Mike Vardy's Blog, page 15
August 23, 2023
Episode 489: Constance Dierickx Talks About Meta-Leadership Insights And Decision Mastery
In this episode I have the privilege of conversing with Constance Dierickx, Ph.D., famously known as The Decision Doctor®.
A trusted advisor to boards and senior executives, Constance has lent her expertise to leaders across dozens of industries on five continents. With a proven track record of aiding leaders in increasing revenue, mastering top-level transitions, enabling strategic pivots, and ensuring M&A successes at a rate 400% above the average, she is undeniably at the top of her field.
During our discussion we dive deep into the insights from her latest book, “Meta-Leadership: How to See What Others Don’t and Make Great Decisions.” This book introduces the concept of Meta-Leadership, a groundbreaking paradigm designed to reshape how leaders think, harness emotions effectively, and take wise actions.
Key Discussion PointsDichotomous Thinking and Recognizing Mistakes: Dive into the complexities of black and white thinking and its constraints. Explore why leaders possess an exceptional ability to synthesize and perceive beyond the apparent. Delve into the distinction between being a leader and a manager.The Three Dimensions of Leadership: Discover the core elements of leadership: thinking, emotion, and behavior, all grounded in science. Understand the reasons behind the selection of these dimensions and their influence on leadership potential.Shortcuts, Uncertainty, and Decision-Making: Unpack how our inherent desire to alleviate uncertainty drives us to develop mental shortcuts. Explore their advantages and potential pitfalls, supplemented by insights from Daniel Kahneman’s “Thinking Fast and Slow.”The Ice Cream Factor and the Power of Novelty: Discuss the merits and downsides of routine vs novelty in our daily choices. Emphasize the importance of adaptability and flexibility, and revisit revolutionary historical predictions.Emotional Component of Leadership: Delve into the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership and how emotions can both empower and, if unchecked, limit a leader’s vision and actions.Returning to the Office Post-Pandemic: Reflect on the rapid changes induced by the pandemic and their implications for meta-leadership. Explore the nuances of leading teams back to physical workplaces in the new normal.The Power of Reflective Practices: Highlight the underestimated importance of journaling and reflection for leaders, illustrating how retrospection can be a guide to future strategies and decisions.Distinguishing Good from Not-Good: Learn how to discern quality, especially within the finance sector, and utilize the 80/20 rule as a valuable tool for account managers.Dive into this episode as Constance shares her profound knowledge and experience, guiding us through the maze of leadership complexities. Whether you aim to polish your leadership techniques, seek innovative problem-solving strategies, or simply wish to grasp the psychology behind decisive actions, this episode promises invaluable insights.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
[image error]The post Episode 489: Constance Dierickx Talks About Meta-Leadership Insights And Decision Mastery appeared first on Productivityist.
August 16, 2023
Episode 488: Stephanie Chandler Talks About Non-Fiction Publishing And Community Building
I’m admittedly taking a bit of a selfish turn in this episode as I get to chat with the renowned Stephanie Chandler.
Stephanie, an acclaimed author of “The Nonfiction Book Publishing Plan,” is the force behind the Nonfiction Authors Association and the unique Nonfiction Writers Conference – an online event that’s been changing the game since 2010. As someone who’s graced platforms like Entrepreneur, BusinessWeek, and Wired magazine, she’s an embodiment of expertise and passion. Stick around as we delve into topics like the art of ‘chunking’ your writing, the intriguing world of hybrid publishing, and so much more.
Key Discussion PointsStephanie’s transition from corporate life in 2003 to a bookstore owner in Sacramento and eventually to being a renowned author and community builder.Crafting a Thriving Community: How Stephanie enriches her community with valuable content, battling the wave of misinformation.“Chunking” the Writing Process: A look at daily manageable writing targets and the echoing effects of consistent book releases.Target Audience’s Power: The art and science of niching down and addressing audience-specific challenges.Deciphering Bookstores: The ongoing battle between traditional bookstores and the rise of audiobooks.The Publishing Dilemma: A discussion on the allure of big publishers vs. the liberty of alternative routes.Navigating Hybrid Publishing: A glance at its role in the current market and its pros and cons.This conversation with Stephanie Chandler was both productive and enlightening. From the nuanced intricacies of non-fiction publishing to the evolving landscape of bookstores and publishing routes, Stephanie’s insights were invaluable. If you’re a budding author or simply interested in the world behind the books you read, this is an episode you wouldn’t want to miss.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
[image error]The post Episode 488: Stephanie Chandler Talks About Non-Fiction Publishing And Community Building appeared first on Productivityist.
August 9, 2023
Episode 487: Vinay Pitankar Talks About Process Management
In the latest episode of “A Productive Conversation”, yours truly and guest Vinay Patankar delve into the intricacies of process versus project management. Vinay Patankar is the CEO of Process Street. Manage employee onboarding, workflow automation, checklists, the team’s handbook & more with Process Street’s AI powered process platform.
Vinay underscores the value of specialized tools, suggesting a blend of both for optimal business operations. They also explore the nuances of repeatable work, emphasizing that every business has inherent processes. Vinay shares insights on leveraging project management experiences for future tasks, using Uber’s market entry as an example of a project evolving into a process. And that’s just for starters.
Key Discussion PointsProcess vs. Project: Dive into the nuanced differences. Which is right for your business?Tool Synergy: The magic of combining tools. Why might HR, finance, and real estate need a special touch?Repeatable Work: Everyone has processes, but are they optimized? Discover the “productivity diet.”Project Management Insights: How can Uber’s strategy teach us about turning projects into processes?Projects Birth Processes: Uber’s new venture hints at how projects evolve. What’s the secret?Scaling Challenges: Beyond starting a project—what does it truly take to scale? Uncover the “unsexy” side of business.AI in Business: AI is revolutionizing processes. How might GPT change employee onboarding?Thank you for tuning into this enlightening episode of ‘A Productive Conversation.’ As always, our goal is to equip you with actionable insights to elevate your business endeavors. Until next time, remember to stop “doing” productive and start being productive.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
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August 2, 2023
Episode 486: Marc Lesser Talks About Finding Clarity
In this enlightening episode, I engage in a meaningful (and productive) conversation with Marc Lesser.
Marc is a multifaceted leader with roles as a CEO, executive coach, and Zen teacher. With an MBA from New York University, he has founded three companies and authored five books, notably “Finding Clarity”. His passion for integrating mindfulness into leadership culminated in the “Search Inside Yourself” program at Google, an influential initiative that married emotional intelligence with mindfulness. Marc also brings unique insights from his ten-year residency at the San Francisco Zen Center and his stint as the director of Tassajara, the first Zen monastery in the Western world. His distinct blend of business expertise and Zen principles positions him as an exceptional figure in the spheres of mindful leadership and business strategy.
The episode moves forward with a fascinating discussion about the concept of clarity. Contrary to common belief, Marc proposes that clarity is not just a state of complete understanding or transparency but also includes elements of mystery and the unknown. This ties into what he refers to as the “fifth discipline of leadership”, emphasizing the practice of finding clarity within these nuances. Furthermore, Marc shares unconventional “anchors” or strategies that can assist individuals in finding clarity, including his unique ‘no festering’ rule.
Key Discussion PointsThe importance of understanding clarity as a concept that incorporates mystery and not just a state of perfect lucidity.Unconventional strategies for finding clarity, including the ‘no festering’ rule.An exploration into the role of ego in compassion and accountability, demonstrating how curiosity can replace judgement and anger.The trap of ego and the role of confidence and deep listening in avoiding this trap.Lesser’s views on the role of will in meditation, distinguishing between will and willpower.The transformative power of turning breakdowns into breakthroughs, accepting change and discomfort.There’s also a mention of Ted Lasso that makes its way into our discussion – a discussion that is well worth your time. Enjoy.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
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July 26, 2023
Episode 485: James Clear Talks About Atomic Habits
We’re going back into the vault for this episode for a conversation that I had in January 2019 with the one and only James Clear. James is best known as the author of Atomic Habits: An Easy And Proven Way To Build Good Habits And Break Bad Ones.
During our conversation, James discusses why he wrote Atomic Habits and how it differs from other habit books, the importance of breaking habits down into “atomic” small changes, and the “two minute rule” for making habits simple and easy to do. We also get into how seasons and social reinforcement can help with habit consistency, strategies for curtailing behaviours that you want to do in moderation, and his collaboration with Baronfig.
Key Discussion PointsStart small with habits by scaling them down until they take two minutes or less. This makes them simple to automate.Layer many small habit changes on top of each other to achieve big results over time.Use tools and software to help with habit consistency, especially for infrequent habits.Slow down and pay attention to your current behaviours to identify where to insert new habits.Write things down in a central place to capture ideas and sort them later. Don’t worry about organization in the moment.I hope this very productive conversation with James Clear gives you some valuable insights into building good habits through small, sustainable changes. Atomic Habits provides a practical, science-backed approach that you can start implementing today. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good – take that first small step and build the habit from there.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
[image error]The post Episode 485: James Clear Talks About Atomic Habits appeared first on Productivityist.
July 19, 2023
Episode 484: Josselyne Herman Saccio Talks About The Art of Being Unmissable With
Josselyne Herman Saccio joins the show to discuss her work helping people transform limiting beliefs and shift from a place of reaction to creation. She is a transformative coach and course leader with more than 30 years experience and as an author, CEO, Community Activist, founder of a non -profit and coach, she has worked with all kinds of people to empower them to live the life of their dreams NOW and ultimately be “unmessablewith.”
She shares how she helps people develop the “muscle of creation” by getting clear on their vision and what they really want, beyond just goals. We also discuss the importance of journaling and storytelling, how to best fill out your calendar, and why Josselyne calls her work “the art” of being unmessable.
Key Discussion PointsThe importance of creating, not just managing or reactingDeveloping the muscle of creation by exercising it regularlyGetting clear on your vision and what you really want, beyond just goalsDismantling the stories and limiting beliefs that hold you backShifting from feeling complete to creating being completeDistinguishing what is actually happening versus the stories you tell yourselfFilling your calendar with why you’re doing things and what you’re creating, not just contentThis conversation provides insights and strategies to help you transform limiting beliefs, shift from a place of reaction to creation, and develop the “muscle of creation”. By dismantling the stories that hold you back and getting clear on your true vision, you can fill your life with more meaning and fulfillment, regardless of your circumstances. Listen in to discover tools that may help you unlock your untapped potential and create the life you desire.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
[image error]The post Episode 484: Josselyne Herman Saccio Talks About The Art of Being Unmissable With appeared first on Productivityist.
July 12, 2023
Episode 483: Peter Ivanov Talks About Powering Up Virtual Teams
In this episode of “A Productive Conversation,” I’m joined by Peter Ivanov. Peter is an inspiring keynote speaker, renowned for his expertise in virtual teams and future-oriented leadership. With 20 years of experience as a Senior Manager leading international virtual teams across Europe, Africa, and Asia, Peter’s teams have achieved remarkable success, including winning the prestigious “Global IT Connect Award” in 2012. As the author of the acclaimed book “Virtual Power Teams,” translated into six languages and ranked as an “Amazon Top 3” in international management, Peter’s mission is to unite global talent in tackling humanity’s toughest challenges.
During our discussion, Peter unravels the secrets to building trust and fostering collaboration. Discover strategies to navigate conflicts and ensure knowledge flow in virtual and hybrid teams. Explore the emerging role of the Chief Remote Officer and learn how to enhance team productivity beyond mere metrics. Peter also reveals a simple action you can take right now to elevate your team’s performance. Get ready for an enlightening conversation filled with practical tips to unlock the full potential of your remote work setup.
Key Discussion PointsBuilding trust is essential in remote teams.Handling conflicts and pre-emptive responses to maintain team harmony.The importance of knowledge flow in virtual and hybrid teams.The rise of Chief Remote Officers and the concept of equal opportunities in remote work.Balancing quantified productivity with other tools and mechanisms for managing distributed teams.Listeners can expect a thought-provoking conversation filled with practical insights to improve remote team dynamics and productivity. By implementing Peter’s strategies and leveraging the suggested tools, leaders and team members alike can enhance their remote work experiences and achieve greater success.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
[image error]The post Episode 483: Peter Ivanov Talks About Powering Up Virtual Teams appeared first on Productivityist.
July 5, 2023
Episode 482: Terry Cralle talks about the relationship between sleep and productivity
In this episode, I chat with Terry Cralle, a registered nurse based in Washington DC, and the conversation dives into the topic of sleep and its impact on productivity and well-being. Terry is certified in clinical sleep health and has co-authored two books on sleep; Snoozby and the Great Big Bedtime Battle (Rowe Publishing, 2015), the first nonfiction book directly messaging the benefits of sufficient sleep to young children and Sleeping Your Way to the Top (Sterling Publishing, 2016), the ultimate guide to success through sufficient sleep. She also serves on the Start School Later Board of Directors and works with a variety of organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada to promote sleep health and wellness.
Terry kicks off the conversation by emphasizing the importance of having a healthy relationship with sleep and seeing it as a natural need rather than a battle to conquer. She shares down-to-earth strategies to improve sleep, like setting up a cozy sleep environment, soaking in some morning sunlight, and establishing a soothing bedtime routine. Together, we explore the signs of sleep deprivation and unmanaged sleep disorders that we should watch out for.
Key Discussion PointsThe importance of establishing a good relationship with sleepUnderstanding sleep as a biological need, not a battleSimple strategies to improve sleep, including exposure to natural light and establishing a bedtime routineThe significance of sleep for mental well-being and productivitySleep as a foundational pillar of health and wellness, alongside diet and exerciseThe benefits of setting aside sufficient time for sleep and the value of nappingChallenges faced by shift workers and the need for healthier hoursAdvocacy for later school start times for teenagersGet ready to be inspired and equipped with practical advice to transform your sleep habits in this down-to-earth conversation. With Terry Cralle’s expert insights, you’ll gain valuable tips to ensure a good night’s sleep, boost your productivity, and enhance your overall quality of life. So, grab your cozy blanket, sit back, and prepare to unlock the secrets of better sleep for a more productive and fulfilling life.
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
The post Episode 482: Terry Cralle talks about the relationship between sleep and productivity appeared first on Productivityist.
July 3, 2023
49 Life Lessons In 49 Years Of Living
This piece was published on my 49th birthday.
It’s been a journey full of wisdom, growth, challenges, triumphs, and countless precious moments. To mark this significant milestone, I want to share 49 lessons I’ve gathered from my 49 years of life. Each of these lessons has played an instrumental role in shaping who I am today.
The 49 Life LessonsBe patient with yourself and others. We’re all doing the best we can with what we know and have.Delegate tasks whenever you can, both at work and at home. It’s a valuable tool to free up time for what truly matters.“Watch Later” on YouTube is an excellent feature. It allows you to customize your own learning path.Always keep a book next to your TV remote. It’s a simple nudge towards nourishing your mind over passively consuming content.Slow travel, whether walking or biking, offers a unique perspective. The journey is just as important as the destination.When you meditate, you anchor yourself in the present. Find a form that resonates with you and incorporate it into your daily life.Mix up your work environment if you work from home. A change of scenery can often spark creativity.Don’t forget to step outside and connect with nature. There’s a grounding quality to it that’s incredibly refreshing.Paper books offer an irreplaceable tactile experience. Embrace the charm of tradition.Keep your calendar for the broad strokes and your to-do list for the finer details. Both tools together can help turn intentions into actions.Night owls can be as productive as early birds. It’s about finding your rhythm and respecting it.Drink more water. A simple reminder like leaving a water bottle in plain sight can make a big difference.Take one day off from social media every week. It’s essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with our digital world.Always find time for what nourishes your soul. Time is a gift; use it for what truly matters.Tags in MacOS are a lifesaver for organization. Start using them today, and your future self will thank you.Small habits like flossing can be the perfect start to an evening routine.Convenience services, like razors in the mail, save time and money. Look out for more such services that can simplify your life.Set a day in your workweek when meetings aren’t on your schedule. Use this time for deep, focused work.Investing time in learning every day pays long-term dividends. Knowledge is the best investment.Always keep a set of workout clothes ready. It encourages spontaneous physical activity.Slowing down often allows you to see things more clearly. It’s not always about speed.Mind maps work best on physical surfaces. Visualization has power.If you feel you’re wasting time, don’t judge yourself or the moment. Just take note. Time awareness is the first step towards better time management.Decaf coffee can be just as enjoyable as regular coffee. It’s all about finding the right one.Guilty pleasure apps are okay. They bring joy and that’s what truly matters.Set up an email vacation message before you go on holiday. A small action that brings significant peace of mind.Find a text expansion app. It will save you an incredible amount of time.Buy a portable battery for your devices. You never know when it might come in handy.Lunch breaks should not be at your desk. Honour your nourishment time.Take ownership of your devices from day one. Be their master, not the other way around.Use a wall calendar for a bird’s-eye view of your year.Use tools that separate your work and personal email. It aids focus and promotes work-life balance.Learn to leverage idle time, like doing dishes or working out, by listening to podcasts or audiobooks.Journaling is an under-appreciated productivity practice. It’s a process of self-reflection and planning.Consider trying a minimalist wardrobe approach. It’s liberating and saves time.Be deliberate with your television time. Choose what you watch and when.Avoid keeping things in your head. If something needs to be done, it should be on your to-do list.Fac, si facis. Latin for “Do it, if you’re going to do it.” Follow through on your commitments.Try using an alarm app like Sleep Cycle instead of a basic alarm clock. It’s gentler on your body.Leverage a tool like SavvyCal to save time. Small automations in your scheduling and calendar workflow can make a big difference.Embrace vulnerability. It fosters deeper connections with people.Stay open to change. Resistance only breeds suffering. Life is a constant dance of change.Tracking your time can be insightful, but don’t get too hung up on the numbers. Qualitative data is as crucial as the quantitative.The Instant Pot is indeed worth every penny. It simplifies cooking and saves time.Be kind, to yourself, to others, to our planet. Kindness is a universal language.Remember, your life is your story. Make it one you’re proud of.Decouple your personal and work emails. This separation is key for better focus and balance.Balance qualitative productivity alongside quantitative productivity. Numbers tell only half the story. And finally, remember there’s a profound distinction between 49 years of life and 49 years of living. One measures time; the other embodies experiences, growth, and the vibrancy of existence. So don’t just count your birthday as another year of life. Instead, strive to make it another year of living fully, deeply, intentionally.There you have it.
As I embark on another trip around the sun, these are the lessons I carry with me. Each one has contributed to my story, shaping the narrative in its own unique way.
I can’t wait to see what life lessons I learn next.
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June 28, 2023
Episode 481: Keith Ferrazzi talks about Leading Without Authority
In this episode from the vault, I revisit my conversation with Keith Ferrazzi from May 2020. The discussion centers around leading without authority, breaking down silos, and transforming teams through collaboration. Keith explains the concept of leading without authority, highlighting the need for an agile and adaptable operating model within organizations. He shares insights into co-elevation and the two philosophies of leadership.
The conversation also explores the challenges people face in shifting mindsets and adopting new ways of thinking, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and personal growth. The attributes of a high-performing team and strategies for coaching co-ed teams are discussed.
Key Discussion PointsLeading without authority involves breaking down silos and reinventing collaborationThe importance of adopting an agile and adaptable operating modelUnderstanding the challenges of mindset shifting and its impact on successThe attributes of a high-performing team and strategies for coaching co-ed teamsTransforming a company through leadership without authority and redefining teamsOvercoming self-limiting beliefs and taking responsibility for successThe significance of having a framework to measure success and unleashing growth through empathyBalancing humility and ego for effective leadershipAdvice for those who prefer working alone and a simple action to start leading without authorityDuring our discussion, Keith provides practical advice on how to lead without authority and redefine teams, emphasizing the role of responsibility and eliminating self-imposed limitations. The episode also delves into the importance of having a framework to measure success and the power of empathy in unleashing growth and development and addresses the concerns of individuals who feel they work better alone, offering advice on the importance of patience and taking small steps to start leading without authority. I’m glad I revisited this conversation “from the vault” and trust you’ll enjoy it. Thanks for listening!
Want to support the show? Then take a look at our podcast sponsors page.
There you will find a variety of products and services designed to help you lead a more productive life.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
The post Episode 481: Keith Ferrazzi talks about Leading Without Authority appeared first on Productivityist.
