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The Year of Magical Learning

The Year of Magical Learning

Written by: Chris Sears and Trieu Nguyen
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About this listen

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
Careers Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Leadership Management & Leadership Personal Success Philosophy Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Self-Help Social Sciences Spirituality Success
Episodes
  • Episode 249: Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes - Jenny McCarthy!
    Feb 26 2026

    Discussion Topic: Jenny McCarthy - Living a Life of Values is a Team Sport!

    Book Title: Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes (Part 1/2)

    In this episode of the Year of Magical Learning podcast, hosts delve into 'Year of Yes' by Shonda Rhimes, discussing the significance of saying yes to new opportunities. The conversation covers Rhimes' career, her TV shows like Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, and her decision to embrace life by saying yes for an entire year. They reflect on the supportive roles of people in their lives, like nannies and family members, who make meaningful work possible. The episode explores the interconnected nature of our lives and the importance of gratitude for those who help us navigate our roles and responsibilities.

    00:00 Introduction to the Year of Magical Learning

    00:24 Who is Shonda Rhimes?

    00:55 The Impact of Grey's Anatomy

    02:13 The Year of Yes

    03:46 Jenny McCarthy: The Unsung Hero

    04:34 Living a Life of Values

    05:39 The Importance of Support Systems

    08:46 Interdependency and Social Interaction

    20:59 The Myth of Self-Sufficiency

    23:34 The Fear of Dying Alone

    24:55 The Importance of Meaningful Relationships

    25:41 A Heartfelt Gesture from Kiara

    27:19 The Concept of Meaningful Work

    30:18 A Humorous Reflection on Crime and Integrity

    32:47 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Read the Reflection:Jenny McCarthy - Living a Life of Values is a Team Sport!

    Buy the Book

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    40 mins
  • Episode 248: Dreamland by Sam Quinones - Community is the Antidote to Pain!
    Feb 25 2026

    Discussion Topic: Community is the Antidote to Pain!

    Book Title: Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic by Sam Quinones (Part 2 or 2)

    In this episode of the Year Magical Learning Podcast, we continue our reflection series with part 2 of episode 48, focusing on the importance of community as an antidote to pain. We delve into the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic on rural Midwestern communities, highlighting personal stories and discussing the isolating nature of opioid addiction. Our conversation underscores the vital role of community and connection in overcoming personal tragedies and addictive behaviors. Tune in as we share insights and personal experiences and engage in a deep discussion about the power of support and human connection in navigating life's toughest challenges.

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:26 The Origin of Dreamland

    01:49 Impact of the Opioid Epidemic

    04:59 Drugs and Isolation

    10:53 Personal Reflections on Pain and Isolation

    13:43 The Role of Community in Healing

    15:25 The Power of Shared Stories

    19:10 Defining Community and Its Importance

    23:45 Living for Two: A Personal Journey

    30:44 The Madness of Isolation

    31:10 Impact on Relationships and Families

    31:41 Personal Stories of Addiction

    32:55 The Role of Community in Recovery

    36:15 Living for Two: A Personal Journey

    39:19 The Power of Connection

    48:29 The Atomic Bomb Event

    55:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    Read the Reflection:Community is the Antidote to Pain!

    Buy the Book

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    57 mins
  • Episode 247: Dreamland by Sam Quinones - The Treatment is You!
    Feb 24 2026

    Discussion Topic: Embrace the Pain – The Treatment is You!

    Book Title: Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic by Sam Quinones (Part 1/2)

    In this episode of the YOML podcast, the hosts dive into the first part of a two-part reflection on the powerful book 'Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opioid Epidemic' by Sam Quinones. They discuss the critical role of pain as a signal from the body and mind, the opioid crisis's devastating impact, and a personal exploration of embracing and managing pain without becoming dependent on medications. Tune in to understand more about the opioid epidemic, the importance of addressing the root cause of pain, and personal anecdotes that shed light on the complexity of pain management.

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode

    00:19 Personal Fascination with Pain

    00:40 Introduction to 'Dreamland'

    01:21 Professional Experience with Opioid Monitoring

    05:13 The Opioid Epidemic and Personal Reflections

    08:29 Embracing Pain and Its Purpose

    10:25 Discussion on Pain and Opioid Addiction

    28:25 The Role of Pain in Our Lives

    29:10 Mental Health Crisis and Medication

    29:26 The Illusion of Stability Through Medication

    29:52 Understanding Pain as a Signal

    30:54 The Consequences of Ignoring Pain

    32:53 Personal Reflections on Pain and Medication

    33:41 The Importance of Addressing Root Causes

    34:55 Dietary Choices and Health

    35:52 The Misconceptions About Sugar and Wheat

    38:25 The Dangers of Chronic Pain and Medication

    46:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Read the Reflection: Embrace the Pain – The Treatment is You!

    Buy the Book

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    51 mins
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