Articles for author: Sara Skoda

16 svibnja, 2026

Sara Skoda

Breaking the Stigma: Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of emotional well-being and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Mental health affects every part of our lives, from our relationships and work to how we cope with stress and everyday challenges. Raising awareness encourages open conversations, compassion, and access to support for those who may be struggling. This month serves as a reminder that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health is something we all experience and should openly talk about, support, and normalize just as we do physical health. Whether through

10 studenoga, 2025

Sara Skoda

Testing the Croatian Beauty Brand L’Adria: A Local Gem with Global Potential

Croatia may be known for its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage, but it’s also home to a rising star in the world of skincare L’Adria, a homegrown beauty brand that blends clean ingredients with a thoughtful approach. I recently had the chance to test three of their standout products: the Eye Patches, the Clarifying Serum, and the ever-popular Lip Oil and I’m happy to report that the hype is well deserved. From the moment you unbox a L’Adria product, it’s clear this isn’t just about pretty packaging (though it’s minimalist and elegant, which I love). Each formula reflects a

7 listopada, 2025

Sara Skoda

Wellness Wisdom: Doctor’s Advice – Fall Edition

As the leaves turn golden and daylight stretches shorter, it’s natural to start withdrawing indoors. This Fall, we turn to Dr. Alen Juginovic for guidance on maintaining health and wellbeing as sunlight hours dwindle. Understanding the Importance of Daylight Exposure Dr. Juginovic reminds us that even when days grow shorter, exposure to natural light remains essential. Sunlight plays a key role in regulating our internal clock (circadian rhythms), supporting mood balance, and helping our body sustain healthy levels of vitamin D. Practical Tips for Embracing Natural Light this Fall Why It Matters As fall advances, don’t let the shorter days

3 listopada, 2025

Sara Skoda

Croatians Online is Heading to Chicago for ACAP’s 9th Annual Conference

This October, Chicago will be buzzing with Croatian pride and global talent as the Association of Croatian American Professionals (ACAP) hosts its 9th Annual Conference at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, October 22–26, 2025. And we’re excited to share that Croatians Online will be there to cover the event, connect with our community, and bring you highlights from this incredible gathering. The ACAP Conference has grown into a signature event for Croatian American professionals and the wider diaspora, offering the perfect mix of high-level networking, inspiring talks, and cultural celebration. With more than 400 leaders, innovators, and students expected to

1 rujna, 2025

Sara Skoda

A Wellness Escape at AC Hotel Marriott Split: Our Visit to Yes to Beauty Spa

On our recent visit to the AC Hotel Marriott in Split, Daniel and I had the pleasure of experiencing the Yes to Beauty Spa, and it was nothing short of unforgettable. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with calming interiors, welcoming staff, and panoramic views of the city of Split that set the stage for true relaxation. I was treated to a rejuvenating Vitamin C facial, designed to refresh and brighten tired skin, while Daniel indulged in a deeply soothing stress relief massage. Both treatments were expertly delivered, leaving us not only refreshed but fully immersed in

30 lipnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

[VIDEO ON SPOTIFY] Slanting Toward Storytelling: A Conversation with Lidija Hilje

Recently, Croatians Online podcast host Sara Skoda welcomed Croatian author Lidija Hilje to discuss Hilje’s debut novel, Slanting Towards the Sea.  Lidija began by recounting her transition from practicing law in Croatian courts to embracing her literary calling. Central to the conversation was Hilje’s debut novel, Slanting Towards the Sea, set for release on July 8, 2025 via Simon & Schuster.  The novel spans two decades and centers on Ivona, who, after a painful divorce, returns to her Croatian hometown. When past and present collide along the Adriatic coast, emotionally complex relationships resurface, forcing characters to confront the delicate balance between

27 lipnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

Summer Reading & What’s Next: Croatians Online Book Club Picks

As the Adriatic sun blazes and beach towels unfurl, it’s the perfect time to dive into a good book and at Croatians Online, we’re doing just that. Whether you’re reading from a breezy coastal terrace or a quiet inland nook, we invite you to join us in preparing for a thought-provoking and inspiring lineup of reads heading into fall. Whether you’re catching up on your to-be-read pile or cracking the spine of something new, our book club is a space to connect, reflect, and celebrate the power of Croatian stories wherever we are in the world. Stay tuned for discussion

28 travnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

[VIDEO ON SPOTIFY] Croatians Online Book Club Hosts First Discussion with Special Guest Kristin Vukovic

The Croatians Online book club held its very first discussion, launching the group with an engaging and heartfelt conversation about The Cheesemaker’s Daughter by Kristin Vukovic. The event was made even more special by the presence of the author herself, who joined the discussion to share her insights, inspirations, and behind-the-scenes stories from the book. Set in Croatia, The Cheesemaker’s Daughter resonated deeply with the club’s members, many of whom connected personally with the themes of heritage, resilience, and tradition woven throughout the novel. Vukovic’s participation brought an intimate layer to the conversation, as she answered questions, discussed her writing

9 travnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

Witnessing the Rise of Croatian Talent in the NBA

By Sara Skoda and Daniel Karlovic Last night, Croatians Online had the incredible opportunity to be at Barclays Center for the much-anticipated game between the Brooklyn Nets and the New Orleans Pelicans. The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the arena, buzzing with excitement for what promised to be a thrilling matchup. But beyond the rivalry between the two teams, something else was stealing the spotlight — a young Croatian star who is quickly making a name for himself in the NBA: Karlo Matkovic. The 6’10” forward/center, who joined the Pelicans just a year ago, has been showing glimpses of

4 travnja, 2025

Sara Skoda

Wellness Wisdom: Doctor’s Monthly Advice –  Spring Edition

As we embrace the refreshing season of spring, it’s the perfect time to renew our focus on health and wellness. In this Spring Edition of Wellness Wisdom, Dr. Dino Ravnic, joins us again for another edition of Wellness Wisdom.  Dr. Ravnic, a trusted physician at Penn State Health, provides an important reminder about the significance of colorectal cancer screening. As one of the most common cancers worldwide, early detection through routine screening can make a world of difference in successful treatment and outcomes. Understanding Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and is often referred to as colon