Three Rules

Today I'm joined by Vanessa Hill, a behavioral scientist, educator, and creator behind the popular YouTube channel Brain Craft. With a background in sleep research and science communication, Vanessa has helped millions better understand the psychology behind rest habits and decision making.Today she's sharing her three rules for better sleep, and I can say firsthand that these rules have really helped me improve my own sleep since doing the interview. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:54 Rule 1: Don't obsess over how long you sleep 04:50 Rule 2: Technology can be (kind of) helpful 10:38 Rule 3: Give yourself a break Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules

Today I'm joined by Nelson Dellis, a 6 time USA memory champion, and one of the most accomplished memory athletes in the world. He's held several memory records, including memorizing the most names in 15 minutes, 235 in total. And memorizing a shuffle deck of cards in just 36 seconds.Which is impressive because I can't remember what I ate for breakfast this morning. These are Nelson's three rules for success and happiness. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:10 Rule 1: Don't put yourself in a box 05:50 Rule 2: Make moments worth remembering 11:55 Rule 3: Believe in the ball and throw yourself Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules

Today I am joined by James Hoffmann. World barista champion, author, entrepreneur, and widely considered the "Godfather of Coffee YouTube". Through his videos, businesses, and bestselling book, the World Atlas of Coffee, James has helped millions of people understand coffee on a deeper level and probably spend a little bit more money on coffee gear than they planned. Speaking for myself. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:15 Rule 1: Fear and leverage stories 05:35 Rule 2: Everybody leaves 12:55 Rule 3: Obsess about privacy Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules

Today, I'm joined by Andrew Hamilton, a stand up comedian who earned a nomination for Best Newcomer at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Before comedy, Andrew spent 15 years as a drug dealer, a path that ultimately landed him in prison. Now, on the straight and narrow, his turned his past into some hilarious material, both on stage as a part of his popular YouTube channel, OG Crew, and in his book, The Profound Benefits of a Stint in Prison. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:49 Rule 1: Nobody's coming to save you 06:36 Rule 2: Embrace the crisis 11:49 Rule 3: Like the person you see in the mirror Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules

Today, I'm joined by Jack Conte, musician, creator, and CEO of Patreon, the platform that's helped thousands of artists and creators build sustainable businesses. From co founding Patreon to leading a band and creating his own content, Jack has spent his career pushing the boundaries of creativity, entrepreneurship, and what it means to make a living as an artist. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:44 Rule 1: Be the pilot in command 07:42 Rule 2: Actively evolve your brain 13:49 Rule 3: Change is an opportunity, not a threat Get 3 rules emails every week: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow my guest: https://www.youtube.com/@jackconte

Today, I'm joined by Sam Corcos, CEO and co founder of Levels, a company helping people better understand their metabolic health through real time data. Sam takes a counterintuitive approach to both work and life. Rejecting the always busy CEO stereotype, he schedules his days for deep focus, while also being very intentional about his media diet. Whether you're an entrepreneur or not, I think you're going to find a lot of value from Sam's rules. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:48 Rule 1: Don't let urgency, determine priority 05:37 Rule 2: You don't need to know everything 11:26 Rule 3: Only give your attention, to things you can control Get 3 rules emails every week: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow my guest: https://x.com/SamCorcos

Today, I'm joined by Anaita Sarkar, entrepreneur and co founder of Hero Packaging, a sustainable packaging company, helping businesses reduce plastic waste. Beyond building a wildly successful brand, Anaita shares insights on e-commerce marketing and business growth. Empowering others to launch and scale their own ventures. Her latest book is called how to sell anything online. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:41 Rule 1: Watch the ball 06:26 Rule 2: Stand for something 11:45 Rule 3: Be everywhere, all at once Get 3 rules emails every week: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow my guest: https://www.tiktok.com/@sellanythingonline

I’m joined by Eamon & Bec– entrepreneurs, YouTubers, and van life pioneers who have built a global community by sharing their adventures on the road. From converting campervans to launching a successful tea company, they’ve mastered seamlessly integrating their passions into their life—and bringing their audience along for the ride. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:42 Rule 1: Happiness is a choice 07:49 Rule 2: Back yourself into a corner 13:19 Rule 3: Invest in community Get 3 rules emails every week: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow Eamon & Bec: https://www.youtube.com/c/EamonBec

I’m joined by strength coach, educator, and YouTuber, Eugene Teo. His content has become a go-to destination for those seeking practical advice on fitness and self-improvement. Chapters00:00 Intro00:46 Rule 1: Time everything06:41 Rule 2: Journal every day13:34 Rule 3: Create a simple wardrobe Get 3 rules emails every week: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerulesSupport my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavellaFollow Eugene: https://www.youtube.com/@coacheugeneteo

I’m joined by Ramit Sethi, personal finance expert and bestselling author. Through his books, podcast, and Netflix series, Ramit has helped millions take control of their money and build a life that aligns with their values. His new book is called Money for Couples. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:49 Rule 1: Don’t Focus on Small Money Problems 05:21 Rule 2: Use Money to Live a Rich Life 12:50 Rule 3: Couples Should Share their Money Get 3 rules emails every week: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow Ramit: https://www.instagram.com/ramit

I’m joined by James Smith, personal trainer, content creator, and bestselling author of Not a Diet Book. His videos have been viewed hundreds of millions of time online– and he’s here to share the rules that got him to where he is today. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:32 Rule 1: All wins feel the same. 06:22 Rule 2: Be polarizing. 11:17 Rule 3: You will be terrible the first time you do anything. Get 3 rules emails every week: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Follow James Smith: https://www.instagram.com/jamessmith

I’m joined by Sorelle Amore, a creator and entrepreneur with over 120 million views across her YouTube channels. From creating courses to building a career that blends creativity and financial freedom, Sorelle has become a leader in helping others achieve their own independence. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:45 Rule 1: Understand your inner world 06:56 Rule 2: Take radical self-responsibility 11:35 Rule 3: Embrace the ebbs & flows of life Show links Support my podcast: ⁠⁠https://patreon.com/mattdavella⁠⁠ Get three emails in your inbox: ⁠⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules⁠⁠ Follow Sorelle: https://www.youtube.com/sorelleamore

I’m joined by MasterChef 2021 winner, Justin Narayan. Justin’s story goes beyond the competition—he’s a creator at heart. From crafting small-batch hot sauces to running a pop-up taco shop, Justin has turned his passion for sharing food into a platform for creativity and entrepreneurship. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:50 Rule 1: Journal every day 06:12 Rule 2: Find awe & wonder in the world 10:51 Rule 3: Do and share something you love Show links Support my podcast: ⁠https://patreon.com/mattdavella⁠ Get three emails in your inbox: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules⁠ Follow Justin: https://www.instagram.com/justinnarayan/

I’m joined by Mark Manson, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. His books have sold more than 20 million copies, been translated into more than 65 languages, and reached number one in more than a dozen countries. Episode Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:35 Rule 1: You are responsible for everything in your life. 05:08 Rule 2: There's no such things as good and bad emotions. 13:38 Rule 3: Don't pursue happiness, pursue challenges. Show links Support my podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Follow Mark: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmMarkManson

I'm joined by Cam Walker, illustrator, author and YouTuber, who is better known online as Struthless. His new book is called “Doom and Bloom: The Case for Creativity in a World Hooked on Panic”. Support the podcast: https://patreon.com/mattdavella Get three rules in your inbox: ⁠https://www.mattdavella.com/threerules Follow Struthless: https://www.youtube.com/struthless Three Rules a short-form podcast by Matt D'Avella where guests share 3 rules that helped them find success or happiness. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:57 Rule 1: The RIGBY Rule 05:37 Rule 2: Reframe setbacks 11:07 Rule 3: Rig the game so you always feel progress

I’m joined by Ryan Holiday, bestselling author of 'The Obstacle Is the Way’ and ‘Ego Is the Enemy’. His latest book, ‘Right Thing, Right Now’, is all about how building character can change your life’. On the podcast Ryan shares three rules that helped him find success & happiness. Support the podcast: patreon.com/mattdavella Get three emails in your inbox: mattdavella.com/threerules Follow Ryan: instagram.com/ryanholiday Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:46 Rule #1: Always be reading. 02:45 Rule #2: Seek out mentors 07:50 Rule #3: Say yes. Then say no.

After a five-year hiatus, I’m relaunching my podcast under a new name: Three Rules. This short-form show is all about uncovering actionable advice from inspiring creators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Each guest shares three rules that helped them find success or happiness, delivered in under 15 minutes. No fluff, just practical wisdom you can put into action. My first episode drops next week with Ryan Holiday, and I couldn’t be more excited to reconnect with this incredible community. Want to dive deeper? Get full-length interviews and exclusive AMA episodes by joining my Patreon at patreon.com/mattdavella. Plus, subscribe to the companion newsletter for weekly insights at mattdavella.com/threerules.

Jerry Chu runs a small agency called The Stitch Effect that’s dedicated to social good. And he was one of my oldest client’s, when I was still struggling to start my business while living in my parent’s basement. We talk about why being proactive is the most important skill you can develop today, starting a client-based business and much more. groundupshow.com

Nadia Munla is a health & sensuality coach based in Brooklyn, NY. She’s helping women to understand their bodies by eliminating all the noise and distraction. In our conversation we talk about her previous career as a filmmaker, building an online business & dealing with critics. groundupshow.com

Danielle Eden started out behind the camera as a dancer and actress, hoping to eventually transition into directing later in her career. But after a freak accident she found herself making the transition quicker than she could have imagined. We talk about the challenges creating her first documentary, dealing with rejection and what drives her. groundupshow.com

Billy Disney is a filmmaker & content creator. He was an early influencer of video content at companies like The Verge and Mic.com. Now he’s an executive producer for one of the strangest and most innovative media companies on the web called The Outline. We talk about how he built relationships and leveraged his skills to create opportunities where none existed. groundupshow.com

Elliott Ashby is a photographer, filmmaker and media personality, though he never intended to be behind the camera. When no one would give him a mic, he decided to create his own. groundupshow.com

RJ Woessner is an actor living in NYC and he's doing pretty damn well for himself. But that wasn't always the case. We talk about how he got started out, some of his early struggles, and how he made his own way in the cutthroat world of voice over acting.

Chris Newhard is an award-winning filmmaker and director of photography. He's also one of my closest friends. I sat down with him to talk about his work, some of his early struggles and what it was like working on massive projects with acts like Sia.

I sat down with Jacob Sokol of sensophy.com and host of the WTF Should I Do W/ My Life podcast. We talk about his story of leaving the corporate world to follow a more uncertain path of self-development and life coaching.

Since releasing our documentary Minimalism I’ve gotten this question a lot: How can you be a filmmaker & a minimalist? On the surface this question might seem like it’s based on a misunderstanding of what minimalism is, but truthfully I think it just comes from filmmakers who are paralyzed with choices. Companies and peer’s sell them on the gear that they absolutely need to have. Just like the average consumer they’ve become inundated with options. The underlying assumption: You need more stuff. In this video I talk about my relationship with the "stuff" of the filmmaking world. What are the important questions you should be asking yourself before you go out and purchase the latest gadget or gear?

The question I get most often from freelancers and curious friends is, "How do you get new clients?" In this episode I break down how I've built my client base and offer tips for those looking to start something new. groundupshow.com

In episode two of Ground Up I talk about the five biggest lesson’s I learned directing my first feature length documentary Minimalism. Over three years ago Joshua Fields Millburn, of theminimalists.com, came to me with an idea to create a documentary. I’d been making videos all my life but I’d never attempted a project so massive. Over the next couple years I worked with a group of insanely talented individuals to bring it to life. It stretched the realms of what I thought was possible & pushed me to my limits. You can watch Minimalism: A Documentary About The Important Things on Netflix. groundupshow.com

My name's Matt D'Avella and I'm an award-winning filmmaker & host of The Ground Up Show. I've been a professional director & producer for my entire working career and released my first two feature-length documentary in 2016, Minimalism (on Netflix) & Design Disruptors. This is a podcast about how to create something from nothing. When I first got started out as a filmmaker I had no idea what I was doing. I made a lot of mistakes the hard way. In this first episode I talk about the biggest, dumbest, most embarrassing mistake I ever made as a filmmaker. Because even when shit hits the fan, there's a lesson to be learned. groundupshow.com

Jordan Syatt is a world record powerlifter & strength coach.

Caroline Zook & I talk about our experiences with anxiety. Caroline is the co-founder of Wandering Aimfully. Support the show here: patreon.com/mattdavella

Jack Conte is the CEO of Patreon.

Paul Jarvis shares why you might want to rethink growth as the status quo, how social media has changed the way we think about success & the three questions you should ask yourself before working towards any goal. Find Paul here: http://pjrvs.com Get the full full interview here: patreon.com/mattdavella

Josh Janssen, from The Daily Talk Show, joins me to discuss waking up early, morning routines & why we care how others start their day. Get short weekly emails from me on minimalism, habits & productivity: mattdavella.com.

Ramit Sethi, New York Times bestselling author of I Will Teach You to be Rich, comes by to discuss how to earn more money, create healthy spending habits & change the way we’ve been thinking about money for our entire lives. Get short weekly emails from me on minimalism, habits & productivity: mattdavella.com. Get additional videos every month & support this podcast: patreon.com/mattdavella.

Tommy Jackett, from The Daily Talk Show, joins me to discuss our experience meditating for the past month. Did we reach enlightenment? Find out! Get short weekly emails from me on minimalism, habits & productivity: mattdavella.com. Get additional videos every month & support this podcast: patreon.com/mattdavella.

Sorelle Amore is a YouTuber & Photographer. On this episode we talk about quitting social media & why you might want to try it for 30 days. xx Get short weekly emails from me on minimalism, habits & productivity: mattdavella.com. Get additional videos every month & support this podcast: patreon.com/mattdavella.

Johann Hari, author of the NY Times Bestseller Lost Connections, set out across the world to speak with leading experts on depression, anxiety & loneliness to discover what has caused our epidemic of loneliness. And more importantly how to solve it. To get the full 40 minute interview, as well as other extended interviews & my exclusive AMA podcast sign up at patreon.com/mattdavella.

Greg McKeown is the author of the NY Times Bestselling book Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less. This is my edited conversation with Greg about his Essentialist philosophy, the myth of success and why small consistent steps far outweigh the alternative. You can get the full 1 hour interview at patreon.com/mattdavella.

Gary Vaynerchuk is a 5x New York Times bestselling author, angel investor, chairman of VaynerX & CEO of VaynerMedia. Watch this interview at youtube.com/mattdavella. Learn about my process & how I make films in exclusive videos at patreon.com/mattdavella. I release new videos every month including an AMA podcast answering your questions.

We made it to episode 100! I take questions & comments from listeners to celebrate. Enjoy.

Michelle D'Avella is a breath-work teacher & author of The Bright Side of a Broken Heart. You can find more about her work at pushingbeauty.com or check out her YouTube channel at the link above. You can find her work at pushingbeauty.com. Support this podcast a patreon.com/mattdavella & get access to exclusive videos.

Chris Baca is a three time US Barista Championship finalist, YouTuber, and cofounder of Cat and Cloud Coffee. In this episode we talk about how he got into the coffee business, the importance of authenticity, and how his employees’ well being drives their company. Find Chris here: https://www.youtube.com/realchrisbaca and https://catandcloud.com/ Support this podcast & get exclusive videos only on Patreon: http://patreon.com/mattdavella Episode Highlights: 01:15 - “Adding Value” 04:31 - Chris and his coffee company 10:12 - Starting simple and not trying to over-optimize 12:25 - Being a 3 time finalist in the US Barista Championship 20:41 - Making skate films and video views 25:02 - It’s not about the numbers, it’s about the people 33:28 - Authenticity and caring for your employees 52:30 - Hustle vs. life balance 59:10 - Advice for people looking to start a business

Jason Zook is a an entrepreneur who runs an online community called Wandering Aimfully for creative entrepreneurs who are also interested in earning a sustainable income and crafting an authentic, fulfilling life. In this episode we talk about getting out of debt, balancing minimalism with ambition, and setting priorities in life. Find Jason here: https://wanderingaimfully.com/ Support this podcast & get exclusive videos only on Patreon: http://patreon.com/mattdavella Episode Highlights: 05:59 - Jason’s background 09:15 - Taking the long term view 14:49 - What does YouTube feel like now compared to when you started? 21:47 - Minimalism vs. ambition 27:57 - Fitting work around life 35:43 - Getting out of debt 41:04 - How to you create successful content 59:32 - Overcoming the guilt of letting some part of your business go 55:01 - Scaling up

Bret Iwan is the voice of Mickey Mouse. In this episode we talk about creative fulfillment, finding balance, and the crazy story of how he landed the gig of one of the most recognizable voices in entertainment. Find Bret here: https://www.instagram.com/bretiwanvo Support this podcast & get exclusive videos only on Patreon: http://patreon.com/mattdavella Episode Highlights: 01:00 - Becoming Mickey 15:52 - Disney changed the game 27:22 - Being a VO Actor and having fans 29:57 - Filling Mickey’s shoes 31:55 - What it’s like to record the voice 38:19 - Grateful to have the opportunity 42:02 - Working as a freelancer 45:22 - Working hard but maintaining balance 45:22 - Enjoying the ride 55:31 - Advice to creative starting out 1:00:13 - Overcoming doubt

Caroline Zook is an artist and creative entrepreneur. In this episode we talk about getting swept up in the rat race, the importance of authenticity, and how to change the way you think about failure. Caroline's membership community: https://join.wanderingaimfully.com/ Support this podcast & get exclusive videos only on Patreon: http://patreon.com/mattdavella Episode Highlights: 00:56 - Introduction: Ad agency and starting to make money online 04:47 - Starting to listen to her creative side and redefining success 11:55 - Getting swept up in the rat race 18:01 - Balancing pleasing your audience and your creative desire 21:43 - The mindset required to follow your own path 25:10 - Developing confidence through action 33:17 - If you are making 1k a month you can make 10k a month 39:10 - The importance of authenticity 45:43 - The book 53:19 - Minimalism

Alex Banayan is an entrepreneur and author of the book, The Third Door: The Wild Quest to Uncover How the World’s Most Successful People Launched their Careers. In this episode we talk about overcoming fear, the dangers of being overly persistent, and the truth about success and happiness. Find Alex here: https://thirddoorbook.com/ Support this podcast & get exclusive videos only on Patreon: http://patreon.com/mattdavella Episode Highlights: 00:58 - Success and happiness are linked 09:39 - Defining success and advice for people on the journey 14:11 - Practical Steps for success 18:42 - Advice to land your dream interview 27:39 - Using the Inner Man Strategy 31:13 - The danger of too much persistence 36:42 - Preparing for a big interview 42:45 - Advice for people starting out: the idea of the third door 46:25 - Hustling the right way 54:37 - Overcoming fear to achieve the life you want 59:29 - Quick Questions

Dan Doty: twitter.com/danieldoty Evryman: evryman.com Support this podcast & get exclusive videos at patreon.com/mattdavella.

Dani Nagel: instagram.com/danidazey Dazey: www.dazeyla.com Support this podcast & get exclusive videos at patreon.com/mattdavella.

Thomas Frank: youtube.com/thomasfrank Support this podcast & get exclusive videos at patreon.com/mattdavella.