The Women Keeping Me Company on The Streets of NYC
The power of listening to another's story while living your own
Coming home late from a first date, schlepping my laundry down the street, going the wrong way on the Subway, searching for a reasonably priced happy hour, and giving myself pep talks on sidewalks before heading into meetings — I am not the first woman to experience New York City.
I’ve officially been here for one month, and when I decided to come for the summer without really knowing anyone, I knew I would be throwing myself out of my routine and into a whole new orbit far away from my comfort zone. All the familiar things – my closet, my gym, my bed, even my kitchen – are gone. Enter the new routine of walking everywhere, and I learned early on that familiarity could be found through your headphones. A soundtrack can change the city. Lately I’ve been listening to memoirs of women who have done NYC way before me. I have been comforted by author’s voices reciting hilarious, moving, and inspiring stories from their own adventures. There is something so powerful about listening to another woman read her story while yours is currently unfolding.
If you’re looking for a great book to listen to, I highly recommend downloading Audible and tuning in to these while working, walking, or even grocery shopping. Each is read by the author, so listening feels like getting to know a new, amazing friend. When you sign up for Audible before 7/30, you’ll only pay $0.99/mo for the first three months. This subscription is so worth it to me!
#1 We Might Just Make It After All by Elyce Arons
Elyce founded Kate Spade and Frances Valentine with Kate Spade. Her story of moving from the Midwest to starting an iconic label in New York City is so inspiring and charming. I love the way she talks about the scrappy beginnings, her day-to-day in the business, meeting her husband, her inspiration sources, continuing Kate’s legacy, and more.
I have a very clear memory of visiting NYC with my mom in 2016. We were on a very special trip with the DAAP design school. I was a senior in high school, finding my way on a college trip, my mom in tow. At this stage of my life, I was sure that I wanted to study fashion design in college. We sat in the Michael Kors conference room, visited fine jewelry designers in Brooklyn, met with shoe designers, walked through Mood Fabrics, sat with authority from the CFDA, and saw the inside of factories in The Garment District. It was the first time I visited the city, and it felt like a VIP tour of everything I imagined this place to be.
One afternoon we had a private conversation with Stan Herman, who is credited as the “Father of Fashion Week.” We sat on wooden stools in his studio overlooking Bryant Park. My mom was a relentless question asker. Put her in a room or any student-like position, and her hand would go straight up. I, being the random high schooler on this college trip, tried not to be embarrassed by it, but she and Stan developed a special connection, and he gave her a fashion sketch of a woman in a turban. She teared up, explaining that she had just gone through chemotherapy.
Leaving his office, there was a tiny hallway that led to an elevator. Across the corridor was another door. Taped to it was a plain sheet of printer paper that read “Francis Valentine.” Stan explained to my mom and me that across the hall, Kate Spade was starting her new brand. In that moment, my mom and I became serious Francis Valentine fans.
I listened to Elyce’s book in a single day last fall while weeding my garden. I would find myself staring blankly into my yard, frozen with a shovel in hand, transfixed by her words. In January, I saw Elyce speak at The Southern C — a conference for female entrepreneurs in Sea Island, GA.
Afterward, I got up the courage to tell her this story. Through tears, I explained that a piece of printer paper taped to a door that I happened to see at 18 has truly propelled me in my own creative journey. A clear reminder — everything and everyone starts somewhere. It’s an image I have always carried with me.
This book is chock-full of more inspiration for the journey and intimate stories of what it’s like to begin something and keep going. I have been listening again this summer as I live in the city. It’s amazing how art can accompany, and the story of another can help you create your own, often finding you when you need it the most. Elyce is one of my biggest inspirations – so full of light! I love this book.
#2 Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About by Isabel Klee
Oh my gosh, a must-listen! The writing is fantastic. Recently a #1 NYT bestseller, Isabel captures with such accuracy what it means to be in your 20s. From dating to understanding yourself to discovering your purpose, all wrapped into her experience of fostering dogs in NYC.
A few Sundays ago, I woke up way too late and way too hungover. I had gone on a first date the night before with a guy who seemed to be perfect on paper. In reality, I just asked question after question for about three hours. When I told him I had my own business, there was a long pause. He needed to “digest that,” he said. Eventually, with the help of some liquid courage, I said to him, “Well, do you want to ask any questions? I am drilling you.” He said, “Oh no, I’m having fun! You should keep asking me.”
Oh, the thrills of modern dating.
I rolled out of bed and walked to the bathroom. I threw water on my face and watched last night’s mascara circle into the drain. Looking into the mirror, I suddenly felt the walls closing in on me. I was in New York City, and I didn’t really know anyone. And that was a bad date. And it’s a Sunday morning. And I feel sick. And … and … and.
Thankfully, I knew who could help me. I reached for Isabel’s words, and I walked to the bodega around the corner, ordering a sesame bagel with cream cheese. I sat by the water, listening to her similar experiences, laughing.
This book has provided me with such comfort and comedic relief. When people tell great stories, we realize that we are never alone. Isabel’s story is doing that for me this summer.
Other Books I’ve Loved Listening To
Be Ready When The Luck Happens By Ina Garten (top rec!!! ⭐️)
Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott
4,000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp
How to Know A Person by David Brooks
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
Wear It Well by Allison Bornstein
Good Writing by Neal Allen and Anne Lamott
Currently on my “To-Listen” List
The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad
Uncross Your Legs by Stan Herman
Famesick by Lena Dunham
Uptown Girl by Christie Brinkley
Still Bobbi by Bobbi Brown
All above books read by the author – a feature I love about Audible!
Sign up for Audible here (and only pay $0.99/mo for the first three months!) Tuning into another’s story or expertise every day truly helps me like my life a little more. It reminds me that each moment is leading somewhere — everything always adds up.
Happy listening!
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Suggesting “summer in New York” by Sofi tukker as an addition to what I’m sure is a fire NYC playlist :)
I’m really loving these posts about NYC and your summer there. I was you many, many years ago and it’s all worth it. Trust me!! Keep enjoying, stay curious and keep writing! I can’t wait to read your book someday.❤️