24. We Were Influenced… But Was Any of It Worth It?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the consumer trends flooding your social media feeds? From Stanley cups to barrel jeans, weighted vests to vibration plates, it seems like there's always something new we're supposed to want, need, or try. Jenny and I are getting real about the trends that captured our attention this year, and more importantly, which ones were worth it and which ones we're ready to toss. We're sharing our honest experiences with everything from those peel-off lip stains everyone's talking about to the health gadgets that promised to change our lives. But this isn't just about roasting products we regret buying. We're also celebrating the trends that actually delivered, like the shift toward authenticity in content creation, the rise of Christian music in mainstream culture, and the blessed acceptance of wearing cozy sets everywhere. Here are 5 key takeaways you can expect from this episode on consumer trends: Learn to distinguish between trendy and timeless when making purchasing decisions. Discover which viral products lived up to the hype and which ones are gathering dust. Understand how social media algorithms influence our buying habits and spending patterns. Get honest reviews of popular items from Stanley cups to magnetic nasal strips. Find strategies for teaching kids healthy consumption habits in our trend-obsessed culture. We're also talking about the cultural shifts we're loving, like the move away from perfectionism in social media and the return to authentic, raw content. Plus, we're discussing some trends we're ready to leave behind, including the mean-spirited "de-influencing" movement that's been targeting content creators. Whether you're someone who jumps on every trend or waits to see if something sticks around, this conversation will help you navigate the constant stream of "must-have" products with more intention and less regret.