Sorta Awesome

The time has come, dear friends and Awesomes, to bring you one last conversation. And we thought it would be absolutely perfect to end the way we began - Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and Laura - all on microphone together! Join the original Sorta Awesome squad for a discussion that includes Meg’s reflections on the past eight years, future plans for each of them, and closing words to the Awesomes. (Plus a quadruple dose of Awesome of the Week!) As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Notion: Try Notion AI for free when you go to notion.com/sorta *OneSkin: New customers get 15% off with code SORTA at oneskin.co *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Laura’s AotW: Storygraph app Rebekah’s AotW : Ali Hazelwood novellas on audio Kelly’s AotW: Almond bars Birria beef (thanks to Awesome Jill): Combine one jar of Target's Mexican-inspired birria cooking sauce with 2.5 pounds of stew beef in a slow cooker; cool on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4. Serve over ramen noodles. Meg’s AotW: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara (in print and on audio) Lebanon series: October 2016, start with A Refuge for Refugees Closing song: Oh My Heart, REM You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Laura on Instagram and on her podcast 10 Things to Tell You! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s that time of year again, friends! Pop the bubbly and join Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah for a conversation covering ALL of their favorites from 2023! From pop culture picks to the meaningful lessons they will take from this year, there is a TON of awesome to explore in this super-sized episode! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Book of the Month: For a limited time, you can join and get the first book for just $5 with code FORYOU at bookofthemonth.com *OneSkin: New customers get 15% off with code SORTA at oneskin.co *Lume: New customers get $5 off a Lume Starter pack with code AWESOME at LumeDeoderant.com *Green Chef: Go to GreenChef.com/60awesome and use code 60awesome to get 60% off, plus 20% off your next two months SHOW NOTES: Kelly's Awesome of the Year: Salsa Verde Chicken Rice Tortilla Soup Rebekah’s Awesome of the Year: Cayden Cross Body Bag from Target Meg’s Awesome of the Year: Otherworld podcast Kelly's Watching: Shrinking and Ted Lasso on Apple TV (sign up for Apple TV with our affiliate link!) Kelly's Reading: The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn Kelly's Listening: Sold a Story podcast Cozy Acoustic Morning playlist on Spotify Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Lifeby Dacher Keltner Enchantment: Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age by Katherine May Rebekah's Watching: Jury Duty (on Amazon prime) Traitors (on Peacock) Rebekah’s Reading: Nonfiction: How To Stay Married by Harrison Scott Key The Great Sex Rescue  by Shelia Wray Gregoire Caste by Isabel Wilkerson Fiction: Yours Truly by Abby Jimeneze Rebekah's Listening: The Viall Files "Ask Nick"  episodes and update episodes Your Own Backyard Rebekah’s viral reel Rebekah’s post: How to think positively about my house Meg’s Watching: Never Have I Ever, Heartstopper, and The Bear Meg’s Reading: The Life Council, Laura Tremaine Happy Place, Emily Henry Divine Rivals, Rebecca Ross None of this is True, Lisa Jewell You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We continue our reflection back on the best moments of Sorta Awesome, and this week, the spotlight is on Kelly Gordon! Do not miss this introspective conversation with Meg and Kelly as Kelly shares what the past eight years of creating Sorta Awesome has brought to her life personally and professionally, and she shares the one episode she wants to leave with the Awesomes! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: American Auto Meg’s AotW: Ghost Story podcast BEST EPISODES Ep 63: What We Know Now That We're Here Ep 162: Self-care, self-comfort, what’s healthy, what’s not Ep 223: Seven kinds of self-care for the holidays Ep 268 Self-care vs. Self-comfort: Everything you need to know Ep 39: Seeking rest, finding delight You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends, you are in for a treat this week! As we begin the final weeks of Sorta Awesome, we are taking some time to focus on some of our favorite moments with some of your favorite people. Today’s episode celebrates Rebekah! Meg and Rebekah take some time to reflect on lessons learned and moments to remember from the past eight years. Rebekah has picked her favorite episode to re-share with you, and we include a surprise never-heard-on-the-main-show accidental confession that you don’t want to miss! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Notion: Try Notion AI for free when you go to notion.com/sorta *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: If We Disappear Here by Mindy Hayes (Get your Kindle 30 day free trial!) In Your Eyes on YouTube Meg’s AotW: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Cream Sorta Awesome episodes mentioned: 10 Big Things We Stopped Doing (ep. 264) 10 Things We Wish We Had Done Sooner (ep. 183) Leaning Into The Squirm: How To Talk To Your Kids ABout Bodies, Sex, and Sexuality (ep. 99) Coming Out Conversations (ep. 137) Self-Care, Self-Comfort, What's Healthy, What's Not (ep. 162) Offering Gentle Comfort In Times Of Grief During The Holidays and Beyond (ep. 80) Heartbreak, Doubt, And Finding Faith Through The Storms (ep. 192) The Pandemic Broke Me, Now What? (ep. 426) Every Single Confessions Episode: Helpful PSAs and A Collection of Confessions (ep. 37) Lollipop Debates, Starbucks Half-Truths, and Other Things That Keep Us Up At Night (ep. 98) Confessions: Embarrassing Moments Edition! (ep. 136 - Rebekah ALMOST picked this one for the replay.) True Confessions: Home Life Edition (ep. 168 - group show!) Confessions: Year-End Edition (ep. 174) Confessions: Holiday Edition! (ep. 225 - group show!) So EMBARRASSING. Hear Our Confessions! (ep. 243 - replayed in this episode) Confessions: Weird New Habits, Lice Battles, Book Heartbreaks, and More! (ep. 280) Our Spiciest Confessions Yet! (ep. 359) Our MOST Memorable Confessions! (ep. 383 - clip show) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, you’ve seen other holiday gift guides, but how many gift guides are made BY Awesomes, FOR Awesomes?! Let’s revisit Meg’s favorite gift guide - the one where she, Kelly, and Rebekah share excellent gift ideas straight from our Awesome community! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for up to 20% off your next purchase (limited time offer!) *OneSkin: Get 15% off with the code SORTA at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Easily shop items from today’s episode at Sorta Awesome: Things we LOVE! REBEKAH’S LISTS: Babies & Littles Wooden Tables & Chairs Set Learning Resources Jumbo Dinosaurs Other Learning Resources Jumbo Animal Sets Fat Brain Toys Dimpl Stack Fat Brains Toys Whirly Squigz Kids, Tweens, & Teens Book Series Suggestions: Dogman Whatever After City Spies Other ideas: Mail Order Mystery Face Planter Pot Natural Crystal LED String Lights Mooas Cube Timer Adults Erin Condren Lap Desk Daily Calendar from Social Print Studio MEG’S LISTS: Things I bought and liked: Shark HyperAir hair dryer lookHUMAN mugs Laneige lip mask Gold hoop earrings Bose Quiet Comfort Bluetooth Headphones Quirky gifts: Flower bouquet bricks Mini greenhouse LCD drawing pad Future Ghost line Hard-to-shop-for gifts: Goldbelly’s Top 50 gifts Tempurpedic sleep mask Manta sleep mask Hotel Lobby candles Simple Modern insulated drinkware KELLY’S LISTS: Gifts for Geeks and Nerds: SnoogTees My Hero Academia board game Soundproof foam for walls Personalized minifigs Keyboard skins or covers Custom Converse Family Fun: Clue Escape and Solve game Bonus: Box One Jackbox Cravebox Pasta maker Nespresso Puzzle table Dowdle Buffalo Games puzzles (arcade puzzle) 50 States of Beauty Social Media Made Me Buy It: Kitch—Non-heating hair wrap for curly hair Woobles AirPods case Cool Pet glasses holder Cat glasses holder MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 357 Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Ep. 222 Sorta Awesome Holiday gift guide 2019! Ep. 171 Sorta Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2018 Extra Awesome: Holiday Gift Guide 2017 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gather ‘round, Awesomes! Today’s conversation is a big one; the time has come for the final episode in our Midlife with Mindy and Meg series. Sorta Awesome regular Mindy Brouse joins Meg for one last conversation in the midlife series that so many in our Awesome community have loved, and to close out the series, they are talking all things midlife books and reading. From helpful guides to permenopause to captivating storytelling featuring midlife characters, there is definitely a book for everyone on today’s list! FIND THE ENTIRE MIDLIFE WITH MINDY AND MEG SERIES HERE Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Green Chef: For Green Chef’s best deal of the year, get $250 off with code awesome250 at GreenChef.com/awesome250 *Notion: Try Notion AI for free when you go to Notion.com/sorta SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: Stay Badass tank or shirt Slippers: XIHALOOK House Slippers Book: Hidden Potential by Adam Grant Meg’s AotW: The Disappearances of Draco Malfoy @holygnocchi on TikTok MIDLIFE BOOKS: Fast Like a Girl A Woman's Guide to Using the Healing Power of Fasting to Burn Fat, Boost Energy, and Balance Hormones, Dr. Mindy Pelz The Menopause Manifesto Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism, Dr. Jen Gunter Hot and Bothered: What No One Tells You About Menopause and How to Feel Like Yourself Again, Jancee Dunn The Upgrade: How the Female Brain Gets Stronger and Better in Midlife and Beyond Hardcover, Dr. Louann Brizendine Crones Don't Whine: Concentrated Wisdom for Juicy Women, Dr. Jean Shinoda Bolen “Second Spring: The Self-Care Guide to Menopause,” by Kate Codrington The Galveston Diet by Dr. Mary Claire Haver The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub Maybe Next Time by Cesca Major What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty Queen Bee by Ciara Geraghty The Change by Kirsten Miller Broken Light by Joanne Harris Wayward by Dana Spiotta Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you’ve got a furry little animal soul mate at your side or you are happily pet-free, you will definitely want to press play on this conversation! Meg and Kelly are enthusiastic pet people, but Rebekah is not so sure. Tune in to hear Rebekah’s questions about the ins-and-outs and highs-and-lows of living that family pet life! Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for 10% off your next purchase (or use code AWESOME at checkout) *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Rebekah's AotW: Sausage Tortellini Soup Kelly’s AotW: Bluey Meg AotW: Keys to the Kingdom podcast 10 Best Kid-Friendly Soup Recipes for Cozy Days Sorta Awesome Soup Pinterest Board MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 465: Sorta Goodbye Ep. 162: Self-care, self-comfort, what’s healthy, what’s not Ep. 417: Holiday home hacks you’re going to love! Ep. 400: Would You Rather? 4 vs 400 edition! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If we’ve learned anything from Taylor Swift this year, it’s that eras come, and eras go. Today, the Sorta Awesome team is sharing with you that it’s the end of an era for Sorta Awesome. Take a moment to hit play to hear about the podcast closing, and what comes next for your favorite Friday friends! Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 464: The Sex Episode Ep. 463: These discoveries will upgrade your life! Ep. 462: 15 new releases we absolutely loved! Ep. 461: The AWESOME LIST for Fall 2023 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when all those Purity Culture kids from the 90s and early 2000s grow up and get married? Well one thing we discovered is a bunch of books were published to “help” us understand sex and marriage. Turns out, some of them were … not so helpful. Meg and Rebekah are here to discuss. Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OneSkin: Get 15% off with the code SORTA at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Latuza Pajama Pants Meg’s AotW: Sam and Colby: Surviving a week at the Real Conjuring House The Great Sex Rescue by Sheila Wray Gregoire Sheila Gregoire on Instagram Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski Books Studied for The Great Sex Rescue (listed in order of best to worst): Helpful Books: The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M Gottman (tie - scored near perfect)- https://amzn.to/3QvFtE6 The Gift of Sex by Clifford & Joyce Penner (tie - scored near perfect) - https://amzn.to/3FRLwgd Boundaries in Marriage by Henry Cloud & John Townsend (tie) - https://amzn.to/3QwSHQJ Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas (tie) - https://amzn.to/3QwSHQJ Intimate Issues by Linda Dillow & Lorraine Pintus - https://amzn.to/462KSHn Neutral Books: The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy & Kathy Keller - https://amzn.to/3tPTALB Intended for Pleasure by Ed & Gaye Wheat - https://amzn.to/3Shk3Mk Harmful Books: Sheet Music by Kevin Leman - https://amzn.to/3SdKCBM The Act of Marriage by Tim and Beverly LaHaye - https://amzn.to/3tUnsGp His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F Harley Jr - https://amzn.to/4762DWV The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian - https://amzn.to/49bQDoy For Women Only by Shaunti Feldahn - https://amzn.to/3Q9xLOx Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn and Fred Stoeker - https://amzn.to/3Q9xLOx Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerichs - https://amzn.to/3tOaH0b MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 193: Stressed out, burned out and ready to recover Ep. 401: Midlife with Mindy & Meg: The ups and downs of sex Ep. 318: 5 books every woman should read Ep. 463: These discoveries will upgrade your life! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are always all about taking care of YOU, and today, one of our favorite Enneagram 2s who always has the hook-up for the GOOD stuff is back! Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman, and Julie has brought a stash of discoveries that are sure to bring a little extra sparkle for a fun upgrade to daily life. Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Brooklinen: Visit Brooklinen.com and use code AWESOME20 for $20 off your online order of $100 or more *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Julie’s AotW: Baked chicken recipe (Gimme Some Oven) Meg’s AotW: GUTS album, Olivia Rodrigo Hacks: artskills precut neon shapes Products: Typology tinted lip OIL Lune and Aster eclipse volumizing and curling mascara Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize cream eyeshadow in Rose Gold Static nail polish remover (clear) Static nail polish remover (rose gold) Madgabs lipbalm Bella Skin probiotic underarm toner Make Up For Ever gentle eye gel remover – for sensitive eyes and lips BeeKeepers’s Naturals Propolis Immune Support Throat Spray Oxyfresh gentle formula unflavored mouthwash Nonproducts Sparta Candle Company Tank tops from Etsy – Kurve Space heater: Vornado Velocity 3R Crossbody bag MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 462: 15 new releases we absolutely loved! Ep. 408: The books that shaped who we are Ep. 454: The Internet made me buy it, Part 1 Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: all the products we are loving, hating and wanting right now! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Awesomes, have you noticed that 2023 is just killing it when it comes to amazing new book releases?! Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome regular Katie Proctor, and they have so MANY books to discuss! From memoir to essay collections to literary fiction and all kinds of genres in-between, there’s something on this list for every reader. Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Green Chef: Go to GreenChef.com/60AWESOME and use code 60AWESOME to get 60% off plus free shipping *Rocket Money: Cancel unneccessary subscriptions with Rocket Money today. Go to RocketMoney.com/awesome.  SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Dating Detectives podcast Katie’s AotW: Sex Education on Netflix KATIE’S LIST Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Congratulations, the Best is Over! By R. Eric Thomas Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q Sutanto Chain Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan Shark Heart by Emily Habeck The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood Tom Lake by Ann Patchett MEG’S LIST Tough Titties by Laura Belgray Failure is not NOT an option by Patrick Hinds True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren The September House by Carissa Orlando Woke Up Like This by Amy Lea MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 408: The books that shaped who we are Ep. 461: The AWESOME LIST for Fall 2023 Ep. 456: Midlife with Mindy and Meg: The Ultimate Bittersweet Ep. 396: Beach reads round-up! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to order her latest book Color Coded! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s the color you’ll be seeing everywhere this autumn? What little hack can make your mums even more glorious? Which movies should you plan to catch in theaters in the next few months? Meg and Kelly are back with one of their favorite episodes - the seasonal list, and they’ve got everything you need to know for the aiutumnal months ahead. From what to sip to what to wear, from delightful recipes to game-changing hacks, they’ve got the scoop just for you! Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Brooklinen: Visit Brooklinen.com and use code AWESOME20 for $20 off your online order of $100 or more SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Laufey Meg’s AotW: None of this is True, Lisa Jewell (on audio) KELLY’S LIST Water mums from the bottom Spooky thrift painting—some examples: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPR7h9G9M/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPR7h5Suy/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPR7hDSK3/ Vegan Coconut Lentil Soup Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Herbal Tea Halloween char”boo”terie MEG’S LIST We’re not really strangers conversation cards Fall movie releases Fall style Red on trend Latte make-up including brownish lips: SAIE Nouveau at Sephora ColourPop lux lipstick in latte at Target ColourPop lux lipstick in latte at ColourPop Revlon Toast of New York at Amazon Fall cozy Muslin blanket Tsh’s new journal Fall fragrances from PULP Fragrances: Embrace Autumn Morning PAST FALL LIST EPISODES: Ep. 410: Your AWESOME list for autumn 2022! Ep. 349: AWESOME LIST FOR FALL 2021! Ep. 262: The AWESOME List for Fall 2020! Ep. 215: Awesome List for Fall 2019 Ep. 166: The Awesome List Fall 2018 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a big dream-come-true day for Meg as she gets to sit down with one of her all-time favorite podcasters: Patrick Hinds! Patrick is the co-creator and co-host of True Crime Obsessed, a podcast that is always at the top of Meg’s must-listen list of favorites. But he’s not here to talk all things TCO today! Instead, he’s sharing two incredible, unforgettable stories from his bestselling brand new book Failure Is Not NOT An Option: How the Chubby Gay Son of a Jesus-Obsessed Lesbian Found Love, Family, and Podcast Success … and a Bunch of Other Stuff. From hilarious misadventures with a golden (and grouchy!) celebrity to a touching story of saying yes to growing a family, you simply must hear the wisdom and the hilarity that Patrick has brought for the Awesomes! Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Patrick’s AotW: Stage Combat podcast Meg’s AotW: Heartstopper Soundtrack on Spotify Failure Is Not NOT an Option by Patrick Hinds MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 459: What was the last…? Ep. 458: Soup season ideas to steal from The Cook’s Book with Bri McCoy Ep. 454: The Internet made me buy it Ep. 455: Midlife with Mindy & Meg: Facial changes & life pivots You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Patrick Hinds is the author of the hilarious memoir Failure Is Not NOT an Option. He is also the creator, writer, and star of the touring show Patrick’s Traveling Book Party and the co-creator and co-host of the hit true crime/comedy podcast, True Crime Obsessed. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Rebekah had SO MANY WORDS for this conversation that we had to trim it waaaaaay down, BUT! The full-length ad-free version is available right now for all Super Star Awesomes over on Patreon! Not a Super Star yet? Today is a great day to become one! Friends, what was the last … time you cried in public? felt embarrassed? laughed until you cried? Meg and Rebekah dig into each other’s personal lives by asking each other about all the lasts, and it takes them in some unexpected places! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Brooklinen: Visit Brooklinen.com and use code AWESOME20 for $20 off your online order of $100 or more *OneSkin: Get 15% off with the code AWESOME at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Don't Text Your Ex Happy Birthday by Nick Viall The Viall Files Podcast Meg’s AotW: Locket App REBEKAH’S LINKS: Harry's House. by Harry Styles Jury Duty Harry Styles Birthday Cakes Big Brother 25 Latuza Women's Pajama Pants Harry Styles LOT Sweatshirt Watch TikToks at 2x Speed The Summer I Saved You by Elizabeth O'Roark e.l.f. Contour Palette I Tried Swedish Death Cleaning My Entire House by Mia Maples MEG’S LINKS: Steve Lacy’s Gemini Rights album Heartstopper Season 2 Jury Duty Love At First Sight Amazon pillow sham Car cup holder trash can KISS press-on nails Glamnetic nail glue This Is Why They Hate Us, Aaron H. Aceves Glossier Pro Tip Eyeliner Saie Hydrabeam Concealer Goodnight Moon - ASMR Celebrity Personal Assistant (bathtime, steam treatment, positive affirmations) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 458: Soup season ideas to steal from The Cook’s Book with Bri McCoy Ep. 450: Midlife with Mindy & Meg: Busting midlife myths Ep. 430: What to do when your reading feels broken You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some of us find joy in the kitchen, and some of us … well, maybe it’s not joy we find in cooking. Or maybe we used to find joy in cooking until we got burned out. Regardless of whether you consider yourself a home cooking expert or if you are happy to get through a meal without setting off the smoke alarm, you are going to love this conversation between Meg and Bri McKoy! Bri’s brand new book The Cook’s Book is fresh off the press, and this beautiful book is packed with inspiration for all the awesome to be found in the kitchen! Can’t get enough Sorta Awesome? Become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get immediate access to hundreds of hours of exclusive content made just for the Super Stars! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *K12: Go to k12.com/AWESOME to learn more and find a tuition-free K-12 powered school near you *Rocket Money: Cancel your unwanted subscriptions—and manage your money the easy way—by going to RocketMoney.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Starwalk app Bri’s AotW: Tipsy braised shortribs with mascarpone mashed potatoes The Cook’s Book: Recipes for Keeps & Essential Techniques to Master Everyday Cooking MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 356: Best meals for busy days Ep. 111: Our Favorite Meals Ep. 234: Go-to recipes and foodie memories You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Buy Bri McKoy’s book The Cook’s Book: Recipes for Keeps & Essential Techniques to Master Everyday Cooking! Find stories and recipes on her food blog at OurSavoryLife.com. Watch her videos with recipe tips and tricks and read her reflections on Instagram @brimckoy. You can also find Bri on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/brimckoy. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oh, if only we could have known then what we know now, right? If you could tell your sixteen year old self anything, what would it be? That’s what Meg and Kelly explore this week, along with a heavy dose of nostalgia as they revisit who they were when they were sixteen! Can’t get enough Sorta Awesome? Become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get immediate access to hundreds of hours of exclusive content made just for the Super Stars! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout *Green Chef: Go to GreenChef.com/60AWESOME and use code 60AWESOME to get 60% off plus free shipping SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Freeze jalapenos whole to use all winter! Meg’s AotW: How To with John Wilson (on Max) Amy Grant: Lead Me On MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 454: The Internet Made Me Buy It (Part 1) Ep. 453: Advocating for people experiencing homelessness: a conversation by Nate Hoffer Ep. 456: Midlife with Mindy and Meg: the ultimate bittersweet Ep. 449: Amazon finds the Awesomes swear by! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our Midlife with Mindy & Meg series, we’ve covered lots of topics from many angles about the physical changes midlife brings, but what about the changes to our family dynamics and the roles we’ve fulfilled for years? Midlife brings seismic changes, and today, Mindy is here to hold Meg’s hand through the giant change of sending a grown child out into the world! How much do the people in your life know about perimenopause and menopause? Quiz them with our MIDLIFE survey and let’s see how much our people know! Find the Midlife with Mindy and Meg playlist on Spotify. (Bonus: share with friends!) Be like Mindy and be a Sorta Awesome Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *K12: Go to k12.com/AWESOME to learn more and find a tuition-free K-12 powered school near you *Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for 10% off your next purchase (or use code AWESOME at checkout) SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: 4 Pocket High Waisted Skort Mindy’s AotW: Shark Heart: A Novel Brooks Falls Katmai Natl Park via explore.org Beartown by Fredrick Backman This isn’t a Book About Benedict Cumberbatch Doing Life with Your Adult Children: Keep Your Mouth Shut and the Welcome Mat Out  MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know - we left you on a cliffhanger! Sorry about that, friends. But here is part TWO of Meg’s conversation with Kelly and Rebekah talkin’ all about the things the internet has made them buy. Not only do they finish our their purchases lists, they also fill you in on the things that are hanging out in their carts while their fingers linger over the BUY NOW buttons! This is PART TWO of a two-part conversation and it dropped ad-free for all Super Stars last Friday. Did you know that VERY Super Stars get ad-free episodes every Friday? Check out our VERY Super Star tier in your Membership to make the switch to all ad-free, all the time! Come over to Sorta Awesome on YouTube! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: OneSkin: Reverse the signs of aging with OneSkin’s ground-breaking approach! Get 15% off with code AWESOME at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Kelly: Uproot pet cleaner IN KELLY’S CART: Prose / tiny ice ball trays Rebekah: Sweatshirt Cult IN REBEKAH’S CART: Simple Modern Tumbler Meg: Rainbow window clings IN MEG’S CART (or is it?!) Bleame You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fire up those browser tabs, friends! This week, Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah are here give you the scoop on all the things they’ve been influenced, pestered, arm-twisted, and convinced to buy some …. interesting … stuff online! From clever candles to chef knife perfection to hydration that may or may not just be water, they will tell you all about what made them hit BUY NOW. This is PART ONE of a two-part conversation. Part Two is available AD-FREE now for all Super Star Awesomes. Sign up to become a Super Star and get immediate access to part two of The Internet Made Me Buy It plus hundreds of hours of Sorta Awesome you’ve never heard before! Come over to Sorta Awesome on YouTube! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Rocket Money: Cancel your unwanted subscriptions—and manage your money the easy way—by going to RocketMoney.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Stolen Heir by Sophie Lark Kelly’s AotW: Fall menu at Starbucks release Aug. 24 - including Casi Cielo whole bean coffee (the best coffee Starbucks offers, in Kelly's opinion) Meg’s AotW: Red White and Royal Blue (movie) REBEKAH’S BUYS: Spiral Light Candle Friendship Socks KELLY’S BUYS: Misen chef’s knife Kitsch heatless hair curler in satin MEG’S BUYS: Electric Spin Scrubber LA1 PRO Buoy hydration drops (Dr. Angela Stanton’s Migraine Protocol) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! Ep. 453: Advocating for people experiencing homelessness: a conversation by Nate Hoffer Ep. 404: Rom-Coms for the modern era! Ep. 449: Amazon finds the Awesomes swear by! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The third time is, indeed, a charm for one of our favorite Sorta Awesome spouses - Nate Hoffer! Nate is back on Sorta Awesome this week, and he and Rebekah have fresh insights to share with Meg and the Awesomes about new perspectives and developments in the matter of caring for people with dignity. There’s so much to learn in this conversation, and of course, you know the discussion is an awesome one! Back to school shopping? SHOP OUR LINK to support the show! Come over to Sorta Awesome on YouTube! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Nate and Rebekah’s AotW: Jury Duty Meg’s AotW: Cutting Teeth, Chandler Baker Good Samaritan Services Caste by Isabel Wilkerson MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 59: Nate Hoffer crushing misconceptions about homelessness Ep. 220 How to be awesome with holiday gifting (with Nate Hoffer) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know August is the month of the year with the MOST birthdays? Let’s celebrate this sizzling month together - Enneagram style! Meg and Kelly talk allllll about what kind of parties (birthday and otherwise) that each type might like best, and the Awesomes weighed in with the ideal birthday party for their Enneagram number. Pop the corks and get your confetti ready - let’s party! Back to school shopping? SHOP OUR LINK to support the show! Make sure you are getting So Awesome Sunday! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *K12: Go to K12.com/AWESOME today to learn more and find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you! SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Cucumber and Watermelon Salad recipe (Martha Stewart) Meg’s AotW: The Barbie Movie! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 12 Oh the Enneagram? It’s awesome! Ep. 132 Why are you like that? Relationships and the Enneagram with Leigh Kramer Ep. 194 Enneagram Q&A Ep. 279 The Enneagram explains your reading life Ep. 373 Let’s destress with the Enneagram You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know those little things that you just keep putting off? You know that idea that you suspected might be helpful but then when you actually do it, it is a total game changer? YEAH. We know those things, too, and today, we’re talking all about it. Meg and Rebekah are continuing a conversation from Sorta Awesome past and digging in deep on the things they have done recently that they WISH they had done sooner! From wardrobe upgrades to vehicle epiphanies to ingesting chlorophyll (what?!), this super-sized episode has inspiration for all of the little things that make life better! SIGN UP for Awesome deals on Amazon (and beyond!) here! Make sure you are getting So Awesome Sunday! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OneSkin: Get 15% off with code AWESOME at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Plant clips and plant cleaning wipes Meg’s AotW: The Doux Bee Girl Honey Curl Custard Meg’s Bonus AotW: Boygenius cover of Cowboy Take Me Away Joules Rain Coat One Sec (app) Rebekah's new TV stand How to set up location sharing on iPhones Target sleeping bras: From Auden: Women's Seamless Brami (black) Women’s Seamless Brami (gray) From Jockey: Jockey Generation Women's Seamfree Tank Strap Bralette Jockey Generation Women's Recycled Seamfree Ribbed Plunge Bralette Period sleep shorts: Jockey Generation Women's Worry Proof Heavy Absorbency Period Panty Pajama Shorts Chlorophyll: https://amzn.to/453rPfV Information on antihistamine and PMDD MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 448: Keep Awesomes Silly! Ep. 449: Amazon Finds the Awesomes Swear By! Ep. 442: Say this, not that! Ep. 430: What to do when your reading feels broken You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s ready to do some MYTHBUSTING?! Mindy Brouse is back on Sorta Awesome this week, and that means it’s time for another round of Midlife with Mindy & Meg! From misunderstood terminology to controversial treatments to knowing just how long we’ll feel out of sorts, too many myths are still circulating when it comes to women in midlife. Push play to hear Meg and Mindy bust ‘em! Don’t forget that you can find ALL of our Midlife with Mindy and Meg episodes on this playlist SIGN UP for Awesome deals on Amazon (and beyond!) here! And we update our Amazon storefront daily, including the Awesome finds, Awesome-approved list! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for 10% off during the Summer Refresh Event (or use code AWESOME at checkout) *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Search Engine podcast ”Wait, should I not be drinking airplane coffee?” Mindy’s AotW: How to Stay Married by Harrison Scott Key World's Largest Man by Harrison Scott Key Congratulations, Who are you Again? by Harrison Scott Key The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram!! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know those little problems that annoy you, but not enough to stress out about? Great news! Meg, Julie, and the Awesomes have got you covered! Join them as they chat their way through awesome Amazon finds sourced straight from our community that will absolutely make your life BETTER! From ideas for your home to things to make travel easier, from beauty gear to excellent electronic finds, you’re going to be so surprised and happy with what we’ve found for you! SIGN UP for Awesome deals on Amazon (and beyond!) here - just in time for Prime Days! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OneSkin: Get 15% off with code AWESOME at oneskin.co SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Bear, Part 2 Julie’s AotW: Pampered Chef Chill and Serve ORIGINAL INSPIRATION THREAD from the Sorta Awesome Hangout with ALL Awesome-approved Amazon finds Find ALL the links mentioned in this episode on the Sorta Awesome website! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 447: Awesome list for Summer 2023 Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: all the products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! Ep. 445: Midlife with Mindy and Meg: facial changes & life pivots Ep. 404: Romcoms for the modern era! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie in the Sorta Awesome Hangout! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! HOME Water bottle holder Museum gel Fading-color kitchen sponges Art portfolio Nylon mesh bags Waterproof car trash can Lazy Susans like this one for condiments, or one for spices, this pretty wooden one, and this one for makeup Futon Convertible Bed Chair Katchy Fly Trap Precut parchment papers Laundry jug holder TRAVEL Lingerie bags Magnetic-closed pill organizer ELECTRONICS Extra-long chargers Clip-on cord holders Earbuds under $30 3 item travel charger iPhone lanyard Leather crossbody purse phone holder PopSocket wallet Key fob (like for Ford) ORGANIZATION Travel make-up case for back-up makeup Nail polish organizer 3 month wall calendar Over cabinet basket BEAUTY Skin care spatulas Cinema Secrets brush cleaner MISC Adhesive shower rod holder Rechargable LED light bulbs Photo organizer BOOKS How to Keep House While Drowning Clutter Free Organizing Solutions for People with ADHD Decluttering at the Speed of Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you sometimes just want to look around and yell, “hey! It’s not that serious!” Heavens knows, we do! Today is a celebration of all things silly as Meg and Rebekah tell some of their silliest “oh my gosh, I can’t believe I did that” moments along with some ways they celebrate silliness in their own lives. Plus, they have tons of silly stories from the Awesomes to tell, too. Pop a silly straw into your favorite drink and let’s laugh! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! Want even MORE Awesome? How about hundreds of hours of never-before-released-to-the-public episodes? How about ad-free versions of this show? Maybe an exclusive community of like-minded super awesome women? It’s the PERFECT time to come join us as a Super Star Awesome on Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Lume: As a special offer for listeners, new customers GET $5 OFF a Lume Starter Pack with code AWESOME at LumeDeodorant.com. That equates to over 40% off your Starter Pack when you visit LumeDeodorant.com and use code AWESOME. *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Queer Eye, Season 7 Rebekah’s AotW: Cayden Crossbody Bag from Target Sorta Awesome Ep. 107: Keep Awesomes Weird MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 447: Awesome list for Summer 2023 Ep. 430: What to do when your reading feels broken Ep. 427: Let’s talk about midlife: the struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 425: How to make the most of your money in 2023 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer is now OFFICIAL-official, and we are kicking it off Meg and Kelly's FIRST FAVORITE season with their annual fave - the AWESOME list! Push play to discover everything you need to make the most of your summer. From body care to the very best in bike shorts, from delicious food and cool drinks to delightful books and TV - we've got it all covered. Join us as we chat about our favorite ways to make this summer one of your best! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Redd Remedies: Listeners can use the code AWESOME at www.reddremedies.com to receive 20% off Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for 10% off during their Summer Refresh Event (or use code AWESOME at checkout) SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Never Have I Ever, season 4 Kelly’s AotW: Ryobi cordless hand vacuum MEG’S LIST: Underarm double-cleansing inspired by Sara Biquele Bike shorts: These Awesome-approved ones and these Meg-approved ones for Plus Size. Bonus: this Hangout thread about Awesome-approved bike shorts! Espresso tonic ChatGPT for travel hacks: this post and this one! Happy Place by Emily Henry KELLY’S LIST: Room-sized air purifier Personal air conditioner Espadrille sandals Dairy-free chia seed pudding made with chocolate almond milk or coconut milk. Kelly's ratio is 1 tbsp chia seeds to 1/4 cup liquid. Don't forget to stir twice before you put it in the fridge! Trader Joe's summer products for 2023: Trader Joe’s Splendid Summertime Shopping List (podcast) and 20 New and Returning Items to Buy at Trader Joe’s for Summer 2023 (Real Simple article) Resort pass Happy Place by Emily Henry MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 444: Get ready for So Awesome Summer! Ep. 316: Summer Meals Extravaganza! Ep. 446: Three ways to save on groceries in thirty minutes Ep. 443: YOUR Awesome guide to summer reading! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel like you're overspending on groceries every month and want an easy solution? Join Meg and special guest Sarah Schweisthal, the glowing star and super practical guide from You Need a Budget, as they discuss very awesome solutions to spending less at the grocery store AND really using the food you have on hand to feed yourself and your family well. Sarah reduced her family’s grocery budget by $800 per month (!) and she has wisdom to share with you! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! Looking for MORE Sorta Awesome? It’s a great time of year to become a Super Star! Get ad-free versions of Friday episodes, plus many, many hours of ad-free exclusive episodes created just for our Super Stars that you can download and binge right now! Plus text with Meg and the team and join our Super Star community on Facebook! Check it out at patreon.com/sortaawesome Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OneSkin: Get 15% off with code AWESOME at oneskin.co *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Jergen’s Natural Glow Sarah’s AotW: Bigelow Tea Vanilla Caramel Black Tea MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 444: Get ready for So Awesome Summer! Ep. 356: Best Meals for Busy Days! Ep. 375: 10 inexpensive buys that improved our lives! Ep. 443: YOUR Awesome Summer guide to summer reading! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Sarah at www.YNAB.com and follow Sarah on TikTok @YNABOfficial and Instagram @YouNeedABudget! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Mindy Brouse is back on Sorta Awesome for another episode of the wildly popular Midlife with Mindy and Meg series! Tune in to hear them discuss the surprising changes to our faces during perimenopause and menopause, and how making life pivots can lead to even greater happiness in midlife. Plus get helpful tips for navigating these changes with grace. Grab your favorite beverage and join us as we talk about all things midlife! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! Looking for MORE Sorta Awesome? It’s a great time of year to become a Super Star! Get ad-free versions of Friday episodes, plus many, many hours of ad-free exclusive episodes created just for our Super Stars that you can download and binge right now! Plus text with Meg and the team and join our Super Star community on Facebook! Check it out at patreon.com/sortaawesome We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the Awesome Father’s Day Gift Guide! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: This blanket and this air pod case Meg’s AotW: Everybody Come Alive, Marcie Alvis Walker Article: The Existential Necessity of Midlife Change (Harvard Business Review) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram!! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer is here, and we have a question - what if you could blend the magic of 1980s summers with all the conveniences of 2023? That’s exactly what Meg had in mind when she created the So Awesome Summer digital summer guide for you! Today, she tells all about something she’s never done before - create a thing based on a dream. No really, an actual dream. Plus she’s your tour guide into Sorta Awesome past into some true Hall of Fame Sorta Awesome summer moments! The So Awesome Summer Guide is HERE! Don’t forget to use code awesome23 at check-out for 23% off! Looking for MORE Sorta Awesome? It’s a great time of year to become a Super Star! Get ad-free versions of Friday episodes, plus many, many hours of ad-free exclusive episodes created just for our Super Stars that you can download and binge right now! Plus text with Meg and the team and join our Super Star community on Facebook! Check it out at patreon.com/sortaawesome We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Lume: Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @lumedeodorant and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code AWESOME at lumedeodorant.com Redd Remedies: Listeners can use the code AWESOME at www.reddremedies.com to receive 20% off SHOW NOTES: Netflix series Jewish Matchmaking MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 443: YOUR Awesome guide to summer reading! Ep. 302: Your Best Summer Based on Your Personality Type Ep. 316: Summer Meals Extravaganza! Ep. 394: Awesome Summer List 2022 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the best books to read this summer with Meg and Sorta Awesome regular Katie Proctor, from buzz-worthy novels to inspiring non-fiction! If it's hot on TikTok's BookTok, you know Meg knows about it, and Katie brings selections for every kind of reader that you definitely want to check out in the summer months ahead. Looking for MORE Sorta Awesome? It’s a great time of year to become a Super Star! Get ad-free versions of Friday episodes, plus many, many hours of ad-free exclusive episodes created just for our Super Stars that you can download and binge right now! Plus text with Meg and the team and join our Super Star community on Facebook! Check it out at patreon.com/sortaawesome We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OneSkin: Get 15% off with code AWESOME at oneskin.co *Caraway: Visit Carawayhome.com/AWESOME for 10% off your next purchase (or use code AWESOME at checkout) *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Awesomes! Find ALL the books mentoined in today’s episode on Amazon or on Bookshop! Or use the individual affiliate links included below! Meg AotW: Can We Read? newsletter by Sarah Miller Katie’s AotW: The Labors of Hercules Beal by Gary D Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop LibroFM audiobook platform  MEG’S LIST: Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Amazon | Bookshop What I Carry, Jennifer Longo Amazon | Bookshop Icebreaker, Hannah Grace Amazon | Bookshop Twisted Games, Ana Huang Amazon | Bookshop Fourth Wing, Rebecca Yarros Amazon | Bookshop KATIE’S LIST: Literary Books That Will Make You Feel Things: Go As a River by Shelley Read Amazon | Bookshop Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver Amazon | Bookshop Pure Fun: The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley Amazon | Bookshop Nonfiction on the Lighter Side for Beach Reading:  Enchantment: Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age by Katherine May Amazon | Bookshop (also mentioned Wintering by Katherine May Amazon | Bookshop) The Life Council: 10 Friends Every Woman Needs by Laura Tremaine Amazon | Bookshop YA Goodies: Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Amazon | Bookshop (also mentioned Lovely War by Julie Berry Amazon | Bookshop) Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley Amazon | Bookshop Fun, Frothy, and Spicy: Happy Place by Emily Henry Amazon | Bookshop (also mentioned Book Lovers by Emily Henry Amazon | Bookshop)  Yours, Truly by Abby Jimenez Amazon | Bookshop The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen Amazon | Bookshop What Else I’m Looking Forward To: The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate Amazon | Bookshop The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese Amazon | Bookshop The Asventures of Amina al-Sirafi by S.A. Chakraborty Amazon | Bookshop The Sun and the Star by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro Amazon | Bookshop MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 442: Say this, not that! Ep. 441: DNG angst: the dreadful feeling of abandoning books Ep. 430: What to do when your reading life feels broken Ep. 408: The books that shaped who we are You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to order her latest book Color Coded! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know that feeling - laying in bed at night, replaying a conversation from the day in your mind as you think through how you could have said something in a way that was a little more … awesome. Meg and Kelly know that feeling all too well, and in this conversation, they share some insights on engaging in respectful dialogue, navigating potentially sensitive topics, and having meaningful conversations with friends, family, co-workers, and more! Looking for ways to start the week off right? Make sure you are subscribed to So Awesome Sunday! Meg’s every-other-week newsletter gives you the rundown on what you might have missed in the Sorta Awesome universe as well as sparkly fun things to find around the web! Sign up for the So Awesome Sunday newsletter! We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout Redd Remedies: Listeners can use the code AWESOME at www.reddremedies.com to receive 20% off Peaceful Mama and Rhythm & Flo (+ all other Redd Remedies products). *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Kelly's AotW: American Born Chinese coming to Disney+ on May 24 Meg’s AotW: School Spirits on Paramount+ Sign up for Paramount+ using our affiliate link! The Couch Podcast #159 — Sorta Spooky Series & Movies About Ghosts (with Meg Tietz) Everything Happens for a Reason by Kate Bowler Em and Friends Empathy cards Jenna Bush Hager Cries as She Says She 'Wasn't There' for Hoda Kotb When Daughter Hope Was Sick MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 441: DNG angst: the dreadful feeling of abandoning books Ep. 438: What we’ve been learning lately: Volume 2 Ep. 432: Let’s talk about midlife: supporting nervous systems & finding healthcare Ep. 430: What to do when your reading feels broken You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most every reader struggles with making the tough decision to "DNF" (or "did not finish") a book, and there are a variety of reasons for what makes it so dang difficult! Meg and Rebekah discuss the reality of this anguish and how hard it can be to quit reading a book that isn't working for you. Hear their personal experiences with quitting books, why they made the decisions they did, and tips on how to recognize when it's time to put down a book. Tune into this episode of the Sorta Awesome podcast for some real talk and bookish confessions! Sign up for the So Awesome Sunday newsletter! We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Mother’s Day and Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CrowdHealth: Visit joincrowdhealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout to get your first 3 months for just $99/month SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Scandalized by Ivy Owens Meg’s AotW: You Must Remember This podcast series on Erotic 90s (especially this episode!) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 440: 10 questions for Meg! Ep. 415: What happens when you love what you love Ep. 435: We are THAT friend (a reunion show!) Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: all the products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get to know what Meg is like off-microphone on this special super-sized episode of Sorta Awesome! Her best friend (and social media manager) Kathryn has ten questions for her, and in her answers, she shares about her life as a mom, her passion for the podcast, and her dreams for the future. Press play to hear this insightful discussion that celebrates the power of community and connection (and ALSO to hear how Kathryn ended up with Paul Rudd on her honeymoon!). Sign up for the So Awesome Sunday newsletter! We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Mother’s Day and Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Redd Remedies: Listeners can use the code AWESOME at www.reddremedies.com to receive 20% off Peaceful Mama and Rhythm & Flo (and all other Redd Remedies products). SHOW NOTES: Kathryn’s AotW: Candle warmer lamp (like this one and this one); Rewind candle in Chardonnay Kathryn’s Second AotW: SmileDirect Club Cleaning Machine; Retainer Brite Tablets Meg’s AotW: Super Star Awesome Heather’s Life Skills checklist MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 439: Midlife with Mindy & Meg: our reactions to midlife in the news Ep. 435: We are THAT friend (a reunion show!) Ep. 431: Ten awesome things for Spring 2023! Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: all the products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kathryn on Instagram as our Sorta Awesome social media director! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We started having candid, in-depth, personal, and consistent conversations about midlife (and perimenopause) (and menopause) in March 2022. Suddenly, it seems like there are headlines about this season of life everywhere we turn! Well, Meg and Mindy read recent articles so you don’t have to. They share their honest reactions to some major headlines about women in midlife that you might have missed! Don’t forget you can find all of our episodes about all things midlife on Spotify We’ve done your spring gifting season shopping FOR YOU! Check out the idea lists for Mother’s Day and Graduation 2023 in our Sorta Awesome Amazon store! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *iHerb: Get 22% off iHerb with promo code AWESOME at iherb.com/?rcode=AWESOME! *Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME30 for one month free of their entire mindfulness library SHOW NOTES: Our Midlife Discussion begins at 23:00 in! Meg’s AotW: Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross Mindy’s AotW: Just One Damned Thing After Another: The Chronicles of St. Mary's Book One Article: 25 years of research shows insidious effect of racism on Black women’s menopausal transition, health Article: Oprah’s menopause symptom scare The Vaginal Laser Controversy Good news - our brains adapt and bounce back after menopause! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 419: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Support for Grief & Losing a Parent Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even though life never seems to slow down on slinging new lessons and learning at us, sometimes WE need to slow down and process it with a friend. Today, Meg and Kelly have a fantastic conversation about what they’ve been learning lately and from redefining awe to finding new understandings of love (and its opposite!), there’s something for every Awesome in this discussion! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, ad-free versions of Sorta Awesome, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: JAMMY EGGS! Kelly’s AotW: Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Tortilla Soup Timber Hawkeye (@BuddhistBootcamp) on Mayim Bialik's Breakdown Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner Dacher Keltner on the show Kelly produces at MPR MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 437: Feeling the vibe: Harry, Taylor and the power of collective effervescence Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! Ep. 429: Nom Nom for us, Awesomes! Ep. 434: The awesome guide to Trader Joe’s and ALDI You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know that feeling of electricity that runs through the crowd at a great live show? What about how easy it is to get teary-eyed at parades or how you can feel so collectively stressed you might feel at a nearly-tied sporting event? There’s a word for that experience, and today, Meg and Rebekah talk through big-crowd concerts and other places humans vibe with the same energy! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, ad-free versions of Sorta Awesome, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CrowdHealth: Visit joincrowdhealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout to get your first 3 months for just $99/month *Headspace: Try Headspace free for 30 days by going to headspace.com/AWESOME30 to unlock all of Headspace FREE for 30 days SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Urban Decay Vice lip bond glossy lipstick in Unbreakable Rebekah’s AotW: Splitwise (app) What’s behind the magic of live music? at The Conversation MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 435: We are THAT friend (a reunion show!) Ep. 415: What happens when you love what you love Ep. 386: Never have I ever (a group show!) Ep. 426: The pandemic broke me. Now what? You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a new buzzword in the world of health, wellness, and body movement: somatic. But the concept of somatic movement isn’t new at all - in fact, it’s a practice that has been creating healing and helping people connect with their intuition for decades! Today, Meg welcomes Jen Hoffman of HealthyMoving.com back to Sorta Awesome. Jen explains the concepts behind somatic movement and how these practices can create powerful changes in your life as you connect body, mind, and spirit. This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, ad-free versions of Sorta Awesome, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Honeylove: Save 20% off at honeylove.com with code AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Plush Puddin’ from Fenty (Meg’s AotW) Jen created this intro to somatics just for the Awesomes! It’s all free and easy to access! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 128 Love your body, change the world Ep. 164 How to be smart, strong, and social at any age Ep. 273 A MUST-LISTEN to heal from 2020 for an awesome 2021! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Jen at HealthyMoving.com and on Facebook and Instagram! and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We did it again - we got the band back together, friends! You do not want to miss this conversation with Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and OG Sorta Awesome co-host Laura Tremaine! Laura’s new book The Life Council: Ten Friends Every Woman Needs comes out very soon, and she’s here to catch up with friends as they discuss all the ways friendship can look over time. This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, ad-free versions of Sorta Awesome, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Jenni Kayne: Get 15% off your first order when you use code AWESOME at checkout at jennikayne.com *Headspace: Try Headspace for FREE for 30 days at headspace.com/AWESOME30 SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: Rob Lowe's new Netflix sitcom, Unstable Rebekah's AotW: One Sec (app) Laura's AotW: Pat McGrath MatteTrance lipstick in Full Panic Meg AotW: Bejeweled by Meg Tietz—sign up at megtietz.substack.com! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! Ep. 277: Sharing Our Stuff: A Reunion Episode Ep. 434: The awesome guide to Trader Joe’s and ALDI Ep. 230: Things we are loving and learning You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Preorder Laura’s book The Life Council, which releases April 4th! Learn more about Laura’s book here! Find Laura on Instagram @laura.tremaine and be sure to listen to her show 10 Things To Tell You! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dear Awesome, can we interest in you in some extremely niche and also extremely helpful food geekery? We sure do hope so because this week, Meg and Kelly are prepared to buckle you into their shopping carts as they stroll the aisles of two nationwide grocery stores with BIG cult followings! Trader Joe’s and ALDI are frequent topics of conversation amongst the Sorta Awesome team, so this week, they are bringing you all the best tips, hacks, and recipe inspirations you need to really get the most out of the TJ’s and ALDI experience! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Did you know Sorta Awesome is on YOUTUBE? You can watch full-length episodes on the Sorta Awesome YT channel! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair consultation and get 15% off your first order today! Go to prose.com/awesome! *Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/SORTA! *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: rest! Meg’s AotW: Alaska Daily on Hulu (Sign up for a free trial using our affiliate link!) Aldi Hack: Use their a box of their Deluxe Mac and Cheese to make a decadent semi-homemade mac and cheese: https://www.kellygordonmn.com/recipes/homemade-mac-and-cheese Inside Trader Joe's podcast Episode 49: Trader Joe’s Trips the Light Hackstastic Inside Trader Joe's podcast Episode 54: Trader Joe’s Product Hacks, the Sequel Article: 29 of the Very Best Trader Joe’s Food Hacks I’ve Learned from the Internet (And a Few of My Own) Article: 14 Best Trader Joe’s Food and Recipe Hacks, According to Employees Almost all ALDI Facebook group Aldi subreddit Trader Joe’s subreddit MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 433: We’re obsessed: products we’re loving, hating and wanting right now! Ep. 429: Nom Nom for us, Awesomes! Ep. 365: The best meals for busy days! Ep. 234: Go-to recipes and foodie memories You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don’t be mad, but Meg has been holding out on you — but it’s only because she knew this would make a great conversation for the Awesomes! Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman is back on the show this week, and she and Meg have a TON of products they’ve been stockpiling to share with you. They are giving you the scoop on all the skin, body, and makeup products they are loving, the ones they are not-loving, and the ones they really want to try! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! Visit the Sorta Awesome Amazon storefront to find our cleaning & organizing list and our fridge & pantry inspiration list! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Honeylove: Save 20% off at honeylove.com with the code AWESOME *CrowdHealth: Visit joincrowdhealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout to get your first 3 months for just $99/month SHOW NOTES: Awesome of the Week Julie: Reverse Coloring Book Meg: K-Pop Dreaming from California Love podcast Check out our complete list of products in our ShopMy shop! JULIE IS LOVING: Sunbum Roll-on Sunscreen Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Cleansing Duo Lollia wish hand cream belif Aquabomb lip mask Tula rose glow brightening eye balm Benefit Precisely, My Brow CoverGirl Simply Ageless Lip Flip liner in Elegant Nude Makeup bag cleaning ball Jones Road What The Foundation MEG IS LOVING: Paula’s Choice Ceramide-Enriched Firming Moisturizer and Phytoestrogen Elasticity Renewal Serum Oil of Olay Retinol + Peptide 24 Dr. Scholl’s Severe Cracked Heal Balm Glossier Boy Brow and Pro Tip eyeliner Jones Road Just a Sec eyeshadow cream, Topaz Jones Road Miracle Balm in Flushed SAIE Hydrabeam concealer Flower Beauty Skin Smoothie power matte primer The Not-Loving IT Cosmetics Confidence in an Eye Cream NARS Multiple Stick in Orgasm Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream Tarte Marajuca Juicy Lip/ Lip Plump Makeup by Mario eye palette IT Cosmetics brush bath Tula So Polished sugar scrub elf Whoa Glow sunscreen elf Putty Blushes Glossier Lash Slick mascara Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Want To Try Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Face Wash Cinema Secrets brush wash Paula’s Choice Multi-Peptide Booster Gwen Stefani GXVE mascara MAC dry shampoo for eyelashes MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 414: Pro-tips and products to make life easier Ep. 364: We’re obsessed: life hacks we swear by! Ep. 375: 10 inexpensive buys that improved our lives Ep. 336: Go through our EMPTIES with us! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You hit midlife, and suddenly it feels like your nerves are raw. You’re jumpy, you can’t remember anything, and you feel overwhelmed. While all of this feels very un-awesome, we’ve got good news for you! You aren’t alone, and we’ve got some ideas that just might help. Midlife with Mindy and Meg is back, and this time, they are talking all things nervous system. What causes this upheaval in our minds and bodies, and how can we feel a little more centered? And also, how exactly are we supposed to find health care providers who are knowledgeable about all of the changes that perimenopause brings? Push play on this conversation to hear Meg and Mindy bring you the best friend advice you need to get through this stage of life. Find EVERY episode in the Midlife with Mindy and Meg series on our Spotify playlist! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Athletic Greens: Get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/SORTA! *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: Anthony's Premium Nutritional Yeast Flakes Meg’s AotW: How to keep house while drowning by KC Davis How to do laundry while depressed - Ted Talk by KC Davis KC Davis on TikTok Article: Signs your nervous system is struggling & how to support it better during menopause Article: How to survive the great progesterone crash of perimenopause Article: 7 ways to support the vagus nerve and improve heart rate variability (HRV) Dr Mary Claire Haver on IG The North American Menopause Society MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 427: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The struggle is real in the clothes closet Ep. 419: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Support for Grief & Losing a Parent Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram and as a regular on the Currently Reading podcast! Mindy also produced and created Bookend Homeschoolers. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you are shivering under late winter snowfalls or sneezing eight times in a row from seasonal allergies, there’s no denying that spring is just around the corner, and we have got you COVERED! Meg is joined this week by Rebekah and they have put together all you need to make spring a little more awesome this year. From fragrances to activities for kids to what to watch in theaters to the one trend no asked for, you cannot miss a minute of the spring seasonal list! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! When you sign up, you get instant access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for one month free of their entire mindfulness library *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout *LuvBug: Go to LuvBuglearning.com and sign up for a 7-day free trial or simply download from the app store and subscribe! SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Pink Picasso Paint By Number Kits (Here’s one that is most like Rebekah's!) Meg’s AotW: Cozy Ripples REBEKAH’S LIST: Beckham Hotel Collection Pillows Easy Baked Tortellini Crazy Forts Kits Daisy Jones & The Six A Good Good Person Air Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret? Love Again The Little Mermaid Happy Place by Emily Henry The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren Extra link: @iamlevelingup on TikTok talks about the crunchy community being a cult MEG’S LIST: REN AHA exfoliator Skin brush set Lulu candles (Wild Lemongrass scent) Good Chemistry perfume Tiger Lily Replica Springtime in a Park Leaves of Leisure tea- Road Trip and Picnic in the Park (Bonus! use code SortaAwesome15 for 15% off the entire site!) Travel sipper mug Glass bud vases Cut flower food MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 384: Awesome list for Spring 2022 Ep. 283: Awesome list for Spring 2021 Ep. 426: The pandemic broke me. Now what? Ep. 392: Romance Starter Pack (Part 1) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel like your enthusiasm for reading has gone into a downward spiral, creating an un-awesome urge to turn away from books? Don't worry - we get it! This week, Meg is joined by books and reading regular Katie Proctor who is here to help lift your spirits and show you how book-lovers can avoid the dreaded reading slump. So grab your favorite reading snack and journey with us down this literary rabbit hole of tips, tricks, and inspiration! This is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! Earlier this month, Super Stars Live featured a Spicy Book Show & Tell and hilarity ensued. You can catch up with the video and audio replays PLUS get access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair consultation and get 15% off your first order today! Go to prose.com/awesome! *Babbel: Get up to 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Katie’s AotW: The Source of Self Regard by Toni Morrison Inciting Joy by Ross Gay One Day We’ll All Be Dead and None of This Will Matter by Scaachi Koul Meg’s AotW: AD Open Door Celebrity Home Tours on YouTube Liv Tyler’s home tour BOOKS The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser (whole series) Cinder by Marissa Meyer (whole Lunar Chronicles series) Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Schafer A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving The Salt Path by Raynor Winn AUDIOBOOKS Sign up for audiobooks.com using our link and get 3 audiobooks with a 30-day free trial! The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller Amazon | Audible Broken Horses by Brandi Carlile Amazon | Audible I Take My Coffee Black by Tyler Merritt Amazon | Audible Project Hail Mary, Andy Weir Amazon | Audible Lincoln in the Bardo, George Saunders Amazon | Audible Daisy Jones and the Six, Taylor Jenkins Reid Amazon | Audible MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 408: The books that shaped who we are Ep. 385: Ten favorite middle grade reads Ep. 366: Best in books & reading in 2021! Ep. 279: The Enneagram explains your reading life You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Snacks, snacks, snacks. Who doesn’t love a snack?! This week, Meg and Kelly dig into a delicious conversation about their favorite snacks. Meg enlightens Kelly to growing up in an ingredients-only household, and Kelly reveals her microwave-less childhood. Then, they decide to form the Raisin Mafia! From crunchy to creamy, salty to sweet, low-cook to no-cook, they’ve got all their favorites to share. And if you are in the mood for spicy, this is the PERFECT time to become a Super Star Awesome! Earlier this month, Super Stars Live featured a Spicy Book Show & Tell and hilarity ensued. You can catch up with the video and audio replays PLUS get access to hundreds of hours of bonus material, an exclusive Facebook group, and the texting number to reach out to the Sorta Awesome team! It’s a GREAT day to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: Shrinking on Apple TV Start your Apple TV+ free trial by using our link—must be a new user Meg’s AotW: Extraordinary on Hulu Get your Hulu free trial by using our link! Ingredients-only household on TikTok SAVORY SNACKS: Jalapeno Lime Tortilla Chips Off the Eaten Path Veggie Crisps Aldi Gourmet Snacking Cheese (Habanero Jack) Aldi Snack Selects (Pepper Jack, Raisins, Honey Roasted Peanuts) Alabama Fire-Crackers SWEET SNACKS: Target's Filled Mini Straws Sour Rainbow Vergo Mango suckers The Best Chocolate Mug Cake from Table for Two TikTok Mangonada MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 377: How to REALLY love yourself Ep. 415: What happens when you love what you love Ep. 426: The pandemic broke me. Now what? Ep. 416: You’re invited to our FAVORITE THINGS party! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roses are red, chocolates are fine, but we think you should ask YOURSELF, “will you be mine?” Okay, that was a little silly, but it’s the heart of our conversation going into today’s episode! What would happen if you decided to treat yourself as the love of your life? The women of Sorta Awesome have thoughts and ideas to get you inspired! Join our Patreon community! When you become a supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you get access to fun things like the Super Star book club and texting with Meg and the team. Plus HUNDREDS of hours of ad-free exclusive episodes to download right now! We would love to have you!!! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Seatmate on Audible Need to sign-up for Audible? No problem, we got you! Try Audible Plus and get three months FREE! MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 377: How to REALLY love yourself Ep. 392: Romance starter pack, Part 1 Ep. 393: Romance starter pack, Part 2 Ep. 404: Rom-Coms for the modern era You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Midlife with Mindy and Meg series! Sorta Awesome regular Mindy Brouse is back, and this week, she brought the Perimenopause Critters with her! She and Meg are exploring the many conflicted feelings and paradoxes of this stage of life. From not recognizing our own bodies to feeling guilt over anti-aging products, from hearing advice from all sides and not knowing who to trust, this very candid conversation brings so much to the surface. All those things you thought you couldn’t say out loud? Mindy and Meg have created a safe place to have THOSE conversations! Also WE MADE A VALENTINE’S GIFT GUIDE for you - find something for everyone on your list (or something just for you!) THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Grove: Go to grove.com/AWESOME and get a free gift set worth up to fifty dollars with your first order. Plus free shipping! SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Bandit Queens, Parini Shroff Mindy’s AotW: Peace by Chocolate: The Hadhad Family’s Remarkable Journey from Syria to Canada and Peace by Chocolate movie and Peace by Chocolate chocolate Let's talk about midlife playlist on Spotify The Galveston Diet by Dr Mary Claire Haver Follow Dr. Mary Claire Haver on IG The Change by Kirsten Miller Bodies are Cool by Tyler Feder Honor by Thrity Umrigar MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 419: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Support for Grief & Losing a Parent Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 389: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Nonstop Appetite & Historical Hysteria Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram and as a regular on the Currently Reading podcast! Mindy also produced and created Bookend Homeschoolers. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gather ‘round, friends. We think this is a good time to circle up and contemplate the changes brought upon our lives and the changes that have happened within OURSELVES in the past three years. Rebekah joins Meg this week with some vulnerable reflections on how she feels different as a person following the pandemic, and not in very awesome ways. Meg digs deep into Myers Briggs theory to surface some reasons why our shadow types come out when we are under significant stress. You might not be prepared for how emotional this conversation gets! Join our Patreon community! When you become a supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you get access to fun things like the Super Star book club and texting with Meg and the team. Plus HUNDREDS of hours of ad-free exclusive episodes to download right now! We would love to have you!!! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Prose: Take your FREE in-depth hair consultation and get 15% off your first order today! Go to prose.com/awesome! SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Spare by Prince Harry (Psst! Sign up for audiobooks.com using our affiliate link and get 3 audiobooks with a 30 day free trial!) Meg’s AotW: Otherworld Podcast Find your Myers Briggs type here: https://www.truity.com/test/type-finder-personality-test-new Sara by the Season newsletter My Sweet Dumb Brain newsletter Article: Differential Personality Change Earlier and Later in the Coronavirus Pandemic MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 178: The truth about personality, organization and productivity! Ep. 279: The Enneagram explains your reading life Ep. 415: What happens when you love what you love Ep. 383: Our MOST memorable confessions! Ep. 302: Have the best summer based on your personality type! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about money, Awesomes! Yes, this topic makes some of us squirmy, but you know for THIS money conversation, you’re just chatting with friends. Meg welcomes Kate Nixon Anania back to the show, and Kate gets to talk about one of her biggest passions - personal finance! No matter where you are in your relationship with money, Kate has some great advice of both the practical and the mindset variety! Join our Patreon community! When you become a supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you get access to fun things like the Super Star book club and texting with Meg and the team. Plus HUNDREDS of hours of ad-free exclusive episodes to download right now! We would love to have you!!! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Babbel: Get 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Kate’s AotW: Souper Cubes Meg’s AotW: IM THRIVIN playlist on Spotify Values-Based Wills and Trusts Workbook Kate’s book: Twenties in Your Pocket MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 185: Be More Awesome With Your Money Extra Awesome: Eating Less Meat and More Plants with Kate Nixon Anania Ep. 424: Trends & Predictions for 2023! Ep. 423: Why Habits Fail & the Secret to Real Progress You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Kate on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram or visit her website www.twentiesinyourpocket.com Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s grab our crystal balls, Awesomes. What do we see for the year ahead? Meg and Kelly have done the research and they are here to tell you everything you need to know 2023! Is this the year that Artificial Intelligence takes over? Will the trip back to the 90s and early 2000s finally come to an end? Are the kids really wearing underwear as PANTS?! Tune in for everything you don’t want to miss for the future! Join our Patreon community! When you become a supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you get access to fun things like the Super Star book club (next meeting: January 14th!) and texting with Meg and the team. Plus HUNDREDS of hours of ad-free exclusive episodes to download right now! We would love to have you!!! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: Puzzle board. Here is Kelly’s puzzle board…or try this similar one! Meg’s AotW: LED Night Light, Touch Lamp with Wireless Charger, Portable Bluetooth Speaker Yoga with Adriene 30 Days of Yoga January series Sorta Yogis Facebook spin-off group YouTube videos: My 2023 Trend Precitions (That You’ll Actually Wear) My 2023 Makeup Predictions! 2023 Year Ahead: A Year of Thresholds and Shifts MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 384: Awesome list for Spring 2022 Ep. 283: Awesome list for Spring 2021 Ep. 334: What I Wish I’d Bought Sooner! Ep. 274: 10 (more) little luxuries to get you through the winter You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How many times have you determined you want to create a new habit, only to have your plans, dreams, and goals crash and burn within the first week? If this is you, please hit play on this episode! Meg is starting off the new year with a FANTASTIC conversation with Monica Packer of the super popular podcast About Progress. Monica is here to assure us that there is nothing wrong with you, we just need to have a new understanding around how we can create lasting changes in our lives in some very awesome ways. You do NOT want to miss this one! Join our Patreon community! When you become a supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you get access to fun things like the romance reading challenge and our monthly book club! We would love to have you!!! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! There's still time to join for our next book club discussion on January 14th! We'll be discussing Bonnie Garmus's novel Lessons in Chemistry. We would love to have you! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Grove: Go to grove.com/AWESOME and get a free starter set worth up to fifty dollars with your first order *Babbel: Get 55% off your subscription when you go to BABBEL.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Shark Steam and Scrub mop SAIE Beauty lip blur Sign up for Monica’s (FREE!) habit class About Progress website MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 422: All the Awesome of 2022 (a group show!) Ep. 369: Compassionate advice for the new year with Rev. Mary Lee Downey Ep. 273: A MUST-LISTEN to heal from 2020 for an awesome 2021 Ep. 162: Self-care, self-comfort, what’s healthy, what’s not You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Monica at the About Progress website and on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We would love to introduce you to “Help Me Be Me,” a podcast and emotional toolkit for creating positive change in yourself. I like to think of it as self-help for people who hate self-help. Join host Sarah May, coach/author/all-around happy person, as she shares tools that helped her in her life and journey! Help Me Be Me on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/helpme Help Me Be Me on Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, 2022 was a year, right?! And as is their annual tradition, Meg is joined by Kelly and Rebekah to give you the awesome rundown! Tune in to hear about what they learned, learned, as well as the amazing things they watched, read, and listened to! And just a reminder that this is a GREAT time of year to become a Super Star Awesome. Patreon offers annual membership plans which might be the perfect gift to give YOURSELF this year! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *OMGYes: Visit OMGYes.com/awesome for a special discount SHOW NOTES: Meg Awesome of the Year: Birkenstock Tokios! (or use this link to purchase Birkenstocks on KITH) Kelly's Awesome of the Year: Sausage, Kale, and White Bean Soup from Pinch of Yum Rebekah’s Awesome of the Year: Ticket to Ride Wet N Wild Breakup Proof Eyeliner MEG’S LIST Watched: Stranger Things season 4 Heartstopper Yellowjackets Read: This is not a book about Benedict Cumberbatch The Violin Conspiracy The House Witch Listened: Bone Valley Normal Gossip Steve Lacy’s Gemini Rights KELLY’S LIST Watched: Abbott Elementary Only Murders in the Building (watch on Hulu using our affiliate link!) Read: All the Ways Our Dead Still Speak by Caleb Wilde This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub Listened: The Holy Post podcast Ivy Eld REBEKAH’S LIST Watch: Cheer (season 2) Don't Worry Darling My Policeman Read: Still Beating by Jennifer Hartmann This is not a book about Benedict Cumberbatch Listen: Harry's House by Harry Styles MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 368: What we learned in 2021, and our favorites, too! Ep. 272: Finding awesome in a year that wasn’t Ep. 418: Gift Guide 2022: All the gifts we love! Ep. 386: Never have I ever (a group show!) Ep. 226: All of the Awesome of 2019! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As December ticks by, the end-of-year lists are popping up everywhere! Meg and Kelly have got some thoughts that might be a little teeny-tiny bit spicy on trends, news stories, and pop culture moments of 2022, and they are more than happy to share their thoughts (and some from the Super Star Awesomes, too) with you! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Bare Necessities: Get 20% off your order at BareNecessities.com and use code awesome20 Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: Wintry Mix newsletter by Kari Liebowitz Meg’s AotW: Bone Valley podcast MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 418: Gift Guide 2022: All the gifts we love! Ep. 403: Who am I if I’m not this? Ep. 386: Never have I ever (a group show!) Ep. 364: We’re Obsessed: life hacks we swear by! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raise your hand if you’d like to take a little break from all things holiday, and go deeeeep into some fascinating topics with Meg and Rebekah! You know how sometimes, you just get totally into a subject and the next thing you know, you are chatting up strangers at the grocery store with all of your newfound knowledge? Well, that’s Meg and Rebekah this week, except instead of bothering strangers, they are bringing the Awesomes along for the dive! From movie magic to YouTube concert footage to viral frustrations to what TikTok gets wrong about feminism, they have a LOT of words about what they can’t stop thinking about these days! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Raycon: Go to BUYRAYCON.com/sorta to get 15% off SITEWIDE with code HOLIDAY—plus free shipping! *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Soma's Enbliss Soft Stretch Hipster underwear Meg’s AotW: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eyeliner Meg’s favorite YouTube deep dive: Defunctland: Disney’s FastPass: A complicated history Movie Making Deep Dive (starts at 17:00) Josh Props Stunt Props Fake Ice Cream Fake Poop Jessica Steinrock Modesty & Barrier Protection Strapless Thong Kevin and the Female Gaze deep dive (starts at 35:05) Note from Meg: Kevin’s TikTok profile is no longer available CLIP OF KEVIN VIDEO is in 2:15 of this video from Jarvis Johnson: The Female Gaze Guy Sucks The Problem with the "Female Gaze Guy" Explainer: what does the ‘male gaze’ mean, and what about a female gaze? Recreating Adam: Romance and the Hazard of the Female Gaze Music Releases & TikTok (starts at 57:28) "Unholy" is a Hot & Heavy Single with a Lukewarm Reception Lewis Capaldi https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTR4CbsNf/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTR4CGbGs/ The Awesome of Nathaniel Rateliff (starts at 1:04:52) Rolling Stone: The Long Shot: Nathaniel Rateliff’s Long, Hard, Booze-Soaked Road to Stardom Solo Album: And It’s Still Alright (2020) with the Nightsweats: Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats (2015); Tearing at the Seams (2018); The Future (2021) YouTube performances: Sessions: At home with Nathaniel Rateliff (November 2020) Levitate Music & Arts Festival (July 2019) Live at Red Rocks (September 2020) Rock the Garden (September 2022) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 416: You’re invited to our FAVORITE THINGS party! Ep. 415: What happens when you love what you love Ep. 409: Would You Rather—Round 2! Ep. 400: Would You Rather—4 vs 400 edition! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The holidays are here, but not everyone is feeling festive. Grief all of kinds can feel even heavier during the holidays, and a difficult part of the midlife season is grieving the loss of parents. In this new episode of the Midlife with Mindy and Meg series, they discuss their own experiences with losing a parent and share helpful, encouraging, compassionate insights on how to support friends who are experiencing this loss. As always, they offer inspiration for discovering the beauty even in the darker moments of life! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Everlywell: Go to Everlywell.com/awesome for 20% off your next at-home lab test SHOW NOTES: Pediatric pulse oximeter Adult pulse oximeter Blockbuster on Netflix MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 413: Let’s Talk About Midlife: How to Know if You are in the Club Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 389: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Nonstop Appetite & Historical Hysteria Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram and as a regular on the Currently Reading podcast! Mindy also produced and created Bookend Homeschoolers. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, you’ve seen other holiday gift guides, but how many gift guides are made BY Awesomes, FOR Awesomes?! Meg is joined by Kelly and Rebekah this week for the newest edition of the Sorta Awesome holiday gift guide! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Butcher Box: Sign up today at butcherbox.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME to get two 10 oz ribeyes FREE in every box for a whole year when you join. Plus $10 off! *Issu: Get started with Issu for FREE today or sign up for an annual premium account and get 50% off at Issu.com/podcast and use promo code AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Easily shop items from today’s episode at Sorta Awesome: Things we LOVE! 2022 KELLY’S LISTS: Gifts for Geeks and Nerds: SnoogTees My Hero Academia board game Soundproof foam for walls Personalized minifigs Keyboard skins or covers Custom Converse Family Fun: Clue Escape and Solve game Bonus: Box One Jackbox Cravebox Pasta maker Nespresso Puzzle table Dowdle Buffalo Games puzzles (arcade puzzle) 50 States of Beauty Social Media Made Me Buy It: Kitch—Non-heating hair wrap for curly hair Woobles AirPods case Cool Pet glasses holder Cat glasses holder REBEKAH’S LISTS: Babies & Littles Wooden Tables & Chairs Set Learning Resources Jumbo Dinosaurs Other Learning Resources Jumbo Animal Sets Fat Brain Toys Dimpl Stack Fat Brains Toys Whirly Squigz Kids, Tweens, & Teens Book Series Suggestions: Dogman Whatever After City Spies Other ideas: Mail Order Mystery Face Planter Pot Natural Crystal LED String Lights Mooas Cube Timer Adults Erin Condren Lap Desk Daily Calendar from Social Print Studio MEG’S LISTS: Things I bought and liked: Shark HyperAir hair dryer lookHUMAN mugs Laneige lip mask Gold hoop earrings Bose Quiet Comfort Bluetooth Headphones Quirky gifts: Flower bouquet bricks Mini greenhouse LCD drawing pad Future Ghost line Hard-to-shop-for gifts: Goldbelly’s Top 50 gifts Tempurpedic sleep mask Manta sleep mask Hotel Lobby candles Simple Modern insulated drinkware MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 357 Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Ep. 222 Sorta Awesome Holiday gift guide 2019! Ep. 171 Sorta Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2018 Extra Awesome: Holiday Gift Guide 2017 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The holiday season can be … complicated. But your friends at Sorta Awesome want to make things EASIER for you this year because easier = MORE AWESOME. Meg and Kelly have done the digging and researched the web to bring you some tips, tricks, and hacks to make this holiday season just a little bit easier for you! From tree trimming to what to serve guests to ways to make your home look (and smell!) holiday-tastic, they’ve got you covered! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Pair Eyewear: For a limited time, shop Pair’s holiday sale for 20% off at paireyewear.com! *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Torani seasonal syrup packs (bonus—this would be a great gift!) Meg’s AotW: Beyond the blinds podcast FOR THE KITCHEN Designed to the Nines (transform a store-bought cake) Sheet pan pancakes Ree’s sheet pan pancakes Even faster sheet pan pancakes (with Bisquick!) FOR THE HOME DIY Snow globe scenes Inexpensive bottle brush trees Make an icicle hallway FOR THE TREE Evergreen pipe cleaners Kelly’s tree timer LightKeeper Pro Holiday Light Repair Tool Christmas tree water sensor SIGHTS AND SOUNDS Cedar Cranberry Luminaries Holiday stovetop potpourri (Bonus: give it as a gift!) MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 362: Re-imagining Our Holidays Ep. 270: Hallmark and Chill: Cozy Movies for Your Holiday Season Ep. 224: Favorite Holiday Traditions: Yours & Ours Ep. 220: How to be Awesome with Holiday Giving Ep. 218: Do This now for a Less-Stress Holiday Season! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a party, and of COURSE you are invited, Awesome! As the holiday season kicks off, we want to make sure you are ready for every gift exchange you are invited to, so the Sorta Awesome team is throwing a Favorite Things party just for you! Tune in to hear what each person on the team picked to get you all ready for the gift-giving days ahead! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Everlywell: Go to Everlywell.com/awesome for 20% off your next at-home lab test *Raycon: Go to BUYRAYCON.com/sorta and use code EARLYBF to get 20% off SITEWIDE! Or get 30% off Raycon’s exclusive holiday bundles! *Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: REBEKAH’S FAVORITE THINGS: Free Day Popcorn Zig Clean Color Dot Pens SARA’S FAVORITE THINGS: Papermate Flair felt tip pens Celestial Seasonings Bengal Spice tea KATIE’S FAVORITE THING: This is not a book about Benedict Cumberbatch, Tabitha Carvan SUPER STAR PICKS FOR FOOD/COOKING: Bentgo Salad Container Mini Measuring Cup Eat Like a Gilmore cookbook LORI LYNN’S FAVORITE THING: ELF Cosmetics no-budge shadow sticks KATHRYN’S FAVORITE THING: super soft face washcloth JULIE’S FAVORITE THING: benefit Highbrow highlighter SUPER STAR PICKS FOR SELF-CARE Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub Soap and Glory body butter Mario Badescu mini facial spray MINDY’S FAVORITE THING: Tim Tam Slam EMILY’S FAVORITE THING: Better Homes and Gardens candle Farm Apple Pumpkin candle More fun SUPER STAR PICKS; Sip Caddy Zebra Sarasa Retractable gel pen KELLY’S FAVORITE THINGS: Dowdle puzzles Woodfire Candle Co - Jelly Jar Wood Wick Soy Candle (favorite scent: Sweater Weather!) Béquet Celtic Sea Salt Caramels Trader Joe's frozen croissants MEG’S FAVORITE THINGS Olivewood Cutting board (TJ’s or on Amazon) Hoop earrings MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 357 Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2021 Ep. 263: Awesome Haul: Black-owned businesses Ep. 222 Sorta Awesome Holiday gift guide 2019! Ep. 171 Sorta Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2018 Extra Awesome: Holiday Gift Guide 2017 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here on Sorta Awesome, our very first call to action was about discovering the awesome in the everyday, and that mantra has evolved into LOVE WHAT YOU LOVE. But for some of us (many of us?!), finding the freedom to pursue joy can be challenging. Today, Meg and Rebekah dig into what happens in our lives - to us and those around us - when we allow ourselves to celebrate the things we love, no matter what those things might be. If you need a big dose of freedom to feel joy, this conversation is for you! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Bare Necessities: Get 20% off your order at BareNecessities.com and use code awesome20 Issuu: Get started with Issu for FREE today or sign up for an annual premium account and get 50% off at Issuu.com/podcast and use promo code AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches Rebekah’s AotW: Olive & June Quick Dry Polish (SIMPLYREBEKAH20 for 20% off any system) This is not a book about Benedict Cumberbatch: The Joy of Loving Something—Anything—Like Your Life Depends On It, Tabitha Carvan MORE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 392 Romance Starter Pack Part 1 Ep. 393 Romance Starter Pack Part 2 Ep. 377 How to REALLY love yourself! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One universal truth unites us all - life is hard right now! But we want to make life just a little bit easier if we can, so join Meg and Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman as they share with you all kinds of pro-tips and products that can help things just a tad bit easier (and definitely more awesome!). From recipes to gift ideas to skin care hacks to music to be productive and music to help you focus, they have suggestions and recommendations for everyone! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *LUS Brands: Get 15% off your first purchase of $50 or more when you go to LUSbrands.com and enter promo code AWESOME *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Julie’s AotW: Taylor Swift’s Midnights Related article: NPR Midnights music review Related article: Taylor Swift conspiracy theories at Vox Meg’s AotW: Rare Beauty lip souffle: Transform Rare Beauty Kind Words matte lipstick in Fun JULIE’S LIST: Zwilling Fresh and Save Ayr gel Chloraseptic spray Julie’s homemade medicine ball recipe: 1 bag Teavana Jade Citrus Mint tea (or other citrus mint tea like Tazo Zen) 1 bag Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea (or other peach flavored tea) 2 T honey 8 oz hot water 8 oz steamed lemonade (I microwave mine) Optional but not necessary – one pump peppermint syrup Heat your water and lemonade either separately or together, put in your tea bags and honey, let it steep for a few minutes and enjoy! Vicks VapoShower Soothing Vapors Tablets Shower steamers: Etsy Allie Bennett on Spotify  SkinFix Excema + Hand Repair cream U brands soft touch catalina felt tip pens Li’l davinci art cabinet Alarm clock Cookbook: Dinner in One - exceptional and easy one pan meals Recipe: Slow cooker turkey meatballs MEG’S LIST: Abzu soundtrack on Spotify Finishing Touch Facial Hair Remover Glamnetic Brush On Nail Glue KISS acrylic press-on nails, real short length Kodiak cups MORE JULIE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 281 We're obsessed! Ep. 336 Go through our EMPTIES with us! Ep. 364 We're obsessed: life hacks we swear by! Ep. 375 10 Inexpensive purchases that improved our lives You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It seems like perimenopause is a buzzing trend word right now, but how do you know if you are experiencing the signs that you’ve been initiated into the club? Midlife with Mindy and Meg is back, and this week, they are talking about the symptoms, signs, and signals that our bodies give us about this season of change. Plus, they share some inspiring information on moving our bodies, even and especially when we don’t feel like it! They’ve got a motion sickness solution and the most comfy clogs of the season in Awesome of the Week! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CozyEarth: Go to cozyearth.com to get 35% off site wide when you use code AWESOME *Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase *Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: Hion Anti-Motion Sickness Smart Glasses Meg’s AotW: Birkenstock Tokio shoes at Kith or Birkenstock or Amazon MORE MID-LIFE EPISODES FROM SORTA AWESOME: Ep. 380: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Brain Fog and Cycle Chaos Ep. 389: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Nonstop Appetite & Historical Hysteria Ep. 395: Let’s Talk About Midlife: Parenting Our Parents and Life in the Middle Ep. 401: Let’s Talk About Midlife: The Ups and Downs of Sex! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy on Instagram and as a regular on the Currently Reading podcast! Mindy also produced and created Bookend Homeschoolers. Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Times are tough for so many of us right now, and the thought of the holidays approaching might make the season feel even more stressful. But don’t worry - Meg and Rebekah have got you covered! This week, their conversation is filled with ideas and inspiration that you can start doing now to help make the holidays just as fun as ever, even if we need to be more frugal! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon And! Check out Rebekah’s very awesome debrief of her trip to Austin to see Harry Styles over on our Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CozyEarth: Go to cozyearth.com to get 35% off site wide when you use code AWESOME *Rocket Money: Cancel unneccessary subscriptions with Rocket Money today. Go to RocketMoney.com/awesome. *Issuu: Get started with Issuu today for FREE or sign up for an annual premium account and get 50% off when you go to issuu.com/podcast and use promo code AWESOME. SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: Burn After Writing Rebekah’s AotW: Every Single Album (podcast) Food: Rebekah's Favorite Soup Recipes 35 Comforting Depression-Era Desserts Activities: Rebekah's Favorite Nativity Themed Picture Books Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt Printables Giving: Amazon Price Checking at CamelCamelCamel.com Sorta Awesome's Amazon Affiliate Link: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon Follow on Instagram for Deals: @SortaAwesomeShow @SimplyRebekah @TheMoneySavingMom @JessicaNTurner Subscription Ideas: Kiwi Co Crate Book of The Month GameFly Casely Dollar Tree Stocking Stuffer Ideas Neighbor Gift Ideas Part 1 Neighbor Gift Ideas Part 2 Neighbor Gift Ideas Part 3 Stovetop Potpourri Recipe & Printable More episodes from Sorta Awesome Holiday Gift Guide 2017 Ep. 179 Five Clever Clutter Solutions You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know one of the TOP stressors in life is moving. Moving house, moving cities, moving countries … no matter how close or far away you are going, it can be so hard! But what if it could be a little more awesome? Meg welcomes Kate Nixon Anania back to Sorta Awesome this week, and Kate has acquired TONS of experience moving through the years, and she is excited to share her wisdom with you, Awesomes! Plus some bookish picks perfect for the season in Awesome of the Week! As you are shopping Amazon this season, don’t forget that you can support Sorta Awesome for FREE when you shop through our affiliate link: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CozyEarth: Go to cozyearth.com to get 35% off site wide when you use code AWESOME *LUS Brands: Get 15% off your first purchase of $50 or more when you go to LUSbrands.com and enter promo code AWESOME *Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: SORTA AWESOME AMAZON: sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon Meg’s AotW: The House Witch: A Humorous Romantic Fantasy as recommended by Awesome Meredith of Currently Reading podcast) Kate’s AotW: The Scholomance Series Twenties in Your Pocket: A twenty-something’s guide to money management (Kate’s book!) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kate's book Twenties in your Pocket on Amazon and find more from her on her website twentiesinyourpocket.com! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Break out the apple cider and grab a pumpkin for painting (or carving, if you’re old school!) - it’s time once again for YOUR awesome list for the season ahead! Meg and Kelly are DELIGHTED to bring you the list of all things awesome for autumn 2022 including recipes, fashion trends, entertainment, fall fragrances and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *CozyEarth: Go to cozyearth.com to get 35% off site wide when you use code AWESOME *Faherty: Go to fahertybrand.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME at checkout to get 15% off SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Shoyu Ramen at Costco Meg’s AotW: Maple Greek Frappe from this TikTok 1 tsp instant coffee 1 tsp maple sugar 1 tsp light brown sugar Ice Milk of your choice Inexpensive milk/coffee frother KELLY’S FALL LIST: Electric lighter Korean Beef Bowls from Damn Delicious Royal Cinnamon from Burlap & Barrel Natural textures for decorating your home (like woven pumpkins and dried arrangements!) MEG’S FALL LIST: Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney+ Taylor Swift’s Midnights album Woman Without Shame by Sandra Cisneros House of Gloi pumpkin butter Ghost Puffs scent Sugar and Spite perfumed spray in Hellsville Sweet Water Decor reed diffuser Leaves of Leisure Autumn Breeze tea Tattersall Cranberry Liqueur Big ol’ blanket—like this or this or this! Cargo pants Clogs Maxi skirts PAST FALL LIST EPISODES: Ep. 349: AWESOME LIST FOR FALL 2021! Ep. 262: The AWESOME List for Fall 2020! Ep. 215: Awesome List for Fall 2019 Ep. 166: The Awesome List Fall 2018 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! This post may contain affiliate links, which means we receive a tiny commission from the seller at no additional cost to you, if you purchase from them. We only share products and services we have used, tested, and love ourselves! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Take a break from your September stress and get SILLY with Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah as they play another round of WOULD YOU RATHER. This time, the questions were asked by you, the Awesome community! From reading romance novels out loud in public to ruining your favorite shoes with dog poo to the most BRUTAL questions personalized for each of them, these three are more than happy to keep you guessing with their deliberations! (Check out Ep. 400 Would You Rather? 4 vs 400 edition here!) HEY AWESOME! Wondering what on earth to wear this autumn season? Alison Lumbatis of Outfit Formulas has the answer to everything you need to know to look and feel great in the months to come. Check out the FALL 2022 CAPSULE WARDROBE available now! (Sorta Awesome affiliate link) THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *LUS Brands: Get up to 15% sitewide at LUSbrands.com! *Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase *Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Custom Cookbooks from SimplyCookbooks.com Kellys' AotW: Mini Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries Meg’s AotW: The Violin Conspiracy: A Novel (Kelly’s BONUS AotW: 'The Violin Conspiracy' is a musical who-done-it with deep notes) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From picture books read to us as children to our first visits to the public library to the school-assigned reading that ended up changing out lives, all of us can point to books that have made us the people we have grown to be. This week, Meg welcomes Sorta Awesome regular for books and reading Katie Proctor back to the show, and they each bring a list of books that have shaped the people (and the readers) they are today. Don’t miss this conversation about their most meaningful reads! Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion of Tabitha Carvan’s This Is NOT A Book About Benedict Cumberbatch: the joy of loving something - anything - like your life depends on it.! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *Rocket Money: Cancel unneccessary subscriptions with Rocket Money today. Go to RockeyMoney.com/awesome. *Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: contains affiliate links Katie’s AotW: Liquid IV Meg’s AotW: Sephora #LIPSTORIES Lipstick Katie’s list: Babysitter’s Club Series by Ann M Martin Amazon | Bookshop American Girl Series Amazon Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech Amazon | Bookshop The Iliad by Homer Amazon Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Amazon | Bookshop One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez Amazon | Bookshop The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares Amazon | Bookshop The Hurried Child by David Elkind Amazon | Bookshop A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving Amazon | Bookshop Daring Greatly by Brené Brown Amazon | Bookshop Inspired by Rachel Held Evans Amazon | Bookshop The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer Amazon | Bookshop Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi Amazon | Bookshop Meg’s list Face on the Milk Carton by Carolyn B Cooney Amazon | Bookshop The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin Amazon | Bookshop The Road from Home by David Kherdian Amazon | Bookshop Beloved by Toni Morrison Amazon | Bookshop Complete Poems of ee. Cummings Amazon | Bookshop The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold Amazon | Bookshop Jesus for President by Shane Claiborne and Chris Haw Amazon Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning Amazon | Bookshop Jesus Feminist by Sarah Bessey Amazon | Bookshop Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosch Amazon | Bookshop Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson Amazon | Bookshop The Universal Christ by Richard Rohr Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our Midlife with Mindy & Meg series is back this week, and in this conversation, Meg and Mindy get physical - physically uncomfortable, that is! Two issues that challenge many women in midlife are hot flashes and changes to our skin. Tune in to hear real-talk conversations about how these are impacting the quality of life for both Meg and Mindy, and join them in feeling conflicted about what to do about anti-aging skin products and routines! Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion in September! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: Drive-a-Logue Meg’s AotW: Heartstopper: webtoon, books, and TV show! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! You can also find her as a co-host on the Currently Reading podcast! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the secret to knowing how to make friends and to deeply enjoy your friendships is hidden in the story of your childhood? That's what Meg is discussing today with Dr. Marisa G. Franco whose new book Platonic: How The Science Of Attachment Can Help You Make - And Keep - Friends explores the connection between attachment theory and friendship. Tune in to hear what Dr. Franco has discovered in her research that can help change everything for the friendships in your life! Come join the conversation in the Sorta Awesome Hangout group! Find Dr. Marisa G. Franco on her website, Instagram, and Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For some, it’s the most wonderful time of the year; for others, it’s the most chaotic! Whether or not you have school age kids, there’s something so energizing about the back to school season! Today, Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman, and they have SO MUCH to share with you to make this back to school season more awesome than ever! From favorite products to tips and tricks for kids AND grown-ups to recipes to get back into the school year groove, you do not want to miss this conversation! Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion in September! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: *LUS Brands: Get 15% off your first purchase of $50 or more when you go to LUSbrands.com and enter promo code AWESOME *Faherty: Go to fahertybrand.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME at checkout to get 20% off SHOW NOTES: Julie’s AotW: Tower 28 ShineOn Milky Jelly in Sesame (lip gloss) Meg’s AotW: Only Murders in the Building on Hulu. (Sign up today for a Hulu Free Trial using our affiliate link!) Takeya water bottles Mdesign water bottle holder Museum gel (holds things still in cabinets/on shelves) OxyClean max force gel stick Fun socks for kids Grown-up bento lunchbox Bentgo lunchbox for little kids Freezer pack-it snack pack, lunch box Cool composition notebooks like this and this Cute pencil cases Shout wipes Project organizer with dividers and folders in the kitchen (similar to Sunday basket) Task bracelets: bracelets and key tags 20 minute candles on Etsy Milk Street: Cookish: Throw It Together: Big Flavors. Simple Techniques. 200 Ways to Reinvent Dinner How to freeze rice Lisa’s stir fry:  1 tablespoon canola oil  12 ounces flank steak, chicken or tofu cut diagonally across the grain into thin slices  1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips (or broccoli, or snap peas - whatever you have!) 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips  3 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce 1 1/2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger (or the minced/jarred paste) 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (such as Lee Kum Kee) 4 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces (I usually skip this, still great!) 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds (I usually skip this, still great!) Preparation Total: 20 Minutes 1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add steak to pan; cook 2 minutes, searing on one side. Add bell peppers; cook 2 minutes or until beef loses its pink color, stirring constantly. Remove beef mixture from pan. 2. Add soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and chili garlic sauce to pan; bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute or until slightly thickened. Add beef mixture and green onions to pan; toss well to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As promised, this week Meg and Rebekah return to the listener mailbag to uncover the questions that you want answered! The Awesomes have questions for these two, and they don’t disappoint in their answers. Topics include how Meg became so soggy after years of being crunchy, the fictional world they each want to live in, the podcasts THEY are obsessing over and more! Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion in September! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at rocketmoney.com/AWESOME Butcher Box: Sign up today at butcherbox.com/AWESOME and use code BONUS100 to get 1 pack of free bacon in EVERY box for the life of your membership PLUS $100 off your first order SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Ticket to Ride Meg’s AotW: Laurel & June fragrances Redmond Real Salt How Rebekah Set Up Her Toy Rotation System FAQ About Toy Rotation Rebekah;s current podcast obessions: Love To See It podcast Fated Mates podcast Meg’s current podcast obsessions: Obsessed with Disappeared Normal Gossip Scam Goddess You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's EXTRA Awesome time, friends! In this conversation, Meg welcomes Super Star Awesome Kate Nixon Anania back to Sorta Awesome, and yes, they are talking about food again! Kate and her family have been eating less meat and more plants for the past few years, and she has some fantastic insights to share about how to make this work for you and your family in very awesome ways! Family grain bowl (Vinaigrette) Sheet pan roasted gnocci Garlicky lentils on toast Cashew honey tofu (How to cook tofu) Buttery Moong Dal (Tan France's version) Mango Pickle Cooking with Beyond and Impossible Meat cookbook Sorta Tasty Facebook group Find Kate's book Twenties in your Pocket - Amazon and find more from her on her website twentiesinyourpocket.com For more awesome in the everyday, follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram or join our community in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the rom-com dead? Are the romantic comedies of the 1980s, 90s, and early 2000s just relics of the past? This week, Meg welcomes Mary Carver back to Sorta Awesome, and wow does she have some great insights into the current state of rom-coms! Meg and Mary talk about new trends in inclusivity in this genre of film along with other ways the romantic comedy has been updated for 2022 audiences. Mary brought a TON of recommendations (in spreadsheet form!) for you to check out, too! Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion in September! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: LUS Brands: Get 15% off your first purchase of $50 or more when you go to LUSbrands.com and enter promo code AWESOME Butcher Box: Sign up today at butcherbox.com/AWESOME and use code BONUS100 to get 1 pack of free bacon in EVERY box for the life of your membership PLUS $100 off your first order Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout SHOW NOTES: Mary’s AoTW: Troublemaker by Leah Remini (audiobook) Meg’s AotW: PictureThis app You Grow, Gurl by Christoper Griffin Mary’s movie spreadsheet Prayers from the Parking Lot: 50 Short Reflections for Moms on the Go (Mary’s new devotional!) The Couch Podcast with Mary Carver Visit Mary’s website and follow her on IG! Listen to her podcast The Couch Podcast with Mary Carver. And be sure to order her new devotional for moms called Prayers from the Parking Lot: 50 Short Reflections for Moms on the Go! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m so excited to introduce the Smart Girl’s Podcast, the latest show launched by the American Girl Podcast Network. The Smart Girl’s Podcast brings to life the popular advice books on growing up dealing with topics ranging from body, mental health, social media, friendships, embarrassing moments, crushes, and so much more. Hosted by 16 year old actress + writer Shay Rudolph (from Netflix’s The Babysitters Club) and cultural expert and educator Jess Weiner, these hosts bring a fun, multi-generational dynamic to the show and share candid, practical advice alongside experts and celebrity guests all about the issues tweens, teens, and their parents face growing up in today’s world. I hope you tune in and subscribe to the Smart Girl’s Podcast on the American Girl Podcast Network! apple.co/smartgirls The Smart Girl's Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Career changes. Health issues. Family shake-ups. Extreme burnout. Throughout life, all of us will face moments when we choose to (or are forced to) make big changes that can shake up our sense of identity. This week, Meg and Kelly process through this together as they reflect on moments when they’ve asked themselves this question: “Who am I if I’m not THIS?” (Pssst - they share some helpful suggestions on how to recover your sense of self, too!) Come be a part of our Patreon community and join in our FIRST book club discussion in September! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star Awesome! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide Butcher Box: Sign up today at butcherbox.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME to get 1 pack of free bacon in EVERY box for the life of your membership PLUS $10 off your first order SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: MamaMango Moscato Meg’s AotW: Magical Mindset Moments podcast Sorta Awesome Ep. 128: Love Your Body, Change Your World with Jen Hoffman Sorta Awesome Ep. 273: A Must-Listen to Heal from 2020 for an Awesome 2021! Sorta Awesome Ep. 193: Stressed Out, Burned Out and Ready to Recover Slate article: Rob Lowe on sending his son off to college True You: Letting Go of Your False Self to Uncover the Person God Created Come As You Are Amazon | Bookshop Burnout Amazon | Bookshop This Is Not A Book About Benedict Cumberbatch Amazon | Bookshop Your Blue Flame Amazon | Bookshop Well + Good article: 13 Steps to Finding Yourself—It’s Not Your Average Game of Hide-and-Seek You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We would love to introduce you to “Humble & Hungry,” a podcast for moms, storytellers and lovers of life. Tune in weekly as you follow host, Natalie Puche, embark on her new journey in motherhood, keeping up with her chef fiancé, and blindly navigating through her 30’s the only way she knows best…humbly and hopefully not hangrily.  apple.co/humble Humble & Hungry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wish you had someone to hold your hand at the hair salon and tell you exactly what is going to work best for your hair? How many times have you gotten home from getting your hair done, only to realize you hate it? Our hair is such an important part of our style, but most of us don’t know where to turn for expert advice on what will help us look and feel great! Today, Meg is joined by Jenny Eversole, the creator of Style Space - a company dedicated to helping everyone look and feel as awesome as they are! Tune in to hear why people have bad experiences in the salon and how to avoid hair heartbreak along with some great do’s and don’t for amazing hair! Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in the world around us, but you can be a light in the darkness with your support for Sorta Awesome and all of our communities when you become a Sorta Awesome SUPER STAR! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Rothys: Get $20 off your first purchase at rothys.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s lipstick organizer, earring box, and new favorite pens! Book a Hair Styling Consultation with Christina To get a free guide for discovering your dream style, download your guide at www.stylespace.com You can also book any styling session in clothing, hair, makeup or skincare with an expert stylist. Click here to get style matched! Christina's Top 3 Product Links for dry shampoo: Kenra Professional Dry Volume Burst 3 OGX Extra Strength Refresh & Restore + Coconut Miracle Oil Dry Shampoo Cake Beauty the All Powderful Tinted Dry Shampoo Powder Pro haircare tip: Christina recommends doing an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse 1x a month to balance the Ph of your scalp. This also hinders bacteria, adds shine and luster to your hair. While in the shower, massage 1/2 a cup of apple cider vinegar (with the mother in it) into your scalp. Leave on up to 5 minutes. Rinse very well.  (or you will smell like a salad). BRAGG Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Jenny on Instagram and at https://www.stylespace.com! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Midlife with Mindy and Meg series here on Sorta Awesome! For this midlife conversation, Meg and Mindy open the door to conversation about the part of midlife that can be the most surprising, the most emotional, the most challenging, and the most exciting - our sex lives! Tune in to hear them have the kind of frank, honest, and transparent conversation that you need when it comes to the challenges of sex after 35, as well as some of the thrills and awesome discoveries! Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in the world around us, but you can be a light in the darkness with your support for Sorta Awesome and all of our communities when you become a Sorta Awesome SUPER STAR! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase Hiya: Go to hiyahealth.com/AWESOME and receive 50% off your first order SHOW NOTES: Noah Kavan’s Stick Season (fun covers on TikTok from @ratthew413 @imisabeldumaa @moiraandclaire and this clever version from @maisiehpeters ) Sorta Awesome sponsors Dame Products (code AWESOME for 15% off sitewide) and Foria Wellness (code AWESOME for 20% off) Come As You Are, Dr. Emily Nagoski Dataclysm: Love, Sex, Race, and Identity--What Our Online Lives Tell Us about Our Offline Selves Hey Vulva Owners, Your Sexual Peak May Last Longer Than You Think You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! You can also find her as a co-host on the Currently Reading podcast! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four hundred is a LOT, you guys! And no one knows that better than Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah - ESPECIALLY after playing five rounds of Would You Rather? to celebrate 400 episodes of Sorta Awesome! You do NOT want to miss the laughs, the tears, and the moral dilemmas your three favorite friends find themselves sharing in this super-sized episode! There are no words to describe it - just hit play and find out for yourself! Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in the world around us, but you can be a light in the darkness with your support for Sorta Awesome and all of our communities when you become a Sorta Awesome SUPER STAR! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Go to patreon.com/sortaawesome to become a Super Star! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Faherty: Go to fahertybrand.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME at checkout to get 20% off Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide Butcher Box: Sign up today at butcherbox.com/AWESOME and use code AWESOME to get 1 pack of free bacon in EVERY box for the life of your membership PLUS $10 off your first order SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: CrockPot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Kelly’s AotW: Ms. Marvel on Disney+ AND Only Murders in the Building on Hulu (Get a FREE trial with our affiliate link!) Meg’s AotW: The Summer I Turned Pretty (the show and the book!) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are closing in on 400 episodes of Sorta Awesome, you guys! And back at the beginning of the show, Meg and the team loved tackling listener questions. This week, Meg invites Rebekah to go back to their roots as they answer questions from you - the Awesomes! From the podcast origin story to dealing with DMs to whether or not they ever ever ever plan to meet in person and SO MUCH MORE, they get REAL with their answers! Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in the world around us, but you can be a light in the darkness with your support for Sorta Awesome and all of our communities when you become a Sorta Awesome SUPER STAR! You’ll get exclusive content every month plus hundreds of hours of Super Star episodes to download and binge right now! And bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! Come join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout Hiya: Go to hiyahealth.com/AWESOME and receive 50% off your first order Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey (Netflix) Meg’s AotW: Kate Bush Runnin’ Up That Hill Two Bossy Dames newsletter Cloudbusting/Ecto playlist on Spotify Sorta Awesome Ep. 99: Learning Into the Squirm: How to talk to your kids about bodies, sex, and sexuality Sorta Awesome Ep. 137 Coming Out Conversations with Brett Trapp (Now BT Harman) Sorta Awesome Ep 192: Heartbreak, doubt, and finding faith through the storms You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’ve been missing her, Awesome Nation, but today Sorta Awesome regular Emily Massenburg is back on the show! Meg’s sister is here to dive into conversation with her about the wonderful world of dupes, duplicates, and alternatives to favorite products so you can avoid the big price tags and feel great! They’ve got a BUNCH of dupes to share for skin care, makeup, and lifestyle products, plus sunscreen talk and The Bear in Awesome of the Week! Wanna hear the behind-the-scenes details on Emily’s wedding and DREAM honeymoon in Greece? She was on the Awesome Overflow for June 2022, and so it’s a great time become a Super Star and get access to HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive, never-heard-before episodes! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Dame: Go to dameproducts.com and enter code AWESOME for 15% off site wide Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: The Bear on Hulu (Use our affiliate link to sign up for Hulu—$1/month for three months!) Emily’s AotW: Black Girl Sunscreen Brandefy app Em's Dupes: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% e.l.f. 16 Hour Camo Concealer Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer Loreal Infallible Fresh Foundation Meg's Dupes: Bioderma Micellar Water Neutrogena Hydroboost water gel moisturizer Equate brand water gel moisturizer Laneige sleeping mask for lips CARE:NEL sleeping mask Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk FLOWER beauty Petal Pout NARS Blush in Orgasm Milani baked blush in Luminoso Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand Makeup Revolution Eye Bright Concealer MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Wet N Wild Photo Focus Pressed Powder Women’s Mad Love Keava Footbed Sandals Real Techniques beauty sponge COWIN E7 Noise cancelling headphones You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Emily on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first half of 2022 is in the books, and Meg and Kelly are feeling energized to reflect on the months we’ve made it through so far, and they are definitely thinking about what’s to come in the remainder of 2022. Come join their conversation as they check in with goals and get retrospective and contemplative about how they are caring for mind, body, and soul so far this year! Looking for a summer podcast binge? It’s a great time become a Super Star and get access to HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive, never-heard-before episodes! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Hiya: Go to hiyahealth.com/AWESOME and receive 50% off your first order Shopify: Go to shopify.com/awesome for a FREE fourteen day trial and get full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features Rothys: Get $20 off your first purchase at rothys.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Jen Hatmaker Meg’s AotW: All the Feels, Olivia Dade You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fire up those library cards, gather up those bookstore gift cards, and charge up your earbuds because if there’s one thing we know our Awesomes love, it’s summer reading - no beach required! This week, Meg is joined by books and reading regular Katie Proctor, and Katie has a whole list of readerly delights to look forward to reading, discussing, and loving in summer 2022! Looking for a summer podcast binge? It’s a great time become a Super Star and get access to HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive, never-heard-before episodes! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today and get $80 in free groceries. Go to thrivemarket.com/awesome! Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome Fuzzy: Go to yourfuzzy.com/awesome for a FREE 7-day trial membership Organifi: Go to organifi.com and use code AWESOME for 15% off any item in the store SHOW NOTES: contains affiliate links Katie’s AotW: Native Sensitive Deodorant in Rose Meg’s AotW: Rare Beauty Universal Strokes mascara Contemporary Fiction with Great Characters, Themes, and Representation: True Biz by Sara Novic Amazon | Bookshop Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Amazon | Bookshop The Guncle by Stephen Rowley Amazon | Bookshop Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Amazon | Bookshop MG: Frankie & Bug by Gayle Forman Amazon | Bookshop NF Essays: These Precious Days  by Ann Patchett Amazon | Bookshop Love that Story by Jonathan Van Ness Amazon | Bookshop World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil Amazon | Bookshop NF Memoir: I Take My Coffee Black by Tyler Merritt Amazon | Bookshop Bomb Shelter by Mary Laura Philpott Amazon | Bookshop V SPICY Romance: Book Lovers by Emily Henry Amazon | Bookshop A Caribbean Heiress in Paris by Adriana Herrera Amazon | Bookshop Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know you’ve been hoping Mindy Brouse would be back on Sorta Awesome soon, and your wish has been granted! The Midlife with Mindy and Meg series returns today, and Meg and Mindy are opening the conversation that many, many of us are needing right now - how do we make the transition to caring for our aging parents? And HOW are we supposed to do all of that while our own children are navigating brand new territory as adults, too? There are no easy answers, but there is compassionate conversation to be had! Looking for a summer podcast binge! It’s a great time become a Super Star and get access to HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive, never-heard-before episodes! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Organifi: Go to organifi.com and use code AWESOME for 15% off any item in the store Hiya: Go to hiyahealth.com/AWESOME and receive 50% off your first order LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Mindy’s AotW: The Change by Kirsten Miller Amazon | Bookshop Meg’s AotW: Legends and Lattes, Travis Baldree Mindy’s notes: Wizard for Hire by Obert Skye Amazon | Bookshop Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett Amazon | Bookshop The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo Amazon | Bookshop The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher Amazon | Bookshop A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza Amazon | Bookshop Bookend Homeschoolers: Hanging Our Hat on How Our Kids Turn Out S2E24 Parenthood TV Show CLICK OVER TO SHOW NOTES to read Mindy's article! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! You can also find her as a co-host on the Currently Reading podcast! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here we are again! Time for another LIST OF AWESOME to make sure your summer 2022 absolutely rocks! Join Meg and Kelly in this conversation about ten things (well, plus a few more) that will bring the sparkly goodness to YOUR summer groove! From recipes and kitchen hacks to summer beauty and swimming gear, they’ve got you all set up with everything you need to know for the season ahead. Looking for a summer podcast binge! It’s a great time become a Super Star and get access to HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive, never-heard-before episodes! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and bonus - get our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Organifi: Go to organifi.com and use code AWESOME for 15% off any item in the store Fabric: Apply today in just 10 minutes at meetfabric.com/awesome Manscaped: Get 20% + free shipping with the code AWESOME at manscaped.com Upside: Download the FREE Upside app and use promo code awesome to get $5 or more cash back on your first purchase of $10 or more SHOW NOTES: Sorta Awesome Summer Facebook group Meg’s AotW: mymind Kelly’s AotW: Workin' Moms Season 6 (Netflix) MEG’S LIST: Salad Freak Betty Buzz Love and Sage tinted lip balms Kopari Mineral Face Shield Pool float Inkbox temporary tattoos Domenique Dumont on Spotify KELLY’S LIST: Q-Swiper BBQ Grill Cleaner set Press hard seltzer How to keep your guac from turning brown Swimline double mattress Atlantic Beach Pie You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Meg and Rebekah brought you Part 1 of their SUPER-SIZED Romance Starter Pack. Today, you are getting Part 2 AND (!!!) a brand-new double delightful Awesome of the Week from each of them. Tune in to have a Harry’s House mini-listening party and get into the Stranger Things spirit! Then things really heat up when they share with you some super sizzling romance books to keep your summer spicy! Not into the romance novel thing? NO WORRIES! We got you! Come over to our Patreon where Meg and Julie just released a full-length Awesome Overflow for May that is PACKED with incredible finds! It’s super easy to sign up at patreon.com/sortaawesome and you’ll get hundreds of hours of Super Star exclusive episodes along with our texting number so you can send us your thoughts anytime! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Olive and June: Visit oliveandjune.com/awesome for 20% off your first Mani System! Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Shopify: Go to shopify.com/awesome for a FREE fourteen day trial and get full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features Fuzzy: Go to yourfuzzy.com/awesome for a FREE 7-day trial membership SHOW NOTES: Harry Styles Harry's House Harry's House REVERSED As It Was music video Harry & James Corden making a music video in 3 hours in a random fan's apartment Stranger Things Season 4, Vol 1 Stranger Things playlist on Spotify Stranger Things Season 4 Easter Eggs and Reference Guide (SPOILERS!) Open Door, but Skim-Able Whiteout by Adriana Anders (free on Kindle Unlimited) Amazon | Bookshop The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood Amazon | Bookshop Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas Amazon | Bookshop The Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren Amazon | Bookshop Swordheart by T. Kingfisher Amazon | Bookshop Wide Open Door The Royals Next Door by Karina Halle Amazon | Bookshop A Nordic King by Karina Halle (a bonus recommendation & free on Kindle Unlimited) Amazon | Bookshop The Takeover by TL Swan (free on Kindle Unlimited) Amazon | Bookshop Parallel by Elle O’Roark (free on Kindle Unlimited) Amazon Intersect by Elle O'Roark (free on Kindle Unlimited) Amazon Sweet Filthy Boy by Christina Lauren Amazon | Bookshop Her Soul to Take by Harley Laroux Amazon You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to get your summer started in a very fun, very sexy way? Meg and Rebekah have put together the ultimate romance book starter pack just for you, Awesomes! And this conversation was SO SUPER SIZED that they had to break it down into two parts! Today, all of the Awesomes get part 1 of their conversation that introduces you to some great closed-door and fade-to-black romance novels. Super Start Awesomes who support Sorta Awesome on Patreon will get part 2 today, too! For everyone else, come back next week for a fresh new Awesome of the Week and part 2 of their conversation on romance novels. Spoiler: part 2 is where they get REALLY SPICY! So yes, today is a great day to become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive podcast episodes to download and binge right now, plus get our texting number so you can REALLY share your thoughts! Join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Rothys: Get $20 off your first purchase at rothys.com/AWESOME Stitch Fix Kids: Try today at stitchfixkids.com/awesome and get 25% off when you keep everything in your Kid’s Fix Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today and get 40% off your first order AND a FREE gift worth over fifty dollars. Go to thrivemarket.com/awesome! Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase SHOW NOTES: View the Romance Book Starter Pack on our Bookshop list! (affiliate link) Get 3 Audiobooks with a 30-Day Free Trial to audiobooks.com! (affiliate link) Meg’s AotW: Stardust app Rebekah’s AotW: School of Chocolate on Netflix and @amauryguichon on TikTok Fated Mates S03 Ep 45 - Dark Romance Note: all links are affiliate links! Totally Closed Door I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella Amazon | Bookshop The Party Crasher by Sophie Kinsella Amazon | Bookshop Ranee S. Clark books on Amazon Amazon Shipped by Angie Hockman Amazon | Bookshop Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson Amazon | Bookshop Mostly Closed Door (Fade to Black) Life's Too Short by Abby Jimenez Amazon | Bookshop One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London Amazon | Bookshop The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary Amazon | Bookshop Neanderthal Seeks Human by Penny Reid Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey you, before you head out to shop for this year’s summer wear and swimsuits, you NEED to listen to this conversation! Meg is joined by Awesome and fat activist Amanda Martinez Beck who has so much to share with our community about how we can avoid the body shame spiral by changing our understanding of what are bodies are FOR. You do NOT want to miss this conversation! Pass it on to the people in your life who need to hear Amanda’s wisdom, too! AND! It’s the PERFECT time of year to become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive podcast episodes to download and binge right now, plus get our texting number so you can REALLY share your thoughts! Join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Stitch Fix Kids: Try today at stitchfixkids.com/awesome and get 25% off when you keep everything in your Kid’s Fix Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Essence Plumping Nudes Lipgloss (affiliate link) Amanda’s AotW: Jon Batiste’s new record We Are Jon Batiste and Nathaniel Rateliff More of You: The Fat Girl's Field Guide to the Modern World Lovely: How I Learned to Embrace the Body God Gave Me You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Amanda on Instagram, Twitter, or visit her website amandamartinezbeck.com! Buy her books More of You: The Fat Girl's Field Guide to the Modern World and Lovely: How I Learned to Embrace the Body God Gave Me! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it just us, or does it seem like chaos is on the upswing these days? If you need to take a minute (or sixty) to breathe, relax, unclench your jaw, and hang with friends - we got you covered! Join Meg and Kelly this week as they talk through some of the things that are making them so happy right now! From a surprising app that makes moving your body so FUN to the most magical summer scent Meg has ever smelled to something yummy you can take on the go, they will get you set up to enjoy the days ahead! HEY! It’s the PERFECT time of year to become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive podcast episodes to download and binge right now, plus get our texting number so you can REALLY share your thoughts! Join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrivehealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout Genucel: Go to genucel.com/AWESOME and enter code AWESOME for a FREE gift plus an additional 20% off when you purchase their Most Popular Package. Free priority shipping for a limited time too! Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta Fuzzy: Go to yourfuzzy.com/awesome for a FREE 7-day trial membership Stitch Fix Kids: Try today at stitchfixkids.com/awesome and get 25% off when you keep everything in your Kid’s Fix SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: Everything Everywhere All At Once Kelly's AotW: Zinnias Snif: Strawberry Moon The Strategist Substack App Recipe: Banana breakfast cookies These Hawaiian teriyaki bowls The Anthropocene Reviewed (affiliate link) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GET READY, friends! We’ve got the next installment in the Midlife with Mindy & Meg series ready for you today, and you are not going to BELIEVE some of information that gets revealed in this conversation. From the bear-y interesting reasons why you might be feeling hungry all the time to the shocking ideas about women and menopause from centuries past, there is so much must-know info in this discussion! HEY! It’s the PERFECT time of year to become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive podcast episodes to download and binge right now, plus get our texting number so you can REALLY share your thoughts! Join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Olive and June: Visit oliveandjune.com/awesome for 20% off your first Mani System! Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Target’s A New Day Women's High-Rise Wide Leg Linen Pull-On Pants (affiliate link) Mindy’s AotW: Born Cove Modern Sandals in navy (affiliate link) Sketchers sandals Reggae Zig Swag (affiliate link) Fat Bear Week at Katmai National Park (affiliate link) Cheese Its (affiliate link) The Body Keeps the Score (affiliate link) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! You can also find her as a co-host on the Currently Reading podcast! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wearing makeup can be a lot of things - fun, adventurous, creative … we just don’t think it should be stressful! This week, Meg lets loose with her passion for all things makeup to give a little awesome support for anyone who is new to makeup, including the tweens and teens in your life! From basic, minimalist products to starter kits she created for three of her favorite (cruelty-free!) brands, Meg is here to hook you up with everything you need to know whether you are a cosmetics beginner or a beauty product pro! HEY! It’s the PERFECT time of year to become a Sorta Awesome Super Star! You’ll get HUNDREDS of hours of exclusive podcast episodes to download and binge right now, plus get our texting number so you can REALLY share your thoughts! Join us at patreon.com/sortaawesome THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Genucel: Go to genucel.com/AWESOME and enter code AWESOME for a FREE gift plus an additional 20% off when you purchase their Most Popular Package. Free priority shipping for a limited time too! Pair Eyewear: Go to paireyewear.com/AWESOME for 15% off your first purchase Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrivehealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout Rothys: Get $20 off your first purchase at rothys.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Scam Goddess podcast Rebekah’s AotW: Normal People (the book) and the show Normal People on Hulu (get a free trial by using our affiliate link!) Beakey beauty sponges NYX thisiseverything lip oil benefit boi-ing brightening concealer Sorta Awesome NYX Starter Kit Sorta Awesome No7 Starter Kit Sorta Awesome Flower Beauty Starter Kit Pssst! Check out all of Meg and Sorta Awesome’s picks at ShopList! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of our foundational beliefs at Sorta Awesome is that strive to be awesome to ourselves so that we can be awesome to the world around us. This week’s guest has a story that shows just how true that is! Meg sat down with Arkansas Lt. Governor candidate Kelly Krout to talk about how her family’s story led her to a passion for advocating for children, and from that passion, she’s looking to make change in a civic capacity. Tune in to hear how Kelly blends family life with life on the campaign trail, what her kids and husband really think about her being in politics, and how her viral TikTok is helping her make a name with voters! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for one month free of their entire mindfulness library Evite: Go to evite.com/awesome to find beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs in minutes—for free! Thrive Market: Join Thrive Market today and get 40% off your first order AND a FREE gift worth over fifty dollars. Go to thrivemarket.com/awesome! SHOW NOTES: Modern Family (10 reasons why Modern Family is the perfect show to binge) Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls Kelly Krout on TikTok (and don’t miss her VIRAL Elyse Myers inspired TikTok from last fall!) www.kellyforarkansas.com You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok! Also visit www.kellyforarkansas.com! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never have we ever played a game like this on Sorta Awesome! Meg is joined by Kelly and Rebekah to commemorate seven years of Sorta Awesome, and surprises abound when they play a good old-fashioned game of Never Have I Ever. Think you know all of their secrets? Push play and find out! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Raycon: Get 15% off your Raycon order at BUYRAYCON.com/sorta Thrive Causemetics: Get 15% off your first order when you visit thrivecausemetics.com/AWESOME Dipsea: For an extended 30 day free trial go to dipseastories.com/AWESOME Genucel: Go to genucel.com/AWESOME and enter code AWESOME for a FREE gift plus an additional 20% off when you purchase their Most Popular Package. Free priority shipping for a limited time too! Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Kelly's AotW: Automatic cat feeder Rebekah’s AotW: Cheer season 2 (on Netflix) Meg’s AotW: SudShare app You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What book whisked you away into the wonderful world of reading when you were younger? What book written for young teens do you find yourself recommending over and over? This week, Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome’s books and reading regular Katie Proctor, and they are here to shout out ten of their favorites from the middle grade genre of reading! From monkeys in Oklahoma to a magical harmonica and all kinds of beautiful, heart-soaring themes in-between, Meg and Katie will get you excited to check out a middle grade book for your family or for yourself! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Olive and June: Visit oliveandjune.com/awesome for 20% off your first Mani System! Framebridge: Go to framebridge.com and use promo code AWESOME to save an additional 15% off your first order Care/Of: For 50% off your first Care/of order of $40 or more, go to takecareof.com and enter code “awesome50” Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app for FREE then start your search for a top-rated doctor. Factor: Head to go.factor75.com/awesome120 and use code awesome120 to get $120 off SHOW NOTES: AOTW: All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir Amazon | Bookshop Foodbelly.com MIDDLE GRADE BOOKS: Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech Amazon | Bookshop Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech Amazon | Bookshop Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster by Jonathan Auxier Amazon | Bookshop A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat Amazon | Bookshop All Thirteen by Christina Soontornvat Amazon | Bookshop Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan Amazon | Bookshop The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera Amazon | Bookshop Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls Amazon I Bookshop Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Patterson Amazon I Bookshop Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper Amazon I Bookshop When Stars are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson with Omar Mohamed Amazon I Bookshop Pony by RJ Palacio Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is here, and we know you need to know what to look out for to keep life AWESOME these days! Join Meg and Kelly with a list of ten amazing things to bring more color, joy, and fun to your spring season. They have everything from spring-y scents to spring cleaning products for the less-than-motivated to fashion trends from their teenage years that are very much the vibe for Spring 2022 and MORE! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Grove: Go to grove.com/AWESOME and get a free gift set worth up to fifty dollars with your first order Genucel: Go to genucel.com/AWESOME and enter code AWESOME for a FREE gift plus an additional 20% off when you purchase their Most Popular Package. Free priority shipping for a limited time too! Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrivehealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout Daily Harvest: Go to dailyharvest.com/awesome to get up to forty dollars off your first box SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: Twin Flames podcast, Wondery Kelly's AotW: The BEST Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Meg’s List Spring cleaning help: Pink stuff and Wet and Forget Shower Spray Bunny hug greeting cards Window rainbow maker Really real looking artificial tulips cargo pants at Target, parachute pants trend Kelly’s List Candle set at Target (Bonus! Meg’s scent for spring is Poesie Perfumes in Versailles) Strawberry brunette and mahogany blonde hair color https://www.glamour.com/story/mahogany-blonde-hair-trend https://www.byrdie.com/strawberry-brown-hair-ideas-5185460 Homemade peanut sauce Doormat options like this or this (affiliate links) If Life Gives You Lemon, Make Ice Cream, a new spring product at Trader Joe's (Bonus spring items from TJ's: Springle Jangle, Lemon Ricotta Ravioli, grapefruit candle, retinol night serum, Sparkling White Tea with Pomegranate Juice) https://www.traderjoes.com/home/podcast Episode 48 "Spring Has Sprung" You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Meg as she shares some of the most memorable confessions of the podcast! Including a NEVER BEFORE heard confession! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: HelloFresh: Go to hellofresh.com/awesome16 and use code "awesome16" for up to 16 free meals and 3 free gifts. Dipsea: Get 30 days of full access for free when you go to dipseastories.com/awesome Ana Luisa: Go to shop.analuisa.com/awesome and use code "AWESOME" for 10% off. Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Headspace: Go to headspace.com/awesome and get one month free of their entire mindfulness library. You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Kelly and Rebekah as they share favorite family games! Learn some of their personal favorites as well as recommendations for families of all ages and stages! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app for FREE then start your search for a top-rated doctor. LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME LMNT: Go to drinkLMNT.com/AWESOME and get a free LMNT Sample Pack (just cover the cost of shipping) Thrive Causemetics: Get 15% off your first order when you visit thrivecausemetics.com/AWESOME Daily Harvest: Go to dailyharvest.com/awesome to get up to forty dollars off your first box Genucel: Go to genucel.com/AWESOME and enter code AWESOME for a FREE gift plus an additional 20% off when you purchase their Most Popular Package. Free priority shipping for a limited time too! SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Love is Blind Season 2 Kelly’s AotW: Zoom Earth GAMES FOR YOUNG KIDS: Cranium's Hullabaloo (look for it on eBay or Facebook Marketplace) Elefun Balloon Lagoon (another one to look for on eBay or Facebook Marketplace) Connect 4x4 Trouble Candy Land Zingo GAMES FOR OLDER KIDS/FAMILIES Awkward Moment Ravine Nertz Tenzi Qwirkle Most Likely To: Kinda Clean Family Edition Dutch Blitz Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the ultimate girlfriend chat. Rebekah and Kelly take over the podcast this week, to allow Meg to tend to her hospitalized mother. They asked the Awesomes in the Hangout if they had questions they wanted us to tackle - and as usual, the Awesomes delivered. Expect a few life updates, some honest talk about what they are watching these days and what will happen if/when (we're going with when) the Sorta Awesome team ever meets in person. Then they share their favorite frugal meal tips - including a snack from Kelly that shocked Rebekah - and some recipes that work well to feed your people when you are pinching pennies. Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: PrettyLitter: Visit prettylitter.com and use promo code awesome for 20% off your first order Thesis: Go to takethesis.com/AWESOME to get 10% off your first starter kit Care/Of: For 50% off your first Care/of order, go to takecareof.com and enter code “awesome50” Olipop: Receive 20% off plus free shipping. Go to DRINKOLIPOP.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout. Factor: Head to go.factor75.com/awesome120 and use code awesome120 to get $120 off Framebridge: Go to framebridge.com and use promo code AWESOME to save an additional 15% off your first order Evite: Go to evite.com/awesome to find beautiful, one-of-a-kind designs in minutes—for free! SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Cureology Rebekah’s AotW: I Love Hue app Heather Havrilesky on the divine tedium of a long marriage Chicken soup with barley Spicy black beans and rice Curried Lentils Sausage Lentil Rice Skillet Rebekah's 10 Favorite Soup Recipes More With Less Cookbook Additional More With Less Recipes Adapted by Rebekah: Homemade Chicken Fried Rice Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wait, wait! Don’t worry - you are going to want to listen to this conversation no matter what your age or stage of life might be! Our culture has placed a nasty stigma on women’s experiences with midlife, and that has left many of us saying, “No one ever told me this!” But you know you can trust us to get very candid and very real to have the conversations that you won’t find anywhere else. Meg is thrilled to introduce a new Sorta Awesome regular this week — Mindy Brouse will be joining her frequently in a series of conversations all about the ups and downs of the midlife season of life. Tune in to hear them discuss the unexpected challenges of brain fog and the wild and wacky chaos of midlife periods! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: BYJU: Go to BYJUS.com/podcast to sign up for your first class absolutely free Everyplate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.79 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome179 Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout LMNT: Go to drinkLMNT.com/AWESOME and get a free LMNT Sample Pack (just cover the cost of shipping) Dipsea: For an extended 30 day free trial go to dipseastories.com/AWESOME Show notes: Trader Joe’s caramelized onion dip Nick Quah’s 1.5 Speed newsletter Normal Gossip podcast God Spare the Girls, Kelsey McKinney You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us know the thrills and joys of reading, and it’s natural for us to want that love of reading to rub off on the kids in our lives. But not all kids are enthusiastic readers - especially when there are so many screens and things competing for their attention. This week, Meg is joined by her longtime friend and children’s librarian Emily Jones who has some compassionate, thoughtful, and encouraging advice for anyone who wants to encourage reluctant readers. She also brought a ton of suggestions to get even the most skeptical of readers excited to dive in! Plus the cutest sneakers, delicious chocolate, and riveting journalism in Awesome of the Week! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: HelloFresh: Go to hellofresh.com/awesome16 and use code awesome16 for up to 16 free meals AND three free gifts Honeylove: Get 20% off your second item plus an additional 10% off your entire order at honeylove.com with code AWESOME Public Goods: Go to publicgoods.com/awesome or use code AWESOME at checkout to receive $15 off your first order Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrivehealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Ana Luisa: Use code AWESOME to get 10% off at shop.analuisa.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Trojan Horse Affair Emily’s AotW: Madewell tennis shoes (bonus AotW: these chocolate bars) City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab Amazon | Bookshop Kat, Incorrigible by Stephanie Burgis Amazon | Bookshop Gregor the Overlander by Suzanne Collins Amazon | Bookshop Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston Amazon | Bookshop The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett Amazon | Bookshop 100 Cupboards by N.D. Wilson Amazon | Bookshop Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk Amazon | Bookshop View the full list of books at our Bookshop book list here. You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Follow Emily on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Awesomes, as you know, we are all about discovering new things here at Sorta Awesome. Except sometimes the most important discoveries aren’t actually things — new knowledge, new perspectives, and new insights are so important to discover, too! This week, Meg and Kelly share some of the most fascinating things they have learned lately. From giving yourself permission to quit to letting yourself free of the parenting guilt to how to order the perfect boba tea, they have so many interesting things that they think you need to know, too! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Grove: Go to grove.com/AWESOME and get a free gift set worth up to fifty dollars with your first order Thrive Causemetics: Get 15% off your first order when you visit thrivecausemetics.com/AWESOME Daily Harvest: Go to dailyharvest.com/awesome to get up to forty dollars off your first box Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Thesis: Go to takethesis.com/AWESOME to get 10% off your first starter kit PrettyLitter: Visit prettylitter.com and use promo code awesome for 20% off your first order SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Loreal Age Perfect sunscreen https://myshlf.us/p-324185Trader Joe's Nourish SPF moisturizer Kelly’s AotW: Abbott Elementary (on ABC or streaming on Hulu) 2022 Regroup series of Kelly Corrigan Wonders podcast Annie Duke on A Slight Changes of Plans podcast about the Science of Quitting Anne Helen Peterson's essay on Revenge Bedtime Procrastination Dr. Yuko Manukata TED talk on parenting Safia Nygaard Youtube: I Ran A Boba Shop For A Day How TikTok took over fashion You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just a quick programming note - the Monday episodes with Meg and Kyle are moving back to the Awesome Today feed! Search Awesome Today wherever you listen to podcasts, and you'll be able to keep up there! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Instead of asking, “be mine, Valentine?”what if this year, you decided to be your OWN best Valentine? Meg and Rebekah think there’s no better time than now to discover how to REALLY love yourself well. They explore what the research has to say about treating yourself well, and they share some specific ideas and inspirations to help you know how to love YOU in 2022! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Uncommon Goods: To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/AWESOME Everyplate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.79 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome179 Care/Of: For 50% off your first Care/of order, go to takecareof.com and enter code “awesome50” Olipop: Receive 20% off plus free shipping. Go to DRINKOLIPOP.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout. Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrivehealth.com and use code AWESOME at checkout LMNT: Go to drinkLMNT.com/AWESOME and get a free LMNT Sample Pack (just cover the cost of shipping) SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: WYLD CBD gummies Rebekah’s AotW: Wet N Wild Breakup Proof Eyeliner (affiliate link) How to Practice Self-compassion for Resilience and Well-being (University of Utah) 26 questions to get to know yourself better You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pop the popcorn and settle in to a comfy seat because this week, we are all about a deep dive into Disney’s Encanto! Meg invited her oldest daughter Dacey (newly 17!) to help her dissect and discuss what makes this movie so magical for people of all ages. Dacey lends her musical theory expertise while Meg draws out the big themes that are connecting with so many people. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, you don’t want to miss this conversation! We’re talking mascara and the 90s in Awesome of the Week, and our Encanto conversation starts at the 16:16 mark! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Smartass & Sass: Subscribe at smartassandsass.com and use code AWESOME for 10% off your first subscription BYJU: Go to BYJUS.com/podcast to sign up for your first class absolutely free Ana Luisa: Get yourself and your loved ones the perfect gift with up to 40% at shop.analuisa.com/awesome Honeylove: Get 20% off your second item plus an additional 10% off your entire order at honeylove.com with code AWESOME Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Factor: Head to go.factor75.com/awesome120 and use code awesome120 to get $120 off SHOW NOTES: Dacey’s Awesome of the Week: No7 Stay Perfect Mascara Meg’s Awesome of the Week: 60 Songs that Explain the 90s on Ringer and Spotify The Encanto soundtrack: your guide Encanto: Every character’s gift explained You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here’s the thing, Awesomes. We could ALL use a new discovery that will actually make life easier, but none of us want to break the bank! Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman, and they are dishing up the scoop on the under $50 purchases that have boosted their quality of life! From hygiene to creature comforts to car gadgets and more, you don’t want to miss this list! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: HelloFresh: Go to hellofresh.com/awesome16 and use code awesome16 for up to 16 free meals AND three free gifts Public Goods: Go to publicgoods.com/awesome or use code AWESOME at checkout to receive $15 off your first order Foria: Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout LMNT: Go to drinkLMNT.com/SORTAAWESOME and get a free LMNT Sample Pack (just cover the cost of shipping) Thesis: Go to takethesis.com/AWESOME to get 10% off your first starter kit Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for one month free of their entire mindfulness library SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Bésame lipsticks—American Beauty 1945 and Cherry Red - 1935 Julie’s AotW: Princess Pinky Girl MEG’S LINKS: Mouth tape (affiliate link) Multi packs of reading glasses: 3 pack of womens reading glasses (affiliate link) or 4 pairs cat eye readers (affiliate link) Phone mount for car (affiliate link) Sharper Image 10-in-1 pillow Booty wipes JULIE’S LINKS: Bucky Body Wrap (affiliate link) Beckhem hotel bed pillows (affiliate link) Souper Cubes (affiliate link) Precut parchment paper (affiliate link) Dazzle Dry top coat (affiliate link) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the longest January on record? Or is just us? This week, Meg and Kyle update on family happenings, and Meg shares her surprise over season 2 of Cheer, the book she cannot put down, and a podcast series that has delighted her. Kyle shares a recipe (sorta), and they find shared fascination in how wild Jeep people can be. Recent Awesome of the Week thread in Sorta Awesome Hangout Cheer Season 2 Olga Dies Dreaming, Xochitl Gonzales Endless Thread Meme series. Start here. Decoding the Keanu Reeves meme Wayalife on YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gather around, friends! We have all been living in a constant place of stress and enduring trauma upon trauma for almost two years. Meg and Kelly are definitely not mental health or medical experts, but they are longtime believers in examining how our personality types can unlock the tools we need to cope with the stress of life, and this week, they have some specific ideas for how each Enneagram type can take a break from ongoing stress. Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Grove: Go to grove.com/AWESOME and get a free gift set worth up to fifty dollars with your first order Smartass & Sass: Subscribe at smartassandsass.com and use code AWESOME for 10% off your first subscription Daily Harvest: Go to dailyharvest.com/awesome to get up to forty dollars off your first box Just Thrive: Get 15% off when you go to justthrive.com and use code AWESOME at checkout Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME PrettyLitter: Visit prettylitter.com and use promo code awesome for 20% off your first order SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Sausage, Kale and White Bean Soup from Pinch of Yum Meg’s AotW: One Second Everyday app How Each Enneagram Type Is Struggling (and Thriving) During the Pandemic - RELEVANT 5 Stress-Busting Tips for Each Enneagram Type How every Enneagram type responds to stress (and how to help) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don’t panic, Awesomes - we aren’t going to overload your To Be Read lists (yet!). It’s just that Meg and Rebekah are SUPER enthusiastic about their shared love of reading right now, and they want to share this DEEP DIVE conversation with you about all the delightful things that make reading so much fun! From reading journals and trackers to bougie reading accessories to sharing their 2022 reading goals, they just can’t stop talking about all the ways that reading is making life so awesome right now! Want to join Meg and Rebekah in the 22 Tropes in 2022 Romance Reading Challenge?! Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the reading challenge plus hundreds of hours of ad-free episodes you can binge-listen to right now. PLUS! Get full access to texting privileges with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Uncommon Goods: To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/AWESOME Everyplate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.79 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome179 Care/Of: For 50% off your first Care/of order, go to takecareof.com and enter code “awesome50” Public Goods: Go to publicgoods.com/awesome or use code AWESOME at checkout to receive $15 off your first order Olipop: Receive 20% off plus free shipping. Go to DRINKOLIPOP.com/AWESOME or use code AWESOME at checkout. SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Daily Goal Tracker Meg’s AotW: And Just Like That! Mary Carver and The Couch Podcast CassiesBookShelf 2022 Reading Journal on TikTok Fated Mates Podcast Currently Reading podcast MomAdvice Book Gang podcast Leigh Kramer's reviews on Goodreads Meg’s reading light (affiliate link) Musicozy (affiliate link) Flippy! (affiliate link) Remote Control Page Turner for Kindle (affiliate link) Personalized Book Embosser (affiliate link) Ideal Bookshelf You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are you into at the start of 2022? It’s Monday, and Meg and Kyle are here to talk about some things to check out including the first romance novel of the year that Meg has read, an epic rewatch for Kyle, and — of course — the Encanto soundtrack! We would love to hear what you are into at this moment, so come join us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Don't forget to check out the Sorta Awesome store on Amazon when shopping this month! Cigarettes, whiskey, and wild wild women Burn for Me, Ilona Andrews Yellowjackets is the next LOST Musicozy Meg’s 2022 planner and journal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the new year, friends! In this first episode of 2022, Meg sits down with long-time Super Star Awesome Rev. Mary Lee Downey for a conversation about how we can begin this new year with compassion for ourselves and others. Mary tells the story of how she discerned the call for ministry, and how her non--profit organization The Hope Partnership was born. She also encourages us to recognize how self-compassion can help us deal with the collective trauma of nearly two years of pandemic life. Plus an AMAZING planner and many big feelings about Disney’s Encanto in Awesome of the Week! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: BYJU: Visit byjus.com/podcast to enroll in your first four classes—aa $99 value—for just $9.99. Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Factor: Head to go.factor75.com/PLANS and use code AWESOME120 to get $120 off over your first three weeks of meals. SHOW NOTES: Clever Fox Daily PRO Planner Encanto These First Generation Americans are sharing how Disney’s Encanto illustrates generational trauma Encanto shifts the female paradigm The Hope Partnership Find Rev. Mary Lee Downey on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Learn more about The Hope Partnership at www.thehopepartnership.org! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Isn't it SO AWESOME that the very last day of the year is on a Friday?! This week, Meg is joined by Kelly and Rebekah for their annual year-end conversation! For 2021, they take a more reflective view on the year by talking about what they've learned in the past 12 months. From silly to serious to soul care, they've all learned some things they want to share with you. PLUS they reveal their favorites to watch, to read, and to listen to before you head into 2022! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/sorta and get 10% off your first month SHOW NOTES: KELLY’S LIST: AWEOME OF THE YEAR: Kelly Corrigan Wonders podcast series on How to Make the Most of Family Life. There are five conversations - Misunderstanding, Changed, Grief, Forgiveness, and Still Working - with Anna Quindlen and Anna Sale. Aired in March 2021. LESSON: Vacuum your bathroom before you clean (HT GoCleanCo) WATCH: The Morning Show on Apple TV (Start your AppleTV+ free trial with our affiliate link. Must be a new user.) LISTEN: The Cleaning Kit playlist on Spotify READ: No Cure for Being Human by Kate Bowler REBEKAH’S LIST: AWESOME OF THE YEAR: Chocolate Cherry Cake with Fudge Glaze LESSON: Olive & June (Use Rebekah’s promo code SIMPLYREBEKAH20 for 20% off) LISTEN: Harry Styles and Under the Influence with Jo Piazza READ: Heartbreak Warfare by Heather M Orgeron & Kate Stewart MEG’S LIST AWESOME OF THE YEAR: Wayfair lighted vanity Lesson: People aren’t meant to talk this much (The Atlantic) Listen/Read: Marigold, Sara Gran You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'Twas the Monday after Christmas and all through the house, the creatures were stirring with post-Christmas chaos! Meg and Kyle are back this week with the rundown on how Christmas 2021 went down in their family. Plus Meg rounded out her reading year with two not-to-be-missed books she's so excited to tell you about, Kyle weighs in on The Witcher and The Wheel of Time, and they think back fondly on the raise-yourselves childhood shared by all of Generation X. Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Don't forget to check out the Sorta Awesome store on Amazon when shopping this month! SHOW NOTES: Pony, RJ Palacio These Silent Woods, Kimi Cunningham Grant Not me, not Hermoine, YOU TikTok love for Gen X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What was your favorite read this year? A novel you couldn’t put down? A collection of poetry that challenged or comforted you? A memoir you can’t stop thinking about? Join Meg and Sorta Awesome regular Katie Proctor as they relive 2021 through the books that stood out from the rest! From children’s books to non-fiction selections to romance to books worth the buzz, they bring you the best from the year, cover to cover! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Katie’s AotW: Vanilla Bourbon Coffee Meg’s AotW: Reading journal set-ups from Cassie’s Bookish Corner, mochibujo, A Clockwork Reader, readxchra KATIE’S LIST: NONFICTION spiritual: Wholehearted Faith by RHE Amazon | Bookshop memoir: A Knock at Midnight by Brittany K Barnett Amazon | Bookshop essays: The Anthropocene Reviewed by John green Amazon | Bookshop history: How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith Amazon | Bookshop FICTION contemporary: The 100 Years of Lenni and Margot Amazon | Bookshop historical: The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles Amazon | Bookshop mythology: A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes Amazon | Bookshop rom/com: The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood Amazon | Bookshop YA: This is My America by Kim Johnson Amazon | Bookshop MG: Beyond the Bright Sea by Lauren Wolk Amazon | Bookshop LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2022 The Love Songs of W.E.B. Dubois by Honoree Jeffers Amazon | Bookshop The Sentence by Louise Erdrich Amazon | Bookshop A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw Amazon | Bookshop MEG’S LIST: NONFICTION What is God Like? Rachel Held Evans, Matthew Paul Turner Spiritual: The Universal Christ, Fr Richard Rohr Amazon | Bookshop Memoir: Broken Horses, Brandi Carlile Amazon | Bookshop Essays: Broken (in the best possible way), Jenny Lawson Amazon | Bookshop Let's Pretend this Never Happened by Jenny Lawson Amazon | Bookshop Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson Amazon | Bookshop Sociological: The Art of Gathering, Priya Parker Amazon | Bookshop FICTION Women's Contemporary: Finlay Donovan Is Killing It, Elle Cosimano Amazon | Bookshop Also in contemporary fiction: How Lucky, Will Leitch Amazon | Bookshop Historical: Malibu Rising, Taylor Jenkins Reid Amazon | Bookshop Science Fiction: Project Hail Mary, Andy Weir Amazon | Bookshop Romantic: The Stand-In, Lily Chu Amazon YA: Any Way the Wind Blows, Rainbow Rowell Amazon | Bookshop MG: Starfish, Lisa Fipps Amazon | Bookshop LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2022 Finding Me, Viola Davis memoir (April 2022) Amazon | Bookshop Finlay Donovan Knocks Em Dead, Elle Casimano (Feb 2022) Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As you settle in to the middle of December, let us take your mind off of the hustle and bustle with some chit-chat about pop culture, life updates, and more! Meg and Kyle give the rundown on things to watch, read, and listen to, as well as sing the praises of gifted whiskey and a miraculous escape from jury duty! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Don't forget to check out the Sorta Awesome store on Amazon when shopping this month! Sweet Bobby Sunshine Superman Gordon’s Food Service cookies Nomad Whisky Redwing Boots Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who doesn’t love a life hack, especially one that is Awesome-approved? This week, Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman, and they have a TON of hacks, tips, and tricks to share with you. From mood rescue to December time boundaries to streaming all the audio books your reader heart desires, they have got so many ways to make life more awesome, and they are spilling their secrets to you! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.79 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome179 Legacy Box: Go to legacybox.com/AWESOME to take advantage of an exclusive discount for listeners BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/sorta and get 10% off your first month SHOW NOTES: Meg AoTW: Single All the Way Netflix Julie’s AotW: Slapzi Scribd: Get 30 days free with Meg's Scribd link Audible: Get a free Audiobook with Sorta Awesome's link! It's raining money blog post at The Seasonal Home Meg loves PIXI Glow Tonic The three song method: Example 1: No roots by Alice Merton Good to be alive (Hallelijah) by Andy Grammar I love it (featuring Charli XCX). Example 2: Teenage Dirtbag by Wheatus Should I stay or should I go by the Clash Feel it still by Portugal. The man Life hacks from TikTok: Microwaving rice with ice cubes in it Bathrobe tie Loop ear buds Clip on colander Chicken soup (two kinds, both recipes by Smitten Kitchen): Matzo ball soup and perfect uncluttered chicken broth TikTok made me buy it: Dieux reusable eye masks Cicapair tiger grass camo drops Disposable adhesive hair catchers It cosmetics Confidence in a cream anti-aging armor You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The end of the year brings many good things, including Spotify's annual year in review of the music you loved. But what if your kids absolutely wreck your Wrapped? That's part of what Meg and Kyle discuss in this episode, along with sharing some recommendations for shows to watch, a fun book to read, and a fierce debate over reading via audio! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Finlay Donovan is Killing It! by Elle Casimano Bourbons mentioned: Four Roses Woodford Reserve Bulleit Bourbon Don't forget to check out the Sorta Awesome store on Amazon when shopping this month! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it just us, or does it seem like the holidays get harder every year? This week, Meg and Kelly are here to share some ways their families are bringing the AWESOME back to the holiday season! Whether it’s discovering fun new traditions or celebrating with ancient rhythms, they have lots of encouragement that you can re-imagine the way you do holidays, and it might make this season merrier than ever. Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! First Leaf: For six bottles of wine at $29.95 and free shipping, go to tryfirstleaf.com/awesome Better Help: Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/SORTA SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Kelly’s Apple Pie Oatmeal recipe Meg’s AotW: Jones Road: Bobbi Kit (or just check out the Miracle Balm!) Is It Time to Rethink Holiday Traditions? Pandemic Holiday Season Offers Opportunities for Community, Too Saran Wrap Ball How-To You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So much is happening this week on the heels of Thanksgiving including the beginning of Hanukkah and the Advent season! Today, Meg and Kyle decompress and discuss joys and pains as November comes to a close, and they reflect on how sometimes you've got to lose something to find something better. They share a few more gift ideas, and Kyle is wrong about the liturgical calendar! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Boss Bluetooth speaker Glass-top moka pot Rayban Havana Moccasin-style slippers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the big turkey feast week here in the United States, and we are more than happy to keep you company while you drive, cook, or go for a long walk to escape all the family TOGETHERNESS! Meg and Kyle have some thoughts on what you could watch, read, listen to, and find delightful in lifestyle in the week ahead. From Netflix rom-coms to Adele’s 30 to a possible snore-stopper and an introduction to Kum & Go, they’ve got all kinds of silliness to keep you distracted (and maybe inspired?). Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! First Frost, Sarah Addison Allen Lovely War, Julie Berry Adele 30 Frndly Kum & Go TikTok guy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buckle up and hang on tight, Awesomes! Meg and Rebekah have another round of confessions to share with you, and these are by far the most cringey, most earbud-worthy ones yet! From misheard song lyrics to feminine product mishaps, you’ll never look at these two the same way again! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Caren Hand Treatment Meg’s AotW: Taylor Swift Red (Taylor's Version) Taylor Swift: All Too Well film version Garden Spells, First Frost: Sarah Addison Allen Harry's cover of Juice You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Monday and we are back with a brand new Monday convo! This week, Meg and Kyle discuss the buzz around Yellowstone, flashback to 90s television with Seinfeld and The Sopranos, rave about the new release from Nathaniel Rateliff and the Nightsweats, and talk about gifts for men for this holiday season! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Wholehearted Faith Nathaniel Rateliff and the Nightsweats The Future Fallen Angel podcast Let's Go To Court podcast Masterclass Fresh Clean tees Wee Beastie RayBan sunglasses Bose speaker Portable battery Cortez / Superstar / Campus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to get merry, Awesomes! Your 2021 AWESOME HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE IS HERE! Join Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah as they share the most unique, unusual, out-of-the-ordinary gifts for all of the kids, teens, and grown-ups on your list! This SUPER-SIZED episode has something for everyone! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.79 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome179 Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: KIDS Custom ABC Photo Book Hot Wheels Storage Shelf Toddler Scavenger Hunt Game Magical Flames Scratch Off Voucher Root beer chemistry set - $18 Scratch Off Mini Holographic Rainbow Notes - $10 Youth gripper slipper - half slipper, half sock - $24 (Reminder: You get 20% off your first order by going to bombas.com/awesome) A single Kiwi Crate - $26-$50 Nature Gear Window Bird Feeder Chonky seal pillow Make your own stop motion LEGO movie Tiny Baking Kit TEENS The Reverse Coloring Book by Kendra Norton DIY Moss Wall Art Kit Neon Signs: game controller cloud and rainbow Just Be Yourself GlowCity Glow In The Dark Sports Equipment LEGO Art LEGO Architecture Potato Pal - Your face on a real potato- $22 Oodie - a one-size fits most hooded wearable blanket - $75 Awkward moments card game - $18 Tune Out Musical Sleep Mask - $40 Cameo/cameo gift card Solid cologne Amigurumi kit Monogram pill case ADULTS Charmin Super Roll Go Ring Birth Order Candles: Oldest child Middle child Youngest child Mini Photo Album Keychain Nature's Dick Pics Calendar Hygge gift boxes on Etsy - $24-$60 Ember mug - self-heated smart mugs - $100 OXO Pour-over coffee maker - $18 Shower steamer spray - $22 Fairy Light Spirit Tree Personal Fondue Kit Under desk foot hammock Illuminidol pop culture prayer candles PAST SORTA AWESOME HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE EPISODES: 2017 2018 2019 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're re-releasing our past gift guides to help you get your holiday gift shopping done early this year! Tune in to hear Meg, Kelly, and Rebekah share gift ideas for moms and mothers-in-law, dads and brothers and husbands, and gifts for a whole family to enjoy. PLUS they each named a gift of the year for 2018! Rebekah’s Gift Ideas: Awesome Gift of the Year: Hape Tap & Pound Bench with Slide Out Xylophone For moms/mothers-in-law: Amber Glass Dish & Hand Soap Bottles from Church Street Designs Set of 4 Air-Cleaning Houseplants Chunky Chenille Reverse To Sherpa Throw Blanket Moccasin Slippers Wooden Recipe Book Book of the Month Club Mask Maven Subscription Stocking Stuffers: USB Car Charger (Dollar Tree) Yes To face masks (Dollar Tree) Amazon Basics Batteries Sugary Cereal Hog Wild Poppers Meg’s Gift Ideas: Awesome Gift of the Year: Jeni’s Ice Cream For men: Shiatsu Back Neck Massager Ember mug Docking station Smart luggage tag Memory foam travel pillow Bombas socks (bombas.com/awesome and use code AWESOME at check-out for 20% off!) Masculine candles from UrbanChaosUSA Engraved barware from theUncommonGreen Hibiki whiskey Washington Post custom birthday book Smokeless Portable Fire Pit Stocking Stuffers: Sugar lip caramel hydrating balm scalp massager brush Two Minute Mornings Journal Leather tassle portable charger Animal face beanie hat for kids Kelly’s Gift Ideas Awesome Gift of the Year Hammock with stand (and wheel kit) For the whole family: NES Class VIDEO GAMES FOR FAMILIES: Rock Band Just Dance Lego Disney Pixar The Incredibles Board games for Families Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS: The Complete Calvin and Hobbes Fox Trot Fowl Language Mini movie projector Fondue set Ice cream maker Pasta maker Silver dollar pancake in snowflake design Pool toys (like this basketball hoop) Sleds Outdoor Jenga Outdoor Yahtzee Brady Bunch boxed set Full House boxed set Bean Boozled Stocking Stuffers Bundled Up Monogram Ornaments avocado huggers chalkboard boom bowl hedgehog dryer balls pierced porelain tea lights Mom's little vase You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know lots of Awesomes are already in the thick of holiday shopping this year! We thought we would make things a LITTLE bit easier for you by going back into the Sorta Awesome archives and re-releasing our gift guides from holidays past. Please enjoy this flashback conversation with Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and Laura Tremaine as they shared their top picks for gifts in 2017! When you shop Amazon this year, go to sortaawesomeshow.com/amazon - we'll get a few affiliate dollars and cents when you shop through our link! SHOW NOTES: Meg's Links: Vegan Wallet from Matt and Nat MeUndies GAIA Thistle Farms Child's Cup Full World Vision USA Gift Catalog Novica on Amazon Laura's Links: Dyson Super Sonic Hair Dryer Apple Airpods Opal Ice Maker Nespresso Coffee Maker Ancestry DNA Away carry-on USE CODE AWESOME AT CHECK-OUT FOR $20 OFF ANY LUGGAGE Cashmere sweatpants Kelly's Links: Loot Crate Game of Phones Nerts Hanging Photo Display Glitter Slippers Starter Shave Kit Mini Bluetooth splash-proof speakers Cat watch, jewel and leather watch, slap watch Smartphone lens Drones Goofy bandages, patches and stickers, novelty socks Rebekah's Links: The Perfect Gift for Anyone: Consumable Christmas Gifts 12 Gift Ideas for Parents with Young Children Sight & Sound Theater Pop-up sauna (NOT KELLY-APPROVED!) And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s 4:45 PM on a busy weekday, and you’ve already spent the takeout budget for the week. And your people have the audacity to want to be fed dinner - AGAIN! What to do? We’ve got you, Awesome! This week, Meg and Kelly give you the best rundown on throwing together filling meals at the last minute - for yourself or for your family! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your purchase First Leaf: For six bottles of wine at $29.95 and free shipping, go to tryfirstleaf.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Mother of God Similar to Fire Kelly’s AotW: grocery delivery services for friends Recipes mentioned: Pasta with Butter Parmesan from “Dinner Uncomplicated” by Claire Tanse Slow cooker chicken tacos Chicken wonton soup (but use frozen already prepared wontons) Change-your-life chicken Kelly has all her recipes on her website: https://www.kellygordonmn.com/recipes Want more meal ideas? Feel like you’re stuck in a food rut? Be sure to check out SA Episode 111: Our Favorite Meals where Meg and Kelly discuss their favorite meals. You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It has been over five years since Amy Allen Clark brought her amazing book recommendations and reader insights to Sorta Awesome, but this is no trick, it’s all treat - she’s back! Amy sits down with Meg this week to discuss the health and medical challenges she has overcome, and that ultimately led her to lauch her brand new podcast MomAdvice Book Gang, and she has brought a list of can’t-miss under-the-radar books that are perfect for autumn reading. Plus a BUNCH of beauty fun in Awesome of the Week! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play SHOW NOTES: Olive & June Making Mauves by Colourpop Extraordinary life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni (Bookshop link) Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger (Bookshop link) Setting Free the Kites by Alex George (Bookshop link) How Lucky by Will Leitch (Bookshop link) In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner (Bookshop link) My Sweet Girl by Amanada Jayatissa (Bookshop link) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Amy on her blog, on Twitter, and Instagram! Check out the MomAdvice Book Club on Facebook. You can find the MomAdvice Book Gang podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app. Check out all the BONUSES on the Book Gang Patreon! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the last Monday of October and the Awesomes have REALLY shown up with incredible recommendations for the week ahead! Join Meg and Kyle as they discuss Netflix’s Midnight Mass, the music Meg is playing on repeat, and the story behind two of the most viral videos on TikTok right now. Plus SO MUCH Awesome goodness! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Midnight Mass on Netflix AMERICA review: Midnight Mass is Catholic horror at its finest Aleteia: What Midnight Mass gets right and wrong about the Catholic faith Big Macs & Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World Get Booked podcast Practical Magic Nathaniel Rateliff And It’s Still Aliright Against the Odds podcast Awesome Megan’s cute Chico’s dress (currently sold out) Etsy shop with Taylor Swift ornaments Mini crock pot Fairwin Men’s ratchet belt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pour a cup of coffee (or maybe a little glass of wine!) because it’s time to chat! This week, Meg is thrilled to be joined by Rebekah AND Kelly for some much-needed good-friends conversation. Kelly brought some fun and fascinating questions, and all three take turns digging in and answering. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts, too! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Chobani Flips Rebekah’s AotW: Qwirkle Meg’s AotW: Mika Grace Kelly Ryan Reynolds/Will Ferrell viral TikTok Mika My Name is Michael Holbrook Kelly Corrigan Hello World Swimsuits Rebekah loved this summer: Retro bikini and floral ruffle two piece You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are rolling into mid-October, and Meg and Kyle have the heads-up on some fun things to check out in the week ahead, plus some brilliant recommendations from the Awesomes! They've got TV talk, books for your TBR, and of course, Adele's new single! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! The Universal Christ, Fr. Richard Rohr The Showings of Julian of Norwich, translation by Mirabai Starr The Love Hypothesis, Ali Hazelwood When God Proves Faithful, Adrienne Terrebonne Easy On Me, Adele Baking Impossible on Netflix Formula 1: Drive to Survive on Netflix Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you have that eldest daughter energy? Are you in your 30s, but your parents still refer to you as the baby? Ever wondered if your kids will grow up with certain personality traits based on when they were born? This week, Meg and Rebekah do a super-sized deep dive into ALL THINGS birth order! Not only do they discuss traits of each of the types of birth order personalities, they also provide some questions for us to ask ourselves for growth and healing. Listen to this one before you gather with family for the holidays! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Grove: Get a FREE starter set with your first order at grove.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Criminal podcast (check out episodes 15, 51, and 71 especially!) Rebekah’s AotW: Neck Heating Pad The Birth Order Book: Why You Are the Way You Are You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What songs would YOU put on a playlist that explained what it was like to be a teen in the 90s? Meg and Kyle take up that challenge, plus they share tons of food talk, and the power of journaling even if you don't have fancy journals and pens. Let's start this week off with awesome! Mel's Kitchen Cafe Instant Pot Creamy Ziti Little People Christmas Story set Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FRIENDS! It’s here! Meg and Kelly are thrilled to bring you the AWESOME LIST for Fall 2021! From shackets to apples to fall scents to the very best fall tea, they’ve got everything you need to have a gorgeous autumn season (and maybe even a Practical Magic Fall!). Don’t miss their list, and you definitely want to hear the very unexpected reveal in Kelly’s Awesome of the Week! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 First Leaf: For six bottles of wine at $29.95 and free shipping, go to tryfirstleaf.com/awesome SHOW NOTES: Past Sorta Awesome Fall List episodes: Ep. 262: The AWESOME List for Fall 2020! Ep. 215: Awesome List for Fall 2019 Ep. 166: The Awesome List Fall 2018 Meg’s AotW: Layering necklaces Kelly’s AotW: Days of our Lives revisit the craziest storyline of its history Kelly’s List Shackets: Kelly is eyeing this one from Target (affiliate link) First Kiss apples Pumpkin goodness at Trader Joe's: Kelly recommends many of the items on this inclusive list of fall goodness at TJ's. Wintering by Katharine May Watch Frogger - a Wipeout-style game show based on the classic '80s arcade game - with your family. Bonus: Disney's Doogie Kamealoha M.D. is also cute and fun. Meg’s List Sweater vest (affiliate link) Alison Lumbatis blog: 5 Ways to Wear It: Sweater vest Quill and Ink Collection Poesie Perfumes Sling pack for fall Practical Magic series by Alice Hoffman Vermont Maple Ginger Tea You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Being a new mom - whether it's your first baby or your fifth - is such a tender time, and it's a time when women need support in so many ways. That means it's a great time to "be the awesome" for each other, and today's episode in the Extra Awesome series will introduce to you an Awesome who has made this her mission in life! Shaunta Caine is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and she is passionate about supporting new moms in many ways, and especially in breastfeeding. Listen to her conversation with Meg about how an unexpected and painful chapter in her life led Shaunta to discover a calling that is touching the lives of so many women! You will love hearing her hopeful, inspiring words for all of us in the Awesome community! SHOW NOTES: Count the Kicks app Follow Shaunta and her work at @mamataymilkmaid on IG! Join the Awesome Nation in our online communities on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello October! Who doesn’t love this month with its cooler, temps, spooky stories, and delicious goodies? Meg and Kyle are starting off the month with a highly-bingeable Netflix series, some deep and thought-provoking spiritual reading, and a homemade pizza fest. Plus they have some fantastic recommendations for you from the Awesomes that will bring some sparkle to these autumn days! Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Slow Cooker Korean BBQ tacos Al Rawabi School for Girls The Big Leap Autumn Sweater skin oil from Black Hearted Tart TikTok famous bathrobe Mandy’s Gourmet Salads Taco Bell’s Creamy Jalepeno Sauce copycat Brown Butter Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is UP with teens these days? Should we be freaking out about Gen Z? We’re here to tell you that the only freaking out should be a GOOD freak out because this generation of teenagers is pretty amazing! Join Meg in a conversation with her sixteen year old daughter Dacey who returns to the show this week to answer questions from the Super Star Awesomes! From her recommendations for getting into geek culture to how teens can best feel supported by the adults in their lives, you will learn so much from all that Dacey has to say! Wanna get in on that texting fun with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team? Come join the Super Star Awesomes and get the texting perk along with bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, a Super Stars-only Facebook group, and more! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Decoder podcast You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's nothing quite like parenting to remind us of how much we have yet to learn. Wouldn't it be wonderful to have some go-to prayers to rely on when you need support in the trenches of parenting? Kayla Craig tapped into that need with her wildly popular Instagram account Liturgies for Parents, and today, she joins Meg for a conversation about how and why parents are turning to time-tested liturgical approaches to prayer. Kayla introduces us to her book To Light Their Way, and even shares a poignant prayer of blessing for the Awesomes! Find all of the preorder bonuses (SO GREAT!) for Kayla's book on her website! Order To Light Their Way here Follow Kayla on IG and on her Liturgies for Parents account Join the Awesome Nation in our online communities on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re rounding out September 2021, and we thought it would be a good time to check in with some things we are into right now, and you know we want to hear from you, too! In this conversation, Meg and Kyle talk about what what they are into these days, and there’s a surprising amount of YouTube involved. From sunny, beachy Bahamas to soaring the friendly skies, their free time has been filled with daydreaming. Join them and the Awesome Nation in our online communities to tell us what you are into right now: on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! SHOW NOTES Rogan, ThisBahamianGyal (10 Best Bahamian Foods video) Gone with the Wynns Anne Helen Petersen newsletter What Got Left Out of LulaRich (interview with Meg Conley) The Daily Connoisseur interview with Dr. Patty Tae (Jennifer’s book Lessons from Madame Chic) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last month, we asked Awesome digital organizer Lisa Mast to come hold our hands and help us get our photos and other digital memories organized. Good news, friends! Lisa is back this week for another conversation with Meg that is an absolute game-changer for what to DO with all of your amazing photos! She has a list packed with ideas to share with the Awesome Nation that go beyond the basic photo book or calendar. NOW IS THE TIME to get started on your photo projects for the holidays, but seriously, these ideas for telling your story thourgh photos can be used year-round! SHOW NOTES: Lisa’s AotW: This is Ashlynn (podcast) and Ashlynn Mitchell (IG) Meg’s AotW: LuLaRIch on Amazon Prime Episode Resource Page on Lisa’s website Mpix: Lisa’s decide-once recommendation for photo prints and photo books. Use code awesome2521 for 25% off an order through October 8, 2021. This discount is valid for 25% off your order. The promo code is valid for one use per customer and cannot be combined with other offers except free Standard shipping on orders of $35 or more. E-Gift Cards are not eligible for this promotion. The promo code must be entered at checkout to receive the discount. Offer expires October 8, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. (Central). Minted: Simple, designer photo calendar templates and beautiful printing. Get a FREE photo calendar when you add 10 personal dates, just pay shipping. Shutterfly: Photo Wall Calendars at Shutterfly  AlbumStomp: Simplify photo book design with AlbumStomp. Use code SCISSORTAIL for 20% off AlbumStomp through October 31, 2021. Canva: Use Canva to design anything, including photo books. Get a free premium element to use with a free account. Scissortail Digital: Have a custom photo book designed for you at Scissortail Digital. Use code SORTAAWESOME for a free premium softcover photo book with the purchase of a hardcover photo book or Senior Memories bundle by October 17, 2021 Laurel & Bleau Jewelry: Laurel & Bleau Jewelry Custom Handwriting Collection. Use code SORTAAWESOME10 for 10% off any item through October 15, 2021 Pinhole Press: Design photo gifts for all ages, especially kiddos at Pinhole Press. Use code SCISSORTAILDIGITAL20 for 20% off any Pinhole Press order through October 24, 2021 Just Go Travel Studios: Use your photos to create beautiful custom, vintage-style travel posters at Just Go Travel Studios. Buy 2, Get 1 and Free Shipping - automatically applied, no code needed Simply Cards or PostSnap: Send custom photo postcards in the mail directly from your phone with Simply Cards or PostSnap. Amazon Echo Show 8 (1st gen.) (2nd gen.): Enjoy your photos and all the smart device features with an Amazon Echo Show 8 (1st gen.) or Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd gen.). Perfect if you use Amazon Photos! Pix-Star Frame: Easily share photos to a digital frame with Pix-Star Frame SnapShopOnline: Photography courses for all ages at SnapShopOnline (relaunch coming this fall) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Lisa at her website Scissortail Digital or on Facebook or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the start of a fresh new week, and the Awesome community is bursting with recommendations to make the days ahead a lot more awesome! From fall recipes to great TV to the perfect cup of tea for the fall, Meg and Kyle have got tons of recs you will love! Plus they take on some r/AskReddit debates, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts! SHOW NOTES: Come From Away (AppleTV link for Sorta Awesome) With You Forever, Chloe Liese (more from her) The Fellowship of the Ring on Spotify Other Words for Home Taylor Swift Essentialized Meg’s Class of 95 playlist Elastic shoe laces Garlic Parmesean Spaghetti Squash Friday Night Chili Vermont Maple Ginger Tea TikTok can opener trick Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s the teacher that made a difference in your life? Chances are, there’s at least one teacher that comes to mind for you, and this week, we are celebrating all those awesome teachers who are changing lives every day. Listen to Meg and Kelly’s conversation recalling the teachers who most profoundly impacted them, as well as their own fond (and funny!) classroom teaching memories. PLUS they share an incredible resource that is free for teachers everywhere and give the Awesomes a special assignment! Also, this is a fantastic time to become a Super Star Awesome! There are so many fun things happening for Super Star supporters of this show through Patreon. Bonus episodes, ad-free episodes (!), and texting for starters. Come check out what we've got going on and let your awesome shine even brighter by becoming an official Super Star on Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Grove: Get a FREE starter set with your first order at grove.com/AWESOME Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. American Girl: Get a one time 15% off your order of Bitty Baby products with promo code AWESOME at americangirl.com SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Apple TV’s The Morning Show (Start your Apple TV+ free trial using our affiliate link!) Meg’s AotW: ilia mascara Kids in Need Foundation Every Teacher, Every Day Watch this short video that showcases Every Teacher, Every Day! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Monday, let’s get into it! Meg and Kyle have some suggestions for you to watch, read, listen to, and amp up your lifestyle in the week ahead. Then Kyle delivers on his promise to find some of the most unfortunate names in recent history! SHOW NOTES: Zack Morris is Trash by Funny or Die on YouTube Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo Meg on Bookend Homeschoolers, Season 2, Episode 7: Community Just for You? I Got Love, Mother Mother Metaphysical Milkshake podcast Dyson toy vacuum Bird of Paradise Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Phone calls? Sometimes. Texting? Sure. But we use our cell phones and mobile devices for so much more than that every single day! This week, Meg and Rebekah do a deep-dive into the wonderful world of apps and share the ones that have changed their lives in the most awesome ways! Also, this is a fantastic time to become a Super Star Awesome! There are so many fun things happening for Super Star supporters of this show through Patreon. Bonus episodes, ad-free episodes (!), gift exchanges (!!), and texting for starters. Come check out what we've got going on and let your awesome shine even brighter by becoming an official Super Star on Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! Bombas: Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 Quip: Go to GETQUIP.com/AWESOME5 and get $5 off a Mouthwash Starter Kit American Girl: Get a one time 15% off your order of Bitty Baby products with promo code AWESOME at americangirl.com SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Ultimate Book of Outfit Formulas (and sign-up for the Fall 2021 Capsule here!) Rebekah’s AotW: The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas Kindle Unlimited Free Trial Sorta Awesome Hangout Group conversation about apps! Past AotW App Roundup: Voxer Marco Polo Overcast Instacart Walmart Groceries Chatbooks Ballz Hormonology Meg’s Apps: Mint Kindara Snapseed Sam’s Club Rebekah’s Apps: Clue The Weather Channel The Libby App by Overdrive Hoopla Tidy Apps Recommended by Awesomes: My therapy Flora Restaurant apps: Sonic, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Panera, Wendy’s Universal Tabata Peloton SwitchParents Xfinity You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every weekend, millions of Americans enjoy Eva Pilgrim's upbeat presence as co-host of Good Morning America's Weekend Edition. Today, Eva joins Meg for the Extra Awesome series! We know you'll love Meg's conversation with her as they talk about Eva's brand new book, Walter Does His Best: A Frenchie Adventure in Kindness. They cover a lot of ground in this bite-sized bit of Awesome including the importance of kindness in our world, Eva's any-day-now baby watch, and even a little bit of skin care obsession. Walter Does His Best is in bookstores now, and it makes a great addition to home or classroom libraries! Find Walter Does His Best on Amazon or Bookshop. You can follow Eva on Instagram at @evapilgrim and you can find Walter there @walterunleashed, too. (PS - this is the CosRX snail mucin cream that Meg loves!) Come talk all things Awesome in the everyday on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Monday, happy September, and happy Labor Day, Awesomes! It's Monday, and Meg and Kyle are kicking off this week with streaming recommendations that lean nostalgic. They bemoan the Topo Chico shortage, celebrate a MacBook rescue, and explain that pregnant emoji ladies meme. Finally, they check in with the 10th dentist for some outrageously unpopular opinions! NOTES: The Lies that Bind, Emily Griffin Bartender Song, Rehab Drunken Lullabies, Flogging Molly Outfit Formulas Fall 2021 Capsule Maybelline Superstay Matte Crayon Pylies Heavy Hand Cream Physicans Formula All Star Face Palette Eudoia Wheat Straw set Kate Spade candy stripe planner Magic Candle Company Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the great Joni Mitchell sang, you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone! This week, Meg and Sorta Awesome Regular Julie Tepperman take up the hallowed internet tradition of going through their "empties" - the products they love so much that once they're gone, it's an immediate re-purchase. They talk through everything from beauty and skincare to favorite beverages and office supplies and more! Also, this is a fantastic time to become a Super Star Awesome! There are so many fun things happening for Super Star supporters of this show through Patreon. Bonus episodes, ad-free episodes (!), gift exchanges (!!), and texting for starters. Come check out what we've got going on and let your awesome shine even brighter by becoming an official Super Star on Patreon! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play SHOW NOTES: Julie’s AotW: The Comfort Book by Matt Haig Meg’s AotW: @join_jules on IG and TikTok JULIE’S LIST: Benefit High Brow eyebrow highlighter: Amazon | shoplist Benefit they’re real remover: Amazon | shoplist Benefit Gimme Brow Volumizing Eyebrow gel: Amazon | shoplist Urban decay sin eye shadow: Amazon | shoplist Lune and aster eyelid primer: shoplist Bite beauty agave daytime lip balm: Amazon | shoplist Fresh soy face wash: Amazon | shoplist Beauty counter face oil: shoplist  Chi silk infusion: Amazon | shoplist LaRoche Posay Lipikar AP body lotion: Amazon | shoplist Glysomed hand lotion: Amazon La roche posay ultra light sunscreen spf 50 (for face): Amazon | shoplist Barkeeper’s friend: Amazon Dishwashing gloves: Amazon Dish soap: Amazon Pens (.035 mm black gel ink extra fine ballpoint pen, box of 12): Amazon Rhodia notebooks: Amazon Knock knock list: Amazon Harney and sons apricot tea: Amazon   MEG’S LIST: No7 concealer: Shoplist Thrive Causmetics Liquid Lash Extensions Shoplist Benefit Gimme Brow Amazon | Shoplist Burt’s Bees Overnight Intensive Lip Treatment Amazon | Shoplist Paula’s Choice Wrinkle Defense Sunscreen Amazon | Shoplist Vanicream mouisturizing cream sensitive skin Amazon | Target Kopari deo Dr. Bronner’s peppermint soap Amazon | Target Grove sponges (Grove.com/awesome) Mr. Clean Multisurface cleaner Amazon | Target SAM-e Omega 3 migraine combo: Magnesium chelated pills or powder & Vit B complex Throat Coat tea Amazon | Target You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're changing things up a bit this Monday, Awesomes! Life has been chaotic to the max for Meg and Kyle, so instead of your usual Monday conversation about what to watch, read, listen to, and laugh about in the news, this episode is just low-key chitchat. They manage to touch on joining the cult of Ted Lasso, ponder the world of flashlight hobbyists, and reveal the Sword of Awesome. Happy listening, friends! Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation started with co-host Kelly in her kitchen, thinking about how much she LOVES her Kitchenaid Stand Mixer and how she wishes she had done herself a favor and gotten one so much sooner! Meg and Kelly discuss a list of those items that bring so much help and delight, and they are kicking themselves that they didn’t buy one sooner! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year Nutrafol: Get $15 off your first month’s subscription at Nutrafol.com and entering the promo code AWESOME. Free shipping on every order! Truebill: Don’t fall for subscription scams. Start cancelling today at truebill.com/AWESOME Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Spiced chickpeas and tofu from this recipe Meg’s AotW: @restroomrituals on IG Kelly’s List: Kitchen-Aid stand mixer PEET Electric shoe and boot drier Bras that fit. Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase (Also, see the subreddit thread A Bra That Fits.) Digital food thermometer: Here's the one I have (But if you don't need one to stay in the oven, you could go with this cheaper and smaller model) Meg’s List: MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Headband FENUN Fly Traps, Gnat Trap, Moth Traps Jansport Fifth Ave Fanny Pack White sneakers Adidas Originals Sleek Sneaker You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wondered exactly how a podcast like Sorta Awesome gets made? This week for Extra Awesome, Meg takes you behind the scenes of producing Sorta Awesome by answering some questions from Super Star Awesome Heather. From microphones to editing and everything in-between, she has answers to lots of common podcast production questions! Be like Heather! Become a Super Star and get access to hours of exclusive episodes to download and binge, our Super Stars ONLY Facebook group, AND texting with Meg and the team! Patreon.com/sortaawesome SHOW NOTES: Blue Yeti mic AT 2005 mic ZOOM H4N Audacity Libsyn Art19 Come talk all things Awesome in the everyday on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why not start the week with something that's going to be a game-changer? It's Monday and Meg and Kyle have some great finds for you to watch, read, and listen to AND their lifestyle finds include some real game-changers from the Awesome community! And instead of news this week, they talk about how to change the game for shaving your face - great tips for any person who needs some help in the shaving department! Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! SHOW NOTES: SHOP THE SORTA AWESOME MERCH SHOP! The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot, Marianne Cronin Lucy Parker books Nathaniel Rateliff and the Nightsweats Survivor Dawn Powerwash Spray Salad Chopper Bowl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the time of year for freshly sharpened pencils, brand new backpacks, and books! And if we are talking books and reading, you know that Sorta Awesome regular Katie Proctor is back! This week, Meg and Katie have a whole list filled with inspiration for that back to school mood. From middle grade books that can’t stop gushing about to young adult picks of all kinds to the books from their own school days that they remember fondly, they have something for EVERYONE in this conversation! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial Grove: Get a FREE starter set with your first order at grove.com/AWESOME Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME American Girl: Get a one time 15% off your order of Bitty Baby products with promo code AWESOME at americangirl.com SHOW NOTES: Katie’s AotW: Broken Horses (memoir by Brandi Carlile)  Amazon | Bookshop Meg’s AotW: Chameleon: High Rollers Classics: Harry Potter Amazon | Bookshop Anne of Green Gables Amazon | Bookshop The Hundred Dresses Amazon | Bookshop A Separate Peace Amazon | Bookshop Middle grade:  Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend  Amazon | Bookshop The Wednesday Wars by Gary D Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Okay for Now by Gary D Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Just Like That by Gary D Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Restart by Gordon Korman Amazon | Bookshop The Unteachables by Gordon Korman Amazon | Bookshop Track series by Jason Reynolds  Amazon | Bookshop The Crossover by Kwame Alexander Amazon | Bookshop Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga Amazon | Bookshop Starfish by Lisa Fipps Amazon | Bookshop El Deafo by CeCe Bell Amazon | Bookshop My Storied Year by Katie Proctor Amazon | Bookshop YA: Simon Vs the homosapien Agenda by Becky Albertalli  Amazon | Bookshop The poet x by Elizabeth Acevedo  Amazon | Bookshop With the fire on high by Elizabeth Acevedo  Amazon | Bookshop Legendborn by Tracy Deonn  Amazon | Bookshop Bellweather Rhapsody by Kate Racculia Amazon | Bookshop The Extraordinaries Amazon | Bookshop and Flash Fire by TJ Klune Amazon | Bookshop The Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness Amazon | Bookshop Adult: Rush - Lisa patton  Amazon | Bookshop House in the Cerulean Sea TJ Klune Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grab your shopping cart and hit the aisles of Trader Joe's with us, friends! For this episode in the Extra Awesome series, Meg is joined by Kate Nixon Anania who returns to Sorta Awesome to talk about all the awesome at Trader Joe's right now. From food finds to household to the best in TJ's beauty, they cover what they are loving (and a few things they don't recommend, too!). Ep 185 Be More Awesome with your money! Extra Awesome: Let's go to Trader Joe's! Trader Joe's YouTube channel Trader Joe's meals for busy moms Trader Joe's subreddit Find Kate's book Twenties in your Pocket - Amazon and find more from her on her website twentiesinyourpocket.com For more awesome in the everyday, follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram or join our community in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a scale of 1-10, how great do feel about where all of your photos are living right now? Not just the ones on your phone (but especially the ones on your phone!), we’re talking ALL the photos important to you? If thinking about how secure and organized your favorite memories are leaves you in the grips of anxiety, you are going to LOVE this conversation Meg had with professional digital organizer Lisa Mast! Lisa is an Awesome who specializes in helping people find answers to all of their questions and concerns when it comes to photos, and her mindset-based advice will bring you so much hope! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Bombas: Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play SHOW NOTES: Lisa’s AotW: Branch Basics - save $10 (affiliate link) Meg’s AotW: NYX Lip Lingerie XXL Amazon II Shoplist Check out Lisa's round-up of resources for the Awesomes!! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Lisa at her website Scissortail Digital or on Facebook or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After nearly three decades teaching elementary students, Jennifer Williams left the classroom, but she couldn't leave behind her passion for books and reading. After so many years of watching how becoming a reader changes the life of a child, Jennifer found a new mission - getting books into the hands of some of the most vulnerable members of her community. Friends, you do NOT want to miss Meg's conversation with Jennifer, a conversation that moved them both to tears! Tune in, be inspired, and get in on this bookish movement! SUPPORT JENNIFER'S WORK: Follow Joy of Reading (Jennifer's One Million Books giveaway) on Facebook Follow Second Chance Bookclub on Facebook Donate to Jennifer's work via PayPal: jen@jen-scottwilliams.net For more awesome in the everyday, follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram or join our community in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why not start your week out awesome, friends? Meg and Kyle have the rundown you need on what’s coming out this week to Netflix, Prime, Hulu, and more! Plus Meg shares her experience with the ASMR channels helping her sleep lately (sorta) and she has lots of fun lifestyle picks from the Awesomes. Kyle brings you all the news you probably missed last week, but the news that is weird, fascinating, or downright Awesome. (Here’s looking at you, Allyson Felix!) Come talk all things Awesome every day on Instagram or in the Sorta Awesome Hangout and Awesome Today groups! Susan Page biographies Pavoi Huggie earrings Madewell Whisper Cotton V Neck Tank Kohls midi dress Aeropress coffee and espresso maker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time for some REAL TALK, Awesomes! Let’s get honest, let’s let go of some stuff, and let’s live in better alignment with the person we are truly meant to be! Meg and Rebekah explore who they are ideally versus who they really are in this conversation that is part confession, part pep-talk, and 100% inspiring to be your best self! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: Go to mybillie.com/awesome to get the best razor you will ever own and for free shiping always! EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 American Girl: Get a one time 15% off your order of Bitty Baby products with promo code AWESOME at americangirl.com SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Marco Polo app Rebekah’s AotW: Under The Influence with Jo Piazza podcast The Year of Less by Cait Flanders You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Extra Awesome series, friends! At Sorta Awesome, we’ve always hoped to make a place for women in all ages and stages of life, but it’s not often we get to hear from our Awesome community members on the younger side of life. Embo Tshimanga is a recent college graduate who just moved into her very first place, all on her own! Join her conversation with Meg as they talk about why, as a former foster youth, this big move is especially meaningful for Embo. They cover everything from letting triggers be your teacher to the best place to buy frames for a gallery wall and so much more! SHOW NOTES: It is what it is :: Nobody’s Damsel podcast Finding Healing After Aging Out :: Archibald Project podcast Racism and trauma with Embo Tshimanga :: Happy and Holy podcast You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Embo on her Instagram: @embopriscilla Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August is here, and let's make it AWESOME! We start this first week of August with Meg and Kyle giving you the rundown on all kinds of good stuff coming to streaming, much of it packed with nostalgia feel-good fuzzies. We've got recommendations from the Awesomes on all that is good to watch, two great reading picks, a bookish soundtrack, and some great recommends for awesome in the everyday. We also have crazy, funny, and bizarre news items you probably missed in the news last week! Come join us on Instgram or in the Hangout group for more awesome, every single day! SHOW NOTES: NBCOlympics TikTok The Soulmate Equation, Christina Lauren The One, John Marrs The Song of Achilles playlist Megababe powder Pleated skirt on Amazon THE SNAKES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of our favorite things about being an Awesome is how we are all on a journey to knowing and doing better! This week’s conversation guides us all gently further down that path. Meg invites Awesome Mindy Brouse (co-host of Bookend Homeschoolers podcast and co-host of Currently Reading podcast) to have a warm, candid discussion about how we can recognize the need for more inclusive play for kids with special or additional needs in our families, schools, and communities. You do not want to miss this conversation! And there’s definitely a lot of bookish fun in Awesome of the Week! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Nutrafol: Get $15 off your first month’s subscription at Nutrafol.com and entering the promo code AWESOME. Free shipping on every order! Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Grove: Go to Grove.co/AWESOME and choose a FREE gift (with orders $30 or more). Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial SHOW NOTES: Book bone Rainbow Rowell’s Any Way the Wind Blows You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Mindy at bookendhomeschoolers.com and on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For many people, creating art was a beloved pastime of childhood, and it may be a source of creative relaxation as an adult. But some people follow their natural gifting and develop the skill to turn art into a vocation. Today, Meg talks to Awesome artist Jordan Leigh Tellis about what that path has looked like for her, and how an unexpected portrait subject has allowed her to be part of the lives of customers in a meaningful way. Find Jordan Leigh Tellis’ Etsy shop here, and follow her on Instagram at @j.leigh.tellis.art Resources for getting started with watercolor: Anna Mason online art school Emily Lex online art classes Get started with gouache Gouache set Follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram or join our community on Facebook! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the summer heat has you on the lookout for awesome ways to cool off, we’ve got the recommendations you need for the week ahead! Whether you are looking for a show to binge in the air-conditioning, a fun and fizzy drink to fix up for your kids (or yourself!), or a mountain-side festival with a big dose of nostalgia, you’ll find everything you need in our weekly Watch, Read, Listen, and Lifestyle updates along with the most fascinating news items you might have missed! The Invisible Life of Us, Kate Jones & Mandy Hose Endless Thread: The Great Glitter Mystery Dr. Squatch Star Wars soaps Wanderlog ColourPop eyeliners Buxom Plumping Lipstick in Baller The Nester Fancy, Fun & Fizzy popsicle drinks Ian Ross For the Good Of All Follow us on Instagram or come be part of our Awesome community on Facebook! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're leaving on a jet plane or just packing up for a trip to Grandma's house, whether you're on the road in the summer or looking forward to a winter getaway, we have ALL THE GOOD TIPS to make travel a lot more awesome! Join Meg and Kelly in this episode that our community has been asking for for YEARS - travel! From plane trip tips to road trip hacks and more than a few funny stories in-between, we'll help you get out the door for wherever you are headed! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: American Girl: Get a one time 15% off your order of Bitty Baby products with promo code AWESOME at americangirl.com Bombas: Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase Brightside: Go to brightside.com/AWESOME and take your free mental health assessment and get up to one hundred dollars credit on your first month of treatment Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Never Have I Ever, Season 2 Kelly’s AotW: Mint symple syrup, as descried in Chew Out Loud’s Best Mojito recipe (Bonus AotW: Kelly’s Fresh Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream) Courtney Clark Cleve's blog All The Best Days (sign-up for packing guide at the bottom of the page!) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a question that lots of us could spend so much time discussing: what is a book that you think every woman should read? In this bite-size bit of Awesome in the Extra Awesome series, Meg shares her list of five books that SHE thinks should be read by every woman, and she shares some suggestions from the Awesomes, too! What books would be on your list? Come tell us @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram or in our Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook! Want to find out more about becoming a Super Star Awesome? Get access to hundreds of ad-free episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), membership in our Super Stars Facebook community, and start texting with Meg and the Sorta Awesome team! All for $5 a month at Patreon! SHOW NOTES: Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science that Will Transform Your Sex Life, Dr. Emily Nagoski Taking Charge of Your Fertility, Toni Weschler Cycle Savvy: The Smart Teens Guide to the Mysteries of Her Body, Toni Weschler The Red Tent, Anita Diamant The Gift of Fear: Survival Skills that Protect Us from Violence, Gavin De Becker Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent, and Lead, Brene Brown The Lazy Genius Way, Kendra Adachi Share Your Stuff, I’ll Go First, Laura Tremaine Just Mercy, Bryan Stephenson The Crosswicks Journals, Madeleine L'Engle Let Your Life Speak, Parker Palmer The Vagina Bible, Dr. Jen Gunter The Menopause Manifesto, Dr. Jen Gunter A Thousand Splendid Suns, Khaled Hosseini The Bad Muslim Discount, Syed M. Masood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are you up to this week, Awesomes? Are you getting ready for some Olympic fun? Wondering what else there is to watch? Looking for a book recommendation? Meg and Kyle have tons of suggestions for what all you can check out this week that will bring more awesome to your life, plus a ton of news stories that you may have missed but you're going to want to hear! Any Way The Wind Blows, Rainbow Rowell Dial A for Aunties, Jesse Q. Sutano Your Own Backyard podcast Ultra Comfort Waist Utility Shorts Just Watch Magnetic Drawing Board BudgetBytes.com Sorta Awesome: Olympics Obsessed Group Guo Gangtang finds his son Fudge Cake Balls WHY IS THIS A THING Want to live in the heart of Awesome? Make sure you've joined us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout Group! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summertime and the living is … well, not that easy when you are trying to fight the heat and feed your family! Running out of meal ideas for these long summer days? We’ve got you, friend! Meg and Rebekah share all their best tips, recipes, and meal ideas for everything from fun breakfasts to no-oven dinners to eating on vacation with family. Plus some inspiring decluttering inspo and a great new podcast in Awesome of the Week! We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Grove: Go to Grove.co/AWESOME and choose a FREE gift (with orders $30 or more). PlushCare: Go to PlushCare.com/awesome to start your FREE 30-day trial. SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Not Past It podcast Rebekah’s AotW: cleaning out closet Grilling: Ep. 58 Grill It, Girls! 7 Meal Ideas for Leftover Grilled Chicken Easy Grilled Salmon (and house seasoning!) from The Seasoned Mom Grilled grilled cheese sandwiches from the Food Network Slow Cooker: Creamy Mexican Chicken Cheesy Pasta & Beef Casserole Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Instant Pot Chicken Fajita Bowls Instant Pot Iced Tea Kids Breakfast, Snack, and Lunch ideas 3 ingredient banana pancakes Apple Peanut Butter Cookies from A Farm Girl Dabbles Banana nice cream Chocolate Granola Bars from Foodlets Kids charcuterie board ideas from Six Sisters Stuff Vacation Meal Ideas: Baked Pesto Ravioli Honey Baked Chicken Pizza Tot Casserole Ham & Cheese Sliders with Sweet Mustard Glaze Homemade Sweet & Sour Salad Dressing Slow Cooker Cocktail Meatballs Meal Kit Service like Home Chef. (Use this affiliate link to try Home Chef and get $90 Off. That's $30 off your first two orders and $15 off your third and fourth order.) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sorta Awesome had to take a little time off last week but we are back with our weekly round-up of everything good in pop culture! This week will leave Twilight fans rejoicing, Rainbow Rowell fans celebrating, #FreeBritney conversations buzzing, and Spotify playlists bumping! And in the weird news department, we’ve got heists and hidden treasure, a big wedding in the Sooner State, and ancient oil wrestling. A little bit of everything for everyone! Any Way the Wind Blows, Rainbow Rowell The Ten Thousand Doors of January, Alix E. Harrow The Four Winds, Kristin Hannah Called By Name: A Memoir, Anna Shane Stadick Under the Influence with Jo Piazza Toxic: The Britney Spears Story Boil The Frog playlist maker Saltwater Sandals National Park Service Facebook account Cantu Wave Whip Curling Mousse Mark Zuckerberg Take Me Home Forrest Fenn treasure heist Legendary foul ball catch TikTok’s travel pillow correction Are you part of the Sorta Awesome Hangout group? Come join us for daily discussions of all things awesome! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Monday and we're here to start your week off with all the awesome you need to know! What to watch this week on streaming, something to listen to when you need help falling asleep, a TON of recommendations from the Awesomes, fascinating and weird news stories ... we've got a fun mix to start the first week of July! Show notes: Nothing Much Happens podcast Drama Queens podcast Countertop ice maker Peepers Recipe for pavlova Roomba Sign up for a free trial of Audible and listen to Project Hail Mary More details on The Book of Courtesans Find us on Instagram for daily Awesome! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever been listening to an episode of Sorta Awesome and thought "Gosh, I wish I could tell them _______!" or "Why don't they know that the name of that movie is  _____?" Have you ever wondered what TikToks we text our friends, or how we let each other know when we just finished an incredible book?  We are THRILLED to announce that our latest Super Star perk is texting with us! Through the Community app, we are able to send texts to our community and communicate back and forth via texting. No bots, no AI, just your friends at Sorta Awesome texting you! When you sign up to become a Super Star supporter of Sorta Awesome on Patreon, you’ll get access to texting, over 150 bonus episodes to download and binge, new monthly episodes created just for our Super Stars (including our Sorta Spicy series!), and access to our exclusive Facebook group. All for $5/month! Sign up to become a Super Star Awesome here! Show Notes from Awesome Overflow: Tretinoin information Foot care kit on Amazon You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Emily on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know we love any reason to celebrate the everyday around here, and this week, Meg is thrilled to kick off the revived Extra Awesome series with a conversation with Mary Carver about celebrating Christmas in July! Mary returns to Sorta Awesome with some background, inspiration, and ideas and more to get you thinking about making July really special this year with some holiday happiness. Frozen hot chocolate bars, Hallmark holiday movies, homemade cinnamon rolls and more! Show Notes: teleparty extension Listen to Mary’s podcast The Couch with Mary Carver wherever you find your favorite podcasts Find Mary at her blog or on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re just about to wrap up the month of June, and we’ve got a BUNCH of recommendations for you of what to watch, what to read, what to listen to, and fun lifestyle picks! But before that, Meg and Kyle dig into some silly, fascinating, and awesome news stories that you definitely missed in the big headlines! What to watch on streaming in July 2021 Starstruck HBO MAX Try Audible Plus (for Project Hail Mary and other good stuff!) Project Hail Mary The Stars of Whistling Ridge Amazon | Bookshop Storygraph App Sara Thackwray music Stella and Grace dead sea mud mask Folex Carpet Spot Remover La Colombe Coffee Roasters Cotton Flower Clothing on Etsy Follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram for daily Awesome including everyday celebrations and birthdays! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer reading season is in FULL SWING, and that means you are probably hearing about great books everywhere you turn. But how many of those books live up to the hype? This week, Meg is joined by Sorta Awesome Regular and author Katie Proctor, and they are here to give you the rundown on which recent books getting lots of buzz actually live up to all the hype! Plus a fun summer beauty pick and vicarious travel in Awesome of the Week! BECOME A SORTA AWESOME SUPER STAR! This summer, treat yourself to our exclusive Patreon content and catch up on our latest Sorta Spicy series, enjoy monthly Awesome Overflow episodes and hang with other Super Stars in our Facebook community! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE bacon for a year Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase Brightside: Go to brightside.com/AWESOME and take your free mental health assessment and get up to one hundred dollars credit on your first month of treatment Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. SHOW NOTES: Katie's AotW: Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener Meg AotW: Vicarious Voyager WeDoFunThings on TikTok @rooftopreviews Adult contemporary fiction: A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes Amazon | Bookshop Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller Amazon | Bookshop Circe by Madeline Miller Amazon | Bookshop Olympus, TX by Stacey Swann Amazon | Bookshop Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid Amazon | Bookshop The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo Amazon | Bookshop Daisy Jones and the Six also by TJR Amazon | Bookshop One, Two, Three by Laurie Frankel Amazon | Bookshop Project Hail Mary, Andy Weir Amazon | Bookshop The Last Thing He Told Me, Laura Dave Amazon | Bookshop Non-fiction: Broken, Jenny Lawson Amazon | Bookshop Live Your Life, Amanda Kloots Amazon | Bookshop Middle Grade: Hand in Hand, Katie Proctor Amazon | Bookshop Amari and the Night Brothers by BB Alston Amazon | Bookshop Just Like That by Gary D. Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Mentioned: The Wednesday Wars, Gary D. Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Okay for Now, Gary D. Schmidt Amazon | Bookshop Young Adult: A Pho Love Story by Loan Le Amazon | Bookshop Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley Amazon | Bookshop Tokyo Ever After, Emiko Jean Amazon | Bookshop You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her latest book Hand in Hand! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy mid-week, friends! We've got the scoop on all the stories you might have missed in the past few weeks. Instead of bumming you out, however, the stories we cover will keep you looped in on the inspiring, the silly, and the plain old weird. Tune in to hear Meg and Kyle give you your serotonin fix for the week! Don't forget to follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram for daily celebrations and birthday wishes! A few links: Gorilla and human moms bonding at the zoo Florida Man's birthday prank JLo's mom weighs in on Bennifer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy summer solstice, friends! We're back with another round of Watch, Read, Listen, Lifestyle, and Meg and Kyle are sharing some great finds on streaming, a fascinating fiction podcast, a new novel everyone is buzzing about, and lots of great lifestyle picks from the Awesomes! Stephanie Harlowe's Bonnie and Clyde series Malibu Rising, Taylor Jenkins Reid King Falls AM Nightgown (with pockets!) Bubble tea kit Hotpop microwave popcorn popper Timber Ridge Botanical cologne sampler Karina Dresses Come follow us on Instagram! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From fictional twins like Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia to real life twins like Mary Kate and Ashley Olson, the fascination around twins is real! This week, Rebekah puts Meg squarely in the hot seat with all kinds of questions about what it’s like to have twins. From the moment the ultrasound screen surprised her to what it’s like to navigate parenting older twins to her biggest fears and her favorite moments, she spills all the secrets behind twin life! Can’t get enough of conversations with Meg and Rebekah? BECOME A SORTA AWESOME SUPER STAR! This summer, treat yourself to our exclusive Patreon content and catch up on our latest Sorta Spicy series, enjoy monthly Awesome Overflow episodes and hang with other Super Stars in our Facebook community! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Quip: Go to GETQUIP.com/AWESOME5 and get $5 off a Mouthwash Starter Kit Grove: Go to Grove.co/AWESOME and choose a FREE gift (with orders $30 or more). PlushCare: Go to PlushCare.com/awesome to start your FREE 30-day trial. SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: Knox Rose Dress at Target (affiliate link) Meg’s AotW: Podcast Do You Know Mordechai You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Meg and Kyle are celebrating twenty-three years of marriage, and they have filled this conversation with stories and moments big and small from having spent over half of their lives together. They dissect fights over McDonald’s on an interstate in Texas, revisit what made Meg clutch her pearls the first time she saw Kyle, and pinpoint some of the biggest surprises of the past few decades. They also share some of the disappointments (especially a very recent loss), as well as giving their best advice for married life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You guys! It’s finally here! THE AWESOME LIST for SUMMER 2021! Every season, we have the most fun putting together a list of AMAZING things to check out in the months ahead, and this year, Meg and Kelly are thrilled to guide you through their very favorite season of all! From sunscreen and summer makeup to drinks and recipes to keeping bugs at bay and so very much more, there is something for everyone on this list! Plus delightful comedy TV and dreamy Scottish ASMR in Awesome of the Week! BECOME A SORTA AWESOME SUPER STAR! This summer, treat yourself to our exclusive Patreon content! Catch up on our latest Sorta Spicy series, enjoy monthly Awesome Overflow episodes and hang with other Super Stars in our Facebook community! From now until June 14th, show some love to Sorta Awesome favorite Jessica Turner by shopping her Zulily event! Great deals curated by an Awesome with great taste! (SA affiliate link) THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: for 10% off of your new favorite razor, go to mybillie.com/awesome Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Bombas: Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase EveryPlate: Try EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off your next two boxes by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: Scottish Undertones ASMR; Relax video Kelly's AotW: Peacock TV / Rutherford Falls / Girls5eva Meg’s List: Breathable nail polish Innocence perfume oil spray by Poesie Perfume NYX peekaboo neutral (Shop our ShopList or use our Target affiliate link) e.l.f. Primer-Infused Bronzer in Forever Sunkissed (Shop our ShopList or use our Target affiliate link) Linen overalls Kate Baer’s book What Kind of Woman Spotify's 70s Road Trip playlist Kelly’s List: Asian Cucumber Salad from Well Plated Tinted moisturizer with SPF Aveda Inner Light Mineral Tinted Moisturizer Neutrogena Radiant Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 One-person portable mosquito repellent One-person portable mosquito repellent Patio-sized mosquito repellent Slow cooker recipes Kelly’s slow-cooker tacos Make this chicken shawarma from Chew Out Loud in the slow cooker instead of in the oven Slow cooker sloppy joes from A Farm Girl Dabbles Keri Gentry Welch's Spotify playlist "Summer Vibes for Moms + Kids You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grab some peanut butter cookies and draw yourself a bath because there’s all kinds of fun things to celebrate in the week ahead! And when it comes to the news you’ve missed, we’ve got everything from Canadian UFOs to robotic manicures, from women’s urinals to pizza vending machines and more! Don’t forget to follow Sorta Awesome on Instagram so you can get your daily dose of awesome along with a personal birthday greeting from Meg! We’re @sortaawesomeshow on IG! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Father's Day just around the corner, we wanted to share some ideas for the Awesome men in your life! Join Meg and Kyle as they give specific suggestions sure to be a hit for your partner, your father or father-in-law, or any man you are shopping for this year! Mack Weldon Tommy John SAXX Fresh Clean Tees True Classic Tees Caswell Massey Jockey Club (and other classic products) Geo F Trumper Eucris, Lime Skin Food CRKT CEO Portable Battery Starter/Charger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer is here, friends! And we have some very awesome ideas for how you can have a GREAT one all based on YOUR Myers Briggs personality type! Tune in to hear Meg and her sister Sorta Awesome regular Emily Harris break down all 16 Myers Briggs types and give some suggestions for the season ahead! BECOME A SORTA AWESOME SUPER STAR! This summer, treat yourself to our exclusive Patreon content! Catch up on our latest Sorta Spicy series, enjoy monthly Awesome Overflow episodes and engage with other Super Stars in our Facebook community! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Zocdoc: Go to zocdoc.com/AWESOME and download the Zocdoc app to sign up for free and book a top-rated doctor. Outfit Formula Summer 2021! Not sure what on earth to wear this summer? Pick up the Summer 2021 Outfit Formula and let AWESOME stylist Alison Lumbatis tell you what to wear every single day! SHOW NOTES: Emily’s AotW: Sweese 150.003 Porcelain Dinner Plates - 11 Inch - Set of 6, Cool Assorted Colors Meg’s AotW: Friends Reunion 16personalities.com CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR CHEAT SHEET with all the ideas from this episode! You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Emily on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roll up your sleeves, friends! It's the middle of the week and we've got a lot of awesome to get to! From Kyle's rotisserie chicken PTSD to Bennifer to a swimming pool floating ten stories above the ground, there's all kinds of fun stuff and silly stories to cover. A few notes: It's National Donut Day, baby! Stay At Home Mum's community will make you feel better about ruining the lives of your kids Go scroll @totheguysivedated WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO SWIM HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pop the popcorn and grab a box of Junior Mints because summer movie season is here! This week in Watch, Read, Listen, Lifestyle updates, we have a mini-preview of movies coming out in June on both streaming platforms and in theaters! Plus the Awesomes showed up with some GAME-CHANGERS for your life. The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything, Fr. James Martin Hand in Hand, Katie Proctor (@katieproctorwritesandreads) Done Playing By The Rules podcast Carpenter Creek Cellars (Sara loves the Sunset Rosé) SMARTAKE parchment paper Conscious Crop Bra, Athleta FitOn app Face shaver GiveInKind Free Assembly shorts (Go check out the Summer 2021 Capsule Wardrobe from Outfit Formulas!) FrSara neck cooling fan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether this week is dragging or if it's racing by, you know you need a dose of awesome to get you through to the weekend! Meg and Kyle have holiday highlights for you to celebrate with your friends or on your own in the week ahead, plus a TON of fascinating, hilarious, puzzling, and weird news stories guaranteed to give you something to talk about at your Memorial Day cookouts. Meg's very favorite sunscreen EVER is this one from Paula's Choice! Isn't this mint julep kit THE CUTEST?! Order TODAY to get it in time for National Mint Julep Day! YouTuber Sarah Funk gives a little tour of NYC's Little Island Four Words: SUPER. FLOWER. BLOOD. MOON. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wondering what to watch this week? Need some inspiration in the world of great recommendations? You know the Awesomes have got you covered! Meg and Kyle have the highlights of what was great in May on Netflix along with what the Awesomes are super loving on streaming right now, too. We've got reads to inspire your kids, the first great pop bop of the summer, and lots of products to check out, too! When Stars are Scattered, Victoria Jamieson Heartbreak Anthem, Little Mix, David Guetta, and Galantis Sephora #lipstories in A Little Magic and Oui Aquage Illuminating Gelade Garlic Ranch Pretzels Recipe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back with a new episode in our Awesome Haul series! This time, we're featuring small businesses owned by women, and we have found some GREAT products that we know you're going to L O V E. Meg is joined by Kelly and Rebekah, and the three of them found happy home goods, nourishing nutrients, fantastic fashion, and even something to treat that dreaded underboob rash! Are you loving Sorta Awesome's new look? Treat yourself to some BRAND NEW Sorta Awesome merch! New designs featuring the return of GOLD to our logo are in the shop NOW! sortaawesomeshow.com/merch THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase LinkedIn: Post your first job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Quip: Go to GETQUIP.com/AWESOME and get a FREE plastic dispenser with any refill plan Grove: Go to Grove.co/AWESOME and choose a FREE gift (with orders $30 or more). SHOW NOTES: Meg AotW: Pilot BOLD pens (YouTube clip of Conan O'Brien) Kelly's AotW: Sea salt smell: Seaglass candle (affiliate link) and Sea salt oil diffuser (affiliate link) Rebekah's AotW: Magic Track Meg's Haul Seed Cycle Blend Picaboo Underbreast rash treatment Humble Chic Bow Back Blouse Kelly's Haul Tortilla warmer basket and hand-stamped tile from Clay Decor on Etsy Stasher platinum silicone food-grade reusable storage bags (snack size) Bees Wrap wax cloth food wrap We Rise boho graphic tee from Natural Life Rebekah's Haul Happy Happy House Plant Plant Food Happy Happy House Plant on Instagram Olive & June (Get 20% off your order with Rebekah's referral link) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're serving up celebrations including Devil's Food cake, small batch spirits, biking to work, and digging out your old tap shoes. In the news, an ... unconventional ... approach to wellness that means you have to stay hydrated, buying stock in the lives of strangers, accent switching and more! It's your mid-week dose of AWESOME, friends! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's new in awesome? We've got you covered for the week of May 17th with great picks on every streaming platform, a bunch of reading recommendations straight from the Awesomes, and some fun picks to bring more goodness to your everyday life! Links from our list: Don’t have Hulu? Sign up here with Sorta Awesome’s link! Want to check out Amazon Prime? Give it try and support Sorta Awesome Writers and Lovers, Lily King Who is Maud Dixon, Alexandra Andrews Project Hail Mary, Andy Weir A Name Unknown, Roseanna M. White Did you know with Kindle Unlimited you can get access to over 1 million e-reading titles? Zero G (Audible Plus) Pickleball set VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If there’s a mantra we will always preach to the Awesomes, it’s definitely to LOVE WHAT YOU LOVE! This week, Meg and Rebekah have a great conversation about all the things they are loving right now that they are indulging in as a way to escape a little bit. From book recommendations to podcasts they love to filling a home with plants to the best coffee on the planet and so, so much more, we’ve got so much that will surprise and delight you in this episode! Are you loving Sorta Awesome's new look? Treat yourself to some BRAND NEW Sorta Awesome merch! New designs featuring the return of GOLD to our logo are in the shop NOW! sortaawesomeshow.com/merch THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the App Store or Google Play Bombas:  Go to bombas.com/AWESOME and get 20% off your first purchase Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off another 2 weeks by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 PlushCare: Go to PlushCare.com/awesome to start your FREE 30-day trial. SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: In Five Years Meg’s AotW: Madam X perfume by Possetts Roomies by Christian Lauren Rebekah's Frugal Plant Tips TikTok Follows: Zachariah Porter - @zzzachariah Clinton Avery Tharp - @clintonaverytharp KC Davis - @domesticblisters Lubalin - @lubalin Free Day Popcorn Schitt’s Creek Fated Mates Vanilla massage oil (as mentioned on our recent Sorta Spicy: Sexy Haul episode exclusively available for our Patreon supporters!) Sasquatch (Don’t have Hulu? Sign up here with Sorta Awesome’s link!) Broken by Jenny Lawson (and her blog The Bloggess) You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How about a dose of mid-week AWESOME? For this installment of Celebrations & Trivia, Meg and Kyle are back with all kinds of fun, funny, delicious, and weird minor holidays to celebrate in the week ahead, and they mix in a healthy helping of date-based trivia and more than a few untold stories from their lives as well. We know you'll find something fun to look forward to celebrating with us this week! Don't forget to come follow up on Instagram where Meg is in Stories every day to talk about celebrations of the day and birthdays! Send us a DM on your birthday so she can wish you a happy one! @sortaawesomeshow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wondering what book to pick up this week? Lost in the Netflix home screen and no idea what’s good to watch? Need some inspiration to bring a little more awesome to your life? We’ve got you covered, Awesome! Welcome to Watch, Read, Listen, Lifestyle - a weekly series where we tell you everything you need to know about what’s good in culture, entertainment, and lifestyle goodness for the week ahead. This is Watch, Read, Listen, Lifestyle for the week of May 10th! Here are some of the helpful links from our list: Don’t have Hulu? Sign up here with Sorta Awesome’s link! Kids Against Maturity Meet Me in Another Life, Catriona Silvey The Tidy App Make sure you are following us on Instagram for daily celebrations and birthday wishes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been over a year since the world turned upside down in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and now we’re beginning to see a light at the end of this tunnel. Are we ready to go back to normal? What does that mean? And how can we make the transition a little less stressful and a little more awesome? You do NOT want to miss this conversation with Meg and Kelly as they process together what the months ahead might bring us! Are you loving Sorta Awesome's new look? Treat yourself to some BRAND NEW Sorta Awesome merch! New designs featuring the return of GOLD to our logo are in the shop NOW! sortaawesomeshow.com/merch THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: for 10% off of your new favorite razor, go to mybillie.com/awesome Legacy Box: Go to legacybox.com/AWESOME and save 50% while supplies last. EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off another 2 weeks by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 First Leaf: Sign up to become a new member of First Leaf and get your first 6 bottles for $39.95 AND send $10 to the charity of your choice! Sorta Awesome’s affiliate link is sortaawesomeshow.com/firstleaf SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Kelly Corrigan Wonders podcast series How to Make the Most of Family Life Meg AotW: The Ex-Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon Of course you’re anxious about returning to normal life Do We Even Know How To Socialize Anymore? There’s a Name for the Blah You’re Feeling: It’s Called Languishing It’s OK to Grieve for the Small Losses of a Lost Year Why Our Mental Health Won't Just Go Back to Normal When the Pandemic Is Over You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why wait for a M A J O R holiday or life event to celebrate? Truly, there is awesome to be found every day of the week, and we are once again expanding the Awesome Universe by bringing you weekly rundowns of all of the weird, wacky, and fun days to celebrate as well as interesting news items you might have missed! For the week of May 5th - 11th, we’ll get you ready to celebrate everything from Lost Sock Memorial Day to No Pants Day and lots more! Plus UFOs, Mark Wahlberg’s dad bod, Ben Affleck being a creeper and more in the news round-up! Links to check out: Go ahead and drink after your COVID vaccine! It’s not the hands. It’s the nose. Mark Wahlberg prepares to be Father Stu A ticket out of Switzerland Puppy love in Ireland Ben Affleck sliding into DMs Mom’s Own Milk jewelry The CIA has been holding out on us Justin Bieber is lonely tho Don’t forget to come follow us on instagram @sortaawesomeshow where Meg covers fun celebrations for the day along with BIRTHDAYS! Send us a DM on your birthday so she can wish you a happy one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Need to find the perfect gift for someone awesome in your life? Join Meg and Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman this week as they give you the scoop on gifts for Mother's Day and so much MORE! From new moms to new grads to your Chosen Mom to something shiny and new for yourself, we have got gift ideas of all kinds, and they are all BRILLIANT! Plus a great go-to recipe and a darling little desk in Awesome of the Week! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! BRAND NEW this week, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Meg & Rebekah’s Sexy Haul! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! Quip: Go to GETQUIP.com/AWESOME and get a FREE plastic dispenser with any refill plan Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE ground beef for a year Grove: Go to Grove.co/AWESOME and choose a FREE gift (with orders $30 or more). PlushCare: Go to PlushCare.com/awesome to start your FREE 30-day trial. SHOW NOTES: Julie’s AotW: Flank steak recipe and Flank steak with chimichurri recipe Meg’s AotW: Vanity desk from Wayfair (affiliate link) GIFTS FOR NEW MOMS: Takeout menu organizer: this one or this one Pretty serving tray Foot massage roller Mini fridge GIFTS FOR MOTHERS/MOTHERS-IN-LAW: Mandy's Gourmet Salads Personalized cutting board Tacklife Pro Car Starter/Mobile Battery Pack Sink side tray (Find this one using our Grove affiliate link: grove.co/awesome) SPIRITUAL/CHOSEN MOM: AirBnB experiences online Lanshin Massager Canon IVY Mobile Printer GIFTS FOR YOURSELF: BeautyCounter face mask Kopari body scrub Pajamas for yourself—like these nice ones at Target (affiliate link) Nice gold jewelry from Quince JetPens sampler packs SUBSCRIPTION/ONLINE GIFTS: Subscription from independent bookstore like these: The Novel Neighbor in Webster Groves, MO Read it Again Bookstore in Suanee, Georgia The Last Bookstore in LA, California The Ripped Bodice in Culver City, California Shelf Subscription from The Bookshelf in Thomasville, GA Subscription Rocksbox—Or get a free month for yourself when you sign up with Meg's link Kinder Beauty box You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if we told you there's an awesome solution for those situations where you want to take a stand or enforce a boundary but it's hard to summon the confidence? This week, we dive into a concept called "personal policies," and Meg and Rebekah are here to tell you everything they've learned, plus some of the personal policies that are finding to be so helpful in their own lives! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! Brand new THIS WEEK, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Meg & Rebekah’s Sexy Haul! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Your perfect fitting bra is waiting for you! Go to thirdlove.com/awesome to get 20% off of your first purchase! Best Fiends: Play the cutest game with tons of challenges and enjoy de-stressing at the same time! Download Best Fiends FREE today on the Apple App Store or Google Play! Bombas: Buy a pair of the best socks and around give one to someone in need! Get 20% off of your first purchase at bombas.com/awesome Headspace: You deserve to feel happier, and Headspace is meditation made simple.. Go to headspace.com/awesome for your FREE ONE MONTH TRIAL ZocDoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/awesome and download the Zocdoc app to sign-up for FREE and book a top-rated doctor now! SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: Spectacle: An Unscripted History of Reality TV podcast Rebekah’s AotW: Upopby Women's Vintage One Piece Swimsuit Two Words That Will Make you Happier, Calmer, and More Certain by Sarah Von Bargen You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If there's one thing we never shy away from on Sorta Awesome, it's spilling the tea on our secret confessions! Sorta Awesome regular Katie Proctor is back this week, so she and Meg thought it would be fun to tell all of their bookish confessions, and they are sharing some from the Awesomes, too. Listen in to hear about the book that almost caused a break-up, judging books by their covers with no shame, and questionable sex ed. All of that plus an Awesome-authored new release and a documentary packed with nostalgia in Awesome of the Week! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! In March, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Kelly breaks down purity culture! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Billie: for 10% off of your new favorite razor, go to mybillie.com/awesome LinkedIn: Post a job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off another 2 weeks by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 Moink: Go to Moinkbox.com/AWESOME to get FREE ground beef for a year SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Last Blockbuster documentary (Netflix) Katie’s AotW: Dear White Peacemakers, Osheta Moore Sorta Awesome Ep. 279 The Enneagram Explains Your Reading Life 10 Things to Tell You: Ep. 17 Revisiting Flowers in the Attic Sorta Awesome Ep. 261 The secret things we learned from books Currently Reading podcast A Prayer for Owen Meany 50 Shades of Gray Red White & Royal Blue Where the Red Fern Grows Bridge to Terabithia You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Katie at her website or on Facebook and Instagram! And be sure to check out her book My Storied Year! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, the Awesomes have been asking for a conversation about basic, simple skin care that doesn’t break the bank. We’re here to help! Listen to Meg and Kelly talk about what a basic, 3 step skin care routine can look like, and how to expand beyond those basic steps if you want to up your skincare routine. Plus Kelly’s back with another delicious cookie recipe, and Meg has a podcast binge that she’s been obsessing over in Awesome of the Week! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! In March, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Kelly breaks down purity culture! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Kencko: The first 100 listeners will get 25% off their first order at kencko.com/AWESOME ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase BarkBox: Claim your free month of free dog stuff! CreativeBug: Get 3 Months of Creativebug for $1! Creativebug offers thousands of online video art and craft classes. Learn how to paint, knit, crochet, bake, sew, screen print, and more! SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Monster Cookies Meg’s AotW: The Opportunist podcast, season 1 Cleansers: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser No7 Radiant Results Purifying Foaming Cleanser Moisturizers: CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Night Cream No 7 HydraLuminous Water Surge Gel Sunscreen: Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30 broad spectrum sunscreen Paula's Choice Super Light Wrinkle Defense Exfoliating: CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser No7 Radiance+ Daily Energizing Exfoliating Cleanser Pack of exfoliating rounds Repair: Serums for No7 You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've been going through it for over a year now, and many of us are feeling more lonely than ever before. But chin up, Awesome! This week Meg is talking to THE Friendship Expert Danielle Bayard Jackson, and she's got advice about friendships you have GOT to hear. Danielle shares four tips for finding new friends that do NOT involve striking up conversations with strangers. She also talks about why our friendships are so pivotal to happiness in life, and she gives great advice on how to heal friendships that have been neglected in the past year. This episode is a MUST-LISTEN! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! This month, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Kelly breaks down purity culture! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Apostrophe: Go to apostrophe.com/AWESOME and use our code AWESOME for fifteen dollars off your first visit First Leaf: For six bottles of wine at $29.95 and free shipping, go to tryfirstleaf.com/awesome LinkedIn: Post a job for free at linkedin.com/AWESOME Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial SHOW NOTES: Danielle’s AotW: Cinnabon Meg’s AotW: Rattan earrings betterfemalefriendships.com Friend Forward podcast You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Danielle on Instagram and TikTok! Listen to her podcast Friend Forward and give it a follow on IG! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are all about helping you discover the little things that make life so much better, and this week, we are ALL ABOUT those little life hacks that make a big difference! Join Meg and Rebekah for a tip-packed conversation that is totally going to change your life. They have hacks for your home, your skin and hair, your kids, your marriage, and more! BRAND NEW SORTA SPICY ALERT! This week, Super Star Awesomes got the next installment in the Sorta Spicy series: Kelly breaks down purity culture! This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Bombas:  Give a pair when you buy a pair, and get 20% off your first purchase at bombas.com/AWESOME Best Fiends: Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play EveryPlate: Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.99 per meal plus an additional 20% off another 2 weeks by going to EveryPlate.com and entering code awesome199 Kencko: The first 100 listeners will get 25% off their first order at kencko.com/AWESOME SHOW NOTES: Rebekah’s AotW: I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella Meg AotW: Maybelline Snapscara Wet brush shower detangler Shoe storage cabinet at Wayfair You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Rebekah on her blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes, friends! It’s time once again for one of our favorite episodes of the year: our top ten list for the season ahead! Join Meg and Emily as they give you the inside scoop on all there is to look forward to in Spring 2021! They’ve got home decor ideas, books to read, movies to watch, makeup and skin care recommendations and more! AND! If you want even more conversation with the four original Awesomes, go check out the Sorta Spicy series on Patreon. The newest episode in the series is called "Covid Confessions," and in it, you'll hear Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and Laura share their most heartfelt confessions of how the Covid pandemic has impacted their private lives. This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ThirdLove: Go to thirdlove.com/AWESOME for 20% off your first purchase Bombas:  Give a pair when you buy a pair, and get 20% off your first purchase at bombas.com/AWESOME Billie: for 10% off of your new favorite razor, go to mybillie.com/awesome Apostrophe: Go to apostrophe.com/AWESOME and use our code AWESOME for fifteen dollars off your first visit SHOW NOTES: Emily’s AotW: Murder Among the Mormons (Netflix) True Crime Obsessed podcast Meg’s AotW: Unsolved Mysteries podcast TrueCrimePodcasts subreddit 1. Nick Lewis YouTube Channel 2. Three movies: Raya and the Last Dragon Godzilla vs Kong Black Widow 3. Plantable flowers from Paper Source 4. Three perfumes: Aphrodite by Poesie Perfums Grapefruit Soda by Firebird Perfume Lagoon by Firebird Perfume: 5. Cute fake succulents 6. On-trend eyewear: 7 Eyewear Trends for 2021 (Who What Wear) 7. Rifle paper company tea towel 8. Three books by Awesomes: Strong, Brave, and Beautiful (edited by Emily Allen) Dear White Peacemakers by Osheta Moore Hand in Hand by Katie Proctor 9. Bronzer: Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer in Milk Chocolate 10. Tend skin for razor bumps You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can find Emily on Instagram! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Future You REALLY doesn't want you to miss this one, Awesome! Join Meg and Kelly for a fun conversation on all the ways we can create routines now to take care of the future versions of ourselves - whether it's later today or a few months or even a few years down the road! Plus a powerful book of prayer and a game-changer for facial massage and TMJ relief in Awesome of the Week! AND! If you want even more conversation with the four original Awesomes, go check out the Sorta Spicy series on Patreon. The newest episode in the series is called "Covid Confessions," and in it, you'll hear Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and Laura share their most heartfelt confessions of how the Covid pandemic has impacted their private lives. This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: FitTrack: Go to GetFitTrack.com/AWESOME to take 50% off your order. Plus, for a limited time get an additional 30% off your order with the code Build30 at checkout! PlushCare: Go to PlushCare.com/awesome to start your FREE 30-day trial. CreativeBug: Get 3 Months of Creativebug for $1! Creativebug offers thousands of online video art and craft classes. Learn how to paint, knit, crochet, bake, sew, screen print, and more! SHOW NOTES: Kelly’s AotW: A Rhythm of Prayer by Sarah Bessey Meg’s AotW: Gua sha rose quartz Morning Jen/Nighttime Jen post by Jen Hatmaker Morning Self post by Jen Hatmaker You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Kelly on Twitter , Instagram and on her website! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you love hearing what others are obsessed with because they make life SO much better? You have hit the jackpot! This week, Meg is joined by new Sorta Awesome regular Julie Tepperman, and they have crammed so much good stuff into this episode, you might be a little mind-blown by all of the awesome! From skin care to food and cooking to stuff for the family to love to gift ideas and more, this is a super-sized episode of fun stuff to discover! AND! If you want even more conversation with the four original Awesomes, go check out the Sorta Spicy series on Patreon. The newest episode in the series is called "Covid Confessions," and in it, you'll hear Meg, Kelly, Rebekah, and Laura share their most heartfelt confessions of how the Covid pandemic has impacted their private lives. This episode is exclusively available for our Super Star Patreon supporters! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Apostrophe: Go to apostrophe.com/AWESOME and use our code AWESOME for fifteen dollars off your first visit First Leaf: For six bottles of wine at $29.95 and free shipping, go to tryfirstleaf.com/awesome LinkedIn: Go to linkedin.com/AWESOME and get a $50 credit toward your first job post. Terms and conditions apply. Headspace: Go to headspace.com/AWESOME for a free one month trial SHOW NOTES: Meg’s AotW: The Voting Booth by Brandy Colbert Starbuck’s medicine ball (now called honey citrus mint tea) Julie’s homemade medicine ball recipe: 1 bag Teavana Jade Citrus Mint tea (or other citrus mint tea like Tazo Zen) 1 bag Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea (or other peach flavored tea) 2 T honey 8 oz hot water 8 oz steamed lemonade (I microwave mine) Optional but not necessary – one pump peppermint syrup Heat your water and lemonade either separately or together, put in your tea bags and honey, let it steep for a few minutes and enjoy! Pamela Salzman website, Pamela Salzman Quicker than Quick cookbook, Pamela Salzman recipe for Greek sheet pan chicken with lemon and potatoes Merben Dry brush CND Rescue Rx Self expression cards Last defense board game Jenny Boston leggings (might be sold out) Pilates – the balanced life sisterhood on YouTube Shinola journals Skylight digital photo frame Boba tea: Boba Explained: A Taxonomy of Taipei’s Bubble Tea Pioneer Woman hard boiled eggs No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Serum Foundation SPF 15 Revlon Illuminance Creme Shadow, Skinlights Homitem Men Slippers Memory Foam Moccasin Slipper for Men Fleece Lined House Shoes with Anti-Slip Indoor Outdoor Ham&Sam Men's Robe Knit Bamboo Cotton 100% Wolf movie Thumbtack App Airpods Pro You can find Meg on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Find Julie on Instagram and Facebook! Visit sortaawesomeshow.com for show notes on this and every episode. And don’t forget to find us in the Sorta Awesome Hangout on Facebook or @sortaawesomeshow on Instagram, and @sortaawesomepod on Twitter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices