The Art of Learning

The book that put Brian B. on the podium.

I was recently asked for a book recommendation for an entrepreneur book club… and my favorite personal growth book won… hands down. “The Art of Learning“ by Josh Waitzkins.

• So why am I sharing that with you?
• And what does that have to do with World Champion, Brian Barakauskas?

There are a few books on my shelf that I read every year (or so). Each time I read them, they change my life. This is one of those books.

“I listened to that book you recommended and it inspired me.”

Brain Barakauskas

At Swingin’ Dance Pary in 2016, I was chatting with my good friend and contemporary, Brian Barakauskas (Brian B.). Something in our conversation led me to ask if he’d ever read The Art of Learning. He said ‘no’ and we moved on.

Two weeks later, Brian Barakauskas and Megan Anderson began a whirlwind march for the top of the Country Dance Circuit. In four months, they not only qualified for Masters, the highest competitive Division in the UCWDC, but they also earned themselves a spot on the podium at the World Championships – THAT SEASON. 😳

That’s unheard of.

They STAYED on that podium for the next two years. 🥳

In 2019 when Brian retired (again), I gave him a congratulations hug and he said “Thanks! You know this is all because of you, right?” Nope, I did not know that. What was he talking about?

“I listened to that book you recommended and it inspired me.”

I would say that’s an understatement, and for those of you that know Brian, you know that he is a walking understatement. He doesn’t boast, he doesn’t tell you what he’s going to do. He simply goes and does it letting his actions make all the statements.

So back to your first question – why am I sharing this with you? For two reasons.

1. If this calls your name, join me, and Brian, and read (or listen to) the book.
2. I invite you to join our book club discussion and share your thoughts and insights

There’s no cost. No gimmicks.

When I was talking to Brian in 2016, something inside prompted me to share. Today I feel the same pull… so I’m sharing.

Link to the Art of Learning book Join the Book Club Discussion

“Your life changes the moment you make a new, congruent and committed decision.”

~ Tony Robbins