Welcome to Overflow. It’s a new format that I’m experimenting with for BobBetterman.com. These are some of the things that occupy my time, fill my mind, inspire my work, and bring me joy and happiness. I’m happy to share them with you. The format was inspired by Tim Ferriss’ 5-Bullet Friday. Check it out here: https://go.tim.blog/5-b ullet-friday-1/
Before we begin, we confront the elephant in the room. COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down, yet we carry on and adapt. I wish you all well and happiness, now and always. To the people on the front-lines – healthcare workers, my wife included, your bravery and commitment doesn’t go unnoticed. Restaurant workers, delivery drivers, first responders, community leaders, and countless other professions, workers, and volunteers making a difference in a new world – I am grateful for you. Thank you.
And now, we shift our focus towards the light. Without further ado, these are the things I’d love to share with you.
MUSIC
Live music fans must be going through withdrawal in the face of cancelled concerts and postponed tours. On the bright side, many artists are streaming performances and releasing new music to keep us entertained and lift our spirits. Phish is broadcasting weekly “Dinner and a Movie” performances – if you know the band, you’ll get the reference. You can catch their next episode on Tuesday or check out previous episodes on demand. They also dropped a new studio album this week, Sigma Oasis. It’s good! More info: https://www.livephish.com/
CRAFT BEER
We may not be able enjoy a pint at our favorite pub or brewery but there are still options for craft beer enthusiasts. Local bars and brewers need your support more than ever. If you’re on the Southside of Chicago, check out 5 Rabbit. They’re offering pickup and delivery while the tap room is closed. More info: http://www.5rabbitbrewery.com/
EMPATHY
There is light in the darkness. The COVID-19 crisis is bringing out the best in us. Empathy is needed more than ever and together we can make a difference in the lives of family, friends and even strangers during the pandemic and long after it passes. I was fortunate to participate in a collaborative writing project that resulted in this book. You can check it out on Amazon and in the coming weeks, I’ll share my contributions here.
TECHNOLOGY
We’re on our devices more than ever and living in a digital world – to work, to learn, and to stay connected even when we must be physically distant. This shift comes with some privacy and security challenges that we shouldn’t ignore. If you or your kids are spending more time on devices, video conferencing, and interacting on social media, it’s worth keeping online safety in mind. Tune in to Profection Security for simple insights and tips like having a “Family Device Day” to update your families’ devices and adjust privacy settings. More info: https://profection.net/suffering-from-tech-support-overload-try-a-family-device-day
NOTABLE QUOTABLE
We’re surviving the early days of e-learning at home thanks in a large part to our teachers who are doing a fantastic job of adapting through uncertainty and rapid change. The kids are doing pretty darn good as well.
My 4yo son: “Daddy, does black mixed with purple make blackish-purple?”
Me: “Yes, son. Yes, it does.” **thinks to myself** “I’ve got this. Winning at homeschooling.“
Thanks for reading and I hope you found something here to make you smile. If you did, please share and ride along with us on the web and social. Be well.
