In this episode of the Get Shit Done in IT podcast, Michael Seidl discusses the concept of a 'Single Source of Shit' for managing tasks and productivity. He emphasizes the importance of mindset over tools, the necessity of having a complete system for task management, and the significance of planning and scheduling tasks effectively. Michael shares his personal experiences with various tools and stresses that everything must be included in the system for it to work effectively.

Takeaways
A single source of shit means everything you have to do needs to be in one place.
Don't start with the tool; start with the mindset.
Learn the workflow and bring that mindset into your daily routine.
Everything needs to be stored in the single source of shit.
You need to put 100% into the system for it to work.
Your calendar is what you have to do; nothing else will be done.
If you miss something, migrate to a different tool.
The feeling of having everything under control is powerful.
Plan everything out of your single source of shit.
Go all in or leave it; 95% will cause more stress.

Sound Bites
"Everything needs to be planned."
"The tool will follow that process."
"Go all in or leave it."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Single Source of Shit
01:26 Choosing the Right Tool for Your Workflow
04:32 Establishing a Mindset for Productivity
07:30 The Importance of a Complete System
10:46 Planning and Scheduling Tasks Effectively

In this episode, Michael Seidl introduces the concept of a 'Single Source of Shit' as a centralized system for managing tasks and to-dos. He emphasizes the importance of having all tasks in one place to enhance productivity and reduce overwhelm. The discussion covers the drawbacks of relying on multiple lists and inboxes, advocating for a singular focus on a well-organized task management system.

The term 'Single Source of Shit' is a humorous take on task management.

A centralized list helps in planning and managing tasks effectively.

Relying on multiple lists can lead to confusion and overwhelm.

Your inbox is not a task management tool; it's a message system.

Having a single source allows for better prioritization of tasks.

Post-its can be useful for brainstorming but should not replace a central list.

Seeing completed tasks provides a sense of achievement.

A clear overview of tasks enhances productivity.

Using digital tools like Notion can streamline task management.

The concept will be explored further in upcoming episodes.

"Inbox is just a post-it, just a mind."

"The benefit is you have an overview."

00:00 Introduction to the Single Source of Shit

00:56 Understanding the Concept of a Single Source

03:49 Benefits of a Centralized To-Do List

07:58 Overcoming Inbox Overwhelm

09:58 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of the Get Shit Done in IT podcast, Michael Seidl discusses the journey of becoming a Microsoft MVP, the importance of community work, and the commitment required to maintain MVP status. He explains the re-election process, the significance of passion for community engagement, and the realities of the time and financial investment involved in being an MVP. The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to ask questions and engage with the community.

• You are entitled to name yourself an MVP for exactly one year.

• The re-election process requires proof of community work.

• Community work is essential to maintain MVP status.

• Don't pursue MVP status just for the title.

• Passion for community engagement is crucial for longevity as an MVP.

• The MVP journey involves significant time and financial investment.

• MVPs are re-elected once a year on July 1st.

• Engagement in community activities is what truly matters.

• There is no monetary advantage to being an MVP.

• Listeners are encouraged to ask questions and engage with the podcast.

• "MVP buzz and MVP hashtag posts."

• "Don't do it just for the title."

00:00 Introduction to MVP Journey

01:46 Understanding MVP Tenure and Re-election Process

06:09 The Commitment Behind Being an MVP

10:01 Final Thoughts on the MVP Experience

In this episode, Michael Seidl discusses the advantages of being a Microsoft MVP, emphasizing the ease of securing speaking opportunities, the community engagement aspect, and the limited business benefits associated with the title. He clarifies misconceptions about financial compensation and highlights the importance of community work and networking with product teams.

• It's much easier to be accepted as a speaker on conferences as an active MVP.

• MVPs do not receive any monetary compensation from Microsoft.

• The rewards for MVPs are primarily community-focused, not financial.

• MVPs can access some products for testing but do not save money.

• Being an MVP does not guarantee increased business opportunities.

• The MVP title does not automatically attract clients or leads.

• MVPs can attend the annual MVP Summit at their own expense.

• Networking with product teams is a significant advantage for MVPs.

• MVPs receive some merchandise and swag but no financial benefits.

• Community work is the primary motivation for MVPs.

• "We have to pay for it on our own."

• "We just love community work."

• "We do not get any money from Microsoft."

00:00 Introduction to MVP Advantages

02:51 Speaking Opportunities as an MVP

04:06 Community Engagement and Rewards

09:25 Business Implications of Being an MVP

12:49 Networking and Access to Product Teams

In this episode of the Get Shit Done in IT podcast, Michael Seidl introduces the concept of Microsoft Valuable Professionals (MVPs) and discusses the importance of community engagement in becoming an MVP. He emphasizes that being an MVP is not solely about technical expertise but about sharing knowledge and contributing to the community. The episode outlines the steps to becoming an MVP, including the need for consistent community work and the nomination process by existing MVPs.

Takeaways
• MVPs spread knowledge to the community for free.
• Community work is essential to becoming an MVP.
• Technical expertise is not a requirement for MVPs.
• Passion for community engagement is crucial.
• MVPs often focus on specific topics of expertise.
• Nominations for MVPs come from other MVPs.
• Community contributions can take many forms.
• It's a long-term commitment to community work.
• The MVP title should not be the primary goal.
• Enjoying the process is key to sustaining involvement.

Sound Bites
• "You do a lot for the community."
• "You have to do your community stuff."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Microsoft MVPs
03:01 Understanding the Role of an MVP
05:57 The Path to Becoming an MVP
12:14 Community Engagement and Nomination Process

In this episode of the Get Shit done in IT Podcast, Michael Seidl shares his insights on preparing for a tech session. He emphasizes the importance of choosing a topic you are passionate about, the process of applying to speak at conferences, and the significance of engaging with your audience. Michael discusses his personal experiences and the time investment required to create a meaningful session, highlighting the need for real-life examples and audience interaction.

Takeaways
• Find a topic you love to talk about.
• Passion for the subject enhances the quality of the session.
• Preparation for a session can take several days.
• Choose a conference that aligns with your expertise.
• Write a compelling proposal to secure a speaking slot.
• Use demos and real-life examples instead of fancy PowerPoints.
• Adjust your content based on the audience's background.
• Engage with the audience and encourage feedback.
• Share personal experiences and failures to connect with attendees.
• Foster a conversation rather than positioning yourself as the sole expert.

Sound Bites
• "Find a topic you love."
• "I want to listen to them."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Preparing a Tech Session
02:53 Finding Your Passionate Topic
05:46 Choosing the Right Conference
09:12 Crafting Your Session Content
12:13 Engaging with Your Audience

In this episode of the Get Shit Done in IT podcast, Michael Seidl discusses the critical aspects of improving customer communication in IT projects. He emphasizes the importance of regular updates, listening to customer feedback, and building long-term relationships to enhance client satisfaction and project success. The conversation highlights the shift to remote work and the need for effective communication strategies to maintain strong client relationships.

Takeaways
• Regular updates are crucial for customer communication.
• Communicate both successes and challenges to clients.
• Listening to customer feedback can enhance relationships.
• Adjust communication frequency based on customer needs.
• Building long-term relationships benefits both consultants and clients.
• Proactive communication fosters trust and satisfaction.
• Remote work requires more intentional communication efforts.
• Understanding customer preferences is key to effective communication.
• Long-term relationships lead to better project outcomes.
• Regular check-ins can prevent misunderstandings.

Sound Bites
• "Keep the customer up to date."
• "Listen to the customer's feedback."

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Customer Communication in IT Projects00:59The Importance of Regular Updates05:46Listening to Customer Feedback07:11Building Long-Term Relationships with Customers

In this episode of the Get Shit Dynit podcast, Michael Seidl shares his experiences from Experts Life India, highlighting the enthusiasm and engagement of attendees, the unique learning environment, and the importance of mindset in the startup culture. He reflects on the differences between Indian and Western conference attendees and emphasizes the joy of presenting to such passionate audiences.

Takeaways
Experts Life India had around 3000 signups, showcasing high interest.
Attendees showed up two hours early, demonstrating their passion.
The focus and engagement of Indian attendees are remarkable.
Unlike in the West, Indian attendees are fully present and engaged.
The conference was held on a Saturday, showing commitment from attendees.
Many students are already planning startups while in university.
Mindset is crucial for success in startups, not just the product.
Feedback from potential customers is essential for product development.
The joy of presenting to passionate audiences is unparalleled.
Mark your calendars for the next Experts Life India in February 2026.

Sound Bites
"It's a joy to be a presenter."

Chapter
00:00 Introduction to Experts Life India
01:10 The Passion of Indian Attendees
03:58 Engagement and Learning Environment
07:02 Mindset and Startup Culture in India