Smart and Simple Matters Podcast: Simplify, Organize, and Be Money Wise

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)Rumor on the street is I love curating. But not just any kind of curating. Unsexy, Excel-fueled, minimalist, “no experience is off limits” curating. It’s a li...

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)Guess how many former Buddhist monks or circus performers I’ve had on Smart and Simple Matters? The answer is zero … until now! That’s because Andy Puddicombe from Headspace is my guest for this episode. You’re going to hear a lot about: * The science and benefits of mindfulness and meditation. * How to stop your mind from wandering away. * The themes of his TED Talk that has been viewed about two million times. But you won’t expect where Andy has come from and why he is where he’s at now. There’s some seriously heavy stuff from his past that set him on a journey to come out the other end transformed. These days, Andy is responsible for about a million people meditating on a regular basis. That’s primarily through the Headspace on the Go app, public speaking tours, and graciously giving interviews to folks like me. His company even works with gold medal winning Olympic athletes who happen to attribute much of their success to meditation. I respect Andy for what he’s accomplished, but more importantly, for who he is. He’s humble, driven for the common good, oozing mindfulness, and is a stabilizing presence. Listen in (or meditate) on our conversation as we help you find more softness, more gentleness, and, of course, more headspace. You’re about to Learn … * The fascinating science behind meditation. * Why you don’t look after your mind like you look after your body. * How to capture more fleeting mindfulness and headspace. * Why headspace is always with us (if we remember to look for it). * What “Take Ten” is and why you might benefit from it. * The surprising ripple effects when you meditate. * How to be familiar (and comfortable) with the present. * Why softness and gentleness is underrated. * How to be mindful … even without sunrises and surfing. * Why everythingness comes directly from nothingness. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Headspace (http://www.getsomeheadspace.com/what-is-headspace.aspx) * SimpleRev (http://simplerev.com/) * Resources: * Andy’s TED Talk: All it Takes is 10 Mindful Minutes (http://www.ted.com/talks/andy_puddicombe_all_it_takes_is_10_mindful_minutes.html) * Headspace on the Go (http://www.getsomeheadspace.com/shop/headspace-meditation-app.aspx) * Books: * The Headspace Diet * Get Some Headspace * Experience Curating (http://amazon.com/dp/B00HS533KY) * Other Podcast Episodes: * SASM 031 - Why You Need More Nothing (and How to Get It) With Jessie Kinowski (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-031-with-jessie-kinowski) Topics * [04:18] Andy’s seeds of awesomeness * [10:18] The difference between mindfulness, meditation, and headspace * [12:52] What Headspace is * [19:05] Why addiction is mitigated when you meditate * [22:37] Excuses for not meditating (and why they don’t help us) * [26:17] Meditation’s differences based on age and place * [32:18] Why meditation is a training for life * [35:45] Nothingness and everythingness Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher (http://stitcher.com/s?eid=22879980&refid=stpr) Transcript The transcript will not be available until I find a new transcriptionist (if you know someone good, let me know). I’m Grateful for Your iTunes Reviews! If you enjoyed this specific episode or the Smart and Simple Matters show in general, I always appreciate when people go to the iTunes page (http://valueofsimple.com/iTunes) and leave an honest review. Every single review is a huge help and received with gratitude!

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)From humble roots grow resilient crops. I wish I had a witty analogy or metaphor to build on here, but I leave that kind of stuff up to my guest for this episode, the de-light-ful Shanna Mann. She and I met in The Puttytribe two years ago, and, for some reason, she saw something in me. Fast forward to today and we’re in the same mastermind group, a place where Shanna helps to convince me to go for audacious projects like SimpleRev instead of pick the low-hanging fruit. She’s the founder of Change Catalyst (http://shannamann.com/me-you/about-me), runs three businesses, builds systems like ants build tunnels, loves going down the Reddit rabbit hole, and has more resilience that just about anyone I know. Plus, she’s going to tell it to you straight with pizzazz and relevance. For example: If the crops are crap, you’re hosed. – Shanna Mann [Tweet this (http://ctt.ec/z1PqU)] Indeed, Shanna. Indeed. The only thing she forgot was the “eh?” (she’s Canadian, you know). So how about you? Are you ready to build systems that keep life moving even when you’re feeling brain dead? Are you ready for some Shantastic gems like this? You can’t systematize until you’re organized. [Tweet this (http://ctt.ec/48OZM)] The show notes are light-hearted because Shanna’s a good friend. But I promise that we get serious in the episode, and that there’s serious value in it, too. Don’t forget that Shanna’s giving SASM listeners a 50% discount until January 31, 2014 on Your Next 6 Months (Forever) (http://shannamann.com/shop/your-next-6-months-forever). I’ve been through the exercises, templates, and resources myself. It’s fantastic. It’s Shantastic. And maybe it’s just right for you. You’re about to Learn … * The very unsexy – but super savvy – way that Shanna saves $15 a month. * Batman or Superman? We reveal who’s the better hero. * How to be the ant (and not the grasshopper). * The twenty-minute Reddit method to save a bunch of money. * Why to-do lists work better beside an “outcome list.” * The beautiful choreography that comes with super systems. * The difference between (and importance of) first versus second order systems. * Why habits, even great ones, can be giant blind spots. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Change Catalyst (http://shannamann.com/me-you/about-me) * Ittybiz (http://ittybiz.com/about/) * My Secret Cup (http://www.mysecretcup.com/pages/about-us) * Resources: * Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_virtual_network_operator) * Kanban Flow (https://kanbanflow.com/) * Pomodoro Technique (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique) * The Guild (on G+) (https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/101721331457001061388) * Shanna’s Products: * Quick & Dirty Bookkeeping (http://shannamann.com/shop/bookkeeping) * Your Next 6 Months (Forever) (http://shannamann.com/shop/your-next-6-months-forever) * Articles * If Systemization is So Effective Why Doesn’t Everyone Do It? (http://shannamann.com/blog/systemization-question) * Higher Concerns (a.k.a. How to Stare at a Wall) (http://exilelifestyle.com/higher-concerns/) Topics * [05:30] Shanna’s seeds of awesomeness * [08:23] Unconventional ways to be money wise * [17:27] Kanban, Pomodoro, and lists * [21:50] How to build systems, rituals, and habits for slowing down life * [28:34] Decision fatigue, limited willpower, and removing distractions * [33:20] Why you need to organize before you systematize * [39:18] Getting past the intimidation of systematizing * [45:33] To-don’t lists and having more of less * [49:06] The skinny on Your Next 6 Months (Forever) Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below.

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)Now here’s a guy that makes it easy to create bad fun puns. Because Mike Burns knows how to get things cooking without overheating. I can feel his fiery drive to create amazing simplicity resources. What? I’m laying it on too thick? OK. I’ll knock it off. Here’s the straight scoop on Mr. Burns (as I avoid a reference to C. Montgomery Burns from The Simpsons): * He was once certain he would become a pro skateboarder and DJ. * Mike has six kids with his wife Jen between the ages of nine and sixteen. * He previously worked for Franklin Covey (and his productivity reflects that). * He somehow cranks out awesome books (http://theothersideofcomplexity.com/ebooks/) every other second … even with a separate full-time gig. Mike just has a level of nuance and sophistication that tons of folks appreciate. And he combines being articulate with “I’m not going to sugarcoat this” flair quite well. For example: You don’t have to try and do it all. Because we [actually] know you can’t. – Mike Burns He’s right. Nobody can do it all. Because the human appetite for more, better, stronger, and faster can be insatiable. But we can live intentionally as we release the urge to control everything. We can let go of relentless organizing if we adopt simple systems. And we can find our “greater yes” as we say no to vampire distractions. Get ready to discover the other side of complexity with me and Mike in this groovy SASM episode. You’re about to Learn … * How to be vibrant while letting go of control. * The difference between decluttering and anti-distraction. * Why prioritization is most important in the moment of decision. * How Mike moved his eight-person family cross-country in a 6x12 foot trailer. * Why Mike is ill-prepared for Armageddon. * What the “greater yes” is and how you can use it to push yourself. * Mike’s elegant way to avoid the urge to hyper-organize. * Why simplifying helps you with organizing. * The single word that’s on Mike’s cell phone background. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * The Other Side of Complexity (http://theothersideofcomplexity.com/about/) * So They Can Fly (http://sotheycanfly.com/about/) * Zen Habits (http://zenhabits.net/about/) * Resources: * Mike’s "Do Less" Rap Video (http://theothersideofcomplexity.com/do-less-rap/) * Tim Ferriss Debates Leo Babauta on Setting Goals (http://vimeo.com/53629816) * Books: * Simpler: Declutter Your Life and Focus on What's Most Important * Living Clutter-Free with Kids in the House * The Power of Less * Blog Posts: * Do Less: A Short Guide (http://zenhabits.net/less/) * Feedback for Joel: * Share Your Story (http://valueofsimple.com/share-your-story/) Topics * [06:54] The seeds of awesomeness * [12:19] The ever-shifting landscape of personal priorities * [19:38] Why mainstream simplicity is important to Mike * [24:27] What simplicity in relationships looks like * [29:00] How Mike curates * [38:27] Resources to focus and live intentionally * [45:16] Why simplifying helps with organizing Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher (http://stitcher.com/s?eid=22879980&refid=stpr) Transcript The transcript will not be available until I find a new transcriptionist (if you know someone good, let me know). I’m Grateful for Your iTunes Reviews! If you enjoyed this specific episode or the Smart and Simple Matters show in general, I always appreciate when people go to the iTunes page (http://valueofsimple.com/iTunes) and leave an honest review.

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)I used to be a bull in a china shop at times. Get in my way and I’d normally go around you … but I might consider steamrolling you instead. These days, I don’...

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) I’ve only known Warren and Betsy Talbot for three months. But I already want them to be my life-long friends. There’s just something about their individual and combined personalities. They have this magnetic pull – you know, the one you can only explain when you experience it – and have reeled me in (intentionally or not). Their past five years have been anything but conventional. It began with the dream of quitting cushy corporate gigs and has evolved into traveling the world with a backpack a piece. The full story (http://www.marriedwithluggage.com/our-story/) is definitely worth a read. I’ve been listening to their podcast – An Action Plan for Dreamers – ever since I read their guest post on Courtney Carver’s Be More with Less. And five minutes into the first episode, I knew I needed you to hear them on Smart and Simple Matters. These two know fun. Warren and Betsy live and breathe simplicity. They just have a dynamism you gotta experience for yourself. And guess what? I totally saw pre-personal renaissance Joel when Betsy said this during the episode: There is no one out there who doesn’t know how to dream. But there [are] a shortage of people that will actually take action and make [those dreams] happen. – Betsy Talbot No doubt about it: more people are making their dreams happen – simplicity related or otherwise – thank to the terrific Talbot team. So crank this episode up and enjoy it to the very end. You won’t want to miss the details on the major Declutter Clinic discount (http://valueofsimple.com/dclinic) (affiliate link). You’re about to Learn: * Why wearing a sock tie and sweater vest to middle school can make you stronger. * How to make a real deadline and take immediate action on it. * The benefits of doubling down on your important relationships and … * … How to let go of relationships on life support. * Why you can never stop budgeting (hint: it’s sexy). * How to save $11,000 to visit Antarctica. * Why using the same tool consistently is more important than the tool itself. * How to get rid of “it.” * The steps to book Warren and Betsy to declutter your home in-person. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Married with Luggage (http://www.marriedwithluggage.com/our-story/) * Declutter Clinic (http://valueofsimple.com/dclinic) (affiliate link) * IttyBiz (http://ittybiz.com/about/) * Resources: * The Talbot’s budgeting and travel expense website (http://www.rtwexpenses.com/) * Trail Wallet (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/trail-wallet-travel-budget/id547171665) (iOS only) * David Delp’s SMART and SEXY Goals Framework (http://pilotfire.com/toolshop/smart-and-sexy-goals/) * Books: * Dream Save Do * Getting Rid of It * Strip Off Your Fear * Etc.: * Warren and Betsy’s Podcast, An Action Plan for Dreamers (http://www.marriedwithluggage.com/actionplan/) * An Action Plan for Dreamers, Episode 37 with Joel Zaslofsky (http://www.marriedwithluggage.com/2013/11/19/3-steps-living-simpler/) Topics * [05:30] Betsy’s seeds of awesomeness * [06:45] Warren’s seeds of awesomeness * [12:14] Why Warren and Betsy walked away from it all * [19:32] How to let go of relationships on life support * [25:33] The low tech/high tech combination for income and expense tracking * [30:22] How to set a deadline (and hit them) * [37:20] Who Declutter Clinic is for and how it helps * [40:30] How crazy is Joel Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher (http://stitcher.com/s?eid=22879980&refid=stpr) Transcript

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) It’s true. Almost nobody loves curating as much as I do. But you may fall deeply in love with curation if you viewed it like I do (and like this episode’s guest does). We’ve come a long way from traditional curating environments like libraries and museums. Today, curating looks like Evernote, Pinterest, spreadsheets, Goodreads, a commonplace book and … Scoop.it. This episode is about curation in general. But it’s really an almost real-time Scoop.it review – with specifics up the wazoo – alongside their CEO, Guillaume Decugis. Guillaume knows how to fail hard, and he knows how to succeed wildly. He previously sold a business for over $100 million, and his current baby – Scoop.it – gets more hits than Ted Williams in the 1940s. But like me, Guillaume is more than just a fella that knows about curating. He has the historical context, the technology savvy, and relationship capital to develop a platform that lets anyone become an expert on any topic. His path is not the typical one toward business simplicity. That’s why I know you’ll enjoy his story and what he’s up to with Scoop.it. Note: I also mention something called “The Curator’s Edge” at the end of this episode. It’s something I’ve never talked about before, and I need your insight on it. So enjoy the show and try out my new Speakpipe voice mail service that I describe in the episode. I sure as heck can’t wait to hear from you! In This Episode You’ll Learn about: * How Guillaume’s biggest business failure led to redemption via Scoop.it. * What “The Curator’s Edge” is and how you can guide it. * How curation can make anyone an expert or major media influencer. * Why topic-centric models can be better than people-centric models. * The common goal of all content curators (surprising, but true). * What “humanrithm” is … and why it matters. * Why curation is an evolution of human expression. * Who’s curating the curators (hint: it’s not me). Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Scoop.it (http://www.scoop.it/) * MYD Studio (Lauren Moss) (http://www.mydstudio.com/who) * Resources: * Guillaume on Scoop.it (http://www.scoop.it/u/gdecugis) * Karen Dietz on Scoop.it (http://blog.scoop.it/2011/10/18/lord-of-curation-series-karen-dietz/) * Robin Good on Scoop.it (http://www.scoop.it/u/RobinGood) * Related Podcast Episodes * SASM 023 - Curation, Informational Nurses, and Getting Some “P.I.E.” with Robin Good (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-023-with-robin-good) * SASM 014 - Cultivating the Promise and Storytelling’s Evolution with Steve Rosenbaum (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-014-curating-part-2-with-steve-rosenbaum) Topics * [05:27] Guillaume’s seeds of awesomeness * [09:05] The failures that led to future success and inventing Scoop.it * [19:39] Ways that people are using Scoop.it * [26:46] The Scoop.it curating process steps * [31:24] The business case for curation * [35:31] Some best practices of curating Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher (http://stitcher.com/s?eid=22879980&refid=stpr) Transcript The transcript will not be available until I find a new transcriptionist (if you know someone good, let me know). I’m Grateful for Your iTunes Reviews! If you enjoyed this specific episode or the Smart and Simple Matters show in general, I always appreciate when people go to the iTunes page (http://valueofsimple.com/iTunes) and leave an honest review. Every single review is a huge help and received with gratitude!

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) Every once in a while a Smart and Simple Matters listener will contact me and say something like this: “Joel, you just gotta have person X on your show. He o...

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) Have you always wanted to redefine undefine yourself or have more addictions (positive ones, of course)? I didn’t even know that undefining yourself or positive addictions existed until my personal renaissance started (http://valueofsimple.com/my-story). But I’ve located a master at removing self-imposed false labels or the ones that others slap on us without permission. Her name is Sarah Peck and she’s behind all sorts of awesome creations. Itstartswith.com (http://itstartswith.com/about/) is my favorite, but you may prefer her other various outposts. You’re going to hear stories of triumph, deep struggles, and everything in-between during our talk. You’ll probably even want to take notes (I know Sarah did) because gems like these are just waiting to be dug up: Addiction isn’t terrible unless you’re not ending up as the person you want to be. – Sarah Peck [Tweet that (http://clicktotweet.com/XdWbw)] Anything that is a benefit [can also be] a terrible curse. Most things in the world are paradoxes. – Sarah Peck And here’s something that I’ve heard before that bears repeating over and over again. The only system you need is the one that works. – Sarah Peck So come on and join us on a verbal journey that leads to some seriously groovy places. You’re about to understand why so many people think Sarah is fantastic. Yeah, fantastic enough to support her in raising over 30 grand for charity:water for her birthday (a story for another time (http://itstartswith.com/2012/09/we-did-it/)). Here’s What You’ll Learn * Why we’re so aggressive in defining who we are and what we do. * What Sarah’s mother’s biggest challenge was in raising her. * How to give people permission to be more honest and kind with you. * What value-oriented work is (and whether you have it). * How to create a mentality where you (and everything else) are “enough.” * Why addiction and adaptation are essential pieces of us. * How many things you’re addicted to (hint: it’s a ton). * The way out of negative addictions and how to create positive addictions. * How to have self-compassion … even when changes come too slowly. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * It Starts With (http://itstartswith.com/about/) * HappierHuman (http://happierhuman.com/start-here/) * Resources: * The Writer’s Workshop (http://itstartswith.com/writers-workshop/) * Unsexy System Sessions (http://valueofsimple.com/uss) * Stickk.com (http://www.stickk.com/) * Sarah’s Twitter Profile (https://twitter.com/sarahkpeck) * Books: * Daring Greatly by Brene Brown * Articles: * Danielle LaPorte Take the Easy Way * Sarah’s Jumping is Terrifying * Sarah’s How to Live * Sarah’s We Did It recap for raising $29k for Charity:Water * Previous Podcasts: * Multipotentialite Crimes, Triumphs, and Revealing Stories with Emilie Wapnick (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-026-with-emilie-wapnick) * Why You Need More Nothing (and How to Get It) With Jessie Kinowski (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-031-with-jessie-kinowski) * How to Create Space, Kindness, Empowerment, and Happiness with Tammy Strobel (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-020-with-tammy-strobel) Topics * [06:30] Sarah’s seeds of awesomeness * [11:22] Why the rush to fill time is so insidious * [17:40] What Sarah is doing to have more “nothing” in her life * [21:59] How Sarah curates her existence * [26:48] What mad scientist experiments are happening soon * [32:39] Why most things in the world are paradoxes and thoughts about addictions * [44:24] Details about Sarah’s writer’s workshop Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show,

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) Organizing can be horrific. Painful. Disorienting. Organizing can also bring joy, order, and be a ton of fun. How you feel about organizing and how you do it is framed by who’s got your back in the battle of overwhelming organization tips. But I know one woman with organizing pointers more solid than a block of titanium. Her name is Cassie Tillett and she’s a heck of a Professional Organizer. Cassie is also the President of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers United Kingdom (APDO-UK), a wonderfully resourceful and resilient lady, and creator of Working Order (http://www.workingorder.co.uk/). You definitely want to hear her thoughts on what she does when the going gets tough (hint: the tough get going… but that’s not all). Besides a lively, chucklerific chat, Cassie also confirms why something I’ve been saying for so long is so true: A tool or a system is only as good as your ability to access it. [Tweet That (http://clicktotweet.com/iA5xc)] Are you ready to hear how a fifteen year pro navigates the emotional minefield of sentimental items? Can you handle some simple thought experiments that can totally changes how you view your “stuff?” Put the headphones on, start getting dinner ready, and don’t worry about staying awake. Quality organization tips, strategies for preparing for emergencies, and bad humor (mine, not hers) are comin’ your way! What You’ll Learn As if groovy organization tips and entertaining banter wasn’t enough, in this episode you’ll learn about: * How to keep everything you need within arm’s reach. * The hidden problems with items that aren’t beautiful or useful. * How an organized garden shed can lead to your calling. * What it takes to have a productive “Sentiment-fest.” * How to always have enough capacity to prepare for emergencies. * Why contacting a Professional Organizer might be your smartest move. * The one rule you must know when managing sentimental items. * How to stop your friends from perpetrating hoaxes (intentionally or unintentionally). * What the true meaning of “Working Order” is. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Working Order (http://www.workingorder.co.uk/) * The Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers (UK) (http://www.apdo-uk.co.uk/) * National Association of Professional Organizers (http://www.napo.net/)\ * Digital Unite (http://digitalunite.com/) * Resources: * Professional Organizer: Your Ultimate Guide to This Booming Service (http://valueofsimple.com/professional-organizers-guide) * Experience Curating (http://valueofsimple.com/ecb) Topics * [06:14] The seeds of awesomeness * [13:44] How Cassie uses her professional discipline to overcome physical challenges * [25:18] Skill building, time management, and other things you don’t think a Professional Organizer would do * [30:42] Detaching (and valuing) the sentimental items * [39:10] How to be proactive in organizing * [42:58] How Cassie curates her existence (geek style) * [46:06] Why a home that “works” is more important than a home that’s minimalist Topics Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher (http://stitcher.com/s?eid=22879980&refid=stpr) Transcript The transcript will not be available until I find a new transcriptionist (if you know someone good, let me know). I’m Grateful for Your iTunes Reviews! If you enjoyed this specific episode or the Smart and Simple Matters show in general, I always appreciate when people go to the iTunes page

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) I don’t normally bring close friends onto Smart and Simple Matters. It’s not because I don’t have amazing friends (I do) or because those amazing friends don’t have vivid insight to share (they do). It’s just because a lot of my friends don’t live their lives around simplifying, organizing, and/or being money wise. But one of my best friends – Jessie Kinowski – has more wisdom about simplicity through having more “nothing” than anyone I know. I recognized that Jessie needed to be a guest on SASM when she told me last year: All I want more of is… nothing. I realized there was something more that I wanted and that I had the power to control that. In this episode, I heard the knowledge flow when she told me things like: The whole point about getting to a place where you’re comfortable with nothing is being on a path that doesn’t lead anywhere… that can actually be a good thing, like a cul-de-sac. It doesn’t go anywhere. It’s a dead end. But those are some of the most highly valued properties because they’re secluded and they’re private and they’re safe in their own community. Or: You don’t have to think about what’s next if you can focus on what is. [Tweet that (http://clicktotweet.com/cbI51)] So pour some tea or coffee and get ready to hear about a whole lotta nothin’ (not in a Seinfeld “this is a show about nothing” kind of way, but in a deep, spiritual, and powerful “let’s strip away all the excess in life until the only thing we want more of is … nothing” kind of way). Warning: don’t play drinking or eating games with the word “nothing” while listening to this episode (even if you’re just drinking tea). What You’ll Learn * (http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Nothing-to-Give.jpg)How to deal with other people’s unexpected reactions when you rapidly evolve. * Why getting to nothing and being comfortable with it is amazing. * How one day in seventh grade can fundamentally change a person. * Why you’ve never truly arrived at the answer. * How living at the end of a cul-de-sac can lead to beautiful nothingness. * Why you should prioritize yourself (without being selfish). * What to do to let go of expectations. * How to stretch positive experiences with self-reflection. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode Include: * Websites: * Choosing Conscious Health (http://choosingconscioushealth.com/about-kristen.php) * Resources: * The Value of Simple Declaration (http://valueofsimple.com/declaration) * Joel’s isolation tank experience (http://valueofsimple.com/isolation-tank) * Practicing Dying to Simplify Living (http://valueofsimple.com/practicing-dying) * Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_College_Admission_Test) * Books: * Choosing Conscious Health for a Vibrant Life (http://choosingconscioushealth.com/about-the-book.php) * Other SASM Episodes * SASM 011 – Becoming an Accidental Daily Money Manager with Jen Koontz (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-011-with-jen-koontz) Topics * [08:35] Jessie’s seeds of awesomeness * [14:27] How experiences build upon each other * [18:47] What happens on a path that doesn’t lead anywhere * [23:46] Jessie’s experiences in the float tank * [33:47] Finding balance and The Value of Simple Declaration * [39:05] Tipping points and the ripple effect of being unbalanced or dissatisfied * [43:10] Choosing uncertainty over unhappiness * [51:25] Self-reflection and letting go of expectations Special Thanks I want to give a special round of thanks to all the people that have provided an outpouring of digital hugs, high-fives, congrats, and kudos since the birth of my second son, Clark. I feel extremely grateful to be in the kind of community that celebrates the joyous moments with you.

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)Personal Capital proves that personal finance doesn’t need to be hard. Well, I think that’s been proven before, but the vast majority of people don’t know about it (or don’t believe it). So I brought Bill Harris – Personal Capital’s CEO – in for an episode of Smart and Simple Matters to do some fancy talkin’ with me about investing, budgets, and our relationship with money. I not going to lie. This episode gets a bit technical and might be advanced stuff depending on your current money savvy. Bill and I throw around words like diversification, asset allocation, Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Registered_Investment_Advisor), and other ones you don’t hear every day. But I believe everyone can get something from Bill’s insight and this episode. So why should you care what Bill has to say? Well … Bill was the CEO of business behemoth PayPal, CEO of personal finance giant Intuit (maker of one of my favorite pieces of software – Quicken), contributes to Inc.com, and has raised over $50 million in funding for Personal Capital so far. He started his own mutual fund when he was thirteen-years-old, not to mention ran several contracting businesses before he left high school. And he’s generally right about everything he writes about, save an article here or there about why entrepreneurs make terrible investors (http://www.inc.com/magazine/201305/bill-harris/why-entrepreneurs-make-terrible-investors.html) (I disagree). If you care even a smidgen about personal finance – and especially investing – this is the episode for you. Insight You’ll Gain There’s a ton of plain English wisdom mixed in with our industry fancy talkin’. For example, you’ll learn about: * What your biggest financial problem is (and it’s not what you think). * Why you need to be invested in your investments. * How Bill started his own mutual fund when he was thirteen. * Why fragmented finances adds needless complexity … and how to solve that. * The right way to budget with big-time benefits. * How smart it is to centralize your financial life. * Why Personal Capital can help you be emotionally healthier. * How practical and vivid data visualization makes you feel in control. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode: * Websites: * Personal Capital (http://valueofsimple.com/percap) (referral link) * Resources: * Start Investing with $100 (http://www.startinvestingwith100.com/faq/) * Quicken (http://quicken.intuit.com/) * Mint.com (https://www.mint.com/) * Definitions and Examples: * Exchange Traded Funds (http://www.investopedia.com/video/play/understanding-etfs/) * Asset Allocation (http://www.investinganswers.com/financial-dictionary/investing/diversification-342) * Diversification (http://www.investinganswers.com/financial-dictionary/investing/diversification-342) * Etc.: * Personal Capital for iStuff (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/personal-capital-banking-investing/id504672168) * Personal Capital on Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.personalcapital.pcapandroid&hl=en) Topics * [04:59] Bill’s seeds of awesomeness * [09:35] Solving the problem of fragmented finances and the chaos it brings * [15:28] How Personal Capital works * [17:52] What separates Personal Capital from similar services * [20:00] Aggregating your financial life in one place * [26:35] The emotions of money and building a better relationship * [29:28] Being invested in your investments Awesome Ways to Subscribe to the Show If you’re not already subscribed for automatic notifications of a new show, please do so with one of the links below. * Click here to subscribe with iTunes * Click here to subscribe via RSS (http://feeds.feedburner.com/ValueOfSimplePodcast) * Click here to subscribe via Stitcher

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg)It all started with a fleeting bed-time thought. “Joel. You haven’t increased your awareness today. Are you OK with that? What are you going to do about that?!” That brief internal challenge was the catalyst for this solo episode of Smart and Simple Matters. The words spilled from my brain onto my monitor as I raced to write the outline for my moral imperative to unsimplify. As I recorded this episode, one thought kept coming up over and over, like a broken record of unsimplicity: There is room for and growth in seeking out new and expanded awareness every … single … day. [Tweet that (http://clicktotweet.com/z6MaL)] As I contemplated publishing something that would almost guarantee I’m a future hypocrite, I felt compelled to share my vision about why, how, and when to unsimplify. After all, even people in simplicity circles don’t frequently resemble my unique brand of “simple.” I take this challenge of unsimplifying seriously. Unsimplification is too often a topic that gets swept under a minimalist’s or simplifier’s rug when they fail to acknowledge the elephant in the room: that unsimplifying can sometimes be the just, moral, and best way. I want to answer my own questions and the hidden questions lurking in every aspiring or accomplished simplifier’s brain. Questions like: * Do you have to be worldly to be worthy? - [Tweet that (http://clicktotweet.com/qtSa7)] * Why is wading into the pool of other people’s problems so damn complex? * Is there a strategic moral imperative to be as self-aware or globally aware as possible? It’s asking these kinds of questions that helps us grow. And by trying to answer these doozies, I hope to push myself and challenge you in the pursuit of simplifying, organizing, and being money wise. What You’ll Learn You’ll learn along with me as I share my moral imperative to unsimplify and thoughts about: * How toxic news is to your body. * Who the holy prophets might be for your personal renaissance. * Why there’s a moral imperative to strategically unsimplify. * If you have to be worldly to be worthy. * Why constant curiosity and self-awareness is so important. * How changing a light bulb can be seriously unsimple (no joke required). * Why peer development is complex, but (almost) always worth it. * When unsimple is great, even if you don’t expect it. Resources and Items Mentioned in This Episode Include: * Websites: * Zen Habits (http://zenhabits.net/about/) * Raam Dev (http://raamdev.com/about/) * Smart Passive Income (http://www.smartpassiveincome.com/about/) * Resources: * The Value of Simple Declaration (http://valueofsimple.com/declaration) * Experience Curating (http://valueofsimple.com/ecb) * The Continuous Creation Challenge (http://valueofsimple.com/ccc) * The Refuge of Simplicity (http://valueofsimple.com/newsletter) * Why Chasing Money Is Worse Than Dogs Chasing Cars (http://www.lifehack.org/articles/money/why-chasing-money-is-worse-than-dogs-chasing-cars.html) * News is Bad for You – and Giving Up Reading It Will Make You Happier (http://www.theguardian.com/media/2013/apr/12/news-is-bad-rolf-dobelli) * Feedly (http://feedly.com/) (for RSS) * Books: * The 4-Hour Workweek (http://valueofsimple.com/The-4-Hour-Workweek) * Public Speaking * My SXSW 2014 Talk, Experience Curating: the World in One Spreadsheet * Other SASM Episodes: * SASM 016 – Relationship Mindsets to Cultivate Lifetime Friends and Allies (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-016-relationship-mindsets) * SASM 019 – The Continuous Creation Challenge and Your Ultimate Guide to Rock It (http://valueofsimple.com/smart-and-simple-matters-podcast-019-continuous-creation-challenge) Topics * [06:55] The story that crystallized my unsimplicity quest

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) Charlie Gilkey is the kind of guy you can throw any question at. What’s the difference between a philosopher soldier and a soldier philosopher? Where did ...

(http://valueofsimple.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-and-Simple-Matters-Cover-200x200.jpg) I enjoy risk-taking, story-telling, and non-fancy-talking people. I also like creative folks who help other creative folks express their creativity better. ...