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The Year of Magical Learning

The Year of Magical Learning

By: Chris Sears and Trieu Nguyen
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365 Books + 365 Lessons for Life

Join Us on Magical Learning Adventure with Chris Sears and Trieu Nguyen as they explore topics on life, values, purpose, and meaning one book at a time.

The Gist -

Chris loves to read, write, and share. Luckily for him he met Trieu who was open to listening.

In this magical learning adventure, Chris reads a book, writes a reflection based on what he learned and how it has been applied to his life, and then shares it with Trieu. After that, the fun ensues as Chris and Trieu discuss the ideas presented.

We hope you can learn with us and apply some of these lessons to your own life.

You can read the reflections on our blog here - https://www.clubany.org/blog

Thank you from Chris and Trieu

2025 Chris Sears and Trieu Nguyen
Career Success Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Leadership Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success Philosophy Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Social Sciences Spirituality Tennis
Episodes
  • Episode 230: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman - System 1 is the Real Star of the Show!
    Jan 30 2026

    Discussion Topic: System 1 is the Real Star of the Show

    Book Title: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman (Part 3 of 5)

    In this episode of the Year of Magical Learning Podcast, we continue our reflection series on Daniel Kahneman's 'Thinking Fast and Slow,' specifically focusing on part three of five. The discussion revolves around the distinction between System One (the fast, intuitive brain) and System Two (the slow, deliberate brain). Delving into the critical role of System One in everyday life, the hosts explore how much of our daily actions and decisions are governed by this fast-thinking system. They also ponder thought-provoking questions, such as the implications of living without System Two and the societal emphasis on logic and rationality. Join us to uncover why System One is deemed the real star of the show and how both systems play vital roles in shaping human behavior.

    00:00 Introduction and Overview

    00:28 Book Summary: Thinking Fast and Slow

    00:55 System One: The Real Star

    01:56 Personal Reflections on Rationality

    03:35 The Curious Enlightenment of Professor Keratan

    05:43 System One vs. System Two in Daily Life

    07:20 The Role of System Two

    11:09 Hypothetical Scenarios and Thought Experiments

    16:20 Questioning Human Existence

    16:44 The Role of Perspective

    17:30 System One vs. System Two

    19:07 Adaptability and Survival

    21:37 The Value of System Two

    25:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Read the Reflection: System 1 is the Real Star of the Show

    Buy the Book

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    29 mins
  • Episode 229: The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathon Haidt - Disgust!
    Jan 29 2026

    Discussion Topic: Disgust—when you may be onto a new core value to explore!

    Book Title: The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathon Haidt (Part 4 / 5)

    In this episode of the Year of Magical Learning, we dive into reflection 4 of 5 on Jonathan Haidt's 'The Happiness Hypothesis.' We focus on the concept of disgust and how it can guide us to discover new core values. The discussion also explores the analogy of the rider and the elephant to better understand our instincts and subconscious. This profound conversation uncovers how to align our actions with our values for a more fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how to listen to your 'elephant' and navigate the journey towards understanding your true self.

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:24 Recap of 'The Happiness Hypothesis'

    00:51 Exploring Core Values and Disgust

    02:11 The Concept of 'Beaver Must Dam'

    03:02 Tennis and Flow State

    06:57 Integrity and Core Values

    14:20 The Impact of Integrity in Tennis

    18:46 Honesty and Skill Development

    21:53 The Challenge of Mastering Skills

    23:50 The Importance of Core Values

    26:47 Understanding the Elephant and the Rider

    30:32 Training the Elephant: Practical Examples

    35:22 The Power of Atomic Habits

    43:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Read the Reflection: Disgust—when you may be onto a new core value to explore!

    Buy the Book

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    44 mins
  • Episode 228: The Marshmallow Test by Walter Mischel - When to Ring the Bell!
    Jan 28 2026

    Discussion Topic: When to Ring the Bell!

    Book Title: The Marshmallow Test: Why Self-Control is the Engine of Success by Walter Mischel

    In this episode of the Year of Magical Learning the YOML Podcast, we delve into Reflection 228 with a deep exploration of the famous Marshmallow Test conducted by psychologist Walter Mischel. This psychological experiment focused on self-control and delayed gratification, sparks a broader discussion on the importance of understanding why we make decisions rather than simply when to make them. The hosts share personal anecdotes and reflections on how aligning actions with core values simplifies decision-making, reduces willpower exhaustion, and fosters a conscious approach to life. They also critique societal definitions of success versus personal fulfilment, emphasizing the need for deliberate and purpose-driven living.

    00:00 Introduction to the Marshmallow Test

    00:15 Understanding the Marshmallow Test

    01:11 Personal Reflections on Self-Control

    02:52 The Importance of Purpose and Values

    04:02 Diet and Lifestyle Choices

    07:21 Critique of the Marshmallow Test

    09:57 Cultural Perspectives on Success

    17:12 Conscious Living and Decision Making

    21:41 Personal Stories of Addiction and Willpower

    30:06 Reflecting on Past Struggles

    30:31 The Power of Conscious Decisions

    31:22 The Internal Conflict and Suffering

    33:05 Making Decisions and Reducing Suffering

    34:42 The Importance of Core Values

    35:47 Navigating Workplace Challenges

    37:34 The Exhaustion of Indecision

    39:00 The Role of Core Values in Decision Making

    46:42 Hypothetical Reflections on Life Choices

    52:33 The Importance of Personal Projects

    56:17 Concluding Thoughts and Final Questions

    Read the Reflection: When to Ring the Bell!

    Buy the Book

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    57 mins
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