Debunk *Your* Good Girl Myth and Be Better in Business

Brit Morin

Selfmade fall session has kicked off and we're already SO inspired by our first coach Majo Molfino, author of Break the Good Girl Myth. Thanks to a sponsorship from Office Depot, we're sharing a few gems of wisdom from this week's session on mindset. Spoiler alert: It's time to squash any semblance of self-doubt!

Be ok with messy. Always striving for perfection can get in the way of our success. Molfino notes that the good girl archetype is at odds with the qualities of the creative entrepreneur, such as being perfectionist vs experimental or being a rule follower instead of questioning the rules.

Brit Morin chimed in to show us the beginnings of Brit + Co, which were far from perfect, showing that nimbleness is a key trait in entrepreneurs. Part of entrepreneurship is accepting the ugly and that learning is part of the process to help you grow in your entrepreneurial journey.

Listen to your gut. "The biggest killer of entrepreneurial mindset is not what you would expect," says Molfino. "It's not failure, the economy, or bad ideas. It's doubt -- in ourselves, our surroundings, our abilities." If you're often looking for external approval or comparing yourself to others (setting an impossible standard!), flip the switch and start to listen to your gut and trust your instincts. You know better than anyone how you want *your* business to work.

Set boundaries. The myth of sacrifice, Molfino says, means having "this tendency to put other people's needs above your own at the expense of your self care and well-being." Sound familiar? Instead, think of working on your business as an act of self love. As Brit says, "if it's not a hell yes, it's a no" to any commitment you make that is not going to take you to the next level.

When you're just starting out, we know there are a lot of 'hats' you need to wear, but did you know Office Depot® OfficeMax® offers a full suite of business services & solutions to help you succeed? From print & copy services to help build your brand, 24/7 remote tech support, to products to help you work from anywhere. Office Depot OfficeMax is all about helping you accomplish more so you can focus on more important things, like starting & growing the business of your dreams.

Loud budgeting may be popular on TikTok, but conversations about money can still be awkward. I've been in romantic relationship for a little over a decade and we're just at a point where we've become aligned on finances. So imagine having random conversations with your family or friends that begin with, "I know I've never really asked before, but is it okay if I can borrow [insert x amount of $] until I can pay you back?" The nature of your platonic and familial relationships will totally determine whether you receive positive or negative responses.

As helpful as money can be, it can fracture even the closest relationships. Why? Well, psychologist Veronica West of My Thriving Mind, head of advice for Wells Fargo Emily Irwin; and Founder of Her First $100K money expert Tori Dunlap have a few ideas!

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:


1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

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It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

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"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

Brit + Co

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

RDNE Stock project

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

Brit + Co

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Brit + Co

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

  1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
  2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
  3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Brit + Co

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

  1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
  2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
  3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
  4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
  5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
  6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Alexander Grey/Unsplash

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

  1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
  2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Emil Kalibradov/Unsplash

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."

If you set clear financial boundaries and still find that your platonic relationships are weird, we have tips to help you navigate a potential friendship breakup.

Nicole Kidman is, as the kids say, mothering. She's giving fans plenty of movies and TV shows to pick from while we wait for the next seasons of Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect StrangersA Family Affair, Expats, The Perfect Couple (and the AMC intro, of course). Her newest movie Babygirl comes from A24, and the steamy drama is mixing work and pleasure. Pour yourself a glass of wine for this one, folks.

Scroll down to learn more about Babygirl — and to watch the HOT new trailer!

What is the plot of Babygirl?

A24

Babygirl Plot

In Babygirl, Nicole Kidman plays Romy, a powerful CEO struggling to hold her perfect persona together. Her marriage to Jacob has never provided with much pleasure, despite the fact he's caring and artistic. But when Romy meets a young intern named Samuel, and feels immediately drawn to him, the two begin a torrid affair.

And filming scenes with Harry Dickinson got so intense, Kidman said she literally had to take breaks. “There were times when we were shooting where I was like, ‘I don’t want to orgasm any more,'” she told the Sun. “Don’t come near me. I hate doing this. I don’t care if I am never touched again in my life!”

But the fact the movie was made by women empowered Kidman — and gave her a sense of freedom. "Doing this subject matter in the hands of the woman that wrote the script, that's directing it and is a really great actress herself — we became one in a weird way, which I'd never had with a director before," Kidman says in a statement. "When you're working with a woman on this subject matter, you can share everything with each other.”

"I really decided in the beginning, I want to make a sexual film, just as sexual as all these films that I've always admired so much," adds writer-director-producer Halina Reijn, "but now I'm going to do it completely through female eyes. What does that mean and what does that look like?”

When is the Babygirl release date?

A24

Babygirl Release Date

Babygirl made its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, but you can watch the movie in theaters December 25, 2024.

Who's in the Babygirl cast?

A24

Babygirl Cast

The cast of Babygirl includes Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson, Sophie Wilde, and Antonio Banderas.

What has Nicole Kidman said about making Babygirl?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Nicole Kidman revealed Babygirl is the most "exposing" film she's done because she's “made some films that are pretty exposing, but not like this.”

“It left me raggedm" Kidman says. "At some point I was like, I don’t want to be touched. I don’t want to do this anymore, but at the same time I was compelled to do it...This is something you do and hide in your home videos. It is not a thing that normally is going to be seen by the world.”

“I felt very exposed as an actor, as a woman, as a human being,” she continues. “I had to go in and go out like, I need to put my protection back on. What have I just done? Where did I go? What did I do?”

What does babygirl energy mean?

A24

"Babygirl" is a term of endearment that's usually applied to a man (you've probably heard it describe Pedro Pascal or Paul Mescal). When someone is giving babygirl energy, they're kind, cute, and disarming. And considering Babygirl plays with power dynamics, we could be guessing who the "babygirl" in question is up until the very end.

Watch The 'Babygirl' Trailer Here!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

There were SO many moments that made our jaws drop here:

  • The thumb in the mouth
  • The pink skirt moment
  • NICOLE CRAWLING ON ALL FOURS?!
Yeah, this is one you won't wanna watch with your parents, friends. 🥵

Are you looking forward to seeing Nicole Kidman onscreen again? We might have to wait until December to see Babygirl, but there are plenty of incredible Fall Movies coming our way.

This post has been updated.

Budgeting for the year is the last thing most of us *want* to do, but it's probably the most important in order to achieve your life goals. "Whether you want to pay off debt or build wealth, the budget’s entire job is to increase your net worth," says Erin Skye Kelly, author of Get the Hell Out of Debt: The Proven 3-Phase Method That Will Radically Shift Your Relationship to Money. "A budget says that you matter, and your dreams matter — and when we take care of ourselves first financially, we are in a better position to help others." Here are some of the most-Googled questions about debt answered, plus realistic ways to get out of debt in 2025 and starting living your best life.


How Do I Pay Off Credit Card Debt?

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

If you're serious about reducing your debt, you'll have to cut back on your nonessential spending by setting a realistic monthly budget for expenses like dining out or entertainment. Come up with a payment strategy that works best for you and your current financial situation. For example, focus on paying off the card with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on others. Once the highest-interest debt is cleared, roll that payment into the card with the next highest interest rate. This approach reduces the overall interest you pay and can help you become debt-free faster.

What Is A Debt Snowball?

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A debt snowball is a debt repayment method where you focus on paying off your smallest debts first, regardless of interest rate, while making minimum payments on larger debts. The debt snowball method is popular because it builds momentum and motivation, giving you a psychological boost as you see debts disappearing one by one. Once the smallest debt is paid off, you take the amount you were paying on it and apply it to the next smallest debt. This creates a "snowball effect," where your available payment amount grows as each debt is eliminated, helping you pay off larger debts faster over time.

How Do I Get Out Of Debt?

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When it comes to getting out of debt, the method that works best for you might be different than what works best for someone else. To get started, list all your debts, including balances, interest rates, and minimum payments. This gives you a clear picture of what you owe. Analyze your income and expenses to see where you can cut back and direct any extra funds toward your debt. Avoid new debt: Shift to a cash or debit-only system to prevent accumulating more debt while paying off what you already owe.

There are a variety of factors, from financial situation to income to dependents, but no matter what your life look like right now, here are some realistic ways to help you conquer your debt.

Create An LBD (Little Budget Library)

Photo By: Kaboompics.com

A little budget diary is a way to take stock of all your monthly and annual expenses, such as subscriptions, streaming services, and groceries — and write them all down in your LBD, says Brit + Co's Money School instructor Nicole Lapin. "You'll reference this all year — weekly is best — so you'll want to start off on the right foot with an easy-to-reference LBD. Don't make it hard. It's an easy task that will help you get organized quickly," she says.

Be Realistic About Your Expenses

Photo by Adrienn

"Do not be aspirational with your numbers," says Skye Kelly. "Pay attention to how you ACTUALLY live and how you ACTUALLY spend and work from there." Track your expenses for a month to create an accurate budget, review your paycheck and follow the 50-20-30 rule. These are the percentages you should spend on essentials, your future, and your lifestyle (non-essentials) with the goal to live within your means and eventually start saving and investing.

Check out Brit + Co's Teach Me Something Newpodcast with finance pro Tonya Rapley for breaking out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

Set Your Sights On Big Goals

B+C

Whether it's that dream bucket-list trip or a buying your first home, think about what your long-term goals are and think big when planning a budget. "When we are committed to a massive financial goal (retiring early and traveling the world with your life partner) suddenly the decision between roses or calla lilies as a wedding bouquet seem meaningless, and we are more inclined to find ways to spend less so we can meet our long-term financial goals," says Skye Kelly. She adds: "Create a budget for the milestone, stay resourceful and use points, seasonal sales, and help or hand-me-downs where you can."

Check out Brit + Co's Teach Me Something New podcast with The Points Guy for credit card tips and travel hacks.

"Spring Clean" Your Finances

B+C

Take a moment to organize your expenses. Dedicate a weekend afternoon and delete unused subscriptions, close and consolidate accounts, check in with your savings and retirement plans to make sure they're working for you, reduce auto-renewals, and unload credit card debt byconsolidating them into a single low-interest personal loan. It will feel as good, if not better, than spring cleaning your house, plus think about the money you'll have saved in that afternoon.

Find Your Side Hustle

B+C

Beyond just reducing your expenses, look at ways you can increase your income so you can start saving andinvesting to grow your wealth. "Increasing income might look like side jobs, part-time employment, creating an income stream, selling clutter around the home, or creating a product or service that meets the demands of the marketplace," says Skye Kelly. Look at selling clothes on resale sites, having a garage sale come spring, selling books online, starting an Etsy shop if you have a creative interest... anything that will add some extra cash in your pocket each month.

It's OK If It's Not Perfect

B+C

"Because budgets are rooted in math, we tend to see everything as right or wrong, which *shudder* brings up a lot of grade-school math class shame for many of us," says Skye Kelly. "If you plan your budget at the beginning of the month and at the end of the month it was only 80% accurate, you are likely killin’ it financially. I’ve asked hundreds of financial experts over the years ‘how many times did you get the budget exactly right?’ and every single answer has been ‘zero times.’"

Avoid Making Money Decisions During Hard Times

B+C

Mental wellness plays a big role in how we view our expenses and often we can make decisions in order to make us feel better (retail therapy, anyone?) instead of making healthy long-term financial decisions. "Having a line item in the budget for guilt-free spending is critical if you can afford it," says Skye Kelly. "This guilt-free spending money is there for times you want to splurge even though you might not be able to justify it."

Skye Kelly says it's best to avoid major financial decisions if you can for at least 6 months:

  • After a significant death or when you are grieving
  • While you or a loved one are experiencing a critical illness or at the onset of a new disability
  • After a major breakup or divorce
  • When you’ve entered into a new romantic relationship
  • If you’ve been diagnosed with or suspect you have a mental illness and are awaiting treatment

"During these times we are highly likely to make emotional or impulsive decisions. Give yourself time to regulate some of the higher intensity emotions that might be driving the urge to spend."

Curious about crypto? Check out Brit + Co's Teach Me Something Newpodcast with finance pro Nicole Lapin for a primer on how to make your first crypto investment.

How are you getting out of debt in 2025? Let us know on Twitter and check out our email newsletter for the latest tips on saving money.

This post has been updated.

Yellowstone season 5B is here! Twisters might have been THE summer movie of 2024, but the western vibes aren't going away, even after the Glen Powell movie has left theaters. The second half of Yellowstone season 5 returned to Paramount November 10 and it did not disappoint. 16.4 million viewers tuned into the premiere over a variety of networks — making it the most-watched season premiere in the show's history.

And it's a major season for one very specific reason: Kevin Costner isn't returning as John Dutton. The star decided to exit the series after season 5's eighth episode premiered in January 2023, but as big of a change is this is, Costner is still an executive producer on the series, giving it a familiarity fans will appreciate.

Yellowstone has always been dramatic, but in the Yellowstone season 5 first look, you can just feel the tension from fan favorites like Beth Dutton, Monica Long, and Kayce Dutton. And no wonder: the Duttons' family drama is coming to a head, and it looks like someone might not make it out alive. Read up on everything you need to know about the new season of Yellowstone, and check out why Paramount+'s New Drama Landman Is Perfect For Yellowstone Fans.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about the final season of Yellowstone.

Is Kevin Costner in Yellowstone season 5 part 2?

Paramount

No Kevin Costner is not in the second half of Yellowstone season 5, and we find out the fate of his character John Dutton immediately. When Beth and Kayce find John dead in the bathroom, Beth immediately suspects foul play and blames it on Jamie. Well, Kevin is finally speaking on his character's end, and told The Michael Smerconish Programon November 11 that he actually didn't know the show had premiered the night before.

“I’m going to be perfectly honest. I didn’t know it was actually airing last night,” he says. “That’s a swear-to-God moment. I’ve been seeing ads with my face all over the place and I’m thinking, ‘Gee, I’m not in that one.’ But I didn’t realize yesterday was the thing...I heard it’s a suicide, so that doesn’t make me want to rush to go see it.”

But even if Kevin isn't over the moon about watching his character die, he doesn't have any bad blood with the writers. “They’re pretty smart people,” he continues. “Maybe it’s a red herring. Who knows? They’re very good. And they’ll figure that out.”

Well, the actor told Entertainment Tonight that he STILL hasn't seen the season 5 premiere as of November 17. “I didn’t watch it, so I don’t really have any thoughts about it,” he said. Due to delays from the writer's strike, and a tug-of-war between Paramount saying Kevin couldn't film new episodes and Kevin saying creator Taylor Sheridan took too long to write the scripts, the actor chose to leave the series, reportedly in part to promote his Horizon movie franchise.

“I gave this thing five seasons,” the actor told The Hollywood Reporterthis summer. “I was really happy to do it. And I don’t need drama. So, let’s just take that drama away, let’s take the guessing [away]. The fans have been way too good to me. And my obligation is to go on and continue to make things that mean something to them.”

See our interviews with the 'Yellowstone' cast!

@britandco Who run the world ?! #kellyreilly#yellowstone#bethdutton#tv#tvshow#premiere#nyc#newyork♬ original sound - Brit + Co

Wendy Moniz spilled on working with everyone's favorite lady Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton).

@britandco John Emmet Tracy told us all about filming the final season of #Yellowstone 🐴 #johnemmettracy#ellissteele#nyc#redcarpet#premiere#newyork#newyorkcity#fyp♬ original sound - Brit + Co

While John Emmet Tracy gave us the best advice for dealing with crazy families during the holidays!

@britandco You’re welcome 😌 #yellowstone#cowboy#cowboyboots#fashion#premiere#fyp#ianbohen♬ original sound - Brit + Co

And we couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask Ian Bohen the best way to take off cowboy boots ;).

What is Yellowstone season 5 about?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Plot

The series introduced us to the Duttons, a powerful family in charge of America's biggest contiguous cattle ranch. Every season has been gritty and powerful, and in the fifth season, we've seen John become Montana's governor and make Beth his chief of staff. But with Jamie trying to take the power away from his dad, the Duttons are fighting each other like we've never seen — especially when Jamie and Beth start considering how to get away with murder.

Luke Grimes recently told Entertainment Weekly how pleased he is with the finale, and Kelly Reilly revealed creator Taylor Sheridan actually told her the ending to the series while they filmed season 1.

“I read the last episode the day before we started filming,” Luke says. “I couldn't be happier. I think it's a perfect ending for the show for every character. It's just a testament to what a good writer Taylor is, and it's a very, very profound, beautiful ending. I can't wait to sit down and watch it one day.”

Is Yellowstone season 5 part 2 out yet?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2 Release Date

Yes, Yellowstone season 5 part 2 premiered on Paramount November 10, 2024. You can watch new episodes every Sunday.

The series filmed in Montana during the summer of 2024.

Who's in the cast of Yellowstone season 5?

Paramount

Yellowstone Season 5 Cast

The cast of Yellowstone season 5 includes Kelly Reilly, Wes Bentley, Luke Grimes, Kelsey Asbille, Brecken Merrill, Finn Little, Cole Hauser, Gil Birmingham, Wendy Moniz, and Mo Brings Plenty.

Where can I watch season 5 part 1 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

The first half of Yellowstone season 5 is now streaming on Peacock.

Will there be a season 6 of Yellowstone?

Paramount

It's always hard to say goodbye to a beloved show, but despite reports that Yellowstone would end with season 5, it looks like we could be getting a Yellowstone season 6 after all. Deadline confirmed that negotiations are happening for a potential continuation, which would focus on Kelly Reilly's Beth and Cole Hauser's Rip.

Reilly told Entertainment Weekly ahead of the season 5 premiere that "Beth is more like a wild animal this season than ever. When I read the scripts, it made me think [that] she is, for the first time, maybe afraid she will lose it for [her dad]."

"It's dark, brutal and desperate stuff — gaining power, losing it, defending and fighting," she continues. "It's bloody and at times beautiful in how it breaks them into their core selves." The setup for a potential season 6 will totally depend on how season 5 ends — and how it affects Beth, Rip, and the rest of the family.

Are you excited for Yellowstone season 5 part 2? Read up on The First Cast Member For Yellowstone's 2024 Spinoff, The Madison for more about our new favorite universe.

This post has been updated.

'Tis the season to make those Christmas wishlists and start checking them twice (and then again, and again...). While there are always those toys that promise kids hours of fun, all too often, the brand-new gadgets and gizmos end up cast aside before you even take down the tree. Luckily, we've done the research and rounded up 41 of the best toys on Amazon that kids won't get bored of. From arts and crafts to outdoor fun, these gift ideas will keep children of all ages entertained beyond the holidays.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Balance Bike Gives Wheels to the Littlest Family Member

Amazon

The phrase "just like riding a bike" gets even easier with this simple yet genius balance bike. This thoughtfully designed bicycle helps develop young toddlers' coordination while nurturing independence. Now, even the littlest family members can keep up with the older kiddos!

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The Possibilities Are Endless With This Pikler Triangle Set

Amazon

Got an energetic toddler? This best-selling pikler triangle set has endless possibilities for climbing, rocking, sliding, and more. Your child can have new ways to play independently, and you can finally drink your coffee in peace. Win-win!

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This Cute Monster Is The Perfect Snuggle Buddy

Amazon

Katie The Pink Monster may just become your little one's new best friend. Made with memory foam, this plushie goes way beyond being a cuddle buddy. It can double as a pillow and even has a sleeve to store a journal.

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This Play Barn Creates Hours of Imaginative Play

Amazon

Imaginative play is the best kind of play, and this wooden barn and animal set will foster hours upon hours of it. If you have an animal-loving kid, they'll love playing farm with the horse, pig, cow, and more. Plus, it's a great way to practice making animal sounds!

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This Tablet Fosters Creativity Without the Mess

Amazon

If you've got a future artist on your hands, this LCD doodling tablet will let them get creative without getting messy. With over 17,000 five-star reviews, this tablet is lightweight and perfect for traveling. The long battery life and blue-light-free screen will instantly make it a favorite in your home.

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This Organizer Bin With a Genius Design

Amazon

If you've little ones with a million toys that are always making a mess, then you know the struggle that comes with getting them to tidy up. This organizer bin is a game-changer, perfect for small toys since not only does it have large storage space, but it also doubles as a playing mat so that when your kids are done playing, everything can cleaned up at once, saving you the hassle and stress.

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These Road Magnetic Tiles Are Perfect for Car Lovers

Amazon

Take everyone's favorite magnetic tiles up a notch with this magnetic road expansion pack. If your kiddo has tons of toy cars and loves building, this gift will hit the jackpot of joy. As one rave reviewer writes, "Truth be told, the grown-ups had fun with it, too!"

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This Kids' Camera Is the Real Deal

Amazon

Your aspiring photographer will squeal with delight when they open up this digital camera on Christmas morning. With multiple settings and fun frames, a front and back-facing camera angle, and a durable design, this little camera will help your child capture all their favorite moments. As a bonus, you'll get to see the world through their eyes when you upload the photos!

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This Musical Instrument Set Is Cute and Functional

Amazon

Fuel your little Mozart's musical abilities with this adorable wooden instrument set. This hand-painted 100% natural wooden set comes with everything your child needs to practice making joyful tunes. This five-star reviewer says, "These instruments are very well made. Definitely will hold up through multiple child use. The colors are beautiful too... If you have a busy baby who needs some stimulation, I would purchase this immediately."

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Dream of Summertime With This Outdoor Sensory Table

Amazon

Whether you're lucky enough to live somewhere warm year-round or you want to dream of summertime fun, this water and sand table will get your kids excited for outdoor fun. With the ability to hold up to 5.5 gallons of water and an umbrella to block out the sun, this sensory table will let your littles splash and explore to their heart's content.

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This Indoor Tent Will Be Their Favorite Hideaway

Amazon

From a book nook to a play fort, this beautiful indoor tent can transform in multiple ways to become your kids' go-to spot for cozy fun. Designed with easy assembly, this play tent also comes with a tassel garland, string lights, and a floor mat to make it feel extra comfy and magical.

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This Kid-Friendly Kitchen Set Teaches Real-Life Skills

Amazon

Pretend play is fun, but getting kids involved in your activities is where the real magic happens. This Montessori-inspired kitchen set comes with kid-friendly cooking utensils like knives, a cutting board, a peeler, and more to help teach your tiny sous chef the joys of making yummy food. An added perk is that they may be more willing to eat what you cook together!

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Build Their Dress-Up Wardrobe With This Costume Set

Amazon

Nothing beats the fun of playing dress-up, and this costume set is sure to let imagination run wild for hours on end. Your littles can pretend to be firefighters, chefs, doctors, and more with this extensive, easy-to-wash set. This reviewer raves, "The costumes are nice quality, simple to take on and off, and the box to store them in fits it all! Highly recommended!"

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This Mini Karaoke Machine Is What Tween Dreams Are Made Of

Amazon

Can you really beat a karaoke machine as a Christmas present? Turns out you can if it's a mini karaoke machine. This compact Bluetooth machine is lightweight and portable so that your pop-loving tween can take it anywhere. Perfect for all the parties to come in the new year, this tiny machine has five voice effects and a loud, clear sound to belt out all the best hits.

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This Kinetic Sand Kit Smells (Almost) Good Enough to Eat

Amazon

Sensory play isn't just for the littlest ones – big kids will love this Kinetic Sand ice cream play kit. With one pound of scented sand and six tools, this play kit lets kids mix and match to make delicious-looking pretend treats. The sand doesn't dry out so it'll provide never-ending fun, like this reviewer writes: "My daughter loves this kit! It was super cheap and has kept her busy for hours. The scented sand smells great."

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This Paint-By-Sticker Kit Will Be the Latest Obsession

Amazon

Paint-by-number who? This paint-by-sticker kit is the new kid in town and it's sure to be a hit. Any sticker-obsessed kid can create up to 10 pictures, one sticker at a time, for hours of focused fun. With over 18,000 five-star reviews, you know it's going to be a good one.

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This Play Kitchen Is the Cutest Ever

Amazon

Have you ever laid eyes on a more adorable play kitchen? Kids will never forget the year Santa brought this wooden play kitchen. With realistic features, a colorful design, and plenty of accessories, this kitchen will spark joyful play for years to come.

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These Satisfying Fidget Toys to Relieve Stress

Amazon

This pack of 18 stretchy strings are so satisfying to play with, especially if you’re often restless. They’re not only fun and satisfying to play with but they also work wonders in reducing stress and improving concentration! Whether you're tackling a busy day at work or simply need a moment to relax, they’re surprisingly handy.

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This Busy Book Keeps Toddlers Entertained Anywhere

Amazon

From car rides to restaurants and everything in between, it can be tough to keep toddlers busy on the go. Luckily, this busy book will keep them entertained no matter where you go. With 26 activities like animal matching, color identifying, and dressing skills, this portable busy board helps your toddler develop fine motor skills, problem-solving, and hand-eye coordination. Road trips have never been so quiet!

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Dazzle Your Craft Lover With This Gem Art Kit

Amazon

If you have a creative kid who's always looking for new hobbies, this gem art kit is the perfect gift. With everything needed to get started and over 3000 gems, the opportunities to get creative are endless. Your craft-loving child will have a twinkle in their eye as they create sparkly projects galore.

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This Shape Sorting Cube Keeps Babies Entertained for Hours

Amazon

This simple shape sorting cube is a best-seller for a reason: Babies love grabbing the bright, chunky blocks and exploring how to fit them through the elastic bands. They'll get hours of curiosity-fueling fun while learning valuable fine motor skills.

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This Toy Coffee Maker Turns Any Kid Into a Barista

Amazon

When parents are coffee-obsessed, children are bound to follow suit. This play coffee maker set will turn your little mini-me into a barista in no time. With realistic sounds and effects, this toy coffee maker will keep them entertained while letting them take part in your daily caffeine ritual. (Just keep the real coffee for yourself, of course).

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These Walkie-Talkies Are Classic Fun

Amazon

Who doesn't remember playing with walkie-talkies as kids? These classic walkie-talkies would be the perfect stocking stuffer for older kids. With high-quality sound, an LED flashlight, and a range of up to three miles, these walkie-talkies are great for outdoor play, camping, and everyday fun.

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This Doll Carrier Is Made for Big Siblings

Amazon

Big siblings will love copying mom and dad with this doll carrier of their own. As you walk around with baby strapped to your chest, they'll get to do the same with this adorable (and realistic!) doll carrier. With several cute patterns and adjustable straps, this lightweight carrier will be the best holiday surprise.

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This Water Doodle Mat Is Fail-Proof Entertainment

Amazon

Can't you just see the hours of entertainment that come with this water doodle mat? Kids will finally get to color all over the floor but without the mess! This genius coloring kit comes with reusable water pens, drawing templates, and a canvas mat waiting to be filled. You might just want to get in on the fun, too!

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Encourage Open-Ended Play With These Stacking Blocks

Amazon

Open-ended toys let kids' imaginations and problem-solving skills flourish, and this 36-piece building stone set proves that. From babies to big kids, everyone in the family will love stacking and building with these durable wooden blocks.

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Toddlers Can Splash Away in This Color Changing Sink

Amazon

There's nothing babies and toddlers love more than splashing or imitating parents, so this innovative color-changing sink will surely be a winner. Fill it with warm water and watch as the included accessories change colors, teaching kids about temperature and letting them practice dishwashing. As this reviewer says, "Wanna steal the show? Order this sink!"

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Upgrade Flashcards With This Audible Learning Set

Amazon

Forget the boring regular flashcards and upgrade to this fun audible flashcard set instead. Babies and toddlers will be picking up new words in no time thanks to this interactive toy. With 126 cards containing 252 sight words, this engaging flashcard set is both educational and entertaining — a win all around!

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Any Science Lover Will Obsess Over This Magic Kit

Amazon

Make this the Christmas morning of your budding scientist's dreams: This National Geographic Science Magic Kit comes with 50 unique science experiments and magic tricks to nurture curiosity and foster creative fun. Just prepare for the magic shows to come, of course!

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These Stepping Stones Promote Coordination

Amazon

There aren't too many toys that can be used a million different ways indoors or outdoors, but these stepping stones can. From creating obstacle courses to practicing balance, kids can get creative as they enhance their coordination skills. A round of "don't touch the lava," anyone?

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This Wooden Railroad Set Is Surprisingly Compact

Amazon

All aboard! This portable train set is perfect for taking on road trips, play dates, or visits with family. This 17-piece wooden set comes with everything needed for your little engineer to "choo choo" to their heart's content.

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This 3D Printing Pen Is An Unforgettable Gift

Amazon

It doesn't get any cooler than this 3D doodling pen. Your artsy tween can level up their drawings with this safe and innovative 3D printing pen. They'll be amazed to watch their creations come to life before their eyes — and honestly, you will be, too!

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This Tonies Box Is an Instant Win

Amazon

If your toddler could make a wishlist, this Tonies audio box would surely be on it. Meet your family's new storytime superstar: With numerous compatible character figures that sing songs and play stories, this audio player is a screen-free alternative to keep littles entertained for hours.

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These Water Wow Books Are the Best Parenting Hack

Amazon

Sure, it's a gift for them, but it's for you, too! These reusable Water Wow activity pads are a parent's best friend during long travel days and restaurant visits. Simply fill the included pen with a little water, and let your kiddos go to town coloring — no mess in sight!

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This Dance Mat Gets the Wiggles Out

Amazon

Now this is a gift the whole family will love: This LED dance pad was made for family dance parties, with built-in music and light-up cues to make it a game. Everyone will be begging for a turn before all the other presents are even opened.

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This Indoor Scavenger Hunt Is a Great Last-Minute Stocking Stuffer

Amazon

Make rainy days a million times more fun with this indoor scavenger hunt game. Toddlers and little kids will love running around the house, finding toys and other household items, and you'll be off the hook for planning an activity.

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This Friendship Bracelet Kit Is The Gift That Keeps On Giving

Amazon

Whether you have a little Swiftie or a kid with countless besties, this friendship bracelet kit is going to result in some serious, excited squeals. This 5,000-piece set comes with everything needed to get started, along with instructions, so your kiddo can make bracelets for all their best friends. (And if you're lucky, you might get one, too!)

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This Hover Ball Can Be Used Indoors

Amazon

Finally, a ball that kids can play with indoors! This hover soccer ball is guaranteed to provide some major family fun for years to come. Gone are the days of boredom with this LED ball that can glide on any smooth surface, and the added bumper means no broken vases in sight.

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This Race Car Painting Set Is Multiple Activities in One

Amazon

This wooden race car painting kit is the best of both worlds: It lets kids get creative painting designs on the four included cars, and then they can race them all around the house. This reviewer sums it up: "Easy enough to assemble so small kids do not get frustrated, fun painting, decals were ideal - and these cars scooted all over the floor well!"

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This Bouncy Animal Toy Will Definitely Get Some Giggles

Amazon

Watch out! Your active toddler will be bouncing off the walls — literally – with this fun bouncy animal toy. Choose from a giraffe or dinosaur for a holiday surprise that will elicit the biggest smiles. Take it from this rave review: "This animal hopper is one of my best purchases for my toddler! She’s been obsessed with animals lately and always tries to ride her little stuffed animals, so I figured this would be a perfect fit, and it is. It was so easy to get it in shape, and the quality is amazing."

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This Pair of Silicone Kitties That Are Super Squishy

Amazon

Relieve stress with these silicone kitties that are so much fun to play with! They are very soft and squishy, so you can touch, squeeze, poke and pinch them or their tummies to relax and focus on whatever it is you need to do - you mind won’t be consumed by the thoughts of payday or spring anymore!

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