The Art of Noticing

Today I noticed that after a year of recording the Art of Noticing podcast, it's time to retire it in favor of spending the same creative time on other ventures that better match my creative goals, rather than continuing “just because I've been doing it so far.” The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that there are two main reasons to do anything you're not outright required to do: 1) because it's your job in some way (and in some way helps you earn a living) or 2) for joy. As creators, we need to carefully balance the two and always put our limited creative resources where they will serve us — and the world — best. WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the best way to truly see the value of and best ways to do something is to stop doing that thing entirely for a while. When I return to that thing, even if it felt important when I stopped, I sometimes realize there's no point in doing it at all anymore.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that taking a step back and allowing ourselves to disengage from a practice or pursuit can provide needed perspective to reevaluate its worth and potentially let go of what no longer serves us.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that when I write a blog post, I sometimes think it will be incoherent or not that good, but when I'm at the end and read them fully, they're always much, much better than I expected.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that we can be poor judges of our own work in the midst of creating it. By persisting through self-doubt, the final product often reveals itself as more coherent and impactful than we anticipated.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that on expressways embankments, the grass appears to have been mowed almost vertically, or at least at extreme angles. I'd think the mowers would tip over.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that there are often ingenious solutions to challenges we're unaware of that defy our assumptions about apparent limitations or risks.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that sometimes, it's actually not best to "get to work and get it done." Sometimes, the drive to plow through work is counterproductive, and I should instead obey my desire to do what feels like "slacking off."The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that conventional productivity wisdom doesn't always apply. Respecting our body and mind's natural ebbs and flows can paradoxically increase our effectiveness over forced continuous effort.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that usually, coughing is nothing more than needing to scratch an itch in your throat, where fingers can't (or shouldn't!) reach. The cough is like scratching it with muscular contractions and air.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that things are often different than we assume based on our surface-level understanding. What seems to serve one purpose may actually have another underlying function that isn't immediately apparent.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that at my gym, the urinals don't need water to flush. I don't understand how that works, but it does.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that there are innovative solutions to problems that may defy our conventional understanding, and yet they work. Somehow.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that talented people often downplay or don't believe fully in their talents. The things they do that are extraordinary are ordinary to them, and they think "anyone could do this" even though most people never could.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that competence isn't immune to a lack of self-awareness … in this case, about one's own amazing abilities. When something comes naturally, it's easy to lose perspective on how special that skill actually is.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that I've been telling the wrong audiences about the wrong aspects of my business: telling the writers about my new books that only readers would care about, and talking about the creative process with readers - things that only writers would care about. I just assumed everyone is interested in everything, but that's not true.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that to truly connect and resonate, you must deeply understand your specific audience and tailor your messaging to directly speak to their particular interests and perspectives..WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the Broadway show Wicked retold a familiar story from a completely different character perspective than The Wizard of Oz, and made us see a whole different side of the story.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that shifting perspective and telling a well-known narrative through a new lens can reveal profound new insights and depth that drastically alter the original interpretation.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that despite being watered and getting sun, the plant on my desk never gets any bigger. This species can grow quite large but is not.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that sometimes even when the basic requirements are met, environmental factors or circumstances can still prevent growth and the full realization of potential … for creatives and characters as much as plants.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that my climbing gym, which had banned traditional powdered chalk in favor of liquid chalk during COVID, now allows powdered chalk again.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that while emergency circumstances may necessitate reactive, short-term systemic shifts, going back to earlier ways always lurks in the background.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the only real distinction between illegally-profited-from fan fiction and officially licensed/authorized derivative works is only the amount of time passed since the original property's creation.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that concepts of creative ownership and legitimacy are more contextual than we usually think. WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that even though I thought dentists didn't provide nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") anymore, it turns out they do.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to not assume, and to question the sources of our thoughts. Supposed "knowns" can persist as remnants of outdated knowledge.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the famous bluebonnet flowers on Texas roadsides each spring seem like they might be being eclipsed by a multiplying orange flower among them.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that things always change … period.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that after experiencing a total solar eclipse, the most impressive stuff, by a long shot, only happens during totality, when the moon fully covers the sun. The other 99% of the eclipse is interesting, but pales in comparison.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that there can be transcendent moments when everything converges in a special way, but they're fleeting compared to a well-planned build-up. Writers should identify and maximize our narrative's “total eclipses.”WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed when editing transcripts of my own spoken words how much my verbal communication differs from how I express myself in writing.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that different modes and contexts of expression can reveal distinct sides of a communicator's voice, personality, and mindset. We present variations of ourselves naturally depending on the medium.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that even after taking long breaks from running, I don't seem to lose much cardiovascular endurance. When I start up again after weeks or months off, running still feels relatively easy, which is weird.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that some skills, experiences, and attributes can become deeply ingrained parts of us that last longer than we might assume, even when we step away from them temporarily. In the same way, our histories and formative experiences leave their own marks.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that in Chicago, everyone honks their horns constantly and often for no real purpose. This was culture shock, seeing as in Austin, you don't hear much honking at all. It guess it's a different cultural norm between the two.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that local customs and behaviors (even small ones) can greatly impact the texture of a setting. Watching for the unique quirks that differentiate one community from another gives a story authenticity.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that I've been misspelling the names of two different people for a long time without them ever correcting me. As someone who values having my own name spelled correctly, I was embarrassed afterrealizing my mistake that they had allowed to continue without saying anything.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that small gestures of clarifying details, even if initially awkward, help build understanding between people. We shouldn't make assumptions about what is or isn't important to others based on our own perspectives. Simple open communication is the key to real connection.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that in a TV show episode I've seen many times before, a character who gets shot actually dies — something I had completely overlooked somehow before now. Not sure how I missed it …The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that even when we think we know a story inside and out, maintaining a fresh perspective can reveal overlooked nuances and details. Complacency leads us to make assumptions, while active engagement allows us to pick up on important storylines or character moments we previously missed.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how many things now require almost no human interaction, like ordering food at Panera and McDonald's through computer kiosks. Simple encounters that once involved human interaction now require virtually none at all.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that while increased efficiency has benefits, we should keep an eye on how replacing human connection with technology impacts social fabric and individual experiences. There's value in person-to-person engagement that shouldn't be dismissed.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that as an author selling books, my entire business model just underwent a paradigm shift. Instead of primarily selling through third-party retailers, I'm now launching books first on Kickstarter, then selling directly through my own online store, and only then putting my books up on places like Barnes & Noble and Amazon.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that creators can benefit from rethinking established norms and shaking up their usual paths. Questioning assumptions about how things "should" be done opens up new possibilities for connecting more directly with audiences.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the 1978 movie Jaws, totally holds up despite being 45 years old. It's still fresh and gripping today, and for the most part hasn't become dated (or lost its intensity) over time.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that truly iconic creative works are timeless. Stories that tap into primal human experiences like fear, courage and nature's power have resonance that keeps them engaging for new audiences across generations.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I learned that kids are sort of like planes. When we were talking about letting our kids do their own thing, my friend gave me an interesting metaphor: not worrying about his daughters dating was like taking his first flight in a plane he had rebuilt. At some point with the plane, he had to trust that he'd done all he could, and the plane would either fly or not based on the work he'd done previously. Same, he said, with “letting go” of the need to micromanage his kids.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that in creative pursuits, as in parenting, there comes a point when you must have faith in the foundations you've laid and release your work into the world without trying to control every outcome.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that I've been doing things in my business more out of habit and momentum than any real reason at all. Once I looked at it all with fresh eyes, I realized I was able to stop doing a lot of stuff that was a lot of work for no real benefit.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the importance of continually re-evaluating priorities to avoid becoming engulfed by inertia. Old habits and patterns can keep you from growing if you never check in with why you're doing them. Conscious introspection, on the other hand, will keep you pivoting toward what energizes you.WANT MORE?Members at johnnybtruant.substack.com get extra episodes of the podcast, behind-the-scenes peeks, and access to my members-only One-Drink Book Club podcast (listen to a sample episode here) … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

During a recent drive I noticed that when my car hit a patch of ice and went into a skid, I was able to stay calm. Which is weird, because I didn't know that would happen and you just can't know until it actually happens.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that heightened situations reveal aspects of ourselves we aren't aware of when life is stable. Facing challenges has a way of exposing hidden wells of strength and character within us, or our characters.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that during my normal morning walk, an unusually heavy fog had rolled in. It was creepy as hell. Familiar trees and houses looked distorted and regular folks nearby were dark silhouettes looming through the haze. All it took was fog to turn our neighborhood into an unsettling, creepy place.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that one small atmospheric change can transform the tone of a setting dramatically. Changing light, weather, or time of day tends to turn familiar places into intriguing new ones.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed after an infuriating exchange with my daughter's school, it's not actually the key issue that's a problem anymore. The real problem is the way the parties are communicating with each other … and if everyone would just stop posturing and act like respectful humans, the whole dumb issue would go away.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to look beyond surface issues to uncover the true underlying problem. Tensions sometimes come less from crappy circumstances than from ego, and from how people choose to respond to them.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that even though I've spelled the Homer's favorite treat as "donut" my whole life, I finally looked it up to learn that "doughnut" is actually the proper spelling. “Donut" is now widely accepted from repeated misuse, making me some weird donut poseur (not that I plan to change).The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to reconsider what I think I know for sure, because the "facts" that we believe without questioning can turn out to be flawed assumptions … and you know that expression about what “assume” says about U, Me, and what Asses we make of ourselves when we do it.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that on a recent road trip, as my daughter and I drove past rows and rows of massive wind turbines spinning slowly under the sun with their giant industrial shapes towering over an otherwise empty landscape, the whole scene felt oddly post-apocalyptic. Ordinary? Yes. But cool? Also yes.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that everyday scenes can take on an imaginative second life when described from an unexpected perspective. To mix things up, we writers can simply describe the mundane as if it we didn't know what it was.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that while rewatching Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, I was shocked to realize that it was David Tennant who plays the villain Barty Crouch Jr. I know Tennant and I know Harry Potter well, so how did I miss this?The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to pay closer attention to the familiar. Even with something you've experienced many times before, looking closer can reveal surprises you overlooked. Don't make assumptions - be an active observer.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), free nonfiction books and audiobooks, and my weekly “One-Drink Book Club” series every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that when I went to a sushi restaurant, the owner's extreme friendliness made all the difference. His personal attention made the difference in a way I never see in other restaurants.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that genuine emotional connections can transform mundane experiences. Something as simple as heartfelt warmth from another person can uplift a routine interaction into something meaningful that sticks with you.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), free nonfiction books and audiobooks, and my weekly “One-Drink Book Club” series every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how damn weird feet are to look at. They're downright freaky, and yet we take them for granted. The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to defamiliarize the mundane. Look with new eyes to unearth exotic aspects in the routine. Challenge assumptions by highlighting the unfamiliar within the boring.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), free nonfiction books and audiobooks, and my weekly “One-Drink Book Club” series every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that being authentically yourself, flaws and all, is the best Unique Selling Proposition you can have. Your unique experiences give you one-of-a-kind stories to tell.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is to embrace your original perspective. Stay true to your authentic self, even if it's strange or uncomfortable for you to do. Your singular view has value and sharing it creates relatable, distinctive work.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), free nonfiction books and audiobooks, and my weekly “One-Drink Book Club” series every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that when I tried to record an open-ended podcast, the result was aimless and unfocused. But when we restricted the time to “the time it takes to have one drink” and gave the participants specific roles, it gave needed boundaries and made the whole thing better.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that constraints breed creativity. Operating within clear limitations focuses the mind and breeds resourcefulness. Restrictions give shape and prevent sprawling, leading to more inventive outcomes.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), free nonfiction books and audiobooks, and my weekly “One-Drink Book Club” series every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I learned that after playing Tom Petty's song “Last Dance with Mary Jane” on my 6-string guitar for years, I was shocked to hear how good it sounded on a 12-string. I don't have to do anything special. Playing it the same just sounds … bigger and better.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the impact of changing tools or mediums as we do our creative thing. Switching from a 6-string to a 12-string guitar brought a new dimension to the same basic music, so maybe experimenting with different tools or approaches in writing can similarly expose new facets to our work.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that the skill gap between the lower and upper levels of NCAA Division One college volleyball are larger than the gap between less competitive D2 schools and my daughter's current national level of club play.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that all credentials are subjective, not always based on an objective standard. For writers, acknowledging the subtle but significant differences in characters' abilities adds depth to our stories. It's reminding me to write characters with a range of competencies and growth potentials, not some fixed stereotype.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed a recent change in the drive-through setup at Chick-fil-A. They've replaced the usual hand-through windows with door-like structures, so they can step right up to the car.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the way service and design are always changing and becoming more efficient. In art, we can do the same: always finding new ways to develop our work, to get better and more optimized at it. Doing so is all about flexibility and creativity adapting our methods to better engage the audience.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how the boundaries and separations between elements in our senses are arbitrary. in truth, it's all just experience, and it's our brains that insist that this is one thing or sound, and another sound is separate.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the subjectivity of perception and its use in storytelling. In writing, playing with characters' sensory experiences can really ramp up the intrigue, challenging “what reality is” in the world of a story. Keeping aware of this is really useful in genres like psychological thrillers and speculative fiction, where the blurring boundaries can create suspense and all sorts of great questions.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit johnnybtruant.substack.comI've included a free excerpt from this episode for non-members this time. If you'd like to hear the full version as well as the rest of the episodes (plus all the other member benefits, go here to join for just a few bucks a month.The One-Drink Book Club is an informal, (almost) weekly series in which fellow author Emma Lee Jayne joins me and our other creative friends to talk about the life, business, and art of writing and making books … for the duration of one Friday-afternoon drink. Here's what we talked about in this episode: * I (Johnny) gave everyone the rundown on my currently-running Kickstarter campaign for my new book Gore Point (ends 9am ET on 4/5/24), the best descriptor of which is “it's very interesting.” I told everyone about how it reframes my entire approach to selling books and to my reader fandom … and how the hoops I needed to jump through to create the campaign end up opening new avenues that wouldn't be possible if the situation hadn't “forced” me to try new things. It's also a way of allowing me to be professional: allowing my truest fans to get what they most want from me in exchange for funds that end up buying assets that make my books better. Everyone wins!* The entire rest of the show was taken up discussing our moral and legal questions about fan fiction. Before we delved into the core of it, though, Emma raised a question that made me double-take: On the extreme end of the spectrum, is it possible that ALL stories are technically borrowing from other stories? I had thoughts on this as well, because all of my stories, to some degree, remix elements from popular culture and other stories as homage. But where it the line?* Most of the discussion about fan fiction centered on a bit of Harry Potter fan fic brought to us by Emma called Manacled, for which the author recently got a big book deal. What's theft of IP and what's original creation? None of us knew where exactly to come down on the issue, but the discussion around it was fascinating. Shit also got real when we asked the question, “How would we feel if someone borrowed one of our worlds and our characters … and then got a book deal for themselves based on them?If you're NOT a paid member and would like to get the One-Drink Book Club, extra episodes of the Art of Noticing podcast, extra companion blog posts, and all sorts of behind-the-scenes bonuses while supporting me for only a few bucks a month, click here to upgrade your membership.

Today I realized that I have a set of superstitious beliefs that I've learned to work with rather than against. For example, I have a habit of knocking on wood, but instead of getting all OCD about it, I'll tell myself that one knock-on-wood can last until morning. It's dumb, yes … but it's also an example of using our neuroses within our rules instead of letting them control us. The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the significance of personal rituals and beliefs in shaping our worldview and our art. Incorporating characters' superstitions or rituals can add cool idiosyncrasies that make them more relatable and human. These small, irrational practices reveal a lot about a character's personality, fears, and coping mechanisms.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how, as an adult, I don't usually get to join in the fun experiences typically reserved for kids. Amusement parks, for one. My kids hit Six Flags with friends, and adults don't do stuff like that with other adults. What gives? The fun stuff should be for everyone.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the idea of age-related themes. In writing, we can challenge the usual stereotypes about age and what's “appropriate” at any age. In that way we can resonate with a broader audience, being more universal about desires for fun and adventure.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how specific the traffic patterns are on my regular drives around town. It's all strategic lane changes, and the patterns never change. The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is all about the patterns and rhythms in everyday daily life: secret, quiet patterns that we don't normally know are there. Recognizing and using patterns in writing (in character behavior, plot development, thematic elements, whatever) can enhance coherence and flow. WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed while driving through rural West Texas that instead of using real fence posts, a lot of fences improvise with thick vines and branches. It's resourceful, cost effective, and even environmental sound — and it's a great example of an adaptive approach to everyday ingenuity.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the value of improvisation and resourcefulness in writing stories. Just as the locals used what was available for their fences, we writers can draw on all sorts of unconventional tools as well to construct our stories. WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that my very specific requirements for a keyboard are kind of a pain in the ass, but they're what I need just the same. I need a keyboard that's 1) ergonomic, 2) wireless, and 3) without that stupid number pad on the right side that nobody uses. There's exactly ONE keyboard that fits everything, and they don't make it anymore.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is how important it is to have the right tools to cater to our best ways of working. It's a reminder to invest in and personalize our creative toolkit, ensuring it supports our unique process and style … but it also proves the need to be adaptable at times, because I won't be able to buy these old, no-longer-made keyboards forever.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed that even if I'm very good at story, I'm no good at following all the details in mystery movies. It's weird, but I just don't have as much of that analytical side to my brain. The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that we all interact with and understand stories in different ways. Knowing it can influence the way we do our work, and help us zero in on what we do best.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I realized that my true passion and calling are as a novelist, not a scriptwriter or a movie director as I used to hope to go into someday. That might change, but for now it feels like I'm a novelist, dammit … so I'll be the very best novelist I can be.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the importance of recognizing and embracing your real and unique calling. As creatives, we should focus where we're best … and do the hell out of it.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed the stark difference between Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of The Shining and Stephen King's version: the made-for-TV movie King made because he thought Kubrick's version wasn't faithful enough to the book. But the thing is, King's movie is just plain bad … and I think it's bad mostly because it so faithfully adapts the book.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that books are books and films are films, and I'm becoming convinced that it's a mistake to link them more closely than “they're just based on the same idea.” The same lesson applies across all creative work: the need to tailor content to its format, whether it's adapting a novel for the screen or modifying one for different audiences or platforms.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how when TV shows people being high on drugs, they show them mainly as being uninhibited … which, it turns out, is the way I am pretty much all of the time. Apparently being stoned is just being unfiltered in terms of desires, actions, and actions. I guess I'm “high” all the time.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is that “drugs = fun and uninhibited” is sort of a stereotype, and that the condition and drugs don't need to go together at all. Instead of playing with cliches, we can unpack them. This way can lead to more nuanced characters and situations: a more realistic portrayal of human experiences.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe

Today I noticed how completely my friend Curt managed to fool me with an AI approximation of his voice. He sent me a demo, wanting to know if “the sound in his new office” sounded okay. Really he was seeing if I could tell the voice was fake … but I couldn't at all.The creative lesson I took from this Noticing is the evolving role of AI in creative expression and storytelling. The advancement in AI voice technology offers creators like us all sorts of opportunities, particularly in areas like audiobooks, podcasts, or even adding character voices to real audio.WANT MORE?Members get extra episodes of the podcast, extra companion blog posts (see below), and more every week … all for the price of a fancy coffee. Learn about membership here.Prefer reading?Listening to the Art of Noticing podcast is only one way to get these lessons. Every episode of the podcast also has a complete companion blog post, all of which you can find here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit johnnybtruant.substack.com/subscribe