ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What if you had a magic 8 ball… but it actually knew you? And instead of spitting out “Ask again later,” it handed you a question so sharp, or so tender, that you couldn’t help but see yourself differently.
Today, I’m talking with designer and author Vicki Tan about her new book, Ask This Book a Question. It’s part fortune-teller, part behavioral science, and part mischievous friend who calls you out just enough.
We talk about how she decided which questions made the cut, the biases and stories that shape how we see the world, and how to make decisions that actually line up with your values. We’ll get into psychic moments, Google searches, and whether a question itself can be a comfort, or even a kind of prayer.
If you’ve ever wished for a guide to help you choose, change, or just sit with the uncertainty, you might find it here. And don’t worry - this book won’t tell your secrets. It’ll just ask you better ones.
Sending love, Carissa
Get your copy of ASK THIS BOOK A QUESTION at your favorite bookstore or here.
PS I’m doing a brunch with Happy Women Dinners next month! Sunday, September 7th, noon to 2pm at a private home in the Oakland Hills.
To reserve a seat, email jill@happywomendinners.com. The ticket ($150) includes a signed copy of Breathe Through It, a delicious brunch, a Q&A with me and Tara Schuster, and some hang time with other women.
PPS Bad At Keeping Secrets is a podcast by Carissa Potter (me). The audio was produced by Officially Quigley, and the sound editing was done by Mark McDonald. Mark helps people start podcasts, and I highly recommend him if you have been thinking about starting one. You can sign up for a free meeting with him here.
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit peopleiveloved.substack.com/subscribe
