

Productivity Gladiator
Productivity Gladiator
Sharing knowledge, hacks, and ideas on work-life balance and personal productivity, and talking to knowledgeable people in those areas.
Episodes
Mentioned books

24 snips
Dec 1, 2024 • 49min
Breaking Your Team's Biggest Success Barrier: 7 Simple Changes - with Maura Thomas
Join productivity expert Maura Thomas, a speaker, trainer, and author specializing in attention management, as she uncovers the hidden barriers to success in team productivity. Maura shares how leaders can unintentionally create chaos through their communication habits. Discover the power of simple changes, like trusting your team's judgment, and why being overly available can hinder rather than help. Learn to prioritize attention management over time management for greater effectiveness and well-being in the workplace.

Oct 30, 2024 • 55min
How Your Purpose Will Multiply Your Productivity - With Stan Phelps
Stan Phelps, a Certified Speaking Professional known for his GoldFish Series of books, dives deep into the relationship between purpose and productivity. He emphasizes the need for alignment between personal and organizational goals to boost productivity. The conversation touches on the significance of warmth in professional relationships and explores generational shifts in workplace values. Phelps also introduces 8 purpose archetypes and offers practical advice for individuals seeking to uncover their own purpose, promoting fulfillment in both work and life.

Sep 24, 2024 • 45min
5 Productivity Hacks We Disagree On - With Eric Girard
This episode features a debate between Brian and Eric Girard. There are 5 productivity hacks that these two disagree on. The discussion includes: tasks written on calendar vs to-do list, planning out every minute of the day on your calendar, wake-up times (early vs. late), meditation, and the use of Amazon Subscribe & Save. Throughout the episode, both participants present their opposing viewpoints. Which side do you agree with? What did they miss or not consider?See the full details and links on the episode's page: https://www.productivitygladiator.com/episodes/5-productivity-hacks-we-disagree-on-with-eric-girard*****************************References In This EpisodeThe 10 day meditation course and challenge Brian referred to from Headspace.Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program information.Chewy’s Autoship program. Eric’s Girard Training Solutions organization, and podcast: Management Development Unlocked*****************************Episode Digest5 Hacks That Divide These ExpertsIn a recent episode of the Productivity Gladiator podcast, host Brian squares off against guest Eric Girard on five contentious productivity hacks. Their lively debate highlights how even seasoned professionals can disagree on best practices. Let's break down their arguments:1. Tasks: On The Calendar vs. On A To-Do ListBrian advocates for keeping tasks on a separate to-do list, arguing that calendars should be reserved for time-specific commitments.Eric prefers putting tasks directly on his calendar, a habit he's maintained since school.Key Debate Points: Scalability, handling timeless tasks, and the risk of losing track of items when they're not completed on schedule.2. Daily Planning: Structured vs. FlexibleEric plans out every hour of his day for maximum efficiency.Brian leaves open space in his schedule, valuing flexibility to handle unexpected tasks or opportunities.The Crux: Does rigid planning boost productivity, or does it create more work through constant rescheduling?3. Wake-Up Times: Early Bird vs. Night OwlEric champions the 5 AM wake-up, embracing the "early bird gets the worm" philosophy.Brian prefers a later start, arguing for the benefits of evening productivity and social life in the evenings.Discussion Point: How do these choices impact work-life balance and overall productivity?4. Meditation: Essential or “Meh”Eric swears by morning meditation to sharpen his mind for the day ahead.Brian finds meditation puts him to sleep, reserving it for those 4 AM can't-sleep moments.The Question: Is meditation a productivity booster or just another task on the to-do list?5. Amazon Subscribe & Save: Convenience or HassleBrian is all-in on Subscribe & Save, praising its convenience and cost savings.Eric prefers on-demand purchasing, wary of accumulating unnecessary items.Core Issue: Does automating purchases save time and money, or lead to waste and clutter?The TakeawayThis debate showcases how personal productivity can be. What works for one expert might be counterproductive for another. As you listen to the episode, consider:• Which side do you lean towards on each topic?• What factors in your life influence these preferences?• Are there additional perspectives or nuances the hosts might have overlooked?Remember, the hosts are coming at these perspectives having tried both sides and developed their opinion. The best productivity system is the one that works for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and adapt these strategies to fit your unique needs and lifestyle.Chapters— Introduction— The Calendar vs. To-Do List Debate— Planning Every Hour vs. Leaving Open Space— Early Riser vs. Late Riser: Workout Preferences— Meditation: A Tool for Focus or Sleep?— Amazon Subscribe and Save: Convenience or Clutter?****************************************Today’s GuestERIC GIRARDCEO, GIRARD TRAINING SOLUTIONSEric Girard has over 30 years of experience helping improve the performance of managers and employees. He specializes in the development of new managers, focusing on their successful transition to their new role and on their team management skills. He has a high-energy and engaging facilitation style.Eric is a passionate, lifelong learner. As a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, he is pursuing the rating of Master Scuba Diver Trainer. When not designing or delivering training, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and twin 14-year-old daughters.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ericpgirard Instagram: instagram.com/eric.p.girardWebsite: girardtrainingsolutions.com Podcast: girardtrainingsolutions.com/podcast **************************************************Why Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares separate hacks, tips, and actionable learning exclusively for his email subscribers. Sign up so you don’t miss out!About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a leader at all levels, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. Graduates wield time management & life balance superpowers, activate a laser-guided ability to focus & prioritize, and implement a sniper-precise approach to task & email management. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.

33 snips
Sep 3, 2024 • 48min
Beat Interruption Overload, Your Hidden Productivity Killer - With Joel MacCharles
Joel MacCharles, a TEDx speaker and four-time best-selling author, shares his insights on tackling interruption overload. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing distractions and adopting proactive strategies to enhance focus. Joel and Brian discuss the effectiveness of using focus modes on devices and the necessity of managing email interruptions. They also highlight the value of focus music and structured communication to boost workplace productivity, ultimately stressing that small acts can make a significant impact on our collective efficiency.

Aug 5, 2024 • 55min
Tactics For Managing People Older Than You - with Ann Kerian
Ann Kerian, an author, executive coach, & consultant joined Brian for a candid discussion on managing older employees. The episode is full of practical tips and personal insights. Brian and Ann explore strategies for building respect across generations, avoiding common pitfalls, and leveraging diverse strengths in the workplace. It's a must-listen for leaders who, whether formally or informally, lead team members that are older than them.See the full details and links on the episode's page:https://www.productivitygladiator.com/episodes/tactics-for-managing-people-older-than-you-with-ann-kerian*****************************References In This EpisodeThe 5 generations in the workforce now:Traditionalists-born 1925 to 1945.Baby Boomers-born 1946 to 1964.Generation X-born 1965 to 1980.Millennials-born 1981 to 2000.Generation Z-born 2001 to 2020.The link to the 1st episode where Brian shared the story behind “learning by committee” at the 1-minute mark.AnnKerian.com*****************************Episode DigestIn today's diverse workplace, it's increasingly common for younger professionals to find themselves leading teams that include older, more experienced colleagues. This dynamic can present unique challenges, but also offers valuable opportunities for growth and collaboration. Let's explore some key strategies for effectively managing across generations, with a focus on how younger leaders can navigate these relationships successfully.Building a Foundation of Respect and CommunicationThe cornerstone of any successful leadership approach, regardless of age differences, is establishing a foundation of mutual respect and open communication. When stepping into a leadership role where you're managing older team members, it's crucial to start by acknowledging the wealth of experience and knowledge they bring to the table.One effective approach is to schedule one-on-one meetings with each team member early on. Use these meetings to:1. Learn about their career goals and aspirations2. Understand their strengths and preferred working styles3. Ask about their past experiences and what they've learned4. Inquire about any concerns or challenges they foreseeBy taking this proactive step, you're demonstrating respect for their experience while also setting the stage for open, ongoing communication. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.Leveraging Strengths and ExperienceA key insight for younger managers is to recognize and leverage the strengths of older team members. Rather than focusing on potential technology gaps or differences in working styles, look for ways to utilize their deep industry knowledge, refined problem-solving skills, and established professional networks.Consider implementing a reverse mentoring program, where younger and older employees can learn from each other. This approach not only helps bridge generational gaps but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and mutual respect.Implement a "strength-spotting" exercise within your team. Have each member identify and share their top skills and areas of expertise. Use this information to inform project assignments and team collaborations. This is especially effective in situations where you’re leading a project but do not have any formal authority over the people you’re leading, such as a project manager.Navigating Technology and ChangeOne common challenge in managing older team members is addressing potential technology gaps. It's important to approach this sensitively and avoid making assumptions about an individual's tech skills based on their age.When introducing new technologies or processes:1. Provide comprehensive training for all team members, regardless of age2. Offer multiple learning formats (e.g., written guides, video tutorials, hands-on workshops)3. Create a supportive environment where questions are encouraged4. Pair tech-savvy team members with those who may need extra supportRemember, resistance to new technologies often stems from a lack of confidence rather than inability. By providing adequate support and emphasizing the benefits of new tools, you can help all team members embrace change."Don't just expect me to go home and read a book and do it because I might learn better if I come in and I hear somebody or I might learn better by watching. So keep in mind that not only are you teaching people who are older, but you're teaching people who are different in learning styles."Avoiding Age-Based AssumptionsOne of the most critical aspects of managing across generations is avoiding age-based stereotypes and assumptions. This applies to both older and younger team members. Resist the urge to categorize individuals based on their generational cohort, and instead focus on each person's unique skills, experiences, and working preferences.Actionable Takeaway: Create a "working preferences" document for your team. Have each member outline their preferred communication methods, working hours, feedback style, and other relevant preferences. Share this document team-wide to promote understanding and effective collaboration.Establishing Authority Without Overemphasizing PositionFor younger managers, it can be tempting to frequently assert your position to establish authority. However, this approach often backfires, creating resentment rather than respect. Instead, focus on demonstrating your leadership through actions:1. Be consistent in your decision-making2. Follow through on commitments3. Admit when you don't know something and seek input from the team4. Give credit where it's due and publicly acknowledge team members' contributionsRemember, your team already knows you're the manager. Your goal should be to earn their respect through your actions and decisions, not by constantly reminding them of your title.Notable Quote: "If you are somebody that has to announce yourself, then you don't have the kind of respect that you probably need to be in that position."Embracing Continuous LearningAs a younger leader managing older team members, it's essential to maintain a growth mindset and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning. This not only helps you develop as a leader but also sets a positive example for your team.Seek out mentorship opportunities, both within and outside your organization. Don't be afraid to ask for advice or guidance from more experienced colleagues, including those you manage. This demonstrates humility and a genuine desire to grow, which can earn you respect from team members of all ages.Notable Quote: "I'm not coming to you as somebody who knows everything and how to treat people. Because a lot of times it was me who wasn't either treating people well or being treated well."A Unique Challenge, And A Tremendous OpportunityManaging across generations presents unique challenges, but it also offers tremendous opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration. By focusing on open communication, mutual respect, and leveraging diverse strengths, younger leaders can successfully navigate these dynamics and build high-performing, cohesive teams.Remember, effective leadership transcends age. It's about creating an environment where all team members feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their best work. By implementing the strategies discussed here and maintaining a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, you can thrive as a leader, regardless of the age dynamics within your team.****************************************Today’s GuestAnn KerianAuthor, Executive Coach & ConsultantAnn's 15 years of experience as a television anchor led her on to a career offering consulting, motivational speaking, authoring, fundraising, recruiting, and coaching services. A member of the National Speakers Association and International Coach Federation, Ann provides individual and group coaching as an executive and life coach. She has worked at KWWL-TV in Iowa, WEAR-TV in Florida, and WCTI-TV in North Carolina, handling significant roles such as co-anchoring and covering military affairs and health stories. Ann is recognized as one of Cedar Valley's top 20 under 40 business leaders and has served on multiple advisory boards and committees. She currently consults for Mile Bluff Medical Center, manages talent acquisition for Straight Forward, and produces internal PR videos for John Deere. Ann co-authored “Mastering the Art of Success” with prominent authors.Website: annkerian.comFacebook: facebook.com/annkerianllcLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ann-kerian-0626104**************************************************Why Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares separate hacks, tips, and actionable learning exclusively for his email subscribers. Sign up so you don’t miss out!About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a senior project manager, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. These Gladiators wield email management superpowers, a laser-guided ability to focus, samurai-grade prioritization skills, a sniper-precise task tracking approach, Jedi time management skills, and a secret sauce for maximizing their personal life balance. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.

Jul 7, 2024 • 34min
Life Balance: The Blueprint You've Been Missing
In this episode, Brian unveils the Gladiator Life Balance Blueprint, the piece of the puzzle you’ve been missing. The 5-Pointed Star represents your balance, and you’ll want to plan how brightly your star GLOWS - Growth, Love and relationships, Others, Work, and Self (GLOWS). Brian provides a full collection of practical tips advice on implementing this blueprint as well. You’ll want to dive into these, whether you're deeply struggling with life balance or simply looking for a few ways to tune yours up.See the full details and links on the episode's page: https://www.productivitygladiator.com/episodes/life-balance-the-blueprint-youve-been-missing********************Links to References In This EpisodeAuthor: Victor Frankl. — Title: Man’s Search For MeaningTraining for yourself individually that you can begin right now through the Productivity Gladiator Signature MembershipTraining for your team at work:The full curriculum as a part of The Productivity Gladiator MasterclassOne-off workshops to level up the team’s productivity in one area.***********************************Episode DigestThe Gladiator Life Balance Blueprint: Architecting Your Best Work-Life BalanceIn today's fast-paced world, achieving a healthy work-life balance can seem like an elusive goal. Many of us find ourselves constantly juggling various responsibilities, often feeling overwhelmed and unfulfilled. However, there's a powerful tool that can help you take control of your life and create the balance you've been seeking: the Gladiator Life Balance Blueprint.This comprehensive approach is built on the shape of a star. Your job is to remember that balance is based on how brightly your life GLOWS:GrowthLove and relationshipsOthers (something bigger than you)WorkSelfBy focusing on these five areas, you can create a well-rounded, fulfilling life that aligns with your values and goals.Let's break down each category and explore how you can implement them in your life:GrowthThis category encompasses all the ways you're trying to grow and evolve as a person, both personally and professionally. Challenge yourself to have an equal number of personal and professional growth goals. Examples might include learning a new language, taking dance classes, or exploring new places in your town.Love and RelationshipsThis category covers three main areas: love life, friends, and family. It's crucial to nurture these relationships regularly. A key insight is that at least two of these areas should involve in-person interactions each week. Virtual connections are valuable but should be supplemented with occasional face-to-face meetings.Others (Something Bigger Than You)This category focuses on activities where the primary beneficiary is someone other than yourself, AND you're not doing it for money. Examples include volunteering, coaching a community sports team, or contributing to a cause you care about. These activities help you connect with your community and give your life a sense of purpose beyond yourself, which is a huge leveling agent in your feelings of balance.WorkWhile work is an important part of life, it's just one piece of the puzzle. In this category, focus on two to three significant career goals you're working towards, rather than day-to-day tasks. These should be ways you're growing and evolving in your professional life, and should not be things that already appear in your job description.SelfThis category is all about taking care of of YOU, personally. It includes physical aspects (sleep, fitness, diet), mental well-being (meditation, journaling, downtime), spiritual needs, and fun activities or hobbies that bring you joy.Implementing Your BlueprintCreating your blueprint is just the first step. The real magic happens when you put it into action. Here's how to implement your Gladiator Life Balance Blueprint:Plan your week in advance. Aim to do this on Thursday afternoons, looking ahead at the next 10 days.For each item in your categories, identify the "one next thing" you can do this week to move forward.Block time on your calendar for at least one item from each category every week.Review and adjust your blueprint regularly. It's a living document that should evolve with you.Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way.If you're feeling overwhelmed, look for ways to combine activities that fulfill multiple categories.Remember, this blueprint is about importance, not the number of hours spent on each category. It's about making your journey fulfilling, not just reaching end goals.Key Takeaways and Notable Quotes"90% of your life is the journey. This exercise sets you up to enjoy the journey along the way.""Mental health is based on a certain degree of tension... the gap between what one is and what one should become." - Viktor FranklCompete with yourself, not others. Focus on your own growth and progress. Social Media WILL NOT provide a fair comparison.Don't overbook yourself. If necessary, look for activities that fulfill multiple categories simultaneously."Everyone's got a plan until they get punched in the mouth." - Mike Tyson. Life will throw curveballs, but the key is to keep planning and getting back on track.This blueprint works for all stages of life, with minor modifications for students or retirees.Having a demanding job is not an excuse to neglect other areas of your life. Start each week with a plan to hit all categories.If a category feels empty, do some soul-searching to find ways to fulfill it.Your blueprint should have contain enough across all categories to feel pushed each week, but still be achievable.Your categories and goals can evolve over time. Don't be afraid to adjust your blueprint as your life changes.Remember, the goal is not to achieve perfect balance every day or week, but to ensure that you're nurturing all important aspects of your life regularly. This approach allows for flexibility while keeping you accountable to your overall life goals.As you implement this blueprint, be patient with yourself. It may take time to find the right balance for you, and that balance may shift as your life circumstances change. The key is to stay conscious of all five areas and make consistent efforts to nurture each one.So, are you ready to become the architect of your best work-life balance? Start creating your Gladiator Life Balance Blueprint today, and take the first step towards a more fulfilling, well-rounded life.***************************************************Why Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares the most with his email subscribers and even connects directly from time to time. Sign up to get the most from Productivity Gladiator! About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a senior project manager, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. Graduates of Productivity Gladiator training wield time management & life balance superpowers, activate a laser-guided ability to focus & prioritize, and implement a sniper-precise approach to task & email management. If what you’ve seen or heard here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.

Jun 10, 2024 • 51min
Tips You Missed On Successfully Starting Something New - with Dr. Amanda Crowell
Dr. Amanda Crowell, a cognitive psychologist and author of "Great Work," shares her insights on starting new ventures. She discusses mental blocks that often hold us back, emphasizing that our internal narratives can create fear of judgment. Crowell advocates for personalized strategies to enhance productivity and encourages starting small to overcome barriers. Her perspective on healthy leadership highlights the importance of open communication and recognizing limits to prevent burnout. This engaging conversation offers practical tips for navigating personal growth and embracing change.

May 20, 2024 • 23min
Email Overload? No More! Reclaim Your Inbox With These Underutilized Hacks & Tactics
Drowning in emails? This is your life raft. Discover the shockingly simple 4D system for inbox mastery and the little-known hacks top performers use to never miss an important email and stay on top of tasks. Listen now, so you can close your inbox with confidence.See the full details and links on the episode's page: https://www.productivitygladiator.com/episodes/email-overload-no-more-reclaim-your-inbox-with-these-underutilized-hacks-tactics********************Links to References In This Episode—The “Done With You” Email course Brian mentioned, is available as part of the Productivity Gladiator monthly membership. It’s like a monthly Starbucks for your professional development. This special introductory offer will never be available again. By getting in now you’ll be grandfathered in to all of the future upgrades, content, and tiers.***********************************Episode DigestReclaim Your Inbox!Email is the biggest productivity drain of the modern workforce. We're all drowning in a never-ending deluge of messages, requests, and digital noise clogging our inboxes. But what if there was a simple way to cut through the chaos and achieve the mythical "inbox zero"?The answer lies in adopting a systematic approach to email management. By implementing a few core principles and key strategies, you can kiss inbox overwhelm goodbye and operate from a distraction-free zone of productivity.The Necessity of Inbox ZeroWhile some argue that an empty inbox is optional, the reality is quite different. As the anecdote about the overflowing maintenance inbox illustrates, an unprocessed inbox is a leading indicator of dropping balls and missing commitments:"If you don't have a really well developed system and you don't get to zero emails in your inbox once a day, I've got a system for you...Because if you're bad at email, then you're probably also bad at coming through on things that I ask you for and taking care of things on your to-do list."Top performers excel at email processing precisely because it's the gateway habit to responsiveness and accountability on all fronts. Aiming for "just a few" emails is settling for subpar follow-through.The 4D System: One Core Underlying ProcessAt its core, mastering email demands implementing a simple 4-step decision matrix for every single message that hits your inbox:Deal with it - If it can be done in under 2 minutes, respond immediately and archive.Delegate it - If it's someone else's responsibility, forward accordingly with a follow-up reminder for yourself if needed.Defer it - If it requires longer action, capture it in a task list or snooze it, then remove it from your inbox.Delete it - If it provides no further value, delete or archive it."You have to delete or archive it out of your inbox once you reviewed it and there's nothing left to do with it."Processing each email through this consistent 4D workflow is the golden key to inbox zero. Coupled with a cadence of tackling your inbox in bursts 3-4 times per day, your backlog will rapidly become a fading memory.5 Turbo-Charged Email HacksOf course, true email mastery extends beyond the 4D method alone. Here are 5 powerful email-optimizing tips from the pros:Send & Archive Button - Configure a shortcut to simultaneously send your reply and archive the original thread from your inbox.Schedule Send - Delay email delivery for optimal sending windows to boost response rates and avoid training recipients to expect 24/7 availability.Snooze Emails - Leverage snooze functions to temporarily remove emails requiring future action until the appropriate date/time.Use Templates - Create saved templates for frequently sent messages to streamline composing.Close Your Inbox - Also disable notifications. You want that inbox CLOSED until you choose to open it later."I want nothing. Close your email. And if you're really bad about this, I can already say this is probably gonna be like trying to quit cigarettes."The Bottom LineFor too long, we've labored under the false belief that digging out from inbox insanity is an epic, endless struggle. But as you can see here, a simple shift in mindset and habits is all it takes to permanently shed that productivity succubus.No more opening your email app with dread, scrambling to catch up on a backlog spanning weeks or months. Just a pristine, zen-like inbox awaiting your orders each morning. That's the power of inbox zero - reclaiming control over your priorities and attention. It's time to rise as the email ninja you were born to become.CAN I TEACH YOU EMAIL, THE RIGHT WAY?This episode was full of great information, and is only about a third of the lessons and information I teach you in the Email Course! It’s a part of the Productivity Gladiator Membership. I’ll share my screen, give you visuals, and walk you through the information I’m teaching.There’s so much more included too! The new monthly membership is like a monthly Starbucks for your professional development. This special introductory offer will never be available again, come join now, and you’ll be grandfathered in to all the future content, tiers, & enhancements.*******************************************************Why Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares hacks and tips exclusively for his email subscribers. As more opportunities come up with the membership, you’ll be the first to know about these news courses and areas of education. Sign up to start receiving these tips!About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a senior project manager, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. Graduates of Productivity Gladiator training wield time management & life balance superpowers, activate a laser-guided ability to focus & prioritize, and implement a sniper-precise approach to task & email management. If what you’ve seen or heard here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.

Apr 18, 2024 • 51min
The Difference Between Good vs. GREAT Leaders: A Deep Dive - with Sara Canaday
Leadership strategist Sara Canaday joins Brian and shares insights on the key differences that turn a good leader into a great one. Unlike vague general leadership training, this conversation is specific for a change, delving into what a good leader and a great leader would do in the same situation, to unlock their team's potential and become truly memorable leaders.See the full details and links on the episode's page: the-difference-between-good-vs-great-leaders-a-deep-dive-with-sara-canaday*****************************Links to References In This EpisodeSara Canaday’s LinkedIn ProfileSubscribe to Sara’s NewsletterSara’s Courses on LinkedIn LearningBook Brian mentioned, Strengths Based Leadership*****************************Episode DigestWe all know the basics of good leadership - meeting targets, maintaining an efficient team, delivering results. But what propels a leader from merely good to truly great? What’s gives them the elusive "X-factor" that inspires unwavering loyalty and leaves a lasting legacy. Sara and Brian dove in.Great leaders educate rather than just inform."It's one thing to just pass on information, but a great leader actually brings that vision to life."Actionable Takeaway: Use creative methods like props, analogies, visuals, and stories to make ideas tangible and relatable when communicating with your team. Don't just relay information - vividly illustrate the "why" behind decisions and initiatives.A great leader is a talent cultivator, not just a task distributer."A great leader actually matches those team members with the skills that they're not only good at, but that inspire them."Actionable Takeaway: Have one-on-one conversations to understand each person's unique interests and motivations. Then deliberately assign projects and responsibilities that leverage their strengths while providing growth opportunities in areas of passion.Foster an environment of open dialogue and critical thinking."What are we missing here?" "What would make you more comfortable with this strategy?"Actionable Takeaway: Resist providing just the answers. Ask thought-provoking questions that challenge assumptions and invite diverse perspectives. Make your team meetings a psychologically safe space for candid input.Be a connector and developer of people."A great leader is so well connected themselves. They've worked hard enough on their own network that they can now share it with you."Actionable Takeaway: Actively connect your team members with other experts, mentors, training opportunities and experiences that can accelerate their professional growth and career aspirations. Share your own networks liberally.Display entrepreneurial spirit and vision."They're asking questions on a broader scale...Why do we always do it this way? What if we stopped doing this altogether?"Actionable Takeaway: Don't just maintain the status quo. Challenge existing processes and ways of thinking, and provide potential alternatives. Inspire your team by posing bold "what if" questions that spark innovation and positive disruption.Be situationally fluent and highly self-aware."Can they read the room? Can they sense that they're going a little too much in the weeds? Can they sense the conversation needs levity?"Actionable Takeaway: Continuously work on developing emotional intelligence. During meetings and interactions, make it a habit to pause, read verbal and non-verbal cues, and adjust your style and approach as needed to optimally connect with your audience.The path to great leadership is challenging but rewarding. It requires a steadfast commitment to inspiring and developing others rather than just completing tasks and hitting numbers. By embodying these qualities, you become a leader who doesn't just meet expectations, but one who leaves a lasting impact on your teams and your organization.The choice is yours - strive for good or strive for great? Embrace these strategies to unlock your ultimate leadership potential.****************************************Today’s GuestSara CanadayLeadership Strategist, Speaker, and Award-Winning AuthorSara Canaday is a leadership consultant, speaker and author who helps companies maximize the contributions of their leaders and high potentials for bottom-line impact. Drawing on 13 years of corporate experience, Sara has a unique gift for connecting with her clients and ensuring they walk away with actionable strategies for positive change -- strengthening leadership skills, improving business relationships, and enhancing performance. Sara is a member of the National Speakers Association and a by-invitation only leadership instructor for LinkedIn Learning. She has been featured in a number of publications, most notably Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal.Sara is the author of three books, You – According to Them: Uncovering the blind spots that impact your reputation and your career, the award-winning book, Leadership Unchained: Defy Conventional Wisdom for Breakthrough Performance, and her latest book, Essential Coaching Skills for Managers: The Tools You Need to Ignite Greatness in Each Employee.Website: saracanaday.com Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/saracanaday *******************************************************Why Subscribe To The Email List: Brian does special events and shares hacks and tips exclusively for his email subscribers. Topics like “13 alternatives to checking social media on your phone” or “2 email rules which will cut your email inbox in half” and more. Sign up to start receiving the tips from these exclusive events! About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a senior project manager, I now help others to level-up through my Productivity Gladiator training. These Gladiators wield email management superpowers, a laser-guided ability to focus, samurai-grade prioritization skills, a sniper-precise task tracking approach, Jedi time management skills, and a secret sauce for maximizing their personal life balance. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.

4 snips
Apr 8, 2024 • 24min
AI Productivity Hacks: 14 Game-Changing Prompts to Transform Your Work & Life
Discover 14 innovative ways to harness generative AI to elevate your productivity at work and home. Learn how AI can analyze data, summarize contracts, and even add humor to your speeches. Brian shares practical examples that demonstrate AI as your 'brilliant intern.' He also introduces a new membership course for hands-on learning in these skills. Embrace the future of productivity and make AI work for you!