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A woman in a leopard print outfit sits on a decorative stone chair, smiling. Beside her, a colorful jukebox labeled Jennis Jukebox pops on a bright yellow background, highlighting Jennis Pop Culture Picks of the Month.

Jenni’s Pop Culture Picks of the Month: What to Watch, Read, & Listen to Right Now

Happy Holidays, friends! I’m Jenni Dawn Muro—a cancer survivor, storyteller, and unapologetic pop culture enthusiast. Starting January 2025, I’ll be your guide on a monthly journey through the pop culture moments that have shaped our lives—the movies, songs, books, and shows that connect us, move us, and sometimes even heal us. Each month, I’ll spotlight a different gem, dig into its impact, and reflect on how it’s mirrored my own experiences (and maybe yours too). Until then, I couldn’t wait to get started! Here are some of my favorite things to watch, read, and listen to right now. Grab a cozy spot, hit play, and let’s get inspired together.

Stay tuned,
Jenni

A person reads a booklet titled supporter roadmap outdoors, with large white text READ overlaid across the image. Pop Culture Picks inspires their journey, while lush greenery forms the backdrop.

 

Four panels show a tree. The first panel has bare branches; the next three show increasing numbers of white birds gathering on the tree until it is fully covered. Text above reads Light in the Shadow of a Diagnosis, Nov. 10, 2024. Pop Culture Picks highlight.

ESSAY

Yes, you read that right, essays have reached new heights. I expect peak popularity in 2025. Substitute some social media minutes by reading one essay a day! Sometimes, it’s easier to read short-form than committing to a book. This recent essay in the New York Times is the perfect example. It’s a free gift for you (and I recommend a monthly subscription that costs less than a large latte).



 

Yellow book cover with bold black text reading The Bad Mood Book, a Pop Culture Picks favorite. A sad face replaces the first O in MOOD. Subtext: Because the world is on fire. Author: Swan Huntley. Radiating black lines in background.

BOOK

This one is self-explanatory, and makes a great gift to yourself, someone you’re supporting, or anybody going through just about anything. So, tis’ the season! This gem was released in 2023 but is recently having a resurgence.

 

A newsletter promo for The Isolation Journals with Suleika Jaouad, featuring an open book icon and a Subscribe button, plus Pop Culture Picks to help you transform interruptions into creative grist.

SUBSTACK

Want to find endless content and not on Substack yet? Consider joining, even solely as a reader. Or, already a member? Isolation Journals is a must-follow! Truth: I read everything Suleika writes! More to come about her.

 

A person holding a video camera points it toward the viewer outdoors, with large white text reading WATCH overlaid on the image. Shrubs and blue sky are visible in the background, capturing that Pop Culture Picks vibe.

 

Poster for American Symphony features a smiling couple above a “One of the best love stories seen on film” quote, with a conductor before an orchestra below. Netflix logo and release date included—one of this season’s Pop Culture Picks.

STREAM

Speaking of Suleika, have you watched “American Symphony” on Netflix yet? It’s a must-watch film and we’re reminded of its beauty since it just received two Grammy nominations. One nomination is for Best Music Film and the other is for Best Song Written for Visual Media for “It Never Went Away.”

 

A person plays acoustic guitar and sings into a microphone while three people sit and listen nearby. The word LISTEN is written in large letters across the image, giving off serious Pop Culture Picks vibes.

 

everything happens with Kate Bowler

PODCAST

Everything Happens with Kate Bowler. Any episode, trust me. But check out episode breakdowns and see what speaks to you. Her voice and messaging brings me comfort, I hope for you too.

 

A young boy in a blue and white striped shirt stands on a sunlit road, looking ahead. Two blurry hands reach toward him from either side. The words Pop Culture Picks and small changes are written in red above his head.

MUSIC

If you don’t know Michael Kiwanuka’s music, now is the time! His new album was just released and he hits all the right moods.

 

Got a favorite? Share the love!

We’re better together, and I’d love to hear from you! Have a favorite book, essay, show, movie, playlist, or song that helped you through tough times or brought a smile to your face? Share your recommendations with the community—submit them below and let’s keep the inspiration flowing!

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