I am not one to boast.

I don’t take victory laps.

I never rub it in someone’s face.

But when the cards are stacked against me. When I’ve lived at the bottom of the proverbial family totem pole - just below the dog and just above the snake. And endured daily mental abuse from my three year old who says, with extreme conviction, ‘IMMA MAMMAS BOY.” It’s time to gloat.

Last week, my daughter said her first word: Dada.

Much to my wife’s chagrin, there was no mistaking the clarity. It was said loudly and lovingly. And Grainger was being held by Elizabeth, clearly trying to articulate her preference with her first word. As my Dale Carnegie disciples know, a person’s name, to that person, is the sweetest sound in any language.

If my boys are mamas boys, then I’m officially a girl dad.

Have someone I should profile? Reply to this email and let me know.

Without further ado…

Why Andrew?

Andrew came recommended by his wife, Molly. I profiled Molly a few weeks ago and she has been kind enough to make several recommendations. Andrew has an impressive personal story of resilience and I enjoyed his recommendations.

Follow Andrew on IG

Andrew’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Andrew’s own words…

1. Demon Copperhead by Barbra Kingsolver

By far the best book I’ve read this year, a novel about having the cards stacked against Demon and coming through the other side. It gives a great perspective on the social struggles that some people have to face in this country. It’s a great reminder that we live in a bubble, to be grateful for what we have and empathy for those who struggle. As an adopted kid, who has been sober for a long time. This book spoke to my soul.

2. New Paltz, NY

Alright, hot take... Everyone in NYC summers in the Hamptons and goes to Surf Club in Montauk. New Paltz, is lowkey one of the hidden gems of NY. Less than 2 hours from midtown, go hike the trails at “Mohonk Mountain House” - specifically the labyrinth and lemon squeeze. Run the half marathon on the bridal path or jump out of a plane at “Skydive the Ranch”. My third date with my wife included all of the above & I hosted my bachelor party in New Paltz.

3. Rhone Clothes

I’ve been locked into this brand since their Day 1. Founded by some of the greatest guys I’ve ever met, Nate & Ben Checketts. These guys sponsored our gear in 2021 for London Marathon, and unlike most brands, the quality keeps getting better. I wear their collared shirts for work and out to dinner; get compliments all the time. The workout gear and running stuff are comfortable and wears well. Ripstop short for a Sunday hang, super comfortable.

4. Check your relationship with- Drugs, Booze & Porn

November 10, 2016 is my sobriety date. Without sobriety, I wouldn't be here.. I wouldn't be married to a wonderful woman or a father to baby Henry. I'm not saying that everyone needs to be sober.. but I know a lot of people that struggle with their relationship with all of the above. Try 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, even better 1 year without these toxic intakes and see how you feel. Then know, you can always go back to that baseline.

I'm on the board of @releaserecoveryfoundation - we raise money to help underprivileged people recover from alcoholism and drug addiction. Running 2026 NYC Marathon with the foundation and so grateful! 10 marathons 10 years sober LFGGG

5. Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam is the greatest band of all time, spoken from a guy who has a Grateful dead bear tattooed on his leg. Honestly, Eddie Vetter is a legend; the passion and kindness he brings to mankind is second to none. Seeing Pearl Jam in the GA Pit is a spiritual experience and should be experienced by everyone at least once in their life.

6. Hot Take: Bad Roman NYC

Hear me out, we all know NYC has some amazing restaurants and those don’t usually include hokie/easily attainable reservations or even restaurants in midtown generally.. However, the cacio e pepe ravioli served on a filet mignon is delightful. It’s not the best cut of steak or the best ravioli you’ll ever have but the unique combination of delicious cheese dripping from al dente pasta, only to be scooped up on a piece of medium rare meat.. it’s truly a special bite of food. Check it out!

Plug | Madison Planning Group

I’ve been a part of my family’s business for 12 years. The past five years, I’ve focused on working with business owners and 1099 employees. Try us out, we’ll save you more money in taxes than your current guy.

Want to get in touch with Andrew? Follow Andrew on IG

P.S. from Rambull — Another first for me. Someone stopped me to tell me they liked my shoes. They liked them enough to ask me to text them the link. I assumed they were blowing smoke but sure enough, a week later and my buddy Wright had on the same Vans. So here they are:

If you’ve been reading for awhile, you may remember that I’ve talked about my wife’s serial killer unique trait: she talks to snakes like you and I talk to puppies.

Normally, this is something I rarely or if ever, think about. Maybe similar to my trait where I can watch 98.5% of a movie, turn it off, and be content.

However, I can’t brush this one off any longer.

Why?

Because we have a new ‘pet’. And her name is Patrick.

Patrick is my nephew’s corn snake. My wife decided we would pet sit for a few weeks while he is at camp. We make sure that she is well feed. Patrick likes to eat the dead baby mice that are stored in the freezer next to the ice maker and frozen berries.

Do I care that we have a pet snake in the house? No, not really. But the trend of having 3 kids under 5, a puppy, and now a snake is starting to make me nervous. Especially when I saw my wife enviously scrolling an instagram account for Tofu a pet pig….

Without further ado…

Why Kelsey?

We are former coworkers and friends from our time working together on Call of Duty in LA. We’ve continued to stay in touch and Kelsey is exploring creative entrepreneurial paths. I’m excited to share a refreshed profile of Kelsey who was supportive early on of Rambull. My kids have loved their baking coloring books!

IG: heykelseywheeler

Kelsey’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Kelsey’s own words…

1. French Butter

I swear French butter just tastes better. Something like Maison Bordier or Isigny Ste Mère has this deeper, almost nutty flavor that makes everything you bake feel a little more intentional. It melts differently, bakes better, elevates your toast and somehow makes you feel slightly fancy.

2. Victorinox Classic Paring Knife

The Victorinox Swiss Classic Paring Knife is one of those tools you don’t think much about until you use it constantly. It’s small but weirdly powerful, like it can handle everything from delicate fruit to random kitchen tasks without missing a beat. I originally got it as a gift (welllll, my chef friend left it here and I loved it so much I bought her a new one so I could keep it) but it quickly became my most-used, can’t-live-without knife.

3. Barnaby Jack Vintage

Barnaby Jack Vintage is my favorite kind of shopping experience, even though it’s all online. Sara does these weekly themed drops where every piece feels perfectly curated, but also totally unexpected in the best way. What really sets it apart is how she styles everything, so you’re not just buying vintage, you’re getting the full vision for how to wear it. Sorry guys, she currently only offers women's clothing.

4. Highbourne

Highborne Cay in the Exumas feels almost too special to talk about, but I'm not one to gatekeep. It's incredibly private, just one restaurant and a handful of villas, so for a few days it genuinely feels like your own island.

My family has boated to the Bahamas for over 30 years, thanks to my dad, who owns a marina and built the "Grady Bunch", a community of customers who travel together on their Grady White boats to different excursions around Florida. Most summers we stick to the Abacos, but every few years we go farther out to the Exumas, and that's where Highbourne lives. Arriving by boat feels different there, quieter, slower, more untouched. The water doesn't look real, time stretches out, and you remember how good it feels to slow down.

5. Baked Goods with Recipe Card

Baked goods with a handwritten recipe card is my favorite kind of gift, it feels personal without trying too hard. You get something warm and immediate to enjoy, but also the recipe to recreate it later, which somehow makes it last longer than the actual treat. It’s simple, thoughtful, and always feels a little more special than anything store-bought. If you need some thought starters, use this recipe card for the best banana bread ever. Otherwise, Broma Bakery is my tried and true!

6. Alison Parsons Art

Alison Parsons Art is one of those accounts I keep saving on Instagram. Her work is soft, nostalgic, and a little romantic. It's the art equivalent of slowing down and noticing things you'd normally rush past. I haven't bought a piece yet, but it's fully on the list, less "if" and more "when."

Plug | Kids Activity Coloring Books

I created two kids activity coloring books, Little Bakers (ages 2–4) and Busy Bakers (ages 4–6), inspired by wanting something fun and actually useful for my kids while I’m in the kitchen. They’re filled with mazes, alphabet matching, counting, coloring, plus five simple recipes at the end you can make together. They're perfect for slower summer days, airplane travel, gifting, or a screen free activity at home. They have been such a labor of love, and I still get a little thrill every time I see an order come through.

Little Bakers

Busy Bakers

Want to get in touch with Kelsey? Email her at hey@kelseywheeler.com

P.S. from Rambull — If your are a guy in your 30s living in the Southeast you’ve probably seen a few of your friends cosplaying like Texas ranchers this summer. That’s because they are wearing the brand Poncho.

Normally, I do everything possible to make sure people never mistakenly think I’m from Texas. With Poncho, I have to admit, I like their stuff.

A lot days, mornings in particular, I want to be able to hit the fast forward button.

Fast forward through the temper tantrums about wanting pancakes instead of cereal. Watching ‘just one show’ that can never be turned off once its on. Or not wanting to put on shoes and a shirt for school. And last, but not least, which seat to sit in on the car ride to school.

Very quickly, I know that I’ll want that fast forward button to turn into a rewind.

I recently heard a song that encapsulated it. For my parents of young kids, give it a listen, the lyrics and melody hits perfectly — The Sways, Someday We Will Dream About Today

Someday, we will dream about today
Look back, wonder how it slipped away

We had it all along
We had it all

Without further ado…

Why Algis?

I enjoy featuring other substack writers. They tend to take the profile assignment thoughtfully and its a great chance to co-promote. I love Algis’ niche writing on Japan.

Algis’ 6 Recommendations

Written in his own words…

1. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

I’ve read this book twice and I still can’t believe how good it is.

It’s not something that would normally be in my wheelhouse. I love fiction, but I prefer Hemingway-style writing; sparse, direct, propulsive. Amor Towles is far more expansive as he paints a richly detailed picture of what’s going on. I’m impressed by his ability to write so beautifully without making the descriptions feel overdone or self-indulgent.

The story takes place in 1922, after the Bolshevick Revolution and centers on Count Rostov, an ex-aristocrat who has been sentenced to a lifelong house arrest in the Hotel Metropol, a grand Moscow hotel which acts as a character in the story as well. This confinement and the constraints it creates becomes a perfect setting to experience how Count Rostov is forced to reimagine and reinvent his life within the walls of the hotel. You watch him build relationships and rely on his charm, creativity, and resourcefulness to deal with the limits imposed by his captors.

Since the entire story develops gradually, it can be savored for some time. It’s simply one of the best books I’ve read in my lifetime.

I live with a chronic illness that has forced me to come up with new ways to be productive and effective. I find A Gentleman in Moscow to be both entertaining and inspirational.

2. Lail Ceramic Coffee Cups

I discovered these ceramic coffee mugs in a small coffee house in Upstate NY. They have a particular weight, texture, and level of warmth transference that translates to a feeling of grounded-ness, joy, and being in the moment. That’s a lot to say about a coffee cup, but I think I might even be underselling it.

Hand crafted in Catskill NY, by master thrower, Brad Lail, these coffee mugs don’t come cheap, but they are incredible. I think this would be a great gift for a coffee lover, who might be hesitant to spend so much on a cup for themselves.

I feel absolutely spoiled when I drink my cappuccino out of one of these pieces of art. I recommend the Cappuccino cup or the Latte cup.

3. Midnight Diner

Midnight Diner combines humor and an unexpected emotional depth that encapsulates one of the aspects of Japan that I love; how small izakayas are the places where real connections between Japanese people often take place.

It's set in a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub/diner) in a back alley of Shinjuku, Tokyo, that opens from midnight to 7 am. It’s a charming, slice of life show about how a chef and his small izakaya become a welcoming third place for his varied regulars, serving as an almost adoptive family for some of them. Easily one of my favorite Japanese TV series.

4. The Paper Plane Cocktail

I love a well-made cocktail. But, I like them a lot less when I have to pay $20 for one at a bar, especially since I know I can make some of my favorites at home for a fraction of the price.

It can be a fun way to entertain guests or spend an evening with friends learning to make a few cocktails and experimenting with what kind of flavor palate works for each person.

I recommend people start with learning to make a Paper Plane. It’s sweet/tart, lemony, complex, with a nice kick, but smooth enough for just about anyone.

Here’s the recipe:
3/4 oz. Bourbon (I prefer Rye)
3/4 oz Aperol
3/4 ox Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
3/4 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice

Add them all to a shaker with a lot of ice. Most beginners use far too little ice. The shaker needs to be about two-thirds full of ice and will look like you’re using too much ice. Give it a hard 15 second shake and pour into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Add a citrus garnish if you like.

The Amaro Nonino may be a bit hard to find, although I’m seeing it in a lot more places now.

A few other great cocktails that are also fun and easy to make: Negroni, Aviation, and Division Bell.

5. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Shoes

Among the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. I have large, wide feet, which makes finding shoes that fit a challenge. Tigers have a sleek profile, so I wrongly assumed they wouldn’t fit me. Thankfully I tried them on a lark. They come in tons of color combinations so you can definitely find something that works with your style. You can even get them in the Kill Bill colorway that Uma Thurman made famous!!

6. Tell people what you like about them

I only learned that my father was proud of me after he passed, when a few of his friends told me how he used to brag to them about some of my accomplishments. This was news to me as this was not something he ever expressed to me.

I’ve thought about this a lot and strongly believe that the people you think well of should hear it from you directly. So, I started building the habit of telling friends and family things I really like about them.

People don’t always recognize or appreciate things they are good at. I just observe, and when I notice something done well, even a small thing, I tell that person. It’s been a very nice experience so far.

Plug | Japan or Die

My newsletter Japan or Die is a weekly dispatch where I share parts of Japan many people miss: hidden neighborhoods, local izakaya culture, b-class gourmet, the restaurants Japanese people actually eat at, language tips, and much more, including the kinds of insights that don’t usually make it into guidebooks but probably should. People seem to like it. It has over 5,000 readers. Check it out if you’re interested in Japan.

I also do Japan travel consults if you need more personalized advice. Information is on my newsletter website.

Japan or Die

A newsletter for curious travelers.

By Algis (Japan or Die)

Want to get in touch with Algis? algis4000@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — h/t to Emory Smith for recommending Blackberry, the movie, to me. I can remember my dad getting one and then eventually having one myself. However, the movie was less about nostalgia but more about the crazy behind the scenes story of how the iconic phone came to live (and ultimately faded). Not surprised it was a 97 on rotten tomatoes. Right now you can stream it on netflix.

Last week, I read a physical newspaper. I know, please, I don’t need an award. How nice to focus on the stories, devoid of email or notifications. How ironic to write about this on my newsletter, only available online.

A ten minute respite from the daily digital gauntlet provided my phone and computer. A joyful inefficiency to read a story on the front page that has to be ‘continued on page 7’.

I’ve decided that the world needs more paper.

Thank God for my wife and the paper dolls. I am extremely proud of her and her team for opening the third If It’s Paper store last week.

Winston-Salem, the German National Team isn’t the only thing taking over your city this summer. Located on Reynolda, If It’s Paper is 300 yards from Bobby Boy Bakery. This is both a great and a terrible thing. Not sure that I love the fact my two year old has already been enough times where he can perfectly pronounce “croissant”.

Anyways, Winston crew, please come check us out for your fine stationery and gifting needs. Those croissants ain’t cheap.

(Taking a break for the July 4th holiday, no profile next week)

Without further ado…

Why Emily?

I first met Emily in college when visiting a good friend from high school. My friend Cameron was catching heat for thinking he had good enough game to go after the older woman. Well, he got the last laugh…it was fun to reconnect with Emily and Cameron at a wedding this summer. We started talking about past Rambull profiles and quickly realized she had a lot of good recommendation ideas.

Connect wtih Emily on LinkedIn

Emily’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Emily’s own words…

1. Manta Sleep Mask Sound

This sleep mask has completely changed my life. The molded eye cups block out 100% of light, so I can fall asleep anywhere — hotel rooms, planes, you name it. The built-in speakers are the real game changer: I can listen to a podcast in bed while my husband sleeps right next to me, and he can't hear a thing. It's the rare product that's both genuinely useful and feels like a small luxury every night.

2. Homemade Ranch

Growing up in Texas, ranch dressing was basically a food group. But the bottled stuff has never cut it — in my family, we make it. And by make it I mean mix the Hidden Valley packet with mayo and milk, shake, and enjoy. I batch a jar every other week and it's a fridge staple for pizza nights, salads, and the occasional direct spoon situation (joking... kind of). It takes two minutes and tastes like a completely different condiment than what's sitting next to it on the grocery shelf. Once you go packet you don't go back.

3. Estatesales.net

I've always had a thing for antiques, and as we've built our family home I've leaned into mixing classic pieces with modern accents — a look that feels collected and personal rather than catalog-perfect. My ideal girls' day is wandering an antique mall with nowhere to be. EstateSales.net is my weekly ritual — I check it every week to see what sales are nearby, and you'd be amazed what turns up. It's part treasure hunt, part therapy, and significantly more interesting than scrolling Wayfair!

4. Custom-Engraved YETI Tumbler — Gift

Everyone knows you can put a sports team logo or initials on a YETI, but did you know you can upload literally anything from your phone? I had my son write "Dad" and draw his own little golf flag, and now it's engraved on a tumbler forever. It's the perfect gift for grandparents who insist they don't need anything but will absolutely show it off to everyone who comes over. There's something about a kid's actual handwriting permanently etched into stainless steel that hits different.

5. A Book Club That Actually Reads

As a CRO, my brain rarely fully leaves work — so reading has become my most intentional form of self-care. Bookending my day with a good book is the one thing that reliably gets my mind out of revenue targets and back into being a human. I'm also a proud co-founder of Broad Street Book Club — going on 11 years, modeled after one my mom has been in for 25+ years. We are 15 busy women with full careers and families, and we actually read the book! Pro tip for starting any recurring club: pick a standing day and time and never move it. Our spouses all know the second Wednesday at 6:30 is non-negotiable.

6. The Wendy’s Frosty Key Tag

For $3 at Wendy's you can buy a little keychain shaped like a Frosty, and for an entire year you get a free Frosty with any purchase. That's it. That's the whole thing. We have a Wendy's nearby and I can say with confidence I have been there approximately 25 more times than I ever would have otherwise. As a marketer, I am in genuine awe of this program — it's a masterclass in customer loyalty disguised as a $3 impulse buy. Genius. Delicious. 10/10 recommend.

Plug | Blue Acorn

Would love for audience to know that Blue Acorn helps enterprise brands with digital experience.

Want to get in touch with Emily ? emilyawilhoit@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — If you’ve ever wondered who buys SPF 50+, it’s me. I live in this free fly shirt during the summer. Its lightweight and means that sometimes I will live a ‘lil and wear this shirt instead of covering myself in zinc. Pasty boys, check this one out.

One of the most underrated features of a house is the front porch. Nowadays, with air conditioning, we all stay inside. My non-data informed instinct is to say front porches are built with a lot less frequency today.

However, you combine a front porch, a great view, and rocking chairs…*chef’s kiss*

I think the best front porch in the world is at my grandparent’s mountain house in Montreat, North Carolina. My kids are the 7th generation to spend summers up in Montreat. If you know the town its probably because you got dragged there on a church youth trip or you took a wrong turn looking for Black Mountain.

Most of the times when I go to Montreat, I am concerned about whether the electricity works in the house or if there is a bat in the bedroom.

However, as long as the rocking chairs are in good shape, all is good.

This past weekend, we went up with some friends for Father’s Day weekend. There were many highlights throughout the weekend, but the sneaky best might have been home made martinis and impromptu kids dance party on the porch before bedtime.

The highlight of the highlight, was learning my buddy was a serious gymnast growing up. Much to the kids delight, he re-enacted Dirty Dancing scenes twirling them all above his head, complete with soundtrack.

“I’ve had the time of my life, and I owe it all to you….” thanks Babe (my grandmother’s nickname, who always loved Montreat and considered it her spiritual happy place)

A few pictures, the first is of my dad. I think this is the coolest photo because it captures the innocence and excitement of childhood (and no iphones)!

Without further ado…

Why Bob?

Bob and I got connected via Alla Adam. I’m appreciative of continued opportunities to network with successful agency owners. I think its pretty cool that Bob hosts his own office hours that you can sign up for (and has a great substack).

Follow Bob on Linkedin

Bob’s 6 Recommendations

Written in his own words…

1. Conscious Accomplishment - by Scott Britton

Hands down the best modern guide for spiritual seekers with one foot in the real world. Scott is an enlightened leader who is still building companies but sees this work as building himself.

2. Daily Science Videos with Anton

He's a wonderful person that digs into the latest scientific research and makes it understandable in 15 minutes or less. Topics range from the latest James Webb findings to how fungi control the rain.

3. Email Me

If you're the kind of person who writes yourself emails or leaves yourself voicemails with reminders and ideas, you must have this app. Just hit a button, type or speak, and it's sent to your inbox so you can deal with it later.

4. Podcast: Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Cal is a computer scientist who helps us make our lives more simple. He provides weekly tips on how to avoid digital distractions and shift to deep work. He recently launched an additional episode each week where he tears apart arguments about how AI is going to take our jobs and take over the world. A much needed voice or reason!

5. Priorities (Game)

Wonderful game for adults (but also kid-safe) in which players must guess how each person in the group would prioritize five things from their perspective. It's fun, quick, strategic, but, most importantly, provides conversation-worthy insights about each other.

6. Author Clock

A digital desk clock that tells the time through literary quotes. Beautiful product on your desk that keeps you reading, thinking, and smiling.

Plug | My Substack: The Workaround by Bob Gilbreath

It's for fellow entrepreneurs and innovators who follow my stories from a career in tech startups and corporate innovation. I’m write to help you discover a shortcut to success or a trap to avoid.

The Workaround by Bob Gilbreath

Shortcuts to business success and personal growth from my journey in software startups and corporate innovation. No point without a story, and no story without a point.

Want to get in touch with Bob? Email him at b.gilbreath@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — Moonbrew crew. I got another one for you to try. Clevr has lightly different ingredients and a different flavor. I’m a sucker for a good latte (and a good night’s sleep).

Here is a good review comparing options. Heres to cracking the code on better sleep.

Recently, I became insufferable.

Many of you are more curious about the choice of ‘recently’ than ‘insufferable’.

My older sister got me a rucking weighted vest for my birthday. For the uninitiated, rucking is a newish trend that allows you to get a better workout walking and theoretically easier on your knees than running.

I’ve worn the vest when I’ve pushed the stroller to preschool drop off and around the neighborhood.

I was feeling really good about myself until, what I assume was a high schooler, drove by, rolled down his window, and yelled “HARDOOOO”.

Without further ado…

Why Molly?

Molly and I got connect via Ellen Shook. Molly has been a career marketer and built an impressive agency. It was fun to trade notes and learn from her as I climb the learning curve as an agency owner.

Follow Molly on IG

Molly’s 6 Recommendations

Written in her own words…

1. Black & White Roasters

I am literally obsessed with good coffee - an espresso / cold brew / pour over snob, to the nth degree. Whenever I travel, I am on the quest to find the best in the city or town I am in. I've been known to drag friends and family on multi mile long walks and detours just to seek out an acclaimed cup of coffee. Despite all my searching, Black & White roasters, local to Raleigh, reigns supreme as the best beans in the WORLD. I will stand by this until proven differently.

2. Robe

I've never understood robe enthusiasts... and then I had a baby. This Barefoot Dreams knock-off robe was recommended by a dear friend (who ironically was in the depths of postpartum at the same time as me) and proves as a reminder that yes, you can find great things on Amazon for less than $50.

3. The Bossticks

I love The Bossticks (recently rebranded from the Skinny Confidential). I'm not kidding when I say I've listened to every episode produced since January, 2021. I've thought a lot about why I like this show so much: the mix of 'optimized living' + entrepreneurship + FUN & insightful guest interviews has me hooked. I used to think if I ever was interviewed on the Today Show that would mean that I had 'made it'... now the goal is to be interviewed by The Bossticks.

4. Vistage

I've been a Vistage member for the past 5 years. Having been a member in both Raleigh and NYC groups, I've met amazing CEOs and Founders who have pushed me to constantly refine my leadership, challenge my thinking as Indie has grown, and support me through some of the most challenging moments running the business. Professional development is critical and peer groups are special.

PSA: MORE WOMEN NEED TO JOIN THESE GROUPS. Shoutout to Mark Taylor and Niels Lameijer who have built awesome groups, and would welcome any interested women!!

5. French Riviera

I've had the absolute privilege of traveling to some amazing places in my 34 years. For those who haven't been, the lore is true: there is something magical about the French Riviera. Fly into Nice. Stay at the Les Rouches Rouges for at least 2 nights. Dream about the saltwater pool spilling into the sea for years to come. Continue south and rent an airbnb in Sainte-Maxime. Go for morning runs on the path that runs along the sea. Take the ferry to St. Tropez. Drink an overpriced cappuccino at Cafe de Paris. Have lunch on the beach at Club 55. Book the late dinner seating at Le Opera. Enjoy long lunches with food from the market bought that morning and slow afternoons. It is special.

6. Make time for the things that bring you joy.

I am intense. I have big goals and high expectations, but making time for the things that bring me energy and joy is a priority. I am so lucky in many ways, if I don't stay in the driver's seat and live a life full of experiences that bring growth, perspective and adventure, I'd be doing a disservice to the higher powers that guided me to where I am today. Whenever I find it more challenging to remember this, I come back to morning pages via the Artist's Way. It's a great exercise to reconnect to your purpose, and dare I say it, flow state.

Plug | Indie Consulting & Release Recovery

Indie Consulting! But maybe more interesting (& important), my husband is in recovery / on the board of Release Recovery - an amazing organization supporting those battling addiction and mental health disorders.

Want to get in touch with Molly? email !! molly@indie-consulting.com

P.S. from Rambull — Friend of the program, and member or the 2014 National Champions Soccer team at the University of Virginia, Matthew Mills recommended I check out Upside. (Use his code MATTHEW723479)

I’m a nerd and interested in unique business models and ideas. The app gives you cash back on things like gas, groceries, and dining.

Its pretty easy to use and if you are a “Points” person, you’ll love this:

• The app has a map or list of participating gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores nearby.

• Tap “Claim” on an offer before you arrive.

• Pay as Usual: Pay for your goods using a standard credit or debit card that you have securely linked to your Upside account.

• Earn Cash Back: In most cases, the app recognizes your transaction automatically. For some locations, you might need to snap a photo of your receipt or use the app’s “Pay with App” feature.

• Cash Out: Track your earnings in your account. Once you hit the minimum, you can transfer the funds directly to your bank account, PayPal, or redeem them for digital gift cards

Pretty cool….

Hockey. So hot right now.

And its not just because I live an hour away from the (future) Stanley Cup Champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. There is Heated Rivalry on Netflix and Off Campus on Prime. My virgin eyes will never be the same.

No one has benefitted more from the Carolina Panthers recent decline than the Hurricanes. Everyone in North Carolina is now a hockey fan. I didn’t think my brothers-in-law knew what hockey was and now Will and Grainger are the biggest puck bunnies in town.

I’ve been a hockey guy for quite some time. However, my knowledge and passion for the sport was recently questioned. I had to pull out photo evidence of my coaching stint for the 2019 Duke Fuqua hockey squad.

Wow, the Barn was bumping that night.

Anyways…Vegas…it’s time to warm up the bus.

Without further ado…

Why TJ?

I am a big fan of Onward Reserve. TJ has created an excellent brand, with wide recognition. It is also one of the few, if only, brands that makes clothing that seems to fit me well. I’m grateful for the ShopMy partnership too as they’ve sent me a few items that I gladly (and authentically) like to highlight. Its impressive to see how TJ has expanded his store footprint throughout the south, with a killer DTC business and 14 brick and mortar locations and counting.

Follow TJ on Instagram

TJ’s 6 Recommendations

Written in TJ’s own words…

1. Paper Calendar - At A Glance brand

I have used a paper calendar my whole life and I enjoy being slightly disconnected in this way. I don’t accidentally commit to things on the spot because I need to check and get back to people. And nobody at the office can see it but me and make assumptions about my availability.

2. Mr Anonymous | Robert Woodruff

All time favorite book about the man who built Coca-Cola. Is out of print but can usually find one on eBay.

3. Onward Reserve Five Pocket Pants

I wear them everyday - you won’t be disappointed

4. Dylan Marlowe

We have supported Dylan since before his first record deal. If you like Country music at all - check him out!

5. Old Edwards Inn; Highlands, NC

Great spot and soon to be down the street neighbors to our newest store!

6. Seaside, FL

My family and I have loved spending time at Seaside. Our girls don’t get to ride bikes in Atlanta often so it’s a great place to experience more of a small town vibe from time to time.

Want to get in touch with TJ? Office phone is 888.543.5022 hard to pin me down tho

P.S. from Rambull — For my mom’s that need a last second gift idea for Father’s Day, I got you:

• Keychain Tool ($10) - Love having this on my key chain.

• London Falling ($25) - New Patrick Radden Keefe book. Loved Empire of Pain and Say Nothing. Published a few weeks ago.

• Tonge & Groove Pliers ($20) - the OG tool for Dad and the client that butters my bread.

• Tifosi Sunglasses ($29) - maybe the best sunglasses I’ve ever had; definitely best price point.

• Scout Polo ($105) - My go to summer shirt for work and golf.

• Pocket ($120) - disclaimer my sister just got this for my birthday. It helps capture notes from in person conversations and calls. I’m bullish.

Ok fine, just let him play golf and/or take a uninterrupted nap. Or even better, if you are an aspiring vegan, just this once, cook a steak for your guy (hint hint, nudge nudge).

The other week I asked a stupid question.

I was in Vermont for my friend’s MacGreagor and Meg’s wedding. It was my first time in the state and it lived up to the hype. All weekend I felt like I was in a bubble. Beautiful mountains and countryside, Hallmark movie-esque downtowns, and I never saw any police.

I was feeling the Bern.

The night before the wedding we were at the famous Blackback pub. Now, I like beer as much as the next guy but I can really only tell the difference between an IPA and a Lager. MacGreagor on the otherhand is a beer afficiando. He moved to Maine specifically to work in business development for Bissell Brothers brewing. I took a look at the beer list and asked for his recomendation, which was the “Hill Farmstead Edward”. Allgegedly, it was “pouring like a dream right now”.

I asked, “What is Hill Farmstead?”.

Ignorance was not bliss. Those of you who know, wont be surprised to learn that if this was a movie the music would have stopped. I realize now that this would be like someone asking me, “Who is Cam Newton?” or “What are Chicken Supremes?”.

MacGreagor paused for long enough for me to wonder if he was having a stroke. Come to find out Hill Farmstead is the holy grail of breweries for beer drinkers. It' is located in the middle of nowhere Vermont down a gravel road. Was it very good? Sure!

Prost MacG!

Without further ado…

Why Mary Joan?

Mary Joan came recommended from my friend Diana Diller. Diana shared that, “She is an inspiring woman with an interesting career path from working in marketing at places like the Recording Academy to Charlotte's Web CBD, and has a fun history of being a tastemaker with her Girl Around Town NYC blog/business. Forever a marketing/comms gal, Mary is now really focused on her work as a keynote speaker around resilience.”

Follow Mary Joan on IG

Mary Joan’s 6 Recommendations

Written in her own words…

1. The Obstacle Is the Way + Stoic philosophy via Ryan Holiday

When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 12 years ago, I happened to already be steeped in Stoic philosophy, which, in hindsight, changed everything about how I processed that moment. Instead of asking “Why is this happening to me?” I had the mental framework to ask, “What is this asking of me?” That shift helped.
Ryan Holiday has done an incredible job of taking 2,000-year-old philosophy and making it practical, readable, and actually usable in modern life. His books and Daily Stoic newsletter are great perspective when things get hard. His latest is Wisdom Takes Work.

2. EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

Many people think they “don’t have trauma” because they haven’t experienced a major, life-altering event. But there’s also “little t” trauma, the smaller moments that still shape how we think, react, and move through the world. Most of us have more of that than we realize.

EMDR is a therapy that helps your brain reprocess those experiences so they no longer carry the same emotional charge. I’ve done it personally and describe it as a psychological shortcut; a faster, effective way to untangle things than might otherwise take years to process.

3. Peloton App

We all know about the Peloton bike, but the app is the real hero. Lately, I use my phone more than the bike itself. Between strength training, yoga, and music-synced walks, it’s become my go-to for staying consistent without overthinking it.

It also taps into my type A personality; the challenges, the instructors, the 90s playlists, and the sheer variety make it easy to show up, even on days when motivation is low.

4. Marco Polo

If you hate long phone calls (or just don’t have time for them anymore) but still want to feel like you’re having coffee with your best friend every day, this is the app. It’s asynchronous video messaging, so you send updates when you have time, and the other person responds when they do. Meaning, you stay caught up on both the mundane and the meaningful parts of each other’s lives. It’s how I stay in touch with close friends and family, without the pressure of coordinating schedules.

5. Hungryroot

My friend calls me a Hungryroot ambassador because I recommend it to everyone! Part grocery delivery, part meal planning, this app saves me an incredible amount of time and mental energy each week. Balancing work, parenting, and everything else, having healthy meals and snacks show up at my door significantly reduces our default to takeout, or spending (checks math) wayyyy too many hours planning, shopping and cooking.

6. dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

If you’ve never lived somewhere with hard water, this sounds niche. But if you have, you know exactly how frustrating it is; your hair never feels fully clean, no matter what you use.

After trying water filters, DIY rinses and "Amazon recommended" products, dpHUE ACV Rinse is the only thing that’s actually worked. It brought it back to life after having been beaten down by all those mineral deposits. It also uses argan and other nourishing oils, so your hair feels restored, not stripped. For those with finer hair (like me) — go for the “lite” version.

Plug | Fierce Resilience

I’m a keynote speaker working with organizations and teams to help people navigate uncertainty, move through fear, and make clear, confident decisions when the pressure is high. If your team is in a season of change, growth, or just feeling stretched, this is the work I bring into the room. (https://www.maryjoancunningham.com)

I also write a Substack called Fierce Resilience where I share the science and stories of real-world resilience. If the EMDR recommendation caught your attention, here’s my podcast interview on demystifying this lesser known therapy.

Want to get in touch with Mary? mary@thefearbreakthrough.com

P.S. from Rambull — Macgreagor got married at a beautiful venue called Bliss Ridge. The women who runs and operates the farm was wearing a fleece from Kari Traa. I thought it looked really cool and unique. I know folks like finding new/niche brands, so I thought I would share. They have lots of running and hiking gear for women too.

This week my friend Stephen lost his wife to cancer. I wanted to take a moment before the funeral today in Detroit to acknowledge and celebrate the life of Sadie Peck. I’m grateful to have gotten to know her through their marriage.

A badass spirit, Sadie was funny, resilient, and took her cancer diagnosis head on. I remember a few months back, spending time with her at Sether’s wedding, thinking about how impressive her outlook was as she worked through her treatment. No one owned the effects of chemo like she did. Sadie is gone way too soon at 34. A reminder to cherish time with the ones you love.

Go Lions.

Without further ado…

Why Bess?

I’ve known Bess for a long time. However, it wasn’t until we both moved to Greensboro ~4 years ago that we got to be close friends. We both followed our spouses to their hometowns. Elizabeth and I are also grateful that its the friendship where she and Bess hang solo and so do I and her husband Hill. I know Hill is begging me to do a profile on him one day….

Bess’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Bess’s own words…

1. Le Set, Kyoto Carpenter Pants and Shorts

For the girls - these are magic pants/shorts. Equal parts comfortable and chic, casual and not-so-casual. I wear them on planes, to carpool, client meetings, out to dinner, tball games - you name it. I have worn them multiple times a week for the past 2 years. They got me through my most recent pregnancy (just add a button down) and postpartum. They are simply the best, and most used staple in my closet. I

have the navy and chalk color pants, and the brown shorts. If you’re too a fan of the “price per wear” justification method, youre basically making money on these.

2. Half Past Seven, Tulip Vase

This medium-sized vase sits on my coffee table and I put fresh TJ tulips in it every other week and wait for them to flop. It has these beautiful little etched stars on it and looks more expensive than it is. Its a perfect wedding gift.

3. Kids Xtratuf Boots

When thinking about things Ive purchased that have made my life better and easier, these come to mind immediately. These shoes have saved us countless toddler meltdowns (he puts them on himself). My son wears these most days to school and to the farm with his dad. The second they get a little tight on him, I order a new pair. Equally cute on my niece.

4. “Strangers” by Belle Burden

Not the most creative given its a major bestseller right now - but if you haven’t gotten on this train, youre missing out. I read this memoir in one day, which if you know me is shocking. Belle Burden tells the story of the sudden unraveling of her marriage during the pandemic. It almost felt like reading a story from a friend. Ive heard the audiobook (which she narrates) is even better. Another big selling point: Gwyneth Paltrow is starring in the upcoming movie adaptation.

5. Coffee Table Books

I could do an entire Rambull on coffee table book recs. You cant have enough. My groundbreaking interior design tip: fill your bookshelves with books (not random stuff). Not only are they full of inspiration and great stories, they instantly make a house feel like a (cozy) home. Fill your shelves to the brim, put them on tables, underneath lamps, give them as gifts. If starting a collection feels overwhelming (and expensive), I often tell my clients to add one to your Amazon cart each month.

My two all time favorites: David Netto and Jeffrey Bilhubers.

My favorites simply for the the cover: “The Japanese Garden” and “Annie & Josef Albers“

My recent favorite: “Summer by The Sea” (would make an incredible hostess gift if you are going to stay at someones house this summer).

6. Kids Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt

Next time you need an activity at home, get a piece of paper and a marker and ask your child to name 5 random things you usually see outside (example: airplane, mailman, large dog, your neighbors). Make a list with check boxes and walk around the block with a marker. They can check off things as they find them. Boom, youre an hour closer to dinner! An alternative to the scavenger hunt, I recently bought my son a pack of these clickers. He will count (aka click) how many squirrels (or people, dogs, cars) we see on our walks.

Plug | Bess Dubose Interiors

My work (Here)

My ShopMy (Here)

Want to get in touch with Bess? DM on Instragram

P.S. from Rambull — We’ve entered the learning to ride a bike stage. Pretty fun to watch our 4 year old go from tentative to full on cruiser. My wife found this brand Woom that we’ve been pleased with and recommend.

In honor of Mother’s Day this past weekend, I want to set the record straight.

I wear the pants in our relationship.

Elizabeth moved to Los Angeles for my job.

In return, she simply demanded asked for an engagement ring. Then, during Covid, when my job went full time remote, we moved back to her hometown. A few weeks before our third child was born, she got a puppy. Very sensible. And if she has her way, which history would suggest, there could be a fourth kid (or fifth if you count the dog). Any urologists here?

In all seriousness, I’m extremely grateful that I found someone who I love spending time with, I can go to for both personal and professional advice, and who has given me two mamas boys and, I hope over time, a daddy’s girl. Can’t imagine that my daughter will learn from her mother how to wrap me around her finger.

We love you, E Bet!

Without further ado…

Why Jackson?

Jackson is an excellent guy that admittedly, I wish I had gotten to know earlier in life. We are both from Charlotte and initially connected through our dads who spent many years working together. We are both lucky to have dads who serve as great personal and professional role models. My first memory of Jackson is a father-son dirt biking trip, where I ended up in a ditch multiple times…

Follow Jackson on instagram

Jackon’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Jackson’s own words…

1. Apollo 11 (2019 film)

You may have heard we recently launched humans around the moon for the
first time since the Apollo missions, which reminded me of one of the best
documentaries I've ever seen. It's unique because there is zero commentary,
interviews, or narration. The story of the first moon landing is told
exclusively through archival footage and audio, relying heavily on radio
chatter between the astronauts and Mission Control. The landing sequence
got my heart pounding, despite knowing that it was a success.

2. Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Mount Washington's claim to fame is the "world's worst weather" and the
second-highest wind speed ever recorded on the surface of the earth. I've
been able to catch it on some relatively nice days, and have hiked to the
summit five times. I don't know of anywhere else on the east coast that
really compares. You get a kind of vertical relief and wide-open views that
feel much more like the mountains out west. If you hike it, I recommend
starting at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center and taking the Tuckerman Ravine
trail, where snow can linger into the summer. If hiking's not your thing,
you can still get to the top via the Auto Road, or take the Mount
Washington Cog Railway (built in 1869!).

3. Watching Jeopardy! With a Group and Keeping Score

Bored of going to the same old parties and family gatherings? Asking people
about their job and kids, wondering when you can leave? Liven it up! Watch
a recorded episode of Jeopardy with a group of people and keep a simple
tally of how many questions everyone gets right and wrong. It goes like
this: when the answer is read, and you know the correct question, blurt it
out before the contestants do! So you don't have to add dollar amounts, you
get +1 for being correct, -1 for being wrong, and 0 for saying nothing.
Don't worry about answering in the form of a question either - just
say "The Grand Canyon" instead of "What is the Grand Canyon?" Have the
remote handy because sometimes you need to pause for a score check, or
dispute a response. I like to tell myself this will help me get on the
show, which I keep trying to do (I have come close twice).

4. Bandit Running Shorts

The best running shorts I've worn. They're super comfortable and the
standout feature is the phone pocket. It keeps your phone secure without
bouncing around while you run.

5. The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Darkest Journey

I'm a sucker for a good adventure book, and this one is great. Theodore
Roosevelt got bored after he was president and decided to find the source
of an uncharted river in the Amazon. Spoiler alert! The expedition did not
go as smoothly as planned.

6. Steely Dan: The Making of Aja (VH1 Classic Albums)

A look inside the minds of the band and collaborators behind one of the
best albums of all time. A short rock-doc you can watch on YouTube.

Plug | Blood Cancer United

I don't have any hustles to plug outside of my company, ScottMadden, but if
you are looking for a charitable cause to donate to, please consider Blood
Cancer United (formerly known as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society). BCU is
dedicated to helping blood cancer patients and survivors, and funding
research. When I had lymphoma last year, they provided me with a person to
talk to who had my same diagnosis and treatment before making a full
recovery. It was great to be able to ask off-the-record questions of
someone other than a doctor. Now that I'm in remission, I'm returning the
favor and serving as one of those volunteers.

Want to get in touch with Jackson? Email him at jacksonsmarley@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — Now that Mother’s Day is out of the way, lets make sure we all turn our attention to Father’s Day. Moms, if you want to return the favor, these are some of the clothes that I recommend and have recently gotten hooked up with….and are ‘Elizabeth approved’.

Onward Reserve

• Classic 5 Pocket Pant $158 - I have 3 pairs in the same color. My go to.

• Polo $150 - Multi-functional, work, golf, drinks, dad-ing.

• Year-round Blue Blazer $795 - If hes been extra good. Onward is sneaky the best spot for blazers. If he hasn’t updated his ‘go to’ blue blazer in a while.

Outerknown

• Hooded Sun Shirt $98 - if you are like me and very pale, you need a good sun shirt.

• Blanket Shirt $168 - this is Outerknown’s flagship piece and what initially put them on the map. (s/o Brother Hanson)

I’m going to blend my Editor’s Note with my ‘Why Victoria’ this week. Making connections is the primary driver behind writing Rambull. Every week I’m typically connecting and “meeting” someone new (and its usually a highlight of my week).

My connection with Victoria starts at least a year ago.

We think Victoria found Rambull via a profile on Liddy, my sister-in-law and her friend.

I profiled Evan Ringler who runs a business called Hey Girl Friday. Victoria reads about Evan’s business and decides to reach out about a job. The two immediately hit it off, Victoria gets hired and has been with the business ever since!

I’m going to see if this will work in reverse… At Sales Factory, we want to hire a “hunter” sales role for business development. Our ideal candidate looks like this:

• 10+ years of experience in sales or marketing

• Experience with a durable goods manufacturer, ideally a brand found in Lowes and Home Depot

• Comfortable prospecting from scratch and traveling

Even if this isn’t you, I’d be grateful if you know someone…Who is the most impressive person who has ever tried to sell to you? They’ve got to have “it,” the sales gene.

I’d appreciate any leads. I know we are building something special at Sales Factory and I’d love to find a unique talent to help us continue to grow: rob.belk@salesfactory.com

Without further ado…

Victoria’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Victoria’s own words…

1. Trusted House Sitters

I’m at a phase of life where I’m prioritizing exploring and travel. While I no longer have the ability to hop off a 9 hour red eye feeling as spry as I might have in my 20s, I’m certainly not getting any younger, so I want to take advantage of my relative freedom and ensure that youth isn’t always wasted on the young. A friend introduced me to Trusted Housesitters, a lovely platform where people around the world offer up their homes in exchange for your care of the place and pets. You could be caring for dogs, cats, or just a prized orchid. It’s expanded my ability to travel on a budget, and offers a more homey and local way to experience a new place.

2. Dyson Air Wrap

I never thought I'd own a hair tool over $100, but here we are. I was first introduced to the Air Wrap while staying at a friend's house, and after using it I was devastated to find that I couldn't live without it. To quote my aunt during a recent girls trip: "oh my word, I've never seen anything like it!" It takes me half the amount of time to do my hair than with a normal dryer, and it always looks like a pro-level blowout. I get more compliments on my hair than ever before, and this is the reason.

Pro tip: Dyson has refurbished ones on their website for half price!

3. Tasmania

I could go on and on about Tasmania. My favorite place on earth. A friend of mine is a guide in Australia and is well-traveled throughout the entire country. When went to Sydney and Melbourne for a work trip a few years ago, I asked him where I should go for my post-work vacation. He gave me a few options, and Tasmania appealed to me most. I drove a circuit from Cradle Mountain to St Helens to Hobart and was just blown away. Breathtaking mountains, other-worldly beaches, abundant wildlife, lovely people.

Don't miss: the Floating Sauna at Lake Derby, Overland Track hike at Cradle Mountain, and Six Russell Bistro in Hobart

4. Alex Cameron

The humor in Alex Cameron's lyrics hooked me, but I became a super-fan after seeing him live. His first album is a high-concept act where he's adopted the persona of a failed entertainer. This theme of different personas can be found through all of his albums, and I find it to be very fun, entertaining, and at times, thought provoking. Forced Witness is my favorite album (I'd start with Strangers Kiss, a duet with Angel Olsen), but you can't go wrong with any of his records.

5. Rent the Runway Subscription

If you're like me, and you struggle with shopping and commitment then I highly recommend a RTR subscription. I'll usually subscribe for a month or two around a big event like a wedding – I'll get an outfit for the event that is usually stunning and out of my price range, then use the other spots in the shipment to try out regular, everyday clothes. If I love it, then I can buy it from them at a heavily discounted price. It's a good way to see if you'd actually live in something that you like on the rack. And perhaps better for the environment? An expert would have to weigh in, but signs point to yes.

6. Roterunner Purpose Planner

Every Tuesday, I co-work with friends at a local coffee shop (we call it "office hours," and it does contribute to my Stars Hollow-vision of the town). My friend Sara has used a Purpose Planner for years (she's never without it, even at the bar), so my friend Hooper decided to try it. He loves it so much that he's become the unofficial Purpose Planner spokesperson. He converted me, and I have to admit, the hype is well deserved! I was resistant to purchasing a planner 3 months into the year, but he enlightened me that the months are blank, so you can start at any time. In addition to helping me plan my days better, it's led me to incorporating a daily gratitude practice, and you can't put a price on that!

Plug | Hey Girl Friday

I got connected to HGF this month last year (!) and have been a huge fan ever since. So much so that I emailed the Founder after seeing her profile on Rambull, let her know about our shared love of birding and Niles Crane and from there got hired on as an EA! Two months later, I joined the Internal Team. If you've ever thought about partnering with an EA but are cautious for whatever reason (this will take so much time, I can do this myself, etc., etc.), do yourself a favor and connect with us for a Discovery Call. No commitment needed from you until you find your perfect match and, even then, you're only tied-in to month-long contracts. Check us out at www.heygirlfriday.co, we'd love to learn more about you and how we could potentially support!

Want to get in touch with Victoria? Email her at victoria@heygirlfriday.co

P.S. from Rambull — Guys….I know you already know….but….Mother’s Day is this Sunday. If you need a last second gift idea, I recommend this Cotopaxi hip pack ($40, 1,600+ 5 star reviews). Go to CVS/Walgreens and fill it with her favorite candy. My wife has a weird obsession with candy corn.

Oh and get flowers. Always have the flowers. Order them Friday so she can ‘enjoy them all weekend’. Dennis and Tee, I’m talking to you. Take care of my sisters.

My wife’s family is pretty low maintenance. The Stewart’s don’t have many rules or lofty expectations.

Except for one.

Every family member must have a trained duck hunting dog. It can be a boy or a girl, but if its a boy you better believe that dog is not getting neutered.

Do I love to duck hunt, let alone know what I’m doing out in a blind? No, not really.

Do I have a red-lab that has spent 8 months being trained to retrieve ducks? Yes.

Do we have a duck hunting kennel set up in the middle of our kitchen? Yes.

The sacrifices you make for love. As my brother-in-law Grainger who, you guessed it, has a well-trained trained duck hunting dog said…. “The only thing Rob’s dog is going to retrieve is Bojangles”.

Tough but fair.

Without further ado…

Why Elizabeth?

Elizabeth came recommend from a past profile, Missy Fauer. Missy shared that Elizabeth “is a lover of all things Vintage and enjoys all types of beauty and art - from literature, to museums, and still has a passion for traveling the world collecting and learning about traditional local textiles and wares, history and culture. She is based in Paris, which is what I am most envious of. I love her taste in everything…”

Elizabeth’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Elizabeth’s own words…

1. “Worn” by Sofi Thanhauser

I can't not mention "Worn" by Sofi Thanhauser. It's so interesting reading about the history of our clothes, from both a historical and economical perspective, as well as environmental and social view.

For fiction, I recently read my first Western (since high school required reading), "All the Pretty Horses" by Cormac McCarthy and now want to ready more of his work. Loved it!

2. AdiGaeta & People’s Republic of Cashmere

I usually buy vintage, but here are two brands I love.

AdiGaeta shoes: Angelica, the founder, makes beautiful shoes that can be worn in different ways or with different accessories! A 2-in-1 concept (sometimes 3-in-1!), so one shoe can be two different shoes in 1.

People's Republic of Cashmere: I used to live in Denmark, which has some great more ethical brands, including PRC, who makes really great quality cashmere sweaters and tops (for women, men and kids). I've talked to the owner and she really ensures the Mongolian cashmere goats and herders are treated well and the environment is well protected (an important selling point to me in anything I buy).

3. The Yucatan

I recently went with my mom and we felt equally in awe at the beauty, architecture, and culture we similarly felt in India. Plus the incredible craftsmanship to be found throughout Mexico makes for great gifts!! The haciendas, with their handpainted walls, were stunning! There is so much history and beauty overlooked, just across the gulf!

4. Mariage Frères’ Earl Grey Imperial

I have been drinking Mariage Frères' Earl Grey Imperial for probably a decade every morning.

5. Cassandra Trenary

I discovered Cassandra Trenary's photography work last year and bought one of her photographs. She is a principal ballerina at the Vienna State Ballet (previously at ABT) and takes photographs backstage. I've always loved ballet, but she adds another layer of intimacy with the ballerinas, and at the same time a subtle mystery. She also grew up in Georgia, like me!

6. Choosing Keeping

Storing miscellaneous papers, mementos, etc. can get quite messy and ugly fast, so I love these Choosing Keeping keepsake boxes to keep me organized and making organization pretty.

Plug | Cherished

Checkout Elizabeth’s substack column —

Cherished

A guide to cherishing your clothes and being kinder to our planet

By Elizabeth Myers

Want to get in touch with Elizabeth? Email her at eamyers90@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — I’m all about the trend towards analog. We recently got a ‘tin can’ for our house. Its a essentially an house phone that you can program to only receive (or place) calls for specific numbers. Our kids have their cousins and grandparents. Apparently its big for parents with middle schoolers as a way to try to stem the tide of smart phones. I think its an awesome idea.

Certain smells trigger my nostalgia. New plastic triggers memories of being hooked up to a nebulizer machine as a child to help with my asthma. Mildew makes me think of the varsity locker room in the Dick Gym at Woodberry. A whiff of gin, projectile vomit in a fraternity basement.

The other weekend, while trying to calm a fussy baby during church I walked into our church library. Stacks and stacks of old books. Instant trigger to high school, where I logged thousands of hours in the basement of our school library.

The personal narrative I’ve embraced is that I’m not the smartest guy in the room but the one who is willing to outwork anyone in the room… hence, lots of library time. As a parent to three small kids, I’m dealing with the reality that the ‘grind’ isn’t an option anymore. I know that I’ve got to manage the balance. Its hard. Instinctively I know I will regret shifting the balance between present parent to far to hardworking professional.

Who else is team library?

Without further ado…

Why Jack?

Jack and I met in nerd camp, aka SMB Bootcamp in Tampa Florida in November 2024. We hit it off and stayed in touch having regular catch-ups. We both were navigating comfortable corporate jobs with an itch to do something more entrepreneurial. I’m really excited about what he’s building with ServiceWraps.

Jack’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Jack’s own words…

1. Ninja Luxe Café

We wanted an espresso machine but didn't want to watch 100 hours of YouTube
videos to learn how to make a great latte with it. The Ninja Luxe Café is
idiot-proof and makes espresso drinks, coffee, and cold brew. We use it
every day.

2. Waking Up

I've tried and failed to get into mindfulness meditation multiple times
over the past ten years, but the Waking Up app finally worked. It does a
great job of breaking down the theory of mindfulness vs. just focusing on
the breathing exercises, which really helped.

3. 30A

I don't think it qualifies as a hidden gem anymore, but a 30A vacation has
become my family's annual tradition and happy place. If you visit, I'd
recommend Seaside or Rosemary Beach, but you really can't go wrong.

4. Backgammon

Speaking of vacation, my wife and I rediscovered backgammon on our
anniversary trip last year and it's become one of our favorite shared
activities.

5. Invest Like the Best | Kevin Kelly

I listen to a lot of podcasts, but this episode has become my most
replayed. Kevin Kelly is basically the Rick Rubin for tech bros, but his
ideas about life, technology, and everything in between are profound. I
keep coming back to them.

6. The Daily Dad

I like almost all of Ryan Holiday's content, but I always recommend this book to new dads. The format is just a few paragraphs per day, so it's very approachable and but the lessons are timeless. It's a great perspective reset after the daily chaos of family life.

Plug | ServiceWraps

Helping businesses turn their fleets into moving billboards.

Want to get in touch with Jack? Email him: Jack.sartory@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — Slowly, my wife has been accumulating dishes from AE Ceramics. This is such a cool artist, based in Maine, who uses the sea for inspiration. Makes for a great gift too with Mother’s Day coming up.

This past weekend I took my four year old to see the Savannah Bananas in Chapel Hill, NC.

That may have been the most packed I’ve ever seen UNC’s Keenan stadium. Certainly the loudest its ever been.

I got to live vicariously through my son’s excitement. However, I’m a loser so my mind also wonders towards how impressive the business model (which is an injustice to skip over the creative vision behind the Bananas). Every ticket is either $40 or $60. Kid’s decked out in merch. Raffles to support Foster families. There is a two hour timer on the event. Non stop music and action.

It’s hard to tell if it’s baseball, a Disney play, or an SNL chippendales skit. It’s some combination of all three. I watched a shirtless guy in a cowboy hat hit a pitch from a guy on stilts and then an insanely athletic backwards flip catch. In between innings there was a dancing contest between three pregnant women. Wild ride.

Obviously the best part was the “Dad that was soooo awesome!”.

Without further ado…

Why Alla?

We are “substack” friends meeting through shared interests. Alla has an impressive background and I love that all of her recommendations were unique.

Alla’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Alla’s own words…

1. The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga

You are not afraid of failure, let’s admit it. But you are so much afraid
of being disliked. Because somewhere deep in your wiring, being rejected
once meant being removed from the pack. And being removed from the pack
used to mean, well… good luck surviving the night. It’s a cool instinct —
but guess what? You don’t really need it anymore. You’re not sleeping with
a naked butt under the bush or hunting mammoths.

These days, your fight is different. It’s negotiating decisions, building
companies, choosing relationships. And in all those things, you have the
right to be disliked. This book was one of those rare resets for me — a
reminder that a meaningful life is not built on universal approval.

2. Benchmade Full Immunity Knife (290BK)

This is, in my opinion, the best teeny-weeny but mighty knife for women. If
you don’t have sasquatch hands and don’t want your pocket or purse
announcing itself to the room, this thing just works. It sits perfectly in
your hand, doesn’t slip, clips easily to a belt, disappears into jeans, and
fits into even the tiniest bag like it was designed for it (because it kind
of was).

It’s been my quiet best friend on trips — cutting tags, fixing random
wardrobe chaos, slicing an apple. Small, sharp, reliable. A great everyday
tool and, if needed, a solid reminder that you’re not entirely defenseless
either.

3. Eterneva

Some time ago, I went through a loss bigger than life. I kept thinking...
how do I stay close to the one I love not just in memory, but in a way I
can feel and touch every day? Traditions exist, and they matter. But they
don’t have to be the only option.

I chose my own way. Eterneva turns ashes into diamonds, and for me it
became something simple and personal — presence I can carry everywhere I
go. If you ever face that kind of loss, know this: you’re allowed to choose
what feels right to you and to the one you loved.

4. Haku Mizunara Whisky Barrel Aged Shoyu

If you cook fish and still use regular soy sauce… we need to talk. This one
came into my life through omakase dinners, where I started noticing the
same flavor showing up again and again — on king salmon, on scallops, on
dishes that made you pause mid-bite. As a fan of omakase (and light
ingredient stalking), this is the one that kept repeating itself.

It’s aged in Japanese whisky barrels, which sounds dramatic — and it is —
but in a very precise, quiet way. A few drops, and suddenly your fish knows
what it’s doing. Works on red and white fish, anything that swims and ends
up on your plate. Prices can get… ambitious, depending on where you look,
but Fresh Market has been the most reasonable find so far. Small bottle,
big personality.

5. Measure Twice™ Tactical Bolt-Action Space Pen

I own this one, engraved, as a small present from myself to myself — and
I’ve since gifted it to all kinds of humans: Fortune 500 CEOs, founders,
investors, mentees & mentors. It works anywhere, at any time — upside down,
on the go, in moments when most pens just give up. It’s sleek, light,
reliable, and the ink seems to last forever.

I like the details — the bolt action, the ruler, the glass breaker — but
more than that, I like what it represents. It’s a quiet reminder you can
carry in your pocket: humans build things that go to space. You can
personalize it, keep it, gift it. Either way, it’s one of those small
things that's impossible not to enjoy.

6. Icebergs, Bondi Beach (Sydney)

When in Australia, go to Sydney. When in Sydney, go here. Bondi Icebergs is
one of those rare spots where wellness, calm, and a bit of edge all meet.
You’re swimming in a saltwater pool right by the ocean, with the best view
you’ll probably ever get — and yes, guaranteed no sharks in the pool, which
feels like an underrated feature.

When I lived in Sydney, I had breakfast there almost every other day. I’m a
picky eater with allergies, and they handled it effortlessly. The walk to
Icebergs is part of the ritual — easy, scenic, just enough movement before
you hit the pool or the gym. It’s simple: swim, eat, breathe, repeat.

Plug | Hobbies

I gave two TED talks on things we tend to overlook: hobbies and cities.

Hobbies — not as a break from life, but as something that shapes your career, relationships, and those unexpected turns you didn’t plan for.

Looking back, many of the biggest shifts in my life didn’t come from work. They came from what I chose to do outside of it.
Cities — not as places we simply live in, but as ecosystems that shape how we build, move, and grow. Or don’t.
Different scales, same idea: what we choose and how we design shapes who we become.

Want to get in touch with Alla? Linkedin & Her book

P.S. from Rambull — I don’t watch a lot of movies. However, I happened upon Train Dreams. It sounds a little ridiculous but this movie moved me emotionally. Felt like a reminder that life moves quick, to stay present and to appreciate time with family.

A must watch.

​​No one is ever going to call me trendy. Much to my wife’s dismay I think that Target’s Goodfellas is a great fashion-forward brand.

However, I would say that I was ahead of the curve when it comes to personal newsletters. My OG readers will remember “Cat’s Scoring Points,” my love note to the Carolina Panthers in the 2010’s. Thankfully, I decided after one too many poor seasons to transition to Rambull in 2021.

From time-to-time, friends come to me with advice about starting a newsletter.

This is my advice:

• Have a niche or a unique POV; and then try to be even more niche/specific

• Write 5 drafts of your newsletter

• Do not publish the first edition until you have 5 drafts

Similar to the temptation to buy a URL when you have a business idea (which I’m guilty of), force yourself to not worry about subscribers, open rates, or which newsletter platform to use.

Trying to get to 5 drafts will quickly let you know if you’ve got enough passion, content, and time to do it. Once you start, it is a treadmill.

…. just start writing.

Without further ado…

Why Elijah?

I first met Elijah in LA before we both took the very well traveled path of moving from LA to Greensboro. His legend grew through his meme account, @Shoppes_At_Friendly_Lover (a must for any Greensboro residents). I enjoy talking about his work as a producer on Pod Save America and I really want him to produce his own podcast one day….

Elijah’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Elijah’s own words…

1. Return to Applebees

Hear me out. The other day, an old friend asked me if I wanted to go out for drinks. We kicked around the normal spots in our rotation before we landed on a place we hadn't been to in a very long time: Applebees. We went and had an excellent time. Sat at the bar. No food. The drinks were cheap. Some were neon. We both agreed to wear khakis for some reason. It felt right.

Chain restaurant connoisseurs will hat tip Applebees for its niche. It's a place where you can *really drink* in a way that you can't at a Chili's or TGIFs, yet it doesn't market itself as a bar in the way of a Buffalo Wild Wings. If you're like me, you mostly go to breweries and the like. It's an essential and almost spiritual exercise to throw in the occasional Applebees. You just might find something that you didn't realized that you'd lost.

2. lululemon License to Train Hoodie

This hoodie is the inevitable conclusion of athleisure. It is outrageously lightweight and breathable. When you put it on, it feels like you're wearing the wind. I'm not totally sure what function the hood has (it definitely does not keep you warm), but I do find it comforting that it's there. This genre of clothing has become acceptable workwear for those who work in New Media and similar fields, especially if you take a lot of zoom calls. I wear it in this context more than working out. The price is an offensive $118. I really get a kick out of that. Who is balking at $119.99 or a nice round $120, but whipping out the credit card for $118? A ridiculous piece of clothing in every way. I love it.

3. Patagonia Provisions Tinned Fish

Tinned fish is a tiktok trend in its own right. My wife and I have been pairing it with another tiktok trend - Girl Dinner - except we do it as Girl Lunch. If you're unfamiliar, Girl Dinner is basically further deconstructed, wider ranging charcuterie. You eat a bunch of stuff out of the container. Tinned fish is a good protein to throw into the mix for this kind of meal. Apparently it's also very good for you. I couldn't tell you what an Omega 3 does, but I'm glad to be Omega 3 maxxing. Plus, you get the benefit of feeling like a Sophisticated Little Fancy Man when you eat tinned fish.

Real tinned fish enthusiasts will scoff at this particular brand. "Fish Wife or a Spanish brand is the way, you tourist," some of you are probably saying. And that's valid. I am buying fish from jacket company. But I'm early on my tinned fish journey, and this is just where I'm at right now. I'm excited for where the road will take me next.

4. The Pitt

I'm asking you and Rob to bear with me on this and my next recommendation of popular things. The Pitt, while popular with a swath of Americans, hasn't hit a critical mass yet.

Anyway -- Phone distraction has presented a big problem for television producers. Netflix has decided to tackle the deterioration of our attention spans by having characters in new shows routinely recap what is happening in the plot through dialogue. Gross.

HBO's The Pitt approaches this problem another way. Each season takes place entirely in an emergency room over the course of a day. There are no b-plots in weird locations that you struggle to remember. There's no confusion of what a character you haven't seen in a while is doing (they're treating someone). The show indulges in a lot of blood and guts, but it also has a lot of heart. It manages to hit some strong emotional beats and deeply human vignettes while maintaining a frenetic pace. It trusts its audience to have seen enough procedurals to be able to keep up.

5. The Bill Simmons Show (mostly the NBA stuff)

Again, I'm asking you and Rob to bear with me through this recommendation of a popular thing. I want to approach this one as a producer.

There are only so many formats for talking into a microphone. Here are a few big ones that roughly encapsulate the professional podcast landscape today:

• The Group With Great Chemistry. I've seen past Rambull guest writers reference the All In podcast. That is an example of this format. Pod Save America, the show I work on, is another.

• The Solo Act. This is a staple of sports and conservative talk radio. Think Colin Cowherd or Megyn Kelly. These shows generate some good social clips. I generally think they're hard listens.

• The Interviewer. Self explanatory. The base format for Rogan, Amy Poehler, Call Her Daddy, Diary of a CEO, etc.

I just did my annual switch from Pardon My Take (group with great chemistry) to Simmons after the NFL season, and I've been appreciating how well he blends elements of these different formats. He's rotates through a familiar crew of his company's talent and his friends in the industry. It allows him to have great chemistry with his guests/cohosts without the lineup getting stale. He can still get his takes off as a solo artist. And he can pseudo interview these expert guests/cohosts in a way that doesn't break the conversational feel. It has challenged some of my assumptions about how you can format a show.

I've talked with Rob and others in our Mid Sized Post Industrial City about the challenges of making a successful local show. How you format that show is a hurdle. I think the Simmons model is good north star.

6. EVs as a Time Hack

I love bunnies and rainbows and want to save the world as much as anyone, but when I bought an EV in 2023, it was for economic reasons. I don't commute and they had a since-repealed generous tax credit to buy domestically made ones (rip). You've no doubt heard the arguments for and against EVs at this point. Here's a case that no one made to me that I've discovered since getting one:

Going to gas stations is a huge waste of time. I took for granted that I had been going to them for my entire life - first with my parents, then as an adult. Eliminating a biweekly task that sat in the back of my head every time the tank hit half has been incredible. On top of that, you don't realize how ridiculous of an exercise standing next to your car and waiting for it to fill up is until you stop doing it. Some may argue, "Oh well it takes time to charge the car," and I can confidently say that argument is cope. Imagine if you had to go to a special depot to charge your phone. That's the gas station. So, if you're someone who likes to optimize their time and the mileage tradeoffs make sense for you, go for it.

Want to get in touch with Elijah? dm me on twitter @elijahcone

P.S. from Rambull — A major disclaimer for this recommendation is that I have inherent bias as Primo is a client. However, my litmus test is that my wife genuinely loves our dispenser. For me to get away with putting a big top loader in our kitchen and not have her balk, is all you need to know. Our dispenser has both hot and cold along with the dog bowl attachement….this is definitely one of those things that once you get the filtered water with minerals you wont easily go back to faucet.

My Super Bowl is March 29th every year. It’s the day I’ve got to bring my a-game. Leave it all out on the field.

Elizabeth’s birthday.

I’ve learned from a lot of trial and error on her birthday (and Mother’s Day) about what she really wants:

1. A non-practical gift…ideally very shiny that can be worn on her person

2. Quality time with our family

She deserves these and she deserves to be celebrated every day. Elizabeth goes above and beyond for our family and the Fair Play cards are stacked her way (fellas, if the book or cards show up at your house…run).

I’ve been thoroughly coached on these two suggestions that I’m passing along:

First - figure out who her favorite florist is and order them 3+ days before her birthday so she can “enjoy them all week”

Second - get the balloons, cake, party hats so that the kids enjoy it and learn that we make a big deal out of mom’s birthday.

Here Elizabeth’s ideal birthday line-up…

• Biscuitville delivery and Starbucks oatmilk latte

• Programs in bed (Age of Attraction is her latest binge and she is Team Pfeifer & Derrick)

• Family walk to the park and church

• Buffalo chicken sandwich from a dive bar where your feet stick to the floor

• 2-hour walk and tea sesh with her sister-in-law Liddy

• March Madness: https://diddukewin.com/

• Dinner at her parents house complete with a cold IPA

• Most importantly, a clean house and… a gift that is closer four digits than two

Hard to argue with that line-up.

Without further ado…

Why Scotty?

We met as awkward middle schoolers on a 3 week backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest (Moondance for those that have been on trips). We initially stayed in touch through our love for our football teams - the Panthers and the Falcons. Later we connected again through work that took us to LA and experiences in grad school; now Rambull.

Scotty’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Scotty’s own words…

1. Smuckers Peanut Butter & Siggi’s Plat Based Yogurt

My favorite snack is a spoonful (or 10) of organic creamy peanut butter from Smuckers and either peach or strawberry Siggi's plant-based yogurt. Lil sweet, lil savory ... it's a perfect combo.

2. Casio Watch

I copped this yellow G-Shock in NYC last summer and love the chunky / engineered design. Casio offers so many great designs at an affordable price.

3. Loop Ear Plugs

I've been wearing these ear plugs often recently, and I feel the difference. An easy habit that'll surely benefit my future self.

4. Represent Hoodie

High quality materials, not too baggy or long. A great fit.

5. Ulysses Grant

I'm rereading Ron Chernow's biography on Ulysses Grant, and it's just such a wonderful tale.

After serving bravely during the Mexican War, Grant resigned from the army due to a drinking problem and then proceeded to fail in business throughout his 30s.

After a failed farming venture:

"This capped a four-year period of failure so excruciating that Grant skipped over it altogether in his memoirs. He now paced the St. Louis streets, searching for work, obscure and invisible to the many people he passed, a bleak, defeated little man with a mysterious aura of solitude. "He walked about like any citizen", said one woman, "but people made way for him, and he walked through the crowd as though solitary."

Within 5 years, Grant rose to become the commanding General of the Union Army during the Civil War ... and eventually, a two-term President!

An insane story, and a testament to never giving up.

6. Sunset Tower Hotel

Art deco architecture with an old Hollywood vibe and a killer bar. Pro tip: order Sugarfish to-go and enjoy it with the in-room pre-made cocktails. No photos allowed!

Want to get in touch with Scotty? scott.jospin@gmail.com or @sjospin100 on X

P.S. from Rambull — A favorite brand and gift for my wife is KREWE sunglasses. My advice, if you go this route, is spoil the surprise and ask for help on which style. They are having a sale right now and fellas, check off the Mother’s Day gift box early …

Also, huge shoutout to Bess Dubose who is my gift whisperer!

My wife and I got set up on a blind date (thank you Margaret Williams!). One of my close friends from college, John Gerhardt went to the same high school as my wife. Naturally, I went to him for background before the blind date.

The only diligence John shared was:

“She has cool brothers.”

Thanks, John. Very insightful.

However, many years later I can confirm that is the case. Top to bottom, my wife’s family has the same values, the same sense of humor, and somehow continues to tolerate me even though I’d rather read a book than go duck hunting. But this week, I want to specifically brag on my brother-in-laws Will and Grainger, because they did something I think is going to matter for Greensboro for a very long time.

They were part of the crew that launched the Pyrle Theater.

Will is one of several partners who bought an old community theater downtown and upfitted it into a several-hundred-person music venue. They paid attention to all the details.

Grainger built the bars. The center bar is, in my opinion, the jewel of the jewel. It looks like it belongs in a fancy coffee table book and also like it belongs in Greensboro, which is genuinely a hard combination to pull off.

When the Pyrle first opened, I went four times in four days. I live 25 minutes away on foot, which I suspect is going to be one of the best and most expensive facts about my life going forward.

The Pyrle is quickly becoming a halo for our downtown. I know many in town are appreciative of the vision and proud of the work, none more-so than I am.

Without further ado…

Why Curtis?

He was recommended by Maddie Izard given the mutual Charlotte connection between the three of us. Maddie and Curtis are a part of the team building Lua, which is relevant for anyone trying to stay relevant in the AI agent space. Curtis previously founded UpRight Growth and is on a roll.

Curtis’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Curtis’s own words…

1. Theo of Golden

I’m not crying - you’re crying! Easily the best new novel I’ve read this decade. The best character development in any book I’ve read since the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and with far fewer pages. You’ll leave the book feeling you know not only a cast of great characters but also feeling like you have a second home in the fictional Golden, Georgia.

2. Shokz OpenRun

Everyone’s starting to buy these, but when I first demo’d these a couple of years ago, it felt like the future had arrived! The best consumer hardware experience I’ve ever had. Makes my walks, runs & rides a great time to chat with friends, catch up on content or even brainstorm with ChatGPT.

3. A Microplane Zester

Do yourself a favor & buy a zester. Almost literally every meal tastes better with lemon zest in it. Lime & orange zest may surprise you as well.

4. Roger Day Kid’s Songs

His kid’s music is delightful. ‘I Like Yaks’ is a surefire way to stop crying on any roadtrip without driving yourself crazy. He plays concerts in the Southeast frequently including a number of free concerts at libraries & community centers in the Charlotte metro.

5. Florianopolis, Brazil

Florianopolis, Brazil may be the greatest place on earth. It’s an island with amazing hikes, surfing, sand boarding, sky diving, incredible sushi (best salmon rolls I’ve ever had - they put truffle on it by default there). It’s a bit like the Big Island of Hawaii geographically but much smaller & more accessible but with lower prices and a healthy dose of Brazilian culture. If you’re going, reach out for recommendations!

6. Aventon e-bikes

Such a fun way to get around, and with the short cargo rack, you can carry groceries or haul a mini trailer.

Plug | Lua

Check out Lua & try building an AI agent that makes your business or your life more efficient!

If you love it, let me know! If you don't, also let me know - feedback is gold.

Want to get in touch with Curtis? Curt@heylua.ai or curtisjcorrell@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — My wife’s store recently stocked up on these Weezie cover-ups. My fellas are going to be the envy of the pool scene this summer. Lindsey, Weezie’s co-founder is a friend of the program and did a profile way back. I’m really impressed by what she has built.

I’m back! I took a month-long break to focus on getting up to speed with my business, Sales Factory.

My biggest learning is that everyone who said don’t make any major changes for the first 90+ days is right. However, that’s incredibly hard to do and goes against my personality. The ownership change is hard enough for the team to process, introducing new concepts, workflows, and other pieces can compound unease. I think change is healthy but I need to remind myself to steer like it’s a cruise ship and not a jet ski.

My wife saw my desire to get in the weeds coming from a mile away. I’m fortunate to have in-house experts in consumer research, creative and marketing. I need to set the brief, the strategy and let the experts do their thing. I’ve been writing a newsletter for almost 5 years, I don’t think its a surprise to readers that I can’t help but want to get in the trenches with the copywriters.

Lastly, I would say I remain convicted about our niche of leveraging consumer insights and research to service brands selling to the trades at retail and online. I’m encouraged that we are also finding luck in convincing consumer brands that there is immense value in developing products and ad campaigns that target trades pros. One of our unique differentiators is we know the next generation of trades pros, their values, motivations, and shopping habits better than any other agency.

Oh, and last but not least for my AI doomers, I’m really bullish that marketers like Sales Factory can provider our partners a huge service by helping them market to ChatGPT/Claude/Gemini. If I type in “whats the best substack for human curated recommendations” into Claude, I want “rambull” to show up.

Without further ado…

Why Natalie?

Natalie and I went to college together. She was one of the first people I met as we were both at the same summer orientation. We reconnected when I saw she had started a substack, featuring her unique style. Natalie has had an impressive career in New York in marketing and doing great work at Harrys’s.

Natalie’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Natalie’s own words…

1. Deux Chocolate Glaze Donuts

I am obsessed with these. They are vegan, gluten-free, and somehow enriched with B12 and L-theanine for energy and metabolism? But more importantly, they are delicious. If you live in NYC, you can buy them at Happier Grocery. I also think they sell them at Whole Foods!

2. The Wonder Weeks App

The Wonder Weeks is an app designed to help parents track their baby’s mental development leaps and fussy phases through the first 20 months. I swear by this app. It helped me understand so many developmental phases (read: fussy stretches) during the first year of my daughter’s life. I use it less now that she’s officially a toddler, but every now and then, when she’s in a particularly difficult stretch, I’ll check back in and find exactly what I need to understand what she’s going through. The community comments have been particularly huge for me!

3. Half Moon Hustle Substack

Half Moon Hustle is a Substack by Tamara Hinckley about motherhood, ambition, and living with intention through the lens of her career in finance and tech. This is a must-read for mothers with young children, particularly working mothers. I find her writing spot-on about the challenges of balancing motherhood while working full time. She shares tremendously helpful insights and tips. She’s also an executive coach who I just started working with. I can’t recommend her enough!

Half Moon Hustle

A newsletter about motherhood, ambition, and living with intention, through the lens of my career in finance and tech.

By Tamara Hinckley

4. Comme Si Cotton Poplin Shirts

I love anything by the brand Comme Si, but their Cotton Poplin Shirts are by far my favorite. I was actually given the pink one as a gift and have since purchased the light blue one. These shirts are extremely flattering, perfectly oversized, and actually comfortable. I work in a casual but corporate environment, so I love wearing these with jeans or a simple black pant to feel a little more professional when I head into the office.

5. Sentimental Value

My husband and I like to work our way through all the Oscar-nominated movies before the awards show. This is one we just finished and loved. It takes place in Norway and tells the story of two sisters who reunite with their once-famous director father. It’s a really incredible story and beautifully shot. Stellan Skarsgård is one of the more captivating actors to me—and Elle Fanning is also great!

6. Harry’s Redacted Body Wash

Not me making a shameless plug here for my day job, but Harry’s new Redacted Body Wash is truly too good. It smells exactly like Le Labo Santal 33...for a reason ;) It’s a limited edition launch from our new body wash drop program, Scent Labs. We even tapped Anna Delvey to be the face of the launch...yes...Anna Delvey. Just like Le Labo, it’s unisex, so I highly recommend it for everyone—I’ve been using it daily.

Plug | Table Art

My Substack Table Art which is a weekly Tuesday newsletter on design!

Table Art

A Tuesday newsletter on modern table setting, vintage home finds, and other design-related things...

By Natalie

Want to get in touch with Natalie? My email: nataliepace18@gmail.com

P.S. from Rambull — I finally read Red Rising after seeing the fantasy series recommended on Rambull by multiple people. I’ve shared that 90% of what I read is non-fiction, so this was a big step for me. My takeaway was that I really enjoyed the creativity and storytelling. I’d dumb it down by calling it a futuristic take on the Hunger Games. Apparently, the next book in the series, Golden Son is the best. However, true to form I couldn’t go back to back and now I’m deep into MLK’s biography after hearing a rave review from my buddy Cole Helvey.

I searched for two years to buy a business.

I looked at hundreds of them.

A few weeks ago, I made the biggest calculated bet of my life.

I bought Sales Factory, a marketing agency based in Greensboro.

The company has a 40 year legacy serving clients from Texas Pete to Henkel to WD-40. I am excited for several reasons:

• Incredibly talented team

• Ability to leverage the authenticity of human created/curated content with the efficiency of AI for operations

• World-class client partners

Arguably the most important, is the integrity of Ged King, the former owner and my new business partner.

This is a long term investment and my vision is to recruit and retain top talent to The Triad. We’re already growing our digital team - can I make my first hire via Rambull?

If you are interested in ‘entrepreneurship through acquisition’ and my journey, I’d be happy to connect. I also put together several pages of my learnings from the search process. You can find those learnings here.

Without further ado…

Why Ged?

Outside of my wife and kids, I’ve spent more time with Ged over the past 6 months than anyone. Ged is a top-tier human, who loves the NC State Wolfpack and is passionate about teaching others. I’m excited to continue to learn from him and to carry on the legacy of the business his father started in the ‘80s.

Connect with Ged on Linkedin

Ged’s 6 Recommendations

Written in his own words…

1. Handcrafted Sandlot Goods Wallet

Tired of wallets that fall apart? Sandlot Goods offers durable, hand-sewn, American-made leather wallets from Kansas City that have real character. I have the very small Monarch, which easily holds eight cards, but lately, I've been using the minimalist card sleeve that holds three or four. In short, it's high-end craftsmanship at an incredible price. Thanks for the recommendation, Chris!

2. The Anker Nano 45W

The Anker Nano 45W is a tiny charger that delivers 45 watts to quickly charge your devices. For instance, it can charge your phone super fast and even your laptop. The latest version has an animated character and real-time power stats in case you want to show off. I have the old version without the screen because even my spendy self doesn’t see a need for that. And beyond fast charging, it has a three-stage system that keeps your gear powered up without hurting your battery. Thanks, Macrummors.

3. The CHANNELLOCK® 6-in-1 Screwdriver

If you’re looking for a tool that means business and clears out the clutter in your bag, the CHANNELLOCK® 6-in-1 Professional Screwdriver is a winner. This thing is 100% American-made and built like a tank. It has high-alloy steel bits and a nickel chrome finish that won’t corrode. I didn’t understand why it has a three-sided handle. Turns out it won't roll away when you set it down. Thanks, Ryan!

4. The Cooker King Frying Pan

No, I didn’t buy it because this pan shares our last name. Nope. But I read a great review that convinced me to give it a try. I originally started looking because my son started making eggs for breakfast, and I found that my expensive pans led to broken yolks and hard-to-clean messes. This pan has absolutely delivered. It heats up in a heartbeat, and cleans up so easily you’ll wonder why you ever struggled with anything else in the morning. And no bad or harmful chemicals. Thanks to the person who wrote a great review on Amazon.

5. The Mustard Standard: Koops’

Look, being a mustard snob is in my DNA thanks to my New York parents. Needless to say, I was skeptical when I first saw Koops at the store. But man, was I wrong! This stuff is the real deal, sticking to simple, real ingredients, without any weird chemical fillers. They’ve been at it for over 120 years for a good reason. Honey mustard is our favorite, but try a few and find the best for you. Thanks, Claude!

6. The Wolfpack Spirit

NC State isn’t just a name on a diploma. Or even a sports team. It’s a big-time common thread that weaves through my entire family and keeps us connected. From my brother and sister to my children and brothers-in-law, it’s honestly hard to find a corner of our lives that hasn’t been shaped by the University. The State is not just where I got my start; it is a hub for our family and friends. Thanks, Coach V and Go Pack!

Plug | Sales Factory

Sales Factory! Connecting your brand to hardworking hands.

Want to get in touch with Ged? Email me at Ged.King@salesfactory.com

P.S. from Rambull — We leave next week for our 2nd Disney Cruise. I’ve drank the kool-aid on the cruise, and I’m just as excited as my boys to go. Between the cruise and running full speed on the business, I’m taking a brief pause. Plan to see the next edition of Rambull in a few weeks.

A quick favor…

I’m so excited about growing Sales Factory. We partner with brands and leaders who:

• Create in the Tool, Workwear, Building Supplies, and QSR brand categories

• Value research and data to underpin their marketing strategy

If you can make a connection on my behalf, please email me at rob.belk@salesfactory.com - thank you!

Our dream client is Makita.

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I miss the days where I never had to stretch.

Nowadays my hamstrings are tighter than a harp. My back hurts from sitting in an office chair all day.

I recently added this 5 minute stretch routine to my morning routine. It is a great way to start my day. Similar to making your bed, it provides a small, immediate sense of accomplishment - important for someone like me who needs to be checking off a to-do list.

I found this while scrolling substack. If you need to ween yourself of the social media apps I find substack’s “notes” to be the ideal ‘doom scroll’ alternative to Instagram.

Without further ado…

Why Richard?

Richard was my high school roommate for 3 years. Richard, or ‘Roosh’, is someone I admire for his intellect, values, and stoicism. He has talked me off multiple ledges and a friend I rely on to tell me like it is. Lastly, great head of hair - very jealous.

Richard’s 6 Recommendations

Written in Richard’s own words…

1. DoohicKey Keychain Multi Tool

One of the best purchases I’ve made under $10. Great little tool to throw on your keychain and bust out when you need it. Is it the ideal tool for any of the functions listed (screwdriver, cutter, pry tool, wrench)? Absolutely not. But will it help out in a pinch? 100%.

Shearling Babas by Sabah

My wife got me these as a Christmas gift. They are like if an Adidas slide and a bedroom slipper had a very bougie baby. The price makes them a bit of a splurge, but they are totally worth it.

2. The Brick

I've tried a bunch of different things to get my screen time under control over the last few years. The Brick is my latest attempt. Its a magnetic plastic square that pairs with an app on your phone. I keep it on my fridge. I have to actually walk into my kitchen and tap my phone on this thing to "un-brick" my social media apps plus a few other time wasters. It's been 29 days since I checked a social media feed. So far so good!

3. Airpods

Listen, I know this a really dumb recommendation because everyone reading this probably has a pair already. But I was anti-airpods for an absurdly long time. I finally got a pair of Airpods Pro 2 a year ago and have seen the light.

This is for "The One Person On This Email List Who Doesn't Already Have Airpods": Just buy them already. They won't fall out of your ears and they actually are better than every other pair of headphones.

Try the noise cancellation on a plane if you get the chance. Its amazing.

4. Talking to my computer like I’m Tony Stark

Talking to my computer like Tony Stark talks to Jarvis

I'm outing myself as a giant dork here but whatever.

I spend more time talking out loud to my computer than I do to people these days.

I use an app called Monologue to transcribe my voice. I can talk way faster than I can type. And it has a bunch of useful AI features to improve the writing and formatting of its output (it will output bullet points when appropriate for example).

It's perfect for using AI tools like ChatGPT because you can share a lot more context for your specific situation than you would when typing it all out. You can also FLY through email responses.

Bonus points: it just makes using a computer more fun. I spend like half of my waking hours working on a computer. Anything that can make it more fun is worth it.

5. High Horse

I like making cocktails. This is my personal favorite cocktail. It's delicious (it's basically a fancy margarita) and uses ingredients that don't require any prep. I make a batch in a large mason jar and keep in the freezer for quick serving. Since the batch is mostly alcohol, it will last forever in the freezer.

You must use good grenadine (grenadine = pomegranate syrup. It should be the color of POM juice, not red dye #40). Leave out the mezcal floater if that's not your cup of tea.

Single serving:
1oz reposado tequila
1oz aperol
1oz lime juice
1/2oz grenadine
1/2oz mezcal

Shake first four ingredients over ice. Float mezcal on top by pouring gently over the back of a barspoon.

Batch:
8oz reposado tequila
8oz aperol
4oz mezcal
4oz grenadine

Shake 3oz of batch with 1oz of fresh lime juice.

6. Nex Playground

We got this for our kids for Christmas. My 6yo is obsessed with it, and tbh I kind of am too. It's a game console where your body is the controller. The games are simple and quick and easy for kids to play too (think games like Fruit Ninja).

Is it more screen time? Yes. But I'd much rather they play this thing than watch Zootopia for the 900th time or some horrible kids Youtube channel.

Plug | Internet Nerd

Scammers and counterfeiters are a huge problem for DTC/ecommerce brands. I am constantly combatting them at Onward. I've built some tools that I use internally to detect copycats quickly and get them off the internet.

If you are a DTC/ecom founder, I can help you:

1. Scan the web to identify the copycats

2. Fight back to protect your brand and your customers

Email me at rseabrook1@gmail.com if interested

Top Links from January

1. I don’t know what day it is

2. Everything But The House

3. Color Note Pads

4. Buddy Greene Classical Harmonica

P.S. from Rambull — As mentioned, I do spend most of my work day in a desk chair. So do professional gamers. When I was at Call of Duty, my friend at Herman Miller hooked me up with this chair designed for the pros. Using the same chair as a professional COD player, is like using CHANNELLOCK hand tools as a DIYer….also Herman Miller is the ultimate ‘white glove’ partner. They have someone come out and build the chair out of the box for you.