Never Thought I Would Be Addicted

by Claudia Good Posted on May 7, 2012

I’m addicted to audio books!

I can’t help myself! Michael got 5 out from the library the other day and I had to get 3 more when I stopped by the library with Jude. I was going just to, “Check out what they had… you know?”

 

It is amazing. I can listen to the life of Abraham Lincoln while taking Jude for a walk. Learn how to be a better parent while driving to get groceries and learn the skills to becoming more likable, while folding laundry.

Ok, so the third one I am working on… the folding laundry part! Something about those never-ending jobs tries my patience. I just want to stuff the clothes in my drawers unfolded and move on to something more exciting. Sigh.

Michael is wonderful at folding every pair of his socks. I stuff mine all in a drawer and close it before they pop out again.

Anyway…

The Likeability Factor by Tim Sanders is the audiobook I am on right now. I just started it, and it is great!

There is a whole wealth of knowledge out there right at my fingertips! At a time in my life when I can’t always sit down and read a book for hours, audio books are absolutely wonderful.

Nothing beats an actual book for me. But, hey, if I can clean my house while learning how to be and do… well, anything, I have no complaints what-so-ever!

Question: What book or audio book are you reading? Any suggestions? 

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  • http://www.jmlalonde.com Joe Lalonde

    Claudia,

    Hope you enjoy the Likeability Factor. I read Tim Sanders book Today We Are Rich and thought it was fantastic.

    I’ve got a couple of books that I’m working on:

    Integrity by Henry Cloud
    The Necessity of an Enemy by Rob Carpenter

    Integrity is being used as the textbook for a course that I’m taking and it has been an eye opening book. Lots of great content by Dr. Cloud.

    Necessity, on the other hand, I’m unsure about. It started out with me not liking it but it’s growing on me.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Joe,
      You read it in one day?! (I got stuck on that) I’ll have to check that one out. I am really enjoying “The Likeability Factor.” I like his style of writing.

      Integrity sounds good… I read “Boundaries”… changed my life so I’ll have to check out Integrity as well. Thanks!

      • http://www.jmlalonde.com Joe Lalonde

        Claudia, no I didn’t read the whole thing in one day. The title of the book is “Today We Are Rich.” It was a great read and you’ll probably enjoy it. Lots of great, practical truth.

        • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

          Ah yes, now I understand ;) I was going to be amazed at your speedy reading skills!

          Thanks for the recommendation. It’s going on my list!

  • http://alanamokma.wordpress.com/ Alana Mokma

    I am currently reading “If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat.” by John (?) Ortberg. Since it is a regular book, it is taking me a lot longer to get through than audio, however it is really rocking my life. It is challenging me to face my fears ans get out of the boat – in hindsight, I am finding I experience growth at an exponential rate when taking steps of faith into the unknown.

    On an audio note, one of my managers gave me access to her audio book collection and I downloaded between 13-15 audiobooks this weekend! Among these are “Drive,” and “Fascinate: Your 7 Triggers to Persuasion and Captivation.” I’ll let you know as I go through them if I think you would enjoy them! :)

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Alana,
      Ohhhhh that sounds like a good one. I think I have heard about it… but haven’t read it yet. I love when a book changes my life like that!

      I totally agree with you about experiencing growth when you step into the unknown. That is when my life has always taken a 180. I can pick out specific times when my life changed and it was always when I stepped out of my normal life…

      Woa! 15 audio books! That is sweet! You are set for a while! Do you have a long commute to work?

  • http://daddydifference.com/ Ryan Ash

    Audio books are great…especially if I can increase the listening speed (I tend to get distracted easily at normal speed.)

    I just started listening to Start With Why by Simon Sinek the other day. And I need to get back to reading Entreleadership by Dave Ramsey. I kind of got sidetracked away from that one even though it’s an excellent book.

    What kind of books do you all like to listen to?

    • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

      Ryan, Entreleadership is one I want to read as well. Also, I know of Simon Sinek but haven’t read any of his stuff. Are you enjoying Start With Why?
      I enjoying listening to a wide variety of things including books on business, leadership, and self-development.

      • http://daddydifference.com/ Ryan Ash

        I am enjoying it, Michael. You would really like Entreleadership! Simon Sinek actually has a course to help people discover their “why,” as well. http://www.startwithwhy.com/Learn/OnlineCourses.aspx

        • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

          Ryan, have you taken this “Why” course?

          • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

            Michael, this makes me think of “The Secret Code of Success” by Noah St. John which you had mentioned earlier. How familiar are you with Simon Sinek?

          • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

            Michael, I saw a TED video with Simon Sinek on “Why”. That is the extent of my knowledge on him.

          • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

            Michael, I saw a TED video with Simon Sinek on “Why”. That is the extent of my knowledge on him.

          • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

            Michael, I saw a TED video with Simon Sinek on “Why”. That is the extent of my knowledge on him.

          • http://daddydifference.com/ Ryan Ash

            I haven’t yet, Michael, but I would like to soon.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Ryan,
      Well, I am naturally drawn to books about what makes us ‘tick’ as people (why we do what we do and how to change etc)…
      but I would like to broaden my knowledge on everything so, I am up for anything ;)

      • http://daddydifference.com/ Ryan Ash

        Claudia,

        I’m right there with you. Business has always interested me, but I think my focus is turning towards books that teach leaderership, motivational, or inspirational techniques…which is largely just understanding how people tick.

  • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

    Finished CD 2 of “Delivering Happiness” on my hour walk this morning. I get to exercise and learn at the same time – isn’t that cool?!?

    • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

      Michael, I’m listening to the same book. Tony Hsieh is quite a guy! Actually, It doesn’t seem like his ideas are any better than mine, he just takes action on them. Also, on the flip side, he knows when to pull the plug on something too.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      love that Michael! Bam, two in one ;)

  • http://cindyhirch.com/ Cindy Hirch

    I am not an audiobook fan. I tend to get more out of reading a book and highlighting things, or because I’m a visual person actually going to a conference and watching someone or even watching on DVD. Right now I’m reading “The 36-Hour Day.” It for those who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer disease.

    • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

      Cindy, are you walking down this road with someone now? From the title, it certainly tells a story of the life of someone with Alzheimer’s. I have never had a family member with this before.

      • http://cindyhirch.com/ Cindy Hirch

        Michael – Yes, my Mom. It’s very painful to watch a once very vibrant woman, so full of life be reduced to child-like behavior. My sister and I have watched her decline considerably over the past three years. She is now in a nursing home and at times still knows me, but doesn’t always know my name. Whenever I get to talk to her when my sister is able to arrange it, I always start out the conversation with “Hi Mom, I love you and miss you.” Not too long ago she said “I have a daughter who tells me that all the time.” I am the daughter and it was me she was telling that to on the phone. It’s a horrible disease…

        • http://www.fatherofone.com/ Michael Wright

          Cindy, thanks for sharing about your mom. I’m so sorry she and you (and your family) are going through this period of time.

        • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

          Cindy, thanks for sharing. This was part of your life changing decision 2 years ago if I’m not mistaken, to move back and care for your mother. Do I have it right?

          • http://cindyhirch.com/ Cindy Hirch

            Michael – Yes you have it correct in part. I didn’t move back though. I commuted back and forth for pockets of time to help with her care.

          • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

            So you’re right in the thick of it, Cindy, persevering through it all. It sounds like a very challenging situation. Our prayers our with you.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      I can relate to that Cindy! I love the feel of the paper and being able to go back and reference books I have read.

      I am saddened to hear of your mom’s decline through Alzheimers. That must be very painful to watch!

      • http://cindyhirch.com/ Cindy Hirch

        Claudia – I am so grateful that my decision to leave my job when I did provided such a great opportunity to spend time with her before she really got bad. It was a decision with no regrets, only precious memories to help me through the really painful times of watching the decline.

  • http://www.liveitforward.com/ Kent Julian

    That’s a great addiction!

    Some of my favorite audio books from the past year include “The Happiness Advantage” and “The Compound Effect.” I also ordered @MichaelHyatts new book via audio.

    Embrace your addiction :)

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      hahha! Yes it is a wonderful addiction Kent, I agree ;)

      Ahhh, I have heard great things about Darren Hardy’s book. I heard his interview in the success cd at the beginning of the year and it was great! He talks a lot about his past being his greatest advantage and 100% responsibility… I like his approach to life :)

      I haven’t heard of “The Happiness Advantage”… but I like it already, just from the title. Who is it by?

      • http://www.liveitforward.com/ Kent Julian

        Shawn Anchor…and based on a 10 year study he did at Harvard. Inspiring and very practical book!

        • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

          Sweet! It’s goin on the list… thanks.

  • Ann Musico

    I totally agree – I am NEVER not reading or listening to something! I usually have several books going (as I do now) and always have teaching to listen to on CD. I am reading Thou Shall Prosper: 10 Commandments for Making Money by Rabbi Lapin and Multiple Streams of Income by Robert G. Allen – and while it’s not an audio “book” – but a set of CDs I am just beginning to listen to Change Your Heart Change Your World by Jim Richards. I agree – listening to something while you get those annoying chores done is a great use of time – I especially enjoy it in the car. PS – my sock drawer looks like yours :-)

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Haahaha! Great to hear it! ;) Who needs all those socks anyway!

      I like the books you mentioned here. I haven’t read any of them… but am always adding to my list. I love, love, love being able to learn while doing daily chores as well. I like to keep my mind munching and crunching on healthy material while doing mindless things…

  • Crystal Good

    haha! I laughed when you said how Michael is excellent at folding every sock… it must be a Good thing! That is exactly how i am. My roommate simply tosses socks and underware into a basket, me on the other hand, meticulously folds every last pair into a neat little stack and then place it in the drawer on the correct pile. haha but i do practice not folding them every now and then, just to keep me well rounded :)

    • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

      Love how you say you practice not folding them, Crystal! I’ve done that from time to time too. I think it’s good for us stay “well rounded” as you put it.

      Does Andrew fold his socks?

      • crystalmgood

        No, he doesn’t! He doesn’t even match his socks! haha. Although, he is very clean and tidy, I got to give him that credit. We are just organized in different ways I think :)

        • crystalmgood

          It will be fun once we’re married, I’m sure there will be sooo many more things to learn about the other! Which only makes you realize how many things you do simply because it’s “the way it’s done”.
          Did you and Claudia have alot of differences like this?

          • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

            This is so funny Crystal! I love how you put your socks in a neat little stack… and how you challenge yourself to not fold them sometimes ;) hahahahaaha!!! Yes, we are indeed all very different.

            We did have differences especially when it came to house stuff and how we approached each day. I would always want to just “wing it” and Michael would want to talk about a plan for the day. At first this felt awkward for me. Now I love it! ;)
            We are beginning to find a great middle ground with the house expectations as well… “always be on the same team”… that has been our motto ;)

          • crystalmgood

            oh, “always be on the same team” i like that! I’m going to have to remember that. Especially once I step into this whole marriage thing in a few months :)

          • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

            We’re excited for you guys, Crystal!

  • http://www.totalfusionministries.org Rob Coburn

    Claudia, I was bit by the audio book bugs as well. Time flies and people can change their lives by invoking this process. Enjoy the learning process and continue changing the world. Blessings, @missioncoach

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Rob,
      Cool! What are you listening to now? Do you have a long commute to your work?

      • http://www.totalfusionministries.org Rob Coburn

        Claudia, I only have about a 20 min. commute, but most of the time I have the girls with me. I have just finished The Harbinger. I will be traveling to Chicago in 2 weeks and I will have to find a new one now.

  • Angie

    Hey Claudia – I have not gotten into audio books myself yet… but the kids really enjoy them! They are awesome for in the car – we never wanted to get a portable DVD player, but have entertained the thought for longer car rides to entertain the kids and keep them content… Audio books provide a super alternative. And they like listening to them over and over. :) I will now have to consider them for me… although I’m just not sure how to fit them into my life just yet!

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Angie ;)
      Hello dear friend!
      Oh that is wonderful! I remember listening to “The adventures of Huckleberry Fin” over and over and over when I was little… and Odessy for that matter…
      Leah said her girls love listening to audio books right now as well. I think they do the American girl doll stories… they might not be such a hit in your household ;)

      I started really getting into listening to them when I found that I lost my large chunks of time to read and journal when baby J came into our lives. I put the books on my ipod and listen while walking or while driving to get groceries in Lancaster. Both are large chunks of time and it has worked out really well.

      kisses to your little men!

  • http://www.suttonparks.com/ Sutton Parks

    I recommend What Happy People Know by Dr. Dan Baker. I gave a copy to Dan Miller and he loved it! It may be the best unknown book out there.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Sutton,
      I haven’t heard of that one… I’ll have to check it out – thanks!
      How did you stumble upon it?

      Really enjoying YOUR book here… Michael has been filling me in on your amazing story!! Wow Sutton, you are a courageous and determined man! Keep pressing forward… I think your story will touch so, so many lives!

  • Bill McConnell

    “The $100 Start-up” by Chris Guillebeau

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Bill,
      Michael just went to his event in N.Y a week or so ago and loved it!! He got the book and we are pumped to read it!
      This is what he wrote about the trip :http://rise365.com/chris-guillebeaus-100-startup-book-tour/

      Are you doing a $100 startup of your own? I really like how Chris takes these “hairbrained” ideas that we all have but takes action on them and makes them happen… and makes a living off of doing it! :)

      • jasonvandehey

        Chris will be back here in Portland next Wed for his tour. I’m hoping to get downtown for the day if possible.

        • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

          Jason, you won’t be disappointed. You’ll other great people there!

  • Matt Caslow

    I once tried audio books while driving to and from work. I couldn’t take it very long though and gave it up. I’m not sure why but I think it has something to do with being used to talk radio and music while driving. I should give it another shot. Anyway, I’m working on C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters (with Ozzie) and Machiavelli’s The Prince and Daniela is reading Diapers, Dishes & Dominion: How Christian Housewives Can Change the World. I am actually more interested in Dani’s book. I hope Dani doesn’t get too big of an ego after reading it. LOL.

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Matt!
      Hahahaha… well, I guess your guys group could always switch to “Dishes and Dominion” ;)

      I find that I loose interest fast in the audiobook if I – a. don’t like the readers voice b. the reader is reading too slow c. they don’t seem to really mean the words they are reading (like acting the book instead of reading it)

      Because of this… I love books that are read by the author… they put a lot more REAL emotion into the book and add in the voices of their characters.

      Are doing the audio version of “The Screwtape Letters?”

      Have you guys been up to visit Angie and Ozzie recently?? I know we had discussed a camping event of sorts when we were up there last ;)

      • Matt Caslow

        Thanks for the tips. We’re doing the book version. We meet each friday on oovoo to discuss it.

        We haven’t been up to the Ozgood’s yet. It looks like they will be coming down sometime this summer.

        In case you guys haven’t heard yet; we are expecting our third baby.

        • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

          Wow, Congrats, Matt! That’s great news!

          Ozzie told me about the guys group. It’s sounds like a great thing and I’m sure only good will come out of it. I reluctantly declined joining as I have a lot on my plate at the moment and am focusing on getting my business up and running.

  • http://roborr.net Rob Orr

    Great post – I’m hooked too. I just downloaded a new one that Andy Traub recommended – the Power of Habit

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Hey Rob!
      Sweet! Who is that one by? Have you ben listening to Andy’s new podcast “Books For A Better You”?? I know Michael has been enjoying it… I think he just reviewed “Love Does” by Bob Goff.

      Do you have a long commute to listen to audiobooks, or do you work from home?

      • http://roborr.net Rob Orr

        Charles Duhigg is the author and so far, it’s really awesome. I listen to books as I work, my commute is from the coffee maker to my home office, so my commute is pretty short :) I’m getting caught up on podcasts as I needed break from all that information, but Andy’s new podcast is one of the ones I kept. The audiobooks that are read by the author are almost always superior in quality to those that are read by someone else. I loved “Crush It” and “Linchpin” on audiobook – they were just awesome. Just as good was John Jantsch’s Referal Engine.

        • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

          Rob,
          haaha yes, that commute would not allow very much listening time would it!?

          The reader really does make a HUGE difference! I recently got one about public speaking and was really looking forward to it. I didn’t even make it through the first cd! I couldn’t take the lady’s voice, and it was read way to slow. To bad!

          Thanks for those recommendations!

  • http://rise365.com/ Michael Good

    Haha, no problem! I think most all the duplicates went in spam.

  • jasonvandehey

    I live with audiobooks and podcasts. Dangerous though, might cause dis-satisfaction with your life and the way it is. If you don’t want to change your life, make sure you only listen to pulp fiction. :)

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      hahaha, indeed Jason! ;)

  • jasonvandehey

    Our library just got Platform on Book on CD, so I’m now in the wait que. (Michael Hyatt’s new book)

    • http://rise365.com Claudia Good

      Oh sweet! That book is all the rave right now!

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