

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

51 snips
Apr 29, 2022 • 1h 46min
143: The Messy Middle by Scott Belsky
Dive into the challenging 'messy middle' of creativity, where persistence and adaptability reign. The speakers share their journeys through content creation and sketchnoting on YouTube, emphasizing the importance of simple productivity systems. They reflect on the necessity of embracing change and resourcefulness during tough times, while also exposing the stifling nature of rigid corporate processes. Plus, discover how reading fuels personal growth and planning inspires innovation, all while engaging with an enthusiastic community.

29 snips
Apr 15, 2022 • 1h 27min
142: Yes to Life by Victor Frankl
In a thought-provoking discussion, the speakers delve into Viktor Frankl's insights on purpose, emphasizing the importance of finding meaning through service to others. They explore the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity, highlighting the transformative power of personal challenges. Personal branding and creative routines are also examined as paths to growth. Listeners are encouraged to embrace a growth mindset and the significance of self-awareness and empathy in navigating life's complexities.

51 snips
Apr 1, 2022 • 1h 44min
141: Creative Calling by Chase Jarvis
Are you ready to unleash your inner creative? Dive into the transformative power of creativity, where the shift from mere consumption to active creation can lead to personal fulfillment. Discover four key steps to nurture your unique creative style and learn the importance of cultivating an inspiring environment. The discussion touches on overcoming mindsets that hinder creativity and highlights personalized strategies for those facing attention challenges. Finally, it emphasizes authenticity and actionable steps to prioritize creative pursuits in a chaotic world.

4 snips
Mar 18, 2022 • 1h 17min
140: Unwinding Anxiety by Judson Brewer
Dive into the world of anxiety as the hosts explore brain-based techniques to uproot it at its source. They discuss turning anxiety into excitement and the importance of mindfulness in managing habits and addictions. Personal growth through curiosity and self-reflection takes center stage, with insights on productivity and the impact of effective tools like Keyboard Maestro and Stream Deck. The conversation also touches on navigating comfort zones and the transformative power of recommended literature.

Mar 4, 2022 • 1min
Quick Update
A quick health update reveals a brief hiatus from regular content. Listeners are promised an exciting return in two weeks featuring discussions on 'Unwinding Anxiety' and 'Creative Calling.' The hosts encourage everyone to engage by reading along, setting the stage for a dynamic and insightful return. The episode also highlights some behind-the-scenes scheduling challenges, showing a personal touch amidst their dedication to the audience.

41 snips
Feb 18, 2022 • 1h 41min
139: Personal Socrates by Marc Champagne
Discover the transformative power of asking the right questions that can lead to a different life. Explore the impact of internet heroes and the importance of fresh starts. Delve into the innovative design and usability of 'Personal Socrates' while reflecting on how curiosity fuels personal growth. Learn from influential figures like Kobe Bryant about intentional living and self-improvement. The speakers share unique mindfulness practices and strategies for overcoming personal barriers, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for future discussions.

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.