Author: Craig Constantine

Connection with Fred Martin Gutierrez

September 16, 2021 · All posts on Sep 16

What is the unique power of sound as a medium to connect with others and foster understanding?

The essence of podcasting lies in its ability to preserve authenticity and humanity.

I’ve gone through a career as an architect and as a builder, and acoustics are often overlooked […] I always have this dream of building the perfect bar, or the perfect restaurant, because I think the acoustics in those spaces are more important than anything else. That ability to be with somebody, but be in public, and acoustics can influence that dramatically— or make it a horrible experience.

~ Fred Martin Gutierrez (17:16)

The conversation begins with reflections on the unique emotional resonance of sound, emphasizing how podcasting enables connection through its focus on auditory experience. Sound’s unedited authenticity, as seen in music and live conversations, is contrasted with the more curated nature of other mediums. The importance of pauses and space in fostering deeper thought and connection is highlighted, both in podcasting and in writing.

The discussion transitions into technical aspects, such as the role of acoustics in spaces like bars and restaurants, where it can enhance or detract from experiences. The conversation also touches on podcasting as a tool for self-discovery and reflection, particularly during midlife, revealing how it offers an avenue for learning and personal growth. Finally, the talk explores the human connection fostered by shared experiences, whether through podcasts, music, or even reaction videos.

Takeaways

Sound as a medium — It fosters emotional resonance and provides unique space for thought.

Authenticity in podcasting — Unedited content often delivers deeper connections and richer experiences.

Acoustics in architecture — Thoughtful sound design transforms spaces and interpersonal dynamics.

Podcasting as self-reflection — It serves as a medium for learning and personal growth, especially in transitional life phases.

Human connection — Shared experiences, even through digital formats, reveal universal aspects of empathy and compassion.

The process of creation — Crafting high-quality audio requires deliberate effort and iterative refinement.

Resources

Homeowners Institute Podcast â€” Fred’s podcast about the experience of building and creating meaningful spaces.

Krista Tippett’s “On Being” â€” A podcast exploring deep and meaningful conversations on what it means to be human.

Nate DiMeo’s “The Memory Palace” â€” A podcast blending storytelling and sound design for historical narratives.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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The roller coaster

September 16, 2021 · All posts on Sep 16

Life is not ever going to be content. Life is never going to be normal. For the rest of your life you’re on a journey that has ups and downs and ups and downs, it is a roller coaster that never ends. Until one day you close your eyes and you’re off the roller coaster. And I think for me, I just want to be on as many different journey’s as possible, so at least if I’m on a roller coaster, there’s a new zigzag and a turn that I didn’t know about before.

~ Scooter Braun

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And sometimes panic sets in

September 16, 2021 · All posts on Sep 16

Inspired by a reader’s question to me, I thought I’d ask our followers on Facebook and Twitter for an answer to the question: What books would you recommend someone read to improve their general knowledge of the world.

I must say the number and quality of the responses overwhelmed me. The box Amazon just delivered reminds me that I ordered 9 books off this list.

~ Shane Parrish, from What Books Would You Recommend Someone Read to Improve their General Knowledge of the World?

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I know there are too many books—old books, new books, red books, blue books … A friend of mine just published a book, Before You Say Anything, and Jiminy Cricket I’d love to read it— I hovered on the add-to-cart button. But I paused, managing to trigger my habit-change “wedge” of repeating: “simplfiy. simplify. simplify.” I digress.

I skimmed that list of books from Parrish and felt I should probably read every one of them. Instead—simplify. simplify. simplify.—I noted I’ve read several, have several more already in my possession, and several others on the wishlist. With a life-is-short shrug, I’m passing it along to you and moving on with my morning.

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Discovery with Monika Mašanauskaitė and Anna Szalucka

September 15, 2021 · All posts on Sep 15

How can creative collaborations, like podcasting and music installations, drive personal growth, enhance understanding of one’s craft, and foster connections with an audience?

The challenges and rewards of collaborative artistry illuminate surprising pathways to personal development.

I would never have the courage to say things which I have the courage to say when I’m with Anna. Somehow the conversation just flows, and we actually discovered new levels of philosophy or whatever. We become courageous together much more than when we are alone.

~ Monika Manauskaite (15:00)

The conversation centers on the creative journeys of two classical musicians who use innovative projects, like podcasts and music installations, to explore self-discovery and audience engagement. Anna and Monika discuss how engaging with podcasting and vlogging has shifted their mindsets, exposing them to diverse perspectives and helping them grow personally and professionally. Their experiences reveal how artistic collaboration fosters mutual courage and enhances creative outputs, as seen in their ability to explore and express new ideas together.

I realized how much I’m learning. You know, after a few months I realized I’m exposed to so many different worldviews and so many different aspects of people’s lives, and I just felt, you know, a big improvement in my mindset in everyday life.

~ Anna Szalucka (2:15)

Monika and Anna highlight their music installation project, emphasizing its impact on their understanding of their audience. The project challenged stereotypes about young people’s disinterest in classical music, revealing instead a significant curiosity when accessibility barriers are removed. They also reflect on the role of collaboration in combating self-doubt, leveraging shared passion to overcome imposter syndrome and take bold creative steps.

Takeaways

Collaboration in artistry — Discusses how working with others amplifies creativity, courage, and productivity.

Audience engagement in classical music — Highlights how accessibility can attract younger audiences to classical performances.

Self-discovery through creative work — Explores how podcasting and vlogging can reveal personal insights and deepen one’s connection to their craft.

The role of mindset — Examines how adopting a collaborative or experimental mindset can drive innovation in creative projects.

Flow state in performance — Describes the unique dynamics of achieving flow during solo versus collaborative performances.

Combatting imposter syndrome — Emphasizes the value of shared passion in overcoming self-doubt and achieving personal growth.

Innovative concert formats — Presents the idea of interactive music installations as a reimagined classical concert experience.

Resources

The Piano Phase project — Monika’s and Anna’s piano project.

Open Arted Podcast â€” Monika’s podcast mentioned as part of their exploration into creative and personal development.

Documentary of the Piano Phase Project â€” Captures their performance and interviews, providing insights into their creative process.

Steve Reich’s Piano Phase â€” The minimalistic music piece performed during their installation project.

European Capital of Culture Program â€” A platform where their next performances and cultural events will take place.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Authenticity with Ă–zlem Ă–zkan

September 15, 2021 · All posts on Sep 15

How does podcasting foster personal growth, learning, and connection?

Compassion and empathy emerge as essential skills in podcasting and beyond.

I believe by making the show, you are really expanding. I’m expanding my consciousness.

~ Ă–zlem Ă–zkan (19:41)

The conversation centers on podcasting as a tool for exploration, learning, and connection. One of the key themes discussed is the value of preparation in podcasting. Ă–zlem emphasizes the importance of deeply researching and understanding her guests to create meaningful conversations. This preparation leads to authentic exchanges, which highlight the importance of honesty and openness in both podcasting and life.

Another significant theme is the role of empathy and compassion in fostering authentic connections. The discussion touches on the challenges of being a guest or host and how people often strive for perfection, which can undermine their authenticity. Podcasting, Ă–zlem notes, has helped her practice being themselves in various settings, whether in relationships, professional interactions, or creative pursuits. The conversation also examines how listening attentively allows for deeper understanding and helps create safe spaces where genuine connections flourish.

Takeaways

Podcasting as a learning tool — Emphasized as a method for both hosts and guests to grow and gain new perspectives.

Importance of preparation — Thorough preparation allows for better conversations and helps guests feel valued.

Authenticity in podcasting — Discussed as critical for creating meaningful and memorable episodes.

The role of empathy — Highlighted as essential for connecting with guests and understanding their perspectives.

Practical strategies for hosting — Includes pre-recording rituals like music to create a relaxed and open atmosphere.

Challenges of being a guest — Addressed how striving too hard to perform well can lead to inauthenticity.

Listening as a skill — Listening attentively is portrayed as key to expanding understanding and fostering connection.

Podcasting as life practice — Lessons learned from podcasting extend into personal growth and daily interactions.

Resources

The Bridging Podcast â€” Ă–zlem’s podcast aimed at connecting people and exploring human stories.

Dalai Lama’s Teachings â€” Referenced for his views on compassion and happiness.

Zencastr â€” The platform used to record the conversation, optimizing audio quality for remote calls.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Connection with Bryon Howard

September 15, 2021 · All posts on Sep 15

How does a supportive community influence the success and motivation of podcasters?

Shared experiences and mutual encouragement shape the journey of podcasting beginners.

The magic of sound comes through… it surprises you every time.

~ Bryon Howard (9:55)

The conversation highlights the impact of community in the podcasting journey, focusing on how collaboration and mutual encouragement help creators persevere through challenges. Bryon and Craig discuss the importance of connections formed during a podcasting workshop, noting how these relationships motivated them to continue their work despite initial uncertainties. Bryon reflects on how a few key individuals in his network were instrumental in his success.

Bryon also examine the technical and emotional aspects of podcasting. The discussion includes overcoming imposter syndrome through listener feedback, practical tips for in-person and virtual recording sessions, and the value of genuine interactions. Bryon explores how podcasting, even as a hobby, can provide meaningful personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

Community as a motivator — The support and warmth of a like-minded group play a significant role in sustaining podcasters’ efforts.

Importance of listener feedback — Positive feedback, even when sparse, can validate efforts and inspire continued work.

Recording in-person vs. virtual — In-person recordings enhance shared experiences and natural timing, creating a richer connection.

Balancing passion and practicality — Podcasting can be pursued as both a hobby and a professional tool, with room for curiosity and personal interests.

Managing challenges rationally — Rational approaches to logistical and health concerns, such as in-person recording during a pandemic, ensure smooth execution.

Resources

Calgary Living: Real Estate and Lifestyle â€” Bryon’s podcast focusing on Calgary’s lifestyle and real estate insights.

Podcasting Workshop by Akimbo â€” A structured course designed to teach podcasting skills and foster community.

Movers Mindset Podcast â€” A podcast exploring the intersection of movement and personal growth.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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Men who are mortal

September 15, 2021 · All posts on Sep 15

But what if my friends there should die? What else could that signify except that men who are mortal have died? Do you at once wish to live to be old, and yet not to see the death of any one you love? Do you not know that, in a long course of time, many and various events must necessarily happen? That a fever must get the better of one person, a highwayman of another, a tyrant of a third?

~ Epictetus

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Mastery, purpose, and autonomy

September 15, 2021 · All posts on Sep 15

A highly influential book for me in designing Automattic was Daniel Pink’s Drive, where he eloquently introduces the three things that really matter in motivating people: mastery, purpose, and autonomy. Mastery is the urge to get better skills. Purpose is the desire to do something that has meaning, that’s bigger than yourself. These first two principles physically co-located companies can be great at. But the third, autonomy, is where even the best in-office company can never match a Level 4 or above distributed company.

~ Matt Mullenweg from, Distributed Work’s Five Levels of Autonomy | Matt Mullenweg

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I’ve read and listened to a bunch of stuff from Mullenweg and he’s consistently someone with his head on straight and his priorities—particularly those related to the many people working for his company—in order. If you just went, “Matt who?” definitely read that little post, and then, perhaps, dip into his podcast, Distributed. (Maybe try the episode, Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg on building a fully distributed company, to get a good taste.)

Also, yes, more autonomy for everyone.

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Silent majority

September 14, 2021 · All posts on Sep 14

The great biographer Robert Caro once said, “Power doesn’t always corrupt, but power always reveals.” Perhaps the same is true of the most powerful networks in human history.

Social media has not corrupted us, it’s merely revealed who we always were.

~ Mark Manson from, The Real Dangers of Social Media

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There’s a lot of good—writing, concepts, anecdote, data—in this article. But the thing that leapt out at me was something I’d already known, but seem to have forgotten… or, if not fully forgotten, I’d failed to connect it to other things in my model of the world: The idea of the silent majority.

About 90% of the people participating on social networks, are not even participating. They’re simply observing. It turns out that the other 10% are the people with extreme views; not “blow stuff up” extreme, but simply more towards the opposing ends of whatever spectrum of views you care to consider.

Two things to consider: First, boy howdy guilty as charged! I’m on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn— but the only content I post is related to my projects. I don’t engage with anything, reshare… or even, really, participate unless it’s related to a project. *face palm* Woa! I’m literally a member of the silent majority. Perhaps you are to? If 10 of you are reading, then 9 of you are just like me.

Second, because math! If you look at the stream we all like to say, “it’s endless!” Right. There must be thousands of posts, right? I’ll pause while you do math… right. If there are only thousands of posts for me to see, I’m clearly not seeing all the activity from the millions of people. Sure, some of that is the platform filtering, but I have the feeling that the numbers hold true: If everyone posted a lot we’d have thousands of times more stuff flying around.

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The security of your condition

September 13, 2021 · All posts on Sep 13

Somebody has arrived from Rome. “I only hope there is no bad news.” Why, what harm can happen to you when you are not there? — Somebody has arrived from Greece. “I only hope there is no bad news.” Why, at this rate, every place can be the cause of misfortune to you. Is it not enough for you to be unfortunate where you are, but must you be unhappy on the other side of the sea also, and by letter? Such is the security of your condition!

~ Epictetus

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Just one good idea

September 13, 2021 · All posts on Sep 13

I believe the standard how-to book contains too much new stuff for a human brain to take on board once, or at least it does for my brain. Implementing a single habit – flossing before bed, for example – is something most people can do if they’re really focusing on it, but even that is hard. Converting your workday into the full-bore Pomodoro system, or (God help you) the GTD system, represents a dozen or more habits that all have to come online more or less at the same time.

~ David Cain from, How to Get Things Done When You Have Trouble Getting Things Done

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This is an unusual post from Cain. It is very much nuts-and-bolts material—ending in a pitch for a book of his own—rather than his usual philosophical pontifications. To his observation quoted above I’d like to add the following: If I am able to find just one good idea in a book which I can implement, then I get very excited.

For example, one can read many books and come away with new ideas. (Man’s Search for Meaning, or Leaves of Grass, spring to mind as examples.) But the vast majority of books do not contain actionable things that can be implemented to make a difference in your life. An idea like, “be the change you want to see in the world,” is sublime. But how—be specific in your thinking here—do I do that? There are many examples: “Practice gratitude.” How, exactly? And compare that to the same idea, in actionable form: “Begin each day by writing down three things for which you are grateful.”

I’m not trying to denigrate great ideas. I’m trying to explain my sheer delight when I do find a great idea which is readily attemptable. Many of those actionable ideas still fall by the wayside, but a few of them have really stuck and served me well.

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Risk and reward

September 12, 2021 · All posts on Sep 12

If you take risk out of climbing, it’s not climbing anymore.

~ Yvon Chouinard from, «https://www.rockandice.com/people/yvon-chouinard-what-ive-learned/»

Just checking: Be sure you know who Yvon Chouinard is.

Risk is everywhere. If you’re not a climber, I’d venture to guess that you regularly ride in automobiles, which is the most dangerous thing you regularly do. It’s not particularly risky—the chances of catastrophe are low. And it’s a risk I’m comfortable with. Comfortable in both senses: I’ve rationally assessed the risk and do what I can to reduce that risk, and I’ve been exposed to the risk so often that it no longer evinces a visceral reaction.

Certainly, in climbing the objective hazards loom larger; when you’re looking down on large birds cruising the ridge-lift, your physical perspective shifts your mental perspective on life. But there are objective hazards everywhere. For me, I like to do everything reasonable to reduce all of the risks, but knowing that the risks exist— spending some time each day sitting with those risks, knowing I cannot fully eliminate all of them— that’s living.

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If it’s good enough for Faraday

September 11, 2021 · All posts on Sep 11

In part, Faraday credits his own “inventing the method of invention” to reading Watts’s books, particularly The Improvement of the Mind — a self improvement guide a few centuries before the internet. Watts recommended keeping a commonplace book to record facts, and Faraday did. Watts recommended he be guided by observed facts, and Faraday was. Watts recommended finding a great teacher, and Faraday starting attending lectures.

~ Shane Parrish from, Isaac Watts and the Improvement of the Mind

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Yes, that Michael Faraday. And book ordered.

I’m a vigorous agreer with Will Smith’s comments about reading, (and I believe him regarding running but my body is not yet on board.) I hope that reading this book is a wonderful exercise in, “I already knew that. And that. And also that.” However, my current traipsing through, A College Manual of Rhetoric has proven to be a font of—apparently—long forgotten by most everyone, gems. As such, I’m willing to bet my hoped-for reading of, The Improvement of the Mind will turn out similarly.

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Alignment with Karen Bailey

September 10, 2021 · All posts on Sep 10

How can storytelling and purpose be effectively integrated into business and podcasting to create meaningful impact?

Explore the transformative power of storytelling for purpose-driven leaders and entrepreneurs.

I don’t know if it’s introverts or extroverts, or necessarily these characterizations. But I think that there are people that are generally kind of thinking really big picture, and maybe community-oriented. But they have to be paired up with these implementors, and these ‘takers’—as I call them—to bring this stuff to life. I keep seeing this pattern in a lot of different places, and people use a lot of different language to describe them.

~ Karen Bailey (10:18)

The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating storytelling into business and podcasting, focusing on its ability to make abstract concepts like purpose tangible and actionable. Storytelling is framed as a tool not just for engagement but for education and leadership, offering insights into how businesses can clarify their purpose and create meaningful impacts on their communities and stakeholders. Karen shares her personal journey from blogging about purpose to podcasting, highlighting how audio storytelling allowed for richer, more dynamic sharing of ideas.

The conversation also explores the characteristics of purpose-driven leadership and the dynamic between “idea makers” and “idea takers.” Emphasis is placed on the synergy between these roles, with practical examples of how they complement each other in successful businesses. The value of collaboration, community, and accountability among podcasters is discussed as a key driver for overcoming challenges and achieving goals. The exchange concludes with reflections on the importance of clarity and intentionality in both podcasting and broader business efforts.

Takeaways

Storytelling in business — It serves as a tool for making purpose more tangible and relatable.

Shifting market expectations — Consumers and employees increasingly value purpose-driven organizations.

Synergy between roles — The interplay of “idea makers” and “idea takers” is crucial for implementing visions.

Purpose-driven podcasting — Audio storytelling enriches the ability to share diverse voices and insights.

Community and accountability — Connecting with peers helps overcome challenges and fosters growth.

Constraints and creativity — Both freedom and restrictions can stimulate innovative thinking.

Alignment and action — Clarifying and aligning purpose with actions enhances impact on communities.

Resources

Alignd on Purpose â€” Karen’s consulting firm helping business owners define their purpose and align their organization around it.

The Corporate Purpose Podcast — Karen’s podcast.

Start With Why â€” Simon Sinek’s book discussing the importance of understanding purpose.

The Four Tendencies — Gretchen Rubin’s book describing a framework for understanding motivation and behavior.

Quiet â€” Susan Cain’s book about the power of introverts in a world that values extroversion.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

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The school is a surgery

September 10, 2021 · All posts on Sep 10

The school of a philosopher is a surgery. You should not depart from it in pleasure, but in pain, for you are not healthy when you come in, but one of you has a dislocated shoulder, another an abscess, another a fistula, another a headache. And am I to come up with pretty thoughts and reflections, so that each of you will go away praising me, but with the same dislocated shoulder, the same aching head, the same fistula, and the same abscess that you brought in?

~ Epictetus

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