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Society & Culture

Feeling stuck? Take a side quest.

podcast July 29, 2026


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Feeling stuck? In a rut? Family or work driving you up a wall? Maybe it’s time to take a side quest.

Much like the optional, lore-building journeys in video games that enrich the main mission, real-life side quests bring a sense of whimsy to your daily routine. In real life, that could look like learning to sew, picking up kickball, or anything else that adds a little whimsy into your routine. To rediscover the childlike joy of taking a side quest, Brittany is joined by Marielle Segarra, host of NPR’s Life Kit; Dr. Kyra Gaunt, associate professor of ethnomusicology at the University at Albany; and Sahara Moné, curator and owner of community activities collective Let’s Play NYC.

Want more on improving your quality of life? Check out these episodes:
How to make friends & get good gossip
This is your summer of self-love

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