself a little bit of a break on my calendar. Does this sound like you? 6:50 - you have a regular commitment then there are the one-off engagements, and a host of appointments. And your life admin. Maybe you only have 3 prime hours in the evening and morning around a work or school schedule. So when my schedule’s out of whack and I'm too busy to recharge let alone do the work I'm supposed to do, I realize there’s a cliff for me. I find myself beyond my margin, limit and load when I'm not impeccable with my word. 7:35 - The “Side Hustle Pro” podcast episode hosted by Nicaila Matthews Okome featuring Charreah Jackson got me thinking about being impeccable with my word. “Side Hustle Pro” is a podcast that helps creative entrepreneurs grow their passions into money makers. Listening to the most recent episode featuring Charreah Jackson hustle pro restores the reality that we control our time and we control the projects we want to give energy to. Choosing one over the other doesn't mean you can’t accomplish both. It’s just a decision about where you choose to put your energy. 8:25 - What I love about the conversation featuring “Boss Bride” author Charreah Jackson is that it reminded me of the old adage Ilove--you can do everything, just not at the same time. Charreah understand sand has devoted her time to helping people understand what they can do, so they can do something else. I can’t wait to read Charreah’s book! 8:52 9 - those are the two ways I'm restoring margin: Establishing it taking care of myself, and in my calendar. Establishing these margins now while we still have 202 days left is so important to me. I feel like I've feel what it feels like to live outside of these margins, what it feels like to NOT make time for myself, so we’re not always going past our margins and loads. 9:50 - I've had a good time recording this episode. I can’t wait to read together for July, “Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman’s Playbook for Love and Success” by Charreah Jackson. If you’ve already read boss bride, tweet me with #bribooks 10:20 - I hope you’ve enjoyed this style of podcast. If you're’ into these deep dive episodes of Bri Books, let me know. 11:15 - tweet with #bribooks, and join bribookspod.com/newesletter.    RESOURCES MENTIONED IN EPISODE -Sermon on Restoring Balance from "The Journey Church" -"The Naked Beauty" podcast hosted by Brooke DeVard -"Side Hustle Pro" podcast hosted by Nicaila Matthews Okome -“Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman’s Playbook for Love and Success” by Charreah Jackson

Other places to listen Apple Podcasts * Castbox * Radio Public * Google Play * Pippa Podcast Link Up Podcasts - Tweet 1 - Tweet 2 - #EhkyYaMasr Located in Cairo, Egypt https://soundcloud.com/ehkyyamasr Unfolding Words - Posts Monday’s, under 15 minute devotional PodcastsinColor.com to submit, update or find more podcasts! Podcast episodes about podcasting Gayside Stories ‘Cast Chat** (clip used)** Blacticulate Renay episode - basically a free consult (clip used) Phoebe from #TheReceiptsPodcast on hashtags + podcasts onBlacticulate The Business of Podcasts with Joymarie Parker Berry on Talkitecture Soundcloud - Apple Podcasts - Or search Talkitecture Not mentioned in the episode (SORRY) but Berry was also on Bribooks podcast talking about podcasts too! Castbox - Apple Podcasts - website - Vanessa from Singleling podcast Instagram - Website Podcast Apps Stitcher - Apple Podcasts - Spoke Audio Subscribes Other Men Need Help This American Life Criminal Family Ghosts Guest Information WeAreSingleling.comMother's Day Episode Singleling episode recommendations Online Dating - Mother’s Day - Consent episode Podcast and episode talked about Other Men Need Help - Poster Boy episode Modern Love Woman loves tortoise episode The Modern Love Podcast: Ruth Negga Reads ‘My Touchstone and a Heart of Gold’ This Is Love Brenda Jackson black romance author episode. The story of how we have black romance books to read today. Podcasts in Color on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook The largest directory of poc podcasts PodcastsinColor.com

This episode features founder of @PodcastsInColor, Berry. Podcastsincolor is the largest directory for and by people of color. The founder, Berry, has recently launched her very OWN podcasts--”Podcasts In Color: The Podcast.” Wow. You can follow along with the conversation on Instagram and Twitter using #BriBooks. In this episode: We discuss Berry's top tips and trips for being more professional in your podcasting, a few of our podcast pet peeves, and more. Let's go!   Berry is a lover of podcasts, and always credits “The Read” for turning her own to podcasts. She decide to convert her love for the medium into helping others find connection via podcasts.  Her hope is to one day work in the podcast industry. You can't ask for a better fan or advocate than Berry. She’s helped to create and curate the podcast community. She encourages people to use #podin and #podcastsincolor  

Whether you’re going on vacation, studying abroad, or just want to make the most of downtime on a plane, here are the 5 books you meet abroad. Any book recs for when on vacation, studying abroad or just while on the road? Show me with #BriBooks on Instagram! This epi is in honor of listeners Elexxa Thomas and Marche’ Hill, and other young women circling the globe, or thinking about it :)    Past Episodes About The Five Books You Meet Abroad The Circle What I Know For Sure Leave Your Mark Americanah   2:55: Book #1: Good Fiction, a page turner that you pull out every chance you get. Fiction can be very freeing when dealing with the stressful logistics of making a home in a strange place. I did an epi about the book “The Circle,” good piece of fiction. Escapist. #Protip: I did an epi about the book. 3:54: Fiction recommendation is “Land of Love and Drowning” by author Tiphanie Yanique, set in US Virgin Islands at the turn of the 20th century, spanning nearly a century of how this family grew and fell apart. 4:25: Book #2: Personal Development, a book written by a professional or about a company you’re interested in.To “meet’ this book abroad, pick a title that’s written by a founder or professional you’re interested in. Think of a few companies you admire (Amazon? Google? KIND bars?), and dig into their processes. This is a “primary source” of sorts, an up close and personal look at the inner workings of something great to you. 5:18: Personal development recommendation is “ What I Know for Sure” by Oprah Winfrey. Reading the collection of columns was very affirming for me. Of course, I did a podcast episode about the book. 5:42: Book #3: Good Nonfiction. You want this book to count, so that when you put it down, you’re armed with more information on something you care about. Whether that’s media, sports, fashion, investment banking, find a writer or author who really understands the zeitgeist and the industry, and is able to  put context behind that. You want something by industry insider or something religious, the focus is to expand your knowledge so that you’ve been entertained and informed. 6:20: Nonfiction recommendation is Aliza Licht’s “Leave Your Mark.” This book taught me a ton about PR. Brandi Kellam at NBC News and I chatted about this book on a previous episode on this book, focusing on how to become a professional who communicates effectively, and brand  yourself based on hard work instead of the perception of hard work :-) 7:30: Book #4: Good Lit You’ve Been Meaning To Get Around To. This is the title you see everyone reading, keep hearing about, or you’ve been meaning to get around to reading. For me, that book was “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (yes, I did an epi about that book, too!) The purpose of this “meeting” is to finish something you've been thinking starting. 8:19: Book #5: A Book That Honors Where You Are. What’s the purpose of being somewhere new, unique, adventurous and not digging into that space?! This is a very authentic and personal way to root yourself into a culture, history and moment.  Every country and culture has noteworthy and famous authors--do a bit of research, find an author, and pick up their latest title. Who is the literary darling of where you are? 9:00: I’m reading “A House in Bali” by Colin McPhee, because….I’M GOING TO BALI IN TWO WEEKS WITH TRAVEL NOIRE! 9:30: Being out of your element is aw ay to establish new habits--make a habit of spending the first two hours reading on the plane, or read before bed. It’s a good way to normalize something and inject routine into a chaotic and adventurous time like being abroad. 10:15 - Instead of an OPP, we’re going to do what are the books we want to read if we want our brains to study abroad. 10:30 - Rush’s pick: “Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead--it’s very popular, it’s alt historical fiction where they imagine underground railroad as a literal train. 11:28: Brionna’s pick: “Too Big to Fail” by Andrew Ross Sorkin. It was one of the first free books I picked up in NYC, I know the story, but i’ve never read the story!  

*Sanaa Lathan ‘Brown Sugar’ voice* “So, when did you fall in love with video games?” In this episode of Bri Books, co-producer Rush Perez and I talk video games, nostalgia, and Blake J. Harris’ 2014 book, “Console Wars: Sega, Nintendo, athe the Battle That Defined a Generation.” The book remembers the rise and shifting significance of gaming consoles in the home in the 80s. Since then, the console has moved from a box connected to a TV screen, to the screen connected to our hands.   0:30 - Brionna and Rush’s first consoles, and how we got into gaming as kids 1:30 - A brief history of Nintendo v. Sega 2:30 - How game consoles acted as an “excuse to go into other people’s houses.” 2:50 - All together, alone (gaming online) 3:15: Brionna’s top 5 video games of all time! (1. Dig Dug, 2. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, 3. Mortal Kombat, 4. Crusin’ USA 5. Pole Position) 4:30 - How “Mortal Kombat” continues to age gracefully. 5:17 - Do we recommend this book? 6:15 - Rush’s  (#OtherPeoplesPodcasts) #OPP podcast recommendations for the week: “Keepin’ It 1600”, “Undone” (especially this episode called “The Deacons”) 7:20 - Brionna’s pod rec (#OtherPeoplesPodcasts) is the recent  “Freakonomics” series “Bad Medicine,” all about the hidden side of the medical industry, especially pharmaceuticals and research.   Remember, we’ve changed the pod name but kept the delicious pod flavor. On Twitter we’re still @bribookspod, now on Instagram and Facebook as @bribookspod. Tweet me what you’re reading using #BriBooks on Instagram and Twitter!

Resolutions and goals and action items, oh my! Past goal-setting episode - “There Are 83 Days Left in 2016” Happy New Year! I hope you’re coming off of the high of a well-rested holiday. There’s so much energy in the air at the end of the year, and I love to use that time to set goals. I did an episode all about the process back in October 2016, but here’s a more drilled-down version of goal-setting, just in time for the New Year. So, let’s dig into how to get our goal-setting “weight up” in 2017. Show Notes 0:40 - There’s something intoxicating about the end of the year. Because there’s so much energy in the air we feel invigorated, but we want to set goals that will invigorate month over month. 2:00 - I did a podcast in October titled ‘There Are 83 Days Left in 2016’ 2:20 - Why quarterly and monthly goal-setting keeps everything in perspective for me 3:05 - #1, in goal-setting: Take an assessment (a la Myleik Teele’s podcast). Critically ask, where am I? What worked and what didn’t? What did I try? I call this my “remix.” 3:45 - #2, treat yo self! What did you accomplish and what are you grateful for? For me, in 2016, I collected a lot of great feedback on this podcast,and completed the first season and started work on the 2nd season, all while doing a rebranding! I kept up with volunteering with Junket NYC (mentorship program), NYABJ. I committed to serving with my church. I got my candle shop up and running! 5:00 - #3, set a mantra for the time period. Because I have quarterly goals and annual goals, the mantra/ words I live by. Those words are ‘DOMAIN EXPERTISE.’ I’m striving to be someone who’s an expert in my space, and knows my role and contribution deeply. 5:50 - #4, create goal areas! Self care learning, home, health, bri books, finances, professional, friends and family, spiritual, personal, service, bricandles, fun adventure, reading 6:00 - Good goal areas to start off with, and go from there! 6:15 - Brionna’s 13 goal areas. I make my weekly and monthly to-do lists, I focus on action-based tasks that can move the needle across my goal areas, or at least give me more information to make a more informed decision.   Tell me how you set goals--what are your goals for 2017? Do you do vision boards? prayers/ devotionals? What do you do and use to keep yourself accountable? Show me your vision boards, goal lists, and boss moves on Twitter, on Instagram and Facebook as @bribookspod using #BriBooks on Instagram and Twitter! I hope this demystified goal setting for you. Of course, I need to know what you’re reading and looking forward to in 2017! I hope this demystified goal setting for you. Of course, I need to know what you’re reading and looking forward to in 2017!

(Spoiler alert: It's a "Best of 2016" podcast.)   Thanks so much for going with me on this journey!  I’m really excited about 2017 and this podcast, and just sharing more of my journey with you and sharing relevant and inspiring content. Let’s revisit the top moments of 2016 on this podcast. These are the moments I’m most proud of, and you found most useful.   SHOW NOTES “Americanah,” friendship and letting people out of your life (ep. 1.6) “Leave Your Mark,” never getting too ‘comfortable’ and finding pockets of opportunity (ep. 1.4) “Do Less, Get More” on how to do everything, just not at the same time (ep. 1.5) “Modern Romance,” how Gabby Thomas and I “approach” online dating (ep. 1.7) “We Have 83 Days Left in 2016,” and how I set and accomplish my goals (ep. 1.9) “Modern Romance, Pt. 2,” and how co-producer Rush Perez looOooooOoves his girlfriend (ep. 1.8) My National Association of Black Journalists story, featuring VP, NABJ Benet Wilson (ep. 1.10) “Modern Romance” with Gabby, and why being an intentional dater is non-negotiable (ep. 1.7) “Guys, Was John Adams Right,” but seriously, he was spot-on about the moral implication of wealth and politics (ep. 1.12) Oprah’s “What I Know for Sure” has taught me to be grateful for my mountains (ep. 2.1) SOCIALS: @BriBooksPod on Instagram - Tag me in your lit love and quotes using #BriBooks!  @BriBooksPod on Twitter - Where I share #podincolor love, and other reading noms. bribookspod.com - We're moving fast. Hold on.  Bri Books Podcast on Facebook - Because let's be real, you are, too. 

New name, who dis? It's Brionna, and the new rebranded "Bri Books" podcast. As I make strides with this show and plan for 2017 and beyond, I feel like the new name and branding will grow WITH us, because #branding. "Books My Job Gave Me" fit very comfortably and snuggly, but it's time for a new fit.   Socials: @BriBooksPod on Instagram - Tag me in your lit love using #BriBooks!  @BriBooksPod on Twitter - Where I share #podincolor love, and other reading noms. bribookspod.com - We're moving fast. Hold on.  Bri Books Podcast on Facebook - Because let's be real, you are, too. 

Happy November! This episode delves into Books My Job Gave Me’s history, its future, and the amazingness that’s coming down the pike.  I’m taking the rest of the month to focus on how I create this show, and I’ll be asking for your opinions to keep it going. What do you love? Want more of? Everything’s fair game. While this pod is away, the social accounts will play! As always, tell me what you’re reading using #BriBooks on Twitter and Instagram (@BriBooksPod on Twitter, @BooksMyJobGaveMe on Instagram). Here are the other ***flawless podcasts I mention in this episode—the ones that take me to my happy podcast place.