Anne-Laure Le Cunff Talks About Tiny Experiments And Sustainable Productivity A Productive Conversation podcast

35:36

When you gain agency over your time—whether stepping out of a traditional 9-to-5 job or shifting into self-employment—it can feel liberating… and overwhelming. Kerry Hoffman knows this tension well. As someone who helps individuals and teams make sense of what they’re doing and when they’re doing it, she offers a refreshingly practical approach to task management and planning that embraces both the structure and spontaneity life demands. In this episode of A Productive Conversation , Kerry and I dive into the habits and mindset shifts required to design a system that supports how you want to live—not just how you work. From flipping mattresses to prepping for quarterly reviews, it’s about giving your tasks a home… and giving yourself a break. Six Discussion Points Why gaining control over your time can feel disorienting—and how to reclaim clarity through structure The power of defining homes for different kinds of tasks (calendar, project manager, spreadsheet, etc.) The liberating magic of mundane reminders (yes, even "flip the mattress") How building a system frees up bandwidth and unlocks more unplanned time How reflecting after the experience makes the memory stronger (and more fun) Why teams need to define what ASAP really means—and who decides what's "possible" Three Connection Points Kerry's website Kerry on LinkedIn The News and Your Attention: Engaging Without Being Consumed Kerry reminded me of something vital in this conversation: structure isn’t about control—it’s about creating space. Space for spontaneity, reflection, even a non-alcoholic beer at the end of the day (which we talk about, too). Her blend of grounded tools and generous mindset makes the work of planning feel like an act of care, not constraint. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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A VERY SPECIAL EPISODE: Mike Vardy Talks About The Productivity Diet 47:28

10 days ago47:28

47:28

What happens when the host becomes the guest? In this special episode of A Productive Conversation , I sit on the other side of the mic as Tim O’Hare—an active and insightful member of the TimeCrafting Trust Premium community—interviews me about my latest book, The Productivity Diet . We explore why this book took years to come together, what makes it different from typical productivity guides, and how it offers a more sustainable and value-driven path toward productiveness. Tim asks great questions, and we dive into the mindset, structure, and lived experiences that shaped the book. Six Discussion Points Why I resisted writing The Productivity Diet —and what finally pushed it forward The shift from productivity to productiveness: a deeper and more durable focus How the three-part structure (Mindset, Practice, Mastery) came to life The role of reflection and rhythm in building sustainable systems How metaphors like “dieting” help make abstract concepts tangible The importance of having a supportive community while crafting time intentionally Three Connection Points Buy The Productivity Diet Check out Tim's Blog Join TimeCrafting Trust Premium This episode isn’t just a behind-the-scenes look at the book—it’s a conversation about what it really means to live with intention, apply attention wisely, and develop a practice that fits real life. Whether you've read the book or are just getting curious, this episode will give you clarity and maybe even a nudge to reflect on your own relationship with time. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Yvonne Heimann Talks About Building Freedom Through Systems 1:08:51

17 days ago1:08:51

1:08:51

In this episode, I reconnect with productivity strategist Yvonne Heimann —aka AskYvi—who’s not only made a bold geographic shift but is navigating personal and professional freedom with intention and clarity. We explore what it looks like to trust the systems you’ve built, especially when life throws curveballs or invites you into a new chapter. Yvi shares her journey from San Diego to Vancouver Island, a leap that challenged her structured mindset but reaffirmed the foundation she’d built in her business. We discuss the nuances between planning and preparation, how constraints can become catalysts for creativity, and what it really takes to be nimble without losing direction. Six Discussion Points Why Yvi left San Diego and how that decision sparked unexpected growth The difference between planning and preparation—and why that matters How building systems in business created personal freedom Letting go of perfection and trusting the foundation instead The role of journaling and rituals when life becomes unpredictable Why boundaries in business are not restrictive—they’re liberating How dynamic environments call for static anchors and structure Three Connection Points AskYvi.com Yvi's YouTube Channel ClickUp Yvonne’s story is a masterclass in what it means to build a business and life that are both stable and adaptable. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded while embracing change, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration. (Originally released August 2021) 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Keith Ferrazzi Talks About Teamship and Transforming the Way We Work 36:56

24 days ago36:56

36:56

It was a real treat to welcome Keith Ferrazzi back to the show—especially to discuss his latest book, Never Lead Alone: 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship . Keith’s work has long pushed beyond traditional leadership models, and this conversation builds on that legacy with his fresh concept of “teamship.” We dig into how the book is structured like a workbook, intentionally concise but rich with practices, diagnostics, and stories from leaders who’ve made the shift. Keith shares not only what teamship is, but why it matters more than ever—especially in a world that’s still grappling with how work actually works. Six Discussion Points Why the term “teamship” matters and how it reframes traditional leadership models The power of practices like “stress testing” and “candor breaks” in elevating team dynamics How the book is structured for flexibility and immediate application—like a toolkit, not a textbook Why teams should redefine who is on their “team” beyond the org chart The myth of efficiency and how true growth emerges through inclusive co-creation Why engineers—more than MBAs—are driving the future of how we collaborate Three Connection Points KeithFerrazzi.com Never Lead Alone: 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship Episode 306: Leading Without Authority with Keith Ferrazzi This conversation reminded me why Keith’s work continues to influence how I think about leadership, collaboration, and the future of work. Never Lead Alone isn’t just a book title—it’s a call to action for all of us to stop putting the weight of progress on a single set of shoulders. The path forward is teamship. I hope this conversation sparks that shift for you, too. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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PM Talks S2E4: Focus 52:00

4 weeks ago52:00

52:00

This episode is the latest in our monthly PM Talks series, where Patrick Rhone and I go deep on foundational elements of productiveness. And for this one—our 600th episode, no less—we dive into a topic that touches everything from our to-do lists to our dinner prep: focus. What does it really mean to focus? And more importantly, how do we hold onto it when the world (and our brains) are pulling us in a million directions? Patrick and I get personal, philosophical, and practical in this candid conversation about the mechanics, challenges, and beauty of attention. Six Discussion Points Why clarity is essential for cultivating focus How poor planning can derail your ability to be present (and how to get back on track) The four spheres of attention: Noticing, Awareness, Focus, and Concentration How setting an intention—before a task or even a class—can sharpen your results The role of tools, routines, and even AI in maintaining (or stealing) our attention Why focus is as much about space as it is about time 3 Connection Points Patrick's blog Ted Lasso's "Be Curious" Scene The Center Must Hold (but can it?) Focus isn’t just about removing distractions—it’s about choosing what matters and committing to it with clarity and care. Whether we’re talking about planning meals or choosing how to use AI, what Patrick and I come back to again and again is this: the quality of your attention determines the quality of your experience. And we hope this conversation helps you experience more of what really matters. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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David Kolbe Talks About Doing More Naturally and Unlocking Instinctive Productivity 44:15

5 weeks ago44:15

44:15

When I first heard the term conative , I was surprised I hadn’t come across it before. After all, I live in the productivity space. But after my conversation with David Kolbe, it became clear just how crucial it is to understand this third part of the mind—especially if we want to work more naturally and avoid burnout. David is the CEO of Kolbe Corp and co-author of the book Do More, More Naturally: Empowering Effortless Success and the Freedom to Be Yourself . In this episode, we dive into how understanding your instinctive strengths—the way you naturally take action—can dramatically shift your productivity, your teamwork, and your overall approach to work and time. Six Discussion Points What “conative” means and why it’s a vital (and often overlooked) aspect of how we get things done The three parts of the mind—cognitive, affective, and conative—and how each plays a role in productivity How to stop following one-size-fits-all productivity advice and instead lean into your natural strengths What organizations can do to allow employees to operate more naturally without sacrificing excellence Why balance isn’t about 50/50—it’s about harmony and nuance Practical steps for realigning with your natural way of working when feeling stuck or exhausted Three Connection Points David's Website Do More More Naturally: Empowering Effortless Success and the Freedom to Be Yourself Reason plays a role in this. Give this a read if you want reason on your side . David’s insights are a refreshing reminder that productivity isn’t just about what we do—it’s about how we instinctively do it. I walked away from this conversation with a new appreciation for nuance, individuality, and the value of building systems that work with our natural tendencies rather than against them. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working hard but still not in flow, this episode might be just what you need. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Austin Kleon Talks About Routine, Creativity, and Paying Attention 35:03

6 weeks ago35:03

35:03

It was a real treat to reconnect with Austin Kleon for this episode of A Productive Conversation. Before we got into the heart of the conversation, Austin gave us a quick update: his next book Don’t Call It Art is in the works, inspired by the playful creativity he’s witnessed in his kids. He also mentioned that his once-weekly newsletter has now doubled in frequency—and it continues to be one of the best things I read online. What followed was one of the most down-to-earth, real conversations I’ve had on the podcast. Austin and I explored how routines shape creative work, why space and time are both essential, and what it means to pay attention in a world that’s constantly pulling at you. His approach to creative living—one grounded in ritual, space, boundaries, and self-awareness—is something we can all learn from, whether we’re artists, entrepreneurs, or just trying to make a little more room for what matters. Six Discussion Points Austin’s upcoming book Don’t Call It Art and how it was inspired by parenting The power of routine in a creative life—and how Austin structures his day Why boundaries (including physical signs on doors) help protect focus Using analog and digital “zones” for different types of work Paying attention to what you pay attention to—and why it matters The idea of a “bliss station” and how space (or time) supports creative flow Revisiting your own journaling and notes as a form of orientation and reflection Three Connection Points Austin's website Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad My "Bliss Station" (circa 2019) Whether you’re deep into your own creative practice or trying to carve out more space for it, this conversation with Austin is a reminder that creativity isn’t about hustle—it’s about attention, boundaries, and giving yourself room to work and think. It’s always a joy to talk with Austin, and I hope this episode helps you reconnect with your own creative rhythm. (Originally released April 2019) My New Book! The Productivity Diet is now available! Visit mikevardy.com/lit to learn more and get your copy today. Enjoying the show? The best way to support A Productive Conversation right now is to listen, share, and leave a review wherever you tune in. 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Krish Ramineni Talks About AI, Meetings, and Staying Focused While Building 33:48

7 weeks ago33:48

33:48

In this episode of A Productive Conversation , I sit down with Krish Ramineni , co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai. Krish has had an impressive journey—from being one of Microsoft’s youngest product managers to launching Fireflies, an AI-powered meeting assistant. He’s also been named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and has guest lectured at Stanford on deep learning and machine learning. We cover a lot in this conversation—how AI can enhance focus, how Krish avoids getting pulled into shiny object syndrome while building Fireflies, and what the future of AI-powered productivity looks like. If you’re curious about AI’s role in work and how to stay on track while scaling a business, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Key Discussion Points How Fireflies.ai helps people focus on what matters by automating meeting notes. Why AI should seamlessly integrate into workflows instead of requiring users to change habits. The balance between quantitative and qualitative work—and how AI can enhance both. How Krish resisted distractions and stayed committed to building Fireflies.ai instead of pivoting too soon. The role of AI in streamlining meetings and reducing unnecessary communication overhead. The challenge of maintaining focus while scaling a tech startup. Where AI is headed next and how people can leverage it for both efficiency and creativity. This conversation is a must-listen if you’re interested in AI’s practical applications, how to use it to free up mental space, and what it takes to stay focused in an industry that’s always shifting. Links Worth Exploring Connect with Krish: LinkedIn | Instagram Check out Fireflies.ai: Click here Learn more about Krish's story: Read it here Related Conversation: Episode 525: Mat Ellis Talks About Balancing Productivity and Personal Connection with AI Related Blog Post: The Speed of Right 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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PM Talks S2E3: Curiosity 58:53

8 weeks ago58:53

58:53

This episode of PM Talks is all about curiosity —how it drives us, how it gets suppressed, and how it intertwines with trust and judgment. Patrick Rhone and I dive deep into the forces that shape our thinking, from societal conditioning to personal experiences. As always, we take a thoughtful (and sometimes humorous) approach to unpacking these ideas. We explore why curiosity is often discouraged, how judgment can be a shortcut that stifles growth, and what it means to stay open-minded in an increasingly polarized world. Plus, we talk about journaling, trust, and even how sports fandoms can lead to unexpected insights. Key Discussion Points The paradox of curiosity—how it's both encouraged and discouraged in society Why judgment often wins over curiosity and how that impacts trust How breaking down projects fosters curiosity and prevents blind trust in assumptions The role of journaling in cultivating curiosity and letting go of judgment How social conditioning teaches efficiency over exploration (and why we need to push back) The concept of a Judgment Journal and a Book of Curiosities as tools for reflection How our kids reflect and challenge our own curiosities in unexpected ways We wrap up by discussing how staying curious can build stronger relationships and deeper understanding—whether it’s in politics, personal growth, or simply learning a new skill. Links Worth Exploring Patrick's book, "For You" Patrick’s Website Ted Lasso: The "darts" scene PM Talks S2E2: Alignment Sensible Defaults The Hartford Whalers goal song (for those who love hockey nostalgia) Mel Robbins’ “Let Them Theory” video (Note: She's not the originator of "Let Them" – Cassie Phillips is. Read more here. ) Watch "The Social Dilemma" Take The Journaling Persona Assessment 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Anne-Laure Le Cunff Talks About Tiny Experiments and Sustainable Productivity 37:20

9 weeks ago37:20

37:20

In this episode of A Productive Conversation , I sit down with Anne-Laure Le Cunff , neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and founder of Ness Labs , to discuss her new book Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World . Anne-Laure is known for blending science with practical strategies for thinking, learning, and working better—without burning out. We explore how small, low-risk experiments can lead to big changes, why curiosity is a powerful productivity tool, and how to break free from rigid goal-setting. Anne-Laure also shares how she applies scientific thinking to everyday decision-making, along with strategies for balancing structure and flexibility in personal growth. Key Discussion Points How Tiny Experiments challenges traditional goal-setting and promotes flexible, curiosity-driven progress. Why experimentation is a powerful approach to productivity, creativity, and decision-making. How small, low-risk experiments can help overcome perfectionism and fear of failure. The importance of intentional imperfection in balancing work, personal growth, and well-being. How curiosity can serve as a guide for making meaningful progress. Why journaling and self-reflection play a critical role in evaluating experiments. How to create sustainable productivity habits that adapt over time. This conversation is a great reminder that productivity isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about experimenting, learning, and growing in a way that works for you . Links Worth Exploring Connect with Anne-Laure: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube Get the book we discuss: Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World Related Conversation: Episode 448: Tiago Forte talks about Building a Second Brain Related Blog Post: Why You Should Play Productivity “Small Ball” 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Charlie Gilkey Talks About Finishing What Matters 1:09:56

10 weeks ago1:09:56

1:09:56

Over the years, I've had plenty of insightful conversations on this podcast, and one that still stands out is my discussion with Charlie Gilkey about his book Start Finishing . This Flashback Friday episode brings that conversation back, but with a twist—we start with an update from Charlie on what he's been up to since then. Charlie is someone who has spent years helping people make meaningful progress, and since our last chat, he's been busy launching Momentum , an app designed to reduce productivity friction, and shifting his Productive Flourishing platform over to Substack. In this episode, we pick up where we left off, exploring what’s changed in the way he approaches work, productivity, and team habits. Key Discussion Points What’s new with Charlie since Start Finishing —from launching an app to shifting his content to Substack. How Momentum helps people with chunking and sequencing work without unnecessary friction. Why project management in teams requires a different approach than solo work. The evolution from Start Finishing to Team Habits —and why team productivity is a whole new challenge. The struggle of balancing efficiency with real productivity, especially in hybrid work environments. Why mastery comes from finishing projects, not just starting them. How leaders need to redefine productivity outputs before demanding return-to-office mandates. Charlie and I have been in this space for a long time, and it’s always refreshing to catch up and exchange ideas. Whether you're new to his work or have followed Productive Flourishing for years, this episode has plenty of takeaways on making progress that actually matters. (Originally released September 2019) Links Worth Exploring Connect With Charlie/Productive Flourishing: Website | YouTube | LinkedIn The Book We Discussed This Time: Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results The Book We Discussed Last Time: Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done Another Productive Conversation With Charlie: Watch On My YouTube Channel Related Conversation: Episode 127: A Focus on Flourishing with Charlie Gilkey 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Kerry Ann King Talks About Productivity, Art, and the Power of Intention 42:51

10 weeks ago42:51

42:51

In this episode of A Productive Conversation , I sit down with Kerry Ann King , the founder and CEO of Eluminate Labs. Kerry Ann has spent more than a decade working inside the tech industry to promote human-centered approaches to well-being. She’s now leading the charge in decolonizing tech, creating inclusive solutions that put people first. Our conversation explores the transactional nature of productivity, the intersection of art and work, and how we can break free from extractive approaches to time management. Kerry Ann shares insights on how we can shift away from the pressure to do more and instead focus on creating real impact. We also dive into Fin , a positive productivity app from Eluminate Labs designed to help users better understand their productivity style. Key Discussion Points Why productivity shouldn’t be about extraction but about meaningful impact. The difference between transactional productivity and relational productivity. How the arts can teach us about persistence, focus, and creativity. The tension between structure and flexibility in how we measure progress. The role of intention in both personal and professional work. The story behind Fin and how it helps people uncover their productivity style. The importance of recognizing that different seasons of life require different productivity approaches. This conversation challenges conventional productivity narratives and offers a refreshing take on how we can work with intention rather than just efficiency. Links Worth Exploring Connect with Kerry Ann: Website | LinkedIn Check out Fin: Click here Rick Rubin's book: The Creative Act: A Way of Being Watch what John Cena's (other) watch said Related Conversation: Episode 511: Francesco D’Alessio Talks About Innovative Productivity Apps and Methodologies Related Blog Post: Focus On The App Within 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Dan Schawbel Talks About Human Connection in the Digital Age 32:11

11 weeks ago32:11

32:11

In this Flashback Friday episode, I revisit my 2018 conversation with Dan Schawbel , a thought leader in workplace trends and human connection. We originally spoke about his book Back to Human: How Great Leaders Create Connection in the Age of Isolation , which explores how technology can be used as a bridge—not a barrier—to meaningful relationships. Since then, Dan has continued to shape conversations around workplace dynamics as Managing Partner at Workplace Intelligence, conducting research with major brands like Amazon and Deloitte. His podcast, 5 Questions with Dan Schawbel , has featured leaders such as Richard Branson and Condoleezza Rice, and his LinkedIn Learning courses have reached over 220,000 students. Key Discussion Points The central theme of Back to Human : using technology to enhance, not replace, human connection. Why leaders need to focus on human-first workplaces to improve engagement and productivity. The benefits of in-person interaction—why one face-to-face conversation is worth 34 emails. The Work Connectivity Index —a tool for assessing the strength of work relationships. How attending events alone can be a powerful networking tool. Strategies for leveraging technology to deepen relationships rather than create distractions. The impact of remote work on workplace connection and long-term employee retention. This conversation is a timely reminder that productivity isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about fostering meaningful relationships. As we navigate hybrid work environments and digital-first communication, Dan’s insights remain as relevant today as they were when we first published this episode. (Originally released November 2018) Links Worth Exploring Connect with Dan: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Get the book we discuss: Back to Human: How Great Leaders Create Connection in the Age of Isolation Check out Dan's LinkedIn Learning classes (and check out mine too) Listen to Dan's podcast: 5 Questions with Dan Schawbel Read this: Law of Jante, a Scandinavian Code of Conduct Read: The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr Read: How our 269 billion emails a day have made us miserable Check this out: Introduction to Back to Human Watch: The Back to Human Office Party [Comedy Sketch] | Related Conversation: Episode 363: Meaningful Online Connections with Misha Glouberman Related Blog Post: Five Proven Ways To Have a Better Work Day 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Scott Doorley and Carissa Carter Talk About Designing the Future and Navigating Uncertainty 46:41

11 weeks ago46:41

46:41

In this episode of A Productive Conversation , I sit down with Scott Doorley and Carissa Carter to explore the themes of their book, Assembling Tomorrow: A Guide for Designing a Thriving Future . As leaders at Stanford's d.school—Scott as Creative Director and Carissa as Academic Director—they've spent years shaping design education and innovation. Our discussion goes beyond traditional design thinking and into the complexities of decision-making, efficiency, and the balance between logic and emotion. We also explore the concept of Runaway Design , how the speed of technological change is shaping our world, and why embracing imperfection is essential for building a better future. Key Discussion Points What Runaway Design is and why we need to "unmake" it to build a better future. The importance of balancing emotion and logic when making decisions. Why uncertainty is inevitable—and how to design with it rather than against it. The role of pausing and curiosity in responding to challenges rather than reacting. How to find harmony in work, life, and productivity instead of seeking rigid balance. Why meaningful work should be measured by quality rather than quantity . The impact of AI, synthetic biology, and other evolving technologies on how we design the future. Scott and Carissa’s insights offer a thought-provoking look at how we navigate complexity, make better decisions, and create a world that is both innovative and intentional. Links Worth Exploring Connect with Scott: Website | LinkedIn Connect with Carissa: Website | LinkedIn Get the book we discussed: Assembling Tomorrow: A Guide to Designing a Thriving Future Get Scott's book: Make Space: How to Set the Stage for Creative Collaboration Get Carissa's book: The Secret Language of Maps: How to Tell Visual Stories with Data Related Conversation: Episode 191: Designing Your Mindset with Andy Murph y Related Blog Post: Designs on Life 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 📘 Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive Potential If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.…

A Productive Conversation

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Courtney Carver Talks About Gentle Living and Project 333 42:30

12 weeks ago42:30