Podcast Summary: Help Wanted - "How to Make Each Day Count for More"

Episode Overview

In the February 6, 2025 episode of Help Wanted, hosted by Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine, and co-host Nicole Lapin, a money expert, the discussion centers around optimizing daily experiences to create a richer and more fulfilling life. Drawing insights from neuroscience, the episode explores how our perception of time is influenced by the formation of memories and offers practical strategies to make each day more memorable and meaningful.

Understanding the Perception of Time

Jason Feifer opens the conversation by reflecting on the swift passage of time and the universal desire to make the most of every moment. He introduces a fascinating concept learned from Philippe Debregard, a professor at Duke University's Institute for Brain Sciences, regarding the relationship between memory and time perception.

Jason Feifer [04:30]: "Our memories are deeply tied to our sense of time. So if you want more time, here is the simplest thing that you can do: create more memories."

Feifer explains that our brains do not function as precise clocks or hard drives. Instead, they rely on episodic memory to sequence events, which can often blur ordinary days unless something noteworthy occurs. This phenomenon is due to the brain's tendency to prioritize new and unique experiences, which it deems more important for learning and survival.

Jason Feifer [05:15]: "Memory is extraordinarily sensitive to breakings of events."

The Science of Memory and Time Perception

Delving deeper, Feifer elaborates on Debregard's research, highlighting that our brains are wired to segment experiences to better remember significant events. This segmentation is an evolutionary trait designed to help early humans remember crucial information like encounters with enemies or discovery of new food sources, rather than routine activities like daily hunts.

Jason Feifer [06:05]: "When you travel, your days feel unusually long because your brain is creating more memorable segments."

He explains that during periods filled with novel experiences—such as traveling or starting a new job—our perception of time expands because our brains are actively creating and storing more memories. Conversely, repetitive and unchanging routines lead to a sense of time dragging, as fewer memorable events are recorded.

Practical Strategies to Enhance Daily Memories

Building on this understanding, Feifer shares actionable advice on how listeners can make each day count by intentionally introducing new experiences. He recounts a personal anecdote where he chose to engage in an unexpected archery lesson with a colleague, which not only enriched his day but also left a lasting memory.

Jason Feifer [09:20]: "If I said yes, I would try archery for the first time, get to know Chris a little better, and remember what I did that day."

Feifer encourages listeners to prioritize experiences that are likely to be memorable over mundane tasks. By doing so, individuals can create a richer tapestry of memories, making their lives feel longer and more fulfilling.

Jason Feifer [10:00]: "Optimize for what you will remember. The more marks you make, the more memories you make and the longer your path will feel."

Implementing Segmentation in Daily Life

To effectively apply segmentation, Feifer suggests being mindful of daily choices and opting for activities that break the monotony. Whether it's taking on a new hobby, engaging in spontaneous conversations, or exploring unfamiliar places, these actions can significantly impact how we perceive the passage of time.

Nicole Lapin adds to the discussion by emphasizing financial discipline and the importance of balancing work responsibilities with enriching personal experiences. She highlights tools and strategies that can help manage time and resources more effectively, ensuring that individuals have both the financial freedom and the time to pursue memorable experiences.

Nicole Lapin [07:45]: "Make progress towards a better financial future with Chime. Open your account in two minutes."

(Note: The above quote pertains to a promotional segment and is included here for context based on transcript content. In a typical summary, promotional content might be omitted unless directly relevant to the episode's main discussion.)

Conclusion and Takeaways

As the episode wraps up, Feifer reinforces the central theme that while we cannot physically extend time, we can enhance our experience of it by creating meaningful memories. He invites listeners to subscribe to his newsletter, One Thing Better each Week, for ongoing insights into building a successful and satisfying career.

Jason Feifer [10:50]: "We cannot stretch time, but we can stretch our experience of it."

Nicole Lapin concludes by encouraging listeners to reach out with their work-related challenges and to engage with the show’s community through social media platforms.

Key Quotes

1. Jason Feifer [04:30]: "Our memories are deeply tied to our sense of time. So if you want more time, here is the simplest thing that you can do: create more memories."

2. Jason Feifer [05:15]: "Memory is extraordinarily sensitive to breakings of events."

3. Jason Feifer [09:20]: "If I said yes, I would try archery for the first time, get to know Chris a little better, and remember what I did that day."

4. Jason Feifer [10:00]: "Optimize for what you will remember. The more marks you make, the more memories you make and the longer your path will feel."

5. Jason Feifer [10:50]: "We cannot stretch time, but we can stretch our experience of it."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Help Wanted offers compelling insights into the neuroscience of time perception and practical advice on how to make each day more meaningful. By understanding how our brains prioritize memorable events, listeners are empowered to make conscious choices that enrich their lives and foster a greater sense of fulfillment.

For those seeking to enhance their daily experiences and build a life filled with memorable moments, this episode provides both the scientific foundation and actionable strategies to achieve that goal.