Episode 294: It's Only Drowning: A True Story of Learning to Surf and the Search for Common Ground, with David Litt

My guest is David Litt. His newest book is It's Only Drowning: A True Story of Learning to Surf and the Search for Common Ground. Litt, a former Obama speechwriter moves to the Jersey Shore and learns to surf with the help of his brother-in-law: a tattooed, truck-driving Joe Rogan superfan. David, the Yale-educated writer with a fear of sharks, and Matt, the daredevil electrician with a shed full of surfboards, had never been close. But as America’s crises piled up and David spiraled into existential dread, he noticed that his brother-in-law was thriving. He began to suspect Matt’s favorite hobby had something to do with it. David started taking surf lessons. For months, he wiped out on waves the height of daffodils. Yet, after realizing that surfing could change him both in and out of the water, he set an audacious goal: riding a big wave in Hawaii. He searched for an expert he could trust to guide and protect him—and when he couldn’t find one, he asked Matt. Together, they set out on a journey that spanned coasts, and even continents, before taking them to Oahu’s famously dangerous North Shore. It’s Only Drowning is a laugh-out-loud love letter to surfing—and so much more. It’s an ode to embarking on adventures at any age. It’s a blueprint for becoming braver at a time when it takes courage just to read the news. Most of all, it’s the story of an unlikely friendship, one that crosses the fault lines of education, ideology, and culture tearing so many of us apart. Takeaways David discusses his struggles with inactivity during COVID. He reflects on the cultural acceptance of workaholism in America. The conversation highlights the need for better work-life balance in Washington. Surfing serves as a metaphor for embracing life's challenges. David learns from his brother-in-law's different approach to life. The importance of trying new things and embracing change is emphasized. Fear can be a powerful motivator for personal growth. Judgment can create power dynamics in relationships. The need for joy and creativity in political discourse is discussed. David reflects on the importance of empathy in understanding others. Summary In this engaging conversation, David Litt discusses his experiences during the COVID pandemic, reflecting on themes of workaholism, personal growth, and the importance of embracing fear. He shares insights from his journey of learning to surf, using it as a metaphor for navigating life's challenges. The discussion also touches on the cultural dynamics of Washington, the need for joy in political discourse, and the significance of empathy in understanding others. David emphasizes the importance of trying new things and finding balance in a chaotic world, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace change and seek personal fulfillment. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Life Insurance and Pandemic Blues 06:47 The Impact of Workaholism on Washington 10:21 Surfing as a Means of Escape 14:39 Judgment and Power Dynamics 24:53 The Fusion of Identity and Ideology 26:21 The Comfort of Political Segregation 27:12 Surfing as a Means of Escape 28:33 Finding Joy in Life's Challenges 30:26 The Balance of Control and Surrender 32:42 Agency in a World of Uncertainty 34:28 The Importance of Trying 34:53 The Liberal Narrative and Happiness 36:38 Awareness and Empathy in Politics 38:01 The Burden of Responsibility 40:17 Finding Joy Amidst Tragedy 42:37 Embracing Fear and Uncertainty 46:03 Understanding Relationships Through Fear 50:07 The Complexity of Human Emotions 52:02 Revitalizing the Democratic Party 56:23 The Future of Political EngagementSpecial Guest: David Litt.