O.A.R.'s Benj Gershman on Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities
Dec 18, 2024
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Benj Gershman, the bassist for the rock band O.A.R. and host of the mental health podcast What Could Be Bad, shares his journey from music to Stoicism. He discusses the toll of life on the road and the identity crisis that can arise from tying self-worth to career success. Benj highlights the transformative power of The Obstacle is the Way, revealing how struggles can be reframed as opportunities for growth. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, navigating personal challenges, and the connections formed through music.
Benj Gershman emphasizes the importance of separating identity from profession to maintain a sense of self amid life changes.
The conversation highlights the role of open dialogue in reducing mental health stigma and fostering community support for individuals.
Benj shares insights on how live performances cultivate deeper emotional connections between artists and their audiences, enhancing mutual appreciation.
Deep dives
The Role of Audiobooks in a Crazy World
In a chaotic world, audiobooks serve as a refuge, providing listeners with perspectives and knowledge across various genres. Engaging with titles in sci-fi, mystery, or history can offer valuable life lessons and insights, turning turbulent moments into opportunities for learning. For instance, Doris Kearns Goodwin's 'An Unfinished Love Story' and the audiobook about 'The Odyssey' were highlighted as enriching experiences for both readers and their families. This underscores the importance of integrating learning into everyday life through accessible formats like audiobooks.
The Power of Clear Communication
Effective communication is crucial in delivering messages and fostering understanding, both in personal and professional contexts. Tools like Grammarly help teams create concise and on-brand communication, enhancing overall productivity. By streamlining how messages are conveyed, organizations reported significant improvements in response times and efficiency. This exemplifies how clarity in writing can translate to better team dynamics and faster resolutions.
Nostalgia and the Evolution of Music
The discussion revolved around the enduring connection to music, particularly through the lens of the band OAR, which reflects the nostalgia many feel for their formative years. The journey of discovering music through file-sharing services like Napster illustrates how accessibility can shape one's musical preferences and experiences. Even as OAR evolved over the decades, their commitment to performing and connecting with audiences remains strong. This evolution showcases the balance between maintaining artistic integrity and adapting to changing times.
The Live Experience: Connection Over Commerce
Live performances create a unique and immersive experience that builds deeper connections with audiences, as highlighted through OAR's concerts. The band believes in leaving fans feeling better than they arrived, emphasizing the emotional and communal aspects of their shows. Their touring strategy focuses on allowing for meaningful interactions and sustaining long-term enjoyment of their music. This approach ensures that both the band and their fans share in a culture of appreciation that transcends simple commercial transactions.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
The conversation addresses the stigma surrounding mental health, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and support networks. The sharing of personal struggles, both in creative fields and everyday life, can foster a sense of community and understanding. With platforms like Talkspace, the ease of accessing mental health resources encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being. By normalizing discussions about mental health, communities can cultivate resilience and support for one another.
When we tie our identity to what we do rather than who we truly are, losing that sense of self can be devastating. Benj Gershman, bassist for the rock band O.A.R., experienced this firsthand—and it led him to Stoicism.
In this conversation, Benj opens up to Ryan about the mental and physical toll of life on the road, lessons learned from O.A.R.'s 30 years together, and how The Obstacle is the Way transformed his mindset during the darkest chapter of his life.