Make It Stick challenges conventional wisdom on learning and teaching by presenting evidence-based strategies that replace less effective but widely accepted practices. The authors explain that effective learning comes from self-testing, introducing certain difficulties in practice, waiting to re-study new material until a little forgetting has occurred, and interleaving the practice of one skill or topic with another. The book uses real-world examples and stories to illustrate these principles, making it an indispensable guide for students, educators, and lifelong learners.
This book, updated for a new era, provides a simple and powerful 6-week program to manage finances. Ramit Sethi focuses on behavioral psychology to help readers save more, earn more, and automate their finances. Key lessons include focusing on big wins rather than small savings, automating financial tasks, and spending guilt-free on things you love while cutting back on unnecessary expenses. The book also covers topics like crushing debt, setting up high-interest bank accounts, and long-term investing in index funds.
In 'Save the Cat!', Blake Snyder provides a detailed analysis of the three-act structure and introduces his 15-beat sheet, a method for structuring screenplays. The book covers key elements such as the Opening Image, Catalyst, Debate, Break into Two, B Story, Fun and Games, Midpoint, Bad Guys Close In, All Is Lost, Dark Night of the Soul, Break into Three, Finale, and Final Image. Snyder also discusses the importance of making the hero likable through the 'Save the Cat' rule and breaks down successful films to illustrate his points. The book is widely regarded as a definitive resource for screenwriters, offering practical advice and a clear framework for storytelling.
In 'Crush It!', Gary Vaynerchuk shows readers how to harness the power of the Internet to make their entrepreneurial dreams come true. The book focuses on utilizing new, free tools on the Internet to capitalize on branding and developing a business. Gary shares his own experiences, from building his family's wine shop into a national industry leader to transforming his life and earning potential by building his personal brand. The book emphasizes the importance of identifying and pursuing your passions, using social media effectively, and maintaining a hardworking and authentic approach to business.
This week, I talk with Pat Flynn, a legend in the creator economy and founder of Smart Passive Income. Pat’s journey began in 2008 when he was laid off as an architect during the recession. Since then, he’s built an online empire by experimenting with niche projects and side hustles, teaching modern, effective principles to entrepreneurs worldwide. We dive deep into his journey—from building Smart Passive Income to leading with empathy and authenticity. Pat shares how he turned his love of Pokémon cards into a million-subscriber YouTube channel, Deep Pocket Monster, and how hobbies and family keep him grounded and inspired. This conversation is personal, insightful, and packed with actionable lessons for entrepreneurs, creators, and anyone wanting to build a meaningful career while staying true to your values. Let’s get to it!
In this episode:
- (00:00) - Intro
- (02:58) - Kayak bass fishing tournaments?
- (10:50) - The importance of getting outside regularly
- (14:38) - The hardest part of Pat's lifestyle change
- (21:38) - Parenting and dealing with negativity online
- (38:08) - How Pat built his career around family
- (41:26) - Being present with family
- (43:54) - Involving family in business
- (46:18) - How Pat created open communication with his children
- (49:24) - Standing out and embracing uniqueness
- (55:33) - Pat on losing his first architecture job
- (59:13) - The journey to online business
- (01:02:56) - Launching the first online product
- (01:08:29) - Learning from mistakes and moving forward
- (01:10:00) - Embracing just-in-time learning
- (01:12:39) - Overcoming the inner conflict of perfectionism
- (01:16:18) - The importance of mentorship
- (01:17:23) - Hiring a Fortnite coach
- (01:18:13) - Triathlon Training with Jeff McMahon
- (01:18:58) - The art of asking for help
- (01:21:47) - Embracing consistency and iteration
- (01:22:29) - Mastering storytelling and content creation
- (01:30:33) - Building relationships with an audience
- (01:37:49) - Finding success by making content community-driven
- (01:41:08) - Teaching by example vs telling people what they should do
- (01:45:23) - Pat's beautiful future
- (01:46:46) - Who Pat is becoming
Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com.
Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
Good Work with Barrett Brooks 
