I love a pupu platter, a table full of tapas, or even a tasty smorgasbord. I especially love saying smorgasbord with a bit of a lisp. It somehow makes it even more fun. And the holidays? They’re filled with a true plethora (another fabulously descriptive word) of variety.
So, as I was noodling on today’s email, I kept thinking, Let’s do this… no, let’s do that. And then I landed on it. Wait. A buffet is perfect! A little bit of this, a little bit of that. So, here’s a sampling of some of my current favorite things, and a few that might become yours, too.
First up: a book I’m enjoying via Audible
Nature and the Mind: The Science of How Nature Improves Cognitive, Physical, and Social Well-Being
If you know me, you know I’m a walker. It’s my must-do morning ritual. Most mornings, the moment I walk out my front door, I take a deep breath and say hello to one of the huge Atlas cedar trees in our yard, with the sun peeking through her branches.
I’ve always known these daily ventures are good for my body. I’ve also shared, more than once, that I believe they’re good for my soul. Mount Tabor Park is often the “church” I visit to see the universe in action.
This book offers a deeper understanding of exactly how nature feeds our minds and helps reset our perspective. Listening to it made me even more grateful for big trees, open spaces, and the simple act of stepping outside.
Next on the platter: a podcast worth your time
Michael Meade’s recent podcast, The Spell of Perfectionism.
Michael is a storyteller and mythologist who weaves ancient myths into modern life, often pointing us back to our individual “genius” or inner purpose, something I know many of us are reflecting on right now.
While I’m not a frequent listener, this episode stopped my Monday-morning email scroll in its tracks. If you have 39 minutes, I invite you to explore the symbolism of carnations, consider how perfectionism can turn us to stone, and gently lean into the beauty of imperfection during the holidays.
Up next: a way to help — and be counted
Let’s help our industry colleagues and friends at Idea Decanter with the first-ever State of Advisor Video study.
What I especially appreciate about this effort is that it needs every perspective: weekly creators, occasional experimenters, and those who haven’t hit “record” even once. Yes, even you.
The 3-minute, anonymous survey includes early access to the report.
And last on our platter: an invitation
Join us at SWAY | LIVE Boulder, August 2–4, 2026.
Yes, we’ll be soaking in the breathtaking beauty of a Colorado sunrise. Yes, we’ll be celebrating mornings together in the mountains. And yes, we’ll be doing meaningful work: shedding the need for perfect, embracing who we are, and learning best practices for marketing and thought leadership along the way.
These things really do happen at a conference. Surprised?
Join us at SWAY. You’ll leave revived, reinvigorated, and 100% reinvented.
Be unforgettable,
~ Sheri
FAQ
1. What is “A Little of This, a Little of That” about?
This article is a curated roundup of current favorites and opportunities, including a book on nature and well-being, a podcast about perfectionism, an advisor video survey, and an invitation to SWAY | LIVE Boulder.
2. Why does Sheri recommend Nature and the Mind?
Sheri recommends Nature and the Mind because it explains how time outdoors supports cognitive, physical, and social well-being, while reinforcing the personal value of walking, reflection, and being in nature.
3. What is The Spell of Perfectionism podcast episode about?
The episode explores how perfectionism affects our lives, using storytelling and symbolism to encourage listeners to embrace imperfection and reconnect with their inner purpose.
4. What is the State of Advisor Video study?
The State of Advisor Video study is an industry survey created to gather perspectives from financial professionals at every stage of video creation, from regular creators to those who have never recorded a video.
5. What is SWAY | LIVE Boulder?
SWAY | LIVE Boulder is an event focused on personal growth, authentic marketing, thought leadership, and community connection in an inspiring setting.