🔑 Key Takeaways
- Element, a sugar-free electrolyte drink mix, caters to individuals on low carb diets or engaging in endurance activities. Created by a former research biochemist, it's third-party tested and endorsed by elite athletes. Mementis offers supplements like Momentus Mag3, 8 L Theanine, and Apigenin to enhance sleep quality, also third-party tested.
- Embracing the unknown and challenging oneself can lead to personal growth and a rich, fulfilling life.
- The speaker found personal growth and renewed confidence through a solo climbing trip in Idaho, contrasting his experiences in Hollywood where he faced criticism and felt like an outsider.
- Hollywood offers opportunities but can lead to arrogance and loss of authenticity. Prioritize authenticity and passion over fame and fortune.
- Trust your instincts and be open to new experiences, as they can lead to valuable skills and unexpected insights
- Persistence and dedication to learning every aspect of your craft can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth.
- A chance meeting with a producer ignited Scott Glenn's acting career after he harbored aspirations of becoming a writer, with his survival from scarlet fever at age nine fueling his imagination and athletic abilities.
- Despite adversity, one can turn challenges into opportunities and pursue authentic experiences, leading to a fulfilling career.
- Criticism can be a valuable tool for personal growth. Instead of being discouraged, embrace it and explore new opportunities that may lead to unexpected discoveries.
- Foster a stable, loving environment for children to pursue their passions, rather than living your dreams through them. Unconditional love and support are key.
- A rabbi's unconventional actions and Lao Tzu's teachings led a seeker to spiritual conversion, emphasizing the importance of practical mysticism over orthodoxy.
- Allowing actors freedom to make decisions on the spot can lead to authentic and engaging performances
- Fully committing to a character during filming leads to authentic and memorable performances. Trust the creative process and collaborate with a skilled director or collaborator to shape and guide the performance.
- Actor Scott Glenn learned the importance of spontaneity in film acting from Marlon Brando and his own experiences. Focusing on emotions and motivations leads to authentic performances.
- Experiences, whether positive or negative, can introduce new passions and shape us into the individuals we become
- Practice horizontal breathing, brain tap, humming, baby fit, and kettlebell swings for stress reduction, improved circulation, and increased energy. Extend your neck instead of constantly looking down.
- Resistance bands offer low-impact benefits, diaphragm muscle focus improves overall well-being, mental health practices enhance fitness journey
- Practicing mindfulness through breathwork can enhance focus, clarity, and overall well-being. Unexpected opportunities may arise when letting go of control.
- Seeking guidance from experts and being open to new experiences can lead to personal growth and development.
- Embrace learning and new experiences to encounter unexpected opportunities and positive outcomes
- Jeff was drawn to Carol's magnetic personality during a movie night, leading to a deep and lasting relationship despite initial hesitation and challenges.
- During challenging times, rediscovering the fundamental human expressions of dance and poetry can deepen our emotional connections and inspire creativity.
- Tenacity and perseverance are essential for success, no matter the challenges or obstacles. Trust your instincts, learn from failures, and never give up.
- Momentus offers high-quality, third-party tested formulations for sleep and cognitive performance enhancement, while Element is a sugar-free electrolyte drink mix for low-carb or paleo diets or endurance activities. Both brands prioritize delivering pure, effective products with excellent customer satisfaction.
📝 Podcast Summary
Maintaining Optimal Health with Electrolytes
Electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health, especially for individuals following low carb or ketogenic diets, or engaging in endurance activities. Element, a sugar-free electrolyte drink mix, can help address these needs effectively, as it was created by former research biochemist Rob Wolff to cater specifically to such individuals. With a wide range of applications and endorsements from various elite athletes and teams, Element offers a risk-free trial and high-quality, third-party tested ingredients. Another brand, Mementis, also provides a range of high-quality supplements, including Momentus Mag3, 8 L Theanine, and Apigenin, which have helped improve sleep quality for the speaker. Both Element and Mementis offer products that are third-party tested, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness.
A wife's invitation leads to a life-changing trek
Glenn shared how his wife's invitation to join her at a ceramics workshop in Idaho led him to embark on a high mountain trek, despite his initial reluctance. This experience not only broadened his horizons but also reinforced his physical abilities and endurance. Throughout his life and career, Glenn has continued to challenge himself, from acting in various genres and mediums to living off the grid in Idaho. His willingness to take risks and embrace the unknown has resulted in a rich and fulfilling life that spans across multiple areas of mastery.
Rediscovering himself in Idaho
The speaker's experience in Idaho, where he went on a solo climbing trip and was disconnected from civilization, allowed him to rediscover himself and gain new experiences. He had previously struggled with self-confidence in his acting career, but being in a new environment and learning from a mentor helped him grow. The speaker also shared how his time in Idaho was a stark contrast to his experience in Hollywood, where he faced criticism and felt like an outsider. The trip was transformative for him, and when he returned, he carried the lessons he learned back to his career. The speaker was in his late 30s during this experience and had already started his acting career in New York and moved to LA to work on films. Despite some early successes, he faced challenges in Hollywood and found renewed confidence and motivation through his experience in Idaho.
From Hollywood to Authenticity
The entertainment industry can be a double-edged sword, offering opportunities for growth and self-confidence, but also leading to arrogance and a loss of authenticity. The speaker's experience in Hollywood brought him self-confidence but also arrogance, leading to his dismissal from Universal. After a period of reflection, he realized he had become a show business politician, more concerned with networking and making connections than with the art of acting itself. A move to Idaho and a chance encounter with an old Marine Corps friend led him to a new opportunity in Mexico, where he learned valuable lessons from acting legends Rod Steiger and Bert Lancaster. Ultimately, the speaker's experience taught him to prioritize authenticity and passion over fame and fortune.
Unexpected opportunities lead to personal growth
Sometimes unexpected opportunities can lead to significant personal growth. In the story shared, a man named Scott was approached by actor Bert Remsen to learn the art of acting for the camera. This experience transformed Scott's career and life, as Bert became a mentor and taught him valuable skills. However, despite an offer to join a movie production, Scott chose to trust his instincts and decline, leading him to an encounter with a bank robber and bull rider, who provided insights into the character he would later play. This experience reinforces the importance of trusting one's judgment and being open to new experiences, even if they don't initially seem ideal.
Mastering small details leads to big opportunities
Persistence and dedication to mastering even the smallest details can lead to significant opportunities and personal growth. The speaker shares an experience of learning to tie off a bull rider's glove using both hands and teeth, which became a crucial skill that helped him land the lead role in the movie "Urban Cowboy." This experience taught him the importance of putting in the effort to become proficient in every aspect of his craft, leading to unexpected and life-changing opportunities. Additionally, staying true to oneself and the art of acting allowed him to turn down distractions and focus on his passion, ultimately leading to success.
Unexpected encounter with producer Jim Bridges led to acting career
Scott Glenn's acting career was unexpectedly kickstarted by a chance encounter with producer Jim Bridges, who saw potential in him during the filming of "Collision Course." Prior to this, Glenn harbored aspirations of becoming a writer. A pivotal moment in his life was his survival from scarlet fever at the age of nine, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for his imagination and fantasies. This experience, along with his athletic prowess, prepared him for a career in acting. The encounter with Bridges in Mexico led to Glenn's casting in "Urban Cowboy," launching his acting career.
From weakness to strength: Overcoming challenges to live an authentic life
Adversity can be a powerful motivator. The speaker, a man from Pittsburgh, shares how his desire to avoid being seen as physically weak led him to join the Marine Corps and eventually become a writer and journalist. Despite facing challenges like being legally deaf and lacking typing skills, he persevered and turned his experiences into opportunities. His determination to live an authentic life and make his imagined adventures come true led him to pursue a career in journalism, starting as a police reporter and eventually moving on to cover sports. Through his experiences, he learned that sometimes the most impactful stories are not the glamorous ones, but rather the human stories that require empathy and sensitivity.
Discovering a new passion through criticism
Sometimes, we need to face our weaknesses head-on to discover our true calling. In the story shared, a man named Scott received harsh criticism about his dialogue in writing. Instead of being disheartened, he took it as an opportunity to explore acting. Through this experience, he found a sense of belonging and purpose that made his life make sense. His father, who grew up in poverty and had a diverse group of friends, gave him invaluable advice - to not set deadlines and to fully immerse himself in his passion. This advice came from his father's own experiences and background, which taught him to value people and prioritize living a fulfilling life over adhering to societal expectations.
Supporting children's dreams vs living through them
Parents should not live their dreams through their children, but rather support them in pursuing their own passions. This was a lesson the speaker's father imparted to him, and it helped shape his perspective on life. Another important aspect of the speaker's upbringing was the unconditional love and support he received from his mother. She encouraged him to follow his heart, even when it meant making difficult decisions like converting to Judaism for the sake of his wife. The speaker's parents provided him with a stable and loving environment, free from dysfunction and abuse. These experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for the importance of following one's dreams and the power of unconditional love.
A Rabbi's Unexpected Conversion and the Influence of Lao Tzu
The speaker's personal journey towards spiritual conversion was influenced by the unexpected actions of a rabbi and the teachings of Lao Tzu. The rabbi, who initially denied converting the speaker, later felt duty-bound to do so due to the speaker's unique response. The speaker's connection to Lao Tzu's writings stems from their resonance with the inner and outer truths of existence. Additionally, the speaker believes that the practical, mystical side of religion is more important than orthodoxy, which they view as impractical and under fire in the modern world. The speaker's experiences of role reversal in acting have given them a firsthand understanding of the dissolution of the ego, a concept they associate with mysticism.
Embracing spontaneity in 'Killer Joe'
The production of "Killer Joe" was characterized by a high degree of spontaneity and improvisation. The actors were given significant freedom to make decisions on the spot, even during performances. This included allowing them to walk offstage to use the restroom or engage in physical fights without choreography. The cast, which included people with circus skills, embraced this approach and even encouraged audience members to be prepared for potential projectiles and messy scenes. The actor Scott Glenn, who played the title role, found that letting go of preconceived decisions and fully immersing himself in the character led to a more authentic and engaging performance. This approach continued in his work on "The Leftovers," where he was given a long monologue and used the technique of memorizing it from the end to make it more memorable. The overall message is that embracing spontaneity and improvisation can lead to unique and memorable performances.
Being fully immersed in a character during filming
Being fully immersed in a character during filming can lead to a more authentic and memorable performance. In the discussed experience, an actor was able to deliver a powerful scene without self-editing or stepping outside of the character, resulting in a masterful performance. However, the actor also learned the importance of having a director or collaborator to provide guidance and help shape the performance. Additionally, the actor emphasized the importance of trusting the creative process and staying out of the way of one's own editorial decisions. Overall, the actor's experience highlights the importance of being fully present and committed to the character during filming, while also trusting the guidance of a skilled collaborator.
The Power of Spontaneity in Film Acting
Actor Scott Glenn believes in the power of spontaneity in film acting. He learned this lesson from his experiences on set, particularly during the filming of "Eugene the Marine," where he discovered that complete spontaneity leads to the most authentic performances. Glenn also credits Marlon Brando for teaching him the importance of approaching acting from the inside out, focusing on the character's emotions and motivations rather than just the technique. Brando's flexibility and willingness to experiment influenced Glenn's own approach to acting, allowing him to fully immerse himself in each role and create memorable performances.
Our experiences shape us into who we are
Our experiences, even those that seem challenging or limiting at first, can shape us into the people we become and open doors to new passions and discoveries. The Filipino couple's daughters, with one hiding behind her mother's dress and the other dancing freely, reminded Marlon Brando of himself and his own discovery of acting. Brando's experience with scarlet fever, which damaged his auditory nerves but left his eyesight intact, introduced him to a physical world he loved, leading him to discover a passion for acting and other physical activities. Even in his 80s, Brando's physical training includes strong ear massages and focusing on horizontal, low breaths to maintain his health and vitality. Our experiences, whether positive or negative, can have a profound impact on our lives and shape us into the individuals we become.
The Importance of Proper Breathing Technique
Proper breathing technique plays a significant role in overall health. Horizontal breathing, which involves contracting the diaphragm and expanding the belly, is preferable to vertical breathing, which raises the shoulders and puts tension on the upper and lower body. The speaker recommends practicing horizontal breathing, followed by a brain tap, humming, and physical exercises like baby fit and kettlebell swings to start the day. These practices can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and increase energy levels. Additionally, the importance of extending the neck instead of constantly looking down at screens was emphasized.
Discovering Effective Exercises for Aging Joints
As we age, it's essential to prioritize exercises that are gentle on our joints and tendons while still providing benefits. The speaker shares how he discovered the effectiveness of resistance bands over traditional weights and how his recovery time has significantly increased. He emphasizes the importance of the diaphragm muscle and the benefits of focusing on deep breathing exercises for overall well-being. The speaker also highlights how the mind plays a crucial role in our physical capabilities and how prioritizing mental health through meditation and problem-solving can contribute to our overall fitness journey. In essence, it's never too late to adopt new habits that promote both physical and mental wellness.
Exploring the benefits of mindfulness through breathwork
Practicing mindfulness through breathwork, as taught by Erwan Le Corre, can help rewire the central nervous system and improve focus, clarity, and overall well-being. The speaker, Scott, has personally experienced this through his daily breath holds and meditation on peace, clarity, and focus. He believes that good luck plays a role in his career opportunities, which seem to present themselves when he lets go of his grasp on things. Scott also shares his experiences of accidentally encountering expert teachers and mentors in various areas of his life.
Finding the right teacher at the right time
Meeting the right teacher at the right time can have a profound impact on personal growth and development. The speaker's encounter with Jim Stewart, a renowned scuba diving instructor, saved his life and transformed him from an uncertified and reckless diver to a skilled and certified one. The importance of being a good student, willing to learn and make mistakes, was emphasized by the speaker's eagerness to be taught by the best, despite the potential embarrassment. The story highlights the value of seeking guidance from experts and being open to new experiences and opportunities for growth.
Seeking knowledge increases chances of good fortune
Being a good student and increasing knowledge in a particular area can increase the chances of encountering good fortune or luck. This was exemplified by the speaker's experiences in Thailand, where he sought out the basics of Krabi Krabong and Muay Thai to deepen his understanding of these martial arts. Additionally, the speaker emphasized the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities and relationships, such as falling in love with a Jewish girl from Brooklyn, which led him to new experiences and growth. Overall, the speaker's advice is to remain open to learning and new experiences, as they can lead to serendipitous moments and positive outcomes.
An Unexpected Connection at a Movie Night
The speaker, Jeff, experienced an unexpected and profound connection with a woman named Carol during a movie night, leading to an unexpected and deep relationship. The connection was so strong that Jeff was hesitant to express his feelings and risk losing her. The relationship continued to grow, with Carol having a magnetic quality that drew people to her, including even tough figures like Freddy Fields. The experience left a lasting impact on Jeff, and he still remembers Carol fondly decades later. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the speaker chose to pursue the relationship, ultimately finding something special and meaningful.
Exploring Emotions and Ideas through Dance and Poetry
Dance and poetry are fundamental forms of human expression that allow us to explore deep emotions and ideas. During a formative period in his life, the speaker had intense experiences with modern dance and met a Latvian dancer named Matt Maddox, who encouraged him to focus solely on dancing to improve. Later, he discovered a new appreciation for the physicality and athleticism of ballet dancers, even as they seemed to embody the opposite of fitness in other ways. Poetry, for the speaker, is a primal means of communication, rooted in his family history and the belief that he carries the poetic spirit of Lord Byron. During the pandemic, when other creative outlets were unavailable, he turned to writing poetry, discovering a deeper connection with his partner and reaffirming the importance of these elemental forms of expression.
Stay tenacious and keep pushing forward
Tenacity and perseverance are key to achieving success, no matter what the field or industry. This was emphasized through the stories shared about riding motorcycles, acting, and even monks at the gates. The metaphor of riding a Harley Davidson, where you need to slip the clutch and trust your body to go where you look, translates to life as the importance of keeping the power on and moving forward, even when faced with challenges or obstacles. The advice given by Sir Lawrence Olivier, one of the greatest actors and directors of all time, to "develop very strong jaw muscles, learn how to bite on and not let go," further reinforces the importance of tenacity and not giving up. So, whether you're pursuing a passion or trying to make it in a career, remember to stay tenacious and keep pushing forward. And for a little bit of fun and inspiration before the weekend, consider signing up for Tim's Five Bullet Friday newsletter. It's a short and sweet way to discover cool new things and start your weekend off right.
Reliable options for sports nutrition and supplements: Momentus and Element
Momentus and Element are trusted brands in the world of sports nutrition and supplements. Momentus, with its partnerships with top athletes and sports teams, offers high-quality, third-party tested formulations for sleep and cognitive performance enhancement. Meanwhile, Element, created by Rob Wolf, is a sugar-free electrolyte drink mix that's perfect for those following low-carb or paleo diets, or for anyone in need of electrolyte support during endurance activities. Both brands prioritize delivering pure, effective products, with Momentus ensuring the accuracy of its label claims through third-party testing and Element offering a risk-free trial with extremely low return rates. For those looking to optimize their sleep, cognitive performance, or hydration, Momentus and Element are reliable options. Momentus offers a 20% discount with code Tim at livemomentus.com, while Element provides a free sample pack with any purchase at drinkLMT.com/Tim.