A Tribe Called Bliss by Lori Harder is first up on my October reading list.

I was introduced to Lori about a year ago through her Earn Your Happy podcast. She has such positive energy! There was not doubt…I had to read her book!

A Tribe Called Bliss is a guide to helping women reach their fullest potential by making true connections with other like-minded women. Sounds simple, right? Not so fast. This takes time and planning. How do you even get started?

Lori often talks about the importance of strong relationships where you can openly share personal and professional struggles. A place where you feel supported and heard without judgement. When you read her book, you get that message from beginning to end. You will read personal examples of how her own tribe has been the source of motivation. When you reflect on tribe discussion topics it isn’t hard to imagine the encouragement a small group of women can provide to help you stay engaged with your personal goals.

With a mission to help her readers and listeners “earn their happy,” Lori’s book focuses on a ‘new way’ of connecting with yourself and others.

Like She Owns The Place by Cara Alwill Leyba is the first of a few books I plan to share this month. So many good titles were released recently that I couldn’t pick just one!

Today’s selection was without question on the top of my list. I have had the pleasure of reading the works of this author for a few years. This is, in fact, the 7th book in her collection of writings…and one of my favorites.

Let me cut to the chase with this. Cara is a kick ass writer. She has the ability to be vulnerable, honest, strong and confident all at the same time. When you read her books, it is hard not to feel like she is speaking directly to you. You will find yourself shaking your head in agreement, you will have moments when you close the book to just sit deep in thought and reflect on her words. You will feel like you are sitting beside a good friend who is sharing her personal journey in order to make your life better. That’s what I like most. Cara provides examples of her own struggles, how she changed her mindset, developed personal affirmations and took action.

You should never apologize for chasing the things you love.

-Cara Alwill Leyba

Do you listen to any podcasts? If so, is Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations on your playlist? I love the one featuring Maria Shriver. I walked an extra 20 minutes, just so I could listen to both parts of the podcast. When I got home, I ordered Maria’s book “I’ve Been Thinking…” and patiently waited for it to arrive.

I enjoy listening to podcasts during my daily walks. The genres are always different and usually dictated by my ‘mood of the day’. On this particular weekend I was craving Oprah’s gift for getting deep in conversation with her guests. Her unique talent for reaching authenticity with every person she interviews. With Maria Shriver, it seemed a bit different. These two women are friends. And in this podcast Oprah and Maria allowed the listener to join two kindred spirits sharing thoughts of love, forgiveness, and the quest for a meaningful life. The conversation left me craving more. I hoped Maria’s book would feel like a continuation of those reflected thoughts.

Well….let me say…I finished the book in 2 days. And it did not disappoint.