In a story we published last week, we asked our audience: have you ever had a life-changing hobby? How did it enhance your main quest? Here are a few responses, edited for length and clarity.

We started a podcast 

I've been an educator in New York for over 25 years. A colleague and I love all things about bilingualism and decided we wanted to share the beautiful stories of researchers, students, authors, artists and publishers in the field of English as a Second Language. 

We wanted to expand and elevate the conversation around bilingualism in the U.S. so we began our podcast in 2020. This side quest, our passion project, allowed us to find deeper joy and share it with fellow language lovers. — Suzanne Lasser 

I skip on every crosswalk I come across

I made a side quest in 2025 to skip on every crosswalk I came across. My theory:

1. You are always happy when skipping.
2. It forces you out of your comfort zone.
3. I could be the most prolific adult skipper in the world possible.

— Chris Avis 

I became a radio DJ 

Three years ago, one of my coworkers recounted his busy life working and doing his radio show. Wednesday mornings, he spent two hours as a DJ for Radio Free Minturn, KLNX-LP, a community-based, nonprofit radio station serving the Upper Colorado Eagle River Valley. Soon after, I applied to be a volunteer DJ, something I had never done before. 

I am now over two years into an undertaking I was quite unqualified for, hosting the NoSpeak Guitar Rock Show on Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m., Mountain Time, featuring instrumental rock tunes by guitar artists from all over the world.

Learning to speak into the void, playing instrumental guitar rock music that kicks and basking in the glow of serving a very small audience, this is my side quest.  —J. Reed Roesler

COMIC: Trying for a baby? These lifestyle habits may boost your fertility odds. This illustrated guide has evidence-backed advice on how to support fertility for both men and women, including which foods to eat and which activities to avoid.

5 questions that can save you from a bad purchase. Sometimes we buy things that we later regret: a new sweater that's already falling apart, or a thrifted "vintage" vase that turns out to be a mass-produced dupe. At the moment, it's difficult to resist the temptation of making a purchase. But with a few pointed questions, you can make sure you've done your due diligence. 

Dear Life Kit: Should I put my life on hold for my partner? In this edition of Dear Life Kit, more wisdom from our vast archives to help you figure out: Whether to refuse a gift; if you should move in with your partner if they're not ready; and how to feel like a grown-up.