A Productive Conversation

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Tamsen Webster, renowned messaging strategist, keynote speaker, and author of the upcoming book, Say What They Can’t Unhear: The Nine Principles of Lasting Change. We dive deep into the principles behind lasting change, communication strategies, and how these concepts align with her broader body of work.Tamsen shares insights from her latest book, exploring what makes change stick and how messaging plays a crucial role in influencing others. We talk about her experiences crafting communication strategies, the challenges of writing a book, and how persuasion without manipulation is possible.Key Discussion Points Kurtis’ personal story of overcoming anxiety and discovering the power of breathwork. The concept of unconscious breath holding and how it signals the body’s stress response. A breakdown of different breathwork techniques for calming anxiety, boosting energy, and detoxifying the body. How breathwork helps release emotional and physical tension, leading to profound cathartic experiences. The connection between breathwork and DMT production, and how it can create mystical and transformative experiences. Simple, actionable breathwork exercises, like the sigh technique and straw breathing, to improve focus and well-being. Kurtis offers a fresh perspective on how something as simple as breathing can have a powerful impact on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Whether you’re new to breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, this conversation is packed with insights and practical tips.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Kurtis: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | X/Twitter Get Kurtis's Book: Breathwork Detox: How to Thrive in the Age of Anxiety Check out Breathwork Detox: Website (Use discount code Mike50 for Breathwork Events) Related Conversation: Episode 67: A Doer Who Likes To Be with Michael Townsend Williams Related Blog Post: How to Start Pacing Your Productivity 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this special Flashback Friday episode, I’m revisiting a conversation I had with my long-time friend and the founder of Zen Habits, Leo Babauta. This episode offers timeless insights into slowing down, living intentionally, and focusing on what truly matters. In 2024, Leo and I caught up to reflect on how much – or how little – has changed since our initial conversation. His wisdom and practices remain as relevant today as they were back then.If you're not familiar with Zen Habits, it's a blog that has stood the test of time. Over the years, Leo has shifted focus from pure productivity to a more holistic and sustainable approach to living. In this episode, we explore how those philosophies have evolved and deepened, and how they continue to serve us both personally and professionally.Key Discussion Points The importance of slowing down and focusing on what truly matters in life and work How Leo manages his time with a large family and multiple projects without burning out The power of consistency versus sustainability in daily habits How Zen Habits has evolved as Leo's life has changed, but the core principles remain the same Leo’s approach to balancing digital tools and paper for organization The difference between productivity as efficiency and productivity as aligning intention and attention As always, it's a pleasure to share these insights from my conversation with Leo. I’ve found that many of the lessons we discussed back in 2011 continue to resonate, especially as the pace of life and work increases. I hope you find these reflections valuable and that they inspire you to slow down and focus on what truly matters. (Originally recorded in 2011)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Leo: Website | Instagram | X/Twitter Check out the Fearless Living Academy: Learn more Watch Leo's YouTube channel: Check it out Listen to Leo's podcast: Hear it here While you're listening: Check out Episode 299 of Cal Newport's podcast Related Conversation: Episode 229: Exploring Digital Minimalism with Cal Newport Related Blog Post: The Rushing Feeling: How to Hush it 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Kurtis Lee Thomas, author of Breathwork Detox: How to Thrive in the Age of Anxiety. Kurtis shares his powerful story of overcoming crippling anxiety and how breathwork became a transformative tool for healing and thriving. His journey from stress and burnout to becoming a leading voice in breathwork is nothing short of inspiring.We delve into the practical aspects of breathwork, the science behind it, and how it can help alleviate anxiety, stress, and even physical ailments. Kurtis also breaks down the myths surrounding breathwork and shares simple exercises that anyone can incorporate into their daily routine to start feeling immediate benefits.Key Discussion Points Kurtis’ personal story of overcoming anxiety and discovering the power of breathwork. The concept of unconscious breath holding and how it signals the body’s stress response. A breakdown of different breathwork techniques for calming anxiety, boosting energy, and detoxifying the body. How breathwork helps release emotional and physical tension, leading to profound cathartic experiences. The connection between breathwork and DMT production, and how it can create mystical and transformative experiences. Simple, actionable breathwork exercises, like the sigh technique and straw breathing, to improve focus and well-being. Kurtis offers a fresh perspective on how something as simple as breathing can have a powerful impact on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Whether you’re new to breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, this conversation is packed with insights and practical tips.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Kurtis: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | X/Twitter Get Kurtis's Book: Breathwork Detox: How to Thrive in the Age of Anxiety Check out Breathwork Detox: Website (Use discount code Mike50 for Breathwork Events) Related Conversation: Episode 67: A Doer Who Likes To Be with Michael Townsend Williams Related Blog Post: How to Start Pacing Your Productivity 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this Flashback Friday episode of A Productive Conversation, I revisit my insightful discussion with John Zeratsky, co-author of Make Time. This conversation dives into practical tips on optimizing focus, creating a conducive environment for productivity, and the fascinating concept of caffeine naps. John’s background in design and tech shines through as we explore strategies that help you make the most of your time and attention every day.John and I share our thoughts on everything from the evolution of productivity tools to the importance of designing your environment in a way that promotes focus. We also discuss how minor tweaks can help you take control of your day without relying solely on willpower. Whether you’re struggling with distractions or looking for new ways to optimize your energy, this episode offers actionable tips to boost your daily productivity.Key Discussion Points The concept of a caffeine nap and how it can boost your energy for focused work. The importance of designing your environment to make the right actions easier. Strategies for overcoming time craters—small decisions that end up consuming more time and energy than expected. How reflecting on your day can lead to better focus and productivity. The role of friction in breaking bad habits and fostering positive change. Why breaking down your daily highlight into small, actionable steps leads to greater focus and achievement. As always, this episode is packed with actionable advice. John’s insights into how small, intentional changes can lead to big improvements in focus and productivity are worth revisiting. (Originally Released August 2020)Links Worth Exploring Connect with John: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Get John's Book: Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day Jake Knapp Time Dorks Google Ventures Design Sprint Process Design Sprint | Amazon Getting Things Done | Amazon Related Episode: Episode 203: The Evolution of Getting Things Done with David Allen (Another) Related Episode: Episode 229: Exploring Digital Minimalism with Cal Newport Sleep Cycle 43 Folders Indistractable | Amazon Philips Wake Up Alarm Clock Austin Kleon’s caffeine nap Mori App TeuxDeux MakeTime.blog 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this latest episode of our monthly series, PM Talks, Patrick Rhone and I further explore the delicate balance between urgency and – more notably this time around – importance in our lives. We explore how navigating these two forces impacts everything from birthday parties to home renovations and even our evolving relationship with AI. The conversation is a continuation of themes we've discussed in previous episodes, with a focus on how urgency often overshadows importance—and what we can do about it.Patrick and I share real-life examples of how urgency and importance collide and how we can use experience and foresight to manage both effectively. Whether it's deciding on the timing of a milestone event or understanding when to address home issues, the key takeaway is learning to prioritize what truly matters.Key Discussion Points The distinction between urgency and importance, and how unchecked importance can turn into urgency. Why milestone events, like turning 50, often bring urgency and importance into focus. Real-life examples of how to manage urgent and important tasks, from home repairs to birthday celebrations. The role of communication in defining urgency and importance, both for ourselves and when dealing with others. How AI plays a role in shaping our responses to urgent versus important tasks. The concept of removing emergencies from your life to reduce stress and stay focused on what truly matters. In this episode, Patrick and I aim to help you better understand how to manage the tension between urgent and important tasks in your own life. Remember, the more you can address what’s important before it becomes urgent, the smoother things will go.Links Worth Exploring Patrick’s Website Episode 537: Khe Hy Talks About Evolving Productivity and Self-Awareness All It Takes Is A Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential (by Jon Acuff) How to Give Your Pet CPR 27B/6: Missing Missy 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this Flashback Friday episode, I’m revisiting my conversation with the prolific and engaging Jon Acuff. When we originally spoke, Jon had just released his book All It Takes Is A Goal, which dives into the framework he uses to turn ideas into reality. This episode provides a timeless look at Jon’s insights on goal setting, mindset, and living up to your potential. His humor and practical advice make goal-setting feel attainable, even for those of us who might struggle with staying on track.Jon shares stories from his journey, discusses his process of turning desires into achievable goals, and explains how he taps into the potential we all have. Whether you’re familiar with Jon’s work or this is your first time hearing from him, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone looking to reach their goals without burning out.Key Discussion Points How Jon’s book All It Takes Is A Goal offers practical steps to achieve your potential The difference between easy, middle, and guaranteed goals and how to make progress on each The importance of mindset and how it can be the difference between staying stuck or moving forward How to avoid the pitfalls of the comfort zone and chaos zone while staying in the potential zone Why goal setting is not a one-size-fits-all approach and how to make it work for you The role of sustainable fuel, like joy and craft, in achieving long-term success In this conversation, Jon breaks down how small, consistent steps can lead to significant accomplishments. His emphasis on sustainable goals and creating systems that work for you offers a refreshing take on achieving success without overwhelm. (Originally Released September 2023)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Jon: Website | Facebook | Instagram | X/Twitter The Book I Mentioned: How Teens Win: The Student's Guide to Accomplishing Big Goals The Book We Discussed: All It Takes Is A Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential Jon’s Own Podcast: Check It Out Here Related Conversation: Episode 162: Finish with Jon Acuff Related Blog Post: How to Take a “Time Tour” 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Pete Steinberg to explore a phenomenon affecting many leaders today—what Pete calls "leadership shock." Despite their best efforts, many leaders find themselves feeling confused, exhausted, and ineffective. Pete sheds light on this issue, which arises when leaders are not intentional in their leadership approach, leading to systematic problems within their organizations.Pete, who retired from coaching in 2017, has written a thought-provoking book on leadership shock. He shares his journey of creating a book that blends a fable with real-life case studies to democratize executive coaching and offer valuable insights to a wider audience. This conversation dives deep into the importance of self-reflection, metacognition, and understanding intangible leadership qualities.Key Discussion Points Leadership shock: What it is, its symptoms, and how it affects leaders despite their best efforts. Non-intentional leadership: How lack of explicit leadership intentions can lead to systematic issues and confusion. Overcoming leadership shock: The role of self-reflection and metacognition in developing effective leadership skills. Unique approach to writing: Pete's blend of fable and case studies to create an authentic and informative leadership book. Leadership development: Why intangible qualities like mindset and attributes are critical for selecting and developing leaders. Role expectations in leadership: How clear expectations can transform leadership dynamics and the importance of aligning these expectations. Pete Steinberg offers a fresh perspective on leadership, emphasizing the need for intentional leadership and the importance of self-reflection. His insights into leadership shock provide valuable lessons for anyone in a leadership position. Be sure to check out his book, Leadership Shock, and connect with him on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership and innovation.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Pete: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Get Pete's Book: Leadership Shock: Using Authenticity to Navigate the Hidden Dangers of Career Success Related Conversation: Episode 289: The Vision Driven Leader with Michael Hyatt Related Blog Post: Why Reading Leadership Books will Boost Your Productivity 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Carl Pullein back to discuss various time management and prioritization strategies. We dive into the Ivy Lee method, GTD (Getting Things Done), and the 5 AM Club, focusing on how busy professionals can effectively manage their time and prioritize tasks. Carl and I emphasize the importance of balancing work, personal projects, and administrative tasks to achieve a sustainable and productive lifestyle.Throughout our conversation, we explore the habit of procrastination and offer practical strategies for reframing it as a valuable learning experience. Carl shares his unique "Two Plus Eight" task prioritization system and explains how he maintains an 80% success rate with his productivity system. We also discuss the significance of intentional time management and the importance of recognizing limits and prioritizing tasks strategically.Key Discussion Points Ivy Lee Method and Task Prioritization: Exploring the Ivy Lee method for prioritizing tasks and the importance of distinguishing between "must do" and "should do" tasks. Two Plus Eight System: Carl's approach to completing two must-do tasks daily and flagging others for later, aiming for 100% consistency. Time Management for Busy Professionals: Balancing work, personal projects, and administrative tasks, and managing relationships with time rather than the time itself. Procrastination as a Learning Tool: Practical strategies for reframing procrastination as a valuable learning experience and identifying triggers through journaling. Calendar-Led Approach: Using a calendar to organize tasks, setting limits on task completion, and managing time effectively. Continuous Improvement: Refining processes to save time and improve efficiency, with insights from racing car mechanics and the importance of cathartic journaling. Flexible Productivity Systems: The need for flexibility in productivity systems and the dangers of over-committing and rigid time blocking. Carl's insights provide a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and time management skills. His practical advice and innovative strategies offer listeners the tools to make the most of their time and achieve their goals with clarity and purpose.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Carl: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | X/Twitter Check out Carl's YouTube Channel: Watch now Get Carl's Book: Your Time, Your Way: Time Well Managed, Life Well Lived Carl's Previous Apperance: Episode 195: # All Things Productive with Carl Pullein Related Conversation: Episode 512: Hal Elrod Talks About Revamping "The Miracle Morning" and Embracing Challenges Related Blog Post: Improving Productivity Through Process Refinement 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this episode, I'm joined by Rebecca Zung, a negotiation expert specializing in dealing with high-conflict personalities, particularly narcissists. We explore strategies for handling legal disputes involving narcissistic personalities, focusing on understanding their psyche and using advanced negotiation skills to navigate these challenging situations. Rebecca shares insights on building leverage through documentation and setting boundaries while addressing vulnerabilities, all of which are crucial in achieving a successful outcome when dealing with narcissists.Throughout our conversation, Rebecca emphasizes the importance of understanding the narcissist's brain chemistry and how childhood trauma often leads to underdeveloped emotional centers in their brains. She introduces her "Slay Method" for dealing with difficult people, which focuses on creating a clear vision, holding leverage, and setting specific negotiation goals. This episode is packed with practical advice and strategies for anyone facing the daunting task of negotiating with narcissists.Key Discussion Points Narcissism and Relationships: Understanding how narcissism affects relationships and the spectrum of narcissistic personality disorder. Brain Chemistry and Trauma: Insights into how childhood trauma impacts narcissists' emotional development and behavior. Creating Leverage: Techniques for building leverage in negotiations with narcissists by understanding their vulnerabilities and predictable behaviors. The Slay Method: Rebecca's approach to dealing with difficult personalities, focusing on strategy and long-term vision. Negotiation Goals: The importance of setting specific goals in negotiations, whether in dissolving partnerships or valuing assets. Covert vs. Grandiose Narcissists: Identifying different types of narcissists and their manipulation tactics. Asserting Power: How to assert power authentically to make narcissists back down. Rebecca's expertise provides a comprehensive guide to navigating negotiations with narcissists, offering listeners actionable strategies to handle these challenging situations effectively. Her insights on the importance of self-reflection, boundary-setting, and strategic planning are invaluable for anyone dealing with difficult personalities in legal disputes (or otherwise).Links Worth Exploring Connect with Rebecca: Website | YouTube | Instagram | X/Twitter Get Rebecca's Free Negotiation Prep Playbook: Click here Get Rebecca's Book: SLAY the Bully: How to Negotiate with a Narcissist and Win Related Conversation: Episode 358: Calm Your Chaos with Nicola Taggart Related Blog Post: Why You Need to Take Productivity Personally 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.

This episode is sponsored by Bento Focus — the ADHD-friendly focus timer that helps you do less, better. Limit your day to three meaningful tasks, build calm routines, and stay focused with beautiful Japanese-inspired themes. Try it today at dub.sh/mike-bento-podcast.In this latest episode of our monthly series, PM Talks, I sit down once again with Patrick Rhone to delve into the intriguing relationship between urgency and importance in our daily lives. This episode, titled "Urgency RAW," offers a candid exploration of how we often find ourselves caught up in urgent tasks while overlooking what truly matters. Together with Patrick, we share personal stories, valuable insights, and practical strategies to help you navigate the delicate balance between urgency and importance in both personal and professional settings.Throughout our discussion, we tackle the idea that urgent tasks often overshadow important ones, yet recognizing the difference between the two can lead to more effective prioritization and decision-making. Patrick and I dive into how urgent situations can suddenly arise and how proactive measures can help mitigate their impact. We also share tips on maintaining a sense of urgency in writing, particularly when conveying critical messages or deadlines.Key Discussion Points Urgency vs. Importance: Understanding the distinction between urgent and important tasks and why prioritizing important tasks can lead to long-term success. Personal Stories: I share a recent experience with a kitchen leak that required immediate attention, and Patrick shares a story about his wife saving their blind dog from a pool. Both highlight the unpredictable nature of urgent situations. Proactive vs. Reactive: Discussing the benefits of being proactive rather than reactive in handling urgent tasks, especially in maintenance and health-related scenarios. The Role of Urgency in Public Speaking: I discuss how procrastination can create artificial urgency and the limits of improvisation when addressing important topics. Medical Emergencies and Costs: Patrick and I highlight the importance of addressing medical issues promptly to prevent them from becoming urgent and costly. Prioritization in Writing: Exploring the urgency of writing a book with a message that resonates, while balancing deadlines and creative processes. The Trolley Problem: We use this philosophical dilemma to emphasize decision-making under urgency and the importance of considering long-term consequences. As we wrap up this episode, Patrick and I encourage you to reflect on how you handle urgency in your own life. Are you focusing on what truly matters, or are urgent tasks dictating your priorities? By taking a moment to assess and understand the root causes of urgency, you can make more informed decisions and create a balance between urgent and important tasks. Thank you for joining us in this conversation, and we hope you find the insights shared here valuable in your journey toward better time management and productivity.Links Worth Exploring Patrick’s Website Why Your Dishwasher Is Leaking From the Bottom (and How to Fix It) Next Stop: ‘Trolley Problem’ Episode 514: Choices | PM Talks S1:E2 The Balance Between Urgency and Purpose 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 Build a sustainable system for attention, rhythm, and trust with TimeCrafting & ADHD — a new course inside TimeCrafting Trust Premium. Start today for as little as $14 USD/month: timecraftingtrust.circle.so/timecrafting-adhd.