I listen to the occasional podcast, but I’ve never been so drawn in by one that I wanted to listen to every episode, subscribe and leave a review. ‘The Well’ is different. It’s hard to articulate why, but saying it’s “about creative inspiration” is quite an understatement. It’s not only a study of creativity, but also of empathy, curiosity, connection, vulnerability, exploration, human beings and the world around us. And here’s where the real magic lies… it’s not just a study of those things, but a true example of them.
As with life, every episode is very different, veering from hilarious to confronting, fun, fascinating, uplifting and always moving. So many stayed with me for days or weeks afterwards. Some highlights (so far) have been Kenneth Mitchell, Rod Lurie, Mac Barnett, Jake Weber, Major David Hughes, June Jones & Call Your Dad. The Drop part 10, which breaks from the usual format, was hauntingly powerful and should be required listening for everyone. And finally, there were aspects of Michael Rosenbaum, Todd Komarnicki, and Ethan Peck’s episodes that hit me very hard. Human beings tend to isolate in times of pain or crisis, and the belief that one’s problems are unique can become a kind of quicksand. The beauty of conversations like this, when conducted with such sensitivity & empathy, is that they remind us we really aren’t alone. Whether we can relate to someone’s whole story or just a small piece of it, that tiny bit of recognition can change or save lives.
Other podcasts do cover similar topics, but there’s something remarkably honest and sincere about this one. There doesn’t seem to be any ulterior motive beyond the hosts’ natural curiosity and respect for their guests. It doesn’t feel at all manufactured or cynical, or like a brand-building exercise. (That said, I do wish The Well had the support of sponsors and a much bigger audience, because it really does deserve it!) Also, as great as the interviews are, I love The Drop episodes too. Anson & Branan are an absolute delight together. Intelligent, thoughtful, and refreshingly down to earth. Listening to them chatting about random things they’ve watched or experienced is so much fun.
It’s also beautifully edited. I’m usually a fan of uncut conversations, but the way The Well’s interviews have been reshaped & crafted into proper stories is masterful. It’s clear how much time & care has gone into post. I also must give a shout out to Jonathan Meiburg for easily my favourite podcast theme song ever. I never skip past it.
We live in a complex, increasingly demoralising world. When things get a bit dark, I have a habit of reaching for Star Trek, because that franchise’s very specific tone always reminds me that there’s still good in the world, or at least the potential for it. Doing that again recently was how I finally discovered The Well, and I can’t help but be struck by how much this podcast shares Gene Roddenberry’s values and ideals. Whether by accident or design, Anson & Branan have created something with as much heart, empathy, optimism, beauty, humility, joy and hope as those shows. And I guarantee this podcast will enrich the lives of its listeners in many of the same ways. It did for me.
I have a lifelong, fairly complicated relationship with creativity, and at times I’ve fallen into the trap of letting others define creativity and success in very narrow ways that have left me feeling worthless. This podcast has reminded me that creativity can be a million different things, and can look different in everyone. What matters most isn’t the final result/product, but what each person brings to the table because of their own unique life experiences, their skills, and what’s in their heart. I think that might be the ultimate message of ‘The Well’, and I just wanted to say thank you, Anson & Branan, for the much-needed reminder. It’s something I’ll carry with me and has already shifted my perspective for the better. For that, I’m deeply grateful.
