The Listen

This week, Charlie and Abi share the rundown of the latest books, TV and films they’ve been devouring… and mainly not enjoying. Abi discusses the struggles of sick day streaming and the absolutely bizarre choice of film she chose from her sickbed; Charlie shares her review of Speak No Evil and James McAvoy’s interesting acting choices and Abi shares her review of the much-anticipated adult novel from Jacqueline Wilson. Plus, the girls discuss the notion of ‘dumb jobs’ and selling out, why we’re still trying to prove ourselves with our job titles and how the pressure of failure has shaped our careers. You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. This is an Astrid podcast.LINKS:‘I Just Want a Dumb Job’ - The Cut

After Charlie is done yelling at her smart speaker, on the agenda this week are misleading trailers and the dramatic change in gig etiquette.Abi and Charlie discuss the new Leigh Miller biopic starring Kate Winslet, and how its own trailer has done it so dirty. Plus, we dive into the tweets that have lifted the lid on the insane world of gigs in 2024, the tradition that one Gen-Z had deemed “a Tik Tok trend” and what that says about our supposedly most savvy generation. You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. This is an Astrid podcast.

We start this week with people lazily posing at monuments and a review of the book of the summer, Big Swiss. Charlie and Abi go on to discuss the audacity of Aaron Taylor-Johnson going out in public without his wedding ring, The Cut’s fascinating look in the money spent by women to look hot into their 60s and why ultimately we plan on being wrinkly but glamorous old women.Of course, we also have our Cult of the Week which is, frankly, a food trend that must die. You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. This is an Astrid podcast.LINKSThe Cut: How to Stay Hot

Back from a brief break and in the throws of autumnal vibes, we’re catching you up on all things culture.This week, Charlie and Abi share the TV they’re watching to prepare them for the incoming dark nights, their thoughts on Chappell Roan daring to set boundaries with her “creepy” fans and the cult of the week gets deep with a discussion about gender roles and gifting baby dolls to little girls.You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. This is an Astrid podcast.

This week after a big announcement from Abi, the girls get into Love is Blind UK, US politics and of course the latest Hollywood scandal.In this episode, Charlie and Abi discuss the scary incel on Love is Blind UK, the weird way the US talks about their female politicians and whether or not it’s a tactic to even you should admit being a woman on the political stage. Plus, they dive into the controversy and drama about the film adaptation of ‘It Ends With Us’ and try to piece together the rumours about Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s alleged feud. You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. Follow Abi on Letterboxd @abigib.This is an Astrid podcast.

This week, there is not much to add to horror of the news cycle. Instead, we’re offering our recommendations for films, TV shows, books and podcasts that will help you with some much needed escapism. You can find us at @thelisten_, @abigib, @imcharlieperry and send us a love letter here for us to read out next week. Follow Abi on Letterboxd @abigib.This is an Astrid podcast.For more information on where to donate and anti far right protests: @chooselove @standuptoracismukRecommendations:Books:Book Lovers - Emily HenryPeople We Meet on Vacation - Emily HenryHappy Place - Emily HenryBig Swiss - Jen BeaginThe Hunting Party - Lucy FoleyThe Guest List - Lucy FoleyThe Housemaid - Freida McFaddenThe Papaer Palace - Miranda Cowley HellerFilms:JunoBedazzledWhen Harry Met SallyThe Truman ShowHerThe Parent TrapThe InternWhiplashGames NightTV: Love is Blind UKCarol & the End of the WorldBob’s BugersMy Lady JaneBad SistersPodcasts:The Rest is EntertainmentIt’s Me, TinxNormal Gossip