Why Do We Save Things? Can We Throw Them Out?

In the first episode of our podcast, my co-host Sally Libby and I try to figure out why I -- and others -- feel the urge to save things.
And then, sob, she makes me use the shredder.
I know Sally's right. For decades, I've saved mementoes from when I was a reporter for People Magazine -- including hundreds of celebrity interview recordings. I also have more than 60 interviews with the original stars of hip-hop for my 1991 book Break It Down The Inside Story from the New Leaders of Rap. Then there are the personal items: cards and letters I've saved since I was 6, expense accounts, a play I wrote in fifth grade, and other treasures that now fill 24 boxes.
But when I'm gone, someone will throw all of it in a dumpster. So here's my goal: Tell the stories behind the items I've saved so at least the memories are preserved. Then attempt to do some Swedish Death Cleaning. That's the process of throwing out your stuff now so someone doesn't have to deal with it when you're gone.
And I'll invite guests to join us on the podcast to do the same.
Can't guarantee that we'll succeed at throwing things out. But either way I hope I'll inspire you to look through your own treasures. Then share a story with a friend or family member about what you've saved, why you saved it, and what you plan to do with it. Or send us a photo and description to us. We'll post our favorites in our blog.
In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the podcast!

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More info, photos, and transcript: throwitoutpodcast.com
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