Welcome to Bri Books! Today I’m sharing with you the best new products at Sephora--this summer’s best new Sephora launches that are worth your time, energy, and coin. My intention is to inspire your fall beauty routine, so I’m breaking it down into the best skin care products at Sephora, the best makeup products at Sephora, and the best new body care products at Sephora. I’ve included links to all the products in the show notes and on bribookspod.com!

• 1:55: #1: Augustinus Bader Rich Cream: Originally released in 2018, the Rich Cream quickly attained unprecedented status among the skincare elite. I was able to review The Cream as part of a beauty story for Glamour.com. After that experience, I got the hype! For the 2021 update, Prof. Bader and his researchers returned to the lab to create a new version that focuses on cellular renewal. Since I've been using the original The Cream for a year, after trying out the updated formulation, I did notice a visible reduction in the pollution and clogged pores I had. I love to use The Cream as the highlight of my nighttime routine. It includes TFC8, which is known to reduce hyperpigmentation in the skin. The Rich Cream with TFC8 retails at $170 at Sephora, and you can pick up a half ounce bottle for $85 at Sephora.
• 4:45 #2: Saint Jane Hydrating Petal Cream: I've been quietly obsessing over Saint Jane all summer and spring, and the brand has finally launched in Sephora! The Hydrating Petal Cream is an all-day moisturizer with hibiscus peptides and floral essences (a cottagecore skincare dream) including antioxidant-rich magnolia and honeysuckle. Inspired by how  flower petals maintain luxurious hydration, the Saint Jane founder developed this incredible product that helps to reduce stress in the skin. The best part? It doubles as a post-sun treatment with soothing active ingredients that calm sun-sensitive skin. Saint Jane Hydrating Petal Cream is $68 at Sephora. 
• 8:00: #3: Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum in Cream Treatment: Another new to Sephora launch, this Tatcha treatment began as a personal formulation request from Vicky Tsai, founder of Tatcha, who dealt with eczema and flare-ups over the last year and wanted to create something to soothe her own skin. If you’re dealing with regular skin inflammation, the Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum is for you. I love how this product rebalances my skin at night and helps it regenerate itself while I sleep. After a long night (or early morning), I reach for this treatment to get rid of any irritation. It exceeded my expectations, and I think it’s a great pick for acne-prone skin. The Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum in Cream Treatment is available for $88 at Sephora.
• 10:30: Quick Break
• 10:50:  #4: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Mask: This clay-based skin mask is great for combating oily skin in the summer months. It delivers a chill and purifies the skin, similar in effect to the Nordic cold cleanse tradition of jumping into chilly water. It’s perfect for skincare Sundays and hot summer days alike. Here’s a link to an Instagram Reels I created all about the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge mask, which is available at Sephora for $38. 
• 13:30: #5: Ole Henriksen Dewtopia 20% Night Acid: Packed with lemon enzyme, aloe juice, AHAs and PHAs, this night acid is the perfect one-and-done acid product for your skincare routine. It just launched in Sephora on July 26, inspired by Ole Henriksen’s spa heritage. This product feels custard-like, the lemony sugar scent is divine at the end of a long day. Dewtopia is the perfect balance of exfoliating and nourishing components. Ole Henriksen Dewtopia 20% Night Acid is available at Sephora for $55. 
• 16:30: #6: Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Dark Spot Correcting Peel: This epic vitamin C-based peel is formulated with spirulina, a blue-green algae known for its antioxidant properties. I use it as a resurfacing peel to help reduce hyperpigmentation and was blown away at how gentle this peel is. If the words ‘peel’, ‘correcting,’ and ‘brightening’ conjure up thoughts of burning skin, fear not, this is by far the most gentle, non-irritating peel I’ve ever used. There’s a tingle--so you know it’s working--but it quickly vanishes. Pro tip: Pick up Algenist’s Vitamin C Brightening Serum for double protection. When used together, I saw results within a week, and members of my family who also tested the product reported noticing a more even complexion and skin texture after a week of regular use. Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Dark Spot Correcting Peel is available at Sephora for $85, and the Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Serum is $72. 

Let me know what your skincare routine looks like at @bribookspod on Instagram and Twitter, and by using #bribooks while you listen! 

Products Mentioned at Sephora:

1. Augustinus Bader Rich Cream: $85 or $170
2.  Saint Jane Hydrating Petal Cream: $68
3. Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum in Cream Treatment: $88
4. Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Mask: $38 
5. Ole Henriksen Dewtopia 20% Night Acid: $55
6. Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Dark Spot Correcting Peel: $85
7.  Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Serum: $72

Articles Mentioned:

1. Glamour.com: Best Augustinus Bader Products Worth Your Money

MORE SKINCARE-FOCUSED BRI BOOKS EPISODES

1. What to Buy at Sephora During The VIB Sale
2. 5 Best Beauty and Skincare Books for Beginners
3. AM & PM Skincare Routine: Early Autumn Edition
4. Makeup Bag Highlights and Fenty Beauty Mascara Hot Take

What does 'luxury' mean, and how can you create a truly luxe home? In today's episode, we're sitting down with Dominique Brielle Fluker, who is a content strategist and storyteller by day, and most recently, founder of DBF Interiors. With DBF Interiors, Dominique brings her interior styling talents to modern professional women. Dominique believes luxury is truly experienced when one feels inspired to slow down, embrace a sense of ease, and enjoy life. In this episode, we get into the nitty-gritty of it: what it means to be an entrepreneur while keeping a 9-5, how to upgrade your space, how to make your home feel bigger, and how to create a ritualistic presence about your home. If you're looking for design inspo or ways to redesign your space, this is the episode for you. 

• 4:30 - Dominique's earliest design and decor memories from childhood
• 6:30 - How to cultivate a mindset of luxury 
• 9:00 - The story of DBF Interiors
• 13:00 - Two easy ways to upgrade your space 
• 21:00 - How to inject personality, sanctuary, and style into your home
• 24:00 - The secrets to a successful staycation

"It's about mindset, about having the agency to curate your own life, and having the time and mental clarity to really luxuriate in certain experiences." - DBF Interiors Dominique Fluker

Follow Dominique on Instagram, follow DBF Interiors on Instagram and online to book a consultation, and keep up with one of Dominique's favorite decor blogs, 'ABlackGirlinWestElm.' 

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 tell me what how you create a luxe home by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. 

Today we’re talking with wine and food creator/ enthusiast Sarita Chaves. If you’re all about your wine, spirits, and food, you need to meet Sarita. She’s a DC native with a love for food, wine and city living. Sarita’s the founder of the Swirl Suite podcast, a cohort of Black women who work in the wine and spirits industry. She created her blog ‘Vinemeup’ in 2013 after years of working at a local winery in Maryland and highlighting unique wines on social media. Currently, she cooks and creates wine pairings in her own kitchen which you can watch play out on her Instagram and on her Instagram Stories. 

In this episode, Sarita teaches us how to pair the wines with the seasons, shares her own history and journey through the wine industry, and reveals to us the striking similarities between winemaking and farming.

PS: The Vinemeup Activity Book is almost here! For those that desire to celebrate  Blacks in Wine in a most creative way. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or someone who is still learning what makes a wine wonderful,  the VINEMEUP Activity Book is an entertaining and satisfying experience that compliments wine-sipping. Click here to sign up for updates about the book launch!

SHOW NOTES:

• 4:10 - Sarita’s wine career story
• 8:05 - What makes Maryland wine so special and the magic of Maryland soil: “I think Maryland wine is a Cinderella story.”
• 10:15 - The parallels between winemaking and farming: “Winemakers are studied farmers.” 
• 11:15 - How Sarita uses wine to elevate her homecooking and to freshen up her everyday meals: “After watching my mom, I started to cook with her, and when I lived on my own, it cranked up a bit. Cooking has always been my thing, but the wine took it up a notch. There are things I’ve experienced foodwise with wine that I've never experienced in my life. I’ve never sat on a hill atop a vineyard, eating duckbreast and drinking zinfandel until I became a wineblogger. That’s when I started to pay attention to chefs on TV--what they’re using, their techniques, etc.”
• 14:00 - How to travel the world through a bottle of wine: “Find a really good wine shop, and get to know someone who works there, and get on the email list! Follow them on Instagram! Join a wine club!” 
• 16:00 - Shoutout to our fave wine stores: Simple Syrup in Brooklyn, and Wardman Wines in DC (where wine author Julia Coney reigns!)
• 26:00 - How to transition your wine palette throughout the seasons
• 29:30 - The best wine to drink during each season
• 30:00 - 37:00 - Gardening talk: The best things to grow in each season!  

Follow the Swirl Suite on Instagram

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. 

1.  Uoma Beauty, founded by Sharon Chuter
2. 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.
3. 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. 
4. 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. 
5. 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. 
6. 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.
7. 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. 
8. 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. 
9. 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. 
10. 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:

1. Bread Beauty Supply creamy deep conditioner ($28)
2. Ilia Eye Heart Clean Beauty Kit ($45, limited edition but here's a similar Ilia Beauty set with even more goodies for $48)
3. Urban Decay Naked Honey eyeshadow palette (Was: $49; Now: $24.50)
4. Peter Thomas Roth Masking Minis 5-piece mask kit ($19)
5. Alien Eau de Parfum Mugler perfume (Was: $120; Now: $72)
6. Maison Margiela Replica perfume Deluxe Mini Coffret Set ($68)
7. Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream Trio ($15)
8. 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.

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

1. Mildred Pierce, 1945

   1. ‘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.

2. All About Eve, 1950

   1. ‘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!

3. A Raisin in the Sun, 1961

   1. ‘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.

4. Madame Bovary, 1949

   1. 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 career and personal development 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.

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 wine and food 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 

1. Bubbles or no? (shoutout to Sarita of The Swirl Suite podcast for always encouraging bubbles to kick off the night)
2. 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. 
3. Pick up a wildcard--perhaps a liquor--that you can use to create quick cocktails
4. Think about analogous and complementary flavors relative to the meal

Brionna’s @BriBooksPod Wine Menu Recommendations 

1. Bubbles recommendation: Vigneto Luciano Saetti Rosso Viola Lambrusco Salamino, 2018 ($20-$23), available at Simple Syrup Wine and Spirits in Brooklyn 
2. Meal pairing recommendation: Meinklang “Mulatschak” Weisser Pino Gris ($17-$20), available at Simple Syrup 
3. Easy, delicious red to compliment every dish recommendation: Adega de Penalva Idigena Branco, Dao ($13-$15), available at Simple Syrup 
4. 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. 

I’ve curated the 5 best beauty books (say that five times fast!) that I relied on this year. They’re a great starting place for digging deeper into something we all practice—caring for our body’s biggest organ, our skin—and a bit of natural health. Hope this inspires you to investigate what you’re using and discover the ingredients you didn’t know you needed. Let me know what your skincare routine looks like at @bribookspod on Instagram and Twitter, and by using #bribooks while you listen! 

1. “The French Beauty Solution: Time-Tested Secrets to Look and Feel Beautiful Inside and Out” by Caudalie founder Mathilde Thomas (June 2015): Mathilde founded the skincare company Caudalie with her husband after taking inspiration from her family’s vineyard in Bordeaux. Not only is “The French Beauty Solution” filled with recipes, but it’s also filled with research about the composition of skin, how it changes over time, and how to care for it at every step of the way. I especially love chapter 5, “Your Skincare Ingredients,” where Mathilde teaches us how to decode skincare ingredient labels. (Link to “The French Beauty Solution”) 

2. “Plant-Based Beauty: Your Essential Guide to Detoxing Your Beauty Routine” by Jess Arnaudin (Sept. 2019): Jess moved to upstate New York after working and studying on an active farm, where she cultivated a deep appreciation for plants. “Plant-Based Beauty” book breaks down operates from the understanding that nature is the master chemist. (Link to “Plant-Based Beauty) 

3. “Wild Beauty: Wisdom and Recipes for Natural Self-Care” by Jana Blankenship. It’s more of a science-based resource that I revisit before investing in any skincare or new products. (Link to “Wild Beauty”) 

4. “Seeking Slow: Reclaim Moments of Calm in Your Day” by Melanie Barnes focuses on injecting a sense of slowness, purpose, gratitude, and reflection into every single day. (Link to “Seeking Slow”)

5. “Recipes for Self-Love: How to Feel Good in a Patriarchal World” by Alison Rachel is a balm for your soul. The recipes aren’t for food, but for something more sustaining…YOUR well-being. (Link to “Recipes for Self-Love”)

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:

1. 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.
2. 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! 
3. 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.  
4. 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!
5. 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. 
6. 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.
7. 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. 
8. 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:

1. 5 Restaurant-Worthy Meals You Can Make at Home
2. 8 Garden-Starting Hacks to Get You Growing
3. Cookbooks for Building Confidence in the Kitchen feat. Slice and Torte Podcast
4. The Garden in Every Sense and Season feat. @ABeautifulNestTV
5. 6 Wine Essentials & How to Shop for Wine
6. 6 Best Quarantine Cookbooks
7. What to Eat in the Dead of Winter
8. 5 Gardening Tips Every First-Time Gardener Needs to Know
9. How to Curate a Solo Wine Menu
10. Secrets to Dining at a New Restaurant 
11. 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.

I'm sharing with you my 10 go-to movies for when you're in need of some fun background binge-watching. Whether you're having a gloomy day or need something uplifting to watch in the background, here are the laugh-out-loud-worthy movies you need to revisit the next time you're craving cinematic comfort.  

1. Devil Wears Prada 
2. Ferris Bueller's Day Off 
3. The Breakfast Club 
4. Moulin Rouge 
5. Matilda 
6. Coming to America 
7. 500 Days of Summer 
8. Harold and Maude 
9. Eve’s Bayou 
10. Atlantis: The Lost Empire

 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! Tell me your fave movie to rewatch when you're feeling blue by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more movie recommendations tips and TV show recaps.

Turn your nurturing and love inward with these houseplants that will keep your urban jungle growing in autumn/winter. 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 houseplant maintenance tips and gardening secrets.

The Easiest Houseplants to Keep Alive This Winter (Grown in @TheBriGarden)

Want more gardening inspo? Gardener, soap-maker and creator of ABeautifulNestTV Sandria Kendrick and I chatted all about the book "The Garden in Every Sense and Season" by Tovah Martin (click here to listen on Apple Podcasts!)

5 Easy Houseplants for Your Winter Indoor Garden: @BriBooksPod x @TheBriGarden

1. Pilea peperomioides - The pilea peperoioides has circle-shaped leaves and prefers well-draining soil and partial light.
2. Indoor herb like basil or cilantro - I repotted and over-wintered the basil and cilantro growing in the garden. Choose an herb you love and plant it on your kitchen windowsill for an instant injection of freshness.
3. Small parlor palm - Preferring 55-70 degrees, moist soil and filtered sunlight, the small parlor palm adds density to any indoor garden. The mini-trees create a faux forest look.
4. Pothos - Pothos is arguably the easiest of all houseplants to grow and the most recognizable houseplant. It does well in rooms like offices, dorm rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens (yes, it even grows under fluorescent lighting). Pothos tend to vine, so I love to use them to take up area and create a living web of plants.
5. Philodendron - Philodendron plants like bright, indirect sunlight, and regular fertilization to grow into its best self.

If you’re new to the show, WELCOME! 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 houseplant maintenance tips and gardening secrets.

For even more houseplant content, follow Brionna Jimerson on Pinterest. 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! 

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 food questions and show me what you're cooking 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.

I’m sharing 5 restaurant-worthy meals you can make at home, plus 3 pre-dinner “rituals” to start right now. On those nights when you can’t be bothered to cook yet you’re craving comfort food, listen to this episode for instant inspiration. 

3 Pre-Dinner Rituals

3:45 - Ritual #1: Get in the vibe.

After you finish the workday, take a quick shower and get dressed in a fresh set of comfy clothes. Changing your outfit for dinner, especially if you’re working from home these days, signals to your brain that you’re entering the evening stage of your night. By taking a quick walk and changing clothes before dinner, I avoid that dreaded feeling of watching the hours tick by until bedtime.

4:45 - Ritual #2: Set your menu

When you're having breakfast, think about dinner. Do you need to pull the meat down and defrost? Do you need to find time to pop to a nearby store to buy ingredients? You don’t want to get to dinnertime and not have your dinner accouterments. That causes stress, anxiety, and makes it easier to pull the trigger on ordering takeout.

5:45 - Ritual #3: Take control of the playlist 

This is where the dinnertime vibe shines through. As you cook, listen to a playlist that reflects the origins of your meal. Personally, my dinnertime music vibe is upscale-hotel-bar-meets-kickback. Play music that gets you into a playful mood and helps you cook happy. Here’s a link to my Spotify profile, and one of my favorite dinner-making playlists: W Hotel Lobby Playlist.

5 Restaurant-Worthy Meals (full recipes can be found on @BriBooksPod Instagram Feed!) 

7:00 - Meal #1: Pizza - Here's the pizza recipe in IG Stories 

8:15 - Meal #2: Fajitas - Fajita stores well--especially if you cook the ingredients in bulk. Fajitas store well is delicious reheated, and are great for lunch or dinner. You can use whatever veggies you have in the fridge to up the nutrient factor of this indistructible meal.

9:00 - Meal #3: Cacio e pepe pasta with garlic butter - Here's my no-fail recipe for cacio e pepe! Garlic butter is the secret to a fantastic cacio e pepe pasta. Everytime we make this, it feels so restaurant quality. Using a high-quality noodle is crucial to a satisfying plate of pasta. Use a high-quality noodle to take the dish over the edge.

10:20 - Meal #4: Veggie soup or bone broth - Here's the 'Always On' soup recipe in IG Stories .Veggie soup’s quick, accessible, and no-fuss. Having broth on hand with a can of beans is a hearty wintertime meal. We love to do bone broth with lamb bones, etc. as a base for our soups. Punch up your soup with a handful of fresh greens and a half can of drained butter beans to give it a creamy consistency. 

12:10 - Meal #5: Burgers - Here's my go-to burger recipe, feel free to adapt it to whatever meat you're using.  Low-key gourmet burgers are easier to make than you think. Simply keep your favorite ground beef on hand, and make a half dozen burger patties to freeze in the freezer. Pull one down any time you’re craving meat, and voila, no more spending upwards of $30 on takeout burgers! You’re welcome!

For even more recipe content, follow me on Pinterest. 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 andSoundCloud! Please ask me your food questions and show me what you're cooking 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.

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 career and social media questions by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more career tips and social media secrets.

Welcome to a personal Q&A episode of Bri Books!

I asked over on @BriBooksPod Instagram how I can best serve you, and was hit with a few careers and social media questions. I hope you enjoy this minisode--and if you like the format, let me know by leaving a review of the show on Apple Podcasts

• 1:45: Question #1: What are the best tools for managing social media accounts on behalf of a brand?
• 1:50: Answer #1: Later App is an Instagram scheduling platform. I’ve used it on behalf of global media clients, eComm brands, and independent accounts.
  • #2: Tweetdeck, which I’d recommend for monitoring real-time events.
  • #3: Familiarize yourself with Dash Hudson, which is the industry standard for Instagram and Pinterest scheduling and optimization.
  • #4: Dig into Twitter Analytics immediately--every Twitter account has an accompanying analytics page (here’s a link.) Start tracking top-performing content themes over time, and identify your key metrics (impressions, engagements, video views, etc.)
  • #5: Both Facebook Insights and Instagram Insights are handy for diving into overall social media account performance trends.
  • Bonus #6: When it comes to building graphics, I trust Canva for producing brand-quality on-site, digital and social assets.  

• 4:00 - Question #2: How do you get into journalism from another industry?
• 4:05 - Answer #2: I recommend you identify 4-5 spaces where you have deep subject matter expertise. From there, build a back catalog of writing, guided by SEO and overall trends in search interest.
• 5:10 - Question #3: How do you add value to the social media space?
• 5:15 - Answer #3: When it comes to adding value to social media, I’d recommend you anticipate what’s next when it comes to your audience, and hone in on a clear call to action. Ask yourself, what emotion do you want to elicit? I also recommend you ask people their opinions on social via tools like Polls. People want to know that you care what they think, so ask thoughtful questions. 

Thank you for listening! 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 career and social media questions by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for more career tips and social media secrets.

Time to stock your autumn skincare essentials! In this episode, I'm sharing my 7-step AM and PM skincare routines. These are the products I'm relying on to help me transition from sun-drenched summer days to chilly autumn nights. Tell me, what skincare hidden gem has stolen your heart this autumn? 💄

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 tell me what autumn skincare you're loving by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @BriBooksPod on Instagram for top shelfie tours, DIY beauty hacks, and skincare secrets. 

AM ROUTINE

1. Foaming cleanser: Sisley Paris Radiance Foaming Cream makeup remover, $120
2. Toner: Witch hazel or Heritage Store rose water, $9 at Target
3. Serum: Earth to Skin Manuka Honey All-Over Serum, $9 at Walmart 
4. Vitamin C: Estee Lauder Perfectionist Pro Vitamin C Serum, $110
5. Moisturizer: Caudalie Reservatrol Lift Soft Cream, $45.50 on sale right now! (as of October 6, 2020)
6. Oil: The Mara Beauty Universal Face Oil, $72
7. Sunscreen: Black Girl Sunscreen, $19 at Blackgirlsunscreen.com. PS, read my article all about BlackGirlSunscreen on Glamour.com

PM ROUTINE

1. Double cleanse: Caralista Unoil Double Cleanse Elixir, $65
2. Cleanser: Holifrog Shasta AHA Refining Acid Wash, $38
3. Dermarolling: Jenny Patinkin Rose on Rose Derma Roller, $75
4. Serum: Rodial Beauty CBD Sleep Drops Serum, $105
5. Oil: Mara Beauty Algae Retinol Evening Primrose Green Tea - Face Oil, $120

Thank you for listening! If you’re new to the show, share it with your group chat, leave a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud! Please tell me what autumn skincare you're loving by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter. Follow @theBriGarden on Instagram for top shelfie tours, DIY beauty hacks, and skincare secrets. 

I recently celebrated 100 episodes of this podcast, and while reflecting I realized there were 10 major life lessons I've discovered along the way. Please tell me what you'd like to hear by leaving a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud. Show me your latest read by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  

1. 3:00 - Lesson #1: You'd be surprised how much you can accomplish in a day
2. 4:30 - Lesson #2: Use momentum to propel yourself from moment to moment
3. 5:30 - Lesson #3: Success is in a hurry, so drive the speed limit
4. 6:00 - Lesson #4: You have everything you need to succeed, right now
5. 7:50 - Lesson #5: Find the fastest rabbits and run with them
6. 9:20 - Lesson #6: Be a fan! It costs you nothing to be kind
7. 10:30 - Lesson #7: Replace envy and jealousy with study 
8. 12:15 - Lesson #8: Write what you know
9. 13:30 - Lesson #9: If you can do it all day, you can do it right now
10. 14:30 - Lesson #10: Break it down and make it plain

Let’s talk about quarantine wine: How to shop for wine during quarantine, and the 6 wines and spirits you need to keep stocked at all times. 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 tell me what you're sipping by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  

During COVID-19, my wine budget has definitely...ballooned. I’m learning more about natural wines via my favorite local wine shop Simple Syrup Wine and Spirits in Brooklyn, NY, my go-to for wine delivery and pickup. 

But first, I’m sharing 3 wine buying tips for how to buy wine during COVID-19.

4:20 - #1: Get to know your local wine and spirits community on Instagram. It’s one of the fastest ways to find out what’s new, hours of operation, and other vital information. Now more than ever, so many wine stores need to maintain that human connection—part of the magic of wine shopping is wandering the aisles and getting recommendations in real-time. That’s not always possible right now, so people who work in the liquor industry are turning to social media tools to get the word out about what’s happening, what’s new, and how customers can connect directly with the source. 

• 5:53 - #2: Pick a budget and do not budge it. Calculate the average price per bottle that you’re willing to pay. For me, I try to keep my purchases at $12-$15 a bottle. Setting a budget is crucial to keeping you from spending hundreds a month on wine.
• 8:00 - Tip #3: Thinking about meal prep when buying wine is a great way to make sure you’re buying wine that you’ll drink and that goes with what you're eating. 
• 9:30 - BREAK
• 9:45 - Let’s chat about the 6 wine essentials you need to have during quarantine! 
• 9:45 - #1: Bubbles. I'd recommend Lambrusco wine, an Italian style of sparkling red wine. The Lambrusco I’ve been drinking since the holidays is Vigneron Saetti Lambrusco Salamino 2019 ($22) from Vigneto Saetti Vineyards. The wine is imported by Bowler Wines. I pick it up and get delivery from Simple Syrup Wine and Spirits. 
• 12:40 - #2: Red wine. You can really take on flavors around the world with red wines. Pick a red wine that’s dependable, drinkable and can last a few days. A few grapes like montepulciano lasts long. I can get 2,3, 4, nights out of a bottle without having to worry about it getting sour. I recommend montepulciano grapes. I love Cirelli Montepulciano 2018 ($18). It comes to us from Azienda Argicola Cirelli run by Francesco and Michela Cirelli. this wine pairs with dinners that are slow-cooked. If you’re easing into your stews, soups and cornbreads, this wine is a wonderful choice. It’s imported by Zev Rovine Selections, and you can buy it from Simple Syrup here.
• 15:00 - #3: Rose wine. I want us to get into Cirelli “Wines of Anarchy” Rosato. This wine is part of Azienda Argicola Cirelli, and it’ll take you from summer to fall effortlessly. Imported by Zev Rovine Selections, think of this Rosato as the spunky younger cousin of your traditional rose. Rosato has a lot of rightness and pepperiness in it. 
• 17:15 - #4: Experimental white wine. I want us to dig into pinot gris, a white wine with a grey-blue fruity tint to it. The one I’ve been enjoying during quarantine is Michel Nartz Alsace pinot gris 2018 ($20).  Michel Nartz is a family winery established in the picturesque village of Dambach-la-Ville, in Alsace. Imported by Communal Brands, the entire winemaking process is now in the hands of Michel’s daughter Laurance Nartz. If in the NYC area, you can pick it up from Simple Syrup Wine & Spirits here. 
• 19:15: #5 - Select an old-time or new favorite! Whatever you remember tasting ocne but want to try again, this is where you have permission to say I love Mas Théo “Le P’tit Gaby” 2018 ($15) from Mas Theo vineyard in Rhone France, imported by T. Edwards. This wine has a bumpy, grippy finish--you’ll feel a bit of a hold on your tongue as the flavor develops/ unwraps on the palette. Pick it up from Simple Syrup Wine & Spirits here.
• 22:00 - #6: Liquor! Grab a spirit and mixer and make the party happen for yourself. I’m loving Letherbee Distillers Charred Oaks Absinthe Brun ($39.) It’s a white absinthe, it reminds me of Moulin Rouge just because there’s an otherworldly brightness and herbaceousness to it that you can't place. It’s aged for 6 months in a full sized charred oak cask. Grab it from Simple Syrup here. 

Happy 100th Episode of Bri Books: What's Next?!

It's so surreal to be bringing you episode 100 of Bri Books podcast. Whether you've been here since Day One or you're brand new, I'd love to hear your voice. Please tell me what you'd like to hear by leaving a review of Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, and listen to Bri Books on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and SoundCloud. Show me your latest read by using #bribooks on Instagram, and subscribe to the Bri Books newsletter at bribookspod.com/newsletter.  

In this episode, I'm sharing the Bri Books origin story, changes to the Bri Books vision, and so much more. Thank you for giving me the honor of executive producing 100 episodes, I can't wait to give you the next 100.

• 4:00 - Reflections on 100 episodes of Bri Books
• 4:45 - What's changed the most about Bri Books and where I want us to go in the future
• 9:00 - How Bri Books has evolved over 100 episodes and the future of advertisers/ sponsors on Bri Books. 
• 13:00 - Bri Books podcast's origin story 
• 17:15 - What's in store for the future of Bri Books--but we need YOU! Leave a review of Bri Books with the name of a book, author, or subject you'd like to me cover, and I'll make it happen. 

In this episode, I’m teaching you how to bullet journal like a boss. My bullet journaling strategy is easily customizable to fit whatever you need to focus on. If you’ve been meaning to start journaling, now’s definitely the time. I’ll be sharing the steps you want to follow in order to turn any notebook into a bullet journal, and how to optimize your life using bullet journal strategies like daily and weekly logs. 

2:00 - What is a bullet journal? 

3:00 - How to create your bullet journal index

3:30 - How to set up your bullet journal categories and prepare yourself for success

5:20 - How your daily logs and weekly spreads will propel your goal-setting in your bullet journal 

7:15 - How to pull your bullet journal strategy together from the ground up. 

My preferred bullet journal is Leuchtturm1917 from Paper Source.

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!