Forever35: Mini-Ep 449 – These Are a Few of Our Favorite Microjoys
Release Date: June 25, 2025
In this engaging mini-episode of Forever35, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into the delightful world of microjoys—small moments and pleasures that brighten our everyday lives. Structured around listener interactions and personal anecdotes, the episode offers insightful discussions on finding joy amidst life's challenges, all peppered with the hosts' signature humor and warmth.
1. Introduction to the Mini-Episode
At [03:43], Doree and Elise introduce this special mini-episode format, emphasizing the show's interactive nature. They highlight that the content is driven entirely by listener contributions, including calls, texts, and voicemails. This format allows the hosts to explore unpredictable and varied topics based on their audience's interests.
Doree Shafrir: "We ended up spending like a lot of time over the last couple of weeks on hair oil, for example, for thick curly hair which we could have never predicted. It just depends on what you're into and what happens to, you know, be on y'all's minds."
2. Sharing and Exploring Microjoys
a. Hosts' Personal Microjoys
Both hosts share their personal sources of joy, revealing how simple pleasures help them navigate tougher times.
Doree Shafrir: "My micro joy of late has been my buttery flour tortillas and then the memories of Texas that it conjures."
Elise adds her own twist, connecting her joy to Texas-inspired delights and moments that remind her of home.
b. Listener Contributions: Reality TV and More
A listener reaches out at [07:25], sharing their microjoys amidst a "dumpster fire" of world events:
Listener's Message: "My escape is Love Island or any other Bravo TV like Summer House, Valley. I'm also finding joy in my iced coffee."
Elise elaborates on the appeal of reality TV, discussing the show's cultural impact and personal connections.
3. Deep Dive into Reality TV as a Microjoy
The conversation takes a playful turn as Doree seeks to understand the mechanics of Love Island, reflecting on her daughter's enthusiasm for the show.
Doree Shafrir: "Ava's super into it right now. I guess it's airing. I learned so much about culture from her."
Elise breaks down the show's premise, comparing it to other reality TV staples like The Bachelor and Survivor, highlighting its competitive and social dynamics.
Elise Hu: "It's just like a bunch of hot people going to an island, and it's sort of like The Bachelor meets Survivor meets Big Brother."
The hosts share anecdotes, including Doree's experience at an open mic night where a performer from the show appeared, underscoring the pervasive influence of reality TV personalities.
4. Hair Oil Recommendations for Thick Curly Hair
Addressing a prevalent listener request, the hosts discuss their favorite hair oils tailored for thick, curly hair.
Doree Shafrir: "This oil has been an absolute game changer. I used to do keratin and I really don't need to do it anymore with this oil."
She recommends the Pura D'Or Moroccan Argan Oil, praising its effectiveness in reducing frizz and promoting healthier hair. Both hosts emphasize the importance of cataloging these recommendations for easy access by their audience.
5. Sun Protective Clothing: Listener Questions and Host Insights
A listener inquires about fashionable UV-protective clothing, prompting a thoughtful discussion on the balance between functionality and style.
Elise Hu: "There's no like fashionable UV clothing. Cooley Bar has probably the best selection, but it's all pretty frumpy."
The hosts express a desire for more stylish options in the market, lamenting the lack of fashionable yet protective attire. They encourage material scientists or listeners with insights to share their knowledge, highlighting a gap in the current offerings.
6. Dish Towel Recommendations: Geometry House Spotlight
Transitioning to another listener favorite, Doree and Elise share their top picks for dish towels, introducing their audience to Geometry House.
Elise Hu: "Geometry House... you can use the code Forever15 on Geometry's website to get 15% off."
They praise the brand for its cute patterns and quality, noting the hosts' satisfaction with the product and its perfect alignment with listener recommendations. This segment reinforces the podcast's commitment to sharing practical and beloved household items.
7. Wirecutter’s Trader Joe’s Favorite Products: A Critical Review
In the latter part of the episode, the hosts critique Wirecutter’s guide to favorite Trader Joe’s products, offering their perspectives on the selections.
Doree Shafrir: "It was really exciting that there was a feature on this because I have wondered, like, are the things that I love at Trader Joe's the things that are, like, empirically the most popular products or empirically what everybody loves?"
They discuss specific items such as the Chicken Tikka Masala Frozen Meal, Gimbap, and Trader Joe's version of Takis, sharing their personal favorites and questioning some of Wirecutter’s choices.
Elise Hu: "I was surprised that they didn't like the raspberry preserves. That jar is excellent."
The conversation highlights their appreciation for Trader Joe’s offerings while also pointing out what they believe to be oversights or disagreements with the guide, encouraging listeners to share their own experiences and opinions.
8. Concluding Thoughts and Community Engagement
As the episode wraps up, Doree and Elise invite listeners to share more of their microjoys and product recommendations, fostering a sense of community and ongoing conversation. They reiterate the importance of small joys in enhancing well-being, especially during challenging times.
Doree Shafrir: "Let us know what you thought. Any major hits and misses from that list, folks."
They close with warm thanks, reinforcing their connection with the audience and anticipation for future episodes filled with shared joys and discoveries.
Stay Connected:
- Voicemail: 781-591-0390
- Email: forever35podcast@mail.com
- Website: forever35podcast.com
- Instagram: @forever35podcast
- Newsletter: february35podcast.com/newsletter
- Shop: Shopmy.us/Forever35
Discount Codes Mentioned:
- Gab: Visit gab.com/forever35 with code forever35 for exclusive offers.
- Wild Grain: Use code f35 at wildgrain.com/f35 for $30 off and free croissants.
- Geometry House: Apply code forever15 at geometryhouse.com for 15% off.
- One Skin: Get 15% off at OneSkin.co with code F35.
Tune in next time for more insights, laughs, and the little joys that make life beautifully manageable.