The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast – Episode 1KHO 401: “There’s More to Be Made of This | Justin McRoberts, It Is What You Make of It”
Release Date: December 23, 2024
Introduction
In the 401st episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Urch welcomes back one of her favorite guests, Justin McRoberts. The conversation delves deep into Justin's insightful perspectives on personal growth, storytelling, and the transformative power of mindset. Drawing from his rich experiences as a musician, author, and coach, Justin shares compelling narratives that challenge the conventional "it is what it is" mentality, advocating instead for a proactive approach encapsulated in his book, It Is What You Make of It.
Revisiting Past Conversations and Establishing Themes
Ginny opens the episode by referencing a poignant quote from a previous discussion with Justin in episode 322: “Rest is the opportunity for the goodness of my life to catch up to me” [00:54]. This enduring sentiment has resonated with listeners, highlighting the lasting impact of Justin's teachings.
Notable Quote:
Ginny Urch [00:54]: "Rest is the opportunity for the goodness of my life to catch up to me."
The Philosophy of "It Is What You Make of It" vs. "It Is What It Is"
Central to the episode is Justin's critique of the often-dismissive phrase "it is what it is." He argues that this mindset relinquishes personal agency and stifles the potential for positive change. Instead, Justin promotes the belief that individuals have the power to shape their circumstances and outcomes.
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [02:53]: "I hate that phrase because I think it gets us stuck... Those small differences are the seed of goodness."
Justin emphasizes that by adopting "it is what you make of it," individuals can cultivate resilience and proactive problem-solving, fostering meaningful growth and impact.
Stories Illustrating the Philosophy
Justin enriches his philosophy with vivid storytelling from his personal and professional life. One such story recounts his high school experience, where a teacher transformed a moment of reprimand into an opportunity for creative expression using an inflated cactus prop [11:27]. This anecdote underscores the power of perspective and adaptability.
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [14:14]: "I froze. I had nothing to say for a second... Mr. Ross responded immediately. He said, 'It is what you make of it.'"
Another significant story involves Justin's challenging performance in Canada, where despite technical difficulties and initial setbacks, his positive mindset led to unexpected long-term impacts, inspiring a young pastor to persevere in his own endeavors [29:18].
Justin's Personal Experiences and Lessons
Throughout the episode, Justin shares pivotal moments that shaped his approach to life and creativity. He discusses his struggles with book sales, contrasting his experience with that of Hal Elrod to highlight the importance of perseverance and vision beyond immediate outcomes [05:58]. Justin's journey as a musician with Five Iron Frenzy further illustrates his commitment to storytelling and inspiring others through his art [29:18].
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [56:44]: "Frank's role in my life has continually been that way. I'm really thankful for him... 'It is what you make of it' reframed everything."
Impact and Ripple Effects
A recurring theme is the ripple effect of individual actions. Justin underscores how seemingly insignificant moments can lead to profound impacts on others' lives, often in ways that are not immediately visible. Whether through performances, coaching, or storytelling, Justin believes that every effort plants seeds for future goodness [37:12].
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [38:19]: "These tiny little moments... set, like, reset patterns for people's whole lives."
Reframing Perspectives in Life
Justin advocates for a shift in perspective that moves away from passivity towards active engagement with life's challenges. By viewing obstacles as opportunities, individuals can unlock their potential and foster personal and communal growth. This reframing aligns with the podcast's overarching message of prioritizing meaningful, outdoor experiences over passive activities like excessive screen time.
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [51:02]: "Perfect is the enemy of the good."
Concluding Reflections
As the episode draws to a close, Ginny and Justin reflect on the enduring influence of mentorship and authentic connections. Justin shares a heartfelt story about Frank Tate, who recognized his potential beyond his immediate abilities, exemplifying the essence of "it is what you make of it." This relationship not only advanced Justin's career but also reinforced the importance of believing in oneself and others.
Notable Quote:
Justin McRoberts [56:53]: "Frank was like, 'No, there's more to be made of this.' And it has reframed quite literally everything that's happened in my career since then."
Ginny emphasizes the power of Justin's storytelling in reshaping perceptions and inspiring change, making a compelling case for why his work is both impactful and essential.
Key Takeaways
- Mindset Matters: Shifting from "it is what it is" to "it is what you make of it" empowers individuals to take control of their destiny and foster positive change.
- The Power of Storytelling: Personal anecdotes are powerful tools for conveying complex philosophies and inspiring others.
- Ripple Effects of Actions: Small, seemingly insignificant actions can have profound and lasting impacts on others.
- Mentorship and Authentic Connections: Supportive relationships are crucial for personal and professional growth, providing guidance and reinforcement of one's potential.
- Reframing Challenges: Viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth leads to resilience and sustained progress.
Conclusion
Episode 1KHO 401 of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast offers a deep dive into Justin McRoberts' transformative philosophy encapsulated in his book, It Is What You Make of It. Through engaging storytelling and reflective discussions, Justin challenges listeners to reconsider their approach to life's challenges, advocating for a proactive and empowered mindset. This episode not only enriches the listener's understanding of personal growth but also underscores the profound impact one individual can have on the broader community.
For those seeking inspiration to reclaim their childhood hours and foster meaningful development, this episode serves as a compelling guide to embracing nature, creativity, and intentional living.
Where to Find Justin McRoberts: Justin McRoberts is a musician, author, podcaster, speaker, and coach. He offers various resources including his podcast, books, coaching sessions, and the "Discover Your Creative Process" course. To connect with Justin, visit his official website or follow him on his podcast platform.