One of our favorite things we create is our podcast. It’s a space where we can have conversations as a couple and interview people who teach us so much. It’s a space where I can let my “freak flag fly” as a loud and proud space nerd.
When Kim asked who I’d like to have on the podcast as a guest, I blurted out “Andy Weir!” Weir writes science fiction and is, hands down, my favorite author. His first published novel was The Martian, which was made into a blockbuster movie starring Matt Damon. His most recent book, Project Hail Mary, is now being developed into a movie starring Ryan Gosling.
Dream Come True
You guys. I have a friend who is friends with his agent. I got his email address. There I sat, staring at the letters and numbers that would lead to contact with ANDY FREAKING WEIR. I can write song lyrics in my sleep but it took me days to find the right combination of words to type an email to my sci-fi hero. Not only did he write back, he agreed to be on our podcast. GULP.
I was really nervous about this conversation but within minutes Kim was joking that we’d run off and get an apartment together.
It was refreshing to hear him talk so openly about his anxiety. He said, “If you have a mental health issue, you cannot solve it all alone. It’s like trying to fix a broken leg by yourself.” He shared openly about taking anxiety medication, even if he feels it dulls his creativity. He would rather work harder on his writing skills than be unmedicated, writing like crazy, and feeling absolutely miserable. That really hit home for Kim as she has had her own journey with medication.
Even Andy Weir Has Imposter Syndrome
Here was another truth bomb he dropped: As a prolific and successful writer, he still suffers from imposter syndrome. In fact, he’s in the middle of writing a new book and has an overwhelming feeling that he’s no good at writing. Can you imagine that?
Even if you aren’t a space nerd, like me, I think this week’s podcast is for anyone who has felt unsure about starting a new project or has ever felt a bout of anxiety surface to the top.
I loved this conversation and, sorry to my wife, I may be moving in with Andy Weir soon.
