The Productivity Show

Apps & Tools We Can’t Live Without (TPS585)

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Discover the essential apps and tools that truly boost productivity without adding digital clutter.

In this episode, we share our must-have software and hardware, from text expanders and note-taking systems like Notion and Apple Notes, to the latest AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, and even quality equipment. Learn how to choose wisely, integrate effectively, and simplify your workflow to get more done.

Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership.

Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS, and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll.

Visit www.asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics.

You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/.

Cheat Sheet:

Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “One Tweak A Week” shirt.

  • Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:19]
  • The simple rule we use to pick tools (and skip the shiny ones) [05:50]
  • Thanh has switched his task management app after a decade+ — why it finally stuck [11:57]
  • Beyond email & calendars: the integration that changes everything [12:50]
  • “Do I need to code?” The real bar to building AI agents [17:02]
  • A quick test to make an app stick—before you invest time [19:09]
  • One tweak that kills repetitive typing and speeds up workflows [24:42]
  • Voice-first shortcut magic that beats plain text expansion [27:03]
  • Notes that grow with you—where we landed for PKM (for now) [30:05]
  • We don’t use just one AI—here’s when each shines [36:22]
  • Physical desk upgrades that save clicks—and sanity [40:59]
    • Links:
    • Masterclass
    • Gusto
    • 25X Productivity Coaching
    • Logitech MX Master 4 Ergonomic Wireless Mouse
    • Magnetic Airpod Pro Strap
    • The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future
    • Todoist
    • Notion
    • Alfred
    • Autohotkey
    • Boost Your Productivity Using Just Your Voice (TPS569)
    • Wispr Flow
    • Obsidian
    • Lindy
    • ChatGPT
    • Claude
    • Descript
    • MacWhisper
    • CalDigit TS4 – Thunderbolt Dock
    • UGREEN Headphone Extension Cable 3.5mm
    • Productivity Academy
    • The Productivity Show on Youtube
    • The Productivity Show Youtube Clips
    • Become a member of TPS+
    • Take the Productivity Quiz

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