Socrates knew how a rational soul is moved; that it is like a balance, and if a weight is thrown in the scale, it will incline whether you wish it or not. Show the rational governing faculty a contradiction, and it will renounce it; but if you fail to do so, blame yourself rather than the person whom you are unable to convince.
~ Epictetus
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Most of us are content to live in a world where time is simply what a clock reads. The interdisciplinary artist Alicia Eggert is not. Through co-opting clocks and forms of commercial signage (billboards, neon signs, inflatable nylon of the kind that animates the air dancers in the parking lots of auto dealerships), Eggert makes conceptual art that invites us to experience the dimensions of time through the language we use to talk about it.
~ Ahmed Kabil from, How Long is Now? – Long Now
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Thinking about the nature of time always feels like trying to find the other edge of the Mobius strip. At first, I’m mildly excited to be reminded of such a simple thing. It’s such an interesting thing to think about. I go around and around trying to grasp different time scales, and the entire expanse of time. But soon I realize that I’m really only thinking in circles. Is there a takeaway beyond, “being mindful is good”?
Or does simply performing the awareness of time and the circular thinking, somehow reset—or recenter, or realign?—my thinking? Reset my thinking in the same way that one resets the drum-brakes on your car, by backing-up and then braking firmly causes the drum brakes to adjust their grip on the brake cable.
Also, see other branching from when.
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Khan’s first powerful victories came from the reorganization of his military units, splitting his soldiers into groups of ten. This he stole from neighboring Turkic tribes, and unknowingly converted the Mongols to the decimal system. Soon enough, their expanding empire brought them into contact with another “technology” they’d never experienced before: walled cities. In the Tangut raids, Khan first learned the ins and outs of war against fortified cities and the strategies critical to laying siege, and quickly became an expert. Later, with help from Chinese engineers, he taught his soldiers how to build siege machines that could knock down city walls. In his campaigns against the Jurched, Khan learned the importance of winning hearts and minds. By working with the scholars and royal family of the lands he conquered, Khan was able to hold on to and manage these territories in ways that most empires could not. Afterward, in every country or city he held, Khan would call for the smartest astrologers, scribes, doctors, thinkers, and advisers—anyone who could aid his troops and their efforts. His troops traveled with interrogators and translators for precisely this purpose.
~ Shane Parrish from, Ego is the Enemy: The Legend of Genghis Khan
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My understanding had been that Khan was a slew of things—vicious, ruthless, indefatigable, insatiable—which I’m certain I’d picked up through osmosis from countless small direct portrayals and indirect mentions I encountered randomly. I try not to rely on entertainment to be educating, but I hadn’t looked into this larger-than-life historical figure, and had wound up ill-informed.
This piece from Shane Parrish goes on to talk about humility. I don’t think anyone would have used that word to describe Khan. But it does make sense! What would someone who is humble do? (Click through. Click through!) They’d be continuously learning and always open to new ideas. They’d be searching for people who can teach them things. Sure, Khan went a step or three further to burn, pillage, etc. But he also did that continuous-improvement thing.
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The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say no to almost everything.
~ Warren Buffett
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I think many people assume, wrongly, that a company exists simply to make money. While this is an important result of a company’s existence, we have to go deeper and find the real reasons for our being. As we investigate this, we inevitably come to the conclusion that a group of people get together and exist as an institution that we call a company so they are able to accomplish something collectively which they could not accomplish separately. They are able to do something worthwhile— they make a contribution to society (a phrase which sounds trite but is fundamental).
~ David Packard Jr. from, The HP Way: Dave Packard on How to Operate a Company
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“Important result,” as in: One way to measure value created is to use accounting, and money is a wonderfully well-understood thing with which to keep account. There are other ways to measure value creation, obviously. But even a not-for-profit company has to keep account of it’s balance; if its income doesn’t balance expense, eventually the creditors will cease extending their services. Everything—people, companies, communities—is somewhere on the spectrum from consumption thru creation, via accounting of value. The magic sauce is our minds. We each use our minds to create value, and we each find a vehicle for taking our ideas to fruition.
Anyway, that’s how I see it.
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How can curiosity and nuanced listening enhance meaningful conversations, particularly in the context of podcasting?
A podcaster reveals how embracing curiosity and patience leads to unexpected and powerful storytelling.
The beauty of finding nuance is that it trains you to be a better listener, and it helps—at least it helps me—because I’m just infinitely curious. If you’re infinitely curious, you’re probably going to ask questions, or let people talk or give you more information, or again— looking for that gold nugget.
~ Emeric McCleary (5:04)
This conversation explores the value of nuanced listening and Emeric’s strategies for fostering meaningful conversations on his podcast. It begins with a discussion of the word “nuance” and its role in revealing subtle distinctions and insights within human interactions. He explains his process of recording long-form conversations, sometimes spanning hours, as a method to uncover the “golden moments” of authenticity and depth that arise over time. His podcast aims to provide hope and humor for widowed individuals, often featuring irreverent and candid topics that encourage openness and connection.
The conversation also addresses how curiosity plays a central role in crafting engaging episodes. Emeric reflects on how letting go of control and allowing guests to “unfold their stories” leads to unexpected discoveries. He shares his vetting process for guests, emphasizing the importance of selecting individuals who can engage deeply and authentically. Key influences like Joe Rogan’s interviewing techniques and resources such as “Never Split the Difference” are mentioned as tools for improving listening skills and uncovering deeper layers in conversations.
Takeaways
Curiosity as a foundation — Curiosity drives meaningful exchanges and trains listeners to explore subtle distinctions.
Long-form conversations — Recording sessions lasting several hours often reveal unexpected and authentic moments.
Vetting guests — Careful pre-screening ensures that potential guests can engage deeply and resonate with the podcast’s tone.
Nuance in podcasting — Allowing guests to unfold their stories fosters authenticity and richer discussions.
Listening as a skill — Effective listening enhances empathy, communication, and the ability to find hidden insights.
Resources
My Spouse Died Too podcast — Emeric’s podcast gives hope, so you can heal, find love again, and give grief the middle finger.
Never Split the Difference — Chris Voss’s book teaching negotiation and listening techniques to uncover unknown unknowns.
Joe Rogan Podcast — Referenced as an example of effective interviewing and curiosity-driven conversation.
Freakonomics Radio — Mentioned as a resource for learning engaging questioning techniques.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
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I’m starting to see the unifying principle behind all the philosophies that really appeal to me (e.g. Buddhism, Stoicism, Arnold Schwarzenegger). They view all of life’s moments as having equal value, at least where it counts, and what counts is your skill in embracing the moments that make up your life.
It’s a genius idea, possibly the smartest thing human beings ever came up with. Embracing all moments as a rule transforms every day into precisely what you’re looking for: an interesting variety of experiences, every one of which offers you what you value, regardless of what happens in particular.
~ David Cain from, When All Moments Have Equal Value
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In addition to the sources listed by Cain, I’d add Jerzey Gregorek.
To me, this is all about mindfulness. Practicing being aware of each moment is a terrific way to swim in the joy of life. All the struggle and worry comes from my setting expectations—reasonable or otherwise makes no difference—which are always frustrated by the vast complexity of reality.
I’m fond of the Chinese proverb: “If things are going badly, relax, they won’t last. If things are going well, relax, they won’t last.” It’s of course super-helpful to be reminded to relax. But it’s far more helpful to be reminded that there’s really no difference between the “going badly” and “going well” parts, which brings me again to Cain’s point.
Choose what at first appears to be the harder path, because it is—as you soon discover—actually the easier path.
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What is the role of podcasting in creating possibilities for connection, transformation, and personal growth?
A single email or podcast episode can spark life-changing connections and opportunities.
You don’t know what’s going to happen. You don’t know if there’s going to be a chance to talk to somebody. […] There is a big emphasis on possibility right? You are trying to reach out to somebody to have a conversation, and that space between an idea, to then having an incredible conversation, is full of possibility, full of uncertainty, full of potential.
~ David Nebinski (1:29)
This conversation examines the intersection of podcasting, creativity, and possibility. It begins with the idea that podcasting is more than conversations—it’s an exploration of potential. David reflects on how podcasts can create unique connections, foster trust, and spark transformative experiences. Possibility, in this context, is framed as the unpredictable and magical space between starting an idea and creating something meaningful.
The discussion also touches on practical and creative aspects of podcasting. Topics include strategies for sustaining creativity, managing constraints, and experimenting with formats such as roundtables, curated episodes, and thematic compilations. David emphasizes the importance of consistency, passion, and community support while highlighting how the medium inspires personal growth and strengthens connections with others.
Takeaways
The power of possibility — Podcasting provides a space for unexpected and transformative opportunities.
Connection and trust — Conversations in podcasting foster unique bonds that differ from ordinary interactions.
Creative experimentation — Exploring different formats keeps podcasting fresh and engaging.
Consistency and passion — Maintaining a regular schedule fuels the creative process and supports long-term growth.
Community and collaboration — Communities play a vital role in celebrating, supporting, and inspiring podcasters.
Sparking opportunities — A single email or introduction can open doors to significant relationships and collaborations.
The thrill of outreach — Reaching out to potential guests and reconnecting with old contacts energizes the podcasting process.
Resources
Portfolio Career Podcast — David’s podcast helping people build and grow their portfolio careers.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
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When one of the company said to him, “convince me that logic is useful,” he said, … Would you like me to demonstrate it to you? Then I must make use of a demonstrative argument? And how will you know, then, whether I am deceiving you with a sophism? And when the man remained silent, he said, … You see how you yourself admit that logic is necessary, since without it you cannot even determine whether it is necessary or not.
~ Epictetus
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It begins to look, more and more disturbingly, as if the gift of language is the single human trait that marks us all genetically, setting us apart from all the rest of life. Language is, like nest building or hive making, the universal and biologically specific activity of human beings. We engage in it communally, compulsively, and automatically. We cannot be human without it; if we were to be separated from it our minds would die, as surely as bees lost from the hive.
~ Lewis Thomas from, Lewis Thomas on our Social Nature and “Getting the Air Right”
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I’m going to guess you just spent some time trying to work out what I mean to convey through this assembly of: my title, that pull-quote, who might Thomas be, and that bit of vaguely familiar Latin. Interesting.
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If progress is real despite our whining, it is not because we are born any healthier, better, or wiser than infants were in the past, but because we are born to a richer heritage, born on a higher level of that pedestal which the accumulation of knowledge and art raises as the ground and support of our being. The heritage rises, and man rises in proportion as he receives it.
~ Will and Ariel Durant from, Is Human Progress Real or An Illusion?
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So much is written and discussed about history: recording it, studying it, learning (or not) from it, does it repeat or rhyme, etc.. But why don’t more people talk about each of our personal histories? The most important thing— The thing I unequivocally must do, and must do first, is to take care of myself. (“Put on your own oxygen mask before attempting to assist others.”) I must put myself first. I must be the change I want to see in the world. Only if I am healthy, empowered, and vigrously prepared can I sally forth to do good things.
Certainly, I can work on myself by studying humanity’s history for lessons. You know what works better? Studying my history, because there are so many questions I can usefully ask of myself. What couldn’t I accomplish if I spent decades studying my own history and studying humanity’s?
That would be real progress.
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Work will happen 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, if you let it. We are all in that place where we are all letting it for some reason, and I don’t know why.
~ Shonda Rhimes
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These small “Skipper” butterflies aren’t particularly rare, but I don’t believe I’ve ever noticed them before this season. On the other hand, I do spend a lot of time working at the table—the end of which is in the photo. And this year, in the bed adjacent, Tracy planted two plants about which all pollinators are passionate. It’s an unending air show of Lepidoptera and Apoidea.
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The aim of fusion research is to develop a climate- and environmentally-friendly power plant. Similar to the sun, it is to generate energy from the fusion of atomic nuclei. Because the fusion fire only ignites at temperatures above 100 million degrees, the fuel—a low-density hydrogen plasma—must not come into contact with cold vessel walls. Held by magnetic fields, it floats almost contact-free inside a vacuum chamber.
~ Max Planck Society, from The Wendelstein 7-X concept proves its efficiency
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I’ve been following the phys.org syndication feed for, like 20 years. It kicks out a lot of posts. (About 840 each month in fact. Which I can tell by looking in my account at feedbin.com.) I’ve been watching from afar for decades as we humans try to figure out nuclear fusion.
The sun fuses light elements—Hydrogen mostly—creating slightly heavier elements—Helium mostly. Our bombs and nuclear reactors go in the other direction: They take very rare, very heavy elements—like Uranium-238 which is even more rare than it’s very rare “normal” Uranium that has 235 protons and neutrons in its nucleus—and break them apart releasing an enormous amount of energy. But breaking them apart is fairly easy. Uranium is such a big fat nucleus that it breaks apart on its own. (That’s what Radon gas comes from in your house.) Fission is pretty easy.
Fusion on the other hand is insanely difficult. You have to push two protons very close together before they decide to stick together. But when they do stick you get energy out. Hydrogen only has one proton in it’s nucleus, and the center of the sun is literally a churning soup of protons and free-roaming electrons. Gravity squeezes it more and more. Millions of degrees. Inconceivable pressures. The material is so dense, so opaque, that the light produced by the little Heliums getting created bounces around inside so much, it helps balance the gravitational crushing. In fact, the light that leaves the sun is only a tiny fraction of the energy being generated. Most of it just fights gravity off. Yes, the solar energy reaching Earth is a tiny fraction, of a tiny fraction of the total energy the sun produces.
Yeah. We humans have figured out how to do that. In fact, we have two very different engineering solutions—the “tokomak” and the “Wendelstein 7-X”. They work. We can put cheap, abundant, harmless Hydrogen in and it creates Helium. Yes, with a net outflow of energy. Years ago, we could do it for fractions of a second, but it consumed more energy than we got back out. But now, today, these two devices literally consume Hydrogen and spit out Helium. Pure, magic. You get so much energy out from Fusion, it’d be trivial to split good old water apart… push that little Oxygen in H2O off using electrolosys and send the Oxygen elsewhere. (It has lots of applications.)
Ever see some sci-fi movie where the people find alien technology? They’re all like, “ooooooh, look at this suitcase sized power supply that runs the whole ship” and “how’s that work” and “alien science.”
Yeah. That shit up top there in that phys.org article. BAM! Human science. Pure magic.
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Characteristics of the rational soul: Self-perception, self-examination, and the power to make of itself whatever it wants. … It surveys the world and the empty space around it, and the way it’s put together. It delves into the endlessness of time to extend its grasp and comprehension of the periodic births and rebirths that the world goes through. It knows that those who came after us will see nothing different, that those who came before us saw no more than we do, and that anyone with forty years behind him and eyes in his head has seen both past and future—both alike.
~ Marcus Aurelius
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An embarrassment of riches swamps me. I have so arranged things that everywhere I turn I find inspiring ideas, growth-catalyzing goals, and outlandish opportunities.
This morning I tenderly cracked open a new-to-me book, (Community: The Structure of Belonging by P Block, 2nd ed., 2018,) and inserted a bright blue, ribbon bookmark. I turned past the first page, then past the second page, and read the dedication:
To Maggie — In appreciation for your commitment, intelligence, love, and integrity that make what I do possible. You are a placeholder for all who give their talents and love in support of others. Your question “Who will do what by when?” changes the world.
~ Peter Block, ibid.
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I have never had that particular formulation in mind. But I’ve had that sentiment as a driving force for decades. Thank you “Maggie” and Peter Block for making something so long fuzzy for me, perfectly clear.
Yes, indeed! Who will do what by when?
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Last weekend, while helping friends pack-house, I found this book:
Wait! Don’t do the math on a book from 1907, and a college student taking Rhetoric in 1924. :)
Instead of packing it, I borrowed the book wondering if this James Sears Baldwin might just be the Baldwin. This is a dry book. But it’s also teaching me a ton about writing. The author hasn’t cracked even the slightest smile in the first 37 pages of this 400+ page tome. But the Baldwin quote I’d love to find within, might just be the sort of pithy thing this author would drop near the end.
Yes, I am willing to read a 400+ page tome on the off chance that I find the quote and get the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of finding an original attribution for a well-known quote. I digress.
By page 30, I had seen a whole bunch these little diagonal marks, but hadn’t really figured out what she was trying to imply.
Then it hit me. Quotes! It’s a diagonal line with a quote on the diagonal line. She’s delineating quotations. I’m guessing that she must have written a paper—who’d expect that in a Rhetoric class, right?—and I bet she came back through and marked the quotation sections. At the same instant that I figured it out, my up-to-then habit of drawing a full line across the page, (often a long line, then up or down a line, and then finish going across, to “cut” in the middle of a line,) seemed dumb.
Thank you Miss Merrill. This looks just way cooler:
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How can parents and younger generations better prepare for an uncertain future shaped by technology, education, and climate change?
A personal journey reveals the link between decision-making and courageous parenting.
I realized that the future that I thought—as a parent, who grew up as somebody else’s child—I was parenting as I was parented, not as my intellect was telling me I should parent.
~ Karena de Souza (8:23)
This conversation explores the intersection of futurism, parenting, and the challenges of preparing for an unpredictable world. Karena discusses her journey into podcasting and book writing, driven by a desire to engage younger generations and their parents in critical discussions about technology, education, and societal shifts. She emphasizes the importance of equipping children with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a future dominated by uncertainty and rapid change.
Key themes include the evolving nature of work and the need for parents to adapt their approaches to align with new realities. Karena shares her insights into how decision-making skills can be cultivated and applied, using anecdotes from her life and travels. Climate change is highlighted as a significant focus, with an emphasis on fostering hope and resilience while addressing the challenges it presents to future generations.
Takeaways
Futurism as a mindset — Imagining both positive and negative scenarios to prepare for an uncertain future.
Parenting challenges — Encouraging parents to reconsider traditional advice to better align with technological and societal changes.
Generational shifts — Exploring how Generation Z’s unique position as digital natives influences their approach to work and life.
Decision-making skills — Using real-life examples to illustrate how structured decision-making can improve adaptability.
Climate change and hope — Addressing the intersection of environmental issues and the future of work while fostering optimism.
Effective communication — Tailoring messages for diverse audiences, such as parents and younger generations.
Bookwriting journey — Sharing the creative process of connecting futurist themes with personal experiences.
Resources
Contours of Courageous Parenting — Karena’s book focused on helping parents equip their children with skills to navigate an uncertain future.
Akimbo Podcasting Fellowship — A program that introduces participants to the world of podcasting.
Rules for Radicals — A book by Saul Alinsky mentioned in the discussion for its insights into effecting change.
Generational Z Research — Research on the unique traits and challenges facing Generation Z.
Future of Work Studies — Studies examining how technology and societal changes shape work environments.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
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Dreams come true. You just have to be willing to work for them.
~ Annie Mist Þórisdóttir
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Find more pleasure in intelligent dissent than in passive agreement, for, if you value intelligence as you should, the former implies a deeper agreement than the latter.
~ Bertrand Russell
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