Hot Cocoa & A Hint of Whimsy

Small Promises to Myself

In this solo slice of life, Madison reflects on consistency, self-discipline, and the importance of creating goals that feel attainable during a season built around growth and renewal. Inspired by the Substack article How to Be Someone Who Actually Does Things by Evermuse, she explores how showing up for yourself doesn’t always have to look big or dramatic — sometimes it’s found in the quiet, repeated choices that slowly shape who we become. A gentle spring conversation on momentum, grace, self trust, and building a life one small habit at a time.

A Cozy How-To: Tea, Matcha, & Meaning with Natasha Mynhier

This week, Madison sits down with her dear family friend Natasha Mynhier—director, AFI fellow, and film extraordinaire—for a cozy, conversation-meets-“how-to” episode centered around tea and matcha. As they share their love for the ritual, they reflect on the beauty of slowing down and creating small, meaningful moments in your day. Part guide, part heart-to-heart, this episode is a reminder that a little whimsy can be found in even the simplest routines. Shout outs from this episode include- Tea Sommelier: @ohhowcivilized  Brands: @kettltea @fellowproducts @Yalacoffee @Traderjoes @Malkorganics

Life Lately: New Dad Reflections with My Brother Max

This one is especially close to home 💛 Madison is joined by her brother, Max, for a cozy, heartfelt conversation about stepping into the new and beautiful world of fatherhood. Over shared brownies and gentle reflection, Max opens up about what this chapter has really felt like—and how all the unexpected twists and turns in his life seem to have led him right here. Together, they talk about the little moments that feel bigger now, the shift in perspective that comes with becoming a parent, and the quiet realization that maybe everything really does unfold the way it’s meant to. It’s warm, honest, and full of love—a simple conversation about family, growth, and finding your way exactly where you’re supposed to be.

A Sweet Balance: Big Careers & Cozy Living with Ashlyn Bradshaw

This episode is a sweet blend of ambition and simplicity. Madison sits down with friend Ashlyn Bradshaw to talk about her journey through the world of filmmaking—from assisting, to producing, to stepping into her new role as Chief of Staff. But beyond the fast-paced industry, Ashlyn shares her quiet pull toward a softer, cozier life, inspired not only by her love of all things Animal Crossing, but also by the grounding, intentional life she’s building with her husband. Over a homemade ice cream sundae—strawberry ice cream piled high with chocolate sauce, fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and mini M&M’s—they reflect on balance, burnout, and the beauty of slowing down. A reminder that even in the midst of big career moments, there’s magic in choosing a life that feels gentle, joyful, and your own. @ashlynbradshaw

Hot Cocoa & A Hint of Whimsy

Grab something warm and settle in. This week’s solo episode is inspired by Jenna O’Brien’s piece for Feeling! Magazine, “Advice for Making Life More Whimsical and Joyful.” With a cup of hot cocoa in hand, Madison reflects on how we can intentionally add joy, wonder, and even a touch of playful whimsy into our daily routines. Because maybe life doesn’t have to feel so serious all the time. Maybe it just needs a little sweetness… and the courage to seek delight. Substack Link: https://substack.com/@feelingmagazine/p-165205564 [https://substack.com/@feelingmagazine/p-165205564]