Throwback Thursday - Week of 9/23/24

Remember . . . that one time a bird app made me feel better about myself? (No, not that one.)

It's Thursday, so it's time to throw it back! Every other Thursday, I share what I've been up to. Last time, I tried a R.E.P.O.R.T. format, but this time I'm just going to let it flow. So, here we go!

Career

Photo by Diego PH on Unsplash

As I mentioned on the plog, I'm currently 2+ months into being "funemployed," which has given me ample time to contemplate my next career move. While I do spend time applying for jobs (because, well, capitalism), it's hard to ignore the changing landscape of the corporate world and the evolving structures we're accustomed to. Companies are increasingly hiring contract or contract-to-hire employees due to rising benefit costs and people's shifting lifestyle preferences.When I was laid off, I instinctively knew my next step would involve multiple jobs. Little did I know there was a term for this—it's called building a portfolio career. Essentially, it's about choosing various revenue streams that align with your current life situation. This can encompass full-time, fractional, part-time, contract, freelance, or creative projects.

I've gained valuable insights about this concept through

Anna Mack's Stack

and the book "How to Build a Portfolio Life." If you're intrigued by this subject, I highly recommend both resources.

After researching this concept, I've launched my own consulting business and am actively building a career that leverages my diverse skills and interests.

Shows

There's been a lot of good TV lately, which has been a welcome change. One show that's particularly relatable to me is "How to Die Alone." I've loved Natasha Rothwell since "Insecure," and she really shines in this series. Her character Mel is just about to give up on love when a very relatable accident causes her to change her life and start living and dreaming for herself. The characters are well-developed, and the story is super engaging. I honestly keep checking for when the next episode will come out.

"The English Teacher" is another show I've been enjoying. The '80s soundtrack instantly makes my elder-millennial heart smile. I also love how the show explores the idea that we never really grow out of high school in a very smart and modern way.

I'm also rewatching "Somebody Somewhere." It's another show about what it's like when life doesn't turn out the way you thought it would and you have to start all over—extremely familiar territory for me. A bonus of this show is that some scenes were filmed in the mall where I went to and worked as a teenager. So random! The show is really great, though. Highly recommend.

On the reality TV front, I've been cheering on my podcasting colleague Aysha on "Survivor." I had the pleasure of podcasting with Aysha a couple of times, and it's so fun cheering her on while she forges her own path in Fiji. Aysha podcasts with my cohost on “The Good Pod”, Jason Reed. It’s been an exciting time in the podcasting community to say the least.

I've also really been enjoying the 7th season of "The Circle." I think the twists this season have kept everyone on their toes, and I always love Michelle Buteau's commentary.

Music

Did you hear? New Mozart just dropped! What time to be alive. Also, the TikTok content about this is just chef’s kiss. It’s worth a watch.

Birds

Anyone else obsessed with the self-care app Finch? I can't stop talking about it. I'm in love with my toddler bird, Waddles. Yes, I know this sounds super strange, but this app has seriously made a difference in my mindset and mood over the past few weeks. I know that stopping and checking in with my emotions and body are good things for me to do, but I really struggle with doing that on my own. I'll set all the alarms and reminders and—nothing. But I can't ignore the reminders when they come for this bird trapped in my phone. Like, seriously, I'm thinking, "I'll do this for Waddles."

One of my favorite parts of the app is the first aid kit full of breathing exercises, prompts, and more for when I need something to help me regulate my nervous system. If you're on Fitch and want to be friends, reply back with your friend code and I'll add you!

Vibes

Finally, I'll leave you with a vibe. While on my way to recycle my printer, Tiffany's version of "I Think We're Alone Now" came on my Spotify playlist. It was 70 degrees out, the windows were down, and I just blasted the music, sang along, and danced at the stoplights (safely, of course). I invite you to join the dance party!

That's it for me this throwback. What have you been into lately? Leave a comment or reply back—I'd love to know!

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