In this episode of Cool Hand Dross, Scott explores the art and science of journaling as a powerful, low-cost mental-health tool for anxiety, emotional regulation, self-honesty, and nervous-system healing. Backed by real psychology and neuroscience, he breaks down why expressive writing works, how journaling calms the brain, and shares simple, practical techniques (including gratitude journaling and The 5 Minute Journal) to make the habit stick.

Then things take a turn into literary confession as Scott admits he’s no longer a monogamous reader he’s a proud poly-curious book cheater currently juggling Underworld by Don DeLillo, 2666 by Roberto Bolaño, and Gravity’s Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon. Along the way, he reflects on time, mortality, attention, modern ADHD, and why it’s okay to cheat on books but never on yourself.

This episode blends mental health, journaling, books, creativity, humor, and raw honesty into one life-affirming reminder: you are in a lifelong relationship with yourself, and journaling might be the marriage counseling you didn’t know you needed.

🎧 Plus: a ridiculous gratitude shout-out, a legendary remix outro (“I tried to push a fart out but some poo escaped”), and a teaser for Episode 9: True Tales from the Mason Jar — Strippers, Aloe Vera, and Bear Scat.

Subscribe, leave a comment, and remember: stories heal, words save lives, and it’s never too late to start writing your way back to yourself.