In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Joshua Becker to discuss his book Things That Matter: Overcoming Distraction to Pursue a More Meaningful Life. Joshua is known for his work on minimalism, but this book goes beyond decluttering physical possessions—it’s about eliminating the distractions that keep us from focusing on what truly matters.

Our conversation explores the distractions that pull us away from meaning and purpose, including fear, technology, and the constant pursuit of more. We also discuss how intentionality and regular reflection can help us stay aligned with what matters most. If you've ever felt like you’re losing time to things that don’t truly fulfill you, this episode is for you.

Key Discussion Points

The biggest distractions that keep us from focusing on what truly matters.
Why fear is one of the most powerful distractions—and how to overcome it.
The role of technology in pulling our attention away from meaningful pursuits.
Why the pursuit of more (money, possessions, status) often leads us further from fulfillment.
How intentional reflection can keep us aligned with our values and priorities.
The importance of capturing ideas without letting them overwhelm us.
Why time feels like it moves faster as we age—and how to make the most of it.

This conversation is packed with insights that will help you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters. (Originally released April 2022)

Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Joshua: Website | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram
Joshua’s Book: Things That Matter: Overcoming Distraction to Pursue a More Meaningful Life
Check out Simplify Magazine: Click here for 50% off (Already a subscriber? Read my essay here.)
Read Joshua's blog post: A New Day at Becoming Minimalist
Check out The Hope Effect: Click here
Related Conversation: Episode 91: The More of Less with Joshua Becker
Related Blog Post: I Think Ivy Lee Was Right

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm trying something new with A Productive Conversation...

Starting in May 2025, you’ll be able to support the podcast directly—and help keep it focused, ad-free, and sustainable. Just visit https://aproductiveconversation.transistor.fm/support-apc and help shape what’s next.

YellowParenti

Angela Davis, “Revolution Today”

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts