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

This week I was excited to welcome Charlie Gilkey back to the show to talk about his latest book, Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results. Charlie has been on the show before to discuss his previous book Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done. He is the founder of Productive Flourishing, a company that helps professional creatives, leaders, and changemakers take meaningful action on work that matters. He is internationally known as a thought leader on productivity, planning, strategy, and leadership for creative people. Charlie is also the author of The Small Business Life Cycle, and is widely cited in outlets such as Inc., Time, Forbes, the Guardian, Lifehacker, and more. He’s also an Army veteran and near-PhD in philosophy.In this conversation, Charlie shares his insights on the power of teamwork and discusses his new book, presenting a fresh perspective on improving team productivity. We discuss the importance of team dynamics to overcome challenges and mistakes addressing the significance of individual and team communication habits in enhancing productivity and performance. We also discuss the impact that small issues can have within a team, highlighting the downstream effects of broken systems on morale and camaraderie. Charlie points out the impact of adding new team members and the need to focus on improving team habits rather than changing individual team members.This is a great talk for anyone who may be struggling to find practical strategies for creating a better working environment. We discuss finding ways to improve team meetings and addressing small problems that lead to inefficiencies while also focusing on how we can be more humane and understanding with our co-workers while continuing to maintain high standards. As we head into the New Year this chat and of course Charlie’s book are great guides to get teams thinking about better communication, improved habits, and most importantly more enjoyable and productive work days in 2024. Connect with Charlie:Better Team HabitsProductive FlourishingCharlie’s Previous EpisodeBookLinkedInTwitterConnect with Erik:Sign Up For Our NewsletterSubmit a Question For Our 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.

This week I was excited to speak with Gillian Tietz. Gillian is a biochemist, educator, and entrepreneur who, after struggling with alcohol moderation, found productivity and success in sobriety. Gillian is the host of the Sober Powered Podcast and works as a biochemist in the Boston area. When she quit drinking in 2019, she dedicated herself to learning about alcohol's influence on the brain and how it can cause addiction.In this episode, Gillian shares her personal journey of realizing the negative impact of drinking on her productivity and confidence, and how sobriety has led to numerous accomplishments. The conversation explores the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol, the importance of self-awareness, and the potential benefits of taking breaks from both alcohol and caffeine. Gillian also shares resources for those interested in exploring sobriety further while breaking down the benefits and drawbacks of the popular “Dry January” craze that has become extremely popular amongst young professionals. The episode concludes with Gillian and I reflecting on personal habits and making informed decisions for a healthier future. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Gillian:Website PodcastInstagram LinkedIn 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 was excited to speak with Josefine Campbell about her new book, Power Barometer: How to Manage Personal Energy for Business Success. Josefine is the founder of Campbell Co, a top leadership consulting firm for multinational companies. Campbell inspires and coaches leaders, teams, and talents in large organizations such as McDonald's, Deloitte, Maersk, Novo Nordisk, and Carlsberg Group. Her approach combines the practical and the pragmatic. A four-time jiu-jitsu champion, she is particularly interested in developing personal leadership in difficult circumstances, such as is often the case in modern work life.Throughout this episode we delve into several key topics, including the innovative "Power Parameter" check-in, the normalization of energy awareness in the workplace, and the practical application of the "awareness matrix" for effective energy management. This conversation promises to offer expert insights, actionable strategies, and tools to revolutionize your approach to productivity through personalized energy management. This time of year can be particularly challenging when it comes to managing our energy levels! Josefine and her book offer an array of insights on how we can not only be more aware of our personal energy management load but also how leaders can design and implement more energy efficient meetings and workplaces to both increase productivity and balance work loads. This is the perfect episode for anyone who is struggling to get their energy levels balanced while also looking for tips and strategies for developing a healthier and more transparent workplace both in the office and remotely.Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Josefine:WebsiteBookLinkedInConnect 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 it was my privilege to welcome Susan Drumm for a conversation about her new book, The Leader’s Playlist: Unleash the Power of Music and Neuroscience to Transform Your Leadership and Your Life. In this episode Susan unveils the groundbreaking process that outlines how our childhood wounds show up in our ability to lead others and how music can heal those wounds. Maybe you’re having a hard time retaining or engaging your people, or perhaps you’re feeling burnout or can’t delegate or trust your team to deliver. These problems and other leadership challenges can be addressed by shifting how you show up as a leader, and music is the catalyst.Susan also shares her incredible insights on the powerful connection between music, neuroscience, leadership, and personal development. She has mastered the art of pattern recognition and has developed a unique process that harnesses the transformative power of music to help leaders break free from unproductive patterns and thrive in their businesses. In addition Susan reveals how music primes the brain for change, the impact of music on emotions and thought patterns, and even shares her personal journey of using music to shift her own mindset. Susan takes us through step-by-step instructions on creating an empowered playlist and offers valuable tips for leaders looking to ignite positive change within themselves and their teams. Join us as we dive deep into the world of music and its untapped potential to create profound change. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Susan:WebsiteBookLeadership QuizLinkedIn________________________________________Erik’s Guest Appearance on the Enhance Your Life With Music Podcast________________________________________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 was excited to speak with Marc Lesser. Marc is a renowned speaker, facilitator, workshop leader, and executive coach. He specializes in integrating mindfulness and emotional intelligence into his presentations and training sessions. Marc is the author of five books, including his latest Finding Clarity: How Compassionate Accountability Builds Vibrant Relationships, Thriving Workplaces, and Meaningful Lives. He serves as the CEO of ZBA Associates, a firm focused on executive development and leadership consulting. His podcast, Zen Bones: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, offers insightful interviews and mindfulness practices aimed at personal development and organizational influence.Marc is here to share his wisdom and insights on the power of communication, compassion, and accountability in our lives and work. He challenges us to question our assumptions, engage in difficult conversations, and create both a work and personal culture that fosters both compassion and truth. From his experience in running a Zen monastery kitchen to working with Google engineers, Marc has a unique perspective on leadership, emotional intelligence, and the importance of listening.This was a really insightful conversation about how to both reclaim agency in the workplace and how we can begin asking the hard questions of ourselves and our employers. If you or anyone you know has been struggling with finding a degree of clarity and accountability at work or in your personal life this episode offers immense insights and reflections on how you can begin to start that process and start feeling more empowered while finding deeper meaning and agency in your life. Check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Marc:Website BookPodcastLinkedin Twitter Facebook Instagram 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 bring you a conversation I had with William Vanerbloemen. William is the CEO and founder of Vanerbloemen a leading executive search firm that serves teams with a greater purpose by aligning their people solutions for growth through executive search, compensation, succession, and diversity consulting. William is also the author of Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest. In this conversation he unveils the surprising and learnable skills that make individuals shine. These habits form a roadmap for developing the sought-after abilities that are consistent among the most talented individuals. "Be the Unicorn" symbolizes the unique and standout qualities discussed in the book, offering a field guide for those looking to level up. In addition William sheds light on the importance of self-awareness as the starting point in the journey of personal development while stressing the ongoing nature of self-awareness and its relevance in job interviews, productivity mastery, and personal development. We also touch on the impact of AI on the job market, emphasizing how human skills will continue to be crucial, outlasting any innovations or technology on the horizon. William highlights the enduring value of human touch in the workplace, making a compelling case for the learning and nurturing of soft skills. Whether you're navigating a job interview, striving for personal growth, or aiming to stand out from the crowd, this episode offers invaluable wisdom for your journey.Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with William:Website Book ResourcesLinkedin Twitter Instagram 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 was excited to welcome Nick Gray for a really fun conversation about how hosting small parties and gatherings can open the doors for so many networking and business relationships in fun and unexpected ways. Nick is the author of the new book The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings. Nick is a renowned party host and the mastermind behind countless successful gatherings. He believes that hosting parties is a powerful way to bring people together from different backgrounds and foster networking opportunities. In our conversation Nick shares his expertise on structuring events, organizing icebreaker activities, and encouraging networking.Nick also reveals the formula and structure he employs to attract diverse attendees and create an environment for engaging conversations. Many people feel the need to have a specific purpose for hosting a party, but Gray asserts that the act of hosting itself is reason enough. And you might be surprised by just how many people are excited to attend! By following his comprehensive N.I.C.K. Party system you'll gain the confidence to engage and participate effectively. In addition Nick challenges the notion that you need to venture outside your home to reap the benefits of networking and socializing. Whether you identify as an introvert or an extrovert, he stresses the importance of human connection and networking for personal and career growth. So let’s explore different types of parties as a starting point for meaningful possibilities and conversations. From casual meetups to more specialized themed events, discover how hosting can open doors and lead to unexpected opportunities.Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Nick: Website Linkedin Twitter Instagram Helpful Tips for Your Party:How to Introduce Two People via Email: Sample Scripts9 Career Day Speech and Presentation IdeasParty Times: Start, End, & Best TimesIcebreaker Name Tags: Examples and How to Do It RIGHTHow to Host an Event: Parties & NetworkingWhere to Throw a Party? Ideas and Venues for 2023Icebreaker Activities for Your Next EventFriendship Recession Website7 Small Trade Show Booth Ideas for 2023Connect 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 share my conversation with Joey Coleman. Joey is a renowned customer experience expert who has spent over 20 years in the field, helping organizations create remarkable customer and employee experiences. He is the author of the new book, Never Lose An Employee Again: The Simple Path to Remarkable Retention. In addition Joey is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Never Lose a Customer Again. An award-winning speaker at national and international conferences, Joey specializes in creating unique, attention-grabbing experiences. His First 100 Days methodology helps fuel the successful employee and customer experiences he delivers clients around the world.In this episode, Joey and I dive deep into the crucial first 100 days of a new job, exploring the importance of making a positive first impression, aligning the employee journey with his eight crucial phases, and the impact of remote work on the onboarding process. We also explore how organizations can avoid information overload and excessive speed in the onboarding process, the interconnectedness of customer and employee experiences, and why it's crucial for organizations to prioritize both.In conclusion Joey shares some key strategies and techniques to create meaningful remote onboarding experiences, ensuring that new employees feel affirmed and connected even when they're not physically present in the office. This is a great episode for both employees and employers alike as it addresses many of the key friction points that arise within that dynamic and how to address them quickly and compassionately within your business or organization.Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Joey: WebsiteBookLinkedinTwitterConnect 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 was excited to speak with Todd Rogers about the new book that he co-authored with Jessica Lasky, Writing for Busy Readers: Communicate More Effectively in the Real World. Todd is a professor of public policy at Harvard University, where he has won teaching awards for the past seven consecutive years. He is a behavioral scientist and cofounder of the Analyst Institute and EveryDay Labs. His opinion pieces have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and Politico, among others. In this conversation, we delve into the importance of making writing more accessible and reader-friendly in our fast-paced and busy lives. Todd illustrates the six scientific and common sense principles behind more effective, concise, and readable writing. Drawing inspiration from user design thinking, Todd also challenges the traditional notion that it's solely the reader's responsibility to extract information from the text. Instead, he emphasizes the writer's role in making content accessible and reader-friendly, shifting the burden away from the audience. The principle of "less is more" takes center stage in this chat as we explore how using fewer words and simplifying content can lead to more effective communication. We also address the vital importance of editing with the purpose of making writing easier for the reader, more effective, kinder, and more accessible. In closing Todd addresses the ways that we can use tools such as ChatGPT and AI software to become better editors and content creators. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Todd:WebsiteLinkedinTwitterGrab Todd and Jessica’s BookWriting For Busy Readers AI ToolThe Reading Ease CalculatorConnect 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 share with you a conversation I had with Mindy Peterson on her podcast Enhance Life with Music. Mindy is a kindred spirit who examines and explores the power of music in our everyday lives. She is passionate about exploring how music impacts our psychology, productivity, and well-being. Whether you consider yourself a musician or just a music fan, the fact remains that music is all around us and most of us have deep and dare I say spiritual connections with the magic of Rock, Pop, Rap, Classical Music, Jazz, Country, or any of the infinite genres of music.This episode is clearly personal for me as music has been, and continues to be an incredibly powerful part of my life. Mindy and I dive into the transformative power of songs, bands, and the joyful ways that in its many incarnations, music has enriched our lives in ways that are both productive and stress-reducing. We discuss how different styles of music can impact our brain activity, productivity, stress management, and creativity. Throughout our conversation, Mindy also unpacks the importance of self-awareness in selecting the right type of music based on mood, motivation, and setting, and how it can reset our minds and help us accomplish tasks more effectively and efficiently.  Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show!Connect with Mindy: Website  Podcast Linkedin  Twitter  Instagram  Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter Brian.fm Facebook  LinkedIn  Twitter  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.