In today’s episode, I am chatting with Leah Koskinen, a mom of two whose life changed six years ago when she was diagnosed with stage III melanoma. Now, as she navigates mom life and recovery, she devotes her time to promoting sun safety awareness on Instagram, chasing her kids around, and reading as many books as she can!
Leah shares her passion for sun safety, her favorite sunscreens, and essential skincare tips. We also discuss books—how reading throughout the day creates a sense of accomplishment and how certain books provided her an escape from the mental load of recovery and motherhood.
Key Highlights:
- Leah’s journey with melanoma and the importance of sun safety awareness.
- Her go-to sunscreens: Elf Face Screen, Melan Spray, and Daily Shade for Kids. We also talked about Solar Buddies applicators.
- Sun safety tips: Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and use a makeup brush for easy application on kids.
- The importance of yearly dermatology checkups and what to watch for on your skin.
- The role of books in her healing journey and how they provide an escape from the mental load.
- Leah’s book flight includes books that helped her “drift off” and unwind.
Connect with Leah:
Books and authors mentioned:
- The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley
- The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
- Happy Place by Emily Henry
- Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
Book Flight
- Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Long Bright River by Liz Moore
- Sylvia’s Second Act by Hillary Yablon
Dessert Pairing
- Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
Ready for a monthly literary adventure? We now have the BFF Book Club. Join us each month to explore a new book. After reading, connect with fellow book lovers and meet the author in a live interview! Can’t make it live? Don’t worry—we’ll send you the recording. You can find all our upcoming book club selections HERE.
Be sure to join the Bookish Flights community on social media. Happy listening!
