Do you ever wake up and just feel… beige? Welcome to November - that weird, in between time before the Christmas rush begins. This week, Anu talks about those November blues, finding small joys and why getting “drunk on nature” might just be the best therapy 🌲

💙 Real Life, Real Talk – Life with Type 1 Diabetes

Anu opens up about her son’s Type 1 Diabetes and how it’s brought both challenges and unexpected gifts; from resilience to community. With the Breakthrough T1D Ball coming up (where she’s giving a speech!), she shares the nerves, the gratitude and the funny little moments that keep her grounded.

🎁 The Spirit of Christmas (…aka Shopping for Myself)

Festive sparkle, warm lights and yes, a touch of self gifting. Anu shares her trip to the Spirit of Christmas Fair, her thoughts on festive chaos and the quiet joy of treating yourself ✨

🍝 Restaurant Recommendation – Lassagino, Richmond

A tiny Sardinian gem (also known as the “Ted Lasso restaurant”) full of charm and authenticity. Delicious food, cosy atmosphere - just don’t sit upstairs if you don’t love narrow stairs! Perfect for a date night, meal for four or a little winter indulgence.

📚 Banter Book of the Week - All of Us by Elizabeth Day

A clever, layered and morally complex novel about friendship, privilege and ambition. One of those stories that pulls you in and makes you question every character - perfect for fans of sharp, thought provoking fiction.

🎶 Music Pick - Lily Allen, West End Girl

Lily’s first album in seven years - honest, messy and emotional. It’s full of raw storytelling and perfectly imperfect truth. One for your playlist this week.

😂 Banter Confessions

This week’s Banter Confession is a classic - one that’ll have you laughing out loud. Want to share your own?

👉 DM Anu on Instagram @banter.pod

🥣 Recipe of the Week - Roasted Butternut Squash, Lentil, Italian Sausage & Cavolo Nero Bowl

Proper November comfort food; healthy, hearty and full of flavour!

Ingredients:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled & cubed

• 2 Italian sausages (or swap for chicken, any sausage or mushrooms)

• 1 tin green lentils, rinsed & drained

• 1 small bunch cavolo nero (or kale), chopped

• Olive oil, salt & pepper

Method:

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).

2️⃣ Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelised.

3️⃣ Pan fry the sausages until browned and crispy, then slice into bite sized pieces.

4️⃣ Sauté the cavolo nero with a drizzle of olive oil until just wilted.

5️⃣ In a large bowl, combine lentils, roasted squash, sausage and cavolo nero.

6️⃣ Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze and toss gently.

Simple, satisfying and full of goodness; comfort in a bowl. 💛

So if November’s got you feeling a bit grey, remember: a little nature, a good meal and some Banter always help!

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, comment and share with someone who might be feeling those November blues too.