Mike Vardy's Blog, page 6

Episode 557: Yemado Talks About Relaxation, Meditation, and Self-Defense Through Boabom

In this episode, I’m joined by Yemado, a foremost teacher of Boabom in North America. Boabom is a Tibetan system that combines relaxation, meditation, and self-defense, offering a unique way to balance body and mind. During our conversation, Yemado shares his insights into the practice and why it’s ideal for people looking for non-competitive physical activity that also provides mental clarity.

We explore how Boabom’s progressive approach makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of their starting point, and how it fosters personal growth and resilience. Yemado also walks us through a simple breathing exercise that listeners can practice right away to experience the benefits of this ancient art.

Key Discussion PointsAn introduction to Boabom: A blend of relaxation, meditation, and non-contact self-defenseThe role of progression in Boabom classes, enabling students to grow step by stepHow non-competition within Boabom promotes personal improvement and mental focusThe impact of movement on stress management and emotional resilienceWhy people are drawn to practices like Boabom to escape the pressures of modern lifeThe interplay between breathing techniques and mental clarityA live guided breathing exercise that listeners can try immediately

This conversation with Yemado offers a glimpse into the power of Boabom to help people reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. If you’re seeking a practice that brings both mental and physical benefits without the competitive stress, this episode is for you. I encourage you to try the breathing exercise Yemado shares—it’s a great way to experience the calm and clarity that Boabom offers.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Yemado: Facebook | Instagram | YouTubeDive into Boabom: Start hereTake a Boabom class: Check out the Boston School of BoabomRelated Conversation: Episode 547: Kurtis Lee Thomas Talks About Breathwork Detox and Thriving in the Age of AnxietyRelated 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 557: Yemado Talks About Relaxation, Meditation, and Self-Defense Through Boabom appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 556: Paul Millerd Talks About Good Work and the Pathless Path

In this Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with Paul Millerd to discuss his new book, Good Work: Reclaiming Your Inner Ambition. Paul reflects on life changes, including becoming a parent and launching this book. Our chat touches on how personal growth, creativity, and work-life integration evolved for him since our original conversation.

Paul shares the challenges of writing and parenting simultaneously, detailing how he resisted conventional book launch strategies to focus on sustainable progress. His insights offer a refreshing take on doing meaningful work at your own pace—a theme I deeply connect with.

Key Discussion PointsWriting Good Work and navigating parenthood simultaneouslyChoosing long-term sustainable work over fast-paced launchesThe concept of non-competitive creativity and protecting time blocksHow parenting reshaped Paul’s connection to his workHis shift toward fewer but meaningful three-hour writing blocksThe impact of not following traditional publishing playbooksFinding fulfillment in creating without burning out

Paul’s story shows that good work isn’t about rushing to the finish line—it’s about sustainable creativity and doing what feels right. This conversation is a reminder to honour our personal journeys and resist the temptation to conform to external pressures. If you’re interested in building a fulfilling career and balancing it with life’s other priorities, you’ll find plenty of value in this episode. (Originally recorded February 2023)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Paul: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInBuy Paul’s latest book: Good Work: Reclaiming Your Inner AmbitionBuy Paul’s first book: The Pathless PathRelated Conversation: Episode 334: Endless Curiosity with Derek SiversRelated Blog Post: How To Find Your Way Forward (And Finish)

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 556: Paul Millerd Talks About Good Work and the Pathless Path appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 555: Patrick McAndrew Talks About Human-Centered Productivity and Inner Alignment

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined by Patrick McAndrew, founder and CEO of HARA, an exclusive membership community designed for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking to elevate their lives and align their personal and professional paths. Patrick has a unique blend of experience, from managing restaurants to advising corporate giants like Morgan Stanley, and he brings deep insight into how we can reclaim attention and cultivate intention in a tech-driven world.

Throughout our conversation, Patrick shares his personal evolution from helping people “get more done” to teaching leaders how to engage more deeply with their values and inner state. We discuss what it really means to be productive, explore the balance between routine and practice, and challenge the notion that apps or frameworks are the answer to today’s challenges.

Key Discussion PointsPatrick’s journey from teaching speed reading and memory skills to founding HARA, a community focused on alignment and inner workThe evolution of productivity from task-based to meaning-driven approachesWhy practices like journaling and meditation are essential for sustainable productivityThe tension between structure and adaptability in today’s work environmentsHow routines and patterns can transform into practices that align with personal valuesThe role of attention and intention in balancing personal growth with business successHow modern productivity frameworks can be limiting if they ignore internal development

This conversation with Patrick McAndrew will challenge you to rethink the ways we pursue productivity, shifting focus from frameworks and apps to meaningful practices that nurture both business and personal growth. Patrick’s insights are a powerful reminder that productivity is more than just ticking off tasks—it’s about becoming aligned with who we are and what we truly value. I look forward to revisiting this conversation with Patrick in the future to explore how these ideas continue to evolve.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Patrick: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | SubstackCheck out HARA: Learn moreMy Essay: The Path to ProductivenessMy Appearance on the Zen Habits podcast: Check it outWhat Juliet Funt shared with me: Listen hereRelated Conversation: Episode 283: Well-Presented with Mike PacchioneRelated Blog Post: The Ongoing Battle Between Time and Reason

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 555: Patrick McAndrew Talks About Human-Centered Productivity and Inner Alignment appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 554: Srinivas Rao Talks About Creativity, AI, and Content Evolution

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined by Srini Rao, host of The Unmistakable Creative podcast. Srini has always been at the forefront of blending creativity with productivity, and our discussion today takes an even deeper dive into these themes. We reflect on how the creative process has evolved since we last spoke, touching on the integration of AI and the future of content creation.

Srini’s exploration of creativity doesn’t just stop at human endeavors—it extends into how AI can serve as a creative collaborator. From his development of customized children’s books to building a tool that automates eBook creation, Srini shares how the intersection of human creativity and AI execution is reshaping the way we work. Join us as we revisit insights from our conversation in 2014 and reflect on the vast changes that have taken place over the past decade.

Key Discussion PointsHow Srini built a YouTube channel focused on Mem tutorials and his deep dive into AI’s role in creativity.The distinction between AI as a creative tool versus a thought partner, and how creatives can leverage AI for content repurposing.The importance of “personal knowledge capital” in an AI-enhanced future.Srini’s journey in using AI to generate custom children’s books and other creative projects.The concept of “recursive creativity” and how humans guide, criticize, and curate AI output to enhance creative work.How division of labor at scale is becoming accessible to creators, thanks to AI.

As Srini continues to push the boundaries of creativity with AI, this episode offers a unique glimpse into how technology can aid, rather than replace, the human creative process. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or someone intrigued by the future of AI, this episode provides valuable insights into how to harness the power of AI to scale your creative output. (Originally recorded in 2014)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Srini: Website | Instagram | Twitter/XSrini’s Books on Amazon: Check them out here Srinivas Rao on The Blaze with Glenn BeckRelated Conversation: Episode 534: Kevin Surace Talks About AI and Maintaining ProductivityRelated Blog Post: A Look at Productivity and Workflow Versioning

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 554: Srinivas Rao Talks About Creativity, AI, and Content Evolution appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 553: Pacing and Cadence | PM Talks S1:E10

In this latest episode of our monthly series, PM Talks, I sit down with my good friend Patrick Rhone to dive deep into the idea of finding the right pace in life and work. We explore how our relationship with time evolves as we age, and what it means to develop a sustainable cadence that suits our changing needs and values. Patrick and I discuss how wisdom often takes priority over productivity, and how embracing pacing can lead to a more fulfilling life.

This conversation touched on a lot of important ideas, including how age impacts our pacing and how the societal pressure to constantly accelerate can affect our well-being. We even draw connections between personal reflections and practical applications for making better choices about how we spend our time.

Key Discussion PointsHow turning 50 has influenced my perspective on pacing in life and workThe role of age in shaping our relationship with time and productivityWhy “moving slow to go fast” can be more effective in both work and lifeEmbracing wisdom over output as we get olderThe cultural shift away from valuing the wisdom of elders and its impactUnderstanding personal limitations and making conscious decisions about where to put our energy

Patrick also shared insights on the importance of understanding and respecting personal limitations, and we reflected on how age affects our perceptions of time and productivity. If you want to take a deeper look at how pacing yourself might help you find the right rhythm in your own life, this episode is a must-listen.

Links Worth ExploringPatrick’s book, “For You”Patrick’s WebsiteWatch Fiennes Return to the Wild on Disney+What is The GORUCK Challenge?Check 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 553: Pacing and Cadence | PM Talks S1:E10 appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 552: David Allen Talks About Team Productivity and the Evolution of GTD

In this special Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with David Allen, the creator of the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology, to discuss his latest book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, co-authored with Ed Lamont. We also revisit a classic conversation where we discussed the evolution of GTD, reflecting on its past, present, and the future of productivity practices.

David has been a regular guest on the show, and this time we dive into the complexities of translating GTD principles to a team setting, and how the GTD philosophy continues to evolve. We also touch on topics such as remote work, team dynamics, and the importance of clarity, trust, and adaptability in both individual and collective productivity.

Key Discussion PointsDavid’s new book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, and the challenges of applying GTD to teamsThe importance of standards and clarity in fostering trust within a team environmentThe evolution of productivity tools and the core principles of GTD that remain unchangedHow the brain processes tasks, multitasking, and the risks of decision fatigue in modern productivityThe nuances of working by context vs. linear project management and how they support different working stylesHow GTD can be a lifestyle practice, providing a path to mastery that applies to both professional and personal life

It was (as always) an insightful conversation with David Allen, offering perspectives on how GTD remains a powerful productivity framework, whether you’re working solo or as part of a team. David’s new book is a must-read for anyone looking to extend GTD practices beyond personal productivity and make teamwork more effective and cohesive. (Originally released July 2015)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with David: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInGet David’s book: Team: Getting Things Done with OthersRevisit my fireside chat with David at Running Remote 2023: Watch it hereRelated Conversation: Episode 186: What Motivates Getting Things Done with Mary LamiaRelated Blog Post: The Evolution of Contexts

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 552: David Allen Talks About Team Productivity and the Evolution of GTD appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 551: Andrew J. Mason Talks About Podcasting and Productivity

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew J. Mason, a veteran podcast producer and the host of The Pro Guide. Andrew has over 18 years of experience in producing and hosting audio and visual content for shows like the Getting Things Done podcast for the David Allen Company and The Omni Show for the makers of OmniFocus. We dive deep into his journey in the world of podcasting, the productivity tools he uses, and his perspective on balancing creativity with efficiency.

Throughout our conversation, Andrew shares valuable insights on how he approaches podcast production, how his productivity methods have evolved, and why certain routines like coffee brewing are more than just about efficiency—they’re about setting the tone for the day. We also touch on the challenges of being productive in a creative field, particularly when managing multiple projects at once.

Key Discussion PointsAndrew’s start in podcasting in 2009 and his growth into producing The Pro Guide and The Omni ShowHow productivity tools like OmniFocus help him manage sequential and parallel tasks in audio productionThe value of creating a dynamic template for repetitive tasks and why adaptability is keyAndrew’s relationship with video games and the importance of setting boundariesThe ritual of brewing coffee: why Andrew prefers pour-over for simplicity and my take on the deeper meaning behind coffee-making routinesHow to maintain flexibility while still being productive, particularly when life doesn’t go according to plan

It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Andrew J. Mason. His passion for podcasting and productivity is truly inspiring, and I hope you find his insights as impactful as I did. If you’re someone looking to better balance creativity and productivity, or if you just want a behind-the-scenes look at the world of podcast production, this episode is for you.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Andrew: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | InstagramCheck out my appearance on The Pro Guide: Watch it hereCheck out Andrew’s work on The Omni Show: Listen hereRelated Conversation: Episode 64: Passionate About Productivity with Amber De La GarzaRelated Blog Post: Why I’m Passionate About Personal 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 551: Andrew J. Mason Talks About Podcasting and Productivity appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 550: Gretchen Rubin Talks About The Four Tendencies

In this Flashback Friday episode, I’m excited to revisit my conversation with the insightful Gretchen Rubin, marking the 550th episode of A Productive Conversation! This conversation explores her book, The Four Tendencies. We dive into how these four personality types—Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel—can influence our behavior, decision-making, and even how we interact with others.

Having been involved in her Four Tendencies course, I’ve always been fascinated by the insights she offers on understanding ourselves better. Whether you’re new to this concept or revisiting it like me, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you better understand your own tendencies and those of the people around you.

Key Discussion PointsWhat led Gretchen to identify and define the Four Tendencies: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel.How the Four Tendencies can impact habit formation and how to leverage your tendency to make effective changes.Examples of how each tendency interacts with expectations, both internally and externally.The importance of creating structures that align with your tendency, such as setting boundaries for obligers or emphasizing freedom for rebels.Real-life applications of the Four Tendencies in work and personal life, including relationships and productivity.Insights into how Gretchen’s work has evolved, including her other books like The Happiness Project, and the role these ideas play in her daily life.

I hope this throwback episode with Gretchen Rubin gave you some new perspectives on how personality frameworks can impact your productivity, relationships, and general well-being. If you’re curious to learn more, make sure to check out Gretchen’s work and take the Four Tendencies quiz to see where you fit in. Understanding your tendencies might just be the key to unlocking a more productive, and satisfying, life. (Originally released January 2018)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Gretchen: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInGet Gretchen’s Book: The Four TendenciesTake The Four Tendencies Quiz: Check it outTake The Four Tendencies Course: Start hereRead Grechen’s piece on National Novel Writing month: Read it nowRelated Conversation: Episode 454: Michelle Segar Talks About Habits and The Joy ChoiceRelated Blog Post: Finding Your Best First Day of the Year

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 550: Gretchen Rubin Talks About The Four Tendencies appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 549: Tamsen Webster Talks About Lasting Change and the Power of Communication

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Tamsen Webster, renowned messaging strategist, keynote speaker, and author of the upcoming book, Say What They Can’t Unhear: The Nine Principles of Lasting Change. We dive deep into the principles behind lasting change, communication strategies, and how these concepts align with her broader body of work.

Tamsen shares insights from her latest book, exploring what makes change stick and how messaging plays a crucial role in influencing others. We talk about her experiences crafting communication strategies, the challenges of writing a book, and how persuasion without manipulation is possible.

Key Discussion PointsThe nine principles of lasting change and their significance in personal and professional growthHow Say What They Can’t Unhear builds on her previous work, Find Your Red ThreadThe importance of messaging in driving change and why manipulation should be avoidedWhy pain is the enemy of long-term change, even though it triggers quick actionHow to align messaging with a person’s identity for sustainable changeThe challenges of distilling complex principles into clear and actionable steps

Tamsen offers a unique perspective on how we can communicate more effectively to create lasting change. Her ability to break down complex ideas into actionable insights is invaluable, whether you’re trying to inspire others or looking to make personal improvements. Make sure to check out her latest book and apply these principles to your life and work.

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Tamsen: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | FacebookGet Tamsen’s Book: Say What They Can’t UnhearThe Compact Case worksheet for starting your change process: Download it hereAskers vs Guessers: Read the – wait for it – Tumblr piece about itAdam Grant in Conversation with Daniel Kahneman: Follow the bread crumbs from hereRelated Conversation: Episode 473: Oscar Trimboli talks about Deep ListeningRelated Blog Post: The Long Game

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 549: Tamsen Webster Talks About Lasting Change and the Power of Communication appeared first on Mike Vardy.

Episode 548: Leo Babauta Talks About the Power of Slowing Down and Intentional Living

In this special Flashback Friday episode, I’m revisiting a conversation I had with my long-time friend and the founder of Zen Habits, Leo Babauta. This episode offers timeless insights into slowing down, living intentionally, and focusing on what truly matters. In 2024, Leo and I caught up to reflect on how much – or how little – has changed since our initial conversation. His wisdom and practices remain as relevant today as they were back then.

If you’re not familiar with Zen Habits, it’s a blog that has stood the test of time. Over the years, Leo has shifted focus from pure productivity to a more holistic and sustainable approach to living. In this episode, we explore how those philosophies have evolved and deepened, and how they continue to serve us both personally and professionally.

Key Discussion PointsThe importance of slowing down and focusing on what truly matters in life and workHow Leo manages his time with a large family and multiple projects without burning outThe power of consistency versus sustainability in daily habitsHow Zen Habits has evolved as Leo’s life has changed, but the core principles remain the sameLeo’s approach to balancing digital tools and paper for organizationThe difference between productivity as efficiency and productivity as aligning intention and attention

As always, it’s a pleasure to share these insights from my conversation with Leo. I’ve found that many of the lessons we discussed back in 2011 continue to resonate, especially as the pace of life and work increases. I hope you find these reflections valuable and that they inspire you to slow down and focus on what truly matters. (Originally recorded in 2011)

Links Worth ExploringConnect with Leo: Website | Instagram | X/TwitterCheck out the Fearless Living Academy: Learn moreWatch Leo’s YouTube channel: Check it outListen to Leo’s podcast: Hear it hereWhile you’re listening: Check out Episode 299 of Cal Newport’s podcastRelated Conversation: Episode 229: Exploring Digital Minimalism with Cal NewportRelated Blog Post: The Rushing Feeling: How to Hush it

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 548: Leo Babauta Talks About the Power of Slowing Down and Intentional Living appeared first on Mike Vardy.