Need a Mental Break? Phil’s Got a Fork and a Passport!

Dear Friends,

Let’s face it: the world has gone slightly off its rocker.

The news cycle is a nonstop anxiety buffet. Politics, climate, prices, noise—everything’s screaming for our attention. It’s like trying to sip tea during a tornado. And while we’re all out here doing our best to stay informed, hold it together, and maybe even get a few vegetables in before 9 p.m., can I just say something radical?

Take. A. Break.

Seriously. Step away from the doomscrolling. Close the 17 tabs on your browser (you know the ones). Take a breath. You deserve one. Not because you’ve finished your to-do list (who even are those people?), but because you are human—and your brain needs room to wander, laugh, breathe.

Now, if you’re wondering how to take a break that actually feels like one—let me recommend my personal sanity-saving ritual: curling up with Netflix’s gem of a show, Somebody Feed Phil.

If you haven’t met Phil Rosenthal yet, allow me to introduce your next favorite travel buddy. Phil is the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, but more importantly, he’s the enthusiastic, wide-eyed, delightfully dorky host of this food-and-fun series. He travels the world, eats glorious food, laughs with strangers, and reminds us that there’s still joy out there—even if it’s currently wrapped in a pita or swimming in curry.

There’s something about watching Phil gleefully devour a noodle bowl in Bangkok or light up over fresh empanadas in Argentina that feels…healing. He’s not pretentious. He’s not overly scripted. He’s just happy to be there, soaking up culture with a fork and a goofy grin. And you can’t help but grin right along with him.

The magic of Somebody Feed Phil is that it isn’t just about food. It’s about connection, curiosity, and delight. It’s a gentle reminder that there’s still so much good, so many flavors, and so many ways to laugh—especially when things feel bleak.

And maybe that’s the point. Maybe the most radical thing we can do sometimes is choose joy. Put down the weight of the world for an hour. Put your phone in a drawer. Let yourself be charmed by a man who eats noodles with his whole heart.

Because here’s the truth: burnout isn’t a badge of honor. It’s a warning light. And rest? Rest is not lazy. It’s not irresponsible. It’s essential. When you rest, you return stronger. Clearer. Kinder. Hungrier (in all the best ways).

So whether it’s Somebody Feed Phil, a quiet walk, a book you’ve read six times, or just sitting outside and watching birds pretend to run the world—please, please give yourself a break.

You are allowed to step away.

You are allowed to laugh.

You are allowed to savor life again—even if it’s just for one episode.

Go ahead. Feed your soul.

With gratitude,

Julie Bolejack, MBA

P.S.: Phil’s episodes in Istanbul and New Orleans are my favorites. Watch them with snacks. You’ve been warned. 🍜💛