

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

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.

18 snips
Sep 17, 2021 • 1h 29min
128: Daily Rituals by Mason Currey
Explore the intriguing daily rituals of creative minds like Hemingway and Mozart, uncovering how their habits shape productivity. The hosts dive into the balance between structured routines and creative chaos, inviting listeners to reflect on their own practices. Tips for crafting effective work boundaries and reducing distractions are discussed, along with insights from upcoming books on neuroplasticity and personal growth. Plus, hear about the excitement surrounding a recent podcast-a-thon and the fascinating world of mechanical keyboards.

11 snips
Sep 3, 2021 • 1h 44min
127: The Art of the Idea by John Hunt
Discover the transformative power of original thinking as the speakers delve into 'The Art of the Idea.' They discuss the creative process, contrasting 'sunrise' and 'sunset' personalities, and share personal stories of tackling challenges like home renovations. Explore the fine line between collecting data and nurturing meaningful ideas, while also learning how to foster creativity in work environments. They reflect on the importance of daily rituals, genuine connections in a digital world, and the role of technology in enhancing community ties.

20 snips
Aug 20, 2021 • 1h 30min
126: The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest
The hosts delve into personal growth, highlighting the intricate dance of self-sabotage and emotional intelligence. They explore how childhood influences shape our behaviors, leading to internal conflicts that can hinder success. Daily micro shifts and journaling come up as powerful tools for self-improvement. A detailed discussion on overcoming triggers like regret and jealousy reveals strategies for fostering a supportive environment for personal growth. Ultimately, the journey acknowledges the challenge of releasing past traumas while emphasizing community engagement.

Aug 6, 2021 • 1h 50min
125: Willpower Doesn’t Work by Benjamin Hardy
This discussion challenges the reliance on willpower, emphasizing the crucial role of environment in achieving success. The speakers share insights on managing projects, overcoming limiting beliefs, and the power of social circles on personal growth. Personal anecdotes enrich their exploration of productivity strategies, including the balance between stress and recovery. They also dive into decision-making complexities and the benefits of collaboration, highlighting how environment shapes our actions and habits.