Ashley sits down with Jacob Tobia to discuss their book Before They Were Men. Together, they explore why Jacob avoids the phrase “toxic masculinity,” what healthier models of masculinity could look like, and how the different places Jacob has lived have shaped their views on gender and gender nonconformity. Books Mentioned: Before They Were Men: […]
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Mariquita, Mhairie, and Ashley dive into Girl on Girl by Sophie Gilbert, unpacking its most thought-provoking themes. In Part I, they explore how reality TV and social media have shaped generational beauty standards, question the pitfalls of so-called “empowerment” movements, and discuss how media literacy can equip the next generation to be both powerful and
Girl on Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Women Against Themselves Read More »
Looking for your next beloved memoir? Rah and Ashley dive into The Hollow Half: A Memoir of Bodies and Borders by Sarah Aziza—a lyrical, layered exploration of queerness, family, conflict, and the passage of time. They unpack how Aziza weaves these themes into a deeply personal yet universally resonant narrative, and why savoring the book
The Hollow Half by Sarah Aziza Read More »
Our contributors have paired up to tell one another about their favorite books of the year so far. You’ll hear these segments over the next few weeks! Today, Ashley and Mhairie share their top five of 2025. If you’re a fan of memoirs or horror, this episode is for you. Books/Resources Mentioned: Victorian Psycho by
Favorite Books of 2025 So Far (Ashley and Mhairie’s version) Read More »
On Mondays, I go on a Hot Girl Walk. I pour water into my bottle and set off to daydream and watch the clouds. I listen to an album on this walk. As I was choosing an album for the week, I realized that Lemonade by Beyoncé was still in my downloads. Here I go!
Listening to Lemonade by Beyoncé for the First Time Read More »
Don’t Stop the Music (Videos): Music Videos in the Present “Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child. “Work It” by Missy Elliot. “Hung Up” by Madonna. “Gimme More” by Britney Spears. These are just a handful of songs whose music videos represent indelible memories for me. Once upon a time, music videos were a massive part
The Necessity of Music Videos Read More »
For athletes, being an Olympian is an honor. All of the preparation, goals, sacrifices, and stretching are fulfilled while on that global stage. The audience is cheering you on. Your family gathers to watch you compete. You may even become a meme. While folks are already looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, I’m still thinking about
Ageism in Sports and the Olympics Read More »
What do I really, really want? I recently participated in an online challenge called the #75HardStyleChallenge, started by Mandy Lee, a fashion writer and analyst. The intentions of the challenge were to dress from your closet for 75 days, documenting each outfit, hopefully gaining confidence in how you dressed as you went along. I am
Consumption, Consumption, What’s Your Function? Read More »
Ashley and Mariquita discuss the book Rebels with a Cause: Reimagining Boys, Ourselves, and Our Culture by Niobe Way. They touch on topics of masculinity, the crisis of connection, and ways in which boys can create better pathways towards mental wellness. You may also hear them pontificate on why childless cat ladies exist. Other resources
Boys to Men and Mental Health Read More »
The “Confessionals” of our time Get Ready with Me or GRWM is a visual of someone’s life, a portal into a curve of emotions including humor, sadness, and joy. Posters can gain an audience, evoke a response, and, when possible, a conversation. In the video, how the person is getting ready – and where they’re
How “Get Ready With Me” Videos Shape Identity Read More »
My curiosity into Beverly Jenkins’ work In Beverly Jenkins’ novels, dozens written over three decades, Black women come first in their work, personal life, and pleasure. Jenkins’ mostly historical romances are typically set during periods of American history which tend to exclude the perspective and voice of Black people. Her novels provide deeper complexities and triumph
Beverly Jenkins: A Romance Revolutionary Read More »
In Jaclyn Goldis’ divinely written novel out May 21, The Main Character, the reader is on more twists and turns than a luxury train ride, which is part of the story’s setting. Ginevra Ex is a bestselling novelist who for her latest plot brings her main character, Rory Aronov, onto a lavish Italian getaway. When
Interview with Jaclyn Goldis, author of The Main Character Read More »
