Beyond The To-do List

In this special Shortcast edition, Baratunde Thurston, shares his experience of unplugging from social media for 25 days—and what he learned about stress, productivity, and the importance of being present. Baratunde reveals how stepping away from constant digital interaction can lead to more meaningful real-world connections and less burnout. In this Shortcast, we explore: The Cost of Constant Connectivity: Baratunde explains how being “always on” took a toll on his mental health, productivity, and relationships, and why unplugging was the antidote. The Value of Presence: By exploring neighborhoods in New York without his phone, Baratunde rediscovered the value of shared experiences, analog socializing, and being grounded in the real world. Social Media as a Second Job: Baratunde highlights how social media transforms everyone into an amateur content creator, adding stress and metrics to everyday life. Challenges of Disconnecting: We discuss why platforms make it difficult to unplug—em

In this episode, Melody Wilding, author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from People in Charge, joins the show to discuss the often-overlooked skill of managing up. Melody shares insights on how to communicate more effectively with those in higher positions, ensuring that you get the support and guidance you need for your career while maintaining a positive working relationship. In this conversation, we explore: What “Managing Up” Really Means: Melody explains that managing up isn’t about manipulating your boss, but about clear communication, setting boundaries, and ensuring your needs and expectations are understood. The Importance of Alignment: We discuss how aligning with your manager’s goals and expectations can help you achieve personal success while contributing to the team’s overall objectives. Building Healthy Communication: Melody emphasizes how open and honest communication is key to reducing friction and increasing productivity, especially when you’re managing differen

In this episode, Courtney Carver, author of Rest More, Stress Less: How to Live the Life You Actually Want, shares her transformative approach to prioritizing rest and reducing stress. Courtney, a simplicity and decluttering expert, discusses how rest is not just a reward but a necessity for productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. In this conversation, we explore: • The Importance of Rest: Courtney explains why rest should be prioritized, not as a reward, but as an essential part of life and work. She discusses how our productivity and creativity improve when we take time to rest. • The Three Seasons of Gentle: We dive into the book’s three-part structure: Rest, Less, and Rise. Courtney explains why rest is the foundation that allows us to simplify our lives, reduce stress, and ultimately rise into the life we truly want. • Breaking Free from the Busyness Trap: Courtney reveals how our society’s overemphasis on constant productivity can lead to burnout, and how intentionally doing less can lea

In this special Shortcast edition, Jeremy Kubicek, author of The 100X Leader: How to Become Someone Worth Following, shares how we can lead with both support and challenge to help others reach their full potential. Drawing inspiration from Sherpas guiding climbers on Mount Everest, Jeremy illustrates what it means to lead others by being fully for them and helping them succeed—not just in tasks, but in personal growth. In this Shortcast, we explore: What Makes a Leader Worth Following: Why being “for” the people you lead matters more than authority or performance. The Sherpa Analogy: Leaders should guide, support, and empower others like a Sherpa helps climbers summit Mount Everest—and then helps them down again. Support + Challenge = Growth: Jeremy outlines how to calibrate the right mix of support and challenge in your leadership style to avoid extremes like fear-based or overly permissive leadership. Calling Up vs. Calling Out: A key leadership shift is learning to call people u

In this episode, Angus Nelson, author of Confidence Comes Later, discusses his journey of building confidence through action and embracing uncertainty. Angus, an entrepreneur and personal development coach, explores how to disrupt your life by taking bold steps instead of waiting for confidence to appear, and how this can lead to personal growth and transformation. In this conversation, we explore: • The Myth of Confidence: Angus explains why confidence is often misunderstood as something you wait for, and how true confidence is built through action, learning, and perseverance, not certainty. • Certainty vs. Confidence: We discuss how the need for certainty can hold us back, and how embracing uncertainty allows us to take the next step, even when we can’t predict the future. • The Power of Small Sprints: Angus introduces the concept of short-term “sprints” to focus on incremental progress, stressing that it’s the small, consistent steps that lead to big changes over time. • The Fluid Self: We talk abou

In this episode we revisit a conversation with Julie Fast, author of Getting It Done When You’re Depressed: 50 Strategies to Help You Achieve Productivity Even with Depression, Anxiety, or ADHD. She shares her expertise on how to overcome productivity barriers caused by mental health struggles. Julie, who has lived with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and ADHD, offers strategies and real-life insights on how to get things done even when your brain isn’t cooperating. In this conversation, we explore: Understanding Depression and Productivity: Julie explains how depression can make it nearly impossible to get started, and why it’s important to develop a system to help push through the inertia and achieve even small tasks. The Myth of Motivation: We discuss why motivation doesn’t come first and how action leads to motivation, especially for those struggling with depression. Building a Plan for the Basics: Julie talks about the importance of having a plan for simple daily tasks, like br

In this episode, Sara Sherman, author of Resonant Minds: The Transformative Power of Music, joins the show to discuss the powerful and often underestimated role of music in our lives. Sara, a classical musician and educator, explores how music can not only enhance our emotional well-being but also improve focus, productivity, and social connections. In this conversation, we explore: • The Power of Music Beyond Entertainment: Sara shares how music goes beyond being something we enjoy to something that can be used as a tool for mindfulness, focus, and emotional regulation. • Creating Shared Musical Experiences: We discuss the concept of creating collective experiences through music, how listening in groups creates a sense of connection, and why it’s so important for building community. • Purposeful Passive Listening: Sara talks about how we can use music for passive listening with intention, such as using classical music for focus or creating playlists to suit different moods and tasks. • Music and Memory: We

In this episode, Anne-Laure Le Cunff, author of Tiny Experiments: How to Live Freely in a Goal-Obsessed World, joins the show to discuss her experimental approach to goal-setting and personal growth. Anne-Laure, a neuroscience enthusiast and founder of Ness Labs, explores how shifting from traditional goal-setting to small, iterative experiments can lead to greater fulfillment and personal discovery. In this conversation, we explore: • The Flaws of Traditional Goal Setting: Anne-Laure explains why linear goal-setting, with its rigid outcomes and assumptions, often leads to burnout and disappointment, and how this approach can be replaced with more flexible experimentation. • The Power of Small Experiments: We dive into how small, manageable experiments allow you to explore your curiosity without the pressure of fixed outcomes and why this method encourages learning and growth rather than focusing solely on achieving goals. • Reimagining Success and Failure: Anne-Laure discusses how adopting an experimental m

In this episode, Madelin Mann, author of Reverse the Search: How to Turn Job Seeking into Job Shopping, joins the show to share her expert advice on transforming the traditional job search process. With years of experience in HR and recruiting, Madelin provides valuable insights into how to stand out in today’s competitive job market by shifting from a job seeker to a job shopper. In this conversation, we explore: • Reversing the Job Search: Madelin explains how to rethink job seeking by focusing on human interactions and leveraging networking rather than relying solely on online applications. • The Problems with Traditional Job Applications: From AI filtering to an overwhelming number of applications, Madelin breaks down why the traditional job application process is broken and how to avoid getting lost in the noise. • The Power of Networking: Madelin shares how building meaningful relationships can lead to unlisted job opportunities and help you land roles before they even hit the job boards. • Interviewin

In this episode, Ximena Vengeochea, author of The Life Audit: A Step-by-Step Guide to Discovering Your Goals and Building the Life You Want, shares her approach to re-evaluating life’s priorities and making intentional changes. Ximena, a former LinkedIn leader, uses her background in user research to help others take a fresh, introspective approach to crafting the life they truly want. In this conversation, we explore: • The Life Audit Concept: Ximena discusses the origins of the Life Audit and how applying the tools from user research can help us examine our own desires, goals, and life direction. • Generative Phase of the Life Audit: We dive into the brainstorming process, where Ximena recommends taking an hour to jot down all your desires—no matter how big or small—and explore how to get started without self-censorship. • Analyzing Your Desires: Ximena shares how grouping and recognizing patterns in your wishes can uncover deeper insights into what’s important to you, and how to let go of societal “should

In this episode, Elizabeth Lotardo, author of Leading Yourself: Finding More Joy, Meaning, and Opportunities in the Job You Already Have, shares her insights on how to find purpose and fulfillment in your current job. Drawing on her background as an organizational psychologist, Elizabeth explores how shifting your mindset can help you thrive at work, even when facing challenges like imperfect bosses, rigid systems, and high workloads. In this conversation, we dive into: • Defining Purpose at Work: Elizabeth challenges the idea that purpose is reserved for high-profile jobs or noble causes, suggesting that purpose can be found in small moments of impact within any role. • Reframing Workplace Frustrations: We talk about how to manage dissatisfaction by recognizing the value in everyday tasks and reframing negative beliefs about your job. • Overcoming Quiet Quitting: Elizabeth explains why quiet quitting is often a result of self-protection and burnout and how you can engage more meaningfully at work without sa

In this episode, Andrew Brodsky, author of Ping: The Secrets of Successful Virtual Communication, explores how virtual communication can be improved for both productivity and relationship-building. Andrew, a professor at the University of Texas and expert on virtual communication, discusses his research and personal journey in understanding how we interact online. In this conversation, we dive into: • The Importance of Virtual Communication: Andrew shares how his personal experiences, including battling leukemia, sparked his interest in virtual communication, leading him to research and write about it. • The PING Framework: We break down the PING acronym—Perspective Taking, Initiative, Nonverbal Cues, and Goals—and how each element helps improve virtual interactions. • Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Communication: Understanding the differences between real-time and delayed communication and how each affects our interactions. • Dealing with Zoom Fatigue and Camera Etiquette: Andrew offers advice on when to turn

In this episode, we welcome Jenny Wood, a former Google executive, founder of Own Your Career, and author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It. Jenny shares powerful insights into overcoming fear, taking bold risks, and navigating personal and professional growth with courage. In this conversation, we explore: The Courage to Overcome Fear: Jenny opens up about how fear, in various forms, often holds us back from achieving our goals and how Wild Courage provides a practical roadmap to take action despite that fear. Reclaiming "Negative" Traits: Jenny discusses how traditionally negative traits like being "selfish" or "shameless" can actually be powerful tools for personal empowerment when reframed positively. Taking Action Despite Uncertainty: We dive into how fear of failure can paralyze us, and Jenny shares her journey of making bold career decisions, including leaving Google to become a writer and keynote speaker. The Power of Bold Decisions and Risk-Taking: Jenny explains the concept

I’m excited to welcome Oliver Burkeman back to the show to discuss his new book, Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. You can find his previous conversation on the show here. Oliver is a journalist and author best known for 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. His latest book offers a practical, reflective guide to shifting our mindset about time, control, and productivity through daily meditations. In this conversation, we cover: The Through Line from 4,000 Weeks: How Meditations for Mortals builds on Oliver’s previous work by focusing on action and the gap between knowing and doing. The Illusion of Control vs. Agency: Why we often seek control over our lives and how accepting our limitations can actually increase our capacity for meaningful action. Breaking Free from Productivity Debt: How many of us start each day feeling behind and what we can do to change that mindset. Imperfectionism and Action-Taking: How embracing imperfection can

I’m excited revisit this conversation with Ximena Vengoechea to the show to discuss her book, Listen Like You Mean It: Reclaiming the Lost Art of True Connection. Ximena is a user researcher, author, and expert in communication and active listening. Her book explores how we can deepen our conversations, overcome common listening mistakes, and foster meaningful connections in both personal and professional settings. In this conversation, we cover: The Art of Listening: Why many of us think we’re listening when we’re actually just waiting for our turn to speak. Levels of Listening: The difference between surface listening and empathetic listening, and why the latter is key to deeper relationships. Hidden Needs in Conversations: How both we and the person we're speaking with bring unspoken expectations into every interaction. The Role of Curiosity, Humility, and Empathy: How these three qualities shape more meaningful and engaged conversations. Avoiding Common Listening Mistakes: Why we often get distr

I’m excited to welcome Michaela Alexis to the show to discuss her new book, No Fear Networking: A Guide to Building Connections for the Socially Anxious Professional. Michaela is a keynote speaker, LinkedIn expert, and networking coach who helps professionals overcome social anxiety and build meaningful connections in their careers. In this conversation, we cover: Redefining Networking: Michaela breaks down common misconceptions about networking and how to shift from transactional interactions to genuine relationship-building. Overcoming Social Anxiety in Professional Settings: She shares her personal journey with social anxiety and strategies for navigating networking events, conferences, and meetings with confidence. The Power of Small Interactions: Michaela discusses how daily micro-interactions can help build confidence and make networking feel more natural over time. Creating Your Own Networking Style: She explores how introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts can tailor networking approaches to fit

I’m excited to welcome Mo Hamzian to the show to discuss the future of workspaces and how to optimize environments for focus, productivity, and well-being. Mo is an entrepreneur, real estate expert, and the co-founder of VEL, a company dedicated to redefining workspaces for the modern workforce. In this conversation, we cover: The Evolution of Workspaces: Mo discusses the rise of remote work and the impact of flexible and hybrid work environments on productivity and collaboration. Designing for Focus and Productivity: He shares insights on how lighting, temperature, air quality, and ergonomics influence cognitive performance and overall well-being. The Role of Senses in Work Environments: Mo explores how factors like scent, sound, and natural light can enhance focus, creativity, and job satisfaction. Bridging the Gap Between Physical and Digital Workspaces: The concept of “phygital” workspaces and how technology is reshaping where and how we work. The Future of Smart Workspaces: How automation, AI,

I’m excited to welcome Duncan Wardle to the show to discuss his new book, The Imagination Emporium: The Creative Tools to Change the Way You Think. Duncan is a former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney, a global speaker, and an expert in unlocking human imagination. His book presents practical tools for breaking free from conventional thinking and fostering creativity in work and life. In this conversation, we cover: Reawakening Creativity: Duncan explains why many adults believe they aren’t creative and how to reclaim the curiosity and imagination we had as children. The Power of Play: He shares exercises designed to shift thinking patterns, open new mental pathways, and make creativity more accessible to everyone. Yes, And vs. No, Because: Duncan introduces the mindset shift that can turn small ideas into big ones and create a culture of innovation. Breaking Free from Mental Ruts: How to identify and escape “rivers of thinking” that limit problem-solving and fresh ideas. Lessons from Disn

I’m excited to welcome Debra Eckerling to the show to discuss her new book, 52 Secrets for Goal Setting and Goal Getting: How to Stay Focused, Grow Your Network, and Get More Done in Less Time. Debra is a goal-setting expert, author, and the creator of the DEB Method, which helps individuals and organizations define, plan, and achieve their goals. In this conversation, we cover: The Power of Clarity in Goal-Setting: Debra explains why knowing what you don’t want is just as important as knowing what you do want, and how that clarity can shape better decisions. Visualization as a Productivity Tool: She shares how mental imagery and positive expectation can improve focus, motivation, and long-term goal achievement. Building Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Debra highlights the importance of endurance and perseverance, offering strategies to navigate obstacles without losing momentum. The Five P’s of Goal-Getting: She introduces her framework of Purpose, Passion, Persistence, Perseverance, and Puppy

This week, I’m excited to welcome Tyler Moore, also known as Tidy Dad, to the show to discuss his new book, Tidy Up Your Life: Rethinking How to Organize, Declutter, and Make Space for What Matters. Tyler is a teacher, writer, and advocate for creating intentional, organized spaces that support well-being. Through his Tidy Dad brand, he shares practical strategies for simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters. In this conversation, we cover: The Birth of Tidy Dad: Tyler shares how a personal turning point led him to embrace tidying and organization as a means to regain control over his life. Tidying as a Mental and Physical Process: The book is divided into two key sections—tidying up your mind and tidying up your space. Tyler explains why internal clarity is just as important as external organization. The Power of Just Enough: Instead of strict minimalism, Tyler introduces the idea of finding “just enough” to create balance and space for what truly matters. Breaking Big Tasks into Manageabl