Rowena and Shelley delve into the insightful book "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel Pink, one of Shelley’s favourite books! Shelley reflects on how the book's message about motivation, centred on autonomy, mastery, and purpose, has left a lasting impact since its publication in 2009.  Together, Rowena and Shelley then explore the relevance of these concepts in the modern world, especially in the context of our professional and personal lives.  Join them as they uncover the profound implications of autonomy, mastery, and purpose and discover how these ideas can revitalise our respective approaches to work, parenting, relationships, and leisure activities. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion about the true drivers of motivation!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 29: Workstyle OverviewTwo Booked Up Episode 30: Shelley and Rowena share their own Workstyle StoriesTwo Booked Up Episode 31: In conversation with Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst about the Workstyle Revolution Two Booked Up Episode 36: Behind the scenes of Rowena’s novel — out now!Two Booked Up Episode 43: How to Run a Chill Business: Chill and Prosper by Denise Duffield-Thomas  Two Booked Up Episode 48: Why start with why? A discussion about Start with Why by Simon Sinek   Book Links Mentioned  Drive by Daniel PinkThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinWorkstyle by Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst

Rowena and Shelley are delving into a book that's likely on many of your must-read lists if you're on a quest to improve your daily life: "Better Than Before" by Gretchen Rubin.  The book focuses on habits—how we form them, why we break them, and how we can use them to create a more fulfilling life. As busy working parents and business owners, finding ways to make our lives smoother and more efficient is always a priority, making this book particularly intriguing to us.  We'll also share personal stories of how we've applied (or struggled to apply) Gretchen’s insights in our own lives.  Plus, as always, we'll provide you with a couple of easy, actionable steps to apply to your own life. Having previously discussed "The Four Tendencies" and "Life in Five Senses," we're excited to tackle the topic of habits.  Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 2: Personal Life and The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 3: Running your own business using The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 4: Take yourself on a dateTwo Booked Up Episode 10: How to find the time to readTwo Booked Up Episode 23: What’s the big deal about Atomic Habits?Two Booked Up Episode 42: Embrace Your Five Senses… a chat about Life in Five Senses by Gretchen Rubin.Two Booked Up Episode 45: Can Good Feelings = Good Productivity?Two Booked Up Episode 54: Defining success in the second phase of life, From Strength to Strength by Arthur C Brooks Book Links Mentioned  Better than Before by Gretchen RubinLife In Five Senses

In this new episode of Two Booked Up, Rowena and Shelley discuss Arthur C. Brooks's bestseller, "From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life."  Once again, Shelley dons the interviewer’s hat, and Rowena is in the hot seat. Together, they discuss the book's focus on finding true happiness and satisfaction as we navigate the second half of life, emphasising the importance of shifting our focus from the relentless pursuit of success to building a life rich in relationships, meaning, and contentment.  While the book is primarily aimed at those in the second half of life, Rowena and Shelley are convinced that its wisdom is relevant to listeners of all ages. Stay tuned to gain valuable insights into making the most of the second stage of your career and living a successful, fulfilling, and happier life, as Rowena and Shelley discuss the book From Strength to Strength.   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 25: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals - Overview and Top TakeawaysTwo Booked Up Episode 45: Can Good Feelings = Good Productivity?Two Booked Up Episode 48: Why start with why? A discussion about Start with Why by Simon SinekTwo Booked Up Episode 50: Fan Fave Revisited: Essentialism by Greg McKeownTwo Booked Up Episode 52: Organising Your Books (with Lazy Genius Kitchen inspiration)Two Booked Up Episode 53: Organising your Kid's books (with Lazy Genius Kitchen inspiration) Book Links Mentioned  From Strength to Strength by Arthur C BrooksFeel Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal Start with...

In this new Two Booked Up podcast episode, Rowena and Shelley discuss the challenging task of organizing kids' books. Shelley, a homeschooling mom and our resident expert in this field shares her insights into managing a home filled with books. They introduce the Lazy Genius Process from The Lazy Genius Kitchen, focusing on five key steps: prioritise, essentialize, organize, personalize, and systemize. This practical process is applicable not only to parents but also to anyone looking to tackle a project. Despite their different locations (Sydney, Australia, and Joburg, South Africa) and their children being in different age groups, Rowena's high school-aged boys and Shelley's primary-school-aged boys, both find common ground in applying this process to their respective contexts. Tune in to gain valuable inspiration on how to personalize the organization of your kids' books, as Rowena and Shelley share their unique perspectives and approaches. Whether you're a parent or simply aiming to create a system for your home library, this episode offers practical insights tailored to your individual needs.  Stay tuned for a wealth of ideas on perfecting the organization of your kids' books!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters Two Booked Up Episode 37: Holiday Reads and Bookish Traditions   Book Links Mentioned  The Lazy Genius Kitchen: Have What You Need, Use What You Have, and Enjoy It Like Never Before by Kendra Adachi Julia Donaldson Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by JK RowlingDiary of a Wimpy Kid Series by Jeff KinneyLonely Planet Kids books...

In this episode of Two Booked Up, Shelley and Rowena tackle the challenging task of organizing your book collection. If you're tired of having books scattered around your home, this episode is for you! They take a break from their usual book discussions to delve into practical strategies for reining in those unruly bookshelves. Using Kendra Adachi's The Lazy Genius Kitchen as a guide, Shelley and Rowena discuss prioritizing, essentializing, organizing, personalizing, and systemizing book organization. They emphasize the importance of individual choice, tailored to what best suits each person's needs and preferences. Tune in to discover how Shelley and Rowena each approach the Lazy Genius process to transform their book organization. Whether you're a book lover looking to streamline your collection or just seeking inspiration for a more enjoyable reading experience, this episode is packed with valuable tips and ideas. Don't miss out on making your book storage and reading habits a whole lot more fun!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters Two Booked Up Episode 37: Holiday Reads and Bookish Traditions   Book Links Mentioned  The Lazy Genius Kitchen: Have What You Need, Use What You Have, and Enjoy It Like Never Before by Kendra AdachiManaging Humans by Michael Lopp  Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster by Jonathan Auxier Others Links Mentioned  Library Thing AppBook Apps - Audible, Kindle, Libby

In this episode, Shelley and Rowena celebrate the launch of Season 4 of the Two Booked Up podcast and two years of literary love, laughter, and friendship!  Shelley and Rowena are thrilled to have reached this incredible milestone and want to take you behind the scenes of their journey over the past year. From the ups to the downs, they’re sharing all the insights and reflections gathered from their time hosting the Two Booked Up podcast. Whether you're a fellow podcaster, an avid reader, or an honorary member of their Two Booked Up book club, they can't wait to share this celebratory moment with you. So, grab a refreshing drink, settle in, and join us as they raise a glass to the past two years of Two Booked Up! Thank you for being a part of our incredible community. Here's to many more seasons of literary adventures and meaningful conversations. Cheers!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 36: Behind the scenes of Rowena’s novel — out now!Two Booked Up Episode 37: Holiday Reads and Bookish TraditionsTwo Booked Up Episode 38: Resolution Overwhelm? Try a Guiding Word InsteadTwo Booked Up Episode 39: Read More in ‘24! Announcing the 2024 Reading ChallengeTwo Booked Up Episode 40: How to Find Tranquility in the TurbulenceTwo Booked Up Episode 41: How to Become IndistractableTwo Booked Up Episode 42: Embrace Your Five Senses… a chat about Life in Five Senses by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 43: How to Run a Chill Business: Chill and Prosper by Denise Duffield-Thomas  Two Booked Up Episode 44: Could Harnessing Your Regrets Change Your Life? Two Booked Up Episode 45: Can Good Feelings = Good Productivity?

In this special between-seasons episode, Shelley and Rowena delve back into one of their most downloaded episodes, discussing the unique principles of Essentialism presented by Greg McKeown in his widely acclaimed book. And it’s no wonder why.  The principles of Essentialism, as shared by Greg McKeown, have a profound impact on our businesses and personal lives. We believe revisiting this topic will spark a renewed interest and inspire you to apply these principles in your own life.  Essentialism is not just a philosophy; it's a practical approach to life and work. It's about focusing on the few things that genuinely matter and eliminating the rest. By adopting this mindset, you can make the most of your time and energy and operate at your highest level of productivity.  If you love this idea, the good news is that there are three more episodes (episodes 12, 13, and 14) you can listen to if you want to learn more and hear all the insights gleaned from this book!  It’s a listener favourite, so stay tuned to enjoy revisiting the discussion of Essentialism by Greg McKeown.   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 11 - Essentialism by Greg McKeown - Overview and Top TakeawaysTwo Booked Up Episode 12 - How to Live the Essentialist Life (inspired by Greg McKeown’s Essentialism)Two Booked Up Episode 13 - Play your own game, Essentialists! A deep dive into PLAY, inspired by Essentialism by Greg McKeownTwo Booked Up Episode 14 - Boost your confidence and get paid to be YOU (inspired by Essentialism by Greg McKeown) Book Links Mentioned  Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeownEffortless: Make It Easier To Do What Matters Most by Greg McKeown  Connect with us: Find us online at twobookedup.com and keep in touch with Two Booked Up via email by signing up for the Two Booked Up Bookclub and receive your FREE ‘Read More in ‘24’ Book checklist. Connect with Rowena @rowenamabbott on IG and at

In this episode, as Rowena and Shelley gear up for season four, they revisit a fan favourite and one of their most referenced books and episodes: Gretchen Rubin's The Four Tendencies.  This book has been a game changer for both of them—in the way they run their businesses, understand themselves, and even interpret the books and ideas discussed on this podcast! Are you like Rowena, self-directed and on top of deadlines but uneasy with changes? Or are you more like Shelley, spontaneous and bold but struggle with schedules and rules? According to Gretchen Rubin, these behaviours occur as a result of our tendencies — whether you’re an Upholder, Obliger, Questioner, or Rebel. In this episode, Rowena and Shelley revisit their first discussion of the book, covering its key themes and providing an overview. But that's not all—in addition to this episode, there are three more in the archive, delving deeper into The Four Tendencies. Be sure to check out episodes 2, 3, and 4 to hear all the insights! If you love The Four Tendencies or if you're curious to learn more, stick around as they revisit the magic of Gretchen Rubin's groundbreaking work and episode one of the podcast.    Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1 - The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 2 - Personal Life and The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 3 - Running Your Own Business Using The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 4 - Take Yourself on a Date   Book Links Mentioned  The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin   Other Links Mentioned Do the quiz at: quiz.gretchenrubin.com Connect with us: Find us online at twobookedup.com and keep in touch with Two Booked Up via email by signing up for the Two Booked Up Bookclub and receive your FREE ‘Read More in ‘24’ Book checklist. Connect with Rowena @rowenamabbott on IG and at rowenamabbott.com to learn mo...

️ Shelley shares a few spicy takes in her discussion with Rowena about the classic business book, Start with Why by Simon Sinek.  Rowena is in the interviewer’s chair this time and Shelley’s mission is to fast-forward you to the best parts of Start with Why, while calling out a few other parts that left her frowning. It’s a pivotal book, but it’s also a bit dated and limited in its examples, so Shelley and Rowena extend the conversation, taking some of the big ideas in the book and talking about how you could apply them in your own business, career, or your personal life. Join Shelley and Rowena as they start with why (without the overwhelm!).   03:12 Overview of Start with Why 06:22 Why start with Why? 09:28 How to apply the Golden Circle in your small business 13:57 When "finding your why" feels overwhelming 20:39 Why people and how people…? 25:32 Would a company's Why change over time? Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters Two Booked Up Episode 45: Can Good Feelings = Good Productivity?Two Booked Up Episode 47: Interview with Mel Daniels, author of The Power of Content. Book Links Mentioned  Start With Why by Simon SinekFeel Good Productivity by Ali AbdaalThe Lazy Genius Way

In this special episode, Rowena and Shelley interview Mel Daniels, author of The Power of Content.  This is a fantastic episode for business owners who may be feeling a bit stuck with content creation and marketing. Mel has a refreshing new take on content that will help you tap into your content superpowers rather than getting overwhelmed trying to follow a bunch of made-up formulas. Not a business owner? No worries—this episode is for everyone. Mel’s message resonates across all aspects of life, encouraging you to infuse more of your unique self into your reading, hobbies, career, family, or any project you undertake. Join Rowena and Shelley as they chat with Mel about her new book, the behind-the-scenes of her writing process and the inside scoop on her launch and marketing strategies. Connect with Mel Daniels LinkedIn  Instagram Facebook Facebook Group: The Content ProjectWebsite Book Links Mentioned  The Power of Content: A simple framework to achieve content clarity and confidence by Mel Daniels What Great Storytellers Know: Seven Skills to Become Your Most Influential and Inspiring Self by Bernadette Jiwa.Avoiding The Friend Zone by Rowena Mabbott Other Links Mentioned Free VIA Strengths Survey Connect with us: Find us online at twobookedup.com and keep in touch with Two Booked Up via email by signing up for the Two Booked Up Bookclub and receive your FREE ‘Read More in ‘24’ Book checklist. Connect with Rowena @rowenamabbott on IG and at

In this episode, Rowena and Shelley are discussing the books they’ve been reading, and checking in on their progress for the 24 for 2024 Reading Challenge. The Challenge adds more purpose and variety to non-fiction reading choices and aims to inspire them and you to read more and read more widely, perhaps even trying out authors of genres you wouldn’t normally read.  Also, as you’ll hear in this episode, you can make the challenge your own, including how to squeeze more reading into your busy life!  Join Shelley and Rowena to hear their non-fiction reads, what they recommendation and what they don’t, as well as a few of their favourite fiction reads from the last few months. Listen in for plenty of inspiration to add to your TBR list!    Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 10 - How to find the time to read Two Booked Up Episode 39 - Read More in ‘24! Announcing the 2024 Reading ChallengeTwo Booked Up Episode 40 - How to Find Tranquility in the TurbulenceTwo Booked Up Episode 45 -    Book Links Mentioned    Rowena’s List   Tell Me Again by Amy ThunigBuild The Life You Want by Arthur C Brooks and Oprah WinfreyThe House That Joy Built by Holly RinglandLove The Home You Have by Melissa MichaelsFeel Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal Come As You Are: Revised and Updated by Emily Nagoksi

In this episode, Rowena and Shelley discuss Ali Abdaal's book Feel Good Productivity.  Productivity books are often full of tips for working harder, hustling longer and hacks to make the most of your time. This book is completely different! Instead, Ali Abdaal puts forth the idea that instead of more discipline, we can accomplish more by focusing on our well-being and embracing joy!  Specifically, Ali discusses that having more fun can make us more productive, which is something we strongly believe in here at Two Booked Up. And, in this episode, we are walking the talk! For a fun change, Shelley dons her interviewer hat and interviews Rowena about the book. Join Shelley and Rowena as they discuss key ideas and top takeaways, sharing how you can be productive and feel good, too!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters Two Booked Up Episode 11: Essentialism by Greg McKeownTwo Booked Up Episode 12: How to Live the Essentialist Life Two Booked Up Episode 13: Play Your Own GameTwo Booked Up Episode 14: Boost Your Confidence and Get Paid to Be YouTwo Booked Up Episode 23: What’s the big deal about Atomic Habits?Two Booked Up Episode 24: Supportive Habits

Today, Rowena and Shelley are talking about regrets, specifically The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward — which is today’s book by Daniel Pink. Do you ever find yourself dwelling on past mistakes or missed opportunities, feeling regretful and wishing you could go back in time to do things differently? Living with regret can be a painful experience, but what if those regrets could actually serve a positive purpose in your life?  In the book, Daniel Pink argues that reflecting on our regrets can help us make better decisions and become better people. By acknowledging and learning from our past mistakes, we can move forward with greater wisdom and confidence and use our regrets as a tool for personal growth and positive change. Sounds good, right? So, join Rowena and Shelley as they discuss their favourite insights from the book and their top takeaways. Listen in to learn how harnessing your regrets can change your life.   Book Links Mentioned  The Power of Regret by Daniel PinkWomen of Good Fortune by Sophie Wan Connect with us: Find us online at twobookedup.com and keep in touch with Two Booked Up via email by signing up for the Two Booked Up Bookclub and receive your FREE ‘Read More in ‘24’ Book checklist. Connect with Rowena @rowenamabbott on IG and at rowenamabbott.com. You can also get Rowena’s FREE e-books, The A to Z of Career and Life Confidence and The Criteria List here. Connect with Shelley on LinkedIn at Shelley Tonkin Smith. Her copywriting business is at shelleysmithcreative.com, and check out learn.shelleysmithcreative.com to get Shelley’s Sales Page Step-by-Step Template + Video. There’s also Podcast Jumpstart, a workshop on getting your podcast onto the air, quickly and sustainably. Use the code: TWOBOOKEDUP or use this link for 50% all products through 31 May 2024.

Today, Rowena and Shelley are tapping into their inner chill and discussing Denise Duffield Thomas's book Chill and Prosper: The New Way to Grow Your Business, Make Millions, and Change the World. If you’re interested in running your own business but feel it's too hard, or perhaps you are running a business but find you’re frequently overwhelmed by the need to do all the things, then this book and episode are for you! Denise is an author, coach, and self-proclaimed "Chillpreneur" from Australia. ("Chillpreneur" was the original title of this book). Denise's strategy is centred around discovering a simpler path, and as a highly successful money mindset coach who has reached millionaire status, she knows her stuff! Listen to Denise’s podcast, Chill & Prosper here.  Join Rowena and Shelley as they discuss their favourite insights from the book and their top takeaways. Tune in to learn how you can Chill and Prosper!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters    Book Links Mentioned  Chill and Prosper by Denise Duffield ThomasThe Penderwicks Series by Jeanne BirdsallDiary of a Wimpy Kid Series by Jeff KinneyHarry Potter Series by JK RowlingAvoiding the Friend Zone by Rowena Mabbott Other Links Mentioned Chill and Prosper PodcastNEW! Get Shelley’s...

In this episode, Shelley and Rowena discuss Gretchen Rubin’s latest book, Life In Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World. (And a note from Rowena and Shelley, we just hit record on this episode and CHATTED about the book. Would you mind letting us know what you think about this more casual and slightly more raw format...? podcast@shelleysmithcreative.com or check out our links below.)  If you're looking for some fun ideas to improve your self-knowledge, creativity, and productivity, enhance your relationships with loved ones, and boost your happiness, this is the episode for you! In the book, Gretchen Rubin explains that embracing your five senses leads to a richer, more meaningful engagement with life. As part of this, she reminds us that by understanding our own tendencies and those of the people around us, we can better appreciate and nurture the diverse ways we all experience and interpret sensory information. Rowena and Shelley discuss their favourite stories from the book and their top takeaways. Tune in to learn how embracing your five senses can improve your life!   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 2: Personal Life and The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 3: Running Your Own Business Using The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 4: Take Yourself on a Date Two Booked Up Episode 10: How to find the time to read — and why it’s a fabulous idea to do so! (Inspiration is everywhere)   Book Links Mentioned  Life In Five Senses by Gretchen RubinThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinThe House That Joy Built by Holly Ringland

In this episode, Shelley and Rowena discuss Nir Eyal's book Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life. Perhaps you find yourself checking emails and replying to messages, and before you know it, hours have passed, and the work you were meant to complete is still waiting for you. If you’re tired of feeling like you're not making progress on your goals because of constant distractions, this episode is for you.  Rowena and Shelley discuss their top takeaways to help you become Indistractable. They offer insights and practical solutions and share their aha moments to help you manage your attention and achieve your goals.  If you're looking for ways to stay focused, intentional, and, yes, become Indistractable, join Shelley and Rowena for this must-listen episode.   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 26: How to become a better procrastinator Two Booked Up Episode 38: Resolution Overwhelm? Try a Guiding Word Instead Two Booked Up Episode 40: How To Find Tranquility in the Turbulence Book Links Mentioned  Tranquility by Tuesday by Laura VanderkamThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinProfit First by Mike MichalowiczCoffee and Eclairs by Clara ConradAvoiding the Friend Zone by Rowena Mabbott Other Li...

Title: TBU#40: How to find tranquillity in the turbulence Artwork Title: How to find tranquillity in the turbulence    It’s the first book for 2024, and Shelley and Rowena are excited to be talking about their top takeaways from the book Tranquility by Tuesday by time management guru Laura Vanderkam.  Tranquillity is a beautiful notion and very appealing to many, especially amid the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life —especially on an average Tuesday! The book has some excellent tactics for calming the chaos without having to escape the realities of life, but rather to build a resilient schedule that’ll handle all the unpredictabilities that come our way. Shelley and Rowena highlight their favourites of Laura’s nine rules, so if you’re looking for more tranquillity in life, be sure to join Shelley and Rowena for this episode.   Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 2: Personal Life and The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 3: Running Your Own Business Using The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 4: Take Yourself on a Date Two Booked Up Episode 6: The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra AdachiTwo Booked Up Episode 7: How we are Lazy Geniusing our lives and how you can tooTwo Booked Up Episode 8: Our best tips to “Lazy Genius” your businessTwo Booked Up Episode 9: Naming What Matters Two Booked Up Episode 11: Essentialism by Greg McKeownTwo Booked Up Episode 12:

In this all-new episode of Two Booked Up, Shelley and Rowena are encouraging you to shake things up in 2024. Last year the bookworms reinvigorated their and your reading by taking a playful yet intentional approach.  And this year, they want you to read more and have more fun as you do it! After all, what we read affects our feelings, thoughts, our actions, our mood, and really how we show up in the world. So, it’s important not to leave that to chance and instead to choose to read things that make you feel good or expand your knowledge. But don’t worry, they aren’t getting too serious. Instead, they are embracing what is now a  Two Booked Up tradition and announcing the 24 for 2024 Reading Challenge.   Tune in to hear how Rowena and Shelley are helping you have more fun as you read more in ’24!    Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 13: Play Your Own GameTwo Booked Up Episode 18: In Praise of FictionTwo Booked Up Episode 28: The Reading Challenge is OnTwo Booked Up Episode 35: The 23 for 2023 Reading Challenge - here’s how we’re trackingTwo Booked Up Episode 36: Behind the Scenes of Rowena’s novel - out now!Two Booked Up Episode 37: Holiday Reads and Bookish Traditions   Book Links Mentioned  Create Anyway by Ashlee GaddAvoiding the Friend Zone by Rowena Mabbott

Happy New February! At Two Booked Up, February is the new January! If you ever needed permission for a restart of the year, this episode provides that and much more. In this episode, Rowena and Shelley share their guiding words, or phrases, of the year and what these words mean for this podcast and their reading lives, as well as their lives in general.  They discuss why a guiding word or phrase can feel more supportive than goals and how choosing a guiding word can bring more intention and creativity into your life. So if you’d like some inspiration for choosing your guiding word or phrase for 2024, make sure you join Shelley and Rowena in this special episode. Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 37: Holiday Reads and Bookish TraditionsTwo Booked Up Episode 1: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinTwo Booked Up Episode 2: Personal Life and The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 3: Running Your Own Business Using The Four TendenciesTwo Booked Up Episode 4: Take Yourself on a Date  Book Links Mentioned  When by Daniel PinkAvoiding the Friend Zone by Rowena MabbottThe Lincoln Highway by Amor TowlesHow to Grow Your Small Business by Donald MillerBuilding a StoryBrand

It’s that time of year, and Two Booked Up is celebrating with a Christmas Special episode. Rowena and Shelley will be talking about some of the ways that you can make this holiday season a little more bookish! If you want to read more this season and encourage friends and family to do the same, this episode has some fun ideas for you to try out. Rowena and Shelley also have some book recommendations for the holiday season; they share some of their favourite fiction and non-fiction books from the last few months and will tell you what’s on each of their “To Be Read” lists for the holidays! Join Shelley and Rowena as they celebrate the end of 2023 in this holiday special! Episode Links Mentioned Two Booked Up Episode 28: The Reading Challenge is ONTwo Booked Up Episode 35: 23 for 2023 Reading Challenge - here’s how we’re tracking Book Links Mentioned  Avoiding the Friend Zone by Rowena MabbottThe Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles Rowena’s favourites The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies by Alison GoodmanKeep Moving by Maggie Smith Shelley’s favourites Space Band by Tom FletcherRadical Candor by Kim Scott TBR lists Shelley - Non-Fiction