Great post, John. As a long-time fly fisherman, I'm a sucker (geddit?) for anything with a fishing metaphor. And so pleased to have participated in the Troika Consulting exercise.
The George Saunders book, A Swim in the Pond in the Rain, is one of my favorites, too. I read many of the stories in the past, but his analysis is fantastic. Truly a masterclass in the art of the short story. And it includes what may be the best short story ever written, "Master and the Man" by Tolstoy.
Love the story and enjoyed the troika exercise. In the group therapy world, we sometimes do this as well. It's called "the fishbowl." Patients get to watch the two therapists talking about their vision for the patient, ways they'd like to help them, and ways they might be able to help themselves. It's umm...surreal. I like the coaching version better! 🥴
Speaking of fresh perspective, where is Sylvensteinsee? Couldn't find it on the map, but it looks spectacular. I did look up the start and end point of your ride though. Did you turn around and go back, or was it a one-way trip? Getting out on my own bike for a ride like this is like having nature as an entire team of consultants—the fresh air, open road, and movement in the body often cut through the fog when I'm feeling stuck or lacking in clarity. It's one of the places I find my best ideas flowing. Does exercise work that way for you too?
John, A fabulous essay - I loved the tale at the beginning - totally set up your lesson/perspective/coaching perfectly. And of course, having taken part in a Troika exercise with Randy and Nancy - I can attest to the excellent benefits I received from them!
We need more stories, John. You're a natural! I loved the way the story setup the takeaways.
Great post, John. As a long-time fly fisherman, I'm a sucker (geddit?) for anything with a fishing metaphor. And so pleased to have participated in the Troika Consulting exercise.
The George Saunders book, A Swim in the Pond in the Rain, is one of my favorites, too. I read many of the stories in the past, but his analysis is fantastic. Truly a masterclass in the art of the short story. And it includes what may be the best short story ever written, "Master and the Man" by Tolstoy.
Love the anecdotal start John. Going to definitely try this out. Good job.
Great newsletter, John! Sairam's storytelling workshop sounded awesome. Will also try get my hands on the George Saunders book.
Love the story and enjoyed the troika exercise. In the group therapy world, we sometimes do this as well. It's called "the fishbowl." Patients get to watch the two therapists talking about their vision for the patient, ways they'd like to help them, and ways they might be able to help themselves. It's umm...surreal. I like the coaching version better! 🥴
Speaking of fresh perspective, where is Sylvensteinsee? Couldn't find it on the map, but it looks spectacular. I did look up the start and end point of your ride though. Did you turn around and go back, or was it a one-way trip? Getting out on my own bike for a ride like this is like having nature as an entire team of consultants—the fresh air, open road, and movement in the body often cut through the fog when I'm feeling stuck or lacking in clarity. It's one of the places I find my best ideas flowing. Does exercise work that way for you too?
I love A Swim in a Pond In The Rain. Such a great book. Glad you liked Noted too
John, A fabulous essay - I loved the tale at the beginning - totally set up your lesson/perspective/coaching perfectly. And of course, having taken part in a Troika exercise with Randy and Nancy - I can attest to the excellent benefits I received from them!