The Rean Rous podcast shares ideas and knowledge with Cambodians on topics that are not usually taught in the classroom. Instead, Rean Rous, which means “learn to live”, educates people about philosophical and psychological issues that can help in daily life.
Since launching in early 2021, the podcast and its content has proved popular, with thousands of active listeners tuning in today, claiming they have picked up tips on how to learn better from listening to it.
Ly Monyputhy is the man behind Rean Rous, creates the podcast by thinking deeply about topics and calling on external sources that he can use to back up his content. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of thinking and self-awareness in daily life.
“By learning to analyse and understand the problems that affect our lives, we gain the power to solve them effectively,” he told Kiripost in an interview.
He added that through self-awareness and observation of emotional reactions, “we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. With this knowledge, we can confidently tackle life’s challenges with clarity and determination”.
The starting point of Rean Rous is general life knowledge that school sometimes does not teach. The podcast is influenced by Ancient Rome philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca's quote, “As long as you live, keep learning how to live.”
Rean Rous podcast's episodes talk about thinking and enable people to resolve many problems faced in daily life. “When we ponder our emotions, interests, and curiosities, as well as our ability to observe and contemplate, we gain insight into ourselves and think more coherently,” he said.
It comes more naturally
Monyputhy created a Facebook page to share videos but after a year, he realized he didn't enjoy the editing process and preferred to spend time thinking. That was when he was given the recommendation to start a podcast.
He began creating videos during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and decided to switch to podcasting in early 2021. He found the podcast format to be an interesting medium, as it requires less editing compared to videos.
Noting interesting ideas and creating podcasts is a frequent activity for Monyputhy to process creating content, with his surroundings providing inspiration for content development. Pursuing interests involves researching and reading about intriguing topics.
He said that allowing ideas to form for a day can lead to fresh perspectives and new concepts. Jotting down ideas and evaluating whether they are fit for a podcast is a common practice before proceeding with podcast creation.
Others who want to make content about a topic, usually begin by searching for information and researching on Google to find external sources.
“Instead of starting with research, I begin by thinking about the topic and recalling any external sources I remember and relate to, using those to back up my content,” he said. “It comes more naturally for me to create content.”
Average student
Monyputhy was an average student at school but was able to develop his skills by engaging in extracurricular activities such as seminars, volunteering, internships, and other opportunities.
“I didn't study much during my school days but when I began working, I took the time to study and read extensively,” Monyputhy said.
Monyputhy was offered a job at AIESEC Organization, where he had previously volunteered as vice president in Thailand for a year. He was then promoted to country director in Cambodia and as Asia Pacific manager in the Philippines.
While working at the organization, Monyputhy focused on youth leadership development and later continued his career at Mindvalley. He is currently engaged in remote work that focuses on life education.
Nevertheless, he pursued work opportunities and gained self-awareness while working for the international company.
“I worked for a company that had a focus on life education, which I found to be an evolutionary experience that made me appreciate my dream job,” he said. “It's time to give back.”
He added that thinking is an invaluable ability that influences how we perceive and approach life's difficulties. Its advantages extend beyond work and into people’s daily lives, he said, adding that daily people are confronted with numerous problems that demand their attention.
Monyputhy, a certified coach of life from Mindvalley, emphasized that learning to think does not require meditation but sitting quietly and being self-aware of one’s thoughts.
We should not be afraid of being wrong
Writing in a diary without the intention of sharing it on social media helps us understand our thinking and emotions, leading to deeper reflection. Prioritizing thinking and allowing time for it is crucial, Monyputhy added.
“When we write it [down], it gives us an idea of how we think now, how we feel, and why we think this way. Then we begin to deepen our thinking. Better yet, we have to spend more time thinking than we do when we have no time to think.”
When producing a podcast and deciding on an idea, Monyputhy has to think about it deeply. He has to consider what is still missing in his mind, for example, which he said is also a part of developing his mind to be better by thinking and incorporating it into a message to make people understand.
“It makes my thinking more comprehensive and simpler. When I release episodes, if they’re wrong, I receive feedback and know where it's wrong. We should not be afraid of being wrong.”
The challenge of podcasts is internal and strategy. He noted that internal viewpoints should form content creation, adding that usually, the creator holds a pen and writes on a piece of paper.
“All of these thoughts are what stop us, not our thoughts good or bad, but dwelling on our thoughts. We must not let these fears hold us back from expressing ourselves and sharing our unique perspectives with others.”
He added that "The War of Art" book delivers a significant message about the difficulties artists face, such as self-doubt, skepticism of ideas, and fear of criticism.
Monyputhy noted that creators need to confront these hurdles daily. When coming up with an idea, it is crucial to note it down and explore it further, irrespective of doubts or fears. He advised that it is vital to remember that not all creations will be successful, and failure may demotivate them.
Instead of concentrating on likes or views, the content should be analysed objectively to determine areas that need improvement.
“I do not think much about performance and analysis ratio, however, to start new content, keep it consistent and don’t be resistant.”
Don't focus solely on making money
Monyputhy said although podcasts do not bring in a lot of money – often only enough to cover the cost of equipment – he still enjoys creating them. Even if he does not attract many listeners, he continues because he feels fulfilled sharing messages and inspiring change in others.
“I am happy to share and want to see the change in some people. I do not want to get any thanks. Instead, I thank them for taking the time to listen to the podcast and for taking the initiative to change their life.”
When starting a podcast, Monyputhy said it is important not to be too serious or strive for perfection. In addition, expensive equipment is not necessary, and he advised against copying the style of others who have been in the business for years.
“Keep it simple and just share your content. Expect to make mistakes and don't wait until you are 100 percent ready before you start. You will learn and improve as you go along.”
He added that it is important to determine what you can manage and set achievable goals, such as creating a certain amount of content per week. Also, focus on building skills and improving through practice, as it takes time.
“Don't focus solely on making money in the beginning. Look beyond the financial aspect and consider the value of learning, networking, and opportunities for growth. Where we want to go is always difficult and needs us to have some ability in life to address it,” he said.
“It's lifelong learning, I learn to live and share with them. I am a student of life learning; study is the journey of our lives around the world to change. Life does not end with learning.”
