Added Value: The Minimalists
About two years ago, I discovered my favorite podcast in one of two ways: 1). I was browsing the Apple Podcast App for something new to listen to and it happened to appear, or 2). Someone recommended it to me. I think it was the former, but either way it was random chance. If someone did suggest that I listen to it, thank you.
The podcast is created by The Minimalists and is simply titled The Minimalists Podcast. Who are The Minimalists? Two guys from Dayton, Ohio named Joshua Fields Milburn and Ryan Nicodemus – and even though I’ve never met them, I am grateful to have them in my life.
A segment on each show is what’s been adding value to the lives of The Minimalists lately. Each time I listen, the ‘added value’ segment makes me think about what’s adding value in my life lately. Often over the past two years, The Minimalists have been on that list.
Josh and Ryan have made many stellar music recommendations on their show. I have discovered and rediscovered some amazing music through their guests and their suggestions including Andrew Belle, David Gray and Canyon City.
I’ve also gotten some great book recommendations. A few of my recent favorite reads were suggestions from Josh, Ryan or guests during their conversations on the show. [Those books are Atomic Habits by James Clear and Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull.]
During their weekly podcasts, Josh and Ryan often have guests join their conversations. A few of those guests have become additional important influences in my life, like James Clear and T.K. Coleman.
After James Clear was on an episode about habits, I bought his book. I’ve now read his book twice and recommended it often. I even chose it as the June pick for a book club I started with coworkers this year. [I’ve also signed up for Jame Clear’s weekly emails, which is something I never do.]
T.K. Coleman has been a guest a few times and I’ve enjoyed listening to him so much that I now regularly listen to the podcast he co-hosts, Office Hours. One thing from a T.K. Coleman episode that stuck with me was a comment he made about reading 1,000 biographies in your lifetime. Each story will include how someone struggles and overcomes in their life, and there is always something to learn that could help you face your own struggles. My next audiobook was a memoir I would not have listened to without being inspired by that podcast conversation. The impact? That book helped me appreciate the process behind creating music, which has helped me connect better with my husband on his interests.
I could continue for thousands more words on how The Minimalists have added specific moments of value to my life, but I will summarize instead: Adding The Minimalists to my life has helped me become a better person. They’ve helped me grow and helped me shift my perspectives to be more open-minded. They’ve helped me understand myself better and be more understanding of other people. And finally, they’ve helped me feel brave enough to face my fears and helped me find words in ways I couldn’t before.
I believe there is a lot of randomness to life, and I’m grateful for whatever random things needed to align for me to find The Minimalists.
To Josh and Ryan; thank you for who you are and what you create.
