The Bright Side: A Hello Sunshine Podcast

Julissa Bermudez is a TV host, beauty and lifestyle influencer, and founder of república skin. She joins the show to Pop Off about A'ja Wilson's historic basketball achievement before diving into entertainment news, including newly announced "Devil Wears Prada" and “Shrek” movies. The conversation heats up with Kim Kardashian's new legal series and Ellen DeGeneres' rumored retirement from Hollywood. Plus, wedding dress controversy and Photoshop fails. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexene Farol Follmuth shares her journey from writing fan fiction under a pseudonym (Olivie Blake) to publishing young adult novels like “Twelfth Knight,” the summer YA pick for Reese’s Book Club. She delves into her passion for adapting Shakespeare and infusing personal experiences — such as dealing with bipolar disorder and societal expectations of women — into her works. Alexene's insights offer a refreshing perspective on creativity, identity, and empowerment in literature. You can find “Twelfth Knight” on Apple Books or wherever you get your books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Shereene Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of her own skincare line, dives into the world of cosmetics with her passionate community of skincare enthusiasts. She debunks popular myths and emphasizes a 'less is more' approach to skincare. The discussion highlights the importance of active ingredients, personalized routines, and the role of dermatological treatments in achieving healthy skin. Dr. Idriss also shares her insights on addressing common issues like hyperpigmentation while promoting realistic expectations for skincare regimens.

American breaker (not “breakdancing!”) Sunny Choi joins Danielle and Simone in the studio to talk about her preparation ahead of the Paris Games. In just a few weeks, she will represent the United States in the first-ever Olympics to feature breaking. Sunny opens up about finding the courage to turn her entire life upside in her early thirties and pursue a second shot at the Olympics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glynnis MacNicol, author of "I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself," joins the show to discuss how single women can (and do) embrace joy and self-discovery — and how to redefine success and pleasure in middle age. Plus, Simone and Danielle get into societal pressures, gender biases in success timelines, and examples of late bloomers who defied societal expectations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we revisit some of the amazing food and wine experts who have graced our show. It starts with Joanne Lee Molinaro, the Korean Vegan, who shares her journey blending Korean culture with veganism, emphasizing compassion and empathy in her recipes. Next, Allison Morris, a level-three sommelier, imparts some wine wisdom — like why you shouldn't trust the second-cheapest bottle on a menu. Then, “Top Chef” winner and host Kristen Kish joins, sharing her essential culinary tips (including a love for gummy candy!) and a hilarious “Top Chef” behind-the-scenes moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this special 4th of July episode, we celebrate American women who shaped history. Mattie Kahn, author of "Young and Restless: The Girls Who Sparked America's Revolutions," shares stories that are often overlooked in history books. She highlights how Mabel Ping-Hua Lee, Claudette Colvin, the teens who helped in the Revolutionary War, and more defied expectations and fought for change. Mattie also discusses Mary Beth Tinker's landmark Supreme Court case and its enduring impact on student rights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Kern Lima founded IT Cosmetics, and followed the little voice inside to go from self-doubt to building a billion-dollar beauty brand. From childhood dreams sparked by Oprah to battling no after no, Jamie shares how she turned rejection into resilience, trusting her intuition against all odds. She shares practical tips on building self-worth and navigating life's challenges with courage and authenticity. Plus, the Reese’s Book Club pick for July is “The Cliffs” by J. Courtney Sullivan. She’ll be on the show later this month, so send your questions to hello@thebrightsidepodcast.com and she may answer them on the show!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have the power to contact our besties with the tap of a finger, yet we live in a loneliness epidemic. Journalist and author Anna Goldfarb wants to know: why? And what can we do about it? In today’s installment of our friendship advice segment “Asking for a Friend,” Anna delves into the research behind her book “Modern Friendship.” Anna’s findings reveal the importance of infusing your friendships with a shared sense of purpose, the optimal number of friends, and just how many hours it takes to form what she calls a “wholehearted friendship.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin are the dynamic duo behind “The Home Edit.” From their serendipitous start over a blind lunch date to becoming a runaway success, Clea and Joanna share their journey from launching their company to landing a Netflix show, and hosting “Extreme Home Makeover.” They discuss their unique approach to organizing — including their famous rainbow method — and reveal the secrets behind their successful friendship and business partnership.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.