Five Bullet Friday - October 31, 2025

Dear A, 

I'm looking forward to spending time with family and friends this evening and taking my little guy tricker-treating (he's Spiderman).   

Here's what I'm exploring this week...  

BOOK I'M READING...

Taking Religion Seriously by Charles Murray. This is Murray’s autobiographical reflection on his decades-long journey toward understanding God in general and Christianity in particular. He contends that faith can — and should — be examined through rigorous intellectual inquiry. Along the way, he weaves together insights from cosmology and the improbable conditions of the Big Bang, the emerging science of consciousness, and perspectives from evolutionary psychology, all pointing to the possibility of a universal Moral Law. His examination of Christianity engages deeply with questions of Gospel authorship, the reliability of biblical texts, and the scholarly debates surrounding the resurrection. In short, not only can science not disprove the existence of God, but it actually lends more evidence that there is one, as well as an afterlife.

STUDY I'M EXCITED ABOUT...

The Workout Combo that Could Save Your Memory. New research suggests that combining cardio and strength training is the most effective way to protect brain health and improve memory after 60.

In a meta-analysis of 32 randomized controlled trials, scientists compared seven different types of exercise to determine which best supported cognitive function. A mix of aerobic and resistance training was 94 percent more effective than the other options.

Researchers believe this powerful combination works because aerobic exercise increases blood flow and neuroplasticity, while resistance training boosts brain-supporting hormones like BDNF. Together, they improve both memory and executive function by enhancing neural connectivity and protecting brain tissue.

SIMPLE ADVICE I'M FOLLOWING...

How to Get More Out of Each Day by Ryan Holiday. I’ve been following Ryan Holiday’s work for more than a decade. He first emerged as a sharp and innovative marketing strategist, and has since evolved into one of today’s leading voices on Stoicism—drawing heavily from the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and his influential writings in Meditations. This short video offers a concise introduction to essential Stoic principles, particularly as they relate to building a purposeful morning routine.

YOU TUBE VIDEO I'M ENJOYING...

Vince Vaughn No Excuses. Actor Vince Vaughn has always been something of an enigma. He often plays that familiar role — the tall, fast-talking, overly-confident funnyman — yet he consistently manages to keep it fresh and entertaining. I’d never really seen him outside of his movie characters, so when I came across this short interview clip, I was genuinely impressed. Turns out, I like the guy even more now.

QUOTE I'M PONDERING...

"You can make excuses or you can make progress. You choose.”

— Brian Tracy

Thank you for your attention. As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions.

Stay safe and vigilant,

Luke Bencie