A Productive Conversation

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn this episode of the podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Russel Lolacher, a good friend of mine and a visionary in the realms of leadership and workplace culture. Russel joins me to delve into the nuances of creating a more human-centered and productive work environment. This episode is a deep dive into the subtleties of leadership, the dynamics of team relationships, and the strategies for nurturing a positive workplace culture.Russel is an international speaker and the founder/host of Relationships at Work - the leadership mindset guide to creating a workplace we love, a show digging into timely and relevant topics with global experts on how to be better leaders and create healthy workplace cultures. He’s held successful leadership and communication roles for almost 25 years, retaining one team for almost 12 years, and his work and expertise in building employee and customer trust has been recognized on international stages, multiple publications, and as a 4x named Top Thought Leader by the International Customer Management Institute (ICMI). He also spoke at The BIG Ready - first in person and then virtually. As I chat with Russel, we uncover the layers that constitute effective leadership and the pivotal role of workplace relationships in shaping an organization's success. From discussing the impact of leadership on employee engagement to exploring the intricacies of team dynamics, this episode offers a comprehensive view of modern workplace challenges and solutions.Key Discussion Points Insights into leadership and its influence on workplace culture. The shift from traditional "soft skills" to more human-centered language in professional settings. The vital role of company culture in boosting employee engagement and the gap between executive perception and actual workplace environment. Emphasizing genuine relationship-building and long-term connections over superficial interactions in the workplace. The importance of self-awareness and empathy in leadership for building meaningful workplace relationships. Regular employee check-ins as a tool for better performance assessment and fostering deeper connections. Prioritizing employee experience in leadership and the shift towards valuing employees as key organizational assets. Russel's insights in this episode highlight the critical elements of successful leadership and the impact of thoughtful workplace culture. By focusing on empathy, self-awareness, and authentic relationships, leaders can cultivate an environment where every team member feels valued and motivated. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of effective leadership and the creation of a vibrant, engaging workplace.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Russel: Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram Relationships At Work: Listen to the Podcast Check Out My Appearance on Russel's Podcast: Our Relationship with Time Management at Work Russel's Blog Post About Three Words For The Year: PLANNING THE YEAR AHEAD IN JUST 3 WORDS Related Conversation: Episode 420: Daniel Coyle talks about The Culture Playbook Related Blog Post: Seeing Through The Fog 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn this episode "from the vault", originally released in November 2021, I had the pleasure of chatting with Juliet Funt, author of "A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Work". Together, we delved into how the often-overlooked concept of whitespace is crucial for creativity, productivity, and a balanced life. Juliet's insights are particularly timely in our fast-paced, performative world where busyness often masquerades as effectiveness.Our discussion ranged from tackling the misconceptions of work-life balance to the innovative concept of 'time sketching' versus traditional time management. Juliet's approach to productivity isn't just about doing more; it's about creating space for what truly matters. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to revitalize their approach to work and life.Key Discussion Points The detrimental effects of "performative busyness" on well-being and productivity. Rethinking the concept of work-life balance and insatiability in the workplace. Creative strategies to boost productivity, exemplified by unconventional sales methods. The vital role of whitespace in fostering creativity and effective work habits. Juliet's unique approach to time management: "time sketching" for flexibility. Addressing the 'thieves of time' like social media, email, and meetings. The importance of integrating whitespace into daily life for focus and creativity. This episode with Juliet Funt was an enlightening journey through the realms of productivity and personal growth. Her perspective on embracing whitespace and thoughtful time management is a game-changer for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the hustle culture. Remember, it's not just about doing more; it's about creating space to do what's truly important.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Juliet: Website | X | LinkedIn Get The Book: A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Work Check Out This Book: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman My Conversations with Cal Newport: Episode 93 | Episode 229 | Episode 360 Austin Kleon's Appearance on The Podcast: Listen Here Matthew Fox's Book: The Reinvention of Work: A New Vision of Livelihood for Our Time Listen To This: Why Is My Life So Hard? (Ep. 280) – Freakonomics Related Conversation: Episode 266: Becoming Indistractable with Nir Eyal Related Blog Post: Pause and Affect 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn today's podcast, I had an engaging conversation with Dan Pontefract, a renowned leadership strategist, about the nuanced aspects of work-life balance and productivity. Dan brings a fresh perspective to these topics, challenging the conventional understanding of work-life balance with insightful reflections from his book "Work-Life Bloom: How to Nurture a Team that Flourishes."Throughout our discussion, Dan emphasized the dynamic nature of balancing work and life, debunking the myth of a perfect equilibrium. He shared his poetic inspiration for the book and delved into how work-life balance intertwines with personal and professional growth, employee engagement, and authenticity in the workplace.Key Discussion Points Dan's poetic approach in "Work-Life Bloom" and the meaning behind it. Challenging the traditional concept of work-life balance and its limitations. The revelation that "time management" is less about quantity and more about quality. The six life factors contributing to personal and professional fulfillment. The importance of authenticity and systemic issues in the workplace. Rethinking work-life balance strategies in light of increasing work-related stress. The need for sustainable workplace wellness practices and self-management. My conversation with Dan Pontefract was a deep dive into reimagining work-life balance. His insights provide a valuable framework for anyone looking to manage their professional and personal lives more effectively. By focusing on sustainable practices and self-management, we can create a healthier, more fulfilling work environment.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Dan: Website | X | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram Get The Book: Work-Life Bloom: How to Nurture a Team that Flourishes Dan's Body of Work: Check it Out on Amazon Related Conversation: Episode 236: Achieving Work-Life Balance with Clayton Morris Related Blog Post: Beyond Work-Life Balance: The Pursuit of Wholeness in a Fragmented World 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn this enlightening episode of the podcast, I had the privilege of hosting Brian Johnson, a thinker and writer who delves deep into the art of living a productive life. Brian, the author of "Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential", shares his unique insights into how we can bridge the gap between our potential and our current selves. His ideas are not just philosophical musings; they are practical tools for transforming our daily lives.My conversation with Brian was an exploration of the true essence of productivity, not just in terms of what we do, but more importantly, who we are. From discussing the importance of aligning our actions with our true values to mastering the fundamentals of a successful life, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to live their best life.Key Discussion Points Brian Johnson's interpretation of "areté" as a guide for living a great life. The significance of closing the gap between our potential and actual selves. Living life based on one's own terms, emphasizing virtues and excellence. The importance of fundamentals like eating, moving, sleeping, and focusing. The concept of "soul force" and its role in finding purpose and personal power. Discussing productive habits and emotional resilience for a fulfilling life. Insights on prioritization, self-awareness, and continual personal growth. This discussion with Brian was a profound journey into understanding life's ultimate game. His insights provide a clear path for anyone looking to elevate their existence by focusing on what truly matters. If you're seeking to activate your heroic potential and live a life of purpose and excellence, this episode is an indispensable guide.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Brian: X | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Get The Book: Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential What is Heroic? Check out the platform here Listen to Brian's Podcast: Heroic with Brian Johnson John Wooden's Pyramid of Success: Get The Book The Fundamentals with David Robinson(s): Listen here Steven Pressfield's Latest Book: The Daily Pressfield (Note: This book is on my wish list for sure! - MV) Related Conversation: Episode 446: How to Fight a Hydra with Josh Kaufman Related Blog Post: The Quest for “Just 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn episode 500 of our podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the productivity guru David Allen in Lisbon at Running Remote. We dove deep into the evolution of Allen's revolutionary Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology and its profound impact on the ever-changing landscape of work culture. From the foundations laid down in its early days to the current dynamics of remote work, we unpack how the principles of GTD have stood the test of time and technology.This special episode peels back the layers on not just productivity techniques but also the human aspects of working remotely. David Allen's insights into self-management, coupled with the challenges and opportunities presented by a digital world, provided a robust discourse on staying productive amidst a sea of distractions.Key Discussion Points The origins and evolution of David Allen's GTD methodology and its widespread influence since its inception Transitioning to remote work: how David Allen's company adapted by scaling down and partnering with Vital Learning. The critical role of self-management over time management in a remote work setting. Strategies for enhancing team productivity and communication in a remote environment, including the concept of "channel creep." The development of work culture and productivity norms within remote teams, emphasizing the need for clear communication protocols. The intersection of AI technology and productivity practices, discussing the potential and limits of AI in implementing GTD. Practical advice on implementing productivity and self-management practices in non-traditional work structures, such as holacracy. Wrapping up, this milestone episode with David Allen has been nothing short of enlightening. His time-tested advice, from clearing your head to modeling self-management, resonates profoundly in our modern, flexible work environments. For anyone looking to navigate the complexities of productivity in the remote work era, this conversation is a goldmine. Remember, it's not just about managing time; it's about managing yourself.Links Worth Exploring Learn More About GTD: Website Running Remote: Explore The Conference Get The Book: Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity Check Out The Video Of Our Chat: Watch Now Explore Vital Learning: Website Holacracy: Learn More Related Conversation: Episode 290: Creative Menopause with Chase Reeves [Recorded LIVE at The BIG Ready] Related Blog Post: The Concept of “Efforting” 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn this episode we delve deep with Milos Belcevic as he shares his enlightening perspective on applying product management principles to foster personal growth. Milos navigates us through a transformative conversation, exploring the boundaries of traditional product management and its profound implications in our daily lives.We journey through Milos’ book, "Build Your Way: Applying Project Management To Life," and discuss how treating life like a product to be managed can lead to astonishing breakthroughs. The speakers emphasize the significance of interactions, value prioritization, and a robust framework of principles like Agile and Lean in both personal and professional realms.Key Discussion Points Why the application of business principles in personal life works Importance of interactions in product management and maximizing value through conscious choices Simplifying life through exploration and problem-solving to foster innovation and growth. Utilizing Agile and Lean frameworks for optimization and improved efficiency in various life aspects Application of KPIs in personal areas such as health, finance, work, and social life for holistic improvement Insights into using project management tools like Kanban to prioritize tasks and foster personal development This episode offers a novel perspective on intertwining product management principles with aspects of personal life. Milos, along with our esteemed guests, provides a compass to navigate life’s complexities with a product manager's precision and foresight.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Milos: Website | LinkedIn Milos’s Digital Garden: Check It Out Get The Book: Build Your Way: Applying Project Management To Life Related Conversation: Episode 63: Project Management and You with Cesar Abeid 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureOriginally aired in March 2016, this episode features the incredibly talented Aaron Mahnke, creator of the renowned podcast, Lore, and the mastermind behind Grim & Mild Entertainment.Aaron candidly shares his freelancing journey, highlighting the transition phases, learning curves, and the importance of setting definitive boundaries. We delve deeper into his development and adaptation of productivity habits and tools that were instrumental in his success. The conversation also illuminates the challenges encountered in podcasting and the strategic approaches adopted by Aaron to continually prioritize and manage myriad tasks and projects effectively. This episode offers a plethora of learnings and actionable insights for our listeners, especially those maneuvering through freelancing careers, podcasting, or juggling diverse projects and commitments.Be sure to listen all the way through as Aaron shares not only the challenges he has faced but also the pivotal moments that have defined his success in the podcasting realm.Key Discussion Points Entrepreneurial Journey and Lore’s Creation: Aaron shares the inception and journey of Lore, from its humble beginnings to being an overnight success after years of hard work, illustrating his commitment and the meticulous process behind each episode. Freelancing & Setting Boundaries: With nearly a decade in freelancing, Aaron delves into the evolution of his career, highlighting the growth and changes in his income sources and the necessity of setting boundaries to balance work and life effectively. Development of Productivity Habits: Aaron reflects on his unconventional route to success and the development of productivity habits and tools essential in keeping up with client demands and contributing significantly to his endeavors, including his renowned podcast Lore. Adapting Systems for Productivity: We discuss the importance of laying foundational knowledge before tweaking systems for optimal productivity. Learning and mastering the basics of any tool or system is essential before customizing it to fit individual needs and styles. Podcasting Challenges & Success: Aaron offers insight into the challenging aspects of creating and maintaining a successful podcast, including decision-making processes that contribute to the podcast's ongoing success and popularity. Prioritizing Amidst Demands: We talk about the challenges of managing various tasks and responsibilities, with Aaron sharing his strategies for effectively prioritizing projects and tasks amidst a multitude of demands, providing valuable insights for listeners juggling multiple commitments. Reflect on Aaron’s journey and the strategies and tools he shared in managing his successful career and various projects. Consider how you might implement some of these insights into your work and life, and think about the boundaries you've set for yourself. Take this opportunity to reevaluate and possibly readjust them to better serve your personal and professional growth.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Aaron: Website | Threads | Instagram Subscribe to Lore: Website Subscribe To Aaron's Newsletter: Get Campfire Here Related Conversation: Episode 317: The Analog Way with Jeff Sheldon Related Blog Post: The Fight 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. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.Spotify | Apple PodcastsYou can also click on this link to 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureIn today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be in conversation with Josh Fonger, a distinguished consultant, coach, speaker, and the CEO of WTS Enterprises. With his expertise in Business Performance Architecture, Josh has been a beacon of transformation for stressed entrepreneurs, guiding them from working “in” their business to strategically working “on” their business. Through the use of effective systems, he’s enabled consistent profit and freedom for numerous businesses.With Josh’s wealth of experience and actionable insights, the discussion offers a roadmap to entrepreneurs seeking not only profitability but also freedom through the power of effective systems. Whether you’re struggling with productivity, efficiency, or strategic planning, this episode promises valuable takeaways for every entrepreneur.Key Discussion Points From ‘Work the System’ to WTS Enterprises: We kick off by discussing Josh’s journey from being inspired by Sam Carpenter's book "Work the System" to eventually founding his own consulting company centered around the Work the System (WTS) method. Embracing a Systems Mindset: Delving into the challenges and necessities of adopting a systems mindset in business, our conversation highlights the shift from reactive to strategic business planning and operations. Strategic Objectives for Success: Josh and I emphasize the importance of defining strategic objectives and aligning your day-to-day operations with these goals to sculpt your ideal business and life. Productivity Quantification: We explore the value of quantifying productivity by evaluating the worth of systems or processes, underscoring the importance of not just focusing on progress qualitatively but also appreciating the quantitative aspects. Efficiency through Delegation: Sharing practical examples, we discuss how codifying and delegating systems can lead to significant time and financial savings while ensuring that business goals are uncompromised. Systemizing for Efficiency: Closing the discussion points, we touch upon real-life case studies where implementing systems notably increased efficiency and profitability while reducing working hours and stress for business owners. Reflecting on our engaging conversation, consider how a systems mindset can revolutionize the way you approach your business. How can implementing strategic, well-defined systems relieve you of stress and afford you more freedom and profitability? Ponder over these insights and practical examples shared by Josh in our dialogue, and you might find the key to transforming not only your business but also your life. Let this episode be the catalyst for a change towards a more systematic, efficient, and successful entrepreneurial journey.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Josh: Website | Facebook | LinkedIn Subscribe to Josh's Podcast: Spotify | Apple Podcasts Get The Book: Work the System: The Simple Mechanics of Making More and Working Less (4th Edition) Get The Book Summary (for FREE): Click Here Related Conversation: Episode 121: Beyond the E-Myth with Michael E. Gerber Related Blog Post: The Process 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureI’m excited to bring James Swanwick into our conversation for this episode of the podcast. As an Australian-American investor, entrepreneur, and former ESPN SportsCenter anchor, James has worn many hats. He’s the mind behind the Alcohol-Free Lifestyle and Project 90, initiatives that have been pivotal for individuals reassessing their relationship with alcohol. Additionally, as the creator of Swannies by Swanwick Sleep, he’s contributed significantly to improving people’s sleep.In our enriching conversation, James and I dissect essential elements like the quality of sleep, the subtle impacts of blue light, and the intricacies of our morning routines, casting a special spotlight on caffeine consumption. Further, the dialogue ventures into the realm of conscious living, addressing societal shifts in perceptions about alcohol, the allure of non-alcoholic alternatives, and the journey towards intentional sobriety. With each topic, we aim to provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your productivity and overall well-being.Key Discussion Points Optimizing Sleep for Night Owls: James and I delve deep into the nuances of sleep and productivity, especially for those who find their energy spiking when the sun sets. The Impact of Blue Light: We discuss the effects of artificial light, with James highlighting how blue light blocking glasses can be a game-changer for a good night’s sleep. Morning Routines & Decaf Deliberations: Our conversation takes a turn towards morning routines, the benefits of sunlight, and why I’ve personally made a switch to decaf coffee. Coffee, Sleep & Weight: James provides insights on how your morning cup of joe not only influences your sleep but also has a say in your weight management journey. Rethinking Alcohol Consumption: We reflect on societal shifts in alcohol consumption, the increasing acceptance of non-alcoholic alternatives, and the challenge of disassociating joy with alcohol consumption. Sobriety and Lifestyle Choices: With a spotlight on sobriety and lifestyle, we glance at the emergence of alternative choices like marijuana and the marketing narrative around them. As you listen to our conversation, I urge you to reflect: How do your sleep patterns affect your productivity? Are your lifestyle choices supporting or hindering your sleep? Is it time to reassess your relationship with alcohol or caffeine? Contemplating these questions might just be the first step towards a more conscious, healthy, and productive life.Links Worth Exploring Connect with James: Website | Facebook | X (née Twitter) | YouTube James's Project 90: Check It Out What Are "Swannies" All About?: Find Out Here Related Conversation: Episode 105: The One Year No Beer Challenge Related Blog Post: Your Body Clock and You: When a Miracle Morning Should Be an Amazing Afternoon (or Excellent Evening) 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. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | StitcherYou can also click on this link to 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 📘 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.

🚨 The Forge Your Future Challenge is back – August 7–9, 2025!Join yours truly, Mike Vardy, for this free 3-day experience to reconnect with what matters, regain control of your time, and set your future in motion. Just two hours a day for three days—no fluff, just focus. Save your spot now: https://mikevardy.com/forgeyourfutureMy guest for this episode, Erik Fisher, is the voice behind the "Beyond the To-Do List" – a podcast that has been going strong since 2012. Erik and I delve into the adventure of keeping a podcast rolling consistently, witnessing the shifts in productivity dialogues, and our ambitions to include topics like generative AI in our future conversations.We talk about podcasting, productivity nuances, and finding a sweet balance between work and personal life. Whether you're a podcast lover or someone seeking productivity wisdom, this episode has something for everyone. Enjoy!Key Discussion Points Maintaining Podcast Consistency: Erik reflects on delivering over 500 episodes and the learning curve involved in keeping the podcast fresh and engaging for the past decade. Beyond Productivity: We ponder on the evolving significance of "Beyond the To-Do List", transforming from a straightforward productivity show to a platform discussing broader life and work themes. Adapting to Change: Together, we envisage widening the scope of our productivity discussions, aiming to incorporate new perspectives and insights into the ever-changing productivity landscape. Burnout... Quality vs. Quantity: A deep-dive into the constant battle between maintaining quality and chasing quantity, and the inevitable risk of burnout when the scales tip. Parenting and Work-Life Balance: Parenting brings its own set of challenges and rewards. We share personal anecdotes about juggling parental responsibilities while navigating through a sea of endless tasks and commitments. Expanding Podcast Horizons: Erik shares thoughts on potential expansion plans for his podcast, considering additional features like newsletters and community engagement to enhance the listener experience. As you reflect on our dialogue during this episode, ask yourself: How can you maintain consistency in your pursuits? Are you balancing the scales of quality and quantity effectively? And most crucially, how are you evolving in your understanding and approach towards productivity? Your journey towards a more productive and balanced life might just start with pondering these vital questions.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Erik: Website | X (née Twitter) Subscribe to Erik's Podcast: Spotify | Apple Podcasts Erik co-wrote a book: Ready Aim Fire!: A Practical Guide to Setting And Achieving Goals Related Conversation: Episode 113: Erik Fisher Returns! Related Blog Post: How To Keep Doing It Right (More Often Than Not) 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. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | StitcherYou can also click on this link to 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 📘 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.