Richard Bernabe on productivity hacks and techniques for creators - photographers, artists, writers, musicians, etc. - so they can spend more of their time on the act on creating and less time bogged down on the mundane tasks of running a business.

These are battle-tested productivity techniques that transformed my creative practice. Discover how I wrote an entire photography book in just 7 months (instead of 2 years), how to identify which 20% of your work produces 80% of your results, and why multitasking is destroying your creative output. Does the time of day you perform certain tasks matter?

These aren't theoretical concepts - they're practical strategies I've implemented with dramatic results.

Notable Links:

The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
The Myth of Multitasking: How Doing It All Gets Nothing Done by Dave Crenshaw
Never Play It Safe: A Practical Guide to Freedom, Creativity, and a Life You Love  by Chase Jarvis
When: the Scientific Secrets of Perfect Science by Daniel Pink
Muench Workshops
KelbyOne

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Thomas Nicolon is a French National Geographic photographer and explorer documenting wildlife conservation worldwide, with work featured in National Geographic, Le Monde, GEO, Reuters, and other major media outlets. During his five years as a France 24 correspondent in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nicolon shifted to wildlife storytelling, collaborating with organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society and WWF in central Africa's protected areas.

After two years documenting wildlife trafficking in Peru's Amazon basin, Nicolon now divides his time between field assignments and advocacy work, speaking at festivals and interviews to promote protection of the Congo basin and tropical rainforests.

Notable Links:

Thomas Nicolon Website
Thomas Nicolon Instagram
Thomas Nicolon YouTube Channel

*****

This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Kaylee Greer isn't just a multi-International award-winning commercial dog photographer; she's a storyteller with a camera, capturing the vibrant personalities of dogs in all their goofy, majestic, and heartwarming glory.  Her images aren't just pictures; they're windows into the souls of these incredible animals, showcasing their unique quirks and the unconditional love they share with their humans.  With an infectious energy and a genuine passion for her subjects, Kaylee has become a sought-after name in the world of pet photography, known for her ability to freeze those fleeting moments of canine charm and turn them into cherished memories.

Beyond her stunning portfolio, Kaylee's dedication to animal welfare shines through in her work.  She's a passionate advocate, using her platform to raise awareness and support for rescue organizations and shelters.  Through her photography, she highlights the beauty and resilience of animals in need, helping them find forever homes and spreading a message of compassion and kindness. 

Notable Links:

Kaylee Greer/ Dog Breath Photography Website
Kaylee Greer Instagram
The Greatest Adventure YouTube Channel
The Dog Breath Foundation
Dogtography: A Knock-Your-Socks-Off Guide to Capturing the Best Dog Photos on Earth
Profoto Strobes and Lighting Solutions
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell

*****

This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Brian Skerry is a National Geographic underwater photographer, film producer and director, public speaker, and Nikon USA Ambassador who has spent decades exploring the world’s oceans, capturing unforgettable images that bring us face to face with marine life that remind us of the awe-inspiring beauty hidden beneath the surface.

Brian’s work has graced the pages of many major publications, including National Geographic Magazine, where he has worked for more than 25 years, creating and photographing for more than 30 features, including 7 cover stories. 

In addition to working with National Geographic, he’s probably best known for his groundbreaking work on the documentary series, Secrets of the Whales and for which he won a primetime Emmy Award. The series offers a rare glimpse into the complex social lives and cultures of these majestic and intelligent marine mammals.

Notable Links:

Brian Skerry Website
Brian Skerry Instagram
Secrets of the Whales
Nauticam Underwater Camera Housings and Ports
Hartenberger Strobes and Lights
Retra Underwater Technology

*****

This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Award-winning travel writer Joe Cummings is one of the most influential figures in guidebook writing and cultural reporting. Known for his pioneering work with Lonely Planet - particularly on their very first Thailand guide - Joe’s adventurous spirit and meticulous research have shaped the way countless travelers discover new places. Over the course of his career, he’s written or contributed to more than 50 travel guides, while also delving into Thai cuisine, music, and culture in a way that highlights the richness of Southeast Asia and beyond.

Joe has contributed to CNN Travel, BBC Travel, Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure, Asian Wall Street Journal, The Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Times, San Francisco Examiner, LA Times, Lonely Planet, Berlitz Guides, Moon Handbooks, and many other publications. He wrote on Southeast Asian political affairs for The Asia Record. Joe has twice been honored with the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Gold Award, and is also a recipient of Mexico's Pluma de Plata (Silver Quill) for outstanding foreign journalism on Mexico.

In this episode, we’ll dive into Joe’s journey from an eager traveler to a respected global authority. You’ll hear the stories behind his legendary treks off the beaten path, the inspiration that fueled his passion for telling authentic cultural narratives, and the challenges he faced in pioneering modern travel writing. Joe also served as Mick Jagger's personal guide when the Rolling Stones frontman visited Bangkok.

Notable Links:

Joe Cummings Website
Joe Cummings Instagram
Joe Cummings Amazon Author Page
Thailand: A Travel Survival Kit (Lonely Planet Thailand)

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Tom Mangelsen is a renowned American nature and wildlife photographer celebrated for his breathtaking imagery that captures some of the planet’s most iconic animals in their natural habitats. Born in Nebraska, Mangelsen’s early fascination with the outdoors, fostered by time spent hunting and fishing along the Platte River, laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to conservation-focused photography. Over the course of his prolific career, he has traveled across all seven continents, documenting everything from Alaskan brown bears  to Africa’s majestic elephants traversing vast savannas and many places in between. His commitment to capturing authentic wildlife moments has made him a recipient of numerous awards, including recognition by the BBC as one of the 40 most influential nature photographers in the world.

Grizzly 399 was a world-famous grizzly bear residing primarily in Grand Teton National Park, often hailed as the “Matriarch of the Tetons.” Born in 1996, she has garnered widespread media and public attention for raising numerous litters of cubs - often in close proximity to roads and park visitors - while maintaining a relatively calm demeanor around humans. Her remarkable maternal track record has contributed significantly to our understanding of grizzly behavior and ecology in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. She was struck and killed by a vehicle on October 22, 2024.

Notable Links:

Tom Mangelsen Website
Tom Mangelsen Instagram
Grizzly 399: The World's Most Famous Mother Bear
First Light
Grizzly 399 Wikipedia Page

*****

This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Lexar.

For more than 25 years, Lexar's  award-winning lineup of memory solutions performs second-to-none and includes professional memory cards, card readers, and solid-state drives for creators of all skill levels.

I’ve been using the Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B GOLD memory cards with my Canon mirrorless cameras for years and they deliver the blazing speed and durability for the extreme weather conditions I encounter anywhere in the  world.
To learn more about Lexar memory solutions, visit www.lexar.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Paul Theroux is a distinguished American novelist and travel writer renowned for his vivid portrayals of diverse cultures and locales. After earning a B.A. in English from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1963, he joined the Peace Corps, teaching in Malawi and later in Uganda. 

Theroux's literary career gained significant acclaim with the publication of "The Great Railway Bazaar" in 1975, a travelogue chronicling his journey by train from Great Britain to Japan and back. This seminal work is often credited with revitalizing the travel writing genre, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the cultures and people encountered during his travels. His novel "The Mosquito Coast," published in 1981, further showcased his narrative prowess, earning the James Tait Black Memorial Prize and later being adapted into both a film and a television series.

Over the decades, Theroux has authored numerous travelogues and novels, including "Riding the Iron Rooster," "The Happy Isles of Oceania," and "Dark Star Safari," each reflecting his keen observations and rich storytelling. His contributions to literature have been recognized with honors such as the Royal Geographical Society's Patron's Medal in 2015.

Notable Links:

Paul Theroux Website
Paul Theroux Instagram
The Vanishing Point
Burma Sahib
Dark Star Safari

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Eeva Mäkinen is a Finnish photographer and adventurer celebrated for her evocative images of the Nordic wilderness. Her work captures the raw beauty of untamed landscapes, from the golden hues of Arctic sunsets to the Northern Lights to the serene stillness of misty boreal forests. With a deep connection to nature, Eeva's photography goes beyond mere documentation, offering an intimate glimpse into the profound relationship between humans and the natural world. Her distinctive style, characterized by moody tones, rich textures, and masterful use of light, has earned her a global following and collaborations with brands such as Nikon and Fjällräven.

In this episode, we explore Eeva's creative journey and her philosophy of living in harmony with the environment. We delve into her process of finding inspiration in remote corners of the world, how she navigates the challenges of working in harsh climates, and the stories behind her most iconic photographs.

Notable Links:

Eeva Mäkinen Website
Eeva Mäkinen Instagram
The Human Prompt

*****

This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Powered by AI technologies, Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

Luminar uses generative AI to intelligently analyze your photos and erase distracting elements in your compositions, add realistic objects that seamlessly blend into the background, or expand the frame in any direction. If that’s not your thing, Luminar is still one of the most powerful photo editors for natural and realistic images too. Luminar Neo has all the features you need to enhance your images with precision and ease.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Lexar.

For more than 25 years, Lexar has  been trusted as a leading global brand of memory solutions so they know first-hand just how quickly content is transforming our world.

Their award-winning lineup performs second-to-none and includes professional memory cards, card readers, and solid-state drives for creators of all skill levels.
Whether shooting photos, capturing video, or transferring content on the go, Lexar provides the quality and performance you can rely on to get the shot with confidence.

I’ve been using the Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B GOLD memory cards with my Canon mirrorless cameras for years and they deliver the blazing speed and durability for the extreme weather conditions I encounter anywhere in the  world.
To learn more about Lexar memory solutions, visit www.lexar.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.

Borge Ousland is a  Norwegian polar explorer, adventurer, and author who has redefined the boundaries of human endurance and exploration. With over three decades of groundbreaking polar expeditions, he is celebrated as the first person to complete solo, unsupported crossings of the Antarctic continent and the Arctic. His feats include traversing the North Pole during the winter's polar night and undertaking daring solo journeys across some of the planet's harshest terrains. These accomplishments have cemented his place among the most iconic explorers of our time.

Expedition Firsts by Borge:

- First unsupported ski trek to the North Pole
- First unsupported solo expedition to the North Pole
- First unsupported solo expeditions to both geographic poles
- First unsupported solo crossing of the Antarctic continent.
- First solo crossings via both geographic poles.
- First unsupported Patagonian crossing.
- First unsupported winter expedition to the North Pole.
- First circumnavigation of the North Pole in one season.

Beyond his daring adventures, Borge is a passionate advocate for environmental stewardship, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change through his work and storytelling. As a skilled photographer, filmmaker, and public speaker, he shares not only the stark beauty of the polar regions but also the realities of their fragility. His books and presentations inspire audiences worldwide, blending tales of grit and resilience with a call to action to protect Earth's most vulnerable ecosystems.

Notable Links:

Ousland Explorers
Ice Legacy: Crossing the 20 Largest Ice Fields on Earth
Borge Ousland Instagram

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Julian Lennon is a musician, artist, writer, film producer, and fine art photographer. The son of John and Cynthia Lennon, Julian was born in Liverpool, England in 1963 and now resides in Monaco.

He is best known as a musician and had worldwide hits in the 1980s and 1990s and was nominated for a Grammy. He founded the White Feather Foundation to promote environmental conservation and protection of indigenous cultures. He was the executive producer of the environmental documentary, Kiss The Ground, and was named a Peace Laureate by UNESCO.

This year, he published his first coffee table photography book, Life's Fragile Moments which showcases his best fine art photography over the past twenty years.

Notable Links:

Julian Lennon
Julian Lennon Photography
Whispers Exhibition
Life's Fragile Moments
The White Feather Foundation
Julian Lennon Instagram

*****
This episode is brought to you by Luminar Neo.

Powered by AI technologies, Luminar Neo streamlines the editing process and provides everything you could possibly need to get photos that will look amazing on the screen and in print. Luminar Neo was designed for both hobbyists and pros and includes cutting-edge editing tools – all in one intuitive and easy-to-use app.

Luminar uses generative AI to intelligently analyze your photos and erase distracting elements in your compositions, add realistic objects that seamlessly blend into the background, or expand the frame in any direction. If that’s not your thing, Luminar is still one of the most powerful photo editors for natural and realistic images too. Luminar Neo has all the features you need to enhance your images with precision and ease.

And now you can receive a 15% discount on Luminar Neo by using BEYONDTHELENS discount code at checkout when visiting skylum.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Lexar.

For more than 25 years, Lexar has  been trusted as a leading global brand of memory solutions so they know first-hand just how quickly content is transforming our world.

Their award-winning lineup performs second-to-none and includes professional memory cards, card readers, and solid-state drives for creators of all skill levels.
Whether shooting photos, capturing video, or transferring content on the go, Lexar provides the quality and performance you can rely on to get the shot with confidence.

I’ve been using the Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B GOLD memory cards with my Canon mirrorless cameras for years and they deliver the blazing speed and durability for the extreme weather conditions I encounter anywhere in the  world.
To learn more about Lexar memory solutions, visit www.lexar.com.

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, with zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.
And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.