On balancing information consumption and digestion

There is nothing that I like more than learning something interesting. That "wow" moment when a fact or information nugget truly blows my mind.

Did you know that Blockbuster was actively building a Netflix competitor that was reportedly richer-featured? They couldn't bring it to market due to private equity debt-servicing obligations.

It's genuinely one of the most enjoyable things about experiencing life.

Super Saiyans of DBZ lore have blonde hair because it saved time in the inking process in the original manga.

This, in turn, causes me to consume tons of podcasts, books, videos, reports, and other content that dives deep into fun and curious topics.

30% of IKEA store trips are restaurant-only purchases. I've done this many times.

It's rewarding, and it helps me learn about the world in a way that might connect to broader insights in the future.

The Choctaw word for "turkey" literally translates to "big chicken." It's spelled "fvkit" and is pronounced exactly as you think.

At least it feels satisfying. I sometimes wonder if it's truly valuable to be consuming so much information constantly.

It's well understood that altitude affects water boiling when cooking, but it's much more important to factor in altitude when baking.

After all, these facts are "fun" in the sense of party conversation. But they won’t make a material difference in my life or those I care about. Though it may help me feel less guilty with meatball+design trips to IKEA, I suppose. I often miss the unsettled quiet that comes with actual contemplation of the learnings and experiences—true reflection and digestion into wisdom.

This is so much harder, but it produces the fundamental knowledge that can make a meaningful impact in my life, family, or work. I initially feel " unproductive " when I do this type of contemplation. I could be doing something hands-on or consuming more fun facts. However, I must focus on the reality that this is the most leveraged thinking I can do regularly.

I've tried to switch out podcasts for music or audiobooks. Audiobooks are different enough to force deeper reflection when I listen, unlike conversational podcasts. I sometimes mix in physical reading when possible, but getting uninterrupted moments of quiet and focus is difficult to balance with family responsibilities.

Some brief, albeit intentional, time processing and digesting my reading with a long-term focus is better than dedicating no time to the process. I'll savor and appreciate what I can.

Reading can significantly improve sleep quality by signaling the brain to wind down; it can boost empathy and understanding by exposing you to different perspectives