You heard it here first: work-life balance is no longer something to strive for. Instead, let’s talk about work-life integration. I’m sharing some eye-opening stats about remote work and getting real about the pros and cons of WFH life. I'm breaking down practical tips for making remote work actually work for you, plus sharing my thoughts on why content creation as a career can be the ultimate form of work-life integration. Whether you're thinking about making a career switch, trying to optimize your current WFH situation, or just curious about what the future of work looks like, this episode is for you!

Mentioned in episode 53:

Stanford Working Paper

CNBC article

Unedited day in my life vlog

Tim and Sydni on TikTok

My tech startup experience

2019 vlog coworking space

Financially preparing to be self-employed

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

It’s officially been one year of podcasting! In this episode, I’m reflecting on everything I’ve learned from launching and growing the show over the past 12 months. I’ll walk you through the results of a recent podcast audit I had done, what’s working well, where there’s room to grow, and the behind-the-scenes insights I’ve picked up along the way. Plus, I’m counting down my top episodes from year one—so whether you’re a longtime listener or just tuning in, this is the perfect way to celebrate the journey so far.

Mentioned in episode 52:

YouTube shopping mini recap vlog

YouTube shopping carousel recap

Podcast microphone

Jenny’s Threads

Jenny’s podcast episode with me

My tech startup experience episode

Giveaway rules! Leave a review for the podcast on your preferred platform and send a screenshot of your published review to either the podcast Instagram account @createandconsumepod or email the screenshot to createandconsumepodcast@gmail.com to enter to win a $50 gift card to the retailer of your choosing. Giveaway closes on Friday 5/23. Open to US residents. Winner will be notified via the platform they entered on.

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

Another Met Gala is in the books, and we have to talk about it. In this episode, we're breaking down everything from jaw-dropping couture to eyebrow-raising misses—and yes, a few outfits that made us question if the dress code was even read. We're diving into the best-dressed stars, unexpected guests, and the early trends that stole the spotlight. With the 2025 Met Gala theme Superfine Tailoring Black Style and a dress code of Tailored for You, this year’s fashion moments were all about precision, personal flair, and honoring Black dandyism.

Mentioned in episode 51:

The Met Gala episode

Funny Story by Emily Henry

My magazine career

How a magazine gets made

My Gigi Hadid look breakdown

My Rihanna look breakdown

Gabriella Karefa-Johnson Instagram

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

It’s almost the first Monday in May! We’re diving into everything you need to know about the Met Gala—past and present. I’m breaking down the history of the event, some of the most memorable themes and red carpet looks over the years, and what we know about the 2025 Met Gala theme and co-hosts for this year’s event. Whether you are fashion obsessed or just here for the pop culture tea, you’ll leave knowing a whole lot more about fashion’s biggest night.

Mentioned in episode 50:

What goes with red blog post

You recap video season 1-4

Superfine: Tailoring Black Style details

Sleeping Beauties exhibition reel

Slaves to Fashion book

Anna book

Fashion’s Big Night Out book

The Stolen Queen book

Vogue’s YouTube channel

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

The global economy has been going through some major shifts in the last few weeks and it’s got the girls talking. What does this mean for us? How can we identify our priorities when it comes to money and set reasonable boundaries around our spending so we can still have fun without feeling guilty? I’m answering these questions and more in today’s episode where I’m sharing saving tips, reasonable swaps to make and even some insights into the stock market and investing money. Consider this your guide to recession-proofing your life and surviving market pull backs.

Mentioned in episode 48:

Wall Street Journal article

Recession tips for creators

Financial Feminist book

Tori’s Instagram

Amazon ice roller

De-influence my Sephora basket

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

Can you believe it’s been four years since I left my 9-5 to become a full-time content creator? In this episode, I’m reflecting on the biggest lessons I’ve learned on my creator journey so far. From staying organized behind the scenes to building a strong offline support system, I’m sharing the strategies that have helped me grow and stay consistent in the ever-changing world of content creation. Whether you're thinking about making the leap or you're already a few years in, these tips can help you create a sustainable and successful career as a digital creator.

White Lotus S3 spoilers!! 3:46 - 6:39

Mentioned in episode 47:

The Influencer Income Accelerator

Sephora sale favorites blog post

Comedic Timing book

2024 income breakdown video

Uptime

4-Hour Work Week

The Creative Edition podcast

Soulcial Scoop podcast

Vanessa Lau’s channel

Tamron Hall show clip

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Podcast inquiries can be sent to createandconsumepodcast@gmail.com

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Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5

Is it true that quitters never win? Hell, no. Today I’m sharing (many) stories of times I quit throughout my life and why quitting is actually a power move to help you feel more confident in your life decisions and make room for better opportunities. Plus, I’m sharing tips for recognizing that it’s time to quit and actionable steps for how to quit something you’re no longer excited about. Ready, set, quit!

Mentioned in episode 46:

Spring reset vlog

Quarterly reset checklist

My retail job episode

My tech startup era episode

Why I closed my Patreon

Operation 100K series

Deya’s YouTube video

The Dip book

Why influencers are going back to 9-5 jobs

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Podcast inquiries can be sent to createandconsumepodcast@gmail.com

Visit the website: https://www.createandconsumepodcast.com/

Music credit: Babak Bazgosha via Pond5