Best T Rec Podcast Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 55: Lit Chats: Looking Back On Our First Year 49:40

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6h ago49:40

49:40

Send us a text Celebrate the first anniversary of Lit Vibes Only with Amanda and Kelsey as they reflect on their wild year of podcasting, their evolving reading tastes, and their hilarious banter. From heated book debates to unexpected favorites, take a trip down memory lane filled with laughter, insights, and the occasional Kelsey-ism! 00:00 Welco…

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Ep. 54: Lit It or Quit It: Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir 1:07:35

10h ago1:07:35

1:07:35

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they navigate the gothic space adventure of 'Gideon the Ninth,' with its irreverent humor, complicated necromancy, and an overabundance of descriptive gloom. They explore the tumultuous romance and intricate puzzles that have divided fans and left them both entertained and perplexed. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vib…

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Carolyn Talks 'Marriaginalia' with Filmmaker Hannah Cheeseman 35:23

4d ago35:23

35:23

Award-winning filmmaker and actress Hannah Cheeseman joined me for #CarolynTalks to discuss MARRIAGINALIA about the words unsaid in a marriage where the words left unsaid linger in the space of their comfort with each others. #Marriaginalia stars Kayla Lorette and Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll #ShortFilm #FilmCritic #Interview #IndependentFilm #Podcast V…

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Ep. 53: Lit Recs: The Year in Review 43:24

4d ago43:24

43:24

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they celebrate Lit Vibes Only’s one year anniversary, sharing their favorite Lit Recs books from the past year and discussing their plans to bring even more diverse voices to the spotlight moving forward! 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:23 Follow Us on Social Media 03:46 Current Reads and Book Chat 08:24…

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Carolyn Talks 'Chín (Ripe)' with Filmmaker Solara Thanh Bình Đặng 1:02:03

9d ago1:02:03

1:02:03

Writer, director, and executive producer Solara Thanh Bình Đặng, joined me to discuss Chín, her gothic fairytale short about a young Vietnamese woman whose life on her father's durian farm on the Mekong Delta, is about to change when she meets people significant to her life in her dreams and reality. #CarolynTalks #Interview #FilmCritic #Vietnamese…

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Ep. 52: Lit It or Quit It: Legendborn by Tracy Deonn 1:19:20

8d ago1:19:20

1:19:20

Send us a text Ep. 52: Lit It or Quit It: Legendborn by Tracy Deonn Kelsey and Amanda celebrate their one-year podcast anniversary by dissecting Tracy Deonn's 'Legendborn,' navigating through its Arthurian legends, magical mayhem, and teenage angst. Tune in as they debate love triangles, unpack scathing reviews, and ponder what life might be like w…

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Ep. 51: Lit Chats: Let’s Talk About Book Bans 54:05

27d ago54:05

54:05

Send us a text Amanda and Kelsey celebrate their podcast's one-year anniversary by discussing the history and ongoing issues of book banning, sharing personal reads that have faced censorship. They also provide information on how to combat book bans and highlight the importance of supporting challenged books and authors. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes …

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Fantasia IFF 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'Foreigner' with Filmmaker Ava Maria Safai 49:36

22d ago49:36

49:36

Writer, director, and producer Ava Maria Safai joined me at @FantasiaFest 2025, to discuss her debut feature length horror FOREIGNER about the trauma of cultural erasure and assimilation experienced by Yasi (Rose Deghan), a young girl attempting to fit into her new Canadian school after immigrating with her family from Iran. #CarolynTalks #Fantasia…

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Carolyn Talks 'Sudan, Remember Us' with Filmmaker Hind Meddeb 34:58

22d ago34:58

34:58

In this episode of #CarolynTalks award-winning documentarian Hind Meddeb discusses her 2025 documentary SUDAN, REMEMBER US, in which she documents Sudanese youth during the 2019 and 2020 revolution using poetry, music, art, and writing as tools of resistance against the ongoing genocide, colonialism, and oppression perpetrated by the imperial force…

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Ep. 50: Lit It Or Quit It: The Wedding People by Allison Espach 1:13:56

23d ago1:13:56

1:13:56

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they unpack 'The Wedding People,' exploring themes of depression, unexpected friendships, and hilariously messy weddings. Get ready for a heartfelt critique filled with sharp insights and unexpected laughs on the journey of rediscovering life. 00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning 00:08 Welcome to Lit Vibes…

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Ep. 49: Lit Recs: Multiracial/Multicultural Heritage Month 43:09

1M ago43:09

43:09

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they celebrate multiracial and multicultural heritage with book recommendations spanning historical fiction, memoirs, and children's literature. Expect witty banter, heartfelt reflections, and a delightful dive into stories that champion diverse identities. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only 00:34 Social Media …

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Carolyn Talks 'The Way We Talk 看我今天怎麼說' with Filmmaker Adam Wong 1:24:55

1M ago1:24:55

1:24:55

Award-winning Hong Kong filmmaker Adam Wong 黃修平 spoke with me for #CarolynTalks about his new dramatic feature, THE WAY WE TALK 看我今天怎麼說,, about a trio of deaf young adults, Sophie, Wolf, and Alan learning to navigate a world where they face discrimination, roadblocks, and disapproval in their personal and professional lives. #TheWayWeTalk #看我今天怎麼說 …

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Toronto JFF 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'Seppuku: The Sun Goes Down 切腹：日が沈む' with Lead Cast Masayuki Deai, Takeshima Yuka, and Sasada Yuka 1:05:13

2M ago1:05:13

1:05:13

For the North American premiere of their dramatic period film SEPPUKU: THE SUN GOES DOWN 切腹：日が沈む, actors Masayuki Deai, Takeshima Yuka, and Sasada Yuka spoke with me about portraying a samurai experiencing fear at the prospect of dying, a wife tasked with supporting her family through her grief and her close relationship with her maid. #CarolynTalk…

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Toronto JFF 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'River Returns 光る川' with Filmmaker Masakazu Kaneko 36:18

1M ago36:18

36:18

For the Canadian premiere of his period drama RIVER RETURNS 光る川 filmmaker Masakazu Kaneko 金子雅和 spoke with me about working with his young lead actors Asuka Hanamura, Yo Aoi, Sanetoshi Ariyama, and using the traditional Japanese visual storytelling artform of Kamishibai to tell a time traveling folktale of honoring traditions and nature rather than …

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Ep. 48: Lit It or Quit It: Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli 59:29

1M ago59:29

59:29

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dissect 'Heartless Hunter,' diving into the novel’s menstrual-blood-based magic and its über-predictable plot. Join them for a laugh-out-loud critique that pokes fun at trope overload while celebrating the quirkiest aspects of this romantic fantasy. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:47 Follow Us on So…

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Ep. 47: Lit Chats: Books That Changed Us 51:03

2M ago51:03

51:03

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they explore the books that have had the most significant impact on their lives. Expect emotional recollections, bookish banter, and a humorous take on the tales that transformed them. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:28 Join Us on Social Media 02:17 BookTok Tea w/ Kelsey 13:52 Why We Chose Our Books 16:3…

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Ep. 46: Lit It or Quit It: Red Rising by Pierce Brown 1:18:44

2M ago1:18:44

1:18:44

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dissect Pierce Brown's 'Red Rising,' with Kelsey expressing her skepticism and critique while Amanda passionately defends the dystopian adventure. With a mix of humorous tangents and spirited debate, they navigate the complexities of class hierarchy, rebellion, and what makes a book truly unforgettable.…

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Carolyn Talks '40 Acres' with Producer Jennifer Holness and Actress Jaeda LeBlanc 1:08:37

2M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

Following the theatrical release of their film #40Acres, producer Jennifer Holness and actress Jaeda LeBlanc joined me to talk about developing the films characters with director R. T. Thorne, and it's not so far fetched dystopian and postapocalyptic themes, and how their feelings about the Canadian film industry and the world has changed since wor…

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Toronto JFF 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'She Taught Me Serendipity' with Director Akiko Ohku 35:34

2M ago35:34

35:34

For the North American premiere of her earnest romantic comedy SHE TAUGHT ME SERENDIPITY, director Akiko Ohku joined me to discuss working with actor Riku Hagiwara to find the balance in his character's Konishi's introverted nature with his blossoming love and appreciation for the small moments in life, and being inspired by the film's themes of sp…

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Ep. 45: Lit Recs: Disability Pride Month 40:37

2M ago40:37

40:37

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they dive into Disability Pride Month, serving up book recommendations that celebrate both protagonists and authors with disabilities. From sci-fi adventures to heartfelt romances, they explore diverse stories that deserve a spot on your reading list. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:41 Follow Us on Socia…

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Inside the Grass League: The Wild World of High-Stakes Par 3 Golf | Todd Dobson Interview 12:24

2M ago12:24

12:24

Doug and Will go Beyond the Fairway with Todd Dobson, co-founder of The Grass League — the first-ever high-stakes par 3 golf league changing the game of competitive golf. From wild money games and electric atmospheres to how this underground scene is creating a new lane for golfers, Todd breaks down: - What makes The Grass League different - How it…

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Ep. 44: Lit It or Quit It: Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez 1:06:58

3M ago1:06:58

1:06:58

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dive into Abby Jimenez's 'Say You'll Remember Me' — a romance with more trauma than a soap opera and more laughs than a stand-up show. Get ready for grumpy vets, missing cat buttholes, and some very spicy Rhysand references! 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:28 Follow Us on Social Media 02:34 Current …

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Carolyn Talks 'Boxcutter' with Director Reza Dahya and Lead Cast Ashton James and Zoe Lewis 1:04:51

2M ago1:04:51

1:04:51

Toronto Director Reza Dahya and lease cast Ashton James and Zoe Lewis joined me for #CarolynTalks to chat about their film BOXCUTTER, which follows aspiring musician Rome, and artist Janaya from the west site of the bustling city to its heart at Yong & Dundas as they confront what it means to be an artist in today's social media driven society how …

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Ep. 43: Lit It or Quit It: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas 1:18:05

3M ago1:18:05

1:18:05

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda on as they dissect 'A Court of Wings and Ruin,' reveling in its fantasy chaos, heated drama, and the endless parade of devastatingly attractive characters. With equal parts laughter and critique, they explore the series' surprises, character arcs, and the ultimate fate of faeries and their mates. 00:00 Welcome …

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Toronto JFF 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'Cells at Work!' with Director Takeuchi Hideki and Producer Takeguchi Ikumi 29:25

3M ago29:25

29:25

CELLS AT WORK! はたらく細胞 Director Takeuchi Hideki and producer Takeguchi Ikumi of WB Japan, sat with me for the 2025 Toronto Japanese Film Festival premiere of the first live-action feature film adaptation of the famous manga and anime series created by Shimizu Akane. #HatarakuSaibo #Manga #Anime #CarolynTalks #Interview #FilmCritic #JapaneseFilm #Cel…

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Ep. 42: Lit Chats: Bookish Would You Rather? 44:05

3M ago44:05

44:05

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey of Lit Vibes Only as they dive into a fun 'Would You Rather' game with bookish twists. From debating whether to live in a fictional world or date a fictional character to considering whether to read only 500-page books, this episode is filled with laughter, candid confessions, and a whole lot of book love. Tune…

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Ep. 41: Lit It or Quit It: The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon 1:21:39

3M ago1:21:39

1:21:39

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they explore 'The Frozen River' by Ariel Lawhon, discussing the intriguing blend of historical fiction, mystery, and midwifery. They navigate its complex characters and plot, tackle criticisms, and ponder the accuracy of historical depictions, offering a nuanced take on this richly detailed novel. 00:00 Cont…

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Ep. 40: Lit Recs: Pride Month 46:08

4M ago46:08

46:08

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they explore the vibrant world of LGBTQ+ literature, featuring discussions on books such as 'Gideon the Ninth' and 'Charm Offensive'. Dive into insightful conversations about representation, mental health, and the power of diverse storytelling in this special Pride Month episode! 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes O…

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Ep. 39: Lit It or Quit It: Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins 1:05:38

4M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dive into the gut-wrenching and gruesome details of Hamish Abernathy's backstory in 'Sunrise on the Reaping'. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of dark humor, song critique, and heartfelt commentary on why this prequel is both a devastating and nostalgic ride for Hunger Games fans. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vib…

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Carolyn Talks 'Village Keeper' with Filmmaker Karen Chapman and Producer Enrique Baniqued 37:38

4M ago37:38

37:38

Award-winning Filmmaker Karen Chapman and first-time producer Enrique Miguel Baniqued of VILLAGE KEEPER joined me to discuss the creative, logistical, and chaotic process of producing an independent film in Toronto. #VillageKeeperFilm #CarolynTalks #Interview #CanadianFilm #Toronto #VillageKeeper won the John Dunning Best First Feature Film Award a…

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Carolyn Talks 'The Old Woman with The Knife 파과' Film Review 35:15

4M ago35:15

35:15

In this new episode of Carolyn Talks Film Review, I chat about director Min Kyu-dong's action THE OLD WOMAN WITH THE KNIFE 파과, starring Lee Hye-young and as deadly assassin Hornclaw and Kim Sung-cheol as her nemesis. #TheOldWomanWithTheKnife #파과 is based film Gu Byung-mo's 2013 novel of the same name translated into English by Kim Chi-young. Co-sta…

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Ep. 38: Lit Chats: Zodiac Book Recs (Part 2) 42:44

4M ago42:44

42:44

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they hilariously match books to zodiac signs, proving that both star signs and book preferences can't be put in a box. Dive into this mix of literary gems and astrology insights, all served with an extra helping of laughs and debates. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only 00:22 Engage with Us on Social Media= 01:2…

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Ep. 37: Lit It Or Quit It: The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters 1:01:08

4M ago1:01:08

1:01:08

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dive into Amanda Peters' 'The Berry Pickers,' a poignant family saga about loss, love, and healing from Indigenous and First Nations perspectives. Hear Kelsey's comically harsh take on its 'snooze fest' pacing while Amanda defends its emotional depth. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:41 Follow Us on …

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Carolyn Talks 'Art For Everybody' with Documentary Filmmaker Miranda Yousef 43:34

4M ago43:34

43:34

Director and editor Miranda Yousef joined me for #CarolynTalks, to discuss her debut feature documentary ART FOR EVERYBODY about the life, work, and consumption of Thomas Kincade, one of America's and modern history's most prolific and commercialized artists. #ArtForEverybody #FilmCritic #interview Follow me on social media @CarrieCnh12 paypal.com/…

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Ep. 36: Lit Recs: AANHPI Heritage Month 38:08

4M ago38:08

38:08

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they navigate BookTok drama, celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, and share their top book recommendations. You'll love their witty banter as they dive deep into memorable reads that honor the diverse stories of AANHPI communities. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:16 Engage with Us on Social Media 02:38 BookT…

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HotDocs 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'Betrayal' with Documentary Filmmaker Lena MacDonald 46:43

4M ago46:43

46:43

Documentary filmmaker Lena MacDonald joined me for #CarolynTalks to discuss her film BETRAYAL, about the life and isolation of Cindor Reeves, a man who risked and lost everything when he decided to turn state's evidence against his brother-in-law, Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia tried and convicted of committing war crimes by The Ha…

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Ep. 35: Lit It or Quit It: The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava 56:30

5M ago56:30

56:30

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they dive into 'The Truth According to Ember' by Danica Nava, the first Indigenous romcom novel. With differing perspectives, they explore themes of representation, cultural nuances, and the protagonist's complex journey, debating whether this pioneering story is a hit or miss. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Onl…

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HotDocs 2025 - Carolyn Talks 'Red Girl Rising' with First Nations Activist Joyce Crone 37:40

4M ago37:40

37:40

Haudenosaunee, Mohawk activist and educator Joyce Jonathan Crone joined me for the #HotDocs festival premiere of RED GIRL RISING, the documentary short about her work as an Indigenous communities advocate and founder of www.hopearises.ca. #RedGirlRising was directed by Faith Howe and Kim Stadfeld. #HotDocs #ShortFilm #CarolynTalks #FirstNations #in…

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Carolyn Talks 'Before You' with Filmmaker and Producer Lauren Melinda 1:04:33

5M ago1:04:33

1:04:33

Filmmaker Lauren Melina joined me for #CarolynTalks to discuss her short film BEFORE YOU, in which a young mother Maya (Tala Ash) looking back to a past abortion and the way the perceptions of her own memories change through sound, colours, and emotions. 'Before You' costars Adam Rodrigues as Avi, Maya's husband who's own grief and anger plays a pa…

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Carolyn Talks 'Where We Stay' with Filmmaker Florence Bouvy 1:12:30

5M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

Writer and director Florence Bouvy joined me for #CarolynTalks, to discuss her short film WHERE WE STAY, about two best friends, Daniel (Emmanuel Ohene Boafo) and Carry (Michael Muller) discovering their love for each other deepening into something more as Carry's life draws to an end after a long battle with terminal illness. #QueerFilm #LGBTQ #In…

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Ep. 34: Lit Chats: Zodiac Book Recs (Part 1) 46:44

5M ago46:44

46:44

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey on as they navigate the stars to recommend books for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, and Virgo. Expect chaos, laughs, and some dramatic book suggestions tailored to your celestial personality. And then come back next month for Part 2! 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only 00:44 Engage with Us on Social Media 02:4…

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Carolyn Talks 'Sinners' with Production Designer Hannah Beachler 35:50

5M ago35:50

35:50

Oscar winning Production Designer Hannah Beachler joined me for #CarolynTalks to discuss her stunning work on #SINNERS the multi-genre period feature by filmmaker Ryan Coogler. We spoke how she used the concept of duality, colour schemes, history, and spirituality as inspiration for the eye-catching set pieces. #SINNERSMovie #RyanCoogler #MichaelBJ…

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Carolyn Talks 'Canadian Adobo' with Filmmaker Ken Donguines for National Canadian Film Day 1:05:44

5M ago1:05:44

1:05:44

To celebrate the 2025 National Canadian Film Day, writer, director, and producer Kent Donguines joined me to discuss hos feature documentary CANADIAN ADOBO, and how his Filipino heritage and culture inspires his art and career. National Canadian Film Day is an annual that was created in 2012 by Reel Canada to celebrate and raise awareness of all th…

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First Time at The Masters, Jordan Brand Golf Vibes, & What's The Next Big Storyline in Golf? 22:52

5M ago22:52

22:52

This week on Beyond The Fairway, Will and Doug pull up fresh from their first trip to the Masters—and trust us, the experience did not disappoint. From Amen Corner to the concessions to those infamous no-phone rules, we’re giving you the real behind Augusta’s mystique. 👀 Then we dive into our exclusive look at the Jordan Brand Golf collection—and y…

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Ep. 33: Lit It or Quit It: The Reappearance of Rachel Price by Holly Jackson 1:11:39

5M ago1:11:39

1:11:39

Send us a text Join Kelsey and Amanda as they unravel the twisty plot of 'The Reappearance of Rachel Price,' dive deep into its complex family dynamics, and debate whether the protagonists are brilliantly complex or just utterly insufferable. 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only! 00:25 Follow Us on Social Media 02:57 Current Reads 09:48 Summary of 'The …

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Episode 3 It's Pat 1:14:02

5M ago1:14:02

1:14:02

IIn this episode, Jesse engages with photographer Pat Gorraiz, exploring his journey and passion for art photography. Pat recounts the formative experiences that sparked his interest in capturing life’s moments, beginning with childhood discoveries of old family photographs and receiving his first camera as a gift. Pat highlights various projects, …

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Carolyn Talks 'National Canadian Film Day' with Reel Canada Founders Jack Blum and Sharon Croder 30:43

5M ago30:43

30:43

Reel Canada founders Jack Blum and Sharon Corder joined me to discuss creating the organisation and the National Canadian Film Day program (held April 16th this year), and using film to teach Canadian students and immigrants new to the country, about Canada and the Canadian film industry. #ReelCanada #CanFilmDay #Interview #FilmCritic #CanadianFilm…

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Ep. 32: Lit Recs: Neurodiversity Awareness Month 45:31

5M ago45:31

45:31

Send us a text Join Amanda and Kelsey as they navigate through BookTok drama, shamelessly promote their socials, and share heartwarming neurodiverse book recommendations with a spicy twist. Laugh along as they debate fictional men, discuss cozy fantasies, and occasionally invent phrases like 'hands on the ground.' 00:00 Welcome to Lit Vibes Only 00…

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Masters Preview, LIV vs PGA Creator Drama, and Our First Trip to Augusta! 24:42

5M ago24:42

24:42

In this episode of Beyond The Fairway, the guys tee up a bold preview of the 2025 Masters Tournament, breaking down who’s hot, who’s not making the cut, and who’s got a real shot at the green jacket this year. Plus, we get real about the tension between content creators and the traditional golf world following LIV Duels Miami. And yeah… we finally …

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Ep. 31: Lit Or Quit It: Powerless by Lauren Roberts 1:09:33

6M ago1:09:33

1:09:33

Send us a text Ep. 31: Lit Or Quit It: Powerless by Lauren Roberts Join Kelsey and Amanda as they clash over 'Powerless' by Lauren Roberts, a book that Amanda dubs as a glorified mashup of popular tropes and poor writing, while Kelsey remains an unflinching fan of its chaotic romance and trials. Expect an episode filled with fiery critiques, impass…