A Productive Conversation

Michael Timms, a TEDx speaker and leadership consultant, discusses transforming accountability from blame into ownership. He argues that effective leadership is rooted in humility and self-awareness, emphasizing that real change comes from fostering trust and collaboration. Timms highlights the importance of reflective practices like journaling and feedback in driving growth. He also shares how vulnerability can empower leaders to admit mistakes, creating a psychological safety that leads to a more productive work environment.

Join Patrick Rhone, a productivity and creativity expert, as he shares timeless insights that can spark inspiration for anyone feeling creatively blocked. They discuss how constraints can actually enhance creativity and why perfectionism is often a barrier to flow. Rhone emphasizes that creativity thrives on both time and space, revealing unique ways to turn mundane tasks into opportunities for innovation. This conversation is a refreshing reminder that creativity is essential for all, not just artists, and invites listeners to embrace imperfection as a superpower.

Brian Tracy, a renowned speaker and author of over 80 books, discusses the updated fourth edition of his productivity classic, 'Eat That Frog!' He emphasizes the importance of prioritization and self-discipline in personal growth, suggesting that bad habits are best replaced rather than eliminated. Tracy introduces the 'Law of Three' for effective prioritization and stresses trusting one's intuition to achieve fulfillment. He also shares insights on adapting productivity techniques to fit individual rhythms and the transformative power of books.

Rob Shallenberger, CEO of Becoming Your Best Global Leadership and a former F-16 pilot, shares insights on intentional living and productivity. He discusses the transformative power of pre-week planning, highlighting a four-step system that enhances clarity and reduces stress. Rob explains the importance of scheduling priorities over mere task lists and introduces the productivity quotient for achieving a balanced life. Listeners also learn how AI can aid planning while emphasizing human intuition, all aimed at leading a life by design.

In this very special "Ask Mike Anything" edition of the podcast, the tables turn. TimeCrafting Trust Premium member and all-around thoughtful guy Tim O’Hare steps in to host and ask me questions submitted by listeners—and some of his own. From the value of journaling to the nuances of urgency, we explore what it truly means to right the ship when your time management feels off course.This is a raw and reflective episode, recorded live with audience interaction. We talk through everything from tech transitions and app overload to the dangers of measuring productivity purely by numbers. If you've ever felt like you know what to do but still can’t quite get it done, there’s something here for you.Six Discussion PointsWhy journaling is my go-to tool for daily course correction—and why it’s easier than most people thinkHow to close the gap between vision and reality using urgency, importance, and thoughtful task breakdownNavigating forced software transitions without losing your workflow (or your mind)How AI can help (or hurt) your attention and task clarity, depending on how you use itHow to make progress on tasks you’re procrastinating—even if you "know better"Why I focus more on productiveness than productivity, and how to measure what really mattersThree Connection PointsMonk Manual (GET 10% OFF)Watch the recording of this episode on YouTubeTim's BlogWhether you’re new to TimeCrafting or a longtime practitioner, this conversation highlights what so many of us wrestle with: the difference between knowing what to do and actually doing it. If you’ve been stuck, scattered, or just seeking clarity, I hope these answers light a way forward.Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive PotentialIf you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.

In this insightful discussion, Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir, an Icelandic thought leader and documentary director, explores the profound concept of 'InnSæi'—the sea within. She emphasizes the importance of listening to our intuition amidst modern distractions. Hrund shares how journaling can uncover personal patterns and enhance self-awareness, crucial in managing burnout. She also highlights the necessity of aligning productivity with personal values, urging listeners to harness their attention for greater clarity and decision-making.

In this engaging conversation, Bree Groff, a workplace culture expert and author of 'Today Was Fun: A Book About Work (Seriously),' explores how fun can transform our work lives. She emphasizes that true joy at work isn't just about perks but about permission to be ourselves. Bree advocates for creativity and engagement, sharing her insights on the impact of our environments on work culture. She encourages listeners to embrace joy, prioritize work-life balance, and ask themselves, 'Was today fun?' to reframe their daily experiences.

Join Patrick Rhone, a thoughtful author and friend of Mike Vardy, as he dives deep into the often-overlooked world of sustainability. He shares insights on the crucial distinction between consistency and true sustainability, cautioning against confusing temporary momentum with lasting impact. Through stories of gardening and parenting, Patrick illustrates patience and attention in long-term endeavors. Discover why systems that seem effective today may not last tomorrow, and learn how simple analog tools can sometimes triumph over their digital peers.

In this conversation, Ben Chelf, co-founder and CEO of Sol, shares insights on the Sol Reader, an innovative device designed to enhance focused reading by reducing digital distractions. He discusses the shift towards single-purpose technology, emphasizing its role in improving our pre-sleep routines. Ben recounts his own journey from distraction to deep reading, revealing how mindfulness can transform our relationship with literature. Plus, he reflects on the importance of design and packaging in today’s digital age.

In this conversation with Jenny Wood, a former Google executive and author of Wild Courage, she challenges the perception of traits like selfishness and bossiness as negatives. Jenny reveals how these qualities can be powerful tools for self-advocacy and growth. She shares personal anecdotes about her corporate journey, the necessity of embracing one’s fears, and the importance of prioritizing big aspirations. Through her insights, listeners are encouraged to redefine courage and unlock their true potential.