5 Things Your Commute Needs: New Music, a New Book to Make You Creative + More

Sooo, did you have a Hoppy Easter? While we definitely had a fab brunch (and the best outfit, obviously), what got us up and ready to conquer another week was all the good vibes from our April Fools’ Day prank, Bro + Co. Though we’re running on happy thoughts, the inevitable commute is weighing heavily on us like this month’s notorious rain clouds. We’re turning that dread into entertainment, however, with these five essentials that are guaranteed to get you from home to office without the slow crawl. If these don’t work for you, just give yourself this daily affirmation: Weekend one of Coachella begins Friday.

1. Wedding Season Is Coming: Yep, wedding season is rapidly approaching, and BuzzFeed perfectly captured all our fears. While it’s fun to poke at the dread of receiving the endless invites and spending too much money on gifts, we can’t deny we love a good reason to party. So after relieving all the anxious feels from this “trailer,” bookmark our wedding tag to be fully prepared for any ceremony that comes your way.

2. StartUp Podcast (Available on SoundCloud, iTunes + Stitcher): This podcast, hosted by Alex Blumberg of “This American Life” + “Planet Money” is described as “A series about what happens when someone who knows nothing about business starts one.” If you think this is a hypothetical series, think again. After years of reporting on other people’s businesses, Alex decided to start his own — Gimlet Media — and this podcast follows the process of that life-changing choice. Each episode continues the journey of a man transforming into a businessman with stories happening in real time (well, at the time of recording). From disastrous pitches to difficult conversations with his wife and tense negotiations with his co-founder, this honest and transparent account is something that is quite the listen, as entertainment or study. Sidenote: If you’re into this podcast, try the media channel’s other show Reply All, which is all about the Internet.

3. Rithm (Free on iOS + Android, $3.99/month for service): Streaming music is fun, but what if you could enjoy your tunes with your friends rather than having a solo dance party? That’s the question this new music player + social messaging app is answering. Users are able to jam to the millions of tracks available on Rithm’s library while also sharing their favorite songs with friends using the app’s integrated messaging feature. If you think easy music shares would be the best part of this app, think again, because there are emoji! Send your friends dancing emoji or artist-inspired emoji to turn the party all the way up. Spotify (and all you other streaming competitors) watch your back for this newbie.

4. The Crossroad of Should and Must: Find and Follow Your Passion by Elle Luna (Available on IndieBound, Amazon, Barnes + Noble + iBooks): Add this blog post-turned-hardcover — out Wednesday — to your April reading list. The book answers the question “How can I find and follow my true calling?” through page-turning visuals. Throughout the book you will be taken from a moment where you discover your “Must” to actually doing something about it with the help of techniques that will reconnect you with your inner voice, confront your common fears and more. Through colorful, creative and vibrant images, you will be fully engaged and invested in this one your entire commute, morning and evening. (Photo via @ryanfitzgibbon)

5. Every Noise at Once Map: This interactive site allows you to play with and hear more than 1,200 genres of music without ever leaving the page. At first play, the scattered names may not make a lot of sense, but developer Glenn McDonald of The Echo Nest told CNETthere actually is a purpose for each placement. “Down is more organic, up is more mechanical and electric; left is denser and more atmospheric, right is spikier and bouncier.” So get your 30-second discovery listen on — hover over a genre to get artist info so you can hop over to Spotify for the full tune — to power through your commute while simultaneously getting a music history lesson.

What are you using to get you through this week? Let us know in the comments.

We may have left mountains of homework and questionable cafeteria food behind years ago, but that doesn't mean we can't learn anything from educational podcasts. From online classes to language apps, we’re all about expanding our knowledge, especially if it’s fun.

When your commute turns into a bore or you’re up for picking up a new skill, these educational podcasts will drop some serious knowledge on you, no backpack required.

Good Job, Brain!

What began as a Kickstarter project has now become an extremely popular trivia podcast. Half quiz show and half offbeat news, Good Job, Brain! will have you laughing and dominating your next trivia night.

Curiosity Daily

Curiosity Daily is an award-winning podcast that allows you to learn a little bit more about the world around you. It takes listeners through research-based life hacks and the latest science and technology news, allowing you to walk out into the world more knowledgable.

Hidden Brain

Hidden Brain explores something we all strive to understand better - our thoughts! Each episode teaches about social psychology and the neuroscience behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What I love about this podcast is how practical and applicable the information shared truly is.

Ologies

Ologies is designed to be a crash course on all things science. It talks about everything from dinosaurs to space to the human body, giving you all sorts of information you never knew you needed or wanted. The host is able to interview experts in the field, giving you a really comprehensive look on the subjects tackled.

Stuff Mom Never Told You

This podcast is filled with valuable information that is going to make your life better. Its two female hosts talk about everything from sex and relationships to health and career. They break down really complex topics in a way that feels accessible, educational, and engaging.

The History Chicks

This podcast dials you into the "herstory" you never learned. It tells the tories of girl bosses from queens to warriors to scientists and artists.

The Gist

Radio journalist Mike Pesca leads this Slate podcast, which covers three hot, political topics a week. From JFK to debates, The Gist will keep you in the know.

Stuff You Should Know

HowStuffWorks writers Josh and Chuck educate listeners on everything from the ecosystem to Jack the Ripper and sharks. What stuff should you know? Take a listen to how sushi works or the science behind3D printing.

Planet Money

Mo’ money, mo’ problems, right? Not if you’re Planet Money. They’ll teach you how to handle your money, check your finances and work with the economy, all without being a bore. Where to start? Learn more about homeowners insurance policies or free money.

TED Radio Hour 

TED talks are known for their thought-provoking topics and speakers. This podcast is a coproduction of powerhouses NPR and TED to bring ideas, creations and problem-solving tips to the table. Listen as individuals share their ideas each week, like singer-songwriter Megan Washington, who talks about how singing achieves stillness.

The School of Greatness 

Former pro-athlete Lewis Howes takes business, leadership and personal development to the next level. The School of Greatness features top professionals who aim to inspire and encourage growth in their listeners. Ready for change? Find out the 10 essential truths needed to upgrade your life or discover simple ways to overcome stress.

No Stupid Questions

Angela Duckworth, a research psychologist, partners up with tech and sports executive, Mike Maughan, to answer all of your science questions. They answer them in a knowledgable and non-condescending way, no matter how silly the question may seem.

Science Vs

We all know sometimes the internet can bombard us with info, and it's hard to decipher what's true and what's not. Science Vs explores the science behind popular claims and trends, interviewing experts and conducting in-depth research to help you decide what's worth following.

Which educational podcasts have you listened to recently?

Lead image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

This post has been updated.

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

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

Cashing in our first adult paycheck, buying our first car — becoming an adult means it's time to put away our adorable childhood piggy banks and make the switch to an actual bank-approved savings plan. But just because we know we should be managing our finances better (and resist those 2am Amazon splurges), it doesn't mean we know exactly where to start. Luckily for us, these millennial-focused, women-hosted money podcasts will help us understand our finances, make a budget and adult like a boss.

Women in Finance with Andrea Radulescu

Image via Women in Finance

You don't want to take money advice from just anyone. It's extremely important that they have the right credibility to back up what they're saying. The Women in Finance podcast is led by female professionals in the finance industry who know exactly what they're talking about. They share advice and insights from their career that help you feel more confident in your finances.

Her Money with Jean Chatzky

Image via Her Money

Hilarious, heartfelt and deeply interesting, this cool women-focused financial podcast should definitely be on your commuting playlist. Tackling everything from investing to retirement funds, it's a practical guide that isn't a struggle to listen to.

So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

Image via So Money

Named a Best Podcast by The New York Times, So Money with Farnoosh Torabi provides listeners with candid conversations about money. Torabi covers everything from budgeting and saving to how to invest and retire. She is an award-winning financial strategist, allowing listeners to feel confident in knowing that they are getting sound advice.

Brown Ambition with Mandi and Tiffany

Image via Brown Ambition

Far too often women of color are left out of the all-too-important conversation around personal finance. Mandi and Tiffany, the hosts of Brown Ambition, have created a space at the table to have these conversations and provide meaningful advice on topics like budgeting, investing, and career development. Their suggestions never feel judgmental, which is something that some money podcasts veer into, allowing listeners to feel supported.

Afford Anything with Paula Pant

Image via Afford Anything

If your money goals include complete financial independence, Afford Anything is the podcast for you. It is centered around the idea that, yes, you can afford anything, but you can't afford everything. The host, Paula Pant, interviews people who have had success with their money and points out what you can learn and implement into your own life.

Women & Money

Hosted by financial advisor, Suze Orman, Women & Money features engaging and informational interviews with successful women. I love this podcast because it really does have a "no gatekeeping" policy, as powerful women come on and are more than happy to share their tips and strategies on all things money management and investment.

Clever Girls Know!

Image by Clever Girl Finance

Created by Clever Girl Finance, a leading personal finance platform, this podcast is designed to help women learn about their finances and build wealth independently. Hosts Bola Sokunbi and Kara Perez are extremely knowledgable and touch upon a number of important subjects, including budgeting and investing. The best part is the podcast feels fast-paced, engaging, and fun which allows for you to learn while enjoying yourself.

Money Girl

Image via Money Girl

Savings and spreadsheets aren't really the most exhilarating subjects, which is why this to-the-point podcast is perfect for a daily dose of financial wisdom. The host, Laura, Adams, takes listeners through credit, taxes, retirement,and insurance to help us all make better and smarter decisions!

The Fairer Cents 

Image via Fairer Cents

If the pay gap is something that makes your blood boil (as it should), you'll want to listen to Fairer Cents. The podcast dives into actionable ways to challenge the status quo and get ahead when it comes to money in a male-dominated world.

Yo Quiero Dinero with Janesse Torrez-Rodriguez

Image via Jannese Torres

Like the title suggests, don't we all want to make money? This podcast is hosted by Jannese Torres who walks listeners through her journey of being fired and turning it into financial freedom. Her story and the advice she provides are inspirational and will have you feeling confident you can take your dinero to the next level.

Financial Feminist 

Image via Financial Feminist

If you're looking to fully take control of your finances and work to achieve your goals and beyond, it's time to give Financial Feminist a listen. The show covers topics like budgeting, investing, and saving in a way that feels both relatable and empowering.

Side Hustle Pro with Nacaila Matthews Okome

Image via Side Hustle Pro

For those looking to pick up something on the side to make some extra cash, Side Hustle Pro walks you through just how to do it. The host, Nicaila Matthews Okome, interviews successful Black women entrepreneurs who have been able to take their side hustles to profitable businesses that support them and their families.

The Money Nerds With Whitney Hansen

Image via The Money Nerds

The Money Nerds provides relatable stories that make you feel a little less alone in your financial woes. The podcast covers things like debt, savings, and how to just stress less about whats in your pocket.

The Financial Confessions

Image via The Financial Confessions

For some reason, there can be a lot of shame surrounding financial journeys and the inevitable struggles that come along the way. The Financial Confessions podcast works to destigmatize money conversations and talks about everything involving earning, spending, and losing money. It is hosted by the CEO of The Financial Diet, Chelsea Fagan, so you know you're getting quality advice.

What's your all-time favorite podcast? Let us know in the comments!

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.