The Read Well Podcast
The Read Well Podcast is a weekly show about building a stronger reading habit and improving research strategies. It explores how to learn from books across topics, from philosophy and fiction to cooking and other interests. Episodes offer practical advice on taking effective book notes, annotating, and using systems like a Zettelkasten or a second brain. The goal is to help listeners master whatever subject they are studying through better reading.
Episodes
Learn to Saunter Through Your Books | EP128
In this episode, I explore Henry David Thoreau's essay Walking and what it can teach us about becoming better readers. Thoreau believed that walking could be transformed into something deeper than exercise—a practice of attention, presence, and discovery. I argue that reading can undergo the same transformation. I'll share four different reading speeds, explain why most readers spend too
Nobody Is Coming to Educate You | EP127
For years, I thought education was something that happened in classrooms, universities, and formal programs. Then I realized that some of the most meaningful learning in my life happened when I took responsibility for my own education.In this episode, I explore how self-education changed the way I think and live, why I recently enrolled in a free Harvard philosophy course, and what happened when I
📚 What I’m Reading This Year (Book Club Season 4) | EP 126
I share the reading list for Season 4, explain why Homer’s The Odyssey remains one of the most rewarding books a reader can pick up, and explore an idea from René Descartes that has changed the way I read.If you’ve ever wanted to become a more thoughtful reader—but felt overwhelmed by philosophy, history, or the classics—this episode is for you.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your
The Reader’s Discipline: Choosing to Pay Attention | EP125
Most people think becoming a better reader is about speed, memory, or reading more books. I’ve come to believe it starts somewhere much simpler: attention.In this episode, I talk about the decision every serious reader has to make each time they open a book. I share a few insights from the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau on careful reading, and I explain the practical habits I use to stay attent
Read Like Socrates: How to Choose Books That Actually Make You Better | EP 124
I used to think reading more books was the goal. Then I encountered a moment in Plato’s Protagoras where Socrates warns that what you learn will either help or harm you—and you can’t take it back. That changed how I choose what to read. In this episode, I explain how I pick great books, how I avoid wasting time on shallow ideas, and how readers in real life—busy people with jobs and families—can b
How I Rebuild a Reading Habit After Falling Off | EP 123
When my reading habit falls apart, I don’t try to brute-force it back into existence. I take a slower, kinder approach—and it works. In this episode, I explain why life disrupts reading, the two reader mindsets I see most often, and the exact process I use to start reading again without pressure. This is a practical guide for thoughtful readers who want depth, not guilt.Send Me a Text Message with
Timothy Schaffert on The Titanic Survivors Book Club | EP 122
In this episode, I sit down with novelist Timothy Schaffert to talk about The Titanic Survivors Book Club and the quiet, sustaining role books play in a life. We discuss how readers can slow down, pay better attention, and get more from challenging texts—especially when reading starts to feel like work. Timothy also shares what he believes separates good fiction from fiction that stays with you fo
My 2026 Reading Goals + 11 Books I Loved Reading in 2025 | EP121
I've spent years setting reading goals that looked impressive on paper but left me feeling overwhelmed. This year, I’m taking a healthier path. I explain why focusing on total books read can quietly harm the reading life, especially for those of us who love challenging nonfiction. Then I offer the goals I’m using for 2026 and the eleven books from 2025 that helped me rethink everything.Send M
My #1 Trick I for Remembering Books | EP120
I’ve tried every trick in the book to remember what I read—and the one that works isn’t about highlighting or taking notes. It’s about applying ideas. I’ll show how I take concepts off the page and into real life so that books don’t just get read—they get remembered.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https://thereadwellpodcast.com
Design the Perfect Reading Space | EP 119
In this episode, I sit down with author Thatcher Wine to talk about something most of us overlook: the space where we read. Thatcher shares practical ideas for creating a room that invites focus, comfort, and deeper engagement with books. We also walk through his books For the Love of Books and The Twelve Monotasks, and explore how slowing down and reading with purpose can change the way we approa
Reading Deeply Takes Practice | EP118
Reading deeply takes practice. The more you wrestle with complex ideas, the more your mind learns how to sit still with them. In this episode, I talk about what that practice looks like, how it’s shaped my life, and why walking away from the bookstore I hoped to buy reminded me that growth always costs something. I’ll also share a book that offered a little lightness when I needed it most.Send Me
How to Retain and Process What You Read 📚 | EP 117
I’ve found that reading a book isn’t enough—you have to wrestle with it. In this episode, I’ll show you how Julia Cameron’s Morning Pages method can help you process what you read so the ideas actually stay with you. I’ll walk through how to use this practice after a reading session and share a book recommendation from Tayari Jones that’s worth reflecting on.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questi
Our Motto: Read Slowly - Take Notes - Apply the Ideas | EP 116
In this episode, I talk about a simple motto that changed the way I read: Read slowly, take notes, apply the ideas. Most of us rush through books hoping the next one will fix what the last one didn’t. But real learning happens when we slow down and wrestle with one book at a time. I’ll share how I use pauses between books to reflect, and why action—not speed—is what makes a reader grow.Send Me a T
Nietzsche and the Art of Living Dangerously | EP 115
Nietzsche once said, “Live dangerously.” But what did he mean by that? In this episode, I explore the heart of that idea—why safety can dull the human spirit, and how risk is tied to becoming who you are. I’ll share my own struggle with this concept and recommend a book that might help you take the next step toward a more honest, courageous life.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take You
Too Many Books to Read, Too Little Time | EP 114
I’m behind in my reading. Does that ever happen to you? Let’s chat about why it happens, how it messes with the brain, and how to get back on track without all the reader’s guilt and drama.In this episode, I share:Why we get behind as readersHow it weighs on us mentallyTips for getting back on trackA book recommendationI also take a moment in the middle to talk about some of the coffee that I sell
Learn to Journal Like Ralph Waldo Emerson | EP 113
In this episode, I close out my series on Emerson’s journals by looking at what his essay Self-Reliance can teach us about keeping a thoughtful record of our lives. I also share a book recommendation—Agnes Callard’s Open Socrates: The Case for a Philosophical Life—and give a quick update on my bookstore and the growing Edgewater community.👋📚 Join our book club at https://thereadwellpodcast.com/boo
Was John Locke's Method of Journaling a Good Idea? | EP 112
In this episode I explain how John Locke created a system for indexing journals that looks clever at first but quickly becomes a burden. I also share why Ralph Waldo Emerson abandoned the method and point you to his essay Self-Reliance. The larger point is simple: if a journaling system is too complicated, you won’t use it.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try m
Stay in Constant Contact with Your Journals | EP 111
Ralph Waldo Emerson didn’t just write in his journals—he returned to them again and again. In this episode, I’ll share how that practice helped him refine his thinking and why it can help us too. I’ll also recommend a short book on ethics that makes philosophy clear and useful, and give you a quick update on the progress of Edgewater Bookstore.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your
A Journal is a Savings Bank of Ideas | EP 110
In this episode, I begin a six-part series on Ralph Waldo Emerson’s journaling habits. Emerson didn’t see his journals as a place to record daily events—he saw them as a savings bank for ideas. I’ll explain what that means and why changing how you view your journal is the first step toward making it a tool for thinking. I’ll also share a book recommendation that can help you choose the right kind
Why Bookstores Matter in a Digital World | EP 109
What makes a bookstore more than four walls and shelves of paper? In this episode, I read a short essay about how bookstores can help us rediscover ourselves. I’ll also share a powerful book recommendation—The Best Poems of the English Language, edited by Harold Bloom—and tell you about my Kickstarter campaign to launch Edgewater Bookstore. If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of a local bookstore a
Meet J.D. Barker: The Author Continuing Dracula’s Legacy | EP 108
I sat down with J.D. Barker to talk about how he walked away from a career in corporate compliance and built a life as a full-time thriller writer. We cover his novels Dracul and Something I Keep Upstairs, the stories behind them, and how they connect to the wider tradition of suspense writing. J.D. also shares his own approach to reading so that every book—whether fiction or nonfiction—becomes a
How to Read Philosophy Without Losing Your Mind | EP 107
Philosophy isn’t written like a story or a textbook—it unfolds in a completely different way. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how I approach reading philosophy without going insane. I’ll share practical tips that have helped me stay grounded, even in the densest chapters. I’ll also recommend a short book that every creative person should read (Art & Fear), and I’ll point you to a channe
Why You Forget Books—and How to Stop | EP 106
I used to read a book and forget it days later. Then I realized the problem wasn’t my memory—it was how I was approaching the text. In this episode, I’ll explain why remembering is a choice, not a talent. I’ll show you how treating ideas like people you want to know will make them stick.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https://t
20 Brutal Truths Every Reader Needs to Hear | EP 105
In this episode of The Read Well Podcast, I’m cutting through the excuses lifelong learners love to tell themselves—“I don’t have time,” “I’m not smart enough,” “I just need the perfect system.” Nope. What you really need is discipline, focus, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.I’m sharing 20 blunt tips that will kick you in the pants and help you finally take your learning seriously. If you’r
The 53-Page Book That Consumed My Brain (So I Bought 100 Copies) | EP 104
In this week's episode, I’m sharing why The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy is one of the most powerful things I’ve ever read. It’s only 53 pages, but it forced me to rethink how I’m living, what I’m chasing, and whether I’m being honest with myself.We’ll break down what this book is really about (spoiler: it’s not just death), how it gets under your skin, and why it might be the wake-up c
Reading Used to Be Magical. What Happened? | EP 103
As a kid, I used to read by flashlight under my covers—completely absorbed, completely amazed. Somewhere along the way, I traded that sense of wonder for utility. In this episode, I talk about what happened and how to get it back. I’ll share one book that lit the fire again and offer a few tips for reclaiming a deeper, more joyful experience of reading.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚T
3 Books That Changed My Perspective | EP 102
I didn’t pick these books expecting them to shake up my perspective. But they did. In this episode, I walk through Working Days by John Steinbeck, The Lonely Passion of Judith Hearne, and Cultish by Amanda Montell—three very different books that ended up revealing something essential about how we live, what we believe, and what we hide from ourselves. If you’re looking for thoughtful, honest reads
How to Actually Remember the Books You Read | EP 101
In this episode, I talk about why so many people forget what they read—and how I’ve changed my habits to remember the books that matter. It’s not a trick or a hack. It’s just a way of treating books like relationships. You can’t know someone after one dinner, and you can’t know a book after one reading.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE
11 Books for a Year of Deep Reading | EP 100
This is episode 100 of The Read Well Podcast, and to mark the moment, I’m sharing the 11 books we’ll be reading together from June 2025 to June 2026 in season 3 of the Book Club. If you’re someone who wants to read more deeply, especially when it comes to philosophy and big ideas, I think you’ll want to see what’s on the list. I’ll also explain how to join us for book club—whether you want to talk
Why I Quit Some Books (and You Should Too) | EP 99
I read to spend time with people—fictional or not—that make me think, make me laugh, or just feel like good company. In this episode, I talk about why Less by Andrew Sean Greer worked for me, why Artemis by Andy Weir didn’t, and why I give every novel exactly 50 pages to win me over. This isn’t about snobbery—it’s about using your time wisely.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your R
Want to Read Philosophy? Start with These 9 Easier Books | EP 98
Philosophy can feel like a foreign language at first. I used to struggle with it too—until I found the right books. In this episode, I walk through 9 books that helped me go from confused to curious, and eventually confident. If you’ve ever wanted to read philosophy but didn’t know where to begin, these titles will help you build that muscle. This isn’t about sounding smart—it’s about learning to
How Books Help Us Make Sense of Real Life | EP 97
In this episode, I sit down with Binnie Kirshenbaum to talk about her new novel, Counting Backwards—a story about love, aging, and the slow disappearance of memory. We talk about how books can help us wrestle with what it means to be human, and how reading deeply—without rushing—can be one of the most powerful ways to stay present in our own lives.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Y
How to Read Like a Novelist: An Interview with Best Selling Authors L.R. Lam, Andrea Stewart, and Piers Torday | EP 96
Writing a novel is a long road, and no one knows that better than Piers Torday, Andrea Stewart, and L.R. Lam. In this live interview, they share what writing looks like on a daily basis, how they help new writers at The Novelry, and how reading with a writer’s mind can change the way you experience books. I think you’ll find their insight helpful whether you’re working on a manuscript or just tryi
Writing a Novel is Hard Work. Here's What I'm Learning | EP 95
I’ve started writing a novel—and it’s been draining in a way I didn’t expect. In this episode, I talk about the strange fatigue that comes with creative work and how I’ve learned to notice when I’m running low. I share what helps me recharge, including the kinds of books I turn to when I need my mind to come back to life.☕️ Speaking of coffee, check out my life of incredible flavors at: https://ed
I Fixed My Handwriting—and My Reading Improved | EP 94
I tried to improve my handwriting because I couldn’t read my own notes. What I didn’t expect was that it would change how I read books. In this episode, I talk about how slowing down my writing helped me slow down my reading, how physical tension shows up in both, and how emotional baggage can get in the way of both writing and reading.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading
The Difference Between Reading and Learning | EP 93
Reading isn’t enough. People love to say that books make you smarter, but that’s only true if you do something with what you read. In this episode, I’ll talk about how to read for knowledge in a way that actually improves your life. I’ll also share some key decisions I’ve made as a reader to sharpen my understanding, including lessons from my study of Macbeth.Interested in joining us for book club
Is Classic Literature Worth Reading? | EP 92
In this episode, I talk about why classic literature is still worth reading, even in our busy lives. These books have lasted the test of time for a reason. They offer rich insights into the human experience, and I’ll show you how reading a novel like Jane Eyre can help you see life from new perspectives. You’ll find that classic literature is not just for scholars—it’s for anyone who wants to unde
6 Books That Helped Me Build a Daily Reading Habit | EP 91
Most people want to read more but struggle to stay consistent. I’ve been there. Over the years, I’ve learned a few simple ways to make reading part of my life without forcing it. I’ll share the strategies that worked, the six books that kept me hooked when my motivation dipped, and how to handle common mistakes—like getting stuck in books that feel impossible to finish.Send Me a Text Message with
Read, Highlight, Apply: A Simple Strategy | EP 90
I’ve highlighted hundreds of passages in books I’ve read over the years, and for a long time, most of them just sat there. I never looked at them again. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how I fixed that—how I actually use my highlights to learn, remember, and apply what I read. If you’ve ever found yourself excited about a passage but unsure how to make it stick, this episode is for you.Send
What Shakespeare’s Henry V Teaches About Reading Deeply | EP 89
Shakespeare’s Henry V opens with an unusual request: The Chorus begs the audience to use their imagination because the play can’t capture the full scale of the story. That’s Shakespeare admitting something every reader should remember—fiction alone isn’t enough. In this episode, I explore why even the greatest writer of all time asked his audience to fill in the gaps and why doing the same will ma
Do You Forget Books? Try This When You Read | EP 88
If you feel like you forget books as soon as you finish them, you're not alone. Most people never move beyond basic comprehension when they read. In this episode, I break down the four levels of reading, how to work through a book more effectively, and why deeper comprehension matters.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https:
When Reading FEELS Overwhelming | EP 87
Sometimes, reading feels overwhelming. It’s normal to have feelings of self-doubt and overwhelm when it comes to reading books. Today I’m sharing with you how I tackle these feelings so that they don’t derail me from my reading sessions. Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https://thereadwellpodcast.com/book-club/
How to Read Books Without Feeling Overwhelmed | EP 86
Reading more books isn’t just about time—it’s about making better choices. I’ll explain why it’s okay to stop reading books you don’t love, how to handle a book when it gets boring, and how to find books that match your goals and interests. Let’s make reading enjoyable again.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https://thereadwellpo
Plato's Euthyphro Rocks. Here's Why! | EP 85
In this video, I dive into Plato's Euthyphro and explore its famous dilemma: Are moral laws good because God commands them, or does God command them because they are good? Reflecting on my time as a Mormon, I apply this question to one seemingly simple rule: Why can’t Mormons drink coffee? Join me as I philosophize through faith, culture, and coffee.Read the Euthyphro by Plato for Free at: ht
Do I Read Multiple Books at the Same Time? | EP 84
Ever wondered if you can read multiple books at once without losing focus? In this video, I share my personal reading routine and answer a community question about balancing books for study, enjoyment, and discussion. Learn how to follow your curiosity, understand your limits as a reader, and build habits that keep you engaged in every book you pick up. You'll discover: How I study non-fictio
Why Flowers for Algernon Was My Favorite Book of 2024 | EP 83
Flowers for Algernon is a book I believe everyone should read. In this episode, I discuss the major themes of the novel and why it became my favorite read of 2024. With Dr. Martin Jacobsen’s help, we examine the ethical and emotional questions the book raises and offer strategies for navigating its deeper ideas. If you're looking for a meaningful story that will leave a lasting impression, th
How I'm Using Books to Learn a Foreign Language | EP 82
Books aren’t just a way to escape—they can be tools for real transformation. In this episode, I’ll share how I’m using Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to learn French. I’ll explain why stories are such a powerful resource for language learning and reflect on how books can help us change the way we live.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my
My Morning Reading Routine | EP 81
I’ve spent years refining a simple, intentional morning reading routine, and in this episode, I’m sharing what works for me and why it might work for you. I’ll walk you through why morning routines are so powerful, what I do each morning, and how this practice has shaped my life. The message is clear: it’s not about what’s in your routine but that you do it every day with purpose.Send Me a Text Me
5 Lessons I Learned Reading Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals | EP 80
I used to think time management was about fitting more into my day, but reading Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman completely shifted my perspective. In this episode, I share five key lessons I took from the book, explain why it’s worth your time, and give practical ideas for applying its insights to your own life. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by productivity hacks or like you’re racing aga
Philosopher’s Guide to Better Thinking: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Huemer | EP 79
In this episode, I sit down with philosopher Dr. Michael Huemer to talk about the importance of thinking critically in a world full of competing ideas. We discuss his latest book, Progressive Myths, and what it reveals about common misconceptions. Dr. Huemer also shares practical strategies for developing independent thought, and I explain how I’ve applied these lessons in my own life. If you’ve e
Every Book I Read in 2024 (With a Review) | EP 78
I’m sharing every book I read in 2024, giving quick reviews to help you decide what to pick up next year. If you’re looking for challenging ideas, deep philosophy, or just a great story, I’ve got recommendations for you.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FREE Here): https://thereadwellpodcast.com/book-club/
How to ACTUALLY Learn from Audiobooks | EP 77
Audiobooks are powerful, but too many of us rely on them alone to absorb knowledge. In this video, I share how audiobooks are just the first step in truly learning from a book, and how to build on that initial listen to get a full grasp of complex ideas. I’ll also share my experience with a favorite book and how I used audiobooks to deepen my understanding.Send Me a Text Message with Your Question
What to Do When Reading Feels Like a Chore | EP 76
We all have days when reading feels like a struggle. In this video, I’m sharing my go-to strategies for those low-motivation days and introducing three practical tools that keep me reading even when I don’t feel like it. Plus, I’ll recommend a book that’s been a game-changer for reading more intentionally.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for FR
How to Take Great Notes (For Fiction Readers) | EP 75
Not all fiction needs note-taking, but when you find a book with something to say, jotting down your thoughts can deepen the experience. In this episode, I’ll share why I sometimes take notes on fiction, how I set up a dedicated notebook for it, and my process for capturing meaningful insights. Whether it’s a novel packed with ideas or one that just hits home, here’s how I approach notes when fict
The Art of Mastery (For Book Lovers) | EP 74
In this video, I’m breaking down key lessons from Robert Greene’s “Mastery” and exploring how the path to true skill and understanding might look for readers without mentors. Greene emphasizes learning through apprenticeship—but if you don’t have a guide, I’ll share how you can use books to develop that same depth and expertise.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (
Books Make You a Better Thinker | EP 73
I’ve always found that reading helps me slow down enough to actually think. In this episode, I’ll share why I believe that reading tough books makes us better thinkers, not by giving us all the answers, but by making us work for them. I’ll also walk through how I use writing to process and refine the ideas I pick up from books.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (T
Is Reading A Book A Week a Good Idea? | EP 72
I sit down with Dr. Martin Jacobsen to discuss the downsides of aiming to read a book a week. Dr. Jacobsen shares his experience of getting caught up in the numbers and how it affected the quality of his reading. We explore why slowing down can actually lead to more rewarding reading sessions and how to focus on enjoying the journey, not just the goal.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Ta
5 ODD Ideas That Improve Your Reading | EP 71
In this episode, I’m sharing five unconventional but highly effective ideas that will help you become a better reader. These aren't your typical tips, but they’ve transformed the way I approach books and deepened my understanding. If you’re looking to break out of reading ruts, get more from the books you love, and develop new strategies for learning, this episode is for you. Tune in and expl
5 Books I HATED But Now Can’t Stop Reading | EP 70
I didn't always love the books I discuss on this show. In fact, this week I’m revisiting five books I couldn't stand when I was younger. But now? I can't get enough of them. Why the change? Over the years, I've grown as a reader, gained a bit more perspective, and life has shaped the way I connect with these stories. Tune in to hear how my relationship with these books has evol
The Science of Reading: What You Need to Know with Maryanne Wolf | EP 69
Join me for a discussion with Maryanne Wolf, author of ”Reader, Come Home,” as we dive into the science of reading and how our brains respond differently to paper and digital formats. We'll also cover practical strategies for reclaiming our attention and becoming better readers. If you’re curious about how technology affects your reading brain, don’t miss this one.Send Me a Text Message with
Unlock the Secret to 5 Hours of Focused Reading | EP 68
Ever wonder how to stay completely absorbed in a book for hours? Last week, a guy on a plane asked me just that—and today, I’m sharing my answer. Discover practical tips for reading longer with focus and enjoyment, plus an exciting community update and a must-read book recommendation you won’t want to miss.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club for F
Struggling with Headaches While Reading? Here's What You Can Do | EP 67
Reading should be a joy, not a headache. In this episode, I talk about common problems we face during difficult reading sessions. From headaches to reading above your level, I’ll walk you through the simple ways to fix these issues and get more from your reading. Let’s make sure you’re reading at your level, with a clear purpose, and without unnecessary discomfort.Send Me a Text Message with Your
13 Chilling Books for Halloween Reading | EP 66
In this episode, I’m sharing 13 books that are perfect for Halloween, but these aren’t your typical horror stories. Each book on this list offers something deeper—whether it’s a philosophical exploration, a psychological thriller, or a classic tale with layers of meaning. If you’re looking for books that will both challenge your mind and set the right mood for the season, this episode is for you.S
The 9 Goblins Ruining Your Books | EP 65
In this Halloween-themed episode, I’m talking about the 9 goblins that haunt every reader. Whether it’s the voice of self-criticism or the shadow of doubt, these goblins can turn a simple reading session into a struggle. I’ll share strategies to banish these goblins and help you reclaim the pleasure of reading.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try my Book Club f
The 2 Benefits of Reading Slowly | EP 64
Today, I’m diving into the benefits of slow reading. We’ll look at Walt Whitman’s 'Song of Myself' to see how taking your time can lead to greater insight and enjoyment of complex texts. I’ll walk you through how slowing down can help you not just read but truly understand and remember what you’ve read.📚📚📚Follow along with the opening of my new bookstore at www.edgewaterbookstore.comSend
The Adult’s Guide to Slowing Down and Reading Well | EP 63
As adults, we’re constantly pulled in different directions—work, family, and responsibilities. But what if reading could be your way of reclaiming your attention? In this episode, I’ll talk about why reading as an adult is both challenging and rewarding, and share practical tips for slowing down and making the most of your reading time. Whether you’re struggling to find the time or the focus, this
Conquer Your Journal Anxiety | EP 62
In this episode, I'll explore why so many of us feel anxious when faced with a new journal. We'll discuss the common reasons behind this anxiety and share practical tips on how to overcome it. By the end, you'll see that this feeling is perfectly normal and learn ways to make your journaling experience more enjoyable and productive.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Yo
Become a Better Reader: Tips from Pulitzer Prize Author Junot Díaz | EP 61
In this episode of The Read Well Podcast, I sit down with acclaimed author Junot Diaz to explore the art of reading. Junot offers practical advice on how to navigate complex texts and discusses why literature is crucial in our lives. We also take a closer look at his distinctive writing style and the themes that define his work. Perfect for anyone passionate about reading and learning.Follow the l
I’m Starting a Bookstore | EP 60
Welcome to Edgewater Bookstore! I'm Eddy Hood, host of The Read Well Podcast, and I'm thrilled to announce the launch of my dream bookstore. Edgewater Bookstore is more than just a place to buy books—it's a curated experience for discerning readers. Each book is handpicked for its depth and meaning and comes with a custom reading guide, bookmark, and book notes for further study. We
Sure Signs You’re a Book Nerd | EP 59
In this week’s show, we’re diving into the world of book nerds—those of us who live and breathe literature. If you’re passionate about thoughtful and classic works like Dostoyevsky, Thoreau, and other profound authors, this episode is for you. We'll explore the telltale signs of a true book ned and celebrate the habits that make us unique.From maintaining a dedicated reading routine to cheris
How to Read and Understand “Difficult” Books | EP. 58
Let’s have a chat about “difficult” books. What are they and why should you read them? Also, let’s get into a few tips for getting the most of a challenging read.#ReadingTips #DifficultBooks #PhilosophyReading #BookLovers #IntellectualGrowth #ReadingJourney #ComplexTexts #NonFictionBooks #BookRecommendations #ReadingCommunitySend Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Your Reading Deeper (Try
The Shocking Truth of Her Terrifying Memoir! (Author of “Unveiled” - Yasmine Mohammed) | EP 57
Join me as I sit down with Yasmine Mohammed, author of 'Unveiled,' to learn about her incredible journey and her efforts to support Islamic women. We'll explore how to discern truth in the media and the impact of her work. Discover why 'Unveiled' is a crucial read for those who value freedom and truth.Get Connected with Yasmine’s Work at:Free Hearts Free MindsYasmine Moham
Why I Read: The Six Reasons Behind Every Book | EP 56
In this episode, I explore the six fundamental reasons why we read books. Reading goes beyond mere entertainment or passing the time. I’ll share how reading can optimize your life, make you more educated, expand your horizons, introduce you to interesting ideas, and help you gain control over your life. Join me to discover why every book you pick up can be a tool for personal growth and understand
How Wordsworth's Poem Will Transform Your Life | EP 55
In this episode, I’ll explore William Wordsworth's poem, "Nuns Fret Not at Their Convent's Narrow Room," and uncover how his choice of the sonnet form teaches us about the power of constraints. We'll see how applying limits in your work can lead to greater fulfillment and skill. Whether you're a truck driver or a school teacher, you'll learn why focusing on a spe
Fix Your Reading Brain: A 14-Day Challenge | EP 54
In this episode, I'll introduce you to Maryanne Wolf's insightful book, "Reader Come Home," which is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their reading skills. I'll also share a simple yet effective two-week exercise to help you focus better while reading. Together, we'll explore how neural plasticity can keep your reading muscles strong and your mind ag
Good Books vs. Great Books: A Conversation with Dr. Martin Jacobsen | EP 53
In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Martin Jacobsen to explore what elevates a book from good to great. We discuss how the best authors infuse every sentence with purpose beyond mere entertainment, aiming to provoke thought and convey deeper truths. Join us to uncover the layers of meaning and the craft behind writing that resonates across generations.Send Me a Text Message with Your Ques
The Power of Memoirs: Lessons from Real Lives | EP 52
In this episode, I explore what a memoir is and why it's a valuable genre to include in your reading list. I discuss how memoirs offer unique insights into personal experiences and can provide profound lessons on life. I also recommend my favorite memoir, sharing why it has had such a significant impact on me. This episode will show that reading memoirs helps us understand the human condition
Allegory and Magical Realism | EP 51
In this episode, I explore the concept of allegory in literature, revealing how authors embed deeper meanings within their stories. I also dive into magical realism, a fascinating literary tool that blends reality with fantasy. I'll recommend a book that beautifully illustrates these techniques, showing how they enhance our reading experience.Send Me a Text Message with Your Questions👋📚Take Y
The Framework of Fiction: A Guide to Understanding Plot | EP 50
Join me as I break down the five pivotal plot points that structure every compelling story—from exposition to resolution. Learn how these elements craft the narrative arc and enhance your reading experience. This episode not only deepens your appreciation for literature but also recommends a masterpiece, 'The Grapes of Wrath', to see theory in action.Send Me a Text Message with Your Ques
Why Read Literature? A Deeper Look at the Benefits | EP 49
Why invest time in reading literature? This episode answers just that, highlighting how stories enrich our lives, teach us empathy, and offer experiences that facts alone cannot. I'll discuss the dynamic relationship between reader and text, and how this interaction brings new meanings each time. Featuring Ralph Ellison's 'King of the Bingo Game,' I explore the transformative p
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