Why is this interesting?

Why is this interesting? is a daily email by Noah Brier & Colin Nagy exploring intriguing aspects of diverse topics ranging from geography and culture to business strategies and environmental issues. Each post delves into the unique characteristics, challenges, and insights related to various subjects and locations around the world.

Geography and Culture Business and Innovation Environmental Concerns Digital Culture and Social Media Literature and Art Personal Development Travel and Exploration

The hottest Substack posts of Why is this interesting?

And their main takeaways
301 implied HN points 04 Mar 24
  1. Ahmed Al Omran shares his diverse media diet, including newspapers, RSS feeds, newsletters, podcasts, and social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
  2. Al Omran recommends 'Endel,' an AI-generated personalized soundscapes app, and expresses a preference for trains over planes due to the unpleasant aspects of flying.
  3. Japan is highlighted as a must-visit destination known for its attention to craftsmanship across various aspects of culture, providing unique experiences.
6696 implied HN points 24 Mar 23
  1. Hong Kong is a diverse city with various distinct worlds coexisting.
  2. The city is at an inflection point facing changes and increasing control from the mainland.
  3. Exploring Hong Kong offers a mix of experiences from traditional dining to modern infrastructure and cultural sights.
542 implied HN points 05 Feb 24
  1. Sophia curates her news from social media like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, finding content that aligns with her interests.
  2. She enjoys leisurely reading the weekend papers and is a fan of Private Eye, read in a unique way as a family tradition.
  3. Sophia recommends reading Megha Mohan's journalism and mentions Reverso Context as a great language app.
120 implied HN points 19 Mar 24
  1. The Explorers Club has a rich history of adventurers and remarkable achievements like reaching the North Pole and diving to the ocean's deepest point.
  2. The club features fascinating artifacts such as a Yeti scalp, Egyptian writings, and rare animal specimens, creating a real-life 'Night at the Museum' experience.
  3. Through narratives like 'As Told at the Explorers Club,' the journal presents contemporary stories of adventurers like Thomas Baker Slick Jr., who sought legendary creatures like the Yeti.
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180 implied HN points 20 Feb 24
  1. A new recommendation site called WITI Recommends is being tested out by Why is this interesting.
  2. They are seeking feedback from their paid subscribers before launching the site to the public.
  3. Paid subscribers can start a 7-day free trial to access full post archives.
1568 implied HN points 01 Aug 23
  1. 2x2 charts are a common tool in consulting and presentations to explain ideas
  2. The concept of 2x2 charts originated from the worlds of game theory and business strategy
  3. 2x2 charts aim to simplify complex ideas for better understanding and execution in organizations
1930 implied HN points 06 Jun 23
  1. Practicing gratitude journaling can help shift your focus to the positive and enhance self-understanding over time.
  2. Keeping a digital record of daily reflections allows for easy access, searchability, and deep self-reflection.
  3. Discovering consistent patterns of joy in your past can inform present and future decisions towards a happier life.
1689 implied HN points 29 Jun 23
  1. Colin Field was a legendary bartender at the Hemingway Bar in the Ritz Paris for 30 years.
  2. Field's approach focused on impeccable service, personal touch, and customer-centricity in crafting cocktails.
  3. Persistence was a key characteristic of Field, who worked hard to establish himself at the Ritz and create a lasting legacy.
2232 implied HN points 14 Apr 23
  1. Albuquerque is a unique intersection of various strands of the American mythos.
  2. The layout of Albuquerque includes the North Valley, South Valley, Downtown, Old Town, Nob Hill, and Rio Grande.
  3. Explore local experiences in Albuquerque like New Mexican food, Sandia Peak Tramway, and the Albuquerque Isotopes baseball team.
1508 implied HN points 30 Jun 23
  1. Winnipeg is a city that requires curiosity and appreciation for what it is.
  2. Winnipeg has architectural gems, cultural venues, and exceptional cuisine.
  3. Winnipeg's cheap cost of living attracts artists and musicians, making it a unique and vibrant city.
1628 implied HN points 16 Jun 23
  1. Chapel Hill is a university town with charming landmarks and traditions.
  2. Residents enjoy a thriving music scene, independent bookstores, and a fitness culture.
  3. The town embodies progressive ideals with unique features like free public transit and community-focused initiatives.
1930 implied HN points 05 May 23
  1. Sedona's geology is unique, with formations sculpted over 270 million years by elements like wind and water.
  2. Sedona is considered a mystical place with vortexes of spiritual energy attracting healers and seekers.
  3. The city has a unique aesthetic with strict signage requirements, like teal blue McDonald's arches to maintain dark skies.
1628 implied HN points 25 May 23
  1. The evolution of platforms can be a cycle: starting with user focus, then prioritizing business interests, and finally turning inward for maximum value.
  2. YouTube stands out as a platform that has maintained quality over the years despite criticism.
  3. YouTube offers a diverse range of content that appeals to various interests and preferences, making it a beloved platform for many users.
1568 implied HN points 26 May 23
  1. The history of water management in Mexico City is complex and dates back centuries.
  2. Mexico City faces challenges with water supply and leakage, impacting both urban and rural areas.
  3. Issues with water scarcity have led to environmental and social implications in Mexico City.
1447 implied HN points 08 Jun 23
  1. Jorge Luis Borges left behind an unfinished gift called Biblioteca Personal.
  2. Borges curated 100 personally-prized literature selections with prologues.
  3. His diverse selections included adventure tales, holy books, and Japanese poetry.
1568 implied HN points 23 May 23
  1. Rimowa highlights the value of imperfections in their luggage as storytelling elements.
  2. Rimowa educates new consumers to appreciate scratches and dents as part of the luggage's charm.
  3. Marketing by Rimowa emphasizes a lifetime of memories associated with their luggage, promoting emotional connections.