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The 8 Best IPA Beers You Can Buy at the Grocery Store, According to a Craft Brewer

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 6:22am

India Pale Ales have come a long way from their reputation as aggressively bitter beers that only hardcore craft beer fans could appreciate. While some IPAs still lean heavily into piney, resinous flavors and tongue-coating bitterness (my personal fave), today's market is packed with approachable options that showcase everything from bright citrus and tropical fruit notes to crisp, refreshing finishes. Whether you're a longtime IPA devotee or someone who has always assumed the style wasn't for you, there's likely a bottle or can out there that can change your mind. And you don't have to go far to get your hands on it.

Among craft beer styles, IPAs remain one of the most popular choices on grocery store shelves. And in recent years, with grocery stores stocking more craft beer than ever before, shoppers have access to award-winning IPAs from breweries across the country without having to hunt down a specialty beer shop. But with so many choices on the shelf, narrowing down the best options can be a little overwhelming.

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To help identify the standouts, I spoke with Christian Muckerman, owner and head brewer at Dimond Beer and Company, a craft brewery in Alexandria, Virginia. Drawing on years of brewing experience and countless tastings, Muckerman shared his favorite grocery-store IPAs across a variety of categories, from beginner-friendly picks and hazy favorites to low-calorie options and underrated gems. Muckerman's recommendations span a wide range of styles, regions and drinking occasions. His picks include iconic craft beer classics, newer grocery-store favorites and a few underrated bottles that deserve more attention.

Top IPA Beers

Best Overall IPA: Bell's Two Hearted Ale
Best IPA for Beginners: Bell's Two Hearted Ale
Best Hazy IPA: Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing
Best IPA for Food Pairing: Port City Monumental IPA
Most Widely Available IPA: Lagunitas IPA
Best West Coast IPA: Pliny the Elder
Best Value IPA: Bell's Two Hearted Ale
Best Light IPA: Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty
Best Nonalcoholic IPA: Sierra Nevada Trail Pass IPA
Most Underrated IPA: Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA

How the IPA Beers Were Chosen

To find the best IPAs available at grocery stores, we asked Muckerman to evaluate beers based on flavor, balance, drinkability, value, availability and how well they represent their respective styles. His selections include options for beginners, longtime IPA fans and anyone looking to explore one of craft beer's most popular categories.

8 Best IPA Beers You Can Buy at the Grocery Store, According to a Craft BrewerBest Overall IPA: Bell's Two Hearted Ale ($11.99)

Bell's

While Muckerman wasn't specifically asked to name an overall winner, Bell's Two Hearted Ale appeared multiple times in our conversation. The Michigan-brewed classic earned praise for its flavor, value, versatility and availability, making it his clear standout.

"Two Hearted Ale has been widely renowned as one of the top American IPAs for many years," says Muckerman. "It's a balanced, full-bodied beer that beautifully balances bitterness with fresh notes of grapefruit, citrus and floral pine."

Best Hazy IPA: Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing ($11.99)

Sierra Nevada

For fans of juicy, fruit-forward IPAs, Muckerman recommends Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing. He says the widely available beer delivers everything people typically look for in a hazy IPA and it's widely available at nearly every grocery store that sells beer.

"It is highly accessible and hits all of the bases generally sought after in a hazy IPA," he says. "It has a pillowy mouthfeel and a rich, bright citrus hop profile."

Best West Coast IPA: Pliny the Elder ($8.99 per bottle)

Russian River Brewing Company

West Coast IPAs have evolved significantly over the years, but Muckerman says Pliny the Elder remains one of the style's defining examples.

"When I think about my favorite true West Coast-style beer, Pliny the Elder comes to mind," he says.

Brewed by Russian River Brewing Company, the beer is known for its hop-forward flavor and legendary status among craft beer enthusiasts. Muckerman credits brewer Vinnie Cilurzo with creating a beer that belongs on every IPA lover's bucket list.

While Pliny the Elder isn't as widely distributed as some of the other beers on this list and may not be available in every grocery store, Muckerman says it's worth seeking out if you spot it. "Each time I've had it, I've thoroughly enjoyed it and left wanting more than the one bottle I could snag," he says.

Best Light IPA: Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty ($10.99)

Dogfish Head

Low-calorie beers often sacrifice flavor, but Muckerman says Dogfish Head Slightly Mighty proves that doesn't have to be the case.

"The best low-calorie IPA is hands down Slightly Mighty," he says.

At 95 calories and 4.0% ABV per 12-ounce serving, the beer delivers tropical aromas of mango and pineapple while remaining easy to drink. Muckerman calls it "extremely sessionable" and says it's one of his favorite beers to enjoy on a hot summer day.

Best IPA for Beginners: Bell's Two Hearted Ale ($11.99)

Bell's

Many people avoid IPAs because they assume every beer in the category will be overwhelmingly bitter. Not so. Muckerman says that's a misconception and points beginners toward Bell's Two Hearted Ale as an approachable introduction to the style.

"There are a lot of preconceived notions about IPAs that they are all 'obnoxiously bitter' or 'taste like tree bark,'" he says. "However, there are plenty of entry-level IPAs that are crisp, clean and not overly bitter."

He recommends Two Hearted because it strikes a balance between hop character and drinkability without overwhelming new IPA drinkers.

Best Nonalcoholic IPA: Athletic Brewing Run Wild IPA ($10.99)

Athletic Brewing

Muckerman's favorite nonalcoholic IPA comes from Athletic Brewing, a brand that has become increasingly common on grocery store shelves.

"I would recommend Athletic's Run Wild if you are looking for a good NA IPA," he says.

Muckerman notes that nonalcoholic beers don't fully replicate the traditional IPA experience because alcohol contributes significantly to flavor, body and richness. Still, he appreciates the innovation happening within the category and believes the future of NA brewing is promising.

Best IPA for Food Pairing: Port City Monumental IPA ($11.99)

Target

According to Muckerman, the best beer to bring to the dinner table comes from his own backyard.

"My best IPA for food pairing would also be a good beginner-friendly choice, Monumental IPA brewed by Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria, Virginia," he says.

Personally, this beer goes with just about every meal, from pizza nights to takeout Thai. "I am a big fan of spicy food, and when I'm feeling the heat, nothing beats a refreshing sip of Monumental," he says.

Muckerman says the beer works particularly well because it has enough character to stand on its own before dinner without overpowering whatever is on your plate. Instead, he says it complements a wide variety of foods, making it a dependable choice whether you're ordering takeout or firing up the grill.

Most Underrated IPA: Bear Republic Racer 5 IPA ($10.99)

Bear Republic

Muckerman believes Bear Republic Racer 5 deserves far more attention than it receives.

"Their flagship IPA, Racer 5, is in the same league as Bell's Two Hearted IPA," he says.

He describes the beer as having grapefruit, citrus and subtle floral pine notes balanced by a malty backbone. Whether you're heading to a backyard gathering or settling in for movie night, Muckerman says it's a dependable choice. His advice? "If you see this beer in the grocery store, grab a six-pack—you won't regret it."

Most Widely Available IPA: Lagunitas IPA ($10.99)

Target

When availability is the priority, Muckerman points to Lagunitas IPA, one of the easiest craft IPAs to find nationwide.

"My pick for the most widely available IPA is Lagunitas IPA from Lagunitas Brewing Company," he says.

The brewery operates multiple facilities that help support broad distribution, making the beer a common sight on grocery store shelves across the country.

"It's always a classic West Coast-style IPA that tastes the same, so you know what you're getting when you buy it," says Muckerman.

Whether you're stocking the fridge for the weekend, returning home from a road trip or visiting friends in another state, he says Lagunitas is a reliable choice. "It's reliable, generally always on the shelf, and I know what I'm getting."

Best Value IPA: Bell's Two Hearted Ale ($11.99)

Bell's

If you're looking for the most bang for your buck, Muckerman once again points to Bell's.

"There are other IPAs out there that are less expensive, but in my opinion, there are few other brands that produce a better 'bang for your buck' product at a national scale like the brewers at Bell's do," he says.

Its combination of quality, consistency and widespread availability helped it earn his top value pick.

Source:

Christian Muckerman, Owner and Head Brewer, Dimond Beer and Company, Alexandria, Virginia

Amazon Has a ‘Buttery Soft’ $10 Matching Workout Set That’s ‘Perfect for All-Day Wear’

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 6:15am

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Picking a summer outfit is hard enough when you’re dealing with heat waves, so finding a two-in-one matching set with a top and bottom at 50% off feels like a total steal. Right now, the Alaroo 2-Piece Workout Set is on sale at Amazon for just $10, down from $20, ahead of Prime Day. It comes in 10 colors and patterns, with sizes ranging from extra small to 2X.

The set includes a U-neck cropped tank top and high-waisted biker shorts, so you get a full outfit in one order. It’s made from an 80% polyester and 20% spandex blend that has a smooth, stretchy feel. The tank features wide shoulder straps and a cropped fit, while the shorts have a wide high-rise waistband and pull-on design.

Alaroo 2-Piece Workout Set, From $10 (was $20) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The best part of a two-piece set is that you don’t necessarily have to wear the top and bottom together. You could switch up the look by pairing the top with a skirt or denim shorts, or wear the shorts with an oversized T-shirt or a bandeau top, depending on your plans. So, technically, you’re getting a $5 top and a $5 bottom, which is a great deal for both.

Shoppers have called it “buttery soft,” “breathable,” and “super cute.” One reviewer described the set as “cozy, cute, and perfect for all-day wear,” while another noted that “it's very cool and comfortable.” A third person said it’s “extremely comfortable, and the material is very soft and flexible."

This set is especially tempting when you compare it to how much activewear separates usually cost. A single workout tank or pair of biker shorts can easily cost more than this entire set, and this one gives you both pieces for just $10. Plus, some reviewers even compare its softness to that of higher-end brands, making it a bigger steal at this price.

Shop More Deals

If you’ve been looking for something soft enough for lounging, stretchy enough for workouts, and cute enough to wear to other summer plans, the Alaroo 2-Piece Workout Set is a must-buy on Amazon. Be sure to add it to your cart now before the price goes back up.

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I’m a Theme Park Expert— Here’s the One Meal I Never Skip at Disneyland

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 6:10am

There are over 130 dining options at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, and having covered theme parks as a travel journalist for more than a decade, I've tried many of them. The options range from snack carts dishing out churros and pickles (two iconic Disneyland snacks) to high-end restaurants that feel like they shouldn’t be anywhere near rollercoasters, but somehow magically are. But when I’m at Disneyland, the one restaurant I always make a reservation for is Goofy’s Kitchen.

The character dining buffet is a blast from the past and feels straight out of the 90s in the best way possible. From wacky decor that looks like Goofy decorated everything himself, to a buffet filled with dozens of classic and imaginative dishes, this is one meal I never skip at Disneyland. Keep reading to learn more about Goofy’s Kitchen and why it should be on your list of places to dine on your next Disneyland vacation.

Where is Goofy’s Kitchen located? Goofy's Kitchen is located inside the iconic Disneyland Hotel.

Disneyland

The restaurant is located at the Disneyland Hotel and is easily accessible from all of the Disneyland hotels, and is a short walk or ride share from any of the Good Neighbor hotels in Anaheim.

Can You Eat At Goofy’s Kitchen If You’re Not Staying At The Hotel?

Yes, anyone with a reservation for Goofy’s Kitchen can eat there. It’s pretty easy to make a reservation, too. You can do it on the Disneyland website or on the Disneyland Resort app. Reservations open 60 days in advance, and popular seasonal meals like Christmas and Easter tend to fill up faster than the “normal” experience at Goofy’s Kitchen.

What Meals Are Served At Goofy’s Kitchen? The breakfast buffet at Goofy's kitchen includes everything from eggs and bacon to creative pizzas.

Megan duBois

Goofy’s Kitchen serves breakfast from 7:00 am until 10:30 am, then brunch starts at 11:00 am until 1:30 pm. After brunch, the restaurant closes for a bit, then re-opens for dinner from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

My favorite meal here is breakfast, not just because it’s a fun way to start a day at Disneyland, but because it’s the cheapest option with delicious food ranging from breakfast staples like eggs and bacon to a full soft-serve ice cream sundae station. And, hey, you’re on vacation, so why not get an ice cream at breakfast? A few of my favorite breakfast items are chilaquiles, chicken-and-waffles pizza, and, of course, Mickey waffles. I promise, you’ll be making your way up to the buffet line more than once during your meal to try a little bit of everything.

At brunch, similar items to breakfast are served with the addition of a carving station.

Dinner features a smorgasbord of options, from salads and artisan pizza to a carving station and plenty of sides. Then, when it comes to dessert, there’s a whole station dedicated to sweets, from cookies and cupcakes to bars and warm cobblers and bread puddings.

What Characters Can You See At Goofy’s Kitchen? Megan duBois with Goofy at Goofy's Kitchen.

Megan duBois

Before you’re even seated, you’ll get the chance to see Goofy in his Kitchen. I do love that your PhotoPass pictures with Chef Goofy are also included in the cost of your meal. It’s a super cute setup, and Goofy is super fun to meet.

Then, during your meal, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Chip ’n’ Dale will stop by your table for autographs and photos. Just know that there are times when the characters may be different, and the characters I listed above are not guaranteed.

How Much Does Goofy’s Kitchen Cost Per Person?

The cost per person is based on a lot of factors, including which meal period your reservation is for, seasonality (Goofy’s Kitchen has some seasonal meals that cost a little extra), and the ages of each guest. Breakfast is $59 for adults and $36 for kids (ages three to nine), brunch is $64 for adults and $36 for kids, and dinner is $69 for adults and $39 for kids. Each meal also has tax and gratuity automatically added to the bill.

What Other Character Dining Options Are At Disneyland?

There are three other character dining options at the Disneyland Resort. Two of them, Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures and Storytellers Cafe, are located at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Storyteller’s Cafe offers a similar character buffet experience, but with Mickey and the gang ready for a day in a National Park. The Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures is more of a dining experience than a traditional character meal, where you’ll get breakfast and do activities with a host of Disney Princesses.

The other character dining option is the Plaza Inn at Disneyland Park. Here, the Minnie & Friends - Breakfast in the Park is a buffet offering breakfast favorites, and Minnie and her friends make their way to your table while you dine.

Is Goofy’s Kitchen Worth It? The sign outside Goofy's Kitchen makes for a great family photo spot.

Disneyland

I’ve been to Goofy’s Kitchen countless times, and every time I think it’s worth it, especially at breakfast. Since I travel to California from the East Coast, I like to make one of the first reservations available between 7:00 am and 8:00 am. I’ve likely already been up for a few hours anyway, so the early morning start isn’t usually an issue. And if I get the 7:00 a.m. reservation, I can usually be in the park by 9:00, and still take advantage of the lower wait times for rides in the morning.

The character interactions at Goofy’s Kitchen are also unmatched. Every time I’ve gone, the characters have spent a ton of time at my table taking photos and interacting with my family. And let’s be honest, seeing multiple characters in one setting is simply a lot of fun.

While the price can be hard to swallow, to me, Goofy’s Kitchen is a must-do dining experience at Disneyland. With plenty of tasty food options on the buffet line, plus the chance to see a handful of characters, it’s a win-win, especially at breakfast.

’80s Sequel Was an Instant No. 1 Hit — And it Still Divides Fans, 37 Years Later

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 6:03am

On June 16, 1989, Ghostbusters II flew into theaters, hoping to match the highs of the first film.

It was a sequel to one of the biggest hits ever, Ghostbusters, reuniting the original cast of Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis and Ernie Hudson.

The film was set five years after the events of the 1984 supernatural comedy film, and while anticipation was high, the film was a box office and critical disappointment, never reaching the massive success of the original.

"After saving New York City from a ghost attack, the Ghostbusters -- a team of spirit exterminators -- is disbanded for demolishing parts of the city during the battle. But when Ghostbuster Peter Venkman learns that spirits have taken an interest in his son, the men launch a rogue ghost-chasing mission. The quest quickly goes awry, landing them in court. But when the ghosts turn on the judge, he issues an order allowing the Ghostbusters to get back to work," the official synopsis for the film reveals.

The film took a more family-friendly approach, leaning into comedy and spectacle rather than the darker tone of the original, while still giving fans plenty of iconic moments, like a river of mood-changing slime under NYC and the Statue of Liberty coming to life and walking through New York.

And though it struggled to match the cultural impact of the original film, it still shot to No. 1 upon its premiere in theaters, with a $29.5 million opening weekend, setting a record at the time for a non-holiday debut. It also set an all-time record for a one-day opening, netting about $10 million on Friday, per the Los Angeles Times.

“It’s pretty exciting,” Columbia Marketing President Buffy Shutt told the outlet at the time, noting, “I think we expected a big opening. But, it’s always a wonderful surprise when you have the biggest three-day gross ever."

Worldwide, it grossed about $215 million on a roughly $37 million budget, finishing as one of the top 10 films of 1989 despite only making half of the original’s domestic total.

The film fell out of the top spot quickly after opening due to massive competition from other hit films, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Lethal Weapon 2, with the summer eventually being dubbed the Summer of Batman.

Even now, 37 years later, it continues to leave behind a mixed legacy, with fans of the franchise deeply divided over it.

A Reddit thread questioned, "Was "Ghostbusters 2" really THAT bad of a movie?" as fans debated, with many pointing at a rushed and uninspired script with a repetitive plot as the biggest flaw.

"No, it's not bad. But it's not a very good sequel. Instead of advancing the story and seeing where things can go, it just retreads the first one. The Ghostbusters are impoverished laughing stocks, they discover a threat, no one believes them, they come together, they save New York, they're hailed as heroes. It reset the end of the first film, and it suffers for that," one comment expressed, adding, "It's fine, but there's no reason to watch it instead of the first one. Compare with something like Back to the Future. Sure, the first one is better than the second, but there's still a reason to watch the second. I want to continue the story. With Ghostbusters, I'm done after the first."

"I don't think it's a bad movie, it just doesn't have the same smart humor as the first," another quipped, as someone else added, "It feels like a kids movie and the 1984 film was a adult movie."

While others said it was a pure nostalgia trip, and many said they would always watch it because they enjoyed it as kids, they didn't gloss over the issues, "I love the movie, always did growing up...but yeah I agree with some of these other comments, the problem with it was that it didn't really add anything to the franchise and was just sort of a retread of the first movie."

Rotten Tomatoes' critical consensus notes, "Thanks to the cast, Ghostbusters 2 is reasonably amusing, but it lacks the charm, wit, and energy of its predecessor," holding a 56% Tomatometer rating.

Psychologist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Confrontational Person Isn’t What You Might Think

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 5:55am

Confrontation is seemingly everywhere these days—holiday dinner tables, definitely in social media comment sections and *motions wildly* throughout the universe. You may envy your 5th-grade class gerbil for its ability to burrow and hide, wishing you could do the same. Or, you may freeze or nod along and "agree" with everyone to avoid a dispute.

Other people, however, lean into clashes. They're the type that might blow up if someone pushes them as they pass or who might go right up to someone who's royally annoying them, to give them a piece of their mind. Or maybe they're the kind of people who will insist the sky is purple when it's actually blue and start WWIII over it. These individuals are usually described as "confrontational people," shares Dr. Deborah Vinall, Psy.D., LMFT, the chief psychological officer with Recovered.org.

"Confrontational people enjoy conflict and engage with others in a hostile, argumentative and aggressive manner," she notes. "They see every point of disagreement as an opportunity to argue and demonstrate their own perceived moral or intellectual superiority."

If you're on the opposite end of the adversarial spectrum, you may wonder: What's the best way to deal with a combative person? Great question, at least as far as Dr. Vinall is concerned.

"Engaging with confrontational people usually leads to conflict, not understanding," she shares. "To keep the peace, both socially and internally, it can be helpful to have some strategies to shut down needless conflict."

She especially loves to suggest one phrase that instantly shuts down a confrontational person—and it might surprise you. Ahead, she shares the phrase, why it works and when to use it. She also doles out some other tips for dealing with an antagonistic person.

Why Are Some People More Confrontational Than Others?

Nenad Stojnev/Getty Images

Dr. Vinall says that factors like emotional intelligence, personal preferences for conflict and childhood experiences can all shape how confrontational we are.

"People may be confrontational because they are more focused on being right or on matters of justice than on relationships and the impact of their style," she points out. "This is common in people with low emotional intelligence."

Conflict may give you hives, but others may consider it a hobby of sorts. Dr. Vinall says that confrontation can give people the chance to intimidate or dominate others in a quest for power.

"They may be accustomed to inhabiting a place of privilege in society and use a confrontational style to maintain dominance," she states.

The psychologist notes that people may also show intense dislike toward others and have traits of narcissism. Sometimes, people develop a confrontational style early in life, especially if they grow up in high-conflict homes, she shares.

"Where fighting was the learned norm, respectful and curious communication may have never been internalized," she says.

The 1 Surprising Phrase To Shut Down a Confrontational Person, According to a Psychologist

So, what's the best phrase to shut down an antagonistic person? It might surprise you, but Dr. Vinall recommends: "I see this differently."

"This phrase neither adds fuel to the fire nor backs away, but simply asserts your ground," she reveals. "It shows you are neither afraid nor do you need to prove anything."

Part of the reason the phrase, "I see this differently," can shut down a combative human is that it might throw them off and surprise them, especially if they're used to intimidating others into submission or baiting them into a fiery argument.

"This phrase leaves them unsure of how to categorize and respond to you," Dr. Vinall tells Parade. "Most people either shy away or fight back; this grounded, assertive, yet reserved response is surprising in its unusual assertive restraint."

She suggests using this phrase when a confrontational person says something that you don't want to leave unchallenged. You may not want to give the impression that your silence means that you agree with their statement.

"There are times when it is best to simply let the disagreement or misinformation pass, and there are times and people with whom to engage in serious conversation or debate," she explains. "When engaging with a confrontational person making bigoted claims, for example, 'I see this differently' lands in the sweet spot."

Quick disclaimer: Dr. Vinall says it's possible that this phrase will not instantly shut down the confrontational person. In fact, a highly confrontational person may dig in and demand a fight. In these situations, you'll again have to decide whether to engage or shut it down (ugh).

"At this point, you might ask directly, 'Are you genuinely curious about my stance, or do you just want to prove your point?'" she suggests. "Don't use this phrase for unimportant conflicts or to correct details if there's no real cost to simply letting it go."

5 Other Ways To Disarm Someone Who's Confrontational

These tactics can also do the trick.

1. Remain calm

"Keep calm and carry on" is not just a meme. Dr. Vinall says it's a valuable strategy to disarm combative people.

"Confrontational people feed off heightened energy—don't give it to them," she shares.

2. Validate their feelings without necessarily agreeing

This one may surprise you—why would you want to validate a confrontational person who seems to be enjoying getting a rise out of you? Admittedly, it requires some nuance and self-regulation.

"The key is to keep it neutral or kind, not biting, judgmental or sarcastic," Dr. Vinall says.

For instance, she says a confrontational person may complain about high crime rates from a minority group. You may not have the emotional capacity to engage in a conflict at this time, or you may know from experience that conversations on this topic with this person go nowhere but downhill—fast.

Dr. Vinall says that, in these cases, you might mirror back, "You seem really stressed about rising crime," or, "It seems like this feels scary to you."

3. Look for a collaborative response

Confrontational people may not strike you as "teamwork-to-make-the-dreamwork" types. Dr. Vinall concedes they like to complain and project blame, but it's possible to use that to your advantage to shut down the conflict. She suggests getting curious and asking a question that invites exploration rather than escalation, such as, "How can we work together to find a solution that is satisfying to us both?"

4. Set boundaries

"You do not have to and should not tolerate verbally abusive language," Dr. Vinall says.

Louder, for the people in the back; boundaries are important!

While we have you, Dr. Vinall suggests responding to this type of unacceptable language with, "I'm willing to hear your concerns, but I will not be talked down to like that. Do you want to rephrase that, or should we end this conversation?" or simply, "That's not going to work for me."

5. Reflect their words to them

Dr. Vinall reports that prompting a confrontational person to be more open and obvious in their negativity can make them squirm.

"You could play dumb, saying, 'I don't get it. Explain that to me,'" Dr. Vinall suggests.

Curiosity also works here. She suggests something simple, such as, "That's an interesting perspective. Why would you say that?"

Final Takeaways

Confrontational people enjoy conflict and can even seek it out, turning even molehills into a chance for a fight. It's important to know how to engage with a confrontational person. Here's what to keep in mind:

Some people are more confrontational than others. People may adopt a confrontational style for low emotional intelligence, a desire for power or childhood experiences.
"I see this differently" is a great response to shut down a confrontational person. Dr. Vinall likes this phrase because it doesn't add fuel to the fire or send the message that you agree with the person.
You may need different strategies. Remaining calm, leaning into curiosity and setting boundaries around abusive language are also ways to disarm a confrontational person.

Up Next:

Source:

Dr. Deborah Vinall, Psy.D., LMFT, is the chief psychological officer with Recovered.org.

Who Is Kylian Mbappé's Girlfriend? Why the French Footballer's Love Life Is 'Complicated'

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 5:51am

Kylian Mbappé's girlfriend may never be publicly identified or confirmed—because that's how he wants it.

The French footballer has kept his romantic life under wraps since he first became a global star. While he's been linked to several stunners through the years, he hasn't spoken openly about any of his romantic relationships, instead preferring to keep conversations about his work on the field and on his family.

"We have always been very close, and very much a family, all together at home. We eat our meals together at the table. We have never given that up," he told TIME. "I was raised with my two parents and my two brothers, we were always all together. Whether it was my first match for the youth [league] or now in front of 80,000 spectators, they are always there for me. When a player has a healthy, balanced family, he can give his all."

Mbappé's discussions being almost exclusively about his work and his family even extends to his conversations with his own mom.

When asked if Mbappé was in a relationship, his mother, Fayza Lamari, told L'Equipe Magazine in September 2025 that her son will always question the intentions of anyone he dates because of his level of fame.

"He'll never be certain," Lamari said. "I asked him recently if he had a girlfriend. He replied,
'Do you see a girlfriend in this mess?' It's complicated being Kylian Mbappé's girlfriend, with everything that entails. He's already had relationships, and it's not easy for either of them."

The biggest part of why he keeps his personal life private, Mbappé says, is because making his dating life media fodder makes navigating relationships—which is already not easy for the average person, let alone a worldwide phenom who's traveling constantly and living in a fishbowl of fan speculation and public scrutiny—even harder.

"It comes down to the fine line between paranoia and vigilance. Some people want to harm you, but that's not everyone. You shouldn't overthink it and just jump in," he explained about his approach to relationships. "That applies to everyone. Are you married? How did you decide she was the one? You do everything you can to make it work, but how do you guess the obvious?"

Phew, "complicated" is right! Find out who Mbappé is in a relationship with now (as far as we know!) and who he's dated in the past.

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Who is Mbappé in a relationship with? Ester Expósito

Photo by Neilson Barnard on Getty Images

As of this writing in June 2026, Mbappé is dating Spanish actress Ester Expósito. The pair have been an item since around March 2026, according to The Sun. At that time, they were spotted kissing at a restaurant. They've since also been spotted looking cozy while dining out in Paris and on a cute bowling date in April. (Seriously, they look so happy together that it's really hard not to root for these two!)

Expósito stars in the Netflix series Elite and Bandidos, and also has some movie credits to her name, including Baton and Dante, each with 2026 release dates.

Who is Mbappé with now? Ester Expósito

Photo by Francois Durand on Getty Images

Mbappé is reportedly in a relationship with Expósito. While neither has spoken about a romance publicly, when reporters pressed her about watching him win a soccer match, she replied (via Hola!), "The truth is, I don't really like [the sport] much, but the match was good ... I'm not going to say anything, but I'm doing great."

Who has dated Kylian Mbappé?

While Mbappé hasn't publicly confirmed any of his relationships, there have been plenty of rumors and sightings of him with women who appeared to be romantic partners.

In July 2024, Page Six reported that he was spotted all around Miami canoodling with model Dani Grace Almeida.

In 2023, Mbappé was linked to Belgian model Stephanie Rose Bertram. When it was speculated that she appeared at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar to support him, however, Bertram reportedly stated that she was merely at the games in a "strictly professional" capacity.

Mbappé was photographed with model Ines Lau on a yacht in 2022, including shots where he carried her around (cute!). Though neither commented directly on rumors of a relationship, when Clique TV later asked if he was involved with anyone romantically, Mbappé replied, "Yes, I’ve been in love before, and I hope to be again. But currently, no."

Is Mbappé still single?

As of this writing in June 2026, Mbappé is reportedly in relationship with Expósito.

Is Mbappé getting married?

Maybe eventually, but as far as we know, the guy isn't even engaged yet, so calm down!

Does Mbappé have a child?

No kids here! While we're sure plenty of people would love to call him daddy in some context, Mbappé doesn't have any children that we know of at this time.

Was Mbappé married?

As of this writing in June 2026, Mbappé has never been married (as far as we know!).

'Queen of Psychedelic Soul' Named One of Rock’s Greatest Frontwomen of All Time

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 5:50am

A new ranking has turned the spotlight back on one of rock’s most electrifying voices, celebrating the “Queen of Psychedelic Soul” as one of the greatest female leaders the genre has ever seen.

BBC Music's Classical Music.com ranked Janis Joplin as one of the greatest frontwomen in music history. The 2026 list brought together female lead singers across genres and decades to create a unified ranking of the most influential vocalists ever.

Joplin landed at No. 5 on a list topped by Stevie Nicks and includes Patti Smith, Christine McVie, and Courtney Love. The ranking highlights her enduring influence as a defining voice of late-1960s rock and blues.

Joplin was unofficially coined the "Queen of Psychedelic Soul" by the website On This Day in Music. The singer and songwriter blended the free-spirited sound of 1960s psychedelic rock with the raw emotion of blues and R&B, creating a style that felt bold and deeply personal.

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BBC Music Magazine called Joplin "a force of nature." Their statement continued, "Janis Joplin sang as if every note were a life lived. Blues, soul, and rock collided in her voice, raw and unfiltered."

"Her performances were confessional explosions – messy, passionate, human. She turned vulnerability into power, pain into beauty, and wailing into liberation. Few frontwomen have matched Janis Joplin’s combination of emotional honesty and sheer stage magnetism."

Joplin preferred to be known as Pearl, a personal nickname as reported by American Songwriter. She reportedly adopted the moniker as a way to escape the pressures of fame.

The nickname stuck, and she named her final album Pearl. The LP consisted of tracks including "Cry Baby," "Me and Bobby McGee," and "Mercedes Benz."

”I’d rather not sing than sing quiet,” she once said, as reported by History. “Billie Holiday was subtle and refined. I’m going to shove that power right into you, right through you, and you can’t refuse it.”

Additionally, Vogue France quoted Joplin as saying, "I just want to feel as much as I can. It's what soul is all about."

Janis Joplin died on October 4, 1970, of a heroin overdose. She was 27. The musician did not live to see Pearl's massive success as the LP that would define her music career.

Anthropologie’s $30 Crystal Ring Set Is ‘Fun,’ ‘Dainty,’ and Comes in 7 Chic Colors

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 5:30am

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Statement necklaces and chunky bracelets certainly have their place in a summer jewelry collection, but a thoughtfully curated ring stack can be just as impactful. A few delicate rings add texture, color, and personality without overwhelming an outfit. The right set can instantly make even the simplest tank top and denim shorts feel more chic.

One standout option is Anthropologie's Crystal Stretch Ring Set. Right now, it's on sale for 45% off, bringing the price down from $54 to just $30. For a unique jewelry set with plenty of styling versatility, it's an impressive deal.

Crystal Stretch Ring Set, $30 (was $54) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

The set includes three rings crafted from 14-karat gold-plated brass and cubic zirconia. Together, they create a statement-making stack, but they're also delicate enough to wear individually for a more understated look. That flexibility makes them easy to incorporate into both everyday outfits and special occasions.

Each ring features gold-toned beads paired with colorful charms, and the set comes in six distinct colorways. Orange feels warm, sunny, and slightly vintage-inspired. Pearl offers a classic, coastal-chic look with a romantic feel. Lime brings a bold, trend-forward energy, while light green feels fresh, organic, and relaxed. Clear is crisp, elevated, and arguably the most versatile option. Lilac features pastel tones with an iridescent quality that feels whimsical and almost dream-like.

For spring and summer styling, the softer shades pair beautifully with linen button-downs, white denim, breezy dresses, and other warm-weather staples. Wearing one or two rings across different fingers creates an effortless look that's light and refined. The colorful details add just enough interest without overpowering the rest of an outfit.

If you prefer a bolder approach, stack all three rings from the brighter sets on one finger to create a fun focal point. The layered textures and vibrant colors complement swimwear, crochet cover-ups, tank tops, and other vacation-ready pieces. It's an easy way to bring a playful touch to casual summer looks.

The stretch design makes these rings especially gift-friendly. Since there's no need to guess someone's ring size, they take much of the uncertainty out of jewelry shopping. The recipient can wear the rings together, separate them across both hands, or mix them with pieces they already own. They're also ideal for travel because they provide plenty of sparkle without the worry of packing expensive fine jewelry.

One shopper described the set as a “definite eye-catcher,” noting that they’ve "received compliments on the rings multiple times.” They added, “They are fun and easy to swap around from finger to finger.” Another reviewer said they’re “dainty” and "so much fun," noting that it's a great ring set if you want a little bling without overdoing it..”

Shop More Deals

For a colorful, versatile, and summer-ready accessory, the Crystal Stretch Ring Set is an easy way to refresh your jewelry collection. Save $24 on the gorgeous ring stack with Anthropologie's current 45% discount now.

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