

Bookworm
Mike Schmitz and Cory Hixson
Bookworm is dedicated to doing more than just reading books. Mike Schmitz & Cory Hixson read a book every two weeks and discuss ways to apply the author's lessons to their lives.
Episodes
Mentioned books

12 snips
Feb 4, 2022 • 1h 40min
138: How to Change by Katy Milkman
The hosts dive into the challenges of behavioral change, tackling issues like impulsivity and procrastination. They share personal insights on task management and the significance of emotional awareness. A critical look at behavioral literature reveals complexities that are often oversimplified. The discussion touches on tactics like 'fresh starts' for habit formation and the role of reminders. The interplay of authority and vulnerability in self-help is explored, alongside the importance of tailored strategies in achieving lasting change.

36 snips
Jan 21, 2022 • 1h 45min
137: Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
The hosts dive into the exploration of emotions as outlined in a recent book, focusing on 87 emotional experiences. They share personal anecdotes, including the impact of car theft, to illustrate vulnerability and resilience. Themes such as grief, joy versus happiness, and the complexities of identity are discussed, highlighting the importance of understanding one's emotions. Additionally, they reflect on productivity habits and the role of emotional awareness in personal growth, emphasizing the necessity of genuine connections and empathy in navigating life's challenges.

99 snips
Jan 7, 2022 • 1h 34min
136: Thinking in Systems by Donella Meadows
The discussion dives into the importance of systems thinking, highlighting its role in navigating everyday challenges. The hosts explore how personal habits and decision-making can be influenced by understanding systems dynamics like feedback loops and resource flows. They touch on the tension between immediate tasks and long-term goals, especially in a remote work environment. Strategies for making thoughtful choices over impulsive reactions are also examined, along with a look at how incremental changes can lead to significant improvements in productivity and well-being.

110 snips
Dec 24, 2021 • 1h 52min
135: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
This discussion dives into the idea that life is short, urging listeners to abandon the hustle culture. The hosts reflect on the paradox of choice and how too many options lead to indecision. They explore the joy of 'fika,' a Swedish tradition promoting social connections during breaks. The conversation shifts to balancing independence with community, tackling the loneliness that can accompany a flexible lifestyle. Finally, they challenge the notion of productivity tied to future success, advocating for finding joy in the present moment.

Dec 10, 2021 • 1h 39min
134: Self Control – It’s Kingship and Majesty by William George Jordan
Delve into the art of self-control and its impact on personal growth. The hosts discuss how historical productivity literature remains relevant today. They reflect on the transformative power of failure and the importance of genuine action driven by love. A look at minimalism traces its roots beyond modern consumerism, emphasizing simplicity and self-awareness. The conversation also touches on finding tranquility amidst chaos and the role of community in nurturing personal development through shared book recommendations.

Nov 26, 2021 • 1h 48min
133: Soundtracks by Jon Acuff
Discover how to transform overthinking into a superpower with strategies for replacing negative thought patterns. The hosts explore how personal experiences shape our inner narratives and share humorous anecdotes to illustrate emotional well-being. Dive into the challenges of productivity with ADHD and the balance between positivity and acknowledging negative thoughts. Plus, they discuss the importance of self-created affirmations while examining historical and modern insights on self-help and gratitude, wrapped in a lively, engaging conversation.

67 snips
Nov 12, 2021 • 1h 36min
132: So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport
In a lighthearted discussion, the hosts critique the 'follow your passion' mantra, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from hard work and skill development. They introduce the craftsman mindset, highlighting the value of dedication over simplistic passion. The episode examines the overlooked potential of skilled trades, celebrating their financial rewards and personal satisfaction. It also stresses the importance of building career capital and crafting a meaningful life mission, advocating for genuine engagement over chasing fleeting trends.

Oct 29, 2021 • 1h 30min
131: A Minute to Think by Juliet Funt
Explore how to escape the clutches of constant busyness and reclaim time for meaningful thinking. The hosts reflect on writing journeys and the significance of 'white space' for creativity. Discover the nuances of productivity, emphasizing intent over mere task completion, and the negative impact of email culture on workplace efficiency. They highlight the importance of choosing the right communication methods and optimizing meeting productivity. Plus, insights into reading classics versus new favorites enrich the conversation.

26 snips
Oct 15, 2021 • 1h 37min
130: Courage is Calling by Ryan Holiday
The speakers explore the compelling themes of courage and fear, inspired by Ryan Holiday's latest book. They dissect how Stoic philosophy intertwines with personal experiences, emphasizing the necessity of overcoming false fears. The conversation touches on the importance of taking proactive risks and staying true to personal convictions, drawing parallels with historical figures like Viktor Frankl. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their comfort zones and the role literature plays in inspiring change and resilience.

58 snips
Oct 1, 2021 • 1h 46min
129: The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul
Discover how our surroundings and relationships can enhance cognitive functions and creativity. The hosts dive deep into the impact of nature on productivity and explore effective communication through intentional gestures. They share insights on the balance between personal space and collaborative environments, emphasizing the need for mindful spaces. The discussion also touches on personal knowledge management and the importance of engaging with ideas actively. Plus, hear about the dynamics of teamwork and the journey of fostering unity in group settings.


