

Traction Heroes
Harry Max & Jorge Arango
Digging in to get results with Harry Max and Jorge Arango
Episodes
Mentioned books

13 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 24min
The Lindy Effect
The hosts explore the concept of the Lindy effect, examining how older technologies often outlive newer ones. They warn about the rise of disposable software created with AI, highlighting its potential lack of longevity. By contrasting transient methods with enduring goals, they emphasize the importance of intentionality in business investments. The discussion also includes how prototypes can evolve into lasting systems and the necessity of designing resilience and redundancy into tech solutions. Senior judgment plays a critical role in determining what should endure.

13 snips
Nov 2, 2025 • 23min
Thresholds of Change
Harry explores a four-stage model for navigating change, emphasizing instigation, liminal, metabolization, and manifestation. The discussion contrasts externally imposed and self-initiated changes, highlighting guideposts for recognizing phase shifts. They delve into the concept of liminality and its impact on identity, referencing Dave Gray's work. Additionally, Harry compares this model to ADKAR and PROSCI, showcasing its human-centered approach. Tips on recognizing subtle signals and improving engagement during change round out this insightful conversation.

10 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 26min
Social Traps
Discover five intriguing social traps that hinder progress, from time-delay traps illustrated by drinking habits to ignorance traps where behaviors backfire over time. The conversation dives into how ordinary and counter traps affect decision-making and the importance of recognizing harmful norms in collective situations. With insights from a transformative book, awareness emerges as a crucial tool for improving choices. Join the hosts as they unpack the mechanisms behind these traps, equipping listeners with practical strategies to navigate them.

Oct 5, 2025 • 30min
Gumption
A reading from a renowned director's memoir sparks an exploration of gumption—a mix of boldness and action vital for success. One host shares a personal story of persuading investors with his chutzpah, revealing insights on whether gumption is innate or can be developed. The discussion highlights how teams can foster boldness through confidence-building strategies. Ultimately, the hosts emphasize that a deep personal connection to one’s work fuels the motivation to take daring actions.

Sep 21, 2025 • 28min
Pruning
Delve into the art of letting go and embracing change. Discover how timely endings can foster reinvention through insightful readings. Explore the psychological traps of inertia and identity that prevent progress. Learn to assess mental models for effective decision-making. It's a thought-provoking look at pruning life's excess for personal and organizational growth.

28 snips
Sep 7, 2025 • 29min
Framing
Jorge and Harry dive into the power of mental models and how shifting them can help you get unstuck. They explore the iceberg model, revealing how surface issues connect to deeper beliefs that shape our decisions. Techniques like scenario planning and precision questioning emerge as tools for clearer communication and better judgments. Through the lens of framing, they discuss how examining our assumptions can lead to transformative insights in both personal and professional contexts.

8 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 27min
The Inner Game
The discussion dives into the concept of being 'in the zone' during athletic competition, where instinct prevails over overthinking. Mental strategies from a classic book reveal how mindset influences performance not just in sports but in everyday life. They explore the flow state in work, emphasizing deep mental engagement for productivity. The connection between mind and body surfaces in driving, with a focus on instinctive responses. Lastly, the nuances of authentic communication in leadership highlight the struggle between overthinking and meaningful connections.

10 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 29min
OODA Loops
Dive into the intriguing mind of military strategist John Boyd and his revolutionary OODA loop. Discover how his ideas extend beyond warfare, influencing effective decision-making in various fields. The importance of ethical considerations in choices is highlighted through classic literature, showcasing the need for moral awareness. Learn how leveraging expert insights can enhance decision-making in complex areas like AI and project management, and understand the role of timing and perception in achieving success.

22 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 24min
AI for Leaders
Explore how AI can enhance leadership by fostering qualities like wisdom and compassion. The discussion dives into the transformative role of technology, urging leaders to adopt a proactive approach. Discover the delicate balance between leveraging automation and maintaining essential human traits. Insightful reflections on personal growth and empathy highlight how effective leadership relies on connecting with both human and AI agents. Delve into the cognitive effects of AI and gain introspective insights on navigating this evolving landscape.

16 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 25min
Authentic Efforts
In a thought-provoking discussion, the speakers delve into the nature of authentic effort and the superficial pitfalls in business. They share personal stories about creative hurdles, likening setbacks to the unpredictable journey of boat-building. The importance of embracing imperfection in creativity is highlighted, along with a dive into identity shifts and internal motivations. Key insights on the value of authentic passions, especially in mastering new skills, reveal a deeper connection between creativity and authenticity.


