Sunday Edition | July 20, 2025
- Olga Nesterova
- Jul 19
- 6 min read
Because life is more than politics — and kindness still matters.
This Week: Authenticity
This week, I’ve spent a lot of time studying trends—on and offline. It’s part of my job, and I do it often to get a feel for where we’re all headed. But if you know me, you know I don’t ride the wave just because it’s there. I go where my values point, and where intention—not imitation—leads the way.
In the trends, I saw people dance, cook, comment, speculate and… copy. Many of today’s trends are heavily AI-driven. The latest big one? Reviving an ‘80s hit sung by AI-generated influencers who don’t actually exist. YouTube Shorts are packed with these, generating tens of millions of views from fans who seem to miss that the attractive young woman singing isn’t real. Meanwhile, Instagram continues its glossy fantasy parade of perfectly filtered lives—designed to impress, and often to distract.
But here’s the truth: Your life—with all its beauty and mess—is the real one. Your smiles and tears, your wins and losses, your hellos and goodbyes… that’s what makes you human. That’s what makes you whole. So this week, let’s focus on authenticity.
I’m not here to give you answers—but I do want to help you ask the right questions. Promise me one thing: take the time you need. Slow down. And come home to yourself.
PS: If you're already grounded and glowing—keep reading. Maybe you’ll find a few nourishing add-ons to your lifestyle.
But first, as we always do, let’s take a look at what happened in culture this week.
🎭 CULTURE SNAPSHOT
A24 buys a Manhattan theater for plays, music & comedy
Indie powerhouse A24 has acquired the historic Cherry Lane Theatre in Greenwich Village. The plan? Use it as a creative hub for both stage and screen—bringing a new era of interdisciplinary entertainment to NYC.
Jane’s Addiction bandmates sue one another
Members of Jane’s Addiction (Dave Navarro, Eric Avery & Stephen Perkins) have filed a $10 million lawsuit against frontman Perry Farrell over a September 2024 onstage fight that led to their reunion tour being canceled. Farrell quickly counter‑sued, escalating an already bitter split.
Nicholas McCarthy headlines BBC Proms in London
Born without a right hand, pianist Nicholas McCarthy makes history by performing Ravel’s Piano Concerto for the Left Hand at Royal Albert Hall on July 20, 2025—proudly showcasing how artistry transcends limitations.
Breaking the Binary Theatre launches in New York
Founded by trans and non-binary artist George Strus, this new theatre company is spotlighting trans/nb performers with virtual projects and live readings, filling a much-needed space in an increasingly exclusive industry.
“Heatwave” & ‘Moomins’ among NYC July art shows
NYC galleries are heating up with July highlights: Edwynn Houk Gallery’s "Heatwave" (exploring summer’s physical and social intensity) and the delightfully nostalgic “Tove Jansson & the Moomins” at Brooklyn Public Library, plus many more across Chelsea, Tribeca & beyond. (Stay tuned for the exclusive footage in the coming weeks.)
🫶 LET'S TALK ABOUT AUTHENTICITY
What is authenticity?
Authenticity is living in alignment with your true self—your values, emotions, and intentions. It’s being honest with yourself and others, not trying to be what’s trendy, expected, or applauded. It’s freedom. It’s grounding. And it’s your superpower.
Why does it matter?
Because when you show up as your real self:
You build trust (with yourself and others)
You attract people who love you—not your curated image
You feel peace, not pressure
You avoid burnout from pretending
You become magnetic—because realness is rare
💪 FOR THE BODY
5 Ways to Stay Healthy (Without Diets or Suffering)
The diet industry is worth billions—the tips are as addictive as the thought of being thin. But let’s shift the focus: not on shrinking ourselves, but on being just the way YOU want to be. Let’s choose health not as punishment, but as a gift. We owe it to ourselves—and to those who love us—to feel good in our bodies.
Walk after meals – It’s gentle, effective, and refreshing.
Drink more water than you think you need – Hydration is underrated.
Sleep like it’s your superpower – because it is.
Eat colorful food – Nature knows best.
Laugh often – It’s cardio for the soul.
LET'S COOK
Recipe Corner: The Real-Deal Feel-Good Sandwich
Since we’re talking about authenticity, we can probably agree on this universal truth: sandwiches are always the right thing to consider. They’re honest, unfussy, and endlessly customizable.
Here’s a fresh, healthy version that hits all the right notes:
🥒 The Real-Deal Veggie Hummus Sandwich
A crunchy, creamy, nutrient-packed sandwich that tastes like sunshine and good decisions.
Ingredients:
2 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread (toasted or not—your vibe!)
3 tbsp classic or roasted red pepper hummus
A handful of arugula or spinach
½ avocado, sliced
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small carrot, grated
2-3 slices of tomato
Optional: a sprinkle of feta or a dash of lemon juice + olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Spread hummus generously on both slices of bread.
Layer with greens, avocado, cucumber, tomato, and grated carrot.
Add a sprinkle of feta or a little drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice if desired.
Press together gently, slice in half, and enjoy.
💡 Tip: Wrap it up and take it to the park, or pair with iced tea and a good book for a lunch date with your soul.
5 Tips for Finding Your Style
Yes, I watched the latest fashion shows—with the intention of reporting on what’s trendy for the Sunday Edition. I came away more confused than before… in the best way. Yes, structured silhouettes are having a moment, but my main takeaway was this: anything goes. Read that again: anything goes.
So take this as a green light, a hint, or a sign to be unapologetically YOU.
Here are some points to consider:
Dress for how you want to feel – not how you think you should.
Notice your repeat pieces – they’re telling you what you love.
Play with texture, not just color – linen, leather, cotton, silk.
Invest in quality staples – less, but better.
Try something unexpected once a month – a new hat, a bold jacket, a vintage scarf.
FOR THE MIND
5 Tips for a Healthy Mindset
Start the day without your phone – Give your brain space before the scroll.
Speak kindly to yourself – You are listening.
Set micro-goals – Small wins build momentum.
Move your body daily – Not for appearance, for your mind.
Check your inputs – Follow people who inspire, not exhaust you.
5 Questions to Ask Yourself
What do I do only because others expect me to?
When was the last time I felt truly alive?
What am I avoiding by staying busy?
What brings me joy that I’ve neglected?
If I weren’t afraid, what would I change?
FOR THE SOUL
5 Ways to Show Gratitude
Gratitude is the best attitude and the secret to a happy mood.
Often we take those rare individuals—the ones who simply wish us the best—for granted. Since today is Sunday (but feel free to replace it with any day you happen to read this), it’s the perfect moment to show some well-deserved love.
Living in a positive environment starts with you. Be the spark that changes someone’s day for the better. Here’s what you can do… quickly:
Write a handwritten note — yes, with a pen.
Leave a voice message just to say thank you.
Cook a favorite meal for someone you love.
Give compliments like confetti — especially when they’re earned.
Tell people why they matter to you while they’re here to hear it.
5 Inspiring Movies or Series to Watch
The Intouchables – A heartwarming French film about an unexpected friendship that changes two lives.
Miss Americana – A surprisingly raw look at Taylor Swift's personal evolution.
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse – Gentle, profound, and beautifully animated.
The Hundred-Foot Journey – A flavorful journey of culture, passion, and finding your place in the world.
The Peanut Butter Falcon – A feel-good adventure about friendship, dreams, and rewriting the story you were told you could live.
*Tap on the title to watch a trailer and PLEASE watch at least one of these
One Inspiring (Audio)book to Try
Narrated by the actor himself, this memoir is part life story, part wisdom guide, and full of honest, often hilarious reflections on navigating life by trusting yourself. It’s raw, quirky, and unexpectedly grounding.
😀 HAPPY MOMENTS
Videos guaranteed to make you smile.
🕊️ CLOSING WORDS
You are you. And that is your power.
There has never been anyone like you before, and there never will be again. You are a limited edition. Don’t waste it trying to become a copy of someone else.
So go out there—real, imperfect, radiant. Live your story. Wear your scars. Share your light.
And always, always stay ONEST.
O.N.
Happy Sunday —And remember, life is more than politics.
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