On March 10, 2026, the father-daughter duo of Phil and Lily Rosenthal brought a burst of energy and curiosity to morning television as they sat down to discuss their latest collaboration: a children’s book titled Just Try It! Someplace New! According to NBC News, this marks their second foray into children’s literature, and their message is as clear as a bell: get kids excited to explore the world around them, one new place at a time.
Phil Rosenthal, best known as the creator of the beloved sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond, is no stranger to storytelling. But this time, he’s swapped the sitcom set for the pages of a picture book, working alongside his daughter Lily to craft an adventure that encourages young readers to embrace travel, discovery, and a healthy dose of open-mindedness. Their appearance on the TODAY show was a lively one, filled with laughter, food experiments, and a little bit of weather forecasting thrown in for good measure.
So, what’s at the heart of Just Try It! Someplace New!? As Phil and Lily explained, it’s all about nudging kids—and, let’s be honest, probably a few adults too—out of their comfort zones. The book gently pushes readers to take chances, see new sights, and try things that might initially seem unfamiliar. "We wanted to write something that inspires children to see the world beyond their backyard," Phil shared during the segment, his trademark warmth coming through even as he recounted the more whimsical parts of their journey.
Lily, who brings her own fresh perspective to the project, chimed in with a smile, adding, "Traveling to new places was something my dad and I always loved, and we wanted to pass that sense of adventure on to other families." The pair’s dynamic was evident—equal parts playful banter and genuine affection, which is perhaps part of what makes their books resonate with so many readers.
The Rosenthals’ appearance wasn’t just about the book, though. In a delightful twist, Phil also revealed that his popular food and travel docuseries, Somebody Feed Phil, is making a move to YouTube. This transition signals a new chapter for the show, which has already built a devoted following on streaming platforms. "Going to YouTube means more people, especially younger viewers, can join me on these food adventures," Phil explained. It’s a savvy move, considering the platform’s reach and the growing appetite for travel and culinary content among viewers of all ages.
But the fun didn’t stop with book talk and television updates. In true Rosenthal fashion, the father-daughter team was game for a little experimentation—this time of the culinary variety. The TODAY show hosts invited them to try a rather unconventional combination: vanilla ice cream topped with soy sauce. The results? Well, let’s just say it was a moment of shared surprise and laughter. "You never know until you try," Lily quipped, echoing the very spirit of their book. And while not everyone at the table was convinced by the flavor pairing, it certainly made for memorable television.
In another lighthearted segment, Phil and Lily lent a hand to Al Roker as he tracked the weather forecast in Studio 1A. Their willingness to jump into the fray—whether it’s testing new foods or dabbling in meteorology—underscored the core message of their book: life is richer when you’re open to new experiences.
According to NBC News, Just Try It! Someplace New! is more than just a book about travel. It’s a gentle nudge to kids everywhere to be curious, adventurous, and unafraid of the unknown. The Rosenthals’ hope is that, by reading their story, children will be inspired to take their first steps into the wider world—whether that means visiting a new city, trying a new meal, or simply saying "yes" to something different.
Phil’s background as a television creator and food enthusiast certainly informs his approach to storytelling. With Somebody Feed Phil now heading to YouTube, he’s poised to reach an even broader audience, sharing his infectious enthusiasm for food and culture with viewers who might not have tuned in otherwise. "Food is the great connector," Phil often says, and his commitment to building bridges—whether through a shared meal or a shared story—shines through in both his television and literary work.
Lily’s contributions are equally vital. As a young co-author, she brings a relatable voice to the narrative, reminding readers that adventure isn’t just for grown-ups. Her perspective helps ground the book in the realities of childhood curiosity and apprehension, making it all the more accessible to its intended audience.
The Rosenthals’ message is timely, too. In a world where travel can sometimes feel daunting or out of reach, Just Try It! Someplace New! offers a gentle reminder that adventure doesn’t always require a plane ticket or a passport. Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a different route to school, sampling a new dish at dinner, or striking up a conversation with someone new. As Phil put it, "You don’t have to go far to discover something wonderful."
Their appearance on March 10, 2026, served as a celebration of curiosity, family, and the power of saying "yes" to new experiences. It’s a message that resonates across generations, and one that feels especially poignant as families look for ways to reconnect with the world—and with each other—after years of uncertainty and change.
Of course, the Rosenthals aren’t the only ones encouraging adventure. The TODAY show segment itself was a testament to the joys of stepping outside your comfort zone, whether that means braving a strange food combination or tackling a weather forecast on live television. The laughter and camaraderie on display were infectious, serving as a reminder that sometimes, the best memories are made when you’re willing to try something new.
For parents, educators, and anyone looking to inspire the next generation of explorers, Just Try It! Someplace New! is a welcome addition to the bookshelf. It’s a call to action—albeit a gentle one—to embrace the unknown, to seek out new experiences, and to find joy in the journey, wherever it may lead.
As Phil and Lily Rosenthal continue to share their adventures, both on the page and on screen, their message is simple but profound: the world is full of wonders, waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to just try it.