Meet Rachel Schwartzmann, our incredible contributor who brings the Stories section of our website to life. Her beautiful podcast and writing drew us in years ago, and it's been a joy to work with her ever since on interviews, gift guides, and even our For Now: Journal. We caught up with her and chatted about what puts her in the mood to create, her favorite cultural obsessions, and who’s joining her ideal breakfast party. 

What’s one thing we should know about you? 
I'm quiet, but that won't stop me from asking the big questions. :)

What puts you in the mood to create? 
Good natural light.

What’s your favorite rule or rule to break? 
The idea of linearity—in a career, life, practice. It's a rule I've learned to break in recent years, and it's opened up so much exploration and growth in all areas of my life. 

If you had to live in another place it would be… 
A place where I don't have to rely on driving/cars. 

A current cultural obsession? 
The White Lotus

Ideal dinner venue or menu? 
I'm actually a breakfast person, so perhaps a place where there's breakfast for dinner? Otherwise, I'd go anywhere with a good snack plate...

Who’s joining? 
You!

A few books for the coffee table? 
If you've seen my apartment, you know that I stack any and all books on my coffee table—but if I had to recommend one, my book, Slowing, looks pretty good on display. ;)

What's the last thing you listened to? 
An upcoming podcast episode that I'm editing for my project, Slow Stories.

First thing you’d grab in a fire? 
My rabbit, Pepper!

What were you most grateful for when you woke up this morning? 
Love.