A Productive Conversation

In this episode, I’m joined by Yemado, a foremost teacher of Boabom in North America. Boabom is a Tibetan system that combines relaxation, meditation, and self-defense, offering a unique way to balance body and mind. During our conversation, Yemado shares his insights into the practice and why it’s ideal for people looking for non-competitive physical activity that also provides mental clarity.We explore how Boabom’s progressive approach makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of their starting point, and how it fosters personal growth and resilience. Yemado also walks us through a simple breathing exercise that listeners can practice right away to experience the benefits of this ancient art.Key Discussion Points An introduction to Boabom: A blend of relaxation, meditation, and non-contact self-defense The role of progression in Boabom classes, enabling students to grow step by step How non-competition within Boabom promotes personal improvement and mental focus The impact of movement on stress management and emotional resilience Why people are drawn to practices like Boabom to escape the pressures of modern life The interplay between breathing techniques and mental clarity A live guided breathing exercise that listeners can try immediately This conversation with Yemado offers a glimpse into the power of Boabom to help people reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. If you’re seeking a practice that brings both mental and physical benefits without the competitive stress, this episode is for you. I encourage you to try the breathing exercise Yemado shares—it's a great way to experience the calm and clarity that Boabom offers.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Yemado: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Dive into Boabom: Start here Take a Boabom class: Check out the Boston School of Boabom Related Conversation: Episode 547: Kurtis Lee Thomas Talks About Breathwork Detox and Thriving in the Age of Anxiety Related Blog Post: The Power of Bit by Bit 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

In this Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with Paul Millerd to discuss his new book, Good Work: Reclaiming Your Inner Ambition. Paul reflects on life changes, including becoming a parent and launching this book. Our chat touches on how personal growth, creativity, and work-life integration evolved for him since our original conversation.Paul shares the challenges of writing and parenting simultaneously, detailing how he resisted conventional book launch strategies to focus on sustainable progress. His insights offer a refreshing take on doing meaningful work at your own pace—a theme I deeply connect with.Key Discussion Points Writing Good Work and navigating parenthood simultaneously Choosing long-term sustainable work over fast-paced launches The concept of non-competitive creativity and protecting time blocks How parenting reshaped Paul's connection to his work His shift toward fewer but meaningful three-hour writing blocks The impact of not following traditional publishing playbooks Finding fulfillment in creating without burning out Paul’s story shows that good work isn’t about rushing to the finish line—it’s about sustainable creativity and doing what feels right. This conversation is a reminder to honour our personal journeys and resist the temptation to conform to external pressures. If you're interested in building a fulfilling career and balancing it with life’s other priorities, you’ll find plenty of value in this episode. (Originally recorded February 2023)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Paul: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn Buy Paul's latest book: Good Work: Reclaiming Your Inner Ambition Buy Paul’s first book: The Pathless Path Related Conversation: Episode 334: Endless Curiosity with Derek Sivers 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

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined by Patrick McAndrew, founder and CEO of HARA, an exclusive membership community designed for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking to elevate their lives and align their personal and professional paths. Patrick has a unique blend of experience, from managing restaurants to advising corporate giants like Morgan Stanley, and he brings deep insight into how we can reclaim attention and cultivate intention in a tech-driven world.Throughout our conversation, Patrick shares his personal evolution from helping people "get more done" to teaching leaders how to engage more deeply with their values and inner state. We discuss what it really means to be productive, explore the balance between routine and practice, and challenge the notion that apps or frameworks are the answer to today’s challenges.Key Discussion Points Patrick’s journey from teaching speed reading and memory skills to founding HARA, a community focused on alignment and inner work The evolution of productivity from task-based to meaning-driven approaches Why practices like journaling and meditation are essential for sustainable productivity The tension between structure and adaptability in today’s work environments How routines and patterns can transform into practices that align with personal values The role of attention and intention in balancing personal growth with business success How modern productivity frameworks can be limiting if they ignore internal development This conversation with Patrick McAndrew will challenge you to rethink the ways we pursue productivity, shifting focus from frameworks and apps to meaningful practices that nurture both business and personal growth. Patrick's insights are a powerful reminder that productivity is more than just ticking off tasks—it’s about becoming aligned with who we are and what we truly value. I look forward to revisiting this conversation with Patrick in the future to explore how these ideas continue to evolve.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Patrick: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | Substack Check out HARA: Learn more My Essay: The Path to Productiveness My Appearance on the Zen Habits podcast: Check it out What Juliet Funt shared with me: Listen here Related Conversation: Episode 283: Well-Presented with Mike Pacchione Related Blog Post: The Ongoing Battle Between Time and Reason 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

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined by Srini Rao, host of The Unmistakable Creative podcast. Srini has always been at the forefront of blending creativity with productivity, and our discussion today takes an even deeper dive into these themes. We reflect on how the creative process has evolved since we last spoke, touching on the integration of AI and the future of content creation.Srini’s exploration of creativity doesn’t just stop at human endeavors—it extends into how AI can serve as a creative collaborator. From his development of customized children’s books to building a tool that automates eBook creation, Srini shares how the intersection of human creativity and AI execution is reshaping the way we work. Join us as we revisit insights from our conversation in 2014 and reflect on the vast changes that have taken place over the past decade.Key Discussion Points How Srini built a YouTube channel focused on Mem tutorials and his deep dive into AI's role in creativity. The distinction between AI as a creative tool versus a thought partner, and how creatives can leverage AI for content repurposing. The importance of "personal knowledge capital" in an AI-enhanced future. Srini’s journey in using AI to generate custom children’s books and other creative projects. The concept of "recursive creativity" and how humans guide, criticize, and curate AI output to enhance creative work. How division of labor at scale is becoming accessible to creators, thanks to AI. As Srini continues to push the boundaries of creativity with AI, this episode offers a unique glimpse into how technology can aid, rather than replace, the human creative process. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creator, or someone intrigued by the future of AI, this episode provides valuable insights into how to harness the power of AI to scale your creative output. (Originally recorded in 2014)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Srini: Website | Instagram | Twitter/X Srini’s Books on Amazon: Check them out here Srinivas Rao on The Blaze with Glenn Beck Related Conversation: Episode 534: Kevin Surace Talks About AI and Maintaining Productivity Related Blog Post: A Look at Productivity and Workflow Versioning 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

In this latest episode of our monthly series, PM Talks, I sit down with my good friend Patrick Rhone to dive deep into the idea of finding the right pace in life and work. We explore how our relationship with time evolves as we age, and what it means to develop a sustainable cadence that suits our changing needs and values. Patrick and I discuss how wisdom often takes priority over productivity, and how embracing pacing can lead to a more fulfilling life.This conversation touched on a lot of important ideas, including how age impacts our pacing and how the societal pressure to constantly accelerate can affect our well-being. We even draw connections between personal reflections and practical applications for making better choices about how we spend our time.Key Discussion Points How turning 50 has influenced my perspective on pacing in life and work The role of age in shaping our relationship with time and productivity Why "moving slow to go fast" can be more effective in both work and life Embracing wisdom over output as we get older The cultural shift away from valuing the wisdom of elders and its impact Understanding personal limitations and making conscious decisions about where to put our energy Patrick also shared insights on the importance of understanding and respecting personal limitations, and we reflected on how age affects our perceptions of time and productivity. If you want to take a deeper look at how pacing yourself might help you find the right rhythm in your own life, this episode is a must-listen.Links Worth Exploring Patrick's book, "For You" Patrick’s Website Watch Fiennes Return to the Wild on Disney+ What is The GORUCK Challenge? 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

In this special Flashback Friday episode, I reconnect with David Allen, the creator of the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology, to discuss his latest book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, co-authored with Ed Lamont. We also revisit a classic conversation where we discussed the evolution of GTD, reflecting on its past, present, and the future of productivity practices.David has been a regular guest on the show, and this time we dive into the complexities of translating GTD principles to a team setting, and how the GTD philosophy continues to evolve. We also touch on topics such as remote work, team dynamics, and the importance of clarity, trust, and adaptability in both individual and collective productivity.Key Discussion Points David's new book, Team: Getting Things Done with Others, and the challenges of applying GTD to teams The importance of standards and clarity in fostering trust within a team environment The evolution of productivity tools and the core principles of GTD that remain unchanged How the brain processes tasks, multitasking, and the risks of decision fatigue in modern productivity The nuances of working by context vs. linear project management and how they support different working styles How GTD can be a lifestyle practice, providing a path to mastery that applies to both professional and personal life It was (as always) an insightful conversation with David Allen, offering perspectives on how GTD remains a powerful productivity framework, whether you’re working solo or as part of a team. David's new book is a must-read for anyone looking to extend GTD practices beyond personal productivity and make teamwork more effective and cohesive. (Originally released July 2015)Links Worth Exploring Connect with David: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn Get David's book: Team: Getting Things Done with Others Revisit my fireside chat with David at Running Remote 2023: Watch it here Related Conversation: Episode 186: What Motivates Getting Things Done with Mary Lamia Related Blog Post: The Evolution of Contexts 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

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew J. Mason, a veteran podcast producer and the host of The Pro Guide. Andrew has over 18 years of experience in producing and hosting audio and visual content for shows like the Getting Things Done podcast for the David Allen Company and The Omni Show for the makers of OmniFocus. We dive deep into his journey in the world of podcasting, the productivity tools he uses, and his perspective on balancing creativity with efficiency.Throughout our conversation, Andrew shares valuable insights on how he approaches podcast production, how his productivity methods have evolved, and why certain routines like coffee brewing are more than just about efficiency—they’re about setting the tone for the day. We also touch on the challenges of being productive in a creative field, particularly when managing multiple projects at once.Key Discussion Points Andrew’s start in podcasting in 2009 and his growth into producing The Pro Guide and The Omni Show How productivity tools like OmniFocus help him manage sequential and parallel tasks in audio production The value of creating a dynamic template for repetitive tasks and why adaptability is key Andrew's relationship with video games and the importance of setting boundaries The ritual of brewing coffee: why Andrew prefers pour-over for simplicity and my take on the deeper meaning behind coffee-making routines How to maintain flexibility while still being productive, particularly when life doesn’t go according to plan It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Andrew J. Mason. His passion for podcasting and productivity is truly inspiring, and I hope you find his insights as impactful as I did. If you’re someone looking to better balance creativity and productivity, or if you just want a behind-the-scenes look at the world of podcast production, this episode is for you.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Andrew: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Instagram Check out my appearance on The Pro Guide: Watch it here Check out Andrew's work on The Omni Show: Listen here Related Conversation: Episode 64: Passionate About Productivity with Amber De La Garza Related Blog Post: Why I’m Passionate About Personal 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

In this Flashback Friday episode, I'm excited to revisit my conversation with the insightful Gretchen Rubin, marking the 550th episode of A Productive Conversation! This conversation explores her book, The Four Tendencies. We dive into how these four personality types—Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel—can influence our behavior, decision-making, and even how we interact with others.Having been involved in her Four Tendencies course, I’ve always been fascinated by the insights she offers on understanding ourselves better. Whether you’re new to this concept or revisiting it like me, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you better understand your own tendencies and those of the people around you.Key Discussion Points What led Gretchen to identify and define the Four Tendencies: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel. How the Four Tendencies can impact habit formation and how to leverage your tendency to make effective changes. Examples of how each tendency interacts with expectations, both internally and externally. The importance of creating structures that align with your tendency, such as setting boundaries for obligers or emphasizing freedom for rebels. Real-life applications of the Four Tendencies in work and personal life, including relationships and productivity. Insights into how Gretchen’s work has evolved, including her other books like The Happiness Project, and the role these ideas play in her daily life. I hope this throwback episode with Gretchen Rubin gave you some new perspectives on how personality frameworks can impact your productivity, relationships, and general well-being. If you’re curious to learn more, make sure to check out Gretchen's work and take the Four Tendencies quiz to see where you fit in. Understanding your tendencies might just be the key to unlocking a more productive, and satisfying, life. (Originally released January 2018)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Gretchen: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Get Gretchen's Book: The Four Tendencies Take The Four Tendencies Quiz: Check it out Take The Four Tendencies Course: Start here Read Grechen's piece on National Novel Writing month: Read it now Related Conversation: Episode 454: Michelle Segar Talks About Habits and The Joy Choice Related Blog Post: Finding Your Best First Day of the Year 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

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

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