First of the Month Files March 2026

Episode 337: The Lost Pleasure of Getting Ready - 30 Acts of Resistance Through Style Why has getting dressed become a lost pleasure for busy professionals? Host Judith Gaton reframes intentional dressing as an act of resistance and shares 30 compelling reasons to find joy in your getting ready routine again. What You'll Learn Why the ritual of getting ready has lost its mystique How style and fashion are inherently political acts Why trivializing what women find pleasure in is problematic 30 acts of resistance through intentional dressing How to reclaim the pleasure of getting ready without perfection Episode Highlights [00:00] The lost pleasure of getting dressed [02:30] Getting ready as armor and creativity [08:45] Why this conversation matters during difficult times [12:20] Style and fashion as inherently political [15:40] Real-world examples: lawyers, doctors, nonprofit leaders [20:15] The 30 acts of resistance through dressing [25:30] Finding compelling reasons to care for yourself Key Quote "The goal is not perfection. It's intention. Let's take care of the aesthetics so that you can do your work unfettered and undistracted." Connect: Instagram @judithgaton | Substack for weekly essays  

Episode Overview In this special episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, host Judith Gaton introduces a new format inspired by her Substack's "First of the Month Files." She shares five things she's currently loving and working on, along with encouragement to pursue your own creative projects and find joy in the everyday. Key Takeaways Imperfect progress > perfect inaction Find your accountability buddy Share your art with the world Create phone-free, analog moments Take up space—we need you Connect 📮 Substack - Paid subscribers get monthly snail mail 📸 Instagram - Share your lemon recipes!

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Andie Geyer, the owner and operator of Rebel Reads, a mobile romance and fantasy bookstore based in Redlands, California. Andie shares her incredible journey from third-grade teacher to entrepreneur, proving that you don't need to quit your day job to build a thriving passion business.   Discover how Andie went from seeing a video to launching her pink mobile bookstore in just two weeks, and learn the two critical questions every aspiring entrepreneur should ask themselves before starting a business.   Find Andie & Rebel Reads: Instagram

In this episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, the host delves into the concept of goal-setting, encouraging listeners to shift their focus from grandiose outcome goals to specific, daily processes. Sharing personal realizations and examples, such as making a million dollars, losing weight, creating a stylish wardrobe and writing a novel, the episode emphasizes that real progress and satisfaction come from the mundane, everyday efforts. Listeners are invited to embrace the process, savor the in-between moments, and cultivate a deeper relationship with themselves through consistent, intentional actions.   00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic: Goals 00:37 Personal Experiences with Goal Setting 01:20 The Problem with Outcome Goals 03:29 The Importance of Process Over Outcome 06:31 Practical Examples and Personal Goals 09:53 Conclusion and Call to Action   Join us on Substack.

In this episode, Judith explores the tension between setting ambitious goals and leaving room for flexibility, creativity, and possibility—especially at the start of a new year. She shares personal reflections, style advice, and encouragement for high achievers to embrace both planning and the unexpected.

In this transformative conversation, Judith is joined by friend, colleague, and certified coach Sara Fisk, creator of The Stop People Pleasing Program and host of The Ex Good Girl Podcast. Together they explore what people pleasing really looks like beneath the surface, why high-achieving women are especially vulnerable to it, how it shows up in both obvious and subtle patterns, and what it truly takes to break the cycle. Expect laughter, honesty, and powerful insights you'll carry into your day-to-day life. Connect with Sara Fisk Website: https://www.sarafisk.coach/ Podcast: https://www.sarafisk.coach/podcast

In this episode of The Style Masterclass podcast, the host welcomes Lisa Haukom, the founder of The Golden Brand, to explore the journey of creative entrepreneurship. They discuss Lisa's background in art history, culinary arts, and her transition into running her own businesses, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and visual storytelling. Lisa shares insights on her remote photography sessions, her Photo Club community, and how she helps clients discover and execute their true passions while offering practical advice on personal branding and messaging. The episode also touches on the significance of not being invisible in a patriarchal society and encourages listeners to embrace their creative journeys.

In this episode of the Style Masterclass Podcast, I'm welcoming Coach Chris Coulson for an honest, empowering conversation about fitness, mindset, and self-care. We discuss overcoming injuries, integrating mental health with fitness, setting meaningful goals, and embracing failure as a learning tool. Chris shares his unique "nerd quest" approach to habit-building, while I reflected on my own journey. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, this episode offers practical encouragement and real talk about loving your body, making time for yourself, and finding strength at any stage of life.   About Chris:  Chris Coulson is a fitness and health coach who helps nerds level up, get strong, and step into their main-character arc. With over a decade of coaching experience, 10 years in the Navy, and a runner-up finish in the 2020 Men's Health Next Top Trainer competition, Chris is the person you want to go with you on this journey. He treats fitness like your hero's journey — battling the chaos dragon of real life with practical, sustainable habits. His mission: help people build strength, confidence, and agency so they can feel capable, powerful, and ready to take on their next quest.   Chapters & Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction: Meeting Coach Chris Coulson 1:50 Chris's Journey into Fitness 4:55 Encouragement for Injured or Struggling Bodies 8:05 Integrating Mental Health and Fitness 11:26 Setting Goals: Strength and Habits Over Numbers 14:54 Movement for Life: Finding What Works 17:38 Making Time When You're Busy 21:18 Adding Fun: The Nerd Element 22:58 The 90-Day Challenge: Breaking the Cycle 27:10 One-on-One Coaching: Deep Diving into Your Why 30:09 Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool 36:10 Body Positivity and Aesthetic Goals 40:28 The Power of Getting Women Strong 43:01 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Chris  

In this episode of the Style Masterclass podcast, I'm welcoming Abby from Abby Lane Designs and Holistic Homes. Abby, an intuitive interior designer and 'house therapist', breaks down the ancient Chinese art of feng shui. She explains its principles, its impact on our living spaces, and how adjusting our environments can enhance our lives. The discussion delves into practical tips for creating nurturing spaces, the significance of our front doors, and debunks common misconceptions. Whether you're skeptical or intrigued, this insightful episode offers actionable advice for everyone looking to improve their home's energy.   Connect with Abby: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abby_lane_design/ Website: https://www.abbylanedesigngroup.com/offerings Substack: https://abbylanedesign.substack.com/    00:00 Introduction to the Style Masterclass Podcast 00:14 Meet Our Special Guest: Abby Lane 01:42 Understanding Feng Shui 05:17 The Concept of House Therapy 08:50 Practical Feng Shui Tips 26:53 Working with Abby Lane 29:10 Conclusion and Farewell