The Perfect Weekend Treat

I'm back in the kitchen! [For the best experience, read in browser.]( July 29, 2023 Need a tasty treat to wake up with this weekend? [This recipe for zucchini muffins]( was a big hit at my house! Enjoy them with some of our riveting weekend reads, including [untold stories about a music legend](, data about [how much money it takes to be "rich"]( these days, a look at [celebs who say they regret their plastic surgery](, and lots more. Happy Saturday!   Behind the Curtain [George Michael]( KCM/Getty Images He was one of the biggest music superstars of all time, but he led a complicated life filled with secrets. Today we're examining [the sides of George Michael the world didn't get to see]( with the help of his very first manager. Simon Napier-Bell, who's directed a new documentary about the legendary singer, opens up about Michael's rise to fame, his struggles with his sexuality, and the acts of kindness he didn't share with the public. [READ MORE]( PASS THIS STORY ALONG: mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20story%20from%20Wake-Up%20Call%21&body=https%3A%2F%2Fkatiecouric.com%2Fentertainment%2Fgeorge-michael-facts-songs-death%2F   More Stories [A hearing aid going into a model of a human ear]( Getty Images Now hear this: Most of us will do just about anything to keep our brains sharp as a tack, which is why we were so fascinated by a new study that uncovered [a surprising link between hearing aids and your risk for dementia](. Cold, hard cash: Just how rich are your richest neighbors? We can't give you a tour of their gorgeous homes or expensive cars (and we can't condone peeping through the windows, either), but we can tell you [how much money it takes to be a top earner in every state](. Be your best self: As the average American lifespan gets longer, it's essential to be proactive about getting the most out of your golden years. We've got [3 practical tips for healthier aging]( that you'll want to see no matter how old you are now. Hot stuff: This summer's heat waves are no joke — and if your skincare routine can't seem to keep up with all that sweat, you're not alone. We spoke to beauty expert Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie, about [the skincare products that can handle the heat and humidity](, with advice for every skin type.   Follow Along! [Screenshots from the Katie Couric Media Instagram page]( KCM Chances are you’re already following [my personal Instagram](, but we also have [an incredible KCM Instagram account](, which features breaking news, original content, hilarious memes, and so much more. For an idea of what you can expect, here's a word from our social media producers, Meredith Struewing and Julia Lewis: "On KCM IG, we meet you where you are (on your phones!) to break down complicated issues, elevate conversations, and cover impactful stories. KCM acts as KC’s storytelling sister for anyone who’s looking for informative content. This account also offers a chance for our readers to get to know the incredible people behind Team KCM — and what we’re listening to, reading, talking about, and buying. We’re making lots of waves in the media world, and we want YOU to be a part of it. So come join us, and let us know what you want to hear and see more of!" [JOIN THE PARTY](   Saturday Spotlight [Katie Couric holding a zucchini]( Fresh From the Oven I whipped up a delicious batch of zucchini muffins using fresh produce from my garden. Get the recipe here and follow along with me! [Read More »]( [Kylie Jenner]( Under the Knife Kylie Jenner is the latest star to publicly express regret for her plastic surgery. Here are a few other celebs who've shared similar feelings. [Read More »]( [Wedge heels, denim jumpsuit, black cashmere wrap]( From My Closet Getting dressed is always easiest with trusted staples that go with everything. I rounded up a few pieces that never let me down. [Read More »](   ICMYI As part of our never-ending quest to help you Know It All®, here's a look at a few notable stories from the week that we thought were worth a second look... ➡️ A long-overdue bit of recognition became reality as President Joe Biden announced [a new national monument]( in honor of Emmett Till and his mother. ➡️ Climate experts declared July as Earth's hottest month on record, which got us thinking about [how this unbearable heat will affect retirements in the future](. ➡️ With the actors' and writers' strikes still unresolved, the Emmy Awards have been postponed from the original September airdate, potentially to January. Here's a look at [the stellar TV shows that are nominated this year](. ➡️ Los Angeles Angels pitcher Shohei Ohtani had what some are calling [one of the greatest days any player has had]( in the history of baseball, throwing a shutout and then hitting two home-runs during an incredible doubleheader.   What We're Loving Right Now [Cher from Clueless holding shopping bags] Our staff loves to shop just as much as you do, and this month we discovered a few new favorites we couldn't wait to share... - “[This linen button-down from Everlane]( is well-made and gives 'dad on vacation at a tropical resort,' but in the best way. I’ve been throwing it over bikini tops and crop tops as a sort of lightweight outerwear." — Sara Levine, Newsletter Editor - “As an active mom, going to the beach or pool does not mean sitting still, but I can relax nonetheless, thanks to [the most comfortable swimsuit I have ever bought](. It works for a body that has birthed two children (and holds up when those kids' grabby hands come at me)." — Mary Agnant, Senior Video Producer - “I bought [this Baggu crossbody]( after watching a TikTok influencer slip a Kindle into hers. It's magically roomy inside, I can toss it into the washing machine, and I keep getting compliments on the color.” — Diana Valenzuela, Assistant Editor   One More Thing Julia B., one of our readers, recently wrote in to recommend the book [With the End in Mind: Dying, Death, and Wisdom in an Age of Denial](. And while it might seem like a heavy title, Julia tells us it's actually the opposite: "It's uplifting to learn that, just as there are stages of the birthing process that our bodies know how to do, there are also recognizable stages of the dying process that our bodies know how to do, too." Want more great reads? This list of [Wake-Up Callers' favorite books]( is a total treasure trove.   [Know it all, and help your friends catch up, too. Share Wake-Up Call and you'll earn some superb swag.](   Thank you for reading Wake-Up Call and being part of our community! If you have questions or comments, drop us a line at info@katiecouric.com. See you next week! [Alternate text] Update your preferences or [unsubscribe]( If you buy something through this email, KCM may earn a commission. Katie Couric Media, 75 Varick St, Ste 12, New York, NY - 10013-1917 Copyright © 2023 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.