Rain jackets, springtime scents, and a rom-com comeback
Links we sent our friends #97 feat. Ashley Rudolph
Happy Marathon Monday from Boston! The city’s been buzzing with pre-race energy all weekend. On Friday, Sam, Jude and I (Aliza) tried a new restaurant where even my toddler was captivated by the excited crowds streaming past our table.
A few months ago, I had a disappointing meeting with a senior executive that sent me into a shame spiral. So glad I could turn to
’s newsletter — she’s a former tech VP turned executive coach who shares advice “with the candor of a best friend.” Her wisdom on staying motivated after getting tough feedback helped me understand why the criticism hit so hard and figure out how to move forward.Whether you’re negotiating a raise or recovering after losing your cool in a meeting, Ashley’s advice is always empathetic, insightful, and actionable.
Ashley’s Links:
My springtime scent is Zouzou by Celine — it’s light, airy, and soft.
Ceremonia’s ultra-hydrating hair mask has earned a permanent spot in my shower. (We actually interviewed founder and CEO Babba Rivera on our podcast!)
Inspired by my friend Kendra, I sprinkle Trader Joe’s wildly addictive elote seasoning on stovetop popcorn.
If you like thoughtful gifts, go to Airmail. It’s one of those magical little shops that feels like a secret. (Aja: And if you don’t live in New York, the selection is pretty good online!)
The special collections are so much fun! I met my fiancé four years ago after hiring a matchmaker, so I felt very seen watching the trailer for The Materialists. It’s a classic rom-com (we need this era back.)
Every Outfit has been in my rotation since the pandemic. I love Chelsea and Lauren’s takes on Sex and the City and pop culture. They’re my friends in my head: snarky, informed, and so damn funny. (Aliza: I love them too!)
Aliza’s Links:
It’s raining a lot in April, but at least Jude looks damn cute in his rain jacket. (Aja: ADORABLE. I’m picturing him walking around with a baguette.)
The most important thing I listened to last week:
and talking about our emerging constitutional crisis. As Klein says, “the emergency is here.”Dr. Emily Weinstein and Dr. Jacqueline Nesi (a recent guest!) just launched Tech Without Stress to help parents navigate screen-time. (I guess I’m not the only one feeling overwhelmed.) The psychologists, researchers, and moms are offering two courses — one for parents of little kids, and another for parents of teens — covering everything from healthy screen-time boundaries to talking points for violent video games and porn.
Am I the last person to find out about these magical pain-free running headphones? (The microphone sound quality isn’t as good as AirPods, though.) (Aja: Lol, you’ve sent me a few voice notes using these. Can confirm.)
Really appreciated writer Sarah Kurchak’s perspective on why The Pitt’s Dr. Mel King is especially meaningful for neurodivergence onscreen.
As I told Aja last week: Do not sleep on Old Navy when it comes to a summer wedding heel…
Aja’s Links:
The ideal summer uniform. (Aliza: Truly… bring on the heat!)
And the ideal summer salad. Next time I’d add some chicken or tofu and call it an entree.
Have people stopped taking their restaurant leftovers to go?? Not me. (Gift link.) Last Thursday, Aliza and I had a very cathartic dinner at Pasta Beach. It was the perfect place for a deep conversation: warm, cozy, and quiet (but not dead!) If you go, order the house focaccia with rosemary. (Aliza: And yes, we both brought home leftovers.)
Loved these tips for strengthening long-distance friendships from
— #1 is so sweet!Normally I have trouble committing to pajamas (kinda a hassle?), but Lunya sent me this floaty silk set, and I’ve been looking forward to putting it on every night. (Also, our new friend
told us she puts her PJs under her pillow when she’s not wearing them, and now I’m doing it too.)
Thank you for all your lovely messages on last week’s dating issue. We’re so glad it resonated.
We also heard from you about the financial implications of being single as we get older. (Research shows — and this isn’t surprising — it’s more expensive.) In response, we’re going to write about the “single tax”: the extra costs (financial, emotional, and practical) that single people face. We’d love to include your experience. All you need to do is fill out this short survey (you can be anonymous!)
Elsie’s bold apartment is filled with character and vintage finds
There’s “perfect Leslie” and “messy shit show Leslie” — and they’re all melded together
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Thank you so much for having me this week!
Also I’m very much going to spend the rest of the day deep diving on both of your links. Speaking my love language with The Pitt, a summer salad, and the restaurant leftover trend (been wanting to hear tales on this!).
Love these recommendations as always, and thank you for recommending my latest post about long-distance friendships! 🫶