Splattern

Splattern details the author's running and skiing adventures across Canada, emphasizing community, personal growth, and nature's beauty. It reflects on human connections, enduring physical challenges, and planning future endeavors like an Africa run. Gratitude and the importance of kindness and support are recurring themes.

Adventure Community Personal Growth Nature Physical Endurance Gratitude Kindness Future Plans

The hottest Substack posts of Splattern

And their main takeaways

Welcome autumn

39 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Food Events Relationships Personal Growth Lifestyle
  1. The start of autumn brings cozy dinner parties, where friends come together to share good food and company. It's nice to reconnect and celebrate friendships with a special theme like 'build a burrito.'
  2. Giving a speech at dinner parties can feel awkward, but it helps to acknowledge others and share the moment. This makes everyone feel connected and appreciated.
  3. Staying focused on goals helps create direction in life. It’s important to work hard and stay honest, just like Benjamin Franklin advised, without getting too caught up in specific job titles.

Sleep system

39 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Personal Health Wellness strategies Lifestyle Choices
  1. Sleeping on the floor can help with back pain and improve sleep quality. Many find it surprising, but adjusting to this method may lead to feeling more refreshed in the morning.
  2. Staying clear of sugar and caffeine before bed, along with reducing screen time, can help you sleep better. Reading before sleeping can also calm the mind and lead to more pleasant dreams.
  3. Waking up naturally with sunlight can be more refreshing than using an alarm clock. This method allows for a more intentional sleep experience, making it easier to get up in the morning.

Coincidence at Kremwerk

39 implied HN points • 28 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Relationships Community Self-reflection Lifestyle
  1. Daniel uses colorful wristbands to represent his principles, making it easier to focus on them. It's a creative way to visualize your goals and actions.
  2. Running into Amy unexpectedly helped give closure to unrequited feelings. Sometimes, meeting someone again can offer clarity and help us move on.
  3. Building community is about creating a chosen family. Friends can support us and help us grow, making our experiences richer and more fulfilling.

Take the money and run or stay and fight part 2

39 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
💼 Business Corporate culture Workplace dynamics Career development Human Resources
  1. It's common for companies to put employees through performance improvement plans (PIPs), often leading to layoffs. Many people believe accepting severance is the best option.
  2. Working as a team and having supportive colleagues can make a huge difference during tough times. Conversations with teammates can provide the encouragement needed to stay and fight.
  3. Taking on a challenging project can be a valuable opportunity for growth. It allows for gaining experience and testing one's abilities while still in a job.

Working hard or hardly working

39 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23
💼 Business Work Culture Employee Relations Management Practices Career development
  1. Finding joy and laughter at work can make a big difference in how people feel about their jobs. Having good coworkers who you can connect with is really valuable.
  2. Strong management and dedicated owners can inspire employees to work hard and be committed. When leaders show up every day, it encourages the team to do the same.
  3. In some places, like St Louis, the culture emphasizes hard work and values like family and spirituality. This sense of community can shape people's attitudes towards their jobs.
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Island Hopping

39 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Adventure Nature Food Sports Culture
  1. Connecting with friends is important, and spending time one-on-one can strengthen those bonds. It can be nice to express desires clearly and spend quality time together.
  2. Outdoor activities like mushroom foraging and fishing can create fun and memorable experiences. They also allow for laughter and playful moments, which bring people closer together.
  3. Trying new activities, like a friends triathlon, can be a great way to bond as a group. Enjoying nature and good food together makes the experience even better.

I fall in love too easily

39 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Relationships Identity Emotion Social Dynamics Personal Growth
  1. The relationship dynamics can feel complicated, especially when someone holds a position of power. It’s important to talk about these feelings to feel more balanced and empowered.
  2. Noticing how friends interact can reveal unspoken feelings, like jealousy or attraction, even when dating others. Open conversations about these feelings can bring clarity.
  3. Simple moments, like sharing a meal or a special item, can create deep connections and spark joy. These shared experiences deepen friendships and reveal more about each other.

Stuffed animals and woody conks

39 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Adventure Personal Growth Nature Community Art
  1. The author received a stuffed dinosaur as a prize after a 50k race, marking a personal embrace of stuffed animals after not being into them as a child. It's a fun way to reconnect with childhood memories.
  2. During a camping trip, the author helped a woman who had lost her electrolytes and car keys after swimming. This led to a light-hearted adventure for the woman and her son, showing how unexpected situations can create memorable stories.
  3. The author learned to advocate for their own needs during weekend plans, finding it easier to express wants like finishing a hike early. This skill in self-advocacy is important for personal well-being.

A run through the woods: Missouri edition

39 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
🏝 Travel Nature Adventure Food Culture Geography
  1. The author enjoyed a run in Lone Elk State Park in Missouri, where they discovered interesting mushrooms that resembled those on their burger.
  2. They caught up with an old math tutor who shared an exciting new discovery in logic and math, which could change how math is taught.
  3. Missouri's geography is significant, showcasing limestone and being a key area for studying river flooding due to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.

Positioning your Neck for Now

39 implied HN points • 06 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Physical health Mental health Self-care Meditation
  1. Relaxing your neck can help you stay present and reduce discomfort. Keeping your neck aligned can make it easier to focus on the now rather than what you desire in the future.
  2. Maintaining good posture is attractive to others. If someone can control their body well, it shows confidence and self-responsibility.
  3. In social situations like flirting, it's important to balance your own attention with the attention on the other person. This can create a more enjoyable and mutually respectful connection.

Injury-free or it doesn’t count

19 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Fitness Athletics Injury prevention Mental health Performance
  1. Injuries can be serious for athletes, and pushing through pain isn't always the best choice. It's important to listen to your body and take time to recover.
  2. The culture of 'no pain, no gain' can affect how we think about training and progress. Sometimes, we need to rethink our goals and focus on doing what's safe for our bodies.
  3. Minimizing running miles and accepting help when offered can be a smart way to stay healthy. It's okay to change your approach to fitness to prevent injuries.

Revelstoke: Rogers Pass Trip Report

19 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🏝 Travel Camping Skiing
  1. The trip started with a mix-up about time zones, but the wait led to a chance for a relaxed start to the adventure. It’s a reminder to stay flexible and adapt when plans change.
  2. Improvising during the hike allowed for unexpected fun, like exploring off the original path. Letting go of strict plans can lead to exciting new experiences.
  3. The focus shifted from seeking the most epic day to ensuring a safe experience in the outdoors. Prioritizing safety can really enhance the joy and comfort of winter camping.

Horsin' Around

19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Art Humor Storytelling History Anecdotes
  1. A unique furniture store in Brooklyn is packed with all kinds of antiques, including horses as furniture types. It's a quirky place that shows how obsessed the owner is with his collection.
  2. A comical robbery scene happens in the store where bandits in pantyhose steal a necklace. The whole thing plays out like a funny movie, with the robbers sneaking around furniture.
  3. Spending time with family reveals personal stories and lessons, such as learning about history from grandparents and the complexities of moral questions, like those involving J. Edgar Hoover.

Commentary on The Constitution

19 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Society Relationships Gender Personal Growth Arts
  1. Many people stay in bad relationships because of societal pressure or a sense of duty, which can hold them back from finding better, healthier connections.
  2. When partying or dancing, a person's energy can affect the whole group's mood. Positive, relaxed vibes can make everyone feel safe and have fun.
  3. Predators tend to target those who seem weak or alone in social settings, so it's important to recognize your own strength and stay aware of your surroundings.

The Constitution

19 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
⚔ Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Literary Fiction Contemporary Fiction Narrative
  1. The club scene is filled with people pretending to have a good time, but many might actually be feeling uncomfortable or fake. It's interesting how everyone tries to fit in, even when they might not really be enjoying themselves.
  2. Some men in the club seem to feel the need to show off and prove their masculinity, which creates a tense atmosphere. Women often find themselves in the role of managing or calming these men's behaviors.
  3. The story touches on the complexities of attraction and relationships, exploring how societal pressures affect both men and women. It suggests that sometimes people enable harmful behaviors in others, leading to confusion and disappointment.

Freedom, Not Control

19 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Free will Freedom Self-Actualization Spirituality
  1. Freedom is about making choices that lead to a fulfilling life, rather than trying to control everything. Prioritizing sleep and good nutrition helps create that freedom.
  2. True community leaders listen and support people seeking guidance, creating meaningful connections. It's good to reach out to mentors or leaders when you're looking for direction.
  3. Managing health issues takes learning and adaptation, and it's important to verify information rather than just relying on labels. Taking care of ourselves and others is a journey, especially when it comes to health.

How to do International Food Aid and Succeed as an African Entrepreneur in One Day

1 HN point • 12 Aug 24
🍲 Food & Drink Entrepreneurship Cultural Exchange Community support Sustainability
  1. Food aid can significantly improve people's lives, as shown by the joy and gratitude of families receiving meals. Simple acts of giving can create strong connections and happiness in communities.
  2. Success stories of entrepreneurs can provide hope and insight into achieving personal goals. Learning from those who have succeeded, like Rocky, can inspire others, like Living, to understand and reach for their ambitions.
  3. Different cultures offer unique solutions for common problems. While the U.S. has its challenges, the close-knit, family-oriented lifestyle in Africa can teach lessons about connection, happiness, and health that can benefit everyone.

Surprising Stats Pt. 1

19 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Statistics Education Immigration
  1. 54% of Americans aged 16 to 74 read below a 6th grade level. This shows a big gap in literacy skills that affects people's ability to understand important documents.
  2. In 2023, there were almost 2.5 million encounters at the US-Mexico border. More migrants are coming from Central and South America than ever before.
  3. 70% of Jewish students at MIT feel they have to hide who they are due to fear. There's a lot of tension on campus, and it raises questions about how universities are handling such issues.

Back on Tour and Dairy Farming

19 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🍲 Food & Drink Sustainability Travel Food Trends Cultural Exploration
  1. Burlington, Vermont has a cool vibe with breweries, shops, and nature around Lake Champlain. It's interesting how a place so close to home can feel so new and unexplored.
  2. There's a 24/7 ferry that runs between New York and Vermont, providing a surprising service in an area that seems remote. It’s funded by taxpayers and has a long history.
  3. Organic dairy farming claims to help the environment, but there are concerns about cow emissions. A recent program is turning retired dairy cows into grass-fed meat, creating a new revenue stream for farmers.

Balinese mask workshop

19 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art Dance Expression Workshops Community
  1. The workshop involved a warm-up session similar to ecstatic dance, allowing participants to move freely without the usual pressure of performance. This created a relaxed atmosphere for expression and connection.
  2. Wearing hand-carved masks changed how participants felt and interacted, helping them to be more instinctive and less self-conscious, akin to being an animal in nature.
  3. Engaging with others during the workshop led to unexpected emotional moments, highlighting the importance of communication and understanding feelings in social interactions.

My reddit post for career advice

19 implied HN points • 26 Nov 23
🚌 Education Career Advice Professional development Job search Personal Growth Life Skills
  1. It's valuable to express your career uncertainties and seek advice from others, whether online or in person. Writing down your thoughts can help clarify what you really want to do.
  2. Having a diverse background can be a strength when looking for new career paths. Embracing all your experiences can lead you to opportunities that fit you better than previous roles.
  3. It's okay to take risks and explore alternative careers or adventures, especially when you're young and have fewer responsibilities. Following your passions might lead you to a fulfilling path.

Mediha

19 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Trauma Healing Human Rights Society Peace
  1. Mediha's story shows the pain of being a victim of sexual slavery and the struggle to heal after such trauma. She represents many Yazidi women who face shame and isolation when they return home.
  2. Speaking out about her experiences has been a vital part of Mediha's healing process. By identifying her captor, she seeks justice and challenges the stigma against women like her in her community.
  3. The message of finding inner peace amidst conflict is important. Personal healing can start with one person's heart, and listening to others helps combat the dehumanization caused by war.

Another day in paradise

19 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Art Food Personal Growth Social Commentary
  1. The creative process has two phases: gathering ideas freely and then adding structure to them. It's important to let each phase finish naturally.
  2. Setbacks in habits can be framed positively, like a market 'correction'. This can help you stay mindful and improve your habits.
  3. Experiences can vary wildly, like the contrast between a fancy club dinner and a social dance. These moments show the diverse experiences life offers.

Poll Worker or Poll Dancer

19 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Cinema Social Issues Food
  1. Bill Gates faced a lot of anger from voters, but he stayed strong during tough times. His decision not to run for reelection shows how much the past elections affected him.
  2. A former poll worker shared her story of stepping up to help after Hurricane Sandy. She felt that young people are needed to improve the voting system in New York.
  3. Little Richard's influence on rock and roll was huge, even if he didn't get much credit. Many famous musicians looked up to him and acknowledged how he shaped their music.

Welcome to DOC NYC

19 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Film Environment Indigenous rights Community Tradition
  1. Attending film festivals can provide inspiration for new projects, especially when you see how different filmmakers tackle similar issues like climate change and culture.
  2. Protecting indigenous cultures and ways of life is crucial, as modern influences can threaten their traditions and connection to the land.
  3. Wealth is often measured by generosity and community support rather than money, highlighting the importance of sharing and helping one another.

Inspiration potluck

19 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Adventure Community Inspiration Personal Growth Storytelling
  1. People can accomplish amazing feats, like climbing all 100 peaks in a summer while biking between them. It shows that with determination, anyone can do extraordinary things.
  2. When planning your own adventure, having clear and original parameters can help. Talking to others can inspire new ideas and approaches.
  3. It's important to speak out about tough experiences, even in places you're connected to. Sharing stories can help bring attention to issues and inspire others to be brave.

The last supper

19 implied HN points • 04 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Workplace dynamics Personal Growth Relationships
  1. It's okay to have mixed feelings about work and life changes. Sometimes you want to adventure, and other times you just want stability, like getting another job.
  2. Team meals can be really important for bonding and closure. They help people connect, reflect, and share feelings, especially when saying goodbye.
  3. Feeling lost or uncertain at work is normal. Learning from experiences like performance reviews can help you find your way and improve in the future.

Pain and reflection

19 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Personal Reflection Mental health Social Dynamics Emotional Expression
  1. The writer feels less motivated about work now compared to when they were focused and dedicated, realizing that lack of energy leads to mistakes. They recognize the importance of effort and commitment to being successful.
  2. Having a supportive friend made a big difference in their work experience. Quick approvals from this friend on code reviews boosted their confidence and helped them publish their work more easily.
  3. Planning ahead helped clarify tasks and improve productivity. When they took time to outline their goals, it became easier to manage the project and communicate its importance to others.

How to prepare for a Communist Revolution

19 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Communism Revolution Career Choices Social Commentary
  1. Staying at a job can build strong relationships with your boss and team, helping you grow in your career. It's important to weigh the benefits of success at your current job against new opportunities.
  2. The tech industry offers great financial opportunities, so it's smart to succeed in your current role before making big changes. Building credibility now can help you take bigger risks later.
  3. With rising economic disparities, it's natural to worry about the future and consider how to protect yourself. Saving money might not be as wise as engaging with your community and sharing wealth.

Nugget interactions

19 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Team Dynamics Work Environment Creativity Personal Growth Art Appreciation
  1. Team bonding is important for a positive work environment. Everyone had fun during the lunch meeting, showing that a high-performing team can still enjoy each other's company.
  2. Setting clear goals and planning tasks can increase productivity. One engineer felt proud to share that his work velocity improved when he had defined milestones.
  3. Ambition can be a double-edged sword in creative work. A local artist believes that staying present and less ambitious helps him create better art.

Whose dinner party is this anyway?

19 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Socializing Friendship Community Reflection Personal Growth
  1. It's important to initiate plans with friends, as it can take real courage and effort to bring people together. Taking that first step can mean a lot.
  2. Hosting events, even in places you don't live, shows the power of connection. You can create a fun atmosphere and help people meet new friends.
  3. Being a good host is about making others feel comfortable and connecting them. Sometimes, introverts can be great at bringing people together, showing that you don’t have to be extroverted to be a fantastic host.

Shabbat dinner and Waylon's return

19 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Social life Food culture Workplace dynamics Mental health
  1. Feeling overwhelmed at work is common, but it helps to look at challenges with a positive mindset. One way to refocus is to remind yourself that you're doing well and that your team supports you.
  2. Building strong relationships with teammates can enhance productivity and create a positive work atmosphere. Someone who seems less confident may actually be excelling, so it's important to recognize everyone's contributions.
  3. Having a supportive environment, like a Shabbat dinner with friends, can recharge your spirit. Sharing meals and enjoying time together helps ease work stress and strengthens bonds.

Larch season

19 implied HN points • 09 Oct 23
🏝 Travel Outdoor activities Adventure Travel Running Camping
  1. Working in a team environment can improve communication and speed up projects. Having fewer people in the office can lead to better, more personal interactions.
  2. Engaging in outdoor activities like running can be physically challenging, especially when you're out of practice. It's important to listen to your body and take care of your health.
  3. Helping others in need can create meaningful experiences. Assisting someone struggling on a trail reminds us to be kind and supportive.

The boys are back in town

19 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Jewish Identity Workplace dynamics Friendship Personal Growth
  1. The energy at Amazon is buzzing as people return to the office. It's great to see teams collaborating and having fun together while working on projects.
  2. The writer faced a tough project at Amazon and decided to take it on for the learning experience. Despite the challenges, they found joy in problem-solving and working hard.
  3. The writer wants to express pride in their Jewish identity during a difficult time. They believe in unity among Jews and hope for good decisions that promote security and peace.

Consciousness

19 implied HN points • 11 Oct 23
📖 Philosophy Consciousness Cognition Neuroscience Mindfulness Human experience
  1. Consciousness includes wakefulness, attention, and conscious access. These are key ideas that help us understand how we experience awareness.
  2. The author believes consciousness acts like a tool that helps us pick which thoughts to focus on. This means we can choose to think about positive things and let go of the negative ones.
  3. Studies about consciousness rely on people sharing their experiences. This means the subject is important, as they need to report when they are aware of something.

Paw paws and networking

19 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Networking Conferences Travel Food Art
  1. Paw paws are a tasty fruit native to North America, and they make for a nice treat and reminder of home. It's great to feel taken care of by friends and family.
  2. Networking can be tiring but rewarding, as it takes focus to connect with new people. Meeting interesting individuals can spark inspiration and new ideas.
  3. Exploring unique places like the City Museum can be a fun experience without needing to fit it into a specific category or checklist. It's about enjoying the moment and the creativity around you.

Dovran

19 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Immigration Identity Lifestyle Food Community
  1. Dovran grew up in a rural area of Turkmenistan where his family lived off the land, drinking water from a well and raising various animals for food.
  2. Despite his simple and rural upbringing, Dovran dreams of living in the US and his family is moving there after winning the green card lottery.
  3. Dovran's journey to the US includes attending a community college and eventually transferring to Brandeis, where he found a job at Amazon and supports his family.

cuddle

19 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Emotional Health Physical health Social Health Mental health Wellness Practices
  1. Cuddling events focus on consent, making it safe for everyone to explore touch. Participants learn how to express their boundaries and intentions.
  2. Practicing saying 'no' is a key part of these workshops. It helps people feel empowered and comfortable with their choices.
  3. The experience can be intense and tiring, showing how deep relaxation and connection can reveal personal exhaustion and discomfort.

How to ask questions

19 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Workplace Socializing Teamwork Personal Growth Culinary
  1. Think carefully before asking questions. It helps if you try to solve the problem by yourself first, as this can lead to new ideas.
  2. Building social connections with coworkers is important. Joining in on conversations can strengthen teamwork and collaboration.
  3. Having support from coworkers, like feedback on your work, can really boost your productivity and motivation.

The Fight Begins

19 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
💼 Business Work Culture Career development Project management Networking
  1. The person has chosen to take on a challenging project at work instead of accepting a severance package. They see it as a chance to learn and grow.
  2. Feedback from both their boss and a senior engineer highlighted areas for improvement, making them realize they need to change their approach to work and learning.
  3. They are making a conscious effort to balance work and life, treating this project like a marathon where pacing and focus will help them succeed.