In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, Michael sits down with longtime friend and writer Steven Petrow to explore how we find joy in the midst of life's hardest moments—and why writing, failure, grief, and even hero golf shots can be powerful sources of meaning and growth.

Together, they discuss:

• The origins of their decade-long friendship—from a letter sent during deployment in Afghanistan to years of deep conversation
• Steven’s reflections on failure, loss, and resilience—and why embracing what "sucks" might be the best teacher
• The small but mighty power of gratitude journaling and joyful rituals
• The science behind why handwriting and slowing down can improve memory, mood, and meaning
• Why we should all see ourselves as writers—and how writing helps us clarify our thoughts and connect across generations
• What it really means to be joyful (hint: it’s not the same as being happy)

Whether you’re a student trying to define your path, a veteran rebuilding your story, or just someone learning how to grow through what you go through—this episode is for you.

✍️ Featured Topics:

• Embracing failure as a learning signal
• The discipline of gratitude and why it works
• Rebuilding joy after loss
• Reading as becoming another mind
• Writing as an act of self-respect—and connection

📚 Mentioned in this Episode:

• The Joy You Make by Steven Petrow
• Writing to Learn by William Zinsser
• Jamil Zaki’s work on empathy and neuroplasticity
• The phrase “Be the strongest person at your father’s funeral” (popularized by Jordan Peterson)

✉️ A Message from Velle Logos

At Velle Logos, we believe every learner deserves the tools to grow—with purpose, clarity, and community. Through group coaching, habit-building, and mentorship, we help students and leaders build the foundation for a joyful, resilient life.

🔹 Join the movement.

🔹 Level up your learning.

🔹 Be the author of your own future.

👇 Follow & Connect:

• Instagram: @vellelogos
• LinkedIn: Velle Logos
• YouTube: @VelleLogos
• Website: vellelogos.com