A Productive Conversation

In this Flashback Friday episode, I revisit my enlightening conversation with Cal Newport, originally recorded in 2016. Cal, the acclaimed author of Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, shares his revolutionary ideas on the importance of cultivating focus in an increasingly distracted era. Since this conversation, Cal has continued to expand his work on digital minimalism and the importance of deliberate practice, inspiring professionals worldwide.

We discuss the principles of deep work, the economic advantages of focus, and practical strategies for eliminating distractions. Cal's insights on time blocking and the value of training the mind for sustained attention are timeless and even more relevant in today's hyper-connected world.

Key Discussion Points

As always, Cal brings profound clarity to the challenges we face in staying productive and focused. This episode is a great reminder of the value of embracing depth in your work. (Originally released January 2016)

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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.

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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)

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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.

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

This conversation with Marshall 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)

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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.

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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)

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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.

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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)

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Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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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 Points

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 Exploring

Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.

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.

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