Podcasts about mortals

Step into the chilling unknown with The Mortals as host Nathan Morris uncovers two true, lesser-known survival stories that will leave you questioning fate. First, a man in Missouri battles a deadly inferno in his own home, guided by a mysterious voice. Then, a young woman in Oregon survives a horrifying school shooting through an unexplainable intervention. What pulled them from the brink of death? Was it chance, or something greater? Join us for tales of raw terror and haunting mysteries.New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday—follow now to never miss a story. Have an unexplainable experience of your own? Join The Mortals community for deeper conversations and exclusive content at nathanmorrismusic.com.Tools powering The Mortals:Descript: Edit audio like a pro at get.descript.com/mortalsPoppy AI: Spark creativity with a free trial—link at nathanmorrismusic.com#SurvivalStories #NearDeath #Unexplainable #TrueStories #PodcastThe Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

Main Topic:  Today's episode is all about Ego Meeting Soul (the inner vs outer world of writing) In our last episode of the mini podcast series The Book You Were Born to Write, we listened for the first whispers of the book inside you. We honored that quiet knowing — the call to finally write the book that's been circling your spirit. And today… we're stepping into the next phase. The moment when the whisper gets louder… And fear shows up, too. Because the truth is: Wanting to be seen… and fearing that visibility… Often live side by side in the writer's heart.   PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): hard stuff at home (sharing that with my patrons, and a little on social media)  (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: Austin Kleon's Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad Creative Act (Rick Rubin) and Anne Abel's new book High Hopes (out in September .. She'll be on the podcast again in October). (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):   Notes: Let's talk about what really stops us from writing. It's not usually time. It's not lack of talent. It's not even discipline. It's the shadow voices that rise up when we start getting close to something real. Things like: “What if people think I'm full of myself?” “Who am I to write this?” “What if I pour my soul onto the page and nobody cares?” That's not laziness. That's vulnerability. That's ego doing its job — trying to protect you from pain, rejection, exposure. And I want to say this with all the tenderness I can: Your ego is not the enemy.   Your ego is trying to keep you safe. It's the part of you that learned to please, to perform, to protect. And when you start writing something true — something sacred — That part gets nervous. Because soul-led writing isn't just about ideas. It's about embodiment. And embodiment means being seen. But here's the secret: You don't need to kill the ego. You just need to give it a new job. Let it become the steward of structure. Let it help you organize your message. Let it take care of the outline, the deadlines, the goals. Let your soul guide the content. Let your ego support the container. This is what I call writing from alignment. Structure + spirit. Mastery + mystery. Ego + soul.   Let me tell you a quick story. Earlier this year, I was working on creating content for my audience. I felt alive while think about it — raw, truthful, exposed. But every time I sat down to finish it or thought about posting it, I froze. I wasn't stuck because of the craft. I was stuck because I was afraid. Afraid of what people would think. Afraid it would change how I was seen. Afraid it would change who I was allowed to be. So I did what I now teach my clients to do: I paused. I lit a candle. I asked: “Who is this content for?” “What do they need to hear?” “What am I protecting by staying silent?” And my soul said: “This story is medicine. But only if you let it be seen.” So I finished it. I sent the email; I've been posting the content. And the response? Emails. Messages. Tears. Connection. Not because it was perfect. But because it was true. That is the power of writing from soul. It's not about proving. It's about revealing. And when ego and soul are in right relationship, your book becomes unstoppable. So I've created a little tool to help you check in with where you are in that dance. It's a simple quiz — part journal worksheet, part self-discovery ritual — called: “Where Is Your Ego Helping… and Where Is It Hijacking?” It'll help you recognize: When you're over-editing out of fear When your visibility blocks are in charge When your ego is actually your greatest asset You can download it for free at valerieihsan.com/soulwhisperpages   And if you're feeling ready to move deeper into this work — If you know the book inside you is real, but the fear feels louder than the fire right now — I'd love to offer you a Soul Strategy Session. It's a 60–90 minute sacred space, just you and me. We'll talk about what's calling to be written. What's standing in your way. And what aligned next step will open the gates. You'll leave with clarity, a custom plan, and a little magic. You can book that now at valerieihsan.com/scheduler  or send me a DM @valerieihsan.   You're not behind. You're unfolding. Your story is sacred. Your fear is human. And your book is waiting — not for your perfection, but for your yes. Next episode, we're talking about legacy. The kind that lives in hearts, in hands, in pages passed down like medicine. Until then… Be gentle. Be honest. Be listening. Next episode: is about legacy. Not the legacy of awards or bestseller lists. But the kind of legacy that changes hearts. That shifts the field. That ripples out long after you're gone.

Step into the chilling unknown with The Mortals as host Nathan Morris uncovers two obscure, true survival stories that will leave you questioning forces beyond our grasp. In "Whispers of Fate," journey to the frozen tundra of Labrador, Canada, where a young hunter battles a deadly blizzard guided by a mysterious voice, and to the remote jungles of Papua New Guinea, where a mother survives a catastrophic landslide with unexplainable help. These aren't just escapes from death—they're encounters with something greater, hinting at a purpose we can't fully understand.

Today's conversation is with someone whose work has truly shaped the way I think about time, productivity, and what it means to live a meaningful life. I'm joined by Oliver Burkeman — author of the best-selling Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind our need for control — how it shows up in our perfectionism, our people-pleasing, and our constant striving to stay ahead of life. We talk about why so many of us feel the pressure to optimize every moment, and how that pressure can leave us more disconnected from ourselves than ever.This is a rich and honest conversation about learning to live with our limitations — and even finding freedom in them. Oliver shares his own struggles with deficit thinking, the myth of the “perfect day,” and what it really means to rest without guilt. If you've ever found yourself stuck in that mindset of “just get through this and then I'll live,” this episode is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and let go — even just a little. I really loved this one, and I think you will too.Try Bettervits for yourself, head on over to bettervits.co.uk and get 15% off your 1st order with my code PANDORA15. Find Oliver:Website: https://www.oliverburkeman.com/ Books:https://www.oliverburkeman.com/meditationsformortals https://www.oliverburkeman.com/fourthousandweeksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the shadows with The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris uncovers chilling true stories of life, death, and the unexplainable. In this episode, "Echoes of the Unseen," we explore two harrowing near-death experiences of young people pushed to the brink. From a forgotten cellar in a cursed house to the eerie ruins of an abandoned carnival, Caleb and Lila face death head-on, only to be saved by mysterious voices that defy explanation. These tales will grip your soul and make you question if a higher power watches over us. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for more stories that remind you of life's fragile, precious value. Hit follow to never miss an episode, and check the description to join our community for exclusive content. The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

GREETINGS, MORTALS! Enjoy another interlude episode—an adaptation of this month's FORECAST from the Scriptorium! Magickal predictions, dispensed FOR FREE! With bonus commentary, that those who merely read, shall NE'ER EXPERIENCE. I shall publish these each month, 'til Wintertide, when hopefully we shall have a packet of PROPER PODCASTS to unleash as an especial Yule gift!Be sure to join our Scriptorium at ⁠⁠https://blog.wizworldlive.com⁠⁠

Dive into the chilling unknown with 'Flukes of Fate,' a gripping episode of The Mortals Podcast. Host Nathan Morris uncovers three true near-death experiences that defy all odds—a factory inferno, a deadly carnival trap, and a violent urban ambush. Witness survival through bizarre flukes and mysterious twists that hint at something greater. From a forgotten tool in a blazing hell to a hidden escape in a dark alley, these stories will leave you questioning fate itself. If you're drawn to strange, dark, and mysterious tales of life and death, this episode will remind you just how precious your life is. Hit play now, and don't forget to follow for new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday. Join The Mortals community for exclusive content—link in bio. #NearDeathExperience #SurvivalStories #MysteryPodcast #TrueStories #TheMortalsThe Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

Life as an entrepreneur can often feel lonely. Being a solopreneur or small business owner in the meetings and events industry is a wonderful experience. However, with all the stress and challenges entrepreneurs face, they often find themselves alone, with no one to share their wins, doubts, and fears with.  In this episode, Eric reads an excerpt from the book he is currently reading and shares some valuable tips to help entrepreneurs avoid loneliness. Digital Nomads Unlike traditional nomads who rely on each other, digital nomads often go it alone. In his book 4000 Weeks, Oliver Burkeman explains that digital nomads, despite the appealing lifestyle, can feel lonely. They travel the world but miss the shared routines that create strong relationships.  Remote Work Without casual, in-person conversations, those who work remotely miss out on spontaneous connections. So entrepreneurs need to be intentional about meeting others and making space for interaction. Build a Circle of Advisors or Join a Community One solution is to create a board of advisors for your business. They should be people you trust and respect, and those you can share authentically with about the highs and lows of your business. You can also join a community of other entrepreneurs. The key is to make it a regular habit because if it is not on your calendar, it is unlikely to happen. Reconnect With What Matters Take time to pause and reflect on what truly matters to you. Ensure your daily actions are moving your business in the right direction, and keep your long-term vision in focus to remain grounded. Stay Flexible and Open Growth requires curiosity and adaptability. As a business owner, you must be willing to try new tools, adopt new services, and explore different ways of working.  Keep Your Vision in Focus  Regularly check in with your long-term goals. Stay open to learning and be willing to embrace new tools, services, and ways of working that support that vision. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Book Mentioned: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

Feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list? Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman is one of today's hottest self-help bestsellers—and for good reason. This 28-day guide helps you slow down, stress less, and actually enjoy life… even though (spoiler alert) we're all on the clock. In this video, I share my Top 5 Takeaways from the book, including: Why accepting your limits is freeing (not depressing) How to finally stop overthinking and start doing Why effort doesn't always equal value How to actually be present (without chanting on a mountaintop) And how remembering we're mortal can help us live richer, calmer lives If you're juggling work, life, and a calendar that looks like a game of Tetris, this book—and this video—might just help you breathe again. Judy Croon is Canada's Keynote Humorist, Tedx motivational speaker, comedian and stand-up coach at Second City. She has worked with many celebrities including; John Cleese, Jon Stewart, and Joan Rivers. Her specials have appeared on NBC, CBS, CTV and The Comedy Network. She is a co-author of ‘From the Stage to the Page: Life Lessons from Four Funny Ladies!” Judy draws from her standup performance and coaching experience to entertain, inform and inspire in her dynamic keynote entitled, ‘Relieving Work Related Stress with Humour'. Judy is the creator/host of ‘Laughlines' and ‘Stand Up For The Girls' which have both helped raise over $650,000 for breast cancer research. Website: https://www.JudyCroon.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudyCroonSays/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judycroon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judycroon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/judycroon

Experience two haunting true stories of survival in 'Echoes of the Lost: Two Unforgettable Survivals' on The Mortals podcast. Uncover the Yarnell Hill Fire, a deadly 2013 wildfire in Arizona where one firefighter defied death amidst 19 losses, guided by an eerie, unexplainable voice. Then, delve into the forgotten Kibeho Massacre of 1995 in Rwanda, where a young woman escaped a brutal attack on thousands, saved by a mysterious force. Host Nathan Morris explores these lesser-known disasters, blending suspense, tragedy, and supernatural mystery. New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday—follow now to stay updated! Join The Mortals community at nathanmorrismusic.com for exclusive content and deeper conversations on near-death experiences and the unknown. Perfect for fans of true crime, survival stories, and unexplained phenomena. #SurvivalStories #TrueCrimePodcast #WildfireTragedy #MassacreMystery #UnexplainedPhenomenaThe Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

Today's episode is all about Hearing the Call. That moment when the idea of writing a book stops being a far-off fantasy... and starts feeling like destiny. You might not feel ready. You might not know what you want to say yet. But if you're listening to this right now — I have a hunch that something is stirring. That stirring? That's your soul whispering: It's time. PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): playing around with IG stories quite a bit, check it out @valerieihsan;  Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.)  I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own superpowers.  (Erick):  What are you reading? Valerie: Just finished: The Five-Star Weekend (Elin Hilderbrand) Your Human Design (Shayna and Dana; DayLuna); (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):  Welcome to The Book You Were Born to Write — a sacred podcast series for soul-led entrepreneurs who know… deep in their bones… that a book is asking to come through. Not just any book. Not a content machine. Not a regurgitation of things you've already taught. But the book. The one that's been flickering in the corners of your dreams, tapping on your shoulder during still moments, and sighing in your chest when you imagine a life fully expressed.   Notes: This is what I call the Soul Whisper. It's the part of you that knows… There's something you haven't said yet. There's a story still vibrating in your ribcage. There's a message that could outlive you—if you let it. But then… the thoughts come in. “Who am I to write this?” “I don't have time.” “It's all been said before.” “What if no one cares?” And I want to pause here and say something important: You are not behind. You are not broken. You are not too late. You are exactly on time. These doubts are not evidence that the dream is wrong. They are evidence that it matters. Here's what I've learned in all my years as a coach, writer, The desire to write a book doesn't come to everyone. If it's coming to you, it's for a reason. And even if you don't feel ready… Even if you're not sure what the book is about yet… Even if you're scared — Your book already knows you. It's been circling you for years. (Big Magic idea) And the whisper you're hearing now? That's the sound of your soul making contact.   Here's what I want you to know: You don't have to write every day. You don't need to have the whole thing outlined. You don't need to quit your business or disappear into a writing cave for three years. What you need is this: Stillness. Curiosity. And a commitment to listen. That's what this first phase is about. Not rushing into productivity. But devotion. Not output… but alignment.   If this is resonating with you — if your body is saying “yes” even while your mind is saying “wait” — then I invite you to deepen the conversation. I've created a free journaling ritual for you, called “The Soul Whisper Pages.” It's a set of guided prompts and a short audio meditation that will help you connect to the essence of the book that wants to come through. You can download that now at https://valerieihsan.com/soulwhisperpages. And before we close, I want to leave you with a question: If your book could speak to you right now… what would it say? Write it down. No editing. Just channel. Next episode: Next time, we'll explore what happens after you say yes—when ego and soul begin their wild and necessary dance. It's vulnerable. It's thrilling. And it's where your book truly begins to take form. Until then… Trust the whisper. It's not going anywhere. It's waiting for you to answer. And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance   Find Us:   Valerie's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/valerieihsan (Find Passion Planner discount codes here.) Erick's Linktree link: https://linktr.ee/erickmertzauthor Patreons:  https://patreon.com/valerieihsan    https://patreon.com/strangeairmysteries

BEST OF In an effort to make time for ourselves, many of us fall back on using To Do lists and time blocking. But often these strategies can end up with the same result: getting lost in chasing productivity. So how do we make time for the things that truly count? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. If there is anyone who truly understands the philosophy and psychology of time management and happiness, it’s Oliver. Oliver shares: The mindset you should be using when you first approach a task if you want it to be achieved easily How you can free up time by minimising time spent on worrying The strategy you should be utilising instead of a to-do list to actually create a sense of achievement Why being open to distractions can actually be beneficial Key Quotes:“Don’t start from the position that unexpected things happening must be bad.” “There is this tendency to set things up in your mind so that you can never feel like you’ve done something well enough.” Connect with Oliver via his website, or get his latest book, Meditations for Mortals, here My latest book The Health Habit is out now. You can order a copy here: https://www.amantha.com/the-health-habit/ Connect with me on the socials: Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanthaimber) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amanthai) If you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work and live, I write a weekly newsletter where I share practical and simple to apply tips to improve your life. You can sign up for that at https://amantha-imber.ck.page/subscribe Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at amantha@inventium.com.au Credits: Host: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: Martin Imber See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the chilling depths of survival with "Echoes of the Lost" on The Mortals Podcast. Host Nathan Morris uncovers two lesser-known, haunting true stories of tragedy and impossible survival. First, witness the forgotten 1983 ferry disaster on Bangladesh's Buriganga River, where nearly 300 perished—except for one man who survived against all odds, guided by a mysterious voice from the water. Then, relive the devastating 2018 Montecito mudslide, where a mother and child were saved from certain death by an unseen presence in the debris. These eerie tales of near-death experiences and unexplainable interventions will leave you questioning the boundaries of life and the unknown. Perfect for fans of true crime, mystery, and supernatural stories. New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday—hit follow to never miss a shiver. Join our community at nathanmorrismusic.com for exclusive content. #TrueCrime #SurvivalStories #Supernatural #Podcast #MysteryThe Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

PSALM 82 is a courtroom scene in heaven. This psalm is the source of the term “divine council,” a concept well known in the ancient Near East. The high god in the pantheon was believed to preside over a group of lesser gods, who were tasked with carrying out the will of the king of the pantheon. But in the religions of Babylon, Canaan, Egypt, Greece, Rome, etc., the lower gods were part of a polytheistic pantheon. This is a twisted version of God's council. We see God's divine assembly in action in Job 1 and 2, and especially in 1 Kings 22, where God asks the council for recommendations on how to lure King Ahab to go to war with the Syrians where he will fall in battle.To be clear, God doesn't need a council to carry out His will. He created one for His pleasure, because He desires family. However, just as with us humans, the spirits in the unseen realm were created with free will, and many of them chose to rebel against His authority. What we see in Psalm 82, then, is God passing judgment on those lesser elohim, the “sons of the Most High,” for exercising their free will to “judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked”. As a result of their mismanagement of creation, which threatened the very “foundations of the earth,” God decreed that these small-G god will die like men. We also discuss the New English Translation's rendering of Psalm 82:1, in which Yahweh, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, “stands in the assembly of El,” the creator-god of the Canaanites, to pass judgment on the gods of Canaan!Was that a prophecy of the Transfiguration of Jesus on the summit of Mount Hermon? 

Double Edge of Survival" on The Mortals reveals 2 chilling near-death stories. From a snakebite in the Amazon to a factory collapse, listen now!The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

Main Topic:  Crowdfunding Your Book: Why Kickstarter Might Be the Perfect Launchpad, with guest J.P. Rindfleisch IX PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations.  Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Magic Mind Mental Performance Shot and Sleep Shot. Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): creating content for marketing, preparing to warm up my ice cold email list by writing three personal stories in letter format to explain my absence and reengage with them, planning a three-part podcast series called The Book You Were Born to Write, so look for that coming up next week. Trying to show up on IG every day. (Biz coach recs) • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.)  I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own superpowers.  JP: 3 months FT author, TikTok shop main stream of income; The Alchemist Baker of Rosen-- (Erick):  What are you reading? JP:  House of Frank (Kay Synclaire) Valerie: Just finished: One of Us Knows (Alyssa Cole) Your Human Design (Shayna and Dana; DayLuna); The Five-Star Weekend (Elin Hilderbrand) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:   Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):  Talking with guest JP Rindfleisch IX ABOUT Hi, I'm JP Rindfleisch IX—author of cozy, queer fantasy and strange fiction where whimsy meets the weird. My stories often explore grief, transformation, and queer joy, wrapped in a little magic, a dash of mischief, and a whole lot of heart. I'm the author of Mandrake Manor and Mosswood Apothecary. I also co-write NRDS: National Recently Deceased Services, a paranormal comedy series, and the Leah Ackerman Dark Paranormal Academy Series. I call Rockford, Illinois home, where I founded Rockford Area Writers, a growing community of 80+ local authors and creatives who support each other's craft. When I'm not writing, you can usually find me wandering forest trails, stirring vegan kitchen witchery (potatoes-as-nacho-cheese is a specialty), or hosting writing sprints and cozy chaos over on Twitch as CheshirePope. I live with a very opinionated husky and an even more talkative African grey parrot. Both have strong opinions about storytelling. Thanks for stopping by. Make yourself at home—browse the shop, grab a tale (or two), and if you sit still long enough, I just might tell you a story. Notes: Let's talk about Kickstarters. Last month you had 338 backers pledge $18,040 for your first kickstarter. All stretch goals met, funded in seven minutes ($1000) Why crowdfunding? good feedback and engagement with Tapas (and Kindle Vella). Kickstarter backer himself.  Researched kickstarter by interviewing authors that had done it. Watch the kickstarters and how they interacted. Sacha Black helped him with good advice. (Find her as author Ruby Roe.) Campaign planning: tiers need to be financially responsible; stretch goals; What makes it special HERE on KS.  Steps to a Kickstarter (KS): 1. Set up "Notify me on Launch" to collect followers (sudo-preorder) (4 months to a year) Maybe the amount of followers is who pledged? You don't have to have all the pieces ready before hitting "pre" launch. 1.5  (order basic sample copy for physical imagery) before hitting Launch. (Optional) 2. Look for successful models on KS to copy as template. Use Canva for images needed. Six hours to upload copy and photos for all the add ons (backlist). (~20 hours total?) 3. To keep campaign active and live, update often (every two days). On Twitch every day to incentivize and hype. Live streaming on Twitch and IG to pitch fast. Find ways to grab people. Think through livestream campaigns in future so not repeating self. (Can have live stretch-goals and they don't have to be monetary.) Hype is about showing up. TikToks everyday, and refining what say and ingraining what I want to say. Productivity streams on Twitch helped practice those talking times in front of camera. Learned how to fill the dead air/space. 4. Backing drives ups the popularity of the campaign. (More backers = shows up in recommendations (for 1st time campaigners), and can get into categories (through review process). Projects we love list is great. Hype or backing helps it gets seen, and then KS sends emails to their list, too. 2nd campaigners get KS to email previous backers that you have a new campaign coming out.  5. Launch time: watching the numbers, handling messages and comments that come in, admin, verbiage changed for unlocks and photo switches, write updates.  Can use page after launch is over as a newsletter sort-of. Add links to updates to invite them to your newsletters. Opt-in to newsletter in final survey. 6. Tiers planning: Think through what they will be, and how your backers will interact with that. (Tiers from JP's campaign: Digital, PB special edition, HC special edition, HC with prints and stickers, resellers or clubs 5 copies, HC+painting and print. ) You want super-high tier because most people buy in the middle.  How long to run the campaign? 30 days max. (17-20 days average) Saggy middle/plateaus are common.  Miscellaneous: Add-ons are different than stretch goals: All your backlist books should be add-ons.  Stretch goals can also fund (unlocked) add-ons. Wanted to add artwork. Kickstarter helps prove people want your idea. Collector's editions. Funding goal: what it would cost to print and ship the book. (Could include editing and cover design) Need to cost out the print run for a number to use. Discoverability: Hard on KS. Twitch fans productivity stream become street team to build following on Kickstarter. Use Kickstarter for Authors FB group. (Like newsletter swaps/literary citizenship.)  Shop: https://shop.jprindfleischix.com     And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance  

Dive into "Whispers in the Flood" on The Mortals. A chilling true story of survival during the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, with eerie mysteries.New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

Step into the eerie unknown with The Mortals in "Whispers in the Dark." Host Nathan Morris uncovers two true near-death experiences that will grip you with fear. Journey into the suffocating depths of a Tennessee cave with Mark, where whispers from the dark save or doom him, and feel the deadly pull of an Oregon river with Sarah, a single mom fighting for her daughter. Packed with suspense, mystery, and unexplainable forces, this episode explores the razor-thin line between life and death. Perfect for fans of survival stories, true crime, and paranormal encounters. Follow The Mortals for weekly tales of life's darkest moments. Join our community—link in bio. #NearDeath #SurvivalStories #MysteryPodcast #SuspenseThe Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/mortals Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14______________________________

GREETINGS, MORTALS! I am sorry for the chasm between episodes of our podcast—enjoy this interlude episode, an adaptation of this month's FORECAST from the Scriptorium! Magickal predictions, dispensed FOR FREE! With bonus commentary, that those who merely read, shall NE'ER EXPERIENCE. I shall publish these each month, 'til Wintertide, when hopefully we shall have a packet of PROPER PODCASTS to unleash as an especial Yule gift!Be sure to join our Scriptorium at ⁠https://blog.wizworldlive.com⁠

Kate is juggling a lot: work, kids, caregiving for an elder, a dance troupe, the PTA, community organizing. Oh, and she runs a ‘90s-themed DJ night, too. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, to talk with Kate about how to stop doing everything all the time. If you liked this episode check out: How To Manage Your Precious Time Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate is juggling a lot: work, kids, caregiving for an elder, a dance troupe, the PTA, community organizing. Oh, and she runs a ‘90s-themed DJ night, too. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, to talk with Kate about how to stop doing everything all the time. If you liked this episode check out: How To Manage Your Precious Time Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate is juggling a lot: work, kids, caregiving for an elder, a dance troupe, the PTA, community organizing. Oh, and she runs a ‘90s-themed DJ night, too. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, to talk with Kate about how to stop doing everything all the time. If you liked this episode check out: How To Manage Your Precious Time Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into "Whispers from the Edge: Near-Death Survivals & Unexplainable Mysteries" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris uncovers true stories of survival that defy belief. Experience Isobel Bowdery's harrowing escape during the 2015 Bataclan terrorist attack in Paris, surviving a night of gunfire and chaos through a mysterious force. Then, witness Jean Hilliard's astonishing revival from clinical death after freezing solid in a 1980 Minnesota blizzard, defying medical science with an inexplicable lifeline. These chilling near-death experiences probe the boundaries of fate and hidden powers, reminding us life's profound value.  Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that explores life, death, and the mysteries beyond. Subscribe for weekly episodes that haunt and inspire. Share your own unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcast.  Try POPPY AI: https://tr.ee/EIaE14The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Kate is juggling a lot: work, kids, caregiving for an elder, a dance troupe, the PTA, community organizing. Oh, and she runs a ‘90s-themed DJ night, too. On this episode of How To!, Courtney Martin brings on Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals, to talk with Kate about how to stop doing everything all the time. If you liked this episode check out: How To Manage Your Precious Time Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am SO excited to share this summer reading list with you—straight from the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy community! We crowdsourced dozens of recommendations and (after a very heated debate) narrowed it down to 15 top picks: a mix of can't-put-it-down novels and business-building gems. On this this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business we're breaking down why each book made the list—and how they can help you grow as a copywriter and enjoy some much-needed downtime. Your challenge? Pick at least one book for fun and one to fuel your business. Got a favorite summer read we missed? Leave a comment! We'd love to grow this list with even more crowd-sourced gems. (And I'm always looking to add to my Goodreads list.) And I'd love to know: which book are you diving into first? ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanOnline Influence by Bas WoutersI will Teach you to be Rich by Ramit SethiThe Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan HolidayThe Ministry of Time by Kaliane BradleyGod of the Woods by Liz MooreTapestries by Kien NguyenStories Sell by Matthew DicksLetter to my Daughter written by George BishopThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinThe Perfect Horse by Elizabeth LettsMindset: The Psychology of Success by Carol S DweckJobs to Be Done: Theory to Practice by Anthony W UlwickThe Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham JonesMass Persuasion Method by Bushra Azhar Related Links Our Roundup of Books Copywriters Will Enjoy --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Plunge into "Echoes Beyond: Near-Death Miracles & Unexplainable Survivals" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris reveals true stories of survival that defy belief. Uncover the harrowing tale of José Henríquez, sustained by a mysterious force during 69 days trapped in the 2010 San José Mine collapse in Chile. Then, witness Anna Bågenholm's astonishing return from clinical death after a 1999 hypothermia incident in Norway, emerging with glimpses from beyond. These eerie near-death experiences probe the boundaries of fate and hidden forces.  Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that explores life, death, and the mysteries beyond. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now (link in show notes). Support the podcast by grabbing our haunting new merch. Stream the music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcast.  New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Dive into "Phantom Lifelines: Three Unfathomable Near-Death Survivals" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris unearths true stories of survival that defy belief. Experience the chilling tale of Ni'iinlii Njik, guided by a spectral force through a frozen Yukon river ordeal; Reshma Begum, saved by an unseen presence after 17 days in the rubble of the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse; and Desmond Doss, spared by a phantom shield during the brutal 1945 Battle of Okinawa on Hacksaw Ridge. These eerie near-death experiences will leave you questioning fate, luck, and hidden forces.  Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that explores life, death, and the mysteries beyond. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now (link in show notes). Support the podcast by grabbing our haunting new merch at https://nathanmorrismusic.com. Stream Nathan's music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcast. Try 1Password FREE: https://1password.partnerlinks.io/mortals New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Let's dive into some unconscious ways us women tend to sabotage our self-love—especially in times of collective stress, societal pressure, and emotional overwhelm. In a world that constantly demands more from women—more productivity, more perfection, more performance—it's no wonder we struggle to stay connected to our own self-worth.If you've ever felt reactive, rushed, or stuck in regret, this conversation will give you the mindset shifts and grounding reminders you need to return to yourself.You will learn how to...Stay rooted in self-worth when the world feels like it's on fireRecognize the difference between reacting and respondingFree yourself from the cycles of rushing and regrettingThis self-love podcast episode is meant to help you reflect rather than react, slow down instead of rushing, and trust yourself instead of spiraling in regret.We often think of self-love as something fluffy or indulgent, but the truth is: it's crucial. It's the foundation for how we show up in the world, how we treat others, and how we protect our peace. As you'll hear in this episode, the more you cultivate self-love, the less reactive you become. The more grounded you are, the less likely you are to betray yourself in moments of stress or uncertainty.Remember: self-love isn't a luxury—it's the foundation of personal and collective healing.If you enjoyed this self-love podcast, share it with your friends to spread the gift of self-love!Deepen your self-love journey with Mary's books:*The Gift of Self-Love,* an interactive workbook that will help you build confidence, recognize your worth, and learn to finally love yourself.*100 Days of Self-Love,* a guided journal with 100 prompts to help you calm self-criticism and learn to love who you are.Follow Mary on IG: @maryscupofteaa and @maryspodcastMentioned In This Episode…Joy Sullivan's newsletter “Women at the Protest”Meditations for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanEp. 250 on Mary's Cup of Tea: Productivity Advice Meets Self-Compassion with Oliver Burkeman

Dive into "Phantom Lifelines: Three Unfathomable Near-Death Survivals" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris unearths true stories of survival that defy belief. Experience the chilling tale of Beck Weathers, guided by an unseen force through a deadly blizzard on Mount Everest; Frank Wills, saved by a bizarre detour during a dangerous robbery at Watergate; and Ludger Sylbaris, spared by a phantom presence during the catastrophic 1902 Mount Pelée eruption. These eerie near-death experiences will leave you questioning fate, luck, and hidden forces.Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that explores life, death, and the mysteries beyond. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now (link in show notes). Support the podcast by grabbing our haunting new merch at https://nathanmorrismusic.com. Stream Nathan's music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcast.

Main Topic:  Start Your Author Business on a Budget ($0, $200, $500) Up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code VALERIE20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance PATREON: Thank you to our existing patrons for believing in our work offline and here in the podcast.  Become a patron of the arts at Patreon.com/valerieihsan for books, writing instruction, coaching, and planning. Also, the Planner Plays and Monthly Reflections are always free for all members on my Patreon page. But I don't list them as Public", so click correct tier for updated links, dates, and cancellations. I just put up a new schedule last week for the upcoming months.   Go to Patreon.com/strangeairstories for short stories in the paranormal mystery genre.   Segment 1 (Announcements/Author Updates): (Valerie): creating content for marketing, preparing to warm up my ice cold email list by writing three personal stories in letter format to explain my absence and reengage with them. • Aligned Author: A bespoke book coaching journey for soul-led experts, creatives, and writers ready to channel their life's work into a living, breathing legacy.)  I created Aligned Author to provide a sacred space for authors to truly understand what has been holding them back, to learn how to merge the soul with the ego, to live and create in that duality, and to discover their own super powers.  (Erick): Shadow Signals for sale now; June busy (scheduling new clients, finishing anthology); vacation planning; republishing a book What are you reading? Valerie:   How to Read a Book (Monica Wood) (Not ready to give up on them, but struggling to finish them:) Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman; The Year of the Puppy (Alexandra Horowitz) ;  The Teller of Small Fortunes Julie Leong  Erick:   A Wounded Deer Leaps Highest (Charlie J. Stephens) ; the Shivers series on audio (short horror); Strange Pictures (mystery); Between Two Fires (Christopher Bueman) Segment 2 (Resources/Tips/Tidbits): Tidbit #1: • Tidbit #2:    Segment 3 (Main Topic):  Budget Author Business (Three Tiers: $0, $200, $500)  What is moving the needle today? Leverage what you have. Ask for favors/trades. $0 + sweat equity: LinkedIn or Medium for web presence/blog; free mailchimp landing page and mailing list; reader magnet (pdf, royalty-free stock image); FB professional page as website for short time; active on social media, Reddit, online forums, FB groups, Slack, Discord (needs thick skin and a sense of value). $200 + sweat equity: website (domain name and free theme) ($100); mailchimp (free); branding (free Canva); reader magnet with cover ($100); (any leftover $ for ads education for visibility) $500 + sweat equity: website ($150), mailerlite/converkit ($100), reader magnet w/ professional cover (stock) ($50-100 + sweat equity); branding (CanvaPro, headshot), or education (learn how to optimize, ads course)   And don't forget: Go to valerieihsan.com to schedule a free consultation to see if Aligned Author is right for you.   Get 48% off the Magic Mind : https://magicmind.com/VALERIE20 and use Valerie20 at checkout. #magicmind #mentalwealth #mentalperformance

Dive into "Veiled Rescues: Three Unexplainable Near-Death Escapes" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris unearths true stories of survival that defy logic. Experience the chilling tale of Juliane Koepcke, guided by a mysterious force after a plane crash in the Amazon; Poon Lim, saved by an impossible presence during 133 days adrift at sea; and Mary Leech, pulled from the deadly 1903 Iroquois Theatre Fire by a phantom warning. These eerie near-death experiences will leave you questioning fate, luck, and unseen forces.Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that explores life, death, and the mysteries beyond. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now https://vyd.co/NathanMorrisBreakthrough. Support the podcast by grabbing our haunting new merch at https://nathanmorrismusic.com. Stream Nathan's music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcast.The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Dive into "Defying the Reaper: Three Eerie Escapes from Death" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris uncovers true stories of survival against impossible odds. In this chilling episode, hear about Colby Coombs, guided by an unseen force through a deadly avalanche on Mount Foraker; Harrison Okene, who survived 62 hours in a sunken ship with a ghostly beacon; and Hilda Braidwood, saved by a phantom warning during the catastrophic 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. These near-death experiences will leave you questioning fate, luck, and the mysterious forces that intervene.Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that probes life, death, and the mysteries in between. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now (link in show notes). Stream his music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcastNavan: https://get.navan.com/mortalsTry 1Password FREE: https://1password.partnerlinks.io/mortals New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

In this episode of UNPACKED, we're getting arty and environmentally friendly in preparation to compete to win absolutely nothing when we revisit to the ‘A Magical Mural Adventure' from Season 5. ♻️

Dive into "Saved by Seconds: Triple Near-Death Miracles and Soulful Connections" on The Mortals, where host Nathan Morris uncovers true stories of survival against all odds. In this gripping episode, hear about Lynn Groesbeck, a mother whose mysterious voice from beyond saved her child after a tragic crash; Wilmer McLean, whose oversleeping spared him from the deadly Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 disaster; and Mauro Prosperi, who survived nine harrowing days in the Sahara Desert. These near-death experiences will leave you questioning fate, luck, and unseen forces. Plus, explore thought-provoking questions to spark soulful conversations with loved ones—because the smallest moments forge the deepest bonds.Join us for raw, emotional storytelling that probes life, death, and the mysteries in between. Don't miss Nathan's new single, "Breakthrough," dropping June 27th—pre-save now (link in show notes). Stream his music anywhere and subscribe for weekly episodes. Share your unexplainable story with #TheMortalsPodcastNew Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Dive into the chilling unknown with The Mortals in "Whispers in the Dark." Uncover two true, lesser-known survival stories that defy explanation. Hear about Thomas Reed, lost in a deadly Minnesota blizzard in 1977, guided by a mysterious voice in the storm, and Clara Henshaw, saved from a brutal home invasion in 1992 by an unseen presence. What forces intervene when death seems certain? Explore near-death experiences, supernatural mysteries, and eerie interventions in this gripping episode. Follow The Mortals for more haunting true stories of life, death, and the unexplainable. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday—don't miss out!New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Dive into terror with "The Mortals" as we uncover the eerie survival of David Shaw in Bushman's Hole, a 2004 near-death cave diving nightmare. Experience chilling depths, unexplainable forces, and a true story of survival. Listen now for haunting mysteries!New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

What if a single twist of fate changed your life forever?In this episode of The Mortals, discover two jaw-dropping, true stories of survival, grief, and redemption that will restore your faith in the power of miracles.Story 1:Architect Daniel Reynolds was supposed to board a doomed flight—but one unexpected delay saved his life. His experience will leave you questioning destiny and the hidden forces that shape our journeys.Story 2:After the devastating loss of his son, Mark Halperin transformed tragedy into hope—impacting over 3,000 children through a mission built on love, resilience, and legacy.You'll walk away from this episode with a new perspective on grief, healing, and the mysterious ways the universe works—even when we can't see it.New Merch: https://tr.ee/oysbIK _____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

What happens when a 12-year-old girl becomes the sole survivor of a catastrophic plane crash? In this episode of The Mortals, we uncover the astonishing true story of Bahia Bakari—“The Girl Who Fell From the Sky.” Against all odds, Bahia survived the 2009 Yemenia Flight 626 disaster, enduring a fall into the stormy Indian Ocean and clinging to wreckage for nearly 10 hours, unable to swim and surrounded by darkness. Her story challenges science and fate, raising questions about miracles, human resilience, and the mysteries that linger after near-death experiences.We also explore the remarkable case of Pam Reynolds, whose clinically documented near-death experience continues to puzzle scientists and inspire believers in life beyond. Join us as we journey through two extraordinary tales of survival, consciousness, and the unexplained._____________________________The Mortals Podcast is sponsored by Descript: https://get.descript.com/nathanmorris ______________________________

Are you constantly battling the feeling of not having enough time? Join Patrick McGinnis as he explores the enlightening world of Oliver Burkeman, the acclaimed author of 4,000 Weeks and his latest release, Meditations for Mortals. Oliver shares his surprising realization that doing everything is impossible and how embracing our limitations can lead to greater productivity and peace of mind. Together, they unpack the modern phenomenon of FOMO, its roots in our digital age, and the universal challenge of choosing one path over another. Oliver also introduces the core concepts from his new book, offering practical, bite-sized meditations to help you shift your perspective on time, embrace imperfection, and prioritize what truly matters—all without getting bogged down by complicated systems. Get ready to rethink your relationship with time and discover a more intentional, serene way of living. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When everything goes silent, will you hear the voice that saves you?In this powerful new episode of The Mortals, Nathan shares the true story of Emily—a 17-year-old whose life was forever changed on a fog-shrouded road in Pennsylvania. Trapped after a devastating car accident, Emily is disoriented, injured, and utterly alone—until a calm, mysterious voice pierces the darkness, guiding her to safety.Was it a guardian angel, a miracle, or something science can't explain? This immersive journey explores the thin line between life and death, the hope we find in the unexplainable, and the power of being truly heard when it matters most. Tune in for a story that will give you chills, remind you of the mysteries that connect us all, and leave you with the question—who (or what) is listening when we cry out in the fog?

Welcome to The Mortals—where true stories of near-death experiences, miraculous rescues, and the unexplained come to life. Hosted by Nathan Morris, this podcast explores the mysteries that blur the line between life and what lies beyond. Start here to discover what makes The Mortals unlike any other show, and why you won't want to miss a single story. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Worrying can take up so much of our time, especially when most of what we worry about never actually happens. This worrying uses up time that could be better spent on the things that truly count, but how can we reduce this and actually free up that time? Oliver Burkeman is a New York Times bestselling author of books such as ‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals’ and ‘Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts’. Oliver is also a regular columnist for The Guardian. Oliver shares:

This week, we're revisiting a topic & conversion that I've been thinking about a lot lately. I had the opportunity to speak to the public at our local library about Executive Function skills for four different age groups, ranging from early elementary students to adults. In all four groups, we talked a lot about the importance of self-regulation and coping skills to get through challenging times. As we learned from Megan McClelland in the last episode, our ability to persist through challenges is hugely important, even as early as age four. This episode brings our attention specifically to our upper high school students, college students, and young adults. The challenges that teens and young adults face during those years bring all kinds of emotional and logistical hurdles, and having a set of reliable coping tools can make a huge difference in how successful and grounded young people feel during that time.To explore this further, I spoke with Dr. Jackie Wolfman, a therapist based in the Boston area. She teaches her clients coping strategies through DBT—or dialectical behavior therapy. If you're familiar with CBT, or cognitive behavior therapy, DBT is a related approach that also focuses on how our thoughts and behaviors interact. CBT helps people notice and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, while DBT adds tools specifically for managing intense emotions and building practical coping skills. The tools and strategies Jackie shares from DBT are for everyone, regardless of age or mental health needs, so I know that this episode will truly be useful to anyone. I even use these strategies myself!Thank you for listening! Here are the show notes from today's episode: Learn More About Dr. Jackie Wolfman and DBThttps://villagepsych.com/DBT® Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition, by Marsha Linehanhttps://www.guilford.com/books/DBT-Skills-Training-Handouts-and-Worksheets/Marsha-Linehan/9781572307810Dialectical Behavior Therapyhttps://dialecticalbehaviortherapy.com/What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents - A helpful YouTube videohttps://youtu.be/Stz--d17ID4Other Resources MentionedAnd Then They Stopped Talking to Me: Making Sense of Middle School by Judith Warnerhttps://www.amazon.com/Then-They-Stopped-Talking-Me/dp/1101905883Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkemanhttps://www.oliverburkeman.com/meditationsformortalsLearn More About Our MAP Programhttps://map.worksmartcoaching.comLearn More About 1:1 Coachinghttps://www.beyondbooksmart.com/how-it-worksGet in Touchpodcast@beyondbooksmart.comInstagram/Facebook/Tiktok: @beyondbooksmartcoachingwww.beyondbooksmart.com

What if the key to a remarkable life isn't doing more—but doing less, better? In this episode, Peter McGraw welcomes author Oliver Burkeman to explore themes from his latest book Meditations for Mortals. They dive into the beauty of limits, the folly of perfectionism, and why embracing imperfection might be the most productive thing you can do. Tune in for kayak metaphors, scruffy hospitality, and practical wisdom for the Solo life.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

Hi all, Jess here. This episode was Sarina's idea, and when you listen you will understand why. It can be hard to focus on the work, whether it's editing, world building, conjuring meet cutes, or translating research-based hope for the next generation. That said, it's important that we keep creating and putting our words out into the world. We hope you are able to keep working while navigating the a balance between consuming, processing, and reacting to the news cycle and shutting the world out in self preservation. Stuff we talked aboutWrite Through It: An Insider's Guide to Writing and the Creative Life by Kate McKeanKate Mckean's websiteWe Are All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter (release date August 12, 2025)The OpEd ProjectAuthors Against Book BansPossession by A.S. Byatt and the film I adore based on the bookA Complete Unknown filmHamilton, Non-Stop (“why does he write like he's running out of time?”)On Writing by Stephen KingAll In by Billie Jean KingPermission by Elissa AltmanMeditation for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanHEY. Did you know Sarina's latest thriller is out NOW? Rowan Gallagher is a devoted single mother and a talented architect with a high-profile commission restoring an historic mansion for the most powerful family in Maine. But inside, she's a mess. She knows that stalking her ex's avatar all over Portland on her phone isn't the healthiest way to heal from their breakup. But she's out of ice cream and she's sick of romcoms. Watching his every move is both fascinating and infuriating. He's dining out while she's wallowing on the couch. The last straw comes when he parks in their favorite spot on the waterfront. In a weak moment, she leashes the dog and sets off to see who else is in his car. Instead of catching her ex in a kiss, Rowan becomes the first witness to his murder—and the primary suspect.Digital books at: Amazon | Nook | Apple Books | Kobo | Google Play | Audible Physical books at: Bookshop.org | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Indigo | More paperback links here!New! Transcript below!EPISODE 448 - TRANSCRIPTKJ Dell'AntoniaListeners who I know are also readers. Have I got a summer book for you, if you haven't yet ordered Dying to Meet You. Sarina Bowen's latest thriller with just enough romance you have to so let me lay this out for you. Rowan Gallagher is a devoted single mother and a talented architect with a high profile commission restoring a historic mansion for the most powerful family in Maine, but inside, she's a mess. She knows stalking her exes avatar all over Portland on her phone isn't the healthiest way to heal from their breakup, but she's out of ice cream and she's sick of rom coms. Watching his every move is both fascinating and infuriating. He's dining out while she's wallowing on the couch. The last straw comes when he parks in their favorite spot on the waterfront. In a weak moment, she leashes the dog and sets off to see who else is in his car. But instead of catching her ex and a kiss, Rowan becomes the first witness to his murder and the primary suspect. But Rowan isn't the only one keeping secrets as she digs for the truth, she discovers that the dead man was stalking her too, gathering intimate details about her job and her past, struggling to clear her name, Rowan finds herself spiraling into the shadowy plot that killed him. Will she be the next to die? You're going to love this. I've had a sneak preview, and I think we all know that The Five Year Lie was among the very best reads and listens of last summer, Dying to Meet You, is available in every format and anywhere that you buy books and you could grab your copy, and you absolutely should…right now.All TalkingIs it recording? Now it's recording, yay, go ahead. This is the part where I stare blankly at the microphone. Try to remember what I'm supposed to be doing. All right, let's start over. Awkward pause. I'm gonna wrestle some papers. Okay, now, 123,KJ Dell'AntoniaHey, I'm KJ Dell'Antonia, and this is hashtag AmWriting podcast the weekly podcast about writing all the things, short things, long things, pitches, proposals, fiction, non fiction, memoir. This is the podcast about finding a way to get your work done, and that is sure what we're gonna talk about this week.Jess LaheyI'm Jess Lahey. I am the author of The Gift of Failure and The Addiction Inoculation and you can find my journalism over at The New York Times, Washington Post and The Atlantic.Sarina BowenI'm Sarina Bowen. I am the author of many contemporary novels, including Dying to Meet You, which is brand new right now. KJ Dell'AntoniaYay!Sarina BowenYay. Thank you.Jennie NashI'm Jennie Nash, I am the founder and CEO of Author Accelerator, a company on a mission to lead the emerging book coaching industry, and also the author of the Blueprint books, which help people get their books out of their head and onto the page.KJ Dell'AntoniaAnd also in your past life, the author of a lot of other books.Jennie NashI know indeed. KJ Dell'AntoniaI think it's worthy. I do. I'm KJ Dell'Antonia, I am KJ Dell'Antonia. I am the author of three novels and two non fiction books, and the former editor and lead writer of the mother lode blog at the New York Times. We have all had a number of careers. And the reason I brought that up, Jenny is that I was just interviewing Kate McKean, who has a new book about the mechanics. Like, it's a great book. It's called Write Through It, and it's sort of like everything we've ever talked about the podcast on the podcast, all the how to stuff all rolled up into one book, which is really cool. But I was telling her that I kind of have a unspoken motto of only taking writing advice from people who have not published a book, very judiciously. Now my freelance editor is not someone who has, or, I think I don't know if she even wants to publish a book, and she's amazing. So with with some thought, but my point being that you have also published many, many, many books. So if anyone out there hesitates around that don't, don't. Yeah, all right, that was a really lot of introductions. We got something to talk about today, and I'm going to demand that Sarina announce our topic, because she came up with it. Okay.Sarina BowenWell, my topic is how to be present and devote yourself to your writing in a world that is so loud and confusing and it feels like whatever you're working on can't possibly matter as much as what's going on in the world, and all my writer friends are struggling with this right now. Jess LaheyIt's, it's hard, especially when the work that I do, the work around like writing about kids and parenting and stuff, requires a fair amount of optimism and requires a fair amount of like, it's gonna be great, and here's what you have to do in order to make it be great. And it's really, it's been very hard for me lately to to be in that head space.Sarina BowenWell, Jess, I would argue that, like, at least you're literally helping people. And some of us are fighting meet cutes and first kisses. Jess LaheyOkay, you are no but you are so helping people, because over and over and over again, what I hear from your readers and from readers of happy kiss, he a and kissing books that they are the the self care and the reprieve that they really need.Sarina BowenOkay, you you just are. You just gave, like, the point, the point at the top of the notes that I made for this discussion, because people keep saying that to me, and they're not wrong. But for some reason, it hasn't been enough lately, and I, um, I was struggling to figure out why. And then over the last 48 hours, in a feverish rush, I read this Karin Slaughter book that's called We Are All Guilty Here that doesn't come out until August, but please pre order it now and do yourself a favor, because it's so good. Jess LaheyI love her books. Sarina BowenYeah, so I had the opportunity to have that same experience from the reader side of the coin, which is that I totally lost myself in this fictional world. It It mattered to me as a person to work through those problems, um, in the way that a novel has a beginning and a middle and an end and and I think that part of my big problem right now is that I can't see an end to any of the stuff that's you know happening. So it was helpful to me to have the same experience that my readers described to me, to be like totally sucked into something, and to feel like it mattered to me in the moment.Jess LaheyWell…And to add on to that, I had a fantastic sorry KJ and Jenny, we're just we're off on our little happy tangent here. But I had a wonderful conversation with a fan recently in on one at one of my speaking engagements, and she was apologizing to me for feeling like she had a really close relationship with me, even though we hadn't met. And she said, and the reason for that is that you're in my head because I'm listening to your audiobook. And I said, You do not need to apologize to that for that to me, because I have the same experience. And she said, the thing that was nice, you know, because I'm such a big audiobook fan, I feel this weird, parasocial, fictional connection to this person, because it's not just their words, it's also their voice. But the thing that she said was really sweet was she listened in her car, and her car became a place of refuge and a place where she knew she was going to hear a voice that would make her feel like it was going to be okay. And so even though I hear that and I know that, and I've experienced it from the other side with the audiobooks that I listen to, it's still, it is still very hard to look down at the empty page and say, How do I help people feel like everything's going to be okay? And it's, it's a difficult moment for that.KJ Dell'AntoniaI have been thinking about this too, because I think we all are, and let me just say that this is not just a, you know, we're not, we're not making a grand political statement here, although we, we certainly could. This is, uh, it is a moment of some global turmoil. Whether you think this global turmoil is exactly what the universe needed or not it is still... um, there's a lot.Jess LaheyIt's just a lot, and it's all the time, and it's like, oh, did you hear this? Did you hear this? And I feel like I'm supposed to be paying attention, and then if I pay attention too much, I feel like my head is it so, yeah, it's just a lot. KJ Dell'AntoniaSo what I want to say is, I think we have to get used to it, and I think it can be done. And I take some encouragement from all the writers who wrote their way through World Wars, who wrote their way through, you know, enormous personal trauma, who have written their way through, you know, enormous political turmoil, in their own countries, both as you know people who are actually writing about what was going on, but also as people who were not, I happen to be a real stan of the World War II books about, not like the drama of the war, but then the home that keep the home fires as they as they would say, stuff like The Diary of a Provincial Lady in Wartime and Angela Thirkell. And it's just, this is what was going on. There's some stuff... I can't think of all of it, but anyway. I love that reminder that life went on, and I think we have had a pretty calm few decades, and that that's been very lucky, but it's actually not the norm. So we gotta get used to this kids.Jess LaheyYeah, I actually, I just flew home from a trip, and Tim was watching on the plane. Tim was watching a film with Siegfried Sassoon and Wilfred Owen. You may know Wilfred Owen as the person who wrote, you know, Dulce et Decorum Est, the whole thing, these are the world war two poets and a world war one poet, sorry, and yeah, they had a lot going on and they were writing poetry. Yeah.Jennie Nash Well, I knew from the moment that Sarina posed this question that I was going to be the voice of opposition here today, because I am seeing this and feeling this great surge of creative energy and people wanting to write, wanting to create, wanting to raise their voice, whether it is in opposition or as an act of rebellion or as an active escape, or just as a thing that they've always wanted to do so they're finally going to do it. It feels similar-ish to me as the pandemic did, in that way. And you know what I was thinking about Sarina, is that you are in the both enviable and also not enviable position of having done this a really long time and and you you know how it goes, and you not that it's wrote by any means, writing a book is never wrote. But the the creative process is not new to you, I guess, and I have encounters with a lot of writers through the book coaches I train who are just stepping up into this and just raising their voice and just embracing that. This is a thing that they could do. And this is a, you know, like I just, I've seen people, you know, a lot of dystopian fiction, obviously wanting to be written, climate justice, social justice, you know, books from people who previously marginalized, even like satire about the crazy stuff going on in education, you know, in all genres, all realms, I just feel the people doubling down. And so I wonder if it's, if it's, you know, the writer friends that you talk to are largely in that same boat as you very accomplished and in it. And I don't know it's my conjecture, because I just, I'm really feeling the opposite.Jess LaheyActually, can I? Can I? Can I verify that through something else? So KJ and I have both mentored with The OpEd Project. It's about raising all voices to publish op eds in newspapers, not just, you know, the people that we're used to hearing from. And they put out an email for their mentors, because they said, This moment is generating so much interest in writing op eds, so that's a good thing too.Jennie NashOh, that's interesting. Yeah, yeah, I don't know i i also have to say that I personally have made a choice that is inspired by Oliver Burkeman, which is I'm not paying attention, and I know it's a luxury to not pay attention to the news, and I know that that it's a privilege and maybe not always a good thing, but I just made a personal decision that can't right now, or you don't want to, for what it's worth, so I feel a little ashamed about that, to be honest... I feel a lot of times that I'm not doing enough when I catch a glimpse of what's happening or what's going on, or my husband is a voracious consumer of the news, so I it's not like I'm not getting news. I just get it filtered through him and through my children, for sure, and and I would also like to just give a shout out to this podcast, because sometimes through this podcast, I listen to Jess and Sarina, On a podcast you recorded a couple weeks ago about pirate the pirate site episode, and learned so much, and it was so great, you know, so I don't know. I have to say that too, that maybe my stance is coming from a place of not being fully... pulling a little over my own eyes, I guess.KJ Dell'AntoniaNo, I think it's great that you are finding something that you're seeing like a surge of of positive energy. I mean, part of me, as I'm listening to you guys, wants to go well, but you know, nothing I'm I'm doing is a voice of protester opposition, but that's okay. We don't have to be voices of protester opposition. And we have to remember that most of the people in our country do not oppose this. So it's a little bit of a weird I mean, it's it's a weird moment that one's that one's tough, but it's also true. It's not, it's just change. It's just, it's just turmoil. But I love your point that there's, um, there's excitement and energy in turmoil. Maybe this is also a question of sort of where you are in your life, like, where, whether, the turmoil is exciting or stressful, or, I don't even know where I was going with that... okay.Jennie NashWell, but I, I think there's, I've been thinking just a lot about AI and where it's going and what's going to happen. And some days I worry, and some days I fret, and some days, you know, I don't, I don't think about it or whatever, but, but I, the thing I keep coming back to is you can't keep a creator down. You know, the creators want to create. And it's the the process of that, the the creative process, whether somebody doesn't matter what they're writing and and Sarina, that speaks to where, where you are. You know, they could be writing a meet cute, or a first kiss, or what have you, but the fact that they want to be a creator in a world that's on fire is, to me, the hope... the sign, the sign of hope. You know, I actually I'm about to take a trip to Amsterdam, where I've never been, and of course, we're going to go to the Anne Frank House, and I may reengage myself with that story, and thought about it and looked at it, and it's like just the the urge to create, the urge to put it down, the urge to do the thing. And maybe that was an act of protest as well. But, you know, not, not a meet cute, but I just, I just, I believe in the power of the creator and and of that. And Sarina, you're so good at it, at that, at that process, and putting yourself in that process, and being in that process, and it makes me sad that you're questioning it in a way. Sarina BowenWell, you know, I don't know. I actually kind of disagree that, that we can look away right now, because there's a lot at stake for for the for the world that writers operate inside and AI is really important, because there's a lot of super important litigation going down right now about what what is legal in terms of using our work to create AI and to not pay us for it. But also, there are other writers who are being silenced and having their student visas, you know, rejected and and it's only work of other people that is pushing back on this. So it's in some ways, I I can't really say, Oh, it's okay for me to look away right now and go back to this scene, because there are moments that matter more than others, but but in order to not give up my entire job at this moment, because it's so distractingly difficult, what I find I've had to do is figure out which sources really matter and which parts of my day are productively informational, and which parts are just anxiety producing. So by by luck, I went on this long vacation, long for me is like nine days, but we'd been planning it forever because one of my kids is overseas, and we were going there at his exact moment of having a break. So I had a vacation in a way that I haven't in a really long time. And I found that being off cycle from the news really affected my the way that I took it in. And it improved my mental health, even though I was ultimately about as well informed as if I hadn't left but I didn't have any time in the day to, like, scroll through the hysteria on threads. I could only take in the news from a few, like, you know, real sources and and that was really informational to me, like I didn't.. I had not processed the fact that how I take in the necessary information affected whether or not it merely informed me or also made me feel like everything was lost. So that that was pretty important, but also just the fact that that I've also been trying to be out in the world more and be where people are, instead of, instead of looking at my computer screen. And it's not like a work smarter, not harder thing, but like, choose your moments. You know, I believe that we still need to be engaged at this moment and to ask ourselves, what is possible for us to do. But that doesn't mean we have to scroll through all the stress online all day long in order to get there. And to me, that's that's what's made the difference.Jess LaheyWe've had a rule in our house for a little while now that I'm not allowed to bring up any newsy things or talk about any newsy things after a certain point in the evening, because it messes with Tim's sleep. He would wake up, you know, churning about and thinking about whatever it was that I talked about from the news most recently. So any of those outrage moments are just not allowed in our house in the evening. And I think that's a really healthy barrier to put up and realize that there are points in my day when I can handle it and points in my day when I can't.KJ Dell'AntoniaIt's also possible that the thing that I could most usefully do to change things that I think should be changed is to give money to other people who are working to change them. Because, you know, we can't all... shouting on social media?, not, not useful, right? I'm not gonna run for office, personally. I do have a family member who does that sort of thing, and I love that, but I'm probably not going to, I guess, check in with me in 10 years. I'm, you know, there's only so much I when I think about, okay, what could I possibly do? Most of it is I can give money to people who are doing things that I want done, and the only way I have money to give to people who want things, who are doing things that I want to get done, is to do my job, which is, is to to write books. So there's that. Jess LaheyI would like to highlight, however, that Tim and I have both been periodically calling our representatives and having some really, you know, it's obviously not the representative themselves or our senator that we're talking to. We're talking to, you know, someone in their office, some college kid in their office, but the conversations have been fascinating. I've learned a lot just through those conversations. And they don't just sort of take your message and then hang up. They're willing to have a conversation. And it's been, it's been really fascinating. So calling your representatives is a really worthy thing to do.KJ Dell'AntoniaYeah, many decades ago, I was that person, and therefore I'm a little cynical about it.Jess LaheyWell, I do want to give a shout out right now, I've been watching one of my former students who ran for Mitt Romney's Senate seat in Utah as a Democrat, which is an impossible task, but she did really, really well, and she just got to open for Bernie and AOC at the at a thing in in in Utah. And so watching her, or watching people who are, you know, really getting engaged, and by a lot of them are younger people. That's and, you know, my thing is younger people. And so it circles back around to the more supporting I'm doing of people who are younger and people who are energized and excited about getting in there and writing the op eds and speaking and running for office, that has been another place of reprieve for me.Jennie NashSo I would love to to ask Sarina about... No no, because something she said, you know, when she said, I I disagree, it just it got me thinking, because I wanted to defend myself, and I don't know, and say, Well, no, I'm not I'm not that terrible. I'm not whatever. But I been listening to you talk, I was realizing that I I really have prioritized my own mental well being over anything else, and in terms of checking out of the things, and I've heard you talk about this before, on on a podcast, but my default response, like on the piece you talked about, about writers and being under attack and what's going on, that's just one tiny thing that's going on in the world of chaos. But that tiny thing I do tell myself I can't do anything. I'm just one person, you know, what? What can I really do? And therefore, then I don't do anything. So I do the bare minimum. I do the bare minimum, you know, like I give money to Authors Guild, right? You know, but it, I'm just going to put myself out there as the, the avatar of the person who says that and doesn't do anything and and then, to be perfectly honest, feels is a little smug when you're like, I'm dying and I'm wrecked and I'm whatever, because you're informed and you're actually doing things, and I'm like... oh, you should be like me and and not do, and then I feel bad about myself. So I just want to put that back as a conversation piece, because I know you have thoughts about that, that one person can't do anything. Sarina BowenYeah, so I often feel like there's a lot of problems I would like to solve and and if I tried to take on all of them, then I would be paralyzed, like there would be nothing I can do. And also, there are moments when we have to really pull back and and put our oxygen mask on before assisting others like that is a totally legitimate thing to do. And when I had this experience of going on vacation, and then it was such a big reset for me, I thought, Oh, you dummy, like, you know, that's like a thing I need to keep relearning is that, oh wait no, sometimes we really do have to drop out for for a little bit of time, because we will be more energized afterwards, but, but I bet that that one thing that you're supposed to do will announce itself to you fairly soon. You know what I mean? Like it just because you're having this moment of pulling back and needing to do that doesn't mean that that's a permanent position for you. Like, I don't, I don't believe that, like, because, because I know you care. So...Jennie NashYeah, yeah. But it's, it's just interesting the different, the different reactions and responses. And I often find myself saying something to my husband, which I'm not proud to share. But the thing that I say is, where is our leader?, who's stepping up?, whatever the topic is, or the area or the realm is like, who's who's going to save us? I I'm looking for somebody else to be the solution. Sarina BowenWell, but, but that that's important though, because part of that is just recognizing that, that without a power structure, who knows what to do? Like, I've been lucky in that, like, I've spent a lot of time on conference calls with The Authors Guild, and I've found that I respect those people so much that you know, when the CEO of The Authors Guild, Mary Rasenberger, has an idea, you know that it's always worth hearing out and not everything you know gets done or becomes a priority of of the but, but I know who to listen to, and that wasn't always true, you know. So I've also subscribed to the emails from Authors Against Book Bans. That's another organization that has a lot of energy right now, and they're doing a fantastic job of paying attention. So, you know, it's, it's okay to pick one little realm and, and that's lately been my solution. Because, yeah, we're not we, we need leaders and, and the reason we're all we're so frustrated is because the lack of true leadership, the lack of leaders who can say, I made a mistake. I don't know everything. I don't have all the answers. Like, that's, you know, that's the kind of people we need in the world, and they're pretty thin on the ground right now. So, yeah, I totally hear what you're saying.KJ Dell'AntoniaSo, I mean, why do we have to say that's useful? I mean, how are we... We're all still working. I mean, yeah, you know, you can listen to Jenny and I trying to write our book every week. And I happen to know that, you know, Sarina is chowing is, you know, nibbling away at new drafts, as is Jess. So we're doing it. We're just distracted.Sarina BowenWell, I always say that everything about writing, you have to learn more than once, like you learned it on a project, and you figure something out and you're like, Oh, right. And I think this is another one of those moments when how to reset yourself, how to. To you know how to find that moment of peace is, this is maybe the the lesson of the week, like, even if you don't, even if you don't write the best chapter of your life between now and the middle of of May, you know you can turn your attention to paying attention to your inner voice and how, how am I feeling right now? And how could I feel better? Like, do I need to go meet a friend in a coffee shop to work? Because that has been a real boon to me lately. Just being changed my scenery change the hours when I look at my inbox, that's another thing that I've done. Right now, I asked my assistant to please watch this one inbox, because I can't watch it myself right now. It's too much of people pulling on my arm. So just, you know, to turn some of the small levers that we have in our lives with regard to how writing fits into your life and see what's working. Like, it's okay to, like, break your strategy a little bit to see, you know, if you can shake up the problem.KJ Dell'AntoniaI've been trying really hard to answer the voice in my head that says... I just can't do this right now with, well, okay, maybe, maybe you could, like, what if we just sat here for another 10 minutes? Like, what if you just, okay... I hear you like, to sort of like, be the other side for myself, like... hey I hear you, that sounds really rough, but what if we just did this anyway? Just, just tried. And you know, it's, it moves, it moves.Jess LaheyAlong those same lines. What's been saving me is, as you all know, anyone who's listening to this for a while knows I love, love, love the research process, and I have a very big stack of books to get through, that is research, formative, sort of base level research, foundational research for this thing I want to write and and hearing other people's ideas, and hearing how other people put ideas together, and that just fuels me. And then on the fiction side, I've been and I hadn't even realized I've been doing this until we started talking about this topic. I have been watching a lot of movies I love about the act of creation. I re watched one of my favorites, “Possession” with Jennifer Ehle, and it's just one of my favorite films about… it's based on the the A.S. Byatt novel, Possession, and it's about poets. And then I was watching a movie about a novelist, and I was just re-listening to the new Bob Dylan movie a complete unknown, and hearing about other people's creative process fuels things in me. And I even just listening to the Bob Dylan movie while I was watering the garden, I was like, Oh, I could go, I can't write music, but, but I can still write these other things. Wait, hold on, I'm a writer. And then you start realizing, oh, that creative process is accessible to me too. And you know, whether it's the creative process that changes the world, or the creative process that gives you an outlet. Selfishly, either way, I think it's, it's important, and so I love digging back into and I've talked about, you know, re listening to Amwriting sometimes when, when I need that boost.KJ Dell'AntoniaIsn't it funny that if Stephen King says, well, I spent, you know, 2016 not doing something, but, but like writing this new book. We're all like, yay, you do that, we love you for that, and that for all of us, we're just like, oh no, you should be... I mean, we gotta, we should do what we do.Jess LaheyYeah, I guess I always think about, there was a moment when I first I saw him, I was so lucky to get to see Hamilton on Broadway, and I remember just that line about writing like you're why does he write like he's running out of time, that idea that like the stuff just is coming pouring out of you, and you've got to put it somewhere before it's over. You know, I love that feeling of desperation, and I get that from listening to other people's creations and other people's research and other people's creative acts. It's, it's good.Jennie NashThat's very cool. That is very cool. I I don't know, I guess I'm really good at, or lately have been really good at, at turning off, turning off the inputs, just because I have to too many input puts that will just do me in. And so for me, it's catching myself, catching myself floating over to social media, or catching myself clicking into something that I don't really want to read like you're saying, Sarina, at this this time of day, you know, I sit down to lunch and I don't, I don't want to read that thing. So setting setting aside time to engage with that is like the, the only way that I'm able to do it. And I'll try to choose to read something longer, a longer form thing, or or listen to a podcast. Rather than sound bites or snippets of things. So I'm trying to be self aware about not getting pulled down into the sound bite things. That's, That's what I mean by disengaging is, you know, not going on threads at all. I'm not going on... I sort of can't even look at Facebook or even Instagram. It's just all too, too much, and especially, especially Instagram, where, you know, you'll have all these calls to action, and then... bathing suits. I mean, maybe that's just me, right?KJ Dell'AntoniaNo, you're right. You're right. It's very...Jennie NashJarring. you know...KJ Dell'AntoniaYou can't control which bits of it like, at least, if you're looking at The Times, you're you know... or The Wall Street Journal, you're getting a section. Instagram is like, this terrible thing just happened here by this Jenny K quitter...Jennie NashIt's very jarring. So I don't wish to be there, and I do have to give a shout out to Substack. How great is it to be able to read things without all the noise and distraction from the people that you choose, who are smart and saying smart things. That's that's the thing that I choose, that I really like and kind of toward what you said Jess, happened to be reading the memoir from Billie Jean King called All In. Jess LaheyIt's so good!Jennie NashAnd and it's, I mean, talk about just a person who lived her values and made massive change, and understood how change is made, and is paying it forward in her life, and it is so inspiring. And it's, it's not quite, it's not quite the creative act, but it, I guess it's creation of change, but I find it hopeful and inspiring, and I think that's where I come up with the the question of, who's gonna who's gonna save us? Like, Where's, where's our person to lead? Like, like she was at the time when women's... not just athletics, but equality. She did so much for women's equality, and still is, you know, so it makes me hopeful that such people will be rising up and and I will be able to identify and support them. Jess LaheyI just finished listening to and reading on the page. I did it both ways. Permission by Elissa Altman about having the courage, it's a memoir, and the courage to create. And she it, she also articulated for me, just how wonderful it is to... I don't know, even if it's not out for mass publication, sometimes writing things down that are the stuff you've gone through and the way you're feeling that's just worth it in and of itself. But anyway, that was a lovely book I highly recommend, Permission by Elissa Altman.KJ Dell'Antonia But also I just want to say, and this is sort of suddenly hopped into my head. So I'm working on a book, surprise! Um, I'm trying to do something bigger and different that says a lot of things, and I have thoughts about it and and, um, I actually think I need to shut down input... for... I'm not gonna, I can't do this if, if there's a lot of stuff pouring into me, all the time, and I, I think that's, I think that's fair. I think sometimes, I mean, I was thinking about the person who wrote Permission, and I was thinking, You know what I'll bet she didn't read a lot of while she was writing that? People shouting at her that, that, you know, the better thing for her to do would be to churn butter in a nap dress. I think it probably It took some time to do that. And these poets that we're talking about, they're not writing a poem. Oh, you know, line by line. In between reading thread's posts, they're they're putting their time and energy into their work, and this is kind of what we've been saying all along, like, like, moderate it, choose your things, pick pick your moments. And maybe, you know, some time of quiet to hear what you think about what's going on, as opposed to what everyone else thinks about what's going on, and to let that, to give yourself permission for that to be whatever it is. Maybe it's not what we think, you know? Maybe, maybe its something different. That's okay. So I, I want to shout for, for that, for, okay, do, turn it off, work on a thing.Sarina BowenYeah, I feel like if, um, Jenny's point about taking your news from social media is totally different than taking your news from the front page of your favorite newspaper. And I guess to KJ's point that if we turn off the voices that are serving us the least well at this moment, what we might find is that there are more hours in the day to both get our work done and then have a minute to say, what else could I... what else could I do? Is that donating my time somewhere or just getting my own house in order? You know, I find I have more time to do things that matter when I am spending less time in the loud places that aren't serving me personally.Jess LaheyAgreed. Jennie NashSo well said.Jess LaheyI think we should end it there, mainly because we're we've run long, but, I'm really grateful for the four of you, I was going to my last point was going to be that my saving grace has been realizing recently that that it's the people in my life that I want to invest in. I had a realization someone told me some news of via someone else, and I didn't realize how disconnected I had become from the people that are real in my life, and how much more attention I was paying to people I don't know anything, people who I don't know that I have a parasocial relationship with. And so I'm my I have sort of a mid year goal, which is to make sure that the people who are actually in life real important to me, are most important to me. And so I've pulled back from those parasocial relationships and gone toward the real relationships, and I'm grateful so much for the three of you. I feel like you all rescue me in moments of doubt. So thank you.KJ Dell'AntoniaYay! People are a good use of time, as our friend, Laura Vanderkam says. So Jess shouted out the book Permission. I think if anybody else has a useful book for this moment, I want to offer up, as we have before, Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. It is a series of four weeks, worth of basically three page long thoughts on how to deal with our own inevitably limited lives and personal resources. And I love it. Does anybody else have anything that would maybe serve people in this moment?Jess LaheySarina. Sarina, nothing to serve Jenny. Jenny has the Billie Jean King. I mean, the Billie Jean King...that stuff is fantastic. Yeah, she's amazing.Jennie NashShe's amazing.Jess LaheyAll right. Well, thank you so so much everyone for listening to the podcast. We're great. So grateful for you, because you're why we get to keep doing this. And this is fun, and we love lowering our… sorry flattening the curve for a learning curve for other writers. So until next week, everyone, keep your butt in the chair and your head in the game. The hashtag AmWriting podcast is produced by Andrew Perilla. Our intro music, aptly titled “Unemployed Monday,” was written and played by Max Cohen. Andrew and Max were paid for their time and their creative output, because everyone deserves to be paid for their work. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amwriting.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your to‑do list? This episode is truly the best productivity advice you'll ever receive because it's built on a foundation of self-compassion. It's  Oliver Burkeman exposes why mainstream time management hacks fail and how accepting your human finitude liberates you to be meaningfully productive.You will learn how to...redefine productivity beyond endless to‑do listsditch hustle culture, but still do what matters mostapproach time management with self-acceptance and self-compassionunlock mental shifts that free you from perfectionism, anxiety, and overwhelmcare about the world's problems without succumbing to paralyzing despairRemember: One day, you will die with an unfinished to-do list. No amount of productivity hacks will avoid that. Let this truth liberate you to focus on what truly matters and approach your workload with self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-love.OLIVER BURKEMAN is the acclaimed author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. His earlier works include The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking and HELP! How to Become Slightly Happier and Get a Bit More Done. For years, he penned the Guardian column “This Column Will Change Your Life,” and his writing has been featured in the Observer, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychologies magazine, and New Philosopher. A former Brooklyn resident, Oliver now lives with his wife and son in England's North York Moors.Sign up for Oliver's newsletter, The Imperfectionist Please get yourself copies of Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals!!And if you enjoyed this episode, screenshot it and share it on social media! Make sure to tag @maryspodcastMentioned In This Episode...Productivity for Self-Lovers, Ep. 125 on Mary's Cup of Tea PodcastElizabeth Gilbert's book Eat, Pray, LoveElizabeth Gilbert's book, CommittedResonance: A Sociology of Our Relationship to the World by Hartmut RosaNew York Times article on NoveltySlow Productivity by Cal NewportAre We Still Empathic if We Don't Take Action?

Acclaimed author and journalist Oliver Burkeman has captivated readers with his refreshing insights on how to embrace the finiteness of existence and find meaning in the everyday. Author of the bestselling book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals and formerly a columnist for the Guardian, Burkeman challenges conventional productivity advice, offering a more realistic perspective on how to live well. In April 2025 Burkeman came to the Intelligence Squared stage, where he was in conversation with Financial Times Columnist Tim Harford, to discuss Meditation for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts – the sequel to Four Thousand Weeks. Together, they explored how letting go of the relentless pursuit of productivity and accepting our imperfections can lead to a more fulfilling life. ----- This is the first instalment of a two-part episode. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events ... Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Art of Charm, we sit down with bestselling author and productivity renegade Oliver Burkeman to unpack his refreshingly honest approach to time, ambition, and self-worth. Drawing from his latest book Meditations for Mortals, Oliver introduces a new philosophy he calls Imperfectionism — a radical shift from hustle culture and perfection paralysis. We discuss the psychology of high achievers who constantly feel behind, the traps of productivity debt, and how letting go of perfection can paradoxically lead to real momentum, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life. If you're constantly stuck between ambition and exhaustion, trying to “optimize” your way into fulfillment, this conversation might just be the permission slip you didn't know you needed. What to Listen For [00:00] Why all decisions come with a downside — and why that's freeing [00:03:55] What is “Imperfectionism,” and how can it help you escape productivity traps? [00:08:05] How comparison and perfectionism stop you from building meaningful connections [00:13:52] Why authenticity beats polish — in branding, leadership, and life [00:22:46] “Productivity debt” — and how it silently undermines your confidence [00:29:18] What is decision hunting, and how does it unlock real momentum? [00:33:55] Why one small outreach can reconnect you to a lost part of yourself [00:40:25] The surprising key to building lasting habits (hint: it's not willpower) [00:44:00] The “Reverse Golden Rule” that every people-pleaser needs to hear [00:53:36] Oliver's favorite meditation for starting from sanity Episode Takeaways: You're not lazy — you're stuck in the illusion of finding a perfect decision. Accepting your finitude might be your greatest advantage. Momentum doesn't come from thinking your way into action. Start small. Make a decision. Any decision. The most powerful personal brand you can build is the one where you drop the mask. If your perfectionism is driving your productivity, it's probably also driving your burnout. You can't outsource meaning — you have to make the hard trade-offs and choose your consequences intentionally. Start embodying who you want to be now, not later. Even 10 minutes a day can shift your identity. A Word From Our Sponsors Tired of awkward handshakes and collecting business cards without building real connections? Dive into our Free Social Capital Networking Masterclass. Learn practical strategies to make your interactions meaningful and boost your confidence in any social situation. Sign up for free at theartofcharm.com/sc and elevate your networking from awkward to awesome. Don't miss out on a network of opportunities! Unleash the power of covert networking to infiltrate high-value circles and build a 7-figure network in just 90 days. Ready to start? Check out our CIA-proven guide to networking like a spy! Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince—where high-end essentials meet unbeatable prices. Upgrade your wardrobe today at quince.com/charm for free shipping and hassle-free returns. Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Shopify makes it easy to start, scale, and succeed—whether you're launching a side hustle or building the next big brand. Sign up for your $1/month trial at shopify.com/charm. Need to hire top talent—fast? Skip the waiting game and get more qualified applicants with Indeed. Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at Indeed.com/charm. Curious about your influence level?  Get your Influence Index Score today! Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at theartofcharm.com/influence. Resources from this Episode Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts Oliver Burkeman's website Check in with AJ and Johnny! AJ on LinkedIn Johnny on LinkedIn AJ on Instagram Johnny on Instagram The Art of Charm on Instagram The Art of Charm on YouTube The Art of Charm on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The liberation that comes from realizing that you're never going to get everything done.   Oliver Burkeman is the author of the Sunday Times bestselling Four Thousand Weeks, The Antidote, and most recently, Meditations for Mortals. His work has also appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Psychologies and New Philosopher. He has a devoted following for his writing on productivity, mortality, the power of limits, and building a meaningful life in an age of bewilderment.    Oliver is one of many great teachers featured on Waking Up, a top-notch meditation app with amazing teachers and a ton of courses for all levels. If you subscribe via this link: wakingup.com/tenpercent, you'll get a 30-day free trial—and you'll be supporting the 10% Happier team, too. Full and partial scholarships are available.   In this episode we talk about: What the term “imperfectionism” means The illusion of reaching a point where "everything's done" Why there's liberation in seeing how finite we are  Why small, imperfect actions are more valuable than perfect plans Why overplanning is a kind of avoidance How to make decisions  The importance of finishing things Who you should develop a taste for problems Why effort doesn't always equal value Why we need to stop protecting other people's feelings And the paradox of mattering immensely and not at all   Related Episodes: The Power of Negative Thinking  Time Management for Mortals   Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel