Jenni’s January Pop Culture Picks of the Month: What to Watch, Read, & Listen to Right Now
Happy New Year, Friends! 
It’s Jenni here—your resident pop culture guide and unapologetic fan of all things movies, music, books, and beyond. As we step into 2025, I’m bringing you a fresh batch of pop culture gems to inspire, connect, and offer comfort through the art that moves us.
This month, I’ve curated a lineup of soulful tunes, binge-worthy shows, and thought-provoking reads that have been lighting up my world. Together, let’s shake off the post-holiday blues and kick off the year with a dose of creativity. Grab your coffee, tea, or whatever fuels your soul, and let’s explore the stories, sounds, and moments that remind us of the power of connection.
Cheers to a brighter year ahead,
Jenni
P.S. Got a recommendation that you love? Don’t hold out, send it my way!
ESSAY
This Washington Post story shares powerful firsthand accounts of living – and thriving – with metastatic cancer. These stories remind us that a cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to define your life. It’s a must-read for anyone touched by cancer or seeking to understand the resilience of the human spirit.
BOOK
If you’re like me, the holidays hit the refresh button on my grief from losing my father and best friend. Gina Moffa’s, Moving On Doesn’t Mean Letting Go, was the first book to truly resonate with me. Since discovering this read, Gina Moffa has become my grief-guru. Follow her on Instagram: @ginamoffalcsw
JOURNAL
If you don’t know Houston Kraft, you must. I’ve been following Houston’s impact on millions for a long time. He created this journal, which I offered my entire friend circle last New Year’s! I’m into gifting post-holidays, and there’s no better way to start a fresh year than practicing kindness. Check it out!
STREAM
Alexa & Katie (which you probably have binged by now). Why watch? Alexa is a high schooler suffering from cancer. Her best friend, Katie, helps her every step of the way.
STREAM
Not in the mood for a cancer plot and prefer a sweet romance? Then try Heartstopper (I love these two actors)!
BAND
I discovered The Marías on a Spotify daily mix and immediately fell in love with “Sienna” from their album, Submarine. Whether you’re chilling, cleaning, driving, or working, their sound has become your life soundtrack.
ARTIST
Ever heard of artist Werner Bronkhorst? Well, now you have. Follow him for frequent inspiration. His collection(s) can be found at wernerbronkhorst.com.
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!