THE CLIMB

As I, Adam Glendye LPC CPCS, reflected on the podcasts, books, and music that influenced me most in 2024, a recurring theme emerged: the value of learning from diverse perspectives. Whether it’s stepping outside your area of expertise or diving deeper into familiar fields, purposeful learning is a catalyst for innovation and growth. I am a firm believer in listening, reading, and consuming content from “1 standard deviation away from my field.” It can be an echo chamber if I am only listening to other psychotherapists who work with trauma and addiction.

So, I value listening to the content of people in multiple areas of expertise: personal finance (after all, the psychology of money is very important), investing in real estate (this is one of my favorite hobbies), and having fun (go Bananas!). However, I don’t ONLY learn from these people for their helpful advice, but I learn HOW they think, process, and problem solve. WHY they do what they do is very important to me.

Here are some highlights from my top content picks of 2024 and the lessons they offer:

1. Making It Podcast (Jimmy Diresta, Bob Clagget, David Piccuito)

This podcast dives into creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing the problem-solving and perseverance required in the maker community. Listening to these creators has inspired me to embrace challenges with curiosity and view obstacles as opportunities to innovate.

Takeaway: Learning from makers emphasizes the value of creative problem-solving and persistence—skills that are transferable to any profession.

2. Trust and Inspire by Stephen M.R. Covey

Covey’s approach to leadership moves away from traditional command-and-control styles and highlights the power of trust and empowerment. This book reinforced the importance of building relationships and inspiring others to bring their best selves to the table.

Takeaway: Effective leadership fosters trust and collaboration, leading to stronger teams and better outcomes.

3. Fans First by Jesse Cole

Jesse Cole’s innovative approach to engaging fans through his Savannah Bananas baseball team is a lesson in creating memorable experiences. By prioritizing connection and joy, Cole demonstrates that putting people first transforms any business.

Takeaway: Engaging fans or customers should be a priority for any organization looking to create lasting impact.

4. Ready, Fire, Aim by Michael Masterson

Masterson’s book is a practical guide to scaling a business, emphasizing the importance of taking action and learning from small failures. This approach has reshaped how I think about risk and growth.

Takeaway: Failing small allows for greater learning opportunities and builds the foundation for long-term success.

5. Traumatized by Kati Morton

Mental health therapist Kati Morton provides accessible tools for understanding trauma and its impact. Her compassionate approach underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges with care and expertise.

Takeaway: Understanding trauma is essential for personal healing and creating healthier communities.

6. Main Street Millionaire by Codie Sanchez

Codie Sanchez shines a spotlight on the potential of small business acquisition as a wealth-building strategy. Her insights encouraged me to think differently about entrepreneurship and financial freedom.

Takeaway: Real estate and small business investments can be rewarding pathways to financial independence.

7. Meet Kevin YouTube Channel

MeetKevin’s accessible approach to finance and real estate investing makes complex topics approachable. His practical advice has empowered me to make more informed decisions about my financial goals.

Takeaway: Accessible financial education equips individuals with the tools they need to succeed.

8. The Pethericks YouTube Channel

This channel blends creative DIY projects with relatable family moments, reminding me of the joy in pursuing meaningful hobbies. Their videos inspired me to dream big with renovation and creativity.

Takeaway: Creative projects can fuel inspiration and help us reimagine what’s possible.

9. Stephen Wilson Jr. Music

Stephen’s raw, emotional storytelling through music offers a powerful way to process grief and life’s struggles. His lyrics remind me of the healing potential of creative expression.

Takeaway: Music and art can be profound tools for navigating complex emotions.

10. Huberman Lab Podcast

Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast brings cutting-edge neuroscience to the public in a digestible way, offering practical tools for mental and physical health. His work underscores the importance of accessible science communication.

Takeaway: Understanding the science of mental health can empower us to make positive changes in our lives.

Why Learning from Diverse Perspectives Matters

One of the most valuable lessons from consuming the top content of 2024 is the importance of learning both within and outside your area of expertise. For example:

• Learning Outside Your Expertise: Engaging with creators, musicians, or leaders from different industries sparks creativity and introduces fresh perspectives. It helps break free from echo chambers and stimulates innovative thinking.
• Learning Within Your Expertise: Diving deeper into familiar territory, like leadership or mental health, reinforces foundational knowledge and offers nuanced insights to refine your craft.

How to Be Purposeful About Learning

To get the most out of your learning journey, consider these tips:

1. Curate Your Content: Choose books, podcasts, and videos that challenge you or fill a gap in your knowledge. YOU are responsible for what your YouTube algorythm suggests to you. If you click on cat videos, you will get cat videos.
2. Balance Familiar and New: Alternate between exploring your field of expertise and venturing into uncharted territory. Ask your friends who they are inspired by in the content they are consuming.
3. Reflect and Apply: Take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and look for ways to apply it in your life or work.
4. Stay Curious: Approach learning with curiosity and an open mind, embracing the unexpected insights that come your way.

By being purposeful about what top content you consume, you’ll not only grow as a person but also contribute more meaningfully to your community and profession. Whether it’s through the innovative leadership of Jesse Cole, the creative problem-solving of the Making It team, or the mental health insights from Kati Morton, there’s always something to learn when you keep your mind open and your curiosity alive.

At The Pursuit, we believe in empowering you to live your best life. Located near Town at Trilith and Trilith Studios, our team of skilled therapists is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized counseling services. Whether you’re seeking support for life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or personal growth, we prioritize evidence-based strategies, compassion, and tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
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