logo
episode-header-image
About this episode

The Minimalists are joined by Amanda Montell, author of The Age of Magical Overthinking, to discuss information overload, thought clutter, and much more.

Discussed in this episode:

What habits will help me avoid being overwhelmed by information clutter? (2:03)

How does overplanning prevent us from executing our plans? (30:42)

When does research get in the way of creativity? (32:42)

Does too much imagination suppress our intuition? (37:04)

In our current age of unlimited information, how has overthinking affected you? (41:05)

When is The Minimalists’ next live event? (45:04)

Listener tip: How one listener deals with book clutter. (47:22)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Recorded at Earthing Studios.

Up next
Oct 6
508 | Too Minimal
The Minimalists talk about the pros and cons of extreme minimalism, when simple living goes too far, so-called “sad” items, and much more. Have a question for the show? Call 406-219-7839 or email a voice memo to podcast@themins.com. Discussed in this episode: Why does extreme min ... Show More
48m 22s
Sep 29
507 | Closer to Contentment
The Minimalists talk about letting go of things that are a reminder of a painful past, everyday essentials, joybaiting instead of ragebating, several things professional organizers say we should let go of this fall, and more. Have a question for the show? Call 406-219-7839 or ema ... Show More
53m 3s
Sep 22
506 | Capitalism
The Minimalists speak with Rey Flemings about the upsides and downsides of capitalism, potential alternative economic systems, the best ways for wealthy people to be more generous, plus greed, freedom, private ownership, and more. Discussed in this episode: What’s the best way to ... Show More
59m 5s
Recommended Episodes
Jul 8
311. How to stop ruminating
Does your brain seem to hit replay on that embarrassing memory, or go over the way that situationship ended in hopes you’ll find some kind of closure? From dissecting past conversations to catastrophising about what might happen, repetitive thinking can feel like a mental trap. I ... Show More
48m 22s
Jul 7
311. How to stop ruminating
Does your brain seem to hit replay on that embarrassing memory, or go over the way that situationship ended in hopes you’ll find some kind of closure? From dissecting past conversations to catastrophising about what might happen, repetitive thinking can feel like a mental trap. I ... Show More
51m 55s
Jun 2025
Overthinking with @Mrwhosetheboss
In this episode, Dr. K talks with tech YouTuber Mrwhosetheboss about overthinking—why it happens, how it gets in the way, and what actually helps. They swap personal stories, break down common traps, and share tools for getting unstuck. Topics include: What overthinking looks lik ... Show More
1h 53m
Aug 2024
EP 481 Decluttering Your Mind: Strategies for Mental Clarity
The purpose of CelesteTheTherapist is to help shift the way you think. Many times, we get stuck in a negative cycle and struggle with getting out. Celeste will interview guests from different backgrounds who empower people in different capacities. Host: Celeste, Therapist from Bo ... Show More
36m 7s
Mar 2025
How To Stop Feeling Overwhelmed with Oliver Burkeman (re-release) #536
The average person has 4,000 weeks on earth. It doesn’t sound like much does it? You’re probably doing mental arithmetic right now trying to work out how many weeks you might have left. But if that sounds like a pessimistic start to this podcast, fear not. My guest today is Olive ... Show More
1h 47m
Mar 2025
How to Stop Overthinking: Rumination, OCD, and Breaking the Awareness Trap
Self-awareness is a good thing…right? In this episode, Forrest and Dr. Rick Hanson explore how we can stop overthinking and break the self-awareness trap: when knowing ourselves becomes an obstacle to change. They discuss the difference between reflection and rumination, the pitf ... Show More
1h 13m
Oct 2024
77. Mindset Mastery: Thoughts Are Not Facts
Just because you think it doesn't mean that it's true. 🤯 In this solo episode, Kristen revisits the foundational concept that thoughts are not facts, a topic that has significantly impacted her life and coaching practice. She explores how our thoughts shape our reality, the impo ... Show More
21m 33s
Sep 23
How to Stop Overthinking & Start Living a More Meaningful Life with Oliver Burkeman #580
Many of us feel under constant pressure to optimise every moment, to become more efficient, more productive and somehow more worthy. But what if embracing our limits could be the key to living a calmer, more meaningful life? This week’s returning guest on my Feel Better, Live Mor ... Show More
2 h
Jul 27
3682: Stop Overthinking by Ali Cornish of Everthrive on Mental Clarity and Purposeful Living
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3682: Ali Cornish unpacks the paralyzing nature of overthinking and how it subtly sabotages progress and peace of mind. By ... Show More
10m 28s
Feb 2025
417: The Real Reason You’re Overthinking Everything (And How to Fix It)
Plus, why overthinking is making you a prisoner of your past || Ooooh the curse of OVERTHINKING… we all do it, but do you know why? 👀 In this episode, Monica peels back the layers of what’s really happening when you can’t seem to stop spiraling. From surprising triggers to hidde ... Show More
40m 19s