Life's Accessories: Recent Episodes
Rachel Levy Lesser
Author Rachel Levy Lesser remembers what she wore on pretty much every meaningful occasion. In Life's Accessories, The Podcast, she digs deep into her closets and her memory to tell the stories behind these items. Rachel interviews experts, friends, celebrities and just really interesting and awesome people about items from their jewelry boxes, closets, homes and more. And she does it with wit, humor and insight.
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Writer, editor and financial services professional Lindsey Mead came on Life's Accessories and shared her father's brass rat with Rachel. What is a brass rat exactly? Tune in and find out! Lindsey's writing work has been anthologized in a wide variety of print and online sources including Quiet Revolution, Literary Mama and Huffington Post. She edited the anthology On Being 40 (ish) which was published by Simon and Schuster. Lindsey and Rachel covered being 40 (ish), being 50 (ish), what one chooses to write about, what we know now but didn't know then and a whole lot more.
Follow Lindsey on Instagram
Check out Lindsey's Blog, A Design So Vast
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Shannon Sarna brought along a fabulous evil eye headband that she purchased on Etsy to this episode of Life's Accessories. Rachel and Shannon discuss all things headbands, evil eyes and Etsy plus cooking, baking, writing and the evolution of Shannon's creative and inspiring career. Shannon is the founding editor of the Nosher as well as the author of Modern Jewish Baker and Modern Jewish Comfort Food. More recently Shannon has been leaning into the pizza side of her identity working alongside chef Dan Richer at Razza Pizza while also helping to lead The Nosher's first ever fellowship for Food Writers and Content Creators to elevate diverse Jewish voices in the food media landscape. Tune in to hear about all of this and more including the latest in food trends. It seems that brulee-ing is having a moment.
Follow Shannon on Instagram
Check out Shannon's cookbooks Modern Jewish Baker and Modern Jewish Comfort Food
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Award winning author and journalist Julie Satow joins Rachel for the very first episode of season two of Life's Accessories to discuss a letter that was sent to Julie's grandmother in 1958 from the iconic department store, Henri Bendel's. This letter is quite fitting as Julie's latest book When Women Ran Fifth Avenue: Glamour and Power at the Dawn of American Fashion chronicles the lives of three fascinating and inspiring women who rose to the top ranks at the height of the glamour in the 20th century world of department stores, which were then places "where every wish could be met under one roof." Julie explains how so much has changed in the word of fashion and retail in the last century but also how little has changed in some respects when it comes to women in the workplace. Julie and Rachel go deep into their own department store shopping days and reveal their love for some of the stores. Think Barney's warehouse sale, Guess Jeans at Bloomingdales and accessories displays at Bendel's!
Learn more about Julie Satow
Follow Julie on Instagram
Order Julie's new book, When Women Ran Fifth Avenue
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On this episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Tim Levy. Does the last name sound familiar to you? Well, it should, because Tim is Rachel Levy Lesser's first cousin (and by the end of this episode, Tim is Stephanie's cousin too)! Tim is the owner and founder of Fairways & Dreams Indoor Golf, the premier indoor golf facility in the Philadelphia area. Tim is also a practicing lawyer who advises emerging entrepreneurs. He graduated from Columbia University – where he was co-captain of the varsity golf team – and the George Washington University Law School. Cousin Tim tells the story of how Fairways & Dreams came to be, and gives Rachel and Stephanie the hope and encouragement they need to dream big about their own golf games.
Learn more about Fairways & Dreams (or even book a tee time)! Follow Fairways & Dreams on Instagram.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Tullan Holmqvist is a rock star. Okay not literally, but she is a writer, actor, and investigator. She's the author of award-winning thrillers and screenplays including The Woman in the Park, and Lacie's Secrets. She's written an Italian TV thriller series, and other essays and stories. As a private investigator, Tullan has worked on global fraud and art cases. Rachel and Stephanie loved getting to know Tullan and learn more about her journey. Of course, the conversation begins with the big reveal about the accessory Tullan has chosen to share; a beautiful pair of Tibetan turquoise earrings which she once gave to her mother, but since her passing, now wears them when she wants to carry a piece of her mother with her throughout the day. Tullan is a wonderful and accomplished human being. Enjoy tuning in to this episode of Life's Accessories.
Learn more about Tullan here or follow her on Instagram.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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You will hear a lot of extremely important information from this week's guest, Board-Certified OBGYN Dr. Mary Claire Haver, who is at the forefront of a menopause movement shining a spotlight on the importance of talking about and treating menopause. Dr. Haver has devoted her career to women's health. Her science-educated approach to demystifying menopause has put her on the map for providing women the tools and resources they need for their menopause journey. Dr. Haver is the author of The Galveston Diet. Her second book, The New Menopause, comes out next month and is available for pre-order now. Dr. Haver's accessory? Hint: a tool from her menopause toolkit. Which one? You'll have to listen to find out!
Learn more about Dr. Mary Claire Haver here or connect with her on Instagram.
Pre-order The New Menopause
Order The Galveston Diet
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie were delighted to welcome lawyer-turned-prolific-writer Jacqueline Friedland. Jackie tells the story of how she felt like she was playing "dress up" as she put on her work clothes each day. Hear the story behind what prompted Jackie to settle in to a new career as a writer of both historical and contemporary fiction. Her latest book, The Stockwell Letters, was published in August 2023. Her other three books include That's Not a Thing, Trouble the Water, and He Gets That From Me. Jackie's accessory? A special Tiffany pen which a group of friends gave to her when she graduated from her Masters of Fine Arts program at Sarah Lawrence College, which helped to launch her new career in writing.
Check out Jackie Friedland's website or connect with her on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Kiki Smith has said that she wants her gravestone to read, "She had good earrings." On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Kiki certainly delivered with a pair of great earrings. Actually, they are more than great, and you'll have to tune in to find out why because they are one-of-a-kind, just like Kiki. Kiki is a professor in the Theatre Department at Smith College in Northampton, MA, as well as a professional costume and set designer. She is also the Director of the Smith College Historic Clothing Collection that was founded 42 years ago by a student and is based there in the basement of the Theatre Building near the Costume Shop. Her book, Real Clothes, Real Lives: 200 Years of What Women Wore, documents garments and accessories that are what she calls "real” clothes worn by “real” women for all aspects of their lives. It has developed a focus on the “uniforms” of women’s many roles and jobs.
And, for the first time ever on Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie had a surprise guest join in the middle of the episode recording! Rachel, Stephanie, and Kiki were joined by Paula Deitz, the editor of The Hudson Review. Paula is a writer and cultural critic, and has contributed frequently to The New York Times, The Architectural Review, and Gardens Illustrated. Paula has been a helpful advisor and friend to Kiki and the collection. In fact one of Paula's dresses is in Kiki's new book.
Check out Kiki Smith's book, Real Clothes, Real Lives: 200 Years of What Women Wore. An exhibition based on many of the pieces in Kiki's book will be on display at the New-York Historical Society in the Women's History Gallery from September 28, 2024-June 2024.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie chat with writer and teacher Darcey Gohring, who shares her must-have and beloved Birkenstocks -- a first on Life's Accessories! Are they shoes? Are they sandals? Does it even matter? They're comfortable, and maybe that is what matters most. Darcey shares her story about being diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of the Covid-19 lockdown. She wrote about her journey and all the feelings along the way. What's incredible about Darcey, as listeners will hear in this episode, is her gratitude, and how she focused on finding the positives during such a difficult and uncertain time. Darcey is a prolific writer who now teaches online and in-person classes.
Learn more about Darcey Gohring here or follow her on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Sami Greenfield, who is the oldest of four children. Sami's middle name is Joy -- and joy is exactly what she strives to bring through her Sunny Side newspaper column, uplifting social media accounts, and her first book, Bury Me in My Bathing Suit. Her book is a collection of short essays that range from happiness to heartbreak and everything in between, all connected to a greater message about finding bursts of joy. Sami shares with Rachel and Stephanie a special accessory of her father's that she keeps close to her.
Connect with Sami Greenfield through her website or on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this very special episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie have so much to talk about with Peaches 'n Diesel, aka Peaches, of Instagram fame. "Unfiltered musings so I can hear myself talk" is how she describes herself. Peaches uses humor to navigate important topics like her own Dateline NBC murder episode, fashion emergencies like cutouts and microshorts, as well as her new life as an empty nester. Her accessory? Well, it's one that has stirred up a lot of controversy on Life's Accessories. It's the fanny pack. Not the belt bag. Not the awkward cross-body bag. The OG fanny pack that has been around since as long as Rachel and Stephanie can remember.
Follow Peaches on Instagram (you're welcome). Also check out her Insta-famous and most adorable dogs, Jolene and Gipper.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Jo Piazza is a bestselling author, podcast creator extraordinaire, and award-winning journalist. She has traveled the world thanks to her reporting, and joins Rachel and Stephanie on today's episode to share a vintage gold locket she picked up in Rome. She talks about that specific time during her life when she learned to love and take care of herself more, which set the foundation for the life she lives today. Jo is a prolific podcaster (after you listen to this episode, check out Under the Influence and Too Much Money). She has written twelve books, with her latest, The Sicilian Inheritance, due out in April 2024. Jo is an incredible storyteller (she often doesn't know how the story ends until she writes it), who tells it like it is, with humor and a sharp wit!
Connect with Jo Piazza on Instagram or via her website.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today’s episode of Life’s Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Executive Vice President, Digital Media for the National Basketball Association, Melissa Brenner. Melissa has spent most of her career at the NBA — 26 years, in fact! Melissa shares a special accessory from her mother’s jewelry box which she wears often, as it gives her comfort, and makes Melissa feel more connected to her late mother. Melissa shares the story behind the ring, and takes Rachel and Stephanie on her remarkable career journey, from how she started, how more and more women are taking on more leadership roles at the NBA, what it was like to navigate the NBA season during Covid (remember the 2020 NBA Bubble?), to how the NBA connects with fans through hugely-successful digital platforms.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Cynthia Muchnick, who spent much of her career in the field of college admissions, either as an admissions counselor at two universities or as an educational consultant. Before that, she fell into a career as an expert on all-things wedding proposals and weddings, thanks to her love for interesting and creative proposal stories! Cindy's accessory? the engagement ring that started it all. Tune in to fine out more!
Follow Cindy on Instagram or check out her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie had the pleasure of welcoming award-winning interior designer Lisa Kooistra of LK Designs, A Burlington, Canada-based firm. Lisa shared her vintage clutch which was her grandmother's, and has stood the test of time! She shares how her travels keep her inspired and teach her an understanding of how people live. Lisa also provided some reassurance to Rachel and Stephanie that they do not, in fact, have too many toss pillows or throw blankets in their homes, and it is more thank okay for houses to look lived in.
Follow Lisa Kooistra on Instagram. Check out LK Designs here.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie were honored to welcome award-winning book author, freelance writer, and blogger Diana Bletter. Her accessory? Probably the most important one, that not even money can buy: her self esteem. Diana shares why loving and caring for yourself is so important, and how she has incorporated that concept into her life's work. With a tremendous amount of gratitude, Rachel and Stephanie were able to speak with Diana who lives in Israel. This is a Life's Accessories episode unlike the others, as she shared her perspectives about the war in the region, what she is doing to help soldiers on the ground, how she and her family are coping. Diana is a wonderful human being who has so much love in her heart. Please tune in to hear her story.
Connect with Diana Bletter on Instagram, or visit her website and blog here.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this week's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome the wonderful Kristin McGee, a nationally-recognized celebrity yoga and Pilates teacher, speaker, author, and mompreneur. Many of you will recognize Kristin from her Peloton yoga classes, and fun fact, Kristin helped to launch the Peloton yoga platform. Kristin is a big believer in bringing balance and harmony into every day life -- she sure brought it to this episode! Kristin shared a special accessory which includes her mantra which she often shares in her Peloton yoga classes. Tune in to hear all about it!
Connect with Kristin McGee on Instagram or visit her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Samantha Greene Woodruff, who found her calling as a novelist after spending much of her career in the business side of media. After leaving corporate life, she pursued various passions including teaching yoga, learning how to play the guitar, cooking, and taking writing classes. Her debut novel, The Lobotomist's Wife, is an Amazon bestseller. Her second novel will be released in the fall of 2024. It's possible in this episode that Rachel and Stephanie gave the green light for the title of this novel AND they were fascinated to learn about Sam's reptile zoo. Oh, and there was an accessory too, because Sam also dabbles in jewelry making. Tune in to hear the story behind her beaded necklace and why she made it!
Connect with Samantha Greenen Woodruff on Instagram or check out her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome entertainment-industry-executive-turned-author Rochelle Weinstein. Did we mention she's a best-selling author? Rochelle is a prolific writer whose titles include What You Do To Me, When We Let Go, This Is How It Ends, Somebody's Daughter, and more. What You Do To Me is Rochelle's latest book, published in October 2023. Rochelle shares an accessory which was creatively transformed from a charm bracelet into a necklace. Tune in and enjoy!
To learn more about Rochelle, check out her website or find her on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Barri Leiner Grant, the Chief Grief Officer™ and founder of The Memory Circle. Barri shares the moving story about the day her mother Ellen died in 1993 and about how something unexpected that was found in her beach bag from that tragic day turned into a coveted accessory.
Barri left a career as a publicist, stylist and editor to step into full-time work as a Certified Grief Coach. As she said, “I dabbled in small motherless daughter events as a peer, when I received my yoga teacher training, and knew I needed to make the Circle bigger.”
Barri has studied with the leading names in the grief space including grief certification and education with Claire Bidwell Smith and David Kessler. She combines her writing background and yoga/meditation training to craft a one-of-its-kind way forward in learning to live with loss. She hosts groups and 1:1 sessions bathed in her grief tending techniques.
Want to learn more about Barri and her upcoming sessions? Connect with Barri Leiner Grant on Instagram or visit her website. Read Barri's beautiful essay I'm Learning to Love What is Left of My Father in Zibby Mag.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Emma Nadler, a psychotherapist, author, and speaker. Her memoir, The Unlikely Village of Eden is a funny and hopeful memoir about learning to adapt when life doesn't go to plan. Emma shares a special pair of earrings from her dear friend Kate. Emma shares the triumphs and challenges of caregiving, and how through her work, she explores creative approaches to what can sometimes seem like challenges that can't be solved. Emma is an incredible human, with unmatched perspective.
PLEASE NOTE: Listening to this podcast in no way creates a client/therapist relationship with Emma Nadler. This is educational in nature. No legal, counseling, or other professional services are being rendered and nothing is intended to provide such services or advice of any kind. If you are having a mental health emergency, please contact 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also text or call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (within the United States).
Connect with Emma Nadler via Instagram or her website.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome Dr. Matthew Kulka, a board-certified family medicine physician. His accessory? Something that reminds him to make healthy choices every single day. As the founder of Seriously Simple Steps (S3), Dr. Kulka aims to transform lives by fostering sustainable health and wellness habits. Far beyond fleeting fads or quick fixes, S3 stands as a science-backed transformational approach. It empowers individuals to achieve their weight loss and wellness goals by adopting a series of manageable steps, with the focal point centered on positive lifestyle changes.
Connect with Dr. Matthew Kulka on Instagram or through his website or learn more about Seriously Simple Steps.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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With eight novels under her belt, Brenda Janowitz knows a thing or two about writing. As the author of The Grace Kelly Dress, The Audrew Hepburn Estate, and The Liz Taylor Ring, she also knows a lot about how to incorporate meaningful accessories (and in one case an entire estate) into her writing. On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Brenda shares the very special ring which was given to her by her grandmother. Rachel and Stephanie loved chatting with the incredibly talented, warm, and funny Brenda. Tune in and enjoy!
Connect with Brenda Janowitz on Instagram @brendajanowitzwriter or through her website.
Read Brenda's essay in Modern Love, He's Never Going to Put that Shirt Away
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie return to the podcast after a short hiatus, to remember Rachel's beloved father who passed away in August 2023. Rachel talks about her father's final days, their treasured relationship and shares the very special -- albeit itchy -- 1963 wool sweater her father earned his first year at the University of Pennsylvania. You may laugh, you may cry and you may find yourself wondering when vintage collegiate sweaters will come back in style!
Read Rachel's 2015 Huffington Post Essay about her Dad
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this week's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome prolific writer Adele Griffin. Adele shares the story about the vintage dress she found that she has worn on every birthday since she bought it. No need to tell the story here; you'll have to tune in to listen.
Adele is the author of The Favor, which published in June 2023. She is also the author of books for young-adult readers. She is a New Yorker at heart and enjoys living in Los Angeles (even though it doesn't snow there).
Check out Adele's website here, or find her on Instagram @adelegriffin.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Lawyer-turned-writer Jenny Leon tells the story of her gold skirt -- one which pushed the envelope in her conservative law office. Tune in to hear her story and why she believes that wearing a skirt that doesn't fit is a waste of time, a sentiment to how she now looks at her life which is now full or purpose and joy.
Jenny is currently working on a forthcoming memoir about how being diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy led her to reframe motherhood. Links to all her work can be found here: https://linktr.ee/jennyrosenyc. You may also find Jenny on Instagram @jennyrosenyc.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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From a very young age, M.J. Rose knew she would become a novelist, and that had everything to do with the hilarious story (you have to tune in to hear it) she made up about a very special opal and diamond ring which was eventually passed on to M.J. because she loved it so much. M.J. is a New York Times bestselling novelist and the founder of AuthorBuzz.com, the first marketing company for authors. Jewelry plays a starring role in M.J.'s writing, and Rachel and Stephanie loved hearing how a piece of jewelry is central to the characters she develops in her books.
Connect with M.J. Rose on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie have a wonderful time with Sh*t That I Knit Founder Christina Pardy. Christina started knitting thanks to her mother who taught her everything she needed to know about knitting, purling, and more. Years later, that hobby would turn into a successful business. Christina shares her everyday gold bangle bracelet which is engraved with the letters NANG. What's that stand for? No Asky No Getty. A mantra Christina follows in business and life, which had led to much of her success and her commitment to giving back to the world.
Learn more about Sh*t That I Knit!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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In this week's episode, meet Pam Moore, who tells the story about her bike -- which hangs in her garage today (without pedals). There is a new bike (or two or three) in Pam's life, but like many of our life's accessories, she won't part with the OG bike. You'll have to tune in to learn why! Pam is an occupational therapist turned intuitive eating coach, and health and fitness journalist. She lives in Boulder, Colorado with her husband and two daughters. You can follow @pammoore303 on Instagram.
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
She may not be Sally O'Malley, but Stephanie is not afraid to tell her age, because she can kick, stretch, and kick! Did we mention she's 50? On this week's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel turns the tables on Stephanie and interviews her on the day before her golden birthday. They talk about all the feelings of this big milestone, and of course, all the accessories that make such a milestone birthday that much more meaningful!
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
Shane Reilly is a serial entrepreneur who is inspired by the accessories surrounding her. Shane has had her own interior design firm focused on designing luxury homes in New York and San Francisco. Her first online business, Decorati, was a market place for trade-only interior design brands. Her second online business, Guildery, was a custom fabric and pillow printing business. But wait! There's more! Enter Obshay, a new -- if not the or one of the first companies in the wellness design space. A sculpture that is actually a dumbbell? That's what we're talking about! And we're also talking about the throw blanket that was used as a test for one of Shane's first ventures.
Learn more about Shane through obshay.com, or find her on Instagram @obshayshop
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
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- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Dinah Lenney is an actor and writer who tells the story about the time when her mother brought her to an Armani boutique for a custom suit fitting. Turns out this suit has stood the test of time, and was worn on many meaningful occasions in Dinah's life. Tune in to learn more about Dinah's career as an actor on shows including Murphy Brown, ER, and The West Wing, and her career as a writer and memoirist. Dinah is a creative force and the most lovely and warm human being.
Connect with Dinah Lenney on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Talk about a feel-good episode! Today Rachel and Stephanie welcome Dara Kurtz to Life's Accessories, where they pay homage to Dara's jean jacket, and the staying-power of jean jackets in general. Dara is the author of I am My Mother's Daughter: Wisdom on Life, Loss, and Love, and Crush Cancer. From her blog, Crazy Perfect Life, to her presentations on how to "Level Up Your Life", Dara tells her story about how a life-changing event transformed how she looks at the world, and how she is able to work with people to find the blessings in their own lives.
Connect with Dara Kurtz on Instagram, Facebook, or her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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As the teenagers in their lives approach important life milestones and prepare to exit stage right (or left) out of their respective nests, Rachel and Stephanie share their views and observations on the accessories that can make or break a college visit or graduation ceremony. Your co-hosts dig deep into this topic (when don't they?) -- from which bags to carry to which shoes work best on grass!
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
What's a ruana you ask? You'll have to tune in, as Rachel and Stephanie welcome the incredibly talented fashion designer, and CEO of her eponymous brand, Sara Campbell. Sara shares her love for the ruana as one of the most versatile accessories that can elevate any outfit (and is a staple in all of her seasonal collections). Sara learned how to sew when she was six years old, and she's never looked back.
Connect with Sara Campbell on Instagram or through her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Hey college kids and grads ! When you were in college, was there something in your closet that became part of your campus uniform? Something that became part of your identity? For Allison Winn Scotch, it was her Stüssy hat. Allison is a prolific writer, with ten novels under her belt. Also, do you remember all of those "10 Ways to a Better Life" articles we used to read, on basically every subject imaginable? Those were penned by Allison. Rachel and Stephanie enjoyed going back in time with Allison to their college days and talking about how it's just so hard to part with a good baseball cap.
Connect with Allison Winn Scotch on Instagram or her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur Jill Smokler joins Rachel and Stephanie on today's episode of Life's Accessories. Jill was one of the first "mommy bloggers" who became known for her Webby Award-winning blog, Scary Mommy, which became a chronicle of Jill's stay-at-home days with her children. Her accessory of choice? A book which is the compilation of her first year of Scary Mommy blog posts. Rachel and Stephanie learn about Jill's journey beyond Scary Mommy, into her latest venture, She's Got Issues (who doesn't?)!
Connect with Jill Smokler on Instagram or visit her website.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this week's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome entrepreneur Stacy Madison. Ever heard of Stacy's Pita Chips? That was a rhetorical question; of course you have. It's that Stacy! There's really only one necklace you'll probably ever see around Stacy's neck, a symbol for her family and her life. Stacy shares the incredible stories of how her business ventures came to be, including her latest -- BeBOLD Bars.
Connect with Stacy Madison on Instagram
Hungry? Check out BeBOLD Bars on Instagram or here.
Connect with Life's Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Is a piece of furniture really an accessory? Of course it is, and you'll understand why when you tune in to this week's episode of Life's Accessories. Rachel and Stephanie welcome It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway author Elizabeth Passarella. Elizabeth brings the story of that couch to life, and shares the journey that couch traveled throughout its life, and the meaning it holds for Elizabeth and her family.
Elizabeth is also the author of Good Apple: Tales of a Southern Evangelical in New York, which was named one of the best books of 2021 by Real Simple magazine. Her articles and essays have appeared in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Vogue, Parents, Martha Stewart Weddings, Real Simple, and Southern Living. Elizabeth is also a contributing editor for Southern Living.
Connect with Elizabeth Passarella on Instagram.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Sometimes a one-of-a-kind necklace becomes a two-of-a-kind necklace. Tune in to this week's episode as Rachel and Stephanie welcome Meghan Jarvis, a psychotherapist, podcaster, TEDx speaker, and writer. Meghan shares the story of a very special necklace her father gave to her mother. Find out what happens when her father had the necklace re-made at the end of his life because he thought the original necklace had been stolen. Meghan also talks about her mother's jewelry and questions whether it might be haunted.
Connect with Meghan Jarvis on Instagram.
Learn more about Meghan Jarvis and her work here.
Check out Meghan's podcast, Grief is My Side Hustle.
Connect with Life’s Accessories!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Author and screenwriter Jane Rosen has a knack for telling stories through accessories. In her book Nine Women One Dress, a little black dress connects her characters. In A Shoe Story, shoes act as a device to tell a story, chapter by chapter. It's no wonder that Jane chose shoes as her accessory for this episode of the pod. Rachel and Stephanie appreciate that Jane chose shoes as an accessory category, rather than picking just one pair. After all, choosing a favorite pair of shoes is like choosing your favorite child. It just wouldn't be fair to pick just one now, would it?
Connect with Jane Rosen.
Connect with Life's Accessories:
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie welcome jewelry designer Sarah Hendler, whose eponymous jewelry line was partially inspired by her grandmothers Ethel and Shirley! Tune in to learn about how grandma Ethel's love of chunky costume jewelry, and grandma Shirley's taste for fine jewelry helped to shape Sarah's jewelry collections. Sarah's chosen accessory is a mainstay of her collection, the 5 Point Pave Spear Tip Collar Necklace, a design which helped to put her on the map. In fact, Kristin Bell wore this necklace from her personal collection during each episode of the Netflix series (hang on, this one's a long title) The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window. Did we mention that Madonna wore Sarah Hendler's Single Gemstone Double Shirley Spear Earrings at the 2016 Billboard Women in Music Awards? And by the way, that was the same year when Sarah launched her business.
Sarah's collections are a nod to both grandmothers, as her point of view reflects an appreciation for gemstones, craftsmanship, and uniqueness in each piece. Rachel and Sarah so enjoyed their conversation with Sarah, who very clearly loves what she does and is darn good at it!
Connect with Sarah Hendler:
Website
Sarah Hendler Fine Jewelry Instagram
Sarah Hendler Estate Instagram
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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In this episode, Rachel and Stephanie welcome award-winning actor, producer and activist Alysia Reiner. Alysia is best known as SAG award winning "FIG" on 7 seasons of Orange Is the New Black. Did you know that Orange Is the New Black was the second series ever streamed on Netflix?! She also played the role of Agent Sadie Deever in Ms. Marvel and she just finished her 5th season as Sunny on Better Things as well as her second season as Kathryn in STARZ’s Shining Vale, and Kiki on The Deuce. Alysia describes herself as an aspiring Buddhist, so for her, tangible "things" mean less to her than the words she lives by each day. Yes, listeners, words can be accessories too! She also talks about her zero waste, ethically sourced womenswear label, Livari where she recycles fashion scraps (think Burberry bags!) to create new amazing pieces.
Learn more about Alysia Reiner and connect with her!
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome two sisters, Ellie and Carrie Monahan. Ellie shares the "Boy Toy" belt that was part of her Madonna Like A Virgin ensemble (think 1983 MTV Music Video Awards) that she wore for her 1980s-themed wedding rehearsal dinner. Carrie shares the Juicy Couture charm bracelet which, as she describes, represents the aesthetic of her middle school years. While Ellie and Carrie talk about how they fought with each other over clothes and accessories when they were younger, they also share how important family is to them, and how their podcast, "All Each Other Has" (something their mother said to them when they were younger and sometimes bickering) keeps them close. In addition to creating and co-hosting their podcast, Ellie is a television writer. She is a graduate of Yale University where she studied American Civilization. Carrie, a writer, editor, and producer, is a graduate of Stanford University and she received her Masters in Journalism from Columbia University. These two young women are brilliant, introspective so much fun!
Tune in to Ellie and Carrie's podcast, All Each Other Has.
Follow All Each Other Has on Instagram.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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In this episode, Rachel and Stephanie welcome author, essayist and lover of all things Nantucket Julie Gerstenblatt to the pod! Julie's debut novel, Daughters of Nantucket, released on March 14, 2023 and it is a not to miss book of historical fiction which examines the live of three fascinating women on the great island of Nantucket during the great fire of 1846. This book promises to be the great beach read of summer 2023! Rachel and Stephanie were thrilled to talk to Julie about (what else!) her Nantucket basket which really is something!! Julie holds a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Teachers College, Columbia University. Her essays have appeared in The Huffington Post and Cognoscenti, among others. When not writing, Julie is a college essay coach, as well as a producer and on-air host for A Mighty Blaze.
Learn more about Julie Gerstenblatt and connect with her!
Buy her book on Bookshop.org.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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In this episode of Life's Accessories, a real-life doctor joins Rachel and Stephanie. Psychologist Kira Bartlett tells the story of her cozy purple cardigan sweater and its symbolism related to her career journey. And because this is a podcast about meaningful accessories, they discuss healthy -- and unhealthy -- attachments. Dr. Kira Bartlett is a New York state licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of successful clinical experience with individuals in short- and long-term psychotherapy. Her private practice is in White Plains, New York and Manhattan, New York.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Sometimes the most meaningful accessories in our closets serve as reminders of loved ones we've lost. Rebecca Soffer has one such item in her closet and in this episode, she shares the story of her late mother's Italian leather boots with Rachel and Stephanie. Rebecca is the cofounder of Modern Loss, which offers creative, meaningful and encouraging content and community addressing the long arc of grief. She is also the author of two bestselling books about loss, one of which Gayle King named one of her two favorite books of 2022. Rebecca's writing has appeared in outlets such as The New York Times, TIME, Glamour and NBC. She is a Peabody Award-winning former producer for The Colbert Report. Rebecca is as introspective as she is funny and these boots tell those kinds of stories and more.
Connect with Rebecca Soffer:
Modern Loss
The Modern Loss Handbook: An Interactive Guide to Moving Through Grief and Building Your Resilience
Modern Loss: Candid Conversation About Grief. Beginners Welcome
Sign up for the Modern Loss newsletter on Substack
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie welcomed the extraordinarily hilarious Alec Sulkin, a comedy writer and producer best known for his work on the animated Family Guy television series and the movies Ted and Ted 2. Alec shares the coveted picture he has of him with Tom Brady, which was taken on the Ted 2 movie set, in which Tom Brady had a cameo. This wide-ranging episode covers Boston sports, comedy writing, writers who hate writing, karaoke, and everything in between!
Connect with Alec Sulkin on Instagram, and listen to his podcast, A Typical Disgusting Display!
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Do you know what a push present is? Do you want to know what a push present is? In this check in/jam session episode, Rachel and Stephanie talk about their push presents i.e. gifts their husband gave them to commemorate the births of their children. Rachel recalls trying to find new mom friends back in the days of mom dating in baby music class but she couldn't get past some of the push presents that the new moms wore. Stephanie tells a beautiful story of the bracelet charms, which were a push present of sorts in her family, and how her mom gave them to her before she died. You may laugh, you may cry and you may consider gifting meaningful accessories to those you love. Full disclosure: Rachel and Stephanie support push presents of all kinds. There are just some that are not for them and that is okay too.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Elizabeth Mayhew of The Dutchy of Millbrook, an artisanal bakery in New York’s Dutchess County, joins Rachel and Stephanie on today's episode. Elizabeth shares her charm bracelet which, as Elizabeth says, is a monument really to her life. Talk about a life's accessory! For many years, Elizabeth served as a contributing editor at NBC's Today Show and as a monthly columnist for The Washington Post’s Home & Garden section. Elizabeth is also the author of FLIP! for Decorating – a book filled with decorating – and redecorating tips. She has been a creative force for publications including REAL SIMPLE, House Beautiful, Southern Living, and Woman's Day. Elizabeth was also the founding Editor-in-Chief for Reese Witherspoon’s Southern-inspired brand, Draper James. A native of Louisville, Kentucky and a graduate of Georgetown University, she now divides her time between New York City and Millbrook, New York where she makes the most amazing charm cakes!
Follow Elizabeth Mayhew on Instagram
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome lifestyle and entertaining expert Maureen Petrosky, who shares with us a beautiful and timeless watch which was given to her by her mother. Maureen -- who is timeless herself -- is an Entertaining & Lifestyle Expert on NBC’s Today Show. She is the author of three, soon-to-be four best-selling books and a creative brand strategist. Maureen is loved and well-known for her quick and easy yet sophisticated recipes, hosting parties, decorating, food and wine pairings, and cocktails.
Connect with Maureen Petrosky
YouTube
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On today's episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie welcome guest Rachel Barenbaum. Rachel is not only an author, book reviewer and podcast host, she is a Harvard University graduate who is also a National Squash Team Champion! Rachel tells the story behind her championship ring, and the meaning behind it. Rachel shares what it was like to compete at the collegiate level, and how her love for sports carries with her today as she coaches her daughter's basketball team! Rachel began her career in finance, and is currently a novelist. Her most recent book Atomic Anna, was released in 2022. Her debut novel is A Bend in the Stars. Rachel also hosts "Check this Out", a podcast sponsored by the Howe Library which introduces readers to new and diverse authors.
Follow Rachel on Instagram
Rachel Barenbaum's website.
Rachel's Harper's Bazaar article "The Sports Bra Gave Us the Freedom to Compete"
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Who can forget that iconic blue velvet dress worn by the late Princess Diana when she danced with John Travolta at a White House event in 1985?! Rachel and Stephanie certainly cannot! On today's episode, Rachel and Stephanie travel across the pond, and welcome Claudia Joseph, London-based journalist, author, and genealogist, whose latest book, Diana: A Life in Dresses, chronicles Princess Diana's style evolution. Claudia shares with us a very special accessory -- an original sketch of that unforgettable dress, made especially for Claudia by Victor Edelstein, who designed many of Diana's dresses, including the "Travolta Dress". Rachel, Stephanie, and Claudia talk about the style evolution of Princess Diana and other members of the Royal Family (hint, Camilla, Kate and just a bit on Meghan.)
Learn more about Claudia here
Follow Claudia on Instagram
Check out Claudia's latest book, Diana: A Life in Dresses
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this special episode, Rachel and Stephanie celebrate the one-year anniversary of Stephanie's appearance on Rachel's baking show! They give you the behind-the-scenes story about how they met, and the events leading up to their launch of the Life's Accessories podcast. Hear how the passing of Queen Elizabeth II (may she rest in peace!) and Covid may have played a role in bringing this podcast to life!
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
On this check in/jam session episode, Rachel and Stephanie explore the wonderful, adorable and sometimes painful world of headbands. Both Rachel and Stephanie wore headbands for way too long because they thought they were super cute but really they just hurt their heads, A LOT! Why do we we wear these items that are so uncomfortable (4 inch heels anyone?) Why does it take us so long to figure out what works for us and doesn't work for us? And what is up with those built in combs that pull your hair back so tight that your eyes appear to be lifted? These are just some of the questions that Rachel and Stephanie address in this deep dive into the world of a long standing hair accessory. Stephanie is first generation headband wearer while Rachel's mom wore headbands for many years.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Join the Life's Accessories Facebook Group
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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American fashion designer, entrepreneur, retail pioneer, author, and family storyteller/podcast host Liz Lange joins Rachel and Stephanie for this episode of Life's Accessories. Liz shares the story behind her special rope and gold bracelet, and her love for all things gold (plus rope belts and kaftans!) when it comes to fashion. Hear what Liz has to say about her 2020 acquisition of Figue, a New York-based luxury resort-wear brand, and female-led company, where she is now the CEO and Creative Director.
We travel back in time to when Liz was at the helm of Liz Lange Maternity, a brand that reimagined and reshaped the way women thought about dressing while pregnant (not to mention keeping unnecessary ruffles and bows out of the maternity fashion mix)! We talk about her podcast, The Just Enough Family, and get Liz's take on how to accessorize any outfit! And yes we do go there as we discuss Portia's chaotic and on brand wardrobe choices in The White Lotus because how can you not?
Learn more about Figue here.
Follow Liz Lange on Instagram here.
Listen to The Just Enough Family podcast here.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email to lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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On this episode of Life's Accessories, Rachel and Stephanie have double the fun with sisters and and entrepreneurs Kimberly and Alexis Kissam, the owners of Isabel Harvey, an accessory boutique in Wellesley and Nantucket, MA (and online at www.isabelharvey.com).
Alexis shares a bracelet full of charms from special places she's traveled, and Kimberly shares sister bangle bracelets which were given to her by her mother. Alexis and Kimberly tell the story of how they took the leap and left their corporate jobs to open their chic and sparkly boutiques, named after their grandmother Isabel Harvey, which are full of jewelry, fashion, and home accessories.
Check out Isabel Harvey's website and online boutique.
Follow Isabel Harvey on Instagram
And on Facebook
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie take a deep dive into their first big girl bags. For Stephanie it was the Burberry hobo bag she bought after saving up for it while working in Washington D.C for a boss who encouraged her to reward herself for a job well done. Rachel purchased the oversized Kate Spade black nylon bag from Bloomingdales in New York City while working in magazine publishing. Rachel felt a bit like Mary Tyler Moore back in the late 1990s for having made it after all and having the iconic working girl bag to prove it. Rachel and Stephanie discuss the meaning behind these bags and wonder where those bags have in fact ended up all these years later.
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
Fashion and beauty executive turned writer Christine Morrison joins the pod to talk about and Ann Demeulemeeester dress, which she bought her last day in Chicago in a fancy boutique she was scared to shop in right before she moved to New York City and her life completely changed. This dress has been with Christine for nearly 25 years as she navigated a career in fashion and beauty, moved to multiple cities and eventually launched her career in writing and became a mom to twins. Christine so gets it - how clothes can have a powerful impact on your life and how you have to be willing to date the leap. Oh and the dress did get her an upgrade to first class on a plane so there's that!
Check out Christine's work at Writing in Black and White
Follow Christine on Instagram
Follow Life's Accessories, The Podcast
Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions or show ideas.
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In this episode Rachel and Stephanie welcome author, podcaster, bookfluencer, entrepreneur, CEO, publisher, bookstore owner, and mom Zibby Owens. Zibby shares the story behind her beloved grandmother Gagy's special clover necklace. Zibby inspired Rachel and Stephanie to wear their grandmothers' special necklaces too. Zibby, the founder of the "Mom's Don't Have Time To" brand, talks about how she has found time to launch podcasts, a publishing company, a magazine, a bookstore, all while building community and inspiring people to read and write books.
Learn more about all things Zibby at ZibbyOwens.com
Read the beautiful piece that Zibby wrote about Gagy for TheTodayShow.com
Follow Zibby on Instagram
Let's connect!
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie discuss the forbidden fashion fruits of their childhood. For Stephanie it was those very trendy neon socks which her mother did not feel were appropriate. We still don't really understand why. For Rachel, it was Guess Jeans, the iconic 1980s designer denim, which everyone else proudly wore back in the day. Rachel and Stephanie question why they were not allowed to have said items and the life lessons they learned from not having what their peers did. The co-hosts also discuss what it means to be a good parent in saying no to some trends and yes to others and why it really is okay not to be like everyone else. Lastly, Rachel and Stephanie reveal what trends they have said no to in their adult lives. Spoiler alert - cold shoulders, animal prints and sometimes camo.
Let's connect!
- TikTok
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
If you like what you are hearing, please tell a friend. And please rate and/or leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
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Entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, and brand strategist Christina Geist joins the pod and shares her stacks of bracelets, designed by her childhood friend Brett Lauren of her eponymous jewelry line. Christina talks about her evolution as the founder and CEO of Boombox Gifts, children's book author, and her work as the co-founder of branding and design workshop True Geist. A creative force, Christina shares how important relationships are to her, and how her husband, NBC host Willie Geist, family, and friends, all lean into Christina's endless ideas.
Learn more about Christina Geist and follow Christina on Instagram.
Learn more about Brett Lauren jewelry.
Follow Life's Accessories, The Podcast
TikTok
Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions or show ideas.
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Columnist, writing teacher and podcast host Nina Badzin comes on the podcast to talk to Rachel and Stephanie about her tennis racket! A tennis racket is an accessory? Yes it is, and it has allowed Nina to connect with her late father, to reflect on high school regrets (who hasn't regretted something from high school!!) and helped her make new friends in adulthood. Nina says tennis people are the best people. Nina is kind of one of the best people. She shares meaningful insights and advice in this episode with a side of a lot of laughs. Also, remember those BFF necklaces?
Learn more about Nina on her website
Follow her on Instagram
And on Facebook
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Website
Email us at lifesaccessories@gmail.com with questions, comments or show ideas.
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International bestselling author Joanna Rakoff joins the pod to tell Rachel and Stephanie about a life changing, powerful dress that she has worn so much it is disintegrating! Joanna got out the BEAUTIFUL dress by Finnish designer Ivana Helsinki and wore it for this very special episode. Joanna explains how the dress gave her the courage to get a divorce and start a new life, to attend a big meeting with movie stars to promote her book turned into film, My Salinger Year starring Sigourney Weaver and Margaret Qualley and so much more. Joanna explains how wearing dresses during the pandemic saved her, and she even tells Rachel and Stephanie what their colors are! Joanna gives a preview of her forthcoming memoir, The Fifth Passenger which tells the story of an unimaginable family secret that continues to unfold.
Learn more about Joanna on her website
Follow Joanna on Instagram (and check out what she is wearing and working on!)
Follow Life's Accessories on:
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Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie chat with restaurant owner, cookbook author and entrepreneur, Nadia Liu Spellman in this inspiring episode! Nadia talks about an Hermes scarf that she saved up for and bought for herself when she graduated from college. She was fascinated by all things H - anyone else?! She also talks about growing up in the restaurant business and eventually leaving her "real job" in finance to start a restaurant business of her own. Nadia's story is fascinating and parts of it will give you the chills - that's what it did for Rachel and Stephanie. Stephanie talks about her experience making recipes from Nadia's new cookbook/memoir Dumpling Daughter while Rachel promises to get cooking soon.
Learn more and connect with Nadia at:
https://dumplingdaughter.com/
https://www.instagram.com/dumplingdaughter/
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In a somewhat controversial conversation, Rachel and Stephanie dig deep into the rebranding of the 20th century fanny pack now called the belt bag in this new millennium. Stephanie recognizes the bag's versatility but has trouble accepting it as a fashion trend. Rachel has in fact given into the trend - some may say she's embraced it- and has even worn her Lululemon belt bag on her waist and as an awkward cross body bag. There is a lot to unpack here.
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- Email us at lifesaccessoriespodcast@gmail.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
Author, writer and actress Jill Kargman joins the pod to talk to Rachel and Stephanie about a custom bag made for her by Chanel accessories designer and dear friend, Frances Stein. Frances gave the bag to Jill as a wedding present and Jill has cherished the bag ever since. Jill talks about her evolving style, her inspiration for the book that evolved into the Bravo hit scripted series, Odd Mom Out. Jill, Rachel and Stephanie reflect on feeling like the odd moms out at various points in their lives and also about how important real, meaningful friendships are to them. Oh and Dzanielle makes an appearance with some BIG news.
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Read about beloved designer Frances Stein in the NYT
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Rachel and Stephanie welcome Ariel Okin, the founder of Ariel Okin Interiors, a New York based interior design firm specializing in luxury projects, to the podcast. Ariel's style can be interpreted as traditional with a twist. Her firm has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, The Wall Street Journal among others. Ariel's work for Lena Dunham's West Village home graced the cover of Domino. She also designed the NYC Headquarters for Gwyneth Paltrow's GOOP!
Ariel joins Life's Accessories, The Podcast to talk about mixing the old with the new as she did with her beloved Bubbe Annie's brooch that she wore pinned to her wedding veil. Ariel talks about her connection to the very special line of strong women in her family through the brooch, and other meaningful items. Rachel and Stephanie decide to join forces with Ariel to bring brooches back in style (all the royals seem to be wearing them these days!) The trio wonders if you say brooch or brooch? Ariel reveals what is trending these days in the interior design world and even shares her thoughts on the controversial belt bag.
Follow Ariel Okin on Instagram.
Check out Ariel's latest design work on her website.
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- Email us at rachel@rachellevylesser.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
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Rachel and Stephanie welcome their friend, their matchmaker and award winning author, Amy Blumenfeld to the podcast! Amy talks about the green henley shirt from the Gap (yes that Gap!) that she wore on the day that her daughter was born via surrogacy in 2006. Amy explains how she wears this shirt every year on her daughter's birthday and how that reminds her of all that she went through to have her daughter. Rachel and Stephanie dig into Amy's amazing story of overcoming childhood cancer with experimental treatment back in the late 1980s and how this experience inspired Amy to writer her 2018 novel, The Cast, which has been described as The Big Chill for the 21st century, a story of the healing power of friendship, and a heartfelt, moving page-turner.
Learn more about Amy at https://amyblumenfeld.com/
Let's connect!
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- Email us at rachel@rachellevylesser.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
If you like what you are hearing, please tell a friend. And please rate and/or leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
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In this very first episode of The Life's Accessories podcast, meet hosts, friends, writers, self proclaimed accessories (but not fashion!) experts Rachel Levy Lesser and Stephanie Goldstein. Stephanie talks about the Hermes scarf that her father bought for her late mother way back in the 1980s on his first trip to Paris when he knew nothing about the iconic brand. She is still proud of her dad for making that purchase. Rachel explains how the Burberry Happy Scarf which her late mother bought her on their very last day shopping together still makes her happy when she thought it would make her sad.
Let's connect!
- TikTok
- Life's Accessories Podcast Website
- Email us at rachel@rachellevylesser.com with comments, questions, guest/episode ideas or tell us about a meaningful item from your closet!
If you like what you are hearing, please tell a friend. And please rate and/or leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.