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We're thankful for... Comedy Royalty in Austin LI F E + C U LTU R E

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November 2023 PUBLISHER

Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Thankful Issue All that I'm after is a life full of laughter - Daughtry When I had to put together a magazine themed around gratitude and being ‘thankful,’ two things stuck out that are important to me, but I think also sources of pride for our city – the emergence of Austin as a comedy hub, and its breath of literary talent – across ages and genres. It was a true joy doing a photo shoot with comedic couple Tom Segura and Christina Pazsitzky at their YMH Studios – where Christina had the Austin Lifestyle team cracking up all day and I got to interview Tom on their podcast set. I hope you feel like you know a bit more about them after reading our interview. PS: Part 2 is coming in December because there was just too much good stuff. There’s also a lengthy feature on five Austin authors and if I had more pages it would have been a lot longer. It’s my hope you’ll take the time to find the books mentioned in the story, including a debut fiction novel by 16-year-old Emily Moreno, a children’s book by a mother/daughter duo, ‘How to Have a Good Life’ by Sazan and Stevie Hendrix, a series set in Austin called Austin Heat and a memoir by Mike Thompson, who's still winning despite life challenges he's faced. There’s also Ashley Barnhill, who came back from nearly dying after being hit by a car – and is now working on a comedy special about her consequent titanium skull; a feature on a James Beard award-winning chef's culinary trips to Mexico throughout 2024 and more. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy Thanksgiving with a lot to be thankful for. Having a platform to shine a light on some of the people, places, things and experiences in Austin that make it so special definitely regularly makes my daily gratitude journal – thank you to each of you who take the time to read the magazine each month. Cheers, JENNIFER BIRN, EDITOR @AUSTINLIFEST YLEMAGAZINE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/AUSTIN |

Jennifer Birn | jennifer.birn@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Dominique Bejarano CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Jenna McElroy

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Austin Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Austin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Austin Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Comic Ashley Barnhill is Texas Strong

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Giving Back LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Hot Spot FO O D + B EV ER AGE

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Locally Sourced LI FE + C U LT U R E

Decor Trends HO ME + DES I GN

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Fashion Forward ENT ERTA I N M E N T

Gift Guide LO CA L S ERV I C ES

A near fatal accident didn't stifle this multi-hyphenate entertainer's ambition

18 Austin’s Favorite Comedy Couple A day at YMH Studios with Tom Segura & Christina P.

26 New Books by Austinites

Austin boasts a remarkable depth of literary talent spanning ages and genres

36 4 Unique Culinary + Travel Adventures

Award-winning ATX chef is hosting a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences in 202

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Jenna McElroy Tom Segura and Christina Pazsitzky, shot at YMH Studios Hair/Makeup: Erica Gray | Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O'Neill

CUSTOM DESIGN & BUILD R E J U V E N AT I N G AU S T I N HOMES SINCE 2012

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

1: Kendra Scott, Daymond John and the 100 Black Men of Austin at Campbell Elementary School 2: Students were treated to a day of inspirational conversation supporting youth literacy. 3: Daymond read from and gifted his book ‘Little Daymond Learns to Earn.’ Photography by Chris Lammert Photography

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @austinlifestylemagazine

C I T Y SC E N E

Free Lunch ATX Gives Hope to an Unhoused Community

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

YOU CAN SUBSCRIBE TO THEIR MONTHLY MAGAZINE AND SUPPORT AT HTTPS://FREELUNCHATX.COM/

Since May 2020 Free Lunch ATX has been providing daily meal support for the Camp Esperanza unhoused community in Southeast Austin. The program serves around 160 nutritious meals 5 days/week and gets help from some of the city’s most iconic restaurants including Franklin BBQ , OMGSquee, AllDay Pizza, Antone’s and Juiceland which supply recurring donations to support the cause. To ensure consistent funding to sustain its mission of being a reliable source of nourishment for the affected population, Free Lunch ATX produces a quarterly magazine, funded by $10/month donations. Founded by a group of local creatives, Free Lunch ATX showcases local photography and local musicians, recipes from local chefs and more in the magazine.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

Moving You Forward

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Courtney Oldham | Broker Associate | 512-809-5495 | OldhamGroupAustin.com

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BIG HAT MAKES GAMES MORE SPIRITED

Big Hat co-owners Troy Greer, and Mike Appel with Quan Cosby (featured on a can!) in the center

THE BIG HAT LONGHORN LOUNGE AT TEXAS MEMORIAL STADIUM CELEBRATES AUSTIN BEYOND FOOTBALL Austin-based Big Hat Spirits, created by locals Mike Appel and Troy Geyer, was launched with a focus on bringing the best, super-premium, better-for-you, readyto-drink cocktails (and mocktails) to market. Made with super-premium spirits, smooth-tasting kombucha, real fruits and spices, the cocktails use only the freshest ingredients and are free of syrups, gluten, GMOs, and anything artificial – which make it a treat to have readily available in their new namesake lounge at Texas Memorial Stadium during Longhorn home games. The brand was inspired by Texas music legend Jerry Jeff Walker’s song, Man with the Big Hat. The song portrays a story of people at a bar joyfully gathering around a legendary cowboy figure, The Man with the Big Hat, listening and hanging on every word of his cherished tales of cowboy life; tales worthy of being remembered.

H OT SP OT | FOOD + BEV E RAGE

It was through this song and a sense of Texas cultural preservation that Big Hat Spirits was born with a mission to honor the legends, the men and women in our lives that “wear the big hat”, and to keep their stories alive in all of us. Inside their new lounge patrons experience unique tributes to Texas songwriting and sports legends and get immersed into many of Austin’s iconic hangout spots. The Big Hat founders say they wanted to bring Longhorn nation the most fun, unique fan experience imaginable so they took inspiration from some of Austin’s favorites like Deep Eddy Cabaret, Donn’s Depot, and The Saxon Pub. This “mash-up” of local, legendary places created a collective Gameday vibe fitting for everyone to enjoy. The space was designed by “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan’s Chief Set Decorator, Carla Curry features local musicians and DJs, Big Hat cocktails and mocktails, and an 85” jumbotron to watch the game.

S U STA I N A B L E From t h e St a r t

Designin g Austin for 30 Years

Co m m erc i a l | Re side n t ial | Sust ain able

BarleyPfeiffer.com | 512.476.8580

COMIC ASHLEY BARNHILL IS TEXAS STRONG that I first saw stand-up and experienced a creative culture city. I decided to take a swing at pursuing comedy near the end of my first year of law school and after my first year I moved to LA for a year and worked at Funny or Die/ Gary Sanchez Productions and on the TV show “Children’s Hospital.”

ARTICLE BY DOMINIQUE BEJARANO

A NEAR FATAL ACCIDENT DIDN'T STIFLE THIS MULTI-HYPHENATE ENTERTAINER'S AMBITION Comedian/actress/writer and UT Law grad Ashley Barnhill’s journey epitomizes “Don’t Mess with Texas.” Summer 2020 an accident left her in a coma - and consequently with a titanium skull. However, she made an astonishing comeback, even returning to her role as opening act for comedy great Dave Chappelle. We caught up with the Texan about her projects, advice from Chappelle, what she’s most thankful for and more.

YOU GOT HIT BY A CAR AND NEARLY DIED, HOW DID THE EXPERIENCE CHANGE YOUR LIFE? I almost died multiple times in a coma, had five brain surgeries, an almost fatal brain infection and got two new skulls. I had to relearn my name and how to walk and am very lucky to be mentally and physically able. I am now half blind and struggle with exaggerated startle response PTSD.

YOU HAVE A LAW DEGREE FROM UT, WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE A CAREER IN COMEDY INSTEAD? Born and bred in San Antonio, I’d been raised studious and academic, it was moving to Austin

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

IF YOU WERE GOING TO USE YOUR LAW DEGREE, WHAT KIND OF LAW WOULD YOU WANT TO PRACTICE? If I practiced law in the future I think it would be entrepreneurial law to protect forward-thinking nerds that want to make the world a better place.

HOW MANY SHOWS HAVE YOU DONE WITH DAVE CHAPPELLE? I’ve been touring with Dave for over 8 years, so over 500 shows.

HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT? The first time Dave saw me perform, he walked in unannounced on a Roast Battle at The Comedy Store. I was on stage and had taken the first round and my opponent Barbara won the second. Before the last round, Jeff Ross decided I should have the last joke. That day Barbara had tweeted at me ‘Whoever loses has to leave comedy.’ My last joke was on the fly, ‘Today Barbara tweeted whoever loses has to leave comedy. Maybe Dave Chappelle can give you that address in Africa.’ It rippled the room. Jeff Ross gave me the win because I went after not only my opponent but the biggest person in the room. Dave agreed, closing out with, ‘You’re the most diabolical b-tch I’ve ever seen.’

HAS HE EVER GIVEN YOU ADVICE? I recently talked to him about how draining and discouraging it can be having done stand-up for over a decade and still often getting rooms of 3-8 people. He reminds me the longer it takes to have success the better it will be. That’s not easy to hear when death has been at your doorstep many times, but it’s why I try to stay hopeful and keep schlepping along.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO PERFORM IN AUSTIN? I’ve got a lot of love for my home club Cap City.

DO YOU HAVE ANY SHOWS SCHEDULED IN AUSTIN COMING UP? No specific dates, but I’ll have some November and December.

WHAT CURRENT PROJECTS HAVE YOU MOST EXCITED? I have a dark comedy sci-fi TV series I’ve been working on for years. I paired with “Peaky Blinders” and “Lioness” director Anthony Byrne on it. I’ve been working with a UK production company to pitch a personal dark comedy thriller series involving my disability and am editing a stand-up set about my accident called TEXAS TITANIUM.

WHAT ARE 3 THINGS YOU’RE GRATEFUL FOR? 1. My family. They’re why I’m still alive. 2. I’m grateful to be alive and have half my eyesight. My uncle is fully blind and a massive inspiration to me. Also, thanks to my surgeons and those who showed me support. 3. I’m grateful to be a Texan. I truly think it’s why I have survived and try to stay strong, yall. Find tour dates and more at www.ashleybarnhill.com. NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

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Austin’s Favorite

Comedy Couple A day at YMH Studios with Tom Segura & Christina P. ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA MCELROY

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

Tom, and the day Brad Pitt came backstage at his show.

Christina applies her Christina P Perfect Red Lipstick (available at ymhstudios.com)

The pandemic probably didn’t give many people a reason to laugh – unless those people live in Austin, where a few contributing factors led to an influx of comics now calling Austin home. Among those who rode the wave to the Capital City are Tom Segura and Christina Pazsitzky (aka Christina P). The 40-something parents of two boys, 5 and 7, are multi-hyphenates- stand-up comedians, podcasters and writers. They’ve been co-hosting the Your Mom’s House podcast since 2010 and Tom also co-hosts the podcast Two Bears One Cave with best friend and fellow comedian Bert Kreischer while Christina hosts the Where My Moms At? podcast. Both are under the umbrella of their studio YMH Studios, which also houses podcasts hosted by Jamie Lynn Sigler, Rob Iller, Dr. Drew and more. We spent an afternoon at the studios where we took photos and chatted with Tom and Christina individually on everything from life in Austin to working together, co-parenting together and being happily married for nearly two decades to

why all comics (should) have podcasts, the buddy comedy movie Tom would write for Brad Pitt, pending projects and more.

TALKING TO TOM SEGURA AUSTIN’S BECOME SUCH A GREAT COMEDY HUB. Yeah, when I was a touring club comic act in 2006 Austin was a cool stop and now it feels like one of the big scenes, there’s everything here. There’s alt comics, huge established comics, flagship names like Joe Rogan and Ron White and everything in between, and people are all doing shows together. And then, there’s Joe’s place (Comedy Mothership), Creek & the Cave, Cap City, places to go. It’s a great time to be a comic here.

DO YOU THINK IT’S HARDER TO BE A COMEDIAN NOW THAN SEVERAL YEARS AGO? People say you can’t say anything these days, but really, you can say anything and

you can play into the fact that people are bothered by it. There’s a lot of people doing it, but I think that’s a good thing. Stand-up is still niche when you look at entertainment as a whole, more people still watch a big television show or a film as opposed to a stand-up special, but stand-up is growing in popularity every year. You can tell by the business comedians are doing on the road. When I was a kid, there was Bill Cosby, George Carlin, Robin Williams and Billy Crystal, that was it. Those guys were also huge stars. Fast forward to today, there’s probably 30 or 40 theater acts, which is insane, and a dozen comics doing arenas, which was unheard of. That speaks to how popular stand-up is now.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PRE-SHOW RITUALS? I just like a quiet and calm green room. I go over my notes and that’s pretty much it. I’ll do a workout at some point during the day because I feel like that helps get your head straight on top of being good for you, and light eating. We save dinner for after the show CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

"WE LEARNED ONCE WE HAD CHILDREN THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO GET AWAY FROM THEM AND SPEND NIGHTS AWAY, TO RECONNECT AND JUST BE PEOPLE, NOT PODCASTERS OR COMEDIANS OR PARENTS, TO JUST REMEMBER WHY WE REALLY LIKED EACH OTHER IN THE FIRST PLACE." - CHRISTINA P

because I hate performing on a full stomach. And then I always perform without drinking or any substances. I like to feel totally clear-minded up there.

of thing. I help him and get him made over and then I flip and get jealous that I did too good and I sabotage his newfound success.

YOU STARTED PODCASTING WELL BEFORE EVERYONE STARTED PODCASTING.

WHAT’S THE STATUS OF YOUR SCI-FI COMEDY FILM FAT ASTRONAUTS?

There were a few ahead of us, I always have to give credit to the fact that we weren’t the first, but we were early adapters. Rogan started his in 2009 and was very encouraging to start one and I was completely reluctant. I had zero desire to do it, but I decided to do it and I convinced Christina, she didn’t want to do it either. I convinced her and we started in late 2010. We’re at 13 years doing it. It’s pretty crazy. And now everybody has one. If you’re a comedian and you don’t have a podcast, you’re kind of like a comedian who doesn’t have a website. You kind of have to have one.

Well, the big bummer is that we have a great draft of a script that cannot be worked on because of the strike.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE MEDIUM? The complete and total freedom. That’s why it aligns perfectly with comedians. One thing that’s pretty universal among comics is that they don’t like authority figures, and with podcasts, there are no bosses, you’re in charge. So, it’s the perfect medium for a stand-up comedian.

WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF YMH? We’re going to expand into film and productions.

YOU HAVE A PHOTO ON YOUR WALL OF YOU AND BRAD PITT CHATTING AT ONE OF YOUR SHOWS. IF YOU WERE DOING A BUDDY COMEDY WITH BRAD PITT, WHAT WOULD THE PREMISE BE? I think the premise would be that he’s a loser and I’ve got it together and I tell him he’s got to get it together since he’s just like eating Cheetos and sleeping on a blanket on the floor kind

YOU RECENTLY SOLD ANOTHER SHOW TO A STREAMER? Yeah, I have a series, and I sold an animated show, but that’s outside of the writer strike boundaries so you’re allowed to do that.

IS THE ANIMATED SHOW GOING TO BE ONE YOUR CHILDREN CAN WATCH? Um, may- no. It’s not a hard R animated show, but it’s probably at least PG-13. We try to keep them away from some stuff.

WHO DO YOUR KIDS THINK IS FUNNIER? I think they find me funnier, not because they think I’m a clever comedian, they just laugh at me more and make fun of me more so they think I’m a funnier guy. But, they laugh at both of us. They’re still at that age where you can get them on a roll with little things like expressions and they think it’s absolutely hilarious. They also like to insult me more than they like to insult my mother. They certainly love her more.

YOU’VE BEEN TOGETHER ALMOST 20 YEARS, DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR A RELATIONSHIP WITH LONGEVITY? It’s kind of cliche, but it’s definitely you need to talk. It sounds so simple, but I’ve learned that you can’t keep things bottled up, communication CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

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M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

STAND-UP IS STILL NICHE WHEN YOU LOOK AT ENTERTAINMENT AS A WHOLE, MORE PEOPLE STILL WATCH A BIG TELEVISION SHOW OR A FILM AS OPPOSED TO A STAND-UP SPECIAL, BUT STAND-UP IS GROWING IN POPULARITY EVERY YEAR. —TOM SEGURA

is everything. And, it’s not taking things for granted, being respectful, thankful and expressing gratitude for what the other person’s doing. Like, I’m very fortunate that she’s such a great mom. I’m touring all the time aggressively and I know my kids are with their mother who’s a really smart, loving and great person. It’s very comforting to have that because there are people in my situation who don’t have that and I’m sure they’re really messed up over it. So, I’m very fortunate. She’s also super supportive of me and all my nonsense, not just with touring, but if I say I’m going to the racetrack, or I’m going to go fly a helicopter, she’s just like ‘Ok man.’ She’s supportive, which makes me happy and I try to be as supportive of whatever she’s pursuing that makes her happy.

ANYTHING YOU’D LIKE TO ADD? I’m just very grateful to be in Austin, it’s been really awesome for me personally, for my family and we really enjoy it, it’s really fun here.

TALKING TO CHRISTINA P WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT LIVING IN AUSTIN?

YOU’VE BEEN DOING YOUR PODCAST TOGETHER FOR MORE THAN 13 YEARS! WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THE MEDIUM? Everything. I love that we can say and do whatever we want and it’s immediate. I love the freedom and the connection with the fans. Podcast audiences are great. They know everything about you. It’s weird, in a great way though. It’s a good connection to have with your audience.

IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE PODCASTING, STAND-UP OR TV, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE? Stand-up. That’s always my first love.

DO YOU AND TOM HAVE ANY RULES FOR YOUR RELATIONSHIP? I think we learned once we had children that it was really important to get away from them and to spend nights away, so we plan those trips, just a couple of nights together to reconnect and just be people, not podcasters or comedians or parents, to just remember why we really liked each other in the first place.

I like the lack of pretentiousness. I like that my kids can find a snake and throw it on a trampoline. I like the food and the people are nice. We moved here and instantly I found a community. Growing up in LA you don’t even know who your neighbors are, so the vibe is very different that way. It’s like I was always meant to be here.

DO YOU TRY OUT MATERIAL ON EACH OTHER?

WHO DO YOUR KIDS THINK IS FUNNIER?

In some ways, because society got really tight. On the other, if you’re not afraid of offending, it’s so much more fun because it’s so much easier.

I think Tom is really dialed into their wheelhouse. We tell them bedtime stories and he can get them rolling.

No, in fact my husband will tell you that if he tells me a premise for something he’s working on and I absolutely hate it, he’s like, ‘It’s a winner, I’m gonna keep it.’

DO YOU THINK IT’S HARDER BEING A COMEDIAN NOW THAN TEN YEARS AGO?

CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING ON THE ROAD? Sleep. I love a nice bed on the road. I get a room with two beds, one that’s my eating bed, and one that’s not. I order room service and I eat in one bed, get food all over it and sleep on the other one.

DO YOU HAVE ANYTHING CURRENTLY ON YOUR CAREER BUCKET LIST? I’d love to do Sesame Street.

SPEAKING OF THAT, HOW OLD DO YOUR KIDS HAVE TO BE BEFORE THEY CAN SEE YOUR SPECIALS? Ha, Never. I don’t think they want to. I don’t think they give a rip. They turn on Netflix and I tell them there’s mommy and daddy and they’re like, whatever. They just want Mom and Dad, they’re not dazzled by us, which is a good thing. We are there for them, they’re not fans.

BEST ADVICE? Ron White said to me, ‘When you’re doing good out there, slow down. When you’re doing bad out there, slow down.’ It really resonated with me not just in comedy, but in life. What am I hurrying to? I feel like Austin’s been great for that because in LA it’s just go, go, go, and what am I hurrying to? It’s all going to be there tomorrow.

DO YOU HAVE ANY UNIQUE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS? First of all, I’m bummed Halloween is over because that’s the greatest holiday all year. For Thanksgiving, we have a tradition in the Segura house because we hate turkey because it’s dry and it tastes gross, so we usually have steaks.

SOME THINGS YOU’RE GRATEFUL FOR? Oh my gosh, everything. My health and the health of my family, that I’m able to be a comedian and do this for a living and for Austin welcoming us with open arms, it’s been amazing and I never want to leave.

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M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

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NEW BOOKS BY AUSTINITES Austin boasts a remarkable depth of literary talent spanning ages and genres We don’t have enough pages to share enough about the pages they’ve painstakingly written, whether sharing their own non-fiction stories or the creativity of their imagination in fiction, but here’s a bit about five books and their authors who have our attention in their clutches, as well as a glimpse at what to expect from the Texas Book Festival this month!

A REAL GOOD LIFE BY SAZAN AND STEVIE HENDRIX In A Real Good Life, Sazan and Stevie Hendrix share a practical guide for making each part of each day an investment in a really good life. They share never-before-told personal stories, practical tips and “life hacks” for getting to the good life sooner and easier. They tell Austin Lifestyle, “A real good life is pieced together from the fabric of your days, from the bright blocks of time you’re given. It’s stitched in place by what you do during those days, what you practice as your habits, what you say about your life and the seasons you are living.”

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L IF E + CULTURE

DON’T FORGET ME E M I LY MOR E NO

Don’t Forget Me is Emily’s debut book, written after the 16-year-old self-declared bookworm started thinking about storylines, wrote down what is now the first chapter of the book and kept going. She told Austin Lifestyle it took about nine months to write. “Every single moment of free time I would write something, whether it was a couple of words or ten pages,” she says, admitting the hardest part wasn’t the writing, editing, or publishing, but, “It was getting over the imposter syndrome that started to sink in once I had decided to self-publish. I would constantly have the voice in the back of my head saying to me, ‘You’re only a teenager, what do you know about writing a book?’ After some time, I eventually started telling myself to just go for it and see what happens.” As for her future, she says, “I plan to write more books because I have such a love for writing. Do I want to be a full-time author writing only fiction? Not necessarily. While writing is one of my passions, so is photography. That’s why I want to be a journalist. I want to combine my love for digital media and writing and tell real-world stories.” CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

R E A DY, SET M A R S BY K ATIE JAFFE A ND J E N N I F E R L AW S O N

Katie and her mom Jennifer’s children’s book is an entertaining and educational read that introduces young readers to space travel and settling Mars. Jet and Jordy, accompanied by their friends, Newton (a frog) and Da Vinci (a snake), combine their skills in geometry and physics to build a rocket to travel to Mars. The illustrations are by Tammie Lyon, known for her work on the Eloise series! This is the second in a series of educational and fun books for children through the authors’ company, Liftoff Learning Studios.

R E A DY, S E T, MARS IS AN E N T ERTA I N I NG A N D EDUC AT IONA L BOOK T H AT INTRODUCES YOU NG R E A DE R S T O THE CONCEPTS OF S PA C E T R AV E L A N D SETTLING MARS.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L IF E + CULTURE

FINDING GOOD BY: M I K E T HOM PSON

Finding Good is Mike Thompson’s journey through beating four childhood cancers, 75 surgeries and subsequent years of addiction to opioids. After his family refused to let him fade into addiction Mike broke free from the grasp of narcotics and returned to his athletic roots, eventually competing at the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii. And summiting Mount Kilimanjaro. In Finding Good he shares his three tenets for living a fruitful life: 1. Be selfish (in a good way), 2. Surround yourself with good people, and 3. Leave the world better than you found it. He tells Austin Lifestyle, “Writing Finding Good unlocked an abundance of feelings and emotions I’d never before experienced. Revisiting some of the darkest moments of my life was unimaginably cathartic and my hope is that the stories within the book help whoever reads it unlock some of their own feelings. Whether you’re a cancer survivor or recovering drug addict or just your average human, I feel like anyone can relate to the need to articulate purpose in life.” CONTINUED >

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AU S T I N H E AT: THE ONE WHO UNDID ME, BY AM ARI NYLIX THE ONE Who Undid Me, the first installment of new book series AUSTIN HEAT was released in September and is raising people’s temperatures as they read the romance collection set in our city. Readers will recognize settings such as Driskill Hotel, Peter Pan Mini-Golf, Antone’s, Chuy’s and more as they follow the dalliances of fictional NFL quarterback and heartthrob Jake Skyler. Don’t fret when you finish, there will be five more books in the series. Amari is releasing a book every two months! AUSTIN HEAT The One That Got Away will be available November 7 and The One That I Crave will be released on January 9, 2024.

THE FIRST I NSTA LL M E N T OF N E W BO OK SE R I E S AUST I N H E AT WA S R E L E A S E D IN SEPTEMBER AND IS R AISING PEOPLE’S T E M PER AT U R E S A S THEY READ THE ROMANCE COLLECTION S E T I N OU R C I T Y.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L IF E + CULTURE

T H E T E X A S B O O K F E S T I VA L The 28th Annual Texas Book Festival is taking place downtown November 11 and 12. One of the largest and longest-running book festivals in the country, it attracts over 40,000 book lovers nationwide. The festival’s Literary Director Hannah Gabel tells us, “This year’s Texas Book Festival will feature a diverse range of over 300 authors, illustrators, poets, journalists, chefs and thought leaders from across Texas and the nation,” adding, “Festival Weekend is a celebration of literary culture with programming curated to attract audiences of all ages through readings, panel discussions, signings, cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities. My hope for this year’s Festival is that attendees will immerse themselves in the worlds our incredible authors have crafted, engage in conversations that broaden their horizons, and celebrate the joy of reading.”

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Designing with Creative Freedom

ARTICLE BY ALYSSA ROME

D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

T H E G R AT I T U D E O F AN INTERIOR DESIGNER UNLEASHED

In the world of interior design, we are often confined by the branding we have chosen for our business. Our brand, while important for recognition, tends to limit our artistic expression and creativity. I think every designer will agree with me in that we love to create beautiful spaces for clients who appreciate our aesthetic, which we of course chose because we enjoy it, but it’s the excitement spurred by the use of our imagination that really lights our fire. If you’ve seen my website, it’s very obvious that The Howard Social Club doesn’t quite fit into the branding of Alyssa Rome Design. Would it surprise you if I said this is my favorite project to date? This client came to me with the idea of turning an old, beat-up warehouse into a social club right after we were able to leave our houses again during the pandemic. I was of course thankful for the work at that terrifying time, but I also saw this idea as a beacon of hope. Socializing with the people we love was going to happen again and I was going to make dang sure everyone enjoyed every second they spent together at The Howard. As a designer, I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given to bring spaces to life that not only inspire creativity, but also provide a place for people to have fun together. What else are we here for? Interior designer Alyssa Rome designs both residential and commercial spaces. She’s the talent responsible for the Howard Bar’s interiors! You can learn more about her at https://alyssaromedesign.com/ and follow along with her @alyssaromedesign on Instagram.

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / AUST I N

4 UNIQUE CULINARY + TRAVEL ADVENTURES AWARD-WINNING ATX CHEF IS HOSTING A SERIES OF ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCES IN 2024

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

James Beard Award-winning Chef Iliana de la Vega, of Austin’s El Naranjo, is hosting several Mexican Culinary Traditions trips in 2024 to four destinations in Mexico. Mexico Culinary Traditions is a culinary travel company created by Chef de la Vega and her daughter Isabel Torrealba. The mother-daughter team carefully curate and guide each tour through an immersive and truly bespoke experience in the culinary traditions of Mexico. The destination cities for 2024 are Oaxaca City, Morelia, Merida and Mexico City. Each trip is on average a weeklong and limited to just over a dozen people. On the escapes, which have one price that covers all meals, including a cooking session with Chef de la Vega, admission to activities, museums and ground transportation, travelers will explore cities like a local and learn the root of food traditions. You’ll dine at high-end restaurants and walk through markets in Oaxaca and learn about traditional ingredients and how to incorporate them into your own cooking in Mexico City, where Chef de la Vega grew up. In Merida, once the Mayan city T’ho, you’ll see why today it’s called la Ciudad Blanca, or The White City, for the white limestone buildings framing the streets; in Morelia you have the option to extend your trip to visit a butterfly reserve. It’s strongly recommended to book well in advance as spots fill up quickly. As of this printing, some 2024 trips (not listed) were already full. If none of the dates work for your schedule, they also work with individuals or groups to create itineraries for private trips. For more information go to https://www.mexicanculinarytraditions.com/.

2024

ME XICAN

CULINARY

TR ADITION

O A X A C A C I T Y, M E X I C O

MORELIA , MICHOACAN

Dates: March 8-14, September 20-26, December 10-16 Price: $4200

Dates: February 8-14 Price: $3800

M E X I C O C I T Y, M E X I C O Dates: October 15-21 Price: $5000

TRIPS

M É R I D A , Y U C ATÁ N Dates: January 12-18, December 2-8 Price: $4500 *Prices listed do not include airfare.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAPTISTE DESPOIS

Celebrating our

SEPTEMBER ISSUE at estilo KIDS

The (cover) stars came out to celebrate Austin Lifestyle’s September Issue party at estilo KIDS. The September Issue cover featured Shep Padalecki, Charlie Annable, Scarlett and Serena Diamond modeling back-to-school looks they selected with stylist Stephanie Coultress O’Neill. They donned new Fall favs when they were joined by another dozen kids from the community to show off their style and personality in a runway show. Guests including the kid’s parents Jared and Genevieve Padalecki, Dave and Odette Annable and Ethan Diamond watched as their offspring each took on the catwalk and and posed like pros. Pictured:1. Stephanie Coultress O’Neill, Todd O’Neill and their kids (and catwalkers) Madison and Lillian O’Neill. 2. Scarlett and Serena Madison checked out their feature, which also included mom Amber Lee Diamond in a matching look. 3. Guests serenaded Charlie Annable before she blew out candles on a cake from Quacks Bakery. 4. Jared Padalecki hugged his Walker co-star Odette Annable 5. and danced and swung around his daughter Odette, who came out to celebrate her brother Shep along with their older brother Tom. 6. Guests enjoyed Abbot’s Butcher plant-based ‘chorizo’ burritos from Freebirds World Burrito 7. with Austin Lifestyle’s Publisher Joe Kerby and VP of Marketing Montannah Kerby. 8. As they sipped on wine from William Chris Vineyards and flavor-packed cans of Clubby Selzter. *Thank you also to TKC Kindness the special elements you added to the event, DJ HearNoEvil for the beats and Blue Goo Bakery for delicious custom cookies!

With a runway show, a birthday, shopping, burritos and more 38

FASH ION F OR WA R D | ENTE RTAI NME NT

Scarlett & Serena Diamond Joe and Montannah Kerby

The O'Neills

Willam Chris & Clubby Abbot's Butcher Freebirds Burritos

Charlie Annable Jared & daughter Odette

Jared & co-star Odette

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My Favorite Things W H AT I ' M LO V I N G T H I S M O N T H ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN This being the Thankful Issue, I tailored my monthly favorites to people and services that I’m thankful to have in my life. They’re those things you almost want to keep secret so that they always have time for you, but you’re also bursting to share because they bring you so much joy and/or ease to your life. I’m so thankful to Terry at Texas

Orthopedics for helping get me strong when I was injured and weak, Dr. Ling for the passion she has for what she does, and Chinantics’ Chris Nudd for always taking such good care of my babies. I’ve never met a man so good with dogs of all temperaments. He’s truly a dog whisperer. If you check out any of the below, let me know!

Innate Beauty: With the eye of an artist and the knowledge of a physician, Dr. Ling helps people optimize their appearance with natural-appearing enhancements.

Texas Orthopedics: I don’t wish anyone injury, but if like me you need PT, I had a great experience with Terry Fredley in the Central Austin office.

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HT TPS: // W W W.T XORTH O.COM

Comedy Mothership: Joe Rogan’s comedy club has further legitimized Austin as a comedy hub and you never know who will pop up.

Chinatics: Chris, the owner of this doggy daycare and boarding with over 1000 positive reviews is truly a dog whisperer. Find him on Rover.

HT TPS: //COM E DY M OTH E RS H I P.CO M/

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The holidays shine brightly for some, but not everyone shares in the same warmth. Together, we can make the season brighter for families in need.

To find out how you can help Central Texans in need this Christmas, scan the QR code or visit doingmostgood.org/Angel