David Kolbe, CEO of Kolbe Corp and co-author of 'Do More, More Naturally', reveals the power of understanding conation—our instinctive ways of taking action. He discusses how embracing individual productivity styles can prevent burnout and enhance teamwork. The conversation highlights the importance of working authentically rather than adhering to rigid productivity models. Kolbe also shares practical steps to realign with natural working rhythms and the role of diverse strengths within teams, fueling a more harmonious approach to success.

It was a real treat to reconnect with Austin Kleon for this episode of A Productive Conversation. Before we got into the heart of the conversation, Austin gave us a quick update: his next book Don’t Call It Art is in the works, inspired by the playful creativity he’s witnessed in his kids. He also mentioned that his once-weekly newsletter has now doubled in frequency—and it continues to be one of the best things I read online.What followed was one of the most down-to-earth, real conversations I’ve had on the podcast. Austin and I explored how routines shape creative work, why space and time are both essential, and what it means to pay attention in a world that’s constantly pulling at you. His approach to creative living—one grounded in ritual, space, boundaries, and self-awareness—is something we can all learn from, whether we’re artists, entrepreneurs, or just trying to make a little more room for what matters.Six Discussion PointsAustin’s upcoming book Don’t Call It Art and how it was inspired by parentingThe power of routine in a creative life—and how Austin structures his dayWhy boundaries (including physical signs on doors) help protect focusUsing analog and digital “zones” for different types of workPaying attention to what you pay attention to—and why it mattersThe idea of a “bliss station” and how space (or time) supports creative flowRevisiting your own journaling and notes as a form of orientation and reflectionThree Connection PointsAustin's websiteKeep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and BadMy "Bliss Station" (circa 2019)Whether you’re deep into your own creative practice or trying to carve out more space for it, this conversation with Austin is a reminder that creativity isn’t about hustle—it’s about attention, boundaries, and giving yourself room to work and think. It’s always a joy to talk with Austin, and I hope this episode helps you reconnect with your own creative rhythm. (Originally released April 2019)My New Book!The Productivity Diet is now available! Visit mikevardy.com/lit to learn more and get your copy today.Enjoying the show?The best way to support A Productive Conversation right now is to listen, share, and leave a review wherever you tune in.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.

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Krish Ramineni, co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai. Krish has had an impressive journey—from being one of Microsoft’s youngest product managers to launching Fireflies, an AI-powered meeting assistant. He’s also been named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and has guest lectured at Stanford on deep learning and machine learning.We cover a lot in this conversation—how AI can enhance focus, how Krish avoids getting pulled into shiny object syndrome while building Fireflies, and what the future of AI-powered productivity looks like. If you’re curious about AI’s role in work and how to stay on track while scaling a business, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Key Discussion PointsHow Fireflies.ai helps people focus on what matters by automating meeting notes.Why AI should seamlessly integrate into workflows instead of requiring users to change habits.The balance between quantitative and qualitative work—and how AI can enhance both.How Krish resisted distractions and stayed committed to building Fireflies.ai instead of pivoting too soon.The role of AI in streamlining meetings and reducing unnecessary communication overhead.The challenge of maintaining focus while scaling a tech startup.Where AI is headed next and how people can leverage it for both efficiency and creativity.This conversation is a must-listen if you’re interested in AI’s practical applications, how to use it to free up mental space, and what it takes to stay focused in an industry that’s always shifting.Links Worth ExploringConnect with Krish: LinkedIn | InstagramCheck out Fireflies.ai: Click hereLearn more about Krish's story: Read it hereRelated Conversation: Episode 525: Mat Ellis Talks About Balancing Productivity and Personal Connection with AIRelated Blog Post: The Speed of RightThanks 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.

This episode of PM Talks is all about curiosity—how it drives us, how it gets suppressed, and how it intertwines with trust and judgment. Patrick Rhone and I dive deep into the forces that shape our thinking, from societal conditioning to personal experiences. As always, we take a thoughtful (and sometimes humorous) approach to unpacking these ideas.We explore why curiosity is often discouraged, how judgment can be a shortcut that stifles growth, and what it means to stay open-minded in an increasingly polarized world. Plus, we talk about journaling, trust, and even how sports fandoms can lead to unexpected insights.Key Discussion Points The paradox of curiosity—how it's both encouraged and discouraged in society Why judgment often wins over curiosity and how that impacts trust How breaking down projects fosters curiosity and prevents blind trust in assumptions The role of journaling in cultivating curiosity and letting go of judgment How social conditioning teaches efficiency over exploration (and why we need to push back) The concept of a Judgment Journal and a Book of Curiosities as tools for reflection How our kids reflect and challenge our own curiosities in unexpected ways We wrap up by discussing how staying curious can build stronger relationships and deeper understanding—whether it’s in politics, personal growth, or simply learning a new skill.Links Worth Exploring Patrick's book, "For You" Patrick’s Website Ted Lasso: The "darts" scene PM Talks S2E2: Alignment Sensible Defaults The Hartford Whalers goal song (for those who love hockey nostalgia) Mel Robbins’ “Let Them Theory” video (Note: She's not the originator of "Let Them" – Cassie Phillips is. Read more here.) Watch "The Social Dilemma" Take The Journaling Persona Assessment Check out ALL of the PM Talks episodes 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.

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Anne-Laure Le Cunff, neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and founder of Ness Labs, to discuss her new book Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World. Anne-Laure is known for blending science with practical strategies for thinking, learning, and working better—without burning out.We explore how small, low-risk experiments can lead to big changes, why curiosity is a powerful productivity tool, and how to break free from rigid goal-setting. Anne-Laure also shares how she applies scientific thinking to everyday decision-making, along with strategies for balancing structure and flexibility in personal growth.Key Discussion Points How Tiny Experiments challenges traditional goal-setting and promotes flexible, curiosity-driven progress. Why experimentation is a powerful approach to productivity, creativity, and decision-making. How small, low-risk experiments can help overcome perfectionism and fear of failure. The importance of intentional imperfection in balancing work, personal growth, and well-being. How curiosity can serve as a guide for making meaningful progress. Why journaling and self-reflection play a critical role in evaluating experiments. How to create sustainable productivity habits that adapt over time. This conversation is a great reminder that productivity isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about experimenting, learning, and growing in a way that works for you.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Anne-Laure: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube Get the book we discuss: Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World Related Conversation: Episode 448: Tiago Forte talks about Building a Second Brain Related Blog Post: Why You Should Play Productivity “Small Ball” 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.

Over the years, I've had plenty of insightful conversations on this podcast, and one that still stands out is my discussion with Charlie Gilkey about his book Start Finishing. This Flashback Friday episode brings that conversation back, but with a twist—we start with an update from Charlie on what he's been up to since then.Charlie is someone who has spent years helping people make meaningful progress, and since our last chat, he's been busy launching Momentum, an app designed to reduce productivity friction, and shifting his Productive Flourishing platform over to Substack. In this episode, we pick up where we left off, exploring what’s changed in the way he approaches work, productivity, and team habits.Key Discussion Points What’s new with Charlie since Start Finishing—from launching an app to shifting his content to Substack. How Momentum helps people with chunking and sequencing work without unnecessary friction. Why project management in teams requires a different approach than solo work. The evolution from Start Finishing to Team Habits—and why team productivity is a whole new challenge. The struggle of balancing efficiency with real productivity, especially in hybrid work environments. Why mastery comes from finishing projects, not just starting them. How leaders need to redefine productivity outputs before demanding return-to-office mandates. Charlie and I have been in this space for a long time, and it’s always refreshing to catch up and exchange ideas. Whether you're new to his work or have followed Productive Flourishing for years, this episode has plenty of takeaways on making progress that actually matters. (Originally released September 2019)Links Worth Exploring Connect With Charlie/Productive Flourishing: Website | YouTube  | LinkedIn The Book We Discussed This Time: Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results The Book We Discussed Last Time: Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done Another Productive Conversation With Charlie: Watch On My YouTube Channel Related Conversation: Episode 127: A Focus on Flourishing with Charlie Gilkey Related Blog Post: How To Find Your Way Forward (And Finish) 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.

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Kerry Ann King, the founder and CEO of Eluminate Labs. Kerry Ann has spent more than a decade working inside the tech industry to promote human-centered approaches to well-being. She’s now leading the charge in decolonizing tech, creating inclusive solutions that put people first.Our conversation explores the transactional nature of productivity, the intersection of art and work, and how we can break free from extractive approaches to time management. Kerry Ann shares insights on how we can shift away from the pressure to do more and instead focus on creating real impact. We also dive into Fin, a positive productivity app from Eluminate Labs designed to help users better understand their productivity style.Key Discussion Points Why productivity shouldn’t be about extraction but about meaningful impact. The difference between transactional productivity and relational productivity. How the arts can teach us about persistence, focus, and creativity. The tension between structure and flexibility in how we measure progress. The role of intention in both personal and professional work. The story behind Fin and how it helps people uncover their productivity style. The importance of recognizing that different seasons of life require different productivity approaches. This conversation challenges conventional productivity narratives and offers a refreshing take on how we can work with intention rather than just efficiency.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Kerry Ann: Website | LinkedIn Check out Fin: Click here Rick Rubin's book: The Creative Act: A Way of Being Watch what John Cena's (other) watch said Related Conversation: Episode 511: Francesco D’Alessio Talks About Innovative Productivity Apps and Methodologies Related Blog Post: Focus On The App Within 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.

In this Flashback Friday episode, I revisit my 2018 conversation with Dan Schawbel, a thought leader in workplace trends and human connection. We originally spoke about his book Back to Human: How Great Leaders Create Connection in the Age of Isolation, which explores how technology can be used as a bridge—not a barrier—to meaningful relationships.Since then, Dan has continued to shape conversations around workplace dynamics as Managing Partner at Workplace Intelligence, conducting research with major brands like Amazon and Deloitte. His podcast, 5 Questions with Dan Schawbel, has featured leaders such as Richard Branson and Condoleezza Rice, and his LinkedIn Learning courses have reached over 220,000 students.Key Discussion Points The central theme of Back to Human: using technology to enhance, not replace, human connection. Why leaders need to focus on human-first workplaces to improve engagement and productivity. The benefits of in-person interaction—why one face-to-face conversation is worth 34 emails. The Work Connectivity Index—a tool for assessing the strength of work relationships. How attending events alone can be a powerful networking tool. Strategies for leveraging technology to deepen relationships rather than create distractions. The impact of remote work on workplace connection and long-term employee retention. This conversation is a timely reminder that productivity isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about fostering meaningful relationships. As we navigate hybrid work environments and digital-first communication, Dan’s insights remain as relevant today as they were when we first published this episode. (Originally released November 2018)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Dan: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Get the book we discuss: Back to Human: How Great Leaders Create Connection in the Age of Isolation Check out Dan's LinkedIn Learning classes (and check out mine too) Listen to Dan's podcast: 5 Questions with Dan Schawbel Read this: Law of Jante, a Scandinavian Code of Conduct Read: The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr Read: How our 269 billion emails a day have made us miserable Check this out: Introduction to Back to Human Watch: The Back to Human Office Party [Comedy Sketch] | Related Conversation: Episode 363: Meaningful Online Connections with Misha Glouberman Related Blog Post: Five Proven Ways To Have a Better Work Day 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.

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Scott Doorley and Carissa Carter to explore the themes of their book, Assembling Tomorrow: A Guide for Designing a Thriving Future. As leaders at Stanford's d.school—Scott as Creative Director and Carissa as Academic Director—they've spent years shaping design education and innovation.Our discussion goes beyond traditional design thinking and into the complexities of decision-making, efficiency, and the balance between logic and emotion. We also explore the concept of Runaway Design, how the speed of technological change is shaping our world, and why embracing imperfection is essential for building a better future.Key Discussion Points What Runaway Design is and why we need to "unmake" it to build a better future. The importance of balancing emotion and logic when making decisions. Why uncertainty is inevitable—and how to design with it rather than against it. The role of pausing and curiosity in responding to challenges rather than reacting. How to find harmony in work, life, and productivity instead of seeking rigid balance. Why meaningful work should be measured by quality rather than quantity. The impact of AI, synthetic biology, and other evolving technologies on how we design the future. Scott and Carissa’s insights offer a thought-provoking look at how we navigate complexity, make better decisions, and create a world that is both innovative and intentional.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Scott: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Carissa: Website | LinkedIn Get the book we discussed: Assembling Tomorrow: A Guide to Designing a Thriving Future Get Scott's book: Make Space: How to Set the Stage for Creative Collaboration Get Carissa's book: The Secret Language of Maps: How to Tell Visual Stories with Data Related Conversation: Episode 191: Designing Your Mindset with Andy Murphy Related Blog Post: Designs on Life 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.

Fifteen years into her journey of simplicity, Courtney Carver continues to inspire people to do more with less. In this special Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, we revisit a past conversation from March 2020 about Project 333, her minimalist fashion challenge that has helped thousands streamline their wardrobes and their lives. But before that, we catch up on her latest book, Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want.Courtney and I discuss the natural evolution of her work, moving from simplifying physical spaces to creating mental and emotional spaciousness. She shares the origin story of Gentle, which began with a 3 AM epiphany, and why she believes we need to rethink our relationship with time and space. Then, we dive into the practicalities of Project 333, its impact beyond decluttering closets, and how it can lead to greater peace and clarity in everyday life.Key Discussion Points How Gentle came to life and why simplicity isn’t just about stuff—it’s about creating space. The evolution of Courtney’s work from Soulful Simplicity to Project 333 to Gentle. The hidden emotional weight of clutter and how removing physical items can lighten mental loads. Why spaciousness—physical, mental, and emotional—is something we rarely talk about but deeply need. The common misconception that Project 333 is only for women and how anyone can benefit from a curated wardrobe. Decision fatigue, the power of limiting choices, and how a minimalist wardrobe can reduce daily stress. Practical tips for starting Project 333, dealing with sentimental items, and handling gifts that don’t align with a simpler lifestyle. Courtney's approach to simplicity is thoughtful, actionable, and, above all, gentle. If you've been feeling overwhelmed by too much—whether it’s in your schedule, your home, or your mind—this conversation will give you both practical steps and fresh perspectives on what truly matters. (Originally released March 2020)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Courtney: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Get Courtney's book: Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want Get Courtney's book: Project 333: The Minimalist Fashion Challenge That Proves Less Really is So Much More Weed Out the Clothes You Don’t Wear with a Simple Hanger Trick Everything You Need to Know About Project 333 Related Conversation: Episode 75: Soulful Simplicity with Courtney Carver Related Blog Post: Do You Want Fast Or Do You Want Forever? 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.