Happy February, Friends ????
It’s Jenni here—your resident pop culture guide and unapologetic fan of all things movies, music, books, and beyond.
February is more than just heart-shaped chocolates and roses—it’s a reminder of the many ways love shows up in our lives. Whether it’s the love of a powerful story, the comfort of a favorite song, or the resilience of the human spirit, this month’s picks are all about the moments that connect and inspire us.
From the strength of a real-life superhero to the emotional depth of a memoir, I’ve gathered some recommendations that have moved me deeply. I hope they bring you something meaningful, too.
Sending a little extra love your way,
Jenni
P.S. What’s something you’re loving this month? A book, a song, a simple joy? Don’t hold out, send it my way! ????


BOOK
The first book I recommend in my workshops is Suleika Jaouad’s Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted. I can’t and won’t stop celebrating this book since I genuinely believe it’s one of the best memoirs I’ve ever read. So, if you haven’t read it or heard of it, Suleika chronicles her experience with cancer (and love) in her twenties. Once you read this beautiful book, I’m sure you’ll share it with your circles, too.

BOOK
Feel like fiction instead? Or a second February read? How about a novel from a brilliant new(er) author? Check out Emma Grey’s, The Last Love Note. Emma’s debut novel delivers all the feels, navigating life after death of a loved one. Warning: you’ll laugh, and CRY. Sometimes, we need to turn to books for both. If you love Emma’s voice, check out her more recent novel next, Pictures of You.


STREAM
Of all my experiences with trauma, my spinal cord injury was the toughest. So, when I heard about the new documentary on CNN, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, I tuned in in real-time last weekend. Whoa!! I’m encouraging anyone who knows his story or not to watch it. He is one of my heroes, and I hope you will feel the same.
*You need access to CNN to stream Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story. The cable news network is available on most traditional cable TV providers and live TV streaming services like Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV. The documentary will also be available to pay-TV subscribers on CNN.com and CNN-connected TV and mobile apps.


SINGER
It’s bittersweet when you find an artist you love a little later than the rest. Jessie Baylin’s music was that for me! If she’s undisovered to you too, please listen to her album, Strawberry Wind which released its Deluxe Edition last year. It’s my favorite background music, and will be on repeat for this month especially… ❤️????❤️


ARTIST
Anyone on the Westside of Los Angeles knows Spencer Mar Guilbert, @this_means on Instagram because his murals grace the sides of buildings and hotels. Spencer’s artworks reflect the natural world with a use of color, unlike anyone in his field. He’s not only a brilliant visual artist, he’s a darn good person.
Recently, he raised thousands of dollars on behalf of the wildfires in his beloved hometown of California, using his art for good. So, let’s show him support by giving a follow, exploring his available pieces, and watch his fandom grow!

Since I’m always looking to feel better, I try out many things, so why not share some occasionally?

BINAURAL BEATS
This might be old news to you, but if not, I’m a big fan so listen up (pun intended). The very first time I listened to binaural beats, I did so overnight in the intensive care unit following spinal cord surgery. At the time, my physical therapist actually recommended it to me.
Well, since then, I listen to binaural beats for various reasons and in a multitude of ways beyond just bedtime. I listen to focus while I write this playlist, to heal when I have a migraine, to calm while I receive treatment for Lyme disease, and to relax during a bath! I also recommend the benefits of binaural beats in many of my cancer-focused workshops and events, as well as to friends and family.
Binaurals can be found anywhere in endless variations and playlists too, from YouTube to Spotify. Before you explore, check out this informative article via Healthline.
Please always seek advice or approval from your physician or medical care team as needed. Any suggestions are merely my opinion, not a substitute for a medical professional.
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!