I have always been a fan of “best of” and “year in review” lists, articles, news programs, and sports shows. I’m nostalgic and I love looking back and reflecting on events in my own life and those events that have helped shape us. 

I’m often asked, what are you reading, listening to, watching? Last year I created my first list and I received good feedback on it. So here is what had my attention this year: 

Favorite Podcasts: 

Smartless 

Arrested Development is one of my all-time favorite tv shows. It’s so witty and ridiculous. I can watch the episodes over and over again. 

Smartless features two of the stars of Arrested, Jason Bateman and Will Arnett. They are joined by Sean Hayes of Will & Grace fame. Each week one of the three is responsible for bringing on a guest. The other two hosts don’t know who it is. Their guests come from a wide variety of places, entertainment, sports, media, among others.

What makes the show great for me is that all three hosts are the best of friends and they don’t hold back in teasing each other. They genuinely care about one another which makes it an easy and often laugh inspired listen. My favorite episode and guest to date is George Clooney.

Against the Rules by Michael Lewis: Judging Sam

There are certain stories that that just captivate us. For me, the rise and fall of Sam Bankman Fried is one of those stories. Michael Lewis is a prolific storyteller. I’ve read most of his books. He’s found a new way to tell his stories through the medium of podcasting. I binged this series to and from the office, grocery store, and my favorite breakfast hangout.   

Favorite Non-Fiction Book

The Humanity Factor – A Heart Driven Approach to Your Finances and Your Future

I know this is self-promoting, but I couldn’t help myself. The entire process has been so much fun. I am grateful to all of our clients who allow us to be a part of their lives and their journey. The book was a way for me to share some inspiring stories and to help people think through their own financial lives. I encourage you to share it with those you care about. Feel welcome to leave us an Amazon review and let us know what you think.

Favorite Fiction Book

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

First, it’s just a great story, in the same likeness as Charles Dickens, David Copperfield. Heartbreaking and funny at the same time. Told through the eyes of a boy with terrible luck, an artistic gift, and a positive attitude. I read this so slowly because I just didn’t want it to end. My apologies to the Cuyahoga County Public Library for that. 

Favorite Non-Traditional News Source

The Free Press

Bari Weiss created this out of her Substack writing. If you aren’t familiar with Substack, it’s a place for independent writers and thinkers to share their work. Bari is a great thinker. She tackles subjects that are important to many of us. I look forward to her weekly TGIF piece that reviews the week in news. She does it with humor and humility.

How I like my eggs

Poached

Those that know me well, know that I like to stop for breakfast before work each morning. I read the Wall Street Journal and enjoy poached eggs. My Mom made these for me when I was growing up and my grandmother would take me to a local diner (Lucky’s!) in her neighborhood. Poached eggs weren’t on the menu, but she was insistent they make them for me. I carry the tradition on to this day. 

Favorite Streaming Series 

The Wire

I was in solidarity with all of the writers, actors and artists on strike this year. Shout out to them. During the Hollywood shut down I turned to an 2002-2008 crime drama series that chronicles the lives of police officers, drug dealers and users, politicians and media in Baltimore. I was captivated. Season 4 is one of the best seasons of any tv series in history. It was that good.  

Ted Lasso

Its final season did not disappoint. It seems like I read a news story daily that just makes me cringe. Ted Lasso was the antidote for that for me. This is a comedic drama series that showcases an American football coach who is hired by an English soccer team as its coach. The secret intention of the owner is that this will end in disaster. Ted is the ultimate optimist who delivers his wisdom in a folksy and heartening way. I loved him and all of the characters in this series. If you need a pick me up, watch this show. 

There you have it. My best of list for 2023. If you like this, we’ll do it again next year. If you have suggestions for new or different categories I’d love to hear them. In fact, I’d love to know what your favorites were! Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year.

Frank