Yes, THPL is all about Life, Learning and Fitness. And sadly, sometimes, the Learning part gets a bit of a “back seat” to the other two – no slight intended, maybe it is because learning is so integral to what we do every day that we might find ourselves taking it for granted. So, I thought I would take a moment to make a challenge. Let’s call it the smart people challenge. This is one that I am working on in 2015 and continues to be a key part of my yearly goals.

I have to admit that I have become addicted to and captivated by the amazing people, ideas, thoughts and concepts that are readily available on YouTube (and probably other video sources). I have taken time over the past few months to search around (serendipity working its magic) to find some amazing videos of really, smart and thought provoking people. I have watched hours and hours of talks, presentations, and interviews with people I would never be able to get time with, either for reasons of time, relationship or money. But now I find them right there with me. Examples include, an interview with Bill Clinton on the Google Zeitgeist channel, a presentation by the CEO of Evernote at Le Web, a one on one interview with Fred Wilson, the legendary NY VC, and the list goes on and on. I have learned so much (** for free) that I cannot imagine a better, more diverse, way to learn, and grow, to stretch my mind, to be inspired and to implore me to do more.

And so the challenge to all THPLers is to find a way to “hang out” with at least one smart person (on video) a week (or a month) and spend the time being with them, focused and ready to take notes. You will be better for it. I can personally attest to the fire that has been lit in my soul for learning that comes from these videos that makes every day a “vacation day” for my mind. It is an amazing experience and it makes you want to do it again and again and again

Loving life, when hanging with smart people