For our final book club of 2023, we read “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey. The Academy Award-winning actor's #1 New York Times bestseller is not a traditional memoir, nor is it an advice book. It’s an approach, a playbook, and a love letter to life. It’s a record of Matthew’s life and how he’s engineered it to catch more greenlights – signals that let us know we’re on the right path and to keep moving forward.

The book is definitely not preachy, but we still learned a lot about the importance of introspection, writing, travel, spending time alone, surrendering, and living your life in a way where you look forward to looking back. We loved the unconventional approaches Matthew used to navigate many pivots and seasons of change, and see how experimentation, strong principles, and process of elimination have helped him find more happiness, success, and fulfillment in life. 

In his wise words, “Sometimes which choice you make is not as important as making a choice and committing to it.” 

Matthew has so many insights (and so much rizz), that we can’t wait to share with everyone we meet. Check out our Instagram @pilotingpod if you're listening when this comes out for a chance to win a copy of Greenlights!

Mentioned in the episode:

“Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey: https://greenlights.com 

Rizz Named Word of the Year 2023 by Oxford University Press: https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-67602699 

“Travels with Charley in Search of America” by John Steinbeck: https://www.amazon.com/Travels-Charley-Search-America-Steinbeck/dp/0140053204 

Babaà: https://babaa.es 

Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé: https://www.beyoncefilm.com 

Rafael Nadal Comeback Announcement: https://www.instagram.com/rafaelnadal/reel/C0TyYPBNkY4 

“Carrie Soto is Back” by Taylor Jenkins Reid: https://taylorjenkinsreid.com/books/carrie-soto-is-back 

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“If you don't build your dream, someone else will hire you to help them build theirs.” In many ways this is true…but does chasing your dream have to mean starting your own company?

This week, we’re chatting about why it’s important for any aspiring business owner to stop romanticizing entrepreneurship and we make the case for enjoying your 9 to 5. Pulling from our own experiences with starting a small business, freelancing, and moonlighting, we discuss how the greater flexibility, autonomy, and control with entrepreneurship often comes with more risk, responsibility, and stress. (Not saying it isn’t worth it, but it’s a big tradeoff to consider!) We love the dream of doing your own thing, but it’s not for everyone. A 9 to 5 offers stability, security, and a different kind of freedom for many. Plus, between the threat of your self-started business failing or a sudden layoff from an employer, we wonder if either option is really more reliable than the other...

Tangents of the week include our appreciation for pilates and a shared obsession with dental hygiene.

Mentioned in the episode:

Stop Romanticizing Entrepreneurship: https://medium.com/@miggyazurin/stop-romanticizing-entrepreneurship-20b03c593b5 

17. How Do I Decide to Pivot My Business? with KONOS Founder & CEO Michelle Chu: https://bit.ly/411UUat 

Thach Nguyen: https://www.instagram.com/thachnguyen

Cocofloss: https://cocofloss.com

Suri: https://www.trysuri.com

Changing Our Internal Narrative: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/279363983129128244/

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IG: @pilotingpod

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Whether you have total clarity on what you’re piloting next, or you’re still in the period of self-discovery and figuring that out, this week we discuss why sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward. 

Growth and progress rarely happen in a straight line, so we’re trying to reframe how stepping back can be less about all the things you’re losing and more about what you’re making space to add to your life. We chat about balancing stability vs. freedom, knowing your non-negotiables, the magic of journaling, and finding peace when it feels like you’re moving in the opposite direction of where you want to go. (Tip: Patience is a big part of the journey.) We also go on tangents about pole vaulting, dutch ovens, language learning tips, and our love/hate relationship with spreadsheets – Melissa loves ‘em, Renée not so much.

When in doubt, do something different. Don’t let a step back hold you back from going after what you want. 

Happy Thanksgiving, co-pilots! We’re grateful for all of you.

Mentioned in the episode:

The Pandemic Skip: https://www.thecut.com/article/post-covid-pandemic-age-essay.html 

“The Search: Finding Meaningful Work in a Post-Career World” by Bruce Feiler: https://www.brucefeiler.com/books-articles/the-search/ 

“Everything is Figureoutable” by Marie Forleo: https://everythingisfigureoutable.com 

Playing Tetris Can Reduce Onset of PTSD After Trauma, Study Shows: https://www.cnn.com/2017/03/29/health/ptsd-tetris-computer-games-trnd/index.html 

Tetris: https://tetris.com/play-tetris 

Cocokind: https://www.cocokind.com

Cocokind Founder Priscilla Tsai on Running a Business and Getting Married in a Pandemic: https://vitruvi.com/blogs/health-and-wellness/cocokind-founder-priscilla-tsai 

Priscilla Tsai: CEO and Founder, Cocokind | The Playbook With David Meltzer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-27dmhXRgFE 

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Email us: [email protected]

IG: @pilotingpod

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According to the Cambridge Dictionary, “reinvention” is the act of producing something new based on something that already exists. For us, that means the process of reinventing yourself, which is sometimes part of the piloting journey, is usually a process of bringing different parts of yourself to the surface and uncovering a more authentic version of you. This week, we dig into dealing with resistance to your evolution from loved ones, the importance of having a growth mindset that’s open to change, living a life with no “what if” regrets, and expert advice on how to start reinventing yourself.

We also chit chat about a few famous faces we think have done some interesting reinventions, including Pamela Anderson, Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus…and Arnold Schwarzenegger. (Plus, it’s another episode where we talk about our love of Jude Law!)

Mentioned in the episode:

I Heart Huckabees: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0356721 

Pamela's Garden of Eden: https://www.hulu.com/series/399585f7-1a40-4ba1-b44d-633abea96d5d 

How To Begin Reinventing Yourself In Time For The New Year: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/10/14/how-to-begin-reinventing-yourself-in-time-for-the-new-year/ 

How to Reinvent Yourself: Setting and Achieving Personal Goals: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-reinvent-yourself#7F9rUOHMzmQ9sYVm8fdjjN 

Medicube AGE-R Booster-H: https://medicube.us/products/glow-booster-age-r-booster-h 

Rakuten: www.rakuten.com/r/HI2618?eeid=28187 *

*Melissa’s referral link ;) 

Shop App: https://shop.app 

For the Healthy Hoes podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/for-the-healthy-hoes/id1596171716 

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Email us: [email protected]

IG: @pilotingpod

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This week, our book club pick is from our favorite First Lady Michelle Obama. “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” is a #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller, and the follow-up to her record-breaking memoir “Becoming.” In this new book, she shares practical wisdom and powerful strategies for staying hopeful and balanced in today’s highly uncertain world.

TL;DR We laughed, we cried, and we loved this book! After gushing about how much we want to be (or be friends with) Michelle Obama, we dug into various tools and life maxims she shares – from getting comfortable with fear to living a big life. We discuss how strong intentions build strong friendships, being responsible with the power we have to shape other people’s experiences, when discomfort can be a teacher, why mental health is important when piloting something new…and what it really means to go high. We can’t possibly summarize all the amazing takeaways from this, but we highly recommend reading this if you want to feel seen and inspired all at the same time.

As she writes, “If you want to break barriers and knock down walls, I’ve found, you’ll need to find and protect your own boundaries, watching over your time, your energy, your health, and your spirit as you go.”

Mentioned in the episode:

“The Light We Carry” by Michelle Obama: https://michelleobamabooks.com 

90 Recent Books to Read This Native American Heritage Month: https://www.goodreads.com/blog/show/2491-90-recent-books-to-read-this-native-american-heritage-month 

“The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven” by Sherman Alexie: https://www.amazon.com/Ranger-Tonto-Fistfight-Heaven-Anniversary/dp/0802121993 

ClassPass: https://classpass.com 

Jude Law Breaks Down His Career, from 'The Holiday' to 'The New Pope': https://www.vanityfair.com/video/watch/careert-timeline-jude-law-breaks-down-his-career-from-the-holiday-to-the-new-pope 

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The saying goes, “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” But is this always true? (Also, did everyone else know this was the full quote? Because we definitely didn’t.) 

This week, we’re debating whether it’s better to dabble in doing a little bit of everything, or specialize in becoming the best at one thing. We dig into the importance of being adaptable in an age of fast-moving technology, leaning into self-discovery and exploration in the early years of your career, avoiding obsolescence if you do specialize, covering your blind spots, and deciding which option might give you better job security. We also have several unhinged analogies and metaphors about neurosurgery, ceramics, jigsaw puzzles, and boats, and share anecdotes about fall in New England and Josh Groban.

Honestly, we’ll never know everything about anything, so let’s be intentional about where we invest our time and energy. 

Mentioned in the episode:

mindbodygreen Vitamin D3: https://shop.mindbodygreen.com/products/d3 

Sweeney Todd: https://sweeneytoddbroadway.com 

Why Being A Jack Of All Trades Is Essential For Success: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jodiecook/2021/05/13/why-being-a-jack-of-all-trades-is-essential-for-success/

Briogeo Scalp Revival*: https://www.briogeohair.com/products/scalp-revival-scalp-soothing-solutions-set 

*but try to find at T.J.Maxx ;)

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com 

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IG: @pilotingpod

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This week, we’re exploring “lazy girl jobs” and why everyone’s got something to say about these jobs trending on TikTok that essentially just offer fixed hours, flexibility, and leisure time. Sounds pretty good to be honest! We dig into why work-life balance looks different for everyone, when taking a “lazy” approach to work is the right move, and the sacrifices many of us make with demanding jobs. We also question whether looking at work as just a paycheck vs. part of your purpose changes how much you might be interested in a lazy girl job. Tune in for this, plus our thoughts on potato days, hot chocolate, and true crime podcasts!

Mentioned in the episode:

‘Lazy Girl Jobs’ Are Just Healthy Jobs—And The Trend Should Be A Wake-up Call for Leaders: https://www.fastcompany.com/90948133/lazy-girl-jobs-are-just-healthy-jobs-and-the-trend-should-be-a-wake-up-call-for-leaders

Forget Those ‘Lazy Girl’ Jobs: Women’s Ambition Is Higher Than Ever, Landmark Report Finds: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maggiemcgrath/2023/10/05/forget-those-lazy-girl-jobs-womens-ambition-is-higher-than-ever-landmark-report-finds/

‘Lazy Girl Jobs’ are Trending in Rally Against Burnout Culture: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna97367 

The Anti Work Girlboss (Gabrielle Judge): https://www.instagram.com/antiworkgirlboss/ 

Scamanda: https://open.spotify.com/show/3UNxeZPD5fDSzm26mqTjgc 

Dr. Death: https://wondery.com/shows/dr-death/ 

Swiss Miss Non-Dairy Chocolate Flavored Hot Cocoa Mix: https://www.swissmiss.com/classics/non-dairy-chocolate-flavored-hot-cocoa-mix

Side Hustle Pro: https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlepro/ 

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IG: @pilotingpod

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We know interviews can be a little scary or feel fake but they’re a necessary part of many piloting journeys when changing jobs or trying something new, so let’s get into it! How do you show up authentically while ensuring you’re getting to know the company (or other person) as much as they’re vetting you?

We chat about whether “culture fit” questions have a bias against introverts, reading between the lines to spot red flags, our go-to questions to ask, trying not to look too eager, and being honest with yourself about what you’re willing to accept – and knowing when it’s better to walk away. Plus, a friendly reminder that if someone asks about your weaknesses, please do not share your WORST shortcomings. (Look out for yourself, girl!) We also recap our weekends, share the best place to get iced chai lattes, and the novelty of eating a “glizzy.”

Finally, our next book club pick is “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” by Michelle Obama. We’ll be discussing our favorite takeaways on November 8, so tune in!

Mentioned in the episode:

The Anti Work Girlboss Interview Questions: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxtv2xRNzS5 

Black Star Bakery: ​​https://www.blackstarbakery.com 

Not Just Coffee: https://notjust.coffee 

Southwest Airlines: https://www.southwest.com 

“The Light We Carry” by Michelle Obama: https://michelleobamabooks.com 

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IG: @pilotingpod

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Was Jason Derulo the self-help guru and motivational coach we needed all along?! In all seriousness though, we were pleasantly surprised at how much we appreciated the insights from this month’s book club pick. 

“Sing Your Name Out Loud: 15 Rules for Living Your Dream” is the first book from global pop superstar and TikTok phenomenon Jason Derulo, whose music and personality transcend borders, generations, and genres. From Taking Risks and Unlocking Closed Doors to Choosing Your Competition, he takes us through key moments and decisions in his life guided by these rules that helped propel him to the success he has today.  

We found his voice really refreshing and respected his willingness to experiment, evolve, and even embarrass himself in the pursuit of learning, expanding, and growing. His confidence and mental toughness jumped off the page and were honestly inspiring! 

We’ll leave you with a few words from Jason to help you on your piloting journey: “Stop being boring. Stop being derivative. Stop being scared. Please.”

Mentioned in the episode:

“Sing Your Name Out Loud: 15 Rules for Living Your Dream” by Jason Derulo: https://www.jasonderulo.com/book 

Jason Derulo on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qCEa12YdiAhkvTIpWzRWC?si=01baebf53e8b40be 

Invisalign: https://www.invisalign.com 

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IG: @pilotingpod

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When did we all start having mid-life crises in our 20s and 30s? It feels like everyone is having (or has had) a quarter-life crisis, defined as involving anxiety over the direction and quality of one's life, most commonly experienced between a person's early twenties up to their mid-thirties. This week, we chat about why it’s normal to not know what you’re doing with your life sometimes, how to avoid having a menty b (mental breakdown), and the consequences of living your life according to other people’s expectations of you.

Whether your quarter-life crisis feels like the end of the world or a small stirring in your soul, a wise friend once said that “breakthroughs often feel like breakdowns,” so it’s okay to lean into the messy bits. We also chat about film festivals, SAT scores, and Britney Spears. 

Disclaimer: Renée does in fact like John Mayer, and Melissa swears she’s not in a cult.

Mentioned in the episode:

Nowhere Near by Miko Revereza: https://www.filmlinc.org/nyff2023/films/nowhere-near 

Tenement Museum (NYC): https://www.tenement.org 

“Why Georgia” by John Mayer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XY6alp2SdI 

“I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman” by Britney Spears: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlV7RhT6zHs 

Girls: https://www.hbo.com/girls 

“QUARTER LIFE CRISIS” by Taylor Bickett: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFzOKKeB6OY 

HigherDOSE: https://higherdose.com 

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