You can’t say that it’s a question of national peculiarities or even entirely political peculiarities. I mean, I think when the technological and applied scientific means are developed they just tend to be used. I mean, I think one can say that the whole history of recent times […] shows that if you plant the seed […] it grows and it tends to grow according to the law of its own being, and the laws of its being are not necessarily the same as the laws of our being.
It’s interesting to hear an author speak about his own ideas. I’ve read Brave New World and a selection of his essays (Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow). That short video—I’m linking to YouTube, I hope I don’t regret that in another decade ¯\_(ツ)_/¯—contains a few questions; Huxley presents more questions than answers. And they’re just as relevant more than half a century later.
Clear communication is a sign of understanding. Understanding the idea to be communicated is necessary, but not sufficient, for clear communication. I think in language (I point this out because I wonder if some people don’t think in language) and that leads me to word-smithing. I’m often searching for just the right word or phrase, and then delighted with myself if I find it. Having such labels for larger ideas is a check-point for myself, internally, that I actually have understanding.
Gregory Hays, one of Marcus Aurelius’s best translators, writes in his introduction to Meditations, “If he had to be identified with a particular school, [Stoicism] is surely the one he would have chosen. Yet I suspect that if asked what it was that he studied, his answer would not have been ‘Stoicism’ but simply ‘philosophy.’”
He then notes that in the ancient world, “philosophy” was not perceived the way it is today. It played a much different role. “It was not merely a subject to write or argue about,” Hays writes, “but one that was expected to provide a ‘design for living’—a set of rules to live one’s life by.”
Just because I have a label for something—Stoicism in this case—doesn’t mean I label myself as that. The obvious reason is that my label has a lot of other context attached (in my mind) and chances are little to none that any of that context is present for another person. Labels are useful as shorthand, but only if we have the shared understanding.
Life is short. There are ends—things I have done which others can observe. There are the means I’ve chosen to those ends. And then there’s justification. I don’t have the time (nor the inclination) to explain everything—and frankly no one wants to hear that much from me (or from anyone.) I just find it interesting when I discover something I do (or say or think) for which I’ve not really thought through the labels… thought through the justification.
Pleasure, luxury—these things you call happiness, but I think that to wish nothing is the happiness of god, and when you wish to have only small things, then you make yourself closer to this divine and high happiness.
Nous abordons toutes les dimensions de la pratique depuis l’histoire jusqu’au flow, en passant par les entrainements physiques, la technique, le mental, les valeurs … Tout ce qui vous permettra de mieux comprendre et ressentir le mouvement pour pouvoir aller plus loin.
I’m really excited about this. Two friends of mine, after very much work over several years, have finished a book. It’s in French (there’s discussion of doing an English version next) and available as a digital file if you’re not in France. Two things…
And if you just thought, “lart du depla-what?!” and you’re the curious type, see my Art du Déplacement tag for my blog posts related to this beautiful movement community and its French roots.
How does creating a podcast foster meaningful connections and personal growth for both the host and the guests?
A shared journey through vulnerability reveals how podcasting fosters authentic human interaction.
It’s so important to share, and I wouldn’t assert that it’s what you have to do in order to receive— but it almost is, right? You have to give in order to receive.
~ Rien MacDonald (7:14)
The conversation revolves around the transformative power of podcasting as a medium for deepening communication and fostering authentic connections. Rien reflects on how podcasting has sharpened his listening skills and provided a platform to explore and share stories. A poignant example is his mother’s revelation of a deeply personal family secret during an interview, highlighting how vulnerability can unlock moments of unexpected emotional resonance.
Another significant topic is the balance of power in podcasting. While the host controls the technical aspects, genuine collaboration and openness foster trust and enable guests to express themselves fully. Rien also discusses their journey from meticulous editing to embracing the rawness of conversations, emphasizing the importance of shared human experiences.
Takeaways
Creating invitations through questions — Open-ended questions encourage guests to share meaningful insights.
The host’s role in vulnerability — Being authentic and sharing personal stories can inspire guests to do the same.
Magic of storytelling — A microphone often becomes a catalyst for untold stories to surface.
Transformative listening — Actively listening improves not just communication but the ability to connect with others.
Evolution of podcasting skills — Transitioning from over-editing to embracing authenticity refines the podcasting process.
Balancing power dynamics — The host’s vulnerability and kindness can counterbalance their inherent authority in a podcast setting.
Podcasting as collaboration — Episodes become meaningful through shared effort and mutual storytelling.
Personal growth through podcasting — The medium helps hosts and guests reflect on their own lives and experiences.
What role does storytelling play in learning, personal growth, and connecting with others through different mediums?
The intersection of storytelling and resilience uncovers transformative approaches to learning and sharing.
I have an older brother […] I was always trying to get his attention so I would write stories. He was into sports, so I would write a story about some football game which— I didn’t give a crap about football, but I would write a story for him about how the game went and I would tape it to his door.
~ Brigitte Cutshall (2:16)
The discussion centers around storytelling and its diverse applications in personal and professional growth. It explores how stories, whether in books, podcasts, or films, enable individuals to connect, empathize, and learn from each other’s experiences. Brigitte reflects on her journey of adapting storytelling methods across mediums, sharing how they’ve embraced podcasting despite initial reservations about recording their voice. She highlights the differences between written and spoken storytelling and how both formats have unique challenges and opportunities.
The conversation also goes into the role of storytelling in marketing and branding, emphasizing its power to build trust and convey authentic messages. Brigitte shares insights from creating a short film during the pandemic, which exemplifies how collaboration and creativity can overcome constraints. The underlying theme is resilience and positivity, showcasing how storytelling helps navigate challenges and connect meaningfully with others.
Takeaways
Storytelling as a learning tool — Sharing stories fosters connection and highlights universal experiences.
Adaptation in storytelling — Exploring different mediums such as books, podcasts, and films highlights unique opportunities and challenges.
Role of storytelling in marketing — Storytelling is a powerful tool for building trust and establishing a personal or business brand.
Positivity and resilience — Emphasizing optimism in storytelling encourages growth and helps overcome adversity.
Collaboration and creativity — Collaborative storytelling projects reveal the importance of diverse perspectives and teamwork.
How can podcasting create meaningful connections and make learning engaging and accessible?
Teaching Mandarin becomes a magical journey of exploration and discovery through storytelling.
The listeners can hear your mood and how you present it, just from your voice. So if you talk with a smile, I think they can really feel that.
~ Amanda Hsiung-Blogett (12:51)
The conversation explores the transformative potential of podcasting as a tool for teaching, storytelling, and connecting with diverse audiences. Amanda reflects on her experience of blending bilingual education with creativity, emphasizing that podcasting allows her to reach listeners in unexpected and magical ways. She shares anecdotes about feedback from listeners, like students and families, who find joy in the accessible format of her lessons. A recurring theme is the element of surprise in what resonates with audiences, from discussing everyday topics like ice cream to creating a book that evolved organically from her podcast work.
The dialogue also touches on Amanda’s journey in podcasting, the challenges of maintaining engagement without immediate feedback, and the importance of conveying emotion and intent through voice. She discusses her goal of making Mandarin language learning approachable and fun, aiming to challenge preconceived notions about its difficulty. Practical tips for podcasters include presenting with a positive tone and leveraging storytelling to create immersive experiences for listeners.
Takeaways
Magic of podcasting — Creating unseen connections with listeners through voice and storytelling.
Engaging teaching techniques — Combining bilingual formats and relatable topics to simplify complex subjects.
Listener feedback — Using audience insights to refine delivery and adapt content.
Voice as a tool — Conveying mood and intent to captivate and engage listeners.
Breaking stereotypes — Challenging the perception of Mandarin as a difficult language through fun and simple approaches.
Evolution of ideas — How a podcast can lead to unexpected projects, like writing books or developing new formats.
Impact of preparation — Reducing stress for podcast guests through clear communication and easy workflows.
Resources
Playful Chinese Podcast — Amanda’s podcast teaching Mandarin through stories and interactive lessons.
Akimbo Workshops — A community-based learning platform mentioned for its influence on the guest’s podcasting journey.
How does an obsession with movement shape personal practices and creative expression?
Exploring movement extends beyond physicality into music, art, and mindfulness.
I try to listen to whatever my heart tells me to be doing.
~ Andrew Obenreder (5:37)
The conversation explores Andrew’s lifelong obsession with movement and its far-reaching impact on personal and creative practices. Movement, in this context, is not just about physicality but also integrates art forms such as music, painting, and tattooing. Andrew describes movement as an intrinsic part of their life, dating back to childhood, where their passion extended even to the mechanical elegance of trains. He also reflects on how balance is a recurring theme—balancing creative urges, physical demands, and mental well-being.
Stress and mindfulness emerge as critical themes. Andrew challenges traditional notions of stress, suggesting it can be constructive in pushing boundaries. He also emphasize the importance of being present and prioritizing genuine desires over societal or internal pressures to perform. This perspective encourages letting go of “should” and replacing it with intentional actions aligned with personal motivations.
Takeaways
Balancing movement and creativity — Movement intertwines with various creative pursuits like art, music, and tattooing, requiring a balance between physical and mental expressions.
The role of stress — Stress can be both destructive and constructive, depending on how it is perceived and managed.
Mindfulness in practice — Remaining present and listening to immediate desires shapes both personal growth and movement practices.
The concept of “should” — Avoiding unnecessary obligations creates freedom and reduces stress.
Universal struggles — Everyone experiences moments of stagnation, regardless of expertise or experience.
Movement as identity — Movement is deeply personal and rooted in early life experiences.
Resources
MÜV — Andrew’s periodical mixing written, audio and visual mediums.
For who is the man under training? The man who practices not exercising his desire, and directing this aversion only to things that lie within the sphere of choice, and who practices the hardest in the things most difficult to achieve. So different people will have to practice harder in different respects.
Those of us who visit wild places the way others visit churches and concert halls visit because we return transfigured, recomposed, exalted and humbled at the same time, enlarged and dissolved in something larger at the same time. We visit because there we undergo some essential self-composition in the poetry of existence, though its essence rarely lends itself to words.
I’d never thought of it that way. But, maybe it is just that. There’s a definite feeling of dissolution I occasionally experience out climbing. I have been far off the trail, and perhaps the feeling is more common farther off the trail. But I’ve also experienced it standing in a parking lot, say, next to Niagara Falls. It’s a feeling of deep stillness. A feeling that all is right as rain. All of our recorded history is less than a blink in geological time scale… so there’s certainly plenty of time, at my scale, to pause right here—wherever that is, be it a mountain or desk top.
Oh, how blessed young men are who have to struggle for a foundation and beginning in life. I shall never cease to be grateful for three and half years of apprenticeship and the difficulties to be overcome, all along the way.
This rant from Seth is a couple years old, but it remains as important as ever.
I talk often about the problems with social networks. But what I’m particularly interested in is what, (if anything,) actually works to change people’s minds. I bet you can guess what works: Basically, nothing works.
I wasted a lot of time trying to explain the problems with social networks using facts and rational arguments. You know how far I got with that. One day, I stopped trying to educate and explain, and started trying to plant seeds. Little seeds of inquisition. Little seeds of self-awareness.
How do you feel when you are not on that social network?
And how do you feel after it ate your face for 2 hours?
Do you like the way you look, all hunched over with spine twisted and your face completely facing the ground?
Could you make progress on your dream if you could just find 10 hours of time a week? (As if you only spent 10 hours on social networks this week.)
Hold your phone facing you at arms length. Look just to one side and notice the actual amount of your immediate world which it occupies. How do you feel about only living within that small fraction of your world?
Visualize your death bed. (Go ahead. I’ll wait.) Now begin to list your imagined regrets as you lay dying. (Seriously. I’ll wait.) Which items on your list were related, in any way, to online social networks?
You have Seth’s thoughts. You now have my thoughts. Do you have any thoughts of your own?
Are you part of the problem, or part of the solution?
What lessons can be drawn from navigating challenges and fostering perseverance in life, community, and personal growth?
Travis Tetting joins Craig for a heartfelt discussion of his coaching journey, community, and building things from the ground up. Along the way he describes his love for his community and the rewards of coaching. Travis explains how his bond to his family and Christian faith have given him the strength to get to where he is today.
I think, at the heart, at the core of a ‘heart of thankfulness’, is that ability to see what’s shaping you and what’s improving you.
~ Travis Tetting (30:35)
The conversation explores themes of perseverance, adaptability, and community building, centered on Travis’s journey through personal and professional challenges. A detailed story of overcoming setbacks, such as an airport ordeal while en route to a pivotal certification, reveals insights into resilience and turning difficult circumstances into valuable lessons. Travis’s reflections on training and faith illustrate the balance between physical discipline and mental flexibility.
The dialogue goes into the creation and evolution of a parkour gym in a rural area, emphasizing frugality, modular design, and fostering innovation. The gym becomes a space for cultivating not just physical skills but also community bonds and personal growth. Travis shares stories of impactful teaching moments, where parkour acts as a medium for life lessons, underscoring the importance of gratitude, perseverance, and sharing in overcoming obstacles.
Takeaways
Faith and perseverance — A strong belief system helps navigate personal and professional challenges.
Adaptability under pressure — Difficult situations can provide valuable lessons in resilience and flexibility.
Building community — The process of creating and nurturing a supportive environment enhances both personal and collective growth.
The role of gratitude — Viewing hardships as opportunities for growth fosters a positive outlook.
Innovative design philosophy — Modularity and multi-purpose design in gym structures encourage creativity and problem-solving.
Teaching as transformation — Teaching parkour becomes a medium for instilling life-changing values and skills.
Life lessons through movement — Parkour transcends physical activity, teaching patience, innovation, and mental resilience.
Overcoming adversity — Stories of setbacks, such as physical injury or logistical hurdles, highlight the importance of persistence and perspective.
Resources
American Rendezvous — A parkour event discussed in the context of training and community.
Axiom Parkour — The guest’s parkour gym, emphasizing modular design and community growth.
This raises the obvious question of whether there are any basic mental operations I still don’t have, how I would recognize them if there were, and how I would learn them once I recognized them.
I truly don’t understand how he does this. This is so bootstrap-meta, I’m just left staring at it like a chicken stares right before pecking idiotically at a pebble.
A short walk up from Lily Lake is a hidden ravene with sport climbing routes galore. (There are bolts drilled into the rock making it easy to clip in for protection.)
The first rock on the left is, well, “Left Hand Rock” and is home to Dark Days (5.8), which simply runs straight up a seamingly featureless curved slope. The next rock up is Dinosaur’s Foot, with the aptly named Index Toe (5.8) and Middle Toe (5.9—).
Sloggin’ up the approach at about 7,500′.
Our first glimpse of Left Hand Rock.
Looking up Dark Days (5.8)
Mike untieing after making Dark Days look easy.
A better view of Dark Days showing the slope.
Looking up the ravene at Index Toe on Dinosaur’s Foot.
Index Toe in the foreground, with Left Hand Rock behind/downhill.
Index Toe (5.8 *) straight up this keel.
Middle Toe (5.9— **) is a nearly vertical, blank wall.
Mike’s view from Middle Toe.
From the bottom of Middle Toe, looking at an easier line to the right.
Because of styles, people are separated. Research your own experience, absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, add what is essentially your own.
The Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas are a wonderful place to live and work. Because of the density of people, tech companies and professional opportunities, I think there is a real opportunity for a community of network and systems administrators to develop.
In hindsight, I see that I’ve now spent over 18 years doing network and systems administration. Along the way, I’ve mostly had no idea what I was doing; I simply had a desire to build things and the will to figure things out. I’ve worked with fantastic people, have accomplished much, and had an insane amount of fun along the way.
This open letter is not trumpeting a grand vision. This is not a rallying cry. This is not a call to organize into any sort of formal structure.
I think it would be amazing for like-minded individuals to get together, to share knowledge and experiences, to create inroads to employment for those just starting out, to create opportunities for internship and mentoring, and much more.
Interested?
Update May 2014
After more than a year of talking to people – and I mean a lot of people – I was unable to find a single person who was interested in helping me organize the group. So the only way it was going to happen was if I did all the work of finding a location, finding sponsors, coordinating meetings and speakers, etc.
…and that’s just too much for me to do alone. :^( But definitely reach out to me if you’re interested in starting something. I’m still interested.
