The Big Boo Cast
Authors / speakers Melanie Shankle and Sophie Hudson - also known as Big Mama and BooMama on their blogs - talk about all the important stuff: faith, family, friends, football, fashion, and food. Plus, of course, their hair.

Lo, it is our last episode of 2020, and right out of the gate Melanie comes in strong by sharing catchphrase she's heard for 2021. I have a feeling that this episode won't be the last time we reference it. Besides the catchphrase fun, we talk about our respective Christmases, my deep affection for a new year, and we also discuss what three product discoveries from 2020 we plan to carry with us into 2021. 

Oh! And I share a recipe for an easy dip I made on Christmas day, plus we discuss the challenges of new technology at this stage of life, and Melanie shares her five favorites. 

Enjoy, y'all!

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Show Notes:

- That Sounds Fun with Annie Downs and guest Ben Rector

- Universal Standard Stephanie Wide Leg Stripe Pants 

- Vidalia Onion Dip (made it for the first time in forever this Christmas and remembered why we love it)

- Thrive Market

- Cuisinart Coffee Center (update as I'm editing this episode: we have finally figured out our best strategy for a great pot of coffee - 12 cups of cold, filtered water and 8 large scoops (that's 16 tablespoons) of ground coffee)

- Kleem Organics retinol moisturizer

- Kenra Heat Cast thermal spray

- Living Proof Dry Volume Blast (Melanie's hair MVP)

- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

- Living Proof Triple Detox Shampoo

- Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Body Wash

- R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

- Prose Pre-Shampoo Scalp Mask

- Hair Scalp Massager

- COOP Home Goods Pillow (a for sure 2020 MVP)

- Redland Cotton Sheets

- Alexa Home Studio

- Echo Silver on SNL

- Colorfulkoala leggings 

- M3 Anti-Cellulite massage oil

- ABLE Leather & Lavender candle

- @heymadinelson on Instagram

- Lucky Peacock Designs

Sponsors:

- Pipette (use code BIGBOO for 30% off your order)

- Hello Fresh (use code BIGBOO90 for $90 off and free shipping) 

Direct download: thebigboocastdecember312020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

This week I share a terrible (okay - not really terrible - just exasperating) thing that happened when I had to go to Walmart and Target on the same day, and Melanie analyzes the Aggies' College Football Playoff chances. We also have a discussion about Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash, only I call it Sierra Mist Cranberry Blast, and clearly I have reached a point in my life where I just make up my own names for familiar products. 

And as a public service to readers everywhere, Melanie makes some book suggestions that feature war / espionage as a backdrop for brave actions by gritty heroines, and I share my Five Favorites. Only I forgot to include the Five Favorites background music. I hope you can forgive me. 

Please do enjoy, everyone.

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Show Notes:

- Tasha Cobbs Leonard

- Beatriz Williams (she has tons of books; Melanie mentioned three: A Hundred Summers, Golden Hour, and Along the Infinite Sea)

- The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck

- The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott

- Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton

- The German Heiress by Anika Scott

- The Alice Network by Kate Quinn

- The Huntress by Kate Quinn

- This Secret Thing by Mary Beth Whalen

- Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas

- Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas

- Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush

- R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo

- Prose Hair Mask

- Prose Dry Shampoo

- Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

- Compassion Live Show - this Saturday, December 19th, at 7pm central - sponsorship option

- If you attended the live show back in the summer, message our friend Retha on Instagram and she'll pass along a special code just for summer attendees

- Buy a ticket for the live show

- Bath & Body Works Fresh Balsam candles

- Algenist Eye Renewal Balm

- Mindy Kaling's ring finger

- Old Navy sweaters in regular sizes and plus sizes

- Sanctuary Project jewelry (use promo code SANC25 for 25% off)

Sponsors:

- NuCalm (use this link for 50% off your first 30-day subscription)

- Magic Spoon (use the code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- FabFitFun (use the code BIGBOO for $10 off)

- KiwiCo (use promo code BIGBOO for 50% off and free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastdecember172020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

This week we talk about weather (yes, we are 107), some fun fashion memories, and college football because if we didn't talk about college football then the world would surely stop spinning on its axis.

We also share part of this month's Closer Look episode from Patreon - with special guest Travis Cottrell. As many of y'all know, Travis is one of our very favorite people - and he happens to be a huge fan of 80's music. You'll hear the 80's music part of our Patreon discussion on this episode, and you'll also see a link to Travis' 80's Duets Playlist in the Show Notes below.

And on top of all that: Melanie shares Five Favorites.

Hope y'all enjoy!

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Show Notes:

- Silk Reflections hose

- A great Barefood Dreams alternative (I decided the Barefoot Dreams options were way too long for Martha - and this style is much more her speed) (please don't tell her that this is one of her presents) :-)

- Travis Cottrell

- Travis' 80's Duet Playlist on Apple Music

- Travis' 80's Duet Playlist on Spotify

- Revitalash

- Pure Science Neck Firming Cream

- Melanie's new favorite Stars Above pajamas

- "Heirlooms" by Amy Grant

- Allie+Bess bracelets

- Lucky Peacock Designs

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (use promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Storyworth (use this link for $10 off your first purchase)

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

- Acorn (use promo code BIGBOO for 30 days free)

Direct download: thebigboocastdecember102020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:30pm CDT

Well naturally we kick off this week's episode with a Thanksgiving weekend recap in general and a college football recap in particular (you should expect no less from us in late November / early December). We also talk through a fairly extensive list of shows we've been watching, and Melanie fills us in on her family's recent trip to the Christmas tree lot - among other Christmas-related dramas.

On top of all that delightfulness (is it? let's pretend it is, okay?), we're back in it with Five Favorites this week, and one of them is the old Instagram because the new Instagram is garbage. We sound like we're 102 when we talk about how WE DON'T LIKE THE CHANGES, and we're okay with that.

Enjoy, y'all!

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Our Amazon Shop

Show Notes:

- The Crown

- The No's of Hallmark Movies on The Popcast with Knox and Jamie

- Dash & Lily 

- Virgin River - Season 2

- Grand Designs

- Voices of Fire

- Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker

- COOP Home Goods Pillow - OUR FAVORITE

- Hello Fresh (IT IS A BLESSING TO MY SOUL) (use promo code BIGBOO90 for $90 off your first order) (I LOVE IT)

- The Nester's thoughts on quieting the house

- HomeTown on HGTV

- Christy Nockels' The Thrill of Hope

- A Ben Rector Christmas

- Leslie Odom Jr.'s The Christmas Album

Sponsors:

- Sakara (use promo code BIGBOO for $20 off your first order of the Prenatal)

- NoteCube (use code BIGBOO for 20% off)

- Best Fiends (download in the Apple App Store or on Google Play)

Direct download: thebigboocastdecember32020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

On this episode we did a little spin on our weekly Five Favorites to spend some time focusing on gratitude. Yes, 2020 has been a train wreck, but it's also given us all sorts of opportunities to be thankful for essential workers and college football and Phil Rosenthal, among other things.

And just in case we haven't said it enough: we are extraordinarily thankful for all of you who make up our little podcast community. There's no way to adequately express how much you have enriched our lives over the duration of the podcast - but maybe this year more than ever. Y'all are the best, and we love you.

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody! Enjoy episode 212!

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Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Hazel's beloved dog bed (she has the 36-inch)

- "The act of thanks-giving is holy protest against cynicism, covetousness, fatalism, entitlement, self-pity, joylessness, discontentment, self-sufficiency, greed, arrogance, and apathy.” - @dukekwondc

- Ouida Wednesday (look on Sophie's Instagram in the highlights)

- Somebody Feed Phil

- Ted Lasso

Sponsors:

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

- Storyworth (use this link for $10 off your first purchase)

- Hello Fresh (use promo code BIGBOO90 for $90 off) (also: the joy of my life has been how much David loves to cook our Hello Fresh meals; it has been a GAME CHANGER for us)

- KiwiCo (use promo code BIGBOO for 50% off and free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastnovember262020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Well, we're back with the second installment of our annual Holiday Gift Guide, and man oh man has it ever been an eventful week between part 1 and part 2. We catch you up on all of that at the beginning of the episode, and then we dig into our favorite gift ideas for men and women in lo, the year of our Lord 2020.

If you missed last week's episode, you can catch up on our gift ideas for teenagers right here. Hope y'all have a wonderful weekend! Grateful for y'all!

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Show Notes: (some links are affiliate links)

- The Queen's Gambit

- The Crown

- Southern Charm

Gifts for Men:

- Eddie Bauer Oversized Down Throw

- Groovelife Belts

- Aggie Ring ornaments

- Bose Solo Sound Bar

- Fishing Tackle Storage Bag

- Waterfield Laptop Sleeve

- Digital Ear Muffs

- Howler Bros. Snapshirts

- Olukai house shoes

- Pickwick & Co. Leather, Tobacco, & Woods candle

- Black Rifle Coffee

- Benerx MD CBD pain cream (10% off and free shipping with code BIGMAMA)

- 2020 Dumpster Fire Ornaments (here's another one)

Gifts for Women:

- Nepresso Vertuo Coffee & Espresso Maker

- Michelle Morin Animalia Flannel Shorts

- Half Baked Harvest Super Simple Cookbook

- Shelf Subscription from The Bookshelf in Thomasville, Georgia (would also be a wonderful gift for a man or for children)

- Leila Meacham books

- Old Navy High-Waist Powersoft 7/8 Joggers

- ABLE Celine Huggie Hoops (use code BIGMAMA25 for 25% off)

- Hobo Vida Wristlet (Sophie's FAVORITE wallet)

- Jo Malone Cologne Discovery Sample

- Jo Malone Body Wash / Bath Gel in Lime Basil & Mandarin

- Rifle Paper Co. Island Poppy Notebook

- Everyday Holy by Melanie Shankle

- Gentle & Lowly by Dane Ortlund

- Be the Bridge by Latasha Morrison

- Emily Freeman's books

- Two Funny Girls 10-Count Styro Cups (code MERRYBIGBOO for free shipping - expires 11/27)

- Two Funny Girls Personalized Pillowcase (code MERRYBIGBOO for free shipping - expires 11/27)

Sponsors:

- FabFitFun (promo code BIGBOO for $10 off your first box)

- care/of (promo code BIGBOOCAST50 for 50% off your first order)

- NuCalm (use this link to get 50% off your first 30 day subscription)

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastnovember182020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45am CDT

This week Melanie and I dig into some areas of personal dysfunction - practical things in our lives where we have largely operated as if we had no choice but to participate in poorly functioning systems (that sounds really serious, but I can assure that our discussion is not). We also spend some time celebrating the #5 Texas A&M Fightin' Aggies before we jump into the main focus of this episode: our 2020 Holiday Gift Guide, this week with gift ideas for teenage girls and guys.

All that to say: it's links aplenty in this week's show notes, and we hope that some of our gift suggestions will make your life a little easier this year. Next week we'll talk through our gift ideas for women and men, so GIDDY UP, everybody.

Hope y'all enjoy!

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Show Notes: (some are affiliate links)

- Threshold Gold Plated Utensil Holder

- Cereal containers

- Melanie's new printer

- Seychelles Offstage Chelsea boots

- Dolce Vita Huey Chelsea boots

- COOP HomeGoods pillow

- Offline Real Me Crossover High Waisted Legging

- Cattlebaron in Cashmere on IG

- Pure Sciences Neck Firming Cream

- Kleem Moisturizing Retinol Cream

Teenage Girls' Gift Guide

- Morgan Harper Nichols' prints

- Project 62 frame at Target

- Heather Schieder's prints

- UV LED Nail Lamp

- Galaxy Lights

- ABLE Rachel Wristlet (use promo code BIGMAMA25 for 25% off from now until the end of the year)

- ABLE Letter Necklace (use promo code BIGMAMA25 for 25% off from now until the end of the year)

- Retro Sweatshirts and t-shirts

 -- Van Halen t-shirt dress

 -- Red Hot Chili Peppers t-shirt

 -- Beatles sweatshirt (all sizes)

- Disney+ Gift Subscription

- Chelsea boots in white (and here's a Zappos link)

- 4-in-1 charging station (great for girls or guys)

- Bath & Body Works Sweater Weather (any product in this scent)

- Massage gun for deep tissue (great for girls or guys)

- Desktop Bible verse calendar by Pearl & Rose Designs

Teenage Guys' Gift Guide

- Sports apparel (Melanie's favorite online retailer is Shop '47)

- Basketball shorts (Amazon Basics or Under Armour)

- Ice Mule

- Oofos Recovery Sport Slides

- Foot Massager

- Restaurant Gift Cards or Cash

- Spike Ball Set

- Goodfellow Knit Pajama Pants

- AirPods Pro (for girls or guys) - on sale at Amazon right now - $55 off

Show Notes:

- Prose (free in-depth hair quiz and 15% off)

- Thrive Market (sign up and receive a free gift of your choosing up to $24 in value)

- Native (use promo code BIGBOO for 20% off your first order)

- AcornTV (use promo code BIGBOO for 30 days free)

Direct download: thebigboocastnovember122020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Well, we recognize that there's a lot going on this week (#election2020), so we do our best to PROVIDE SOME DISTRACTIONS. We talk about the storm that hit Birmingham last week, some exciting news in Melanie's family, and our unexpectedly reflective thoughts about 2020 in general and quarantine in particular. 

We also discuss five of my current favorite things as well as the new devotional book I'm using in the mornings. Plus, we have a conversation about college football because DO YOU KNOW US AT ALL? :-) 

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes: 

- Our Amazon Shop

- New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp

- Everyday Holy by Melanie Shankle

- Our beloved leather totes from Rural Route 3

- Stars Above Wide Leg Cozy Lounge Pants

- Dolce Vita Huey Suede Chelsea Boots

- Everspring Mandarin Ginger Dishwashing Liquid and Foaming Hand Soap

- Everspring Lemon & Mint Liquid Detergent

- Orolay Thickened Down Jacket

- Living Proof Dry Shampoo

- Somebody Feed Phil season 4 (IT IS A BALM)

Sponsors:

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

- Magic Spoon (use promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- KiwiCo (use promo code BIGBOO for 50% off your first month)

- Thuma (use this link for free shipping on The Bed)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastnovember52020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm CDT

We recorded this episode when one of us (okay, it was me) was experiencing some significant sleep deprivation, but why let a little loopy-ness stop the podcast fun? We talk about an incredible meal we had in Pawhuska, a recent shampoo / conditioner revelation, and our new favorite TV show that's on Apple+.

In addition to all that goodness, Melanie shares an update on Imogene from Imogene's basement (we talked about it in episode 207), and she also weighs in with a verdict on her new pillow. COULD YOU EVEN IMAGINE MORE EXCITEMENT?

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- P-town in Pawhuska

- Emily in Paris (this is not for the children)

- Ted Lasso (this is not for the children)

- Somebody Feed Phil (season 4 is out on October 30th!!!)

- Our Amazon Shop

- R&Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo

- R&Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Conditioner

- Coop Home Goods Pillow

- porcelain fluted coffee mugs

- Good Earth Sweet & Spicy decaf tea

- Black Rifle Beyond Black coffee

- Half Baked Harvest

- Cocina de Coco's King Ranch Chicken

Sponsors:

- NoteCube (use promo code BIGBOO for 20% off and free shipping worldwide)

- Best Fiends (download in the Apple App Store or Google Play)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastoctober292020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

We recorded this episode earlier this week when we were in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, so it's probably no surprise that we talk a little bit about our trip. Unfortunately, though, we recorded before we had the feast of our adult lives at Ree's P-Town restaurant Monday night, so we'll for sure have to talk about that next week. Perhaps we will have recovered from all the deliciousness by then.

We do cover some football ground this week - what with the Aggies defeating the Bulldogs and all - and we also answer one of your questions about the early days of motherhood. Plus, I share five favorites - NOW WITH THEME MUSIC - and Melanie tells us all about a recent shopping trip. FUN APLENTY, it is.

Y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Pawhuska, Oklahoma

- Spicy Cowgirl coffee

- cast recording of Moulin Rouge! The Musical

- Karen Howell on Saban's coaching status

- Our friend / business manager Retha's A Better You webinar on Friday 10/23

- Offline Real Me High-Waisted Crossover leggings

- Stainless steel Yeti Ramblers for cold drinks

- All Rise by Gregory Porter on Apple Music and on Spotify

- L'anza Keratin Healing Oil Hair Plumper Finishing Spray

- Charles Hunter III on Twitter and on Instagram

- Center Stage reading glasses from Peepers.com

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (use promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- FabFitFun (use promo code BIGBOO for $10 your first box)

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastoctober222020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:45pm CDT

This week was a real home run as far as our technical prowess, because something extra bizarre happened with my sound file the first time we recorded - so we had to re-record two days later. 

We're just trying to stay on brand with 2020, apparently. 

So what we have here is a barely-edited episode (which is why it's a little longer than normal) - just edited enough to put the ads in their appropriate places - and you'll have to trust that we did our best to stay enthusiastic even though what we would have really liked to do is quit. Look at our perseverance!

Enjoy, y'all. :-) 

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Universal Thread Amalia Fashion Boots

- Olukai Kalia Li - the shoes Perry bought and loved

- Emily in Paris

Melanie's new magnifying mirror

- R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo

- R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Conditioner

- Coop pillow

- Revitabrow

- magnesium

- Bobbysue's Nuts

- Wind River by Bailey Caliber Outback hat

- Jessica Simpson house slippers

Sponsors:

- Best Fiends (download from the Apple App Store or Google Play)

- Hello Fresh (use code BIGBOO80 for $80 off across five boxes and free shipping on your first box)

- NoteCube (use code BIGBOO for 20% off and free shipping worldwide)

Direct download: thebigboocastoctober152020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:09pm CDT

There's only one way to sum up how the college football weekend turned out for Melanie and me: it was not ideal. So on this episode we discuss our respective disappointments (in fairness, Melanie seemed to handle things much better than I did) and do our best to believe there are great football days ahead. You can almost smell the optimism. 

We also talk about what Melanie's watching, why she wants some new living room chairs, and what in sam hill is going on with her computer (I complain a little about that last thing). If all that weren't enough, I confess some sentimental feelings and share my new booties obsession. DOESN'T THAT SOUND LIKE MORE FUN.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Lane Kiffin's suit

- Ted Lasso

- Emily in Paris

- Assets by Spanx at Target

- Pickwick & Co. Tamboti Wood Candle

- Dale Chelsea boots

- Dolce Vita Huey Suede Chelsea boots

- Crevo Maeve Suede Block Heel Chelsea boots

- Sorel Lolla Cutout bootie

- I took Melanie's advice about a Target "starter boot" and ordered these instead of the pricier Anthro booties

Sponsors:

- KiwiCo (30% off your first month plus free shipping)

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

- Magic Spoon (use this link for free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastoctober82020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Normally Melanie and I try to show some restraint during college football season, but this week, between the start of SEC football, Mike Leach's coaching debut with Mississippi State, and my Bulldogs winning in Baton Rouge, WE HAVE SO MUCH TO SAY. Thank you in advance for your patience with us during this very exciting time.

In addition to talking about football, football, and LO, MORE FOOTBALL, we discuss my day-o-fun at a student leadership retreat and five of Melanie's current favorites. 

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Lane Kiffin and his baseball jersey

- Weekend at Bernie's in the stands

- Mike Leach says last Saturday was "better than average"

- Coach Leach's postgame speech

- Pickwick & Co. Leather, Tobacco, & Woods candle

- Revitabrow

- Goodfellow & Co. quilted pullover

- Family Savvy's Spicy Hamburger Soup

- Spotify Time Capsule playlist (this is the one Spotify made for me - but any Spotify user has one)

- Opal Ice Machine

- Melanie's new cereal bowls

- Poppies on Blue china

Sponsors:

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO at checkout for 25% off your first order)

- Prose (use the link for 15% off your purchase and a free in-depth hair quiz)

- Best Fiends - download on the App Store or Google Play

- Living Proof Live Simulcast (use promo code BIGBOO5 for $5 off your simulcast ticket) (this is always one of our favorite events of the year!)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastoctober12020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:52pm CDT

If listening to Melanie and me troubleshoot our technical issues is your idea of quality podcast material, then this, my friends, is going to be the episode of your dreams. Our ish-ahs are thanks to a clicking noise that I believe to be the result of a short in one of Melanie's USB ports, but what matters most, I think, is that Melanie's reactions to the whole situation are SOLID GOLD.

In addition to our showing off our technical prowess, we also spend some time in this episode talking about SEC football, homegating food, Coach O's Power Hour, the delightfulness of dresses, and Melanie's 162nd closet cleanout of 2020. 

Hope y'all enjoy!

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Show Notes:

- Mississippi State / LSU in 2014

- Coach O's Power Hour

- The Social Dilemma

- Beach Read by Emily Henry

- Sophie's latest dress BFF (Melanie would say to wait until it's on sale - which is what I did)

- The Good Word series from The Old Try

- Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener

- Altra Timp 2.0

Sponsors: 

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO to save 25%)

- Acorn (use promo code BIGBOO to get your first 30 days for free)

- FabFitFun (use promo code BIGBOO to get $10 off your first FFF box)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastseptember242020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

If you listened to last week's episode, then you won't be surprised to learn that the first thing we address on this episode is WHAT IN THE WORLD HAPPENED WITH THE BOOTIES? It might well be the biggest cliffhanger in the history of our little podcast. Our own version of Who Shot JR?, only with shoes. And no oil fortune. And no guns. But other than that, IDENTICAL.

In addition to a booties update, we talk about foot problems, Perry's upcoming 50th birthday, books, and my new favorite socks. And of course we talk about high school football and college football because we sort of enjoy it. You may have picked up on that.

Thanks for listening, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Marc Fisher Oshay booties (Melanie got them 1/2 price in Cloud)

- Farm Rio Benicia wide-legged pants (I got these on sale, and Melanie would tell everybody to wait patiently because they will go on sale again)

- Our friend and business coach Retha, who is determined to make me develop routines so that I better manage my time :-) 

- Cloth & Stone Zia buttondown

- The meme Alex posted (ALL IN FUN, everyone - ALL IN FUN)

- The last play in the Hillcrest / Wetumpka game

- Gait Happens on IG 

- Balega UltraGlide Friction-Free No Show Socks for Men and Women

- Kleem Organics Anti-Aging Retinol Moisturizer

- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle

- David Foster: Off the Record

- Ted Lasso on AppleTV+

- @nextdoorlife on Instagram

- Emily Freeman's Autumn playlist

- Erin Moon's Faith Adjacent episode about Hamilton

- Free People Arden tee

- AE Voop oversized tee

- Offline Real Me high-waisted legging

Sponsors:

- Native (use promo code BIGBOO for 20% off your first order)

- Prose (use this link for your free in-depth hair quiz and 15% off)

- Care/of (use promo code BIGBOO50 for 50% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastseptember172020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

You'll be shocked to know that we talk about football on this episode (including our favorite stay-up-to-read-the-post-game-news wins), and we also break down a little <em>Real Housewives</em> because, well, WE ARE STILL IN A PANDEMIC.

On top of all that excitement, we discuss what we're reading, five things I'm enjoying right now, and the harrowing situation with Mel's most recent booties order from Nordstrom.

Please do enjoy.

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- Kirk Herbstreit on GameDay

- State / Auburn game in 2014

- A&M / Bama in 2012

- LuAnn singing "Happy Birthday" to Dorinda on RHONY

- Outfits on this year's RHOBH reunion

- "Viva La Diva"

- The Heir Affair

- Majesty by Katherine McGee

- In Five Years by Karen Serle

- Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi

- Our business coach, Retha

- Our 200th episode playlist on Apple Music

- Our 200th episode playlist on Spotify

- I've Got a Testimony by Melvin Crispell, III

- Chef's Table: BBQ

- Pilcro cords from Anthropologie

- OPI Muse of Milan Collection

- Suzi Talks with Her Hands

Sponsors:

- KiwiCo (get 30% off your first month plus FREE shipping on any crate line)

- Thrive Market (use the link to start your risk-free membership and receive a gift up to $22 in value)

Direct download: thebigboocastseptember102020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Well, it only took us thirteen years, but here we are at episode 200. Won't He do it? On average we have cranked out 15.38 episodes a year since 2007, and if you're thinking that doesn't seem like a lot, you're exactly right. This might be a good time to point you in the direction of 2010 and 2012, when we managed to record one whole episode each year. Bless it.

Anyway, our 200th episode is pretty much just like all the other episodes (this feels right, doesn't it?). We talk about Melanie's weekend in College Station and my thoughts about The Heir Affair (I finally finished reading it) and five things Melanie has really enjoyed this past week. We also discuss my search for a new pair of sneakers and how Melanie's guidance on this particular issue has been invaluable (that is to say: I HAVE FOUND A WINNER).

Finally, keep your eyes on our Instagram accounts this week - because we have a couple of fun giveaways planned to celebrate the big 200. We can't thank you enough for being such loyal listeners. You have supported and encouraged us (lo, even in 2010 and 2012), and we are deeply grateful that you make time to listen every week.

Enjoy, everybody!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our very first podcast episode on August 25, 2007 (what tickles me the most is how slow we talked and how quiet we were - clearly the mothers of some pre-schoolers who were sleeping)

- Sophie's Instagram

- Melanie's Instagram 

(Be on the lookout for some exciting 200th episode giveaways!)

- The Heir Affair 

- The Royal We

- Our Patreon episode with Gulley

- Converse Chuck Taylor All Star platform sneaker

- Steve Madden Gill Platform slip on sneaker 

- Vans Old Skool Platform sneaker 

- Dr. Scholl's look out platform sneaker 

- Adidas Nizza platform sneaker 

- Sofft Bellview high top sneaker 

- Paul Green Candice slip-on platform sneaker (these are the ones I got - and my goodness they are comfortable)

- The Blazer from Nike

- Nike Air Force Ones

- Nike Air Max 270

- Nike Air Max 90

- Nike CruzrOne (I ordered these because they're wider than the average Nike shoe - and I can confirm that they are suuuuper comfortable)

- My long black dress from Amazon - which is very cute with my new sneakers (regular and plus sizes)

- Chrystal Hurst's new book

- Julia Reed's gorgeous obituary by Jon Meacham in Garden & Gun

- NEEDTOBREATHE's new album, Out of Body

PJ Morton's new album, Gospel According to PJ

Gregory Porter's new album, All Rise

- Pickwick Leather, Tobacco, & Woods candle

- Weimann leather conditioning wipes

- Stainless steel mixing bowl set of 6

- Homegating styrofoam cups from Two Funny Girls

- Amazon joggers for $14.99

Sponsors:

- NoteCube (20% off with promo code BIGBOO)

- Best Fiends (download in the Apple App Store or on Google Play)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastseptember32020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Well, if you've wondered over the last week if the Kale Boss was in fact the boss of our friend Melanie, you'll be happy to hear this week's juice cleanse update. You might also be interested to hear my update on our first high school football game of the season, which was a happy return to a little something we like to call a LIVE SPORTING EVENT. What a marvelous concept that is.

On top of all that, we talk about what shoe works best with a wide cropped pant, what pajamas I'm renaming "loungewear" so I can wear them as actual pants, and what five things have become long-term favorites for me over the last few weeks. 

Basically what we have for you this week is good times aplenty. Except maybe that whole Kale Boss situation. Hope you enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon Shop

- The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes by Suzanne Collins

- Our friend Retha (she is also our podcast business manager / boss)

- The caftan dress that we both love

- GAP lounge pants that I plan to wear as straight-up pants

- Marc Fisher booties

- Stars Above lounge pants

- Stars Above sweatshirt

- Redland cotton sheets

- Anastasia Brow Wiz eyebrow pencil

- Anastasia Clear Brow gel

- Thrive Causemetics Multi-Dimensional Strobing Blush in Rosie

- Skinnygirl Denim Utility Jogger

- Farm Rio Gabriela knit maxi skirt

- The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan

Sponsors:

- FabFitFun (coupon code BIGBOO for $10 off your first order)

- School Mask Pack

- NoteCube (promo code BIGBOO for 20% off)

Direct download: thebigboocastaugust272020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Sometimes we don't get a chance to talk about a regular-ole-life something that's going on until we sit down to record on Mondays, and that was certainly the case this week. Melanie shares some newly formed health / fitness goals, and I think the best way to describe my response is SURLIGHTED (surprised + delighted). Oh my goodness. Next week's update should be solid gold.

We also discuss a parenting question we didn't get to last week re: technology as well as the lingering effects of my renewed commitment to the chemical exfoliation of my face. It has been humbling and also very burn-y.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our most recent Patreon episode that is basically Melanie's graduate thesis on skin care

- Sunday Riley Vitamin C Serum

- Sunday Riley Good Genes

- Revitabrow

- Brittany Runs a Marathon

- Our Amazon shop

Sponsors:

- Native (promo code BIGBOO for 20% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastaugust202020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:29pm CDT

Not long before we recorded this week's episode, I posted on Instagram and asked if y'all had any broad topics you wanted us to cover. To absolutely no one's surprise, college football the #1 answer - followed by parenting, friendship, and home.

SO. We structured this episode (well, "structured" might be a strong word - maybe just "loosely organized") around those four topics, and we used some of your specific questions to do that. You won't see many show notes because we didn't talk about many specific products or people or shows or crepe erasing neck creams. We mainly just talked about life, and that is always fine by us.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Show Notes:

- Athleta Salutation Joggers

- Athleta Farollon Stratum Joggers (please go on sale please go on sale)

- Ohio State in the SEC? (we don't think this will actually happen - but the idea is an interesting one)

- KitchenAid mixer

- Calphalon

- Poppies on Blue

- Our Amazon Shop

Sponsors:

- KiwiCo (use this link for 30% off your first order and free shipping)

- Acorn.tv (use the promo code BIGBOO for 30 days free)

- Crayola School Mask Pack (Alex loves these, by the way - he's a fan of the adjustable ear straps and thinks the masks are really comfortable)

Direct download: thebigboocastaugust132020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

After spending the last two weeks with delightful, wise, funny guests (thanks, Mike Leach and Phil Rosenthal), we’re back to our usual shenanigans on this episode. It’s just Melanie and me, and we talk about the comfort of a good caftan, the practical side of going back to work (for example, I can no longer spend my days in walking tights and t-shirts), and the joy of finally finding a dry shampoo that exceeds expectations.

We also discuss how I really showed my Enneagram 9-ness in terms of anticipating the transition back to work, and Melanie gives an update on the antelope that used to live in her living room. 

If that weren’t enough (is it, though?), we talk about make-up and TV. 

Enjoy, y’all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Last Chance U (not for the children)

- Yellowstone (not for the children)

- Life in Pieces

- Marc Jacobs Gel Powder eyeshadow in Perfect-o

- Bobbie Brown Long-wear Cream Shadow stick in Heather Steel and/or Amethyst

- Prose dry shampoo (use this link for 15% off your first order)

- Living Proof Dry Volume Blast

- Lisa Whittle's second caftan home run

- (Lisa Whittle's original caftan home run, just FYI)

- Amiyrah Martin also loves a good caftan

- The Daily Tay preps for the Nordstrom Sale

- Revitalash

Sponsors:

- Best Fiends (download on Apple Podcasts or Google Play)

- Hello Fresh (promo code BIGBOO80 for $80 off your first box and free shipping)

- Margaret M (promo code BIGBOO25 for 25% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastaugust62020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:30pm CDT

If you've been listening to the podcast pretty regularly the last couple of months, then you have heard Melanie and me mention the Netflix series Somebody Feed Phil over and over again. Melanie started watching (after Karen Howell recommended it, if memory serves), and then I started watching, and here we are, roughly six weeks later, both certifiably obsessed with it. Because it is FANTASTIC.

So you can imagine how delighted we are to tell you that, in one of the most unexpected occurrences in lo, all of our podcasting years, Phil Rosenthal from Somebody Feed Phil is our guest on this episode.

Sometimes life comes at you fast, my friends.  

You'll hear the story of how all of this came to be at the beginning of the episode, and then for the rest of the episode you'll hear Phil be super funny and wise and inspiring. It was such a joy to talk with him, and it was also confirmation that 1) we cannot wait to travel again and 2) Phil really is our Quarantine All-Star.

Next week we'll be back with our usual shenanigans, and it'll just be Melanie and me again. Unless Melanie gets in touch with Jimbo Fisher - and in which case, all bets are off.

Enjoy, y'all!

Show Notes:

- Lenox Hill on Netflix

- Phil Rosenthal, Prince Among Men

- Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix

- You're Lucky You're Funny by Phil Rosenthal

- The Chris Farley Show sketch

- Anthony Bourdain

- Massimo Bottura

- Chef's Table Season 1 on Netflix

- "Earth's Greatest Hits" on I'll Have What Phil's Having

- Phil Rosenthal / Somebody Feed Phil website - with links to all the places and restaurants he has visited (plus merch!)

- Century Old Eggs

Show Notes:

- School Mask Pack

- Thrive Market (use this link for a free membership and a free gift of your choosing, worth up to $22)

- Hydrant (use promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjuly302020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

I feel like I can speak for most Mississippi State fans and say that when it comes to Mike Leach being named our head football coach earlier this year, we're all still pinching ourselves. And listen - Melanie has been just as excited as I have been. That is because Mike Leach is a genius, and he is a college football legend, and the SEC will be better with him in it. So needless to say, we are absolutely beside ourselves that he is our guest on this episode of the podcast.

How did this even happen? Well, it is all because of a Twitter wager, you understand. Dave Emerick, who is on the football staff at State, told us a few weeks ago (after I asked about the possibility of interviewing Coach Leach) that if we could get 1,000 likes on his tweet, he would get Coach Leach on the podcast. Well, our beloved podcast listeners more than came through, and about a week ago, Melanie and I got to talk to Coach Leach. The whole experience did not disappoint. In fact, it DELIGHTED us.

The first part of the episode is Melanie and me giving this whole situation some context, and our conversation with Coach Leach starts around 25:40. You'll be happy to know that Melanie was able to voice her grievance about Deshazor Everett's targeting call, and Coach Leach has a couple of bad call grievances himself. We also talk about Mississippi and his favorite game at Texas Tech and his favorite books so far this year. Among other things.

The best part? Coach Leach was all we expected and more: kind, smart, funny, gracious, and a real straight-shooter. We think you'll agree. 

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Coach Fran 

- Nick "Lou" Saban

- Coach Mike Leach

- The video that made Sophie clap her hands when Coach Leach was named head football coach at Mississippi State

- Melanie predicted Coach Leach's hiring (go to 47:23 in the episode)

- The tweet that brought Coach Leach to the podcast

- The very strange Egg Bowl ending that set the wheels in motion for Lane Kiffin and Mike Leach to move to Mississippi colleges

- The Texas Tech / Texas game that Coach Leach remembers very fondly

- "Texas Back in 1880"

- Melanie's Deshazor Everett heartache

- The Last Dance

Michael Lewis

- Bill Bryson - The Lost Continent

Henry Crumpton - The Art of Intelligence

- Operation Odessa (not for the children, and a little racy at the beginning, but fascinating, from what we understand)

- Narcos (again, not for the children, but Melanie and P are fans)

- Swing Your Sword by Mike Leach

- Geronimo: Leadership Strategies of an American Warrior by Mike Leach

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Native (promo code BIGBOO for 20% off your first order)

- Best Fiends (download from the Apple App Store or Google Play)

Direct download: thebigboocastjuly232020v2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00am CDT

The credit for this whole episode goes to Melanie, who suggested that we have a conversation about the books that have shaped us over the course of our lives. So what we have here in Ye Olde Episode 193 is a discussion of Books We Have Loved - from childhood to adulthood. And it's not just that we love these books; it's also that, in big ways and small ways, these books have shaped us in some significant ways.

I swore and declared that I was absolutely not going to do links for all of these books - I even say that in the episode intro - but lo and behold I ended up adding links for almost everything that's currently in print. Click at will, my friends.

And just FYI: we are not condoning every situation in every book, we are not endorsing every author of every book, we are not subscribing to every philosophy in every book. We're just saying, HEY, THIS MEANT SOMETHING TO US, and by the way, that may have happened despite the fact that the author really enjoys the F word. 

Enjoy, y'all!

p.s. We also talk about Hamilton again. :-) 

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Show Notes:

- Eliza's gasp

- Lin Manuel Miranda on writing "My Shot"

- I'll Have What Phil's Having

- Salt Fat Acid Heat

- Taste the Nation

- Peter Rabbit series by Beatrix Potter

- The Boxcar Children series by Gertrude Chandler Warner

- Nancy Drew series by Carolyn Keene

- The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary

- Ramona series by Beverly Clearly

- Judy Blume books (SO MANY)

- The Ring by Danielle Steele

- Sweet Valley High series by Francine Pascal

- Hail, Hail Camp Timberwood by Ellen Conford

- Just Like Ice Cream

- The Color Purple by Alice Walker

- Ellen Foster by Kaye Gibbons

- The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams

- If Life is a Bowl of Cherries, Then What Am I Doing in the Pits? by Erma Bombeck

- Jacob, Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson

- Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

- Peace Like a River by Leif Enger

- Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams

- No Wonder They Call Him the Savior by Max Lucado

- Believing God by Beth Moore

- Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris

- Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott

- Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

- Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

- Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster

- The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan

- The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

- Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

- Bossypants by Tina Fey

- Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling

- The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall

- Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor

- The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

- The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

- Be the Bridge by Latasha Morrison

- The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson

Sponsors:

- Hydrant (use the promo code BIGBOO for 25% off your first order)

- care/of (use the promo code BIGBOOCAST50 for 50% off your first order)

- Thrive Market (use this link to join and get up to $20 towards your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjuly162020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:52pm CDT

To absolutely no one's surprise, we talk a whole lot about Hamilton in this episode. And also Somebody Feed Phil. And then maybe a little more about Hamilton. But really, all of that pales in comparison to Melanie's ranch adventures on the 4th of July, a day that just might have changed her forever. Because SWEET MERCY, THE NATURE.

We also discuss Melanie's new thoughts about Cica moisturizing cream and my deep well of optimism re: a new dress from Amazon. 2020 is really coming through for us!*

*That was sarcasm.

*Deep, biting sarcasm. 

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Stand All the Way Up

- Nobody's Cuter Than You

- Hamilton on Disney+

- Chris Jackson

- Daveed Diggs

- Leslie Odom, Jr.

- Philippa Soo

- Somebody Feed Phil

- Phil Rosenthal on Instagram

- Anne with an E

- David Foster: Off the Record (just FYI - lots of language)

- Phil Rosenthal's PBS show

- Loose maxi dress with so many color options

- Loose maxi dress with lots of size options

- Target Stars Above pajamas 

- Secret Treasures pajama shorts (you can't buy separately online)

- The Heir Affair (we've waited SO LONG for this one!)

- Cica face cream

Sponsors:

- Best Fiends (download in the Apple app store or on Google Play) (IT IS SO FUN)

- Prose (promo code BIGBOO for your free in-depth hair quiz and 15% off your first order)

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastjuly92020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

So Melanie and I are taking a little break this week, but we're sharing an episode that will be new to most of you. Last month on Patreon we did a Closer Look episode on health and body image, and we got more feedback - comments, DMs, emails - than we have on any other episode. People's reactions were encouraging and candid and inspiring. Given that, we thought we would share the epsiode here, too. Here's what we told our Patreon folks when we originally posted it:

For this Closer Look episode Melanie and I decided to talk about health and weight and body image and etc. It's something that I write about in a chapter of the new book, and several of you have asked if we might be willing to talk about this very thing. Melanie and I have both found ourselves in not-great places with our physical health over the last several years, so I think no one is more surprised than we are by how much we have grown to love being active.

So. You're going to hear a some of our stories from our teenage years through college and adulthood and now into middle age. Two really different body types, two really different histories with food and exercise - but both of us hitting our 40s and realizing that something needed to give.

(Also both of us getting really angry at our husbands before we made a commitment to ourselves and our health. AS YOU WILL HEAR. :-) )

All that to say: no doubt Melanie and I are both works in progress. But we both have gotten to a place where we feel strong and we actually like to move. I struggle with my weight more than Melanie does - this is no secret - but I am so grateful to be in a place where my level of activity helps to quiet the negative voices in my head. And I'm also grateful for friends like Melanie where I can talk about this kind of stuff openly and without judgment. That has been such good medicine.

Hope y'all enjoy!

p.s. Quick disclaimer: if you have dealt with an exercise or eating disorder, this episode may be not be the most enjoyable for you, especially if you struggle with negative feelings about your physical body. We certainly don't want to trigger that or say anything that might make you feel anxious, so I just wanted to make you aware that we talk a lot about exercise and size and body image in this episode in case it's healthier for you not to listen. And also, if we could, we would give you a big hug right now - because you are awesome. :-) 

If you would like to join us on Patreon, we would be delighted to have you. For $5 a month (plus tax, in some states), you get a Closer Look episode - where we talk about something we're both thinking about or obsessed with or analyzing like crazy - and a Q&A where we answer Patreon listeners' questions. It has been a ton of fun, and if you join now, you'll have access to all the old episodes as well as the new content. It's easy-breezy to sign up.

Show Notes:

- Stand All the Way Up  

- This is a sad state of affairs for show notes - but we mostly talk about our personal stories instead of products. The good news is that maybe this episode won't cost you a lot of money for new skin care products. :-) 

Direct download: thebigboocastjuly22020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00pm CDT

This episode is a real hodge-podge, which might well be our very favorite kind. We talk about corn and laundry detergent and hair ties and Melanie's pre-Hamilton television concerns.

We also discuss a guasha stone tutorial Melanie recently watched as well as how tired we are of cooking. Because PANDEMIC. And we spend some time breaking it on down in terms of some big ole takeaways from Somebody Feed Phil

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron

Show Notes:

- Kasey's Summertime Corn - 2 14 oz. bags frozen corn, 1 block cream cheese, 4 Tbs. butter, 2 Tbs. sugar, salt and pepper to taste. 4 hours on low in crock pot, or add 1/4 cup half and half and cook on medium low on the stove, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes

- Nike Hair Ties

- Guasha Stone

- Tutorial on how to use the Guasha Stone

- Hamilton on Disney +

- Erin Moon's Hamilton spreadsheet

- Gain Essentials Orange and Energetic Grapefruit

- Family Savvy Baked Ziti

- Somebody Feed Phil

- Karen Howell

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Thrive Market (use our link for up to $20 toward your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjune252020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:41pm CDT

When we start this episode, I'm maybe not in my best frame of mind on book release eve (Stand All the Way Up came out this past Tuesday). But then Melanie compares my writing to mashed potatoes, and then we talk about Jessica Simpson's memoir, Open Book, and let me tell you: my frown turned upside down.

DO NOT SLEEP ON JESSICA'S WRITING ABILITY, friends.

For the rest of the episode we do a Q&A, and this, this is one of our very favorite things. We didn't make much of a dent in the questions y'all submitted via IG, but we had a blast talking about Melanie's skin care regimen and my green ring and why we will likely never have a YouTube channel, among other things.

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Stand All the Way Up (Sophie's new book)

- Open Book by Jessica Simpson

- Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions mascara

- Ben Rector

- Dave Barnes

- Dave Barnes on episode 89 of the podcast

- Bright Balance 3 in 1 cleanser

- Ponds Cleansing Balm

- Zo skin health products that Melanie is currently using 

- Elta MD clear face sunscreen

- Sunday Riley Luna retinol sleeping night oil 

- Obagi Retinol

- Sunday Riley Vitamin C serum

- Elta MD sport sunscreen

- Cheeky Maiden complexion soap (Sophie's fave -and it's so affordable)

- Teddy Organics rosehip oil

- Creme de la Blair moisturizer

- Gua sha facial tool

- Glo revive light therapy anti-aging light

- Jouer Soft Focus Hydrate & Set Powder

- Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow

- Downluxe Goose Feather Down Pillow

- Garth is on Netflix! (The Road I'm On)

- Somebody Feed Phil

Sponsor:

- Beachbody on Demand (text BIGBOO to 303030 for a free two-week trial)

Direct download: thebigboocastjune182020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:16pm CDT

This week we talk about Caroline's recent wisdom teeth removal, a couple of recent Amazon finds, and a strange Instagram account that is also somewhat captivating. We also discuss a viewing strategy for Hamilton on Disney Plus and reminisce about the cough drops of our youth. As you do.

We also discuss Alex's return to football workouts and Melanie's dry shampoo strategies. We trust that your life will be enriched by this illuminating content. 

:-) 

Enjoy, y'all! 

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Living Proof Dry Shampoo

- Sally O'Malley

- Hamilton movie on DisneyPlus

- Lin Manuel Miranda's White House performance before Hamilton was a musical

- Hamilton on CBS Sunday Morning

- Erin Moon's extensive Hamilton spreadsheet

- The Heir Affair

- amusing_asmr Instagram account

- This is my favorite from the asmr IG page

- Evriholder Fur Removal Broom

Guasha Facial Massage Tool

- Sucrets

- Luden's

- Dot's Pretzels

- Mrs. America on Hulu

- Mrs. America opening credits

- Mom Celebrity Translator

- Stand All the Way Up (releases June 16th!)

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Best Fiends (available in the Apple App Store or Google Play)

- FabFitFun (promo code BIGBOO for $10 off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjune112020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:12pm CDT

Y'all come to us for lighthearted nonsense, so we did our best to provide a little of that this week. We also took some time to put the lighthearted stuff in context at the beginning of the episode, and we hope you'll hear our hearts as we do that.

So as always, we hope there will be points in this episode where you laugh. But after you listen, we hope that you'll join us in praying for justice and healing in our nation. 

We remember George Floyd.

We remember Ahmaud Arbery.

We remember Breonna Taylor.

"Do you know what I want?
    I want justice—oceans of it.
I want fairness—rivers of it.
    That’s what I want. That’s all I want." - Amos 5:24, The Message

We love y'all.

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Brownicity - an anti-racism curriculum by Dr. Lucretia Berry (there's an initial intro video about the way the course is structured, but each participant works through the curriculum independently - and there is also a curriculum for kids)

- An incredible discussion with Priscilla Shirer and Dr. Tony Evans

- Family Savvy Black Bean, Corn & Feta Dip

- Family Savvy Charcuterie

- Family Savvy Houston's Spinach & Artichoke Dip

- Family Savvy Strawberry Brownies

- Bacon Wrapped Dates

- Bacon Wrapped Brown Sugar Crusted Little Sausages

- Ellen DeGeneres Chambray Denim Romper

- Athletic Works Tank Top in regular and plus sizes

- Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich

Ben Platt's "Take Me to the Pilot"

- Sweet Magnolias

All Things Reconsidered by Knox McCoy

Sponsors:

- Penguin Random House - Beyond the Break (follow the link for a free excerpt)

Thrive Causemetics (use the promo code BIGBOO for 15% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjune42020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:09pm CDT

On this episode we talk about what we feel is the worst of the take-out food as well as the joy of getting to eat in a restaurant (at safe distances) again. We also discuss my obsessive analysis of patio furniture as well as one of Ben Platt's most recent songs. So all that to say: we may have reached a point where we need some new hobbies.

That being said, we also dig into some potential summer reading goals and talk though my favorite parts of the Downton Abbey movie. Then we get real sad talking about how much we miss sports, so if you need us, we'll just be at our respective houses watching old Mississippi State and A&M baseball clips.

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Wicker Egg Chair from Walmart

- Melanie's favorite outdoor LED lights

- Oofos

- Kindle Paperwhite

- Sophie's newsletter

- The Silent Patient

- Heavy

- Such a Fun Age

- Carnegie's Maid

- The Heir Affair

- Downton Abbey (the movie)

- Sweet Magnolias

- Ben Platt's "Take Me to the Pilot"

- Acousic Covers playlist on Spotify

- The Last Dance

Sponsors:

- FabFitFun (promo code BIGBOO for $10 off your first subscription box) #fabfitfunpartner

- Thrive Market

- Magic Spoon (use promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastmay282020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm CDT

This week we recount our adventures during this past weekend's Living Proof Livestream, which was the biggest blast and good for the soul in so many ways. We also talk about an exciting new powder option I've ordered, and we do a quick run-down of a couple of funny moments from various Housewives

So yes. We basically start the podcast talking about Beth Moore and work our way to the Real Housewives. This is what you call a microcosm of our real-live lives.

We also discuss some recent Southern Charm news and continue to analyze my calf injury (which is so much better, by the way). Basically it's all the riveting content you've ever wanted. Sort of.

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Living Proof Livestream (it'll be up until the end of May, I think)

- Melanie's hair tutorial on Instagram

- Living Proof volume spray (for the record, this is not Beth Moore's line of hair care products) :-) 

- Sophie's favorite folding chair (IT ROCKS)

- Jouer Soft Focus Hydrating Powder

- Olaplex No. 4 shampoo

- Olaplex bonding oil

- David's favorite lake shoes

- Dead to Me

- Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

- Real Housewives of New York

- Southern Charm

- Outer Banks

- Friday Night Lights

- gaithappens Instagram

- peanut roller

- foam roller

- Superfeet

- Part 1 of our Patreon episode with Perry

Sponsors:

- Beachbody on Demand - special free trial membership when you text BIGBOO to 303030

- Care/of - 50% off your first order with promo code bigboocast50

Direct download: thebigboocastmay212020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:30pm CDT

Occasionally we have big news to report on the podcast, and this is one of those times (well, at least for us): Melanie's internet has been fixed. Like, REALLY fixed. Like, the AT&T technician of the decade was assigned to Melanie's house, and he GOT IT HANDLED. So Melanie's going to tell us all about that, and she is literally so keyed up by her newfound internet speed and reach that her microphone has never been less stationary. At one point I wondered if she was putting things in drawers. But listen - she deserved to not worry about that microphone because INTERNET SPEED APLENTY. What a glorious day.

We also discuss my calf injury (sorry - it's a pandemic, so we have to talk about things like muscle strains because we're not leaving the house very often) and some fun finds to make the day-to-day more enjoyable. Like good bobby pins. Because you can never underestimate the power of a good bobby pin.

Enjoy, y'all!

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Show Notes:

- 1917

- "Paper Dolls" by John Mayer

- AirPods Pro ($15 off at Amazon)

- "You like these little bags you just hold"

- The wallet / clutch I decided on

- Outer Banks

- Dead to Me

Sophie's They Still Write Love Songs playlist on Apple Music

- Sophie's They Still Write Love Songs playlist on Spotify

- spiral bobby pins

- Radical Night Repair (this is the "shed like a snake" peel that Melanie did a couple of weeks ago - and she loved it!)

- Cabales Seamless, Wireless Sports Bras (Melanie's new favorite comfy bra)

- C9 Champion's Women High Waist Capri Legging

- Living Proof Livestream

Sponsors:

- FabFitFun (coupon code BIGBOO for $10 off your first order) #fabfitfunpartner

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Best Fiends (download for free on the Apple App Store or Google Play)

Direct download: thebigboocastmay142020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm CDT

In this episode we get an update on how Melanie's face has fared  after she tried a NO JOKE exfoliation product. We also talk about a show we both loved watching, and I demonstrate some remarkable self-pity related to a recent calf injury. As one does, of course.

And if you're looking for some graduation gift ideas, we are here to serve. We share several ideas for guys and girls, and as always, we've never met a gift-giving opportunity we haven't enjoyed talking about.

Y'all take care. Hope you enjoy!

Become a Patron

Show Notes:

- the foam roller Sophie bought at Target

- the peanut massage ball that's going to bring about Sophie's walking comeback

- Never Have I Ever on Netflix

- Our Amazon shop

- Mindy Kaling's books

- "Don't make me sing."

- Two Funny Girls - notepads, notecards, laundry bags, clear crossbody bags

- Tony Evans Study Bible

Everyday Holy (in stock at Amazon and only $9!)

Rifle Paper Co. journals

All in All (in stock at LifeWay and 25% off)

Minted heart collage

Anthropologie Block Letter Monogram necklace

personalized stacking rings

goodr sunglasses

Eddie Bauer oversized down throw

Project Repeat t-shirt quilt

Old Try awesome letter-pressed prints

essential oil diffusers for girls or guys

Laurel Mercantile Co. Gardiner Park candle

-  Monogrammed Leather Charger roll-up

Hanging Toiletry Bag from Amazon

Hanging Toiletry Bag from Lands' End (it's actually 1/2 off right now with code PLUMS - so it's a crazy good deal)

Sponsor:

The Relief Products (use promo code BIGBOO for 50% off your order; offer expires June 1st)

Direct download: thebigboocastmay72020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:48pm CDT

It's a big week in the life of our little podcast, primarily because on this particular episode Melanie commits to trying a recipe that will require her to deal with raw chicken. 

Oh, HE WILL DO IT.

We also talk about our latest quarantine-ish developments (that is to say: what we've watched on TV / pondered in the stillness of our hearts), and we share some Mother's Day gift ideas. This might be helpful to you if 1) you have no idea what to buy your mom and/or mother-in-law or 2) you need to print out a list for your people, along with maybe a subtle note that HERE IS WHAT YOU TURKEYS CAN PURCHASE FOR ME IN ORDER TO SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION.

However you feel like you should address that is totally up to you.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron

Show Notes:

- Samin Nosrat's Buttermilk Brined Chicken

- Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat on Netflix

- a basic, reliable meat thermometer

- Alexia Potato Puffs

- Hazel's new dog bed

- Olive & June Manicure Kits (free shipping with code BOOTCAMP)

- Large Hammock Swinging Chair

- Folding Rocking Chair

- Between You & Me wooden signs 

- AirPod Pros ($25 off at Verizon - but you won't see the discount. until you put them in your cart)

- Rifle Paper Co. AirPod Pros cases

- Melanie's Ultimate Country Music Playlist

- Women's Kimono Robe

- Vuori joggers (20% off if you sign up for emails)

- Big Boo Too Box at Hummingbird Farms (promo code MOM20 for an additional 20% off any gift set)

- Pura Smart Home Diffuser Set

Sponsors:

- Storyworth (promo code BIGBOO for $10 off your first purchase)

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

 

Direct download: thebigboocastapril302020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:50pm CDT

In this week's episode we talk about the return of summertime heat to San Antonio (you can easily imagine Melanie's joy) as well as our shared delight at a recent GMA Deal of the Day. We also discuss the latest developments in our television-watching careers, and we may spend a significant amount of time recapping the first episode of the new season of The Real Housewives of New York.

All I'm saying is that it brought us some happiness.

And if that weren't enough (well, I mean, it really wasn't enough, but just go with me on the figure of speech), we provide updates on the current state of our pandemic hair - along with some possible solutions because ROOTS.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Show Notes:

- Melanie's (potential) Amazon pool

- Susie Davis

- Sunday Riley Good Genes

- Sunday Riley Vitamin C Serum

- The Hunters on Amazon

- Little Fires Everywhere on Hulu

- The Real Housewives of New York

- The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

- Kristin Ess hair gloss

- Bumble + Bumble hair powder

- Patreon episode with Caroline and Alex

- Sophie's folding chair

- Melanie's Taylor Wolfe sweatshirt

Sponsors:

- The Relief Products (use promo code BIGBOO at checkout for 50% off your order)

- OpenFit (text BigBoo to 505050 for 14-day trial)

- Scentbird (use promo code BIGBOO for 30% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastapril232020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:31pm CDT

By the time this episode releases, most of us will have been affected / impacted / sidelined / challenged by the quarantine for a full month. If you're in other parts of the world, it may have been longer for you. So given the fact that we have now been wearing (mostly) pajamas and workout clothes for the better part of thirty days, Melanie and I thought we would discuss one of our favorite topics: items that bring us comfort.

And let me just assure you: a couple of Enneagram 9s know about some comfort. The pursuit of comfort is one of our spiritual gifts. :-) 

All that to say: the show notes are really long because clearly we have been figuring out how to be really comfortable. But we hope you enjoy, and we hope you're well - and for those of you on the front lines of this particular battle, know that we are deeply grateful.

Take care, everybody!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Floofy coffee

- Jo Malone Shower Gel - Lime, Basil & Mandarin (I bought it on sale; couldn't find anywhere it's currently on sale)

- Essential oils

- Hummingbird Farms Lavender Hand Soap

- Hummingbird Farms Lavender Citrus Heavy Cream

- Hummingbird Farms Lavender Body Oil

- Hummingbird Farms Essential Lavender Oil

- Tan Luxe The Butter lotion

- Things I Bought and Liked on Instagram

- "Use Tootie!"

- Brooks Greenlight Capri tights (I LOVE THEM SO MUCH - and I buy them on sale)

- Brooks Adrenaline running shoes (and last year's Adrenalines on sale)

- Adidas Ultra Boost

- Publix croissant bread

- Julian's Pretzel Bread

- Palmetto Pimento Cheese with Jalapeños

- My Three Sons Spicy Pimento Cheese

- Sophie's favorite Wusthof knife

- The best carrot cake recipe ever

- Gran Jan's chocolate cobbler

- Melanie's Country Classic Spotify Playlist

- Sophie's Great Big Praise Playlist on Spotify

- Sophie's Great Big Praise Playlist on Apple Music

- Jonathan McReynolds' Make More Room (Live)

Leslie Jordan's Instagram

- HomeTop Memory Foam Houseslippers

- Kathleen Jennings Beauty on Instagram

- The Ordinary Peeling Solution

Sponsors:

- YogaSleep (promo code BIGBOO for 20% off)

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- The Relief Products (promo code BIGBOO for 50% off your order; offer expires June 1st)

Direct download: thebigboocastapril162020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

As you might imagine, life has been a mile a minute during the past week of Pandemic '20. We've been to the grocery store, we've been to the drugstore, and we have even cooked some meals. There's just so much to share!

Thankfully, though, a slower pace doesn't stop us from being fascinated with the most inconsequential things. That's why this week we have a lot of thoughts about what shows to watch, we have a lot of thoughts about what it's like at grocery stores these days, and we (well, I) have a lot of thoughts about the finest sports bra I have ever owned. 

Also. Right after I edited this episode it dawned on me that there was an important pop culture development we neglected to discuss, so we called on our friend Erin Moon and broke that thing right on down. That's why you'll find about 15-ish minutes of extra content at the end of the regular episode. Now isn't that more fun? Just more fun!

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Inside the Story of How H-E-B Planned for the Pandemic

- Unorthodox

- Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor

- Sherlock

- Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee

- Veronica Mars

- Cheer

- The Good Place

- Mad Men

- The Iliza Shlesinger Sketch Show

- Friday Night Lights

- The Mindy Project

- Four Weddings and a Funeral

- Little Fires Everywhere

- Dead to Me

- Schitt's Creek

- Jane the Virgin

- Hart of Dixie

- The Newsroom

- Succession

- The Handmaid's Tale

- The Office

- 30 Rock

- Elomi Energise Sports Bra 

- oaskys King Mattress Pad Cover Cooling Mattress Topper

- 600-Thread-Count Pure White King Size Sateen Sheets

- Kirkland Signature 680 Thread Count Sheet Set

- John Krasinski with the cast of Hamilton on Some Good News

- Our beloved friend (and favorite Hamilton expert) Erin Moon

- Erin does great work with our friends Knox and Jamie at The Popcast

Sponsor:

- Pine Cove (use code BIGBOO250 for $250 off a first-time registration for overnight camp)

Direct download: thebigboocastapril092020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

WELCOME TO APRIL, EVERYONE!

Oh, y'all. It was a March, wasn't it? So first and foremost I just want to say that Melanie and I hope you're well and the people you love are well. It may take us a little while to get to the other side of this thing, but I believe we're all gonna love each other well and get through it. So hang in there.

On this episode we talk about what we've been doing during this past week of social distancing, and we also talk to one of our very favorite Twitter follows, Karen Howell. Here's what you need to know about Karen: she is hilarious. Also, she and I grew up in Mississippi towns that are a couple of hours apart, so our accents are really similar, and I got super tickled when I was editing because I'll tell you what does not fade as you get older: a Mississippi accent. :-) 

Anyway, we hope this episode makes you laugh, and by the way, HANG IN THERE, all you mamas who are handling remote learning for your kids (and all you mamas who have been teaching your kids for years). We're cheering you on!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Gen X was made for this moment in time

- Karen Howell on Twitter

Ozark

- Tiger King (just FYI - it's hard to watch - I got to episode three and had to take a breather - and it's definitely not for kids)

- Little Fires Everywhere

- Hometown

- Making the Cut

- On the Bright Side

- Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor

- Leanne Morgan is hilarious

- Ben Rector's cover songs

- Bethany Bordeaux's violin concerts

30 Rock

Sponsors: 

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- YogaSleep (use this link for 20% off)

- OpenFit (text BigBoo to 505050 for a 14-day free trial)

Direct download: thebigboocastapril22020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:49pm CDT

We weren't planning to record an episode this week, but then we (the Hudsons) cancelled our Spring Break trip, and the country pretty much shut down, and suddenly that empty podcast calendar looked like a bit of an opportunity. SO. On this week's episode Melanie and I are so happy to get to talk to our great friend Travis Cottrell, also known as FryDaddy here on the podcast. Travis is a worship leader, a gifted singer and songwriter, and the brother Melanie and I didn't even know we were missing until around 2007. He also happens to be one of the funniest people we know. 

It won't be a surprise to listen and realize that our conversation is all over the place, but the up side of that is that we cover a lot of ground. We discuss what we're cooking during the quarantine, share our favorite snacks (salty and sweet), and ponder whether or not we should be trying on our jeans every couple of days to make sure they still fit. We also talk about how we became friends and whether the three of us have ever thought about doing a live show together (short answer: yes ma'am). :-) 

Hope y'all enjoy!

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Show Notes:

- White Bean, Orzo, and Spinach soup (Melanie added Italian sausage to the recipe)

- French Onion Beef Sliders for a Crowd

- Inside Studio G with Garth and Trisha (this is just a clip - the whole video isn't up any more)

- The Road I'm On - the best TV of 2020

- Garth's first Facebook video

- Matthew McConaughey Coronavirus video

- Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show from home

- Travis' most recent album, Spirit Rise

Melanie's most recent book, On the Bright Side

- Isaiah 42:16

- Psalm 46

- Coram Deo (1992)

- Isaiah 43:19

- Homemade Kettle Corn

- The SNL sketch that was instant bonding for Travis and me

- Our Amazon Shop

Direct download: thebigboocastmarch252020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

Melanie and I are always thrilled when we get to have a guest on the podcast, and it's an extra thrill when that guest is Beth Moore, who just so happens to be one of our heroes. As most of you know, Beth is a writer, a ministry leader, and a straight-up Twitter prophetess. She's also wife to Keith, mom to Melissa and Amanda, and Bibby to her beloved grandchildren. Melanie and I are honored to call her a friend and consider her the Bible teacher of our lives. 

In this episode we talk about Beth's new book, Chasing Vines, and even though I'm way out of practice, I do my best to represent English teachers everywhere and ask a couple of essay questions. :-) We also discuss the wonders of outside, Beth's best skincare tips (I totally pictured Mel taking notes as fast as that GIF of a cat typing), and the pros of getting older. 

We recorded this episode last week before we knew how drastically COVID-19 was about to change "normal life" as many of us have known it. It occurred to me when I was editing this episode that the Lord's timing is kind - because Beth provides so much wisdom and encouragement and joy in this episode. We don't know about y'all, but we could use an extra dose of all of the above right now, and we're so grateful to Beth for providing it.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Beth Moore

- Beth's must-read Twitter feed

- Chasing Vines

- Breaking Free

Video sessions for Breaking Free

- The picture Beth mentions in our discussion about trellises and the Cross

Chicken & Dressing

- On the Bright Side

Juice Plus

- A Night with Beth Moore (this was Tuesday, March 17th in Houston, and several people have told me that Beth's message is amazing and I have to watch - so I am planning to do that tonight!)

Sponsors:

- Scentbird (promo code BIGBOO for 30% off your first order)

- Care/of (promo code BIGBOOCAST50 for 50% off your first order)

- YogaSleep (use this link for 20% off)

Direct download: thebigboocastmarch192020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

I am delighted to tell you that I remembered to plug in my microphone for this episode, so that's a win right out of the gate, isn't it? And thanks to all of our crystal-clear sound, you'll hear us talk about my recent trip to Americus, Georgia, Melanie's recent trip to College Station, and the exciting new make-up that I bought last week.

We'll also update you on our respective families' Coronavirus prep (Shankles - headed for the pandemic prep championship; Hudsons - did not qualify as we have not so much as purchased an extra roll of toilet paper), and we'll check on Melanie's post-book release haze. Oh! And Melanie's On the Bright Side is in Target stores now, so go find it and take a picture with it and buy copies for all your friends. Not that we're the boss of you. :-) 

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Milani Most Loved Mattes eyeshadow palette

- Thrive Causemetics lip liner (in Ghizlan), lipstick (in Emii), blush, and mascara (use promo code BIGBOO for 15% off your first purchase)

- Maybelline Ink Crayon lipstick

- NuFACE

- Melanie foretells the Mike Leach hire in September - MONTHS ahead of time (go to 47:23 in the episode)

- Truth and Lies: Jeffrey Epstein

- R. Eric Thomas' tweet about Meghan Markle

- photo of Meghan and Harry

- On the Bright Side is at Target! (TARGET!!!)

- Annie B. Jones at The Bookshelf

- Most Likely by Sarah Watson

- Sophie's March Playlist for Apple Music

- Sophie's March Playlist for Spotify

Sponsor:

- YogaSleep (use this link for 20% off)

Direct download: thebigboocastmarch122020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm CDT

You may not have known it before now, but what you will realize after about fifteen minutes of this episode is that apparently it is Festivus, and Melanie and I have kicked it off with our annual Airing of the Grievances. From her missing book foreword to my feelings about an unexpected credit card charge to Mel's preferred schedule for visits from the exterminator, we spend some time and also energy voicing our frustrations. 

Also, there's a whole running discussion about the coronavirus. I remain fascinated by the information Melanie shares with all of us.

Finally, we have a lively discussion about sunglasses, and I even try to do a little shopping as we visit. Basically we're just one step removed from our very first podcast episode when we read InStyle magazine together. Seems like old times, etc.

Hope y'all enjoy!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon store

- Melanie's missing On the Bright Side foreword, written oh-so-beautifully by Jen Hatmaker

- The Invisible Man

- Elta MD sunscreen

- Living Proof Dry Volume Blast

- Quay Stop & Stare sunglasses

- Kathleen Jennings' Instagram

- Quay Gold Dust sunglasses

Sponsors:

- Pine Cove (use the link for $250 off any first time, overnight camp registration

- Magic Spoon (use promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

Direct download: thebigboocastmarch52020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:33pm CDT

A few episodes ago I mentioned how much I had loved watching Garth Brooks' "The Road I'm On," and this past week Melanie watched it. I wouldn't say that we discuss it exhaustively in this episode, but we definitely circle back around to it a few times. That is because WE ADORE IT. We also talk about Melanie's new books (it's book launch week!), but we recorded before we knew that the foreword by Jen Hatmaker somehow didn't make it into the actual book, so you can rest assured we'll saddle up to that topic next week. 

We also talk about a couple of books I've read and loved, what we're planning to read during Lent, and a new (to me) K-cup discovery. WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE.

Enjoy, y'all!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon shop

- Melanie's new books

- Garth Brooks' "The Road I'm On"

- Maria Taylor from ESPN

- The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall

- Miracles & Other Reasonable Things by Sarah Bessey

- Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

- Do You Mind if I Cancel by Gary Janetti

- Every Broken Thing by Erin Moon (shopping cart closes Wednesday night at midnight)

- Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup from She Wears Many Hats

- (related: here is my favorite wild rice)

- Starbucks French Roast K-cups

- Mike Leach's Twitter

Sponsors:

- YogaSleep (use this link for 20% off)

- Glossier (use this link for 10% off your first order)

- Clearly Filtered (use promo code BIGBOO for 20% off)

Direct download: thebigboocastfebruary272020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:52pm CDT

I am sad to tell you that Melanie's issues with chicken in general and thick chicken nuggets in particular continue, so we spend a good bit of time discussing her chicken-related options in this episode. We also talk about my family's recent trip to a show choir competition (it was glorious) as well as our excitement that college baseball is with us once again.

Then, as usual, we share a little bit of what we're watching and reading, and we settle a miscommunication re: Melanie's feelings about a tote bag I've been eyeing. If I sound like I was desperate for her approval, it's because, well, I was. 

I'm sure you understand. :-) 

Enjoy, everybody!

Become a Patron!

Show Notes: 

- The A&M maroon striped uniform

- A&M Baseball Hype Video (Mel's people are a little after the one-minute mark)

- My Dear Hamilton

- To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You

- McMillions on HBO

The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall

- Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

- Ken Burns' Country Music

- Best Fiends - we are still obsessed

On the Bright Side - Melanie's new book that is out next week!

- Melanie's Chicken Cakes

- Ree's Twice-Baked Potatoes

- Brooks Glycerin 17s on sale

- Meebak Cica Cream

- The Consuela bag that has Sophie smitten

Sponsors:

- Clearly Filtered (promo code BIGBOO for 20% off your order)

- Thrive Causemetics (promo code BIGBOO for 15% off your first order)

- Scentbird (promo code BIGBOO for 30% off your first month)

Direct download: thebigboocastfebruary202020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:00pm CDT

We may not have watched the Oscars this year, but that doesn't stop us from having big opinions about 1) the dresses and 2) the current relationship status of Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak. In this episode we discuss both topics in great detail. We also talk about the fact that college baseball starts this weekend (!!!), and I dig into my thoughts about the State / A&M women's basketball game this past Sunday (here's a hint: both teams were fantastic).

It will not surprise you to learn that Melanie shares some beauty product updates (she is breathing, after all), and she has also discovered a new serum she can't wait to try. Her skin care persistence is both inspiring and admirable.

Enjoy, y'all.

Become a Patron!

We'd love for you to subscribe on iTunes, and we'd be honored if you'd leave us a review.

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon shop

- Mindy Kaling and BJ Novak clearly love one another

- Soup Snakes

- Mindy Kaling's yellow dress from the Oscars

- Brad Pitt looks like a million bucks

- The Morning Show

- Renee Zellweger at the Oscars

- Cynthia Erivo's Oscar performance dress

- Natalie Portman's Oscar dress

- Regina King's Oscar dress

- Penelope Cruz's Oscar dress

- Jamie Golden on Brie Larsen's shoe situation

- Reese Witherspoon at the Vanity Fair party

- Janelle Monae's Oscar gown

- Mike Leach scared a recruit with a magic trick

- Meeback Cica Cream

- Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

- Thrive Causemetics Brightening Face Wash (promo code BIGBOO for 15% off your first order)

- Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara (promo code BIGBOO for 15% off your first order)

- Family Savvy's Chicken Tetrazzini

Sponsors:

- Magic Spoon (promo code BIGBOO for free shipping)

- Noemie (promo code BIGBOO for $50 off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastfebruary132020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:55pm CDT

Well, both of us recently watched "Miss Americana" - the Taylor Swift documentary on Netflix - and man-oh-man did we ever have some thoughts about it. We share about 278 of those thoughts in this episode. We also discuss some upcoming pop culture events we're excited about (to be clear, I didn't realize when we recorded that the Hamilton movie doesn't come out until 2021, so please know the realization that I have to wait OVER A YEAR has been borderline heartbreaking).

There are some beauty product developments as well - and news about what may well be the finest mascara we have ever tried. Yes. You read that correctly. THE BEST MASCARA WE HAVE EVER TRIED. Eyelash dreams do come true, everyone.

Enjoy, y'all.

Become a Patron!

We'd love for you to subscribe on iTunes, and we'd be honored if you'd leave us a review.

Show Notes:

- Our Amazon shop

- Sophie's February Playlist on Apple Music

- Sophie's February Playlist on Spotify

- "When Doves Cry"

- "Let's Go Crazy"

- Hamilton movie - October 15, 2021

- Miss Americana

- Ed Sheeran's Songwriter

- Tweezerman eyelash curler

- ORU Singers

- Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extension Mascara (promo code BIGBOO for 15% off)

- Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner (we both have and love the shade Hoda) (promo code BIGBOO for 15% off)

- Living Proof Dry Volume Blast (this is a smaller size - just FYI)

- Elnett hairspray

Sponsors:

- OpenFit (text BIGBOO to 505050 for fourteen free days of Sugar Free 3 and access to all the OpenFit workouts)

- Care/of (use promo code BIGBOOCAST50 for 50% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastfebruary62020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:30pm CDT

Now that I think about it, it might have been a good idea to call this episode WELL WE HAVE WATCHED SOME THINGS. We talk about Broadway shows and TV shows and why I might have watched the recent two-part Garth Brooks Biography special four-ish times. Plus, Melanie has some very strong feelings indeed about Marriage Story - and we both have very strong feelings about Jennifer Aniston's wardrobe in The Morning Show.

We also discuss a game we have both been obsessively playing on our phones - and we share some recent beauty favorites, too. So basically it's a fine time indeed on ye olde podcast.

Enjoy, everybody!

Become a Patron!

We'd love for you to subscribe on iTunes, and we'd be honored if you'd leave us a review.

Show Notes:

- Aaron Tveit and Laura Olivo singing "Your Song" from Moulin Rouge

- Marriage Story on Netflix

- Marriage Story soundtrack (IT. IS. GORGEOUS.) on Apple Music  and Spotify

- The Morning Show on Apple TV +

- Taylor Swift's Miss Americana movie

- Country Music by Ken Burns

- Garth Brooks: The Road I'm On

- "The Dance" by Garth Brooks

- "Friends in Low Places" by Garth Brooks

- Best Fiends app

- Cattle Baron in Cashmere Instagram

- Meeback Cica Cream

- Nourishmax Vitamin C serum

- Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint

- Charlotte Tilbury Healthy Glow Moisturizer

Sponsors:

- Glossier (click on the link for 10% off your first order)

- Noemie (promo code BIGBOO for $50 off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjanuary302020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:54pm CDT

Melanie has a bit of a cold on this episode, which means you may start to wonder when I started recording a podcast with the ghost of Barry White. OH, I KID. And listen - are we all ever glad that Melanie toughed it out and recorded the episode despite her upper respiratory challenges, because she comes in strong with an update on 1) the raccoons that live next door to her and 2) the latest Royal Family news. We are in her debt.

We also discuss a couple of things we've cooked (and enjoyed) lately, and we share our thoughts about Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston. Just like when we were young and full of collagen and it was 2002.

Enjoy, everybody!

Become a Patron!

We'd love for you to subscribe on iTunes, and we'd be honored if you'd leave us a review.

Show Notes:

- Our BigBoo Amazon Shop

- Medicine Ball recipe

- Teavana Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility Tea

- Cheer on Netflix (not for the children - the language is rough)

- Zella leggings (both of us love these!)

- Trisha Yearwood's Chicken Tortilla Soup (I use taco seasoning instead of fajita seasoning and double the black beans and corn)

- Family Savvy Spicy Hamburger Vegetable Soup

- Queen Elizabeth's most recent statement about Harry and Meghan

- Sussex Royal

- Brad Pitt watching Jennifer Aniston's SAG acceptance speech

- Paul Rudd sums up our feelings about podcasting so frequently

Sponsors:

- Blinkist (link is good for a free 7 day trial and 25% off your subscription)

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Direct download: thebigboocastjanuary232020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm CDT

Well, if you have dreamed of an in-depth weigh-in on the current Royal Family shenanigans, this may be the episode you've been waiting for. Suffice it to say that Melanie has some thoughts, and oh, has she ever done her research. We also discuss our new favorite Netflix show, and I don't mean to brag, but I'm pretty sure I PR'd in terms of viewing time. You'll be happy to know that I blazed through those six episodes like a champion.

We also talk about our friend Travis' FANTASTIC new album called Spirit Rise (Melanie and I both adore it) as well as our realization that we don't really care about awards shows anymore. Our 20-something selves don't know how to process this development.

Enjoy, everybody!

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Show Notes:

- Conecuh Sausage

- Family Savvy

- Sussex Royal

- "Money Can't Buy You Class"

- Mrs. Kravitz

- Trailer for Cheer on Netflix

- Cheer on Netflix (not for the children - the language is rough)

- Spinning Out on Netflix (Mel thinks it may have potential)

- Spirit Rise by our friend and favorite podcast guest Travis Cottrell on Apple Music

- Spirit Rise by our friend and favorite podcast guest Travis Cottrell on Spotify

- Our BigBoo Amazon Shop

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- care/of (use promo code BIGBOOCAST50 for 50% off your first order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjanuary162020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:48pm CDT

Today we found out that Mike Leach is the new head football coach at my beloved Mississippi State University.

Needless to say, Melanie and I needed to talk about it.

This is just a little bonus episode, but our enthusiasm, of course, knows no bounds. So all that to say: we invite you to share in our joy. :-) 

Happy Weekend, everybody!

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Show Notes:

- Announcement Video #1 from MSU Sports Media (Coach Leach is a big fan of pirates)

- Announcement Video #2

- The GIF I sent Melanie 

Direct download: thebigboocast-alert-alert-mike-leach-is-at-state.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:54pm CDT

You will not be surprised to learn that on our first episode of 2020, we talk about college football. Specifically, we dig into the Mississippi State coaching search and the wonder of Joe Burrow. We also discuss what we did for fun / relaxation over the holidays (here's a hint: TV), and I break down round two of trying out my Instant Pot.

Also, Melanie shares her preferences re: Chick-fil-A nuggets (OH, SHE HAS THOUGHTS) and her resolution about chicken for the new year. Because didn't we all make a resolution about chicken? I'm assuming we did.

Enjoy, everybody!

Become a Patron!

We'd love for you to subscribe on iTunes, and we'd be honored if you'd leave us a review.

Show Notes:

- The Crown

- Elizabeth at 90: A Family Tribute

- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

- Virgin River

- My Dear Hamilton: The Life of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

- The Hideaway by Lauren Denton

- Family Savvy's Instant Pot Mississippi Roast

- Sunday Riley Power Trio: Lactic Acid + Retinol + Vitamin C Bundle

- Sophie's Twenty Twenty playlist on Apple Music

- Sophie's Twenty Twenty playlist on Spotify

Sponsors:

- OpenFit (text BIGBOO to 505050 for fourteen free days of Sugar Free 3)

- Noemie (promo code BIGBOO for $50 off your order)

Direct download: thebigboocastjanuary92020.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:50pm CDT