MCG September Favorites: Popcorn, Rap Music, and Stylish Planners
At MCG, we spend most of our day thinking and dreaming about marketing. It’s our obsession! But not our only obsession. We’re a diverse group of designers, writers, and sales gurus with a diverse range of interests. And starting this month, we’re going to share some of those interests with you.
From tasty snacks to handy apps to the latest album releases, our monthly favorites are the things we’re reading, watching, buying, listening to, and doing. These are the recent discoveries we’re recommending to all our friends. These are the fixations so good we just can’t keep them to ourselves. So kick back and prepare to find your next infatuation.
Here’s the stuff we’ve been loving all September long.
1. Hidden Brain…a podcast that will truly blow your mind.
Our principal Chuck Morris is really digging this mind-bending podcast about human behavior. Hosted by NPR science correspondent Shankar Vedantam, Hidden Brain unravels the everyday psychology and neurobiology behind our choices and thought patterns. Ever wondered why you love to work, or how you can make better, more rewarding decisions? This podcast is for you.
2. 1992 Deluxe…they don’t make ‘em like this anymore.
“When I heard Princess Nokia released a 90s themed rap album, I immediately opened Apple Music and streamed the entire thing,” says Hanna Lustig, MCG content strategist. “This record solidifies her as a female rap legend, as far as I‘m concerned. With 90s–inspired beats, lyrical punchlines, and political overtones, 1992 Deluxe delivers on everything its title promises and then some. My favorite tracks are Bart Simpson, Brujas, and Mine.“
3. Aldi’s Fit & Active Popcorn…a light, buttery snack that won’t ruin your diet.
MCG designer Jessica Kelly is firmly #teamaldi, and for good reason. This popcorn is “twenty-five calories per cup and perfect to satisfy afternoon cravings,” she says. “Aldi, in general, is the best. I can spend $100 at Kroger and get twice as much at Aldi.”
4. The Sinner…a binge-worthy mini–series with tons of twists and turns.
Office manager Sherrie DeMarcus can’t get enough of this dark, suspenseful mystery from USA Network. “I wasn’t expecting to like this so much,” she admits. “Call it a guilty pleasure. I was not prepared for how explicit it would be for basic cable in prime time. But the story is compelling and unfolds unexpectedly.”
5. Contagious: Why Things Catch On...the Bible of viral content.
Social media intern Andy Bowers can’t recommend this New York Times best-seller highly enough. “Contagious is an excellent read for any marketer or business owner because it explores why certain products and ideas become popular or go viral. Trust me – you won’t want to put it down.”
6. The Icon Agenda from Rifle Paper Co...a stylish and inspirational agenda.
Design intern Sierra Plese always plans ahead when it comes to choosing a perfect agenda. And this gorgeous, cloth clover planner from Rifle Paper Co. really fits the bill. “I need one of these for next year, ” she says. “They make beautiful little books and they are functional.” Did we mention it has inspirational quotes and illustrations scattered throughout?
7. Day One…a journal app that you can use on-the-go.
Day One is the Rolls Royce of journaling apps, according to marketing intern Maria Galkina. “I don’t really set specific time for journaling each day,” she explains. “I write about my experiences, while they are still fresh. With Day One, I can capture a moment right there without losing any details.”
Bonus feature: You can even add photos and location tags to your entries.
8. Beats Solo 3 by Dr. Dre…headphones with stereo sound quality.
Content strategist Hanna Lustig is a sucker for Beats headphones, especially in this rose gold hue. “I’ve been jamming out with these wireless, noise-cancelling headphones all month long,” she says. “Are they expensive? Definitely. Do I have any buyer’s remorse? Not at all. From the slick design to the outstanding performance, Beats are the epitome of luxury.“
9. Mercari…a mobile platform that makes buying and selling a cinch.
Web development intern Lindsay Loveday is “totally addicted to shopping on Mercari.” This beautifully designed mobile app is a community-powered marketplace with millions of listings and secure payment options. Have a dress you bought but never wear? Need to sell an old iPhone on the fly? Mercari is your new best friend.
10. How to Have a Good Day…a refreshing read that will transform your daily routine.
How to Have a Good Day by economist Caroline Webb is another eye-opening pick from our fearless leader, Chuck. This research-heavy self-help guide shows how we can rethink our lives and careers by applying key insights from behavioral science. Looking to set better priorities, make your time go further, overcome setbacks at work, and become your smartest self? Look no further.
Now tell us, what are your #monthlyfaves? Tweet us and you might see your pick on the next MCG round-up.
