
The Read Well Podcast
Welcome to The Read Well Podcast, a weekly show dedicated to building a strong reading habit, improving research strategies, and learning intellectual ideas from the books you love. Your passion may be the wisdom of Plato, how to cook a curry, or the complex ideas hidden in Dostoevsky’s fiction. Whatever you’re researching today, this show is about helping you master the topic. You’ll find practical advice on how to take effective book notes, develop your annotation skills, and benefit from tools like a Zettelkasten or a second brain. So grab your favorite book, and let's get started.
Latest episodes

Feb 3, 2025 • 15min
When Reading FEELS Overwhelming | EP 87
Feeling overwhelmed by reading is common, but self-doubt shouldn't derail your journey. Embrace your unique path and focus on personal growth instead of comparing yourself to others online. Discover a new monthly reading approach, starting with 'How to Live or A Life of Montaigne.' Dive deep into literature and engage with its transformative power. Each book can serve as a stepping stone to understanding yourself better.

7 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 13min
How to Read Books Without Feeling Overwhelmed | EP 86
Discover the keys to enjoying reading more without feeling overwhelmed. Learn why it's perfectly fine to abandon books that don’t spark joy. Find strategies to seamlessly integrate reading into your life while taking care of your mental well-being. Embrace challenging literature for personal growth and understand how to balance popular reads with intellectually stimulating ones. Plus, tips on how a supportive community and reflective practices can enhance your reading experience!

Jan 20, 2025 • 43min
Plato's Euthyphro Rocks. Here's Why! | EP 85
Dive into the fascinating world of moral philosophy with a deep dive into Euthyphro's Dilemma. Explore whether moral laws are inherently good or simply divine commands. The discussion twists into the surprising Mormon perspective on coffee, uncovering the emotional weight behind dietary restrictions. The interplay of faith and ethics unfolds through stories of moral dilemmas in sacred texts, illustrating the complexity of defining goodness. Enjoy a refreshing take on how personal beliefs evolve beyond rigid doctrines.

11 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 13min
Do I Read Multiple Books at the Same Time? | EP 84
Can you really read multiple books at once? Dive into the art of balancing enjoyment and study as personal routines are shared. Discover how to effectively juggle non-fiction in the morning while saving fiction for night-time relaxation. Explore the joys of annotating and note-taking, plus the value of community in book clubs. This engaging discussion highlights the importance of understanding your limits and building effective reading habits.

12 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 1h
Why Flowers for Algernon Was My Favorite Book of 2024 | EP 83
Dr. Martin Jacobson, a linguistics professor with a keen focus on English literature, joins the discussion to explore the poignant themes of 'Flowers for Algernon.' They delve into the ethical dilemmas of scientific experimentation and raise thought-provoking questions about identity and consent. The conversation highlights Charlie's journey from ignorance to enlightenment, his complex relationships, and the profound loneliness that accompanies intelligence. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on love, loss, and the responsibilities that come with knowledge.

Dec 30, 2024 • 17min
How I'm Using Books to Learn a Foreign Language | EP 82
Discover how books can be powerful tools for language learning. The host shares their journey of mastering French through beloved stories like Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Personal anecdotes reveal a deep affection for Paris that fuels their linguistic passion. Learn about the effectiveness of immersive study techniques compared to gamified apps. The conversation emphasizes how classic literature not only enhances vocabulary but also enriches personal growth.

Dec 23, 2024 • 17min
My Morning Reading Routine | EP 81
I’ve spent years refining a simple, intentional morning reading routine, and in this episode, I’m sharing what works for me and why it might work for you. I’ll walk you through why morning routines are so powerful, what I do each morning, and how this practice has shaped my life. The message is clear: it’s not about what’s in your routine but that you do it every day with purpose.Send Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:🛍️ - Visit my Bookstore Online - https://edgewaterbookstore.com/ 📝 - Join my Newsletter Letter for weekly tips on reading deeply - https://www.thereadwellpodcast.com/newsletter 📚 - Join The Read Well Book Club: https://thereadwellpodcast.com/book-club/

Dec 16, 2024 • 29min
5 Lessons I Learned Reading Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals | EP 80
The discussion explores how time management isn't just about fitting more into your day but rethinking your priorities. Listeners learn to tackle the overwhelming choices of modern life, emphasizing meaningful activities. The paradox of striving for efficiency is unveiled, revealing how it often leads to more chaos. Practical tools like 'today' and 'someday cards' are introduced for better prioritization. Finally, there's a motivational push for personal growth, encouraging actionable steps toward fulfilling aspirations.

15 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 1h 19min
Philosopher’s Guide to Better Thinking: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Huemer | EP 79
In this episode, I sit down with philosopher Dr. Michael Huemer to talk about the importance of thinking critically in a world full of competing ideas. We discuss his latest book, Progressive Myths, and what it reveals about common misconceptions. Dr. Huemer also shares practical strategies for developing independent thought, and I explain how I’ve applied these lessons in my own life. If you’ve ever wanted a clear framework for navigating complex ideas, this conversation is for you.Send Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:🛍️ - Visit my Bookstore Online - https://edgewaterbookstore.com/ 📝 - Join my Newsletter Letter for weekly tips on reading deeply - https://www.thereadwellpodcast.com/newsletter 📚 - Join The Read Well Book Club: https://thereadwellpodcast.com/book-club/

Dec 2, 2024 • 37min
Every Book I Read in 2024 (With a Review) | EP 78
I’m sharing every book I read in 2024, giving quick reviews to help you decide what to pick up next year. If you’re looking for challenging ideas, deep philosophy, or just a great story, I’ve got recommendations for you.Send Me a Text Message with Your QuestionsIMPORTANT LINKS:🛍️ - Visit my Bookstore Online - https://edgewaterbookstore.com/ 📝 - Join my Newsletter Letter for weekly tips on reading deeply - https://www.thereadwellpodcast.com/newsletter 📚 - Join The Read Well Book Club: https://thereadwellpodcast.com/book-club/
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