What To Read (Or Listen To) To Feel More Alive: Part I
Here at Skip the Small Talk, we love to hear stories, learn, and help each other find the answers to our questions as humans. I asked our team of community leads around the country for their favorite books, podcasts, and other sources about what drives and interests us here at STST: connection, vulnerability, relationships, mental health, and storytelling. We’ve put together a list of amazing resources that we have really enjoyed consuming, and have helped or guided us in some way. Give them a read or listen when you have the chance!
Feel Good Podcasts & Apps
Terrible, Thanks for Asking created by Nora McInerny
Recommended by Baltimore Community Lead, Rae Buchanen
TTFA embodies the idea of skipping the small talk and plows courageously into topics that are uncomfortable, heartfelt, sad, and remarkable. It explores some of the most terrible things that happen to people and shows a side of humanity that is often overlooked. It's beautiful, it's moving, and it's perfect for when you need a good cry.
Where: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and anywhere podcasts are found!
The Moth Podcast hosted by The Moth
Recommended by Chicago Community Lead, Arielle Raveney
It is similar to what we do with Skip the Small Talk: connecting humans through stories. The podcast is a series of recordings from live events where there is a theme for the night and audience members put their name in the hat and - if drawn - tell a story. What I love about this podcast is that you never know what story you are going to hear in each episode. It is such a nice way to expand your humanity by laughing, learning, and yes, sometimes crying. You can find the podcast on any podcast streaming service (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.).
Feel Good Books - Print & Audio
Big Friendship: How We Keep Eachother Close by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman
Recommended by Online Community Lead, Anna Chaflin
Big Friendship is “two self proclaimed best friends” exploring the depths, dynamics, and complications within adult friendship. I found this book really enjoyable and relatable on a topic that's not so often explored - as they talk about, there's so much content out there regarding romantic relationships but it's kind of the best kept secret that adult friendships change and transform over the years, and if you're not prepared for it, it can feel a bit isolating. I chose to listen to this via audiobook from my local library and found the concepts and discussion points super interesting with a mix of practical advice and validating anecdotes. Also, these two hosted a podcast before their book, so the audiobook version is such a great listen with their dynamic.
How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price
Recommended by Founder and Boston Community Lead, Ashley Kirsner
This is a realistic, step-by-step guide for slowly but surely becoming less attached to your phone. I noticed myself feeling so much happier and less stressed after I finished working through this book. I recommend it to anyone who is aware that their phone isn't great for them but just can't seem to kick the habit.
The Body Keeps the Score by Besser van der Kolk
Recommended by Portland Community Lead, Lexi Totten
Renowned trauma expert Bessel van der Kolk has spent over three decades working with survivors. In The Body Keeps the Score, he transforms our understanding of traumatic stress, revealing how it literally rearranges the brain’s wiring—specifically areas dedicated to pleasure, engagement, control, and trust. He shows how these areas can be reactivated through innovative treatments including neurofeedback, mindfulness techniques, play, yoga, and other therapies. Based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists, The Body Keeps the Score offers proven alternatives to drugs and talk therapy—and a way to reclaim lives.
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
Recommended by Boston Community Lead, Jennifer Galvao
This book discusses the egoic state of consciousness and steps we can take to live as our fullest selves. 10/10!
Love is Letting Go of Fear by Gerald G. Jampolsky, MD
Recommended by Boston Community Lead, Jennifer Galvao
This book essentially discusses that in life we can choose to live in one of two ways: in love or in fear. One of my faves!
What My Mother and I Don't Talk About by Michele Filgate
Recommended by Boston Community Lead, Jennifer Galvao
This is a collection of stories from fifteen writers discussing their relationships with their mothers - the good and the bad - and how the things that often go un-discussed end up impacting us in the most profound ways.
4000 Weeks Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
Recommended by Providence Community Lead, Erin Perfect
The title makes it sound like it's a productivity self-help book, but really it's closer to a philosophical guide to confronting our mortality and prioritizing the things that really matter. I've found Burkeman's writing humorous and insightful. This book has helped me feel more comfortable setting boundaries and not to feel overwhelmed when making decisions. He also has a newsletter called The Imperfectionist and some interesting blog posts.
What other books, podcasts, apps, or more might you add to this list?
Also, check out Sam’s post about tools and resources for coping with post-COVID re-entry anxiety for more recommendations.