There are many things that humans fundamentally need. The obvious ones are food and water but our need to connect is another. Studies have shown that we are not only profoundly shaped by our social environments but we suffer greatly if those bonds are impacted in any negative ways.
Here at Manual Labor, we rather impart joy in the lives of others as opposed to pain. This is why we created our new monthly series, Connect the Dots with ML.
Every month, one member of our team or #GoodPeople Network will answer three questions: what are you reading, watching, and listening to, as well as share a hot take about something they’ve had on their minds. By asking questions, you get to know others better, create new connections, or strengthen old bonds.
Last time, you got to know our Director of Product, Sameehan Patel. Now, it’s time to meet our President and CMO, Todd Cadley.
What Are You Reading? 📚
I’m better at comprehending content via audio than reading, so I use Audible to consume books. I bounce back and forth between fiction and non-fiction, but most of my recent books have been non-fiction. Right now, I’m listening to “How Bad Do You Want It?” by Matt Fitzgerald, which was recommended by my best friend Mike Prichinello. I’ve been having starts and stops around my goal of running more, and the premise of this book is how you can push through mental barriers to achieve more than you ever could imagine. I think this can be applied to most of anything - especially the work we do. But it’s all about finding the right balance.
What Are You Watching? 🎥
TV
Three shows I’m watching right now are Ted Lasso, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Citadel. I’m a glass half full type of content viewer, so shows that are funny or are action-focused help me decompress from everyday life. And so far, I’ve loved all of these shows. I love the characters behind Ted Lasso and Mrs. Maisel, and how they each have to overcome different barriers. That said, I want to move past my comfort zone, and will begin to watch Succession and White Lotus.
Film
Again - I’m all about action flicks, and very much enjoyed the latest John Wick. We all need more Keanu in our lives. I also enjoy going to the movie theaters and bounce between Alamo Drafthouse and iPic. Both have changed the experience of watching a big movie that requires the big screen. I’m excited to see the new Wes Anderson flick “Asteroid City.”
What Are You Listening to? 🎧
I’m a Gen-X’er and tend to fall into my traps of 90s indie rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. That said, I’ve loved the new Yaeji album “With A Hammer,” which reminds me a ton of mid 90s electronic. I first heard her about 5 years ago (search for “Make it Rain”) and love how she intertwines Korean and English lyrics. And I’m excited to listen to the new Queens of the Stone Age album “In Times New Roman…”
Hot Take 🧯
The best burger in New York is at Red Hook Tavern, located in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn. Bill Durney - proprietor and also the owner of the famous Hometown Barbeque - pays an homage to the burger at Peter Luger’s (which you can only get at lunch). This burger, however, destroys what Luger’s offers - combining a great crust across the burger and its bun. It’s the burger that wins the Kentucky Derby by 10 lengths. Everyone else is a distant second. Yeah - I said it. It’s that freakin’ good.
Any last thoughts? 🧠
Pay sh*t forward. Do something for someone when they’re not expecting it. Buy someone lunch. Give a bigger tip to the wait staff. Send a random note to a family member or friend that might need a pick me up. Let people know you’re thankful. It’s good for you and them.
Stay tuned to next month’s edition to learn more about the #GoodPeople of ML.
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