Podcast Of The Week: Find The Magic Trick w/ Aaron Sorkin

Brian Koppelman asked Aaron Sorkin about becoming a great writer.  Sorkin says you’ve got to find the magic trick.  So you didn’t like something. Your friends agree it’s just crap.  But it’s up to you to figure out WHY.  The same with the great stuff.  Why’d you hate it? Why’d you love it?  Demystify it. … Continue reading Podcast Of The Week: Find The Magic Trick w/ Aaron Sorkin

Sunday Music: Eye Know Eye Love You Better

We lost Dave Jolicouer from De La Soul a few weeks ago. In another week or so we get the group’s full catalog on streaming services for the first time ever.  Sample clearances, label shenanigans - you name it, the crap that buried their music was frustrating.  I can’t remember how or when I first … Continue reading Sunday Music: Eye Know Eye Love You Better

It’s Not Done Until It Has 8ish Mistakes

When the work has no mistakes, it’s definitely not done.  When it has five mistakes it’s still not there.  Once it has either or so mistakes, it might be done.  We get hung up on perfection, but the the soulfulness of imperfections is what makes all types of creative works special.  Rick Rubin says you … Continue reading It’s Not Done Until It Has 8ish Mistakes

Proofreading Tips From Frank Sinatra

I’m pretty sure they taught us in middle school to read our papers/essays/etc. out loud to help with proofreading.  I’ve been working on my read-it-out-loud-but-mostly-in-your-head voice ever since.  The rhythm, tone, and inflection all matter. Speaking the words, helps you… feel it.  If you need some inspiration, look no further than Frank Sinatra’s “Medley: The … Continue reading Proofreading Tips From Frank Sinatra

Podcast Of The Week: Pressfield And Altucher (Writing For A Living)

Steven Pressfield has been on the James Altucher podcast multiple times. After reading Pressfield's new book, Govt Cheese, and catching his most recent appearance discussing the book with Altucher, I want to give a plug for these two recent accomplishments and revisiting older episodes.  Pressfield’s already an inspiration to a lot of us. But hearing … Continue reading Podcast Of The Week: Pressfield And Altucher (Writing For A Living)

Podcast Of The Week: Rick Rubin on Cash’s “Hurt”

My buddy Adam K. sent me this clip from Lex Fridman discussing Johnny Cash’s rendition of “Hurt” with Rick Rubin.  They discuss how the lyrics, originally written by a 20-something, are sad but a bit redemptive.  The same poem, when sung by a 70ish-year-old, feels devastating.  It’s an incredible piece of perspective art. Listen to … Continue reading Podcast Of The Week: Rick Rubin on Cash’s “Hurt”