Hi friends! Holy heck it’s freaking hot out there! We’re looking forward to a long weekend of hanging in the shade, and eating one too many hot dogs and helpings of potato salad. HBU?

Song of the day: BRB taking Miley’s word that everything’s going to be okay if we just nod our heads and move our hips like yeah. Right?!

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it.

3 Things Worth Celebrating This 4th of July

Let's be honest: celebrating America can feel a little complicated these days. Between the nonstop news cycle, insane politics, and headlines that make you want to take a rocket to the moon, it's easy not to feel jazzed about the upcoming holiday.

While it may feel like everything’s on fire, the truth is, there are still so many good things happening across our country every single day that we can be proud of. So dust off that Old Navy flag tee from 2004, and let's celebrate a few stories that might actually restore your faith in humanity.

Remember, while we may still be out here fighting the good fight, there’s still so many good things out there that makes the world a little kinder, brighter, and hopeful. 🫶

…after you build a soundproof room for your fireworks-phobic fur baby. 

We’ll say it once, and we’ll say it again. It’s HOT out there! Blair Horton’s got us covered with cute and refreshing mocktail/cocktail garnish hacks.

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Looking for your daily dose of cuteness? We got you. If only we were this cute riding a bike…

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Mandy Moore says what we’re all feeling (re:below) in Evan Ross Katz’s’ Podcast Shut Up Evan on Netflix.

You guys are the best for hanging out with us today! We’ll see you in two weeks. Don’t forget to wear your sunscreen and hydrate!

—Rod and Gabi

Hiiiii! We can’t believe we’ve finally made it to summer, after quite possibly the longest winter of all time?? Let’s not forget the sunscreen, though, okay, you guys?! 

Song of the day: “What time is it?” Summertime! 

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it.

Your Adult Summer Camp Itinerary

These days, summers tend to look a lot different from the old days of riding your bike until the streetlights came on or dropping everything to chase down the ice cream truck (may or may not still do this tbh).

Adult summers are filled with work meetings, overflowing calendars, and filling out Doodle polls to coordinate a hangout months from now with friends. But just because we don't have time to pack our bags and head to summer camp, doesn’t mean we still can’t have some fun along the way.

Let’s chat about some things we can all do to lean into these next few months of sunshine, even with packed schedules. 

Maybe adult summer doesn’t grant us the endless amount of free time anymore, but we can still have some fun if we make space for it. Consider this your permission slip to go try something new and let loose a little!

…after you eat an ice cream sandwich (from that truck you chased down) for lunch.

It’s officially grilling season, and WholesomeHilary’s Peach bruschetta burrata chicken is first on our summer dinner menu!

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Thanks, Declan Collins, for the Was I Weird Last Night? flow chart, to help us determine if our anxiety after last weekend’s party is valid or not.

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We love this article from In Her Thirties by women who don’t feel behind in life, written for the women who do. 

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Thanks so much for reading! We’ll see you guys back here in two weeks. H.A.G.S!

—Rod and Gabi

Hey friends. We’re back, and we sure did miss you! During our little hiatus, Gabi went to China, Rod celebrated another trip around the sun annnnnd went to France, and we both had a nice little break from the chaos life brings our way. But we’re so excited to getting back to hanging out with you all! 

Song of the day: The next time you’re spiraling, just remember that Frou Frou once sang, “It’s alright, ‘cause there’s beauty in the breakdown.” 🙃

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it.

 How to Cope With the Loss of a Pet

Archie and his late best friend, Phoebe.

“It’s just a dog.” A phrase that the two of us don’t believe should even exist. As two dog owners and lovers, we know a pet is never just a pet. They’re our comfort, family, and our favorite part of coming home after a long day. 

A few weeks ago, my (hi, it’s Gabi) friend Caitlin unexpectedly lost her sweet young dog, Phoebe. She was a big part of my life, too, and my dog Archie’s best friend. We saw Caitlin and Phoebe almost every single day, shared the same dog walker, and built so much of our routines and lives around our pups together.

When we or someone we love loses a pet, the grief can feel surprisingly heavy, confusing, and all-consuming. So let’s talk about some things that you or your loved ones can do to help with the loss.

Remember, grief isn’t linear. Whether it’s the longing for snuggles, the quiet nights, or the unexpected moments of comfort when sweet memories sneak in, allow yourself to feel it. We break our own hearts owning pets and knowing they won’t be here forever, but it’s a kind of love that makes every moment worth it.

…while you send them a 14-minute long voicenote about your weekend.

A high-protein, three-ingredient pasta?! Say less, Olivia Noceda!

Words by Jordan Kae just hit different… woahh.

In another life, we’re grandmothers in Spain crocheting for the sake of the community.

Thanks so much for hanging with us! It feels so good to be back! Catch ya next time. LYLAS!

—Rod and Gabi

Hey friends! Well, we’re finally taking our own advice and will be taking a little break from our regularly scheduled programming in the coming weeks. Don’t get us wrong, we loooooove doing this but to be totally transparent, we’ve been feeling a bit burnt out balancing work and life, and need to take a beat so we can come back better than ever! (so we don’t forget to press send on this newsletter like we did yesterday)

So with that being said, we’re taking a few weeks off of WorkDaze, while Gabi travels to China for her full-time gig, and we’ll be taking a pre-summer pause on Are You Mad At Me? until June-ish Sounds like the perfect time to catch up on old episodes of the pod if you ask us!

Song of the day: And sticking to today’s burnout theme… may we present to you “Burn” by Usher. 

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it.

How to Know It's Time For a Break

We’ve always been pretty good at side-eying hustle culture. That whole “push through no matter what” vibe absolutely gives us the ick. Yet somehow, we still fall into the trap of glorifying sticking it out. “Stay consistent!” “Keep pushing!” “Never quit!” Barf.

And that works… until it absolutely doesn’t. There’s a fine line between being dedicated and slowly turning something you love into something you loathe. 

The bigger the thing, whether a project, a relationship, a hobby, the harder it can be to decide to keep on truckin’ or tiptoe back. So instead, we double down, power through (against our better judgment), and wonder why everything doesn’t feel as fun as it once used to be. 

If you’ve been feeling that shift, here are three very real signs it might be time to take a a little breather.

Remember, taking a little time out isn’t quitting, it’s how you avoid resenting something you once cared a lot about. So if things feel heavy or forced, we’re giving you permission to step back for a minute. The work will still be there, and you’ll be better for it when you return.

…after you take a mental health day to get a massage.

A lil crunchy cake?! Say less. Kayla Hoang’s viral Chocolate Crunch Cake made the New York Times and for good reason!

Is there anything better than a “doorbell friend”? Pop Sugar explains why these kind of friendships are crucial in today’s world. 

Back Market’s Earth Day campaign is equal parts genius as it is devastating, showing the affects of global warming throughout the years. 

Thanks so much for reading! We’ll see you back here in a few weeks. In the meantime, be kind to yourself and others. We love you!

—Rod and Gabi

Hey friends! Today’s word of the day? Gumption. Meaning: having initiative, courage, and resourcefulness. It takes a special kind of millennial gumption to open five tabs, forget why you opened them, and still feel like you’ve had a productive afternoon.

Song of the day: We can’t get over Bieber’s Coachella performance, so here’s a playlist with his set list if you missed it!

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it. Oh, and while you’re at it, listen to Are You Mad At Me? here.

3 Things to Say Instead of “Sorry”
(because you probably don’t need to) 

I (Gabi) was in the yoga locker room when I bumped into a woman by accident. Without hesitation, I immediately apologized with “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry.” To which she quickly replied, “Save your sorries for when you need them.” 

That interaction was over ten years ago, and yet, I think about it almost every day. 

And if you’re anything like us, chances are “sorry” has become part of your daily vocabulary. Late to a meeting? Sorry, my other meeting ran long. Asking something? Sorry, I have a quick question. Have an idea? Sorry, but can I say something?

Constant apologizing can undermine your confidence and how others perceive you, plus it loses its meaning when you actually mean it.

The good news: you can always change your ways (without apologizing of course!) Try these three easy upgrades to start.

Okay, so your homework for this week? Take note of how often you say “sorry” this week, and then try to swap just one instance per day. Small language changes add up fast, and over time, they reshape how you show up. And then, suddenly, one day you won’t be asking “Is it too late now to say sorry?"since you never had to apologize in the first place.

…after you refrain from saying your sorry for not responding to their texts right away.

FoodieFromVT’s Tuscan White Bean Kale Salad is on our lunchbox rotation for the week.

What does a random exchange with a taxi driver have to do with an executive getting hired at DuoLingo? Everything.

When you’re dramatic and say that going into the office makes you sick… you may be on to something! Sick building syndrome is a term used to describe a range of symptoms associated with being inside a specific building for long stretches of time. Yet another reason to WFH!

Thanks for reading this week! We’ll chat in a few. Love you, mean it. :) 

—Rod and Gabi

Hi friends! No one’s allowed to pull any April Fool’s jokes today, we’ve had enough this year and it’s only Q2!!

Song of the day: One throwback song that immediately puts us in a good mood? Frank Ocean’s “Lost.” (more on him below!!)

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you! And while you’re at it…listen to Are You Mad At Me? wherever you listen to podcasts!

How to Be There for Someone On Their Own Timeline

The good news is that there are ways to show up for them that are meaningful and supportive, while still taking care of your own well-being.

Let’s chat about a few below:

• Be supportive, but not their therapist: You can show up, listen without judgment, and validate their feelings, but you can’t take on the role of “fixing” them. Gently encourage professional help and normalize things like therapy and support groups. But remember, they need to want the help themselves; no amount of you forcing them is going to help.

• Set boundaries without guilt: You can care deeply and still protect your own well-being. It’s okay to say “I can’t be available 24/7” or step back when things feel overwhelming. Don’t forget to put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others! 

• Focus on consistency over intensity: You don’t need to perform any grand gestures to show your support. Simple check-ins (a text, asking to go for a walk, or even sending a silly meme) can mean a lot. Show that you’re reliably there, without supporting or enabling harmful behavior.

Remember, supporting a friend is about showing up with care while still taking care of your own needs. If at any point you’re worried about their safety, don’t hesitate to reach out for additional help. Resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can offer guidance, so you don’t have to handle it alone. 🫶

How to Help Your Boomer Coworker Level Up In the Workplace

Try a response like:

“Thanks for the question! Slack is usually faster for this kind of thing, so feel free to ping me there anytime.” 

And if they aren’t sure how to use it, you can even offer to show them quickly. It’s polite, clear, and encourages the habit without being condescending or rude.

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here!

…while you switch your closets back and forth from winter to spring???

Need a last-minute dessert to bring to Easter? These Pretzel Easter Chicks by SashaCakesChicago are the perfect easy treat!  

As if we didn’t love Frank Ocean already. Check out the letter he wrote to himself on Tumblr (wow, TBT!) after his career took off. 

“Stephen!!!” Find us counting down the days until April 10th, when we get to watch Laguna Beach: The Reunion. 

Thanks so much for rocking with us today! We’ll see you guys back here in a bit! :) 

—Rod and Gabi

Hey guys! May the luck of this St. Patrick’s Day week bring upon many cancelled meetings and zero “following up on this” emails! 

Song of the day: I know we’re WAY late to the game, but we’ve had Lily Allen’s “divorce album” West End Girl on repeat where she spills alllll the tea.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it. Oh, and while you’re at it, listen to Are You Mad At Me? here.

3 Signs That You’re a People Pleaser

Do you find yourself saying “yes, no problem” when you really want to say “no thanks”? Or catch yourself overthinking every little thing just to keep the peace? Coming from the two people who named a podcast Are You Made At Me?...same. 

So below, we’re chatting about a few small ways to shift those people-pleasing tendencies so you can start taking care of yourself while still being considerate of others

• Even though you’re absolutely worried, you’re always the “no worries!” friend. If someone cancels at the last minute, changes plans, or drops something on your plate and you instantly say “all good!” while quietly crashing out rearranging your own schedule to accommodate others, this is for you.

  Fix: Practice saying “Let me check and get back to you” or “I might not be able to make that work tonight.” Setting boundaries and giving yourself a minute to think helps you respond honestly instead of defaulting to your people-pleasing ways.

• You crowdsource every decision. Instead of just taking the reins and suggesting that new spot you’ve been dying to try, you ask every single person what they want first because you can’t bear the thought of anyone being ~mad at you~ (spoiler alert: they won’t be)!

  Fix: Try suggesting instead of surveying. Confidently throw out a plan like: “Let’s try that new taco place at 7.” Most people are relieved someone else made the decision, and if it doesn’t work for someone, it’s up to them to speak up.

• You soften every opinion. You start conversations with personal disclaimers like “This might be a dumb idea…” or “I could totally be wrong, but…” just to make sure no one feels challenged or thinks less of you.

  Fix: Try stating your opinions confidently, without the self-deprecating lead-ins. “I think we could try this…” or “My idea is…” are honest and respectful phrases without having to apologize for your genius idea.

Remember, setting small boundaries and speaking up helps you show up more fully for yourself and others. Start with one simple change at a time, and watch how much lighter and more confident your interactions can feel without bending over backwards.

…while you refrain from asking your friend for the 10th time if they’re mad at you.

MersGoodEats’ Homemade Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts just transported us back to mornings in our high school cafeteria. 

We’re LOL at Abby Walker summing up the guilt of taking a sick day. 

Avocado toast?! IN THIS ECONOMY?! Good thing CreativeExplained shows us how to grow our own avocado trees with this simple hack.

Thanks so much for reading WorkDaze this week! We wouldn’t be here without all of you, and we love ya for it. TTYL!

—Rod and Gabi

Hi friends. Does anyone else feel like they blinked and it was suddenly March?! Now if only this Midwest weather would make up its mind already! Snow one day, patio weather the next… sheesh!

Song of the day: We’ll be listening to Bruno Mars’ new album “The Romantic” for the foreseeable future.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it. Oh, and while you’re at it, listen to Are You Mad At Me? here.

Our favorite internet finds this week

We love you, Punch!

With everything happening in the world, it feels like we say “take care of yourself” every week, but we really mean it! While it’s important to stay informed, the daily chaos and uncertainty can be incredibly overwhelming, so we’re going to keep reminding you to pause and recharge until we’re blue in the face!! 

Your well-being matters just as much as being plugged in, so to help bring a little joy to the week, we’ve rounded up a few feel-good internet moments for you below. 

Punch The Monkey

If you’re anything like us, you’ve been completely dialed in to Punch the Monkey at Ichikawa City Zoo. After a rocky start (abandoned by his mom and bullied by others), Punch’s luck is finally turning a corner, and he’s been spotted grooming and hugging a fellow monkey. If only he knew that the entire world is rooting for him!

Hilary Duff’s Son Luca Interviews Her

Hilary Duff just dropped her new album Luck Or Something, and her son Luca immediately steals the show in their Billboard interview, and humbles her in under 10 seconds.

Jeff Daniels’ Favorite Sandwich

Pita, peanut butter, potato chips…and BBQ sauce?? You already KNOW we’re always down for a good sando, but Jeff Daniels’ favorite combo has us seriously rethinking all of our life choices (or maybe just his).

Connor Storie And The US Women’s Hockey Players On SNL 

Our favorite hockey players, Connor Storie and the WOMEN’S US hockey team, stole the show on SNL this weekend…oh, and the men’s team was invited too. 🙃

Shelter Dogs Choosing Their Owners

After a fake AI video of dogs choosing their owners went viral, shelters across the country have been recreating the moment with their own pups. The events have led to multiple adoptions where these sweeties have found their FURever homes. We’re not crying, you’re crying… okay, we’re def crying. 

Viola Davis’ NAACP Acceptance Speech

“There is no man behind the curtain that has control over your life.” Viola Davis’ speech while accepting the NAACP’s Chairman’s Award was so inspiring and moving.

…while you Google “How’s Punch the Monkey doing today?”

Deli sandwich meets dip! 🤝 Olivia Noceda’s Grinder Sandwich Dipping Oil gives us the best of both worlds.

Happy_Arranging does it again! Check out this month’s gorgeous Trader Joe’s flower combos and try them for yourself.

Nicole Sura’s conversation with her younger self is purely brilliant. May we all take a page from her book.

Thanks so much for rocking with us today! We’ll see you back here, same time, same place in two weeks. 🙂 

—Rod and Gabi

Hey guys! Whether you celebrated with your sweetie, hung out with your best pals, or curled up on the couch with your pup, we hope everyone had a cute little Valentine’s weekend filled with lots of love and laughs.

Song of the day: Congratulations to all who were able to score Noah Kahan tickets; we’ll just be listening to “The Great Divide” on repeat until we’re (maybe) able to score some ourselves. 

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

Listen to our podcast, Are You Mad At Me? wherever you listen to podcasts!

How to Avoid a Mid-Thirties Crash Out

Some things we do when we’re reminded that we’re a good 10ish years older than the Friends cast is supposed to be?

• Soak in the nostalgia. Crank a throwback playlist, watch an old favorite show, or grab a childhood snack (Gushers, anyone?). Even a little blast from the past can remind you that fun isn’t just for TikTok trends these days.

• Celebrate your wins throughout the years. Make a little list of what you can do that the kids these days can’t. Whether it’s adulting skills (yes, we finally know the difference between a Roth IRA and 401) or career achievements (long gone are your “taking coffee order” days), a splash of confidence is the instant fountain of youth.

• Get moving! Dance with your besties in the kitchen, try that new pilates studio down the street, or take a walk with a podcast (may we suggest one 😉?). Being physically capable and feeling strong can help remind your brain that you’ve still got it!

How to not feel like you’re not failing at your job search

Let’s talk about a few things below to help improve your search, without piling on the stress of it all.

Switch up your search strategy. While clicking the “Easy Apply” Button on LinkedIn may feel productive, a lot of those résumés end up getting lost in the HR abyss. Instead, aim for one networking event a month (and yes, actually go). Follow up with past hiring managers you’ve interviewed with, and don’t be afraid to ask what would’ve made you a stronger candidate.

Practice makes prepared. Record yourself answering common interview questions, and practice until you feel confident with your answers. If you’re open to it, consider asking a friend to conduct a mock interview for you and provide feedback. (We know, we know… but advice about wrong answers now, just may lead us to the right gig later.)

Do something non-work-related as a reminder that you’re more than your career. Join a rec sports league. Take a pottery class. Host a dinner. When your whole identity becomes “jobless,” every rejection feels quite literally like the worst thing ever. Build proof outside of work that you’re competent, interesting, and way more than a silly little 9-5 could ever be. 

We know it can feel like you’re never going to get out of this job search slump, but you will! Try your best to be patient and kind to yourself in the meantime.  

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here!

…while you take a PTO day to hang out with your dog.

Our mouths are watering after seeing Sam Milton’s high-protein take on the Viral Grillo’s Pickle Dip. Brb running to the store to get a giant jar of pickles. 

Olympians… they’re just like us! Check out what some of the best athletes in the world do for a living when they’re not going for the gold.

If birth months were personality traits… why is this so spot on though?!

Thanks so much for reading WorkDaze today! We hope you have the best rest of the week, with minimal “following up on this” emails in your inbox!

—Rod and Gabi

Hi friends. As we navigate through these uncertain times, we want to just remind you all to be kind to yourself and others. 

Song of the day: We’ll be listening to Bruce Springsteen’s new song “Streets of Minneapolis” for the foreseeable future. Power to the people. 

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

How to Care for Yourself and Others When the World Feels Heavy

Caring for yourself:

🧘 Regulate before you react. Remember that you’re allowed to take a break. Log off, sleep, eat, take your meds, go outside. Get your nervous system out of fight-or-flight so you’re able to show up as your best self. 

👍 Do your best. Productivity is going to look different right now, and that’s okay. Struggling to focus isn’t laziness; it’s a normal response to the constant chaos and sadness going on right now. Pro tip: Take a sick day to recharge and rest!

✨ Find joy without guilt. Laughing, resting, celebrating, and finding happiness don’t mean you don’t care; they mean you’re human. Joy isn’t a distraction from the fight, it’s what keeps you strong enough to stay in it. 

Caring for your community:

💵 Turn rage into receipts. Donate when and what you can, and support immigration legal defense + bond funds. Here’s a good place to start if you need some guidance.

ℹ️ Share credible info. Instead of panic posting, share Know Your Rights resources, verified alerts, and information only from trusted organizations.

🗳️ Show up and vote out. Call your reps (5calls.org makes it so easy!), register and vote in upcoming primaries, and check in on your neighbors to ask what they need.

Remember in order to help others, you have to put your oxygen mask on first. Log off when we need to, stay grounded, share resources, check on your people, and build community where you can. 🫶

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here! 

…after you book your weekend getaway out of this cold.

Nothing better than a bowl of ramen when we’re dealing with sub zero temps outside! We’re drooling over Angelica Nunagray’s Creamy Spicy Chicken Ramen.

Have a yummy soup recipe? Reply to this email and share it, we’d love to share it!

The Devil Wears Prada 2 trailer just dropped and it’s actually…

Some of our favorite celebs showed up at the Grammy’s last weekend and said “F*ck ICE,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Thanks so much for hanging out today! Take care of yourself and others, and we’ll see you soon.

—Rod and Gabi

Hi guys! Everyone out here surviving the Polar Vortex right now? Fun fact: we’re less than 60 days away from spring, so hang in there! 

Song of the day: “Warm”… one thing we all want to be right now. We suppose listening to Ariana’s version will have to do for now. 🥶

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it.

Oh, and while you’re at it, listen to Are You Mad At Me? here.

10 hacks for a little life reset

I think we can all agree that it’s been a looooong first few weeks of January. Whether you came in hot with resolutions that quietly fell apart by day two (oops!), or you’re just feeling generally overwhelmed by like pretty much everything… you’re not alone.

But instead of one big dramatic overhaul that’s never going to stick, how about we focus on a few small, realistic hacks that can actually help reset your life without completely burning out. Let’s chat about them below!

⏰ Pick one simple routine to do daily. Maybe that means the same wake-up time, your nightly skincare ritual, or taking a short walk. Consistency is key!

🧹 Clean one surface a day. A messy space can totally add to the chaos! Make an effort to pick up or clean one small area a day, instead of overwhelming yourself by doing it all at once.

💸 Do a 10-minute money check once a week. We’re not talking about updating a full-on Excel file, but a simple budget check can help keep your spending straight and ease your mind about your moolah.

📵 Put your phone down during one meal a day. Allow your brain to remember how time works, and maybe even enjoy your meal instead of fixating on the Heated Rivalry lore on TikTok.

🙅 Set one gentle boundary. It’s okay to leave earlier, say no to plans, or even stop explaining yourself for every little thing.

💦 Hydrate! Start your morning with a glass of H2O before having three shots of espresso by 9 am. 

🌄 Go outside every day. Okay, well, maybe when it’s not -10 degrees like today, but the next time the sun is shining (and you can feel your toes) a few minutes of fresh air will do you wonders.

✅ Write down tomorrow’s top three tasks. Prepare your brain for tomorrow’s activities so it can rest a bit tonight.

📆 Automate one annoying thing. Not to be dramatic, but automatic payments have changed our lives. Set it and forget it, you’ll thank us later.

🛌 Get in bed 15-30 minutes earlier. Winding down your body earlier never hurt anyone. And if you can’t fall asleep right away, reading or journaling is a great way to calm that busy little brain of yours.

Remember, starting small can make the biggest of impacts, and ultimately lead to a less stressful and more fun and fulfilling life.

…while you wrap yourself in a blanket on the couch and pretend it’s not negative degrees outside.

You know we’re all about a food trend, and we’ve heard that cabbage steaks are all the rage right now?! Reply and let us know if you’ve made them! 

Watching Hilary Duff rewatch all of her old ~masterpieces~ with Vanity Fair is just 🤌.

Everyone posting their pics from 2016 is a lovely (and painful) little reminder of just how old we’re really getting over here…

Thanks so much for hanging out today! We hope you guys have a great rest of the week, stay toasty out there!

—Rod and Gabi

Happy New Year, friends! We all have until EOW to say that and then we’re done, okay? We missed you guys these last few weeks while we took a much-needed holiday break, and we hope you got some rest too! 

Song of the day: “is it new year’s yet?”- literally us all 2025… but also the name of another one of our fave Sabrina Carpenter bops.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it here! 

Ins and Outs for 2026

Everyone’s always like “new year, new me,” but what about “new year, slightly upgraded (yet still always tired) me” instead?

As 2026 pops off, we’re so over pretending we’re becoming brand new people overnight. This year’s ins are all about evolving, not reinventing. We’re focusing on keeping what works, deleting what doesn’t (emotionally and digitally), and making changes that don’t require a 5 am wake-up or complete personality revamp. 

Welcome to 2026: same us, just a tad wiser and (hopefully) better at boundaries. Let’s chat about some ins we’re welcoming with open arms and the outs we’re kicking to the curb this year.

Cheers to 2026! Remember to choose intention over reinvention, hold onto what feels good, and leave behind what doesn’t.

And if you have any good ins and outs you want to share… we wanna hear them here!

…while you try to remember what you do for work after being off for the holidays.

Our toxic trait is having food at home and still ordering out. So another one of our ins this year? Making our lunches more! And Bad Batch Baking’s BLT Salad seems like the perfect recipe to start with…

Hilary Duff just announced that her new album luck… or something drops February 20th. And all we have to say is… hey now, hey now, this is what dreams are made of!

Instagram post

“If I had to live my life over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring and stay that way later in the fall.” We’re loving this 85-year-old’s letter to her younger self. 🫶

Thanks so much for rocking with us for another year! Now, let’s all make it a good one!

—Rod and Gabi

Hiiiii guys! Every year, we say we’re going to start our holiday shopping earlier, and every year, we fail.

So if you’re in the same boat as us and scrambling to get those last stocking stuffers, fear not! The 2025 WorkDaze Gift Guide is here to help you look like you totally had it together all along.

Today’s tunes: It’s the most beautiful time of the year to have Justin Bieber’s “Mistletoe” on repeat.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it here! 

The 2025 WorkDaze Holiday Gift Guide

‘Tis the season for Secret Santa exchanges with the cousins you rarely talk to. Whether you’re unsure of what to get your work bestie or trying to surprise your mom with something special, our 2025 WorkDaze Gift Guide has something for everyone!

P.S. We’re trying our best to support small businesses and those who give back to the community, and we encourage you to, too!

Give Back

Rod’s recently partnered with The American Foundation For Suicide Prevention to help raise awareness and provide support to those who need a little extra help, especially around the holidays. Remember, there is always help. We’re all in this together. 🫶

Art

Art and wine and phone cases, oh my! Our BFF Laundry Room Studios, has something for everyone on your gift list. Dear Santa, we’ll take one of each please!

Nothing’s better than having a nice little hobby other than sending your BFF way too many TikToks while scrolling the day away on your phone. Jenny Hart’s embroidery kits can help with that!

Rod’s gotten some fun little prints from Simply Wall Art Design on Etsy, and they make the perfect gifts for your bestie’s go-to movie… or maybe for yourself, because self-love is the plot twist we all need.

Kitchen

There’s just something about starting your day by making your own coffee… like, wow, look at you already accomplishing things before 9 am!! A Moka Pot brews rich, delicious espresso right at home, and the best part? Every MiiR product sold helps fund nonprofit organizations.

Stationary

Treat yourself to a new, cute little notebook to write down all of your manifestations for the new year. Chicago’s Bon Femmes (everything they carry is from women-owned businesses) is a great place to browse with so many other fun goodies.

Comfies

When founder Arielle Cole started taking SSRIs and got hit with those oh-so-chic night sweats (ugh!!), she decided enough was enough. Enter Arid Blayne: cooling, comfy sleepwear that keeps you dry so you can snooze comfortably.

Self-Care

We’re loving these ayate washcloths from Volverde, a Latinx and women-owned store that sources all of its products from women, Asian, Black, Brown, and Indigenous-owned businesses.

Dog Lovers

Fluff & Tuff’s dog toys are the perfect little stocking stuffies (literally) for your pup! Bonus points: they’re made in Michigan and ship worldwide!

Good Boys Social Club’s merch is the perfect gift for your friend who treats their pup like a full-time personality trait (same). And if you’re in Southern California, definitely check out their meet-ups and events!

We 🫶 Chicago!

Treat someone to a little sniff sesh at Aroma Workshop in Lincoln Park, Chicago, where they can create their own fragrance! Plus, everything’s vegan and cruelty-free.

We 🫶 Detroit!

George Gregory smells better than any store has a right to, and also happens to have the most effortlessly chic men’s clothing and the best little gifts in town. Oh, and we’d be silly not to mention Phoebe, the sweetest little shop dog/sales associate!

…while you do your last-minute shopping with our gift guide.

TBT to when we thought we were the coolest kids on the planet every time we ordered a Shirley Temple. Ashley Tassano brings us back to the good days with her festive Santa Shirley for the holidays!

The duo we never knew we needed! We’re obsessing over Variety’s Actors on Actors with Ariana Grande and Adam Sandler.

We can always count on Brianna West to find the words we never can. Check out her list of people you should thank this year. Because she’s probably right, you know.

Thanks so much for reading! We’re wrapping up this year and taking the next few weeks off to rest and recharge with the ones we love. See you next year!

—Rod and Gabi

Hiya friends! We’re busy mentally preparing ourselves for the ten pounds of stuffing and mashed potatoes we’re about to consume tomorrow. Hbu?

Song of the day: It’s tiiiiiiime! Once the clock strikes midnight on December 1st, we’re cranking Mariah’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” loud and proud, baby!

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it here! 

How to Have Less Holiday Stress

As ~joyful~ as the holidays are for some, that may not be the case for others. Whether it’s your uncle complaining about Mamdani’s mayoral sweep while passing the green bean casserole, the mounting cost of Secret Santa gifts draining your bank account, or the nonstop holiday happy hours throwing off your routine, the holidays can be a lot.

So, let’s talk about a few things that have saved our sanity this time of year.

As the holiday season lights up, remember to create a season that works for you. A little planning, a few boundaries, and some intentional downtime can go a long way in keeping the holiday stress at bay. 

…after you go back for seconds of pumpkin pie.

Brightmomentco’s Fig and Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls are the perfect recipe when the dinner party host hits you with a “bring a side” text.

In need of a serotonin boost? Babies and dogs being besties always seem to do the trick for us!

Did you know that without the Star Search, we may not have been able to learn the entire “Oops!…I Did It Again” choreography? Check out Netflix’s new trailer for the reboot hosted by Anthony Anderson, premiering in January.

Thanks so much for reading! We wish you all a happy, healthy, and safe holiday week. See you back here so soon!

—Rod and Gabi

Hey there! No matter how long we’ve lived in the Midwest, we’re always surprised when the first snow falls. Find us in our cozies in front of our YouTube fireplaces until further notice…

Song of the day: We’ve been kind of obsessed with Sombr lately, and can’t get “back to friends” out of our silly little heads.

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

How to Stop Being Jealous of your Friend

First, take a deep breath and remind yourself: envy doesn’t make you a bad friend,  it makes you human. The goal isn’t to eliminate jealousy but to keep it from ruining the friendship (cue Taylor Swift). Here’s how to start shifting that dynamic:

• Acknowledge your own feelings. Admit to yourself that you’re feeling jealous or left behind. The moment you call it what it is, it loses some of its power. Hot tip: journaling or venting to a neutral friend or therapist can help you process without projecting.

• Change your POV. Instead of comparing lifestyles, focus on what still connects you. Some good ones to remember? Your friendship history, shared humor, values, and inside jokes.

• Refocus your energy. Instead of letting jealousy eat you alive, channel that energy into your own goals or joys, big or small. Whether it’s finally taking that pottery class or planning a mini getaway (that doesn’t have to be 10 days in Europe), building a life you’re proud of makes comparison a thing of the past.

Friendships change, especially when life paths start looking wildly different. Just remember, real friends survive career glow-ups, relocation, and the occasional humble brag about first-class seats.

What You Should Expect From Your Coworkers

Any relationship, whether it’s your best friend, your situationship, or your work bestie needs expectations to stay healthy. They’re the guardrails that keep things respectful, balanced, and slightly less chaotic. The trick is knowing what kind of expectations belong where.

Because here’s the thing, your friends might know that you texted your ex the other night, but your coworkers just need to know your project deadlines. You can still expect mutual respect and accountability without expecting your teammates to double as your emotional support squad.

Three expectations that help build a strong and healthy work relationship?

At the end of the day, we’re all just trying to do good work without losing our minds. Setting healthy expectations keeps things running smoothly and saves everyone from unnecessary drama. So expect respect, practice teamwork, and remember that your coworkers are collaborators, not therapists.

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here! 

…while you pull our the holiday decorations in between video calls.

You all know how we feel about Caesar salad and soup. But what about Josh Elkin’s Caesar Salad Soup?! Let us know if you try it!

We’re feeling about 100 years old now after hearing Reneé Rapp, call Jordin Sparks’ “No Air” an oldie. 😅

Our bestie is BACK! Hilary Duff’s new song “Mature” makes our millennial hearts beat as fast as the 2000s flew by.

Thanks so much for reading today! We’ll see you back here soon. Take care of yourself and each other in the meantime.

—Rod and Gabi

Happy Halloween week to all you ghouls and goblins… as if it’s not scary enough out there! Sidenote: We can’t wait to hit the aisles on Saturday to stock up on all of the leftover trick-or-treat candy on sale. 

Today’s tunes: Bum bum be-dum, bum bum be-dum bum. Rihanna’s “Disturbia” will forever be on our Halloween playlist. 

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

How to Resurrect Your Work/Life Balance From the Dead

Remember when work felt like just a part of your life, and not something that brought the everyday scaries to you? Somewhere along the way, your “flexible schedule” turned into endless late-night pings, weekend check-ins, and the creeping dread of Sunday evenings. The line between work and life? More invisible than a ghost. 

Work will always get busy, but if “flexible” has started to mean “always on,” it’s time to reestablish boundaries before you burn yourself out. So let’s chat about a few things you can do to dig up that work/life balance from the grave.

Bringing your work/life balance back from the dead won’t happen overnight, but it can happen if you’re willing to honor your boundaries. Silence the notifications that haunt your evenings and mark the end of your workday with a little ritual. Do this consistently, and you’ll exorcise burnout and get back to enjoying your life outside the office crypt.

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here! 

…while you watch Hocus Pocus in the background while you work.

Need something easy to bring to your friend’s Halloween party? These Pumpkin Pizza Bombs by MakeLifeSimpler_ on TikTok are the perfect little treat.

Boss hates Halloween? Say less. We’re dying at this prank a work team did for the spooky season!

Name a more iconic trio than the Sanderson sisters. We’ve watched these 10 iconic moments from Hocus Pocus more times than we’ll admit. ‘Tis the season!  

Thanks so much for reading! We hope you have the best week ever, with lots of treats and no tricks! See you back here soon!

—Rod and Gabi

Hi friends. We’re so saddened by the loss of the wonderful and iconic Diane Keaton. If you’re anything like us, so many of her movies bring us an immense amount of comfort and happiness. Two of our all-time faves? Something’s Gotta Give and Because I Said So. What about yours?

Song of the day: Yes, it’s been two weeks and we’re still playing The Life of a Showgirl on repeat, so sue us. Also, Gabi may or may not have spent entirely way too long learning the “The Fate of Ophelia” dance.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it here! 

When Should You Say Yes?

While we’re always going to be your hype people when it comes to the importance of saying no and establishing boundaries, today we’re flipping the script and making the case for saying yes once in a while (only when it feels right, though!). Sure, “no” protects your peace, but “yes” might land you a new friend, a random adventure, or, at the very least, maybe a solid main character moment.

Saying yes doesn’t mean abandoning your boundaries; it just means being open to what could go right. You can still protect your time and energy while leaving room for joy, growth, and the occasional out-of-the-ordinary decision.

Let’s chat about some things you should consider not writing off when it makes sense.

…while you have a Diane Keaton movie marathon for the foreseeable future.

We’re kicking off soup szn, with BritaCooks’ Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken & Rice Soup from Instagram. Have any other good soup recipes? Send ‘em our way!

Cute art AND cute wine?! Sign us up. Our friends at Laundry Room Studios just added a new Cab Sauv to their guest check, and we’re kind of obsessed.

No one, and we mean NO ONE, will ever wear a chunky high-waisted belt or fedora quite like Diane Keaton. All hail the queen and her iconic cinematic freak-outs that are a little too relatable… 

Thanks so much for reading! Have the best rest of your week. We’ll see you cuties next time!

—Rod and Gabi

Hey guys! Today’s word of the day? Flummox. Meaning to confuse or perplex. I was flummoxed and annoyed when my coworker scheduled a meeting for 8am on a Monday. 

Song of the day: Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need” instantly puts us in a good mood. And well… we think we all could use a little more of that these days!

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

You Don’t Need To Climb the Corporate Ladder

🙏 Show Appreciation
You can say: "I really appreciate your confidence in me and the opportunity. It means a lot to know my work is being recognized."

🙂 Express Contentment and Current Focus
You can say: "Right now, I’m really enjoying the work I’m doing and feel like I’m still growing and learning a lot in my current role."

🚪 Keep the Door Open for the Future
You can say: "I’m definitely open to growing into more responsibility down the line, but at this moment, I’d prefer to continue deepening my expertise here."

What To Do When You Disagree With Your Boss

• Acknowledge their insight – Privately talk to your boss and let them know that you see their point and appreciate their perspective.
  

• Own it – Admit that you were wrong, what you missed, and/or misunderstood, without over-apologizing. Save your sorries for when you really need them!
  

• Learn the lesson – How you handled the situation, the actual solution… they’re all lessons to learn from. Take this experience and apply it to whatever else comes along in the future. 

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here! 

…while you ask your dog if he’s a “good boy” 100 times before 9am.

It’s baking season! And to kick it off, we’re making saltnsprinkles’ Salted Caramel Banana Cake recipe! We’re drooling already…

Seth Myers, Bowen Yang, and Matt Rogers walk into a bar… you’ll have to watch the rest.

We were today-years-old when we found out that Exulansis is the actual word used to describe the tendency to want to give up talking about an experience because people are unable to relate. BEEN THERE! Check out more emotions you’ve felt but can’t explain, here. 

We appreciate you guys so much for hanging out this week! Hope something amazing happens to you today. See you next time!

—Rod and Gabi

Hi there. We wanted to take a second and check in because the world is so heavy right now.

Today’s tunes: Take two minutes away from any noise of the world and do this quick grounding meditation with us. We all could really take a beat these days.

Have a Q for WorkDaze or the podcast? Let’s hear it here! 

It’s the Guns

Instagram photo credit: Sandyland324

Gut-wrenching headlines. Graphic content. Endless scrolling. Rinse and repeat. It’s all so much. 

The emotions we’ve felt lately are a lot to take on, so first and foremost, we want to acknowledge that and encourage you to hold space for yourself when you need it. 

The lack of gun control has turned our country into an incredibly frightening place to live. 

Countless lives of political figures, elementary school students, next door neighbors, (unfortunately, the list goes on and on) have been taken because of the decision so-called “leaders” have made. A decision to make these oh-so powerful machines more accessible than drinking water in some US cities.

There is no arguing that children are supposed to grow up in a home with loving parents, yet the number who don’t because of gun violence spans beyond the lives of powerful figures in recent news headlines. 

First graders are supposed to be learning addition and subtraction, not how to barricade their classroom doors. College campuses should be safe, not places where students look for the nearest escape route “just in case”. 

While we all take in the weight of the world this past week, let us all take the time to learn how we can make this a safer country.

The current administration has made it abundantly clear that they are unwilling to do something about the most common murder weapon in our country. So as much as it shouldn’t be, it’s up to us. Those thoughts and prayers? They’ll never save us.

Some local and state elections are coming up in November. We implore you to do your research. What must we do to live in a country that’s safe for everyone? We have the power to vote out those who continue to allow these preventable acts of gun violence to continue, and to vote in those who are willing to stand up for a safer America. 

Until then, hang in there and be gentle to yourself and others. 

We love you.

—Rod and Gabi

Hey guys! We were today-years-old when we learned that Allodoxaphobia is the term for when people have a fear of others’ opinions. And while we’re not ones to diagnose, this explains a lot about some of our past coworkers…

Song of the day: We’ve had Sabrina Carpenter’s new album Man’s Best Friend on repeat since it dropped last week. Which song is your fave?

Need to vent? Want advice? Have feedback? We wanna hear from you!

How to Know If You’re Living Intentionally

• You’re checking in, not checking out. Living intentionally doesn’t mean you have everything figured out; it just means you’re pausing to ask why you’re doing what you’re doing. If your choices (no matter how big or small) reflect your values, you’re on the right track! 

• You’ve made peace with saying “no.” Our favorite “B” word! Intentional living includes having boundaries. Skipping the group chat plans or turning down opportunities that don’t align with your values isn’t selfish; you’re just considering your own needs at the moment. 

• Growth feels uncomfy but not aimless. Intentional living still has chaos, but there’s some sort of direction, even if it takes a while to get there. If you feel like you're growing (even if it’s a bit messy), you’re getting somewhere!

How To Adjust Going Back To The Office

💼 Give yourself some time to adjust. If you actually enjoy your job (even wearing those real clothes), that’s a good sign. The transition sucks, but if the work itself still energizes or fulfills you, it might be worth sticking it out and finding a new rhythm.

🧘‍♀️ Switch up and rebuild your routine. Try meal prepping on the weekend, on-demand workout programs, and packing yourself a little treat to go along with that pricey salad. Little things can make all the difference when you’re going through a big change. 

👀 Recognize if it’s RTO or the job. If the only thing exciting about your job is leaving at the end of the day, that’s a big clue. Loving WFH is valid, so if you give it some time and you’re still not vibing with the new RTO policy, it might be time to explore roles that better fit your lifestyle.

Got a Q? We wanna hear it here! 

…after you put in PTO after being out for the long weekend.

Carrot cake anything… sign us up!! We’ve officially added James.bok’s carrot cake baked oats recipe into the morning rotation. 

In honor of Heidi Gardner leaving SNL, we’re throwing it back to the time when Beavis and Butt-Head (Ryan Gosling and Mikey Day) had her breaking character and cracking up for a solid six minutes.

For the love of hot sleepers! After noticing night sweats were a side effect of taking SSRIs, our friend Arielle Cole founded Arid Blayne, a pajama company with cozies specifically engineered to keep you cool and dry throughout the night.

Thanks so much for sticking around today! Hope the rest of the week is short for you. See you next time!

—Rod and Gabi