

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

17 snips
May 28, 2021 • 1h 41min
120: The Now Habit by Neil Fiore
Dive into the fascinating world of procrastination and productivity! The hosts dissect how anxiety and perfectionism fuel avoidance behaviors and propose insightful strategies to combat them. They emphasize the importance of guilt-free play and reframe obligations to create a healthier mindset. Personal anecdotes reveal the balancing act between work and leisure, while mindfulness is highlighted as a tool for enhancing focus. Exciting future reads are also teased, wrapping up with discussion on community engagement through book clubs.

52 snips
May 14, 2021 • 1h 51min
119: Effortless by Greg McKeown
High-achievers often think relentless work leads to success, but the hosts explore finding ease instead. They discuss creative ways to embrace effortlessness in productivity and redefine routines for more enjoyment. A humorous dive into adapting their podcast format reveals insights about engagement with fiction. They highlight the importance of gratitude and deep reading experiences alongside practical tools like checklists to enhance efficiency. Reflecting on McKeown's work, they share excitement for future reads and community interactions.

10 snips
Apr 30, 2021 • 1h 39min
118: Work the System by Sam Carpenter
Dive into overcoming the frustrations of endless to-do lists by examining broken systems in our lives. Discover the transformative power of systems thinking and how it can enhance productivity and efficiency. From the vital role of documentation to the significance of structured procedures, the conversation also delves into the importance of motivation in leadership. Explore the nuances of aligning work with your prime productivity times, while humorously discussing trivial examples that spark deeper insights on teamwork and communication.

Apr 16, 2021 • 1h 44min
117: Think Again by Adam Grant
The conversation explores the tension between conviction and doubt, emphasizing the joy of embracing being wrong. Personal growth tactics, including effective time tracking and storytelling, are discussed alongside the importance of open dialogue and constructive conflict. The hosts share insights from 'Think Again,' highlighting the need to rethink narratives and adapt to change. They reflect on the significance of context in technology choices and the drawbacks of traditional learning formats, advocating for innovative engagement methods.

Apr 2, 2021 • 1h 43min
116: The Art of Witty Banter by Patrick King
Explore the secrets to witty banter and smooth conversations as the hosts dive into the mechanics of charm and humor. Discover the balance between playful dialogue and authenticity, along with insights from personal experiences in Toastmasters. They highlight the art of compliments and the complexities of initiating chats in new social settings. With engaging anecdotes, they critique the challenges of small talk versus meaningful dialogue, offering fresh perspectives on enhancing communication skills. Get ready to elevate your conversational game!

Mar 19, 2021 • 1h 53min
115: A World Without Email by Cal Newport
Explore the fascinating idea of a world without email, where productivity flourishes beyond the confines of the inbox. Delve into the challenges of excessive digital communication and learn about effective project management tools that can enhance efficiency. The conversation draws on historical anecdotes and innovative strategies, like Kanban boards, to navigate the chaos of remote work. Discover the importance of specialization and setting clear communication protocols for a more organized workplace. Rethink your approach to task management and find balance in your work life.

22 snips
Mar 5, 2021 • 1h 39min
114: Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke
Delve into the intriguing world of decision-making with insights from poker champion Annie Duke. The discussion reveals how embracing luck can lead to better choices. Discover strategies for navigating uncertainty and personal biases to break free from echo chambers. Mental time travel is explored as a tool for evaluating decisions and their long-term impact. The importance of accountability and seeking truth in relationships adds depth to the conversation, while the art of intentional note-making and organization enhances overall understanding.

75 snips
Feb 19, 2021 • 0sec
113: The Great Mental Models Volume 1 by Rhiannon Beaubien and Shane Parrish
Delve into the power of mental models as tools for enhancing decision-making. Explore first principles thinking to simplify complex ideas, and uncover the creative process's dynamic nature. Discover second-order thinking's ripple effects and navigate ethical dilemmas in decision-making, such as those presented by self-driving cars. The concept of inversion offers unique insights by identifying obstacles, while reflections on community support shed light on their reading habits and upcoming discussions.

12 snips
Feb 5, 2021 • 1h 53min
112: The Organised Writer by Antony Johnston
Writing can be overwhelming, but with the right organization, it becomes manageable. The hosts discuss the nuances of productivity tools, contrasting simple solutions with more complex ones like OmniFocus. They explore the impact of neurodivergence on writing habits and the value of personalized email management strategies. The conversation touches on practical tips for structuring writing projects and highlights essential software like Scrivener and Ulysses. Finally, they share excitement about upcoming book selections and the importance of routine in fostering creativity.

Jan 22, 2021 • 1h 48min
111: Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willink
Dive into the world of self-discipline as the hosts explore Jocko Willink's insights on taking personal responsibility. They tackle the challenges of juggling ambition with everyday life, the benefits of journaling, and the importance of self-discipline in growth. Discover the transformative effects of waking up early and establishing productive morning routines, alongside the significance of mindful eating and fitness. With reflections on personal leadership and ownership, this engaging discussion blends actionable advice with personal anecdotes.


