TIDAL What? Beats Music Who? Spotify’s New Features Will Get You to Stay Streaming

You know who’s not scared of a little competition? Spotify. The music streaming outlet — and T.Swift’s sworn enemy — announced a slew of new features ahead of Apple’s highly anticipated reveal of its own rebranded Beats Music service and in the midst of the controversial TIDAL. The brand spankin’ new features are music to the ears of runners, video lovers and those that never want to turn the tunes off, whether they’re at Starbucks or at home.

At a media event in New York City today Spotify announced three key category features that will be launching on iPhone + Android devices today. The apps new features include the ability to create soundtracks for any moment of your day, sync your playlists with your runs (similar to Adidas Go) and the introduction of audio and video shows. Spotify, are you trying to take over our lives?! Let’s take a closer look…

1. Spotify Now: No need to endlessly search for perfect playlists or new artists you *think* you may like as this all-encompassing feature will do it for you. Acting as your daily smart soundtrack that understands you more and more each day, Spotify Now will provide you with music for any time. Need the perfect tunes for that early Monday morning commute, an afternoon boost stronger than an espresso shot or even the perfect party playlist? The streaming service’s in-house experts — combined with your own personal picks — will recommend collections of tunes for any part of your day, adapting to your tastes and moods as you use it more. Effortless jam sessions, FTW.

2. Spotify Running: Nothing kills your momentum more than pressing the skip button in the middle of a run and that’s what this new feature is eliminating. Spotify Running syncs your pace with multiple-genre playlists, original running compositions and even your listening history to provide you with songs that are in line with your tempo and seamlessly transition so you don’t notice any changes to keep that heart rate up until you cross the finish line. All you need to do is lace up, do some pre-stretches and hit the pavement for Spotify to detect your movement and match music to your steps. In addition to that, later this year the music service will be debuting RunKeeper integration and its partnership with Nike, which includes original music and the ability to experience Spotify within the Nike+ app. It just might be time to sign up for that marathon after all…

3. Spotify Shows: After today the service is no longer solely about the music. You’ve always been able to listen to comedy albums, but now users will be able to find video clips and audio shows within the app without having to jump to YouTube. With podcasts from a variety of providers and video clips from platforms like ABC, Comedy Central, Maker Studios, TED, Vice Media and more, the music app is now stepping up its game to offer news, laughs and visual discovery. Forget TIDAL, Spotify just might be coming for more channels on your Roku too.

Our only question is — how will our data plans survive?

Which new Spotify feature are you most excited about? Is it your music streaming service of choice? Let us know in the comments.

(Photo via Spotify Facebook)

Wether you like to trail run, hit the gym, or go for quick neighborhood walks, doing it all in a shoe that feels good, looks good, and does a good job at supporting your step is crucial. You want to ensure your shoes prioritize comfort and prevent injury, which is exactly what Hoka masters!

These 4 top-selling Hoka styles differ from each other in the slightest ways. I'm here to outline the intricacies and details so you can find your ultimate pair, no matter what kind of movement you're into! Scroll on for the best Hoka shoes for your lifestyle, based on your go-to activity.

The Chronic Marathoner: Clifton 9

If running is your life – not just a "for fun" hobby – the Clifton 9's are the shoe for you. There's a reason why they're heralded by runners everywhere!

This award-winning Hoka style (it's been granted the Seal of Approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association) is super lightweight at 7.3 oz, but it's still impressively stable and soft. It boasts a plush heel designed for running and walking, so it's destined to get you wherever you're going in the utmost comfort.

These shoes have a very breathable knit upper, while the outsole is crafted with rubber for durability. Stability was top of mind in making these, and you'll have smooth heel-to-toe transitions with every step.

The Hoka Clifton 9's come in 20 different colorways for $145.

The Hot Girl Walker: Bondi 8

If you can't go a day without getting your steps in, it's important that you go for your hot girl walks with the right shoe so you can avoid potential strain and injuries. Per Hoka, the Bondi 8's are one of the "hardest working" shoes in their lineup, and it's specifically designed for walking and running (hot girl style).

It's also earned the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association for its unmatched stability and all-around support. The Bondi 8's are fitted with a pillowed tongue and a memory foam ankle lining for comfort. They're certainly on the plusher side when it comes to Hoka shoes, but they're not so much so that you feel unsure about your steps. They weigh in at 8.9 oz, so they're noticeably heavier than the Clifton 9's.

The foam bottom extends beyond your natural heel for additional support, plus they're an easy on and off thanks to the pull tab at the back.

The Hoka Bondi 8's currently come in 16 different colors for $165.

The Gym Rat: Mach 6

Gym rats, rise up! The Hoka Mach 6's boast the perfect weight, height, and cushion for taking you from the weight rack to the track. They're more streamlined in their design – the most noticeable difference being less heel height than the Clifton or Bondi models. Your foot will definitely be closer to the ground, which is beneficial for movements that involve balance.

While the Cliftons and Bondis have super thick and cushy soles, the Mach 6 soles are crafted from a firmer material for support. Though tougher, they still clock in at 6.7 oz. They're complete with an exceptionally responsive foam midsole that allows for more bounce, plus the outsole has a rubber coating for durability – making your shoe purchase last longer and look new for longer. This gorgeous colorway is an added bonus!

The Mach 6's are currently shoppable in 7 colors for $140.

The Trail Runner: Challenger 7

These Hokas were made for the granola girls who love to venture to the mountains for a cheeky trail run or hike. They have tons of grip the textured sole, ideal for road and trail running. The sole is fashioned with more aggressive lugs around the perimeter to help manage uneven surfaces without risk of injury.

The Challenger 7's boast a decently thick height for plushness to catch your steps, plus they have protective cushioning around the ankle to stabilize your movement.

These weigh in at 7.7 oz, come in 10 different colors, and are shoppable for $145.

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Images via Hoka.

Going meatless on Mondays doesn’t mean you have to settle for the same boring salads or bland pastas. With the right recipes, you can enjoy hearty, flavor-packed meals that are just as satisfying as your favorite meat-based options! Whether you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, or full of bold spices, these meatless Monday recipes will keep you coming back for more.

Scroll on for 15 easy Meatless Monday recipes that’ll keep you full and satisfied!

Brittany Griffin

Big-Batch Pressure-Cooked Vegan Chili

This vegan chili is super hearty since it's loaded up with quinoa and three kinds of beans. Don't fret about the flavor, either – it gets its semi-spicy effect from chilis, chili powder, onion, cayenne, and salt! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Carrot Hot Dogs

We bet you've never had hot dogs like this before! Crafted using carrots that are sautéed in maple syrup, coconut aminos, and water then briefly grilled for texture, they turn tender and oh-so flavorful. From there, you can top 'em with just about anything you want! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Sarah Bond

10-Minute Chickpea Salad

This quick chickpea salad would make a great lunch for your meatless Mondays. It requires zero cooking, yet still fills you up with protein from the chickpeas and zesty Greek yogurt dressing! (via Sarah Bond of Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Edgy Veg

Tater Totchos

You've heard of nachos, but what about totchos?! These loaded tater tots are both vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, but thankfully, they've still got plenty of cheese – vegan cheese, that is! (via The Edgy Veg)

Feel Good Foodie

Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

This veggie burrito bowl is basically the epitome of 'we have Chipotle at home.' It only takes 40 minutes to make, and you're sure to have plenty of leftovers if you're eating for one! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vikalinka

Creamy Tomato & Spinach Tortelloni

For a cozy dinner at home, this creamy tortelloni will cure every single one of your cravings. It's veggie-packed, with tons of tomato and spinach to boot. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Roasted Brussel Sprout & Gruyere Quiche

You can never go wrong with a simple quiche, especially when you toss in some seasonal veggies. This recipe works great for breakfast and dinner alike! (via Completely Delicious)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Jalapeño Popper Pizza

With the spicy notes of jalapeño poppers, this pizza also supplies lots of cheese for you to indulge in on meatless Mondays. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Munching with Mariyah

Vegan Sheet-Pan Fajitas

These vegan fajitas are perfect for your meatless Monday plans because they’re loaded with bold, smoky flavors, packed with nutritious veggies, and they come together effortlessly on one pan for easy clean-up! (via Munching with Mariyah)

The Real Food Dietitians

Greek Portobello Mushroom Vegetarian Gyros

Rivaling your favorite Greek takeout spot, these veggie-packed gyros still come complete with all the best toppings, including a super fresh tzatziki sauce! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Averie Cooks

Chickpea & Kale Thai Coconut Curry

Hearty, packed with plant-based protein, and bursting with rich, comforting flavors, this Thai-inspired curry is ideal for chilly nights. Plus, it's made all in a one-pot! (via Averie Cooks)

The Girl on Bloor

Veggie Tofu Scramble

For breakfast, you've gotta give tofu scramble a try. It's just as protein-rich as scrambled eggs, but you can also load it up with veggies like red pepper, red onion, spinach, and mushrooms for added nutrients! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Takes Two Eggs

Gochujang Brussels Sprouts

This vegetarian side dish would work wonderfully with an Asian-inspired meal, whether it's a meatless Monday or not. Spicy, umami, and salty flavors take the forefront to make every bite so heavenly. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Vanilla and Bean

Cheesy Vegetarian Tofu Enchiladas

These baked-to-perfection tofu enchiladas will keep your Tex Mex cravings at bay with tons of spicy, smoky flavors and plenty of plant-based protein. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Cozy Cravings

Zucchini Lemon Risotto

This lemon risotto with zucchini is a dream. It's light yet creamy, plus, it's fairly simple to make if you're in a pinch for lunch or dinner. (via Cozy Cravings)

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A 10K is what many consider to be the first true long distance race. Measuring 6.2 miles, this isn't a marathon, but it's not your typical turkey trot either. No shade there, though — a classic turkey trot is one of my favorites to run! In all seriousness, truly mastering the 10K race takes a specific balance of speed and endurance. If you're looking to run your first or fastest 10K, here are some tips to help you excel! Let's lace up those running shoes and get ready to go!

Photo by KoolShooters/PEXELS

Just like with 5K training, the first and most important step is to pick a race and sign up for it. Having a race or goal on the schedule helps with motivation and a hard timeline helps with planning training. One place you can check for local races is findarace.com — just search by the type of race you want to run and where you want to run it!

How many days does it take to train for a 10K?

Photo by Nathan Cowley/PEXELS

Typical training for a 10K should take 8-10 weeks, however there may be other factors to consider as well.

  • If you've recently completed 5K training and are feeling confident and ready to hop into the next goal, you may not need the full 8-10 weeks.
  • If you're feeling fit and conditioned from a previous race, you probably only need 6-8 weeks to train for a 10K.

How do I pace myself for a 10K?

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto/PEXELS

If you've run a few 5Ks and are wondering what goal time to shoot for, there are few tips to figure out where to start. First, it's important to remember that a 10K is twice the distance of a 5K. Whatever your best or most recent 5K time is, you likely cannot hold it for another 3.1 miles. I would recommend doubling your total typical 5K time and adding 3-5 minutes to get your goal time. For example if you recently ran a 25 minute 5K, shoot for a 10K time of 53-55 minutes.

How do beginners train for a 10K run?

Photo by MART PRODUCTION/PEXELS

Your training plan should look similar to a 5K training plan with 4-5 days a week of running. This should include 1-2 speed workouts, a few easy jogs, and a weekly long run. Just like with 5K training, you never want to do 2 speed workouts back-to-back — it's best to have a rest day or 1-2 easy jog days between speed sessions to allow your muscles to recover and rebuild.

While long runs and easy jogs are relatively self-explanatory, speed workouts can seem ambiguous. Instead of leaving you in the dark, here are two examples of speed sessions you could implement into your training regiment.

Example 1:

  • 1 mile jog warm up
  • 6-8x 800m (2 laps of a traditional track or ½ of a mile) at a hard but sustainable 7-8/10 effort. Take 2 minutes between each
  • 1 mile jog or walk cooldown

Example 2:

  • 1 mile jog warm up
  • 3 miles steady-hard (also known as tempo pace) at a 6-7/10 effort
  • 1 mile walk or jog cooldown

Long runs are the most important part of any training block for races of 5K and up. Like the name suggests, long runs should be your longest run of the week. Depending on your skill and familiarity with distance running, your long runs will vary anywhere from 5 to 12 miles. I would recommend starting with 4-7 miles at the beginning of your training block, adding one half to a full mile every week. If you're running your first 10K, I would start with 4 miles with the end goal of your longest long run to be 8 miles. Yes, that means that your longest long run will be longer than your 10K race, but trust me — this will make the race distance seem doable and way less daunting. If you're a repeat racer (10Ks included), I would recommend starting with a 7-mile-long run and working your way up to 12 miles by the end of your training block.

How do I prep for race day?

Photo by RF._.studio/PEXELS

To wind down your training, make sure to taper your miles down for at least 10 days before your race. This is where you lower the distance of your longest run over time as you get closer to the actual race, allowing you to properly rest beforehand.

When it comes to race day, the number one thing to remember is: don't go out too fast. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of a race and rocket off at the starting line, it won't feel good at mile 4. To ensure that you finish within your goal time, try to go out 15-20 seconds slower than your goal pace.

For example, if you have a 55 min goal time, that translates to running an 8:52 mile. I would recommend starting off your first mile at around a 9:10 mile pace and progressing from there. This will help you to finish strong and feeling your best.

Most importantly? Enjoy race day and celebrate finishing your goal!

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Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

For over three decades and more than 1,000 episodes, Law & Order has been bringing gritty crime drama to viewers everywhere. Each version of the franchise, like the no-nonsense Law & Order, the sharper Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and the intense Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, offers its own unique style and energy.

With that came a range of memorable guest stars, too. From future A-listers early in their careers to established actors in surprising roles, Law & Order has a solid reputation for delivering unexpected celebrity cameos.

Let's look back at some of the most iconic Law & Order celeb appearances that you might've forgotten about over the years.

Scroll to see the Law & Ordercelebrity cameos you definitely forgot about...

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

1. William H. Macy

You may best know William H. Macy as drunken patriarch Frank Gallagher on Shameless or as the surprising voice of the narrator in Curious George. These two wildly different roles just go to show how diverse his talent is.

Still, you might not remember how William even made an early appearance on Law & Order in the very first episode of the series, playing Assistant US Attorney John McCormack in the pilot.

While this debut wasn't particularly memorable, he did get a second shot at redemption in Season 2. That time around, he played Jack Powell, the director of a teen shelter suspected of abuse.

Youtube/MsMojo

2. Amanda Seyfried

Everyone knows Amanda Seyfried for her breakout role as ditzy Karen Smith in Mean Girls. More recently, you might've seen her viral rendition of "California" by Joni Mitchell on The Tonight Show going viral across social media platforms.

However, she also appeared in a Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode and played Tandi McCain, a teen girl who was found beaten and duct-taped under a bench in a new dormitory. This impactful performance couldn't have been a wider divergence from her Mean Girls character.

NBCUniversal

3. Stephen Colbert

Before Stephen Colbert became known for his sharp political commentary (and endless impersonations of Donald Trump), he also started off as an actor just trying to make it in Hollywood. One of his early TV roles came in 2004 when he appeared on Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

Stephen portrayed James Bennett, a counterfeiter whose actions threaten to ruin a Catholic charity. This role was far removed from his typical comedic persona and offered a rare glimpse at Stephen's darker acting abilities.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

4. Bradley Cooper

Prior to becoming the heartthrob we all know and love today, Bradley Cooper was already proving he had the chops to play some seriously twisted characters. During a Law & Order appearance, he portrayed Jason Whitaker, a psychotic lawyer whose dark past catches up with him.

What makes Bradley's guest spot even more interesting is that it was part of a crossover event between Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and the spin-off Law & Order: Trial By Jury. His storyline begins on SVU and continues in the latter.

Youtube/MsMojo

5. John Krasinski

Before John Krasinski became a household name for his role as Jim Halpert on The Office, he showcased his darker side on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. He played Jace Gleesing, a troubled high school basketball player suspected of murdering a private investigator.

Viewers got to see John act as a wildly different character than the lovable and quirky paper salesman he's most known for today.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

6. Robin Williams

Robin Williams is remembered for his iconic roles in both comedy and drama and his performance in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is no exception.

In the Season 9 episode "Authority," he portrayed Merritt Rook, a sound engineer turned anti-authoritarian criminal mastermind. Merritt is pushed to the edge after the tragic loss of his wife and unborn child, setting him on a path of revenge, and Robin's captivating performance even earned him an Emmy nomination.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

7. Julia Roberts

During the ninth season of Law & Order, Julia Roberts also made a memorable guest appearance. When a millionaire investor died shortly after backing a new sports stadium, the investigation hones in on a construction entrepreneur as the prime suspect.

Julia plays Katrina Ludlow, a professional fundraiser who claims to have uncovered evidence implicating the killer. There's just one catch: she insists on delivering the evidence to Detective Rey Curtis under a set of complicated circumstances.

The star earned an Emmy for this performance, adding another achievement to her impressive resume.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

8. Samuel L. Jackson

Finally, Samuel L. Jackson made an early appearance on Law & Order during its very first season. He played lawyer Louis Taggert in the episode "The Violence of Summer," which aired before his famous role as Ray Arnold in Jurassic Park.

Samuel flexed his acting muscles with some classic scenes in the interrogation room, adding even more intensity to an already dramatic show.

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Mountain homes naturally have a cozy charm thanks to the landscape and serene surroundings, but with the right design approach, you can elevate the look beyond "log cabin chic" toward a dreamy, sophisticated sanctuary. Designer Sierra Fox of Studio Mountain is known for blending rustic warmth with modern elegance and her latest project is all of the above and more. Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Sun Valley, Idaho, this five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom retreat is surrounded by sweeping mountain views and stunning natural beauty, both of which influenced Sierra’s design. Now on the market and listed by her sister, Delaney, this home is full of inspiring details. "Delaney and I work together to design each home to have a unique and custom feeling, from the decision about the property location all the way down to fabrics on the furniture," says Sierra. "It can be really fun to get to work with family and it helps us spend more time together than we would otherwise."

Here are 10 home decor ideas I can't get enough of in this cozy renovation.

Aimee Mazzenga

1. Warm, Organic Elements

Inspired by the snowy mountain landscape, Sierra filled the home with warm, organic elements that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Linen slipcovered chairs from Jenni Kayne, reclaimed oak dining table from RH, paper lantern lighting, and rich oak flooring create a sense of cozy elegance, while a flood of natural light makes the home feel so inviting.

Aimee Mazzenga

2. Marble For Dramatic Impact

Sierra prioritized timeless materials, clean lines, and a fluid indoor-outdoor connection. The kitchen features Italian Calacatta Viola marble (a popular kitchen trend), adding a bit of drama to the quiet luxury aesthetic.

Aimee Mazzenga

3. Custom Cabinetry

Custom white oak millwork and floors frame the snowy outdoors, making the inside feel warm and beautiful.

Aimee Mazzenga

4. This Dining Nook

I'm obsessed with this breakfast nook with custom banquette, CB2 oak dining table, and a bunch of throw pillows from places like Jenni Kayne and custom from Sierra's Studio Mtn Shop. It's a showstopper and a place to get cozy and gather, day or night.

Aimee Mazzenga

5. Investment Appliances

A 55” Lacanche range and Fisher & Paykel appliances balance high-quality functionality with elevated aesthetics.

Aimee Mazzenga

6. Open Shelving

Open shelving, to me, is the perfect way to add personality to your kitchen. I adore beautiful glassware and pottery, and it's the ideal space to showcase your favorite collections.

Aimee Mazzenga

7. Organization & Symmetry

One of the greatest challenges of the project was maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy within the home’s expansive, modern layout. Sierra achieved this by layering lighting, incorporating rich material contrasts like oak and marble and being thoughtful about spatial planning.

Sierra's tip for making a space feel cohesive?

"Don't be afraid to start from scratch on a blank canvas, focusing on just a few key feelings you want to evoke from your space (serenity, energy, coziness, etc)," she says. "If you can pare down to the core feelings you want from the space, it helps to make all decisions after that from inspiration images all the way down to your silverware easier to make. When you have a cohesive idea of what you want to feel, it helps define and focus the end result."

Aimee Mazzenga

By using the same cabinetry throughout the home, Sierra creates a sense of cohesion and balance. This design choice enhances the home's flow, making each space feel thoughtfully connected. And this bedroom moment — framing the breathtaking mountain landscape — is simply lovely.

Aimee Mazzenga

Who's ready for the most luxurious bath? The symmetry here with the matching Jenni Kayne sheepskin rugs is making me swoon. I also love the use of actual drapes in the bathroom, perfect for this large window. "Incorporating shapes and texture into a design is the best way to make sure that neutrals stay interesting and elevated," says Sierra.

Aimee Mazzenga

8. Mixed Materials

When you're designing a neutral home, experimenting with unique textures is key to making it not boring. Pairing tactile elements like woven accents, natural stone, and soft textiles can bring warmth and interest to otherwise simple spaces.

"For the bedrooms, we wanted the bedrooms to feel serene and neutral while still cozy and warm," says Sierra. "We drew from our California vernacular in terms of color pallete, but blended with more mountain forward textures like shearling and antique rugs for a refined but rustic feel."

Aimee Mazzenga

A simple marble end table paired with a upholstered reading chair is the perfect balance of hard and soft.

Aimee Mazzenga

9. Tadelakt Finishes

Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan lime plaster, adds an artistic and organic element to the space. Paired with this stone sink, it's the ultimate in earthy decor.

Aimee Mazzenga

10. Elegant Storage

Everything in the home has a purpose, and the thoughtful storage solutions, like the Annora Bookcase from AllModern, keep the space clean and minimal, allowing the luxe furnishings and breathtaking views to take center stage.

Aimee Mazzenga

Custom cabinetry, built-in consoles, and sleek bookshelves contribute to an organized aesthetic, making the entire home feel curated and intentionally designed. The result is a home that feels luxurious, deeply connected to its natural surroundings, and designed for both comfort and timeless beauty.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.