Beyond the To-Do List - Productivity for Work and Life

This week I’m excited to welcome Terri Sjodin for a great conversation about her new book, Presentation Ready: Improve Your Sales Presentation Outcomes and Avoid the Twelve Most Common Mistakes. Terri is the Principal and Founder of Sjodin Communications, a public speaking, sales training and consulting firm based in Newport Beach, CA. In addition to her latest book, she is the author of the book, Small Message, Big Impact, which hit the New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists. For over 20 years Terri has served as a speaker and consultant to an impressive list of corporations, associations, academic conferences, CEO's and Members of the U.S. Congress. She is a high-content speaker and her style is fresh, sassy and practical. Terri is considered one of the most sought-after sales, communications and speaking consultants in the country.In this episode, we'll unpack the power of preparation in seizing unexpected opportunities and the underestimated influence of body language. Terri shares her insider knowledge on why public speaking should be embraced as a gateway to new horizons, drawing from her rich personal experiences in speech and debate. We discuss the transforming capacity of verbal communication training and how improving presentation skills can dramatically increase professional competency. In addition Terri advises how to lead conversations with potential clients towards a smooth commitment and how to handle responses that aren't outright rejections. Facing the challenge of last-minute presentations, we'll explore Terri's approach to structure, creativity, and credibility. So join us as we delve into techniques to keep your audience captivated and your presentations impactful.Connect with Terri:Website LinkedIn _____________________________________Connect with Erik:LinkedInFacebook InstagramThreads______________________________________This Podcast is Powered By:DescriptDescript 101CastmagicEcammPodpageRodecaster ProTop Productivity Books ListMake sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome my friend and the producer of the podcast Todd Bushong back to the show for a laid back chat about the state of television streaming, regulating our media diet, and recapturing some of the communal magic of movies and television. With the Oscars airing this Sunday it got me thinking about how incredibly different media consumption is in the age of streaming and I wanted to talk with Todd about that topic as well as offer up some tips and tricks for maximizing your dollar during the current streaming wars.In the episode we delve into the complexities and even stress caused by the modern streaming landscape. We discuss some of the anxiety that I’ve been experiencing about missing out on many of the Oscar nominated films this year and why that anxiety might be more common than I thought. Todd and I explore the concept of media anxiety, which stems from the overwhelming number of choices available on streaming platforms and the social pressure to keep up with popular shows and films, especially during awards season. In addition we examine the consequences of a fragmented media culture and consider how podcasts have stepped in to fill the void of communal discussion about media.Throughout the episode, we hope to offer practical advice on managing streaming services and consumption, aiming to reduce decision fatigue while maximizing your down time. Some tips include using physical media, being intentional about what to watch, and creating a shared viewing experience with others. We discuss personalizing streaming services to suit your preferences, such as using accessibility features on Apple TV, how to incorporate media into your routine in a controlled manner, and how a healthy media diet is similar to healthy meal planning. ________________________________________Related Episodes:Nick Gray on Building Big Relationships with Small Parties or GatheringsKendra Adachi on Prioritizing the Things That MatterRyan McRae on Hygge, Pacing and Rest_________________________________________Connect with Erik:LinkedInFacebook InstagramThreads_________________________________________This Podcast is Powered By:DescriptDescript 101CastmagicEcammPodpageRodecaster ProTop Productivity Books ListMake sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome my friend Jeff Sieh back to the show to continue a chat we recently had surrounding creativity, repurposing, and how AI and technology can help us reach our goals. In the previous portion of this conversation Jeff and I discussed creativity in the context of building your business. This week we pivot to the art of repurposing, remixing, and repackaging your audio, video, or creative content to reach larger untapped audiences or markets. Jeff is an international speaker and visual marketing consultant. He hosts the Social Media News Live show and podcast and is also “Head Beard” at Manly Pinterest Tips. Jeff has worked with and produced a wide range of content for various companies, including Guy Kawasaki, Kim Garst, Social Media Examiner, and Tailwind.In this chat Jeff shares his expertise on repurposing pillar content for different platforms and formats, offering valuable insights into leveraging technology and tools to maximize content reach. From the Amazon Influencer program to the importance of repurposing live content, Jeff and I explore strategies to extend content lifespan and engage diverse audiences. We also discuss the significance of catering to different audience preferences and utilizing tools such as Descript for text-based editing and content analysis. Don't miss out on Jeff’s valuable insights into expanding your reach and growing your brand. _____________________________________Connect with Jeff:Links Descript 101Social Media News Live_____________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Facebook Instagram _____________________________________This podcast is powered by:Descript Podpage CastmagicEcammRodecaster ProTop Productivity Books ListMake sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week it's my privilege to welcome Charles Duhigg to the show for a fascinating and engaging conversion about his brand new book, Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and the author of two previous books, “The Power of Habit” and “Smarter Faster Better.” Charles has been featured on “This American Life,” NPR, “The Colbert Report,” PBS’s “NewsHour,” and “Frontline.”Duhigg, who previously wrote for the New York Times, was part of the team there that won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize in explanatory journalism for “The iEconomy,” a series that examined the global economy through the lens of Apple.In this conversation, Charles shares the power of clear communication, the significance of aligning conversations to better connect, and how the simple act of writing down meeting goals can lead to impactful communication. We explore not just the different types of conversations – practical, emotional, and social – but also the importance of asking deep questions that invite people to reveal their values and beliefs.Whether you're looking to enhance your personal relationships, foster a collaborative team environment, or simply want to become a more effective communicator in a world crowded with communication channels, this episode will help guide you towards more meaningful connections.________________________________________Related Episodes & Fun Intro Link:Charles Duhigg on Peak Productivity and Becoming Smarter, Faster and Better“Darmok” - Star Trek: The Next GenerationConnect with Charles:WebsiteBookTwitterLinkedInConnect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram This Podcast Is Powered By:Descript 101CastmagicEcammPodpageRodecaster ProTop Productivity Books ListMake sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week it’s my privilege to welcome Dr. Charan Ranganath to the show for a fascinating discussion about his new book, Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory's Power to Hold on to What Matters. Charan is a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience and director of the Dynamic Memory Lab at the University of California at Davis. For over 25 years, he has studied the mechanisms in the brain that allow us to remember past events, using brain imaging techniques, computational modeling and studies of patients with memory disorders.In this episode we uncover the malleability of memory and discuss practical strategies for not just remembering more, but remembering better. Charan guides listeners through the science of memory preservation and the critical role of sleep in processing and retaining our experiences, and more importantly turning the memories of those experiences into Charan also discusses the brain's dopaminergic pathways and how intentional distractions can hamper our performance. In addition, we touch upon how lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress can affect our cognitive abilities and explore the concept of error-driven learning—why struggling to recall might actually be good for us. So join us as Charan challenges cultural myths about brain usage and busts the notions of effective multitasking and magic techniques for developing a perfect memory.________________________________________Related Episodes:Jonathan Levi on Learning, Speed Reading and Memory PalacesGretchen Rubin on Discovering How To Live Life In Five Senses________________________________________Connect with Dr. Charan:WebsiteInstagramBookLinkedIn________________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Facebook Instagram and Threads________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week it was my pleasure to welcome Richard Medcalf to the show for a discussion about his book, Making Time for Strategy: How to Be Less Busy and More Successful. Richard describes himself as "what you get if you were to put a McKinsey consultant, a slightly unorthodox pastor and an entrepreneur into a blender". He is the founder of Xquadrant, which helps elite leaders reinvent their 'success formula' and multiply their impact. His personal clients include CEOs of billion-dollar corporations, successful serial entrepreneurs, and the founders of tech 'unicorns'. Richard has advised the C-Suite for over 25 years. After a Masters at Oxford University, where he came top in his year, he joined a premier strategy consultancy and later became the youngest-ever Partner. He then spent 11 years at tech giant Cisco in an elite team reporting to the CEO. In this episode, we uncover the power of strategic leadership, time allocation, and the impact of energizing activities on productivity. Richard shares real client success stories and practical tactics to move beyond mere task management and into deep strategic thinking.In addition, Richard and I explore the pitfalls of being overwhelmed by daily tasks, the transformative power of taking time for rest and reflection, and the shift from task orientation to strategic planning. Richard offers listeners practical insights and actionable tactics to guide you towards more effective time management and lasting success.________________________________________Connect with Richard:WebsiteBookFree Assessment & ResourcesLinkedInTwitter________________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Facebook Instagram and Threads________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome my friend Jeff Sieh back to the show for a great chat about harnessing our creative potential while fostering creative gifts for your business. Jeff is an international speaker and visual marketing consultant. He hosts the Social Media News Live show and podcast and is also “Head Beard” at Manly Pinterest Tips. Jeff has worked with and produced a wide range of content for various companies, including Guy Kawasaki, Kim Garst, Social Media Examiner, and Tailwind.In this conversation Jeff shares his insights on defining creativity in the context of business building and creation. He emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity, cultivating diverse inputs, while also seeking input from others to inspire creativity. Jeff also shares his system for capturing and organizing ideas, using tools like Tiago Forte's Building a Second Brain and the PARA system.To help you stay focused and centered, we also discuss creative rituals, including journaling and using tools like the Pomodoro technique. In addition we delve into the benefits of napping for creativity and productivity, and share tips for effective napping routines. From the significance of humor and laughter in enhancing creativity and productivity to the importance of seeking creative stimulus from various sources, this episode is packed with actionable advice to ignite your creative spark.So, whether you're feeling stuck with ideas or overwhelmed by the multitude of them, Jeff’s insights on trying and failing often, moving quickly with ideas that gain traction, and changing environments to spark creativity will help you break through those barriers.____________________________________Creatives and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Jeff Goins - Real Artists Don't Starve Creativity Inc Duncan Wardle Julia Cameron Artist's DatesMorning Pages Tiago Forte - Building A Second Brain Arriana Huffington - The Sleep Revolution Brain.fm ____________________________________Connect with Jeff:WebsiteSocial Media News LiveInstagramTwitterLinkedIn_____________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram _____________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome Todd Henry back to the show for a really encouraging and informative conversation about his new book, The Brave Habit: A Guide To Courageous Leadership. Todd has been a guest on the show many times lending his wisdom and insights on everything from creativity to motivation. Todd is the founder of Accidental Creative, a company that helps creative people and teams be prolific, brilliant and healthy. He regularly speaks and consults with companies about how to develop practices that lead to everyday brilliance. He is the author of six other books (The Accidental Creative, Die Empty, Louder Than Words, Herding Tigers, The Motivation Code, and Daily Creative), which have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and he speaks and consults across dozens of industries on creativity, leadership, and passion for work.In this episode Todd breaks down the unique distinctions between bravery and heroism, the importance of claiming agency, and the application of the brave habit to daily work and team dynamics. Todd also shares personal insights, including his journey in redefining his 18-year-old business, and highlighting the need for an optimistic vision in uncertain times. We discuss how to cultivate bravery as a daily habit and the process of leading yourself and others boldly into the future. Connect with Todd:WebsiteTodd’s New BookInstagramLinkedIn______________________________________Todd’s Episode on The Daily Practice of Creativity______________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram _______________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome Dave Delaney back to the show for a great conversation about sobriety, living and thriving with ADHD, and helping others to equip themselves with the tools they need to excel. Dave is a recognized leader, consultant and keynote speaker on digital marketing, social media strategy, and business networking. His book, New Business Networking and his Newsletter The Nice Maker are invaluable tools for marketers and anyone working in the social media space. In this episode Dave openly shares his personal experiences and challenges related to his recent ADHD diagnosis at the age of 50, shedding light on the complexities of acknowledging and understanding the impact of the condition as an adult. The conversation revolves around Dave's journey of realization, coping mechanisms, and the potential comorbidities associated with ADHD. Erik also adds his perspective, having been diagnosed with ADHD in 2005, and discusses the difficulties of accepting the diagnosis as an adult.In addition Dave and Erik delve into the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD, including the oft-overlooked aspects of this condition. From the various manifestations of ADHD to the journey of understanding the diagnosis, Erik and Dave share personal experiences and professional insights relating to ADHD. Join us as we explore strategies for coping with overwhelming factors of the condition, the significance of seeking professional help and treatment, and the importance of education and community in navigating life with ADHD.Connect with Dave:WebsiteWise Squirrels BookNewsletter LinkedIn_______________________________________________Additional Resources:Wise Squirrel’s ADHD AssessmentDave’s Beyond The To Do List Appearance on NetworkingDr. Russel BarkleyTamara Rosier______________________________________________Connect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterLinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram ______________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m excited to welcome the show’s producer and editor Todd Bushong for our first ever mailbag episode. I put the call out for questions you the listeners might have about productivity, workflow, or anything Beyond The To-Do List related and you responded. So in this special episode I’m happy to get the chance to dive into your questions and address some of your inquiries about everything from my go-to Ai productivity tool, getting better sleep, knowing when to delegate tasks and so much more. This was a really fun episode for both Todd and I to get the chance to hear from you the listeners about what has been on your mind concerning your productivity and work life. We plan on continuing to feature more mailbags in the near future so if you have any questions you would like to ask simply go to beyondthetodolist.com/contact to submit your questions for a future mailbag episode!Tools and Prior Episodes Mentioned In the Mailbag:CastmagicCastmagic is an AI tool designed to transform audio content into ready-to-use assets. This innovative and powerful tool AI tool is for long-form audio and video content and podcasts. By simply uploading an MP3 file, users can obtain transcripts, notes, summaries, highlights, quotes, social media posts and much more. Great for anyone creating or working with creating materials. Pub Crawl EpisodeNir Eyal - IndestractibleMichael Brues - ChronotypeConnect with Erik:Submit Your Question for the Mailbag EpisodeLinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.