The Future of Work: A Conversation on Productivity, Balance, and Finding the Good Busy

In this episode of Culture Crush, host Dan Dowman is joined by Kate Sotsenko, Founder of thegoodbusy.com, to explore the complex relationship between productivity and well-being in the workplace. Kate shares her journey from luxury brand management to creating a culture that values intentionality over mere busyness. Together, they discuss how societal programming drives the hustle mentality, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to redefine productivity to nurture a more fulfilling work experience. Culture Crush: 🧡 Levi’s ➡️ For your outstanding approach to onboarding and for creating leaders who ask, ‘What can I do for you?’ instead of ‘What can you do for me?’ 🧡 Soneva Resorts ➡️ For making your ‘SLOW LIFE’ philosophy real for guests and through the Soneva Foundation. Key Takeaways: ✅ The hustle mentality often stems from societal programming that equates busyness with productivity. ✅ Productivity should focus on what to eliminate, not just what to do more of. ✅ A simple framework can transform your to-do list into a must-do list, prioritising high-impact tasks. ✅ Open conversations and asking the right questions can clarify priorities and reduce unnecessary pressure. ✅ Embracing a slower pace at work can enhance creativity and overall satisfaction. Sound Bites: 📢 “Productivity is not about doing more. It’s about knowing what and when to stop doing.” 📢 “Questions help us to say yes more slowly.” 📢 “The real challenge is that mindset of doing more and more and more.” Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Culture Crush 00:24 Meet Kate Sotsenko01:23 Kate's Career Journey 03:33 The Philosophy of thegoodbusy.com 07:19 Leadership and Productivity Insights 19:25 Culture Crush: Levi’s 24:04 Culture Crush: Soneva Resorts 26:36 Leadership Challenges and Solutions 30:50 Practical Framework for Productivity 34:32 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 36:03 Conclusion and Wrap-Up