• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! If you're headed to Starbucks for your weekend jolt of joe, it might be your last chance to get your fav order. Starting March 4, these 13 items are dropping off the menu.

On the agenda:

• Inside the five-day Bali retreat for followers of the FIRE movement.
• A top nutrition scientist shares the foods he always has on hand that make gut-healthy eating easy.
• Successful men gave us insight into their shoe game.
• A software engineer spent the past year building an at-home gym for his family. Take a look.

But first: Getting ready for Hollywood's biggest night.

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This week's dispatch

And the winner is… 🏆

Hollywood is ready to celebrate the best movies that graced the big screen last year. Amid the backdrop of the devastating California wildfires, Tinseltown is dusting off to pay homage to the creators who've made us laugh and cry.

This year, a few nominations have already made history, and viewers can also look out for potentially history-making moments on Oscars night on Sunday.

• Two musicals were among the 10 films nominated for the top prize, best picture, for the first time in five decades — "Wicked" and "Emilia Pérez."
• Cynthia Erivo became the first Black British female actor nominated twice: "Harriet" in 2020 and "Wicked" this year.
• "Succession" stars Jeremy Strong and Kieran Culkin were both nominated for their respective performances in "The Apprentice" and "A Real Pain."
• And if Timothée Chalamet takes home the trophy for best actor for his role in "A Complete Unknown," he'll become the youngest actor to win it.

To prepare for Hollywood's big night, I asked deputy editor Samantha Rollins what we could expect while watching from our couches at home.

"Demi Moore would be a feel-good story if she won her first Oscar for 'The Substance.' Adrien Brody was favored to win for the epic 'The Brutalist,' but Timothée Chalamet's surprise win at the SAGs for playing Bob Dylan in 'A Complete Unknown' signals he's coming for the crown," she said.

"The winner for best picture is a toss-up: Sean Baker's 'Anora' has been an awards-season darling," Rollins added, "but I wouldn't count out the gossiping popes in 'Conclave.'"

5 days on FIRE island

The road to early retirement is paved with loneliness. For those committed to the Financially Independent, Retire Early lifestyle, it can be hard to talk about money with friends on more traditional tracks.

A five-day, $1,800 retreat in Bali has the answer for those who aspire to FIRE and those who have already achieved it. BI's Shubhangi Goel spent a week amid the flowing tears, coconut water, and conversation in the Indonesian island paradise.

The conversation went far beyond money.

What's in a nutrition scientist's kitchen

You may think a top nutrition scientist only opts for fresh foods, but that's not the case for Tim Spector. While the epidemiologist typically has a fruit bowl on his counter for snacking, he keeps his freezer stocked. Jarred and tinned foods also help simplify healthy eating, with Spector commending them as the "unsung heroes of eating well."

Spector likes to get creative, experimenting with fermentation and relying on some tricks to reach his goal of eating 30 plants a week. And he doesn't think healthy meals have to be boring.

Making gut-healthy eating easy.

Walk a mile in their shoes

Ever wonder what it's like to step into a successful person's shoes? Successful men across an array of industries shared with BI their everyday footwear so you can do that, literally.

Sneakers reigned supreme, particularly classic brands like Nike and New Balance. But don't underestimate fun cowboy boots or a luxe loafer.

Stepping into success.

A dream at-home gym

When software engineer Antonio Perez's wife became wheelchair-bound in 2023, he started to feel guilty whenever he left the house to go to the gym. So, he decided to turn his basement into one.

Perez spent the past year on the home improvement project, which included spray painting the ceilings, DIY-ing the lighting, buying gym equipment, and more. In total, he spent $32,000. He said his biggest advice for those looking to build a gym in their home is to understand it will take a lot of time.

Here's how it turned out.

What we're watching this weekend

• The Oscars: Conan O'Brien will host the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, which will stream live on Hulu.
• "Strange Darling": One of 2024's most underrated horror movies is now available on Paramount+.
• "Running Point": Kate Hudson plays a basketball heiress loosely based on LA Lakers owner Jeanie Buss in Netflix's new comedy.

See the full list

What to shop

• More than your average uniform: Ditch the pencil skirt and button-up. Instead, consider pieces from our favorite workwear brands. From sleek trousers to comfortable blazers, these are our tried-and-true stops for daily office wear.
• Social media-worthy luggage: Time and time again, Monos stands out as one of our favorite luggage brands. Learn more about our Monos favorites, and why these stylish carry-ons are worth the money.
• Solutions for combination skin: It can be tricky treating skin that is both oily and dry, as not all skincare is right for it. That's why we've gathered the best moisturizers for combination skin to help provide exactly what it needs.

More of this week's top reads:

• I paid $65 for a giant collection of vintage dishes at a thrift store and then found out it's worth almost $1,000.
• It costs $10 million to dress an A-list actress at the Oscars. These 10 jaw-dropping figures reveal the price tag of Hollywood's biggest night.
• I spent $6,500 on a small luxury cruise around Iceland. It was so good that I wouldn't book a megaship again.
• A busy 59-year-old who can plank for 4 hours straight shared how she finds time to strengthen her core.
• I spent about 3 weeks traveling through Vietnam. Looking back, I could've easily avoided these 4 mistakes.
• 'The White Lotus' star Patrick Schwarzenegger says he sometimes wishes he didn't have his last name.
• Eldest daughters tend to be their parents' favorite kids. Here's why it isn't always a good thing.
• We retired and moved to Cyprus. The Cypriot Mediterranean diet, healthcare, and weather have completely won us over.
• Michelle Trachtenberg's friends and costars react to the 'Buffy' and 'Gossip Girl' star's sudden death at 39: 'I wish I could have helped.'
• I want to build muscle and lose fat. A nutritionist said I can choose between two simple methods to hit my goals.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! Don't want to splurge on eggs? One sports dietician figured out how to make high-protein meals without the hen fruit.

On the agenda:

• She developed Alzheimer's in her 30s. Now, her mother is watching her memory slip away.
• A billionaire's Aspen estate is on the market for a whopping $125 million.
• Therapists share what people-pleaser clients talk about.
• How Hailee Steinfeld spends her 5 to 9 — from turning off her phone to learning to cook.

But first: NBA All-Snooze.

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This week's dispatch

What happened to All-Star Weekend?

The year was 2001, and I was inside what was then known as Washington, DC's MCI Center with my dad, a lifelong NBA fan. Kobe Bryant, Stephon Marbury, and Allen Iverson, who'd be named MVP of the big game, were on the court at the NBA All-Star Game.

The building was electric, and the game was good — but that was 15 years ago. Ask any NBA fan today, and they'll tell you that last week's All-Star Weekend in San Francisco was boring, confusing, and didn't have enough (checks notes) actual basketball.

I won't belabor the critiques. They're everywhere if you look online. So, instead, here's what the NBA should do if they insist on making us watch. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, I hope you're reading.

• Hire Jesse Collins, who's produced halftime shows and who's known for injecting fun into our favorite awards shows. At least he'd be able to create memorable TV moments and a flow that doesn't feel like we're sitting in a dentist's office in between shots.
• Incentivize the players to actually participate during the big game (cough, LeBron) and give us at least a few minutes of competitive basketball.
• Put on a show using fresh talent. While we all love Kevin Hart and MrBeast, who were part of this year's line-up, they've become staples in our lives and, thus, predictable picks. Who's up next? Book them!

Good luck next year! I'll be watching either way.

Battling dementia in her 30s

As a teenager, Jaime Bortz helped care for her father, who had Alzheimer's at a young age. Now at 39 years old, her memories are slipping away, much like they did for her dad and two half-brothers. They inherited a rare gene mutation called PSEN1, making them part of the 1% of people with dementia who have early-onset familial Alzheimer's.

Jaime's mother, Bonnie Bortz, now cares for Jaime and her 9-year-old daughter. Even though cases like Jaime's have helped to usher in a new class of Alzheimer's drugs, researchers still have a ways to go in understanding the disease.

Hoping for a cure.

A billionaire's Colorado compound

Bill Koch recently relisted his 53-acre Colorado property for sale. The Aspen compound consists of eight structures, with the main lodge alone measuring 16,600 square feet. Amenities include hot tubs, a fitness center, and ponds.

The property's asking price is a casual $125 million. Koch originally purchased the property in 2007 for $26.5 million. If the compound is sold at Koch's asking price, it would break the record for the most expensive sale in Aspen.

Take a look inside.

Inside the mind of a people pleaser

Putting others' needs first, struggling to make decisions, stressing over how to "keep everyone happy" — that's just a day in the life of a people pleaser. While this behavior — often learned in childhood — may seem positive, it can also be destructive. People pleasers usually ignore or discount their emotional needs.

Therapists shared with BI how people-pleasing can complicate relationships and life choices — and how to cope.

Keeping your people-pleasing tendencies in check.

Hailee Steinfeld's 5 to 9

The "Pitch Perfect" star is working hard, but she's also mastering the art of leaving work at the door. In the latest installment of BI's "5 to 9" series, the actor shared some of her go-to ways to decompress: shutting off her phone, experimenting with new recipes, and working out.

Still, balance is key to Steinfeld. She also likes to watch Netflix's "Peaky Blinders," whip up Sunday morning pancakes, and spend time with loved ones. And she appreciates a good margarita.

Striking a balance between work and play.

What we're watching this weekend

• "American Murder: Gabby Petito": A new Netflix docuseries explores the 2021 death of a 22-year-old aspiring influencer who vanished while on a road trip with her fiancé.
• "Sonic the Hedgehog 3": The hit sequel, featuring Jim Carrey in dual roles, is now on Paramount+.
• "Reacher": Amazon Prime Video's popular action crime series, starring Alan Ritchson as a former US Army veteran turned vigilante, returns for its third season.

See the full list

Deals we love

• Travel bags: Taking a trip soon? Check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage to help ensure more seamless travel. We ran our picks through the gamut: packed airplanes, busy airports, bumpy walkways, and flights of stairs and escalators.
• Don't sweat it: A good matching sweatsuit is cute enough for running errands but comfy enough for lounging around the house. We wore and washed over 20 sets. These are 12 of the best sweatsuits we recommend for your wardrobe.
• Coffee that stays hot: Tired of your coffee cooling before you reach your destination? We tested 20 coffee thermoses to find the best one for bringing on your next commute.

More of this week's top reads:

• I tried a $59 gadget to cut my phone screen time. It helped me completely break my TikTok habit.
• How to be fit past 100 without going to the gym, according to 6 centenarians.
• Beyoncé turned down a movie role 5 times. The film's producer says it taught him how to bounce back from rejection.
• A woman had no idea what style engagement ring she wanted until she found a $12 piece at a Japanese antique store.
• Netflix's 'Apple Cider Vinegar' is based on a 'true-ish story.' Here's what's fact and what's fiction in the hit show.
• I toured one of the most expensive safari villas in Tanzania. From the pool overlooking the Serengeti to the private gym, it took luxury to levels I'd never seen.
• 3 tips for cooking the best fish at home from a Michelin-starred chef who specializes in seafood.
• Here's how National Park Service cuts could impact your summer vacation.
• I'm a pediatrician working in the middle of Texas's measles outbreak. Here's what I want parents to know.
• I gave up my career at 55 to move to a cabin in Finland with my best friend. I get why locals are so happy — now I am, too.
• 'Reacher' actor Alan Ritchson shares how he got so ripped: corned beef, cookies, and push-ups.
• We spent $260 dining at a 100-year-old steakhouse chain. Our meal at the Orlando location was worth every penny.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy love week! Move over, Stanley — there's a new coveted water bottle in town. Find out why people are now obsessed with this 27-ounce glass bottle.

On the agenda:

• Caviar is everywhere, including your dessert.
• One of the hottest new cosmetic procedures for men? Penis fillers.
• 'Hitch' director shares why the hit Will Smith movie was almost a disaster.
• The price of eggs is egg-cruciating. We've got four cheaper high-protein options.

But first: Red, white, and dapper.

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This week's dispatch

Presidents' Day, style edition

It's almost Presidents' Day, and instead of honoring those who sit in the chair, let's turn to something just as historic (at least to Business Insider's fashion team) — presidential style.

While our presidents have undoubtedly shaped our country's legacy, their wives' style — and other initiatives and contributions they bring to the American public from the White House's East Wing — has had a major impact and brings much-needed levity to this moment.

From Melania Trump's impeccably tailored coats to Jill Biden's polished power dresses, first lady fashion fascinates the public, no matter the side of the aisle.

There are more serious implications to presidential fashion: What our first ladies wear also has the potential to boost the economy. After Mrs. Trump wore a navy boater hat to her husband's swearing-in ceremony last month, sales for hat designer Eric Javits surged, he told publications. The hat is now on sale after Javits said he received "a few thousand" inquiries about it, and fans can now order an exact replica for $375.

So, while we know our first ladies are more than just appearances — they're also representatives of our country — their legacy isn't just political. It's sartorial, too.

Caviar goes with everything

Move over, blinis. Gen Z and millennials are getting creative with caviar. From chicken nuggets to tacos and doughnuts, the fish eggs are getting paired with almost everything.

Chefs are also realizing caviar's untapped potential. It can be a salty addition to fried foods or even a textural boost on top of ice cream. Caviar's stuffy rules are being rewritten, bringing the delicacy to the masses.

The caviar food combos you didn't see coming.

From 'BroTox' to 'ShowTox'

Chris Bustamante is a nurse practitioner whose NYC clinic, Lushful Aesthetic, offers typical beauty services. However, the true growth of his business is about helping his clients get … bigger. Penis filler accounted for over 40% of Lushful Aesthetic's $3 million revenue last year, with Bustamante averaging about three procedures a day.

Clients are usually men in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who pick from a menu of very specific procedures like "Girth Enhancement," "ScroFill," and "ShowTox." Bustamante said it's part of a general trend among white-collar men pursuing perfection.

The bigger, the better.

Also read:

• Corporate America's big beauty secret

'Hitch' turns 20

Director Andy Tennant was fresh off the 2002 success of Reese Witherspoon's "Sweet Home Alabama" when he began working on "Hitch." The film was a career pivot for lead Will Smith, who had recently received mixed reactions to his 2004 release "I, Robot."

The switch paid off, as "Hitch" was a major hit that continued to get airtime on cable channels for years. However, its path to beloved status wasn't easy, Tennant said. He told BI the creative battles behind the scenes defined his working relationship with Smith.

Tennant broke down the movie's "wild ride."

Don't put all of your eggs in one basket

Egg prices are skyrocketing, and it's scrambling consumers' wallets. But eggs aren't just a tasty breakfast staple — they are a reliable source of protein and other nutrients.

The good news? Other ingredients can fill these gaps for a fraction of the cost. A sports dietician shared her tips for picking out substitutes. Hint: "Eating the rainbow" and some shelf-stable pantry essentials can help.

4 cheaper high-protein alternatives.

Also read:

• Does your cereal even lift, bro?

What we're watching this weekend

• "Flow": The Oscar-nominated animated movie follows a cat who embarks on an epic journey after its home is destroyed by a devastating flood. It's now on Max.
• "La Dolce Villa": Netflix's latest original rom-com centers on a businessman (Scott Foley) who unexpectedly finds love after he travels to Italy to stop his daughter from restoring a dilapidated villa.
• "The White Lotus": HBO's hit black dramedy anthology series returns for its third season, following guests and employees at the Thailand property of the titular fictional resort chain.

See the full list

Deals we love

• Boots fit for snow: Winter conditions call for boots with great traction, warmth, and, of course, style. We spent months testing women's winter boots to find the best ones for the job.
• Skip the cheap multipacks: We're big fans of investing in high-quality basics. We tested boxer briefs and shorts to find the most supportive and comfortable options in our guide to the best men's underwear.
• Sleep on this: Presidents' Day is more than just a long weekend — it's also one of the best times of the year to score discounts on mattresses. Here are the best mattress deals to shop this weekend.

More of this week's top reads:

• Barnes & Noble plans to open at least 60 new stores in 2025. I visited the bookseller to see why it's thriving.
• Confessions of women in real estate: 4 female agents on what it's really like to work in the industry.
• My favorite gem in Italy is just an hour from Venice. It's packed with stunning scenery and feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
• Three credit cards rich people carry that almost anyone can apply for.
• Orlando's first immersive theme park to open in a decade is going to be a foodie paradise.
• Shoppers are using loopholes to avoid paying for clothes online — and retailers are fighting back.
• A busy 40-year-old lost 17 pounds while drinking alcohol and traveling. His trainer explained the 5 keys to his success.
• The 'Cobra Kai' season 6 finale ending closes a chapter, but it's not the end of the 'Karate Kid' franchise.
• The 'Saturday Night Live' 50th anniversary special line-up includes Robert De Niro and Sabrina Carpenter. Here's how each guest is linked to the show.
• A chef who grew up on the Mediterranean diet has 4 easy tricks for eating more fiber.
• I tried the chocolate cake that Ina Garten said 'makes grown men weep.' It's super easy to make and doesn't require any eggs.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! One CEO became a millionaire at 40. While she's enjoying her career, her friendships have suffered. Here's what she's doing to stay connected.

On the agenda:

• Today's parents are saying yes to drugs. Just don't tell their kids.
• Women across the political spectrum are rocking Republican hair.
• Panic rooms are out and 'serenity zones' are in.
• A doctor who researches healthy aging takes these 4 supplements daily.

But first: What's on the menu?

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This week's dispatch

Game Day Grub Guide

Let's face it: The best part of the Super Bowl isn't the halftime show (sorry, Kendrick) or even watching two teams, the Philadephia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs, battle it out on the field.

It might not even be a sighting of Taylor Swift, who will likely be cheering on her boyfriend, KC tight end Travis Kelce, in the stands.

It's the food.

For the past eight weeks, Business Insider's reporter Erin McDowell has compared offerings at fast-casual chains in a series called "Tailgate Taste-off."

After testing our favorite grab-and-go foods from popular restaurants, she's crowned winners in cheeseburgers, boneless wings, chicken tenders, and Buffalo chicken wings.

"I had a blast trying some of my favorite gameday foods at the biggest chain restaurants, from Applebee's to Chili's," McDowell told me. "But the two standout winners actually surprised me."

If you need help finalizing your game day menu, we ranked the bites from Applebee's, Chili's, Buffalo Wild Wings, TGI Fridays, and Wingstop based on taste and value. Here's who won.

• Best cheeseburger: Buffalo Wild Wings' All-American Cheeseburger beat out its competitors. The burger's two patties were "crispy on the outside and coated in gooey melted cheese."
• Best boneless wings: Chili's wings came in first for "the size of the wings" and amazing flavors.
• Best chicken tenders: Buffalo Wild Wings also won this round for its sizable tenders that tasted "homemade."
• Best Buffalo chicken wings: Wingstop was No. 1 in this category for balancing spice and bold flavors.

MDMA at night, Cheerios in the morning

We may be entering a "drug-positive culture" as more adults are turning to drugs to indulge in a good time. Burning Man is the official wellness retreat for tech bros, and research is coming out about the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics.

That trend has also spilled into parenting. For a growing number of white-collar types, getting high has become a critical avenue for staying sane amid the demands of parenthood. They're hoping to establish a more open dialogue about drug use with their kids — one day.

The trippy rise of high parents.

Traditional values, traditional hair

The high-ranking women in the MAGA-run GOP share a certain coiffure: a bouncy blonde blowout. The style favored by Tiffany Trump and Karoline Leavitt matches Republican values in many ways since it's traditional, gendered, and connotes hard work and wealth by requiring a lot of maintenance.

With a Republican trifecta in control of the government, conservative aesthetics are spilling out into mainstream fashion. Regardless of any individual woman's politics, you'll probably see the MAGA-inspired hairstyle a lot this year.

The Republican blowout is blowing up.

No more sacrificing style over security

The movie-like panic rooms of the 1990s — the dreary basement bunker with concrete walls and no natural light — are "so yesterday," according to Matthias Fitzthum, CEO of Bespoke Home & Yacht Security. Some ultrawealthy clients are opting for "serenity zones" instead, he said.

These spaces can be customized with similar safety features — bulletproof walls, emergency oxygen, first aid kits, etc. — but they're often in areas that are regularly used, like a bedroom, so that clients wouldn't have to scramble too far. The security in these serenity zones is "something you cannot see," Fitzthum said. They also cost a pretty penny.

But the price isn't deterring demand.

The longevity doctor is in

Dr. Eric Verdin knows a thing or two about helping people stay sharp as they grow older. He is the CEO and president of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging and studies how to maintain quality of life over time.

Verdin believes lifestyle factors — diet, sleep, stress management, exercise, and relationships — could boost your chances of a longer life. Genes play a role, too. But, if you want to take things a step further, evidence suggests certain supplements can help, he said.

The four supplements he takes every day.

Also read:

• Taking omega-3 supplements may slow down aging, a new study finds
• The CEO of Life Time says he takes 45 to 50 supplements a day for healthy aging. Here's how he decides what to include.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Apple Cider Vinegar": Netflix's latest fictionalized drama is about a real-life wellness blogger who built an empire off of the lie she had brain cancer.
• "The Z-Suite": "Gilmore Girls" star Lauren Graham leads Tubi's new workplace comedy, playing an ad agency exec who's pushed out by the company's Gen Z social media team.
• Super Bowl: The Eagles and the Chiefs face off on Sunday. Here's how to watch it in 4K for free.

See the full list

What to shop

• Super Bowl Sunday approaches: The Super Bowl is tomorrow, but these discounts are available now. Check out our roundup of the best Super Bowl TV deals, some of which you can pick up in-store before the big game.
• Flowers for your Valentine: Beautiful blooms are a Valentine's Day classic, and these flower delivery services are the best we've tested, from wildflower bouquets to preserved roses and dried arrangements.
• Still need a gift for your sweetheart?: Don't wait too long — time is running out to meet shipping deadlines. Here are 92 Valentine's Day gift ideas, including cozy pajamas, heart-shaped cookware, lego kits, and subscription boxes.

More of this week's top reads:

• 3 perks that made my 14-hour flight to Asia not just bearable, but luxurious.
• I've been a tour guide in Italy for 17 years. My top recommendation is an incredible ancient port city that's way less crowded than Rome.
• A chef who grew up on the Mediterranean diet shares 3 clever ways she adds plant-based protein to meals.
• I've stayed at every Disney hotel in the United States. These are my top 5 picks.
• I spent $26,000 on a 21-day expedition cruise through Antarctica and other bucket-list spots. I can't recommend it enough.
• The big thing missing in stories about teens and social media.
• A pair of twins followed different diets for 12 weeks. The high-carb twin lost more fat and had more energy.
• The wildest requests a Michelin-starred chef has received from VIP hotel guests.
• Taylor Swift lost every award at the 2025 Grammys. That's a good thing.
• I retired early and began traveling the world with my husband. In some ways, it still feels like work.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• USAID, the agency responsible for foreign aid, suddenly shut down its headquarters on Monday.
• DC employees got a text telling them to work remotely hours after Musk supported shutting down USAID.
• On Monday afternoon, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he was "the acting director of USAID."

Employees at the US Agency for International Development were told that the agency's headquarters in Washington, DC, would be shut down for the day, according to a text alert seen by Business Insider.

By Monday afternoon, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that he was "the acting director of USAID," bolstering reports that President Donald Trump planned to fold the agency into the State Department, which Rubio leads. Rubio said that he had appointed someone else to handle the daily operations.

The message announcing the office closure went to all USAID workers who had signed up for the agency's emergency notification system. It instructed all employees who report to the Washington office — excluding those who perform "essential on-site and building maintenance functions individually contacted by senior leadership" — to work remotely. It did not specify whether and when the office would reopen, and CNN reported that the message also went to employees via email.

Though the instructions in the text come from "the direction of Agency leadership," Elon Musk said early Monday morning in a conversation on X Spaces that he supported shutting down the agency. The talk came just hours before employees heard of the closure.

"With regards to the USAID stuff, I went over it in detail, and he agreed that we should shut it down," Musk said of a conversation he had with Trump. Musk, who is spearheading the Department of Government Efficiency, continued posting about the agency throughout Monday morning, writing on X, "USAID is a criminal organization," and, "We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper."

On Sunday night, Trump expressed disdain for the agency, telling reporters it's run by "radical lunatics." Trump had already ordered a 90-day freeze on foreign aid.

On January 24, Rubio paused all new funding for aid programs facilitated by USAID. He sent a memo that said all foreign assistance would be reviewed to ensure it's not redundant and aligned with Trump's policies, CBS News said.

A 15-year employee at USAID told BI that staffers were feeling "nervous, annoyed, sad, anxious, what you'd imagine." BI has verified their identity and employment.

"We wish they would tell us directly what's happening instead of waking up to emails and texts telling us things," they said.

Congress established USAID, the agency responsible for government humanitarian aid, in 1961. The US government is the world's biggest humanitarian donor.

The agency had a budget of $32 billion for the fiscal year 2024, according to an archived press release. That accounted for about 0.47% of the federal budget, which came in at $6.75 trillion.

The press release said the agency requested $10.5 billion for humanitarian assistance across 65 countries, including Ukraine and Syria. It also requested $1.11 billion for Feed the Future programs. Other areas of spending included $4.1 billion for healthcare issues and $3.1 billion for gender equity efforts.

USAID employs more than 10,000 employees, according to the Congressional Research Service, with most of them stationed overseas.

Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said in a letter on Sunday that only Congress could merge USAID into the State Department. They also said reports about DOGE personnel accessing USAID headquarters and sensitive data raised "deep concerns."

"No classified material was accessed without proper security clearances," Katie Miller, a DOGE spokesperson, said Sunday in an X post.

The agency's website has been shut down and its social media pages deactivated. Retired and former employees are planning a protest at the Capitol on Wednesday, according to a flyer BI has seen making the rounds on social media accounts.

Representatives for the White House, USAID, and Musk did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Correction: February 3, 2025 — An earlier version of this story misstated the day Rubio ordered a pause on new funding for USAID. The pause occurred on Friday, January 24, not Friday, January 31.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! Are you in the throes of planning your Spring Break trip? Learn from one mother who planned an epic family vacation for 18 family members that ended up being a "nightmare." Ouch!

On the agenda:

• They waited until their 30s to have kids. Now, they've hit an unexpected snag.
• A personal trainer shares how to work out for a longer life, depending on your age.
• How Kristen Bell spends her off-work hours, from "exercise snacking" to bedtime stories.
• A New Yorker who traveled to Utah's Silicon Slopes for the first time shared the 9 things that surprised her.

But first: Hi, (billionaire) neighbor!

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This week's dispatch

It pays to live next to a billionaire

A South Florida mansion — yet to be built — is on the market for $285 million. A vacant lot in Miami went on the market for $200 million. Meanwhile, Tom Brady reportedly may sell his newly built Indian Creek mansion after quietly receiving offers of $150 million.

Besides their eye-popping price tags and Florida locations, what do all of these properties have in common? They sit next to the homes of billionaires, whose presence alone is dramatically affecting the surrounding property values.

Billionaires undoubtedly affect our everyday lives — from job creation and politics (Hi, Elon Musk!) to philanthropy and even the media we consume. Where the nine-zero earners choose to live is also driving the market upward — and their neighbors are cashing in.

Stewart Satter, a former CEO who now develops real estate as a hobby, listed a $285 million to-be-built house in Manalapan, Florida. The property sits "next door to the Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison's estate, which he paid $173 million for in 2022," real estate reporter Jordan Pandy recently wrote. Satter's price tag makes it the most expensive new home on the US market.

It's the latest in a trend of properties with proximity to billionaires being put up for sale. About 70 miles north, Jeff Bezos' neighbor listed an 80,000-square-foot vacant lot for $200 million in December 2024. It came after Bezos paid $68 million, then $79 million, and later $90 million for three properties in Indian Creek, Florida.

Ilya Reznik, who's representing the owners who didn't want to be identified, told Business Insider that the lot is in "a very unique location."

Reznik is right. Tom Brady, Carl Icahn, and Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump also own mansions in one of America's wealthiest towns. And one bold-faced name seemingly wants in on the Bezos Effect, too. Brady is quietly receiving offers upward of $150 million on a home he bought in 2020 for $17 million.

Forget keeping up with the Joneses; it's all about living next to the billionaires.

The millennial parenting paradox

As the cost of raising a child skyrockets, more women feel they need to delay motherhood until they're more established in their careers. By the time they're ready to have kids, they must juggle their high-pressure, prestigious jobs with the full-time demands of parenting.

"Having it all" — a successful career and a fulfilling home life — may be a myth, but all's not lost. Fortunately, more parents are warming to a more balanced solution.

Is a career break the answer?

Working out for all stages of life

It's no secret that exercise is crucial for living a longer life. If you want to be active and strong in your 80s, it's never too early to start training for it.

One of the biggest fitness mistakes is failing to prioritize long-term fitness goals, Ollie Thompson, a UK-based personal trainer who specializes in longevity, said. He shared workout advice for training based on your age — from prioritizing strength workouts in your 20s to adding stability movements in your 40s.

Lifting for longevity.

Kristen Bell's 5-to-9

Actor Kristen Bell knows how difficult it can be to fit a workout into a busy schedule. She relies on "exercise snacking" whenever she can't make it to the gym to lift weights. The method involves intermingling one-and-a-half-minute segments of exercise throughout the day.

The Golden Globe-nominated actor also typically microwaves dinner for her family. Bell gave a glimpse into her life and shared with BI how she spends the hours in the day she's not working.

Juggling family time and exercise.

Exploring the Silicon Slopes

On her first trip to Utah's Silicon Slopes, BI's Joey Hadden thought she knew what to expect — skiing, tech, and celebrity estates.

The region, which includes Salt Lake City and Park City, met those expectations, but a few things still surprised her. From a bustling suburban tech scene to a ski lift in the heart of downtown Park City, Hadden got a sense of what it means to work and play in the Silicon Slopes.

These unexpected delights made her want to revisit.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Paradise": The new Hulu series, starring Sterling K. Brown and James Marsden, is a political thriller with an unexpected twist.
• "Mythic Quest": The workplace comedy about a fictional video game studio, from "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" costars Rob McElhenney and Charlie Day, returns to Apple TV+ for its fourth season.
• "You're Cordially Invited": Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell star in a new Amazon rom-com about two people who clash when weddings they're involved with are double-booked at the same venue.

See the full list

What to shop

• Happy Lunar New Year!: The Year of the Snake marks a time of renewal and transformation. It's an important gifting occasion for many, so we've rounded up the best Lunar New Year gifts you can give outside of a red envelope.
• Retinol vs. Retin-A vs. Retinoid: Though they sound the same, these vitamin A derivatives offer different benefits for your skin when applied correctly. We spoke to dermatologists to break down the differences, from the side effects to their product recommendations.
• Another Netflix price hike: With the major streaming service increasing its prices again, you may want to consider a more affordable option for your shows. Here are the best Netflix alternatives, like Disney Plus, Peacock, and Apple TV Plus.

More of this week's top reads:

• Taylor Swift cheered on the Chiefs in a $68,000 outfit and brought back a controversial trend.
• My kids and I went to Dubai for the first time. It was incredible, but I wish we'd avoided these 6 mistakes.
• Heather Rae El Moussa and Christina Haack are open to flipping a house together — even if Tarek El Moussa isn't so sure.
• These were the 10 hottest brands at the end of 2024, according to Lyst.
• Benedict Cumberbatch says he was wrong about Doctor Strange not appearing in the next 'Avengers' movie: 'Don't ever believe anything I say'.
• Four things to know about the real-life office building in 'Severance.'
• I'm an American spending my retirement living in dozens of countries. There's one thing I wish I'd known before I started.
• The best and worst outfits celebrities have worn at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival so far.
• Why Royal Caribbean Group is betting big on luxury river cruises.
• A chef who grew up on the Mediterranean diet shares 3 high-fiber recipes she eats for her gut health.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• The White House told federal workers they could voluntarily resign by February 6 and be paid through September.
• The offer follows the Trump Administration's efforts to overhaul the federal workforce.
• Many workers BI talked to were defiant, but some are moving on, or taking a wait-and-see approach.

Shock and outrage. Hopelessness, suspicion, and defiance.

Federal workers say they feel a mix of all of the above and more after payout offers landed in their inboxes late Tuesday. The Trump administration says workers can either return to the office full-time and face likely downsizing, or quit now and keep getting paid for the next eight months.

"I voted for Donald Trump twice, and on January 20th, I had hope that he would fulfill his promises," one federal employee told Business Insider. "However, when I received this email at 5:35 pm EST, that hope disappeared."

A Social Security Administration employee said that workers aren't the only ones at risk. "The public will suffer the most and the only group they can blame is the current one."

Or, as a 15-year veteran of the State Department put it: "They can fuck off and we won't be intimidated."

Business Insider spoke with more than a dozen workers at departments across the government in the hours after the email was sent. They requested anonymity to speak openly about their jobs. Their identities are known to BI.

Some are digging in their heels.

"I have no intention of quitting," one employee wrote in a text message.

According to a "deferred resignation offer" email sent by a White House office, workers have until February 6 to say whether they will voluntarily resign.

If they decide to leave, they will be exempt from in-person work, according to the email, and will receive pay and benefits through September unless they decide to leave earlier.

"I certainly won't be accepting a buyout," another employee said, adding that their teammates likely wouldn't either. "It's unpatriotic that he's trying to put people out of work or provide incentives for people to leave their stable jobs."

"I'm so sick of these stupid harassing emails," they added.

Deepening distrust

Others worry the administration won't stick to its word of steady pay and benefits through September — and aren't even sure the offer is actually a buyout, despite the language used in some media coverage.

"Suffice it to say the people I've been talking to don't trust how this will play out," one Department of Justice worker said, adding that they didn't see a budgetary or legal mechanism that would guarantee continued compensation.

The spotlight has encouraged at least one federal to look at the private sector.

"I will be seeking employment outside of government," the worker said, though they caveated they might also look for a job in the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security. "I have no desire to work for an unappreciative organization."

Administration officials previously told CBS they believe up to 10% of federal workers would depart due to the new directives.

Meanwhile, another is in wait-and-see mode. Trump's second term has only just started, the employee told BI, and they want to give the administration the benefit of the doubt.

A break from historical precedent

The government has previously offered incentives for employees to leave as attempts to trim the federal workforce. In the 1990s, former President Clinton presented tens of thousands of workers with the option to leave their jobs.

A lawyer who works for the federal government questioned why it didn't follow the precedent set by previous administrations.

"In the federal government, reductions in force are covered by a litany of laws and regulations," said the lawyer, who specializes in employment issues. "Workers get severance pay, career transition assistance or job search help, and preference for other positions in federal government. This veiled threat about being laid off — it's illegal, indefensible, and incorrect."

The American Federation of Government Employees, the biggest union for federal workers, published a FAQ on Wednesday telling members to not take the email "at face value." It was "riddled with inconsistencies and uncertainties," the union said, and it was unclear if the office that issued the memo had the legal authority or budget to make good on its promises.

The National Treasury Employees Union President Doreen Greenwald urged federal workers to reject the "request to voluntarily quit their jobs. It is a bad deal for employees and the American people they serve."

The latest in a string of chaotic moves

The Tuesday email — which carries the same "Fork in the road" subject line as an Elon Musk memo sent to employees at X, then Twitter, in 2022 — is the latest in a string of chaos-causing, high-impact directives.

On Monday, the Trump administration announced that it was putting a "temporary pause" on federal grants and loans. A federal judge halted the freeze from taking effect before the administration itself rescinded the memo, BI reported.

"It's kind of like Whac-A-Mole. What do you respond to? Personally, I think I'm a little bit numb to it," said one federal employee who has worked in facilities management for more than a decade.

Federal workers have been a particular focus for the administration. Trump issued a return-to-work order for all federal employees on January 20, and has also put forth an executive order to reclassify certain civil servants, removing legal protections and making it easier to fire them.

According to a FAQ posted Tuesday, several categories of employees are ineligible for deferred resignation, including military personnel, USPS staff, and those working in immigration enforcement and national security roles.

The remaining federal workers will have six working days to weigh their options. If the initial offer had been more generous, the federal government lawyer said they may have taken it.

"If they were offering me a guaranteed check for seven months that I could take to the bank, I might consider it," they said. "But it's difficult to trust promises that aren't legally binding."

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Welcome back to our Saturday edition! One luxury travel planner, who crafts itineraries for her clients, forgot her own golden rules when booking her family's 12-day trip through Europe. Here are her must-dos to avoid travel snafus.

On the agenda:

• Everyone is talking about ranches right now. Here's why.
• Americans who use cheap weight-loss drugs are about to face a harsh new normal.
• Inside Jackson's Hole's ultra-exclusive golf club Shooting Star.
• A Texas local went to four Michelin-starred barbecue joints. One restaurant ended up being her favorite.

But first: Hi, awards season.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Business Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Lights, Camera, Awards

As the saying goes, the show must go on. Even with a city reeling from the devastating aftermath of wildfires, Los Angeles is taking center stage with awards season officially in full swing.

For the average fan, it's a good time to escape the news from the boardroom or the White House and reflect on the projects that made us laugh, cry, or feel our feelings — whatever they may be.

For Hollywood, the implications are much larger. The economic impact of hosting several awards shows is a huge financial boon to the region. And while estimates are hard to quantify, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos wrote that events like these are "a hugely important source of income for a vast network of professionals" in California.

While the Golden Globes came and went with a splash, LA is now preparing for the Grammys. On February 2, comedian Trevor Noah will return to host music's biggest night from inside LA's Crypto.com Arena. BI's music team says it'll be a big year for Beyoncé, Chappell Roan, and Kendrick Lamar.

"All eyes will be on Beyoncé, who's already the most-awarded artist in the show's history — but hoping to win album of the year for the first time in her career with the country-inspired opus 'Cowboy Carter,'" senior music reporter Callie Ahlgrim told me.

"Meanwhile, expect Kendrick Lamar to sweep the rap categories with 'Not Like Us' and Chappell Roan to win big in general-field races like best new artist and record of the year, thanks to her massive breakout hit 'Good Luck Babe!'" she added.

The Oscars cap off awards season. The nominations were announced earlier this week, and "Emilia Pérez," "Wicked," and "The Brutalist" were the most recognized. Still, until March 2, it can be anybody's trophy.

BI's entertainment correspondent Jason Guerrasio said it may be a big night for an iconic movie star. "For the first time in years, Oscars night is wide open," Guerrasio said, "but I think when the dust settles, 'Wicked' and Demi Moore will be walking away with hardware."

Home sweet ranch

Beyoncé released "Cowboy Carter," "Yellowstone" pulled 11.4 million viewers, and Western-inspired fashion trends are on runways. Our love affair with cowboy culture seems to be back in full swing.

The cowboy craze has also extended to the real-estate market, with ranches seeing more demand, brokers told BI. While owning a ranch comes with its own challenges, they offer something for everyone — from living off the land to enjoying more privacy.

Why people are loving ranches right now.

So long, faux-zempic

GLP-1 drugs are at the center of a weight-loss revolution. For some Americans, the Ozempic gold rush helped deliver a weight-loss solution into their hands.

The drugs became so popular that manufacturers started running out. When the FDA added GLP-1s to its shortage list, it allowed drug compounders to get in on the action — making cheaper, knock-off versions more accessible to patients. Now that supply has caught up to demand, and the FDA is poised to declare the shortage over.

It's going to get a lot harder to get knock-off Ozempic.

Bet on the Shooting Star

Shooting Star in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has been ranked a top golf course in the US. Still, few get to see it — membership requires an invitation, and there's a long waitlist.

BI's Joey Hadden went inside the 1,300-acre property and toured the clubhouse, 18-hole course, barn, and residences. It oozed Western charm, and its natural beauty made it look like a painting.

Take a peek.

Michelin-starred BBQ

When it comes to barbecue, Texas might rank supreme. Barbecue restaurants in Texas feel as abundant as Starbucks locations.

It's no wonder why the Michelin Guide awarded stars to four barbecue spots when it expanded to Texas in 2024. A local visited La Barbecue, Interstellar BBQ, LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue, and Corkscrew BBQ to see if they lived up to the hype.

One ended up being her favorite.

What we're watching this weekend

• "The Night Agent": Netflix's popular political thriller series is back for season two, focusing on Peter Sutherland's new job as a night agent.
• "Gladiator II": Ridley Scott's epic sequel to the 2000 movie "Gladiator" is streaming on Paramount+ following a theatrical release.
• "Blink Twice": Channing Tatum plays a sinister tech billionaire named Slater King in Zoë Kravitz's 2024 directorial debut. The psychological thriller is now streaming on Prime Video.

See the full list

What to shop

• Affordable loungewear: We love Spanx's AirEssentials sets, so we had to test this affordable alternative from Amazon that went viral on social media. The Amazon bestseller had us impressed with its luxe feel and comfortable fit.
• For the dog parents: No toy is truly indestructible, but these come pretty close. We submitted these products to our dogs' strong jaws, plus forks, knives, and dishwashers, to find the best dog toys for aggressive chewers.
• Underwear that won't let you down: Boxer briefs should offer ample support, coverage, and comfort — but not all are created equal. That's why we've spent years testing the best boxer briefs for men.

More of this week's top reads:

• I've been a chef for over 10 years. Here are 10 tips for making foods everyone should know how to cook.
• A busy nutritionist said avoiding ultra-processed foods is easier if he makes his own bread and cereal. Here are his simple recipes.
• I booked a dreamy 2-week vacation in Bali. I was so disappointed that I ditched my original itinerary after just 3 days.
• Peter Kafka: A Trump movie that Trump hates is going to get a lot more attention, courtesy of the Oscars.
• Whole Foods founder John Mackey said his Apple Watch helped him quit drinking.
• I took my kids to Venice for the first time. Our trip would've been better if we'd avoided these 5 mistakes.
• How malls became cool again.
• Instagram made a change that might reveal your embarrassing habits — or not.
• I live in the northernmost town on Earth, where alcohol is rationed and polar bears are a common threat.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York. Elizabeth Casolo, fellow, in Chicago.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! Trying to pick a diet for 2025? Sometimes, it's best to keep it simple. That's what Jennifer Aniston does with her 80/20 rule, which is about eating healthy most of the time with some room for leniency.

On the agenda:

• The year's must-attend events for the world's wealthiest people.
• Netflix could finally win a best picture Oscar — right when it doesn't need one.
• A top nutrition scientist shares how to increase your fiber intake while still meeting your protein goals.
• The pressure to be a perfect parent now extends to childbirth.

But first: Throw it away. Seriously.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Business Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

The art of decluttering

It's my favorite time of year: After Santa drops off all his presents, my house is no longer recognizable — but I have a plan for that. It's time to harness my inner Marie Kondo and attempt to reorganize my home.

Before the holidays, I had already started intentionally throwing away items I hadn't used for months. Even the kids' toy basket (OK, fine, baskets) was touched by my decluttering bug. If anything was broken, it went into the trash bag. Don't worry; my 2- and 5-year-old didn't shed a tear.

I'm now moving my way from forgotten closet to forgotten closet, finding things I need and throwing away things that are no longer useful to me and my family.

Even though millennials have a reputation for being minimalists, the truth is we've also bought into the consumerism that makes America what it is, writes journalist Kelli María Korducki. "Millennials haven't been minimalists in years. In fact, we may have never been minimalists at all," she says.

For some, decluttering their physical space may not be enough; their digital lives may also need some tidying up. That's what writer Theresa Sam Houghton did after she realized bookmarking apps and unplayed podcast episodes were clogging up her smartphone. She writes that she's now "developed a weekly routine that helps me reign in digital clutter on a regular basis."

Are you convinced yet? If not, read this to see how decluttering helped one couple eliminate clutter and $32,000 worth of credit-card debt.

Billionaires' busy social calendar

The billionaire population is sparse, but birds of a feather tend to flock their private jets together. That is, you can typically find them all in the same place.

At the beginning of the year, they descend en masse to Switzerland for the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos. In February, you can spot them at the Super Bowl. Every July they head to a small town in Idaho for the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference, also known as billionaire summer camp.

Where the wealthy mingle.

Netflix on top

If the streamer's success at the Golden Globes is any indication, 2025 could be the year that Netflix finally wins best picture at the Academy Awards. But it doesn't need to.

After spending millions of dollars on best picture campaigns in past years, Netflix has cemented its place in Hollywood as the definitive leader in the streaming wars. With its attention in other areas — like its live sports push — a best picture nod for "Emilia Perez" would be a nice addition, but not a necessary one.

The Oscars extra credit.

Also read:

• The best-dressed celebrities at the 2025 Golden Globes
• Timothée Chalamet and Glen Powell took their lookalikes to the Golden Globes. Fans hope it's the end of doppelganger contests.

You probably aren't eating enough fiber

Grocery stores are filling shelves with high-protein versions of food, but top nutrition scientist Tim Spector said people who want to improve their diet should focus on consuming more fiber than protein. It's great for gut health and can ease constipation, among many other things.

The US Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2020 to 2025 found that more than 90% of women and 97% of men in the US don't meet the recommended intake of dietary fiber. Spector shared tips for eating enough fiber while also hitting your daily protein target.

More fiber, please.

Also read:

• A dietitian said eating high-fiber and fermented foods can improve gut health and boost energy in the winter. Here are her favorite recipes.

Everyone is suddenly obsessed with optimizing childbirth

When scrolling through social media as a pregnant person, you're often inundated with a million ways you can make the most of the birth experience. Plus, there's a growing industry of birthing influencers marketing their preferred birthing styles — from natural to ecstatic births — through sponsored posts, consulting services, and online courses.

While much of the talk centered on optimizing birth is well-meaning, how we give birth — or rather, how we think we'll give birth — has become the latest way we define, and judge, ourselves as parents.

The 'good birth' myth.

Also read:

• I wanted my child to be happy. To do so, I need to let go of my perfectionism.

What we're watching this weekend

• "The Traitors": Season 3 of the Emmy-winning competition series premieres on Peacock this week, with Britney Spears' ex-husband, Zac Efron's brother, and a former "Bachelorette" star among the new cast.
• "The Curious Case of Natalia Grace": Max is now streaming the final chapter of the ID docuseries about a Ukrainian orphan whose adoptive parents accused her of being an adult secretly posing as a child.
• "American Primeval": "Friday Night Lights" star Taylor Kitsch is a standout in Netflix's answer to "Yellowstone," a bloody and violent new drama set in the early days of the American West.

See the full list

What to shop

• Beat the cold: There's nothing like a bone-chilling gust of wind to remind you that your jacket needs replacing. Check out our guides to the best men's parkas for extreme cold and the best winter coats and jackets for men.
• Skill building: Get a leg up at work and learn new skills with a Coursera Plus annual subscription, which is 50% off right now. The deal offers access to thousands of classes from verified providers like Google, Microsoft, and IBM.
• RTO, but make it comfy: Just because you're back in the office doesn't mean you have to be uncomfortable. These are our favorite stretchy work pants for women that feel like sweatpants but look professional.

More of this week's top reads:

• 2025 TV shows we're most excited about, from the return of 'Stranger Things' to the new 'Game of Thrones' prequel.
• Norovirus cases are spiking across the US this winter. Here's why — and what you need to know to protect yourself.
• Why are mocktails so expensive?
• Review: I ate at Louis Vuitton's new café and while I enjoyed 'luxury snacking,' it's not a place I'm rushing to revisit.
• Brooke Shields says she's happier than ever with herself at 59. Here are 3 lessons she's learned about aging well.
• A glass of milk's worth of calcium has been linked to lower colorectal cancer risk. Here are 6 foods you might not know contain the mineral.
• 9 luxurious status symbols you might be tempted to buy in 2025.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York.

• This post originally appeared in the BI Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy New Year! Since many are focused on their health goals this month, we designed a special Saturday edition. Enjoy our best fitness reads to help you keep your wellness resolutions.

On the agenda:

• Gen Z was running on empty. Then they started running.
• Three people share advice that helped them lose and keep off the weight.
• How a nutritionist incorporates ultra-processed foods into his diet.
• A doctor and longevity expert shares the 6 bare-minimum things you can do to live longer.

But first: It's mocktail season.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Business Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Say hello to Dry January

When the clock struck midnight, Rihanna — yes, the billionaire beauty magnate and pop superstar — proclaimed to her 150 million Instagram followers that she "didn't drink all year."

Rih Rih joins so many celebrities and mere mortals alike who are giving up alcohol for one reason or another.

The singer's announcement came days before US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy said in an advisory that alcohol is one of the leading causes of preventable cancer in the nation, behind smoking and obesity.

We took a deeper look at the data from the four studies cited in the Surgeon General's advisory. It's worth noting one of the healthiest ways to eat, the Mediterranean diet, includes wine in moderation.

Still, if you want to join Rihanna and go alcohol-free for the month of January, here are some tips to get you started.

1. If you mess up, don't worry. Data suggests that some people have at least one day when they're not sober and it's typically the first Friday of the month. Keep going.
2. If you still love the habit of opening up a cold can of brew, stock up on alcohol-free beers and other alternatives that will allow you to still get your fix without sipping alcohol.
3. Tell your friends and family your plan. Having a support system in place can help hold you accountable.

Gen Z's obsession with extreme fitness

Your mid-20s are tricky enough, but graduating during a pandemic is another challenge. As the traditional goalposts of homeownership and parenthood get pushed further back, many are looking for other ways to measure their progress and regain a sense of control.

Young people in their 20s are pursuing intense physical fitness challenges, from ultramarathons (yes, races longer than 26.2 miles) to Ironman triathlons. They're also inspiring their peers to follow suit. Why now?

Some are calling it their quarter-life crisis.

Meeting your wellness goals

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to cut out the foods you enjoy or endure tough workouts you hate just to lose weight. Research shows this rarely works in the long term and can have unintended health consequences, like malnutrition and disordered eating.

Take it from three people who lost weight sustainably after years of yo-yo dieting. From prioritizing health over appearance to adding a social element to their journey, they shared the advice that helped them succeed.

Their weight loss lessons.

A 'realistic' approach to UPFs

Ultra-processed foods, which contain additives, made headlines in 2024 for their potential health risks. Last year, nutritionist Rob Hobson tried eliminating them from his diet, instead cooking everything from scratch.

Hobson found cooking three times a day is too time-consuming. Now, he incorporates "healthier" UPF options, like picking up pre-made pasta sauce from the store, to "make life easier."

How he incorporates UPFs in his diet.

Easy adjustments for a longer life

Dr. Michael Roizen, 78, is the chief wellness officer at Cleveland Clinic. He's all about helping people make lifestyle changes to live healthier for longer. In fact, there are small, easy changes that can make a big difference, even if you can't completely overhaul your lifestyle.

Roizen shared with BI the six things he thinks everyone should do to live longer and improve mental, physical, and social health.

Six tips for healthy living.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Missing You": Netflix's latest Harlan Coben adaptation is a thriller about a detective who finds her "missing" fiancé on a dating app a decade after he vanished.
• "Nightbitch": Amy Adams plays a stay-at-home mom who becomes convinced she's turning into a dog in this black comedy horror film now streaming on Hulu.
• "The Front Room": The A24 psychological horror comedy available on Max stars Brandy as a pregnant woman who's being terrorized by her husband's ultra-religious ailing stepmother.

See the full list

What to shop

• Most popular picks of 2024: We looked back on the products our readers clicked on most from our buying guides and reviews this past year, including our favorite walking shoes, work totes, and deep-cleaning essentials.
• Boots to the ground: There's a lot to consider when it comes to boots, so we've rounded up a tried-and-tested list of the best casual men's boots to protect your feet this season.
• Time to cozy up: We've spent hours snuggling and researching to compile this list of the best throw blankets to fit your home's needs.

More of this week's top reads:

• 'Squid Game' season 2 smashed Netflix's record for biggest debut.
• BI's Hilary Brueck went inside biohacking tech bro Bryan Johnson's home and said it was a bit different than what was on his new Netflix documentary.
• A gut health scientist and chef shares 4 ways she makes eating fermented foods tasty and easy.
• Color experts on the hues you should consider removing from your home in 2025.
• BI's Katherine Tangalakis-Lippert had lunch at Disney's Club 33, and she said it made her realize why someone would sue to keep their membership.
• A travel writer who's been to all 50 states shares one thing she recommends doing in each one.
• One woman who goes abroad for injectables and skin laser treatments says she's saved $3,955 on treatments.

The BI Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York.

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy end of 2024! It's our last Saturday edition of Business Insider Today, so we're doing something special. Instead of a regular dispatch from me, here's a look at some of our favorite lifestyle reads from the year. Until next year.

On the agenda:

• Rob McElhenney is already on to the next thing.
• American homes are shrinking, and hallways are getting left on the cutting-room floor.
• Young men are getting testosterone boosts to feel stronger, sharper, and anxiety-free.
• Boquete, Panama, was once home to rainforests and coffee farms. Now, thousands of expats call it home.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

Rob McElhenney is betting on himself

Rob McElhenney is an actor, writer, showrunner, and entrepreneur. In today's entertainment landscape, multi-hyphenate celebrities are everywhere, but not every workhorse can create the longest-running live-action American sitcom, as McElhenney did with "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia."

To McElhenney, every story is a business and every business is a story. As his "Welcome to Wrexham" costar and co-owner Ryan Reynolds told BI this year, "If you need to overcome a problem or manifest a miracle, tell Rob it's impossible."

The many hats he wears.

Disappearing hallways

The costs of buying and building a new home have skyrocketed in the past decade. In 2024, houses in the US were both smaller and more expensive than those built 13 years ago, census data show.

As they downsize projects, homebuilders are trying to maximize essential living spaces. That means the usual connective tissue between rooms — the hallway — has gotta go.

Why your next home might not have one.

All T'd up

Once taboo, it's now become a point of pride for men to proactively track their testosterone levels and confront dips. Prescriptions for testosterone-replacement therapy have dramatically increased across the US over the last two decades, rising 20% from 2016 to 2019.

The trend tells a story of a new kind of gender-affirming care — but for cisgender men. Testosterone is prescribed to treat a set of vague symptoms for men hoping to feel "better," though it's not exactly clear what it does or who needs it.

Inject to perfect.

A retiree's paradise

It's not uncommon to see Americans — especially those around retirement age — in Boquete, Panama. The town's year-round cool temperatures and affordable cost of living have given it the reputation of being one of the best places to retire.

However, Boquete was once known for its coffee plantations and annual flower festival. Situated about 4,000 feet above sea level, the quiet town was a getaway for Panamanians living in nearby towns, where temperatures can reach the 90s.

Then came the expats.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Squid Game": Netflix's Korean-language series is back with season two this week, three years after it debuted on the streamer and became a pop culture phenomenon.
• "Your Friend, Nate Bargatze": Grammy-nominated comedian Nate Bargatze returned to Netflix for his third stand-up comedy special.
• "Doctor Who: Joy to the World": The latest installment of the annual "Doctor Who" Christmas special is available on Disney+, starring Ncuti Gatwa and "Bridgerton" actor Nicola Coughlan.

See the full list

What to shop

• Below-freezing outerwear: Canada Goose's puffer coats are expensive for a reason, and it's because they can stand the test of extreme cold. We used the brand's Cold Room to try them out — here's why they're worth the hype.
• Laptop backpacks: Backpacks are best for posture and overall back health because they distribute weight more evenly than totes or messenger bags. These are the best laptop backpacks for workday warriors.
• Best hair dryers: Spoiler alert: our top pick is the Dyson Supersonic. But you don't have to pay hundreds to score a worthwhile model — we've rounded up the best hair dryers across a wide range of price points.

More of this week's top reads:

• Where the richest people in the world spend the December holidays.
• A writer has been to 15 European countries. She said to skip the crowds in Italy and Spain — go to this less-visited gem instead.
• First time flying first class? Here are etiquette tips to avoid being the most annoying person in a premium cabin.
• Everything we know about Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey' film.
• BI's Mikhaila Friel and her family of eight spent $25,000 on an all-inclusive resort in Mexico. She said they ended up disappointed.
• A gut-health scientist and trained chef shares four easy, tasty ways she eats more fiber.
• Meet the people living in famous homes from movies and TV shows, from 'Home Alone' to 'Breaking Bad.'
• The six red wines a sommelier is buying right now.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York.

• Beyoncé performed at halftime during the Christmas Day game between the Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans.
• The performance paid homage to Texas and Mexican cultures through costumes and cameos.
• Beyoncé also wore a custom look designed by Lindsey James Show Clothing, styled by Shiona Turini.

Beyoncé took over the field at halftime during the Christmas Day game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Houston Texans, which streamed live on Netflix. And it was such a visual and musical spectacle that you might've missed some things.

The Houston native performed eight songs from her "Cowboy Carter" album during her 12-minute performance at NRG Stadium in Houston. The spectacle fittingly included several nods to Texas, Mexican, and rodeo culture and an appearance from her daughter, Blue Ivy.

Since you might have missed some easter eggs, cameos, references, and details, we rounded them up:

Beyoncé's performance included several nods to her hometown culture of Houston.

During her performance, Beyoncé included several nods to Texas and Houston culture, superficially Western and rodeo culture.

She began the sprawling show singing "16 Carraiges" while sitting on a white horse. She wore a custom white cowboy hat designed by ASN Hats, a Cowboy Carter sash, and a Roberto Cavalli coat from the designer's archive.

The horse was pulled by a man always wearing a cowboy hat, wide belt buckle, and cowboy boots.

As the horse walked into the stadium, it passed several low-rider cars, popular in Houston, that sat in front of an American flag seemingly wrapped in plastic.

Later in the performance, Beyoncé performed a line dance, another nod to Texas and rodeo culture.

Cameos in the performance also made clear that Bey wanted to celebrate rodeo culture, such as the inclusion of bull-riding icon Myrtis Dightman, Jr. and the first Black Rodeo Queen in Arkansas, Ja'Dayia Kursh.

Beyoncé also paid tribute to Mexican culture.

During her performance on the field, Beyoncé said, "One, two, tres!" It seems as if the pop star was attempting to include the 2.7 million Spanish speakers in the city of Houston.

One of her outfits also resembled the pattern of a mariachi singer.

Lastly, Mexican Cowgirl Melanie Rivera was spotted among the crowd of performers.

Beyoncé performed with her daughter, Blue Ivy.

Beyoncé has collaborated with her firstborn, Blue Ivy, many times over her career, and Christmas Day was the latest. It marked the first time the 12-year-old performed onstage with her mom since 2023's Renaissance World Tour.

While Blue Ivy performed choreography behind and beside Beyoncé, she notably appeared to be the only dancer on the field who didn't wear a platinum blonde wig.

Beyoncé's longtime dance captain, Ashley Everett, returned.

The biggest Beyhive fans spotted Beyoncé's longtime dance captain, Ashley Everett, was among the hundreds of dancers on the field. Her appearance comes after she was absent from Bey's Renassaince World Tour.

Everett became famous as one of two dancers in Beyoncé's iconic "Single Ladies" music video.

Even the Houston Texans owners got in on the fun.

During the performance, Beyoncé recreated a traditional homecoming parade, complete with a car caravan and the appearance of two "homecoming" queens — Miss Rodeo Texas Princess 2004 and Miss Rodeo Texas 2015.

In one of the cars was also Texans owner Cal McNair and his wife Hannah — another nod to Houston.

The performance had a homecoming feel.

Beyoncé had her own homecoming, as the Houston native returned to perform during this Christmas Day performance. She made that plain by bringing a Texas homecoming game vibe to her performance, complete with drum majors, line dancing, and performers sporting sashes. She also featured 200 members of Texas Southern University's Ocean of Soul Marching Band.

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy (early) holidays! If you're already thinking about what to do with money you might receive this season, perhaps follow this family's lead. They spent their $75,000 inheritance on a bucket list trip to South Africa. They say it helped them grieve.

On the agenda:

• For Generation Alpha, learning to read is becoming a privilege.
• How to pull off the quiet-luxury style, even if you're not rich.
• She stayed at an "otherworldly" Norwegian ice hotel. She'll never do it again.
• Inside the daily routine of a biohacker who wants to live to 150.

But first: A time to say thank you.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Dip into your holiday cheer fund

Even as many Americans are dealing with tipping fatigue, the holiday season can be a time to thank the workers who make their lives easier — with a tip.

According to Bankrate's 2024 Tipping Culture Survey, which surveyed 2,445 US adults earlier this year, many Americans plan to tip their teachers, childcare providers, housekeepers, landscapers, and mail carriers.

Etiquette expert Nick Leighton told Business Insider that it's important to ask those in your community how much they intend to tip since a tip amount is "made up of a constellation of factors, including the nature and length of the relationship with a person and what's considered 'typical' in your area."

Still, if you're wondering how much to tip the people who've helped you all year, here's some general guidance.

Etiquette expert Diane Gottsman told BI that a good tip is typically how much you'd pay childcare providers, housekeepers, and lawn care professionals for a normal visit. However, it may not be legal for teachers and mail carriers to accept tips. Instead, thoughtful non-cash gifts may be more appropriate.

Why our kids can't read

There has never been a golden age for reading scores in America, but a report from last year has raised alarm bells. Reading performance among 13-year-olds has hit its lowest level since 2004, the report found.

Legislators and school districts are touting new, expensive reading programs to improve literacy rates. However, teachers and parents say that's still not helping kids discover the joy of reading. Families who can afford it are moving their kids to different schools or hiring tutors, driving a deeper societal wedge.

Inside the reading wars.

Luxury on the low

Quiet-luxury style is still in vogue. It's all about using high-quality, understated pieces to create chic, effortless looks that say, "I'm rich."

Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow nail the trend. Luckily, quiet luxury is easy to duplicate. A personal stylist shared the tips to keep in mind for achieving the look.

Don't go overboard with logos.

Iced out

Dana McMahan and her husband spent $475 for one night in a Norwegian hotel straight out of "Frozen." Staying in the lodge, McMahon writes, was a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience with an "otherworldly" glow.

But would she do it again? Absolutely not. As it turns out, sleeping on ice isn't the most comfortable arrangement.

An Arctic abode.

Biohacking and business

Every morning, longevity clinic co-owner Kayla Barnes-Lentz, 33, spends 2.5 hours biohacking. Her routine includes her first round of electromagnetic field therapy, a workout, sun exposure for her circadian rhythm, sauna time, a shower, and more — all before breakfast. Her goal is to live to 150.

Barnes-Lentz told BI that her longevity habits — many of which aren't fully scientifically proven — have helped her reverse her biological age by 11 years.

Her daily routine.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Virgin River": Netflix's drama series about a small town returned for season six this week.
• "Juror No. 2": Clint Eastwood's courtroom drama film is now streamable following a quiet theatrical release earlier this year.
• "Beast Games": YouTuber MrBeast's new game show kicked off this week on Prime Video, featuring 1,000 contestants vying for a hefty $5 million cash prize.

See the full list

What to shop

• Not too late to save on jewelry: Though it might be too late to get them for Christmas, Blue Nile's jewelry makes incredible gifts for yourself or a loved one. During its holiday sale, rings, bracelets, earrings, and more are up to 50% off.
• Actually comfy ankle boots: A good pair of ankle boots is versatile, comfortable, and durable. But not all pairs are created equal, so we've rounded up 17 styles to meet your needs, like waterproofing, affordability, and everyday wear.
• Avoid another price hike: YouTube TV will join the wave of streaming services raising prices next year. If you're planning a switch, these are some of the best alternatives to consider.

More of this week's top reads:

• Mark Cuban says 60 is the new 40. He follows 3 habits to stay youthful.
• BI's Rachel Hosie tried microtox: the antiaging treatment that smoothes without freezing the face.
• Ultraluxury hotel brands are turning to cruise ships and private jets.
• A gut-health scientist who trained as a chef shared her 2 easy, go-to breakfasts.
• A travel reporter stayed at one of the most expensive lodges next to the Serengeti National Park, where she fell asleep listening to lions roaring.
• The cancellation of 'Freaks and Geeks' broke Linda Cardellini's heart. It also taught her a valuable lesson.
• Review: The 6 best places to order last-minute Christmas dinner online in 2024.
• A Greek Mediterranean diet expert shared the best advice for Americans who want to eat better on a budget.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York.

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday! A new study uncovered more evidence linking cancer to inflammation from diets high in ultra-processed foods. Researchers are now pointing to these foods that may heal the body. (There's more below on a concerning colon cancer trend.)

On the agenda:

• Colon cancer is increasingly becoming a young person's disease.
• Successful men share the luxury items that make their lives easier.
• Work out smarter, not harder, with these efficient, low-impact moves.
• A luxury travel planner shares the six destinations she's recommending to clients right now.

But first: AI fixed Christmas.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

ChatGPT, Santa edition

If you're wondering what to get your friends and family this holiday season, perhaps you should follow Caroline Brew's lead. She's a Business Insider fellow who asked ChatGPT what to get her family for Christmas.

The AI-powered tool "gave me 19 suggestions," Brew wrote, "along with additional ideas under categories suggesting quirky and personalized gifts."

I decided to try it for my mom, who is hard to shop for, using the prompt: "What should I get my mom for Christmas? She's the woman who has everything and loves books, reading, tea, and taking a bath. I want it to be thoughtful."

ChatGPT gave me seven suggestions, touching on each theme I provided. The first suggestion was my favorite: "Get her a custom book where you can write and design a book filled with reasons you love and appreciate her."

It's an idea I wouldn't have thought of myself, but one that my mom would cherish, especially because our immediate family lives in three different states.

If you're still wondering what to get your tribe, we've also compiled a list of suggestions for Generation Alpha and ideas for the teenagers in your life. You can also check out our gift-giving guides, curated by BI's Reviews team, that make holiday shopping fun, not a chore.

Colon cancer's rise in young people

Colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 are increasing all over the world. New data from the Lancet Oncology showed that colon cancer rates in young people went up in 27 of the 50 countries the study examined during a 5-year period.

This spike also appears to be happening in richer countries. The study's authors identified detrimental dietary exposures and sedentary lifestyles associated with economic wealth as potentially being connected to the trends.

Where the disease is on the rise.

The luxe items that make men's lives easier

When it comes to the gift-giving season, there's one thing most people want: something that will make their lives easier.

Whether it's a spa package or a fancy alarm clock, there are plenty of options to choose from. BI asked successful men about the luxury items they swear by to make their lives easier, from a Herman Miller chair to $400 headphones.

Here's what they said.

Doing less for better results

Lia Bartha is a 41-year-old pilates instructor who spent years working out too hard. She felt like she was "plateauing" and that higher-impact workouts weren't intuitive to how her body was aging.

She's now prioritizing longevity exercises and says low-impact routines work better for her body. Her brand, B The Method, combines pilates with other wellness techniques like breathwork and flowing gentle movements.

Low impact for the win.

Under-the-radar travel destinations

A luxury travel advisor based in Los Angeles books five-star hotels and vacations for her wealthy clients. She said many prefer traveling to spots that feel exclusive without the large crowds of tourists.

From St. Barts for a warm getaway to the Dolomites for those who want to hit the snowy slopes, she recommends these destinations to her clients looking to get out of town this winter.

Wealthy winter getaways.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Conclave": The papal drama starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci has been meme fodder for social media — and now it's finally streaming on Peacock.
• "Yellowstone": The hit neo-Western's season (or series) finale airs this weekend.
• "Maria": Angelina Jolie stars as the opera singer Maria Callas in a new biographical drama on Netflix.

See the full list

What to shop

• Last-minute gifts: Time is running out for gift shopping, but luckily, we have a guide to the best last-minute gift ideas for when you're in a pinch. Options like in-store pickup and digital delivery features (think subscriptions and gift cards) make all the difference.
• Seriously comfy slippers: Bombas makes some of our favorite socks of all time, so it shouldn't come as a surprise that the brand's new memory foam slippers rock. Our style team tried both versions — and they've basically refused to take them off.
• Don't forget the ham: For many, ham is a must-have for Christmas dinner. Rather than spending your day in line, check out our roundup of the best hams that will arrive in time for the holiday meal.

More of this week's top reads:

• Review: BI's Erin McDowell tried chicken tenders from 5 major chain restaurants, and one emerged as MVP.
• Three modern-day 'Golden Girls' spent $1.2 million to build a compound to live communally as they age. Take a look.
• Taylor Swift spent 484 hours — the equivalent of over 20 straight days — singing onstage during the Eras Tour.
• One woman and her husband moved to an Italian town with $1 homes. She said they were considering buying one, but was glad they didn't.
• The jewelry brands 'it girls' will be shopping at this holiday season.
• Meet the former Soho House exec who wants to bring old-school luxury back to private members' clubs.
• One couple traded Seattle's nightmarish traffic and expensive housing for quiet streets and a big yard just an hour away.
• Why Luke Wilson says he was never competitive with his brother Owen for roles.
• Office parties are back — and that's good news for Gen Z.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, associate editor, in New York.

• Luigi Mangione has been charged with murder in UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's killing.
• Mangione, an Ivy League graduate from a wealthy family, left an online trail before his arrest.
• He founded an app, talked about AI on X, and read the Unabomber Manifesto.

Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old Ivy League graduate charged with murder in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, has a vast online trail.

Police arrested Mangione in Pennsylvania on December 9. He initially faced local gun and forgery charges. He's expected to be extradited to New York.

New York court documents show that in addition to one count of murder, he also faces two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, one count of second-degree possession of a forged document, and one count of third-degree criminal possession of a firearm.

Here's what to know about Mangione.

Mangione attended elite schools

Mangione graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2020.

He achieved a Bachelor of Science in engineering with a major in computer science and a minor in mathematics. He also received a Master of Science in engineering the same year with a major in computer and information science, a university spokesperson told Business Insider.

Before that, he attended Gilman School, an elite all-boys preparatory school in Baltimore. His yearbook entry, obtained by BI, says he was involved in robotics and Model United Nations.

In his valedictorian speech, Mangione praised classmates for "challenging the world" and thanked parents for sending their children to the fee-paying school, which he described as "far from a small financial investment."

He favorably reviewed the Unabomber Manifesto

On Goodreads, Mangione reviewed Ted Kaczynski's "Industrial Society and Its Future" book, also known as The Unabomber Manifesto, in early 2024. He gave it four out of five stars.

"He was a violent individual — rightfully imprisoned — who maimed innocent people," Mangione wrote. "While these actions tend to be characterized as those of a crazy luddite, however, they are more accurately seen as those of an extreme political revolutionary."

Mangione's review of the manifesto also quoted another online comment about the book, which appears to have originated on Reddit, praising the use of violence "when all other forms of communication fail."

"'Violence never solved anything' is a statement uttered by cowards and predators,'" Mangione quoted.

He founded an app and worked in tech

In 2015, while in high school, Mangione founded a company called AppRoar Studios. AppRoar released an iPhone game called "Pivot Plane" that's no longer available, but a reviewer in 2015 said it was "a fun little arcade game brought to you by 3 high school juniors."

He lived in a co-living space in Hawaii as recently as 2023.

He posed for photos indicating he participated in Greek life at the University of Pennsylvania.

The fraternity chapter represented in his photos couldn't be reached for comment.

A blog post on the University of Pennsylvania's website that was removed on December 9 said he cofounded a video game design club there.

Stephen Lane, a professor of video game design at the Ivy League university who didn't advise the club, told BI that "the fact he took the initiative and started something from nothing, that means at least in the context of Penn, that's a pretty good thing." He added, however, that Thompson's shooting was "obviously not a good thing."

Mangione's LinkedIn page says he worked as a data engineer at the vehicle shopping company TrueCar starting in 2020.

A TrueCar spokesperson told BI that Mangione hadn't worked for the company since 2023.

Online breadcrumbs and roommate say he dealt with back pain

At the top of Mangione's profile on X — formerly Twitter — is a triptych of three images: a photo of himself, smiling, shirtless on a mountain ridge; a Pokémon; and an X-ray with four pins or screws visible in the lower back.

The Pokémon featured in his cover image is Breloom, which has special healing abilities in the games.

Some of the books reviewed on Mangione's Goodreads account are related to health and healing back pain, including "Back Mechanic: The Secrets to a Healthy Spine Your Doctor Isn't Telling You" and "Crooked: Outwitting the Back Pain Industry and Getting on the Road to Recovery."

R.J. Martin, the founder of the co-living space in Hawaii, told the Honolulu Civil Beat that Mangione had suffered back pain from a misaligned vertebra that was pinching his spinal cord.

Martin told CNN that after leaving Hawaii, Mangione texted him to say he'd undergone surgery and sent him X-rays.

"It looked heinous, with just, giant screws going into his spine," Martin told the outlet.

It's not immediately clear whether the surgery was related to UnitedHealthcare.

Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for the co-living space founder, told The Wall Street Journal that Mangione stopped replying to texts about six months ago and "sort of disappeared."

A YouTube spokesperson said that the platform had terminated Mangione's three accounts, adding that they had not been active for about seven months.

A senior police official told NBC New York on December 12 that Magione was never a UnitedHealthcare client and may have targeted Thompson because of the insurer's large size and outsize power. That same day, The Wall Street Journal reported that a company spokesperson said Magione was not a client.

Mangione was interested in AI

On his X account, Mangione posted and amplified posts about technological advances such as artificial intelligence. He also posted about fitness and healthy living.

He frequently reposted posts by the writer Tim Urban and the commentator Jonathan Haidt about the promise and perils of technology.

He also appeared to be a fan of Michael Pollan, known for his writing about food, ethics, and lab-grown meat.

On Goodreads, he praised Urban's book "What's Our Problem?: A Self-Help Book for Societies," describing it as "one of the most important philosophical texts of the early 21st century."

Urban posted to X on December 9: "Very much not the point of the book."

He was previously accused of trespassing

Before his arrest, Mangione had at least one encounter with the legal system. Hawaiian court records indicate that in 2023, he was accused of entering a forbidden area of a state park.

Mangione appears to have paid a $100 fine to resolve the matter.

Mangione comes from a wealthy and influential Baltimore family

Mangione is one of 37 grandchildren of the late Nick Mangione Sr., a prominent multimillionaire real-estate developer in Baltimore who died in 2008, The Baltimore Banner reported. Nick Mangione Sr. had 10 children, including Louis Mangione, Luigi Mangione's father.

Members of the Mangione family own the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland, and Hayfields Country Club in Hunt Valley, Maryland.

One of Luigi Mangione's cousins is the Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione, the Associated Press reported.

Representatives for Nino Mangione's office, in a statement to BI, declined to comment on the news of Luigi Mangione's arrest.

"Unfortunately, we cannot comment on news reports regarding Luigi Mangione," the statement read. "We only know what we have read in the media. Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi's arrest. We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved. We are devastated by this news."

The Mangione family has donated more than $1 million to the Greater Baltimore Medical Center, where all of Nick Mangione Sr.'s grandkids, including Luigi Mangione, were born, the Banner reported.

A public filing from 2022 for the nonprofit Mangione Family Foundation lists Louis Mangione as vice president.

He was arrested while on his laptop at a McDonald's, the police said

When the police in Altoona, Pennsylvania, responded to a McDonald's after a call about a suspicious person, they found Mangione sitting at a table looking at a silver laptop and wearing a blue medical mask, a criminal complaint said.

The complaint said that when asked for identification, Mangione gave police officers a New Jersey driver's license with the name "Mark Rosario."

When an officer asked Mangione whether he'd been to New York recently, he "became quiet and started to shake," the complaint said.

It added that Mangione correctly identified himself after officers told him he could be arrested for lying about his identity.

When asked why he lied, Mangione replied, "I clearly shouldn't have," the complaint said.

His motive is still not known, but police are analyzing his so-called manifesto

An internal NYPD report obtained by The New York Times said Mangione "likely views himself as a hero of sorts who has finally decided to act upon such injustices."

Mangione "appeared to view the targeted killing of the company's highest-ranking representative as a symbolic takedown and a direct challenge to its alleged corruption and 'power games,' asserting in his note he is the 'first to face it with such brutal honesty,'" according to the NYPD report by the department's Intelligence and Counterterrorism Bureau, the Times reported.

Moments before the December 10 extradition hearing began, Mangione, handcuffed and wearing an orange prison jumpsuit, shouted out to the press as Pennsylvania police escorted him into the courthouse.

Mangione yelled out something partially unintelligible, saying something was "completely out of touch" and "an insult to the American people." He also shouted that something was a "lived experience" as a group of officers led him into the courthouse.

NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told NBC New York that Mangione had prior knowledge that UnitedHealthcare would be having its annual conference in New York City.

Mangione has retained a high-profile New York attorney

Thomas Dickey emerged as Mangione's attorney in Pennsylvania after his arrest in Altoona on December 9.

During a December 10 hearing at Pennsylvania's Blair County Courthouse, Dickey told the judge that Mangione was contesting his extradition to New York City.

Dickey later told reporters that Mangione would plead not guilty to all the charges in Pennsylvania. During an interview with CNN, Dickey said he expected Mangione to plead not guilty to the second-degree murder charge in New York and that he hadn't seen evidence that authorities "have the right guy."

Karen Friedman Agnifilo will represent Mangione in New York, a representative for Agnifilo Intrater LLP confirmed to Business Insider on Sunday.

Friedman Agnifilo worked as the chief assistant district attorney at the Manhattan District Attorney's Office from 2014 to 2021. She pivoted to private practice in 2021.

Do you know Luigi Mangione? Have a tip? Reach out to [email protected].

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Welcome back to our Saturday edition! One couple celebrating their anniversary thought Gordon Ramsay's restaurant, Hell's Kitchen in Atlantic City, New Jersey, was completely worth it. Here's why.

On the agenda:

• White-collar men are spending a lot to look good — they just don't want anyone to know about it.
• Millennials and Gen Zers are 'de-modernizing' their bathrooms and tapping into nostalgia.
• Ryan Reynolds' personal trainer shared the 11 supplements that help him stay fit as he ages.
• A $62 lunch at The Kitchen, an American bistro owned by Elon Musk's brother.

But first: How to win your company holiday party.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Come and stay, but leave before the balloons deflate.

We've all heard the same advice around this time of year when company holiday party invitations abound. Don't drink too much, don't sit in a corner, and don't wear something inappropriate.

Still, one piece of advice that may have gone in one ear and out the other is strictly about timing. When you arrive at your company's holiday party — and when you leave, for that matter — is just as important as the other oft-told advice you've probably heard.

Professional etiquette expert Diane Gottsman told writer Alyshia Hull that employees should feel that company parties are mandatory. And even if you don't feel like going, being the first to leave is not OK.

"If you get there and you leave 20 minutes later, people are going to notice," she said.

Still, being the last to leave is also a bad look, Gottsman said. If you don't want to leave your coworkers, she suggests going to another location to keep the party going.

Have fun!

White-collar men's beauty secrets

Men in corporate America want to look good at work — and they're spending thousands of dollars to do so. They're getting routine botox procedures, pricey hair-loss treatments, and splurging on time-consuming routines, all in an effort to gain a competitive edge at their job.

Still, many of them remain uncomfortable discussing the intensive procedures they're getting. BI spoke to four corporate men who are spending loads to strike the perfect balance of a youthful, experienced appearance.

The rise of "brotox."

Young people want their grandma's bathrooms

Neutral-colored, "modern" bathrooms are out. The old-fashion look, which typically features pastel colors with intricate tiles and frilly decor, is back.

Once considered dated, "grandma bathrooms" are driving homebuying and interior design trends, even among millennials and Gen Z. Some homeowners are spending thousands to restore their bathroom's original vintage look — or they're paying extra to re-do the space altogether.

Bathrooms go granny.

A personal trainer's daily supplements

New York-based personal trainer Don Saladino, 47, has worked with celebrities, including Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Anne Hathaway. As someone who takes his health and fitness seriously, Saladino told BI he's dedicated to eating and training optimally — and said he's stronger now than he was in his 20s.

Aside from training, nutrition, and sleep, supplements are also a part of his lifestyle. Saladino shared the 11 he takes every day, from creatine to magnesium.

His supplement regimen.

A meal in Musk's Kitchen

After making millions in 1999 from a deal with his brother, Kimbal Musk attended culinary school in New York.

Five years later, the younger Musk went on to open a restaurant with chef Hugo Matheson in Boulder, Colorado. The Kitchen Group now has restaurants in Chicago, Denver, and Austin, Texas. Emily Hart said lunch at the original bistro in Boulder lived up to the hype.

See her review.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice": The long-awaited Tim Burton sequel is finally streaming on Max.
• "Black Doves": Keira Knightley stars in Netflix's latest thriller, about a spy whose lover is murdered.
• "Speak No Evil": The horror remake starring James McAvoy and Scoot McNairy is now on Peacock.

See the full list

What to shop

• Holiday helpers: Need some gifting inspiration? We're here for you! We've got a list of clever gifts for under $100.
• The coziest robes: There's nothing better than a warm robe on a cold morning. We've tested dozens to bring you the best robes for men and for women.
• Slipper season: What better to pair with a new robe than a new pair of slippers? Our style editors have spent several years putting the best slippers for men and for women to the test, and these are our favorites.

More of this week's top reads:

• Fans lined up at Target to buy Taylor Swift's self-published book. It turned out to be riddled with errors.
• A millennial bought a ski house in Japan for $6,000. He says people shouldn't buy them just because they're cheap.
• BI's Joey Hadden stayed in 2 of Arizona's top hotels, and said they couldn't have been more different. Take a look.
• A top scientist shared 3 tips for getting fermented foods into your diet.
• A travel writer shared the two European cities she'd visit again and the two she won't return to.
• A life coach for children of the ultrawealthy said she sees the same problems over and over again.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, fellow, in New York.

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Happy Saturday and happy holidays! I hope you're spending this time with family and remembering late loved ones who made this time special. There's no special dispatch from me this week as I'm doing the same. Until next week!

On the agenda:

• Why it's nearly impossible to make money as a musician in 2024. (Unless you're Taylor Swift).
• French châteaus are cheap until you try to live in one.
• After drinking soda daily, one reporter decided to cut down to avoid ultra-processed foods.
• A look inside a private penthouse at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

Want to make money as a pop star? Good luck, babe!

Music has always been a business, but it's no longer enough for artists to survive on talent or fame alone. Streaming, TikTok, and the ballooning costs of touring have all dramatically altered the industry's traditional routes to making money.

Artists today have to strategically post on social media, navigate the complexities of legal and financial bureaucracy, plan cost-efficient tours, and more. And after all of that, it's often still not enough to turn a profit.

The harsh reality of the music industry.

The French château dream-turned-nightmare

There's a glut of châteaus all around France on sale for next to nothing. But they come with a catch: they're huge money pits.

Real-estate agents say prospective château buyers should set aside at least 1.5% of the purchase price just for annual maintenance. Plus, if the place is classified as a historic monument, add some French bureaucracy to the process. It's a big reason the French aren't interested in châteaus.

And Americans are finding this out the hard way.

Quitting 'diet' drinks

Diet drinks may be marketed as healthier alternatives, but as one dietitian told BI's Rachel Hosie, "they're far from being a health drink."

Regularly consuming ultra-processed foods, like artificially sweetened diet sodas, have been linked to a myriad of potential health risks, like type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. For a few months, Hosie tried cutting down her diet-soda intake. She said her tastebuds quickly adapted to the healthier options, but they're more expensive.

These are the 3 lessons she learned.

An opulent mountain getaway

Located near Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park, the Four Seasons in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers a luxurious stay for about $11,000 a night. To even access one of its 31 private residences, guests take a special elevator.

BI's Joey Hadden toured the hotel's Granite Residence, a 4,355-square-foot penthouse, with five bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a spacious pantry. She said the space felt more like a luxury home than a hotel accommodation.

But the smallest room was her favorite.

What to shop

• Black Friday deals still live: Just because it's Saturday doesn't mean Black Friday is over! There's still time to shop great Black Friday deals from top brands like Apple, Dyson, and more, whether you're finishing up your holiday gift list or shopping for yourself.
• Cut the cord: All those streaming services can add up quickly, but we've got the scoop on the Black Friday streaming deals and bundle discounts you can still take advantage of.
• Dress for success: Forget to buy yourself that new pair of jeans? Don't worry — our style editors are sharing the best women's clothing deals you can still score today.

More of this week's top reads:

• Drake lost his rap battle with Kendrick Lamar. Now he claims the streaming game is rigged.
• Why journaling is now part of a regular wellness routine for many male fitness and 'hustle' influencers.
• A server at a winery shares the common mistakes customers make at a wine tasting.
• Miss Universe runner-up says she wasn't offended by the CEO calling the winner's blond hair and blue eyes the 'ultimate evolution' for the pageant.
• 'Parks & Rec' cocreator Mike Schur said the show would look 'hopelessly naive' if it were made today.
• A writer and his girlfriend spent 12 days at 5-star hotels in Morocco — and only spent $250 out of pocket.
• Dating apps are turning to matchmaking to lure in users.
• A couple moved to Japan and turned an abandoned $6,500 home into a guesthouse.
• A managing partner at R360 who runs a group for centimillionaires said the members want their kids to have purpose — and prenups.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, fellow, in New York.

• This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.
• You can sign up for Business Insider's daily newsletter here.

Welcome back to our Saturday edition! Looking for something to do that the whole family would enjoy? BI's movie reviewer said that "Wicked," starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, is worth the two hours and 41 minutes.

On the agenda:

• RFK Jr.'s plans to 'Make America Healthy Again' could shake up the weight-loss industry.
• A frequent traveler shares the questions she uses to avoid booking a bad vacation rental.
• Luxury-watch sellers laid out the steps for purchasing a coveted Philippe Patek watch.
• A retired Navy SEAL shared his simple go-to exercises for longevity.

But first: It's time to host.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

How to win Thanksgiving

No matter how you try to slice it, hosting Thanksgiving dinner is a task. That's why I'm here to remind you of some helpful tips to get you through one of the most joyous (but also stressful) dinner occasions this year.

Whether you're hosting family or your chosen family, here's what you should remember:

• It's not too early to head to the grocery store to pick up your turkey, ingredients for macaroni and cheese, and whatever staples you like. Don't forget to ask guests if they have any dietary restrictions.

• If you'd rather not cook (like me!), outsource it. One mom paid $180 for Costco to take care of Thanksgiving dinner, and she had no regrets.

• Don't forget to prep an appetizer or two. It can be as simple as a bowl of popcorn or a fancier hors d'oeuvre. In case your turkey takes too long, it'll ensure you won't have grumpy guests.

• If you're mixing groups of friends, think about an icebreaker to play. Perhaps encourage everyone to go around and say what they're thankful for. It'll get people in the holiday mood.

• Lastly, if you're a guest, don't come empty-handed. One friend on social media said she's getting the host of her Thanksgiving meal an Uber Eats gift card because, let's face it, we'll all get sick of those leftovers soon enough.

Happy hosting!

RFK Jr. in the age of Ozempic

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made big promises to fight obesity with nutrition instead of popular weight-loss drugs. As Trump's nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, he's positioned to shake up the booming weight-loss industry.

Kennedy's ire for Big Pharma could be an opportunity for startups in the food-as-medicine space. It could also affect who gets access to drugs like Ozempic and put pressure on drugmakers.

The plan to "Make America Healthy Again."

Vacation-rental red flags

As a full-time traveler, it's fair to say Tammy Barr knows what she's doing when it comes to finding a good vacation rental. Over the course of two years, she's stayed in 40 unique rental units for a total of more than 380 nights across 16 countries.

Barr has encountered a few duds along the way. Still, she advises to look out for certain things in listings, like comically elongated photos of furniture, when deciding where to book.

These are the five questions she uses.

How to score a Patek

Patek Philippe watches are some of the most coveted in the world due to their high quality and industry-leading features. Not only can one cost hundreds of thousands of dollars — or millions on the resale market — they're also tricky to nab even if you have the funds.

Reid and Craig Karger, professionals in the watch industry, shared with BI the "stepping stone system" a prospective buyer might have to take in order to land one of the timepieces on their wrist.

Here's what that path can entail.

Back to the basics

Retired Navy SEAL and Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Jocko Willink wakes up at 4:30 a.m. everyday to workout for up to three hours. He varies his workouts so he can stay healthy long-term and avoid athletic weaknesses.

Willink has his own massive garage gym, but it's not a necessity for meeting your fitness goals. When it comes to getting the most out of your workout, tried-and-true movements, like pull-ups or squats, require minimal equipment, he said.

His go-to exercises for getting stronger and living longer.

What we're watching this weekend

• "Alien: Romulus": The latest sequel in the long running "Alien" movie franchise was a hit in theaters earlier this year, and now it's available on Hulu.
• "The Merry Gentlemen": Netflix's latest Christmas movie stars Chad Michael Murray as a small-town handyman who joins an all-male dance revue to help save his love interest's family bar.
• "Outlander": Jamie and Claire Fraser are back! The beloved Starz historical drama returns for the second half of its 7th season this week.

See the full list

What to shop

• Black Friday is coming: Black Friday is less than a week away, and the deals are already ripe for the picking. It's an especially good time to shop for pricey, big-ticket items, so we've rounded up the best early furniture deals here.
• It's cold outside: Pick up one of our top space heaters to help heat things up. Whether your room is drafty or poorly insulated, these units offer personalized comfort while you escape the cold weather.
• Cardigans, crewnecks, and cashmere, oh my!: Finally, sweater weather has arrived. Don't waste your money on just any outerwear — check out our roundup of the best sweaters for women.

More of this week's top reads:

• Patrick Schwarzenegger told BI the upcoming season of 'The White Lotus' is 'insane.'
• Why so many women are swearing off marriage — and even dating.
• Billy Bob Thornton ad-libbed his famous 'Friday Night Lights' speech after being betrayed.
• Meet Victoria Kjær Theilvig, the first Miss Denmark to win Miss Universe.
• A writer visited 3 Bavarian-style villages in the US — but she said only one made her feel like she was in Germany.

The Insider Today team: Dan DeFrancesco, deputy editor and anchor, in New York City. Grace Lett, editor, in New York. Lisa Ryan, executive editor, in New York. Amanda Yen, fellow, in New York.