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Episode 575: Erik Fisher Talks About Productivity A to Z (Part 2)

In this engaging episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined once again by Erik Fisher, host of the Beyond the To-Do List podcast. This is the second half of our Productivity A to Z two-part crossover episode, where we explore the essential terms that shape our understanding of productivity. If you haven’t already listened to Part 1 on Erik’s podcast, I highly recommend starting there before diving into this episode.

Together, we pick up where we left off and explore letters N to Z, diving deep into words like networking, nurturing, overwhelm, and sustainability. Our conversation is packed with insights, practical takeaways, and a few surprises as we reflect on how these concepts have shaped our approaches to work and life.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Erik: Website | X (née Twitter)Subscribe to Erik’s podcast: Spotify | Apple PodcastsCheck out Part 1 of this conversation: Check it out on YouTubeGrab the additional resources from this podcast: CLICK HERE Related Conversation: Episode 552: David Allen Talks About Team Productivity and the Evolution of GTDRelated Blog Post: Why I’m Tired of the Word “Hustle” (And Use This Word Instead)

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 575: Erik Fisher Talks About Productivity A to Z (Part 2) appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 574: Chase Reeves Talks About Creativity, Fatherhood, and the Gray Areas

In this special Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with the inimitable Chase Reeves. It’s been quite a journey since our last conversation back in 2020 at The BIG Ready. This time, Chase dives deep into the nuances of creativity, the evolving journey of fatherhood, and the value of embracing life’s gray areas amidst polarization.

We reflect on Chase’s transformative experiences over the past few years, from shifting creative projects to navigating personal growth. His stories, insights, and musings highlight the importance of slowing down, staying authentic, and finding meaning in connections. This is a conversation packed with wisdom and plenty of thought-provoking moments.

Key Discussion PointsThe impact of slowing down and embracing life’s quieter moments.Chase’s creative journey from Fizzle to becoming a YouTube creator.The role of fatherhood in shaping perspective and purpose.Reflections on navigating middle ground in a polarized world.The concept of “creative menopause” and evolving through seasons of life.How meaningful connections, like Chase’s magnetic green light metaphor, anchor us to what matters most.A deeper look into Arnold Bennett’s How to Live on 24 Hours a Day and its relevance today.

In this thoughtful and reflective conversation, Chase reminds us of the beauty of being present, embracing nuance, and navigating life with a mix of creativity and authenticity. (Originally released in April 2020)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Chase: Instagram | YouTubeHow to Live on 24 Hours a Day: Read it here (or here)Terry Crews on The Rich Roll Podcast: Watch hereRelated Conversation: Episode 290: Creative Menopause with Chase Reeves [Recorded LIVE at The BIG Ready]Related “Conversation”: Episode 331: It’s Time to Slow Things DownRelated Blog Post: Take it Slow

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 574: Chase Reeves Talks About Creativity, Fatherhood, and the Gray Areas appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 573: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About AI, Triggers, and Giving Back

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with the legendary Marshall Goldsmith, one of the world’s top leadership thinkers, to explore how he’s leveraging AI to share his life’s work with a global audience. Known for books like Triggers and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, Marshall is embracing cutting-edge technology to make his insights more accessible and impactful than ever.

Our discussion dives deep into Marshall’s journey with AI, the concept of triggers in productivity, and his mission to give back by helping others lead better lives. Whether you’re curious about AI, leadership, or personal growth, this episode offers wisdom and practical advice.

Key Discussion PointsMarshall’s development of his AI project, MarshallGoldsmith AI, and its role in making his knowledge widely accessible.The concept of triggers and how identifying them can enhance productivity and behavior.Why Marshall is giving away his insights for free and his reflections on legacy and generosity.The balance between embracing new technology and maintaining human connection.How Marshall uses AI to improve his coaching and support his clients.Insights on leveraging AI responsibly to aid learning and decision-making.

This conversation with Marshall Goldsmith showcases his relentless pursuit of sharing wisdom and helping others. His innovative use of AI and timeless insights on triggers and productivity make this episode a must-listen for anyone striving to grow personally and professionally.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Marshall: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTubeCheck out Marshall’s latest initiative: MarshallGoldsmith.AIExplore learning from Marshall on Coaching.com: Click hereRelated Conversation: Episode 505: Matt Martin Talks About AI-Enhanced Productivity and Time ManagementRelated Blog Post: Signals vs Triggers

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 573: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About AI, Triggers, and Giving Back appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 573: Marshall Goldsmith

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with the legendary Marshall Goldsmith, one of the world’s top leadership thinkers, to explore how he’s leveraging AI to share his life’s work with a global audience. Known for books like Triggers and What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, Marshall is embracing cutting-edge technology to make his insights more accessible and impactful than ever.

Our discussion dives deep into Marshall’s journey with AI, the concept of triggers in productivity, and his mission to give back by helping others lead better lives. Whether you’re curious about AI, leadership, or personal growth, this episode offers wisdom and practical advice.

Key Discussion PointsMarshall’s development of his AI project, MarshallGoldsmith AI, and its role in making his knowledge widely accessible.The concept of triggers and how identifying them can enhance productivity and behavior.Why Marshall is giving away his insights for free and his reflections on legacy and generosity.The balance between embracing new technology and maintaining human connection.How Marshall uses AI to improve his coaching and support his clients.Insights on leveraging AI responsibly to aid learning and decision-making.

This conversation with Marshall Goldsmith showcases his relentless pursuit of sharing wisdom and helping others. His innovative use of AI and timeless insights on triggers and productivity make this episode a must-listen for anyone striving to grow personally and professionally.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Marshall: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YouTubeCheck out Marshall’s latest initiative: MarshallGoldsmith.AIExplore learning from Marshall on Coaching.com: Click hereRelated Conversation: Episode 505: Matt Martin Talks About AI-Enhanced Productivity and Time ManagementRelated Blog Post: Signals vs Triggers

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 573: Marshall Goldsmith appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 572: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About The Earned Life and Living with Purpose

In this Flashback Friday episode, I sit down with the legendary Marshall Goldsmith to discuss his thought-provoking book The Earned Life. Renowned for his coaching and wisdom, Marshall delves into the philosophy and actionable insights behind his work, helping listeners align their choices, risks, and efforts with a greater purpose.

During our conversation, we explore what it means to live an “earned life” and the challenges of breaking free from achievement-based validation. Marshall shares profound insights on finding satisfaction, limiting decision fatigue, and embracing accountability without judgment.

Key Discussion PointsThe philosophy behind The Earned Life and why it’s essential to align actions with overarching purpose.How the concept of “satisfaction” challenges traditional ideas of success and happiness.The intersection of willpower, discipline, and limiting choices to combat decision fatigue.Why accountability without judgment, as practiced in Marshall’s “Life Plan Review,” is transformative.The pitfalls of achievement addiction and the importance of enjoying the process, not just the outcomes.How the marshmallow experiment illustrates the dangers of delayed gratification when taken to extremes.Marshall’s advice for taking actionable steps to start living an earned life today.

This conversation with Marshall Goldsmith is packed with insights that will resonate deeply, whether you’re striving for personal growth or seeking clarity on what success means to you. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of achievement or struggled to find purpose, this episode offers practical and profound guidance. (Originally released May 2022)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Marshall: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YoutubeMarshall’s Book: The Earned Life: Lose Regret, Choose FulfillmentRecommended by Marshall: The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things RightWatch this film: American UnderdogRelated Conversation: Episode 203: The Evolution of Getting Things Done with David AllenRelated Blog Post: The Power of Bit by Bit Productivity

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 572: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About The Earned Life and Living with Purpose appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 572: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About The Earned Life and Living with PurposeEpisode 572: Marshall Goldsmith

In this Flashback Friday episode, I sit down with the legendary Marshall Goldsmith to discuss his thought-provoking book The Earned Life. Renowned for his coaching and wisdom, Marshall delves into the philosophy and actionable insights behind his work, helping listeners align their choices, risks, and efforts with a greater purpose.

During our conversation, we explore what it means to live an “earned life” and the challenges of breaking free from achievement-based validation. Marshall shares profound insights on finding satisfaction, limiting decision fatigue, and embracing accountability without judgment.

Key Discussion PointsThe philosophy behind The Earned Life and why it’s essential to align actions with overarching purpose.How the concept of “satisfaction” challenges traditional ideas of success and happiness.The intersection of willpower, discipline, and limiting choices to combat decision fatigue.Why accountability without judgment, as practiced in Marshall’s “Life Plan Review,” is transformative.The pitfalls of achievement addiction and the importance of enjoying the process, not just the outcomes.How the marshmallow experiment illustrates the dangers of delayed gratification when taken to extremes.Marshall’s advice for taking actionable steps to start living an earned life today.

This conversation with Marshall Goldsmith is packed with insights that will resonate deeply, whether you’re striving for personal growth or seeking clarity on what success means to you. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of achievement or struggled to find purpose, this episode offers practical and profound guidance. (Originally released May 2022)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Marshall: Website | Twitter | Facebook | YoutubeMarshall’s Book: The Earned Life: Lose Regret, Choose FulfillmentRecommended by Marshall: The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things RightWatch this film: American UnderdogRelated Conversation: Episode 203: The Evolution of Getting Things Done with David AllenRelated Blog Post: The Power of Bit by Bit Productivity

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 572: Marshall Goldsmith Talks About The Earned Life and Living with PurposeEpisode 572: Marshall Goldsmith appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 571: Reflection and Growth | PM Talks S1E12

As the calendar year winds down, on the season finale of PM Talks, Patrick Rhone and I dive into the powerful intersection of reflection and growth—topics that feel particularly resonant this time of year. Patrick and I share personal insights and practical takeaways to help you reflect on the past and shape the year ahead.

Reflection and growth are central to the conversation as we explore the tools and techniques that have guided our journeys. Whether you’re new to reflective practices or looking to deepen your approach, this episode has something for you.

Key Discussion PointsWhy the concept of a calendar year is arbitrary and how to redefine it for personal alignment.The importance of treating the end of the year as a milestone for reflection.Patrick’s experience with the Year Compass and why a retreat can deepen reflective practices.Journaling as a gateway to understanding patterns and connecting with your sense of being.The role of curiosity versus judgment in growth and how this shifts with age.How reflective tools like Apple’s journaling app can complement deeper practices.Using reflection to navigate challenges and maintain a reasoned approach.

As we wrap up, Patrick and I reflect on the impact of journaling in our lives and how it shapes both personal growth and productivity. It’s been a remarkable year of PM Talks, and we’re excited for what’s to come in 2025.

Links Worth ExploringPatrick’s book, “For You”Patrick’s WebsiteYearCompassCheck out ALL of the PM Talks episodes

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 571: Reflection and Growth | PM Talks S1E12 appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 570: Michelle Gielan Talks About Broadcasting Happiness and Resilience

In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I revisit a 2016 conversation with Michelle Gielan, author of Broadcasting Happiness. Michelle is a renowned happiness researcher, former CBS News anchor, and executive producer of PBS’s The Happiness Advantage. Since our original chat, Michelle has continued to make an incredible impact by focusing on resilience and the power of positivity in everyday interactions.

As we approach the end of the year, this episode is a timely reminder to think about how we can sustain happiness—not just during the holiday season but year-round. Michelle shares practical strategies to reframe negativity, foster optimism, and create ripple effects of positivity that improve productivity and relationships.

Key Discussion PointsThe concept behind Michelle’s book Broadcasting Happiness and how small mindset shifts create significant change.The story behind CBS’s “Happy Week” and how it reshaped viewers’ perspectives during the recession.Research findings on how positivity can increase resilience and enhance creativity by up to 20%.The long-term benefits of starting your day with positivity, such as sending gratitude emails.Simple strategies for fostering optimism and improving workplace productivity by 31%.Why words matter: How shifting language impacts mindset and influences others.

It was wonderful to revisit this conversation with Michelle and hear her insights on broadcasting happiness and building resilience. Whether you’re looking for actionable ways to reframe negativity or small steps to boost optimism, this episode is full of practical takeaways. Let’s all strive to sustain happiness beyond fleeting moments and make it part of our daily lives. (Originally released December 2016)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Michelle: Website | Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedInBuy Michelle’s book: Broadcasting Happiness: The Science of Igniting and Sustaining Positive ChangeRelated Conversation: Episode 59: The Habits of a Happy Brain with Loretta BreuningRelated Blog Post: Celebrate Tonight To Boost Your Productivity Tomorrow

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 570: Michelle Gielan Talks About Broadcasting Happiness and Resilience appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 569: Justin Jones-Fosu Talks About Respectful Disagreement and Finding Common Ground

Justin Jones-Fosu, author of I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World, joins me for a conversation that’s both timely and transformative. Justin is a dynamic speaker, workplace researcher, and the founder of Work Meaningful, where he helps individuals and organizations foster inclusion and meaningful relationships.

In this episode, we dive into the art of respectful disagreement. From exploring nuanced perspectives to embracing curiosity, Justin shares actionable insights that empower us to navigate divided conversations with grace and humanity. Whether at work, in communities, or at home, his pillars for disagreement will resonate deeply with anyone looking to improve communication and relationships.

Key Discussion PointsThe importance of nuance and seeking common ground in conversations.Why respectful disagreement begins with challenging your own perspective.Practical steps for cultivating curiosity and deep listening in a distracted world.The role of humor in diffusing tension—and how it can backfire.Strategies for creating meaningful connections in personal and professional settings.Justin’s Circles of Grace Challenge and its role in building empathy.How consistency and sustainability factor into building better relationships.

Justin’s insights remind us that disagreement doesn’t have to divide us—it can bring us closer when handled with respect and intention. His practical advice and heartfelt approach offer tools to create more meaningful relationships, both at work and beyond. Be sure to check out his book, I Respectfully Disagree, for even more guidance on navigating today’s complex conversations.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Justin: Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedInLearn more about Justin’s book: Click hereBuy Justin’s latest book: I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided WorldWatch his TEDx Talk: Don’t Take the Exit on People: A Diversity & Inclusion ApproachWho’s the GOAT? Click here to find outTerry Crews on Nuance: The Rich Roll PodcastRead this book: Dialogue: The Art Of Thinking TogetherRead this article: Carol Dweck: A Summary of Growth and Fixed MindsetsRelated Conversation: Episode 473: Oscar Trimboli talks about Deep ListeningRelated Blog Post: “At Least He’s Consistent”

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 569: Justin Jones-Fosu Talks About Respectful Disagreement and Finding Common Ground appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 568: Jeff Sanders Talks About Adapting to Life’s Seasons and Free Time

In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I catch up with Jeff Sanders, author of The Free Time Formula and The 5AM Miracle. Jeff reflects on his journey since our original conversation, discussing how life has evolved for him after becoming a father and navigating the challenges of the pandemic. We revisit some of the core concepts of The Free Time Formula while diving into updates on how Jeff’s approach to productivity and intentionality has shifted in recent years.

During our conversation, Jeff shares insights on the nuanced shifts in his personal and professional life, including the role of health in productivity and how he has adjusted his routines to align with his current season of life.

Key Discussion PointsHow Jeff’s life has evolved since the release of The Free Time Formula and the impact of becoming a father.The balance between intense productivity and sustainable intentionalityJeff’s reflections on navigating the pandemic and how it influenced his life and business.The importance of health-first productivity and practical ways to integrate it into daily life.Strategies for managing free time with kids and finding intentional “me” time.Why Jeff’s wake-up routine has shifted from 5:00 AM —and how family plays a role.His philosophy of intentionality and how it applies to crafting a rhythm for work and life.

It was fantastic to reconnect with Jeff and hear his thoughtful reflections on the seasons of life and productivity. Jeff’s story is a testament to the importance of adapting our systems and priorities as life changes. Whether you’re looking for a health-first approach to productivity or strategies to manage free time with a full plate, this episode has something for everyone. (Originally released February 2018)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Jeff : Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInListen to Jeff’s PodcastGet Jeff’s Book (that we discussed): The Free-Time Formula: Finding Happiness, Focus, and Productivity No Matter How Busy You AreGet Jeff’s Book (that we didn’t discuss): The 5 A.M. Miracle: Dominate Your Day Before BreakfastRelated Conversation: Episode 518: Nuance | PM Talks S1:E3Related Blog Post: Nuanced Time Management: Embracing Complexity for Productivity

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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.

Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later

The post Episode 568: Jeff Sanders Talks About Adapting to Life’s Seasons and Free Time appeared first on Mike Vardy.