Mike Vardy's Blog, page 5

Episode 567: Dr. Mithu Storoni Talks About Hyper Efficiency and Rhythmic Productivity

Dr. Mithu Storoni, author of Hyperefficient: Optimize Your Brain to Transform the Way You Work, joins me to dive into the science of productivity. Mithu’s expertise as a neuro-ophthalmologist and her work in pupillometry bring a unique perspective to productivity, blending neuroscience with actionable strategies for optimizing performance.

In this conversation, we explore the interplay between rhythms, creativity, focus, and energy. From understanding the gears of the brain to learning how to align work with natural rhythms, Mithu offers profound insights that can help anyone enhance the quality of their output without sacrificing balance or well-being.

Key Discussion PointsThe concept of “gears” in the brain and how to match tasks with mental states.Why rhythmic productivity—balancing periods of intensity with recovery—is crucial for sustainable output.The importance of eye movements and their connection to focus and mental state.How to use circadian rhythms to optimize creative and focused work.The role of caffeine, rituals, and flexibility in hyper efficiency.Why quality matters more than ever in a world increasingly influenced by AI.Practical advice for organizing to-do lists based on energy and attention.

Dr. Mithu Storoni’s insights into productivity and efficiency offer a fresh and scientifically grounded perspective on work and life. Her approach to aligning work with natural rhythms and optimizing mental output can help us navigate an ever-changing world while maintaining focus and balance. Don’t miss this deep dive into the art and science of hyperefficiency.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Mithu: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedInBuy Mithu’s latest book: Hyperefficient: Optimize Your Brain to Transform the Way You WorkRead: When to drink coffee (according to Andrew Huberman)Related Conversation: Episode 211: Hyperfocus with Chris BaileyRelated Blog Post: The Role of Reason and Refinement in 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 567: Dr. Mithu Storoni Talks About Hyper Efficiency and Rhythmic Productivity appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 566: Seth Godin Talks About Intent, Creativity, and Consistency

Seth Godin, the legendary author and marketer, joined me for an insightful conversation on productivity, creativity, and intentional living. In this Flashback Friday episode, Seth delves into the concepts behind his book The Practice: Shipping Creative Work, discussing the importance of intent, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and why consistency overrides authenticity.

Throughout our conversation, Seth shares practical wisdom on building creative habits, embracing uncertainty, and eliminating decision fatigue. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking to lead a more intentional life, Seth’s insights will leave you inspired and equipped to tackle your next challenge.

Key Discussion PointsWhy acting with intent matters and how to avoid living on autopilot.The role of assertion in creative work and why it often feels uncomfortable.Imposter syndrome as a sign of doing meaningful work.Eliminating decision fatigue by setting clear boundaries and habits.How consistency creates trust and why it’s more important than authenticity.The value of heroes over mentors and how to draw inspiration from others.Practical steps to start building “the practice” in your daily life.

Seth Godin’s perspective on creativity and productivity is a refreshing reminder that doing meaningful work requires intention, consistency, and a willingness to embrace discomfort. If you’re ready to take the first step toward building your own creative practice, this episode is a must-listen. Be sure to check out Seth’s other books and website for even more actionable insights. (Originally released November 2020)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Seth : Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInWatch our conversation on YouTubeGet the book we discussed: The Practice: Shipping Creative Work | AmazonRelated Conversation: Episode 334: Endless Curiosity with Derek SiversRead this: Hyperfocus: How to Be More Productive in a World of Distraction | Amazon Read this: The Productivity Project: Accomplishing More by Managing Your Time, Attention, and Energy | Amazon Watch this: ‘How To Get Your Ideas To Spread’ TED TalkRead this: Necessary Endings| Amazon Watch this: Ron Finley Teaches Gardening MasterclassLearn about this: FreewriteRead this: Inbox Zero: How to Stop Checking Email and Start Finishing It | AmazonGlowforgeRead this: The Authentic Swing | AmazonCheck this out: TrustYourself.com

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 566: Seth Godin Talks About Intent, Creativity, and Consistency appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 565: Jeff Patterson Talks About Yielding and the Meditative Arts

Jeff Patterson, author of The Yielding Warrior: Discovering the Secret Path to Unleashing Your True Potential, joins me for an insightful conversation about the power of yielding in all aspects of life. Jeff introduces the concept of yielding as a transformative strategy that goes beyond physicality to include mental and emotional realms. In our fast-paced world, learning to yield can help us create more intentional and harmonious relationships with ourselves and others.

During this discussion, Jeff shares how the meditative arts serve as the foundation for yielding. He breaks down the practice into three pillars—physical, mental, and emotional yielding—each offering unique insights and benefits. Jeff also provides actionable advice for anyone curious about incorporating the meditative arts into their daily lives.

Key Discussion PointsThe concept of yielding and how it differs from “giving up” or being weak.The three pillars of yielding: physical, mental, and emotional.How meditative practices improve sensitivity, awareness, and decision-making.The challenges of slowing down in a fast-paced world and integrating meditative practices.The role of consistency and having a “why” in building a sustainable meditative practice.The importance of finding a guide to personalize and deepen your meditation journey.Active practices like taking mindful breaths throughout the day to stay present.

This conversation with Jeff Patterson reveals how the practice of yielding can enhance productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. By adopting meditative arts, we can cultivate awareness, regulate our responses, and lead more intentional lives. Be sure to check out Jeff’s book, The Yielding Warrior, and explore how yielding can unlock your true potential.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Jeff: Website | Instagram | YouTubeBuy Jeff’s latest book: The Yielding Warrior: Discovering the Secret Path to Unleashing Your True PotentialBecome a TimeCrafting Trust Premium member: Click here to joinRelated Conversation: Episode 557: Yemado Talks About Relaxation, Meditation, and Self-Defense Through BoabomRelated Blog Post: Pause and Affect

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 565: Jeff Patterson Talks About Yielding and the Meditative Arts appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 564: Laura McClellan Talks About Simplifying Productivity and Making a Life That Matters

In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I reconnect with Laura McClellan, lawyer, writer, and host of The Productive Woman podcast. Laura shares insights from her sabbatical, her evolving perspective on productivity, and how she balances her legal career, podcasting, and personal pursuits. Our conversation is both reflective and forward-looking, exploring how intentional productivity can help craft a meaningful life.

Laura discusses the journey from focusing on productivity tools and techniques to embracing a broader, more philosophical approach. Together, we revisit our original 2016 conversation and explore how the years have reshaped her understanding of productivity and her priorities.

Key Discussion PointsLaura’s decision to take a sabbatical from The Productive Woman and how it’s shaped her perspective.Shifting focus from tools and techniques to the bigger picture of making a life that matters.How productivity frameworks, like daily theming, can work for those with structured, client-facing schedules.Balancing the demands of a legal career and creative projects during transitional life phases.The importance of pre-deciding tasks to reduce decision fatigue and increase focus.Leveraging sabbaticals for clarity and realignment in both personal and professional spheres.Tips on handling interruptions and staying productive in unpredictable work environments.

This reflective episode with Laura McClellan showcases the power of intentional productivity and the importance of aligning daily actions with long-term values. If you’re navigating transitions, considering a sabbatical, or looking for ways to simplify your productivity systems, this episode is for you. Be sure to subscribe to The Productive Woman and revisit Laura’s archives for even more insights. (Originally released November 2015)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Laura: Website | InstagramListen to The Productive WomanMy /now pageRelated Conversation: Episode 78: Annie MuellerRelated Blog Post: Why Theming My Days has Made Me a Better Dad

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 564: Laura McClellan Talks About Simplifying Productivity and Making a Life That Matters appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 563: Uncertainty | PM Talks S1:E11

In this latest episode of our monthly series, PM Talks, Patrick Rhone and I dive into the complexities of life and work. This series offers deep discussions that explore meaningful topics from our perspectives. This month, we’re tackling uncertainty—how it shows up in our lives, how we handle it, and how to find certainty in areas where we can have control.

In this episode, we use personal examples, such as my ongoing home construction woes, to highlight how uncertainty plays out in real-life scenarios. From navigating miscommunication with contractors to controlling our reactions, we explore how clarity and control can help alleviate the anxiety of uncertainty.

Key Discussion PointsThe role of clarity and control in reducing uncertaintyHow communication can foster or hinder certainty in projectsPersonal stories about managing household construction and expectationsThe concept of “commanding” your environment without over-controlling itHow to differentiate between flexibility and rigidity in uncertain situationsUsing minimalism and simplification to manage uncertainty in daily life

If you’re feeling the weight of uncertainty in your own life or work, I hope this episode offers you practical tools and perspectives to better navigate it. We’ll be back next month for our final episode of the year, where we’ll discuss reflection and growth—another topic that’s sure to bring valuable insights. Don’t miss it!

Links Worth ExploringPatrick’s book, “For You”Patrick’s WebsiteEpisode 286: Doing Project 333 with Courtney CarverHow to Conquer the DayZen Habits Podcast: Mike Vardy on TimeCrafting & ProductivenessCheck 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 563: Uncertainty | PM Talks S1:E11 appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 562: Neil Pasricha Talks About Resilience, Happiness, and Living Intentionally

For this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m bringing back a truly impactful discussion with Neil Pasricha, whose work centers on intentional living, resilience, and finding happiness in everyday life. Our original conversation took place in 2019, just after the release of Neil’s book You Are Awesome, which explores resilience, change, and the art of bouncing back when life gets tough.

Neil has since released Our Book of Awesome, a celebration of small joys that unite us, which feels especially timely as we approach the holiday season and prepare for a new year. In our conversation, we explore themes that are more relevant than ever: resilience, happiness, and the importance of taking small steps toward living an intentional, fulfilling life.

Key Discussion PointsHow Neil’s personal struggles led him to write The Book of Awesome and explore resilience through his work.Why resilience is not just about grit but the ability to bounce back from life’s inevitable challenges.The importance of adding “yet” to reframe our perspective on skills we haven’t mastered.Why untouchable days (completely offline days) are Neil’s key to deep work and creativity.Insights from the research on the “Spotlight Effect” and how it affects our perception of others’ attention.How small, consistent steps add up to big achievements over time, a theme Neil dives into in his latest work.Neil’s journaling practices and why he believes journaling triples the impact of our experiences.

Neil’s insights on resilience, intentional living, and the power of gratitude offer timeless wisdom. I hope revisiting this conversation inspires you to find and celebrate the awesome moments in your life. Remember, resilience isn’t about avoiding failure but learning how to get back up… one small step at a time. (Originally released November 2019)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Neil: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInGet the book we discussed: You Are Awesome: How to Navigate Change, Wrestle with Failure, and Live an Intentional LifeCheck out Neil’s latest book: Our Book of Awesome: A Celebration of the Small Joys That Bring Us TogetherDay OneWhat Got You Here Won’t Get You There: How Successful People Become Even More SuccessfulThe Art of Non-Conformity: Set Your Own Rules, Live the Life You Want, and Change the WorldThe Pomodoro TechniqueCheck out 3books.coRelated Conversation: Episode 288: How to Be Awesome at Your Job with Pete MockaitisRelated Blog Post: Why Small Wins Can Make Or Break Your 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 562: Neil Pasricha Talks About Resilience, Happiness, and Living Intentionally appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 561: Dave Radparvar Talks About the Power of Journaling and Human Flourishing

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with entrepreneur, designer, and co-founder of Reflection.app, Dave Radparvar. Dave’s commitment to fostering human flourishing has driven his work, from his early days with Holstee to his latest endeavor, Reflection, a digital journaling platform. As someone who deeply values reflection and personal growth, Dave shares his own journaling journey and how it has shaped his life, work, and mindset.

We dive into the importance of journaling for perspective, handling challenges, and cultivating gratitude. Dave opens up about how his journaling practice has helped him navigate difficult times, appreciate good moments, and stay present. Together, we explore how digital tools, like Reflection, are transforming the journaling experience and the potential role AI plays in this space.

Key Discussion PointsDave’s journey from co-founding Holstee to launching Reflection.appHow journaling helps process emotions, build perspective, and foster gratitudeThe evolving role of AI in journaling and its potential benefits and pitfallsPractical tips for integrating journaling into your daily routineThe value of revisiting journal entries to track growth and spot patternsDave’s thoughts on finding personal clarity and how journaling supports human flourishing

Whether you’re new to journaling or a seasoned journaler, this episode offers deep insights into how you can use journaling as a tool for growth and reflection in your everyday life.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Dave: Website | Twitter | LinkedInCheck out Reflection: Start hereMy Reflection video: Watch it on YouTubeWant to build a journaling practice? The Journaling Course can help.Project 333: Learn more about The Minimalist Fashion ChallengeRelated Conversation: Episode 461: Personal Socrates with Marc ChampagneRelated Blog Post: The Benefits of Journaling for Time Management and 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 561: Dave Radparvar Talks About the Power of Journaling and Human Flourishing appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 560: Tiago Forte Talks About Building a Second Brain and Personal Knowledge Management

In this Flashback Friday episode, I revisit my conversation with Tiago Forte, the visionary behind the “Building a Second Brain” methodology. With his book making waves, and after having attended the Second Brain Summit, it felt like the perfect time to re-share this impactful episode. Tiago has not only been a force in the productivity space but has pioneered a transformative approach to personal knowledge management (PKM) that resonates deeply in our digital age.

In our chat, we dive into how Tiago developed the concept of a “second brain”—a system designed to offload and organize our knowledge to enhance creativity, productivity, and clarity. This conversation explores how anyone can leverage this approach to foster a meaningful and organized way of capturing insights, ideas, and information.

Key Discussion PointsThe origins of “Building a Second Brain” and Tiago’s inspiration for creating itThe role of PKM in managing our information-rich lives and its evolution since the analog eraTiago’s “PARA” method for organization and why simplicity is powerfulThe role of intuition in capturing what resonates versus capturing everythingHow digital tools like Evernote and Readwise aid in building a resilient knowledge systemThe pitfalls of complex systems and why a simple, personalized approach works bestThe timelessness of knowledge management principles and their relevance in today’s fast-paced world

Tiago’s insights help reshape how we view knowledge management, advocating for a personal, flexible, and intuitive approach. Whether you’re new to PKM or a seasoned productivity enthusiast, this episode will offer valuable perspectives on creating a system that works with, not against, your unique mind. (Originally released November 2022)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Tiago : Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInListen to Tiago’s PodcastGet the Second Brain Quickstart GuideBuy Tiago’s book Building a Second BrainLearn more about the Second Brain SummitJoin TimeCrafting Trust PremiumRelated Conversation: Episode 456: Marie Poulin talks about NotionRelated Blog Post: 3 Steps to Building Productivity Habits That Stick

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 560: Tiago Forte Talks About Building a Second Brain and Personal Knowledge Management appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 559: Jason Silver Talks About Finding Happiness in Work and the Power of Reflection

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Silver, author of Your Grass is Greener: Use What You Have. Get What You Want. At Work and In Life. Jason shares his insights on how to find more happiness in your work by using the skills you already have and how that enjoyment leads to greater productivity. We dive into the book’s structure, which is designed to help you work smarter, find enjoyment without changing jobs, and progress in your career. Jason also explains how reflection and personal experimentation can lead to better decision-making and greater fulfillment in life and work.

Throughout the episode, Jason reveals practical techniques to help you get more out of your job without adding more work, offering advice that challenges conventional wisdom. We talk about tracking productivity, dealing with imposter syndrome, and how to make better decisions by embracing clarity and using emotion as part of the decision-making process.

Key Discussion PointsHow enjoyment in your work leads to higher productivityBreaking down the three parts of Your Grass is Greener and how they relate to finding fulfillmentPractical ways to create space in your work to allow for self-reflection and growthWhy imposter syndrome can be a powerful tool for personal and professional developmentThe importance of reflection and tracking progress in achieving successUsing emotion in decision-making to improve clarity and outcomes

Jason also talks about his playbook and offers actionable insights for readers who want to use it to unlock their potential at work. You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of how to approach your work with more intentionality, focus, and enjoyment.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Jason: Website | LinkedIn | SubstackCheck out Jason’s book: Your Grass is Greener: Use What You Have. Get What You Want. At Work and In LifeMalcom Gladwell x Rick Rubin: Watch it hereWhat Exactly is Rick Rubin’s “Shangri-La”?: Learn about it hereDescartes’ Error: Emotion, Reason, and the Human Brain: Read it hereRelated Conversation: Episode 354: How To Decide with Annie DukeRelated Blog Post: Why You Need A Clarity Day (And How To Make It Happen)

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 559: Jason Silver Talks About Finding Happiness in Work and the Power of Reflection appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 558: Chris Bailey Talks About Hyperfocus, Meditation, and Attention Management

In this Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with Chris Bailey, with a conversation centering on his book, Hyperfocus. We dive into the lessons he learned since the release of Hyperfocus and explore his approach to managing distractions and cultivating deep focus in a world full of noise. Chris also shares his thoughts on how meditation can enhance our ability to stay on track, drawing from his personal experiences and extensive research.

This conversation provides a fresh take on productivity, where slowing down and focusing deliberately is more effective than working fast and frantically. Whether you’re struggling with distractions or just looking to improve your focus, this episode has actionable insights that can help you be more intentional with your time and energy.

Key Discussion PointsChris’s journey since releasing Hyperfocus and his latest work on mindfulness and calmHow to manage attentional space in a world full of distractionsThe benefits of meditation in increasing focus and mental clarityPractical tips for creating a distraction-free environment to foster deep workThe importance of doing the right things deliberately, rather than just doing moreHow Chris fits new ideas into his current projects to maximize impact

I’m grateful to Chris for sharing his wisdom and experiences in this Flashback Friday episode. His work continues to inspire us to be more intentional with our time and attention. If you’re looking to dive deeper into focus and productivity, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Don’t forget to check out the links mentioned and take a look at Chris’s latest work. (Originally released October 2018)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Chris: Website | Instagram | Twitter/X | LinkedInAbout that Ben Folds song… Hyperfocus: How to Be More Productive in a World of DistractionThe Productivity ProjectAPC Episode 77: The Productivity Project with Chris BaileyA Lesson from “About a Boy” on Hyper-SchedulingThe Hyper-Scheduling Experiment | MacSparkyFlow by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiEssentialism by Greg McKeownAPC Episode 201: Willpower Doesn’t Work with Benjamin HardyAPC Episode 73: Deep Work with Cal Newport

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 558: Chris Bailey Talks About Hyperfocus, Meditation, and Attention Management appeared first on Mike Vardy.