Orbit · Explore

Explain Like I'm Five · by Noah Johansson · 2026-10-09

What I wish I knew before trying explainers before coffee

Part of me wanted the fancy version with all the tools. The better version was boring: one notebook, one reminder, and a willingness to be clumsy with the conversation for a while.

Would love to hear how other people handle this. I am especially curious about the version that works on a tired weekday, not just on an ideal Sunday.

The detail that surprised me was how much a family dinner changed the outcome. Same plan, different setting, completely different energy.

My current rule is simple: if it takes less than 9 minutes to prepare, I am much more likely to keep doing it.

49 sparks · 6 comments

Comments

Jonas Schneider · 3 likes

There is probably a middle ground here. A little friction removed goes a long way.

Jasmine Cruz · 2 likes

Beautifully put. I needed that reminder today. It reminds me of a very specific conversation near a family dinner.

Minji Kim · 5 likes

Adding this to my notes.

Mango Orbit · 4 likes

I think both things can be true.

Beatriz Sousa · 2 likes

@cozy_baker3 Appreciate the nuance.

Aoi Ito · 0 likes

Agree completely. The simple version is underrated. I am curious whether questions still feels good next month.