The Unbecoming Platypus

Have you ever found yourself sipping on San Pellegrino instead of typical tap water, only to realize the small change was a lifesaver for your mental health? This episode is peppered with such light-hearted revelations, yet it digs into the crucial, and often overlooked, landscape of burnout and the essential practice of self-care. We share our own tales and tactics for maintaining sanity in a world filled with chaos - think meditation, nature walks, and the artful dance of balancing caring for loved ones with navigating the exhausting ordeal of everyday tasks, like the dreaded car shopping experience. Life's a journey of self-discovery, and finding peace within that can often feel like an elusive quest. Reflecting on the wisdom of the Serenity Prayer, we tackle the fallacy of control and the transformative power of living in the moment. We lay bare the emotional defenses we put up that mask our deeper needs for validation and love, and how acknowledging this can unlock profound personal insights. Through candid conversations, we explore the use of gratitude as a lens to reframe life's challenges and the joy of embracing the finite nature of our existence to extract the richness of every moment.In the professional realm, self-awareness and emotional intelligence are king. We delve into how understanding our emotional triggers and balancing the pursuit of external validation with self-worth can lead to not just surviving but thriving in challenging work environments. The episode also highlights the immeasurable value of mentorship and the internal struggle to embrace our limitations as opportunities for growth. Join us as we piece together life's puzzle, learning to integrate the unexpected and create our own pieces when the need arises, and thank you for being a part of this reflective odyssey.

Ever found yourself chuckling at the absurdities of daily life, or nodding along as someone shares the trials of navigating work stress? Buckle up for an episode that's a rollercoaster of laughter, empathy, and insight. From kicking off with an impromptu fitness challenge and musing on why coffee-flavored treats can't seem to get it right, to the heartier stuff like the impacts of health woes on our social lives – we've got you covered. You'll feel like you're part of the banter, as we recount tales of mistaken medical diagnoses and the peculiar allergies that make you go, "Huh?"When the laughter subsides, we wade into the deeper waters of burnout and the necessity of letting go. Our conversation turns reflective as we discuss the delicate juggling act of maintaining productivity in the face of emotional and physical exhaustion. We pull from Dr. Henry Cloud's wisdom on 'necessary endings', meshing personal anecdotes with practical advice on how to recognize when it's time to draw the line. Whether it's in relationships or at work, you'll come away with a new perspective on the value of saying goodbye.As we round off, thoughts turn to the evolution of our work lives in the face of ever-advancing technologies. We weigh in on the pros and cons of AI-driven tools like Taskade, and consider whether they're revolutionizing or complicating project management. You'll also get a peek into the growth conundrum – is bigger always better? And because we love to keep things quirky, don't miss our light-hearted discussion on the lasting impact of childhood nicknames, featuring the legendary "Fat Daddy". Join us for this episode that's as much about contemplation as it is about cracking up.

Picture the hiring process turned on its head, where potential shines brighter than checkboxes and adaptability trumps rigid qualifications. That's the vibrant landscape we traverse as we examine intentional hiring and job design. We're putting traditional recruitment under the microscope, sharing stories from the trenches and unpacking the transformative potential of real-time insights into team wellbeing. This isn't your average HR spiel; it's an invitation to boldly reframe the way we view potential hires, valuing who they could become over the static snapshot of who they are today.Ever sat through an interview process and felt like you were just spinning tales to impress? We tear down the facade of behavioral interviewing, questioning its effectiveness in truly capturing a candidate's fit for a role. With a special focus on how personality types like the Enneagram's Type Eight interact with conflict and honesty in interviews, we dissect alternative techniques designed to reveal a candidate's problem-solving prowess and teamwork potential. Join us as we share our own interview battlegrounds, challenging the notion that storytelling might just be an overvalued art in the job market.Then we shift gears to tackle job titles and the scaffolding of organizational hierarchies. What does it mean to have a job title that genuinely reflects your role and responsibilities? We delve into the heart of empowering employees through meaningful work that aligns with their growth and aspirations. Whether you're embedded in the structured framework of a large corporation or the fluid dynamics of a startup, we explore how fostering individual potential can ripple out to redefine the workforce. So, come along for a provocative journey through the evolving landscape of the workplace, where flexibility, adaptability, and empowerment are the cornerstones of a vibrant career trajectory.

Have you ever wondered if the nostalgic hiss of analog tape could compete with the crystal-clear sound of today's podcast technology? We kick things off with a playful debate that's not only for audiophiles but anyone curious about the blend of old charm and new tech. Then, we meander through the digital landscape of Reddit, revealing its surprising role in connecting us amidst our tech-saturated lives. As we share stories that range from algorithmic trust to the simple joy of neighborhood compliments, we also unpack the Enneagram's wisdom on nurturing our interpersonal relationships, and why shared adventures just might be the key to understanding one another better.Navigating the nuanced world of communication, our episode takes a deep look into the dynamics between Enneagram Type Five with a Four-wing and Type Eight personalities. If you've ever felt perplexed by the dance of competency and control in conversations, our discussion unveils strategies for bridging gaps with clarity. We dissect workplace dialogue, the art of expressing ideas without stepping on toes, and the pivotal role of empathy. This isn't just about getting through the 9-to-5; it's about forging connections that honor both our need for intellectual stimulation and our shared humanity.Lastly, we confront the flawed nature of job titles and the hiring maze with a critical eye. It's a conversation that questions whether a checklist approach to applications truly captures the essence of a candidate's potential. We advocate for a shift in perspective, highlighting the magic of creativity and adaptability in an era often too focused on specific tool experience. Tune in as we peel back the layers on ambiguous job titles, the pitfalls of our hiring processes, and the profound impact a splash of flexibility could have on the job market. Whether you're an employer, job seeker, or just fascinated by the evolving workforce, this episode promises a fresh take on the world of work.

Have you ever dared to imagine yourself as morally perfect? Jake leads us down the rabbit hole questioning the very fabric of morality itself. With candid conversations and challenging ideas, we paint a picture of morality as a collective construct that may not hold the absolute truth we once believed. Our dialogue veers into the realm of self-perception, where I propose that breaking free from external moral standards could lead to a more genuine understanding of who we are. Frank shares a fascinating perspective, suggesting our self-view has the power to transcend moral judgments entirely, potentially reshaping our identity in the moral universe.As we venture further, the dialogue broadens to include luminaries of spiritual wisdom such as Jesus and Buddha, as emblems of Christ consciousness that transcend traditional religious boundaries. I posit that morality is not a dichotomy of right versus wrong but a spectrum where self-awareness plays a pivotal role in guiding our ethical compass. We grapple with the interplay between individuality and our place within the grand tapestry of existence, contemplating our unique essence as part of an expansive universal process. The conversation doesn't shy away from the contemporary either, as we examine public figures like Donald Trump through the lens of authenticity, truth, and the weighty responsibility of representation in the political arena. This episode isn't just a philosophical exploration; it's an invitation to redefine our personal ego and cultivate a broader sense of self that encompasses unconditional love for others. Join us as we reconcile these profound tensions within the human experience.

Jake's morning began with an unexpected jolt that wasn't his coffee—a rogue coffee filter nearly turned his tech setup into a disaster zone! The incident sparked an animated chat with Frank and Noah about how we often hoist our triumphs high while failures slink away, unnoticed. From there, we saunter into exploring the risky business of baring all. Much like those Twitter accounts that serve unfiltered truths, we discuss the pull of authenticity in podcasting. The tightrope walk between openness and the boundaries of our professional lives leads us to ponder—what's the cost of transparency, and can it coexist with responsibility?As creatives, we're no strangers to the thrill of a lightbulb moment. This episode sees us comparing the benefits of tracking our lightbulb moments like a live log—moment to moment. We weave through the parallels of seemingly unrelated systems such as road construction patterns to EMS response data, and how they converge to ignite creative problem-solving. And while discussing the sharing of our creative journeys, we zero in on the personal stakes—like the threat of censorship looming over every word, and the camaraderie found in shared passions like CrossFit. The conversation veers into the realm of contentious issues, reminding us that our best efforts are often invested where we can truly make waves.As we wrap up, Jake delves into his own songwriting escapades, drawing parallels between crafting lyrics and the whimsy of surreal cinema. We muse over the creative spirit that fuels not just artists but problem-solvers and communicators across all walks of life. Simultaneously, we confront the specter of perfectionism, advocating for the liberating embrace of an iterative process and the joys of sharing our works, warts and all. With Frank and Noah chiming in, we share our personal strategies for kicking off creative projects, inspired by the likes of Jacob Collier and FINNEAS, and the realization that sometimes, the most profound sparks are hidden in the everyday.

Ever caught yourself heatedly arguing about the "cinnamonity" of your favorite tea or the invigorating contrast of mint on a chilly morning? Well, you’re not alone. Gather 'round as we embark on a sensory exploration, from the enigmatic blend of flavors in our mugs to the unexpected delights of 'noble rot' in winemaking. Our chat weaves through the spectrum of taste and color, mingling personal tales with a dash of spontaneous philosophy, all while sipping on the comforting warmth of hot cinnamon sunset tea.Imagine a world where 'off the clock' truly means peace from work pings and emails. We share stories from the trenches about setting boundaries that shield our personal time from the constant demands of our jobs. By discussing strategies like separating work communications from personal devices and declaring sacred personal hours, we unpack the art of crafting a work-life balance that respects our mental space and challenges the norm of being perpetually on standby.And boundaries don't just stop at the office door. We wrap up this cozy morning chat with a candid discussion on the personal side, examining the tricky terrain of enforcing discipline through negative incentives. Looking at monetary penalties for skipping gym sessions, we lay bare the struggles and triumphs of finding equilibrium between external motivation and cultivating lasting, positive habits. It's all about crafting a life where we honor our needs while still providing value to those around us. Join us for a heartfelt and humorous look into the art of setting boundaries that resonate in every corner of our lives.

Ever found yourself puzzled by the simple "hello" and where it might lead? Well, Noah's back and we're unraveling the tapestry of return greetings, from cultural nods to the Zettelkasten method's influence on our banter. As we swap stories, you'll get a peek at how the recent chitchat on relationships and active listening has seeped into our daily lives. And if you're a word-nerd, you're in for a treat – get ready to dissect the flavors of phrases like "zeitgeist" and "sibilance" and how they pop up in our conversations.Get your feet tapping and heart pumping with our rhythmic journey into the mind-body connection. We share personal beats from rowing to drumming and even bust a move or two with dance. Discover how these activities are not just workouts but symphonies of mental and physical coordination, and hear how they're shaping our performance and self-expression. It's storytelling with a tempo, highlighting the intricate ballet of our inner and outer worlds.Finally, brace yourself for the saga of the overhead squat and the triumph of tenacity. We celebrate the milestones of flexibility, unpack the hurdles of squat therapy, and salute the body's stunning adaptability. This part of our chat is an ode to the labor of love that is fitness, where every victory is a narrative of persistence. So, grab your gym shoes or just a comfy seat, and listen in as we share the untold stories of our fitness quests and linguistic gymnastics.

I was about to delete this from the beginning of our episode and decided to share the outtakes instead. Enjoy this bonus outtakes episode where we try and fail to talk about mind body connection. The real episode happened on the 4th take - live on Tuesday.

Have you ever caught yourself nodding along to a conversation only to realize your thoughts were miles away? We’ve all been there, but this episode is about turning those moments around. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of active listening, a skill that goes beyond just hearing words—it's about being fully present and valuing the speaker’s perspective. Through a tapestry of personal stories, we unravel how active listening not only enhances our conversations but also strengthens our relationships, both personally and professionally.Empathy and validation aren't just buzzwords; they are the cornerstones of meaningful communication. We share heartfelt anecdotes that highlight the sting of feeling unheard, the hesitation to voice our ideas, and the beauty that unfolds when someone truly listens. Imagine a tool that not only helps us understand the nuances of our dialogues but also respects the privacy of those involved. We speculate about the future of AI in communication, discussing its potential to enrich our understanding while sharing our own experiences of moments lost to inattentiveness.As we wrap up, we probe the ethical line between genuine engagement and the misuse of active listening as a tool for manipulation. Reflecting on the personal growth that comes from embracing these listening skills, we consider the ripple effect they have on our social circles. It's not a cure-all, but active listening plants seeds for healthier communication, and this episode is your invitation to nurture those seeds in your own life. So, tune in and let’s grow together, one conversation at a time.

Discover the art of balance in the relentless hustle of modern life as Frank and Jake dissect the intricacies of being 'too busy' and the transformative power of prioritizing what truly matters. Our heartfelt conversation navigates the murky waters of relationships, where unconditional love meets the undeniable reality of change, and the act of vulnerability becomes a symbol of courage. As we unravel the adaptive nature of marriage, reflecting on history and culture, we invite you to consider the role of authenticity and self-truth in navigating societal pressures.Feelings of shame and societal norms can be a labyrinth of emotional intelligence, where our familial upbringing shapes our responses to the world around us. Sharing personal anecdotes, we delve into the way our early experiences influence decisions that resonate through our lives, like the reverberations of a choice to divorce amidst family expectations. Join us for an introspective journey into how the balance of emotional and intellectual intelligence can profoundly impact our relationships and inner harmony.Wrapping up our dialogue, Frank brings an undeniable relatability as we emphasize the significance of authenticity in connections with others. Listen and learn why knowing oneself is the foundation of any genuine relationship, and how truth can become your guiding principle. Whether you're spinning in life's ever-demanding wheel or standing at the crossroads of personal choices, this episode is an invitation to a journey of self-discovery and staying true to who you are.

We start with a whimsical escapade into the realm of peculiar words that will tickle your brain and unearth tales of yesteryear's icons, like the ever-honest Abe Lincoln.  We'll unveil how linguistic treasures can unearth personal memories and stir musings on the essence of integrity.Sometimes life throws us a caddywampus curveball, and that's when the true dance of gratitude begins. This heart-to-heart conversation peels back the layers on why giving thanks isn't always simple, the pros and cons of "delusion" as it applies to gratitude, and how gratitude practice can be the secret ingredient to a zestier outlook on life. We share victories and setbacks.As we wrap up our chat, we ponder the ripple effect of gratitude. It's not just about feeling good; it's about letting that feeling loose to uplift others too. We share how letting go of what we can't control can lead to serenity and how practices like meditation can transform the way we navigate life's roller coasters. So, buckle up for a  episode that'll have you chuckling, reflecting, and maybe even add a few quirky words to your lexicon.

Ever found yourself on a shaky train, trying to type an urgent email, and wondering if there's a deeper lesson in the chaos? Our latest episode is your companion through the tumult of productivity on-the-go, and we don't stop there. We're cracking the code on English linguistics, such as the elusive rationale behind using 'an' before certain 'H' words, and sharing a laugh at the shiny facade of resilience that sometimes hides the tougher truths about sustainability. The journey through these themes might just shake up your perspective, much like that train ride!This conversation takes a personal detour as we recount the hard-earned wisdom of embracing love in the face of adversity, drawing parallels with the steadfastness of figures like Abraham Lincoln. We wrestle with the idea of resilience being inherited at birth versus a muscle built through life's challenges. You'll hear stories of perceived setbacks morphing into unexpected opportunities, and how a recent encounter with feeling undervalued led to a surprising twist of recognition and growth. It's a narrative about the power of mindset, and a testament to the fact that sometimes, life's greatest gifts come cleverly disguised as obstacles.Turning the lens on team dynamics, the episode delves into the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership. We reflect on the liberating experience of letting go, a move that empowers teams and builds a unique kind of resilience—or should we say, 'resiliency with a playful y'? We'll explore how moments of trust can galvanize a group's independent success, and even recount a few linguistic bloopers to prove that resilience can also mean having a good chuckle at oneself. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt dialogue that finds the silver linings in life's challenges, and champions the spirit of resilience in all its forms.

Have you ever found humor in the frustration of a 'user busy' signal while making a phone call, or chuckled through the fog of a fever? We've all been there, and it's these shared moments of human absurdity that connect us. This episode meanders through the complexities of modern communication, brushes with illness, and the resilience that sees us through. As we recount our tussles with COVID-19, we uncover the strength in adversity and the bizarre ways life picks up where it dropped us off—slightly changed, perhaps, but with stories to tell.Navigating the ever-shifting landscape of our inner lives, we scrutinize the delicate balance between letting go and maintaining resilience. I reveal my personal experiences with the tug-of-war between past and present, where releasing old narratives allows us to flourish in the now. We probe into Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and how 'parts work' can harmonize the inner conflicts that shape our decisions. From the battlefield of anxiety to the peace of breath work, join us as we share strategies that spotlight the transformative power of mindfulness and its role in personal development.In an intimate conclusion, we reflect on the journey of self-discovery, the courage it takes to confront our fears, and the vulnerability that fosters deeper connections. This episode is an honest look at the trials and triumphs of growth, the excitement that comes from personal transformation, and the importance of being agents of change in our own stories. It's about laughing at our confusions, embracing the discomfort of change, and finding sanity in the sometimes insane task of being truly ourselves. Join us for an episode that celebrates the messiness of being human and the beauty of moving forward, together.

Embark on a quest to unearth the essence of happiness with us, where we explore the unique elements that stitch together the fabric of joy in our lives. From the daily rituals that ground us to the emotional and intellectual pursuits that elevate us, we've laid bare the journey to contentment. Through personal stories, insights, and laughter, we untangle the human needs that shape our quest for fulfillment and dissect the delicate interplay between stability and excitement that defines our existence.With a hunter-gatherer's heart, we chase the allure of uncertainty and the significance it brings, uncovering how the pursuit of passions can satisfy our need for importance in the most profound and meaningful ways. In this episode, we seek to understand the true measure of significance, and how authenticity, rather than external validation, can be the most powerful source of personal importance. Our candid conversation promises to reveal the nuanced paths we navigate in our individual searches for happiness.Finally, join us as we delve into the collective human experience of connection, flow states, and the transformative power of kindness. We share tales of personal growth through fitness challenges and the incredible potential hidden within each of us waiting to be unlocked. Together, we contemplate the future and how the insights shared here might serve as your compass for a richer, more joyful life. This episode isn't just a discussion; it's an invitation to embrace the full spectrum of human emotion and the countless ways we can find happiness.

Ever pulled through a grueling 5K rowing event, feeling the burn with every stroke? That's exactly where our latest journey begins, as we recount the sweat, strain, and sheer satisfaction of testing our limits. We're not just here to talk about physical fitness though; we're peeling back the layers on that elusive state of being known as happiness. With insights from the Andrew Huberman podcast featuring the indomitable David Goggins, we explore the brain's ties to willpower and the art of embracing discomfort for growth.We all hunger for freedom, yet it's in the spaces between constraints that we often find our deepest sense of fulfillment. Join us as we discuss how paradoxical it may seem, the act of chicken sexing (yes, you read that right) can offer a masterclass in contentment within repetition. We also share personal strategies on staying present and the transformative power of daily gratitude, proving that sometimes, the simplest habits can lead to the most profound changes in our lives.Let's talk about rewiring our brains for positivity, shall we? We'll dive into the realities of dopamine detox – imagine finding bliss in a simple salad after weeks of a minimalist diet. And if you've ever felt trapped by your environment, we'll discuss the importance of gratitude and the courage to change your surroundings. It's an adventure through the fitness of the body and mind on the latest episode of the Unbecoming Platypus podcast, with not a French fry in sight (though we might yearn for one afterward).

We've got cool anecdotes and insights that'll keep you engaged and maybe even make you chuckle. We don't stop there, though; the conversation steers into the sobering intricacies of local governance, highlighting how a church's noble mission to shelter the homeless crashes against the cold wall of city policies.Remember how your grandma always had a saying for everything? Ours was about how the mercury's dive and rise can make or break your day—or your sleep, for that matter. Join us as we discuss the impact of temperature on our slumber and the heartwarming concern we receive from loved ones during a freeze. We'll also get our nerd on debating the universe's composition, the physics behind temperature, and the language that surrounds this everyday phenomenon. It's a blend of culture, science, and a dash of comedy, like a delightful stew of brain food.But it's not all laughs and banter about what’s cooler than being cold. We delve deep into the essence of human agency and self-worth, pondering over the subtle art of decision-making and the psychological hurdles that often obscure our paths. We unpack happiness, the resilience to bounce back from setbacks, and the significance of adjusting our life's 'blueprints' to find that sweet spot of fulfillment. So come for the banter, stay for the insights, and leave with a renewed perspective on happiness.

Ever felt like you're on display for merely indulging in your passions, only to be misunderstood or judged? This episode is a heartfelt journey through the landscape of vulnerability, where we wear our hearts on our sleeves and invite others to do the same. Our discussion orbits the seemingly impenetrable personas of public figures and circles back to our own, often raw, experiences. We navigate through the societal pressures of authenticity and how revealing our true selves can foster profound connections and a sense of genuine belonging.Amidst our confessions, we tackle vulnerability's shadowy counterpart – shame, especially through the lens of an enneagram type eight. Assertive characters like us sometimes sidestep vulnerability, armoring up to evade the quagmire of shame. Yet, in sharing a personal tale of game night, we uncover a truth; even the most self-assured among us crave the intimacy of one-on-one connections where our defenses can fall away. It's in these spaces that we gamble on vulnerability, betting on the chance for deeper understanding and kinship.In the digital realm, we grapple with the double-edged sword of personal exposure on social media. From posting a single pizza photo to divulging life's hurdles, we question the pursuit of acceptance versus the simple joy of sharing. This episode doesn't shy away from the discomfort that can accompany vulnerability, but it also celebrates the bravery it takes to peel back the layers of our lives. As we contemplate the delicate dance of privacy and honesty online, we learn that the path to self-acceptance and authentic connections is paved with the very vulnerabilities we sometimes fear to show.

Every Saturday at 8:16 AM, like clockwork, our podcast recording is graced with a mysterious ding, setting the stage for a whimsical journey through the unexpected and the everyday. We tackle the power of routine and its interruptions, segue into the whimsy of fashion and its personal impact, debating everything from the color analysis of a CrossFit hoodie to the nostalgia evoked by cultural icons. As we engage with the curious interplay between our sartorial choices and the memories they invoke, we also cast a critical eye on the shiny, sometimes deceptive allure of online personalities and their success tales.With a pivot towards the serious, our conversation flows into the murky waters of sales pitches and business ethics. We share tales of companies gone astray and dissect advertisements, probing the essence of authenticity and the trust it engenders. This week, the spotlight falls on the linguistic intricacies of consonantal harmony and its effects on our perceptions, leading us to question the integrity behind one-size-fits-all success mantras. Diving deeper, we consider the significance of tailored strategies, pondering the weight of personal agency in the quest for achievement against the backdrop of authoritative guidance.Capping off our eclectic discussion, we delve into the responsibilities that lie with both content creators and consumers in the ever-evolving digital marketplace. We examine the delicate balance of transparency, the safety net of refund policies, and the crafting of meaningful experiences that can effectuate genuine behavior change. The convergence of trust, value, and behavior presents a rich tapestry of considerations for anyone navigating personal development or the intricate dance of consumer-provider dynamics. Join us for an episode that promises to leave you pondering the complexities of the digital age long after the soundwaves have faded.

Have you ever peeled back the layers of a Necco wafer, finding its simplicity cloaked in nostalgia? That's how Noah described his personal eureka moment during our Jungian word association exercise, leading us into a discussion that transcends the confectionary. We wove through whimsical debates and metaphors, contemplating how our roles in family, career, and society inform our identity and understanding of the world. The episode is a tapestry of insights, highlighting the contextual nature of meaning and how intertwined it is with the many hats we wear throughout our lives.Embarking on a mission to unravel the knotty concept of purpose, we asked ourselves whether being tethered to a 'mission statement' might restrain the natural flow of experiences. We tussled with the paradox of striving versus acceptance, and whether our goals truly echo our purpose. As we conversed, we considered the influence of cultural norms and the courage it takes to forge one's 'left hand path' of personal authority in a world where traditional guidance seems to falter. Join us for a chapter that challenges the clarity of our rationalizations and the stories we narrate to ourselves.In closing, we engaged in a heartfelt exploration of fulfillment as a personal quest, potentially at odds with our internal narrative. We discussed the layered nature of reality, from the elementary to the complex, and how aligning our stories with our base needs can help steer clear of emotional turmoil. The episode is a candid reflection on our internal dialogues and the importance of living in the moment, underscoring the idea that fulfillment is often found in the joy of the present and the company of loved ones. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a conversation that might just provide the insight you need to weave your own story of purpose and fulfillment.